bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Systematic review with meta‐analysis: vasoactive drugs for the treatment of hepatorenal syndrome type 1
Authors: Gifford F. J. , Morling J. R. , Fallowfield J. A. 
Published: January 2017

SummaryBackgroundHepatorenal syndrome type 1 (HRS1) is a functional, rapidly progressive, potentially reversible form of acute kidney injury occurring in patients with cirrhosis. Characterised by intense renal arterial vasoconstriction, it carries a very poor prognosis. There is a significant unmet need for a widely approved, safe and effective pharmacological treatment.AimTo re‐evaluate efficacy and safety of pharmacological treatments for HRS1, in the light of recently published randomised controlled trials (RCTs).MethodsMEDLINE (OvidSP), EMBASE, PubMed and Cochrane registers were searched for RCTs reporting efficacy and adverse events related to pharmacological treatment of HRS1. Search terms included: ‘hepatorenal syndrome’, ‘terlipressin’, ‘noradrenaline’, ‘octreotide’, ‘midodrine’, ‘vasopressin’, ‘dopamine’, ‘albumin’ and synonyms. Comparison of vasoactive drugs vs. placebo/no treatment, and two active drugs were included. Meta‐analysis was performed for HRS1 reversal, creatinine improvement, mortality and adverse events.ResultsTwelve RCTs enrolling 700 HRS1 patients were included. Treatment with terlipressin and albumin led to HRS1 reversal more frequently than albumin alone or placebo (RR: 2.54, 95% CI: 1.51–4.26). Noradrenaline was effective in reversing HRS1, but trials were small and nonblinded. Overall, there was mortality benefit with terlipressin (RR: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.63–1.01), but sensitivity analysis including only trials with low risk of selection bias weakened this relationship (RR: 0.87, 95% CI: 0.71–1.06). Notably, there was a significant risk of adverse events with terlipressin therapy (RR: 4.32, 95% CI: 0.75–24.86).ConclusionsTerlipressin treatment is superior to placebo for achieving HRS1 reversal, but mortality benefit is less clear. Terlipressin is associated with significant adverse events, but infusion regimens may be better tolerated. There is continued need for safe and effective treatment options for hepatorenal syndrome.
Serum alkylresorcinols as biomarkers of dietary gluten exposure in coeliac disease
Authors: Choung R. S. , Murray J. A. , Marietta E. V. , Van Dyke C. T. , Ross A. B. 
Published: January 2017

SummaryBackgroundTherapy for coeliac disease (CD) mainly relies on following a gluten‐free diet (GFD); however, a serum marker for gluten intake has yet to be established.AimTo evaluate the utility of alkylresorcinol concentrations for detecting gluten intake in studies of human and mouse.MethodsAlkylresorcinol concentrations were compared among treated patients with coeliac disease (n = 34), untreated coeliac disease patients (n = 36) and controls (n = 33). Furthermore, seven additional coeliac disease patients whose serum samples were available at diagnosis and after GFD were evaluated. In mice studies, alkylresorcinol concentrations were compared in the serum of five mice fed a regular chow and 10 mice fed lifelong with a gluten‐free chow. In addition, the effect of adding gluten on changes of alkylresorcinol concentrations was also evaluated.ResultsTotal alkylresorcinol concentrations were significantly lower in treated with coeliac disease [median (IQR), 3 (2–8) nmol/L], compared to untreated patients [median (IQR), 32 (11–74) nmol/L; P < 0.0001] or healthy controls [median (IQR), 54 (23–112) nmol/L; P < 0.0001]. Moreover, alkylresorcinol concentrations in coeliac disease patients significantly decreased after introduction of a GFD (median, 34 nmol/L at diagnosis vs. 5 nmol/L after GFD, P = 0.02). In the mice, median (IQR) total alkylresorcinol concentrations in serum samples of mice fed lifelong with a gluten‐free chow was 1.8 (1.6–2.3) nmol/L, which was further significantly increased to 16 (11–22) nmol/L after 8 days of feeding with the gluten‐free chow that had gluten added to it. (P = 0.008).ConclusionSerum alkylresorcinol concentrations could be a useful marker for dietary gluten in coeliac disease.
Can Benford's Law explain CEO pay?
Authors: Mukherjee Shibashish 
Published: January 2017

AbstractManuscript TypeEmpiricalResearch Question/IssueThis study applies the statistical properties of Benford's Law to CEO pay. Benford's “Law” states that in an unbiased dataset, the first digit values are usually unequally allocated when considering the logical expectations of equal distribution. In this study we question whether the striking empirical properties of Benford's Law could be used to analyze the negotiating power and preferences of CEOs. We argue that performance‐based or market‐determined compensations should follow Benford's Law, demonstrating no direct negotiation by the CEOs. Conversely, deviation from Benford's Law could reveal CEO negotiating power or even preference.Research Findings/InsightsOur analysis shows that market‐determined “Option Fair Value” (the dollar value of stock options when exercised) conforms closely to Benford's Law, as opposed to “Salary”, which is fully negotiated. “Bonus”, “Option Award”, and “Total Compensation” are generally also largely consistent with Benford's Law, but with some exceptions. We interpret these exceptions as negotiation by the CEOs. Surprisingly, we found that CEOs prefer to be paid in round figure values, especially “5”. We use Benford's Law to study the negotiating powers of CEOs vs. that of other executives. Finally, we compare the negotiating tactics of CEOs before and after SOX and analyze the impact of firm size on their compensation.Theoretical/Academic ImplicationsThis study introduces Benford's Law and its applications within the corporate governance literature.Practitioner/Policy ImplicationsThis method could be used by academics, industry and regulators to uncover compensation patterns within large business departments and/or organizations or even entire industry segments.
Pulmonary hypertension in advanced lung diseases: Echocardiography as an important part of patient evaluation for lung transplantation
Authors: Nowak Jolanta , Hudzik Bartosz , Jastrzȩbski Dariusz , Niedziela Jacek T. , Rozentryt Piotr , Wojarski Jacek , Ochman Marek , Karolak Wojciech , Żegleń Sławomir , Gierlotka Marek , Gąsior Mariusz 
Published: January 2017

AbstractIntroductionPulmonary hypertension (PH) is common complication in advanced lung disease. Echocardiography provides additional information and may be useful to assess PH probability.ObjectivesThe usefulness of combination of well‐known echocardiographic parameters in detecting PH in patients with advanced lung disease referred for lung transplantation was evaluated.MethodsThe study population consisted of 37 consecutive patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), 20 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and 8 patients with other interstitial lung diseases. PH was defined as mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP) ≥25 mm Hg diagnosed by cardiac catheterization.ResultsPH was present in 67.6% of enrolled IPF patients, 30% of enrolled COPD patients, and 75% of patients with other interstitial lung diseases. The receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis demonstrated right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) ≥43 mm Hg to be the threshold for PH prediction (n = 37, sensitivity 92.3%, specificity 81.8%, area under curve (AUC) 0.84, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.67‐1.0; P = .019). Right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) diameter ≥34 mm and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) ≤18 mm had acceptable sensitivity, specificity and AUC (n = 65, 62.2%, 89.3%, 0.77, 95% CI 0.66‐0.89; P = .11 and n = 62, 77.1%, 66.7%, 0.74, CI 0.61‐0.87; P = .27, respectively). Combination of RVSP, RVOT and TAPSE, obtained in 36 patients, increased the sensitivity and negative predictive value (NPV) to 100%.ConclusionsIn patients with advanced lung diseases referred for lung transplantation the combination of RVSP, RVOT diameter, and TAPSE may be helpful in PH exclusion.
Persistent left superior vena cava accompanying congenital heart disease in children: Experience of a tertiary care center
Authors: Ari Mehmet Emre , Doğan Vehbi , Özgür Senem , Ceylan Özben , Ertuğrul İlker , Kayalı Şeyma , Yoldaş Tamer , Örün Utku Arman , Kaya Özkan , Karademir Selmin 
Published: January 2017

BackgroundThis study focuses on determining concomitant persistent left superior vena cava (SVC) in patients with congenital heart disease (CHD).MethodsBetween 2005 and 2012, a total of 2.663 patients with CHD, 88 (3.3%) of whom were diagnosed with persistent left SVC, were evaluated retrospectively. The demographic characteristics of patients, clinical and radiographic findings, echocardiography, cardiac catheterization, and angiography results obtained from the patients’ records were reviewed.ResultsThe median age of the patients was 9.5 months, and 46 of the 88 (52.3%) patients were female. The most common concomitant CHD were ventricular septal defect, double outlet right ventricle (DORV), and tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). When the patients were compared according to their CHD, persistent left SVC frequency was significantly higher in those with DORV (P<.001), TOF (P=.04), patent ductus arteriosus (P=.01), and atrial septal defect (P=.03). Eighty‐three of the 88 (94.3%) patients with persistent left SVC had right SVC, and 5 (5.7%) had absence of the right SVC. Twenty‐seven of the 83 (32.5%) patients with double SVC had connected normal innominate vein. In all cases, right aortic arch association was seen in 14 (15.9%) patients. Eighty‐four (95.4%) of the patients were diagnosed by echocardiography prior to catheter angiography. Persistent left SVC drained to the coronary sinus in all cases.ConclusionIncreased awareness about the association of certain CHD with persistent left SVC and a careful echocardiographic examination can facilitate the diagnosis of persistent left SVC. In addition, precise prior diagnosis of persistent left SVC can prevent complications during surgery.
Anti‐symmetrical curved composite laminate subject to delamination induced by thermal cycling
Authors: Treml A E , Gouvêa R F , Sales R C M , Donadon M V , Shiino M Y , Bressan J D 
Published: January 2017

AbstractComposite structures usually undergo to temperature variations in aircraft during landing/taking off and when cruising at high altitude. Under these conditions and in combination with curved structures, they can generate severe thermal stresses that induce delaminations. Considering the importance of studying delamination in these conditions, this research imposed an anti‐symmetrical laminate to cyclic temperature variations of 130 °C and −70 °C with the objective of inducing varied curvatures and, consequently, crack growth. Different from standardized test procedures, this test setup elastically deformed coupons without external forces and forward experimentally and numerically evaluated the strain energy release rate (SERR) during crack propagation. This procedure enabled the assessment of delamination rate (da/dN) as a function of maximum SERR. The experimental results were compared with numerical results obtained by ABAQUS Finite Element code. Despite large scatter in experimental results, a reasonable correlation between experimental and numerical results was obtained in terms of crack growth rate (da/dN) as a function of the maximum SERR.
Effect of intercropping vetch (Vicia sativa L.), field pea (Pisum sativum L.) and triticale (X Triticosecale) on dry‐matter yield, nutritive and ensiling characteristics when harvested at two growth stages
Authors: Maxin G. , Andueza D. , Le Morvan A. , Baumont R. 
Published: January 2017

AbstractThis study aimed to investigate the effects of growth stage and legume proportion on the nutritive and ensiling characteristics of triticale–pea–vetch intercrop mixtures. The three‐species mixtures were sown at three seeding ratios to produce different legume proportions (low, medium and high proportions) and harvested at two growth stages. The six resulting forages were subsequently ensiled in mini‐silos. Forage dry‐matter (DM) yield, nutritive characteristics of fresh and ensiled mixtures and fermentation characteristics of silages were determined. Forage DM yield almost tripled between early‐stage harvest and late‐stage harvest. Nutritive characteristics of fresh and ensiled mixtures were affected by both growth stage and legume proportion: crude protein concentration and pepsin–cellulase digestibility decreased whereas NDF and ADF concentrations increased as growth stage advanced. Crude protein concentration and pepsin–cellulase digestibility were higher for the high‐legume treatment at both growth stages. All mixtures ensiled well, as indicated by low pH and high lactic and acetic acids contents. However, all silages had high soluble nitrogen and ammonia concentrations. This study showed that triticale–pea–vetch silages hold good potential net energy supply value for ruminants, especially at early‐stage growth and when legume proportion increases. However, protein value has to be improved by reducing protein breakdown during ensiling.
Successful salvage and reconstruction of a finger threatened by Vibrio vulnificus necrotising fasciitis using fenestrated‐type artificial dermis and three steps of topical negative pressure wound therapy
Authors: Wang Chi‐Yu , Chiao Hao‐Yu , Chou Chang‐Yi , Wu Chien‐Ju , Chang Chun‐Kai , Chu Tzi‐Shiang , Dai Niann‐Tzyy 
Published: January 2017

AbstractVibrio vulnificus can cause severe skin and soft tissue infection (SSTI). The pathogen is an opportunistic marine bacterium that is likely to infect patients with chronic liver disease, patients in an immunocompromised state, and those in end‐stage renal disease. V. vulnificus gains entry through soft tissues by direct penetration of a wound by infected marine organisms, such as raw oysters, shellfish and other seafood, or by exposing a wound to contaminated water. Despite its ease of entry, V. vulnificus necrotising fasciitis with compartment syndrome has rarely been described. We report a case of an elderly patient with end‐stage renal disease undergoing haemodialysis, who developed necrotising fasciitis following infection by V. vulnificus through a puncture injury while cleaning fish. A successful salvage and reconstruction surgery was performed using fenestrated‐type artificial dermis followed by negative pressure wound therapy. This case presents a reasonable treatment option for threatening V. vulnificus necrotising fasciitis with compartment syndrome.
Climate variability and fire effects on quaking aspen in the central Rocky Mountains,USA
Authors: Carter Vachel A. , Brunelle Andrea , Minckley Thomas A. , Shaw John D. , DeRose R. Justin , Brewer Simon 
Published: January 2017

AbstractAimOur understanding of how climate and fire have impacted quaking aspen (Populus tremuloidesMichx.) communities prior to the 20th century is fairly limited. This study analysed the period between 4500 and 2000 cal. yrbpto assess the pre‐historic role of climate and fire on an aspen community during an aspen‐dominated period.LocationLong Lake, south‐eastern Wyoming, central Rocky Mountains,USA.MethodsSedimentary pollen and charcoal were analysed to reconstruct the vegetation and fire history for a subalpine catchment currently dominated by lodgepole pine. Modern pollen‐climate relationships were applied to the fossil pollen spectra to interpret past climate variability. NonparametricANOVAand TukeyHSDtests were used to determine whether the reconstructed climate and fire parameters were different throughout the study period.ResultsThe modern pollen‐climate data suggest ac. 150‐year long drought centred on 4200 cal. yrbp, which caused the aspen ecotone to shift upslope. Between 3950 and 3450 cal. yrbp, an anomalous period of abundant quaking aspen pollen(Populus) occurred at the study site. Optimal climatic conditions coupled with frequent fires facilitated local quaking aspen dominance for roughly 500 years. After 3450 cal. yrbp,Populuspollen declined coincident with a return to less frequent fires and conifer dominance. Reconstructed climate variables from 550 cal. yrbpto present suggest conditions were not favourable for quaking aspen establishment at Long Lake. The TukeyHSDtest confirms that the period of abundantPopuluspollen was significantly different than any other period during this study.Main conclusionsQuaking aspen shifted upslope in response to warmer temperatures, and persisted for roughly 500 years as a result of optimal climatic conditions and frequent fire events.
Opportunity and taxon pulse: the central influence of coastal geomorphology on genetic diversification and endemism of strict estuarine species
Authors: Baggio Rafael A. , Stoiev Sérgio B. , Spach Henry L. , Boeger Walter A. 
Published: January 2017

AbstractAimSea‐level changes and coastal geomorphology (extension of continental shelves) have affected the pattern of diversification of brackish/freshwater fish populations due to the confluence of basins/estuaries during low sea‐level periods (opportunity) and isolation during high sea‐level periods. It is hypothesized that populations from estuaries in extensive continental shelves, which have greater potential for confluence, should have more opportunities for gene exchange than those in narrow continental shelves. To test this, we assessed the distribution of the genetic diversity and the patterns of diversification of the estuarine silverside, Atherinella brasiliensis, from the Brazilian coast.LocationEight estuaries along the southern and north‐eastern portions of the Brazilian coast.Materials and methodsSequences of the mitochondrial control region (D‐loop) and the cytochrome B were used to assess the distribution of genetic diversity, and these mitochondrial fragments and two nuclear introns were used to assess the patterns of diversification of A. brasiliensis. The palaeochannels that were exposed along the Brazilian coast during the Last Glacial Maximum were reconstructed using bathymetry data and the GIS method.ResultsThe populations of A. brasiliensis from the estuaries of the north‐eastern Brazilian coast (narrower and shallower continental shelf) showed higher levels of genetic differentiation and larger (more haplotypes) endemic lineages than the populations in the southern coast (broader and deeper continental shelf). Furthermore, south coast lineages showed more evidence of genetic exchange among populations, which have resulted in a reticulated relationship between lineages and estuaries. The reconstruction of palaeochannels revealed more connections among southern than north‐eastern basins.Main conclusionsOur results support the hypothesis that continental shelf extension and sea‐level changes have influenced the diversification of A. brasiliensis. By extension, they also support the hypothesis of diversification by taxon pulse, which makes predictions based on the opportunities for expansion during periods of low sea level and the width of the continental shelf. We suggest this as a model for the genetic diversification and distribution of estuarine species along the Brazilian coast and other regions of the world.
Young people with type 1 diabetes mellitus: Attitudes, perceptions, and experiences of diabetes management and continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion therapy
Authors: Perry Lin , James Steven , Steinbeck Katharine , Dunbabin Janet , Lowe Julia 
Published: January 2017

AbstractRationale, aims, and objectivesContinuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII; insulin pump) use is increasing. However, there is little information about how this technology is used compared with other insulin delivery methods (ie, injections) by young people with type 1 diabetes mellitus in Australia. This study explored young people's attitudes, perceptions, and experiences with diabetes management comparing those using with those not using CSII, and proportions likely to transition to adult services requiring initiation and/or support for CSII use.MethodsA survey was undertaken of young people (aged 12 to 18 years) with type 1 diabetes mellitus and their parents/guardians living in Hunter New England, Australia, using a questionnaire designed to collect quantitative, descriptive, and demographic data. Most questions were based on previously developed and validated instruments. In total, 107 respondents returned partially or fully completed questionnaires.ResultsRespondents had positive attitudes and perceptions of their self‐efficacy and diabetes management, but were moderately disturbed by their diabetes and reported experiencing suboptimal management outcomes. Patterns of associations were demonstrated between knowledge, attitudes, and experiences of diabetes modeled by regression analysis. There were no statistically significant differences in responses between users and nonusers of CSII. Over 40% indicated their intention to use the technology as adults.ConclusionsOpportunities for enhanced diabetes service support were clear, and CSII did not appear to be used to its full potential. Service redesign could enhance support for this young population using all preferred insulin delivery methods and should align to patients' goals and preferences to maximize service and patient gain.
Acute rheumatic fever and exposure to poor housing conditions in New Zealand: A descriptive study
Authors: Oliver Jane R , Pierse Nevil , Stefanogiannis Niki , Jackson Catherine , Baker Michael G 
Published: January 2017

AimAcute rheumatic fever (ARF) is an important public health problem in low‐ and middle‐income countries and in certain populations in high‐income countries. Indigenous Australians, and New Zealand Māori and Pacific people, have incidence rates among the highest in the world. We aimed to investigate ARF cases’ housing conditions and sore throat treatment to identify opportunities for improving ARF prevention in New Zealand.MethodsRecently diagnosed cases and their care givers were interviewed. Information was obtained about the cases’ demographics, housing circumstances and conditions, and sore throat treatment preceding ARF.ResultsWe interviewed 55 cases. Most (75%) lived in rental housing and reported multiple measures of deprivation. Common exposures were household crowding (58%), bed‐sharing (49%), dampness and mould (76%), cold (82%) and co‐habiting with smokers (71%). Experiencing sore throat in the weeks before ARF was recalled by 62%, with 29% seeing a doctor or nurse and 13% of the total sample receiving antibiotics.ConclusionsThe environmental conditions reported could contribute to high group A Streptococcus transmission and susceptibility to infection, thus increasing ARF risk. Sore throat treatment has important limitations as an intervention, particularly as 38% of participants did not recall sore throat preceding the diagnosis. The results support the need to improve rental housing. Interventions promoting minimum enforceable standards in social housing and private rental sectors (such as a housing warrant of fitness) could support these changes. A rigorous investigation, such as a case control study, is needed to explore risk factors further.