bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Therapeutic Pneumoperitoneum: Relevant or Obsolete in 2015?
Authors: Berger Jonathan , Small Joe , Garza Rafael , Andrade Rafael , Podgaetz Eitan 
Published: January 2016

Background Therapeutic pneumoperitoneum (TP) is one alternative to manage pleural space problems. We describe our technique and experience.
Materials and Methods Medical records of all patients who underwent TP from January 1, 2007, to January 1, 2015, were reviewed after Institutional Review Board approval. We report indication, preprocedure pulmonary function tests, volume of insufflated air, time to chest tube removal, and complications. We place a red rubber catheter into the peritoneal space through the diaphragm or a small abdominal incision, insufflate with room air, record volume (liters), intraperitoneal pressure (goal 9–10 mm Hg), and monitor vital signs, airway pressures, and urine output.
Results We performed TP in 32 patients. Follow-up was available for 31 patients. Indications were prevention of pleural space problems in bilobectomy patients (n = 11), following decortication for empyema (n = 11), prevention of prolonged air leak (n = 3), prevention of postresection space (n = 4), and spontaneous chylothorax (n = 2). TP was done postoperatively in three patients. Median air volume used was 3.5 L (3–6 L). Time to chest tube removal overall was 7.8 days (3–20 days) and to discharge 10.2 days (4–32 days). No patient developed respiratory failure, renal failure, or required evacuation of TP.
Conclusion TP is a simple, safe, and effective technique to manage pleural space problems. Proper patient selection and meticulous technique are imperative for the successful clinical application of TP. We believe that TP is an underutilized tool for the management of pleural space problems and merits wider application in thoracic surgical practice.
Critical roles of Gi/oproteins and phospholipase C-δ1 in the activation of receptor-operated TRPC4 channels
Authors: Thakur Dhananjay P. , Tian Jin-bin , Jeon Jaepyo , Xiong Jian , Huang Yu , Flockerzi Veit , Zhu Michael X. 
Published: January 2016

SignificanceTransient Receptor Potential Canonical 4 (TRPC4) forms nonselective cation channels implicated in multiple functions in the brain, heart, vasculature, and gastrointestinal tract. However, mechanisms that govern TRPC4 channel activation remain mysterious, severely hampering their functional elucidation under physiological and pathological conditions. Uniquely, TRPC4 is activated following ligand stimulation of G protein-coupled receptors that function through either Gq/11or Gi/osubgroups of G proteins. However, to what extent and how these two metabotropic pathways interact to regulate TRPC4 is unclear. Our study demonstrates the critical involvement of Gi/osignaling and phospholipase C activity in TRPC4 activation, providing detailed dissection of signaling steps of the phospholipase C pathway that contribute to channel gating. The mechanistic insights revealed should greatly facilitate evaluation and understanding of the physiological and pathological functions of these channels.
Lignin engineering in field-grown poplar trees affects the endosphere bacterial microbiome
Authors: Beckers Bram , Op De Beeck Michiel , Weyens Nele , Van Acker Rebecca , Van Montagu Marc , Boerjan Wout , Vangronsveld Jaco 
Published: January 2016

Significance
The composition of bacterial populations in the human digestive tract is known to affect our well-being, to influence our ability to overcome diseases, and to be tightly linked with the host genotype. In contrast, the extent to which variation in the plant genotype affects the associated bacteria and, hence, plant health and productivity remains unknown, particularly of field-grown plants. Genetically modified poplars, down-regulated for cinnamoyl-CoA reductase, substantially influence the microbiome of the plant endosphere without perceptible impact on the rhizosphere microbiota. Unraveling the host genotype-dependent plant–microbe associations is crucial to comprehend the effects of engineering the plant metabolic pathway and possibly to exploit the eukaryote–prokaryote associations in phytoremediation applications, sustainable crop production, and the production of secondary metabolites.
Neglecting Human Ecology: The Common Element of Global Health Failures
Authors: Hanley Matthew 
Published: January 2016

Attempts to control malaria, AIDS, and maternal mortality in Africa have been woefully inadequate. This has involved adopting an almost exclusively technical preventive approach in the context of AIDS even though emphasizing human behavior holds the most promise. But on the other hand, it has also involved abandoning highly effective technical measures, as in the case of malaria. This suggests that the failure, at root, is anthropological in nature. The common element, it is argued here, is the failure to place the human ecology resolutely above destructive ideologies. Sound public-health approaches have been spurned in favor of predetermined preventive approaches in the service of ideological aims rather than of man and the common good. This article examines the ideological forces that have ultimately driven global health policy, and proposes that a more humane anthropology would be beneficial. Lay Summary: The scourges of malaria, AIDS, and maternal mortality have persisted in Africa, even though sensible and available means of addressing these epidemics, when stressed, have met with success. The reluctance to consistently emphasize the soundest public-health approaches—whether technical or behavioral in nature—indicate that global health policy has to a large extent been improperly concerned with advancing ideological agendas. The challenge we face today is not primarily technical but philosophical; the healing professions would perform a service by cultivating a higher view of man and an appreciation for objective moral truths that protect him.
Genetic delineation of local provenance defines seed collection zones along a climate gradient
Authors: Hufford Kristina M. , Veneklaas Erik J. , Lambers Hans , Krauss Siegfried L. 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
Efforts to re-establish native plant species should consider intraspecific variation if we are to restore genetic diversity and evolutionary potential. Data describing spatial genetic structure and the scale of adaptive differentiation are needed for restoration seed sourcing. Genetically defined provenance zones provide species-specific guidelines for the distance within which seed transfer likely maintains levels of genetic diversity and conserves locally adapted traits. While a growing number of studies incorporate genetic marker data in delineation of local provenance, they often fail to distinguish the impacts of neutral and non-neutral variation. We analysed population genetic structure for 134 amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) markers in Stylidium hispidum (Stylidiaceae) along a north–south transect of the species' range with the goal to estimate the distance at which significant genetic differences occur among source and recipient populations in restoration. In addition, we tested AFLP markers for signatures of selection, and examined the relationship of neutral and putatively selected markers with climate variables. Estimates of population genetic structure revealed significant levels of differentiation (Φ PT = 0.23) and suggested a global provenance distance of 45 km for pairwise comparisons of 16 populations. Of the 134 markers, 13 exhibited evidence of diversifying selection (Φ PT = 0.52). Using data for precipitation and thermal gradients, we compared genetic, geographic and environmental distance for subsets of neutral and selected markers. Strong isolation by distance was detected in all cases, but positive correlations with climate variables were present only for markers with signatures of selection. We address findings in light of defining local provenance in ecological restoration.
Effectiveness of Herpes Zoster Vaccine in Patients 60 Years and Older With End-stage Renal Disease
Authors: Tseng Hung Fu , Luo Yi , Shi Jiaxiao , Sy Lina S. , Tartof Sara Y. , Sim John J. , Hechter Rulin C. , Jacobsen Steven J. 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
Background.  Unlike in a healthy population, the protection of herpes zoster (HZ) vaccine in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients might be insufficient, considering data demonstrating suboptimal response to other vaccines. The study evaluates the association between HZ vaccination and the subsequent HZ risk among ESRD patients.
Methods.  This cohort study included ESRD patients age ≥60 years who were enrolled in Kaiser Permanente Southern California. The vaccinated cohort included 582 patients who received HZ vaccine during 01/01/2007 through 12/31/2013. Each vaccinated patient was matched to five unvaccinated patients on age, sex, and dialysis duration. Subjects were passively followed through their electronic health records to identify HZ incidence. Cox regression was used to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) associated with vaccination. Kaplan–Meier estimates of the cumulative incidence were generated.
Results.  The number of HZ cases was 16 in 1373 person-years (11.7 per 1000 person-years; 95% CI, 7.1–19.0) among the vaccinated and 126 in 5644 person-years (22.3 per 1000 person-years; 95% CI, 18.7–26.6) among the unvaccinated. The 36-month cumulative risk of incident HZ was 4.1% and 6.6%, respectively. HZ vaccination was associated with a reduced risk of HZ (adjusted HR = 0.49; 95% CI, .29–.85). The reduced risk seems more prominent if the vaccine is given within two years of dialysis initiation.
Conclusions.  Among ESRD patients age ≥60 years, receipt of HZ vaccine was associated with a lower incidence of HZ. In addition, HZ vaccination soon after the initiation of dialysis may provide greater protection.
Cerebrospinal Fluid Culture Positivity and Clinical Outcomes After Amphotericin-Based Induction Therapy for Cryptococcal Meningitis
Authors: Rolfes Melissa A. , Rhein Joshua , Schutz Charlotte , Taseera Kabanda , Nabeta Henry W. , Huppler Hullsiek Kathy , Akampuira Andrew , Rajasingham Radha , Musubire Abdu , Williams Darlisha A. , Thienemann Friedrich , Bohjanen Paul R. , Muzoora Conrad , Meintjes Graeme , Meya David B. , Boulware David R. 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
Background.  Amphotericin-based combination antifungal therapy reduces mortality from human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated cryptococcal meningitis. However, 40%–50% of individuals have positive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fungal cultures at completion of 2 weeks of amphotericin induction therapy. Residual CSF culture positivity has historically been associated with poor clinical outcomes. We investigated whether persistent CSF fungemia was associated with detrimental clinical outcomes in a contemporary African cohort.
Methods.  Human immunodeficiency virus-infected individuals with cryptococcal meningitis in Uganda and South Africa received amphotericin (0.7–1.0 mg/kg per day) plus fluconazole (800 mg/day) for 2 weeks, followed by “enhanced consolidation” therapy with fluconazole 800 mg/day for at least 3 weeks or until cultures were sterile, and then 400 mg/day for 8 weeks. Participants were randomized to receive antiretroviral therapy (ART) either 1–2 or 5 weeks after diagnosis and observed for 6 months. Survivors were classified as having sterile or nonsterile CSF based on 2-week CSF cultures. Mortality, immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS), and culture-positive relapse were compared in those with sterile or nonsterile CSF using Cox regression.
Results.  Of 132 participants surviving 2 weeks, 57% had sterile CSF at 2 weeks, 23 died within 5 weeks, and 40 died within 6 months. Culture positivity was not significantly associated with mortality (adjusted 6-month hazard ratio, 1.2; 95% confidence interval, 0.6–2.3; P = .28). Incidence of IRIS or relapse was also not significantly related to culture positivity.
Conclusions.  Among patients, all treated with enhanced consolidation antifungal therapy and ART, residual cryptococcal culture positivity was not found to be associated with poor clinical outcomes.
Legionellosis Outbreak Associated With a Hotel Fountain
Authors: Smith Shamika S. , Ritger Kathy , Samala Usha , Black Stephanie R. , Okodua Margaret , Miller Loretta , Kozak-Muiznieks Natalia A. , Hicks Lauri A. , Steinheimer Craig , Ewaidah Saadeh , Presser Lance , Siston Alicia M. 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
Background.  In August 2012, the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) was notified of acute respiratory illness, including 1 fatality, among a group of meeting attendees who stayed at a Chicago hotel during July 30–August 3, 2012. Suspecting Legionnaires' disease (LD), CDPH advised the hotel to close their swimming pool, spa, and decorative lobby fountain and began an investigation.
Methods.  Case finding included notification of individuals potentially exposed during July 16–August 15, 2012. Individuals were interviewed using a standardized questionnaire. An environmental assessment was performed.
Results.  One hundred fourteen cases were identified: 11 confirmed LD, 29 suspect LD, and 74 Pontiac fever cases. Illness onsets occurred July 21–August 22, 2012. Median age was 48 years (range, 22–82 years), 64% were male, 59% sought medical care (15 hospitalizations), and 3 died. Relative risks for hotel exposures revealed that persons who spent time near the decorative fountain or bar, both located in the lobby were respectively 2.13 (95%, 1.64–2.77) and 1.25 (95% CI, 1.09–1.44) times more likely to become ill than those who did not. Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 was isolated from samples collected from the fountain, spa, and women's locker room fixtures. Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 environmental isolates and a clinical isolate had matching sequence-based types. Hotel maintenance records lacked a record of regular cleaning and disinfection of the fountain.
Conclusions.  Environmental testing identified Legionella in the hotel's potable water system. Epidemiologic and laboratory data indicated the decorative fountain as the source. Poor fountain maintenance likely created favorable conditions for Legionella overgrowth.
Linezolid in the Starter Combination for Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis: Time to Move on to Group Four?
Authors: Grard Soazic , Catho Gaud , Valour Florent , Bouaziz Anissa , Perpoint Thomas , Braun Evelyne , Biron François , Miailhes Patrick , Ferry Tristan , Chidiac Christian , Souquet Pierre-Jean , Couraud Sébastien , Lina Gérard , Goutelle Sylvain , Veziris Nicolas , Dumitrescu Oana , Ader Florence ,   for the Lyon TB Study Group, Ader F. , Biron F. , Boibieux A. , Bouaziz A. , Bouledrak K. , Braun E. , Catho G. , Chidiac C. , Chumbi-Flores W. , Couraud S. , Devouassoux G. , Dumitrescu O. , Ferry T. , Freymond N. , Gardes S. , Gerbier-Colomban S. , Gillet Y. , Goutelle S. , Grando J. , Grima R. , Hees L. , Jubin V. , Kiakouama-Maleka L. , Lina G. , Maury J.M. , Miailhes P. , Perpoint T. , Perrot Em. , Perrot Emm , Reix P. , Renaud-Baron A.S. , Ronin V. , Senechal A. , Souquet P.J. , Thai Van H. , Tronc F. , Valour F. , Vanhems P. 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
Linezolid (LNZ), a group 5 antituberculous drug (unclear efficacy), was used in the starter regimens of 23 adults with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis. The LNZ-containing regimens were effective in achieving culture conversions and relapse-free outcomes. The most frequent LNZ-related side effect was neuropathy. We propose that LNZ should be reclassified among bactericidal second-line drugs.
Candida Arthritis: Analysis of 112 Pediatric and Adult Cases
Authors: Gamaletsou Maria N. , Rammaert Blandine , Bueno Marimelle A. , Sipsas Nikolaos V. , Moriyama Brad , Kontoyiannis Dimitrios P. , Roilides Emmanuel , Zeller Valerie , Taj-Aldeen Saad J. , Miller Andy O. , Petraitiene Ruta , Lortholary Olivier , Walsh Thomas J. 
Published: January 2016

AbstractBackground.  Candida arthritis is a debilitating form of deeply invasive candidiasis. However, its epidemiology, clinical manifestations, management, and outcome are not well understood.Methods.  Cases of Candida arthritis were reviewed from 1967 through 2014. Variables included Candida spp in joint and/or adjacent bone, underlying conditions, clinical manifestations, inflammatory biomarkers, diagnostic imaging, management, and outcome.Results.  Among 112 evaluable cases, 62% were males and 36% were pediatric. Median age was 40 years (range, &lt;1–84 years). Most patients (65%) were not pharmacologically immunosuppressed. Polyarticular infection (≥3 joints) occurred in 31% of cases. Clinical manifestations included pain (82%), edema (71%), limited function (39%), and erythema (22%) with knees (75%) and hips (15%) most commonly infected. Median erythrocyte sedimentation rate was 62 mm/hr (10–141) and C reactive protein 26 mg/dL (0.5–95). Synovial fluid median white blood cell count was 27 500/µL (range, 100–220 000/µL) with 90% polymorphonuclear neutrophils (range, 24–98). Adjacent osteomyelitis was present in 30% of cases. Candida albicans constituted 63%, Candida tropicalis 14%, and Candida parapsilosis 11%. Most cases (66%) arose de novo, whereas 34% emerged during antifungal therapy. Osteolysis occurred in 42%, joint-effusion in 31%, and soft tissue extension in 21%. Amphotericin and fluconazole were the most commonly used agents. Surgical interventions included debridement in 25%, irrigation 10%, and drainage 12%. Complete or partial response was achieved in 96% and relapse in 16%.Conclusion.  Candida arthritis mainly emerges as a de novo infection in usually non-immunosuppressed patients with hips and knees being most commonly infected. Localizing symptoms are frequent, and the most common etiologic agents are C albicans, C tropicalis, and C parapsilosis. Management of Candida arthritis remains challenging with a clear risk of relapse, despite antifungal therapy.
Clinical Care Pathways for Patients With Hepatitis C: Reducing Critical Barriers to Effective Treatment
Authors: Howes Nik , Lattimore Sam , Irving William Lucien , Thomson Brian James 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
Background.  Engagement of individuals infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) with care pathways remains a major barrier to realizing the benefits of new and more effective antiviral therapies. After an exploratory study, we have undertaken an evidence-based redesign of care pathways for HCV, including the following: (1) reflex testing of anti-HCV-positive samples for HCV RNA; (2) annotation of laboratory results to recommend referral of actively infected patients to specialist clinics; (3) educational programs for primary care physicians and nurses; and (4) the establishment of needs-driven community clinics in substance misuse services.
Methods.  In this study, we conducted a retrospective cohort study of progression through care pathways of individuals with a new diagnosis of HCV infection made between January 2010 and January 2012. We also analyzed patient flow through new care pathways and compared this with our baseline study of identical design.
Results.  A total of 28 980 samples were tested for anti-HCV antibody during the study period and yielded 273 unique patients with a new diagnosis of HCV infection. Of these, 38% were tested in general practice, 21% were tested in substance misuse services, 23% were tested in secondary care, and 18% were tested in local prisons. Overall, 80% of patients were referred to specialist clinics, 70% attended for assessment, and 38% commenced treatment, in comparison to 49%, 27%, and 10%, respectively, in the baseline study. Referral rates from all testing sources improved.
Conclusions.  This study provides timely evidence that progression through care pathways can be enhanced, and it demonstrates reduction of key barriers to eradication of HCV.
Is Emtricitabine-Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate Pre-exposure Prophylaxis for the Prevention of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection Safer Than Aspirin?
Authors: Kojima Noah , Klausner Jeffrey D. 
Published: January 2016

Abstract
Background.  The safety and effectiveness studies of emtricitabine-tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (FTC-TDF) for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in men and women showed that daily use reduced the risk of HIV acquisition, but there still may concerns about safety.
Methods.  A narrative review was done in September 2015 comparing the 5 major studies on PrEP for HIV infection—Preexposure Prophylaxis Initiative (N = 2499; 3324 person-years), Partners Preexposure Prophylaxis (N = 4747; 7830 person-years), TDF2 (N = 1219; 1563 person-years), Preexposure Prophylaxis Trial for HIV Prevention among African Women (N = 2056; 1407 person-years), and Vaginal and Oral Interventions to Control the Epidemic (N = 4969; 5509 person-years)—and the 2 major studies on aspirin safety—Physicians' Health Study (N = 22 071; over 110 000 person-years) and the Women's Health Study (N = 39 876; approximately 400 000 person-years). The numbers needed to harm (NNH) were calculated for FTC-TDF for HIV infection PrEP and aspirin.
Results.  The NNH for FTC-TDF in men who have sex with men and transgender women was 114 for nausea and 96 for unintentional weight loss; in heterosexual couples, the NNH was 68 for moderate decreased absolute neutrophil count. For aspirin, the NNH was 909 for major gastrointestinal bleeding, 123 for any gastrointestinal bleeding, and 15 for any bleeding problems in men. In women, the NNH for easy bruising was 10.
Conclusions.  We conclude that FTC-TDF for PrEP for HIV infection favorably compares with aspirin in terms of user safety. Although long-term studies are needed, providers should feel reassured about the safety of short- and medium-term PrEP for HIV infection with FTC-TDF.