bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Continuous intravenous vancomycin in children with normal renal function hospitalized in hematology–oncology: prospective validation of a dosing regimen optimizing steady‐state concentration
Authors: Hoegy Delphine , Goutelle Sylvain , Garnier Nathalie , Rénard Cécile , Faure‐Conter Cécile , Bergeron Christophe , Bertrand Yves , Bleyzac Nathalie 
Published: January 2018

AbstractContinuous intravenous (IV) infusion has been shown to be the best option to administer vancomycin because of its time‐dependent bactericidal activity. Available IV vancomycin dosing guidelines in pediatrics with normal renal function leads to less than 50% of patients achieving a vancomycin serum concentration (Css) in the target range (15–20 mg/L). The primary objective of this study was to prospectively validate an age‐based dosing regimen in pediatric oncology–hematology. The secondary objective was to investigate the influence on Css attainment of different variables. A continuous IV dosing nomogram was built by retrospective study (2000–2010) on Bayesian dosing adjustments performed in 161 patients. This study assessed the prospective validation of this age‐based nomogram and the influence on Css attainment of variables as the gender, underlying disease (oncology or hematology), and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) before receiving vancomycin therapy. A total of 94 patients aged from 4.3 months to 17.9 years old with normal renal function were eligible for the prospective validation. Fifty‐five of those patients (58.5%) achieved the target range of vancomycin Css. There was no significant difference between age groups (P = 0.816) and no influence of gender (P = 0.500). There was a nonsignificant trend to a better target attainment in oncology patients (69.2% vs. hematology 54.4%, P = 0.142) and patients who did not undergo HSCT (63.3% vs. 33.3%, P = 0.031). This study proposed an age‐based nomogram prospectively validated which near 60% of patients of each age class achieving the target range of Css.
Rare long‐distance dispersal of a marine angiosperm across the Pacific Ocean
Authors: Smith Timothy M. , York Paul H. , Broitman Bernardo R. , Thiel Martin , Hays Graeme C. , van Sebille Erik , Putman Nathan F. , Macreadie Peter I. , Sherman Craig D. H. 
Published: January 2018

AbstractAimLong‐distance dispersal (LDD) events occur rarely but play a fundamental role in shaping species biogeography. Lying at the heart of island biogeography theory, LDD relies on unusual events to facilitate colonization of new habitats and range expansion. Despite the importance of LDD, it is inherently difficult to quantify due to the rarity of such events. We estimate the probability of LDD of the seagrass Heterozostera nigricaulis, a common Australian species, across the Pacific Ocean to colonize South America.LocationCoastal Chile, Australia and the Pacific Ocean.MethodsGenetic analyses of H. nigricaulis collected from Chile and Australia were used to assess the relationship between the populations and levels of clonality. Ocean surface current models were used to predict the probability of propagules dispersing from south‐east Australia to central Chile and shipping data used to determine the likelihood of anthropogenic dispersal.ResultsOur study infers that the seagrass H. nigricaulis dispersed from Australia across the entire width of the Pacific (c. 14,000 km) to colonize South America on two occasions. Genetic analyses reveal that these events led to two large isolated clones, one of which covers a combined area of 3.47 km2. Oceanographic models estimate the arrival probability of a dispersal propagule within 3 years to be at most 0.00264%. Early shipping provides a potential alternative dispersal vector, yet few ships sailed from SE Australia to Chile prior to the first recording of H. nigricaulis and the lack of more recent and ongoing introductions demonstrate the rarity of such dispersal.Main conclusionsThese findings demonstrate LDD does occur over extreme distances despite very low probabilities. The large number of propagules (100s of millions) produced over 100s of years suggests that the arrival of propagules in Chile was inevitable and confirms the importance of LDD for species distributions and community ecology.
An assessment of drinking water contamination with Helicobacter pylori in Lima, Peru
Authors: Boehnke Kevin F. , Brewster Rebecca K. , Sánchez Brisa N. , Valdivieso Manuel , Bussalleu Alejandro , Guevara Magaly , Saenz Claudia Gonzales , Alva Soledad Osorio , Gil Elena , Xi Chuanwu 
Published: January 2018

AbstractBackgroundHelicobacter pylori is a gut bacterium that is the primary cause of gastric cancer. H. pylori infection has been consistently associated with lack of access to sanitation and clean drinking water. In this study, we conducted time‐series sampling of drinking water in Lima, Peru, to examine trends of H. pylori contamination and other water characteristics.Materials and methodsDrinking water samples were collected from a single faucet in Lima's Lince district 5 days per week from June 2015 to May 2016, and pH, temperature, free available chlorine, and conductivity were measured. Quantities of H. pylori in all water samples were measured using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Relationships between the presence/absence and quantity of H. pylori and water characteristics in the 2015‐2016 period were examined using regression methods accounting for the time‐series design.ResultsForty‐nine of 241 (20.3%) of drinking water samples were contaminated with H. pylori. Statistical analyses identified no associations between sampling date and the likelihood of contamination with H. pylori. Statistically significant relationships were found between lower temperatures and a lower likelihood of the presence of H. pylori (P < .05), as well as between higher pH and higher quantities of H. pylori (P < .05).ConclusionsThis study has provided evidence of the presence of H. pylori DNA in the drinking water of a single drinking water faucet in the Lince district of Lima. However, no seasonal trends were observed. Further studies are needed to determine the presence of H. pylori in other drinking water sources in other districts in Lima, as well as to determine the viability of H. pylori in these water sources. Such studies would potentially allow for better understanding and estimates of the risk of infection due to exposure to H. pylori in drinking water.
Attitudes towards mental health, mental health research and digital interventions by young adults with type 1 diabetes: A qualitative analysis
Authors: Clarke Janine , Proudfoot Judy , Vatiliotis Veronica , Verge Charles , Holmes‐Walker Deborah J. , Campbell Lesley , Wilhelm Kay , Moravac Catherine , Indu Pillaveetil S. , Bridgett Madeleine 
Published: January 2018

AbstractBackgroundYoung people with type 1 diabetes are at increased risk of mental disorders. Whereas treatment need is high, difficulty recruiting young people with type 1 diabetes into psychosocial studies complicates development, testing and dissemination of these interventions.ObjectiveInterviews with young adults with type 1 diabetes were conducted to examine attitudes towards mental health and mental health research, including barriers and motivators to participation in mental health studies and preferred sources of mental health support. The interviews were audio‐taped, transcribed and evaluated via thematic analysis.Setting and participantsYoung adults with type 1 diabetes were recruited via social media channels of 3 advocacy organizations. A total of 31 young adults (26 females and 5 males) with an average age of 22 years were interviewed between October 2015 and January 2016.ResultsParticipants were largely unaware of their increased vulnerability to common mental health problems and knew little about mental health research. Major barriers to participation included perceived stigma and lifestyle issues and low levels of trust in researchers. Opportunities to connect with peers and help others were described as key motivators. Psychological distress was considered normal within the context of diabetes. A need for some level of human contact in receiving psychosocial support was expressed.Discussion and conclusionFindings provide valuable insights into the complex dynamics of engaging young adults with type 1 diabetes in mental health studies. Interviewees provided practical suggestions to assist investigation and delivery of psychosocial interventions for this vulnerable group.
The role of ergonomic saddle seats and magnification loupes in the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders. A systematic review
Authors: Plessas A , Bernardes Delgado M 
Published: January 2018

AbstractObjectivesMusculoskeletal disorders affect a high percentage of dentists, dental hygienists and therapists. Static and awkward working postures are considered as major risk factors. Proper seat selection and use of magnification loupes are promoted for their ergonomic benefits. The aim of this review was to evaluate the existing empirical evidence on the effect of the above interventions on (i) correction of poor posture and (ii) reduction in musculoskeletal pain.MethodsThe review was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. The review protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42017058580). The Medline via Ovid, CINHAL via EBSCO, Web of Science, OpenGrey and EThOS electronic databases were searched. Prospective experimental studies were considered for inclusion. The Effective Public Health Practice Project Quality Assessment Tool (EPHPP) was used to assess the methodological quality of the included studies.ResultsEight studies were included in the review. Four investigated the effect of loupes on posture and musculoskeletal pain, 4 the effect of the saddle seats on posture and one of the latter explored the combined effect of magnification and use of saddle seats on posture.ConclusionsBased on a limited number of studies, the use of ergonomic saddle seats and dental loupes leads to improved working postures. The use of loupes appears to relieve shoulder, arm and hand pain. However, their effect on neck pain is scarce. None of the studies reported on the effect of the saddle seats on musculoskeletal pain. Future well‐powered prospective longitudinal studies are deemed necessary to confirm the conclusions of this review.
Hypopigmented mycosis fungoides: a 20‐case retrospective series
Authors: Amorim Gustavo M. , Niemeyer‐Corbellini Joao P. , Quintella Danielle C. , Cuzzi Tullia , Ramos‐e‐Silva Marcia 
Published: January 2018

AbstractBackgroundHypopigmented mycosis fungoides (hMF) is a rare subtype of mycosis fungoides. The aim of this study was to identify the clinical–epidemiological profile of our patient group and also to provide additional information about treatment responses and prognosis.MethodsThis is a cross‐sectional retrospective observational study, with exploratory analysis. The outcome variables were disease progression and related death.ResultsTwenty patients with hMF were selected from a group of 102 patients diagnosed with MF. There was no gender difference (10 females and 10 males). Mean age at diagnosis was 43.85 years, and most patients had mixed or black skin color. The mean time between the onset of the lesions and the diagnosis was 66.75 months. Patients were equally distributed in stages IA (50%) and IB (50%). Photochemotherapy (psoralen and ultraviolet A) was the predominant therapeutic modality. The mean follow‐up time was 7.25 years. In 10%, disease progression was observed. Death related to the disease occurred in one patient.ConclusionsThe clinical and epidemiological profile of patients with hypopigmented MF found in our sample is in agreement with what is described in the literature, with the exception of the age at diagnosis, higher than expected. Diagnostic delay time, despite long, is also consistent with the medical literature; however, in this sample, we had two cases of disease progression, with death of one patient, despite the treatment, which is extremely important since hypopigmented MF is usually associated with good prognosis.
Predictive factors of biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy for high‐risk prostate cancer
Authors: Murata Yukiko , Tatsugami Katsunori , Yoshikawa Masahiro , Hamaguchi Masumitsu , Yamada Shigetomo , Hayakawa Yusuke , Ueda Kouhei , Momosaki Seiya , Sakamoto Naotaka 
Published: January 2018

ObjectiveTo identify risk factors of biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy in high‐risk patients.MethodsA total of 191 high‐risk prostate cancer patients according to the D'Amico classification treated with radical prostatectomy at a single institution between April 2000 and December 2013 were enrolled. The pathological evaluation including intraductal carcinoma of prostate was reassessed, and the clinical and pathological risk factors of biochemical recurrence were analyzed.ResultsThe median follow up after radical prostatectomy was 49 months. The 5‐year biochemical recurrence‐free survival rate after radical prostatectomy in high‐risk prostate cancer patients was 41.6%. Initial prostate‐specific antigen, pathological Gleason score, seminal vesicle invasion, extraprostatic extension and intraductal carcinoma of the prostate were significantly associated with biochemical recurrence‐free survival. The 5‐year biochemical recurrence‐free survival rates in patients with zero, one, two and three of these risk factors were 92.9%, 70.7%, 38.3% and 28.8%, respectively. In patients with four or more factors, the biochemical recurrence‐free survival rate was 6.1% after 18 months.ConclusionsIn D'Amico high‐risk patients treated with radical prostatectomy, risk factors for biochemical recurrence can be identified. Patients with fewer risk factors have longer biochemical recurrence‐free survival, even among these high‐risk cases.
Layperson's knowledge and perceptions of irritable bowel syndrome as potential barriers to care
Authors: Sherwin LeeAnne B. 
Published: January 2018

AbstractAimsThe aim of this study was to describe the layperson's knowledge and perceptions regarding the aetiology, pathogenesis, prevalence, medical evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of irritable bowel syndrome.BackgroundDiagnosis acceptance and adherence to treatment is influenced by the views of the patient's social networks. Little is known how these networks influence those with irritable bowel syndrome.DesignCross‐sectional study of two‐hundred four laypersons, ages 18–80 years without an irritable bowel syndrome diagnosis.MethodsData were collected May 2016–March 2017. Laypersons without a diagnosis of IBS self‐reported their knowledge and perceptions about IBS.Results/findingsParticipants were able to identify many symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome however held misconceptions regarding the development of irritable bowel syndrome as noted by the endorsement of genetics, environment and diet or alcohol/smoking behaviours as specific causes. Further misconceptions held included the belief that irritable bowel syndrome was associated with an increased risk for the development of colon cancer and inflammatory bowel disease. Contrary to current guidelines, many thought a gastroenterologist was the only person appropriate to diagnose irritable bowel syndrome and objective testing, such as colonoscopy, was necessary to establish a diagnosis.ConclusionLaypersons have an understanding of the symptoms associated with IBS; however, hold numerous misconceptions regarding the aetiology, role of the healthcare provider, necessary testing and risks associated with irritable bowel syndrome. These misconceptions are inconsistent with current guidelines and practices. Establishing partnerships and educating social networks in addition to patients may enhance outcomes for those with IBS.
International evidence on economic policy uncertainty and asymmetric adjustment of audit pricing: Big 4 versus non‐big 4 auditors
Authors: Zhang Min , Xu Haoran , Tong Lijing , Ye Tingting 
Published: January 2018

AbstractBy investigating the association between economic policy uncertainty and audit fees using data from eight countries, this study examines whether and how Big 4 auditors reinforce their advantages over non‐Big 4 auditors through audit pricing. We find that both Big 4 and non‐Big 4 auditors reduce their audit fees when economic policy uncertainty increases. However, while non‐Big 4 auditors adjust audit pricing asymmetrically as economic policy uncertainty changes, i.e., the magnitude of decline in audit fees when economic policy uncertainty increases exceeds the magnitude of rise when economic policy uncertainty decreases, Big 4 auditors regulate their audit pricing in a symmetric manner. Further analyses reveal that: (1) the asymmetric pricing of non‐Big 4 auditors mainly exists in countries where Big 4 auditors have dominant market share, (2) Big 4 auditors provide higher‐quality audits when economic policy uncertainty increases and (3) many firms in better financial condition turn to Big 4 auditors during uncertain years. Our findings suggest that the symmetric audit pricing helps Big 4 auditors maintain a favorable position in the audit market.
Parallel bursts of recent and rapid radiation in the Mediterranean and Eritreo‐Arabian biodiversity hotspots as revealed byGlobulariaandCampylanthus(Plantaginaceae)
Authors: Affenzeller Matthias , Kadereit Joachim W. , Comes Hans Peter 
Published: January 2018

AbstractAimMolecular phylogenetic inferences have been important to test hypotheses of the temporal and geographical origin of plant lineages from the Mediterranean region (MR) and their rates of diversification. However, comparisons are still rare between well‐sampled and closely related clades from within and outside theMR. Here, we compare the biogeographical histories and diversification rates between two main genera of woody perennial Plantaginaceae with highest species diversities in theMR(Globularia) and the Eritreo‐Arabian region (EAR;Campylanthus).LocationMediterranean Basin and adjacent regions; Eritreo‐Arabian region.MethodsWe estimated a time‐calibrated phylogeny of theGlobularia+Poskea–Campylanthusclade based on combined nuclear (ITS) and chloroplastDNAsequences for ancestral area reconstructions and within‐ and among‐clade diversification rate analyses.ResultsThe presently disjunct ranges betweenGlobulariaandCampylanthusmost likely reflect dispersal/migration from theEARinto theMRbetween the mid‐early Miocene (c. 9.6 Ma) and the late Pliocene (c. 3.3 Ma). The subsequent diversification ofGlobulariacoincides with that ofCampylanthus(c. 3.5 Ma), with similar rates of constant lineage accumulation in both genera. While the MacaronesianGlobulariaspecies are recent (Late Pleistocene) colonists, most likely from theMR, neither late Plio‐/Pleistocene vicariance nor dispersal‐mediated range evolution can be refuted for Macaronesian versusEARCampylanthus.Main conclusionsThe coupling between low‐ and high‐latitude climate shifts likely triggered the simultaneous diversification at comparable rates ofCampylanthusandGlobulariain, respectively, theEARandMRat the end of the Pliocene. In the extensive and ecogeographically complexMR,Globulariaexperienced increased diversification rates likely triggered by glacial cycles and resulting in adaptive species formation. In contrast, increased diversification rates inCampylanthuslikely were triggered by aridity cycles and resulted in geographical speciation.
Nonlinear higher order abiotic interactions explain riverine biodiversity
Authors: Ryo Masahiro , Harvey Eric , Robinson Christopher T. , Altermatt Florian 
Published: January 2018

AbstractAimTheory and experiments strongly support the importance of interactive effects of multiple factors shaping biodiversity, although their importance rarely has been investigated at biogeographically relevant scales. In particular, the importance of higher order interactions among environmental factors at such scales is largely unknown. We investigated higher order interactions of environmental factors to explain diversity patterns in a metacommunity of aquatic invertebrates at a biogeographically relevant scale and discuss the findings in an environmental management context.LocationAll major drainage basins in Switzerland (Rhine, Rhone, Ticino and Inn; 41,285 km2).MethodsRiverine α‐diversity patterns at two taxonomic levels (family richness of all benthic macroinvertebrates and species richness of Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera) were examined at 518 sites across the basins. We applied a novel machine learning technique to detect key three‐way interactions of explanatory variables by comparing the relative importance of 1,140 three‐way combinations for family richness and 680 three‐way combinations for species richness.ResultsRelatively few but important three‐way interactions were meaningful for predicting biodiversity patterns among the numerous possible combinations. Specifically, we found that interactions among elevational gradient, prevalence of forest coverage in the upstream basin and biogeoclimatic regional classification were distinctly important.Main conclusionOur results indicated that a high prevalence of terrestrial forest generally sustains riverine benthic macroinvertebrate diversity, but this relationship varies considerably with biogeoclimatic and elevational conditions likely due to community composition of forests and macroinvertebrates changing along climatic and geographical gradients. An adequate management of riverine ecosystems at relevant biogeographical scales requires the identification of such interactions and a context‐dependent implementation.
Efficacy of catheter ablation of focal sources in persistent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Takahashi Yoshihide , Yamashita Syu , Suzuki Masahito , Yabe Kento , Hirao Kenzo 
Published: January 2018

AbstractIntroductionRecent studies suggest that atrial fibrillation (AF) is maintained by electrical activity arising from focal sources. We sought to test whether catheter ablation that targets focal sources can improve on current ablation protocols for persistent AF.Methods and resultsIn patients with persistent AF whose AF did not terminate with pulmonary vein (PV) isolation, the left atrium was mapped with a 20‐pole high‐density mapping catheter using CARTO®3 navigation. If a site demonstrated centrifugal activation over at least three consecutive cycles, it was deemed a focal source and ablated. If AF remained, defragmentation was performed until AF was terminated. Freedom from atrial tachyarrhythmia was compared between the study patients and propensity score matched historical controls who had undergone conventional stepwise ablation. Of the 68 study patients, 2.9 ± 1.9 focal sources were identified in 60 patients. Focal sources displayed transient centrifugal activation patterns for a median of six consecutive cycles. Total radiofrequency duration was shorter in the study group (62 ± 16 minutes vs. 75 ± 24 minutes, P = 0.0003). During a 1‐year follow‐up period, 39 (57%) and 26 (38%) patients were free from atrial tachyarrhythmias in the absence of antiarrhythmic drugs in the study and control groups, respectively (hazard ratio: 1.85, 95% confidence interval: 1.17–2.96, P = 0.009). Improvement of clinical outcome was mainly driven by a decrease in recurrence of atrial tachycardia in the study patients (22% vs. 40%, P = 0.047).ConclusionThe results of this study suggest that focal sources are appropriate ablation targets in addition to the PVs in persistent AF.