bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Pediatric Bacterial Meningitis Surveillance in Nigeria From 2010 to 2016, Prior to and During the Phased Introduction of the 10-Valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine
Authors: Tagbo Beckie N , Bancroft Rowan E , Fajolu Iretiola , Abdulkadir Mohammed B , Bashir Muhammad F , Okunola Olusola P , Isiaka Ayodeji H , Lawal Namadi M , Edelu Benedict O , Onyejiaka Ngozi , Ihuoma Chinonyerem J , Ndu Florence , Ozumba Uchenna C , Udeinya Frances , Ogunsola Folasade , Saka Aishat O , Fadeyi Abayomi , Aderibigbe Sunday A , Abdulraheem Jimoh , Yusuf Adamu G , Sylvanus Ndow Peter , Ogbogu Philomena , Kanu Chinomnso , Emina Velly , Makinwa Olajumoke J , Gehre Florian , Yusuf Kabir , Braka Fiona , Mwenda Jason M , Ticha Johnson M , Nwodo Dorothy , Worwui Archibald , Biey Joseph N , Kwambana-Adams Brenda A , Antonio Martin 
Published: June 2019

Abstract

Background
Historically, Nigeria has experienced large bacterial meningitis outbreaks with high mortality in children. Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus), Neisseria meningitidis (meningococcus), and Haemophilus influenzae are major causes of this invasive disease. In collaboration with the World Health Organization, we conducted longitudinal surveillance in sentinel hospitals within Nigeria to establish the burden of pediatric bacterial meningitis (PBM).

Methods
From 2010 to 2016, cerebrospinal fluid was collected from children &lt;5 years of age, admitted to 5 sentinel hospitals in 5 Nigerian states. Microbiological and latex agglutination techniques were performed to detect the presence of pneumococcus, meningococcus, and H. influenzae. Species-specific polymerase chain reaction and serotyping/grouping were conducted to determine specific causative agents of PBM.

Results
A total of 5134 children with suspected meningitis were enrolled at the participating hospitals; of these 153 (2.9%) were confirmed PBM cases. The mortality rate for those infected was 15.0% (23/153). The dominant pathogen was pneumococcus (46.4%: 71/153) followed by meningococcus (34.6%: 53/153) and H. influenzae (19.0%: 29/153). Nearly half the pneumococcal meningitis cases successfully serotyped (46.4%: 13/28) were caused by serotypes that are included in the 10-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine. The most prevalent meningococcal and H. influenzae strains were serogroup W and serotype b, respectively.

Conclusions
Vaccine-type bacterial meningitis continues to be common among children &lt;5 years in Nigeria. Challenges with vaccine introduction and coverage may explain some of these finding. Continued surveillance is needed to determine the distribution of serotypes/groups of meningeal pathogens across Nigeria and help inform and sustain vaccination policies in the country.
Global regurgitant volume: approaching the critical mass in valvular-driven heart failure
Authors: Bartko Philipp E , Arfsten Henrike , Heitzinger Gregor , Pavo Noemi , Spinka Georg , Kastl Stefan , Prausmüller Suriya , Strunk Guido , Mascherbauer Julia , Hengstenberg Christian , Hülsmann Martin , Goliasch Georg 
Published: June 2019

Abstract

Aims
Recent progress in the diagnosis of functional valve regurgitation forms a coherent perception of severity thresholds by quantitative assessment. However, thresholds focused on either valve in isolation—not accounting for the global haemodynamic burden arising from concomitant functional regurgitation of the mitral and tricuspid valves. We sought to determine whether the global regurgitant volume is associated with adverse cardiac remodelling and mortality.

Methods and results
This long-term observational study included 414 patients on guideline-directed medical therapy. Baseline global regurgitant load defined as the sum of mitral and tricuspid regurgitant volume was assessed by the proximal flow convergence method. All-cause mortality during 5 years follow-up served as the primary endpoint. The median global regurgitant load was 30 mL (interquartile range 15–49) with 67% accounting for mitral and 33% accounting for tricuspid regurgitant volume. The global regurgitant load had significant impact on outcome with a crude hazard ratio of 1.46 (1.28–1.66; P < 0.001) for a 1-SD increase in global regurgitant volume, results that remained virtually unchanged after bootstrap or clinical confounder-based adjustment (P < 0.001 for adjusted models). Spline curve analysis showed a linearly increasing risk with a threshold of 50 mL and sustained increasing risk thereafter.

Conclusions
The present study demonstrates the detrimental effect of the global regurgitant load in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. The threshold where heart failure is driven by the valve lesions is a global regurgitant volume of 50 mL with continuously increasing risk beyond that threshold. Future studies need to address whether an attempt to reduce the global regurgitant volume can improve outcome.
Whole-Genome Analysis of Halomonas sp. Soap Lake #7 Reveals It Possesses Putative Mrp Antiporter Operon Groups 1 and 2
Authors: Mormile Melanie R , Edwards Tiffany , Frank Ron , Geurin Zachery , Haendiges Julie , Hoffmann Maria , Miller Jesse 
Published: June 2019

Abstract
The genus Halomonas possesses bacteria that are halophilic or halotolerant and exhibit a wide range of pH tolerance. The genome of Halomonas sp. Soap Lake #7 was sequenced to provide a better understanding of the mechanisms for salt and pH tolerance in this genus. The bacterium’s genome was found to possess two complete multiple resistance and pH antiporter systems, Group 1 and Group 2. This is the first report of both multiple resistance and pH antiporter Groups 1 and 2 in the genome of a haloalkaliphilic bacterium.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Social Isolation Scale in Older Adults
Authors: Nicholson Nicholas R , Feinn Richard , Casey E A , Dixon Jane 
Published: June 2019

AbstractBackground and ObjectivesSocial isolation is known to be detrimental to the health of older adults, yet there is no brief instrument to measure it. The objective was to describe the psychometric testing of a brief instrument constructed from theoretical underpinnings to measure social isolation in older adults.Research Design and MethodsA sample of 9,245 participants, all aged 60 years and older, was obtained from 44 states in the United States. Summary descriptive statistics were calculated, followed by exploratory factor analysis using Geomin rotation and subsequently confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). After finding the best model, differential item functioning (DIF) was conducted using a multiple indicator multiple cause structural equation model to determine if item responses differed by gender or race after controlling for level of social isolation. Internal consistency was calculated and validity was assessed by correlating factor scores with 2 external measures.ResultsExploratory factor analysis resulted in all items having statistically significant loadings. CFA showed the 2-factor model demonstrated excellent fit (CFI = 0.997, RMSEA = .038). The 2 factors were labeled connectedness and belongingness. After adjusting for demographic variables, no evidence suggested DIF. Internal consistency was good (alpha = .77) and the scale moderately correlated with the Social Network Index (r = .47).Discussion and ImplicationsThe Social Isolation Scale has been shown to be an effective measure of social isolation in older adults. Using this concise instrument to quickly measure social isolation in a fast-paced health care environment would be beneficial to health care providers and patients.
A demographic model for the conservation and management of the European eel: an application to a Mediterranean coastal lagoon
Authors: Bevacqua Daniele , Melià Paco , Schiavina Marcello , Crivelli Alain J , De Leo Giulio A , Gatto Marino 
Published: June 2019

AbstractWe present a general size- and age-structured demographic model of the continental phase of catadromous eels’ life cycle, allowing for the incorporation of (i) fluctuations of juvenile recruitment, (ii) density-dependent settlement and sex determination, (iii) plastic body growth and sexual dimorphism, and (iv) vital rates driven by body size rather than age. The model can be used to assess (i) standing stock, (ii) fishing yield, and (iii) spawner production under different recruitment and management scenarios. We demonstrate the model by applying it to a European eel stock (Camargue lagoons, southern France) that was continuously monitored for 17 years (1993–2009). Results indicate that the upper limit to settlement in the Camargue water system is ∼419 eels ha−1 per year. A balanced sex ratio occurs for a settlement of ∼94 eels ha−1, shifting towards males at higher densities. Catchability is higher in adult silver eels than in sub-adult yellow eels, possibly due to behavioural differences. Estimated standing stock ranged between 7 and 19 kg ha−1. Fishing yield was 5–7 kg ha−1 per year, while spawner escapement ranged between 0 and 13 kg ha−1 per year (<30% of what would occur in the absence of fishing and obstacles to migration).
Analysis of survival after coronary endarterectomy combined with coronary artery bypass grafting compared with isolated coronary artery bypass grafting: a meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Chuan , Chen Jun , Gu Chengxiong , Li Jingxing 
Published: June 2019

AbstractOBJECTIVESThe aim of this analysis was to compare survival outcomes of coronary endarterectomy (CE) combined with coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) with those of conventional CABG.METHODSEight observational studies were included in this analysis, including 10 529 different patients in Asia, Europe and North America, from 1985 to 2012, among whom 1925 underwent CE + CAGB and 8604 underwent conventional CAGB. The follow-up period ranged from 4 to 14 years. This meta-analysis was performed with the fixed-effects model.RESULTSAfter rigorous assessment of the quality of the studies included, this analysis showed that CE + CABG had a statistically significant weaker short-term outcome, with a higher risk of mortality [odds ratio (OR)] 1.61; P = 0.002]. Further, this phenomenon was exacerbated in the midterm. One-year and 2-year results indicated that death was, respectively, 163% (OR 2.63; P < 0.001) and 133% (OR 2.60; P < 0.001) more likely to occur in the CE + CABG group. However, the long-term results indicated no difference between the 2 groups. The 4-year hazard ratio (1.13; P = 0.10) did not show significant differences between the groups, and the Kaplan–Meier survival curves had the same level and pattern.CONCLUSIONSCE + CABG had a significantly weaker short-term outcome than conventional CABG, and this trend continued in the midterm. The survival rate had the largest gap in the midterm. However, there was no significant difference between these 2 groups in the long run.
One Thicket in Fraud on a Power
Authors: Hudson Jessica 
Published: June 2019

Abstract
This article considers the effect of fraud on a power as it applies to private powers arising across a range of institutions, such as express trusts, agency and companies. The article makes two main arguments. First, the effect of fraud on a power is determined by the equitable nature of the doctrine and its interaction with a particular type of power. The significance is that the effect of fraud on a power cannot be described as either voidness or voidability. There is a more important question as to the priority of equity’s response to fraud on a power. The second argument is that equity calibrates its response to fraud on a power depending on the method by which the power is devolved. The article goes on to consider the justification for this calibration, including the risk profiles that inhere in the different ways that institutions devolve power.
Scintillation balloon for neutrinoless double-beta decay search with liquid scintillator detectors
Authors: Obara S , Gando Y , Ishidoshiro K 
Published: June 2019

Abstract
Environmental radioactivity is a dominant background for rare decay search experiments, and it is difficult to completely remove such an impurity from detector vessels. We propose a scintillation balloon as the active vessel of a liquid scintillator in order to identify this undesirable radioactivity. According to our feasibility studies, the scintillation balloon enables the bismuth–polonium sequential decay to be tagged with a 99.7% efficiency, assuming a KamLAND-type (KamLAND = Kamioka Liquid scintillator AntiNeutrino Detector) liquid scintillator detector. This tagging of sequential decay using alpha rays from the polonium improves the sensitivity to neutrinoless double-beta decay while rejecting beta ray background from the bismuth.
Recent Debates on Public-Private Cost Sharing for Higher Education in Japan
Authors: TANAKA Ryuichi 
Published: June 2019

Abstract
This essay reviews three books and one article about recent debates on public-private cost sharing for higher education in Japan. To mitigate the problems related to low fertility and a rapidly aging population, the Japanese government plans to implement a free tuition policy for higher education for students from less affluent households. These books and the article reveal the historical, political, and economic factors behind why Japan’s current level of public spending on higher education is lower than that of other OECD countries. They also reveal that household income remains one of the most important determinants of college advancement, and that a free tuition policy has the potential to increase enrollment in higher education. However, this essay argues that a deeper understanding of the demand for higher education based on empirical studies is needed to make the policy successful.
Blood and Ice: Intimacy and Factionalism at Fort Defiance Indian Agency, 1887–1888
Authors: Wallace Adams David 
Published: June 2019

Abstract
On a bitterly cold morning on November 19, 1887, six Navajo boys were walking across the school grounds at Fort Defiance Indian Agency when they came across a clot of blood containing a human fetus. A brief investigation by the agent pointed to the unmarried school matron as being the mother of the fetus, a finding that provoked a deep factional dispute among agency employees. Given the explosiveness of the situation, the commissioner of Indian affairs found cause to send an inspector to the remote agency to collect evidence and render a judgement as to whether any individuals were guilty of “undue intimacy.” More than a detective story, this essay utilizes the Fort Defiance story as a window for exploring the problems of agency factionalism and the challenges facing the Office of Indian Affairs in its efforts to monitor and regulate employee behavior in its colonial outposts.
Comparison of EOSQ-24 and SRS-22 Scores in Congenital Scoliosis: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Li Ying , Burke Michelle C. , Gagnier Joel , Caird Michelle S. , Farley Frances A. 
Published: June 2019

Background:
The 24-item Early-Onset Scoliosis Questionnaire (EOSQ-24) and 22-item Scoliosis Research Society (SRS-22) questionnaire measure health-related quality of life in patients with scoliosis. The EOSQ-24 has been recently validated in early-onset scoliosis (EOS), including congenital scoliosis (CS). The SRS-22 has been validated in idiopathic scoliosis. The EOSQ-24 is completed by the caregiver and the SRS-22 is completed by the patient. The primary purpose of this study was to compare the EOSQ-24 and SRS-22 in patients with CS. The secondary purpose was to compare scores by age and also in developmentally delayed patients. We hypothesized that the SRS-22 is appropriate for children with EOS from CS who do not have a diagnosis of developmental delay.

Methods:
This was a prospective comparative study. A prospective institutional CS database was queried to identify patients who had the EOSQ-24 and SRS-22 completed at the same time point. Children without a diagnosis of developmental delay completed both questionnaires if they understood the questions, regardless of age. Otherwise, the caregiver completed both questionnaires. For the analysis, similar questions were matched so that the EOSQ-24 questions fit into the SRS-22 domains of Function, Pain, Mental Health, and Satisfaction. Pearson correlation coefficients (r) were used to compare domain scores, with r≥0.70 indicating a strong relationship.

Results:
The final study group included 98 patients. The average age at completion of the questionnaires was 9.5 years. A strong correlation was found for all domains except Satisfaction when the patient or caregiver completed both questionnaires. Subanalysis demonstrated the strongest relationship between domains in the age group 0 to 5 years. In developmentally delayed patients, a weak correlation was noted for all domain scores except Pain, which showed a strong correlation. There was a strong correlation for Pain and a weak correlation for Satisfaction domains across all subgroups.

Conclusions:
The SRS-22 may be appropriate for children with EOS from CS who do not have a diagnosis of developmental delay. Our findings suggest that the results of previous studies that collected the SRS-22 and future studies that collect the EOSQ-24 can be correlated. It remains unclear which questionnaire is more suitable for developmentally delayed patients.

Level of Evidence:
Level I—diagnostic.
A RANDOMIZED PAIRED-EYE TRIAL OF INTRAVITREAL DEXAMETHASONE IMPLANT FOR CYSTOID MACULAR EDEMA IN RETINITIS PIGMENTOSA
Authors: Park Un Chul , Park Jung Hyun , Ma Dae Joong , Cho In Hwan , Oh Baek-Lok , Yu Hyeong Gon 
Published: June 2019

Purpose:
To evaluate the efficacy and safety of intravitreal dexamethasone (DEX) implant in retinitis pigmentosa patients with cystoid macular edema (CME).

Methods:
In this randomized, noncontrolled, paired-eye, single crossover clinical trial, one eye of retinitis pigmentosa patients with bilateral CME with central macular thickness of >250 µm was randomized to intravitreal DEX implant while the fellow eye was observed. Both eyes were started on topical dorzolamide. At Month 6, DEX implant was eligible for both eyes when CME was >250 µm. Patients were followed up until Month 12. Primary outcome measures were the central macular thickness and best-corrected visual acuity changes from baseline at Month 2.

Results:
Fourteen patients with bilateral RP-CME were included. Study eyes showed significant central macular thickness decrease (median, −147.5 µm; P = 0.001) and best-corrected visual acuity improvement (median, +6 letters; P = 0.001) at Month 2, but not at Month 6. Intravitreal DEX implant at Month 6 produced comparable efficacy to baseline treatment in 11 fellow eyes and 12 study eyes. Topical dorzolamide did not show significant therapeutic efficacy. During 12 months, elevated intraocular pressure of >21 mmHg and cataract progression were observed in 14.3% and 40.0% of study eyes.

Conclusion:
Intravitreal DEX implant can both reduce macular thickness and improve vision in RP-CME, while repeated injection is required.
Initial development of an attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder visual analog scale for rapid assessment of medication effects
Authors: Woolsey Colleen , Smoldon Jeremy , Devney Robert 
Published: June 2019

ABSTRACT
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a commonly occurring neurodevelopmental disorder in children and young adults. If under or inadequately treated, long-term morbidity, mortality, increased social, and health care costs may follow. Standardized assessment tools aid in accurate diagnosis and ongoing treatment modifications; however, they are underused by providers at follow-up visits. This article discusses the development of an assessment tool, presents initial data on the use of a nonstandardized visual analog scale (VAS), and re-emphasizes the importance of regular inclusion of standardized rating scales during periodic reassessments. A targeted literature search of PubMed, Articles+, ERIC, CINAHL, and Google Scholar was performed and findings were reported. An interview with the developer was conducted along with a chart review comparing those using and not using the VAS. The use of the VAS may improve appointment efficiency and result in more thorough symptom assessment. Introduction of the VAS may remind providers of the importance of using standardized tools to reassess all ADHD symptoms regularly. Furthermore, the need for practice efficiency highlights the value of standardization of this VAS.
BigTop: A Three-Dimensional Virtual Reality tool for GWAS Visualization
Authors: Westreich Samuel T. , Nattestad Maria , Meyer Christopher 
Published: June 2019

AbstractBackgroundGenome-wide association studies (GWAS) are typically visualized using a two-dimensional Manhattan plot, displaying chromosomal location of SNPs along the x-axis and the negative log-10 of their p-value on the y-axis. This traditional plot provides a broad overview of the results, but offers little opportunity for interaction or expansion of specific regions, and is unable to show additional dimensions of the dataset.ResultsWe created BigTop, a visualization framework in virtual reality (VR), designed to render a Manhattan plot in three dimensions, wrapping the graph around the user in a simulated cylindrical room. BigTop uses the z-axis to display minor allele frequency of each SNP, allowing for the identification of allelic variants of genes. BigTop also offers additional interactivity, allowing users to select any individual SNP and receive expanded information, including SNP name, exact values, and gene location, if applicable. BigTop is built in JavaScript using the React and A-Frame frameworks, and can be rendered using commercially available VR headsets or in a two-dimensional web browser such as Google Chrome. Data is read into BigTop in JSON format, and can be provided as either JSON or a tab-separated text file.ConclusionsUsing additional dimensions and interactivity options offered through VR, we provide a new, interactive, three-dimensional representation of the traditional Manhattan plot for displaying and exploring GWAS data.