bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
CLINICAL PRESENTATION, LABORATORY ANALYSIS AND LINEAR GROWTH IN 50 NEONATES AND YOUNG INFANTS WITH ACUTE MENINGITIS: ONE YEAR EXPERIENCE OF A SINGLE CENTER IN QATAR
Authors: De Sanctis Vincenzo 
Published: April 2019

Abstract
Introduction: Meningitis occurs frequently in neonates and can lead to a number of acute, severe complications and long-term disabilities. Although, long term growth delay and abnormal weight gain appear to be risk factors following an acute attack of both bacterial and aseptic meningitis in children, especially during the fast phase of infantile growth, the long-term effects of acute meningitis occurring during the neonatal and early infantile periods on linear growth (length, weight and head growth) have not fully reported.
Aim of the study: The objective of this study is to describe the clinical presentation of neonates and young infants with acute meningitis with different etiologies and to determine the clinical impact of the effect of acute meningitis on growth parameters.
Material and methods: We analyzed the clinical data and the growth parameters of 50 newborns and young infants (age: 1.6 ± 0.9 month) admitted to our hospital (Al Wakhra Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Doha ,Qatar), between 1-1-2016 to 1-1-2017, with acute meningitis. Anthropometric measurements included weight, length, and head circumference. Length SDS (L-SDS) and body mass-index (BMI) were calculated and recorded at every clinic visit, every 3 months for 8 ± 2 months.
Results: In this age group of neonates and young infants with acute meningitis fever (84%) and hypoactivity (64%) were the major presenting manifestations. Acute bacterial meningitis (n: 10) was associated with higher morbidity [shock (n: 1), subdural empyema (n: 1) and hydrocephalus (n: 1)]. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) examinations showed that infants with bacterial meningitis had significantly higher pleocytosis of mainly polymorphic leukocytes and protein levels, compared to those with aseptic meningitis
All infants showed normal linear growth and weight gain during the follow-up period (8 ± 2 months). The annualized growth rate of infants = 25.3 ± 3.5 cm per year. All had normal length standard deviation scores (LSDS) (-0.2 ± 0.9) and none of them had LSDS < -2. All infants had normal BMI (16.7 ± 1.8 kg/m2). Head circumference growth was normal in 49/50 infants (43.8 ± 1.8 cm) at 8 ± 2 months. One infant developed hydrocephalus after GBS meningitis. There was no statistical difference in linear growth between infants with aseptic and bacterial meningitis.
Conclusion: Acute bacterial meningitis in newborns and young infants is still associated with considerably high morbidity and complications. Infantile linear growth appears to be normal in all newborns and young infants with both bacterial and aseptic meningitis.
Seroprevalence of Toxocara canis in the city of Catania, Italy.
Authors: Nicoletti Alessandra , Cicero Calogero Edoardo , Mantella Antonia , Giuliano Loretta , Rascunà Cristina , Paradisi Vincenza , Bartoloni Alessandro , Zappia Mario , Sofia Vito 
Published: April 2019

Toxocariasis is one of the most common helminthiases worldwide. However, there is a lack of data regarding Southern Italy. We have evaluated the seroprevalence and associated environmental factors of toxocariasis in a sample of adults living in the city of Catania.
Presence of anti-Toxocara canis IgG antibodies was searched using an ELISA test using excretory/secretory antigens. Environmental risk factors have beene valuated with a face-to-face questionnaire.
Two hundred eighty-seven subjects (mean age of 48.1±15.6 years) were enrolled, and presence of anti T. canis antibodies was found in 23 participants, of whom 18 (78.3%) were women with a mean age of 51.1±14.0 years, giving a seroprevalence of 8.0% (95%CI 5.4-11.7). At multivariate analysis a positive association for subjects with more than 3 siblings (adjOR 3.17; 95%CI 1.09-9.25) was recorded.
Our study confirms that exposition to T. canis is common also in urban areas of western countries.
Disabled people’s organisations and the disability movement: Perspectives from Burkina Faso
Authors: Bezzina Lara 
Published: April 2019

Background: In Burkina Faso, the disability movement is rather weak, both in terms of funding and staffing – its range does not extend far outside the capital city and is largely dependent on international non-governmental organisations (INGOs). Despite the huge number of grassroots disabled people’s organisations (DPOs), many of these organisations do not function beyond the occasional meeting and celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The reasons for this are various, including dependency on external funding (such as from international organisations), lack of access to resources, being dependent on voluntary members, and lack of organisation.Objectives: This article looks at the functioning of – and politics governing – DPOs in Burkina Faso, their significance in the lives of people with disabilities and the challenges they encounter.Method: This article is based on research findings obtained through interviews conducted with people with disabilities, as well as INGOs working with people with disabilities and state authorities in Burkina Faso.Results: Evidence suggests that the farther people with disabilities are from the capital, the lesser are their chances of being heard and of being involved in decision-making. However, DPOs offer a haven for many, offering people with disabilities solace in meeting other members and finding a sense of belonging in these associations. Others give importance to the role of DPOs in raising awareness and human rights advocacy.Conclusion: Finally, the article raises the question as to what the future of DPOs in Burkina Faso might entail.
Rhizosphere to the atmosphere: contrasting methane pathways, fluxes, and geochemical drivers across the terrestrial–aquatic wetland boundary
Authors: Jeffrey Luke C. , Maher Damien T. , Johnston Scott G. , Maguire Kylie , Steven Andrew D. L. , Tait Douglas R. 
Published: April 2019

Abstract. Although wetlands represent the largest natural source of atmospheric
CH4, large uncertainties remain regarding the global wetland CH4 flux.
Wetland hydrological oscillations contribute to this uncertainty,
dramatically altering wetland area, water table height, soil redox
potentials,
and CH4 emissions. This study compares both terrestrial and aquatic
CH4 fluxes in permanent and seasonal remediated freshwater wetlands in
subtropical Australia over two field campaigns, representing differing
hydrological and climatic conditions. We account for aquatic CH4
diffusion and ebullition rates and plant-mediated CH4 fluxes from
three distinct vegetation communities, thereby examining diel and
intra-habitat variability. CH4 emission rates were related to
underlying sediment geochemistry. For example, distinct negative
relationships between CH4 fluxes and both Fe(III) and SO42-
were observed. Where sediment Fe(III) and SO42- were depleted,
distinct positive trends occurred between CH4 emissions and Fe(II) ∕ acid volatile sulfur (AVS).
Significantly higher CH4 emissions
(p < 0.01) in the seasonal wetland were measured during flooded
conditions and always during daylight hours, which is consistent with soil
redox potential and temperature being important co-drivers of CH4
flux. The highest CH4 fluxes were consistently emitted from the
permanent wetland (1.5 to 10.5 mmol m−2 d−1), followed by the
Phragmites australis community within the seasonal wetland (0.8 to 2.3 mmol m−2 d−1), whilst the lowest CH4 fluxes came from a region of
forested Juncus spp. (−0.01 to 0.1 mmol m−2 d−1), which also
corresponded to the highest sedimentary Fe(III) and SO42-. We
suggest that wetland remediation strategies should consider geochemical
profiles to help to mitigate excessive and unwanted methane emissions,
especially during early system remediation periods.
View from the Canoe vs. the View from the Ship: The Art of Alliance
Authors: Hill Rick 
Published: April 2019

AbstractHistories of art and popular culture have made more familiar the inaccurate images of Indigenous bodies as they were fantasized from the perspective of what I am calling “People of the Ship”—Europeans. Yet, we appear to lack similar views from “People of the Canoe”—Indigenous artists. European images made me wonder: how did my ancestors, in their bark canoes, perceive the funny-looking people who arrived in the big sailing ships? Were their images of the newcomers equally distorted? This essay is about art and material culture that speaks to the relationship between the Haudenosaunee and Europeans.
A simple eye model for practicing indirect ophthalmoscopy and retinal laser photocoagulation
Authors: Kylstra Jan A. , Diaz J. Daniel 
Published: April 2019

PurposeTo describe a simple and inexpensive model eye that allows lifelike simulation of indirect ophthalmoscopy and retinal photocoagulation.
MethodsA 60 D examination lens, a bulb syringe, foam poster-board, a manila folder, a hobby knife, a fine pair of scissors, a glue gun, and a 2.5 cm square Optos color fundus photograph printed at 1200 dpi resolution on glossy photographic paper were used to create a model eye.
ResultsThis model produces a high-quality, inverted, and aerial image that closely simulates clinical indirect ophthalmoscopy. Pupil size and retinal pathology can be easily changed. Binocular indirect laser photocoagulation can also be simulated, because white laser burns will appear on the glossy inkjet photograph.
ConclusionsBinocular indirect ophthalmoscopy and indirect laser photocoagulation are technically challenging diagnostic and therapeutic techniques. This simple and easy-to-build eye model allows for lifelike simulation of indirect ophthalmoscopy and indirect laser retinal photocoagulation.
Estimating Natural Gas Demand Elasticities in Nigeria
Authors: Afimia Emmanuel Okheshimi 
Published: April 2019

This study estimated natural gas demand elasticities in Nigeria. The objective of the study was to examine the responsiveness of natural gas demand to changes in price of natural gas, income and prices of other energy products. The study adopted the bound testing approach to cointegration within the framework of ARDL to estimate annual time series data over a period of 33 years (1984 – 2016). The findings of this research showed that the elasticity of natural gas demand is relatively price inelastic in both short and long run; cross-price elasticity of gas demand revealed that AGO and LNG are substitute energy products for natural gas in Nigeria; while the estimate of income elasticity of demand is not statistically significant in the short and long run.
Comparison of the Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score and the Five‐Factor Score to Assess Survival in Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody–Associated Vasculitis: A Study of 550 Patients From Spain (REVAS Registry)
Authors: Solans‐Laqué Roser , Rodriguez‐Carballeira Monica , Rios‐Blanco Juan Jose , Fraile Guadalupe , Sáez‐Comet Luis , Martinez‐Zapico Aleida , Frutos Begoña , Solanich Xavier , Fonseca‐Aizpuru Eva , Pasquau‐Liaño Francisco , Zamora Monica , Oristrell Joaquim , Fanlo Patricia , Lopez‐Dupla Miguel , Abdilla Monica , García‐Sánchez Isabel , Sopeña Bernardo , Castillo Maria Jesus , Perales Isabel , Callejas Jose Luis ,   the Spanish Registry of Systemic Vasculitis, the Autoimmune Systemic Diseases Study Group, and the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine
Published: April 2019

ObjectiveTo compare the accuracy of the Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score (BVAS), version 3, and the Five Factor Score (FFS), version 1996 and version 2009, to assess survival in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody–associated vasculitis (AAV).MethodsA total of 550 patients with AAV (41.1% with granulomatosis with polyangiitis, 37.3% with microscopic polyangiitis, and 21.6% with eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis), diagnosed between 1990 and 2016, were analyzed. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and multivariable Cox analysis were used to assess the relationships between the outcome and the different scores.ResultsOverall mortality was 33.1%. The mean ± SD BVAS at diagnosis was 17.96 ± 7.82 and was significantly higher in nonsurvivors than in survivors (mean ± SD 20.0 ± 8.14 versus 16.95 ± 7.47, respectively; P < 0.001). The mean ± SD 1996 FFS and 2009 FFS were 0.81 ± 0.94 and 1.47 ± 1.16, respectively, and were significantly higher in nonsurvivors than in survivors (mean ± SD 1996 FFS 1.17 ± 1.07 versus 0.63 ± 0.81 [P < 0.001] and 2009 FFS 2.13 ± 1.09 versus 1.15 ± 1.05 [P < 0.001], respectively). Mortality rates increased according to the different 1996 FFS and 2009 FFS categories. In multivariate analysis, BVAS, 1996 FFS, and 2009 FFS were significantly related to death (P = 0.007, P = 0.020, P < 0.001, respectively), but the stronger predictor was the 2009 FFS (hazard ratio 2.9 [95% confidence interval 2.4–3.6]). When the accuracy of BVAS, 1996 FFS, and 2009 FFS to predict survival was compared in the global cohort, ROC analysis yielded area under the curve values of 0.60, 0.65, and 0.74, respectively, indicating that 2009 FFS had the best performance. Similar results were obtained when comparing these scores in patients diagnosed before and after 2001 and when assessing the 1‐year, 5‐year, and long‐term mortality. Correlation among BVAS and 1996 FFS was modest (r = 0.49; P < 0.001) but higher than between BVAS and the 2009 FFS (r = 0.28; P < 0.001).ConclusionBVAS and FFS are useful to predict survival in AAV, but the 2009 FFS has the best prognostic accuracy at any point of the disease course.
Transition‐Metal‐Free Carbonylative Suzuki‐Miyaura Reactions of Aryl Iodides with Arylboronic Acids Using N‐Formylsaccharin as CO Surrogate
Authors: Yu Dezhong , Xu Fangning , Li Dan , Han Wei 
Published: April 2019

AbstractUnprecedented, high yielding, transition‐metal‐free carbonylative Suzuki‐Miyaura reactions of aryl iodides with arylboronic acids using N‐formylsaccharin as CO surrogate have been developed. Notably, this general protocol was adapted to the synthesis of the triglyceride and cholesterol regulator drug, fenofibrate, and carbon‐13 labeled biaryl ketone.magnified image
Merging [2+2] Cycloaddition with 1,6‐/1,4‐Aza‐Binucleophilic Additions toward Unprecedented Indazole‐Containing Polycycles
Authors: Tang Bu‐Zheng , Li Jia‐Zhuo , Zhang Ai‐Wen , Hao Wen‐Juan , Tu Shu‐Jiang , Jiang Bo 
Published: April 2019

AbstractThe first metal‐free [2+2] cycloaddition and 1,6‐/1,4‐aza‐binucleophilic addition cascade of yne‐allenone esters and cyclic aza‐binucleophiles was reported, leading to the atom‐economic protocol toward hitherto unreported indazole‐containing polycycles with one quaternary carbon‐amino functionality and good to excellent yields. The reaction pathway involves [2+2] cycloaddition, ring‐opening of fused cyclobutenes and 1,6‐/1,4‐aza‐binucleophilic addition sequence, resulting in continuous multiple bond‐forming events including C−C and C−N bonds to build up molecular complexitymagnified image
Study of C677T variant of methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase gene in autistic spectrum disorder Egyptian children
Authors: Ismail Samira , Senna Azza Abo , Behiry Eman G. , Ashaat Engy A. , Zaki Maha S. , Ashaat Neveen A. , Salah Dina M. 
Published: April 2019

AbstractBackgroundAutism spectrum disorders (ASD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disease, various articles reported that dysfunctional folate‐methionine pathway enzymes might assume a paramount part in the pathophysiology of autism. Methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is a basic catalyst for this pathway, also MTHFR gene C677T variant accounted as a risk factor of autism.ObjectiveThe present study aimed to investigate the association of MTHFR gene rs1801133(C677T) variant among Egyptian autistic children.MethodsThe study included 78 autistic children, and 80 matched healthy control children. Full clinical and radiological examinations were conducted. MTHFR genetic variant, rs1801133(C677T) was studied by using polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) methods followed by direct sequencing technique.ResultsMTHFR (C677T) allele frequency was found to be higher significantly in ASD cases compared with nonautistic children. Also, we had a higher distribution of combined CT + TT genotypes among autistic patients with consanguinity and family history of psychological disease. In Gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and sleep disorders showed a higher distribution of hetero CT genotype as well as combined CT + TT genotypes.ConclusionThis study demonstrated a role of MTHFR gene (C667T) variant with the increased risk for ASD.
Light‐Driven Kinetic Resolution of α‐Functionalized Carboxylic Acids Enabled by an Engineered Fatty Acid Photodecarboxylase
Authors: Xu Jian , Hu Yujing , Fan Jiajie , Arkin Mamatjan , Li Danyang , Peng Yongzhen , Xu Weihua , Lin Xianfu , Wu Qi 
Published: April 2019

AbstractChiral α‐functionalized carboxylic acids are valuable precursors for a variety of medicines and natural products. Herein, we described an engineered fatty acid photodecarboxylase (CvFAP)‐catalyzed kinetic resolution of α‐amino acids and α‐hydroxy acids, which provides the unreacted R‐configured substrates with high yields and excellent stereoselectivity (ee up to 99 %). This efficient light‐driven process requires neither NADPH recycling nor prior preparation of esters, which were required in previous biocatalytic approaches. The structure‐guided engineering strategy is based on the scanning of large amino acids at hotspots to narrow the substrate binding tunnel. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first example of asymmetric catalysis by an engineered CvFAP.
Photo‐responsive block copolymer containing azobenzene group: Synthesis by reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer polymerization and characterization
Authors: Yang Runmiao , Liu Yuhai , Chen Jianxiang , Zhu Wen , Dong Guanxiu 
Published: April 2019

ABSTRACTThe design and synthesis of a new azobenzene‐based methacrylate monomer (Azo‐IEM) was demonstrated, and its polymerization behavior during reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization was investigated. Well‐defined homopolymer and amphiphilic block copolymer containing Azo‐IEM monomeric units were successfully prepared as evidenced by NMR and GPC analysis. Moreover, the photo‐triggered reversible isomerization of polymer products in selected solvents was investigated. Finally, TEM analysis showed that there were significant differences in the nanoparticle morphologies when the block copolymer samples were irradiated with different wavelengths of light (i.e., UV and visible). The size and shapes of the p(HEMA‐b‐Azo‐IEM) polymer capable of transitions upon changes in Vis/UV light exposure which prepared from MeOH/CHCl3 mixture solvent. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47870.
Preventing elopement in children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Pereira‐Smith Silvia , Boan Andrea , Carpenter Laura A. , Macias Michelle , LaRosa Angela 
Published: April 2019

Reports of missing children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are common in the media, and elopement can lead to dire consequences. This study quantified the use of preventive measures that target elopement, plus identified child/family characteristics associated with elopement and the use of preventive measures. This cross‐sectional study included 394 caregivers of children ages 2–17 years with ASD followed in an academic medical center's Developmental‐Behavioral Pediatrics clinic. Details about elopement, preventive measure use, and sociodemographic characteristics were assessed via an investigator‐designed, parent advocate‐approved questionnaire, while pertinent clinical factors were extracted from patients' electronic health records. Two hundred and sixty‐seven caregivers (68%) reported elopement by their child. Elopement risk was not associated with sociodemographic characteristics, nor with any specific comorbidity or neurobehavioral medication. Children with limited communication skills were more likely to have a history of elopement (OR 2.24, 95% CI 1.30–3.84; P = 0.004). The most common preventive measure used was lock(s) at top of doors (51%), while less than a quarter of families were using handicap permits, signs/visual markers, or tracking devices. Implementation of certain modifications was statistically associated with socioeconomic status and comorbidities of interest. In addition to supporting previous literature about the increased elopement risk in children with limited communication skills, this study is the first to reveal that caregiver use of numerous preventive measures varies widely. The associations noted with use of specific preventive measures can help guide recommendations for this dangerous comorbid symptom, and provide information needed for future studies to assess the efficacy of various preventive measures. Autism Res 2019, 12: 1139–1146. © 2019 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.Lay SummaryElopement, defined as leaving an area without permission and placing oneself in a potentially dangerous situation, is a behavior exhibited by many children with autism. There is little information about the use of various modifications that target elopement in the pediatric population. This study identifies child/family characteristics that were related to elopement and the use of modifications, and stresses the importance of counseling families of children with autism about elopement.
Oxidative stress and DNA damage in the mechanism of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
Authors: Bhatia Shama , Drake Danielle M. , Miller Lutfiya , Wells Peter G. 
Published: April 2019

AbstractThis review covers molecular mechanisms involving oxidative stress and DNA damage that may contribute to morphological and functional developmental disorders in animal models resulting from exposure to alcohol (ethanol, EtOH) in utero or in embryo culture. Components covered include: (a) a brief overview of EtOH metabolism and embryopathic mechanisms other than oxidative stress; (b) mechanisms within the embryo and fetal brain by which EtOH increases the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS); (c) critical embryonic/fetal antioxidative enzymes and substrates that detoxify ROS; (d) mechanisms by which ROS can alter development, including ROS‐mediated signal transduction and oxidative DNA damage, the latter of which leads to pathogenic genetic (mutations) and epigenetic changes; (e) pathways of DNA repair that mitigate the pathogenic effects of DNA damage; (f) related indirect mechanisms by which EtOH enhances risk, for example by enhancing the degradation of some DNA repair proteins; and, (g) embryonic/fetal pathways like NRF2 that regulate the levels of many of the above components. Particular attention is paid to studies in which chemical and/or genetic manipulation of the above mechanisms has been shown to alter the ability of EtOH to adversely affect development. Alterations in the above components are also discussed in terms of: (a) individual embryonic and fetal determinants of risk and (b) potential risk biomarkers and mitigating strategies. FASD risk is likely increased in progeny which/who are biochemically predisposed via genetic and/or environmental mechanisms, including enhanced pathways for ROS formation and/or deficient pathways for ROS detoxification or DNA repair.