bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Poxvirus Countermeasures During an Emergency in the United States
Authors: Bice Steve , Yeskey Kevin 
Published: July 2015

AbstractAlthough smallpox was eradicated worldwide by 1980, national security experts remain concerned that it could be used in a deliberate attack. The United States and other governments have given priority to developing and stockpiling vaccines and antivirals to protect their populations from the potential reintroduction of this deadly disease. Public health officials are also concerned about the spread of related zoonotic orthopoxviruses such as monkeypox and cowpox, against which smallpox vaccine provides protection. This report analyzes how medical countermeasures available in the US Strategic National Stockpile will be given priority and used in the event of an intentional or accidental release of smallpox in the United States. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2015;9:121-126)
Emerging Infectious Disease (EID) Communication During the 2009 H1N1 Influenza Outbreak: Literature Review (2009-2013) of the Methodology Used for EID Communication Analysis
Authors: Gesser-Edelsburg Anat , Stolero Nathan , Mordini Emilio , Billingsley Matthew , James James J. , Green Manfred S. 
Published: July 2015

ABSTRACTObjectiveThis year alone has seen outbreaks of epidemics such as Ebola, Chikungunya, and many other emerging infectious diseases (EIDs). We must look to the responses of recent outbreaks to help guide our strategies in current and future outbreaks or we risk repeating the same mistakes. The objective of this paper was to conduct a systematic literature review of the methodology used by studies that examined EID communication during the 2009 H1N1 pandemic outbreak through different communication channels or by analyzing contents and strategies.MethodsThis was a systematic review of the literature (n=61) studying risk communication strategies of H1N1 influenza, published between 2009 and 2013, and retrieved from searches of computerized databases, hand searches, and authoritative texts by use of specific search criteria. Searches were followed by review, categorization, and mixed qualitative and quantitative content analysis.ResultsOf 41 articles that used quantitative methods, most used surveys (n=35); some employed content analyses (n=4) and controlled trials (n=2). The 16 articles that employed qualitative methods relied on content analyses (n=10), semi-structured interviews (n=2) and focus groups (n=4). Four more articles used mixed-methods or nonstandard methods. Seven different topic categories were found: risk perception and effects on behaviors, framing the risk in the media, public concerns, trust, optimistic bias, uncertainty, and evaluating risk communication.ConclusionsUp until 2013, studies tended to be descriptive and quantitative rather than discursive and qualitative and to focus on the role of the media as representing information and not as a medium for actual communication with the public. Several studies from 2012, and increasingly more in 2013, addressed issues of discourse and framing and the complexity of risk communication with the public. Formative evaluations that use recommendations from past research when designing communication campaigns from the first stages of crises are recommended. Research should employ diverse triangulation processes based on representatives from different stakeholders. Further studies should address the potential offered by social media to create dialogue with individuals and the public at large. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2015;9:199-206)
Preparedness for a Smallpox Pandemic in Japan: Public Health Perspectives
Authors: Nishiyama Yasumasa , Matsukuma Susumu , Matsumura Takuya , Kanatani Yasuhiro , Saito Tomoya 
Published: July 2015

AbstractSmallpox is an acute, febrile, contagious disease caused by the Variola virus, which is a member of the Poxviridae family. Until the 1970s, smallpox had been a pandemic disease for more than 3000 years, endemic in tropical and developing areas and periodically epidemic worldwide. The World Health Organization declared smallpox to be completely eradicated in 1980 as the result of global vaccination efforts. At that time, all routine vaccination programs were terminated, given the success of this monumental eradication. Although smallpox remains fully eradicated, uncertainty exists regarding the possibility of recurrent smallpox outbreaks. At the end of the Cold War, concerns regarding unstable international security and the feasibility of terrorism with weapons of mass destruction have been highlighted. The potential threat of intentional release of smallpox has forced regional health authorities to reconsider their political landscape and create preparedness plans to protect the community in the event of biological attacks. Here we present current countermeasures to this biological threat in Japan and discuss methods for strengthening public health preparedness both domestically and internationally. These methods include infection control, vaccination policy, and international partnerships to help deter or contain a contagious smallpox pandemic. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2015;9:220-223)
The Impact of a National Earthquake Campaign on Public Preparedness: 2011 Campaign in Israel as a Case Study
Authors: Shenhar Gilead , Radomislensky Irina , Rozenfeld Michael , Peleg Kobi 
Published: July 2015

AbstractObjectiveThe most effective way to reduce the number of expected victims and amount of damage from earthquakes is by effective preparedness. The Israeli government launched a national campaign to change its citizens’ behavior. This study assessed the effectiveness of the campaign on the Israeli population.MethodsThe survey was conducted 2 weeks after the campaign ended. It was based on a randomly selected representative sample of the adult Israeli population.ResultsOf the 42% of the Israeli public exposed to the campaign, 37% estimated that a strong earthquake might occur in Israel during the coming years. Only 23% of those who were exposed to the campaign (9% of the Israeli public) said that the campaign improved their awareness; 76% reported that after their exposure to the campaign they did nothing to prepare. However, exposure to the campaign significantly increased the knowledge of dealing with earthquakes (30% vs 21% among those not exposed).ConclusionsAlthough the campaign increased knowledge and awareness, it did not achieve the goal of improving public preparedness. The campaign was not effective by itself, and it should be part of a multiyear activity. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2015;9:138-144)
Implementing a Multifaceted Intervention to Decrease Central Line–Associated Bloodstream Infections in SEHA (Abu Dhabi Health Services Company) Intensive Care Units: The Abu Dhabi Experience
Authors: Latif Asad , Kelly Bernadette , Edrees Hanan , Kent Paula S. , Weaver Sallie J. , Jovanovic Branislava , Attallah Hadeel , de Grouchy Kristin K. , Al-Obaidli Ali , Goeschel Christine A. , Berenholtz Sean M. 
Published: July 2015

OBJECTIVETo determine whether implementation of a multifaceted intervention would significantly reduce the incidence of central line–associated bloodstream infections.DESIGNProspective cohort collaborative.SETTING AND PARTICIPANTSIntensive care units of the Abu Dhabi Health Services Company hospitals in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.INTERVENTIONSA bundled intervention consisting of 3 components was implemented as part of the program. It consisted of a multifaceted approach that targeted clinician use of evidence-based infection prevention recommendations, tools that supported the identification of local barriers to these practices, and implementation ideas to help ensure patients received the practices. Comprehensive unit-based safety teams were created to improve safety culture and teamwork. Finally, the measurement and feedback of monthly infection rate data to safety teams, senior leaders, and staff in participating intensive care units was encouraged. The main outcome measure was the quarterly rate of central line–associated bloodstream infections.RESULTSEighteen intensive care units from 7 hospitals in Abu Dhabi implemented the program and achieved an overall 38% reduction in their central line–associated bloodstream infection rate, adjusted at the hospital and unit level. The number of units with a quarterly central line–associated bloodstream infection rate of less than 1 infection per 1,000 catheter-days increased by almost 40% between the baseline and postintervention periods.CONCLUSIONA significant reduction in the global morbidity and mortality associated with central line–associated bloodstream infections is possible across intensive care units in disparate settings using a multifaceted intervention.Infect. Control Hosp. Epidemiol. 2015;36(7):816–822
Whole-Genome Sequencing for Outbreak Investigations of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: Time for Routine Practice?
Authors: Azarian Taj , Cook Robert L. , Johnson Judith A. , Guzman Nilmarie , McCarter Yvette S. , Gomez Noel , Rathore Mobeen H. , Morris J. Glenn , Salemi Marco 
Published: July 2015

BACKGROUNDInfants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) are at increased risk for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) acquisition. Outbreaks may be difficult to identify due in part to limitations in current molecular genotyping available in clinical practice. Comparison of genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) may identify epidemiologically distinct isolates among a population sample that appears homogenous when evaluated using conventional typing methods.OBJECTIVETo investigate a putative MRSA outbreak in a NICU utilizing whole-genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis to identify recent transmission events.DESIGNClinical and surveillance specimens collected during clinical care and outbreak investigation.PATIENTSA total of 17 neonates hospitalized in a 43-bed level III NICU in northeastern Florida from December 2010 to October 2011 were included in this study.METHODSWe assessed epidemiological data in conjunction with 4 typing methods: antibiograms, PFGE, spa types, and phylogenetic analysis of genome-wide SNPs.RESULTSAmong the 17 type USA300 isolates, 4 different spa types were identified using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. Phylogenetic analysis identified 5 infants as belonging to 2 clusters of epidemiologically linked cases and excluded 10 unlinked cases from putative transmission events. The availability of these results during the initial investigation would have improved infection control interventions.CONCLUSIONWhole-genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis are invaluable tools for epidemic investigation; they identify transmission events and exclude cases mistakenly implicated by traditional typing methods. When routinely applied to surveillance and investigation in the clinical setting, this approach may provide actionable intelligence for measured, appropriate, and effective interventions.Infect. Control Hosp. Epidemiol. 2015;36(7):777–785
Landslide tsunamis in lakes
Authors: Couston Louis-Alexandre , Mei Chiang C. , Alam Mohammad-Reza 
Published: July 2015

Landslides plunging into lakes and reservoirs can result in extreme wave runup at the shores. This phenomenon has claimed lives and caused damage to near-shore properties. Landslide tsunamis in lakes are different from typical earthquake tsunamis in the open ocean in that (i) the affected areas are usually within the near field of the source, (ii) the highest runup occurs within the time period of the geophysical event, and (iii) the enclosed geometry of a lake does not let the tsunami energy escape. To address the problem of transient landslide tsunami runup and to predict the resulting inundation, we utilize a nonlinear model equation in the Lagrangian frame of reference. The motivation for using such a scheme lies in the fact that the runup on an inclined boundary is directly and readily computed in the Lagrangian framework without the need to resort to approximations. In this work, we investigate the inundation patterns due to landslide tsunamis in a lake. We show by numerical computations that Airy’s approximation of an irrotational theory using Lagrangian coordinates can legitimately predict runup of large amplitude. We also demonstrate that in a lake of finite size the highest runup may be magnified by constructive interference between edge waves that are trapped along the shore and multiple reflections of outgoing waves from opposite shores, and may occur somewhat after the first inundation.
Echinoderms from the lower Silurian Brassfield Formation of east-central Kentucky
Authors: Ausich William I. , Peter Mark E. , Ettensohn Frank R. 
Published: July 2015

AbstractA new echinoderm fauna is reported from the Brassfield Formation (Rhuddanian, Silurian) of Bath County, Kentucky. The Brassfield Formation was the first extensive marine unit to be deposited following the end-Ordovician glaciation and extinctions and represents several shallow, open-marine facies. These facies supported a diverse pelmatozoan fauna. This report not only extends the geographic distribution of this fauna, but also the temporal range of the fauna back to Rhuddanian time. Six pelmatozoans are reported, including the crinoidsBrowerocrinus arthrikosn. gen. n. sp.,Temnocrinus americanusn. sp.,Stereoastersp., andDendrocrinussp.; and the glyptocystitidsBrockocystis nodosariusFoerste, 1919, andAnartiocystis whiteiSumrall, 2002. In addition, the asteroidGordonaster brassfieldensisBlake and Ettensohn, 2009, was reported previously from this locality.Browerocrinusincreases the diverse calceocrinid fauna from the Brassfield Formation;Temnocrinuswas previously only known from the Homerian (Silurian) of England; and this is the first known occurrence ofStereoasterbeyond the greater Dayton, Ohio, region. Furthermore, this is the first Brassfield locality known with two glyptocystitid taxa.
UNCOUNTABLE REAL CLOSED FIELDS WITH PA INTEGER PARTS
Authors: MARKER DAVID , SCHMERL JAMES H. , STEINHORN CHARLES 
Published: July 2015

AbstractD’Aquino, Knight, and Starchenko classified the countable real closed fields with integer parts that are nonstandard models of Peano Arithmetic. We rule out some possibilities for extending their results to the uncountable and study real closures of ɷ1-like models of PA.
PRESBURGER ARITHMETIC, RATIONAL GENERATING FUNCTIONS, AND QUASI-POLYNOMIALS
Authors: WOODS KEVIN 
Published: July 2015

AbstractPresburger arithmetic is the first-order theory of the natural numbers with addition (but no multiplication). We characterize sets that can be defined by a Presburger formula as exactly the sets whose characteristic functions can be represented by rational generating functions; a geometric characterization of such sets is also given. In addition, ifp= (p1, . . . ,pn) are a subset of the free variables in a Presburger formula, we can define a counting functiong(p) to be the number of solutions to the formula, for a givenp. We show that every counting function obtained in this way may be represented as, equivalently, either a piecewise quasi-polynomial or a rational generating function. Finally, we translate known computational complexity results into this setting and discuss open directions.
A morphological and taxonomic appraisal of the oldest anomalocaridid from the Lower Cambrian of Poland
Authors: DALEY ALLISON C. , LEGG DAVID A. 
Published: July 2015

AbstractMaterial previously referred to as Cassubia infercambriensis was re-examined and found to represent a composite fossil of a Peytoia-like anomalocaridid frontal appendage and an arthropod of uncertain affinities comparable to some bivalved arthropod taxa. The frontal appendage is referred to the genus Peytoia based on the presence of elongated ventral spines bearing a single row of auxiliary spines. As well as representing the oldest example of an anomalocaridid in the fossil record (Series 2, Stage 3), Peytoia infercambriensis is also the only record of this group from the East European Craton, therefore extending both the temporal and geographic range of the anomalocaridid family Hurdiidae.
Auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder with Brown–Vialetto–Van Laere syndrome: challenges in hearing rehabilitation
Authors: Chandran R , Alexander M , Naina P , Balraj A 
Published: July 2015

AbstractBackground:Brown–Vialetto–Van Laere syndrome is a rare neurological disorder characterised by pontobulbar palsy and sensorineural hearing loss. Hearing rehabilitation continues to be a challenge because the exact lesion site is unknown.Case report:We examined the clinical and audiological profiles of a case series comprising four siblings with Brown–Vialetto–Van Laere syndrome who had decreased hearing and poor speech discrimination. Audiological investigations revealed normal otoacoustic emissions with absent auditory brainstem responses and middle-ear reflexes in sensorineural hearing loss, suggestive of auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder.Conclusion:The sensorineural hearing loss in Brown–Vialetto–Van Laere syndrome patients is a retrocochlear pathology resembling auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder, with the lesion being most probably of post-synaptic origin. Early cochlear implantation along with high-dose riboflavin represents a possible rehabilitation therapy. However, further research is needed to confirm this. This report emphasises the need for a thorough neurological evaluation of auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder patients.
Comparative study of the efficacy of topical steroid and antibiotic combination therapy versus oral antibiotic alone when treating acute rhinosinusitis
Authors: El-Hennawi D M , Ahmed M R , Farid A M , Murtadah A M Al 
Published: July 2015

AbstractBackground:Acute rhinosinusitis arises as a consequence of viral rhinitis, and bacterial infection can subsequently occur. Intranasal antibiotics as an adjunct to corticosteroids usually demonstrate the greatest symptom relief.Aim:We wanted to clinically evaluate the effects of a topical antibiotic and steroid combination administered intranasally, versus an oral antibiotic alone when treating acute rhinosinusitis.Method:Forty patients with acute bacterial rhinosinusitis were divided into two groups. Group A received an antibiotic and steroid combination (ofloxacin 0.26 per cent and dexamethasone 0.053 per cent nasal drops) for 10 days, administered intranasally (5 drops in each nostril/8 hours). Group B, the control group, received an oral antibiotic alone (amoxicillin 90 mg/kg).Results:Eight hours after commencing treatment, facial pain was more severe in group B and nasal obstruction was reduced in both groups. Ten days after commencing treatment, anterior nasal discharge was 0.15 per cent in group A and absent in group B.Conclusion:The application of a topical antibiotic and steroid combination into the nasal cavity is an effective way of treating uncomplicated, acute bacterial rhinosinusitis with the theoretical advantages of easy administration, high local drug concentration and minimal systemic adverse effects.
Laryngeal dysplasia: an evidence-based flowchart to guide management and follow up
Authors: Cosway B , Paleri V 
Published: July 2015

AbstractBackground:Laryngeal dysplasia is an important pre-malignant lesion. In 2010, a consensus statement by ENT surgeons and pathologists was published outlining the management and follow up of patients with laryngeal dysplasia.Objective:After reviewing these guidelines, we noted the need for a flowchart for laryngologists to improve efficiency in managing dysplasia and encourage adherence to evidence-based protocols.Result:A diagram has been produced to aid other ENT units around the country.
Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio in patients with severe tinnitus: prospective, controlled clinical study
Authors: Ozbay I , Kahraman C , Balikci H H , Kucur C , Kahraman N K , Ozkaya D P , Oghan F 
Published: July 2015

AbstractObjective:To determine the relationship between severe tinnitus and inflammation using the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio as a marker of stress.Methods:A total of 107 patients who had been suffering with severe tinnitus (tinnitus handicap inventory scale grades of 3–5) for at least 2 weeks were recruited. Patients underwent detailed ENT examinations and audiometric tests to exclude a relevant pathological cause of the tinnitus. Patients with systemic diseases, malignancy or inflammatory diseases that could alter neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio were excluded. A total of 107 age- and sex-matched healthy control participants were also recruited. Routine laboratory test results and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio were compared between the patients and controls.Results:Lipid profile, liver function, white blood cell count, haemoglobin level, mean corpuscular volume, and vitamin B12 and folate levels were similar among the patients and controls. However, mean neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio was significantly higher among the patients than the controls (p < 0.05).Conclusion:The findings of this novel study suggest that neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio should be considered during the evaluation of tinnitus patients as a potential clinical marker of tinnitus. Further studies are required to verify the findings.
Enhanced recovery programmes in head and neck surgery: systematic review
Authors: Bannister M , Ah-See K W 
Published: July 2015

AbstractObjective:To review the literature on enhanced recovery programmes in head and neck surgery.Method:A systematic review was performed in May 2013.Results:Thirteen articles discussing enhanced recovery after laryngectomy, neck dissection, major ablative surgery and microvascular reconstruction were identified. Articles on general pre-operative preparation and post-operative care were also reviewed.Conclusion:Considerable evidence is available supporting enhanced recovery in head and neck surgery that could be of benefit to patients and which surgeons should be aware of.
Value of sialendoscopy-assisted transoral sublingual gland resection for a plunging ranula: case report and review
Authors: Truong K , Guerin L A , Hoffman H 
Published: July 2015

AbstractObjective:To highlight the value of sialendoscopy during transoral resection of the sublingual gland for a plunging ranula to prevent iatrogenic injury to the submandibular duct.Method and results:The clinical course of a 20-year-old male with a plunging ranula was analysed. The patient underwent transoral resection of the affected sublingual gland and pseudocyst. Sialendoscopy was used to confirm patency of the submandibular duct with placement of a Marchal dilator to aid in preservation of the duct during sublingual gland dissection. The sublingual gland was successfully removed, with no injury to the submandibular duct or lingual nerve. During follow up, the patient had slight numbness to the tip of the tongue, which resolved after 2–3 days. Post-operative examination showed the submandibular duct to be intact and there was no swelling of the submandibular area.Conclusion:Sialendoscopy-assisted transoral sublingual gland resection for a plunging ranula is a safe and effective technique. Sialendoscopy aids in skeletonisation and preservation of the submandibular duct.