bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Hyperperfusion in the thalamus on arterial spin labelling indicates non-convulsive status epilepticus
Authors: Ohtomo Satoru , Otsubo Hiroshi , Arai Hiroaki , Shimoda Yoshiteru , Homma Yoichiro , Tominaga Teiji 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Non-convulsive status epilepticus describes the syndrome of unexplained impaired consciousness in critically ill patients. Non-convulsive status epilepticus is very likely to lead to delayed diagnosis and poor outcomes because of the absence of convulsive symptoms. EEG is essential for the diagnosis of non-convulsive status epilepticus to establish the association between periodic discharges and rhythmic delta activity in addition to ictal epileptiform discharges according to the Salzburg criteria. Arterial spin labelling, a type of perfusion MRI, has been applied for rapid and non-invasive evaluation of the ictal state. Ictal cerebral cortical hyperperfusion is the most common finding to demonstrate focal onset seizures. Hyperperfusion of the thalamus on single photon emission computed tomography was found in patients with impaired awareness seizures. We hypothesized that thalamocortical hyperperfusion on arterial spin labelling identifies non-convulsive status epilepticus and such thalamic hyperperfusion specifically associates with periodic/rhythmic discharges producing impaired consciousness without convulsion. We identified 27 patients (17 females; age, 39–91 years) who underwent both arterial spin labelling and EEG within 24 h of suspected non-convulsive status epilepticus. We analysed 28 episodes of suspected non-convulsive status epilepticus and compared hyperperfusion on arterial spin labelling with periodic/rhythmic discharges. We evaluated 21 episodes as a positive diagnosis of non-convulsive status epilepticus according to the Salzburg criteria. We identified periodic discharges in 15 (12 lateralized and 3 bilateral independent) episodes and rhythmic delta activity in 13 (10 lateralized, 1 bilateral independent and 2 generalized) episodes. Arterial spin labelling showed thalamic hyperperfusion in 16 (11 unilateral and 5 bilateral) episodes and cerebral cortical hyperperfusion in 24 (20 unilateral and 4 bilateral) episodes. Thalamic hyperperfusion was significantly associated with non-convulsive status epilepticus (P = 0.0007; sensitivity, 76.2%; specificity, 100%), periodic discharges (P &lt; 0.0001; 93.3%; 84.6%), and rhythmic delta activity (P = 0.0006; 92.3%; 73.3%). Cerebral cortical hyperperfusion was significantly associated with non-convulsive status epilepticus (P = 0.0017; 100%; 57.1%) and periodic discharges (P = 0.0349; 100%; 30.8%), but not with rhythmic delta activity. Thalamocortical hyperperfusion could be a new biomarker of non-convulsive status epilepticus according to the Salzburg criteria in critically ill patients. Specific thalamic hyperexcitability might modulate the periodic discharges and rhythmic delta activity associated with non-convulsive status epilepticus. Impaired consciousness without convulsions could be caused by predominant thalamic hyperperfusion together with cortical hyperperfusion but without ictal epileptiform discharges.
The Question of Pirate Trials in States Without a Crime of Piracy
Authors: Keyuan Zou , Jing Jin 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Many States in the world such as China have no specific domestic laws providing for the crime of piracy, leading to the question whether these States have the competence to punish piracy as required by international law. This paper argues that the lack of a crime of piracy within a domestic legal system should not become an insurmountable obstacle for States to prosecute pirates. Prosecution of pirates without a crime of piracy is feasible in a State that has domestic criminal laws that deal with illicit activities similar to piracy by indicting perpetrators with other criminal offences. While it would be an ideal solution for that State to establish a specific crime of piracy in its domestic legal system, it is important to consider the difficulties in setting the definition of piracy and the degree of punishment appropriately, and realize that the major deficiencies in punishing pirates under other existing domestic crimes can be basically addressed within an existing domestic legal system. The main purpose of universal jurisdiction over piracy to punish criminals to the maximum extent and the changing situation of piracy also require States to always be ready to deal with piracy. Therefore, prosecuting pirates as another crime is a realistic compromise. Furthermore, for a State without a crime of piracy, it is more urgent for it to build up legal grounds for exercising universal jurisdiction over piracy and relevant procedural provisions on the exercise of extraterritorial jurisdiction over international crimes at sea.
Response Surface Methodology of Quantitative of Heterocyclic Aromatic Amines in Fried Fish Using Efficient Microextraction Method Coupled with High-Performance Liquid Chromatography: Central Composite Design
Authors: Omidi Narges , Barzegar Fatemeh , Abedi Abdol-Samad , Kamankesh Marzieh , Ghanati Kiandokht , Mohammadi Abdorreza 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Meat and meat products are indispensable part of our diet. Heat processing of these tasty foods such as fried fish causes to form heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAAs). The sources of heating have directly affected on the level and type of HAAs. In this research, 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo [4‚5-b] pyridine (PhIP), 2-amino-3-methylimidazo [4,5-f]quinolone (IQ), 2-amino-3,4-dimethylimidazo [4,5-f] quinoline (MeIQ) and 2-amino-3,4-dimethylimidazo [4,5-f] quinoxaline (MeIQx) were determined using an efficient analytical methodology coupled with high-performance liquid chromatography. The effective parameters were optimized by central composite design. The results of this survey demonstrated that rang of relative standard deviation were between 4.5 and 8.2, extraction recoveries were obtained 86–97% and limits of detection were between 0.40 and 0.63 for 4 HAAs. The amounts of HAAs found in 20 different fried fish samples were between 0 and 4.8 ng g−1. PhIP with 1.57 ng g−1 and MeIQ with 2.08 ng g−1 have the lowest and highest average level of HAAs, respectively.
Clinical Factors Associated With Accurate Presumptive Treatment of Neisseria gonorrhoeae Infections in Men Who Have Sex with Men and Transgender Women
Authors: Anker Bryan , Jaffar Samia , Patani Henna , Bristow Claire C , Sukhija-Cohen Adam C 
Published: December 2020

Abstract

Background
Neisseria gonorrhoeae (N. gonorrhoeae) infections have increased among men who have sex with men and are high among transgender women. Presumptive treatment guidelines may lead to inaccurate treatments and possible antibiotic resistance. Using patient data from AIDS Healthcare Foundation sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing clinics in California and Florida, we identified clinical factors associated with accurate presumptive N. gonorrhoeae treatment.

Methods
Multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted using patient visit data from 2013 to 2017. A sample of 42 050 patient encounters were analyzed. The primary outcome variable included accurate versus inaccurate presumptive treatment. Risk ratios were generated for particular symptoms, high-risk sexual behavior, and history of N. gonorrhoeae.

Results
Twelve percent (5051/42 050) of patients received presumptive N. gonorrhoeae treatment, and 46% (2329/5051) of presumptively treated patients tested positive for N. gonorrhoeae infection. Patients presenting with discharge or patients presenting with dysuria were more likely to receive accurate presumptive treatment.

Conclusions
Providers should continue to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines and consider presumptive N. gonorrhoeae treatment based on specific symptoms. As the STI epidemic continues to rise in the United States, along with increased antibiotic resistance, it is imperative to accurately test, diagnose, and treat populations at risk for N. gonorrhoeae and other STIs.
Exercise training in dialysis patients: impact on cardiovascular and skeletal muscle health
Authors: Deligiannis Asterios , D’Alessandro Claudia , Cupisti Adamasco 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Dialysis patients show a high rate of reduced functional capacity, morbidity and mortality. Cardiovascular disorders, muscle atrophy and malnutrition play an essential role among the aetiological factors. Sedentary lifestyle characterizes them and contributes to the aggravation of the disorders. On the contrary, exercise training is an important preventive and therapeutic tool both for cardiovascular problems and for the appearance of muscle atrophy in dialysis patients. Regular exercise causes both central (cardiac) and peripheral (muscular) adaptations, improving functional capacity. In particular, circulatory system clinical trials in haemodialysis (HD) patients documented that exercise has favourable effects on heart function, promotes balance on the cardiac autonomic nervous system and contributes to the management of arterial hypertension. In the muscular system, it prevents muscle atrophy or contributes significantly to its treatment. The main preventive mechanisms of the beneficial effect of exercise on the muscles constitute the inhibition of the apoptotic processes and protein degradation. Exercise training in HD patients leads to an increase of muscle fibers, mitochondria and capillaries, and the combination of regular exercise and dietary strategies is even more effective in preventing or treating muscle atrophy. Finally, an improvement in functional capacity and quality of life was found also in peritoneal dialysis patients following exercise training.
The Genetics of Postoperative Recurrence in Crohn Disease: A Systematic Review, Meta-analysis, and Framework for Future Work
Authors: Dang Jerry T , Dang ThucNhi T , Wine Eytan , Dicken Bryan , Madsen Karen , Laffin Michael 
Published: December 2020

Abstract

Background
Recurrence following abdominal surgery in Crohn disease is over 50%. The impact of genetics on postoperative recurrence is not well defined.

Methods
A literature search was conducted where inclusion required an assessment, by genotype, of postoperative recurrence. The primary endpoint was odds of surgical recurrence.

Results
Twenty-eight studies identified a total of 6715 patients. Thirteen loci were identified as modifying the risk of recurrence. NOD2 was identified as a risk factor for recurrence by multiple works (cumulative odds ratio: 1.64, P = 0.003).

Conclusions
A NOD2 risk allele is associated with recurrence following surgery in Crohn disease. Progress in this area will require standardized reporting in future works.
Acute pulmonary embolism in COVID-19 patient: a case report of free-floating right heart thrombus successfully treated with fibrinolysis
Authors: Scudiero Fernando , Pitì Antonino , Keim Roberto , Parodi Guido 
Published: December 2020

Abstract

Background
Despite the fast-growing understanding of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), patient management remains largely empirical or based on retrospective studies. In this complex scenario, an important clinical issue appears to be represented by the high prevalence of thromboembolic events, but the data regarding high-risk pulmonary embolism (PE) is still not available.

Case summary
A patient with COVID-19 developed sudden shortness of breath and hypoxia. Early echocardiographic diagnosis of high-risk PE related to right heart thrombus was performed. Systemic thrombolysis was administered with excellent clinical and haemodynamic response.

Discussion
Pulmonary thromboembolism is a common occurrence in severe COVID-19 infection. In our experience, systemic thrombolysis proved to be effective and for this reason may be considered for life-threatening PE in COVID-19 patients.
Tuberculous pericarditis with tamponade diagnosed concomitantly with COVID-19: a case report
Authors: Wong Shiun Woei , Ng Jessica Ke Xuan , Chia Yew Woon 
Published: December 2020

Abstract

Background
Tuberculous pericarditis is a rare manifestation of tuberculosis infection. COVID-19 pandemic poses a challenge in detecting uncommon diseases.

Case summary
A 47-year-old man was admitted with symptoms of COVID-19 infection. Rapid progression of cardiomegaly on radiograph with clinical deterioration were suggestive of pericardial tamponade. Urgent pericardiocentesis revealed haemoserous fluid, elevated adenosine deaminase, and positive tuberculous (TB) polymerase chain reaction (PCR). He was started on anti-TB therapy and Remdesivir with marked improvement of symptoms. Repeat echocardiogram and CT thorax showed resolution of pericardial fluid, and the patient remained well on discharge.

Discussion
This case highlights the difficulty in detecting a concomitant rare but important disease. The development of massive pericardial tamponade acutely is not pathognomonic for COVID-19, and a careful diagnostic process involving multi-modality imaging occurred to arrive at a diagnosis of tuberculosis.
Definity, an affinity for painful crisis: a case series describing vaso-occlusive pain crises in sickle cell patients undergoing echocardiogram with Definity contrast
Authors: D’Amico Alex , Mir Nabiel , Wilkerson Hunter , Andrikopoulou Efstathia , Kanter Julie 
Published: December 2020

AbstractBackground Individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD) are at risk for painful crises and long-term cardiopulmonary morbidity. Echocardiogram is recommended if signs or symptoms of cardiopulmonary disease develop in previously asymptomatic patients, or worsen in those with known disease. Second-generation echocardiogram contrast agents (ECAs) improve the diagnostic capacity of echocardiogram; however, these agents have risks in SCD populations that have yet to be investigated.Case summary We report a case series of two patients who experienced vaso-occlusive crises following administration of the ECA, Definity. Both patients were referred for echocardiogram from our institution’s sickle cell clinic because of concern for SCD-related cardiopulmonary complications. Both patients were in their usual state of health at the time of their exams. The first patient experienced acute back and hip pain minutes after receiving Definity and was diagnosed with acute vaso-occlusive crisis requiring admission for 6 days for pain management. The second patient developed dyspnoea and chest pain within 90 min of her echocardiogram. She was diagnosed with acute chest syndrome and admitted for further management. Her hospitalization was complicated by hyper-haemolysis and multiple organ failure syndrome. After 13 days, she was discharged home.Discussion The safety profile of ECAs has not been fully evaluated and warrants further study in individuals with SCD. Proposed mechanisms for our observations include the release of pro-inflammatory metabolites from Definity contrast agent’s shell and ultrasound-induced haemolysis secondary to ECA administration. Alternative imaging modalities and proper precautions should be considered when evaluating cardiopulmonary function in this patient population.
Modification of screen-printed gold electrode with 1,4-dithiothreitol: application to sensitive voltammetric determination of Sudan II
Authors: Karaboduk Kuddusi 
Published: December 2020

AbstractObjectivesThe aim of this study is to investigate the electrochemical behavior of Sudan II (SuII) using a screen-printed gold electrode (SPGE) modified with 1,4-dithiothreitol (DTT) and to determine the amount of Sudan II by voltammetry.Materials and MethodsA DTT-modified screen-printed gold electrode (DTT/SPGE) was fabricated and its application for differential pulse voltammetric (DPV) determination of SuII was reported. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy were used for the characterization of the modified electrode. The effects of instrumental and chemical parameters were optimized for the determination of SuII. The fabricated electrode was used for the analysis of SuII in fortified and real samples. High-performance liquid chromatography was preferred as a reference method for the evaluation of the obtained voltammetric results.ResultsThe electrochemical studies and FT-IR demonstrated that the SPGE was modified with DTT. The obtained peak current at DTT/SPGE was 6.67 times higher than that recorded with SPGE. At the optimized conditions of DPV in pH = 2.5 of H2SO4, the oxidation peak current of SuII was proportional to its concentration in range: 0.001–1.500 μmol l–1 with a detection limit of 0.0002 μmol l–1 (S/N = 3). For the analysis of SuII, 101.67%–104.33% of recovery percentage was obtained.ConclusionsA new electrode was successfully improved for the determination of SuII. This highly selective and sensitive electrode supplied the fast determination of SuII in ketchup, chili sauce and salsa dip sauce. In addition, voltammetric and chromatographic results are found to be consistent.
Effect of a combined microwave-assisted drying and air drying on improving active nutraceutical compounds, flavor quality, and antioxidant properties of Camellia sinensis L. (cv. Longjing 43) flowers
Authors: Shi Linzuo , Kim Eunhye , Yang Leiyu , Huang Yanmei , Ren Ning , Li Bo , He Puming , Tu Youying , Wu Yuanyuan 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Drying tea flowers into a high-quality product is important to its commodity value. In the present work, a combination of microwave-assisted drying and air drying (MAD-AD) was applied in the processing of fresh tea flowers and its effects on flavor quality, active nutraceutical compounds, and antioxidant capacities were studied. The results showed that compared to air drying and freeze drying tea flowers, the MAD-AD tea flowers had higher amounts of active compounds such as catechins, flavonol glycosides, and triterpenoid saponins, and possessed high antioxidant activities. Moreover, this drying method improved the tea flowers’ color and preserved a more floral fragrance. This combined method could be of interest as an industrial method for drying tea flowers with the benefit of reduced processing time, more reserved active compounds and high quality of products.
Secure multiparty computations in floating-point arithmetic
Authors: Guo Chuan , Hannun Awni , Knott Brian , van der Maaten Laurens , Tygert Mark , Zhu Ruiyu 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Secure multiparty computations enable the distribution of so-called shares of sensitive data to multiple parties such that the multiple parties can effectively process the data while being unable to glean much information about the data (at least not without collusion among all parties to put back together all the shares). Thus, the parties may conspire to send all their processed results to a trusted third party (perhaps the data providers) at the conclusion of the computations, with only the trusted third party being able to view the final results. Secure multiparty computations for privacy-preserving machine-learning turn out to be possible using solely standard floating-point arithmetic, at least with a carefully controlled leakage of information less than the loss of accuracy due to roundoff, all backed by rigorous mathematical proofs of worst-case bounds on information loss and numerical stability in finite-precision arithmetic. Numerical examples illustrate the high performance attained on commodity off-the-shelf hardware for generalized linear models, including ordinary linear least-squares regression, binary and multinomial logistic regression, probit regression and Poisson regression.
Save Our Species: A Blueprint for Restoring Butternut (Juglans cinerea) across Eastern North America
Authors: Pike Carolyn C , Williams Martin , Brennan Andrea , Woeste Keith , Jacobs James , Hoban Sean , Moore Melanie , Romero-Severson Jeanne 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Butternut is a relatively uncommon hardwood tree native to eastern North America. The species’ abundance has declined over the past 50 years, primarily because of an invasive pathogen (Ophiognomonia clavigignenti-juglandacearum [Oc-j]) and loss of suitable habitat for regeneration. Although genetic diversity of butternut is highest along the southern range edge, genetic diversity rangewide is fairly high, except in small and isolated populations. Although there is little evidence for even moderate resistance in native butternut, hybrids with Japanese walnut, a closely related species, display enough tolerance to infection to persist on the landscape and bear abundant nut crops year after year. Cryostorage of native embryogenic axes has yielded promising initial results as a strategy for gene conservation, but additional action is needed to conserve the remaining native gene pool. We describe a strategy for canker-resistance breeding in butternut using naturally occurring hybrids, hybrids in research orchards, and sources of native trees from as many regions as possible. Forest managers are encouraged to find surviving trees and collect seed for planting in suitable habitat to develop actionable knowledge that will enable the restoration of butternut with enough resistance to be self-sustaining on the landscape.
Abdominoperineal anoplasty with use of a rectal fistula as a substitute vagina in a cloacal malformation associated with absence of the vagina: short-term follow-up
Authors: Tatekawa Yukihiro 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
We report herein a patient with a cloacal malformation and an absent vagina. The patient underwent colostomy on Day 1 of life. At 7 months of age, fistulography of the cloaca showed a common channel &gt;3 cm in length; a vagina was not visible. At the age of 11 months, the patient underwent abdominoperineal anoplasty with the repurposing of her rectal fistula as a substitute vagina. Intraoperative examination revealed a bicornuate uterus and bilateral ovaries. The rectum was resected 7 cm at the confluence of the cloaca. The colonic stump was pulled through a newly created anal canal and an anoplasty was performed. Two months after this procedure, the patient experienced anal prolapse. At the age of 17 months, she underwent partial urogenital mobilization and a modified Delorme operation, and 5 months later the colostomy was closed. At present, this patient is 3 years old and doing well.
Immature teratoma of the ovary in a 1 year and 9-month-old child: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Mremi Alex , Rwenyagila Doris , Chilonga Kondo , Sadiq Adnan , Msuya David , Lodhia Jay 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Immature teratoma of the ovary is a rare malignant germ cell tumor whose etiology is unknown. Preoperative diagnosis and treatment of this tumor can be challenging for clinicians. We present a 1-year and 9-month female child who presented with a 1- month history of progressive nontender abdominal distension. Computed tomography scan of the abdomen revealed a huge well-defined heterogenous mass arising from the peritoneal cavity. Surgical resection was performed. Histopathology coupled with immunohistochemical analysis of the specimen confirmed it to be an ovarian immature teratoma, grade one. The child recovered well postoperatively. Surgery alone is curative for most children and adolescents with resectable ovarian immature teratoma thus avoiding the long-term effects of chemotherapy in most children with this disease.