bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of the influence of magnetic properties of amorphic alloys on the electromagnetic field of current transformers with a short-closed circuit
Authors: Klimenko Xenia A
Published: May 2020

The optimal functioning of the electric power industry can be ensured only if the important problem is successfully resolved by reliable measurement of electrical quantities, such as voltage, current, and power. In industry, a current transformer is often used as a current meter, which makes it possible to obtain an AC current measurement result with high accuracy. Structurally, the current transformer has a significant drawback, which is that the opening of the secondary measuring winding leads to an emergency. To solve this problem, you can apply the improved design of the current transformer squirrel-cage current transformer (in the form of a cylinder or ring). This article presents the results of two-dimensional modeling of the electromagnetic field of current transformers with a short-circuited coil, with cores made of different grades of amorphous iron in the ELCUT software package. In addition, the results of experimental studies of the improved design of the current transformer are presented. An analysis of the results allows us to conclude that the use of a core made of amorphous iron with a higher magnetic permeability will lead to economic benefits and make the measurement process more energy efficient.
Analysis of pre-filter models using numerical simulation
Authors: Khusainov R R , Soloveva O V , Solovev S A , Akhmetvaleeva L V
Published: May 2020

The article presents a numerical simulation of the gas flow in pre-filter models. It was proposed nine models of pre-filters with grating sizes of 1mm, 1.5mm and 2mm, with a change in the number of plates. Pre-filters were compared in terms of particle deposition efficiency, pressure drop and filter quality parameter.
Optical flow analysis reveals that Kinesin-mediated advection impacts the orientation of microtubules in theDrosophilaoocyte
Authors: Drechsler Maik , Lang Lukas F. , Al-Khatib Layla , Dirks Hendrik , Burger Martin , Schönlieb Carola-Bibiane , Palacios Isabel M.
Published: May 2020

Here we introduce an optical flow motion estimation approach to study microtubule (MT) orientation in the Drosophila oocyte, a cell displaying substantial cytoplasmic streaming. We show that MT polarity is affected by the regime of these flows and, furthermore, that the presence of flows is necessary for MTs to adopt their proper polarity.
ESCRT-III and ER–PM contacts maintain lipid homeostasis
Authors: Jorgensen Jeff R. , Tei Reika , Baskin Jeremy M. , Michel Agnès H. , Kornmann Benoît , Emr Scott D.
Published: May 2020

Saturating transposon mutagenesis screen identified the ESCRTs as synthetic genetic interactors in ER–PM contact mutant. The synthetic phenotype is caused by defects in lipid synthesis. Other ESCRT complexes, and VPS4 do not have a synthetic growth phenotype, indicating that only ESCRT-III proteins function in this lipid regulation pathway.
2. Multiplying and dividing
Authors: Wilson Robin
Published: May 2020

‘Multiplying and dividing’ looks at multiples and divisors, focusing on the least common multiple and greatest common divisor of two numbers. We use Euclid’s algorithm as a method for computing the greatest common divisor of two numbers by using the division rule repeatedly. Perfect squares (integers that are the product of two equal integers) feature throughout number theory. Tests are given for divisibility by certain small numbers. An ancient method called ‘casting out nines’, was developed in India in around the year 1000, based on the argument that a number and its digital sum leave the same remainder when divided by 9. We can still use this method to verify the accuracy (or otherwise) of arithmetical calculations.
3. Prime-time mathematics
Authors: Wilson Robin
Published: May 2020

‘Prime-time mathematics’ explores prime numbers, which lie at the heart of number theory. Some primes cluster together and some are widely spread, while primes go on forever. The Sieve of Eratosthenes (3rd century BC) is an ancient method for identifying primes by iteratively marking the multiples of each prime as not prime. Every integer greater than 1 is either a prime number or can be written as a product of primes. Mersenne primes, named after French friar Marin de Mersenne, are prime numbers that are one less than a power of 2. Pierre de Fermat and Leonhard Euler were also prime number enthusiasts. The five Fermat primes are used in a problem from geometry.
6. From cards to cryptography
Authors: Wilson Robin
Published: May 2020

‘From cards to cryptography’ applies another result of Fermat – his ‘little theorem’ – to the problem of finding the number of different coloured necklaces with a given number of beads and available colours, if we use at least two colours? Euler generalized this theorem, using his so-called ‘totient function’. Multiplying two prime numbers is relatively simple, but factorizing a large number into prime factors can be very difficult. This asymmetric process led to a method for encrypting messages, discovered independently by a former Bletchley Park codebreaker and by three mathematicians with the initials R, S, and A, hence the term ‘RSA encryption’.
8. How to win a million dollars
Authors: Wilson Robin
Published: May 2020

What is the Riemann hypothesis, and why does it matter? ‘How to win a million dollars’ looks in detail at Riemann’s conjecture. While Gauss attempted to explain why primes thin out, Bernhard Riemann in 1859 proposed an exact formula for the distribution of primes, employing Euler’s ‘zeta function’ and the idea of complex numbers. In 2000, the Clay Mathematics Institute offered a million dollars for the solutions of each of seven famous problems, of which the Riemann hypothesis was one. The Riemann hypothesis implies strong bounds on the growth of other arithmetic functions, in addition to the primes-counting function. It remains one of the most famous unsolved problems of mathematics.
9. Aftermath
Authors: Wilson Robin
Published: May 2020

The Aftermath returns to some of the problems posed early in the book. The questions solved include: In which years does February have four Sundays? How many shuffles are needed to restore the order of the cards in a pack with two Jokers? How do prime numbers keep our credit cards secure? Are there infinitely many primes with final digit 9? Integers, squares and cubes, prime numbers and perfect numbers are revisited, with instructions for solving some of the ancient puzzles that inspired generations of mathematicians, and concluding with some of the unsolved problems in this exciting field of modern mathematics.
2. Smelling with genes
Authors: Cobb Matthew
Published: May 2020

‘Smelling with genes’ begins by looking at the 1991 Nobel Prize-winning discovery of genes in rats that encoded proteins functioning as olfactory receptors. After this groundbreaking discovery, researchers were soon able to identify similar genes in other vertebrates. Experiments with androstenone, a smell secreted in human sweat and the saliva of male pigs, reveal that humans’ DNA sequences can be predicted by their response to certain specific smells. Smell receptor genes of all kinds evolve quickly in humans and animals. What do variants in our olfactory gene repertoire tell us about our ancestors and the processes behind our evolution?
3. Smell signals
Authors: Cobb Matthew
Published: May 2020

‘Smell signals’ looks at pheromones—chemical substances released by animals that cause a specific reaction in another of their species. The clearest examples of pheromonal communication come from insects, including bees, moths, and fruit flies. Scientists have found it harder to identify pheromones in vertebrates. There is chemical communication between animals, and examples of pheromonal signalling in mice, goats, and rabbits. For pheromone evolution to occur, both stimulus and receptor must change simultaneously. Pheromones are generally not proteins, so are not directly affected by genes. While humans are quick to accept the idea that they have pheromones, there is no decisive evidence.
4. Smell, location, and memory
Authors: Cobb Matthew
Published: May 2020

Is there scientific evidence that smells can unlock memories? ‘Smell, location, and memory’ demonstrates that there are connections. These connections can be positive or interesting (babies whose mothers consume certain foods during their gestation seem to remember certain tastes) or negative (smells can trigger trauma). Smells are more efficient than images at helping us recall childhood memories. Alzheimer’s patients often experience a decline in olfactory function and people with damage to their frontal lobes can have difficulty remembering or classifying smells. Rats’ sense of smell can be trained and improved over time and olfactory learning in insects can significantly improve their chances of survival.
6. Smell in culture
Authors: Cobb Matthew
Published: May 2020

‘Smell in culture’ explores the social, political, and historical significance of smell, including smells in literature and politics. Since prehistory, humans have manufactured scents and often associated them with the supernatural. Originally used in worship and against infection or evil spirits, perfume is now commonly used. Smell has been used as a weapon in political discourse to enforce divisions between ethnic groups or social classes. Different cultures perceive smells in different ways. Much of how we feel about smells depends on our own cultural conditioning. Can smells be used in urban planning? How might the planet Mars smell?
7. The smell of the future
Authors: Cobb Matthew
Published: May 2020

How is the climate crisis affecting our sense of smell? ‘The smell of the future’ looks at the effect of chemical changes in the atmosphere and their disruptions to the behaviour of birds, bees, and fish. Humans in highly polluted areas have decreased olfactory function, which can affect mental health. Recent attempts at building artificial noses have met with varying degrees of success. Some of these electronic noses can perform useful functions such as sniffing out diseases. There is no magic solution to loss of smell or smelling things which are not there (phantosmia) but there are some techniques that patients can use to help a lost sense of smell return.
The economic dimension of globalization
Authors: Steger Manfred B.
Published: May 2020

Economic globalization refers to the intensification and stretching of economic connections across the globe. ‘The economic dimension of globalization’ gives a brief history of the emergence of the global economic order. Towards the end of the Second World War, the Bretton Woods Conference laid the foundations for institutions such as the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, and World Trade Organization. In the 1980s, rising neoliberalism led to the deregulation of financial transactions. Significant developments include the internationalization of trade, the increasing power of transnational corporations, and the enhanced role of international economic institutions. We have recently experienced setbacks like the 2007–10 recession and the slowdown of the Chinese economy.
The political dimension of globalization
Authors: Steger Manfred B.
Published: May 2020

Political globalization refers to the intensification and expansion of political interrelations across the globe. ‘The political dimension of globalization’ raises political issues relating to state sovereignty and the question of whether the nation-state will survive globalization. Growing social, economic, and cultural interconnectedness has facilitated migration in large numbers and permeated borders. Contemporary globalization has put pressure on traditional forms of global governance by fostering the growth of supraterritorial social spaces and institutions that unsettle both familiar political arrangements and cultural traditions. The worldwide intensification of cultural interactions makes greater accommodation and tolerance possible, but it is just as likely to increase political resistance and opposition.
A Randomized, Double-Blind, Split-Body, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Tolerability of a Topical Body Firming Moisturizer for Upper Arm Rejuvenation
Authors: Kavali Carmen M , Nguyen Thu Q , Zahr Alisar S , Jiang Lily I , Kononov Tatiana
Published: May 2020

Background

Aging of upper arm skin, induced by intrinsic and extrinsic factors, often results in a loss of contour, elasticity, and firmness, and an increase in laxity, crepiness, roughness, and photodamage. A topical body firming moisturizer (TBFM) was developed to target all aspects of skin aging.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of the TBFM for upper arm firming and rejuvenation.

Methods

Forty female subjects, 40 to 60 years old, Fitzpatrick skin type II to V, with mild to moderate laxity, crepiness, and photodamage on the upper arms, were recruited into the study, 10 of whom were selected for biopsy analysis. Subjects were randomly allocated to apply the TBFM and placebo moisturizer on the assigned arms twice daily for 12 weeks. At each visit, efficacy and tolerability evaluation, self-assessment, and standardized clinical photography were performed. Ultrasound measurements were performed at baseline, week 8 and week 12.

Results

Efficacy evaluation by a clinical grader and bioinstrumentation analysis showed the TBFM improved all skin parameters of the aged upper arm while outperforming the placebo moisturizer after 12 weeks. Clinical photography showed the test product toned and firmed the skin. The TBFM was well tolerated and well perceived by the subjects. Ultrasound images indicated an improvement in skin density and skin structure at week 12.

Conclusions

This clinical trial indicates that the TBFM was well tolerated and was effective in improving crepey, lax, and photodamaged skin of the upper arms after 12 weeks of treatment twice daily.

Level of Evidence: 2
A decade of research on the second messenger c-di-AMP
Authors: Yin Wen , Cai Xia , Ma Hongdan , Zhu Li , Zhang Yuling , Chou Shan-Ho , Galperin Michael Y , He Jin
Published: May 2020

Cyclic dimeric adenosine 3′,5′-monophosphate (c-di-AMP) is an emerging second messenger in bacteria and archaea that is synthesized from two molecules of ATP by diadenylate cyclases and degraded to pApA or two AMP molecules by c-di-AMP-specific phosphodiesterases. Through binding to specific protein- and riboswitch-type receptors, c-di-AMP regulates a wide variety of prokaryotic physiological functions, including maintaining the osmotic pressure, balancing central metabolism, monitoring DNA damage and controlling biofilm formation and sporulation. It mediates bacterial adaptation to a variety of environmental parameters and can also induce an immune response in host animal cells. In this review, we discuss the phylogenetic distribution of c-di-AMP-related enzymes and receptors and provide some insights into the various aspects of c-di-AMP signaling pathways based on more than a decade of research. We emphasize the key role of c-di-AMP in maintaining bacterial osmotic balance, especially in Gram-positive bacteria. In addition, we discuss the future direction and trends of c-di-AMP regulatory network, such as the likely existence of potential c-di-AMP transporter(s), the possibility of crosstalk between c-di-AMP signaling with other regulatory systems, and the effects of c-di-AMP compartmentalization. This review aims to cover the broad spectrum of research on the regulatory functions of c-di-AMP and c-di-AMP signaling pathways.
Leveraging routine viral load testing to integrate diabetes screening among patients on antiretroviral therapy in Malawi
Authors: Singano Victor , van Oosterhout Joep J , Gondwe Austrida , Nkhoma Pearson , Cataldo Fabian , Singogo Emmanuel , Theu Joe , Ching'ani Wilson , Hosseinpour Mina C , Amberbir Alemayehu
Published: May 2020

Background

People living with HIV are at an increased risk of diabetes mellitus due to HIV infection and exposure to antiretroviral therapy (ART). Despite this, integrated diabetes screening has not been implemented commonly in African HIV clinics. Our objective was to explore the feasibility of integrating diabetes screening into existing routine HIV viral load (VL) monitoring and to determine a group of HIV patients that benefit from a targeted screening for diabetes.

Methods

A mixed methods study was conducted from January to July 2018 among patients on ART aged≥18 y and healthcare workers at an urban HIV clinic in Zomba Central Hospital, Malawi. Patients who were due for routine VL monitoring underwent a finger-prick for simultaneous point-of-care glucose measurement and dried blood spot sampling for a VL test. Diabetes was diagnosed according to WHO criteria. We collected demographic and medical history information using an interviewer-administered questionnaire and electronic medical records. We conducted focus group discussions among healthcare workers about their experience and perceptions regarding the integrated diabetes screening program.

Results

Of patients undergoing routine VL monitoring, 1316 of 1385 (95%) had simultaneous screening for diabetes during the study period. The median age was 44 y (IQR: 38–53); 61% were female; 28% overweight or obese; and median ART duration was 83 mo (IQR: 48–115). At baseline, median CD4 count was 199 cells/mm3 (IQR: 102–277) and 50% were in WHO clinical stages I or II; 45% were previously exposed to stavudine and 88% were virologically suppressed (<1000 copies/mL).  Diabetes prevalence was 31/1316 (2.4%). Diabetes diagnosis was associated with age ≥40 y (adjusted OR [aOR] 7.44; 95% CI: 1.74 to 31.80), being overweight and/or obese (aOR 2.46; 95% CI: 1.13 to 5.38) and being on a protease inhibitor-based ART regimen (aOR 5.78; 95% CI: 2.30 to 14.50). Healthcare workers appreciated integrated diabetes screening but also reported challenges including increased waiting time, additional workload and inadequate communication of results to patients.

Conclusions

Integrating diabetes screening with routine VL monitoring (every 2 y) seems feasible and was valued by healthcare workers. The additional cost of adding diabetes screening into VL clinics requires further study and could benefit from a targeted approach prioritizing patients aged ≥40 y, being overweight/obese and on protease inhibitor-based regimens.
The Collateralizability Premium
Authors: Ai Hengjie , Li Jun E , Li Kai , Schlag Christian
Published: May 2020

A common prediction of macroeconomic models of credit market frictions is that the tightness of financial constraints is countercyclical. Theory suggests a negative collateralizability premium; that is, capital that can be used as collateral to relax financial constraints insures against aggregate shocks and commands a lower risk compensation compared with noncollateralizable assets. We show that a long-short portfolio constructed using a novel measure of asset collateralizability generates an average excess return of around 8% per year. We develop a general equilibrium model with heterogeneous firms and financial constraints to quantitatively account for the collateralizability premium.
The Brain and Causality: How the Brain Becomes an Individual-Level Cause of Illness
Authors: Halpin Michael
Published: May 2020

How do individual-level explanations become applied to social issues? Neurobiology – the study of the connections between behavior and the cells and structures of the brain – receives substantial public funding and influences social institutions, policy debates, and core aspects of human experience. With respect to mental health, neurobiology has ramifications for the way disorders are defined, diagnosed, and treated, along with how public funding for mental illness is allocated. This article addresses how neurobiologists establish the brain as a cause of mental illness. I analyze 17 months of ethnographic observation at a well-regarded neurobiological research laboratory, as well as observations at professional meetings, to detail three strategies: Linking the Brain to Mental Illness, Explaining Mental Illness with the Brain, and Asserting the Causal Importance of the Brain. These strategies first connect the brain to mental illness, and subsequently establish the causal primacy of the brain relative to alternative explanations (e.g., poverty). I connect findings to medical sociological theories, biological reduction, and emerging national health policies.
Vertical Expandable Rib-based Distraction Device for Correction of Congenital Scoliosis in Children of 3 Years of Age or Younger: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Berger-Groch Josephine , Weiser Lukas , Kunkel Philip O.S. , Stuecker Ralf , Jungesblut Oliver D.
Published: May 2020

Background:

This study was designed to evaluate the treatment outcome of very young children with congenital scoliosis aged 3 years or under after surgery with a vertical expandable prosthetic titanium rib (VEPTR)-based distraction device.

Methods:

A retrospective study of 13 children undergoing implantation of a vertical expandable rib-based distraction device. From September 2007 to June 2018, 13 children (7 male and 6 female patients) with congenital scoliosis were followed after treatment with a VEPTR. The outcome parameters were complications, thoracic height, kyphosis, lordosis, and coronal major scoliosis curve. In addition, the American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) score, assisted ventilation rating, and hemoglobin and body mass index were analyzed. Data were examined separately by 2 investigators.

Results:

The mean age at initial surgical treatment was 24.4±10.6 months, follow-up was 91.5±23.1 months. The mean number of surgical procedures per patient was 14±3.9 (total 182 operations). Apart from planned operations every 6 months, 5 unplanned operations (2.7%) were performed. The major scoliosis curve improved significantly from 55.2±21.9 degrees to 40.5±18.7 degrees, thoracic spine height T1-T12 significantly from 111±12 mm to 137±23 mm, T1-S1 height significantly from 211±13 mm to 252±36 mm and space available for the lung from 80.9%±11.3% to 84.4%±8.8% (preoperatively and at 5-y follow-up, respectively). Kyphosis increased significantly from 30±21.4 degrees to 42.6±23.5 degrees and lordosis from 32.4±20.9 degrees to 37.6±10.4 degrees. Hemoglobin levels were virtually unchanged. Weight increased from 10.6±2.8 kg to 20.2±5.0 kg at final follow-up, but body mass index decreased from 16.6±3.7 kg/m² to 15.7±2.9 kg/m².

Conclusions:

The expandable rib-based distraction device is an effective method to treat severe congenital scoliosis in very young children. It can control the deformity and promotes spinal and thoracic growth.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV.
Severe SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Children With Suspected Acute Abdomen: A Case Series From a Tertiary Hospital in Spain
Authors: Cabrero-Hernández Marta , García-Salido Alberto , Leoz-Gordillo Inés , Alonso-Cadenas Jose Antonio , Gochi-Valdovinos Ainhoa , González Brabin Anthony , De Lama Caro-Patón Gema , Nieto-Moro Montserrat , de-Azagra-Garde Amelia Martínez- , Serrano-González Ana
Published: May 2020

We describe 5 children with severe SARS-CoV-2 infection, hemodynamic instability and suspected acute abdomen. This form of the disease has not been previously documented. Four of the cases were confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection and 1 probable. All of them were previously healthy and needed a pediatric critical care unit admission. The respiratory symptoms were not dominant or were absent. Also, fever was observed. Laboratory testing revealed lymphopenia and high levels of C-reactive protein and procalcitonin with d-dimer, ferritin and interleukin-6 usually elevated. Respiratory support and inotropic support were almost always necessary. In all of them, deterioration occurred on the day of admission.
A case report of recurrent acute pancreatitis associated with life threatening atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome
Authors: Jean-Marie Elizabeth M. , Cho Jonathan J. , Trevino Jose G.
Published: May 2020

Introduction:

Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is a thrombotic microangiopathy defined by the sudden onset of hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and acute kidney injury (AKI). HUS is categorized as either typical, caused by Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli infection, or atypical HUS (aHUS), usually complement mediated or secondary to systemic disease. We describe a rare case of aHUS in an adult male patient with recurrent acute pancreatitis.

Patient clinical findings:

A 32-year-old Caucasian male presented to our institution for his third episode of alcohol-induced pancreatitis. He presented with abdominal pain, elevated lipase and pancreatic inflammation on computed tomography consistent with acute pancreatitis. While admitted, he developed sudden onset severe thrombocytopenia, AKI and hemolytic anemia.

Diagnosis, therapeutic interventions, outcomes:

Peripheral blood smear, haptoglobin and hemoglobin level confirmed microangiopathic hemolytic anemia. Worsening anemia, thrombocytopenia and AKI were consistent with the diagnosis of aHUS. The patient's pancreatitis resolved with supportive measures, but resolution of significant thrombocytopenia and AKI was not achieved until administration of eculizumab, a complement inhibiting therapy. Eculizumab therapy provided dramatic improvement in this patient, with platelet count increasing from a low of 11,000 to >100,000 within 48 hours of therapy. Creatinine and hemoglobin levels returned to baseline within 3 weeks.

Conclusion:

Recurrent pancreatitis is suggested as the etiology of atypical HUS in this patient and this condition should be recognized and treated in a timely manner for optimal clinical outcomes.
Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis caused by Campylobacter Coli in cirrhotic patient
Authors: Wang Cheng-Hui , Tai Ting-Han , Weng Shih-Yen , Yeh Shin-Wen , Shiue Sheng-Jie , Jargalsaikhan Ganbolor , Wu Ming-Shun
Published: May 2020

Introduction:

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a fatal infection in patients. It often happens in patients with cirrhosis, cancer or diabetes, and is caused mostly by Enterobacteriaceae. Here we report a rare case of SBP caused by Campylobacter Coli (C coli) infection, which was identified promptly by the matrix assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) and received adequate therapy sooner after.

Patient concerns:

In the present study, we reported a 46-year-old male with alcoholic liver cirrhosis (Child-Pugh class C) and type 2 diabetes mellitus presented with a 1-day history of fever and abdominal pain.

Diagnosis:

Based on the clinical examinations, the patient was diagnosed with SBP and the pathogen was quickly identified as C coli by the matrix assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), a rare causative pathogen of SBP.

Interventions:

The patient received a 10-day antibiotic treatment with Ciprofloxacin 400 mg every 12 hours, and recovered successfully.

Outcomes:

The patient had a successful treatment outcome.

Conclusion:

The study demonstrated a new possible infectious cause of SBP by C Coli, which was rarely seen in liver cirrhosis but mostly found in immunocompromised patients. Thus, it might raise an idea of microorganism screening of broader types that might also induce SBP for immunocompromised patients.
Cutaneous metastasis of ascending colon cancer harboring a BRAF V600E mutation
Authors: Liao Lianggong , Cheng Qian , Zhu Guangsheng , Pei Feng , Ye Shengwei
Published: May 2020

Rationale:

Cutaneous metastases from colorectal cancer are extremely rare and generally appear several years after diagnosis or resection of the primary colorectal tumor. Although cutaneous metastasis is unusual, it often indicates a poor prognosis.

Patient concerns:

We treated a 62-year-old woman with multiple cutaneous metastatic nodules on the chest, back, and armpit 7 months after resection of ascending colon cancer.

Diagnoses:

The patient was diagnosed with cutaneous metastasis of ascending colon cancer with BRAF V600E mutation.

Interventions:

After 6 cycles of fluorouracil, leucovorin, oxaliplatin, cetuximab, and emurafenib, most of the metastatic lesions had begun to shrink, and no new metastases were observed. Serum tests showed that the levels of several tumor markers were decreased.

Outcomes:

The patient responded well to treatment and survived for 6.5 months after presentation with skin metastasis.

Lessons:

Cutaneous metastasis of colorectal cancer with BRAF V600E mutation is a rare but important phenomenon that should not be ignored. Cutaneous metastasis of colorectal cancer frequently indicates advanced disease and poor prognosis. The SWOG 1406 program is one of the treatment options, but this needs further exploration.
Association between ALDH2 rs671 polymorphism and risk of ischemic stroke
Authors: Jiang Yan , He Jinting , Liu Hongyu , Xu Zhongxin
Published: May 2020

In last decades, many scholars have studied the relationship between aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) rs671 and ischemic stroke (IS), however, the results obtained from these studies were inconclusive. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between rs671 and the risk of IS by systematically review.

Two researchers independently screened relevant published literatures, derived data and estimated the risk of bias of the research in Pubmed, Embase, Ovid, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Cochrane Library and China Biomedical Literature Database throughout March 29, 2020. All statistical analyses were performed with the Stata 12.0 software. The data of the study was analyzed using fixed and random effects models. The results were expressed by odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95%CI).

A total of 10 articles were included this study. The total number of samples for all studies was 5265, including 2762 cases and 2503 controls. Statistical results indicated statistical differences between ALDH2 rs671 polymorphism and IS under dominant model (AA vs. AG + GG) and allelic model (A vs G), ORs (95% CI) were 1.66 (1.27–2.17) (P = .00) and 1.34 (1.05–1.71) (P = .02), respectively. But there was no statistical difference under recessive model (AA + AG vs GG), OR (95% CI) was 1.40 (0.99–1.97), P = .06.

ALDH2 rs671 polymorphism was related to IS risk for Chinese population and the A allele of rs671 may be a risk factor of IS.
Colorectal cancer with invasive micropapillary components (IMPCs) shows high lymph node metastasis and a poor prognosis
Authors: Guo Zeying , Yang Ziru , Li Dan , Tang Jinlong , Xu Jinghong , Shen Hong , Yuan Ying
Published: May 2020

Objects:

The present study aimed to identify the clinicopathological characteristics of colorectal cancer (CRC) with invasive micropapillary components (IMPCs) and the relationship between different amounts of micropapillary components and lymph node metastasis.

Methods:

A cohort of 363 patients with CRC who underwent surgical treatment in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine between January 2013 and December 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. We compared the clinicopathological characteristics, including survival outcomes and immunohistochemical profiles (EMA, MUC1, MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, and PMS2), between CRC with IMPCs and those with conventional adenocarcinoma (named non-IMPCs in this study). Logistic regression was used to identify the association between IMPCs and lymph node invasion. A multivariate analysis was performed using the Cox proportional hazard model to evaluate significant survival predictors.

Results:

Among 363 patients, 76 cases had IMPCs, including 22 cases with a lower proportion of IMPCs (≤5%, IMPCs-L) and 54 cases with a higher proportion (>5%, IMPCs-H). Compared to the non-IMPC group, the IMPC group (including both IMPC-L and IMPC-H) had a lower degree of tumor differentiation (P = .000), a higher N-classification (P = .000), more venous invasion (P = .019), more perineural invasion (P = .025) and a later tumor node metastasis (TNM) stage (P = .000). Only tumor differentiation (P = .031) and tumor size (P = .022) were different between IMPCs-L and IMPCs-H. EMA/MUC1 enhanced the characteristic inside-out staining pattern of IMPCs, whereas non-IMPCs showed luminal staining patterns. The percentage of mismatch repair deficiency (dMMR) in the non-IMPC group was much higher than that in the IMPC group (14.7% vs 4.7%). The overall survival time of patients with IMPCs was significantly less than that of patients with non-IMPCs (P = .002), then that of IMPCs-H was lower than that of IMPCs-L (P = .030). Logistic regression revealed that patients with IMPCs were associated with lymph metastasis, regardless of the proportion of IMPCs. Multivariate analysis demonstrated both IMPCs-L and IMPCs-H as negative prognostic factors.

Conclusions:

IMPCs are significantly associated with lymph node metastasis and poor outcome, and even a minor component (≤5%) may render significant information and should therefore be part of the pathology report.
The application of quality control circle to improve the quality of samples
Authors: Liu Kangsheng , Xu Zhirong , Wang Xiangdong , Chen Yajun , Mao Xiao-Dong
Published: May 2020

Since its application in medical institutions in China, quality control circle (QCC) has gained achievements in medical care and thus earned more attention from the administrative department of health.

In order to improve the quality of laboratory specimens, we launched a QCC activity to solve the problems and evaluate the effect of it. The data of 30,105 unqualified specimens in our hospital were collected from February to June 2017. After the QCC activity, the data of 43,125 specimens taken from July to December 2017 were collected.

The defect rate of the specimens before the QCC activity was 0.98% (297/30105), and after the QCC activity, it was 0.45% (193/43125), showing a significant statistical difference (P < .05). The achievement rate and improvement rate were 108.2% and 54.1%, respectively.

After the implementation of QCC, the defect rate of specimens in clinical laboratories was significantly decreased, and the intangible factors were also improved, which demonstrated the positive effects of QCC on the quality control of specimens.
In silico analysis of the molecular regulatory networks in peripheral arterial occlusive disease
Authors: Guan Xuwen , Yang Xiaoyan , Wang Chunming , Bi Renbing
Published: May 2020

Background:

Peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD) is a global public health concern that decreases the quality of life of the patients and can lead to disabilities and death. The aim of this study was to identify the genes and pathways associated with PAOD pathogenesis, and the potential therapeutic targets.

Methods:

Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and miRNAs related to PAOD were extracted from the GSE57691 dataset and through text mining. Additionally, bioinformatics analysis was applied to explore gene ontology, pathways and protein–protein interaction of those DEGs. The potential miRNAs targeting the DEGs and the transcription factors (TFs) regulating miRNAs were predicted by multiple different databases.

Results:

A total of 59 DEGs were identified, which were significantly enriched in the inflammatory response, immune response, chemokine-mediated signaling pathway and JAK-STAT signaling pathway. Thirteen genes including IL6, CXCL12, IL1B, and STAT3 were hub genes in protein–protein interaction network. In addition, 513 miRNA-target gene pairs were identified, of which CXCL12 and PTPN11 were the potential targets of miRNA-143, and IL1B of miRNA-21. STAT3 was differentially expressed and regulated 27 potential target miRNAs including miRNA-143 and miRNA-21 in TF-miRNA regulatory network.

Conclusion:

In summary, inflammation, immune response and STAT3-mediated miRNA-target genes axis play an important role in PAOD development and progression.
Evaluation of predictive role of carcinoembryonic antigen and salivary mRNA biomarkers in gastric cancer detection
Authors: Xu Fei , Jiang Meiquan
Published: May 2020

We explored the potential of combining carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and salivary mRNAs for gastric cancer (GC) detection.

This study included 2 phases of study: a biomarker discovery phase and an independent validation phase. In the discovery phase, we measured CEA levels in blood samples and expression level of messenger RNAs (SPINK7, PPL, SEMA4B, SMAD4) in saliva samples of 140 GC patients and 140 healthy controls. We evaluated the clinical performance of each biomarker and developed a predictive model using machine-learning algorithm to differentiate GC patients and healthy controls.

Our biomarker panel successfully discriminated GC patients from healthy controls with both high sensitivity (0.94) and high specificity (0.91). We next applied our biomarker panel in the independent validation phase, in which we recruited a new patient cohort of 60 GC patients and 60 healthy controls. Using our biomarker panel, the GC patients were discriminated from healthy controls in the validation phase, with sensitivity of 0.92 and specificity of 0.87.

A combination of blood CEA and salivary messenger RNA could be a promising approach to detect GC.
Whole-slide Imaging: Clinical Workflows and Primary Diagnosis
Authors: Hartman Douglas J.
Published: May 2020

Digital pathology has made great strides in recent years culminating with the approval to market devices from the Food and Drug Administration. The pathology community is now poised to begin using these systems for diagnostic purposes. This article will discuss the preparatory steps needed to implement digital pathology as well as some implementation styles that may be sufficient for a pathology department.
Combat thoracic surgery in Iraq and Afghanistan: 2002–2016
Authors: Stern Caryn A. , Stockinger Zsolt T. , Gurney Jennifer M.
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Thoracic surgery constitutes 2.5% of surgical procedures performed in theater, but the skills required are increasingly foreign to military surgeons. This study examines thoracic surgical workload in Iraq and Afghanistan to help define surgical training gaps.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of Department of Defense Trauma Registry for all role 2 (R2) (forward surgical) and role 3 (R3) (theater) military facilities, from January 2002 to May 2016. The 95 thoracic surgical International Classification of Diseases—9th Rev.—Clinical Modification procedure codes were grouped into 10 categories based on anatomy or endoscopy. Select groups were further stratified by type of definitive procedure. Procedure groupings were determined and adjudicated by surgeon subject matter experts. Data analysis used Stata Version 15 (College Station, TX).

RESULTS

Of the total procedures, 5,301 were classified as thoracic surgical procedures and were included in the present study. The majority of thoracic surgical procedures (4,645 [87.6%]) were recorded as being performed at R3 medical treatment facilities (MTFs). The thoracic surgical procedures groups with the largest proportions were: bronchoscopy (39.1%), thoracotomy (16.9%), diaphragm (15.6%), and lung (11.4%). The most common lung procedure subgroup, aside from not otherwise specified, was segmentectomy (28.8%). The R3 MTFs recorded nearly five times the number of lung procedures compared with R2 MTFs; with R3 MTFs recording more than eight times the number of lobectomies compared with R2 MTFs. Thoracic workload was variable over the 15-year study period.

CONCLUSION

Thoracic surgical skills are necessary in the deployed environment to manage combat-related injuries. Given the current trends in training and specialization, development and sustainment of thoracic surgical skills is challenging in the deployed US trauma system and likely for other nations, and humanitarian surgical care as well. Current training and practice paradigms pose both training and sustainment challenges for surgeons who deploy to a combat zone.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic/Care Management IV.
Akt and Src mediate the photocrosslinked fibroin-induced neural differentiation.
Authors: Moysenovich Anastasia M. , Tatarskiy Viktor V. , Yastrebova Margarita A. , Bessonov Ivan V. , Arkhipova Anastasia Yu , Kolosov Andrey S. , Davydova lyubov I. , Khamidullina Alvina I. , Bogush Vladimir G. , Debabov Vladimir G. , Shaitan Konstantin V. , Shtil Alexander A. , Moisenovich Mikhail M.
Published: May 2020

Neural transplantation is a promising modality for treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, traumatic brain injury and stroke. Biocompatible scaffolds with optimized properties improve the survival of transplanted neural cells and differentiation of progenitor cells into the desired types of neurons. Silk fibroin is a biocompatible material for tissue engineering. Here, we describe thin-film scaffolds based on photocrosslinked methacrylated silk fibroin (FBMA). These scaffolds exhibit an increased mechanical stiffness and improved water stability. Photocrosslinking of fibroin increased its rigidity from 25 to 480 kPa and the contact angle from 59.7o to 70.8o, the properties important for differentiation of neural cells. Differentiation of SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells on FBMA increased the length of neurites as well as the levels of neural differentiation markers MAP2 and βIII-tubulin. Growth of SH-SY5Y cells on the unmodified fibroin and FBMA substrates led to a spontaneous phosphorylation of Src and Akt protein kinases critical for neuronal differentiation; this effect was paralleled by neural cell adhesion molecule elevation. Thus, FBMA is an easily manufactured, cytocompatible material with improved and sustainable properties applicable for neural tissue engineering.
Bowled over or over bowled? Age-related changes in the performance of bowlers in Test match cricket
Authors: Thorley Jack
Published: May 2020

Data from elite professional sports players provide a valuable source of information on human performance and ageing. Functional declines in performance have been investigated across a wide range of sporting disciplines that vary in their need for physical strength, endurance, cognitive ability and motor skills, but rarely have researchers considered other sources of heterogeneity that can exist among individuals. Using information on all male bowlers to have played Test match cricket since the early 1970s, I separated age-dependent variation in bowling performance at the population-level into within-individual and between-individual (cohort) changes. I found no evidence for senescence in bowling performance as measured via economy rate or wicket-taking ability, irrespective of the style of the bowler (fast or slow). Instead, analyses detected strong between-individual contributions to bowling performance as higher quality bowlers were able to compete at the elite level for longer, and were therefore over-represented in older age classes. Bowlers also experienced a deterioration in the last year of their Test careers. These results highlight that the very best Test match bowlers have been able to maintain and often improve their skill level well into their thirties, but how they accomplish this alongside the physical demands of Test cricket remains unresolved. Further multivariate models also identified a negative relationship among slow bowlers between their economy rate and their wicket-taking ability, suggesting that in general, the most economical slow bowlers in the modern era of Test match cricket have also taken wickets at the fastest rate. The same is not true for fast bowlers, which is perhaps partly because bowling at high speed compromises accuracy and thus increases scoring opportunities for batsman.
Data quantity is more important than its spatial bias for predictive species distribution modelling
Authors: Gaul Willson , Sadykova Dinara , White Hannah J. , León-Sánchez Lupe , Caplat Paul , Emmerson Mark C. , Yearsley Jon M.
Published: May 2020

Biological records are often the data of choice for training predictive species distribution models (SDMs), but spatial sampling bias is pervasive in biological records data at multiple spatial scales and is thought to impair the performance of SDMs. We simulated presences and absences of virtual species as well as the process of recording these species to evaluate the effect on species distribution model prediction performance of 1) spatial bias in training data, 2) sample size (the average number of observations per species), and 3) the choice of species distribution modelling method. Our approach is novel in quantifying and applying real-world spatial sampling biases to simulated data. Spatial bias in training data decreased species distribution model prediction performance, but only when the bias was relatively strong. Sample size and the choice of modelling method were more important than spatial bias in determining the prediction performance of species distribution models.
Comparing diversification rates in lakes, rivers, and the sea
Authors: Miller Elizabeth Christina
Published: May 2020

The diversity of species inhabiting freshwater relative to marine habitats is striking, given that freshwater habitats encompass <1% of Earth’s water. The most commonly proposed explanation for this pattern is that freshwater habitats are more fragmented than marine habitats, allowing more opportunities for allopatric speciation and thus increased diversification rates in freshwater. However, speciation may be generally faster in sympatry than in allopatry, as illustrated by lacustrine radiations such as African cichlids. Differences between rivers and lakes may be important to consider when comparing diversification broadly among freshwater and marine lineages. Here I compared diversification rates of teleost fishes in marine, riverine and lacustrine habitats. I found that lakes had faster speciation and net diversification rates than other aquatic habitats. However, most freshwater diversity arose in rivers. Surprisingly, riverine and marine habitats had similar rates of net diversification. Biogeographic models suggest that lacustrine habitats are evolutionary unstable, explaining the dearth of lacustrine species in spite of their rapid diversification. Collectively, these results suggest that diversification rate differences are unlikely to explain the freshwater paradox. Instead, this pattern may be attributable to the comparable amount of time spent in riverine and marine habitats over the 200-million-year history of teleosts.