bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time Evolution of the Droplet Size Distribution in Dropwise Condensation
Authors: Mei Maofei , Hu Feng , Han Chong , Sun Yan , Liu Dongdong
Published: June 2020

The droplet growth processes during dropwise condensation are simulated with the help of computer. We focus on instantaneous and time-averaged characteristics of droplet size distributions. Based on the simulation results, the shift of a single peak from a small to a large size represents a significant characteristic for the instantaneous distribution before the first departure. Coexistence, shift, and combination of multiple peaks are the dominant features when condensing surface was refreshed repeatedly by shedding droplets from place to place. This indicates that the instantaneous droplet size distribution depends heavily on the growth time and target area. These findings help to explain why different distribution characteristics were reported in the experiments. Unlike the instantaneous distribution, time-averaged size distributions for coalesced droplets follow a power-law style due to a collaboration of coalescence events and renucleation behaviors. However, the size range for the power-law distributions was affected by nucleation density, which requires an appropriate usage of the empirical or fractal model to theoretically predict the heat transfer rate of dropwise condensation. This work provides a comprehensive understanding of the instantaneous and time-averaged characteristics of droplet size distributions.
Thermohydraulic Behavior of Minichannel Surface Simulated With Gaussian Function and Actual Roughness Data Generated Using Three-Dimensional Optical Surface Profilometer
Authors: Mitra Indrasis , Ghosh Indranil
Published: June 2020

The effect of surface roughness on the thermohydraulics in minichannels has been studied numerically. Fluid flow (at low Reynolds number) through a typical three-dimensional (3D) channel subjected to constant heat flux (at the bottom) is analyzed incorporating surface roughness on the solid–fluid interfaces characterized by its true random and nonperiodic nature. Two different approaches are adopted to model the rough channel surfaces. Topographic measurements have been performed on a stainless steel minichannel using an optical surface profilometer (OSP) to generate digital replica of the rough surface. Alternatively, the Gaussian function defined by two statistical parameters, namely average roughness (Ra) and correlation length (Cl), are employed to imitate the random nature of rough interface. At the outset, conjugate heat transfer simulations have been performed on the rough channel models and the results are validated against the experimental data. Finally, the effect of surface roughness on both local and global nondimensional performance parameters is analyzed and compared with findings from simulations performed on a similar smooth channel. The outcomes reveal an enhanced friction factor for flow over a rough surface, attributable to the near wall shear rate fluctuations experienced by the flow. Unlike smooth channels, the local Nusselt number (Nuy) exhibits continuous fluctuations along the channel axial length. The fully developed (Nufd) and the average (Nu¯) counterparts of the Nusselt number show enhanced magnitudes when compared to the theoretical predictions of the same in a smooth surface channel. This amplification can be attributed to two simultaneously acting factors: augmentation in heat transfer area and chaotic mixing due to flow perturbation. The magnitude of enhancement in terms of fully developed Nusselt number (Nufd) is roughly 1.3 times of its corresponding value in a smooth channel and the factor remains invariant of the supplied heat.
Phase Transformation Prediction Considering Crystallographic Orientation in Microgrinding Multiphase Material
Authors: Zhao Man , Ji Xia , Feng Yixuan , Liang Steven Y.
Published: June 2020

This investigation proposes a physics-based model to predict the solid-state phase transformation of maraging steel subjected to microgrinding. In microgrinding, the effect of crystallography is significant on the grinding phase transformation in light of the fact that the depth of cut is on the same order of magnitude as the grain size. This paper proposes a predictive model of phase transformation considering crystallographic orientation (CO) with respect to the grinding direction based on the Taylor factor model. In addition, the flow stress model is modified by adding a CO sensitive term and incorporating the mechanical-thermal loadings. Furthermore, the temperature, temperature rate, strain rate, and Taylor factor are also combined in the model of phase transition. The kinetics parameters of the models are obtained by a regression analysis against experimental data. Finally, the modified models are validated with experiments data and compared with the previous prediction.
Relating Porosity With Ductility in a Commercial AA7075 Alloy: A Combined Experimental and Numerical Study
Authors: Tak Tawqeer Nasir , Prakash Aditya , Lodh Arijit , Keralavarma Shyam M. , Narayana Murty S. V. S. , Samajdar Indradev , Guruprasad P. J.
Published: June 2020

In this paper, the effect of porosity on the ductility of as-cast AA7075 (a commercial high-strength aluminum alloy) was investigated. The as-cast material was processed through hot upsetting, and specimens with different porosity content were achieved. These were then subjected to tensile and compression tests. It was shown that the tensile ductility exhibited a near sigmoidal dependence on the porosity content. Compressive ductility, on the other hand, was not affected by the initial porosity content. In addition, direct observations, on an X-ray microscope (XRM), enabled 3-dimensional imaging of the porosity evolution during plastic deformation. Numerical simulations using a homogenized damage model, the Gurson–Tvergaard–Needleman (GTN) approach, was used for predicting the mechanical responses. The continuum model, which accounted for the growth and coalescence of spherical voids, captured the overall experimental patterns reasonably well.
The Influence of Header Design on Two-Phase Flow Distribution in Plate-Fin Heat Exchangers
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Mehendale Sunil , Lv Shengnan , Yuan Hui , Tian JinJin
Published: June 2020

Fluid flow maldistribution causes deterioration of heat transfer as well as pressure drop penalty in heat exchangers. A test bench was set up to investigate the effect of different header designs on air-water flow distribution in plate-fin heat exchangers (PFHX). Two-phase flow distribution was examined for air Reynolds numbers (ReG) of 28293542 and inlet qualities (x) of 46.3–64.0%. Two-phase flow distribution was seen to be more uneven in the heat exchanger in comparison with single-phase flow, the water distribution being more uneven than that of the air. For a fixed inlet quality, as the air flowrate was increased, the distribution of two-phase flow became increasingly nonuniform, showing a pattern similar to single-phase flow. Furthermore, the air distribution became more even, while the water flow became more unevenly distributed as the inlet quality increased. To mitigate the maldistribution, perforated plates were incorporated in the heat exchanger header. The improved headers significantly aided in distributing the two-phase flow more evenly. At ReG = 2829 and x = 46.3%, the heat exchanger effectiveness was expressed in terms of the unevenness in quality, Sx. The effectiveness decreased as the unevenness of the flow distribution was exacerbated, emphasizing the significance of uniform phase and flow distribution as a key element of heat exchanger design.
Numerical Investigation on Melting Process of a Phase Change Material Under Supergravity
Authors: Xu Yu , Zhu Zihang , Li Shugaowa , Wang Jiale
Published: June 2020

A numerical investigation on the melting process of paraffin wax RT44 under supergravity (5–20 g) was conducted to evaluate the effect of supergravity on the melting heat transfer characteristics. The simulations were conducted in a horizontally placed container with a constant heat flux of 5–50 kW/m2 maintained on the bottom wall under both supergravity and the earth gravity (1 g). The numerical data under supergravity are compared with those under the Earth gravity for all circumstances. The results indicate that the melting heat transfer characteristics of the phase change material (PCM) are affected by supergravity significantly (around 30%) within 20 g. With the increase of supergravity, the heating wall temperature decreases, and the liquid fraction as well as the melting rate increases. Meanwhile, the variation amplitudes of these melting characteristics decrease gradually until less than 2% at 20 g. The effect of supergravity can be attributed to the intensification of the natural convection due to buoyancy, yielding vortexes in internal flow and fluctuations of solid–liquid interface and temperature field.
On the formation of black silicon in SF6-O2 plasma: The clear, oxidize, remove, and etch (CORE) sequence and black silicon on demand
Authors: Nguyen Vy Thi Hoang , Jensen Flemming , Hübner Jörg , Leussink Pele , Jansen Henri
Published: June 2020

Black silicon (BSi or silicon micro/nanograss) is a frequently encountered phenomenon in highly directional etching of silicon using mainstream plasma etch tools. The appearance of BSi in most studies is considered to be caused by micromasks unintentionally present on the silicon surface that locally prevent silicon from etching. Particularly, under highly directional and selective plasma etch conditions, these chaotically arranged micromasks develop into tall grasslike structures that will absorb incoming light and make the etched silicon appear black. There are many different sources that might contribute to the formation of BSi. Most of them can be prevented by proper pretreatment of the surface and careful control of the etch parameters. However, the masking related to the in situ plasma passivation (typically FC- or O-species) and insufficient ion etching of this layer causing residues at horizontal surfaces remains a resilient issue that is difficult to control or predict. This study is built on a recently developed highly directional etch procedure called CORE (meaning Clear, Oxidize, Remove, and Etch) in which the usual FC inhibitor of the Bosch process is replaced by oxygen. Due to the self-limiting property of the oxidation step, the formation and controllability of BSi in the CORE sequence is different from how BSi presents itself in the FC-based sequences. In this work, the effects of different process parameters on the creation of masks and formation of BSi are carefully investigated. The authors show that the time in the removal (R) step of the passivating oxide layer in tight combination with the undercut time in the isotropic etch (E) step are the most important parameters to consider. By manipulating these two parameters and utilizing the self-limiting property of the oxidation (O) step, the CORE process can easily be modified to create either BSi-full or BSi-free surfaces independent of the aspect ratio of the etching features. The latter distinguishes the BSi formation clearly from other directional processes. The proposed CORE process thus provides the authors a versatile tool for creating BSi anywhere anytime or—as we call it—“BSi on Demand.”
Self-detached membranes with well-defined pore size, shape and distribution fabricated by underexposure photolithography
Authors: Li Tingjie , Jia Peipei , Leung Kar Man , Guo Qiuquan , Yang Jun
Published: June 2020

An underexposure photolithography method was developed to fabricate self-detached polymer micropore membranes with uniform pore size, shape, and arrangement. The key to this technique is to control and adjust the gradient of exposure dose projected into the film of photoresist. This new approach abandons sacrificial layers used in previous techniques. Negative SU-8 was chosen as an example photoresist to demonstrate its feasibility. Membranes with specially tailored sizes and shapes of micropores could be produced on diverse substrates. The coefficient of variation of pore size was only 1%, much lower than that for conventional microporous membranes. Moreover, due to self-detaching without a sacrificial layer, the membranes were flat and free of residual stress and deformation. This novel photolithographic approach opened a new avenue to manufacture high-quality membranes that could broaden the applications of microparticle filtration, separation, and sorting.
How rests and cyclic sequences influence performance in tone-scramble tasks
Authors: Ho Joselyn , Chubb Charles
Published: June 2020

When classifying major versus minor tone-scrambles (random sequences of pure tones), most listeners (70%) perform at chance while the remaining listeners perform nearly perfectly. The current study investigated whether inserting rests and cyclic sequences into the stimuli could heighten sensitivity in such tasks. In separate blocks, listeners classified tone-scramble variants as major versus minor (“3” task) or fourth versus tritone (“4” task). In three “Fast” variants, tones were played at 65 ms/tone as a continuous, random stream (“FR”), or with a rest after every fourth tone (“FRwR”), or as a repeating sequence of four tones with a rest after every fourth tone (“FCwR”). In the “Slow” variant, tones were played at 325 ms/tone in random order. In both the 3 and 4 tasks, performance was ordered from best to worst as follows: FRwR > FR > FCwR > Slow. Post hoc analysis revealed that performance was suppressed in the Slow and FCwR task-variants due to a powerful bias inclining listeners to respond “major” or “fourth” (“minor” or “tritone”) if the 4-note sequence defining the stimulus ended on a high (low) note. Overall, the results indicate that inserting regular rests into random tone sequences heightens sensitivity to musical mode.
The Systemic Effects of Exercise on Regulators of Muscle and Bone in Girls and Women
Authors: Mezil Yasmeen , Obeid J. , Raha Sandeep , Hawke Thomas J. , Timmons Brian W.
Published: June 2020

Purpose: To assess the systemic effects of an acute bout of moderate-intensity exercise on factors that are known to regulate muscle and bone growth in prepubertal girls and women. Methods: A total of 12 prepubertal girls (8–10 y) and 12 women (20–30 y) cycled at 60% maximal oxygen uptake for 1 hour followed by 1 hour recovery. Blood samples were collected at rest, mid-exercise, end of exercise, mid-recovery, and end of recovery. Plasma was analyzed for interleukin-6, chemokine ligand 1, fibroblast growth factor-2, total insulin growth factor-1 (IGF-1), and free IGF-1 using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays assays. Results: Both groups had similar concentrations of systemic factors at baseline with the exception of free IGF-1, which was higher in girls (P = .001). Interleukin-6 response was lower in girls versus women (P = .04), with a difference of +105.1% at end of exercise (P < .001), +113.5% at mid-recovery (P = .001), and +93.2% at end of recovery (P = .02). Girls and women exhibited significant declines in chemokine ligand 1, fibroblast growth factor-2, and total IGF-1 during recovery. Conclusion: Compared with women, an acute bout of moderate-intensity exercise in girls elicits a lower inflammatory response, suggesting that other mechanisms may be more important for driving the anabolic effects of exercise on muscle and bone in girls.
Three-dimensional superlattice engineering with block copolymer epitaxy
Authors: Ren Jiaxing , Segal-Peretz Tamar , Zhou Chun , Craig Gordon S. W. , Nealey Paul F.
Published: June 2020

3D lattice engineering with polymer micelles mimics atomic epitaxy, demonstrating remarkable precision and tunability.
Skeletal muscle antagonizes antiviral CD8
+
T cell exhaustion
Authors: Wu Jingxia , Weisshaar Nina , Hotz-Wagenblatt Agnes , Madi Alaa , Ma Sicong , Mieg Alessa , Hering Marvin , Mohr Kerstin , Schlimbach Tilo , Borgers Helena , Cui Guoliang
Published: June 2020

Skeletal muscle shelters a group of T cells from systemic and chronic inflammation to protect T cell proliferative potential.
Recording brain activities in unshielded Earth’s field with optically pumped atomic magnetometers
Authors: Zhang Rui , Xiao Wei , Ding Yudong , Feng Yulong , Peng Xiang , Shen Liang , Sun Chenxi , Wu Teng , Wu Yulong , Yang Yucheng , Zheng Zhaoyu , Zhang Xiangzhi , Chen Jingbiao , Guo Hong
Published: June 2020

High-sensitivity total-field atomic magnetometer enables brain-activity measurements in unshielded Earth’s field.
Exploration of Two Pectate Lyases from Caldicellulosiruptor bescii Reveals that the CBM66 Module Has a Crucial Role in Pectic Biomass Degradation
Authors: Hamouda Hamed I. , Ali Nasir , Su Hang , Feng Jie , Lu Ming , Li Fu-Li
Published: June 2020

Thermophilic proteins could be implemented in diverse industrial applications. We sought to characterize two pectate lyases,
Cb
PL3 and
Cb
PL9, from a thermophilic bacterium,
Caldicellulosiruptor bescii
. The two enzymes share a high optimum temperature, a low optimum pH, and good thermostability at the evaluated temperature. A family 66 carbohydrate-binding module (
Cb
CBM66) was identified in the two
Cb
PLs, sharing 100% amino acid identity. The deletion of
Cb
CBM66 dramatically decreased the activity of
Cb
PL9 but increased the activity and thermostability of
Cb
PL3, suggesting different roles of
Cb
CBM66 in the two enzymes. Moreover, the degradation products of the two
Cb
PLs were different. These results revealed that these enzymes could represent potential pectate lyases for applications in the paper and textile industries.
The Type IX Secretion System Is Required for Virulence of the Fish Pathogen Flavobacterium psychrophilum
Authors: Barbier Paul , Rochat Tatiana , Mohammed Haitham H. , Wiens Gregory D. , Bernardet Jean-François , Halpern David , Duchaud Eric , McBride Mark J.
Published: June 2020

Bacterial cold-water disease, caused by
F. psychrophilum
, is a major problem for salmonid aquaculture. Little is known regarding the virulence factors involved in this disease, and control measures are inadequate. A targeted gene deletion method was adapted to
F. psychrophilum
and used to demonstrate the importance of the T9SS in virulence. Proteins secreted by this system are likely virulence factors and targets for the development of control measures.
Transcriptional Organization of the Stability Module of Broad-Host-Range Plasmid RA3, from the IncU Group
Authors: Lewicka Ewa , Dolowy Patrycja , Godziszewska Jolanta , Litwin Emilia , Ludwiczak Marta , Jagura-Burdzy Grazyna
Published: June 2020

The efficiently disseminating conjugative or mobilizable BHR plasmids play key roles in the horizontal spread of genetic information between closely related and phylogenetically distant species, which can be harmful from the medical, veterinary, or industrial point of view. Understanding the mechanisms determining the plasmid’s ability to function in diverse hosts is essential to help limit the spread of undesirable plasmid-encoded traits, e.g., antibiotic resistance. The range of a plasmid’s promiscuity depends on the adaptations of its transfer, replication, and stability functions to the various hosts. IncU plasmids, with the archetype plasmid RA3, are considered to constitute a reservoir of antibiotic resistance genes in aquatic environments; however, the molecular mechanisms determining their adaptability to a broad range of hosts are rather poorly characterized. Here, we present the transcriptional organization of the stability module and show that the gene transcript dosage effect is an important determinant of the stable maintenance of RA3 in different hosts.
Another Breaker of the Wall: the Biological Function of the Usp45 Protein of Lactococcus lactis
Authors: Hernandez-Valdes Jhonatan A. , Huang Chenxi , Kok Jan , Kuipers Oscar P.
Published: June 2020

The cell wall, composed mainly of peptidoglycan, is key to maintaining the cell shape and protecting the cell from bursting. Peptidoglycan degradation by peptidoglycan hydrolysis and autolysins occurs during growth and cell division. Since peptidoglycan hydrolases are important for virulence, envelope integrity, and regulation of cell division, it is valuable to investigate their function and regulation. Notably, PcsB-like proteins such as Usp45 have been proposed as new targets for antimicrobial drugs and could also be target for the development of food-grade suicide systems. In addition, although various other expression and secretion systems have been developed for use in
Lactococcus lactis
, the most-used signal peptide for protein secretion in this bacterium is that of the Usp45 protein. Thus, elucidating the biological function of Usp45 and determining the factors affecting its expression would contribute to optimize several applications.
Nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae Type IV Pilus Mediates Augmented Adherence to Rhinovirus-Infected Human Airway Epithelial Cells
Authors: Toone Stephen L. , Ratkiewicz Michelle , Novotny Laura A. , Phong Binh L. , Bakaletz Lauren O.
Published: June 2020

Human rhinovirus (hRV) is frequently detected in the upper respiratory tract, and symptomatic infection is associated with an increased nasopharyngeal bacterial load, with subsequent development of secondary bacterial diseases. Nontypeable
Haemophilus influenzae
(NTHI) is a commensal bacterial species of the human nasopharynx; however, in the context of prior or concurrent upper respiratory tract viral infection, this bacterium commonly causes multiple diseases throughout the upper and lower respiratory tracts.
Comparison of Serum Hepatitis B Virus RNA Levels and Quasispecies Evolution Patterns between Entecavir and Pegylated-Interferon Mono-treatment in Chronic Hepatitis B Patients
Authors: Yu Xiao-qi , Wang Ming-jie , Yu De-min , Chen Pei-zhan , Zhu Ming-yu , Huang Wei , Han Yue , Gong Qi-ming , Zhang Xin-xin
Published: June 2020

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) RNA may independently predict virological and serological response. This study aimed to compare dynamic changes in serum HBV RNA levels and HBV quasispecies evolution patterns between entecavir and pegylated-interferon mono-treatment in chronic hepatitis B patients and to determine the clinical significance during treatment. TaqMan real-time PCR was used for quantitative analysis. HBV RNA levels were retrospectively determined in serial serum samples from 178 chronic hepatitis B patients who received either entecavir or pegylated-interferon treatment.
Weil’s disease in a young homeless man living in Lisbon
Authors: Moreira Marques Torcato , Nascimento Paula Oliveira , Almeida André , Tosatto Valentina
Published: June 2020

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease of worldwide distribution caused by infection withLeptospiragenus bacteria, a pathogenic spirochaete. We present the case of a 29-year-old man admitted to our hospital with fever and multiorgan failure. He provided poor information about his symptoms. No recent travel or occupational history was reported and his clinical presentation did not suggest any infectious foci. His relatives later disclosed that he had been homeless for 3 weeks in the context of behavioural changes, obtaining foodstuff from waste containers and water from rain puddles. In the setting of this epidemiology, his presentation of fever, jaundice, acute renal injury and thrombocytopaenia suggested leptospirosis. Prompt empirical antimicrobial coverage was started, alongside organ support therapy. The diagnosis was later confirmed through microscopical and molecular methods. The patient made a full recovery. Leptospirosis should be considered early in the diagnostic work-up of any patient with acute febrile illness with multiorgan system involvement, with the identification of risk factors being essential to treat early in development of the disease.
Urine antigen-negative disseminated histoplasmosis mimicking post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder
Authors: Gupta Surbhi , Hinkamp Colin Andrew , Lo Matthew
Published: June 2020

A 50-year-old woman with a history of kidney transplant presented with 2 days of abdominal pain after 6 months of recurrent streptococcal pharyngitis, fevers, weight loss and a new rash on her chest and back. Her examination was notable for a unilateral tonsillar exudate and 2–3 mm pink papules with a fine scale over her chest and back. CT of the abdomen and chest demonstrated several large lymph nodes, and laboratory investigation revealed new cytopenias and elevated transaminases. Urine antigen testing forHistoplasma capsulatumwas negative, but a fungal complement fixation panel was reactive forHistoplasmaantibodies. Skin biopsy revealed intracellular organisms consistent withH. capsulatum. She underwent treatment with liposomal amphotericin B but due to nephrotoxicity, drug interactions and worsening transaminitis, therapy was changed to itraconazole. The diagnosis and management of disseminated histoplasmosis presents multiple challenges, which are of particular importance in patients with a history of renal transplantation.
Severe primary refractory thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) in the post plasma exchange (PEX) and rituximab era
Authors: Goranta Sowmya , Deliwala Smit S , Haykal Tarek , Bachuwa Ghassan
Published: June 2020

Acute acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) requires prompt recognition and initiation of plasma exchange (PEX) therapy and immunosuppression. When PEX fails, mortality nears 100%, making finding an effective treatment crucial. Primary refractory TTP occurs when initial therapies fail or if exacerbations occur during PEX therapy, both signifying the need for treatment intensification to achieve clinical remission. Rituximab helps treat most of the refractory TTP cases, except those that are severely refractory. A paucity of studies guiding severely refractory TTP makes management arbitrary and individualised, highlighting the value of isolated reports. We present an extremely rare case of primary refractory TTP with an insufficient platelet response to numerous types of treatments, including emerging therapies such as caplacizumab, on the background of repeated PEX and immunosuppressive therapies.
Successful utilisation of epidural analgesia for perioperative pain management in a child with sodium voltage-gated channel alpha subunit (SCN1A) gene mutation
Authors: Sobey Jenna H , Menser Carrie C , Reddy Srijaya K , Hughes Elisabeth M
Published: June 2020

Sodium voltage-gated channel alpha subunit (SCN1A) gene mutation is a rare disorder with a large spectrum of clinical presentations. Little is known regarding anaesthetic and analgesic management of these patients. We present a case of a child with SCN1A gene mutation that was successfully managed with an epidural for perioperative analgesia for an abdominal surgery.
Haematoma complicating subcutaneous fat necrosis of the newborn: a rare complication following therapeutic hypothermia
Authors: Elsayed Elhaytham Omar Sanad , Yusuf Kamran , Fraulin Frankie O G , Murthy Prashanth
Published: June 2020

A term, large for gestational age male newborn, was admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit with meconium aspiration syndrome and severe hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy. The baby was treated with therapeutic hypothermia using a total body cooling blanket. After 48 hours, the baby developed tender, indurated subcutaneous nodules consistent with subcutaneous fat necrosis (SCFN). The lesions started initially over the back but gradually spread to cover both shoulders, upper arms, chest area and both thighs. On day 19 of life, multiple small nodules on the back softened and coalesced to form one sizeable fluctuant swelling over the thoracolumbar area. Over a few hours, the swelling rapidly progressed to a large, tense mass with sloughing of the gangrenous overlying skin. This unusual complication of SCFN required surgical intervention for evacuation and debridement of the haematoma followed by graft repair of the skin defect.
Autotransplantation of teeth as an alternative to dental implantation
Authors: Ashurko Igor , Vlasova Iuliia , Yaremchuk Polina , Bystrova Olga
Published: June 2020

Autotransplantation of teeth is a considerable option for tooth replacement in adults who are to undergo orthodontic treatment. Being compared with dental implantation, this procedure is more preferable as a grafted tooth functions as a normal one. In this case report, we describe successful autotransplantation of the third molar with complete root formation. To provide better adaptation of the donor tooth, we used its preoperatively printed replica. The donor tooth was immediately placed to the recipient site and splinted for 28 days. Endodontic treatment was initiated 2 weeks after transplantation. Clinical and radiographic findings at 6 and 12 months of follow-up are compared with the results described in the literature.
Premature infant with sudden respiratory distress
Authors: Nasr Asmaa Elsaudi , Alsharaan Alhumaidy Mohamed , Alallah Jubara
Published: June 2020

Here we describe a case of a premature neonate who showed initial improvement after being on invasive ventilation. She was gradually weaned to room air and was started on a feeding protocol for preterm infants together with total parenteral nutrition through a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) when she suddenly deteriorated and developed respiratory distress associated with signs of shock, requiring support from a high-setting mechanical ventilation as well as an inotropic support. A full sepsis work-up was ordered and she was started on antibiotics. The diagnosis was confirmed on chest X-ray and ultrasound, which showed automigration and displacement of the PICC line from its initial site on the left side to the right lung base, causing significant right-side pleural effusion which affected her haemodynamics. The PICC line was removed, and 30 hours later the pleural effusion completely resolved and the patient improved. She was discharged from hospital without any concerns with regard to growth and development during her regular follow-up.
Artificial intelligence for anterior segment diseases: Emerging applications in ophthalmology
Authors: Ting Darren Shu Jeng , Foo Valencia HX , Yang Lily Wei Yun , Sia Josh Tjunrong , Ang Marcus , Lin Haotian , Chodosh James , Mehta Jodhbir S , Ting Daniel Shu Wei
Published: June 2020

With the advancement of computational power, refinement of learning algorithms and architectures, and availability of big data, artificial intelligence (AI) technology, particularly with machine learning and deep learning, is paving the way for ‘intelligent’ healthcare systems. AI-related research in ophthalmology previously focused on the screening and diagnosis of posterior segment diseases, particularly diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma. There is now emerging evidence demonstrating the application of AI to the diagnosis and management of a variety of anterior segment conditions. In this review, we provide an overview of AI applications to the anterior segment addressing keratoconus, infectious keratitis, refractive surgery, corneal transplant, adult and paediatric cataracts, angle-closure glaucoma and iris tumour, and highlight important clinical considerations for adoption of AI technologies, potential integration with telemedicine and future directions.
DPP4i, thiazolidinediones, or insulin and risks of cancer in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus on metformin–sulfonylurea dual therapy with inadequate control
Authors: Wong Carlos K H , Man Kenneth K C , Chan Esther W Y , Wu Tingting , Tse Emily T Y , Wong Ian C K , Lam Cindy L K
Published: June 2020

Introduction

This study aims to compare the risks of cancer among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) on metformin–sulfonylurea dual therapy intensified with dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors (DPP4i), thiazolidinediones, or insulin.

Research design and methods

We assembled a retrospective cohort data of 20 577 patients who were free of cancer and on metformin–sulfonylurea dual therapy, and whose drug treatments were intensified with DPP4i (n=9957), insulin (n=7760), or thiazolidinediones (n=2860) from January 2006 to December 2017. Propensity-score weighting was used to balance out baseline covariates across the three groups. HRs for any types of cancer, cancer mortality, and all-cause mortality were assessed using Cox proportional-hazards models.

Results

Over a mean follow-up period of 34 months with 58 539 person-years, cumulative incidences of cancer, cancer mortality, and all-cause mortality were 0.028, 0.009, and 0.072, respectively. Patients intensified with insulin had the highest incidence of all-cause mortality (incidence rate=3.22/100 person-years) and the insulin itself posed the greatest risk (HR 2.46, 95% CI 2.25 to 2.70, p<0.001; 2.44, 95% CI 2.23 to 2.67) compared with thiazolidinediones and DPP4i, respectively. Comparing between thiazolidinediones and DPP4i, thiazolidinediones was associated with higher risk of cancer (HR 1.43, 95% CI 1.25 to 1.63) but not cancer mortality (HR 1.21, 95% CI 0.92 to 1.58) and all-cause mortality (HR 0.99, 95% CI 0.88 to 1.11). Insulin was associated with the greatest risk of cancer mortality (HR 1.36, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.71; 1.65, 95% CI 1.31 to 2.07) compared with thiazolidinediones and DPP4i, respectively.

Conclusions

For patients with T2DM on metformin–sulfonylurea dual therapy, the addition of DPP4i was the third-line medication least likely to be associated with cancer mortality and cancer effect among three options, and posed no increased risk for all-cause mortality when compared with thiazolidinediones.
Epidemiology of major lower limb amputation using routinely collected electronic health data in the UK: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Meffen Anna , Pepper Coral J , Sayers Robert D , Gray Laura J
Published: June 2020

Introduction

It is estimated that peripheral arterial disease occurs in one in five people aged over 60 years in the UK. Major lower limb amputation is a debilitating and life-changing potential outcome of peripheral arterial disease. A number of risk factors are involved in the development of the disease including smoking and diabetes. There is debate over the prevalence of major lower limb amputation in the UK with regional variations unexplained. The choice of data source can affect the epidemiological calculations and sources can also differ in the ability to explain variation. This study will aim to estimate the prevalence/incidence/number of major lower limb amputation in the UK. It will also identify sources of routinely collected electronic health data which report the epidemiology of major lower limb amputation in the UK.

Methods and analysis

A systematic search of peer-reviewed journals will be conducted in Medline, Excerpta Medica database, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database, The Cochrane Library and Scopus. A grey literature search for government and parliament publications, conference abstracts, theses and unpublished articles will be performed. Articles will be screened against the inclusion/exclusion criteria and data extracted using a pretested extraction form by two independent reviewers. Prevalence, incidence or number of cases (depending on data reported) will be extracted. Disagreements will be resolved by discussion. Data synthesis will be performed either as a narrative summary or by meta-analysis. Heterogeneity will be assessed using the I2 statistic. If heterogeneity is low-moderate, pooled estimates will be calculated using random-effects models. If possible, meta-regression for time trends in the incidence of major lower limb amputation will be performed along with subgroup analysis, primarily in regional variation.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval is not required for this study as study data are anonymised and available in the public domain. Dissemination will be by publication in a peer reviewed journal and by appropriate conference presentation.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020165592
Generating high-quality data abstractions from scanned clinical records: text-mining-assisted extraction of endometrial carcinoma pathology features as proof of principle
Authors: Nguyen Anthony , O'Dwyer John , Vu Thanh , Webb Penelope M , Johnatty Sharon E , Spurdle Amanda B
Published: June 2020

Objective

Medical research studies often rely on the manual collection of data from scanned typewritten clinical records, which can be laborious, time consuming and error prone because of the need to review individual clinical records. We aimed to use text mining to assist with the extraction of clinical features from complex text-based scanned pathology records for medical research studies.

Design

Text mining performance was measured by extracting and annotating three distinct pathological features from scanned photocopies of endometrial carcinoma clinical pathology reports, and comparing results to manually abstracted terms. Inclusion and exclusion keyword trigger terms to capture leiomyomas, endometriosis and adenomyosis were provided based on expert knowledge. Terms were expanded with character variations based on common optical character recognition (OCR) error patterns as well as negation phrases found in sample reports. The approach was evaluated on an unseen test set of 1293 scanned pathology reports originating from laboratories across Australia.

Setting

Scanned typewritten pathology reports for women aged 18–79 years with newly diagnosed endometrial cancer (2005–2007) in Australia.

Results

High concordance with final abstracted codes was observed for identifying the presence of three pathology features (94%–98% F-measure). The approach was more consistent and reliable than manual abstractions, identifying 3%–14% additional feature instances.

Conclusion

Keyword trigger-based automation with OCR error correction and negation handling proved not only to be rapid and convenient, but also providing consistent and reliable data abstractions from scanned clinical records. In conjunction with manual review, it can assist in the generation of high-quality data abstractions for medical research studies.
Dissecting transcriptional heterogeneity in primary gastric adenocarcinoma by
single cell RNA sequencing
Authors: Zhang Min , Hu Shuofeng , Min Min , Ni Yanli , Lu Zheng , Sun Xiaotian , Wu Jiaqi , Liu Bing , Ying Xiaomin , Liu Yan
Published: June 2020

Objective

Tumour heterogeneity represents a major obstacle to accurate diagnosis and
treatment in gastric adenocarcinoma (GA). Here, we report a systematic transcriptional
atlas to delineate molecular and cellular heterogeneity in GA using single-cell RNA
sequencing (scRNA-seq).

Design

We performed unbiased transcriptome-wide scRNA-seq analysis on 27 677 cells from
9 tumour and 3 non-tumour samples. Analysis results were validated using large-scale
histological assays and bulk transcriptomic datasets.

Results

Our integrative analysis of tumour cells identified five cell subgroups with
distinct expression profiles. A panel of differentiation-related genes reveals a high
diversity of differentiation degrees within and between tumours. Low differentiation
degrees can predict poor prognosis in GA. Among them, three subgroups exhibited
different differentiation grade which corresponded well to histopathological features
of Lauren’s subtypes. Interestingly, the other two subgroups displayed unique
transcriptome features. One subgroup expressing chief-cell markers (eg,
LIPF and PGC) and
RNF43 with Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway activated is
consistent with the previously described entity fundic gland-type GA (chief
cell-predominant, GA-FG-CCP). We further confirmed the presence of GA-FG-CCP in two
public bulk datasets using transcriptomic profiles and histological images. The other
subgroup specifically expressed immune-related signature genes (eg,
LY6K and major histocompatibility complex class II) with
the infection of Epstein-Barr virus. In addition, we also analysed non-malignant
epithelium and provided molecular evidences for potential transition from gastric
chief cells into
MUC6+TFF2+
spasmolytic polypeptide expressing metaplasia.

Conclusion

Altogether, our study offers valuable resource for deciphering gastric tumour
heterogeneity, which will provide assistance for precision diagnosis and
prognosis.
Direct aspiration stroke thrombectomy: a comprehensive review
Authors: Boisseau William , Escalard Simon , Fahed Robert , Lapergue Bertrand , Smajda Stanislas , Maier Benjamin , Desilles Jean Philippe , Delvoye François , Ciccio Gabriele , Redjem Hocine , Hebert Solène , Ben Maacha Malek , Walker Gregory , Gory Benjamin , Richard Sébastien , Mazighi Mikael , Piotin Michel , Blanc Raphaël
Published: June 2020

Mechanical thrombectomy is now the standard of care for acute ischemic stroke patients with large vessel occlusions, and can be performed with several devices and techniques. One of these techniques, direct aspiration (DA), consists of navigating a large-bore catheter up to the face of the clot and initiating forceful suction. This comprehensive review has three objectives: (1) to describe the direct aspiration technique; (2) to present the available evidence regarding predictive factors of DA success and performance compared with other techniques; and (3) to discuss the forthcoming improvements in distal aspiration.
Fungal species concepts in the genomics era
Authors: Xu Jianping
Published: June 2020

The 140 000 or so fungal species reported so far are heterogeneously defined based on varying criteria such as morphological, physiological, mating, and (or) molecular features. Incongruences are common among traits used to separating closely related species and it is often difficult to compare fungal taxonomic groups defined based on different species recognition criteria. Though DNA sequence-based classification and identification have been made, a consensus has not been reached, primarily due to intrinsic limitations in the proposed one or a few genes. Here, I argue that the fundamental reason for the observed inconsistencies is that speciation is a stochastic process with the emergence and fixation of different traits influenced differently by many non-deterministic factors such as population size, random mutation, mode(s) of reproduction, selection imposed by interacting biotic and abiotic factors, and chance events. Each species concept attempts to capture one or a few traits emerged in the continuous process of speciation. I propose that a genome sequence-based classification and identification system could unify and stabilize fungal taxonomy and help integrate taxonomy with other fields of fungal biology. The genomic species concept could be similarly argued for other groups of eukaryotic microbes as well as for plants and animals.
Photon regions and umbilic conditions in stationary axisymmetric spacetimes
Authors: Kobialko K. V. , Gal’tsov D. V.
Published: June 2020

Photon region (PR) in the strong gravitational field is defined as a compact region where photons can travel endlessly without going to infinity or disappearing at the event horizon. In Schwarzschild metric PR degenerates to the two-dimensional photon sphere $$r=3r_g/2$$r=3rg/2 where closed circular photon orbits are located. The photon sphere as a three-dimensional hypersurface in spacetime is umbilic (its second quadratic form is pure trace). In Kerr metric the equatorial circular orbits have different radii for prograde, $$r_p$$rp, and retrograde, $$r_r$$rr, motion (where r is Boyer–Lindquist radial variable), while for $$r_p<r<r_r$$rp<r<rr the spherical orbits with constant r exist which are no more planar, but filling some spheres. These spheres, however, do not correspond to umbilic hypersurfaces. In more general stationary axisymmetric spacetimes not allowing for complete integration of geodesic equations, the numerical integration show the existence of PR as well, but the underlying geometric structure was not fully identified so far. Here we suggest geometric description of PR in generic stationary axisymmetric spacetimes, showing that PR can be foliated by partially umbilic hypersurfaces, such that the umbilic condition holds for classes of orbits defined by the foliation parameter. New formalism opens a way of analytic description of PR in stationary axisymmetric spacetimes with non-separable geodesic equations.
Bottomonium spectrum with a Dirac potential model in the momentum space
Authors: Molina David , De Sanctis Maurizio , Fernández-Ramírez César , Santopinto Elena
Published: June 2020

We study the bottomonium spectrum using a relativistic potential model in the momentum space. This model is based on a complete one gluon exchange interaction with a momentum dependent screening factor to account for the effects due to virtual pair creation that appear close to the decay thresholds. The overall model does not make use of nonrelativistic approximations. We fit well established bottomonium states below the open bottom threshold and predict the rest of the spectrum up to$$\approx 11200$$≈11200MeV and$$J^{PC}=3^{--}$$JPC=3--. Uncertainties are treated rigorously and propagated in full to the parameters of the model using a Monte Carlo to identify if which deviations from experimental data can be absorbed into the statistical uncertainties of the models and which can be related to physics beyond the$$b\bar{b}$$bb¯picture, guiding future research. We get a good description of the spectrum, in particular the Belle measurement of the$$\eta _b(2S)$$ηb(2S)state and the$$\varUpsilon (10860)$$Υ(10860)and$$\chi _b(3P)$$χb(3P)resonances.
Edge probes of topological order
Authors: Heiblum Moty , Feldman D. E.
Published: June 2020

According to the bulk-edge correspondence principle, the physics of the gapless edge in the quantum Hall effect determines the topological order in the gapped bulk. As the bulk is less accessible, the last two decades saw the emergence of several experimental techniques that invoke the study of the compressible edge. We review the properties of the edge, and describe several experimental techniques that include shot noise and thermal noise measurements, interferometry, and energy (thermal) transport at the edge. We pay special attention to the filling factor 5/2 in the first excited Landau level (in two-dimensional electron gas in GaAs), where experimental evidence of a non-Abelian topological order was found. A brief discussion is devoted to recent interferometry experiments that uncovered unexpected physics in the integer quantum Hall effect. The article also addresses the theory of edge states, for systems with Abelian and non-Abelian topological orders.
Study of the thermophysical kinetics of additional concrete samples
Authors: Akbarova S. M. , Gahramanov S. H. , Mirzayeva D. M.
Published: June 2020

In this work, Fix 1211 addition has been used in different amount in the iron mix. The samples prepared have been used thermically in the temperature 77[Formula: see text]C in normal atmosphere condition. The samples thermically developed have been thermically analyzed with the constant 5[Formula: see text]C/min of 20 ml/min argon gas from 30[Formula: see text]C up to 900[Formula: see text]C. Thermo-physical mechanisms have been researched in the cement, sand and road metal with the thermogravimetric (TG) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) analysis. Mass kinetics, activation energy and special heat capacity have been researched for different temperature intervals. The decomposition mechanism of the mass in stages and the speed of decomposition is equal to the cost of the heat flow. The mass loss has been determined in 6.99 mg under the first code, 5.82 mg under the second code, 5.63 mg under the third code, 4.65 mg under the fourth code in [Formula: see text]C temperature interval. In addition, it has been researched that the activation energy has been changed between 0.56–0.80 eV and 0.23–0.36 eV under each code and phase passage.