bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sound-induced morphogenesis of multicellular systems for rapid orchestration of vascular networks
Authors: Petta Dalila , Basoli Valentina , Pellicciotta Daniele , Tognato Riccardo , Barcik Jan , Arrigoni Chiara , Bella Elena Della , Armiento Angela Rita , Candrian Christian , Richards R. Geoff , Alini Mauro , Moretti Matteo , Eglin David , Serra Tiziano 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Morphogenesis, a complex process, ubiquitous in developmental biology and many pathologies, is based on self-patterning of cells. Spatial patterns of cells, organoids, or inorganic particles can be forced on demand using acoustic surface standing waves, such as the Faraday waves. This technology allows tuning of parameters (sound frequency, amplitude, chamber shape) under contactless, fast and mild culture conditions, for morphologically relevant tissue generation. We call this method Sound Induced Morphogenesis (SIM). In this work, we use SIM to achieve tight control over patterning of endothelial cells and mesenchymal stem cells densities within a hydrogel, with the endpoint formation of vascular structures. Here, we first parameterize our system to produce enhanced cell density gradients. Second, we allow for vasculogenesis after SIM patterning control and compare our controlled technology against state-of-the-art microfluidic culture systems, the latter characteristic of pure self-organized patterning and uniform initial density. Our sound-induced cell density patterning and subsequent vasculogenesis requires less cells than the microfluidic chamber. We advocate for the use of SIM for rapid, mild, and reproducible morphogenesis induction and further explorations in the regenerative medicine and cell therapy fields.
Electrochemical behaviour and microstructural characterization of different austenitic stainless steel for biomedical applications
Authors: Sabará Ely Wagner Ferreira , Pereira Valter , Molisani André Luiz , Caldeira Lecino , Souza Rhuan Costa , Simões Thiago Araújo , Bueno Alysson Helton Santos 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Austenitic stainless steels, specified as ASTM F138, ASTM F1586, and ASTM F2581, underwent a comparative study, including the analyses of microstructure, crystalline phases, and Vickers microhardness. The corrosion resistance was investigated by anodic polarization curves and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy using the 0.9% NaCl solution and simulated body fluid (SBF). All samples exhibited only the austenite phase and the Vickers microhardness was influenced by high nitrogen content addition. Independent on the electrolytic solution type, the ASTM F1586 and ASTM F2581 steels had better corrosive resistance performance from the anodic polarization results. However, ASTM F2581 steel presented the passive film with better protective capacity in the saline solution while ASTM F1586 had better performance in the SBF.
Rescaling of applied oscillating voltages in small Josephson junctions
Authors: Kanyolo Godwill Mbiti , Shimada Hiroshi 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
The standard theory of dynamical Coulomb blockade [P(E) theory] in ultra-small tunnel junctions has been formulated on the basis of phase-phase correlations by several authors. It was recently extended by several experimental and theoretical works to account for novel features such as electromagnetic environment-based renormalization effects. Despite this progress, aspects of the theory remain elusive especially in the case of linear arrays. Here, we apply path integral formalism to re-derive the Cooper-pair current and the BCS quasi-particle current in single small Josephson junctions and extend it to include long Josephson junction arrays as effective single junctions. We consider renormalization effects of applied oscillating voltages due to the impedance environment of a single junction as well as its implication to the array. As is the case in the single junction, we find that the amplitude of applied oscillating electromagnetic fields is renormalized by the same complex-valued weight

Ξ
(
ω
)
=
∣
Ξ
(
ω
)
∣
exp

i
η
(
ω
)

that rescales the environmental impedance in the P(E) function. This weight acts as a linear response function for applied oscillating electromagnetic fields driving the quantum circuit, leading to a mass gap in the thermal spectrum of the electromagnetic field. The mass gap can be modeled as a pair of exotic ‘particle’ excitation with quantum statistics determined by the argument η(ω). In the case of the array, this pair corresponds to a bosonic charge soliton/anti-soliton pair injected into the array by the electromagnetic field. Possible application of these results is in dynamical Coulomb blockade experiments where long arrays are used as electromagnetic power detectors.
Laboratory Biomarkers in the Management of Patients With COVID-19
Authors: Weidmann Maxwell D , Ofori Kenneth , Rai Alex J 
Published: September 2020

AbstractObjectivesLaboratory testing and the measurement of appropriate biomarkers play a critical role in managing patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), allowing for disease diagnosis, monitoring progression, prognostication, prediction of treatment response, and risk stratification. We sought to characterize these effects on a more detailed, mechanistic level.MethodsWe reviewed the literature and identified a multitude of reports that describe the unique effects of this virus and its devastating consequences to multiple organ systems in COVID-19 patients.ResultsThere are specific alterations in biomarkers related to coagulation, depopulation of T-cell subtypes, the cytokine storm and inflammation, and kidney and cardiac dysfunction.ConclusionsLaboratory measurement of specific parameters and the use of appropriate prognostic, predictive, and monitoring biomarkers afford clinicians the ability to make informed medical decisions and guide therapy for patients afflicted with this dreaded disease.
Sensitive Blood-Based Detection of Asbestos-Associated Diseases Using Cysteine-Rich Angiogenic Inducer 61 as Circulating Protein Biomarker
Authors: Bartkowiak Kai , Casjens Swaantje , Andreas Antje , Ačkar Lucija , Joosse Simon A , Raiko Irina , Brüning Thomas , Geffken Maria , Peine Sven , Johnen Georg , Weber Daniel Gilbert , Pantel Klaus 
Published: September 2020

Abstract

Background
Detection of asbestos-associated diseases like asbestosis or mesothelioma is still challenging. We sought to improve the diagnosis of benign asbestos-associated disease (BAAD) by detection of the protein cysteine-rich angiogenic inducer 61 (Cyr61) in human plasma.

Methods
Plasma Cyr61 was quantified using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Plasma samples from males diagnosed with BAAD, but without a malignant disease (n = 101), and malignant mesothelioma (n = 21; 15 males, 6 females), as well as nonasbestos-exposed healthy control participants (n = 150; 58 males, 92 females) were analyzed. Clinical sensitivity and specificity of Cyr61 were determined by receiver operating characteristic analysis.

Results
The median plasma Cyr61 concentration for healthy control participants was 0.27 ng/mL. Cytoplasmic Cyr61 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy control participants was evenly distributed, as detected by immunofluorescent staining. The increase in plasma Cyr61 concentrations in the BAAD study group was statistically significant compared to the healthy control participants (P &lt; 0.0001). For the detection of BAAD vs male healthy control participants, clinical sensitivity was 88% and clinical specificity 95% with an area under the curve of 0.924 at maximal Youden Index. For a predefined clinical specificity of 100%, the clinical sensitivity was 76%. For male mesothelioma patients vs male healthy control participants, the clinical sensitivity at maximal Youden Index was 95% with a clinical specificity of 100% (area under the curve, 0.997) and for a predefined clinical specificity of 100%, the clinical sensitivity was 93%.

Conclusions
In our study, plasma Cyr61 protein concentrations showed to be a new biomarker for asbestos-associated diseases like BAAD and mesothelioma in men, which deserves further investigation in large-scale cohort studies.
A temperature-dependent relationship between benthic invertebrate biomass and trawling pressure
Authors: Clare David S , Robinson Leonie A , Birchenough Silvana N R 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Bottom trawling can cause acute depletion of benthic invertebrate biomass, thus reducing competition among surviving organisms and increasing food availability by generating carrion. As ectotherms are generally smaller and grow faster with increasing temperature, they may be less vulnerable to trawling and quicker to replenish biomass in warmer waters. Therefore, the chronic effect of bottom trawling on benthic invertebrate biomass may depend on local sea temperature and, hence, be under the influence of climate change. We tested this hypothesis using benthic grab samples from 200 sites spanning the North Sea and data on trawling pressure in the areas where samples were collected. The relationship between benthic community biomass and swept area ratio (the average number of times the seabed is trawled per year) was negative where annual bottom water temperature was low (8°C), positive in relatively warm water (11°C) and approximately neutral at intermediate temperature (9.5°C). These relationships were attributed to changes in mean body mass, not community abundance. Our results are consistent with theoretical expectations and suggest that climate modulates the chronic effect of bottom trawling on benthic invertebrate biomass. Confirming causality and determining the broader consequences for community structure and ecosystem functioning should be priorities of future research.
Development and Validation of a Method for Quantification of 28 Psychotropic Drugs in Postmortem Blood Samples by Modified Micro-QuEChERS and LC–MS-MS
Authors: Rodrigues Taís B , Morais Damila R , Gianvecchio Victor A P , Aquino Elvis M , Cunha Ricardo L , Huestis Marilyn A , Costa Jose Luiz 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
The development of new sample preparation alternatives in analytical toxicology leading to quick, effective, automated and environmentally friendly procedures is growing in importance. One of these alternatives is the QuEChERS, originally developed for the analysis of pesticide residues, producing cleaner extracts than liquid–liquid extraction, and easier separation of aqueous and organic phases. However, there are few published studies on the miniaturization of this technique for forensic toxicology, especially in postmortem analysis. We developed and validated a modified micro-QuEChERS and LC–MS-MS assay to quantify 16 antidepressants, 7 antipsychotics and 3 metabolites and semi-quantify norfluoxetine and norsertraline in postmortem blood. The calibration curve was linear from 1 to 500 ng/mL, achieved an r &gt; 0.99, with all standards quantifying within ±15% of target except ±20% at the limit of quantification of 1 ng/mL for 26 substances. The F test was applied to evaluate if the variance between replicates remained constant for all calibrators. Six weighting factors were analyzed (1/x, 1/x2, 1/x0,5, 1/y, 1/y2 and 1/y0,5), with the weighting factor with the lowest sum of residual regression errors (1/x2) selected. No endogenous or exogenous interferences were observed. Method imprecision and bias were &lt;19.0% and 19.7%, respectively. Advantages of this method include a low sample volume of 100 µL, simple but effective sample preparation and a rapid 8.5-min run time. The validated analytical method was successfully applied to the analysis of 100 authentic postmortem samples.
Caring for the Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, Blind, and Low-Vision Patients in the Breast Center
Authors: Kasales Claudia J , Alkebsi Zainab A , Tong Nhien T , Stephens Anthony W 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Two heterogeneous populations with widely varying needs are being increasingly encountered in breast care facilities: blind or low vision patients and deaf or hard of hearing patients. The Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act mandate that all governments, businesses, and not-for-profit organizations provide effective communication to those facing hearing, vision, or speech communication disabilities and that the provided communication is equally effective as that provided to those lacking communication disabilities. It is vitally important that breast center providers understand the requirements put forth by these acts in the provision of patient care, which includes interactions with the patient as well as their family members and partner. Breast center providers must identify each patient’s individual needs and preferred method of communication. Options to assist in communication for the deaf or hard of hearing include the use of text conversations, preprinted or accessible video health care education material, and dedicated American Sign Language or video interpreters. Attention to breast imaging facility design, access to large print or braille documents, and the use of qualified readers can aid in improving access and communication for the blind or low-vision individual. All members of the breast health team, from scheduling staff to front office personnel, technologists, and breast imaging radiologists, should understand how to respectfully communicate with and identify the needs of patients facing these challenges.
Assessing the Positive Predictive Value of Architectural Distortion Detected with Digital Breast Tomosynthesis in BI-RADS 4 Cases
Authors: Dou Eda , Ksepka Martha , Dodelzon Katerina , Shingala Prapti Y , Katzen Janine T 
Published: September 2020

Abstract

Objective
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the positive predictive value of biopsy (PPV3) of architectural distortion (AD) detected on digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) in BI-RADS 4 cases, where suspicion for malignancy remains broad.

Methods
This Institutional Review Board-approved, retrospective study included screening and diagnostic mammograms performed from August 2015 to December 2017 with DBT and digital mammography (DM) revealing suspicious AD with a BI-RADS 4 assessment. Medical records were reviewed for clinical data, imaging, and pathology results. Malignancy rate was assessed by lesion visibility on DM and DBT. Multivariate analysis was performed to assess the odds ratio (OR) of malignancy.

Results
A total of 63/179 cases were malignant, yielding a PPV3 of 35%. No significant difference in PPV3 was found by race, personal or family history of breast cancer, presence of microcalcifications, or mammogram type. Architectural distortion was more likely to be malignant when an US correlate was present (PPV3 49% vs 19%; P &lt; 0.0001). Multivariate analysis demonstrated a 3-fold increased OR for malignancy with an US correlate present (P = 0.005). Lesion visibility analysis revealed a higher PPV3 for AD visible on DM-DBT compared with DBT alone (44% vs 26%; P = 0.01) and when an US correlate was present (DM-DBT 54% vs 30%, P = 0.02; DBT-only 43% vs 11%, P &lt; 0.001).

Conclusions
Tomosynthesis-detected BI-RADS 4 AD are malignant in 35% of cases and are more likely to be malignant if an US correlate is present and if visible on both DM and DBT.
Addressing cancer signal transduction pathways with antisense and siRNA oligonucleotides
Authors: Juliano Rudolph L 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Signal transduction pathways play key roles in the initiation, progression and dissemination of cancer. Thus, signaling molecules are attractive targets for cancer therapeutics and enormous efforts have gone into the development of small molecule inhibitors of these pathways. However, regrettably, there has been only moderate progress to date, primarily in connection with the RAS signaling pathway. Oligonucleotide-based drugs potentially offer several advantages for addressing signaling pathways, including their exquisite selectivity and their ability to exploit both enzymatic and nonenzymatic targets. Nonetheless, there are problems inherent in the oligonucleotide approach, not the least being the challenge of effectively delivering these complex molecules to intracellular sites within tumors. This survey article will provide a selective review of recent studies where oligonucleotides were used to address cancer signaling and will discuss both positive aspects and limitations of those studies. This will be set in the context of an overview of various cancer signaling pathways and small molecule approaches to regulate those pathways. The survey will also evaluate the challenges and opportunities implicit in the oligonucleotide-based approach to cancer signaling and will point out several possibilities for future research.
Manual Shunt Connector Tool to Aid in No-Touch Technique
Authors: Lai Grace Y , Voyer-Nguyen Pascal , Looi Thomas , Drake James M , Hanak Brian W 
Published: September 2020

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND
Given the morbidity and cost associated with cerebrospinal fluid shunt infections, many neurosurgical protocols implement “no-touch” technique to minimize infection. However, current surgical tools are not designed specifically for this task and surgeons often resort to using their hands to connect the shunt catheter to the valve.

OBJECTIVE
To develop an efficient and effective shunt assembly tool.

METHODS
Prototypes were designed using computer assisted software and machined in stainless steel. The amount of time and number of attempts it took volunteers to connect a Bacticel shunt catheter to a Delta valve were recorded using the new tool and standard shodded mosquitos. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was done on manipulated catheters to assess potential damage. Practicing neurosurgeons provided feedback.

RESULTS
Nonsurgeon (n = 13) volunteers and neurosurgeons (n = 6) both completed the task faster and with fewer attempts with the new tool (mean 7.18 vs 15.72 s and 2.00 vs 6.36 attempts, P < .0001; mean 2.93 vs 5.96 s and 1.06 vs 2.94 attempts, P < .001, respectively). SEM of 24 manipulated catheters showed no microscopic damage. 100% of neurosurgeons surveyed (n = 10) would adapt the tool in their practice, 90% preferred use of the new tool compared to their existing method, and 100% rated it easier to use compared to existing instruments.

CONCLUSION
The new tool shortened the time and number of attempts to connect a shunt catheter to a valve. Neurosurgeons preferred the new tool to existing instruments. There was no evidence of catheter damage with the use of this tool.
A Meta-Analysis of Group-Based Pain Management Programs: Overall Effect on Quality of Life and Other Chronic Pain Outcome Measures, with an Exploration into Moderator Variables that Influence the Efficacy of Such Interventions
Authors: Romm Marnin Joseph , Ahn Soyeon , Fiebert Ira , Cahalin Lawrence Patrick 
Published: September 2020

AbstractObjectivesGroup-based pain management programs (GPMPs) have been found to significantly improve quality of life and other pain outcome measures in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain. The aims of this meta-analysis were to reevaluate the overall effect of GPMPs on various pain outcomes for individuals experiencing chronic musculoskeletal conditions and to explore moderator variables that potentially contribute to the overall efficacy of GPMPs.MethodsUsing the R package called metaphor and RevMan, we estimated the overall effectiveness of GPMPs on various pain outcome measures. The differential effectiveness of GPMPs was examined by conducting a mixed-effects meta-analytic model using various study-level characteristics. Moderator analyses included three content moderator variables and seven format moderator variables. Receiver operating characteristic curves investigated optimal points in some of the moderator variable analysis results.ResultsSignificant overall main effects of GPMPs were found on all the explored outcome measures in this study (P &lt; 0.05). In moderator analyses, it was found that the structure of GPMPs, rather than the content, significantly improved outcomes (P &lt; 0.05). Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses identified the optimal number of GPMP sessions and number of participants per group.Discussion and Clinical RelevanceGPMPs have a statistically significant overall effect on all explored pain outcome measures. The investigation into content and structural moderators suggests that certain GPMP design factors have a greater effect on pain outcomes than do content factors. Therefore, GPMP structural designs appear to be important in reducing pain and improving quality of life for patients with chronic pain and warrant further investigation.
Conventions under Heterogeneous Behavioural Rules
Authors: Newton Jonathan 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Strategies of players in a population are updated according to the behavioural rules of agents, where each agent is a player or a coalition of players. It is known that classic results on the stochastic stability of conventions are due to an asymmetry property of the strategy updating process. We show that asymmetry can be defined at the level of the behavioural rule and that asymmetric rules can be mixed and matched whilst retaining asymmetry of the aggregate process. Specifically, we show robustness of asymmetry to heterogeneity within an agent (Alice follows different rules at different times); heterogeneity between agents (Alice and Bob follow different rules); and heterogeneity in the timing of strategy updating. These results greatly expand and convexify the domain of behavioural rules for which results on the stochastic stability of conventions are known.
Using Combined Tabletop and Simulation Activities to Improve Nursing Students’ Attitudes About Quality Improvement: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Gaffney Mary K. , Lawrence Kay , Chargualaf Katie A. 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Nursing students’ attitudes about quality improvement (QI) reflect poor understanding of its importance. In a mixed-method interventional feasibility study, students received instruction about QI processes, plus information about factors contributing to central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) rates at a hypothetical hospital. Experimental group students observed a high-fidelity simulation bedside report for a CLABSI-affected patient. Both groups independently completed tabletop QI exercises to solve the CLABSI problem and had equivalent improvement in attitudes. Joint debriefing revealed how experimental group students developed greater understanding of interrelated, system-wide contributing factors. Hybrid learning activities with tabletop and simulation positively influence students’ attitudes about QI.