bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Real-time intracardiac echocardiography validation of saline-enhanced radiofrequency needle-tip ablation: lesion characteristics and gross pathology correlation
Authors: Dickow Jannis , Wang Songyun , Suzuki Atsushi , Imamura Kimitake , Lehmann H Immo , Parker Kay D , Newman Laura K , Monahan Kristi H , Rettmann Maryam E , Curley Michael G , Packer Douglas L 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Aims
With the implementation of saline-enhanced radiofrequency (SERF) needle-tip ablation, real-time validation of lesion formation is needed for the controllable creation of transmural lesions. The aim of the study was to analyse the ability of two-dimensional intracardiac echocardiography (2D-ICE) to guide and validate SERF ablation in real-time.

Methods and results
Fifty-six SERF energy deliveries at left ventricular sites of 11 dogs guided by 2D-ICE were analysed (power: 15–50 W; time: 25–120 s; irrigation saline: 60°C with 10 mL/min flow rate). Catheter tip/tissue orientation and lesion formation could be well detected by 2D-ICE in 49 (87.5%) energy deliveries. Gross pathology analysis confirmed excellent 2D-ICE lesion localization, the ability to detect transmural lesions (70% sensitivity, 47% specificity) and positive correlation between 2D-ICE and the corresponding gross pathology measurements of ‘maximal lesion depth’; (repeated measures correlation: rrm = 0.43, P = 0.012) and ‘depth at maximal lesion width’ (D@MW; rrm = 0.51, P = 0.003). The median angle between SERF catheter tip and endocardium was 76° [interquartile range (IQR) 58–83°]. The more perpendicular the catheter tip/tissue orientation was the deeper D@MW (rrm = 0.32, P = 0.045). Grade 3 microbubbles on 2D-ICE during ablation, indicating inadequate catheter tip/tissue contact, was associated with smaller lesion volumes than with Grade 1 microbubbles (284.8 mm3 [IQR 151.3–343.1] vs. 2114.1 mm3 [IQR 1437.0–3026.3], P &lt; 0.001).

Conclusion
With excellent lesion localization and a 70% detection rate of transmural lesions, 2D-ICE is well suited to validate SERF ablation lesion formation in real-time. The catheter tip/tissue angle impacts the lesion formation and through perpendicular catheter positioning, deeper intramural areas of the myocardium can be reached.
The β-angle can help guide clinical decisions in the diagnostic work-up of patients suspected of Brugada syndrome: a validation study of the β-angle in determining the outcome of a sodium channel provocation test
Authors: van der Ree Martijn H , Vendrik Jeroen , Verstraelen Tom E , Kors Jan A , Amin Ahmad S , Wilde Arthur A M , Tan Hanno L , Postema Pieter G 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Aims
In patients with Brugada syndrome (BrS) but without spontaneous Type-1 electrocardiogram, several electrocardiographic characteristics have been studied, including the β-angle. Previous studies suggested that the β-angle might be useful in distinguishing BrS-patients from patients with only suggestive repolarization patterns without performing sodium channel blocker provocation testing. In this study, we aimed to determine the diagnostic value of the β-angle in patients suspected of BrS.

Methods and results
A large cohort (n = 1430) of consecutive patients who underwent provocation testing was evaluated. β-angles were measured in leads V1, V2, and their corresponding positions over the second and third intercostal space. Receiver-operating characteristic curves were constructed and the diagnostic accuracy of previously reported β-angle cut-offs were calculated and evaluated. The importance of the β-angle for predicting the provocation test outcome was determined using a prediction model constructed with logistic regression. The optimum β-angle cut-off in our cohort for ruling out a positive provocation test was 15°; sensitivities were 80–98% and negative predictive values were 79–96% among the right precordial leads. Previously reported β-angle cut-offs performed less well, indicated by lower Youden indices. In the optimism-corrected prediction model [C-statistic: 0.78 (95% CI: 0.75–0.81)], the β-angle had large value (Z-score: 2.1–10.3) and aided construction of a nomogram to predict test outcome.

Conclusion
To predict the outcome of provocation testing for BrS, the β-angle alone does not demonstrate strong diagnostic characteristics. However, the β-angle is an important variable to predict provocation test outcome and thus has added value.
Functional trait relationships demonstrate life strategies in terrestrial prokaryotes
Authors: Finn Damien R , Bergk-Pinto Benoît , Hazard Christina , Nicol Graeme W , Tebbe Christoph C , Vogel Timothy M 
Published: May 2021

ABSTRACT
Functional, physiological traits are the underlying drivers of niche differentiation. A common framework related to niches occupied by terrestrial prokaryotes is based on copiotrophy or oligotrophy, where resource investment is primarily in either rapid growth or stress tolerance, respectively. A quantitative trait-based approach sought relationships between taxa, traits and niche in terrestrial prokaryotes. With 175 taxa from 11 Phyla and 35 Families (n = 5 per Family), traits were considered as discrete counts of shared genome-encoded proteins. Trait composition strongly supported non-random functional distributions as preferential clustering of related taxa via unweighted pair-group method with arithmetic mean. Trait similarity between taxa increased as taxonomic rank decreased. A suite of Random Forest models identified traits significantly enriched or depleted in taxonomic groups. These traits conveyed functions related to rapid growth, nutrient acquisition and stress tolerance consistent with their presence in copiotroph-oligotroph niches. Hierarchical clustering of traits identified a clade of competitive, copiotrophic Families resilient to oxidative stress versus glycosyltransferase-enriched oligotrophic Families resistant to antimicrobials and environmental stress. However, the formation of five clades suggested a more nuanced view to describe niche differentiation in terrestrial systems is necessary. We suggest considering traits involved in both resource investment and acquisition when predicting niche.
Gravity anomaly models with geophysical interpretation of the Republic of Croatia, including Adriatic and Dinarides regions
Authors: Varga M , Stipčević J 
Published: May 2021

SUMMARY
Models of gravity corrections and anomalies are created and distributed over the territory of the Republic of Croatia, including the Adriatic and Dinarides regions. Published models cover the study area between 42.0°N &lt; φ &lt; 46.6°N and 13.0°E &lt; λ &lt; 19.5°E with a 1′ × 1′ resolution. Distributed models include gravity corrections and anomalies of normal gravity, atmosphere, free air, Bouguer, terrain, complete Bouguer and topographic–isostatic according to the Airy–Heiskanen model. A high-resolution digital elevation/bathymetry model was prepared from SRTMv3.0 and GEBCO2019 models. It was then used for the computation of topographic and topographic–isostatic gravity effects using rectangular prisms with constant crustal density. Gridding of the scattered gravity data was performed with the Kriging interpolation method using complete Bouguer anomalies by implementing the remove–grid–restore methodology. Developed models were interpreted providing insights into the topography-reduced (anomalous) Earth’s gravity field reflecting the variations in mass/density distribution within the crust and upper mantle over the study area.
Plasticity of the human preimplantation embryo: developmental dogmas, variations on themes and self-correction
Authors: Coticchio Giovanni , Barrie Amy , Lagalla Cristina , Borini Andrea , Fishel Simon , Griffin Darren , Campbell Alison 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

BACKGROUND
IVF for the treatment of infertility offers unique opportunities to observe human preimplantation development. Progress in time-lapse technology (TLT) and preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) has greatly expanded our knowledge of developmental patterns leading to a healthy pregnancy or developmental failure. These technologies have also revealed unsuspected plastic properties of the preimplantation embryo, at macromolecular, cellular and multicellular levels.

OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE
This review focuses on the emerging concept of plasticity of the human embryo as revealed by recent evidence derived from TLT and PGT, calling for an updated and more precise redefinition of the boundaries between normal and abnormal development.

SEARCH METHODS
PubMed was used to search the MEDLINE database for peer-reviewed English-language original articles and reviews concerning human preimplantation development. Cross-searches were performed by adopting ‘fertilisation‘, ‘pronucleus’, ‘cleavage’, ‘multinucleation’, ‘compaction’, ‘embryo’, ‘preimplantation genetic testing’, ‘aneuploidy’, mosaicism’, ‘micromanipulation’, ‘time-lapse microscopy’ and ‘IVF/assisted reproduction’ as main terms. The most relevant publications, i.e. those concerning major phenomena occurring during normal and abnormal development—with a focus on the human species—were assessed and discussed critically.

OUTCOMES
Advances in TLT and PGT have revealed an astonishing plasticity and self-correction ability of the human preimplantation embryo in vitro. At fertilisation, an abnormal number of pronuclei do not always result in the formation of an aneuploid blastocyst. Animal studies and preliminary human observations indicate that combining of parental genomes may occur at the early cleavage stage, if not at fertilisation. Multinucleation occurs with much higher prevalence than previously thought and may be corrected at later cleavage stages. Irregular cleavage (multichotomous, direct, rapid and reverse cleavages) can generate chromosome segregation abnormalities that often lead to developmental arrest, but that sporadically may be confined to cells excluded from the blastocyst, and may sometimes result in viable pregnancy. Mitotic errors can generate mosaic blastocysts, but alternatively normal embryos may form from selective death or clonal depletion of aneuploid cells.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS
Deviations from developmental dogmas and the increasing evidence of plasticity of the human embryo challenge current embryological notions and suggest the need to write new rules governing cell cycle, cell determination and chromosome segregation during preimplantation development.
Hypertoric Hitchin Systems and Kirchhoff Polynomials
Authors: Groechenig Michael , McBreen Michael 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
We define a formal algebraic analogue of hypertoric Hitchin systems, whose complex-analytic counterparts were defined by Hausel–Proudfoot. These are algebraic completely integrable systems associated to a graph $\Gamma $. We study the variation of the Tamagawa number of the resulting family of abelian varieties and show that it is described by the Kirchhoff polynomial of the graph $\Gamma $. In particular, this allows us to compute their $p$-adic volumes. We conclude the article by remarking that these spaces admit a volume preserving tropicalisation.
Odd-Dimensional GKM-Manifolds of Non-Negative Curvature
Authors: Escher Christine , Goertsches Oliver , Searle Catherine 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Let $M$ be a closed, odd GKM$_3$ manifold of non-negative sectional curvature. We show that in this situation one can associate an ordinary abstract GKM$_3$ graph to $M$ and prove that if this graph is orientable, then both the equivariant and the ordinary rational cohomology of $M$ split off the cohomology of an odd-dimensional sphere.
Metrics and Isometries for Convex Functions
Authors: Li Ben , Mussnig Fabian 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
We introduce a class of functional analogs of the symmetric difference metric on the space of coercive convex functions on ${\mathbb{R}}^n$ with full-dimensional domain. We show that convergence with respect to these metrics is equivalent to epi-convergence. For a large class of these natural metrics, we are able to provide a full classification of all isometries. In addition, we introduce new functional analogs of the Hausdorff metric on the spaces of coercive convex functions and super-coercive convex functions, respectively, and prove equivalence to epi-convergence.
Sticky apps, not sticky hands: A systematic review and content synthesis of hand hygiene mobile apps
Authors: Gasteiger Norina , Dowding Dawn , Ali Syed Mustafa , Scott Ashley Jordan Stephen , Wilson Paul , van der Veer Sabine N 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Objective
The study sought to identify smartphone apps that support hand hygiene practice and to assess their content, technical and functional features, and quality. A secondary objective was to make design and research recommendations for future apps.

Materials and Methods
We searched the UK Google Play and Apple App stores for hand hygiene smartphone apps aimed at adults. Information regarding content, technical and functional features was extracted and summarized. Two raters evaluated each app, using the IMS Institute for Healthcare Informatics functionality score and the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS).

Results
A total of 668 apps were identified, with 90 meeting the inclusion criteria. Most (96%) were free to download. The majority (78%) intended to educate or inform or remind users to hand wash (69%), using behavior change techniques such as personalization and prompting practice. Only 20% and 4% named a best practice guideline or had expert involvement in development, respectively. Innovative means of engagement were used in 42% (eg, virtual or augmented reality or geolocation-based reminders). Apps included an average of 2.4 out of 10 of the IMS functionality criteria (range, 0-8). The mean MARS score was 3.2 ± 0.5 out of 5, and 68% had a minimum acceptability score of 3. Two had been tested or trialed.

Conclusions
Although many hand hygiene apps exist, few provide content on best practice. Many did not meet the minimum acceptability criterion for quality or were formally trialed or tested. Research should assess the feasibility and effectiveness of hand hygiene apps (especially within healthcare settings), including when and how they “work.” We recommend that future apps to support hand hygiene practice are developed with infection prevention and control experts and align with best practice. Robust research is needed to determine which innovative methods of engagement create “sticky” apps.
β-Caryophyllene attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury via inhibition of the MAPK signalling pathway
Authors: Zhang Yong , Zhang Haibo , Li Yan , Wang Muqun , Qian Feng 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Objectives
Acute lung injury (ALI) is a pulmonary manifestation of an acute systemic inflammatory response, which is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Accordingly, from the perspective of treating ALI, it is important to identify effective agents and elucidate the underlying modulatory mechanisms. β-Caryophyllene (BCP) is a naturally occurring bicyclic sesquiterpene that has anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory activities. However, the effects of BCP on ALI have yet to be ascertained.

Methods
ALI was induced intratracheally, injected with 5 mg/kg LPS and treated with BCP. The bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) were obtained and cultured then challenged with 100 ng/ml LPS for 4 h, with or without BCP pre-treatment for 30 min.

Key findings
BCP significantly ameliorates LPS-induced mouse ALI, which is related to an alleviation of neutrophil infiltration and reduction in cytokine production. In vitro, BCP was found to reduce the expression of interleukin-6, interleukin-1β and tumour necrosis factor-α, and suppresses the MAPK signalling pathway in BMDMs, which is associated with the inhibition of TAK1 phosphorylation and an enhancement of MKP-1 expression.

Conclusions
Our data indicate that BCP protects against inflammatory responses and is a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of LPS-induced acute lung injury.
Electricity Running Down the Arm
Authors: Molinari William J. 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Radiating pain involving the upper extremities requires careful consideration of a wide range of differential diagnoses. Paramount among them are cervical myelopathy, cervical radiculopathy, and idiopathic brachial neuropathy. Timely diagnosis of these conditions, correlating a patient’s symptoms and physical examination findings with abnormalities identified on advanced imaging studies and results of electromyography and nerve conduction studies, guides proper conservative treatment and surgical intervention, if warranted. The clinician must always maintain a healthy index of suspicion for these conditions when evaluating a patient presenting with pain and other neurological complaints of the upper extremities. This chapter presents the basics of evaluating cervical spondylotic myelopathy, differentiating it from other cervical conditions. It also provides the basis for its stepwise management options.
A “Golf Ball” in the Elbow
Authors: Mahajer Amir , Cicone Caitlin M. , Guanche Melissa 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Pain, warmth, erythema, and edema about the elbow joint require in-depth clinical and diagnostic evaluation. Septic arthritis/bursitis, malignancy, and fractures must be considered and ruled out. Olecranon bursitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the superficial bursa of the posterior elbow. It is often caused by trauma, compression, overuse, inflammatory arthritis, crystal deposition, and/or infection. It may be difficult to differentiate clinically between an inflamed bursa and an infection. Aspiration, fluid analysis, and serum studies may be necessary. In addition, two pathologies may coexist, such as gout and infection. In septic bursitis, the most common pathogen is Staphylococcus aureus. Gout is a crystal-induced arthropathy that may affect joints or bursae. The primary risk factor in gout is hyperuricemia, which is best diagnosed by the polarizing light microscopy finding of negatively birefringent crystals.
Thumb Pain That Keeps Getting Worse
Authors: Martinez-Silvestrini Julio A. 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Pain at the base of the thumb is a common cause of hand pain. Two of the most common causes of thumb pain are de Quervain’s tenosynovitis and carpometacarpal osteoarthritis. De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a tendinosis of the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis, localized over the radial aspect of the wrist. De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is commonly diagnosed with physical examination and does not require imaging studies. Although physical examination is helpful to identify patients with carpometacarpal osteoarthritis, the definite diagnosis requires imaging. For both diagnoses, the initial treatment is conservative, consisting of bracing, rehabilitation, and, sometimes, injections. In cases that fail conservative management, surgical options may be indicated.
A Locking Ring Finger
Authors: Cuevas-Trisan Ramon 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Trigger finger is one of the most common adult hand painful conditions. It may cause a finger flexion “contracture” that is dynamic and corrected as opposed to that seen in Dupuytren’s disease which causes a true flexion contracture that cannot be manually corrected. Conditions to consider in a diabetic patient with finger flexion contractures include trigger finger, Dupuytren’s disease, and diabetic cheiroarthropathy. Trigger fingers and Dupuytren contractures tend to be more isolated and localized, in contrast to diabetic chieroarthropathy, which causes more generalized finger contractures. Appropriate diagnosis leads to adequate management. Conservative care tends to be beneficial for trigger finger but less so for Dupuytren’s disease. Both conditions may require invasive and surgical management for correction.
Intrapartum Monitoring and Fetal Assessment
Authors: Rhoades Courtney , Vanderhoef Kristen 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
This chapter provides an overview of standard fetal monitoring during labor and delivery, how to choose between and interpret current monitoring modalities, and proper resuscitative measures to initiate for a fetus demonstrating compromise. This chapter starts with current fetal monitoring techniques, including the associated strengths, weaknesses, and risks, then goes through interpretation of fetal heart rate strips, and discusses appropriate resuscitative measures. From there, specific medications and common fetal effects are explored from start of labor through delivery. Medications for treatment of preeclampsia, induction of labor, and pain relief during labor are discussed.
Non-obstetric Surgery During Pregnancy
Authors: Karuppiah Arunthevaraja , Galey Jessica , Bharadwaj Shobana 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Caring for the pregnant patient presenting for non-obstetric surgery presents the anesthesiologist with a unique challenge, as the needs of both the pregnant woman and her fetus must be considered within the context of the surgical procedure being performed. A pregnant woman should never be denied medically necessary surgery or have that surgery delayed regardless of trimester because this can adversely affect the pregnant woman and her fetus. The main goals in the anesthetic management of these patients are to apply maternal physiologic changes, avoid uteroplacental hypoperfusion and/or fetal hypoxemia, avoid teratogenic agents, and prevent preterm labor. A multidisciplinary approach involving surgical, anesthesiology, and obstetric teams is essential for decisions on the timing of the procedure and intraoperative fetal and uterine monitoring. Fetal heart rate monitoring may assist in maternal positioning and cardiorespiratory management and may influence a decision to deliver the fetus. No currently used anesthetic agents have been shown to have any teratogenic effects in humans at any gestational age when using standard concentrations.
Overview
Authors: Benarroch Eduardo E. 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
The nervous system consists of neurons, glial cells, blood vessels, and extracellular matrix. Neurons are electrically excitable cells and are primarily responsible for initiation, processing, and transmission of information. However, their function is affected by their reciprocal interactions with glial cells, which contribute to development, survival, and plasticity of synaptic connections and shape the activity of neuronal ensembles and systems critical for cognition and behavior. Advances in molecular, cellular, and electrophysiological approaches have provided major insight not only in normal function of neurons and glial cells but also in the pathophysiology of neurologic diseases at the molecular, synaptic, cellular network, and system levels.
Messenger RNA Metabolism
Authors: Benarroch Eduardo E. 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Metabolism of messenger RNA (mRNA) is critical for control of cell phenotype and includes several steps: transcription of DNA into a pre-mRNA, mRNA maturation, nucleocytoplasmic export and transport to specific cellular locations, translation into proteins, and decay. All these steps are seamlessly integrated and controlled by a large number of RNA-binding proteins that interact with RNA, forming messenger ribonucleoprotein particles. Several noncoding RNAs, such as microRNAs, also regulate mRNA metabolism. Activity-dependent control of mRNA transcription, splicing, and translation are critical for growth, plasticity, and repair in the nervous system. Disorders of RNA metabolism are a major disease pathway for a large number of neurologic disorders, many of them associated with accumulation of stress granules containing RNA and associated proteins. Elucidation of the pathophysiology of some of these disorders provides novel approaches for their treatment, including antisense oligonucleotide therapy.