bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
RSVP-based BCI for inconspicuous targets: detection, localization, and modulation of attention
Authors: Zhou Qian , Zhang Qi , Wang Baozeng , Yang Yang , Yuan Zijian , Li Siwei , Zhao Yuwei , Zhu Ying , Gao Zhongbao , Zhou Jin , Wang Changyong 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objective. While brain–computer interface (BCI) based on rapid serial visual presentation (RSVP) is widely used in target detection, patterns of event-related potential (ERP), as well as the performance on detecting inconspicuous targets remain unknown. Moreover, participant-screening methods to excluded ‘BCI-blind’ users are still lacking. Approach. A RSVP paradigm was designed with targets of varied concealment, size, and location. ERPs (e.g. P300 and N2pc) and target detection accuracy were compared among these conditions. The relationship between participants’ attention scores and target detection accuracy was also analyzed to test attention level as a criterion for participant screening. Main results. Statistical analysis showed that the conditions of target concealment and size significantly influenced ERP. In particular, ERP for inconspicuous targets, such as concealed and small targets, exhibited lower amplitudes and longer latencies. In consistent, the accuracy of detection in inconspicuous condition was significantly lower than that of conspicuous condition. In addition, a significant association was found between attention scores and target detection accuracy for camouflaged targets. Significance. The study was the first to address ERP features among multiple dimensions of concealment, size, and location. The conclusion provided insights into the relationship between ERP decoding and properties of targets. In addition, the association between attention scores and detection accuracy implied a promising method in screening well-behaved participants for camouflaged target detection.
Endovascular stimulation of the pudendal nerve using a stent-mounted electrode array
Authors: Liu JingYang , Grayden David B , Keast Janet R , John Sam E 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objective. Previous preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated that pudendal nerve is a promising target for restoring bladder control. The spatial proximity between the pudendal nerve and its accompanying blood vessels in the pudendal canal provides an opportunity for endovascular neurostimulation, which is a less invasive approach compared to conventional chronically implanted electrodes. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of excitatory stimulation and kilohertz-frequency block of the compound pudendal nerve in sheep using a stent-mounted electrode array. Approach. In a set of acute animal experiments, a commercially available hexapolar electrode catheter was introduced in the unilateral internal pudendal artery to deliver bipolar electrical stimulation of the adjacent compound pudendal nerve. The catheter electrode was replaced with a custom-made stent-mounted electrode array and the stimulation sessions were repeated. Global electromyogram activity of the pelvic floor and related sphincter muscles was recorded with a monopolar electrode placed within the urethra concurrently. Main results. We demonstrated the feasibility of endovascular stimulation of the pudendal nerve with both electrode types. The threshold current of endovascular stimulation was influenced by electrode-nerve distance and electrode orientation. Increasing the axial inter-electrode distance significantly decreased threshold current. Endovascular kilohertz-frequency nerve block was possible with the electrode catheter. Significance. The present study demonstrated that endovascular stimulation of the pudendal nerve with the stent-mounted electrode array may be a promising less invasive alternative to conventional implantable electrodes, which has important clinical implications in the treatment of urinary incontinence. Endovascular blocking of pudendal nerve may provide an alternative solution to the bladder-sphincter dyssynergia problem in bladder management for people with spinal cord injury.
Delayed administration of interleukin-4 coacervate alleviates the neurotoxic phenotype of astrocytes and promotes functional recovery after a contusion spinal cord injury
Authors: Gottipati Manoj K , D’Amato Anthony R , Saksena Jayant , Popovich Phillip G , Wang Yadong , Gilbert Ryan J 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objective. Macrophages and astrocytes play a crucial role in the aftermath of a traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI). Infiltrating macrophages adopt a pro-inflammatory phenotype while resident astrocytes adopt a neurotoxic phenotype at the injury site, both of which contribute to neuronal death and inhibit axonal regeneration. The cytokine interleukin-4 (IL-4) has shown significant promise in preclinical models of SCI by alleviating the macrophage-mediated inflammation and promoting functional recovery. However, its effect on neurotoxic reactive astrocytes remains to be elucidated, which we explored in this study. We also studied the beneficial effects of a sustained release of IL-4 from an injectable biomaterial compared to bolus administration of IL-4. Approach. We fabricated a heparin-based coacervate capable of anchoring and releasing bioactive IL-4 and tested its efficacy in vitro and in vivo. Main results. We show that IL-4 coacervate is biocompatible and drives a robust anti-inflammatory macrophage phenotype in culture. We also show that IL-4 and IL-4 coacervate can alleviate the reactive neurotoxic phenotype of astrocytes in culture. Finally, using a murine model of contusion SCI, we show that IL-4 and IL-4 coacervate, injected intraspinally 2 d post-injury, can reduce macrophage-mediated inflammation, and alleviate neurotoxic astrocyte phenotype, acutely and chronically, while also promoting neuroprotection with significant improvements in hindlimb locomotor recovery. We observed that IL-4 coacervate can promote a more robust regenerative macrophage phenotype in vitro, as well as match its efficacy in vivo, compared to bolus IL-4. Significance. Our work shows the promise of coacervate as a great choice for local and prolonged delivery of cytokines like IL-4. We support this by showing that the coacervate can release bioactive IL-4, which acts on macrophages and astrocytes to promote a pro-regenerative environment following a SCI leading to robust neuroprotective and functional outcomes.
A novel membrane-on-chip guides morphogenesis for the reconstruction of the intestinal crypt-villus axis
Authors: Sibilio Sara , Mennella Raffaele , Gregorio Vincenza De , Rocca Alessia La , Urciuolo Francesco , Imparato Giorgia , Netti Paolo A 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Reconstructing the microscale villous organisation and functionality of the small intestine is essential for developing in vitro platforms tailored for absorption studies as well as for investigating intestinal morphogenesis in development and disease. However, the current fabrication techniques able to mimic the villus-crypt axis poses significant challenges in terms of reconstruction of the complex 3D microarchitecture. These challenges extend beyond mere structural intricacies to encompass the incorporation of diverse cell types and the management of intricate fluid dynamics within the system. Here, we introduce a novel microfluidic device called In-Crypts, which integrates a cell-instructive membrane aimed at inducing and guiding Caco-2 cells morphogenesis. Patterned topographical cues embossed onto the porous membrane induce the formation of a well-organized intestinal epithelium, characterized by proliferating crypt-like domains and differentiated villus-like regions. Notably, our cell-instructive porous membrane effectively sustains stem cells development, faithfully replicating the niche environment of in vivo intestinal crypts thus mirroring the cell biogeography observed in vivo. Moreover, by introducing dynamic fluid flow, we provide a faithful recapitulation of the native microenvironmental shear stress experienced by the intestinal epithelium. This stress plays a crucial role in influencing cell behaviour, differentiation, and overall functionality, thus offering a highly realistic model for studying intestinal physiology and pathology. The resulting intestinal epithelium exhibits significantly denser regions of mucus and microvilli, characteristic typically absent in static cultures, upregulating more than 1.5 of the amount expressed in the classical flattened configuration, enhanced epithelial cell differentiation and increased adsorptive surface area. Hence, the innovative design of In-Crypts proves the critical role of employing a cell-instructive membrane in argument the physiological relevance of organs-on-chips. This aspect, among others, will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of organism function, directly impacting drug discovery and development.
Design and manufacturing of soft electronics for in situ biochemical sensing
Authors: Xing Yi , Wang Jiaqi , Li Jinxing 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Soft (flexible and stretchable) biosensors have great potential in real-time and continuous health monitoring of various physiological factors, mainly due to their better conformability to soft human tissues and organs, which maximizes data fidelity and minimizes biological interference. Most of the early soft sensors focused on sensing physical signals. Recently, it is becoming a trend that novel soft sensors are developed to sense and monitor biochemical signals in situ in real biological environments, thus providing much more meaningful data for studying fundamental biology and diagnosing diverse health conditions. This is essential to decentralize the healthcare resources towards predictive medicine and better disease management. To meet the requirements of mechanical softness and complex biosensing, unconventional materials, and manufacturing process are demanded in developing biosensors. In this review, we summarize the fundamental approaches and the latest and representative design and fabrication to engineer soft electronics (flexible and stretchable) for wearable and implantable biochemical sensing. We will review the rational design and ingenious integration of stretchable materials, structures, and signal transducers in different application scenarios to fabricate high-performance soft biosensors. Focus is also given to how these novel biosensors can be integrated into diverse important physiological environments and scenarios in situ, such as sweat analysis, wound monitoring, and neurochemical sensing. We also rethink and discuss the current limitations, challenges, and prospects of soft biosensors. This review holds significant importance for researchers and engineers, as it assists in comprehending the overarching trends and pivotal issues within the realm of designing and manufacturing soft electronics for biochemical sensing.
An integrated fuzzy logic and machine learning platform for porosity detection using optical tomography imaging during laser powder bed fusion
Authors: Ero Osazee , Taherkhani Katayoon , Hemmati Yasmine , Toyserkani Ehsan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Traditional methods such as mechanical testing and x-ray computed tomography (CT), for quality assessment in laser powder-bed fusion (LPBF), a class of additive manufacturing (AM), are resource-intensive and conducted post-production. Recent advancements in in-situ monitoring, particularly using optical tomography (OT) to detect near-infrared light emissions during the process, offer an opportunity for in-situ defect detection. However, interpreting OT datasets remains challenging due to inherent process characteristics and disturbances that may obscure defect identification. This paper introduces a novel machine learning-based approach that integrates a self-organizing map, a fuzzy logic scheme, and a tailored U-Net architecture to enhance defect prediction capabilities during the LPBF process. This model not only predicts common flaws such as lack of fusion and keyhole defects through analysis of in-situ OT data, but also allows quality assurance professionals to apply their expert knowledge through customizable fuzzy rules. This capability facilitates a more nuanced and interpretable model, enhancing the likelihood of accurate defect detection. The efficacy of this system has been validated through experimental analyses across various process parameters, with results validated by subsequent CT scans, exhibiting strong performance with average model scores ranging from 0.375 to 0.819 for lack of fusion defects and from 0.391 to 0.616 for intentional keyhole defects. These findings underscore the model’s reliability and adaptability in predicting defects, highlighting its potential as a transformative tool for in-process quality assurance in AM. A notable benefit of this method is its adaptability, allowing the end-user to adjust the probability threshold for defect detection based on desired quality requirements and custom fuzzy rules.
Persistent cytopenias after anti-BCMA CAR T-cell therapy are associated with reduced hematopoietic activity in posttreatment bone marrows
Authors: Patwardhan Pranav Pramod , Franz Joseph , Agha Mounzer , Rea Bryan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objectives
We attempt to analyze bone marrow findings and correlation with cytopenia(s) after anti–B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell infusion in this study.

Methods
Relevant clinicopathologic data, including complete blood counts, neutrophil counts, relevant therapy history, and pre- and posttherapy bone marrow evaluations, were studied in 12 patients who received anti-BCMA CAR T-cell therapy.

Results
Bone marrow findings after CAR T-cell therapy were available in 6 of 12 cases, 3 of which showed markedly hypocellular marrow with either markedly reduced or essentially absent hematopoiesis. One case showed a hypocellular marrow with trilineage hematopoiesis, while the remaining 2 cases showed persistent involvement by plasma cell myeloma. Reticulin stains did not reveal significant fibrosis. Ten patients had anemia, and 8 patients had leukopenia and thrombocytopenia at day 90 posttherapy. Long-term follow-up showed persistent disease in 10 of 12 cases.

Conclusions
Prolonged cytopenias occur in most patients after BCMA CAR T-cell therapy with bone marrow evaluations demonstrating associated marked hypocellularity with minimal or no hematopoiesis without an increase in fibrosis.
Estimated Pulse Wave Velocity Is Associated With a Higher Risk of Dementia in the Health and Retirement Study
Authors: Heffernan Kevin S , Wilmoth Janet M , London Andrew S 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

BACKGROUND
In this paper, we use the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) to examine the relationship between an estimated measure of pulse wave velocity (ePWV) and cognitive impairment with no dementia and dementia, respectively.

METHODS
We modeled the relationship between ePWV and cognitive status in 2006/2008 using data from 8,492 men and women (mean age 68.6 years) controlling for age, blood pressure, sociodemographic, and socioeconomic characteristics (sex, race and ethnicity, education, income, wealth), health behaviors (smoking and physical activity), body mass index (BMI), health status and related medication use (history of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and stroke), and cerebrovascular disease (CVD)-related biomarkers (C-reactive protein, cystatin-C, hemoglobin A1c, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein [HDL] cholesterol). We assess cognitive function with the 27-item Langa-Weir Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status (TICS) scale. ePWV is derived from an equation based on participant age and resting blood pressure.

RESULTS
In a model that controlled for the constituent components of ePWV (age, age squared, systolic and diastolic blood pressure), ePWV is associated with increased odds of having cognitive impairment with no dementia (OR = 2.761) and dementia (OR = 6.344) relative to a group with no cognitive impairment or dementia. After controlling for the constituent components of ePWV, sociodemographic and socioeconomic characteristics, health behaviors, BMI, health status and medication use, and CVD-related biomarkers, ePWV remains significantly associated with dementia (OR = 3.969) but not cognitive impairment with no dementia (OR = 1.782).

CONCLUSIONS
These findings suggest that ePWV may be a novel research tool and biomarker of vascular aging that can be used in large, population-representative studies to examine cognitive aging and dementia risk.
Previous Cesarean Section Delivery Increases the Risk for Seroma Development in Abdominoplasty Patients: Our Experience With 746 Patients
Authors: Skorochod Ron , Hadad Eran , Wolf Yoram 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Complications after body-contouring surgery are a field of great interest. Recognition of patient-related characteristics contributing to a greater risk for complication is of the utmost importance in improving the quality of care and safety profile of aesthetic procedures. Previous history of cesarean section (CS) and its impact on adverse events after abdominoplasty has yet to be investigated and defined.

Objectives
Our objective was to evaluate the effect of previous cesarean section on the risk for adverse events in abdominoplasty.

Methods
The medical records of 746 eligible patients were reviewed, and relevant information was extracted. Stratification of patients based on a previous history of CS was followed by statistical analysis of differences between the groups. Relevant regression models were implemented to further understand the data.

Results
Seven hundred forty-six patients were included in the study, of which 308 (43.1%) had history of CS delivery. The group did not differ in baseline demographic and surgical details, except for a greater hemoglobin level in the non-CS patients (P = .007). Analysis of complication rates revealed a statistically significant increase in the risk for seroma development in the group of patients with a history of CS delivery (P = .031), which correlated to a 65% increase in the risk for complications (odds ratio = 1.65, 95% CI 1.07-2.56).

Conclusions
A medical history of CS increases the risk for seroma development in the postoperative period following abdominoplasty. Several potential pathogenic mechanisms exist, and further prospective research is needed to further characterize the association.

Level of Evidence: 3
Population genomics of four co-distributed frog species in a barrier island system
Authors: Nava Martinez Maria , Amador Luis , Wiley Daniele L F , McDaniels Chris X , Barrow Lisa N 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
In nature, small populations are often of concern because of limited genetic diversity, which underlies adaptive potential in the face of environmental change. Assessing patterns of genetic variation within co-distributed species sampled across varied landscapes can therefore illuminate their capacity to persist over time. We sequenced new genome-wide sequence data (double-digest restriction site-associated DNA sequencing) for four frog species (Anaxyrus terrestris, Hyla cinerea, Hyla squirella, and Rana sphenocephala) sampled from two barrier islands and the adjacent mainland of northern Florida. We calculated genomic diversity metrics and analysed spatial patterns of genomic variation for each species. We found higher genomic diversity within mainland individuals compared to island individuals for all species, suggesting a consistent effect of small island area on diversity across species. Three species (all but A. terrestris) showed significant signatures of isolation by distance, and some clustering analyses indicated separation of island and mainland individuals within species. We identified subtle differences in the strength of these patterns among species, with the strongest genetic differentiation observed in R. sphenocephala. Finally, we found evidence of recent migration between island and mainland populations for all species, which likely explains the limited genetic structure observed and contributes to the persistence of these small populations.
Needle-free jet injector treatment with bleomycin is efficacious in patients with severe keloids: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Bekkers Vazula Z , Zdunczyk Katarzyna M , Bik Liora , Ten Voorde Wouter , Aarts Pim , Oerlemans Femke , Bohoslavsky Roman , Haedersdal Merete , Prens Errol P , Rissmann Robert , van Doorn Martijn B A 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Severe keloids are difficult to treat. Corticosteroid injections with needles are painful and associated with frequent recurrences. Therefore, more effective, safe and patient-friendly alternative treatments are urgently needed.

Objectives
To assess the efficacy, tolerability and patient satisfaction of intralesional bleomycin treatment using a needle-free electronic pneumatic jet injector (EPI) in severe keloids.

Methods
Patients with severe keloids were included in this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial with split-lesion design. Three EPI treatments with bleomycin or saline were administered every 4 weeks in the intervention and control sides. Outcome measures were change in scar volume assessed by three-dimensional imaging, Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS), skin perfusion with laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI), spilled volume, procedure-related pain, adverse events and patient satisfaction.

Results
Fourteen patients (nine female, five male) were included. The estimated mean keloid volume was significantly reduced by 20% after EPI-assisted bleomycin, compared with a slight increase of 3% in the control side (P &lt; 0.01). The estimated mean POSAS patient and observer scores decreased by respectively 28% and 20% (P = 0.03 and P = 0.001). LSCI showed no significant change in perfusion. EPI treatment was preferred over previous needle injections in 85% of patients. The estimated mean spilled volume after EPI was around 50%, and numerical rating scale pain scores were moderate. Adverse events included bruising, hyperpigmentation and transient superficial necrosis.

Conclusions
A course of three EPI-assisted bleomycin injections is efficacious and well tolerated in severe keloids. Moreover, EPI was preferred by most patients and may serve as a patient-friendly alternative treatment.