bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Towards A Universal Device for Point-of-Care Medicine: A Custom Transducer for Long-Term Monitoring of Local Vascular Flow Via Ultrasound Imaging
Authors: Abramson Haley , Curry Eli , Sampath Kaushik , Wissman James , Mess Griffin , Thombre Rasika , Mahapatra Smruti , Aghabaglou Fariba , Theodore Nicholas , Pustavoitau Aliaksei , Manbachi Amir 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Universalized point-of-care medicine demands long-term, automated, and ubiquitous solutions to monitoring patients. Ultrasound imaging can be found in nearly all fields of healthcare. Therefore, developing a platform for continuous ultrasound acquisition could transform the point-of-care arena. However, long-term monitoring using ultrasound imaging requires both the simplification of large quantities of data and a hands-free, flexible device. Here, we reduce data-heavy spectral Doppler imaging by tracking local vascular flow in vitro and in vivo as a single, clinically interpretable value over time. Imaging is performed using a novel probe designed specifically for continuous monitoring with ultrasound. This semi-conformal specialty probe was fabricated by removing the plastic casing of a commercially available probe, bending the tip of the piezoelectric transducer head at a nearly ninety-degree angle, then casting the electronic components in silicone rubber, which allowed the probe to rest comfortably on any surface. No statistically significant difference existed when comparing the Doppler fluid velocity detected by the specialty probe with two commercial probes, where velocity directly leads to calculation of vascular flow. Additionally, continuously tracked velocity over the period of an hour and during periods of fluctuating flow rates demonstrated the potential for accurate, long-term monitoring using this ultrasound device. Thus, translating this technology from bench to bedside could provide a universal solution to point-of-care medicine.
Development of an Automated Transcutaneous Electrical Acustimulation Device Synchronized with Respiration for Treating Gastroesophageal Reflux Diseases
Authors: Cheng Jinsai , Song Gengqing , Guan Qiang , Shen Tao 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common digestive disorder that usually has symptoms including reflux, heartburn, pain when swallowing, etc. Evolving from traditional needle acupuncture and electroacupuncture (EA), transcutaneous electrical acustimulation (TEA) becomes a popular method for treating GERD with its non-invasive intervention feature. Recently, an even more effective method synchronized with respiration in TEA is emerging. However, the current procedure for conducting synchronized TEA (STEA) treatment is mostly based on patients’ manual synchronization, which can generate a big delay or error in the synchronization, significantly compromising the effectiveness of this method. To solve this issue, this research presents a novel STEA device that can automatically detect the user’s respiration wave and synchronize with the breath to conduct TEA. With this automated synchronization device, the patients can inhale and exhale with an uninterrupted and normal respiration pace while receiving the TEA treatment, largely simplifying the treatment procedures and enhancing the effectiveness of the method. The system of the STEA device consists of a chest strip respiration sensing element, a stimulation point identifier, and a stimulation current generator. Experiments were conducted to verify human respiration detection, electrical current generation and synchronization. The results demonstrated the feasibility, effectiveness and reliability of the automated device system.
Reported Device Failure and the Coronavirus Pandemic: Cardiovascular Interventions
Authors: Zhou Elsa S. , Bhatia Sujata K. 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Regular cardiology practices were interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. To better understand the pandemic’s effects on cardiology practices, we investigated whether the pandemic affected reporting of cardiovascular medical device failure by examining whether adverse event reports per week attributed to different cardiovascular devices changed significantly during the pandemic. By using data from FDA’s MAUDE database, we compared weekly rates of adverse event reports over the course of three years attributed to each of four devices: ‘Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (Non-CRT)’, ‘Coronary Drug-Eluting Stent’, ‘Aortic Valve, Prosthesis, Percutaneously Delivered’, and ‘Heart Valve, Non-Allograft Tissue’. Specifically, we looked at trends per week for the adverse events 'Malfunction’, ‘Injury’, and ‘Death’ for March 2018-March 2019, the pre-pandemic year of March 2019-March 2020, and the pandemic year March 2020-March 2021. We report a 46% decrease in reported deaths attributed to ICDs, a 27% decrease in reported injuries attributed to coronary DES, a 107% increase in reported deaths and a 45% increase in reported malfunctions attributed to percutaneous aortic valve prostheses, as well as a 27% decrease in reported injuries attributed to non-allograft tissue heart valves (all comparisons pandemic to pre-pandemic). That these four cardiovascular medical devices did not homogeneously increase or decrease suggests that changing care patterns that differently affected each device were the root of these trends, rather than a broader factor like underreporting which one would expect to affect the devices similarly.
Selection of Low Friction Material for Novel Single Incision, Free Motion Laparoscopic Surgical System
Authors: Galvin Samson , Yanalitis Rachael , Winder Joshua , Haluck Randy , von Lockette Paris , Moore Jason 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Laparoscopic surgery is a common minimally invasive procedure typically used in intestinal surgery. Several small incisions are made to allow specialized instruments to be inserted and operated in an inflated abdomen. There is limited mobility in these procedures and additional training must be completed for surgeons to become proficient. To increase the freedom of motion and reduce the required skill for the surgeon, the novel single incision, free motion (SIFM) laparoscopic surgical system is introduced. This device will allow for free motion of the tools with a single incision inside the body, using electromagnets, hydraulic, and motor actuation. Using a low friction material, an electromagnet on the outside of the skin translates the tool inside the body. Hydraulic and motor actuation allows for further control of the tool under the skin by tilting, extending and retraction. Experimentation was performed to measure the frictional forces of different materials gliding over porcine skin tissue. The results show that of the tested materials, Teflon performed the best with high consistency and low coefficients of friction across a range of pressures. Future work will explore magnetic force and actuation to work with the low friction materials of SIFM.
Motion Based Feedback System for Endotracheal Intubation
Authors: Sturgeon Ashley , Sarraf Elie , Moore Jason 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Endotracheal intubation is a common procedure that is performed for patients who are unable to adequately breathe. This procedure is often more successful when performed inside a hospital, but there are emergency situations that require out of hospital intubations. For both in-hospital and out of hospital, the statistics for flawed and failed intubation attempts are high. The primary risk associated with prolonged and failed intubation attempts are hypoxia leading to brain injury and death. To mitigate these risks, a motion-based feedback training system is proposed. Experimentation is performed to track the position of a laryngoscope during a manikin intubation. It was found that during intubation there was a significant range of motion in the x direction up to 120 and 114 mm. Also, it was found that for one trial the tortuosity value was significantly higher at 75. Overall results show that significant delicate movements are necessary, and that user movement varied between cases.
Designing a Murine Model of Human Glioblastoma Brain Tumor: Development of a Platform for Validation Using Ultrasound Elastography
Authors: Mess Griffin , Thombre Rasika , Kerensky Max , Curry Eli , Aghabaglou Fariba , Alomari Safwan , Brem Henry , Theodore Nicholas , Tyler Betty , Manbachi Amir 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) is a malignant brain cancer with low overall survival. Therefore, researchers are looking to augment its current therapeutic regimen, which includes surgical tumor resection, chemotherapy and radiation. A promising treatment modality, focused ultrasound, has been used as a non-invasive treatment for GBM through multiple approaches such as thermal ablation, immunomodulation, and blood brain barrier disruption. In order to develop these treatments for clinical trials, testing in animal models needs to be performed to investigate the efficacy of the treatment in complex biological environments, as well as to evaluate any side-effects. The more biologically relevant the animal model is to human anatomy, the more applicable the results will be for translation to clinical trials. Here, we report a human GBM rat model, which utilizes an IDH-wildtype, EGFRvIII mutant patient-derived xenograft in athymic rats. The in vivo tumor growth rate was assessed over a period of 20 days to evaluate reproducibility and to develop the model for future testing of FUS in the treatment of GBM.
Assessment of Task and Joint-Based Exoskeleton Designs for Elbow Joint Rehabilitation
Authors: Delgado Pablo , Jaradat Lieth , Yihun Yimesker 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Exoskeletons and robots have been used as a common practice to assist and automate rehabilitation exercises. Exoskeleton fitting and alignments are important factors and challenges that need to be addressed for smooth and safe operations and better outcomes. Such challenges often dictate the exoskeleton design approaches. Some focus on simplifying and mimicking human joints (joint-based) while others have a focus on a specific task (task-based), which does not need to align with the corresponding limb joint/s to generate the desired anatomical motion. In this study, the two design approaches are assessed in an elbow flexion-extension task. The muscle responses have been collected and compared with and without the exoskeletons. Based on 6 with no disability participants, the normalized Electromyography (EMG) RMS values are plotted. The plot profiles and magnitudes are used as a base to assess the exoskeleton alignment. For this specific task, the task-based exoskeleton has shown a profile closer to the one without exoskeleton with a relatively identical support as the joint-based one; the latter is evidenced through most subjects’ muscle response magnitudes. This preliminary data has shown a good methodology and insight towards the assessment of exoskeletons, but more human subject data is needed with different task combinations to further strengthen the findings.
Optimization of Small-Scale Hydraulic Structures for Powered Exoskeletons
Authors: Bies Jeffrey J , Durfee William 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Generative design is an optimization process that is well-suited for various applications in fluid power, including untethered assistive technology exoskeletons powered through hydraulics. While generative design is capable of improving factors such as efficiency, system weight, and surface temperatures, there are currently no solutions that can address these factors simultaneously. The long-range goal of this research is to develop a multiphysics generative design process that combines solid mechanics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer into a single algorithm to produce designs for high-pressure hydraulic systems that also provide structural support against external loads and passive cooling all in a single integrated structure. To create a generative design algorithm, a Python pipeline was constructed to interface with existing software applications to iterate through geometry creation, meshing, finite volume method, and sensitivity analysis. The pipeline was validated using a simplified case study of pressurized fluid flow through a pipe with a 90-degree bend where the flow path was modified between a fixed inlet and outlet to reduce pressure drop by 37.2±0.4%, corresponding directly to a reduction in battery size and, therefore, system weight. Future work will use multiphysics sensitivity analysis and machine learning to inform the iterative geometry refinement.
Development of an Active-Cooling System for Improving Residual-Limb Skin Care in Persons with Lower-Limb Amputation
Authors: Farrell Todd , McCracken Patricia , Lloyd Alexandria , Falbo Kierra , Walker Nicole , Hansen Andrew , Sauerbrey Matthew , Johansson Jennifer , Rozell Brianna , Lawrence Kevin , Myers Ryan , DiMatteo Kristian , Hunt Thane , Dupnik Michaelina , Koehler-McNicholas Sara 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Increases in residual-limb temperatures can occur simply by donning a lower-limb prosthesis and walking. Intrasocket temperatures can also remain elevated long after an activity ends. To address problems associated with activity-related increases in intrasocket temperatures (e.g., discomfort, decreased prosthesis use, lost suspension, residual-limb skin breakdown), an innovative Intrasocket Cooling Element (ICE) system has been developed and tested on ten, transtibial prosthesis users. This report describes the design of the thermo-electric driven, active-cooling ICE system and presents the results of both in-laboratory and at-home testing. Given the capacity for the ICE system to moderate intrasocket temperatures during controlled bouts of in-laboratory exercise, future testing will explore the potential for this technology to reduce the incidence of residual-limb skin issues and improve quality of life outcome measures among a cohort of lower-limb prosthesis users.
A Low-Cost, Open-Source Solution to the Covid-19 Ventilator Shortage
Authors: Danna Mason , George Evan , Ranganathan Sanjana , Richards Zachary I. , Sims R. Kenneth , Berens Pauline M. , Deshpande Priyanka S. , Gnanashanmugam Swami 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Mechanical ventilators are beneficial in treating and managing various respiratory diseases, including interstitial pneumonia associated with Coronavirus infection (COVID-19). The unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic has led to the emergence of a worldwide need for more accessible and affordable mechanical ventilatory devices. This project, known as the Third Coast Ventilator, aims to create a low-cost, open-source solution to the ventilator shortage created by the COVID-19 pandemic; this device can additionally be implemented in developing countries with limited medical resources, where ventilators are often inaccessible. Using readily available components found within hospitals and local stores, our team designed a prototype that can be assembled and functional within an hour. Our testing demonstrated accurate tidal volume delivery while modulating commonly used ranges of inspiratory to expiratory ratios, air flow rates, and respiratory rates. These promising results are an important step toward our goal of creating a low-cost, open-source, globally accessible ventilator in areas where shortages exist.
Communicating Cybersecurity and Privacy Design Attributes through Privacy Labeling of Consumer Electronic Medical Devices
Authors: Molesky Monroe J. 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
The emergence of electronic medical devices has facilitated the integration of cybersecurity and privacy practices into the design of medical devices. An essential part of device design is the communication of the device principles to the consumers and providers that will utilize the device. The purpose of this research was to analyze the importance of health information privacy, propose a medical device privacy label and standards that can help fill these gaps for consumers, and evaluate the regulatory framework for which this proposal can be implemented. Privacy, both physical and informational, is a key pillar of American healthcare especially in our connected worlds. The threat to privacy from criminal actors and the impact that those actions of violating privacy can have on an individual’s health are serious. Evaluating previous privacy labels, which lacked in applicability to the healthcare field, this research proposes a unique, standardized consumer privacy label for the FDA to implement, mirroring the design and success of the FDA nutrition label in educating consumers in healthy decision making.
Evaluation of Sustainable P4MCL/PLLA Block Copolymers as PVC Replacement in Medical Plastics
Authors: Gathman Tyler , Schoephoerster Jamee , Vasdev Ranveer , Liffland Stephanie , Batiste Derek 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Aliphatic polyesters are potential sustainable alternatives to PVC for use in medical devices, such as IV bags. Our candidate replacement of PVC-based IV bags use P4MCL, a sustainable polymer with demonstrated uses in mechanically robust materials. The goal of our project was to compare the mechanical and biocompatibility characteristics of P4MCL/PLLA star block copolymer TPEs with commercial PVC-based IV bags. P4MCL/PLLA TPEs were synthesized according to previously reported methods. Uniaxial tensile testing was conducted pre- and post-autoclave. Impact and tear resistance testing was performed on non-autoclaved specimens according to ASTM standards. Cytotoxicity was examined using NIH 3T3 Fibroblasts with an AlamarBlue assay. A student’s t-test was used to compare results with statistical significance of P &lt; 0.05. PVC tended to be stiffer but P4MCL/PLLA was more extensible. The tensile properties for the P4MCL-based material did not change after autoclaving. When compared to PVC-based IV bags, the P4MCL/PLLA TPE demonstrated a lower peak force and average force but a greater elongation at break and total absorbed energy (P&lt;0.05). P4MCL/PLLA, unlike PVC-based materials with DEHP plasticizer, was non-cytotoxic. In summary, P4MCL/PLLA has desirable mechanical and biocompatibility advantages compared to PVC making the material a potential sustainable alternative for medical grade plastics.
Novel Hydrogel for Stone Fragment Control During Ureteroscopic Lithotripsy
Authors: Bhattaram Rohan , Reichert Ryan , Marino Victoria 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Surgical treatment of kidney stones commonly involves ureteroscopic lithotripsy with laser-assisted stone fragmentations. Particles that remain are considered “clinically insignificant” and are left behind, though these fragments are associated with downstream complications such as infection and stone reformation. The researchers aimed to develop a novel hydrogel that would prevent stone retropulsion intraoperatively and facilitate complete fragment removal. A novel inversely thermosensitive gel was developed which would theoretically stay solid to surround kidney stone, suspend stone fragments and would become liquid for gel removal. The aim of this study was to better understand the gel delivery mechanism considering its unique thermal properties. It was hypothesized that due to the gel’s thermal properties, an active cooling method, i.e. an intracatheter cooled guide wire, would be necessary to maintain gel fluidity to reach the intended destination. The researchers designed an experiment to test gel delivery through a 5 French, 70 cm long catheter surrounded by body temperature water with and without a cooled guide wire. We found there was no significant difference between both trial groups, indicating the gel does not require an active cooling method and can be administered directly. The lack of easy-to-use and cost-effective commercially available options to effectively reduce residual stone fragments presents a path for clinical adoption of the proposed hydrogel. Future trials will look into the fluid mechanics of gel administration and potential clinical outcomes such as stone free rates and rates of complications.
Mechanical Characterization of Calcificaiton in Diseased Coronary Artery with Atomic Force Microscope
Authors: Delgado Ana , Dong Pengfei , Sameti Mahyar , Zimin Vladislav N. , Lee Juhwan , Gharaibeh Yazan , Bezerra Hiram G. , Wilson David , Bashur Christopher , Gu Linxia 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
In this work, the mechanical propertied of calcification in diseased coronary artery was evaluated with atomic force microscope (AFM). The heavily calcified coronary artery was harvest from a cadaver’s heart. The artery slices with thickness of 10 um were prepared with cryosectioning. Staining with Alizarin Red has been performed to highlight the calcification region. Results have shown that the calcified areas have a significant larger stiffness compared with the surrounding plaque and the media layer of a healthy artery. The calcification showed a heterogeneous property with larger deviation in stiffness distribution. The staining process affected the mechanical properties. Results will enhance the mechanical property database in the literature.
Patient-Centered Hospital Gowns: A Novel Redesign of Inpatient Attire to Improve Both the Patient and Provider Experience
Authors: Arunachalam Priya , D’Souza Brendan 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
During their inpatient stays, patients are often required – or highly encouraged – to wear hospital gowns. While these gowns are intended to be convenient for patients and their providers, their design has remained largely unchanged over time. As healthcare moves towards greater emphasis on patient-centered care, the hospital gown is an opportunity to improve patient care. Patients have expressed frustration with the traditional hospital gown, especially with how revealing the gown can be. Here, we introduce a redesigned hospital gown that addresses many common concerns related to patients’ comfort and privacy. Our design introduces novel midline, rear, and shoulder panels, which provide healthcare workers with convenient access to the patient while maintaining coverage over areas of the patient that are not being examined. These panels also make it less likely for patients to be inappropriately exposed during routine activities. A prototyped gown was developed to test design features, and evaluation of this prototype demonstrated that this novel design has the potential to address many concerns while protecting the usability of traditional gowns. Further improvements to the gown’s design are also discussed.
The Use of a Pulsatile Perfusion Apparatus for the Assessment of Aortic Valve Function within Formalin Fixed Human Hearts: Pre- And Post-Tavr Implantation with Subsequent Micro-CT Analyses
Authors: Bielecki Michael A. , Iaizzo Paul A. 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is often the clinical choice for patients with severe aortic stenosis or as an alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement for high-risk patients. In these patients, the incidence of complications, including aortic annular rupture, coronary occlusion, and newonset atrial fibrillation is just under five percent. The Visible Heart® Laboratories have a library of over 500 perfusion-fixed human hearts preserved in formalin. These specimens can be utilized to better understand aortic valvular function associated with various diseased states with proper pulsatile profusion. This preclinical benchtop model could also be used for the testing of TAVR devices: e.g., to better understand proper placement techniques. Here we describe the continued development of a pulsatile perfusion apparatus constructed to assess the aortic valve function of these human heart specimens: i.e., pre- and post- TAVR deployment. Multi-modal imaging can be utilized, including videoscopes, fluoroscopy, and echocardiography. Resultant placements, the device-tissue interface within the valvular annulus can be subsequently assessed using micro-CT imaging. This pre-clinical approach also allows for this unique human heart. Specimens to be utilized numerous times, providing real anatomical scenarios for the testing of these devices.