bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Restoration of Tc-99m methyl diphosphonate bone scan image using Richardson–Lucy algorithm
Authors: Pandey Anil Kumar , Sonker Damini , Chaudhary Jagrati , Jaleel Jasim , Baghel Vivek , Sharma Param D. , Patel Chetan , Kumar Rakesh 
Published: February 2022

Introduction
In this study, the optimal input parameters point spread function (PSF) and the number of iterations of the Richardson–Lucy algorithm were experimentally determined to restore Tc-99 m methyl diphosphonate (MDP) whole-body bone scan images.

Materials and methods
The experiment was performed on 60 anonymized Tc-99 m MDP whole-body bone scan images. Ten images were used for estimating the optimum value of PSF and the number of iterations to restore scintigraphic images. The remaining 50 images were used for validation of estimated parameters. The image quality of observed and restored images was assessed objectively using blind/referenceless image spatial quality evaluator (BRISQUE), mean brightness (MB), discrete entropy (DE), and edge-based contrast measure (EBCM) image quality metrics. Image quality was subjectively assessed by two nuclear medicine physicians (NMPs) by comparing the restored image quality with observed image quality and assigning a score to each image on the scale of 0–5.

Results
Based on BRISQUE, MB, DE, and EBCM scores, the restored images were significantly sharper, less bright, had more detailed information, and had less contrast around edges compared to the input images. The restored images had improved resolution based on visual assessment as well; NMPs assigned an average image quality score of 4.00 to restored images. Maximum resolution enhancement was noticed at PSF (size: 11 pixels, sigma: 1.75 pixels) and the number of iterations = 10. With the increase in the number of iterations, noise also gets amplified along with resolution enhancement and affects the detectability of small lesions; in the case of relatively low noisy input images, the number of iterations = 5 gave better results.

Conclusion
Tc-99 m MDP bone scan images were restored to improve image quality using the Richardson–Lucy algorithm. The optimum value of the PSF parameter was found to be of size = 11 pixels and sigma = 1.75 pixels.
Biomarkers of rejection in liver transplantation
Authors: Perottino Giovanni , Harrington Claire , Levitsky Josh 
Published: February 2022

Purpose of review
Liver transplantation is a lifesaving therapy for thousands of individuals with end-stage liver disease across the world. Allograft rejection, which is traditionally detected through an invasive graft biopsy, is a major complication for liver transplant recipients in the postoperative period. Biomarkers represent a relatively newer and safer means of detecting and predicting transplant rejection when compared with the current standard of care: liver biopsy. This review serves to compile recent progress in the field of biomarker discovery in liver allograft rejection.

Recent findings
Several promising biomarkers exist in the field of liver transplant rejection. Recent developments include blood genomic assays measuring miRNA, mRNA and donor-derived cell-free DNA. Additionally, serum levels of cytokines, proteoforms, donor-specific antibodies and immunophenotyping have shown promising results in predicting rejection pre and/or posttransplant.

Summary
Biomarkers represent a novel method of predicting the risk of developing allograft rejection. The findings discussed in the studies outlined in this review are promising in the potential to improve patient management, reduce complications from over- or under-immunosuppression, and ultimately enhance outcomes.
Liver perfusion strategies: what is best and do ischemia times still matter?
Authors: Panconesi Rebecca , Carvalho Mauricio Flores , Muiesan Paolo , Dutkowski Philipp , Schlegel Andrea 
Published: February 2022

Purpose of review
This review describes recent developments in the field of liver perfusion techniques.

Recent findings
Dynamic preservation techniques are increasingly tested due to the urgent need to improve the overall poor donor utilization. With their exposure to warm ischemia, livers from donors after circulatory death (DCD) transmit additional risk for severe complications after transplantation. Although the superiority of dynamic approaches compared to static-cold-storage is widely accepted, the number of good quality studies remains limited. Most risk factors, particularly donor warm ischemia, and accepted thresholds are inconsistently reported, leading to difficulties to assess the impact of new preservation technologies. Normothermic regional perfusion (NRP) leads to good outcomes after DCD liver transplantation, with however short ischemia times. While randomized controlled trials (RCT) with NRP are lacking, results from the first RCTs with ex-situ perfusion were reported. Hypothermic oxygenated perfusion was shown to protect DCD liver recipients from ischemic cholangiopathy. In contrast, endischemic normothermic perfusion seems to not impact on the development of biliary complications, although this evidence is only available from retrospective studies.

Summary
Dynamic perfusion strategies impact posttransplant outcomes and are increasingly commissioned in various countries along with more evidence from RCTs. Transparent reporting of risk and utilization with uniform definitions is required to compare the role of different preservation strategies in DCD livers with prolonged ischemia times.
Decision-making context of women who have undergone surgical treatment for breast cancer: a qualitative exploration of patient perspectives
Authors: Darmonkow Georgia , Dicks Elizabeth , Roome Rebecca , Chafe Joanne , Simmonds Charlene , Etchegary Holly 
Published: February 2022

Background:
Mastectomy (MT) rates are higher in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) than in any other province in Canada, even in women diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer. In this article, we present qualitative data from women who made a surgical breast cancer treatment decision to better understand the decision-making environment and process.

Methods:
A descriptive, qualitative design was employed. Semi-structured interviews and focus groups were held with women in NL who underwent surgical treatment for breast cancer, including breast-conserving surgery (BCS) or mastectomy (MT).

Results:
Thirty-five women participated. 74.3% had MT, whereas only 11.4% had BCS. Additionally, 14.3% had BCS initially followed by MT. The surgical treatment decision-making context was heterogeneous. Women reported varying levels of time they had to make a surgical decision, diverse perceptions of decisional choice, opinions on the adequacy of information provided to inform a decision, and different levels of available formal and informal supports. Most reported they were satisfied with their surgical decision, although the context in which these decisions were made was clearly a challenging one.

Conclusions:
Although most women were pleased with the surgical care they received, adequate time and thorough pre-surgical discussion were noted as necessary but not always available. Women explained the importance of thinking through their personal circumstances and values so as to make informed surgical decisions. Postsurgical care and discussion of available psychosocial supports were proposed as areas that could be improved.
Enhancing access to sustainable cancer supportive modalities: the roles of interactive health communication and trained volunteers
Authors: Attieh Samar , Loiselle Carmen G. 
Published: February 2022

Abstract

Background:
Addressing the unmet needs of individuals with cancer in a timely manner is imperative for true implementation of person-centered care. Interactive health communication (ie, people's interactions with health information technologies) and more sustainable forms of support (eg, trained volunteers), are increasingly recognized as promising means to address the many barriers to accessing cancer-related support. This pilot study is timely as it tested an accessible cancer supportive approach that included e-handouts on 25 cancer distress-related topics and supportive phone calls by trained volunteers. The study objectives were to document participants’ preferences for the types of support offered, assess changes in distress pre and post, and determine the usability of the approach.

Methods:
Individuals with various types and stages of cancer (N = 88), diagnosed within the past 6 months were recruited from a university-affiliated cancer center in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Participants completed the Cancer Support Community Distress measure at baseline, and they were prompted to request different types of support. Participants completed a follow-up questionnaire including the distress measure one to four weeks post support provision.

Results:
Of the 88 participants who filled out baseline questionnaires, 68 completed the follow up measures. Of the former, 76% (n = 67) made at least one request (e-handouts/phone calls/or both). The most frequently requested e-handout addressed pain/physical discomfort (37 requests) and phone calls were requested mostly for sleep problems (8 requests). Participants who requested both support modalities reported significantly lower distress [F (3,64) = 3.52, P = .02] at follow-up compared to those who made no requests. Ninety-two percent of participants who requested e-handouts reported that other patients would benefit from these. Participants who requested phone calls agreed or strongly agreed that volunteers were knowledgeable. The usability score was excellent (mean = 85.5/100; SD = 16.36).

Conclusion:
Preliminary findings indicate that this supportive approach is promising. Future work would document the differential contributions of supportive modalities that compare, for instance, professional versus lay (trained) support.
Requests to Amend Cause and Manner of Death Determinations by Medical Examiners in Maryland, 2015–2021
Authors: Weedn Victor W. , Goldfarb Bruce 
Published: February 2022

Abstract
A 1989 state law in Maryland allows family members to contest cause and manner of death determinations of medical examiners. A previous article described the experience with this law involving 12 appeals over a 3-year period (2012–2015). We now update the experience with the law involving 10 appeals that occurred over a subsequent period (2015 to September 2021) and a resultant change in the law. This unique appellate scheme has proven to be a valuable tool for medical examiners and families and has to date prevented resort to judicial courts. It is a model statutory scheme that is recommended for other jurisdictions to consider.
Difficult removal of exposed peripheral nerve stimulator leads: a report of 2 cases
Authors: Uppal Pushpinder , Wright Thelma B. , Dahbour Layth , Watterworth Blake , Lee Seung J. , Gattu Kanchana , Stansbury Lynn G. , Benoit Justin 
Published: February 2022

Abstract

Introduction:
Peripheral nerve stimulators have emerged as a new generation of advanced modalities to treat chronic pain and avoid opioids. They transmit electrical stimulation through implanted leads and wireless, wearable, external generators. Common complications include infection, nerve damage, and migration of stimulating leads. This article describes 2 cases of complications from lead migration.

Methods:
Case 1 describes a 61-year-old man with chronic groin pain who underwent an uncomplicated ultrasound-guided ilioinguinal peripheral nerve lead implantation. Case 2 describes a 54-year-old woman with left shoulder pain who underwent an uncomplicated ultrasound-guided percutaneous lead placement near the axillary nerve through a deltoid approach. Both peripheral nerve stimulators were confirmed with fluoroscopy, and each patient was followed up every 2 months for the following 2 years.

Results:
Both patients experienced lead migration to the skin resulting in erythema and need for lead removal. Initial unsuccessful removal by traction resulted in retained fragments and need for open surgical removal.

Discussion:
Neurologic complications of peripheral nerve stimulator implantation are rare, but device-associated complications, specifically lead migration, remain a source of long-term problems that can result in decreased coverage of the intended neural target.

Conclusion:
Thorough patient education, early postimplantation assessment, and extended routine follow-up are necessary to decrease lead-associated complications. If migration does occur, the potential impact of scar tissue on removal should be considered.
The Failed Breast Implant in Postmastectomy Reconstruction
Authors: Bucher Florian , Vogt Peter M. 
Published: February 2022

Background
Breast cancer is the most diagnosed malignant neoplasia of female patients worldwide in 2019. Survival has increased making it necessary to offer breast reconstructive procedures to improve quality of life and self-esteem. Implant-based breast reconstruction is the most common approach, making it necessary to quantify the associated complications.

Methods
A systematic literature review of the PubMed, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases was performed. A total of 9608 citations were identified, and 44 studies met the inclusion criteria.

Results
Studies included reported the incidence of complications either per patient or per breast leading consequently to 2 complication rates depending on the type of reporting. A total of 14.3% of patient-related and 28.8% of breast-related complications while undergoing implant-based reconstruction were reported.
Among total complications reported, 72.6% of patient-related and 48.5% of breast-related complications were classified as major complications.
A total of 37.6% of patients respectively 15.1% of breasts required prosthesis explantation due to severe complications. Depending on reporting, 9.7% of patients and 4% of breasts required autologous flap reconstruction due to reconstructive failure.

Conclusions
High complication and failure rates are associated with implant-based breast reconstruction. Lacking randomized controlled trials, the choice between implant-based and autologous breast reconstruction has to be made individually for each patient.
Interest in Plastic Surgery Residency
Authors: Maisner Rose S. , Ayyala Haripriya S. 
Published: February 2022

Background
Since 2010, the number of programs and available positions for integrated plastic surgery residency has increased, yet the match rate remains one of the lowest of all specialties, and the applicant pool remains one of the most competitive. We sought to investigate whether this increased interest in integrated programs has translated to increased online search volume regarding plastic surgery residency.

Methods
Our study uses Google Trends, a powerful online tool that analyzes changes in Google search volume over time and across various regions, to study temporal and geographic trends in search interest for terms related to plastic surgery residency from July 2009 to 2020 in the United States.

Results
Terms related to plastic surgery research, step 1 and 2 scores, and residency interviews had the most search results, whereas terms related to away rotations and Alpha Omega Alpha had the least. “Independent plastic surgery track” had more total search results on Google than “integrated plastic surgery residency,” and “plastic surgery fellowship” declined in search interest from July 2009 to March 2010. There was a rise in search volume for a plastic surgeon's salary and a fall in search volume for plastic surgery research between July 2009 and July 2020. However, other terms related to residency or residency applications showed no sustained trends over time. “Plastic surgery residency” was most searched in Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio, and Missouri, whereas “plastic surgeon salary” was most searched in Louisiana, Texas, Arizona, and Georgia.

Conclusions
This Google Trends analysis showed discordance between the upward trend in integrated plastic surgery residency positions offered through the National Residency Match Program and relatively unchanging search interest in factors related to the plastic surgery residency application. However, interest in a plastic surgeon's salary has increased over time, but this is not specific to plastic surgery. Although online search tools can be of important predictive value, this study demonstrates that there are clearly other factors that influence medical students' interest in plastic surgery residency besides Internet research.
Electroencephalographic Signatures of Canine Cognitive Dysfunction
Authors: Mondino Alejandra , Gutiérrez Mary , González Camila , Mateos Diego , Torterolo Pablo , Olby Natasha , Delucchi Luis 
Published: February 2022

AbstractCanine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) is a highly prevalent neurodegenerative disease considered the canine analog of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Unfortunately, CCD cannot be cured. However, early therapeutic interventions can slow the progression of cognitive decline and improve quality of life of the patients; therefore, early diagnosis is ideal. In humans, electroencephalogram (EEG) findings specific to AD have been described, and some of them have successfully detect early stages of the disease. In this study we characterized the EEG correlates of CCD, and we compared them with the EEGs of healthy aging dogs and dogs at risk of developing CCD. EEG recordings were performed in 25 senior dogs during wakefulness. Dogs were categorized in normal, at risk of CCD or with CCD according to their score in the Rofina questionnaire. We demonstrated that, quantitative EEG can detect differences between normal dogs and dogs with CCD. Dogs with CCD experience a reduction in beta and gamma interhemispheric coherence, and higher Joint Lempel Ziv complexity. Dogs at risk of developing CCD, had higher alpha power and interhemispheric coherence, making these features potential markers of early stages of the disease. These results demonstrate that EEG could be an additional biomarker that can contribute to the diagnosis of CCD, and reinforce the CCD as a translational model of AD.
The course of COVID-19 in allergic rhinitis patients receiving allergen spesific immunotherapy
Authors: Atayik Emel , Aytekіn Gökhan 
Published: February 2022

AbstractIntroductionThe aims of presenting study were trying to expose the course of SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus) in patients with allergic rhinitis (AR), to compare the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection, hospitalization and pneumonia rates in patients with AR receiving allergen immunotherapy (AIT) and patients did not receive AIT (non-receivers) and to define possible risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 positivity in patients with AR.Materials and MethodsA total of 419 patients with AR who were being followed up in a tertiary allergy clinic between 1 June 2020 and 31 December 2020, were selected for the study. Only patients who were receiving active-continuous treatment for allergic rhinitis during the study period, were included in the study.ResultsSeventy-nine patients (18.9%) became infected with the SARS-CoV-2 [32 patients (19.6%) in AR patients with AIT and 47 patients (19.0%) in non-receivers] and the rate of pneumonia was 2.4% [12.7% of SARS-CoV-2 (+) patients]. There was no significant difference was determined between the AR patients with AIT and the non-receivers in regard to the rate of SARS-CoV-2 infection, pneumonia, and hospitalization (p: 0.864, p: 0.081, p: 0.113). There was a significant difference between the groups in terms of gender, duration of disease, sensitivity to allergens (atopy), and serum IgE levels (p: 0.009, p: 0.001, p: 0.001, and p: 0.001). The accompanying comorbidities, eosinophil count, AIT, and duration of AIT were not found to be associated with an increased risk SARS-CoV-2 PCR positivity. However, the female gender was shown to be associated with a decreased risk for SARS-CoV-2 PCR positivity (OR, 0.571; 95% confidence interval, 0.330-0.987; p: 0.045)ConclusionThe course of SARS-CoV-2 is similar in patients with AR who underwent AIT and patients with AR who did not undergo AIT, and AIT does not seem to increase the risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection.
The efficacy of omalizumab treatment in patients with non-atopic severe asthma
Authors: Atayik Emel , Aytekіn Gökhan 
Published: February 2022

AbstractIntroductionNon-atopic asthmatic patients generally have more severe clinical manifestations frequently accompanied by chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps, with more limited therapeutic options as compared to atopic asthmatic patients. This has led to a search for novel therapeutic approaches including omalizumab for non-atopic asthmatic patients who are not adequately controlled with current therapies.Materials and MethodsIn this retrospective study undertaken between 1st August 2020 and 31st December 2021 at a tertiary allergy clinic, data from 61 non-atopic asthmatic patients inadequately controlled with optimum therapy was examined.ResultsA total of 61 patients with severe asthma were included in the study [Female: 48 (78.7%), male: 13 (21.3%], mean age: 49 (18-71) years). The mean duration of asthma was 60 (18-160) months. A statistically significant increase in FEV1 (Forced expiratory volume in one second), FVC (forced vital capacity), and ACT (asthma control test) scores were found after 1 year of omalizumab treatment (p < 0.001, for all parameters). Omalizumab treatment was associated with a significant decrease in the number of asthma exacerbations, asthma-related hospitalization, duration of hospitalization, and the number of unplanned emergency room visits after 1 year (p < 0.001, for all parameters). One year treatment with omalizumab led to significant changes in eosinophil counts and serum IgE levels as well (p < 0.001 and p< 0.001)ConclusionIn the atopic severe asthma patient group omalizumab treatment provided similar clinical benefits to those observed in patients with severe atopic asthma, suggesting that it may be a useful therapeutic option in patients with non-atopic asthma who failed to benefit from step 4 and step 5 treatments.
Spatiotemporal dissociation of brain network connectivity in salience processing: A simultaneous pupillometry-EEG-fMRI study
Authors: He Hengda , Hong Linbi , Sajda Paul 
Published: February 2022

AbstractThe processing of salient stimuli involves a wide range of both bottom-up and top-down processes. Previous neuroimaging studies have identified multiple brain areas and networks for salience processing, including the salience network (SN), dorsal attention network (DAN), and the locus coeruleus-norepinephrine (LC-NE) neuromodulatory system. However, interactions among these networks and the cortico-subcortical systems in salience processing remain unclear. Here, we simultaneously recorded pupillometry, electroencephalogram (EEG), and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) during an auditory oddball paradigm. Using EEG-informed fMRI analysis, we temporally dissociated the target stimulus evoked activation, allowing us to identify the cascades of cortical areas associated with salience processing. Furthermore, functional connectivity analysis uncovered spatiotemporal functional network organizations of these salience processing neural correlates. Using pupillometry as a psychophysiological marker of LC-NE activity, we also assessed brain-pupil relationships. With state-space modeling of target modulated effective connectivity, we found that the target evoked pupillary response is associated with the network causal couplings from late to early subsystems, as well as the network switching initiated by the SN. These findings indicate that the SN might cooperate with pupil-indexed brainstem neuromodulatory systems, such as the LC-NE system, in the reorganization and dynamic switching of cortical networks, and shed light on the implications of their integrative framework in various cognitive processes and neurological diseases.