A new automatic segmentation algorithm, called Segment MaR, defines the MaR region as the continuous region most probable of being Blebbistatin datasheet MaR, by estimating the intensities of normal myocardium and MaR with an expectation maximization algorithm and restricting the MaR region by an a priori model of the maximal extent for the user defined culprit artery. The segmentation by Segment MaR was compared against inter observer variability of manual delineation and the threshold methods of 2SD, FWHM and Otsu.
Results: MaR was 32.9 +/- 10.9% of left ventricular mass
(LVM) when assessed by the reference observer and 31.0 +/- 8.8% of LVM assessed by Segment MaR. The bias and correlation was, -1.9 +/- 6.4% of LVM, R = 0.81 (p < 0.001) for Segment MaR, -2.3 +/- 4.9%, R = 0.91 (p < 0.001) for inter observer variability of manual delineation, AR-13324 purchase -7.7 +/- 11.4%, R = 0.38 (p = 0.008) for 2SD, -21.0 +/- 9.9%, R = 0.41 (p = 0.004) for FWHM, and 5.3 +/- 9.6%, R = 0.47 (p < 0.001) for Otsu.
Conclusions: There is a good agreement between automatic
Segment MaR and manually assessed MaR in T2-weighted CMR. Thus, the proposed algorithm seems to be a promising, objective method for standardized MaR quantification in T2-weighted CMR.”
“Purpose of review
The purpose of this review is to update providers on how best to address asthma in adolescents.
Recent findings
Asthma is a common chronic disease, with increased prevalence in minority populations, especially those living in poverty. Published treatment guidelines form the SB273005 Cytoskeletal Signaling inhibitor basis of modern asthma treatment, based on disease severity, frequency of symptoms,
and lung function measured by spirometry. Written asthma action plans are recommended for patients with persistent asthma. Treating teens with asthma can be challenging, as they may deny disease, underreport symptoms, abandon medication regimens, and engage in risk-taking behaviors. Psychiatric comorbidities such as depression, anxiety, and even posttraumatic stress disorder can have profound effects on the adolescent with asthma, making the treatment much more challenging.
Summary
Pediatricians should utilize a developmental approach, incorporating guideline-based therapies when developing treatment plans for teens with asthma. Resources such as school-based health centers, community health workers, mental health professionals, and possibly asthma specialists are all valuable aids to the physician in the medical home in providing care coordination for their teens with asthma.”
“Introduction. High-frequency chest wall oscillation (HFCWO) has been traditionally implemented for airway secretion clearance in conditions such as cystic fibrosis (CF) and bronchiectasis. There have been few reports of its use in refractory asthma. Case report. A 36-year-old, non-smoker male presented with a lifelong history of poorly controlled asthma.