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The article focuses on the management of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in cats, a progressive and irreversible condition that significantly affects older feline populations. It discusses various diagnostic approaches, including clinical history, urine analysis, and imaging techniques like radiography and ultrasound. It emphasizes the importance of annual check-ups, bi-annual evaluations for cats over seven years, and individualized treatment plans based on IRIS guidelines.

• Ultrasound field assistance contribute to strength-ductility synergy improvement. • Decreased porosity, complete columnar to equiaxed transition (CET), and grain refinement of wire-arc directed energy deposited magnesium alloy were achieved via external ultrasound field. • Key principles of densification, microstructure evolution, increased crystallographic defects, and performance enhancement were clarified. Investigations on the fabrication of large-size lightweight Mg alloy components by wire-arc directed energy deposition (DED) are steadily flourishing. Nevertheless, most of these components still suffer from inferior performance due to internal defects and inherent columnar grains. Herein, external ultrasound fields with different powers were successfully introduced into the wire-arc DED of AZ31 Mg alloy. The microstructure, defects, and mechanical properties of the fabricated components were carefully characterized and compared. The results show that the external ultrasound fields lead to decreased porosity, complete columnar to equiaxed transition (CET), and enhanced performance. Consequently, the UA90 samples exhibited a remarkable increase of ∼30%, ∼45%, and ∼189% in yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, and elongation, respectively. The dominant mechanisms of enhanced strength-ductility synergy were analyzed in detail. This study thus sheds new light on wire-arc DED of Mg alloy components with excellent performance via external ultrasound fields. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the development of a quantum memory using optomechanical systems, specifically a tiny drum, as an alternative to traditional platforms. Topics include the construction and operation of the quantum memory drum, the design challenges and solutions, and the potential applications in quantum communications and memory bandwidth improvements.

Medication abortion represents more than 50 percent of abortions in the United States (US). Since its approval in the US in 2000, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has progressively relaxed the prescribing requirements such that currently, no office visit, in-person dispensing, or ultrasound is required. Obtaining medication for abortion online without medical supervision or evaluation is also possible. This article reviews the complications of medication abortion by examining major studies and delineates the risks specific to self-managed abortion to inform clinicians in caring for women. Summary: Medication abortion has become the most common abortion method in the United States. This document provides a detailed history of the relaxation requirements on medication abortion and reviews the major studies on medication abortion complications including a discussion of their limitations. Finally, the paper delineates the ease of access to medication abortion without a health care provider and the risks associated with self-managed abortion. This paper is intended to provide information for clinicians who likely will be encountering increasing number of patients with such complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recent study conducted at the University of Oxford has found that ultrasound can be used to deliver vaccines through the skin without the need for needles. Researchers mixed vaccine molecules with protein-based molecules and applied the mixture to the skin of mice, exposing it to ultrasound for a short period of time. The ultrasound caused bubbles to form, which pushed the vaccine deeper into the skin and also cleared dead skin cells, allowing more vaccine molecules to pass through. In tests with live mice, the ultrasound method resulted in the production of more antibodies compared to conventional injections, despite delivering fewer vaccine molecules. While this technique shows promise, further research is needed to ensure its safety in humans. [Extracted from the article]

• Our method is an innovation that combines Fuzzy Integral in GAN for medical image. • Our method constrains the GAN by getting a set of reference from prior knowledge. • Fuzzy integral is used to nonlinear fusion uncertain texture and structure features. • References and fuzzy integral work together to generate legitimate medical images. • Mining the connection between sample and data space to obtain anatomical constraints. The Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) is commonly used for medical image augmentation, a method to alleviate the data shortage for downstream tasks. However, traditional GANs is not effective in mining the intrinsic association between samples and data space. Also, the multiple sections and variable scaling ratios of ultrasound images lead to inconsistency among images. The current GAN-based image generation methods cannot obtain the overall anatomical semantic constraints of inconsistent images, thus illogical images are generated. Therefore, a Reference-guided Fuzzy Integral GAN (RFI-GAN) is proposed. First, RFI-GAN implicitly constrains the logicality of the generated images through feature fusion between samples and reference set. These references, a kind of prior knowledge, cover most of the anatomical structures in the dataset. Second, as the general linear fusion takes features as additive and cannot fit the inconsistency of features, we generalize the additivity of features to non-additivity through the Fuzzy Integral, which is used to fusion non-additive measures. Two Fuzzy Integral Modules are proposed to nonlinearly fusion the texture and structure features of ultrasound images under the guidance of references. Finally, we perform experiments on the thyroid ultrasound image dataset, demonstrating the effectiveness of RFI-GAN in terms of generation and downstream classification tasks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of scintigraphy and ultrasound to identify and localise parathyroid adenomas has become routine for patients with hyperparathyroidism due to its high sensitivity and specificity. Findings from these examinations are particularly useful in preoperative planning where accurate localisation allows surgeons to conduct a unilateral parathyroidectomy. This is less invasive and poses less complications compared to traditional methods of a complete neck dissection to examine all four parathyroid glands (Elsayed & Ali 2019). This case study concerns a 72-year-old female who presented with normocalcemic primary hyperparathyroidism. While scintigraphy confirmed the presence of an overactive tissue situated in the infero-medial aspect of the right lower pole in the thyroid, it could not be differentiated from the thyroid tissue itself even with the additional imaging using single position emission tomography with CT (SPECT/CT). An ultrasound was conducted immediately after where the higher resolution confirmed the presence of an adenoma and not concomitant thyroid. The purpose of this case study is to highlight the clinical role scintigraphy and ultrasound have in the diagnosis and treatment for patients with hyperparathyroidism. Bringing forward different forms of clinical evidence to locate, identify and characterise parathyroid adenomas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is a relatively new but versatile, safe, and fast diagnostic tool increasingly finding its way into primary care. Incorporation of POCUS curricula into postgraduate primary care training has been limited but is expanding nationally, in part due to recent ACGME recommendations. In preparation for implementing a POCUS curriculum at our family medicine (FM) residency program in Rochester, NY, we surveyed residents and faculty on their experience with and views of POCUS. Our objective was to evaluate resident and faculty use of POCUS, interest in starting a formal training curriculum, and planned future use of POCUS. In 2019 and 2020, a suivev was administered to assess the above topics at our large, urban FM residency program. Of the 72 participants, 23 of 36 residents (63.9%) and 22 of 36 faculty (61.1%) completed the survey for a response rate of 62.5%. Most (82.61%) residents had "no" or "minimal" prior POCUS training but a nearly equal majority (73.9%) thought it important for our program to expand our curriculum. Similarly, 86.4% of faculty had "no" or "minimal" POCUS training but 77.3% said it was important to add to our program. Residents have an interest in using POCUS now and in the future and faculty are interested in learning enough to teach it. Our findings demonstrate a training gap at our program that likely exists at many other family medicine programs around the state and country. Our study will help us develop our POCUS curriculum and offer insights that may benefit other similar programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on the use of ultrasound technology to control blue-green algae in wastewater treatment lagoons. Topics include the factors that contribute to algae growth in lagoons; the effectiveness of ultrasound in controlling cyanobacteria; and case studies of its application in Sundridge and Essex. Ultrasound has shown promise in reducing algae blooms and improving water quality in wastewater lagoons without causing cell lysis or releasing toxins.

The article discusses the use of advanced ultrasound imaging techniques, functional ultrasound imaging (fUS) and ultrasound localization microscopy (ULM), to assess brain function and structure in mice. A novel approach using a motorized multilinear probe allows for high-resolution, non-invasive imaging of neurovascular dynamics across the entire brain. The study reveals a correlation between absolute cerebral blood volume increases and microbubble velocity, indicating vessel-level dependency of the evoked response, with potential applications in brain disease diagnostics and therapeutic monitoring. This preprint has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the University of Padova in Italy have conducted a narrative review on the value of fractal analysis in ultrasound imaging. Fractal analysis, a mathematical approach introduced by Benoit Mandelbrot in the 1970s, is used to study complex patterns and structures. The study found that fractal analysis enhances ultrasound imaging by providing detailed tissue texture characterization, aiding in the diagnosis of various medical conditions such as breast and lung cancer, osteoporosis, and hypertensive disorders in pregnancy. This technique quantifies biological structure complexity, improves diagnostic accuracy, and supports clinicians in making informed decisions. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Northeastern University have explored the integration of diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound imaging into clinical practice by physical therapists. The study involved 16 physical therapists who are registered in musculoskeletal sonography, documenting their use of diagnostic MSK-US in clinical practice. The research found that ultrasound imaging directly influenced patient care by informing the diagnostic process, guiding treatment, and appropriately identifying referrals. This study provides valuable insights into the use of MSK-US by physical therapists to enhance clinical evaluation and treatment outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the University of Virginia discusses the potential use of handheld ultrasound devices in the initiation of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) therapy. The research highlights the benefits of dual transducer ultrasound devices that offer both phased array and linear transducer capabilities for intensivists and ECMO clinicians. The study emphasizes the value of incorporating these devices into ECMO initiation procedures, providing high-quality images and enhancing clinical utility. For more information, the full article can be accessed for free at the Journal of Cardiac Critical Care TSS website. [Extracted from the article]

C. R. Bard Inc. has been issued a patent for an apparatus and method that uses ultrasound imaging to locate, track, and display the location of a medical ultrasonic object, such as an ultrasonic catheter, during medical procedures. The patent, filed on May 12, 2023, and published online on October 22, 2024, aims to improve the accuracy and efficiency of vascular occlusion treatment systems by integrating ultrasound imaging and ultrasonic vibration systems. This innovation provides a detailed method for tracking the distal tip of an ultrasonic catheter using ultrasound imaging technology, enhancing the precision of medical procedures. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application by inventors from California has been made available online for a cannula assembly system designed to improve the safety and effectiveness of fat injection and liposuction procedures, particularly for aesthetic purposes like the Brazilian Butt Lift. The system includes features such as an ultrasound transducer and a light emitter to provide feedback on the depth and positioning of the cannula within tissue, aiming to minimize risks associated with fat injection procedures. This innovation addresses the need for safer and more predictable fat injection and collection methods, as well as cellulite treatment tools, by offering real-time information to enhance the precision and safety of aesthetic procedures. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers have submitted a patent application for a "Diagnostic Imaging System" that utilizes robotics and ultrasound technology to autonomously perform cardiac ultrasound imaging. The system aims to reduce costs, improve access to remote communities, and enhance the efficiency of medical procedures. By combining medical and robotic technologies, the system provides a safe and precise method for conducting ultrasound scans. The patent application outlines the technical specifications and operational modes of the diagnostic imaging system. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Kawasaki University of Medical Welfare in Okayama, Japan, discusses the use of musculoskeletal ultrasound imaging for evaluating and treating knee stiffness in patients with total knee arthroplasty. The study highlights the effectiveness of ultrasound-guided manual passive manipulation in improving knee flexion and gait speed in an 82-year-old woman post-surgery. The research emphasizes the importance of ultrasound imaging in identifying target regions for therapy and providing guidance during passive manipulation for patients with mobility issues like arthrofibrosis. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted in Hebei, People's Republic of China, focused on the impact of perioperative rapid rehabilitation nursing on pelvic floor function in patients undergoing transvaginal natural cavity endoscopic hysterectomy for myomas. The study used perineal Four-dimensional (4D) ultrasound imaging technique to evaluate postoperative pelvic floor function parameters. Results showed that the group receiving rapid rehabilitation nursing had better outcomes in terms of urethral rotation angle, bladder neck mobility, and incidence of pelvic floor abnormalities compared to the control group. The research concluded that 4D ultrasound imaging is beneficial for identifying pelvic floor structure and function post-hysterectomy, guiding rehabilitation treatment plans for patients. [Extracted from the article]

A research study conducted at Massachusetts General Hospital focused on a 6-week-old boy who was admitted to the hospital due to fussiness and abdominal distension. The infant was found to have a heterogeneous liver mass, leading to further diagnostics and treatment. The study discusses the management of abdominal distension in infants and the evaluation of liver masses, including oncologic, vascular, and infectious causes. This information can be found in the Pediatrics journal published by the American Academy of Pediatrics. [Extracted from the article]

A patent was issued to Hologic Inc. for an introducer and localization wire visualization technology. The patent describes a method for providing guidance for an introducer using ultrasound technology to identify and predict the location of a ring of a localization wire. The technology aims to improve accuracy and efficiency in procedures such as biopsies and lumpectomies by providing visual guidance for medical professionals. The patent was filed on September 24, 2020, and published online on October 22, 2024. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Monash University in Melbourne, Australia, focused on measuring the properties of the superficial pelvic floor muscles (sPFMs) using grayscale ultrasonography, point shear-wave elastography, and strain elastography. The research involved 26 women and encountered challenges related to the morphological characteristics of the sPFMs and the ultrasound assessment tools. The study concluded that further research is needed to optimize the protocol for evaluating individual sPFM properties using these tools, with Duplex Doppler potentially being valuable in distinguishing between vascular and sPFM structures. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for coherent spread-spectrum coded waveforms in synthetic aperture image formation by Decision Sciences International Corporation. The technology described in the patent focuses on synthetic aperture ultrasound imaging using unique acoustic waveforms to produce high-quality ultrasound images of biological tissue. This innovation has the potential to improve early detection of pathologies, aid in diagnosing neoplasms, reduce unnecessary biopsies, and enhance surgical procedures by fusing ultrasound images with other data. [Extracted from the article]

A research study conducted at Yichang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Hubei, People's Republic of China, explored the use of ultrasound and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in evaluating renal function damage and blood flow changes in diabetic nephropathy patients. The study included 124 patients who received Shenkang injection (SKI) treatment or conventional treatment. Results showed that SKI treatment led to significant improvements in renal function indicators, urinary albumin levels, plasma viscosity, and blood flow parameters compared to conventional treatment, suggesting SKI as an effective clinical option for diabetic nephropathy patients. The research has been peer-reviewed and published in the International Journal of Radiation Research. [Extracted from the article]

The patent application titled "Methods And Systems For Controlled Deployment Of Needle Structures In Tissue" discusses innovations in medical methods and apparatus for deploying needles in tissue, particularly for treating uterine fibroids. The invention aims to improve the precision and effectiveness of needle deployment using ultrasound imaging and treatment boundaries projected onto tissue images. The system allows for the deployment of multiple needles or tines from a central needle, with adjustments made based on real-time imaging and feedback to ensure accurate treatment and safety margins. The patent application provides detailed descriptions of the methods and systems involved in deploying needle structures for therapeutic purposes. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application titled "System And Method For Imaging And Registration For Navigation" was published online by inventors BARRERA, Osvaldo Andres, HELM, Patrick A., and PANDEY, Nikita. The application describes an ultrasound imaging system that includes an ultrasound transducer and a tracking device for generating sonograms of a subject. The system can be used in various procedures, such as surgical operations, to track instruments and display their positions relative to the subject. The patent application highlights the use of emerging technologies like robotics and machine learning in the field of health and medicine. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued to Fujifilm Corporation for an ultrasound system and method of controlling the system. The invention aims to improve the accuracy of ultrasound diagnosis, especially in remote locations, by synchronizing ultrasound images and view images captured by a mobile information terminal and displaying them on an external monitor. The system includes features such as wireless communication, probe freeze instructions, and voice input capabilities to enhance the quality of ultrasound imaging and diagnosis. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application by inventors from Medtronic Navigation Inc. describes a method and system for calibrating ultrasound imaging systems to improve navigational accuracy. The system captures ultrasound image data of tissues with different speeds of ultrasound waves, segments the tissues, identifies depths and actual speeds of ultrasound waves, and generates calibrated images. This innovation aims to enhance the accuracy of ultrasound imaging for medical procedures. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Fudan University (Xiamen Branch) in China examined the use of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) features, specifically ring-enhancement patterns, in distinguishing between benign and malignant thyroid nodules. The study found that irregular hypo-ring enhancement was more common in malignant nodules and served as an independent predictor for thyroid malignancy. The research suggests that irregular hypo-ring enhancement could be a valuable CEUS feature for the differential diagnosis of thyroid nodules, particularly in nodules measuring 10 mm in size. The findings were published in Ultrasonic Imaging by SAGE Publications. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the comparison of a vision foundation model, "Segment Anything (SAM)," with state-of-the-art models for cardiac ultrasound segmentation. The study found that the fine-tuned SAM model outperformed other models in most datasets, showing strong generalization capacity, especially on specific types of images. The research highlights the potential of SAM in enhancing clinical workflow efficiency through human-AI collaboration and reducing annotation time while maintaining segmentation quality. This preprint has not undergone peer review and provides valuable insights into the application of AI in medical imaging. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses a method for simulating tumor tissue in brain ex-vivo ultrasound for research and clinical training purposes. The method involves using ex-vivo brain tissue injected with agar to mimic tumor mass, providing realistic echogenic complexity and anatomical correctness. The study found that this method was more accurate and representative compared to synthetic materials-based phantoms, offering good visualization of real brain anatomy and contrast within tissue. The proposed method is deemed inexpensive, accurate, and beneficial for both trainee clinicians and researchers. [Extracted from the article]