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Terms modified by Using Selected AbstractsNonvisible Insufficient Subcutaneous Reticular Venous Plexus Can Be Observed through the Skin Using a New Illumination MethodDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 2010LUIS LOPEZ BUSTOS MD BACKGROUND Insufficient subcutaneous reticular venous plexus (ISRVP) is an overlooked disease because the human eye cannot see many of the insufficient veins. OBJECTIVE To present a total reticular vision (TRV) method that exposes nonvisible ISRVP to normal vision. METHOD & MATERIALS TRV used visual-spectrum white and red light of 700 nm and infrared light of 15 to 850 nm from an ultradigital viewer camera. We studied 124 asymptomatic subjects from the general population without visible ISRVP. Another six patients with ISRVP without other venous pathology were compared with six healthy controls, Very low pressure was applied to the proximal thigh, and minimal volume increments on the medial malleolus were photoplethysmographically registered to validate subcutaneous venous reflux. RESULTS Total reticular vision exposed ISRVP on the lower extremities in 72 of 124 subjects (58%), with observed damaged veins corresponding to more than 90% of nonvisible and 5% of visible portions of ISRVP. Subcutaneous reflux was registered only in patients with ISRVP. CONCLUSION Total reticular vision exposed more than 90% of nonvisible ISRVP, a new pathology, allowing for the study of its relationship with other superficial venous insufficiencies. The authors have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters. [source] Treatment of Superficial Infantile Hemangiomas of the Eyelid Using the 595-nm Pulsed Dye LaserDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 5 2010CHRISTOPHER M. HUNZEKER MD BACKGROUND Despite the proven effectiveness of the 595-nm pulsed dye laser (PDL) in treating superficial infantile hemangiomas, many physicians are reluctant to treat such lesions involving the eyelid. OBJECTIVE To examine the safety and efficacy of the 595-nm PDL for the treatment of superficial infantile hemangiomas of the eyelid. MATERIALS & METHODS Records were reviewed for patients with superficial infantile hemangiomas of the eyelid treated with 595-nm PDL. Pre- and post-treatment photographs were compared. Reviewers rated the degree of improvement of the hemangioma as excellent (76,100%), good (51,75%), moderate (26,50%), or poor (0,25%) and indicated whether the hemangioma was 100% clear. Side effects of scarring, atrophy, hyperpigmentation, and hypopigmentation were assessed. RESULTS Twenty-two patients met the study criteria. Eight (36.4%) demonstrated complete clearance of their hemangioma, 17 (77.3%) received an improvement rating of excellent, and five (22.7%) received a rating of good. No scarring, atrophy, or hypopigmentation was noted. Two patients (9.1%) were noted to have hyperpigmentation in the treated area. CONCLUSION Early treatment with the 595-nm PDL can safely and effectively diminish proliferative growth and hasten resolution of superficial infantile hemangiomas of the eyelid. Roy G. Geronemus, MD, is on the Medical Advisory Board for Candela Laser Corp. [source] Fluoroscopy-Guided Endovenous Foam Sclerotherapy Using a Microcatheter in Varicose Tributaries Followed by Endovenous Laser Treatment of Incompetent Saphenous Veins: Technical Feasibility and Early ResultsDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 5 2009SANG WOO PARK MD OBJECTIVES To evaluate the technical feasibility and preliminary results of endovenous foam sclerotherapy using a microcatheter in varicose tributaries followed by endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) of incompetent saphenous veins. MATERIALS AND METHODS From July 2005 to August 2006, 312 patients (M:F=139:173, mean age 45.8) who presented with varicose veins with reflux in the saphenofemoral, saphenopopliteal junction or tributaries were enrolled. Under ultrasound or fluoroscopy guidance, selective microcatheterization and endovenous foam slcerotherapy were first performed in varicose tributaries, followed by EVLT (980 nm) of incompetent saphenous veins. Follow-up at 1-week and 1-, 3-, and 6-month intervals was done. RESULTS Technical success was seen in 410 of 411 limbs (99%). Continued closure of the saphenous veins and the complete sclerosis of varicose tributaries were noted in 332 of 373 limbs (89%) at the 1-month follow-up, all 307 limbs (100%) at the 3-month follow-up, and all 274 limbs (100%) at the 6-month follow-up. No serious complication was noted. CONCLUSION Endovenous foam sclerotherapy using a microcatheter in varicose tributaries followed by EVLT in incompetent saphenous veins is a safe, effective, and technically feasible treatment for varicose veins. It not only reduces additional sclerotherapy and technical failure, but also makes multiple therapeutic sessions unnecessary. [source] Laser Lipolysis Using a Novel 1,064 nm Nd:YAG LaserDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 2 2006KAREN H. KIM MD BACKGROUND We studied the safety and efficacy of a 1,064 nm Nd:YAG laser with a 300 ,m fiber for the reduction of small unwanted fat areas. METHODS Thirty subjects with focal areas of fat less than 100 cm3 were enrolled. Ten subjects were treated with laser lipolysis and had magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at baseline and 3 months post-treatment. Ten subjects had laser lipolysis followed by biweekly treatments with the Tri-active system. The last group of 10 subjects served as control. Patients were seen at baseline, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 month follow-up visits. RESULTS Twenty-nine patients completed the study. Self-assessment evaluations reported an improvement of 37% at the 3-month follow-up visit. MRI demonstrated an average 17% reduction in fat volume. Smaller baseline volume areas, such as the submentum, showed better results, suggesting a dose-response relationship. The most common side effects were mild bruising and swelling resolving within 2 weeks. CONCLUSION Laser lipolysis using the 1,064 nm Nd:YAG laser with 300 ,m fiber appears to be a very promising procedure that delivers good, reproducible results safely and effectively. The advantages include excellent patient tolerance, quick recovery time, as well as the benefit of dermal tightening. [source] Treatment of Nevoid Hyperkeratosis of the Nipple and Areola Using a Radiofrequency Surgical UnitDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 6 2005Irfan Özyazgan MD Background. Nevoid hyperkeratosis of the nipple and areola (NHNA) is a rare condition of unknown etiology. Verrucous thickening and pigmentation of the nipple and areola are the main features of the condition. Different therapeutic options, both medical and surgical, have been described. Objective. To use a radiofrequency surgical unit to treat an NHNA case, which was unresponsive to keratolytic therapy. Materials and Methods. The lesions of the nipple and areolas were excised tangentially with a diamond-shaped electrode of a radiofrequency surgical unit under local anesthesia. Results. The patient had a good cosmetic appearance after the treatment, and there was no recurrence at the ninth postoperative month. Conclusion. Radiofrequency for tangential excision in the treatment of NHNA lesions that have not responded to medical therapy can be an alternative surgical method. [source] Pilonidal Sinus Disease Treated by Depilation Using an 800 nm Diode Laser and Review of the LiteratureDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 5 2005Anthony V. Benedetto DO, FACP background. Pilonidal sinus disease is a debilitating, disfiguring chronic ailment that is often resistant to therapy. Its etiology and treatment remain in question. objective. To assess the efficacy of an 800 nm diode laser in the treatment of recalcitrant pilonidal sinus disease. methods. Two patients with recalcitrant pilonidal sinus disease were treated in the lower back, buttocks, and perigluteal cleft area with an 800 nm diode laser with a spot size of 9 × 9 mm, fluences of 30 to 48 J/cm2, and pulse widths of 15 to 24 milliseconds. results. Long-term relief of pilonidal sinus disease was produced with as few as two treatments 2 months apart to as many as six treatments over a 2-year period. With each successive treatment, fewer pulses were needed and the interval between treatments increased. conclusion. The 800 nm diode laser may be an effective tool in the treatment of pilonidal sinus disease. By eliminating the source of hair and hair fragments that course along the surface of the lower back and buttocks, interruption of the etiologic source for pilonidal sinus disease can be accomplished. [source] Multipass Treatment of Photodamage Using the Pulse Dye LaserDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 7 2003Emil A. Tanghetti MD Background. Pulse dye lasers (PDLs) alter structural proteins in scars and photodamaged skin, in addition to their effects on dermal vasculature. The PDL has become an option in the treatment of photodamage. Although improvements to skin texture are generally modest when compared with ablative resurfacing, PDL offers a treatment with few side effects. A number of methods have been proposed in an effort to improve treatment outcomes. These range from single, low-fluence treatment with no purpura to multiple passes and treatment sessions as well as purpuric doses. Objective. To evaluate several of the PDL treatment methods to improve photorejuvenation outcomes while limiting the risk of side effects. Methods. Twenty patients with photodamage were separated into two groups. Each group received a series of four single-pass treatments or four double-pass treatments at 2-week intervals. Treatments were done using a 595-nm PDL (PhotoGenica V-Star) and a 585-nm PDL (PhotoGenica V) at a pulse duration of 0.5 ms and a 10-mm handpiece. Treatment fluences were maintained below the individual's purpuric threshold, ranging from 3 to 4 J/cm2. Photos were taken before treatment and during follow-up. Efficacy of treatment was based on subjective grading of photos and by patient self-reporting. Results. Multiple treatments resulted in improvements to skin tone and texture, including a reduction in the appearance of rhytids and, in particular, improved pigmentary evenness. There was no significant difference between laser or treatment methods. No side effects were noted. Conclusion. PDL treatments provide effective photorejuvenation with minimal risk of side effects. [source] A Novel Approach to Assess Aortic Stiffness Related to Changes in Aging Using a Two-Dimensional Strain ImagingECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Issue 9 2008Yoshifumi Oishi M.D. Background: Recently, it has been demonstrated that aortic stiffness is associated with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The objective of the present study was to accurately evaluate the aortic stiffness relative to the changes in aging using two-dimensional (2D) strain imaging in 39 comparatively normal patients (15,85 years). Methods: We obtained short-axis images of the abdominal aorta (Ao) and determined the peak circumferential strain (Ao-S) and strain rate (Ao-SR) and the time from Q-wave of electrocardiogram to peak Ao-S using the 2D strain imaging. The stiffness parameters ,1 and ,2 of the abdominal aorta were measured using M-mode ultrasonography and 2D strain imaging, respectively. Results: The stiffness parameters ,1 and ,2 correlated significantly with age (r=0.51, P < 0.001 and r=0.69, P < 0.0001, respectively), particularly the latter parameter ,2. The peak circumferential Ao-S and Ao-SR correlated strongly with age (r=,0.79, P < 0.0001 and r=,0.87, P < 0.0001, respectively). The stiffness parameter ,1 was significantly greater in the old-aged group (>60 years) than in the young-aged group (<30 years). The peak circumferential Ao-S and Ao-SR were significantly lower in the middle-aged (30,60 years) and old-aged groups than in the young-aged group. Conclusion: The aortic circumferential strain and strain rate measured by 2D strain imaging allow simple and accurate determination of the aortic stiffness. [source] "Hands-Free" Continuous Transthoracic Monitoring of Pericardiocentesis Using a Novel Ultrasound TransducerECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Issue 6 2003F.R.C.P., P.A.N. Chandraratna Background: Pericardiocentesis can be monitored with a hand-held transducer. The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of monitoring pericardiocentesis using a novel ultrasound transducer, which can be attached to the chest wall, developed in our laboratory (CONTISON). Methods: We studied nine patients with large pericardial effusions. The 2.5-MHz transducer is spherical in its distal part and mounted in an external housing to permit steering in 360 degrees. The external housing is attached to the chest wall using an adhesive patch. The CONTISON transducer was placed at the cardiac apex and an apical four-chamber view obtained. Pericardiocentesis was performed from the subcostal position. The pericardial effusion was continuously imaged. Mitral inflow velocity signals were recorded before and after pericardiocentesis. When fluid was first obtained, 50 mL of fluid were discarded after which 5 mL of agitated saline was injected through the needle. Results: In the first patient the pericardiocentesis needle was seen in the left ventricular cavity. Saline injection produced a contrast effect in the left ventricle. The needle was gradually withdrawn until contrast was seen in the pericardial sac. A total of 1100 mL was removed without further complications. The second patient had clear fluid followed by blood stained aspirate. The echocardiogram revealed gradual appearance of granular echoes within the pericardial sac, suggestive of intrapericardial clot that was subsequently surgically evacuated. In the remaining seven patients, agitated saline produced a contrast effect in the pericardial sac indicative of proper needle position. Mitral flow velocity paradoxus was noted in five patients, and it resolved after pericardiocentesis in four patients. No adjustment of the transducer was required. Conclusion: The CONTISON transducer permitted continuous monitoring of pericardiocentesis. This technique could potentially facilitate pericardiocentesis. (ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Volume 20, August 2003) [source] The Determination of Methanol Using an Electrolytically Fabricated Nickel Microparticle Modified Boron Doped Diamond ElectrodeELECTROANALYSIS, Issue 5 2010Kathryn Abstract A nickel modified boron doped diamond (Ni-BDD) electrode and nickel foil electrode were used in the determination of methanol in alkaline solutions. The Ni-BDD electrode was electrodeposited from a 1,mM Ni(NO3)2 solution (pH,5), followed by repeat cycling in KOH. Subsequent analysis utilised the Ni(OH)2/NiOOH redox couple to electrocatalyse the oxidation of methanol. Methanol was determined to limits of 0.3,mM with a sensitivity of 110,nA/mM at the Ni-BDD electrode. The foil electrode was less sensitive achieving a limit of 1.6,mM and sensitivity of 27,nA/mM. SEM analysis of the electrodes found the Ni-BDD to be modified by a quasi-random microparticle array. [source] Simultaneous Determination of Trace Zinc(II) and Cadmium(II) by Differential Pulse Anodic Stripping Voltammetry Using a MWCNTs,NaDBS Modified Stannum Film ElectrodeELECTROANALYSIS, Issue 23 2009Qing Tian Abstract A multiwalled carbon nanotubes,sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate (MWCNTs,NaDBS) modified stannum film electrode was employed for the determination of cadmium(II) and zinc(II). The Sn/MWCNTs-NaDBS film electrode was prepared by applying MWCNTs,NaDBS suspension to the surface of the GCE, while the Sn film was plated in situ simultaneously with the target metal ions. Under optimal conditions, linear calibration curves were obtained in a range of 5.0 ,100.0,,g L,1 with detection limits of 0.9,,g L,1 for zinc(II) and 0.8,,g L,1 for cadmium(II), respectively. This film electrode was successfully applied to the determination of Zn(II) and Cd(II) in tap water sample. [source] Simultaneous Determination of Dopamine and Ascorbic Acid Using the Nano-Gold Self-Assembled Glassy Carbon ElectrodeELECTROANALYSIS, Issue 10 2009Guangzhi Hu Abstract Electrochemical behavior of dopamine (DA) was investigated at the gold nanoparticles self-assembled glassy carbon electrode (GNP/LC/GCE), which was fabricated by self-assembling gold nanoparticles on the surface of L -cysteine (LC) modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) via successive cyclic voltammetry (CV). A pair of well-defined redox peaks of DA on the GNP/LC/GCE was obtained at Epa=0.197,V and Epc=0.146,V, respectively. And the peak separation between DA and AA is about 0.2,V, which is enough for simultaneous determination of DA and AA. The peak currents of DA and AA were proportional with their concentrations in the range of 6.0×10,8,8.5×10,5 mol L,1 and 1.0×10,6,2.5×10,3 mol L,1, with the detection limit of 2.0×10,8 mol L,1 and 3.0×10,7 mol L,1 (S/N=3), respectively. The modified electrode exhibits an excellent reproducibility, sensibility and stability for simultaneous determination of DA and AA in human serum with satisfactory result. [source] Anodic Stripping Voltammetry Using a Vibrating ElectrodeELECTROANALYSIS, Issue 13 2007Conrad Abstract This work proposes a vibrating microwire electrode as working electrode in stripping voltammetry. The vibration was found to maintain a constant and thin (1,2,,m) diffusion layer during the deposition step. The electrode vibration eliminated the need for external stirring of the solution, thus facilitating in situ detection in the environment. The vibration was effected by fixing a low-voltage (3,V), asymmetric, electrical rotor to the working electrode (a gold microwire of either 5 or 25,,m). The sensitivity of the vibrated electrode was ca. 22×greater than stationary. Measurements of copper (4,nM) by anodic stripping voltammetry using the vibrating electrode had a low standard deviation (1% for n=6) indicating that the diffusion layer had only minor variability. The agitation mechanism was unaffected by water moving at >2,m s,1 and by water pressure equivalent to a depth of >40,m, indicating its suitability for in situ measurements. The vibrating probe was used for in situ detection of copper by anodic stripping voltammetry to a depth of 6,m. Using a 5,min deposition time, the limit of detection for labile copper was 38,pM. [source] Amperometry of Heparin Polyion Using a Rotating Disk Electrode Coated with a Plasticized PVC MembraneELECTROANALYSIS, Issue 2 2006Jan Langmaier Abstract Electrochemical method of detection of heparin polyion was developed based on voltammetry of heparin on a rotating glassy carbon (GC) electrode coated with a plasticized PVC membrane. The membrane was deposited on the GC disk by spin-coating technique using a mixture of solutions of PVC in tetrahydrofuran, and 1,1,-dimethylferrocene (DMFc) and hexadecyltrimethylammonium tetrakis(4-chlorophenyl)borate (HTMATPBCl) in o -nitrophenyl octyl ether. UV/vis reflection spectrometry was used to evaluate the membrane thickness, which exhibits a linear correlation with the membrane resistance measured by impedance spectroscopy. It is shown that this electrode can be used for amperometric or coulometric detection of heparin in aqueous samples of medically relevant concentrations (1,10,U mL,1), with a detection limit of 1.4,U mL,1. Evidence is provided indicating that the current determining step is the reversible adsorption of the ion-pair of heparin polyion with HTMA+ cation at the membrane/aqueous electrolyte interface, which is driven by oxidation of DMFc at the GC/membrane interface. [source] Analysis of Simulated Martian Regolith Using an Array of Ion Selective ElectrodesELECTROANALYSIS, Issue 15-16 2005Stefan Abstract A prototype miniature array of polymer membrane and solid state ion selective electrodes was developed for the purpose of performing an in-situ analysis of the soluble ionic species in Martian regolith (soil). The array contains a total of 27 electrodes for K+, Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, NH, Ba2+, NO, Cl,, and Li+, each in triplicate. Barium electrodes were used to indirectly monitor sulfate through precipitation by the addition of barium chloride while the lithium electrodes served as a reference for the array by having a constant lithium concentration as a background for all solutions. The array was tested with several types of simulants, soils, and sawdust from a Mars meteorite, all with varying salt content, meant to approximate the various hypotheses regarding the ionic composition of the Martian soil. The activities of anions and cations determined with the array were compared to ion chromatography data. [source] Mercury Detection in Seawater Using a Mercaptoacetic Acid Modified Gold Microwire ElectrodeELECTROANALYSIS, Issue 10 2005Antje Widmann Abstract It is demonstrated here that it is possible to determine mercury in chloride containing media like seawater by anodic stripping voltammetry using a modified electrode. A gold microwire electrode is modified using mercaptoacetic acid (MAA) to eliminate the problem of calomel formation, allowing the mercury to become fully removed from the electrode surface after each scan. In a synthetic salt solution of KNO3 the sensitivity for mercury was found to be improved by the surface modification. In seawater the sensitivity was not significantly improved possibly because of complexation of the mercury by the abundant chloride; however, the MAA coating prevented the formation of calomel causing the background scan to be free of mercury. Measurements in seawater at various pH values demonstrated that mercury detection is possible at natural pH (around 8); however, best sensitivity was attained at pH,4.8 with a deposition time of 3,min. A peak for copper occurred at more negative potential but did not interfere at this pH. The calibration was linear between 0 and 37,nM mercury with a limit of detection of 1,nM mercury. [source] Flow Injection Analysis of Sulfide Using a Cinder/Tetracyano Nikelate Modified Screen-Printed ElectrodeELECTROANALYSIS, Issue 9 2005Jyh-Myng Zen Abstract Flow injection analysis (FIA) of sulfide is presented using a screen-printed carbon electrode modified with a cinder/tetracyano nickelate hybrid (designated as cinder/NiTcSPE). Hybridization of NiTc was achieved in iron-enriched industrial waste cinder material through the bimetallic formation of FeIII[NiII(CN)4]. The electrocatalytic oxidation of sulfide is mediated by the higher oxidation state of Ni in this hybrid-bimetallic complex. The system shows a detection limit (S/N=3) of 0.06,,M and a linear working range up to 1,mM in pH,10, 0.1,M KCl solution. Taking into account the relatively low volatility of the analyte in alkaline conditions, the system is ideally suited for the accurate detection of sulfide. The response of the electrode to sulfide is highly reproducible, thereby offering the potential development of a disposable amperometric sensor for sulfide. Selective detection of sulfide in cigarette smoke is presented in this study as an example of a real sample application. [source] On-line identification of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) in tablets using a combination of a sweeping technique and micellar electrokinetic chromatography/77 K fluorescence spectroscopyELECTROPHORESIS, Issue 6 2003Ching Fang Abstract This work describes a novel method for the accurate determination of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) in tablets. A technique involving sweeping-micellar electrokinetic chromatography (MEKC) was used for the initial on-line concentration and separation, after which a cryogenic molecular fluorescence experiment was performed at 77 K. Using this approach, not only the separation of LSD from the tablet extract was achieved, but on-line spectra were readily distinguishable and could be unambiguously assigned. The results are in agreement with analyses by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Thus, this method, which was found to be accurate, sensitive and rapid, has the potential for use as a reliable complementary method to GC-MS in such analyses. [source] Pseudomonas fluorescens' view of the periodic tableENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY, Issue 1 2008Matthew L. Workentine Summary Growth in a biofilm modulates microbial metal susceptibility, sometimes increasing the ability of microorganisms to withstand toxic metal species by several orders of magnitude. In this study, a high-throughput metal toxicity screen was initiated with the aim of correlating biological toxicity data in planktonic and biofilm cells to the physiochemical properties of metal ions. To this end, Pseudomonas fluorescens ATCC 13525 was grown in the Calgary Biofilm Device (CBD) and biofilms and planktonic cells of this microorganism were exposed to gradient arrays of different metal ions. These arrays included 44 different metals with representative compounds that spanned every group of the periodic table (except for the halogens and noble gases). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) and minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC) values were obtained after exposing the biofilms to metal ions for 4 h. Using these values, metal ion toxicity was correlated to the following ion-specific physicochemical parameters: standard reduction-oxidation potential, electronegativity, the solubility product of the corresponding metal,sulfide complex, the Pearson softness index, electron density and the covalent index. When the ions were grouped according to outer shell electron structure, we found that heavy metal ions gave the strongest correlations to these parameters and were more toxic on average than the other classes of the ions. Correlations were different for biofilms than for planktonic cells, indicating that chemical mechanisms of metal ion toxicity differ between the two modes of growth. We suggest that biofilms can specifically counter the toxic effects of certain physicochemical parameters, which may contribute to the increased ability of biofilms to withstand metal toxicity. [source] Measurement of respiratory function by impulse oscillometry in horsesEQUINE VETERINARY JOURNAL, Issue 1 2004E. Van Erck Reasons for performing study: Due to technical implementations and lack of sensitivity, pulmonary function tests are seldom used in clinical practice. Impulse oscillometry (IOS) could represent an alternative method. Objectives: To define feasibility, methodology and repeatability of IOS, a forced oscillation technique that measures respiratory resistance (Rrs) and reactance (Xrs) from 5 to 35 Hz during spontaneous breathing, in horses. Methods: Using 38 healthy horses, Rrs and Xrs reference values were defined and influence of individual biometrical parameters was investigated. In addition, IOS measurements of 6 horses showing clinical signs of heaves were compared to those of 6 healthy horses. Results: Airtightness and minimal dead space in the facemask were prerequisites to IOS testing and standardisation of head position was necessary to avoid variations in Rrs due to modified upper airway geometry. In both healthy and diseased animals, measurements were repeatable. In standard-type breeds, the influence of the horse's size on IOS parameters was negligible. An increase in R5Hz greater than 0.10 kPa/l/sec and R5Hz>R10Hz, combined with negative values of Xrs between 5 and 20 Hz, was indicative of heaves crisis. Conclusions: IOS is a quick, minimally invasive and informative method for pulmonary function testing in healthy and diseased horses. Potential relevance: IOS is a promising method for routine and/or field respiratory clinical testing in the equine species. [source] Disease burden of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia within the European UnionEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF HAEMATOLOGY, Issue 4 2008Louise Watson Abstract Objective:, Whilst Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is considered a rare disease, to our knowledge, the current prevalence of CLL within the European Union (EU) member states is not published. Understanding the number of individuals with CLL is vital to assess disease burden within the wider population. Methods:, Using 2002 data from the International Agency for Research on Cancer, we estimated the number of individuals with CLL (ICD-10 C91.1) from those reported for all leukaemias (C91,95) and extrapolated the figures by the population increase within the EU between 2002 and 2006, the last year with fully updated community population estimates. One- and 5-yr partial prevalence estimates are reported (i.e. the number of individuals still living 1,5 yr post-diagnosis). We then applied proportional estimates from the literature to assess those requiring immediate treatment, those under observation and their likely progression rates. Results:, We found that within the 27 EU states plus Iceland, Norway and Lichtenstein, 1- and 5-yr CLL partial prevalence estimates totalled approximately 13 952 and 46 633 individuals respectively in 2006. By applying Binet staging to the 1-yr estimate, 40% of patients will be stage B/C and require immediate treatment. Thus, 5581 individuals may be treated within the first year of diagnosis. Of the 60% (8371) under observation, by 5 yr up to 33% (2763) may have more advanced disease with increased risk of mortality. Conclusion:, Whilst CLL is a rare disease, the number of individuals burdened by the disease within the EU is considerable and thousands of patients require treatment and physician care, which has cost implications for member states. [source] Arylation of Hydrocarbyl Ligands Formed from n -Alkanes through C,H Bond Activation of Benzene Using a Triruthenium ClusterEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF INORGANIC CHEMISTRY, Issue 23 2009Makoto Moriya Abstract Triruthenium complex 2 containing a perpendicularly coordinated 1-pentyne ligand, which is one of the key intermediates of the reaction of triruthenium pentahydrido complex 1 with n -pentane, reacts with benzene to yield ,3 -benzyne,,3 -pentylidyne complex 5 by C,H bond activation. ,-H elimination form the ,3 -penytylidyne ligand occurred upon heating to yield ,3 -pentenylidene complex 6, which was followed by the formation of closo -ruthenacyclopentadiene complex 8 by the connection of the two hydrocarbyl moieties placed on each face of the triruthenium plane with partial metal,metal bond breaking. Treatment of 8 with pressurized hydrogen resulted in exclusive liberation of n -pentylbenzene, which is difficult to synthesize by conventional Friedel,Crafts alkylation. These sequential transformations correspond to the formation of linear alkylbenzene by the reaction of pentane with benzene on a trimetallic plane. (© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009) [source] Synthesis and Reactivity of Oxametallacyclic Niobium Compounds by Using ,,,-Unsaturated Carbonyl Ligands,EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF INORGANIC CHEMISTRY, Issue 14 2008Rocío A. Arteaga-Müller Abstract Reduction of mono(cyclopentadienyl)niobium complexes [NbCpRCl4] [CpR = C5Me4H (1), C5H4SiMe2Cl (2), C5H4SiMe3 (3)] with Na/Hg in the presence of methyl methacrylate [MMA, CH2=C(Me)C(O)OMe (a)], methyl acrylate [MA, CH2=CHC(O)OMe (b)] and mesityl oxide [MO, CMe2=CHC(O)Me (c)] afforded the corresponding derivatives [NbCpRCl2(LL)] [CpR = C5Me4H, LL = MMA (1a); CpR = C5H4SiMe2Cl, LL = MMA (2a), MA (2b), MO (2c); CpR = C5H4SiMe3, LL = MMA (3a), MA (3b)] in variable yields depending on both the cyclopentadienyl and the ,,,-unsaturated carbonyl compounds. The reactivity of these complexes was studied toward protic and Lewis acids. Addition of triflic acid TfOH (Tf = CF3SO2) to 3b gave the triflate complex [NbCpRCl2{(CH2)2C(O)OMe}(OTf)] [CpR = C5H4SiMe3 (4)]. The Lewis acids E(C6F5)3 (E = B, Al) reacted with complexes 2b and 3b to give the three-membered metallacyclic (or ,2 -enone) compounds [NbCpRCl2{,2 -CH2=CHC(OMe){O·E(C6F5)3}}] [CpR = C5H4SiMe2Cl, E = B (5), Al (6); CpR = C5H4SiMe3, E = B (7), Al (8)], which decomposed to the corresponding adducts MA·E(C6F5)3. The same reaction with the 2a and 3a derivatives only allowed the observation of the corresponding adducts MMA·E(C6F5)3. Complexes 2a,b and 3a,b reacted with CO with elimination of the acrylate compounds, MA and MMA, respectively, to give the carbonylniobium(III) compounds [NbCpRCl2(CO)2]2 [CpR = C5H4SiMe2Cl (9), C5H4SiMe3 (10)]. Analogous reactions with CNAr showed the elimination of the free MA and MMA compounds. (© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008) [source] The importance of educational and psychological factors in Parkinson's disease quality of lifeEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 6 2002E. Cubo Objective: ,To define the factors correlated with quality of life (QoL) in patients with idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD). Background: PD has a substantial impact on QoL. Although several clinical factors have been associated with QoL in PD, the influence of patient's education still remains controversial. Methodology: ,A consecutive series of patients with PD were examined using the unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS part I, II, III), Schwab and England (SE), and Hoehn and Yahr stage (H&Y). QoL was rated with the PDQ-39, cognition with the Mini-Mental State examination (MMSE), and the presence of depressive symptoms with the geriatric depression scale (GDS). Patient's characteristics, estimated cumulative levodopa dose (CLD), UPDRS, H&Y, MMSE and GDS were correlated with the PDQ-39 using univariate and multiple regression analysis. Results: ,A total of one hundred 58 patients (68 men, 90 women) with a mean age of 65.6 ± 9.3 years, PD duration of 8.1 ± 10.6 years, and education of 6.6 ± 3.9 years were included. The mean PDQ-39 was 48.8 ± 27.8, mean MMSE was 25.7 ± 4, and mean GDS was 11.7 ± 6.8. Using stepwise multiple regression analysis, the most important predictive factors were depression, UPDRS part I, UPDRS part II, and educational background, which accounted for a 61% of the variability of the PDQ-39 scores. Conclusions: ,In our PD sample, educational, behavioural, and psychological factors influenced life satisfaction more than physical ones. [source] Development of Biomimetic Chitosan-Based Hydrogels Using an Elastin-Like Polymer,ADVANCED ENGINEERING MATERIALS, Issue 1-2 2010Joaquim S. Barbosa Chitosan and an elastin-like polymer, containing a specific osteoconductive sequence in the primary structure, have been combined to obtain bioactive injectable systems with enhanced mechanical properties and hydrogels. Obtained results indicate that the combination of such polymers may be very promising in the development of biomaterials for minimal invasive orthopaedic reconstructive applications or in bone tissue engineering. The figure shows a thermo-sensitive hydrogel, with a gelation point under physiological temperature. [source] Radical Reduction of Epoxides Using a Titanocene(III)/Water System: Synthesis of ,-Deuterated Alcohols and Their Use as Internal Standards in Food AnalysisEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ORGANIC CHEMISTRY, Issue 22 2010Tania Jiménez Abstract We describe a comprehensive study into the Cp2TiCl-mediated reductive epoxide ring opening using either water as a hydrogen source or deuterium oxide as a deuterium source. The remarkable chemical profile of this reaction allows access to alcohols with anti-Markovnikov regiochemistry from different epoxides. The use of D2O as a deuterium source leads to an efficient synthesis of ,-deuterated alcohols, including a deuterated sample of tyrosol, a bioactive compound contained in the leaves of the olive, which was successfully applied as an internal standard in food analysis. [source] Development of Ketoside-Type Analogues of Trehalose by Using ,-Stereoselective O-Glycosidation of KetoseEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ORGANIC CHEMISTRY, Issue 22 2007Rie Namme Abstract The stereoselective synthesis of ketoside-type analogues of trehalose is described. O-Glycosidation of hept-2-ulopyranose with trimethylsilyl ,-pyranoside promoted by trimethylsilyl trifluoromethanesulfonate afforded ,-ketopyranosyl ,-aldopyranosides exclusively. ,-Ketopyranosyl ,-aldooyranosides and ,-ketopyranosyl ,-ketopyranosides were also synthesized in a similar manner. The benzyl protecting groups of the hydroxy moieties were removed by hydrogenolysis to afford fully deprotected trehalose analogues.(© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007) [source] Catalysis: Synthesis of High-Surface-Area Platinum Nanotubes Using a Viral Template (Adv. Funct.ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 8 2010Mater. [source] Synthesis of High-Surface-Area Platinum Nanotubes Using a Viral TemplateADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 8 2010. Górzny, Marcin Abstract A novel method for the synthesis of high-active-surface-area, platinum,tobacco mosaic virus (Pt,TMV) nanotubes is presented. A platinum salt is reduced to its metallic form on the external surface of a rod-shaped TMV by methanol, which serves as a solvent and reductant simultaneously. It was found that for the same Pt loading the Pt,TMV nanotubes had an electrochemically active surface area between 4 to 8 times larger than similarly sized Pt nanoparticles. A Pt,TMV catalyst displays greater stability in acidic conditions than those based on nanoparticles. When used as a catalyst for methanol oxidation, these Pt nanotubes display a 65% increase in catalytic mass activity compared to that based on Pt nanoparticles. [source] A Bayesian Approach to Prediction Using the Gravity Model, with an Application to Patient Flow ModelingGEOGRAPHICAL ANALYSIS, Issue 3 2000Peter Congdon This paper investigates the potential for estimation and prediction by Bayesian methods of hospitalization flows classified by place of residence and hospital site. The focus is especially with respect to emergency (unplanned) admissions to hospitals. The need for strategic modeling and forecasting arises since the structure of U.K. emergency service provision is subject to changes involving site closures or changes in bed numbers. The gravity model, reflecting patient demand, hospital supply, and distance effects has been applied to patient flows, but generally in a situation of unchanged destination states. It may be modified, however, in accordance with major changes in hospital service structure, to include access effects (the interplay of supply and distance) and temporal variation in its parameters. Therefore, prediction may be applied to a "new" situation defined, for example, by closures of entire hospital sites. The modeling approach used may be adapted to other flow models where destinations may be added or eliminated (for example, trade-area models). A case study involves a sector of London subject to such a restructuring following the U.K. government's 1997,98 review of London's emergency services. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||