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Preliminary Report (preliminary + report)
Selected AbstractsALGAL-RELATED TASTES AND ODORS IN PHOENIX WATER SUPPLY: PRELIMINARY REPORTJOURNAL OF PHYCOLOGY, Issue 2000Q. Hu Frequent episodes of algal-related tastes and odors (T & O) in drinking waters in metropolitan Phoenix, Arizona prompted initiation of a three-year project in July 1999 to investigate the occurrence of T & O metabolites and to develop a comprehensive management strategy to reduce the problems in drinking water supplies in arid environments. Two metabolites, 2-methylisoborneol (MIB) and geosmin, have been identified as compounds responsible for the earthy-musty tastes and odors in water supplies. Both were detected in the water supply system, including source rivers, reservoirs, canal delivery system and water treatment plants. Higher concentrations of MIB and geosmin occurred in distribution canals than in the upstream reservoirs indicating that significant production of the T & O compounds occurs within the canal system. A baseline-monitoring program has been established for the complex water supply system, with special emphasis on the canal system. Efforts are underway to investigate possible correlations between physical/chemical parameters, algal composition and biomass, with the occurrence of MIB and geosmin. In addition, several physical and chemical treatments are planned for the canal system to reduce algal growth and related MIB and geosmin concentrations. [source] The Bunshaft Tapes: A Preliminary ReportJOURNAL OF ARCHITECTURAL EDUCATION, Issue 2 2000Reinhold Martin Among the material collected in the Gordon Bunshaft Papers in the Avery Architectural and Fine Arts Library Archives at Columbia University are seventeen audiocassette tapes documenting a series of interviews between Arthur Drexler (1925-1987), curator of architecture and design at the Museum of Modern Art, and Gordon Bunshaft (1909-1990) of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM). In these tapes, Bunshaft and Drexler proceed systematically through Bunshaft's work for SOM, with Drexler consistently probing for evidence of authorial intentionality, resisted by Bunshaft. This report considers the manner in which these tapes construct a complex "orality," in which Bunshaft's testimony refuses the intertextual mediation implied by Drexler's questions, which themselves rely on the authority of an oral testimony to guarantee the authenticity of the answers. In turn, Bunshaft's refusals to engage with architectural discourse in the name of a pseudotransparent pragmatics demonstrate the extent of his identification with the ethos of his clients, corporate executives whose "visionary" status in the postwar period was a function of their own-discursive-privileging of pragmatic action over reflective discourse. [source] Multi-Couple Reflecting Team: Preliminary ReportJOURNAL OF MARITAL AND FAMILY THERAPY, Issue 3 2008Bogdan De Barbaro The aim of therapeutic help in marital crisis is to break the vicious circle of mutual hurtful accusations. The method that the authors present below involves a group of couples working within a closed cycle of meetings. In the course of successive group meetings, the various couples act as reflecting teams (RTs) for each other. This achieves two objectives: the couple recounting their crisis receives nonthreatening feedback, which helps them to implement positive changes and break out of the self-perpetuating destructive interaction. In addition, the couples acting as the RT learn nonjudgmental, nontheorizing and affirmative communication. [source] Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo Controlled Pilot Study Evaluating Efficacy and Reactogenicity of an Oral ETEC B-Subunit-Inactivated Whole Cell Vaccine against Travelers' Diarrhea (Preliminary Report)JOURNAL OF TRAVEL MEDICINE, Issue 1 2000Gerhard Wiedermann No abstract is available for this article. [source] Intradiscal High-Voltage, Long-Duration Pulsed Radiofrequency for Discogenic Pain: A Preliminary ReportPAIN MEDICINE, Issue 5 2006Alexandre Teixeira MD ABSTRACT Background., Intradiscal radiofrequency, with the electrode placed in the center of the nucleus pulposus, has been a controversial procedure in patients with discogenic pain. Possibly the effect has not been due to the production of heat, but to exposure to electric fields. Design., We have investigated the effect of high-voltage, long-duration intradiscal pulsed radiofrequency in patients with one-level discogenic low back pain, as confirmed by discography. Outcome Measure., The pain intensity score on a 0,10 numeric rating scale (NRS) was taken as outcome measure. Patients., Eight patients were reported. The mean duration of pain was 6.3 years (range 0.5,16, median 4). The mean NRS score was 7.75 (range 5,9). Disc height was reduced 60% in one patient and up to 30% in the others. Intervention., A 15-cm, 20-gauge needle with a 15-mm active tip was placed centrally in the disc. Pulsed radiofrequency was applied for 20 min at a setting of 2 × 20 ms/s and 60 V. Results., There was a very significant fall in the NRS scores over the first 3 months (P < 0.0001). On an individual basis, all patients had a fall of the NRS score of at least 4 points at the 3-month follow-up. A follow-up of 12.8 months (range 6,25, median 9) was available for five patients. All these patients are now pain free, except for one patient with an NRS score of 2. Conclusion., It is concluded that this method merits a controlled, prospective study. [source] ORIGINAL ARTICLE: The Characterization of the Subpopulation of Suppressive B7H4+ Macrophages and the Subpopulation of CD25+ CD4+ and FOXP3+ Regulatory T-cells in Decidua during the Secretory Cycle Phase, Arias Stella Reaction, and Spontaneous Abortion , A Preliminary ReportAMERICAN JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTIVE IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 4 2009Lukasz Wicherek Problem, The presence of immunosuppressive cells within the endometrium and decidua is crucial for establishing maternal immune tolerance against fetal antigens. We decided to evaluate the subpopulations of Treg cells and B7H4 macrophages in eutopic endometrium typified by Arias Stella reaction during the development of Fallopian tube pregnancy as well as in decidua at the time of spontaneous abortion (SA), and to compare these findings to those observed in the endometrium during the secretory cycle phase of healthy women. Method of study, The decidual tissue samples evaluated in our study were obtained from 26 women who underwent curettage as a result of the following circumstances: five of the women because of a laparoscopic procedure necessitated by Fallopian tube pregnancy, and 11 of them because of SA. The control group consisted of 10 patients on whom curettage was preformed as an additional procedure during laparoscopic myomectomy. The presence of regulatory T-cells and B7H4-positive macrophages in the samples was analysed by fluorescence-activated cell sorter (FACScan). Results, Both the percentages of FOXP3+ cells in the subpopulation of CD25+ CD4+ T lymphocytes and the percentage of B7H4-positive cells in the macrophage subpopulation found in the deciduae of patients suffering SA were higher than those found in eutopic endometrium with Arias Stella reaction. No such differences in the percentages of these cells were observed when the tissue samples from patients with SA were compared with those from the control group. The percentage of B7H4-positive macrophages, however, was found to be significantly lower in endometrium with Arias Stella reaction in comparison to that observed in secretory endometrium. Conclusion, The alterations in both the Treg cell and suppressive B7H4+ macrophage subpopulations would seem to be related to the suppression of maternal immune cells in the endometrium at the beginning of decidualization. [source] ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Changes in the Subpopulation of CD25+ CD4+ and FOXP3+ Regulatory T Cells in Decidua with Respect to the Progression of Labor at Term and the Lack of Analogical Changes in the Subpopulation of Suppressive B7-H4+ Macrophages , A Preliminary ReportAMERICAN JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTIVE IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 2 2009Krystyna Galazka Problem, The initiation of labor is accompanied by alterations in the level of maternal immune tolerance toward fetal antigens. It is a complex molecular response leading to a brief activation of the maternal immune system with an accompanying capacity to restrict this same activation. The aim of our study was to evaluate the subpopulation of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and B7-H4 macrophages in the decidua basalis during cesarean sections performed on patients in various stages of labor. Method of study, The decidual tissue samples evaluated in our study were obtained from 23 pregnant women who underwent cesarean sections at term. Moreover, the patients were divided into three subgroups according to the progression of labor at the time of the cesarean. The presence of Treg cells and B7-H4 positive macrophages were analysed by fluorescence-activated cell sorter. Results, The percentages of FOXP3+ cells in the subpopulation of CD25+ CD4+ T lymphocytes found in the deciduas of patients decreased with the successive stages of labor, while the percentages of B7-H4 positive cells in the macrophage subpopulation remained almost constant. Conclusion, These changes in the Treg cell subpopulation in the decidua would seem to be related to a brief activation of the maternal immune system as labor begins and lack of analogical changes in the subpopulation of decidual suppressive B7-H4+ macrophages that enable the restriction of this same activation as labor progresses. [source] Surgical Removal of Jugular Paragangliomas After Stenting of the Intratemporal Internal Carotid Artery: A Preliminary ReportTHE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 5 2006Mario Sanna MD Abstract Objective: Jugular paragangliomas with extensive involvement of the internal carotid artery (ICA) represent a true challenge for surgeons, especially in the presence of inadequate collateral circulation through the circle of Willis. The aim of our study is to present a preliminary report of our experience with the surgical removal of three such cases using the stenting of the ICA as the method of choice for protecting and preserving the integrity of the artery. Methods: This retrospective study was conducted at Gruppo Otologico, a private referral center for neurotology and skull base surgery. The subjects of our study are three cases of jugular paragangliomas with extensive involvement of the ICA and inadequate collateral circulation. These cases are the first three cases operated at our center after stenting of the intratemporal portion of the ICA. Results: Complete surgical removal of the tumor, including the part involving the ICA, was achieved in all cases. Over a follow-up period of 22 to 30 months, no complications occurred and the patency of the stented arteries was preserved. Conclusion: Although more follow-up is still needed before establishing the exact long-term outcome of stenting the intratemporal ICA, our preliminary report shows that the stent has facilitated the complete surgical removal of the tumor, preserving the integrity of the ICA. [source] Detection of Helicobacter pylori in Children with Otitis Media with Effusion: A Preliminary ReportTHE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 7 2005Turgut Karlidag MD Abstract Objective: To determine the presence of Helicobacter pylori in the middle ear effusion of patients with otitis media with effusion (OME) by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Study Design: A prospective study in patients with OME. Methods: The study was performed in 38 patients with OME who were admitted to the ENT Clinic, Firat University from June 2003 to April 2004. In all cases, a myringotomy operation (with or without placement of a ventilation tube) was carried out. The effusion samples aspirated from the middle ear were analyzed with PCR assay. Results: A total of 55 aspiration samples collected from 38 children ranging in age from 2 to 12 were included in the study. Fifteen of the subjects were girls, and 23 were boys. In 17 patients, both ears demonstrated effusions, whereas in 21 patients, only one ear had effusions. Nine (16.3%) of 55 the middle ear effusion samples were shown to be H. pylori positive by PCR. Conclusions:H. pylori was detected in the middle ear effusion of some patients with OME. These results may have interesting implications for a possible role of H. pylori in OME. In addition, these results suggest that further studies are needed to investigate the role of H. pylori in the etiology of OME. [source] Prevalence of Helicobacter pylori in Patients with Nasal Polyps: A Preliminary ReportTHE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 11 2004Can Koc MD Abstract Objectives: The aim of the study is to determine the presence of H. pylori in nasal polyps by both immunohistochemical staining with H. pylori antibody of biopsy specimens and enzyme-linked immunoadsorbent assay (ELISA) of sera. Study Design: A prospective, controlled, clinical trial. Methods: We enrolled 30 patients with nasal polyps and 20 controls with middle concha bullosa undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). Blood samples of both the study and control groups were evaluated for anti- H. pylori specific immunoglobulin (Ig)G antibodies by ELISA. In addition, biopsy specimens of the removed polyps and the mucosal part of middle conchas were examined by the immunohistochemical analysis with H. pylori antibody. Results: In the blood samples, specific IgG antibodies to H. pylori were found in 26 (86.7%) of 30 polyp patients and 17 (85%) of 20 controls. In 6 (20%) of the 30 patients, H. pylori was identified in the nasal polyp tissue, but it was not detected in the mucosal part of the middle concha specimens. No significant statistical difference was observed for H. pylori antibodies by ELISA among the patients with nasal polyps and the control group (Fisher's exact test, P = .59). However, there was a statistical difference between the polyp biopsy specimens and the control biopsy specimens by immunohistochemical staining (Fisher's exact test, P = .037). Conclusions: This study indicates that H. pylori was found in increased prevalence in the nasal polyps. However, further controlled epidemiologic studies would be necessary to confirm our results and clarify the potential underlying pathogenetic mechanisms. [source] A Preliminary Report of Knowledge Translation: Lessons From Taking Screening and Brief Intervention Techniques From the Research Setting Into Regional Systems of CareACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE, Issue 11 2009Edward Bernstein MD Abstract This article describes a limited statewide dissemination of an evidence-based technology, screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment (SBIRT), and evaluation of the effects on emergency department (ED) systems of care, utilizing the knowledge translation framework of reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance (RE-AIM), using both quantitative and qualitative data sources. Screening and brief intervention (SBI) can detect high-risk and dependent alcohol and drug use in the medical setting, provide early intervention, facilitate access to specialty treatment when appropriate, and improve quality of care. Several meta-analyses demonstrate its effectiveness in primary care, and the federal government has developed a well-funded campaign to promote physician training and adoption of SBI. In the busy environment of the ED, with its competing priorities, researchers have tested a collaborative approach that relies on peer educators, with substance abuse treatment experience and broad community contact, as physician extenders. The ED-SBIRT model of care reflects clinician staff time constraints and resource limitations and is designed for the high rates of prevalence and increased acuity typical of ED patients. This report tracks services provided during dissemination of the ED-SBIRT extender model to seven EDs across a northeastern state, in urban, suburban, and rural community settings. Twelve health promotion advocates (HPAs) were hired, trained, and integrated into seven ED teams. Over an 18-month start-up period, HPAs screened 15,383 patients; of those, 4,899 were positive for high risk or dependent drinking and/or drug use. Among the positive screens, 4,035 (82%) received a brief intervention, and 57% of all positives were referred to the substance abuse treatment system and other community resources. Standardized, confidential interviews were conducted by two interviewers external to the program with 24 informants, including HPAs and their supervisors, clinicians, nurse managers, and ED directors across five sites. A detailed semistructured format was followed, and results were coded for thematic material. Barriers, challenges, and successes are described in the respondents' own words to convey their experience of this demonstration of SBIRT knowledge translation. Five of seven sites were sustained through the second year of the program, despite cutbacks in state funding. The dissemination process provided a number of important lessons for a large rollout. Successful implementation of the ED-SBIRT HPA model depends on 1) external funding for start-up; 2) local ED staff acting as champions to support the HPA role, resolve territorial issues, and promote a cultural shift in the ED treatment of drug and alcohol misuse from "treat and street" to prevention, based on a knowledge of the science of addiction; 3) sustainability planning from the beginning involving administrators, the billing and information technology departments, medical records coders, community service providers, and government agencies; and 4) creation and maintenance of a robust referral network to facilitate patient acceptance and access to substance abuse services. [source] Settlement history in the eastern Rub al-Khali: Preliminary Report of the Dubai Desert Survey (2006,2007)ARABIAN ARCHAEOLOGY AND EPIGRAPHY, Issue 1 2009Jesse Casana Regional archaeological survey in desert areas of Dubai, U.A.E., has identified numerous archaeological sites in this rapidly changing landscape. Subsurface geophysical surveys have been undertaken in concert with surface collection and test excavation to document the extent and chronology of each site. Contrary to expectations that deserts were permanently abandoned following the end of the mid-Holocene pluvial phase around 4000 BC, two sites, Al-Ashoosh and Saruq al-Hadid, show evidence of substantial occupation during the late third and early first millennia respectively. These findings suggest that the Rub al-Khali supported human settlement much later than is generally thought, challenging traditional understandings of the region's cultural and environmental histories. [source] A Novel Femoral Arterial Cannula to Prevent Limb Ischemia During Cardiopulmonary Support: Preliminary Report of Experimental and Clinical ExperiencesARTIFICIAL ORGANS, Issue 7 2006Yoshiro Matsui Abstract:, Distal limb ischemia may occur as a serious complication related to the use of femoral cannulation during veno-arterial cardiopulmonary support (CPS). We developed a simple cannula for femoral arterial cannulation with two holes in the side wall, which could provide the distal limb blood flow without additional cannulation or surgical procedure. This cannula can be inserted into the femoral artery by routine Seldinger technique. The distal blood flow from the side holes can be confirmed by Doppler detector without specialized techniques. In porcine experimental model, the distance between the position where the blood flow was first detected and those where the blood leakage took place was at least more than 10 mm. When this cannula and its side holes were adequately positioned, the mean distal limb flow ranged from 75 to 90 mL/min under CPS at a flow of 1.5 L/min. We employed this cannula for six patients in clinical settings. Three patients showed a good distal limb blood flow at the introduction position without its adjustment. The other three patients showed distal limb ischemia at the introduction position, but the limb ischemia was soon recovered after a slight adjustment of its position. There was no blood leakage from the percutaneous entry into the artery in all cases. We currently use this cannula as the first choice for patients undergoing a prolonged CPS. [source] Effects of Oral L-Arginine on the Foetal Condition and Neonatal Outcome in Preeclampsia: A Preliminary ReportBASIC AND CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY & TOXICOLOGY, Issue 2 2006Krzysztof Rytlewski Randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, clinical trial. Oral therapy with 3 g of L-arginine daily or placebo as a supplement to standard therapy. Eighty-three preeclamptic women, randomly assigned to the L-arginine (n=42) or placebo (n=41) groups; [n=30 (L-arginine) and n=31 (placebo) ended the study, respectively]. Foetal gain chances due to ultrasound biometry, biophysical profile, Doppler velocimetry of pulsatility indices of umbilical and middle cerebral arteries, cerebro-placental ratio, as well as differences in duration of pregnancy and clinical data of newborn. L-arginine treatment transitory accelerated foetal gain and improved biophysical profile. Starting from 3rd week of therapy, the umbilical artery pulsatility indices values were significantly lower in L-arginine than in placebo group. Moreover, treatment with L-arginine caused significant increase of middle cerebral artery pulsatility indices and cerbro-placental ratio values. Latency was longer in L-arginine group. Neonates delivered in the L-arginine group revealed higher Apgar score. Supplementary treatment with oral L-arginine seems to be promising in improving foetal well-being and neonatal outcome as well as in prolonging pregnancy complicated with preeclampsia. However, these benefits require confirmation in more-powered, larger studies. [source] Improving Skilled Attendance at Delivery: A Preliminary Report of the SAFE Strategy Development ToolBIRTH, Issue 4 2003Jacqueline Bell RGN The SAFE Strategy Development Tool is designed to enable policy makers and planners to gather and interpret information systematically to develop strategies for improving skilled attendance at birth. Method:, Five modules were developed with partners in Bangladesh, Ghana, Jamaica, Malawi, and Mexico to guide the identification of problems related to skilled attendance, the collection of primary and secondary evidence, and the synthesis of this evidence to formulate strategies. The involvement of key players, including policy makers, is emphasized throughout the application of the tool and is vital to its success. Results:, The SAFE Strategy Development Tool was field tested in five collaborating countries. The methods employed by this tool were found to be feasible and produced evidence that will be useful in the formulation of strategies. Application of the tool can be completed in 3 to 5 months, and was estimated to cost between US$12,938 and US$15,627 for applications at district or subdistrict level. The final strategy options developed from the findings were presented at an international workshop in Aberdeen, Scotland, in February 2003. Conclusion:, The SAFE Strategy Development Tool is now available to governments, organizations, and institutions involved in the implementation of maternal health programs. (BIRTH 30:4 December 2003) [source] Plant-Arthropod Associations from the Lower Miocene of the Most Basin in Northern Bohemia (Czech Republic): A Preliminary ReportACTA GEOLOGICA SINICA (ENGLISH EDITION), Issue 4 2010Jakub PROKOP Abstract: Terrestrial plants and insects currently account for the majority of the Earth's biodiversity, and approximately half of insect species are herbivores. Thus, insects and plants share ancient associations that date back more than 400 Myr. However, investigations of their past interactions are at the preliminary stages in Western Europe. Herein, we present the first results of our study of various feeding damage based on a dataset of nearly 3500 examined plant specimens from the Lower Miocene of the Lagerstätte Bílina Mine in the Most Basin, Czech Republic. This site provides a unique view of the Neogene freshwater ecosystems. It has long been studied by scientists working in different branches of sedimentology, paleobotany, and paleozoology. The fossils are preserved in three characteristic horizons overlaying the coal seam (Clayey Superseam Horizon, Delta Sandy Horizon, and Lake Clayey Horizon), reflecting paleoenvironmental changes in a short time period of development. The trace fossils are classified as functional feeding groups or "guilds", without searching for a direct cause or a recent analog host relation. Approximately 23% of specimens of dicotyledonous plant leaves were found to be damaged and associated with some leaf "morphotypes". Deciduous plant-host taxa, and those with a chartaceous texture typical of riparian habitats, were frequently damaged, such as Populus, recorded with two species Populus zaddachii and Populus populina (57.9% and 31% herbivory levels, respectively), followed by Acer, Alnus, and Carya, averaging almost 30% of damaged leaves/leaflets. There has been evidence of 60 damage types (DT) representing all functional feeding groups recorded at the Bílina Mine, including 12 types of leaf mines and 16 gall-type DT. In total, Lower Miocene of the Lagerstätte Bílina Mine exhibits a high level of external foliage feeding types (23.7%), and a low level of more specialized DT, such as galls (4.3%) and leaf mines (<1%). A broader comparison based on DT of the main sedimentary environments shows significance supporting different biomes by frequency of damage levels and DT diversities. [source] Immediate Provisional for Single-Tooth Implant Replacement with Brånemark System: Preliminary ReportCLINICAL IMPLANT DENTISTRY AND RELATED RESEARCH, Issue 2 2001Edward Hui MDS, FDSRCS, FRCDC Abstract: Background: The success of osseointegrated implants ad modum Brånemark for single-tooth restorations is documented. Future developments should aim at improving the benefits to patients by decreasing treatment time, minimizing surgical stages, and maximizing esthetic outcomes. Using knowledge from studies of immediate implant placement, one-stage, immediate loading protocols, the authors developed the immediate provisional. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to develop a protocol to provide an immediate solution for restoring a single missing tooth in the esthetic zone. The protocol should be simple, predictable, cost effective, and allow the use of other techniques to improve esthetic outcome. Materials and Method: This prospective clinical study included 24 patients treated from August 1999 to October 2000. Single-tooth implant replacement was done according to immediate provisional protocol. Thirteen of the 24 patients had immediate implant placement after tooth extraction. All implants were placed in the esthetic zone. During surgery, emphasis was placed on obtaining primary stability by achieving bicortical anchorage and maximum insertion torque of at least 40 Ncm. CeraOne (Nobel Biocare) abutments were used, and provisional crowns were fabricated immediately before wound closure. The occlusion was protected by adjacent teeth. Results: Within the follow-up period of between 1 month and 15 months, all fixtures in the 24 patients were stable. Crestal bone loss greater than one thread-width was not detected. The esthetic result was considered satisfactory by all patients. Conclusions: The implant placement and restoration protocol used in this study showed promising initial results for both the immediate implant and healed extraction site groups. The desirable goals of patient satisfaction, excellent esthetic outcomes, and no increase in treatment cost were achieved in this protocol. Further studies to elucidate the potential of the immediate provisional protocol are justified. [source] Preliminary report on effects of oxcarbazepine-treatment on serum lipid levels in childrenEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 12 2006E. Franzoni The aim of the present study was to assess serum lipid levels before and after treatment with oxcarbazepine (OXC) in children with epilepsy. We measured total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in 28 patients whereas only TC levels in 11 patients, during baseline period and at 3 months after the beginning of therapy with OXC. During baseline period, median values were: 4.38 mmol/l (IQR = 4.12,5.03) for TC levels, 1.72 mmol/l (IQR = 1.42,2.01) for HDL-C levels and 1.54 mmol/l (IQR = 1.29,1.96) for TGs levels. At 3 months, median values were: 4.38 mmol/l (4.10,4.95) for TC levels (P < 0.05), 1.57 mmol/l (1.34,1.93) for HDL-C levels (P < 0.005) and 1.8 mmol/l (1.23,2.34) for TGs levels (P < 0.05). Median serum lipid levels remained in the normal range, despite an increasing-trend at 3 months of treatment with OXC. Further studies are necessary to confirm these results. [source] Intravesical acetic acid instillation to detect malignant changes in the bladder mucosa: Preliminary reportINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF UROLOGY, Issue 2 2009Keiji Iizuka md No abstract is available for this article. [source] Bladder wall grafting in rats using salt-modified and collagen-coated polycaprolactone scaffolds: Preliminary reportINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF UROLOGY, Issue 10 2007Dah-Shyong Yu Aim: A rat model was used for the evaluation of collagen-coated and salt-modified polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds for bladder grafting after hemicystectomy. Methods: SD rats underwent partial cystectomy and cystoplasty with collagen-coated and salt-modified polycaprolactone scaffolds. The grafts of the regenerated bladder wall were harvested at different intervals and tissue regeneration was evaluated microscopically. Anatomic and functional characters were evaluated by cystography and urodynamics. Results: At harvesting, after 1 and 2 months, we found good preservation of the bladder shape and volume in all 16 rats receiving PCL cystorrhaphy. No stone formation was observed. Good epithelialization and ingrowth of smooth muscle cells were seen after 2 months grafting. Collagen-coated PCL scaffolds showed considerable encrustation, which appeared to be absorbed and disappear with time. The cystographic and urodynamic examinations revealed intact contour and a well-accommodated bladder with reservoir volume and contractility. Conclusions: In the rat model, we have successfully demonstrated the applicability of collagen coated and salt-modified PCL in reconstruction of the partial cystectomized bladder. [source] Bladder wall grafting in rats using salt-modified and collagen-coated polycaprolactone scaffolds: Preliminary reportINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF UROLOGY, Issue 10 2007Akihiro Kanematsu No abstract is available for this article. [source] Color Doppler sonography examination of partially obstructed kidneys associated with ureteropelvic junction stone before and after percutaneous nephrolithotripsy: Preliminary reportINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF UROLOGY, Issue 5 2005SÜLEYMAN KILIÇ Abstract Aim: To evaluate resistive index (RI) changes before and after unilateral percutaneous nephrolithotripsy in chronic partially obstructed kidneys due to ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) stones. Methods: Intrarenal RI of obstructed and contralateral normal kidneys of 18 patients were recorded immediately before the operations and at postoperative days 1, 7 and 30. Postoperative RI measurements were compared with baseline values for all patients without grouping and separately for different groups according to the preoperative RI value of the obstructed kidney. Results: Mean age and symptom duration were 27.5 years and 43.8 weeks, respectively. Preoperatively and at all postoperative controls, kidney diameters and renal parenchyma thicknesses were normal in all patients. Mean RI of obstructed kidneys decreased from 0.68 to 0.63 for all patients (P = 0.032), from 0.64 to 0.63 for those with preoperative RI < 0.70 (P = 0.850) and from 0.73 to 0.62 for those with preoperative RI , 0.70 (P = 0.001). In patients with preoperative RI , 0.70 in obstructed kidney, significant RI decreases were recorded at postoperative day 7 and RI differences between obstructed and contralateral kidneys disappeared after then. No difference was present pre- and postoperatively between the mean RI of obstructed and contralateral kidneys of the patients with RI < 0.70. Mean RI of contralateral kidneys were normal preoperatively and showed no significant change postoperatively. Conclusions: Preoperative RI levels may indirectly reflect the presence of functionally significant obstruction in chronic obstructed kidneys related to UPJ stones. Patients with RI , 0.70 may have a good indication for a surgical approach. Normalization of high RI occurs rapidly after percutaneous nephrolithotripsy. [source] CYP2D6 gene deletion allele in patients with neuroleptic malignant syndrome: Preliminary reportPSYCHIATRY AND CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES, Issue 4 2005DAIJI KATO md Abstract, Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a potentially fatal adverse reaction to psychopharmacologic treatment. Reported herein are two NMS patients with schizophrenia who were found to possess a CYP2D6 gene deletion allele (CYP2D6*5). The deletion results in decreased CYP2D6 activity, possibly leading to drug accumulation. Both patients with NMS had been treated with neuroleptics, including CYP2D6 substrates. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) followed by restriction fragment length polymorphism analyses and long PCR were performed to detect CYP2D6 genotype. One patient was found to possess *5/*10; the other had a *1/*5 genotype. The present preliminary report suggests that pharmacokinetic factors cannot be excluded and the CYP2D6 polymorphism is possibly associated with the etiology of NMS. [source] Small-Diameter Implants: Indications and ContraindicationsJOURNAL OF ESTHETIC AND RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY, Issue 4 2000MITHRIDADE DAVARPANAH MD ABSTRACT The choice of implant diameter depends on the type of edentulousness, the volume of the residual bone, the amount of space available for the prosthetic reconstruction, the emergence profile, and the type of occlusion. Small-diameter implants are indicated in specific clinical situations, for example, where there is reduced interradicular bone or a thin alveolar crest, and for the replacement of teeth with small cervical diameter. Before using a small-diameter implant, the biomechanical risk factors must be carefully analyzed. Preliminary reports of this type of implant show good short- and medium-term results. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Specific clinical situations indicate the use of small-diameter implants: a reduced amount of bone (thin alveolar crest) and where the replacement tooth requires a small cervical diameter. In some cases, the use of small-diameter implants avoids bone reconstruction. [source] MR determination of glomerular filtration rate in subjects with solitary kidneys in comparison to clinical standards of renal function: feasibility and preliminary report,CONTRAST MEDIA & MOLECULAR IMAGING, Issue 2 2009Richard W. Katzberg Abstract This study was conducted to demonstrate the feasibility of quantifying single kidney glomerular filtration rate (skGFR) by magnetic resonance (MR) by comparison to the clinical estimates of GFR in volunteer subjects with a single kidney. Seven IRB-approved subjects with a solitary kidney, stable serum creatinine (SCr) and a 24,h creatinine clearance (CrCl) volunteered to undergo an MR examination that determined renal extraction fraction (EF) with a breathhold inversion recovery echo planar pulse sequence and renal blood flow with a velocity encoded phase imaging sequence. The product of EF and blood flow determines GFR. These values were compared with the 24,h CrCl, estimated GFR by the modification of diet in renal disease (MDRD) regression analysis and the Cockroft,Gault (CG) determination of CrCl. The mean and standard deviation of differences between the MR GFR, MDRD and CG vs the 24,h CrCl were 12.3,±,35.7, ,8.9,±,18.5 and 1.2,±,19.6, respectively. The Student t -test showed that none of the mean differences were statistically significant between techniques. This clinical investigation shows that MR can be used for skGFR determination in human subjects with comparable values to those derived from clinically used serum-based GFR estimation techniques. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Heart rate and QT variability in children with anxiety disorders: A preliminary reportDEPRESSION AND ANXIETY, Issue 2 2001Vikram K. Yeragani M.B.B.S. Abstract This study compared beat-to-beat heart rate and QT variability in children with anxiety disorders (n=7) and normal controls (n=15) by using an automated algorithm to compute QT intervals. An increase in QT variability appears to be associated with a higher risk for sudden cardiac death. A decrease in heart rate variability is also linked to significant cardiovascular events. Supine detrended QT variability, QT variability corrected for mean QT interval, and QTvi (a log ratio of QT variance normalized for mean QT over heart rate variability normalized for mean heart rate) were significantly higher in children with anxiety compared to controls (P<0.05). The largest Lyapunov Exponent (LLE) of heart rate time series was significantly lower (P<0.05) in children with anxiety compared to controls. These findings suggest a relative increase in sympathetic activity and a relative decrease in cardiac vagal activity in children with anxiety disorders, and are discussed in the context of the effects of tricyclics on cardiac autonomic function in children, and the rare occurrence of sudden death during tricyclic antidepressant treatment. Depression and Anxiety 13:72,77, 2001. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Transmission of Ehrlichia risticii, the agent of Potomac horse fever, using naturally infected aquatic insects and helminth vectors: preliminary reportEQUINE VETERINARY JOURNAL, Issue 4 2000J. E. Madigan Summary Ehrlichia risticii, the agent of Potomac horse fever (PHF), has been recently detected in trematode stages found in snail secretions and in aquatic insects. Based on these findings, horses could conceivably be exposed to E. risticii by skin penetration with infected cercariae, by ingestion of infected cercariae in water or via metacercariae in a second intermediate host, such as an aquatic insect. In order to test this hypothesis, horses were challenged with infectious snail secretions and aquatic insects collected from a PHFendemic region in northern California. Two horses stood with their front feet in waterharbouring E. risticii -infected cercariae, 2 horses drank water harbouring E. risticii -infected cercariae, and 6 horses were fed pools of different aquatic insects harbouring E. risticii -infected metacercariae. In this preliminary study, only the one horse infected orally with mature caddisflies (Dicosmoecus gilvipes) developed the clinical and haematological disease syndrome of PHF. The agent was isolated from the blood of the infected horse in a continuous cell line and identified as E. risticii by characterisation of the 16S rRNA gene. Therefore, E. risticii is maintained in nature in a complex aquatic ecosystem and transmission to horses can occur through accidental ingestion of insects such as caddisflies containing infected metacercariae. At present, the small number of horses used in this study does not exclude other insects and free trematode stages as potential sources of infection. [source] The ontogeny of diurnal rhythmicity in bed-sharing and solitary-sleeping infants: a preliminary report,INFANT AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT, Issue 4 2007Melissa M. Burnham Abstract The purpose of the current study was to investigate the development of sleep,wake and melatonin diurnal rhythms over the first 3 months of life, and the potential effect of bed-sharing on their development. It was hypothesized that increased maternal contact through bed-sharing would affect the development of rhythms in human infants. Ten solitary-sleeping and 8 bed-sharing infants' sleep,wake patterns and melatonin secretion were examined for 72 h at 1 and 3 months of age in their homes. Infants wore actigraphs on their ankles to study sleep,wake patterns. 6-Sulphatoxymelatonin was obtained through urine extracted from each diaper used over the 72-h study period. No significant differences were apparent in the timing of appearance or magnitude of sleep,wake or melatonin rhythms between bed-sharing and solitary-sleeping infants. Sleep,wake results were in the expected direction, with bed-sharing infants displaying more robust rhythms. A large degree of individual variability was evident in both rhythms, especially at 1 month. Three infants' parents regularly used a bright light source at night for feedings and diaper changes; the rhythms of these infants were less robust than the rest of the sample. Trends were mostly in the hypothesized direction and deserve attempts at replication with a larger sample. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Ex vivo evaluation of the accuracy and coefficient of repeatability of three electronic apex locators using a simple mounting model: a preliminary reportINTERNATIONAL ENDODONTIC JOURNAL, Issue 4 2010F. L. C. D'Assunção D'Assunção FLC, Albuquerque DS, Salazar-Silva JR, Dos Santos VC, Sousa JCN.Ex vivo evaluation of the accuracy and coefficient of repeatability of three electronic apex locators using a simple mounting model: a preliminary report. International Endodontic Journal, 43, 269,274, 2010. Abstract Aim, To compare ex vivo the accuracy and coefficient of repeatability of three electronic apex locators in locating the apical constriction. Methodology, Thirty-one single-rooted teeth were used. The teeth were sectioned at the cement,-enamel junction. A mounting model was used for the measurement of electronic length (EL). The Root ZX-II, the Mini Apex Locator and the Novapex were used for electronic measurements. Each electronic measurement was obtained and repeated. After the last measurement, the file was cemented in place, and the apical 4 mm of each root canal was exposed. The distance from the tip of the file to the apical constriction was determined by three investigators and compared with the corresponding ELs. Results, The coefficient of repeatability of all devices was acceptable: Root ZX-II, 0.04 mm; Mini Apex Locator, 0.10 mm; and Novapex, 0.08 mm. There was little variation in inter-examiner agreement; the ,C (Lin) correlation coefficient was 0.83 for examiners 1 and 2, 0.88 for examiners 1 and 3 and 0.99 for examiners 2 and 3. Using the Root ZX-II, 13 of 31 electronic measurements were located at the apical constriction (42%). Otherwise, the tip of the file was not located at the apical constriction in any of the electronic measurements with the other two devices. The Wilcoxon signed rank test did not reveal any statistical difference between the Root ZX-II measurements and the actual length (P = 0.628), but there was a statistical difference between the Mini Apex Locator and Novapex measurements and the actual length position (P < 0.05). Conclusions, The devices tested in this study had a high coefficient of repeatability. The Root ZX-II was accurate, but the Mini Apex Locator and Novapex were not accurate in locating the apical constriction. [source] In vivo determination of root canal length: a preliminary report using the Tri Auto ZX apex-locating handpieceINTERNATIONAL ENDODONTIC JOURNAL, Issue 7 2002F. Grimberg Abstract Aim The aim of this study was to assess the clinical perfomance of a cordless handpiece with a built-in apex locator , the Tri Auto ZX , designed for root canal preparation with nickel-titanium rotary files. Methodology Twenty-five human maxillary incisor and canine teeth scheduled for extraction with mature apices were selected for the study. Informed written consent was obtained from each patient before treatment. After administration of local anaesthesia, the teeth were isolated and the pulp cavities accessed. The Tri Auto ZX along with a size 15 K-file was used in its electronic apex locating function based on the manufacturer's recommendations. A periapical radiograph with the file at the electronically determined constriction was taken, the file removed and the measurement registered as the electronic length (EL). To test the auto reverse function, a size 20 ProFile .04 taper NiTi rotary instrument was mounted in the handpiece. The point for the auto apical reverse function was preset on the panel at the 0.5 mm level. After the file was introduced into the canal and reached the predetermined level, the file automatically stopped and rotated in the opposite direction. A reference point was marked and this measurement was registered as the auto reverse length (ARL). All measurements were made twice by two different investigators. Teeth were then extracted and immersed in a 20% formalin solution for 48 h. After fixation, a size 15 file was inserted into the canal to measure the actual root canal length from the same reference point obtained with the Tri Auto ZX to the apical foramen, as seen in the stereo microscope. When the file tip was visible at the anatomical end of the canal it was withdrawn 0.5 mm and this measurement was registered as the actual length (AL). All measurements were expressed in mm and the measuring accuracy was set to 0.5 mm. The significance of the mean differences between EL and ARL and between EL and AL measurements at the 5% confidence level was evaluated. Results EL measurements were coincident to ARL in all instances. EL and ARL were coincident to AL in 10 (40%) canals, in the remaining 15 canals (60%) the AL measurements were longer than EL and ARL (+0.5 mm) in 14 instances and shorter (,0.5 mm) in one case. Overall, the AL was longer than the EL or ARL, the mean difference being ,0.23 mm ± 0.32 (P < 0.05). Conclusions It was concluded that the Tri Auto ZX was useful and reliable. The Tri Auto ZX measurements protected against overpreparation. [source] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||