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ObjectiveWe sought to determine the clinical outcomes of patients undergoing surgical aortic valve replacement with hemodynamically confirmed severe pulmonary hypertension and aortic stenosis and compare them with the outcomes of patients not undergoing aortic valve replacement and patients undergoing aortic valve replacement with mild-to-moderate pulmonary hypertension. MethodsA total of 317 patients with severe aortic stenosis (aortic valve area 35 mm Hg) was present in 81 patients, of whom 35 (43.2%) underwent surgical aortic valve replacement. We compared the clinical outcomes of these 35 patients with the 46 patient...

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Relationship between hemodynamic response to exercise and distribution of pulmonary perfusion was studied in 71 patients with mitral stenosis. Distribution was estimated by using computerized Tc-99m-MAA perfusion images (digital perfusion images; DPI). DPI were composed of isocount areas. Various types of DPI were obtained and were classified to 6 grades (G) according to patterns of 100 - 70% isocount area in right anterior DPI, i.e. G-0 (normal), G-1 (increase of perfusion at upper zone), G-2 (uniform distribution), G-3 (disappearance of basal hyperperfusion area), G-4 (apical hyperperfusion area) and G-5 (decrease of perfusion at lower zone). Patients were devided to 4 groups according to grade. At rest there were no marked hemodynamic differences between groups (n = 71, mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPA); 24.8 +- 11.0 mmHg, cardiac index (CI); 2.7 +- 0.81 lmM/sup 2/), however hemodynamic parameter during exercise ...

Science.gov (United States)

Maternal exposure to ambient air pollution has increasingly been linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes. The evidence linking this exposure to congenital anomalies is still limited and controversial. This case-control study investigated the association between maternal exposure to ambient particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter less than 10 ?m (PM(10)), sulfur dioxide (SO(2)), nitrogen dioxide, nitric oxide (NO), ozone (O(3)), and carbon monoxide (CO) and the occurrence of congenital heart disease in the population of Northeast England (1993-2003). Each case and control was assigned weekly average (weeks 3-8 of pregnancy) of pollutant levels measured by the closest monitor to the mother's residential postcode. Using exposure as both continuous and categorical variables, logistic regression models were constructed to quantify the adjusted odds ratios of exposure to air pollutants and the occurrence of each outcome group. We found exposure to CO and NO to be associated with ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The first derivative thoracic impedance cardiogram, phonocardiogram, and electrocardiogram were recorded in three groups of 22 subjects each. In Group 1 (control), simultaneous impedance cardiogram,...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The computational fluid dynamics methods for the limited flow rate and the small dimensions of an intracranial artery stenosis may help demonstrate the stroke mechanism in intracranial atherosclerosis....Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundManagement of benign tracheal stenosis (BTS) varies with the type and extent of the disease and influenced by the patient's age and general health status, hence we sought...Full Text Available

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Lumbar epidural anesthesia is useful in a variety of chronic benign pain syndromes, including lumbar radiculopathy, low back pain syndrome, spinal stenosis, and vertebral compression fractures. Given the increased number of epidural nerve blocks being performed, some have reported unexplained complications of a transient or permanent nature and with varying degrees of severity. However, no case has been reported of a broken epidural needle tip retained in the lumbar facet joint area. This represents the first reported case presentation of foraminal stenosis developing in a patient after a retained epidural needle tip. PMID:21286465

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Nowadays, percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation is a successful alternative to surgery for patients requiring treatment of pulmonary valve dysfunction. However, owing to the wide variety of implantation...Full Text Available

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Background: the fact that therapeutic irradiation can induce significant stenosis in the arteries of the head, neck, and chest, as welt as in the aorta and the iliac arteries, is familiar in daily practice and well documented in the literature. By contrast, radiation-induced renal artery stenosis seems to be a less widely known complication. Patients and methods: the sudden onset of medically refractory arterial hypertension and coma in a 27-year-old man is reported, who had been treated at age 20 with chemotherapy and radiotherapy for Ewing's sarcoma in the lumbar region. This treatment had been performed at the hospital of Sion, Switzerland in 2001. Also, the relevant literature from 1965 to 2007 is reviewed to underscore various aspects of this problem and to demonstrate the clinical relevance of renal artery stenosis as a potential long-term sequela of radiotherapy. Conclusion: radiation-induced renal artery ...

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Coronary angiography provides anatomical information whereas thellium myocardial scintigraphy measures resistive tissue perfusion. Because of this fundamental difference. The authors question the validity of using coronary angiography as the gold standard to judge thellium myocardial scintigraphy. The authors studied 20 patients undergoing elective percutaneous coronary angioplasty who fulfilled the following criteria: (1) history of chest pain; (2) angiographically significant single vessel disease (>50% stenosis); (3) no prior myocardial infarction. All patients underwent maximal exercise thallium single photon emission computed tomography (T1-SPECT). Tl-SPECT was scored visually according to a 0 to 3 scale (0=absent uptake; 1=markedly decreased uptake; 2=minimally decreased uptake; 3=normal uptake). Translesional gradient and percent stenosis were measured before and after angioplasty. The authors found that significant linear ...

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... the pulmonary vein and because there's a gap, electricity is going across the ablation line and capturing ...

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Artifical valve prostheses are often regarded as a contraindication for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), although preliminary in vitro studies suggested, that patients with these metallic implants might safely undergo MR examination. This study reports on the experience with a group of 89 patients with 100 heart valve prostheses who were examined by spin-echo MR and gradient-echo MR. MR examination was performed in all patients without complications. The spin-echo sequence showed advantages in the depiction of anatomical structures like paravalvular abcesses. Anatomical structures adjacent to the artificial valve were clearly visivle and the metal components of the valves showes no or only small artifacts. Artifacts were accentuated when using gradient-echo sequences. Gradient-echo sequences provided valuable information regarding the presence of valvular insufficiency. Physiological valvular regurgitation was easy to differentiate from ...

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Stenting for stenosis of the proximal vertebral artery (VA) is commonly performed via a femoral approach. However, iliofemoral occlusive disease such as arteriosclerosis obliterans sometimes prevents safe transfemoral access. In certain situations where both femoral access and ipsilateral brachial access are difficult because of a concomitant vascular diseases or particular anatomic setting, a contralateral brachial approach using the brachiobrachial pull-through technique may allow efficient and accurate stenting. A case of VA origin symptomatic stenosis successfully treated with stenting using the new pull-through technique from the contralateral brachial artery to the brachial artery on the affected side is described. (orig.)

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Objective: To explore the interventional treatment for biliary re-stenosis after metallic stents placement in patients due to cholangiocarcinoma and evaluate its therapeutic effect. Methods: Percutaneous metallic stents placement or combined with continuously infusion arterial chemotherapeutic and chemotherapeutic embolization were performed in 12 patients with biliary re-stenosis using 12 metallic stents. Results: Once stent placement was 100% successful in all 12 cases, TBIL, ALT, GTP and AKP values 7 days postoperatively were significantly lower than that in preoperation. Jaundice was reduced satisfactorily in 12 patients. 3 patients were undergone continuously arterial chemotherapeutics infusion and chemotherapeutic embolization 4 weeks after stents placement. Conclusions: Percutaneous replacement of biliary metallic stents was effective and safe for palliation of malignant biliary re-stenosis and would be much better ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

A 65-year-old man suffering from ascending aorta aneurysm and atherosclerotic three vessel disease without left main involvement underwent aortic root replacement with coronary ostia reimplantation...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

ObjectivesWe undertook a meta-analysis to assess outcomes for drug-eluting (DES) and bare metal stents (BMS) in percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for unprotected...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Introduction:Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major public health problem. It imparts a substantial economic burden on individuals and society. Acute exacerbations...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Pulmonary function tests were performed on seven adult dairy cows with an expanded lung field (ExLF) and the results were compared to the values from seven cows with normal lung fields. The cows with...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Two cases of pulmonary alveolar proteinosis, including one death, occurred in workers at a facility producing indium-tin oxide (ITO), a compound used in recent years to make flat panel displays. Both...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Previous physiological studies suggest that avian pulmonary capillaries behave like almost rigid tubes. We made morphometric measurements to determine the diameter of the capillaries in chicken...Full Text Available

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To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of Fuji computed radiography (FCR) in the detection of interstitial pulmonary infiltrates, FCR life-size images at a pixel size of 0.1 mm were compared with conventional radiographs taken on the same day. Seventeen radiologists assessed the radiographs and FCR images of 56 cases, including 39 cases of various interstitial lung diseases such as interstitial pneumonia, pulmonary abnormalities associated with collagen disease, sarcoidosis, multiple pulmonary metastases, diffuse panbronchiolitis and pulmonary emphysema, and 17 normal controls. All of the pulmonary abnormalities were confirmed by high resolution CT. Observer performance tests were carried out using receiver operating characteristic analysis. In 21 cases of increased pulmonary density revealed by high resolution CT, FCR was significantly superior to conventional ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

We present the results of an automated analysis of the morphometry of the pulmonary airway trees of the Sprague Dawley rat. Our work is motivated by a need to inform lower-dimensional mathematical...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

SIMV (simulation and modeling of ventilation) is a quantitative system for the mathematical modeling and simulation of pulmonary...Full Text Available

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... angiotensin gallium 67 lungs lysozyme patients sarcomas beta decay

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Substances which exercise a pulmonary toxic action will first of all produce alveolar and perivascular oedemas followed by fibrosis. Differential diagnosis is explained on the basis of two cases of a fatal mitomycin fibrosis of the lung, as well as the observation of fibrous changes following the administration of Bleomycin and Metothrexat. The course of pulmonary fibroses caused by paraquat is described for two cases of fatal paraquat intoxications. (orig.).

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundPulmonary vascular structure remodeling (PVSR) is a hallmark of pulmonary hypertension. P27^kip1, one of critical cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors, has been...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (Osler-Rendu-Weber disease) is a genetic disorder with autosomal dominance, variable penetrance, and an estimated prevalence of 1/10,000 inhabitants in France. Diagnosis is based on clinical criteria including epistaxis, telangiectasia, visceral manifestations, and familial occurrence. Pulmonary arteriovenous malformations, present in 15-33% of patients, are its primary visceral complications. The disease may be revealed by infectious and ischemic neurological manifestations due to paradoxical embolism. The high frequency of neurologic complications even in asymptomatic patients justifies systematic screening for pulmonary arteriovenous malformations. Treatment of these malformations is based on percutaneous transcatheter coil embolization of the feeding artery. Pulmonary arterial hypertension is rare in this disease. It may be due to systemic arteriovenous shunting in the liver, which ...

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Purpose: Three-dimensional rotational angiography (3DRA) is a new technique based on a rotational angiographic acquisition able to display arterial vessels in a 3D rendering mode. The system was mainly developed for neuroradiological evaluations but preliminary extracranial experiences have also been reported. The aim of our work was to compare the results of three-dimensional angiography of the carotid arteries done with high-flow injection of contrast medium from the aortic arch with the results of selective angiography. Materials and methods: Twenty patients underwent digital angiography of the supra-aortic vessels in order to quantify a stenosis of the carotid bifurcations previously detected at Doppler Ultrasound. Examinations were performed with the Philips Integris Allura system provided with the rotational angiography (RA) tool connected to a workstation for three-dimensional reconstruction able to display vessels in a 3D fashion (Volume Rendering, Shaded ...

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60 patients between 17 and 72 years of age were investigated. First, an enteroclysis was performed in typical manner. The applicated methylcellulosis was blended with positive oral MR contrast media (Magnevist oral, Schering). After enteroclysis, MRI of the abdomen was performed using T1- and T2-weighted breathhold sequences (Flash 2D pre- and postcontrast and TSE) in axial and coronal planes. The length of the affected bowel and the stenosis seen with enteroclysis correlated well with the visible thickening of the small bowel wall and the stenosis seen in MRI. Using MRI, additional findings could be obtained in 28 patients, such as fistulas, abscesses or a hydronephrosis, or a better assessment of the stenosis was possible with MRI, because of the avoidance of overshadowing of the affected bowel loop with MRI. A brilliant MR-tomographic imaging of the small bowel is possible under the condition, that the small bowel ...

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Objective: To investigate the feasibility of low-dose single-slice helical CT in pulmonary CT scan and evaluate the clinical application. Methods: Thirteen cases were selected out of 132 cases, in which low-dose (50mAs) single-slice helical CT scan of chest was performed. This set of cases included 7 cases of multiple metastatic nodules; 3 of solitary pulmonary, nodule; and 3 of pulmonary patchy lesions. Regular dose (170mAs) CT scan was also performed on all those patients. The regular dose and low dose CT scan were compared on sensitivity of detecting the lesions; the performance in demonstrating the details of the abnormalities; and the capability of revealing the segmental bronchi as well. Results: The same number and size of the pulmonary nodules were revealed with scan modalities loaded with different doses. No significant difference in demonstrating the details of the nodules and the segmental ...

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MRT is able to demonstrate arteries while MR angiography can quantify blood flow by a non-invasive method. In the present paper blood flow measurements were carried out in four selected cases on the basis of phase mapping. In 3 patients with lesions in the pelvis or thigh, angiography was performed in order to localise the stenosis or occlusion and this was followed by qantitative blood flow measurements. The results showed that angiography may not always provide all necessary information concerning a haemodynamically significant stenosis. The method may also be used for quantifying blood flow in the renal arteries and that it has significant advantages over the colour Doppler method. (orig.).

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Unlike in normal rabbits, pulmonary rapidly adapting receptors (RARs) in rabbits with chronic mitral regurgitation (MR) do not respond to small changes in extravascular...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Legionella pneumophila is the causative agent of Legionnaires’ disease, an acute pulmonary infection. L. pneumophila is able to infect and multiply in both...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Although the initiating factor(s) is unknown, it is now accepted that pulmonary sarcoidosis develops as a result of an over-stimulated local cellular immune response. Starting as a lymphocytic alveolitis,...Full Text Available

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To determine the effectiveness and patency of percutaneous intervention in insufficient native arteriovenous hemodialysis fistulae (AVFs). Between March 1997 and September 2001, 67 cases of insufficient native AVFs resulted from central vein lesion, PTA was performed in 48 cases, and thrombolytic therapy with or without PTA in 11. In eight of the cases, in which central vein stenosis had led to the insufficency, percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) was performed, and in three of the eight, a stent was inserted. Angiography findings and complications, as well as success and patency rates in the non-thrombosis and thrombosis group, were evaluated; the central vein lesion group was analysed separately. Among 84 lesions observed at angiography, three were 54 cases of stenosis, 17 of occlusion, and 13 of combined thrombosis. The lesions were located in a proximal vein (n=51), distal vein (n=14), artery (n=6), and at the site of anastomosis ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Objectives: To report six month outcome in patients undergoing their first pulmonary vein ablation procedure for idiopathic atrial fibrillation (AF) at a “non-pioneering”...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Chronic workplace exposure to formaldehyde and solvents at low doses reduced pulmonary function in 280 non-smoker white women working as histology technicians. They were studied during national workshops...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Fifty-six tuberculosis patients and twenty-eight control subjects were evaluated in a comprehensive investigation of cellular and humoral immune function in pulmonary TB. The patient group showed significantly...Full Text Available

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy, complications, and therapeutic impact of CT-guided percutaneous core biopsies of pulmonary lesions. Material and methods: Seventy-nine patients underwent diagnostic CT-guided percutaneous core biopsies of pulmonary lesions between July 1995 and March 1999. Evaluation included corresponding clinical data, pathologic results, and therapeutic consequences. Results: There were 29 benign and 50 malignant lesions. Percutaneous core biopsy had an overall diagnostic accuracy of 95%. For malignant lesions, core biopsy was positive in 48 patients (sensitivity 96%), and for benign lesions, in 27 (sensitivity 93%). There were no false-positive findings. Pneumothoraces were observed in 19 patients (24%) and 4 of them required a chest drain (5%). There were no hematothoraces or major bleeding complications; however, postinterventional local hemorrhages were observed in 23 patients (29%). No hemoptysis was noted. ...

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Pulmonary fibrosis was produced in mice treated with butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) 400 mg/kg and immediately exposed to 80% oxygen for 3 days. This treatment regimen resulted in 47% mortality. Surviving mice exhibited significant accumulations of pulmonary collagen as evidence by increases in total lung hydroxyproline levels. The administration of indomethacin (4 mg/kg/day) on days 1-6 after BHT decreased mortality to 14% and diminished the accumulation of collagen in lung tissue. Indomethacin also enhanced survival when administered on days 1-3 after BHT/O/sub 2/ but had no effect on lung collagen levels. Treatment with indomethacin on days 4-6 after BHT had no beneficial effect. The administration of prednisolone (60 mg/kg/day) on days 1-3, 1-6, or 4-6 after BHT decreased mortality but had not effect on accumulation of lung collagen. Cis-4-hydroxyproline (400 mg/kg/day) also had no effect on pulmonary fibrosis but did ...

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Radio-frequency catheter ablation (RFCA) of the distal pulmonary veins is increasingly being used to treat recurrent or refractory atrial fibrillation that doesn't respond to pharmacologic therapy or cardioversion. Successful RFCA of atrial al fibrillation depends on the pre-procedural understanding of the complex anatomy of the distal pulmonary veins and the left atrium. Aim of this parer is to describe the technical main features that characterise the multidetector helical computed tomography in the evaluation of this anatomic region before and after RFCA procedure. The 3D post-processing techniques useful for pre-RFCA planning are straightforward.

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We report a patient who developed occlusion of the intracranial major arteries induced by radiation therapy for craniopharyngioma. The patient, a 9-year-old boy, presented with deterioration of vision, nausea and vomiting. He underwent a right ventriculo-peritoneal shunt operation, and the tumor was partially removed. Postoperatively, he received focal radiation therapy with total of 60 Gy. Preoperative cerebral angiography, cerebral vessels had no sigh of occlusive lesion or stenosis. One year after irradiation, he started to have repeated cerebral ischemic attacks. But no regrowth of the tumor was detected on CT scans. Two years and 8 months after irradiation, he suddenly had right hemiparesis. Cerebral angiography revealed severe stenosis of the right anterior cerebral artery (precommunicating segment), middle cerebral artery (horizontal portion) and terminal portion of the right carotid artery. Left carotid angiography showed complete ...

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The aim of the paper is to review the role of interventional radiology in the management of hemodialysis vascular access and complications in renal transplantation. The evaluation of patients with hemodialysis vascular access is complex. It includes the radiology/ultrasound (US) evaluation of the peripheral veins of the upper extremities with venous mapping and the evaluation of the central vein prior to the access placement and radiological detection and treatment of the stenosis and thrombosis in misfunctional dialysis fistulas. Preoperative screening enables the identification of a suitable vessel to create a hemodynamically-sound dialysis fistula. Clinical and radiological detection of the hemodynamically significant stenosis or occlusion demands fistulography and endovascular treatment. Endovascular prophylactic dilatation of stenosis greater than 50% with associated clinical abnormalities such as flow-rate reduction ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Background:Tobacco smoking is the most important risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) development. Inhaled cigarette smoke can induce tumor necrosis factor-α...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Current concepts of the pathogenesis of sarcoidosis suggest that the expanded numbers of activated T-helper/inducer cells at sites of disease activity result, at least in part, from their proliferation...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundStudies using transthoracic thermodilution have demonstrated increased extravascular lung water (EVLW) measurements attributed to progression of edema and...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The lung has the potential of metabolizing many foreign chemicals to a vast array of metabolites with different pharmacological and toxicological properties. Because many chemicals require metabolic...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

A 6-year-old female, intact boxer presented with acute respiratory distress due to a mass in the left cranial thorax. The tumor, which originated in the left ...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Breath analysis is a powerful noninvasive technique for the diagnosis and monitoring of respiratory diseases, including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Nitric oxide...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Myosin phosphatase target subunit 1 (MYPT1) is the regulatory subunit of myosin light chain phosphatase (MLCP). It plays a critical role in vasodilatation induced by cGMP-elevating agents such as nitric...Full Text Available

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This book provides differential diagnostic possibilities of specific scan abnormalities in one volume for easy reference. This book is organized by organ systems and covers the central nervous system, the endocrine, skeletal, pulmonary, gastrointestinal, genitourinary, and cardiovascular systems. The gamuts are designed to teach differential diagnosis and to assist in the actual interpretation of patient slides.

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Twenty children with respiratory disease ingested 500 ..mu..Ci of Tc-99m sulfur colloid orally, and scintigrams of the thorax were obtained to determine whether pulmonaryaspiration of gastric contents could be detected. The children ranged in age from 1 mo to 14 y; 13 were 8 months of age or younger. Children were studied at 5 min and 4 h after ingestion of Tc-99m sulfur colloid using a high-sensitivity computer oscilloscope to record 100K-count images. Additional images were obtained after the children had slept overnight. Five children (25%) showed definite pulmonary accumulation of activity; four of these also had a barium swallow and three showed either pulmonary aspiration of barium or moderately severe gastroesophageal reflux. Oral ingestion of Tc-99m sulfur colloid provides a noninvasive means for diagnosing pulmonary aspiration under physiologic conditions in infants and children.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Because the results with cobalt-57-bleomycin (57Co-bleo) as a tumour-seeking agent in patients with pulmonary tumours were promising, a prospective study was carried out to test the sensitivity and...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Lipopolysaccharides from different bacteria isolated from cotton were purified and chemically analyzed. Their pulmonary toxicity to animals was tested in inhalation tests. Lipopolysaccharides from Agrobacterium...Full Text Available

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The endovascular treatment of atherosclerotic intracranial arterial stenoses has previously been based on balloon dilatation or the deployment of a balloon expandable stent. Both methods have advantages (balloon: flexibility; balloon expandable stent: high radial force) and drawbacks (balloon: risk of elastic recoil and dissection; balloon expandable stent: limited flexibility, risk of injury to the vessel due to excessive straightening, overexpansion at ends of stent). A new combination of balloon dilatation, followed by the deployment of a self-expanding microstent has been applied in 15 patients with atherosclerotic arterial stenoses, symptomatic despite medical treatment. An anatomically and clinically adequate result was achieved in all patients. The initial degree of stenosis was 72% (mean). Balloon dilatation resulted in an average residual stenosis of 54% (mean), reduced further to a mean of 38% after stent deployment. Arterial ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The purpose of this study was to clarify the benefits of digital lateral chest radiogram. In the basic study, the modulation transfer factor (MTF) and the wiener spectra (WS) of conventional screen film (CSF) and Fuji computed radiography (FCR) were measured. The visibility of the simulated nodules on FCR using 3 human bodies was subjectively compared with that on CSF by 13 observers. In the clinical study, the visibility of the normal structures on FCR was subjectively compared with that on CSF using 50 lateral chest radiograms by 10 observers. The diagnostic performance to detect pulmonary nodules on FCR was also compared with that on CSF using each 30 positive and negative cases by 8 observers. In the basic study, the MTF of FCR was superior to that of CSF, and the WS of FCR displayed in half size was superior to that of CSF. In all exposure conditions, the visibility of the nodules on FCR in the pulmonary apex was inferior to that on CSF, ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Eleven patients who had undergone cardiac surgery were studied by means of high-field MR imaging (1.5 T). Six patients had aortic root and valve replaced with a Bjork-Shiley (BS) composite tubular aortic graft prosthesis for acute dissection of ascending aorta. In the other 5 patients with rheumatic calcific aortic disease, the valve had been replaced with a BS prosthesis. As a whole, MR studies were 14. Previous evaluations of magnetic field effects had seem carried out ex vivo on both BS valves and BS composite prostheses, on surgical ligation clips (Tantalium and Stainless) and on stainless wires for sternal closure. In 4 patients (2 BS composite grafts, and 2 BS valves) MRI diagnosed chronic dissection of both arch and descending aorta. In 1 of them, with a bs valve, associated localized acute dissection of ascending aorta was observed. In 3 patients with BS composite grafts, MRI revealed pseudo-aneurysms (including a thrombosed one) at the graft level. In one case MRI was repeated ...

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Pattern and model makers are skilled tradespersons who may be exposed to hardwoods, softwoods, phenol-formaldehyde resin-impregnated woods, epoxy and polyester/styrene resin systems, and welding and metal-casting fumes. The relationship of respiratory symptoms (wheezing, chronic bronchitis, dyspnea) and pulmonary function (FVC% predicted, FEV1% predicted, FEV1/FVC% predicted) with interview-derived cumulative exposure estimates to specific workplace agents and to all work with wood, plastic, or metal products was investigated in 751 pattern and model makers in southeast Michigan. In stratified analyses and age- and smoking-adjusted linear and logistic regression models, measures of cumulative wood exposures were associated with decrements in pulmonary function and dyspnea, but not with other symptoms. In similar analyses, measures of cumulative plastic exposures were associated with wheezing, chronic bronchitis, and dyspnea, but not with ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

We investigated a method of analyzing the hemodynamics of the lung mass by contrast enhanced dynamic computed tomography (dynamic CT) to determine the difference in vascular supply between the pulmonary artery and bronchial artery using an experimental model. Our experimental model consisted of two injectors connected to two tubes, representing the pulmonary artery and bronchial artery, which were further connected to a chamber representing the lung mass. Following infusion of contrast medium into each tube with some delay time, dynamic CT scans were performed to obtain time density curves of the two tubes and the chamber. Using the time-density curve of contrast passage, flow rates from the two tubes into the chamber were calculated by the curve fitting method. Calculated values correlated well with the adopted flow rates of fluid from the injectors (r=0.893) in the experiment. The results indicate our method of individually measuring flow ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Beagle dogs given a single exposure to "2"3"9PuO_2 or "2"3"8PuO_2 aerosols are being observed for life-span dose-effect relationships. The "2"3"9Pu body burden of the nine dogs that died of pulmonary fibrosis-induced respiratory insufficiency during the first 3 yr after exposure was 1 to 12 #mu#Ci. One of these dogs had a pulmonary tumor. Five additional dogs with body burdens of 0.7 to 1.8 #mu#Ci died due to pulmonary neoplasia 3 to 5 yr after exposure. None of the dogs exposed to "2"3"8Pu have died during the first 3 postexposure yr. Lymphocytopenia was the earliest observed effect after inhalation of "2"3"9PuO_2 or "2"3"8PuO_2, occurring 0.5 to 2 yr after deposition of greater than or equal to 80 nCi plutonium in the lungs.

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Pulmonary tumors in children are rare. Nevertheless, there are besides malign primary neoplasms and metastases also some benign tumors that the radiologist should know. The identification of some tumors is difficult, since some of them may mimic pulmonary inflammation. The first diagnostic tool is chest radiography. After that, a CT with contrastmedium should be performed, if possible a multislice-CT (MSCT). Identification of mediastinal structures is best with MRI. (orig.) [German] Tumoren der Lunge sind im Kindesalter selten. Trotzdem finden sich neben den malignen primaeren und sekundaeren Raumforderungen auch im Kindesalter immer wieder benigne Tumoren, die der Radiologe kennen sollte. Eine eindeutige Identifizierung kann schwierig sein, da z. B. entzuendliche Infiltrate vorgetaeuscht werden koennen. Die primaere Untersuchungsmethode ist das konventionelle Thoraxroentgen. Die weitere Diagnostik muss mit der Computertomographie, nach ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Abstract The available surface equation of state for pure pulmonary surfactant monolayers is generalised to binary mixture monolayers by introducing a group of parameters, i(i-=-1-4) in the form of $x_{r}^{\\beta _{i} } $ to express the influence of the components in new mixing rules and a new factor, I $\\left[ { = \\left( {\\prod\\limits_{i = 1}^{4} {\\beta _{i} } } \\right)^{{\\raise0.5ex\\hbox{$\\scriptstyle 1$}\\kern-0.1em/\\kern-0.15em\\lower0.25ex\\hbox{$\\scriptstyle {4}$}}} } \\right]$, is defined to represent the interaction intensity between two different components. The ---A isotherms getting by the surface equations of state agree with the experimental data for protein-lipid binary monolayers, and the average deviation is about 11.41%. The result shows the order of the interaction intensity b...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The aims of this study were to quantify the severity and extent of subclinical interstitial lung disease as depicted on HRCT and to study the relationship between the patterns of lung disease quantified by HRCT and the functional parameters and bronchoalveolar lavage findings in patients with rheumatic diseases. The results confirm that HRCT is a sensitive tool in detecting interstitial lung disease in patients with rheumatic diseases with no signs and symptoms of pulmonary involvement. The relationship between the different HRCT patterns and bronchoalveolar lavage cell profiles can identify patients at higher risk of developing irreversible lung fibrosis. A long-term, prospective follow-up study is needed to determine whether these patients will develop over pulmonary disease.

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Paraquat is a nonselective contact herbicide of great toxicological importance, being associated with high mortality rates, mainly due to respiratory failure. We report the case of a 22-year-old male admitted to the emergency room with a sore throat, dysphagia, hemoptysis, and retrosternal pain after the ingestion of 50 mL of a paraquat solution, four days prior to admission. Chest CT scans revealed pulmonary opacities, pneumomediastinum, pneumothorax, and subcutaneous emphysema. The patient was submitted to two cycles of immunosuppressive therapy with cyclophosphamide, methylprednisolone, and dexamethasone. The pulmonary gas exchange parameters gradually improved, and the patient was discharged four weeks later. The clinical and tomographic follow-up evaluations performed at four months after discharge showed that there had been further clinical improvement. We also present a brief review of the literature, as well as a discussion of the ...

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Fischer-344 rats were exposed to quartz dusts and to quartz-bearing oil shale dusts in long-term inhalation studies. Aerosol concentrations of 12 mg/m/sup 3/ and 152-176 mg/m/sup 3/ for quartz and shale dusts, respectively, were used in exposure regimens lasting up to two years. Pulmonary fibrosis was observed in most animals surviving beyond 400 days. Adenocarcinomas and epidermoid carcinomas of the lung were observed in animals from all exposure groups, including those exposed to quartz alone. The pulmonary tumors were a late effect, with the earliest lung tumor being observed after 651 days. 13 references, 10 figures, 4 tables.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Breath analysis could offer a non-invasive means of intravenous drug monitoring if robust correlations between drug concentrations in breath and blood can be established. In this study, propofol blood and breath concentrations were determined in an animal model under varying physiological conditions. Propofol concentrations in breath were determined by means of two independently calibrated analytical methods: continuous, real-time proton transfer reaction mass spectrometry (PTR-MS) and discontinuous solid-phase micro-extraction coupled with gas chromatography mass spectrometry (SPME-GC-MS). Blood concentrations were determined by means of SPME-GC-MS. Effects of changes in pulmonary blood flow resulting in a decreased cardiac output (CO) and effects of dobutamine administration resulting in...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fuji computed radiography (FCR) utilizing imaging plates stimulated by a scanning lazer has been developed in Japan and come to be widely available in diagnostic radiology. This system is advantageous because many processed images can be obtained with a single exposure. However, no reports have been published on the exact conditions necessary under which the FCR image processing method will produce improved visibility of pulmonary abnormal shadows on chest radiographs. In this report, chest FCR images obtained from 50 patients were analyzed, and the best practical image processing conditions were determined for each pathological state. Fundamental analysis was also performed for spatial and contrast resolution with FUNK chart and Burger's phantom using various thickness of acryl plate. Ninety processing images per exposure were analyzed, and the best practical conditions were determined. (author).

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The feasibility of self-expanding nitinol stents for treatment of infragenicular arteries following unsuccessful balloon angioplasty was assessed. Options for lower limb percutaneous revascularization are limited, especially for complex vessel obstruction. Depending on the lesion and the experience of the interventionalist, the failure rate of balloon angioplasty (PTA) ranges between 10 and 40%. Until recently, no self-expanding stent for the use in the infragenicular arteries was available. This is the first report of the results for 18 consecutive patients who received 4F sheath compatible self-expanding nitinol stents following unsuccessful PTA or early restenosis. Twenty-four stents were implanted in 21 lesions for various indications residual stenosis >50% due to heavy calcification, flow-limiting dissection, occluding thrombus resistant to thrombolyis, thrombaspiration, and PTA, and early restenosis after previous PTA. Stent implantation was feasible ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The role of radiation therapy in local tumor control and decreased incidence of pulmonary metastasis is reported in 271 patients who were entered into the Intergroup Ewing's Sarcoma Study with more than one year follow-up and on whom all radiotherapy records were reviewed. The majority of the patients were irradiated to the primary tumor with doses of 4500 to 6500 rad in five to six weeks in combination with systemic administration of three drugs (vincristine, actinomycin-D and cyclophosphamide) or four drugs (vincristine, actinomycin-D, cyclophosphamide and adriamycin). One of the groups of patients was treated with three drugs and bilateral pulmonary irradiation (1500 rad, uncorrected dose, in two weeks). Preliminary analysis shows an overall local primary tumor control of 89%. Patients with lesions in the pelvis had a local failure rate of 17% (9 of 52) and in the humerus 23% (7 of 31). Factors affecting local recurrences are analyzed in ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The right upper lung lobe of a 74 year old man was resected for a central tumour. Two primary cancers were found; a central small cell carcinoma and a peripheral squamous cell carcinoma. In addition,...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The interactions of the hydrophobic pulmonary surfactant proteins SP-B and SP-C with 1,2-dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine in mixed, spread monolayer films have been studied in situ at the air/water interface...Full Text Available

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Objective: To discuss the clinical application value of dual energy subtraction (DES) in direct digital radiography of chest. Methods: 83 cases of chest digital radiography(DR) using double-energy subtraction (DES) were randomly selected, and three posterior-anterior (PA) chest films (standard image, bone image and soft tissue image) were obtained in each case, which is so called 'bone and soft tissue separated' technology. Results: With the aid of double energy subtraction (DES), the bony chest was subtracted, the sensitivity and specificity of pulmonary calcification were improved, and sensitivity of pulmonary nodes was also improved, enhancing the distinction between pulmonary benign or malignant lesions, enlightening the diagnosis of chest cage lesions, and showing a clear superiority in the detection of pulmonary nodes comparing to common chest films. The double energy subtraction (DES) films ...

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CT is the most accurate method to detect pulmonary emphysema in vivo. They compared prospectively two different methods for emphysema quantitation in 5 normal volunteers and 20 consecutive patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). All subjects were submitted to function tests and HRCT; three scans were acquired at preselected levels during inspiration. The type and extent of pulmonary emphysema were defined by two independent observers under blind conditions. Disagreements were subsequently settled by consent. All subjects were also examined with expiratory spiral CT using a density mask program, at two different cut-off levels (-850,-900 HU). Visual score and expiratory spiral density mask values (-850 HU) were significantly correlated (r = 0.86), but the visual extent of emphysema was always higher than shown by expiratory spiral CT. The emphysema extent assessed with both CT methods correlated with the ...

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In diabetic patients with autonomic neuropathy, it is suggested that there is a reduced uptake of [sup 123]I-metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) in the heart. We compared the difference of myocardial [sup 123]I-MIBG accumulation between 4 diabetic patients with triopathy and 6 patients without it. In all 10 patients, coronary angiography and [sup 201]Tl imaging (rest and 4 hours later) were performed. [sup 123]I-MIBG (111 MBq) was administered intravenously and its imaging was recorded on 15 minutes and 4 hours after injection. In all 4 cases with triopathy, [sup 123]I-MIBG imaging showed defect in apical and inferior region. In 2 out of 6 cases without triopathy, rapid clearance was noticed in apical and inferior region. There was no significant stenosis in right coronary artery and no defect in initial and delayed [sup 201]Tl images in all cases. We concluded that diabetic autonomic neuropathy in the heart was prominent in apical and inferior region and [sup ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Purpose: To report outcomes of a single institution study of stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) for unresectable cholangiocarcinoma. The dose-volume dependency of the observed gastrointestinal toxicity is explored. Methods and materials: Twenty-seven patients with unresectable cholangiocarcinoma (n = 26 Klatskin tumours and one intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (IHCC)) were treated by linac-based SBRT. The dose schedule was 45 Gy in three fractions prescribed to the isocenter. Results: The median progression-free survival and overall survival were 6.7 and 10.6 months, respectively. With a median follow-up of 5.4 years, 6 patients had severe duodenal/pyloric ulceration and 3 patients developed duodenal stenosis. Duodenal radiation exposure was higher in patients developing moderate to high-grade gastrointestinal toxicity with the difference in mean maximum dose to 1 cm"3 of duodenum reaching statistical significance. A statistically significant association between ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Quantitative gated SPECT (QGS) was evaluated in 7 normal volunteers and 31 patients with cardiac diseases. Adequate cut off value of a prefilter was 0.45. In phantom, the left ventricular volume value was 93.9% of determined value by 180-degree projection in L type and 98.8% by 360-degree projection in opposed type. In normal volunteers, LVEF measured by QGS program related to value by first pass method. As for functional map, regional EF and wall motion decreased at the septum side, and wall thickening at base side of heart. Good correlation was recognized (p<0.0001) between blood flow image and functional map (regional EF and wall thickening). In 20 cases of acute myocardial infarction, lesion was detected conspicuously in regional EF and wall motion. The accuracy of coronary arterial stenosis improved in functional map (regional EF 92%, wall motion 92% and wall thickening 88%). In particular, the accuracy of 3 rami lesion was 100% in functional map and higher ...

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Severe damage to the pelvic viscera is a complication of irradiation therapy that, unfortunately, cannot always be avoided. Resulting rectal and rectocolonic strictures, rectovaginal fistulas, and shortening and stenosis of the vagina present very difficult problems that frequently require a colostomy for relief and may permanently impair sexual function. The authors present a new approach to correction of these unfortunate lesions based on the use of proximal nonirradiated colon which serves as a vascular pedicle graft to correct the defect without a complicated and massive resection. Twenty-two such operations have been done with 19 satisfactory to excellent results and two total failures (one death from small bowel complications). All patterns and combinations of irradiation injury have been found amenable to this technique of repair. These have included both web and linear strictures with and without fistulas. In half of the patients, it was possible to make ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

BackgroundEchocardiography has been debated as an adjunct for transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The aim of this prospective study was to comparatively evaluate intraprocedural guidance using intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). MethodsFifty high-risk patients with severe aortic stenosis scheduled for TAVR were randomized to either guidance using ICE (group 1; n = 25) or monitoring using TEE (group 2; n = 25). ResultsIn contrast to TEE, ICE allowed continuous monitoring. The need for probe repositioning during the procedure was much lower in group 1 (0.1 +- 0.3 vs 5.7 +- 0.7 maneuvers, P P = .003). Both coronary ostia were more frequently visualized in group 1 (18 vs 2 cases, P n = 25, r2 = 0.90, P n = 11, P = .012), but ICE did not (m...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pulmonary clearance of an aerosol of "9"9Tc"m DTPA was measured in 21 non-smoking AIDS and pneumocystosis patients. The results were compared with those of pulmonary scintiscanning with gallium. All the patients exhibited increased clearance, evidence of a considerable alteration in alveolar permeability. This increase was also observed in patients with normal chest X-rays and normal blood gases. The average clearance in these patients was 6 #+-# 2% min"-"1 as compared with a normal 1.1 #+-# 0.3% min"-"1. Conversely, only four out of eight patients with normal chest X-rays had abnormal gallium scans. Clearance returned to normal after recovery. Measurement of DTPA clearance appears to be a very sensitive indicator for the detection and follow-up of pneumocystosis. However, it is not very specific since it can be increased by tobacco poisoning, drug abuse and the presence of lymphocytic alveolitis. An examination with normal findings can ...

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Computed tomography (CT) of the thorax shows early promise of important diagnostic advances. We believe that CT often provides information superior to that provided by standard roentgenographic techniques, is capable of significantly influencing patient management, and in selected instances, offers unique information not available by other methods. Computed tomography permits the imaging of mediastinal structures not possible with conventional roentgenographic methods and can diagnose with certainty benign mediastinal conditions such as pericardial cysts and focal or diffuse accumulations of fat. It is ideal for detecting pleural abnormalities and for displaying underlying parenchymal disease in patients with complex pleuroparenchymal shadows on conventional films. Pulmonary metastases unseen on the plain chest film can be detected with greater sensitivity than by any other method. Future applications of CT include the staging of mediastinal lymph nodes in ...

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While trauma is still the leading cause of death in the pediatric age range, it is surprising how little the CT appearances of pediatric chest injury have been investigated in the literature. We have reviewed the CT findings of blunt chest trauma in 44 children for whom chest CT examinations were requested to investigate the extent of intrathoracic injury. We noted a propensity for pulmonary contusions to be located posteriorly or posteromedially, and for them to be anatomically nonsegmental and crescentic in shape. This is possibly attributable to the relatively compliant anterior chest wall in children. The CT appearances of other major thoracic injuries are described, including pulmonary lacerations, pneumothoraces, malpositioned chest tubes, mediastinal hematomas, aortic injury, tracheobronchial injury, hemopericardium, and spinal injuries with paraspinal fluid collections. Children demonstrating findings incidental to the actual injury yet ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Background. A change in practice at our institution resulted in increased use of anesthesia for CT scan of the chest in children who required sedation. Objective. To determine whether there is a difference in the frequency or severity of pulmonary atelectasis on CT scan in children sedated by anesthesiologists compared with children sedated by radiologists using intravenous pentobarbital. Materials and methods. Retrospective blinded review of 60 CT scans of the chest performed in 41 children. Forty-one studies in children sedated by radiologists (median age 29 months) were compared with 19 studies in children sedated by anesthesiologists (median age 25 months). Results. Atelectasis sufficient to obscure pulmonary metastases was shown in 5 of 41 (12 %) radiology sedations and 13 of 19 (68 %) anesthesiology sedations (P < 0.01). Higher grades of atelectasis were recorded in children under anesthesia (P < 0.01). Conclusion. Atelectasis is ...

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Thirty-two patients with AIDS related complex (ARC) or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) underwent /sup 67/Ga scans as part of their evaluation. Three patterns of /sup 67/Ga biodistribution were found: lymph node uptake alone; diffuse pulmonary uptake; normal scan. Gallium-67 scans were useful in identifying clinically occult Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia in seven of 15 patients with ARC who were asymptomatic and had normal chest radiographs. Gallium scans are a useful ancillary procedure in the evaluation of patients with ARC or AIDS.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In the Wajima lung cancer screening program conducted under the auspices of Kanazawa University Hospital, Fuji Computed Radiography (FCR) was utilized in a new chest radiography trial. The results of the screening program are that the necessity of repeat examinations due to poor image quality are less common and the method enables detection of small pulmonary nodular shadows which are possibly candidates for surgery. Oblique chest X-ray with FCR is remarkably effective for the detection and the identification of small lesions. However, the disadvantage of slow processing and high cost must be fully satisfied if FCR is to become a new imaging modality for mass screening. (author).

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Lung transplantation has become an accepted option for many patients with end-stage pulmonary diseases. Anesthesia and surgery following lung transplantation may be required for various diseases that may affect both systemic organs and the transplanted graft. When a patient with a lung transplant undergoes surgery, there is the potential for interference with lung function, depending on the type of intervention and its anatomical site. Accurate preoperative evaluation, an understanding of the physiology of the transplanted lung, proper airway instrumentation, individualized management of intraoperative ventilation, and fluid balance are essential for a positive perioperative outcome.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

To determine a suitable combination of X-ray filter and tube kilovoltage for Fuji Computed Radiography (FCR), provide better detection of pulmonary nodules, and reduce patient exposure, we compared observer performance with different X-ray filters and tube voltages. Radiographs were obtained with a copper filter backed by aluminium, with a tungsten filter backed by yttrium and aluminium, and with a lead filter backed by yttrium and aluminium, at both 100 kVp and 135 kVp. Observer performance in detecting simulated lung nodules, which were placed on the posterior aspect of a chest phantom, was compared using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) techniques for each combination of the X-ray filter and tube voltage. The results of the study indicated that 1) nodule detection was superior for the images obtained with 135 kVq as compared with 100 kVp; 2) approximately equal detection rates were obtained for the three X-ray filter sets, although results with the ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Conventional Radiography, Fuji Computed Radiography (FCR) hardcopy and CRT images were evaluated about the detectability of pulmonary nodule using the chest phantom. Conventional and digitized chest radiographs (FCR) were used, including 45 normal cases and 45 abnormal cases with a variety pulmonary nodule. Observer performance tests were conducted to compare the effects on diagnostic accuracy of Conventional Radiography, FCR hardcopy and CRT images, and diagnostic accuracy was determined with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. ROC study was performed in which six radiologists were asked to locate nodule on three modalities. Two CRT monitors were used to observed CRT images. The left side CRT monitor was divided into two parts and displayed two images which were done as same image processing as FCR hardcopy. The right side CRT monitor was divided into four parts and displayed four images as a subsidiary diagnosis. The upper two ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Background: In the German CESS-studies, Ewing's sarcoma patients with pulmonary metastases at diagnosis were considered as candidates for additional bilateral lung irradiation. We have retrospectively analyzed the impact of radiotherapy on survival. Material and methods: Out of 42 patients presenting with pulmonary metastases of Ewing's sarcoma between 1981 and June 1992, 30 were evaluable. One patient died of progressive disease prior to lung irradiation. The other patients had a complete radiographic remission either after chemotherapy (n=25) or chemotherapy plus resection of lung metastases (n=4). 22 patients received bilateral lung irradiation with doses of 12 to 21 Gy (once daily 1.5 Gy or twice daily 1.25 Gy), six had no further treatment and one had bone marrow transplantation for consolidation. Results: Ten patients are in complete remission, nine of them had received lung irradiation and one had a complete resection of three lung ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The purpose of the paper is to investigate whether high-resolution CT (HRCT) can detect the subjects with massive emphysematous destruction in a group of patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and therefor be of help in selecting the candidates to surgical lung volume reduction. Have been examined 40 former smokers with severe COPD (FEV_1#<=#40% of the predicted value, with no major improvement after inhalation of bronchodilators). The emphysema extent score was significantly correlated with the hematocrit value and Tiffeneau index (p<2) in all the 40 patients. The severity of bronchial obstruction was the same in bronchitis and dyspnoeic patients. The subject with chronic bronchitis had milder emphysema (mean extent 35% versus 47% in the dyspnoeic subjects) and a higher frequency of bronchial involvement. A decrease in FEV_1 was significantly correlated with emphysema extent (p<1) in dyspnoeic, but not in bronchitis, patients. ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mycobacterium xenopi is one of the most common agents responsible for nontubercolar mycobacterial pulmonary disease on AIDS patients. These lesions have been studied with conventional radiography while CT has been used in patients with a specific mycobacterioses or non-AIDS pulmonary conditions from Mycobacterium xenopi. 12 AIDS patients were examined. They had pulmonary lesions from Mycobacterium xenopi, patients age ranged 30 to 46 years. All patients had CD4 blood levels lower than 250 cells/mL and Mycobacterium xenopi in the sputum. All patients underwent a standard chest radiograph and a CT examination. CT images were evaluated by three radiologists independently and the definitive diagnosis was made in the presence of a fourth radiologist. Chest CT showed parenchymal consolidation in 66% of cases, associated with bilateral basal bands in 16% of cases. Consolidation was unilateral in 41% of cases and most frequently ...

Science.gov (United States)

Studies have been carried out to determine the possible physiological effects of contact with carbon black made by the thermal process. Contact was made by ingestion, skin application and/or inhalation. Ingestion and/or skin application do not appear to lead to any changes from the normal. Inhalation exposures do not produce pulmonary function changes (antemortem or postmortem studies) but may lead to moderate to severe "perifocal" emphysema in Rhesus monkeys (not observed in guinea pigs). Inhalation studies also suggest right ventricular septal and to a degree, left ventricular hypertrophy in Rhesus monkeys as an effect. Additional studies are necessary to support these finding and consideration must be given to the variability among exposed subjects as compared to controls. PMID:136503

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ozone is a principal component of photochemical air pollution endogenous to numerous metropolitan areas. It is primarily formed by the oxidation of NOx in the presence of sunlight and reactive organic compounds. Ozone is a highly active oxidizing agent capable of causing injury to the lung. Lung injury may take the form of irritant effects on the respiratory tract that impair pulmonary function and result in subjective symptoms of respiratory discomfort. These symptoms include, but are not limited to, cough and shortness of breath, and they can limit exercise performance. The effects of ozone observed in humans have been primarily limited to alterations in respiratory function, and a range of respiratory physiological parameters have been measured as a function of ozone exposure in adults and children. These affects have been observed under widely varying (clinical experimental and environmental settings) conditions

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Purpose: To evaluate a T{sub 2}-weighted URSE sequence for the assessment of pulmonary infiltrations in comparison to CT. Methods: 28 MRT scans of 22 patients with confirmed pneumonia were recorded on a 1.5 Tesla apparatus with an expiratory and diastolic triggered, T{sub 2}-weighted ultrafast-spin-echo sequence in axial slice mode with the following parameters: TR{sub eff}/T{sub E}/Turbofactor 2000-4000/90 ms/21-23; slice thickness/separation 6/0.6 mm; FOV 360 mm; 24 slices. 24 spiral CTs (sice thickness/table advance: 1-2 mm/10 mm) were available for comparison. The separate evaluation of MRTs and CTs was performed by three radiologists in a consensus procedure with regard to pulmonary lesions (e.g., infiltration, round foci, net patterns) and image quality of the MRTs (4-step scale). Results: In 71% of the cases the CTs and MRTs agreed with the diagnosis and representation of the lesions, in 25% MRT was superior. MRT was better for the ...

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The distribution of Lipiodol in the liver and lungs following arterial or portal injection was studied in normal (n=55) and cirrhotic rats (n=20). Using magnified xeroradiography and radioisotope labeled tracers, it was found that Lipiodol was deposited mainly in the liver and lung after either arterial or portal administration. In control rats after arterial injection, deposits in the lung peaked after 2 hours and gradually declined over 48 hours; whereas after portal injection, the deposit steadily increased for 48 hours. Twenty-five percent of cirrhotic rats demonstrated a Lipiodol-induced miliary pattern in the lung. An increased number of portosystemic shunts in cirrhotic rats was also noted. These results suggest that cirrhosis of the liver may be a potential risk factor for developing pulmonary complications after Lipiodol administration. (orig.).

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Increased levels of epidermal growth factor receptor have been reported in a variety of tumors, including pulmonary squamous cell carcinomas in man. The purpose of this study was to determine if increased levels of epidermal growth factor (EGFR) were present in lung tumors from Beagle dogs that had been exposed to "2"3"9PuO_2- Using immunohistochemical techniques, sections from 17 lung tumors were examined for the presence of EGFR. Seven of the tumors were strongly positive for EGFR; the remainder of the tumors and the normal lung sections were negative. The positive immunostaining could not be correlated with the histologic phenotype of the tumors. Work is in progress to determine the level of EGFR in preneoplastic, proliferative epithelial foci in the Iung. (author)

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Summary Objective To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of an educational outreach intervention to improve primary respiratory care by South African nurses. Methods Cost-effectiveness analysis alongside a pragmatic cluster randomised controlled trial, with individual patient data. The intervention, the Practical Approach to Lung Health in South Africa (PALSA), comprised educational outreach based on syndromic clinical practice guidelines for tuberculosis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pneumonia and other respiratory diseases. The study included 1999 patients aged 15 or over with cough or difficult breathing, attending 40 primary care clinics staffed by nurses in the Free State province. They were interviewed at first presentation, and 1856 (93%) were interviewed 3 months late...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In 9 over 12 patients who underwent cardiac transplantation computed tomography was performed. In 5 of them CT was obtained also before the surgical treatment. In all patients angio-CT technique was performed, while the ECG-gated technique was employed only before surgery. CT shows changes in morphology of both atria but over all of the right one, and rotation of the heart on the longitudinal axis. The conditions of the pericardium are particulary well demonstrated: in 5 cases pericardial effusion was observed, 3 times localized and 2 times diffuse. Only in 1 patient a small thrombus in the right atrium was demonstrated. CT allows the possibility to obtain simultaneously information on mediastinum, lung and pleura. Pleural effusion, pulmonary infections and mediastinal complications are easily demonstrated.

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Fatalities resulted from aluminium phosphide (ALP) intoxication in completely healthy children with no preceded clinical sings or symptoms were presented. Data regarding circumstances, autopsy reports, histopathological examination, toxicological investigation, and police enquiries were also collected and evaluated. The affected children were females, and 6-16 years old. They were completely healthy and died suddenly in relation to some physical activities such as running, walking, and bathing, without any prior complain. The viscera showed intense congestion with moderate to severe pulmonary edema. The cause of the sudden termination of life in the reported cases is mostly cardiac ones. Physical exertion may precipitate death due to increased cardiac stress, increased oxygen demand, and b...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The aim of this study was to document vascular complications that occurred following cadaveric and living donor kidney transplants in order to assess the overall incidence of these complications at our center as well as to identify possible risk factors. In a retrospective cohort study, 1500 consecutive renal transplant recipients who received a living or cadaveric donor kidney between December 1988 and July 2006 were evaluated. The study was performed at the Nemazee Hospital, Shiraz, Iran. The assessment of the anatomy and number of renal arteries as well as the incidence of vascular complications was made by color doppler ultrasonography, angiography, and/or surgical exploration. Clinically apparent vascular complications were seen in 8.86% of all study patients (n = 133) with the most frequent being hemorrhage (n = 91; 6.1%) followed by allograft renal artery stenosis (n = 26; 1.7%), renal artery thrombosis (n = 9; 0.6%), and renal vein thrombosis (n = 7; 0.5%). ...

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To evaluate the efficacy of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) and stent insertion in central venous steno-occlusion. Between August 1992 and January 1998, 11 patients with symptomatic central venous steno-occlusion (six stenoses and five occlusions) underwent pereutaneous treatment. Eleven PTAs were performed and stents were introduced in two patients because of incomplete PTA. During follow-up, a total of eight revisions were performed in five patients with recurrence (six stenoses and two occlusions). Success and long term patency rates were evaluated. The length and degree of the lesion and degree of residual stenosis, as well as pressure gradient through the lesion and decrease of the gradient after PTA, were correlated with patency rates. Complications during the procedures and follow-up period were evaluated. The overall success rate was 89.5%;those of primary and revision intervention were 90. 9% and 87.5%, respectively. Primary and revision ...

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Purpose: To evaluate the initial and mid-term results of a new self-expanding low strut profile nitinol stent for treatment of atherosclerotic lesions stenoses and occlusions in the superficial femoral artery (SFA). Materials and Methods: In 8 patients (4 male, 4 female, mean age 74.8 {+-} 8.8 years) with SFA lesions and non-satisfying results after PTA treatment alone, 10 self-expanding nitinol Xpert stents were deployed via a 4 F sheath. Stent characteristics and handling were graded by the interventionalist. Fontaine classification, duplex flow measurements and ankle brachial index (ABI) at rest and stress were taken prior and one day after stent placement. Patients were followed 3, 6 and 12 months after the procedure obtaining the same parameters at each appointment. Results: Initial stent treatment was successful in all patients. Stent handling and positioning were rated very good and safe. All patients improved clinically by at least one Fontaine stage (range before treatment: ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

There is extensive evidence that exposure to asbestos causes pulmonary parenchyma fibrosis, pleural disease, and malignant neoplasm in asbestos-exposed workers. However, few data concerning brake-lining workers are available in the literature. In this study, we aimed to assess the long-term effects of chrysotile asbestos exposure on lung function and the risk of asbestos-related diseases in brake-lining workers. Seventy-four asbestos-exposed workers who processed brake-lining products and 12 unexposed office workers were offered pulmonary function tests (spirometry and transfer actor) in 1992 and 1999. In 1999, the mean duration of asbestos exposure was 0.00#+-#4.07 and 11.02#+-#4.81 years (7-31 years) in non smoking and smoking asbestos workers, respectively. Transfer factor (T_L, CO) and transfer coefficient (K_C_O) decline were significant in the 7-year follow-up in both smoking and non smoking asbestos workers. However, lung function ...

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Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) is an extract of the pepper plant used for centuries as a culinary spice (hot peppers). This material has been identified as a safe and effective Less-Than- Lethal weapon for use by Law enforcement and security professionals against assault. The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) is currently also evaluating its use in conjunction with other Less-Than-Lethal agents such as aqueous foam for use in corrections applications. Therefore, a comprehensive toxicological review of the literature was performed for the National Institute of Justice Less-Than-Lethal Force program to review and update the information available on the toxicity and adverse health effects associated with OC exposure. The results of this evaluation indicate that exposure to OC can result in dermatitis, as well as adverse nasal, pulmonary, and gastrointestinal effects in humans. The primary effects of OC exposure include pain and irritation of the mucous membranes of the ...

Science.gov (United States)

This paper summarizes results of preliminary experiments to develop cytological and biochemical indicators for estimating damage to respiratory cells in test animals exposed by inhalation to toxic agents associated with nonnuclear energy production, the specific goal being the application of advanced multiparameter flow-systems technologies to the detection of early atypical cellular changes in lung epithelium. Normal Syrian hamster lung cell samples composed of histiocytes, leukocytes, macrophages, ciliated columnar cells, and epithelial cells were stained with fluorescent dyes specific for different biochemical parameters and were analyzed in liquid suspension as they flowed through a chamber intersecting a laser beam of exciting light. Multiple sensors measured the total or two-color fluorescence and light scatter on a cell-by-cell basis. Cellular parameters proportional to optical measurements (i.e., cell size, DNA content, total protein, nonspecific esterase activity, nuclear and ...

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In this issue it has been investigated the yield of Helical CT in the study of lung vessels, the incidence of the angiogram sign and its actual value. July 1997 to December 1998, were studied 30 cases of pulmonary collapse of different origin. It was found 15 cases of passive collapse (10 from pleural effusion, 2 from diaphragmatic compression, 2 from traumatic pneumothorax, and 1 from isthmic aortic aneurysm), 12 cases of obstructive collapse (9 from bronchogenic carcinoma, 1 from mucoid obstruction, 1 from ilar lymphadenopathy, and 1 from mediastinal cancer), 2 cases of adhesive collapse and 1 case of round atelectasis. All the examinations were performed with the Helical technique during nonionic iodinated contrast agent injection (bolus, 300-350 mg/mL); it was used an automatic injector set at 2-3 mL/s. It was studied the images for the angiogram sign, that is hyperdense bands, usually longer than 2 cm, through the collapsed lung, which correspond to normal ...

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A single exposure energy subtraction technique with a metal filter and an imaging plate for the Fuji Computed Radiography (FCR) system was developed for dual-energy subtraction radiography (DES) of the chest. By the use of this technique, 206 patients with suspected lung cancer were scanned in the clinical settings. The subtracted images in 200 patients, excluding six with poor image quality, were examined. Soft-tissue images (bone cancelled images) were useful in visualizing abnormality of the airway and nodules lying under the ribs; and bone images (soft-tissue cancelled images) in detecting rib metastases and the presence or absence of calcification in nodules. Additional information was acquired in 21 % (42/200). A single exposure is capable of neglecting motion artifacts. In addition, this technique may be of value in DES, which is considered to be one of the routine examinations, in view of low exposure doses. The need of conventional roentgenograph, in addition to the two kinds ...

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In this updated second edition, the order of contents of the textbook has been reorganized. It has been divided into main parts: Basic Science and Clinical Nuclear Medicine. Basic Science, Part I, encompasses basic physics, radiation protection, interaction of radiation with matter and radiation detection, imaging, nuclear pharmacy, and radiation biology. Part II, Clinical Nuclear Medicine, covers the central nervous system, bone, gastroenterology (liver/spleen), cardiovascular system, pulmonary system, genitourinary system, thyroid and endocrine systems, gallium studies, radioassay, hematology, and therapy. The total number of pages of the current edition is increased to 250 from the 213 of the first edition but there are fewer questions because those in the basic science area have been carefully selected to 60 of the original 98 questions. Compared with the previous edition, there are two advantages in the current one: (1) the addition of explanatory answers; and ...

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The studies reported here used genetic differences in susceptibility of C57BL/6N and C3H/HeN mice and exacerbation of the disease by nitrogen dioxide (NO/sub 2/) as tools in assessing the role of early host responses in the pathogenesis of MRM. The two strains did not differ in susceptibility to infection, but C3H/HeN mice were more susceptible to and had increased severity of lung lesions 14 days after intranasal inoculation as determined by 50% biological endpoints and morphometric analysis of tissues. Exposure to NO/sub 2/ for 4 hours prior to exposure to infectious aerosols exacerbated murine respiratory mycoplasmosis (MRM) by 7 days after exposure in both mouse strains. NO/sub 2/ appeared to affect host lung defense mechanisms responsible for limiting mycoplasmal growth in the lungs. The NO/sub 2/ exposure concentration required for this effect varied with the genetic background of the host, the dose of mycoplasmas administered, and the endpoint measured. ...

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135 patients with histologically proven Ewing's sarcoma, treated at the Institute Gustave Roussy between 1960-1974 were reviewed in order to establish the effectiveness and the complications associated with radiotherapy. In 133 patients, a dose of at least 60 Gy for long bones, 55 Gy for flat bones and 45 Gy for vertebrae was given. 26 major complications (of which more than one occured in certain patients) were observed: 12 cases of growth retardation, loss of joint function in 7 cases, 3 fractures, 2 osteonecroses, 2 cases of delayed healing, one massive soft tissue fibrosis, 1 abdominocutaneous fistula, 2 cases of symptomatic pulmonary fibrosis with associated infection, 2 cases of radiation enteropathy, 2 of mammary hypoplasia and 1 osteosarcoma developing in an irradiated zone. These complications necessitated 12 surgical interventions, including 4 disarticulations or amputations. The incidence of complications can be related to the age of the patient and to ...

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Rat lung and liver microsomes did not undergo lipid peroxidation in the absence of iron when incubated with NADPH and concentrations of paraquat ranging from 10/sup -7/ to 10/sup -2/ M. Paraquat also did not stimulate rat liver and lung microsomal peroxidation induced by added iron and NADPH, and was inhibitory at concentrations above 10 ..mu..M. Similarly, no stimulation of peroxidation was produced by paraquat in rabbit or human lung microsomes; however, under similar conditions, paraquat enhanced NADPH/iron-dependent peroxidation in mouse lung and liver microsomes obtained from rats sacrificed at 12, 18, and 24 hr following a lethal dose of paraquat (50 mg/kg, ip), there was no loss of vitamin E or increase in susceptibility to in vitro peroxidation which would be expected if lipid peroxidation had occurred in vivo although extensive lung damage developed during this time period. These results indicate that paraquat does not cause pulmonary toxicity by ...

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Thirty-six patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), who were febrile but without localizing signs, underwent indium-111 leukocyte scintigraphy 24 hours after injection of labeled white blood cells (WBCs) and were restudied 48 hours after injection of gallium-67 citrate. Fifty-six abnormalities were identified as possible sources of the fever; 27 were confirmed with biopsy. Of these 27, 15 were identified only on In-111 WBC scans (including colitis, sinusitis, and focal bacterial pneumonia); six, only on Ga-67 scans (predominantly Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia and lymphadenopathy); and six, on both studies (predominantly pulmonary lesions). In-111 WBC scanning revealed 21 of 27 abnormalities (78%) and gallium scanning, 12 of 27 (44%). If only one scintigraphic study has been performed, particularly with Ga-67, a significant number of lesions would not have been detected. The authors believe radionuclide evaluation of the febrile AIDS patient without ...

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T_2 weighted ultra-short turbo spin echo sequences were used in five individuals with variations in echo times, delayed triggering and echo intervals. To reduce movement artifacts all examinations were carried out with ECG and respiratory triggering. The sequences giving optimal image quality were then employed in 19 patients having various pulmonary abnormalities. Image resolutions, artifacts, image contrasts and diagnostic value were then judged by two observers and compared with CT. In the first study, a diastole-triggered UTSE sequence with the shortest echo proved optimal (T_E=90 ms, T_R=2-4 s, echo=9 ms, turbo factor=19). In the patient series studied, MRT was inferior to CT with regard to resolution and number of artifacts, but better in respect of contrast and diagnostic value. Using UTSE of the lung, MRT can produce images of good quality. Compared with CT, contrast is better with MRT, offering diagnostic advantages for MRT. (orig./MG).

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Purpose: Measurement of the oscillating CSF flow in the spinal canal (SC) of healthy volunteers and in patients with post-traumatic syringomyelia (PTS) using an optimized MRI protocol as well as to determine whether stenosis induced velocity changes are detectable using MRI. Methods: In 68 healthy volunteers quantitative studies of CSF flow in the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar regions were performed. First, an optimized sequence was developed and tested in 19 volunteers using four different flow-encoding velocities (4, 8, 12, 16 cm/s). Secondly, the optimized sequence was employed in 49 volunteers to measure the different CSF patterns in the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spinal canals (CSC, TSC, LSC). Part three of the study, in which patients with PTS are being examined is still underway. We measured the maximum velocity (cm/s), the pixel area (mm{sup 2}), and the stroke volume (ml/s). Using a flow model the velocities prior to and after compression with 5 ...

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In this article is reviewed the role of Computed Tomography (CT) in thoracic complications following ortho topic liver transplantation (OLT). In a post-OLT population of 567 patients transplanted in the Italian institutions, 100 patients (17.6%) were examined with chest CT. It was reviewed data relative to the total number of examinations, clinical and/or radiographic indications, the CT technique-i.e., conventional (with (out) intravenous, i.v., contrast material) or high-resolution (HRCT). It also reviewed the radiologic patterns and their correlation with the other clinical, bronchoscopic and/or laboratory results. Of 152 chest CT examinations, 45 (29.6%) were performed because of clinical indications, 31 (20.4%) because of a radiographic abnormality, 64 (42.1%) because of clinical and radiographic abnormality, 64 (42.1%) because of clinical and radiographic indications, while in 12 cases (7.9%) the reasons were unknown; 133/152 (87.5%) examinations had been performed with ...

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To evaluate the usefulness of radiation therapy alternative to surgery for clinical N0-N1 non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). From 1976 through 1989, 116 patients with NSCLC without mediastinal involvement were treated with definitive radiation therapy alone at Gunma University Hospital. All patients were treated with once-daily standard fractionation using 10 MV X-rays. The total dose ranged from 60 Gy to 80 Gy. The actuarial 2- and 5-year survival rates of the entire group were 43% and 20%, respectively with a median survival time of 19 months. The survival of 76 patients with stage T2 tumors was significantly better than that of 28 patients with T3 tumors (mean survival time 21 versus 15.5 months; p<0.05). Sixty-two patients with tumors less than 5 cm in diameter had a 2-year progression rate of 20%, in comparison with 39% of 54 patients with tumors greater than 5 cm. The difference of survivals for these 2 groups was statistically significant. Twelve patients given a total dose ...

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In this study, we measured the effects of different concentrations of paraquat (0,01 mM and 1,0 mM) on the 1-"1"4CO_2 and 6-"1"4CO_2 production of rabbit lung slices and isolated alveolar macrophages, in 20% and 95% oxygen phases respectively. A 95% oxygen phase induced an increase in the 6-"1"4C-glucose oxidation of control lung slices over a 3-hour period, while the increased activity of the pentose pathway over the first 2 hours started to decline during the third hour of incubation. Paraquat (1,0mM) in 20% oxygen caused a consistent increase in the 6-"1"4CO_2 production by lung slices, but in a 95% oxygen phase gradually inhibited the 6-"1"4C-glucose oxidation over a period of 3 hours. The pentose phosphate pathway was highly significantly stimulated by 1,0 mM paraquat in 20% and 95% oxygen over 3 hours. When isolated alveolar macrophages (viability 95%) were incubated in a 20% and 95% oxygen phase respectively, both the 6-"1"4C-glucose and 1-"1"4C-glucose oxidation rates were ...

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A comparison of the concentration-response effects of inhaled ozone (O/sub 3/) in different species of laboratory animals was made in order to better understand the influence of the choice of species in inhalation studies of this gas. The effect of 4-hour exposure to ozone (O/sub 3/) at concentrations of 0.0, 0.2, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 ppm was determined in rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, hamsters and mice. Lavage fluid protein (LFP) accumulation 18 hr after exposure was used as the indicator of O/sub 3/-induced pulmonary edema. All species had similar basal levels of LFP (250-350 ug/ml) when a volume of saline which approximated the total lung capacity was used for lavage of the collapsed lungs. Exponential dose-response curves were seen in all species except guinea pigs, which showed significant increases in LFP at low O/sub 3/ concentrations (0.2 ppm) and a leveling off of response at the higher O/sub 3/ levels. Other species usually showed significant elevations in LFP ...

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This human investigation of lead absorption from the lungs utilized two forms of lead, lead chloride and lead hydroxide; the former was used in picogram amounts and the latter at microgram levels. These two species of lead were selected in an attempt to simulate the range of physicochemical properties found in atmospheric lead (urban air). Aerosols labeled with lead-203 were made of comparable aerodynamic size (MMAD 0.25 ..mu..m +- 0.1) by using sodium chloride as the deposition-determining aerosol. After brief, mouthpiece exposures, 17 subjects were followed by serial counting with a thoracic array of 12 2-in. scintillation detectors and two 2-in. leg counters, all coupled to single channel analyzers. Serial blood samples were also taken. The two exposure groups showed similar total deposition values (23 vs 26%) and the same biological retention halftimes, viz., 22.6 h. When the retention data were corrected for blood-borne /sup 203/Pb, the biological halftimes for lung lead retention ...

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Manganese is an essential metal of toxicologic concern primarily because of exposure via inhalation. Environmental forms of Mn exist mainly as insoluble oxides, yet much of the research information available relates to the soluble salts. In the present study, adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were intratracheally instilled with either soluble MnCl/sub 2/ or insoluble Mn/sub 3/O/sub 4/ labeled with /sup 54/Mn. Lungs and other major organs were sampled over a span of 3 mo after dosing with the respective chemicals, which were equivalent to 8 ..mu..Ci and 1 ..mu..mol of manganese in 0.2 ml of buffer. There was rapid clearance of Mn from the lungs in the case of both chemicals; the chloride cleared at an initial rate of nearly four times that of the oxide. Despite this early difference, the amount of /sup 54/Mn remaining in the lungs after 2 wk was similar for both compounds. The level of /sup 54/Mn in the liver, kidney, spleen, and testes peaked at the 3-d sampling point in the case of the ...

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Bone images obtained by single exposure dual energy subtraction with computed radiography, a new image processing method, were evaluated for the detectability of calcification in lung nodules in both phantom and clinical studies. In the phantom study, five simulated nodules containing known and uniformly distributed amounts of calcium hydroxide were placed in a human chest phantom and images were obtained the following five techniques: 1) conventional radiography (CXR), 2) low kV conventional radiography (Low), 3) Fuji computed radiography (FCR), 4) bone images with conventional singles exposure energy subtraction (ES) and 5) bone image with fine single exposure energy subtraction (FES). The detectability of calcification in the simulated nodules was evaluated by six radiologists using ROC analysis and two-way analysis of variance. In the clinical study, images of 42 lung nodules (21 calcified lung nodules and 21 non-calcified nodules), in which calcification was diagnosed by computed ...

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Pulmonary infections and tumors are a major cause of death in patients with AIDS. The combination of clinical, radiological, laboratory, and pathohistological data helps to narrow the spectrum of differential diagnoses or even allows a specific diagnosis in many patients. Nevertheless, an accurate diagnosis should be obtained as soon as possible during the clinical course of the illness to initiate treatment in time. Computed tomography (CT) has proven to provide promising results in the diagnosis of AIDS-related throacic diseases. The aim of this paper was to demonstrate the diagnostic capacities of CT in the context of particular AIDS-related thoracic pathologies. Additional information on the spectrum of pathological agents and on differential diagnostic signs is summarized. (orig.) [Deutsch] Pulmonale Infektionen und Tumore sind eine wesentliche Todesursache bei Patienten, die am erworbenen Immunmangelsyndrom AIDS leiden. In den meisten Faellen gelingt es, ...

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Cardiac Malposition refers to any position of the heart other than a left-sided heart in a situs solitus individual. Associated cardiac malformations are so complex that even angiocardiographic and autopsy studies may not afford an accurate information. Although the terms and classifications used to describe the internal cardiac anatomy and their arterial connections in cardiac malpositions differ and tend to be confusing, common agreement exists on the need for a segmental approach to diagnosis. Authors present 18 cases of cardiac malpositions in which cardiac catheterization and angiocardiography were done at the Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital between 1971 and 1979. Authors analyzed the clinical, radiographic, operative and autopsy findings with the emphasis on the angiocardiographic findings. The results are as follows: 1. Among 18 cases with cardiac malpositions, 6 cases had dextrocardia with situs inversus, 9 cases had dextrocardia with situs solitus ...

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The transposition of the great arteries afters to an abnormal connection and relation of the great arteries in which the aorta arises from the morphologic right ventricle and the pulmonary artery from the morphologic left ventricle, while the malposition of the great arteries indicates an abnormal relationship between the great arteries in which the great arteries are not transposed across the ventricular septum but they are malposed, as is seen in double outlet right ventricle, double outlet left ventricle and single ventricles. Transpositions and malpositions of the great arteries are understood as a spectrum of malformation caused by abnormal conal development and can be included in the common category of 'conotruncal malpositions'. Authors analized 32 cases of transpositions and malpositions of the great arteries in which cineangiocardiographies were done at the Department of Radiology, Seoul National University Hospital in recent 17 months, with specific ...

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Parallel imaging and echo sharing techniques have markedly reduced the acquisition times for MRI of large volumes. Dynamic 2 and 3-dimensional data sets of the chest with high temporal resolution (up to 10 images/s with single slice and 2 volume/s) allow an analysis of respiratory motion of the lungs and tumors. Time-resolved 2D series in preselected planes can be used to observe respiratory motion during free breathing or after respiratory commands, e.g. to exclude chest wall invasion by a tumor or for diagnosing impairment of respiratory mechanics. Time-resolved 3D-series (4D-MRI) allow monitoring of the spatial displacement of the lungs and tumors as a whole volume. Present limitations such as an overestimation of tumor size and an underestimation of displacement due to a limited temporal resolution are expected to be overcome with further technical developments. However, 4D-MRI already appears to be the appropriate tool to select patients for motion-adapted radiotherapy. In ...

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T{sub 2} weighted ultra-short turbo spin echo sequences were used in five individuals with variations in echo times, delayed triggering and echo intervals. To reduce movement artifacts all examinations were carried out with ECG and respiratory triggering. The sequences giving optimal image quality were then employed in 19 patients having various pulmonary abnormalities. Image resolutions, artifacts, image contrasts and diagnostic value were then judged by two observers and compared with CT. In the first study, a diastole-triggered UTSE sequence with the shortest echo proved optimal (T{sub E}=90 ms, T{sub R}=2-4 s, echo=9 ms, turbo factor=19). In the patient series studied, MRT was inferior to CT with regard to resolution and number of artifacts, but better in respect of contrast and diagnostic value. Using UTSE of the lung, MRT can produce images of good quality. Compared with CT, contrast is better with MRT, offering diagnostic advantages for MRT. (orig./MG) ...

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CT is a valuable tool in assessing thoracic gunshot wounds. CT is also the method of choice in emergency, because it permits rapid depiction of bullet damage to the chest and to other body districts. This in turn permits correct assessment of the main thoracic injuries, plus adequate and prompt planning of surgical treatment or support intensive care. It is reported on the role of CT in diagnosing the complex pleuropulmonary, cardiovascular and thoracic wall injuries caused by gunshot wounds, with their specific and acute signs which differ greatly fro those of other types of chest trauma. In the last 4 years, it was observed an amount of 76 cases of gunshot injury, twenty-six of them involved the chest. The patients, 25 men and 1 woman (mean age: 32 years, range: 17-48), were all submitted to emergency CT with iv contrast agent injection and the CT-angiography technique. The reanimator was always presented to monitor the patients' vital functions and shock state. CT of the ...