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We present a case report of a 3-month-old boy with a mixed total anomalous pulmonary venous connection. The patient had situs solitus, small atrial septal defect, and 2 separate venous collectors. The right pulmonary veins drained through a right-sided venous collector into the coronary sinus. The left-sided pulmonary veins drained through the left-sided venous collector directly into the right superior vena cava. The use of the echocardiogram and Doppler color flow mapping to establish a detailed morphologic analysis, the sites of connection, and the presence of pulmonary venous obstructions as well as the value of this information to facilitate a successful surgical repair are discussed.

International audience; We present the new catalog of principal galaxies (PGC2003). It constitutes the framework of the HYPERLEDA database that supersedes the LEDA one, with more data and more capabilities. The catalog is still restricted to confirmed galaxies, i.e. about one million galaxies, brighter than similar to 18 B-mag.In order to provide the best possible identification for each galaxy we give: accurate coordinates ( typical accuracy better than 2 arcsec), diameter, axis ratio and position angle. Diameters and axis ratios have been homogenized to the RC2 system at the limiting surface brightness of 25B - mag arcsec(-2), using a new method, the EPIDEMIC method. In order to provide the best designation for each galaxy, we collected the names from 50 catalogues. The compatibility of the spelling is tested against NED and SIMBAD, and, as far as possible we used a spelling compatible with both. For some cases, where no consensus exists between NED, SIMBAD and LEDA, we propose some changes that could make the spelling of names fully compatible.The full catalog is distributed through the CDS and can be extracted from HYPERLEDA.

Soft ferrites modeling in the context of power electronics is difficult. Besides complex magnetic properties of the material, there are particular operating conditions. The authors present a behavioral model specifically adapted to soft ferrites used in power converters. This model predicts magnetic and electrical characteristics with satisfactory accuracy. >

The development of devices combining a ferrite with a semiconductor chip is a major focus of current research and could make use of vacuum deposition techniques of magnetic films. Barium hexaferrite (BaFe12O19; BaM) thick films are deposited here using an rf non-reactive sputtering system. Because the as-deposited films are amorphous and non-magnetic, two kinds of post-deposition annealing are employed, which are referred to here as classic thermal annealing (CTA) and rapid thermal annealing (RTA). The effects of annealing conditions on the properties of BaM films are studied using vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with an EDX probe and X-ray diffractometry (XRD). The first results show a good stoichiometry of the layer and a crystallization above 800 °C. The magnetic properties are closed to that of the bulk BaM. Progress is still necessary to obtain a temperature more compatible with microelectronic technologies (below 500 °C).

International audience; Refractory linings are used to protect the exterior metallic part of some vessels containing very hot fluids. They are submitted to high thermomechanical loading that can lead to cracking. A local approach is first presented in order to analyse the refractory lining as a 3D domain. A smeared crack model is used to compute the damage in the refractory. Comparison with experiments on a refractory wall containing metal parts is performed in order to validate the 3D numerical computations. Some type of refractorised vessels (e.g. some steel ladles) can directly be analysed from this 3D modelling. Since some other refractorised vessel contains a very large number of metallic parts (such as tubes or anchors), it cannot be possible to compute such a global structure with this 3D analysis. Consequently, an approach has been developed based on a two-layer shell equivalent to the lining including the metallic casing with tubes and the refractory. The thermal and mechanical parameters of the model are identified with an inverse method, using results of 3D calculations performed with the local model defined previously. An experimental validation is made by a bending test, performed on a large refractory lining specimen. In the case of a cyclone of coal-fired power plant, the equivalent shell permits to compute the damage of the refractory in the global structure.

Aims The aim of this paper is to report clinical characteristics, consequences, echocardiographic features, and pathological findings encountered in patients suffering from valvular disease associated with benfluorex exposure in a multicentre French registry. Methods and results Forty patients suffering from unexplained restrictive valvular disease with a previous exposition to benfluorex, a fenfluramine derivative, were identified from eight French university hospitals. Patients were mostly women (87.5%) with a mean age of 57 ± 9 years and high body mass index of 30 ± 7 kg/m²; 37.5% of them presented with severe heart failure symptoms (NYHA class III and IV). Benfluorex mean daily dose was 415 ± 131 mg with total therapy duration of 72 ± 53 months. Resulting cumulative dose was 910 ± 675 g. Common echocardiographic findings were leaflets and sub-valvular apparatus thickening and retraction. Aortic and mitral valve regurgitations resulting from leaflets loss of coaptation were the most frequent findings (87.5 and 82.5%) and were severe in 29 patients (72.5%). Multiple valve involvements were present in 31 cases (77.5%). Pulmonary arterial hypertension was identified in 20 cases (50%). Histopathological examination demonstrated abundant extra cellular matrix encasing the leaflets without modification of valve architecture. Fifteen patients (37.5%) underwent valvular surgery. Conclusion Benfluorex-related valvulopathy shares numerous characteristics with other drug-induced valvular disease. Clinical consequences may be serious with severe heart failure symptoms that may lead to surgical treatment.

A new linear programming formulation for handling categorical outputs in DEA is presented which eliminates the difficulties of interpretation and computation that accompanied earlier mixed integer models.

The goal of conformal radiotherapy is to concentrate the dose in a well-defined volume by avoiding the neighbouring healthy structures. This technique requires powerful treatment planning software and a rigorous control of estimated dosimetry. The usual dosimetric tools are not adapted to visualize and validate complex 3D treatment. Dosimetry by radiosensitive gel permits visualization and measurement of the three-dimensional dose distribution. The objective of this work is to report on current work in this field and, based on our results and our experience, to draw prospects for an optimal use of this technique. Further developments will relate to the realization of new radiosensitive gels satisfying, as well as possible, cost requirements, easy realization and use, magnetic resonance imagery (MRI) sensitivity, tissue equivalence, and stability. Other developments focus on scanning methods, especially in MRI to measure T1 and T2.

Three new 125I-radioiodinated estrogens featuring a 13beta-ethyl instead of the natural 13beta-methyl group, i.e. 18-homoestradiols, were synthesized and evaluated as potential estrogen receptor imaging agents. The 16alpha-iodo-18-methylestradiol and the 125I-labeled analog were synthesized from the corresponding 16beta-bromo analog by the halogen-exchange method. The cis-bromohydrin precursor was obtained by bromination of an estrone enolacetate, followed by epimerization and reduction. The isomeric (17alpha,20E/Z)-iodovinyl-18-methylestradiols were prepared via the vinyltin intermediates. Treatment of 18-methyl-17alpha-ethynylestradiol with tri-n-butyltin hydride, in the presence of azobisisobutyronitrile as catalyst and heating at 90-100 degrees C afforded the (17alpha,20E)-tri-n-butylstannyl isomer as the major product. Changing the catalyst for triethyl borane, at room temperature, mainly gave the 20Z-isomer. The nca 125I-labeled analogs were obtained from their corresponding tin intermediates upon treatment with [125I]NaI in the presence of H2O2. The 16alpha-[125I]iodo- and isomeric (17alpha,20E/Z)-[125I]iodovinyl-18-methylestradiols were evaluated for estrogen receptor-mediated uterine uptake in immature female rats. Homologation of the C13-methyl group did improve the uterine uptake of the iodovinyl derivatives, but also increased blood retention, resulting in lower target uptake ratios. In the case of the 16alpha-iodo analog uterine retention decreased upon C13-homologation.

In spite of its many advantages: 3D imaging, improved tissue characterization, and lack of ionizing radiation, interventional MRI remains seldom used. Several factors are involved. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the factors preventing or slowing the development of this technique based on a review of data from the literature, work presented at the second symposium on interventional MRI (Düsseldorf, 1997), and our own experimental data. The following elements will be discussed: difficulties related to image quality and open magnets, control of targeted image acquisitions, MR environment and problems related to asepsis, as well as advances of other techniques. Finally, short-term and mid-term perspectives will be presented. These are related to the goals of the technique: open or short bore closed magnets? MR unit installed in a radiology department? MR unit dedicated to interventional procedures only or mixed diagnostic-interventional unit? interventional MR unit placed in a neurosurgery operating room? interventional MR unit installed in a general surgery operating room?

We present in this paper an exhaustive compilation of all published data of extragalactic Cepheids. We have checked every light curve in order to characterize the different types of Cepheid and detect potential overtone pulsators, or to estimate the quality of the data. This compilation of about 3000 photometric measurements will constitute a very useful tool for astronomers involved for instance in the extragalactic distance scale., Comment: Updated version of this database is now available through WWW at http://www-obs.univ-lyon1.fr/~planoix/ECD/ . 1321 Cepheids located in 39 galaxies make up the base at the moment. One can also plot PL-relations and compute distance moduli based on Hipparcos PL-relations

Stereotactic neurosurgery and stereotactic radiation therapy require the three-dimensional localization of lesions for biopsy or for treatment planning. The aim of this paper is the description of methods used in the different imaging modalities: x-ray teleradiography, digital subtracted angiography, computed tomography, and nuclear magnetic resonance imaging. The simple pin-target locating techniques are distinguished from those serving to the definition of volumes target necessary to treatment planning. Performances and difficulties of these techniques are emphasized. The specific methodology developed in Lille is described as an example. Organizational aspects and necessary quality controls for a good progress of the entire procedure, from imaging to treatment, are also discussed.

Typical dosimeters used in stereotactic radiation therapy, such as ionization chambers, films, and thermoluminescent diodes, allow basic physical measurements. They are, however, neither well suited to discern small target volumes with high dose gradient, nor suitable for three-dimensional (3D) dose measurements. Gel dosimetry is becoming more and more interesting, owing to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). It permits isocenter position planning verification of accuracy and the precision of the 3D dose mapping in the brain (when irradiated in realistic conditions), especially when several different targets are concerned. Many authors have assessed stereotactic radiation therapy quality control using different gels, and different irradiation procedures. This paper consists of the review of these different methods to assess quality control. Gel dosimetry cannot provide absolute dose measurements. However, gels can be used to check the 3D dose mapping with a high degree of detail. In our experiment, the difference between the stereotactic frame center and the isocenter is about 1 mm. The difference between the theoretical isodoses obtained by the treatment planning system and the experimental isodoses obtained by the MRI gray level calibration is also about 1 mm, the order of magnitude of the MRI pixel size.

Borehole UE-25 UZ{number_sign}16 is the first of two boreholes that may be used to determine the subsurface structure at Yucca Mountain by using vertical seismic profiling. This report contains information collected while this borehole was being drilled, logged, and tested from May 27, 1992, to April 22, 1994. It does not contain the vertical seismic profiling data. This report is intended to be used as: (1) a reference for drilling similar boreholes in the same area, (2) a data source on this borehole, and (3) a reference for other information that is available from this borehole. The reference information includes drilling chronology, equipment, parameters, coring methods, penetration rates, completion information, drilling problems, and corrective actions. The data sources include lithology, fracture logs, a list of available borehole logs, and depths at which water was recorded. Other information is listed in an appendix that includes studies done after April 22, 1994.

To evaluate the results of a privileging program aimed to ensure that health care providers and facilities adhere to standards of care.Technical and professional privileging applications were mailed to more than 1,800 diagnostic imaging facilities and more than 6,000 professional providers of services to members of a health care plan. Site inspections were used to determine whether facilities met standards of care. Specialty providers were assigned a range of current procedural terminology codes for which they had privileges to bill the payer.Of 1,004 imaging sites inspected, 197 (20%) failed with the ability to remedy the violation, 106 (10%) failed with fundamental and serious deficiencies, and 701 (70%) passed. Site inspection pass rates varied substantially by specialty. Chiropractors and podiatrists were more likely to fail than medical and surgical specialists. A strong correlation was found between refusal to participate in the inspection and failure rate. Results suggest that reduction of the number of professional claims billed led to a 2% decline in total imaging expenditures, or a more than 10:1 return on the cost of implementing technical and professional privileging programs.Health care plans can positively influence costs and quality by developing, monitoring, and enforcing their own quality standards for diagnostic imaging.

Stereotactic radiosurgery needs an accurate determination of the target volumes to be irradiated and of sensitive volumes to be spared: position, external boundaries, internal volume. These parameters can be obtained by using either projection imaging (radiographs, digital angiography), or tomographic imaging (magnetic resonance imaging, computerized tomography). The authors describe the methods used in these different imaging modalities and the problems encountered in target determination. Methods of validations are described. Results obtained on phantoms and on actual target volume are given and discussed.

The Lyon-Meudon Extragalactic database (LEDA) gives a free access to the main astrophysical parameters for more than 100,000 galaxies. The most common names are compiled allowing users to recover quickly any galaxy. All these measured astrophysical parameters are first reduced to a common system according to well defined reduction formulae leading to mean homogeneized parameters. Further, these parameters are also transformed into corrected parameters from widely accepted models. For instance, raw 21-cm line widths are transformed into mean standard widths after correction for instrumental effect and then into maximum velocity rotation properly corrected for inclination and non-circular velocity. This paper presents the reduction formulae for each parameter: coordinates, morphological type and luminosity class, diameter and axis ratio, apparent magnitude (UBV, IR, HI) and colors, maximum velocity rotation and central velocity dispersion, radial velocity, mean surface brightness, distance modulus and absolute magnitude, and group membership. For each of these parameters intermediate quantities are given: galactic extinction, inclination, K-correction etc.. All these parameters are available from direct connexion to LEDA (telnet lmc.univ-lyon1.fr, login: leda, no passwd OR http://www-obs.univ-lyon1.fr/leda ) and distributed on a standard CD-ROM (PGC-ROM 1996) by the Observatoire de Lyon via the CNRS (mail to petit@obs.univ-lyon1.fr)., Comment: 13 pages, 12 figures. The CDROM of the extragalactic database LEDA is available by mailing to: petit@obs.univ-lyon1.fr

Two families of diamond coatings used for cutting tools are investigated : “commercial” coatings (usually formed by CVD processes ) and “laboratory” coatings formed by the flame method . This method leads to diamond coating deposits at high growth speed with reduction of energy consumption and cost. The initial topography of the different coatings has been determined by AFM and conventional tactile devices. Tests machining have been carried out by turning AU4 G Al samples in controlled and constant conditions. Significant differences in the behaviour of the two different coatings can be evidenced by study of die resistance to abrasion and control of the substrate-coating adhesion, after machining of 50 Al samples. Results show cutting tools with flame coatings at least comparable, if not better, than diamond cutting tools available on the market. The ability to follow the progressive wear of the coatings working along the cutting line is also evidenced through the determination of the roughness parameters of the turned Al pieces.

Background: Keloids are clinically vexacious scars characterized by a high recurrence rate after excision alone (50–100%). Many adjuvant techniques have been used with more or less convincing results. Objective: The aim of this study is to show the efficiency of keloidectomy and postoperative interstitial radiotherapy by an iridium 192 wire. Methods: During a 14-year period, 39 patients with keloids (46 keloids) were treated by this regimen. Seven patients had been previously treated by intralesional corticosteroids, surgery alone or postoperative interstitial radiotherapy, without improvement. A dose of 12 Gy (7 keloids) to 15 Gy (22 keloids) was delivered at a point 2.5 mm from the axis of the wire. For 17 keloids the dose schedule was 15 Gy at a point 5 mm to the wire. The median follow-up was 7 months. Results: The overall success rate is close to 63%. A recurrence occurred in 14 cases without relation to the method used, the age or the localization of the lesions. There were no side effects observed. Conclusion: Postoperative interstitial radiotherapy represents an effective, unconstraining and safe treatment for keloids if the contraindications are respected.

Hexadecafluoro zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPcF16), a second-generation sensitizer for the photodynamic therapy (PDT) of cancer, was formulated in polyethylene-glycol-coated poly(lactic acid) nanoparticles (PEG-coated PLA-NP) and tested in EMT-6 tumour-bearing mice for its photodynamic activity. The tumour response was compared to that induced by the same dye formulated as a Cremophor EL (CRM) emulsion. Formulation in the biodegradable NP improved PDT response of the tumour while providing prolonged tumour sensitivity towards PDT.

The current clinical imaging technique applied to the sacroiliac joint (SIJ) is coronal Computed Tomography (CT). The aims of this study were: 1) to section the cartilage, the ligaments of the SIJ, and their relations to adjacent organs, in a coronal plane; 2) to correlate anatomical and magnetic resonance (MR) sections; 3) to extend these data in vivo. A topographic dissection of a 52 year-old female specimen was performed to identify the various components, and spatial relationships of the SIJ. Another fresh frozen 50 year-old female cadaver was chosen on CT criteria of normality, and examined with a high resolution (HR) T1-weighted spin echo sequence, in a plane parallel to the ventral limit of the first two sacral vertebrae. This cadaver was then sliced with a sliding gauge device (slice thickness: 5 mm, and device thickness: 1 mm). The SIJ of a 28 year-old nulliparous volunteer, were examined in HR MR imaging, and with a faster sequence, for comparison with the post mortem data. The slice study was correlated with conventional dissection. The continuity and thickness of the auricular cartilage, the complex fascicles of proximal ventral and dorsal sacroiliac ligaments, and distant sacrotuberous and sacrospinous ligaments, were studied. In each plane, coronal HR MR imaging studies were correlated with anatomical sections. The clinical relevance of this comparison was to extend these data in vivo. The auricular cartilage and the ligaments of the SIJ are clearly analyzed by MR imaging, which could contribute to the study of sacroiliitis.

In this paper, we present the experimental results of a coplanar isolator made on both bulk YIG and thin-film YIG. An external field has been applied on this device and we observe the amplitude of the nonreciprocal effect, which is between 1.8 and 6.2 dB for a resonance frequency of 3.3 and 6.9 GHz for bulk YIG and a nonreciprocal effect of 0.3 dB at 9 GHz for 2.5-μm YIG thin films. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 42: 470–471, 2004; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.20339

The authors present a method of stereotaxic localisation using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) computerized tomography (CT) and digital subtracted angiography (DSA) which does not require localisation frams fixed to the patient's skull, but uses only four cranial landmarks corresponding to the holders of the neurosurgical stereotaxic frame. The method presents no major constraints in routine examinations. The geometrical distortions of the imaging devices are corrected. Three-dimensional localisation is performed using sagittal and axial slices in MRI, axial slices in CT and only two associated frontaly and lateral views in DSA. The images data are transferred to a PC-based system. By locating the landmarks on the images, the transformation matrixes can be computed to obtain the 3D coordinates of a target in the stereotaxic space and in any imaging modality. The results obtained show the precision of the corrections and the millimetre accuracy of pin-point target localisation.

This study focuses on two family-related variables linked to the issue of teenage suicide, namely communication and parental support. The purpose of the study is to compare the perceptions of suicidal and non-suicidal teenagers with those of their parents in order to better understand the relation between these variables and the issue of teenage suicide. Results confirm that communication and parental support represents a problem in families with suicidal teenagers. These dimensions are perceived more negatively by the latter subjects in comparison to the control group. In addition, the variations in perception between the adolescent and his or her parents are much greater in families with suicidal teens. This data supports the usefulness of family interventions when family problems are identified during detection measures or when counseling is requited by a suicidal teenager.

The Fab fragment of a mouse monoclonal antibody AM(3-48) that recognizes alpha and beta-heavy chains of human atrial and ventricular myosin and beta-heavy chain of human slow skeletal muscle myosin [CardioVisionTM] was labeled with 99mTc using stannous reductant in a simple, instant kit method. The infarcted heart uptake in dogs of 99mTc-AM(3-48)Fab' was compared with that of established radiopharmaceuticals routinely used for cardiac imaging in humans. The dog infarct was induced by bringing a catheter from the femoral artery to the coronary artery where an artificial blood clot was generated. The 99mTc-AM(3-48)Fab' preparation was selectively taken up by infarcted myocardium, resulting in diagnostic quality images of the infarcted area as early as 6 hour post-injection, rendering CardioVisionTM particularly useful for SPECT imaging. Good agreement was found between the images obtained with 99mTc-Pyrophosphate and those obtained with 99mTc-AM(3-48)Fab', while the infarcted area was clearly delineated as a cold spot with 99mTc-MIBI or 201 Tl-thallous chloride. The biodistribution of 99mTc-AM(3-48)Fab' was also studied in healthy and isoproterenol-infarcted rats, from which dosimetry values in man were extrapolated. The data indicate that the kidneys will receive the highest radiation dose and that they will be the main contributors to the total radiation burden, which was estimated at 0.005 rad/mCi.

The feasibility of high-resolution PET using BGO-avalanche photodiode detectors for in vivo imaging and quantitation of the biodistribution of radiopharmaceuticals in small animals is demonstrated. A prototype PET camera consisting of two scanning arrays of eight EGG C30994 solid-state scintillation detectors was used to simulate a 310-mm diameter dual-ring animal tomograph having a 130-mm port and three imaging slices, each about 3.5 mm thick. The spatial resolution (FWHM) is 3 mm or less, isotropic and uniform throughout the 120-mm diameter field of view.Female Fischer 344/CRBL rats implanted with subcutaneous mammary adenocarcinoma tumors were injected with copper-tetrasulfophthalocyanine (CuPcS4), a potential sensitizer for the photodynamic therapy of cancer, labeled with 64Cu (T1/2 = 12.7 hr, beta +:19%).In spite of the low specific radioactivity of 64Cu and other inherent limitations, organs such as the liver, kidneys and the tumor could be resolved with sufficient detail for their separation and quantitation. Apart from the tumor, agreement was obtained between the biodistributions measured by PET and by scintillation counting. The discrepancy for the tumor measurement results from averaging the radioactivity over the entire tumor volume when, in fact, CuPcS4 does not completely penetrate the tumor. This incomplete penetration is noted on the PET images.PET based on avalanche photodiode detectors provides an accurate measurement of target organ and tumor tissue concentrations. These preliminary results demonstrate the potential of very high resolution PET for biodistribution studies in small animals.

An agarose gel phantom is used to evaluate the spatial distribution of the dose delivered by a linac radiosurgery device. Dependence of the absorbed dose on the T1 relaxation time is checked. T1 magnetic resonance images show the close correspondence between the actual absorbed dose distribution and the dose distribution expected by the treatment planning.

Measurement and evaluation of sales response, in a multiattribute sense, for a product in the usual marketing environment of competing brands has been and continues to be an exceedingly complex and difficult task. It is made more so by the inability to obtain either comprehensive data or sample data that are free from noise factors, not all of which are recognized a priori or a posteriori. For example, even a casual review of the marketing literature would lead one to conclude that even in a heavily researched area such as the advertising—sales response curve there is little conclusive evidence as to the shape of these curves, and that all such investigations are limited by vitrue of ignoring interactions of marketing mix variables. These studies also, of course, treat only one response variable at a time.

We have prepared a series of 2- and 4-fluoro derivatives of the isomeric (17 alpha,20E)- and (17 alpha, 20Z)iodovinylestradiols (IVE2) and also the analogs substituted with either a 7 alpha-methyl (7 alpha-Me-IVE2) or 11 beta-methoxy group (11 beta-OMe-IVE2) and evaluated their in vitro and in vivo properties. Electrophilic substitution of the estrone derivatives with N-fluoropyridinium salt gave the 2- and 4-fluoro analogs which were subsequently converted to the 17 alpha-ethynyl derivatives. The tributylstannyl intermediates were obtained from the corresponding 17 alpha-ethynyl analogs using azobisisobutyronitrile or triethylborane as catalyst. All 12 products were also prepared as their no-carrier-added [125I]iodovinyl analogs via destannylation of the tributylstannyl precursors. Binding affinity for the estrogen receptor (ER) was in general higher for the 4-F derivatives as compared to the 2-F derivatives, while the 20Z isomers of the same compounds showed somewhat higher ER binding affinity as compared to the 20E isomers. The combination of an A-ring fluoro and 7 alpha- or 11 beta-substituent decreased ER binding affinity. Substitution of a fluoro atom at C-4 on either the 17 alpha-ethynylestradiol or isomeric 17 alpha-IVE2 enhanced the affinity of the parent molecule for the ER. A-ring fluorination of all other analogues tested had no effect or depressed ER binding affinity. Varying incubation conditions showed substantial differences in ER binding kinetics between the 20E and 20Z isomers. Tissue distribution in immature female rats showed that the highest uterus uptake and uterus to blood/nontarget ratios in the IVE2 series were obtained with the 4-F-(17 alpha,20Z)IVE2 isomer. The combination of A-ring fluoro and 7 alpha- or 11 beta-substitution decreased uterus uptake but had little or no effect on uterus to blood/nontarget ratios. The highest uterus to blood ratios were observed for the 4-F-(17 alpha,20E)11 beta-OMe-IVE2 (75 at 6 h and 125 at 12 h pi) reflecting rapid blood clearance and in vivo stability, as confirmed by the low levels of thyroid radioactivity. The lack of correlation between ER binding affinities and uterus uptake, and/or uptake ratios, suggests that other factors, including nonspecific binding and metabolic processes, also are involved in the tissue localization process. Our data suggest that 4-F substitution onto (17 alpha,20Z)IVE2 and (17 alpha,20E)11 beta-OMe-IVE2 enhances the potential of these compounds to function as SPECT imaging agents of ER-rich tissues.

This review provides an update on nutritional aspects of carotenoids (as distinct from retinoids), with specific relevance to anticarcinogenesis. Critical gaps remain in our knowledge of the nutritional functions of carotenoids despite an overwhelming accumulation of research data in areas tangential to human nutrition. In addition to their roles as precursors of retinol and retinoids, carotenoids have distinct functions of their own in animals and humans. In vitro they are antioxidants with a broad range of potencies. In vivo, they protect porphyries against sunlight. The evidence for anticarcinogenic actions of β-carotene in certain specified test situations is persuasive. Nevertheless, despite a large number of studies demonstrating protection by carotenoids, the characteristics that render a given carotenoid effective and the relative efficacy of the individual carotenoids are not known. Moreover, dose–response and pharmacokinetic relationships remain virtually unexplored. Research to uncover mechanisms of protection by carotenoids is, for technical reasons, painfully slow. Epidemiological studies reveal associations but not cause and effect. To explore cause and effect, intervention trials are underway, hampered by the paucity of data regarding optimal choice of carotenoid, dosage, and regimen. The in vitro test systems that would provide this information are not available because the molecular sites relevant to the chemopreventive action of carotenoids are obscure. Each of these problems has a solution, but not a simple one. Until these are resolved, blanket recommendations regarding supplementation will remain problematic. To this point, health authorities have not recommended dietary supplementation with carotenoids. Instead, they recommend increased consumption of yellow and dark green carotenoid-rich vegetables. In the future, an individual at risk for a particular carcinogenic process may be recommended a supplement of the most appropriate anticarcinogen, specific to their individual endowment of genetic and environmental risk factors. This review emphasizes not only what is known but also what is not known. Consequently we identify priorities for research that, if undertaken, will allow such recommendations to be made or discounted with more confidence.Key words: β-carotene, carotenoids, free radicals, antioxidants, carcinogenesis, chemoprevention.

Chick embryos cultured on a curved substratum show a transient enlargement of the posterior neuropore (PN), mimicking the temporary delay of PN closure as seen in the curly tail (ct) mouse mutant (van Straaten et al. 119931 Development 117:1163-1172). In the present study the PN enlargement in the chick embryo was in- vestigated further with a high definition light mi- croscope (HDmic), allowing high resolution view- ing of living embryos in vitro. The temporary PN enlargement appeared due to considerable re- opening of the raphe of the posterior neural tube, which was followed by reclosure after several hours. The raphe was subsequently studied in de- tail. It appeared very irregular, with small zones of apposed, open and fused neural folds. During closure, these raphe features shifted posteriorly. A distinct fusion sequence between surface epi- thelium and neuroepithelium was not seen. Dur- ing experimental reopening of the raphe in vitro, small bridges temporarily arose, broke and disap- peared quickly; they likely represented the first adhesion sites between the neural folds. More prominent adhesion sites partly detached, result- ing in bridging filopodia-like connections; they probably represented the first anteroposterior lo- cations of neural fold fusion. Our observations in the living chick embryo in vitro thus show that the caudal neural tube has an irregular raphe with few adhesion sites, which can be readily re- opened. As a result of the irregularity, the PN does not close zipper-like, but button-like by forming multiple closure sites. 0 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Whereas many interpreters and biographers of Rousseau tend to present their subject as a pathological figure, Niemeyer will have no truck with such ascriptions. His reading of Rousseau's epistolary novel Julie ou la Nouvelle Héloïse (1761) draws upon the autobiographical Confessions and reveals that Rousseau uses this novel as a species of self-therapy. In the novel the constellations in which certain scenes recur invite their interpretation as complementary scenes to Rousseau's traumatic "Urszene"--the death of his mother when giving birth to him. In Niemeyer's view, the way in which Rousseau turns his re-working of his childhood trauma to literary account qualifies him as a predecessor of psychoanalysis.

The 7 alpha-methyl and 11 beta-ethoxy derivatives of 16 alpha-[125I]iodoestradiol were prepared via halogen exchange with 125I of the corresponding 16 beta-bromoestradiol precursors. The 16 alpha-bromo derivatives were obtained via halogenation of the analogous 17-enol acetate, epimerization to the 16 beta-isomer, and hydride reduction. Stereochemical assignments were based on high resolution 1H NMR. To evaluate the effect of the nature and stereochemistry of the 16-halo substituent on the relative binding affinity for the estrogen receptor, the analogous 16-chloro derivatives were also prepared. The highest binding affinities were observed with the 7 alpha-methyl-16 alpha-haloestradiols, particularly the bromo and chloro derivatives while the 16 alpha-iodo derivatives gave somewhat lower values. Both the 11 beta-ethoxy and 7 alpha-methyl-16 alpha-[125I]iodoestradiols localize in the uteri of immature female rats via a receptor-mediated process. Rapid blood clearance of the 125I-labeled 7 alpha-methyl derivative results in lower 125I uptake by the uterus as well as nontarget organs as compared to the 11 beta-substituted estradiol analogs. However, uterus to blood and nontarget ratios are more favorable for the 7 alpha-methyl-16 alpha-[125I]iodoestradiol as compared to the analogous 11 beta-ethoxy derivatives suggesting that this compound substituted with 123I may be useful for the in vivo imaging of estrogen receptor-rich breast tumors by single photon emission computerized tomography.

Purpose: Prior studies document the unmet needs of cancer patients after treatment. Tailoring health education to patient needs may improve information usability and facilitate behavioral change. Our aim is to pilot a CHE intervention designed to assess and address the personal health education needs of cancer patients who recently completed primary cancer treatment. Description of Pilot: We recruited one CHE and provided her with training in cultural competence, interpersonal/communication skills, interview techniques, needs assessment and coaching skills. During the first phase of the pilot, the CHE compiled an inventory of written and web-based educational materials from both local and national sources. The CHE also designed a needs assessment instrument and an instrument designed to succinctly summarize information for patients. During phase 2, the CHE piloted tailored health education with patients who recently completed breast or colorectal cancer treatment. At the first visit, the CHE assessed the patient's knowledge and understanding of their cancer treatment and follow-up care and coached the patient to talk about her/his current psychosocial, physical, and spiritual well-being to identify unmet needs. At the second visit, the CHE confirmed the information obtained at the first visit and reviewed the tailored education material based on the patient's stated needs. The CHE also invited the patient to discuss the usefulness of the educational materials and actions the patient has taken in response to receiving it. Evaluation: The intervention is evaluated through a semi-structured phone interview conducted by a research assistant. The patient is asked about: 1) the appropriateness and usefulness of the educational resources received; 2) impact of CHE on patient's use of materials and follow through behavior and 3) an overall usefulness of the visits with CHE. The content of the interview is coded using qualitative methods. Findings to Date: To date, tailored cancer health education has been piloted with 18 patients. Patients identified unmet needs in the areas of cancer related (27%), health promotion (26%), and social support (24%), instrumental support (17%), and other health related needs (6%). Patients welcomed the opportunity to continue a health conversation after cancer treatment. Comments by patients include: “scared, needed reassurance, needed to know the help resources out there”, “really the first time to address specific needs” and it “provided a feeling of comfort, someone to talk to, can't always talk to family”. Patients appreciate tailored health information and reported “had questions and got the right answers”, “very detailed and pertinent” and “did not expect to receive this type of information from her doctor.” This project was financially supported by a grant from the National Cancer Institute (3U1CA116924-05S2; Dr. Kevin Fiscella, Principal Investigator) Citation Information: Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2010;19(10 Suppl):B26.

beta-Carotene protects against photooxidative dermatitis in porphyric humans and mice by quenching of photoactivated species. Other actions of beta-carotene in vivo are explained on the basis of its ability to scavenge free radicals in vitro. For example, in guinea pigs treated with CCl4, beta-carotene decreases pentane and ethane production. Epidemiological studies link low serum beta-carotene levels to elevated risk of lung and other cancers, and in intervention trials, beta-carotene diminishes preneoplastic lesions. However, the dose/response relationships are not well established, and antineoplastic mechanisms await clarification. Given a radical quenching mechanism, beta-carotene should block tumor promotion, but more typically the site of action is progression and an even later role in invasion has not been ruled out. Some antineoplastic actions of carotenoids (such as increased rejection of fibrosarcomas in mice) are attributed to immunoenhancement; others may reflect conversion to retinoids and subsequent gene regulation. Carotenoids other than beta-carotene may act at an earlier stage of carcinogenesis or be more effective as anticarcinogens at certain target sites. As scavengers of hydroxyl radicals, canthaxanthin and astaxanthin are more effective than beta-carotene. Canthaxanthin is sometimes more effective than beta-carotene in chemoprevention, but it is sometimes completely ineffective. Lycopene quenches singlet oxygen more than twice as effectively as beta-carotene. However, the antineoplastic actions of lycopene or astaxanthin remain untested. Explorations of the interactions of carotenoids with other nutrients are just beginning. Dietary fat increases absorption of carotene but decreases antineoplastic effectiveness. Research is hampered by technical problems, including the unavailability of rigorous controls, the instability of carotenoids, and the heterogeneous phase structure induced by hydrophobic compounds in aqueous media. Areas of current controversy and promising approaches for future research are identified.

Objective data about the costs of nuclear medicine examinations are scarce and rather conflicting. Authors describe a method quantitating the costs of nuclear medicine investigations. These calculations were applied to a medium-sized nuclear medicine center set up in a teaching hospital. Calculations were as a tarification and followed the rules of monographic studies. They rely on exhaustive evaluation of each expense and precise analysis of their repartition. Average cost of the examination was 1,016 FF but the study reveals that costs varied from 664 to 6,746 FF. It appears that, but the more common investigations, exact costs are poorly related with nomenclature codification and that radiopharmaceutical costs have to be separately dealt with. This method allows to simulate costs-effects of any structure modification before being applied. One of the major feature of such a study is that it depicts a given center at a given time. Although it is to be hoped that the method should be spread, it should be hazardous to generalize its results.

In providing a beginning for developing alternate approaches to the methodology of Data Envelopment Analysis(DEA),Banker[1]accorded the Chames, Cooper, and Rhodes (CCR) ratio form of DEA[6]a game-theoretic interpretation by relating it to a series of two-person zero-sum games with payoff matrices E whose elements are given by $$e_{ij} = \frac{{{{y_0 } \mathord{\left/ {\vphantom {{y_0 } {x_{i0} }}} \right. \kern-\nulldelimiterspace} {x_{i0} }}}} {{{{y_{ij} } \mathord{\left/ {\vphantom {{y_{ij} } {x_{ij} }}} \right. \kern-\nulldelimiterspace} {x_{ij} }}}},{\text{ }}i{\text{ = 1,}} \ldots {\text{,m;}}j{\text{ = 1,}} \ldots {\text{,}}n$$ (21.1) where $$\begin{gathered} y_0 = {\text{amount of a single output produced by DMU}}_0 , \hfill \\ x_{i0} = {\text{amount of the }}i{\text{th input used by DMU}}_0 , \hfill \\ y_j = {\text{amount of }}output{\text{ produced by DMU}}_j , \hfill \\ x_{ij} = {\text{amount of the }}i{\text{th input used by DMU}}_j . \hfill \\ \end{gathered} $$