bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differentiation of mononucleosis from hepatitis by sonographic measurement of spleen size
Authors: Ishibashi Hiromi , Okumura Yuzo , Higuchi Noriaki , Morioka Eiji , Kimura Harumichi , Shirahama Masafumi , Kurokawa Satoshi , Miyanaga Osamu
Published: February 2007

Spleen size in patients with infectious mononucleosis (IM) was measured using ultrasound, and the findings were compared with data obtained in cases of acute viral hepatitis (AVH). The size was expressed as the spleen index (SI) or the product of the longitudinal and transverse diameters, expressed in cm2, of the maximum cross‐sectional area of the spleen. A normal value obtained from 28 healthy individuals was 15 ± 7 cm2. The SI (mean ± SD) of patients with AVH and IM were 38 ± 7 cm2 and 88 ± 26 cm2, respectively. When the SIs were divided into five groups–grade 0 (0–25), grade I (26–50), grade II 51–751, grade III (76–100), and grade IV (100+), 83.3% of the patients with AVH were graded as Grade 0 or I, whereas 88.9% patients with IM belonged to higher grades. Splenomegaly with a SI value over 75, grade III or IV, strongly suggests IM when IM and AVH are being considered in the absence of other potential causes of splenomegaly. Because the clinical features of IM sometimes resemble those of AVH, it is often difficult to differentiate the two entities. The measurement of spleen size could be a significant supplemental aid in the diagnosis of IM in primary medicine, before clinical data can be obtained.
Fetal head shape in spina bifida in the second trimester
Authors: Furness Margaret Elyena , Barbary Jane Elizabeth , Verco Peter Willis
Published: February 2007

Unequivocal narrowing of the anterior cranium, with an apparent constriction in the approximate region of the coronal sutures, in the absence of oligohydramnios is presented as a warning sign of spina bifida in the second trimester fetus. It makes detailed assessment of the spine, cerebellum, and other ultrasonographic features imperative and may justify amniocentesis.
Endoscopic ultrasonography of esophageal tumors and compressions
Authors: Silva Suzette A. , Kouzu Teruo , Ogino Yukinobu , Sato Hiroshi
Published: February 2007

The diagnostic value of endoscopic ultrasonography to determine the nature of submucosal tumors and external compressions of the esophagus was assessed in 14 patients using endoscopic linear array ultrasonography. For submucosal tumors this new approach not only provided an accurate diagnosis but also enabled us to determine the layer of origin, the direction of growth, and the consistency of the tumor—information not obtainable through other diagnostic methods. The structure from which the external compression comes could also be detected through this new technique. Endoscopic ultrasonography is a very helpful diagnostic procedure in determining the nature of these “tumorlike” lesions.
Replaced or right accessory hepatic artery: Can ultrasound replace angiography?
Authors: Bret Patrice M. , Reinhold Caroline , Herba Milton , Atri Mostafa , Challender Jacqueline , Edde Donald , Casola Giovanna , Kintzen George , Withers Cynthia , Remy Huguette
Published: February 2007

The accuracy of ultrasonography in detecting the right hepatic artery was prospectively assessed in 128 patients undergoing abdominal angiography. Twenty‐five (19%) of the ultrasound studies were technically inadequate mainly because of gas superimposition. Of the remaining 103 cases, 14 had a replaced hepatic artery, which was diagnosed in 10 cases with ultrasound (sensitivity 71%). Eighty‐nine did not have a replaced hepatic artery and the ultrasound assessment was falsely positive in four of them (specificity 96%). Two of the four false negative results could be explained by a stenosis of the superior mesenteric artery in front of the origin of the replaced hepatic artery. Two of the four false positive results could be explained by the presence of a stenosis of the celiac trunk with hypertrophy of the pancreaticoduodenal arteries, one of them being misdiagnosed as a replaced hepatic artery.
Effects of aging on cardiac blood flow velocities
Authors: van Dam Ina , Wijn Pieter , de Boo Theo , Hopman Jeroen , van Oort Anton , Fast Jules , Heringa Anco , van der Werf Tjeerd , Daniëls Otto
Published: February 2007

The effects of aging on cardiac blood flow velocities are important as a description of the natural history of the aging process and as a reference for evaluation of the aging cardiovascular system. We therefore studied these effects in 215 healthy volunteers, 120 males and 95 females, between 1 and 65 years old. Pulsed Doppler signals were recorded proximal and distal to the mitral (M) and tricuspid (T) valves, in the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT), in the ascending aorta (AAO), in the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT), and in the pulmonary artery (PA). Systolic (S) flow velocity patterns consist mainly of one peak. Diastolic blood flow velocity is characterized by two peaks: one due to early filling (E) of the ventricle and a second as a result of atrial contraction (A). All peaks are characterized by the maximum of the median velocity curve (Vmax). With age increasing from 1 to 65 years, VmaxS decreases in the AAO (40%)and PA (10%), VmaxE decreases on both sides of the M valve (proximal—50%; distal—30%), and the T valve (proximal—20%; distal—30%). However, with increasing age VmaxS increases in the LVOT (25%), and VmaxA increases on both sides of the M valve (proximal—20%; distal—50%) and proximal to the T valve (30%). VmaxS in the RVOT and VmaxA distal to the T valve did not show a relation with age. These observations demonstrate that in a normal population Vmax in the heart and great vessels is age dependent at most sites. However, a positive or negative relationship can be found, depending on the measuring site and heart cycle phase. This behavior of Vmax must be taken into account in interpreting cardiac Doppler data for diagnostic purposes.
Liver biopsy embolization track: Ultrasonic appearance
Authors: Carvalho P , Allison D. J
Published: February 2007

In patients with a bleeding disorder or coagulopathy who require liver biopsy, conventional liver biopsy has a high risk of uncontrollable hemorrhage. Biopsy in such cases has been performed via the transjugular approach that, although safe, is technically challenging, requires cardiac monitoring and may have a small specimen volume.

An alternative, safe, and more direct method of obtaining histological samples is by Trucut liver biopsy followed by embolization of the biopsy track. This may leave behind a track that on sonographic examination may simulate other pathology.
An unusual anomalous intrahepatic connection between the left portal vein and internal mammary veins
Authors: Shawker Thomas H , Chang Richard , Garra Brian , Edelstein R. A , Barton Norman W , Filling‐Katz M. R
Published: February 2007

Persistent embryonic portal vessels such as the umbilical vein or ductus venosus are occasionally encountered in the adult on ultrasound examination of the liver. These vessels must be identified and distinguished from the normal intrahepatic portal and hepatic veins. Recently, we have found another vein that, like the ductus venosus and persistent umbilical vein, is also a large intrahepatic portal vessel that is not a normal component of the hepatic vasculature. This anomalous vein originated from the left portal vein and traversed the liver parenchyma without branching to reach the anterior‐superior liver margin, serving as an intrahepatic portal‐systemic shunt by directly connecting the left portal vein and the internal mammary veins.
Diagnosis of acute ulcerative colitis and colonic Crohn's disease by colonic sonography
Authors: Limberg Bernd
Published: February 2007

By instilling water into the large intestine, sonographic visualization of the whole length of the colon from the rectosigmoid to the cecum can be achieved. Furthermore, using this method, it is possible to evaluate the lumen, the intestinal wall, and the surrounding connective tissue in detail. In our study, severe, active colonic Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis could be detected by diagnostic sonography of the colon with a sensitivity of 91% and 89%, respectively. Pathological changes were subsequently confirmed by colonoscopy. Differing echo patterns made differentiation of these two diseases possible. Our results thus show that colonic sonography is a diagnostic procedure that promises to greatly facilitate the evaluation and differentiation of inflammatory large bowel diseases.
Ultrasound volumetry in hematometrocolpos
Authors: Ali Ghorashi M. , Kordorff R. , Franke D.
Published: February 2007

Sonographic measurements of the volume of blood collecting in hematometrocolpos has been carried out in 6 cases of imperforate hymen. Sonometry gave estimates of the amount of retained blood, which were 4% to 28% more than that actually evacuated. The vaginal collection was 5 times or more than the uterine collection. Ultrasound gives characteristic diagnostic features, and the quantitative capabilities may provide information on volume and on the natural history of this condition.
Growth of fetuses of diabetic mothers
Authors: Todros Tullia , Meriggi Ernesto , Catella Giovanna , Sanfelici Carlo , Gagliardi Leone , Resconi Germano
Published: February 2007

Longitudinal ultrasonographic examinations, with measurements of fetal biparietal diameter and abdominal circumference, were performed in 85 diabetic pregnant women submitted to different treatment protocols. Curves of fetal growth parameters were obtained for each group of patients and for a control group of normal fetuses, applying the function y = k(MA)2 · e−a(MA) to the ultrasonographic data.

With the use of this function it was possible to demonstrate that there are no significant differences in the pattern of fetal growth when a strict metabolic control is obtained in diabetic pregnant women.
Sonographic measurement of the pancreas in children
Authors: Ueda Daisuke
Published: February 2007

The real‐time ultrasound images of the head of the pancreas in 93 children, and those of the body of the pancreas in 143 children, were analyzed to determine the normal size. Ultrasound images were obtained by sagittal scanning at the epigastrium and the long axis and the short axis of the oval cross section were measured. The pancreatic dimensions were correlated with height, weight, body surface area, and age. Correlation with height was as good as or better than that obtained with the other physical parameters. However, pancreatic measurements in children vary within each height group, especially in the short axis diameter. Therefore, ultrasound imaging should be utilized in conjunction with clinical and biochemical findings for more precise evaluation of the pancreas.
Ultrasonographic detection of plastic materials in various organs of the human body
Authors: Pery Menucha , Rosenberger Alexander , Kaftori Joseph K.
Published: February 2007

The ultrasonographic appearance of different plastic catheters, tubes, and prostheses used in medical practice were tested in vivo and in vitro. According to the direction of the sound beam, the different plastic catheters and tubes appeared as parallel echogenic lines if scanned longitudinally, or as echogenic dots if scanned transversely. The exact position of the tip of the catheter and its relationship to neighboring organs can be established by ultrasonography. Repositioning of tubes, if necessary, can be done under ultrasonographic guidance. The flexibility and mobility of modern ultrasound scanners allows one to examine the sick patient with minimal disturbance, and to evaluate the location and effect of the various plastic catheters and tubes inserted into the body for medical reasons.
Noncystic “increased” periventricular echogenicity and other mild cranial sonographic abnormalities: Predictors of outcome in low birth weight infants
Authors: Goldstein Ruth B. , Filly Roy A. , Hecht Stephen , Davis Suzanne
Published: February 2007

The sonograms of 71 low birth weight infants were retrospectively reviewed and compared with results of neuromotor examinations at 24 months of age to determine whether mild abnormalities commonly detected on cranial sonograms (including milder grades of hemorrhage, ventricular dilation, and noncystic increases in periventricular echogenicity) were correlated with future neurologic handicaps. Of the 71 infants studied, increased periventricular echoes were noted in 20 (28%), Grade 1 or 2 intracranial hemorrhage in 31 (43%), and mild–moderate ventriculomegaly in 28 (39%). Neuromotor handicaps were detected in 15 (21%). No significant correlation was found between the above sonographic abnormalities and the incidence of future neuromotor handicaps. When those neonates with asymmetric mild–moderate ventriculomegaly were separately analyzed, this group was found to have more neuromotor handicaps (p <0.05) than those with normal ventricular size, and this finding warrants future study. Importantly, early cranial sonograms were completely normal in 12% of those infants with neuromotor handicaps. We conclude that the presence of mild cranial sonographic abnormalities (including mildly increased periventricular echogenicity) in these infants is not well correlated with neuromotor handicaps detected at 24 months of age.
Intravascular thrombosis: Definitive detection by quantitative tissue characterization in vitro
Authors: Barzilai Benico , Eisen Howard E.
Published: February 2007

To improve the sensitivity and reliability of the ultraasonic detection of intravascular thrombosis, we employed quantitative ultrasonic techniques for the analysis of thrombi induced in vitro. Citrated human blood or platelet‐rich plasma was added to sections of canine thoracic aorta mounted vertically in a saline bath. CaCl2 and thrombin were then added to induce thrombosis. Ultrasonic integrated backscatter measured sequentially with a 10‐MHz focused transducer exhibited more than a 10 dB increase in integrated backscatter when either whole blood or plateletrich plasma was clotted (−61.7 dB to −47.4 dB whole blood; < −70 dB to −52.8 dB platelet‐rich plasma). Thus, large significant changes in integrated backscatter measured from structures within the arterial lumen were readily detectable and indicative of thrombosis in situ.
Evaluation methods for intrauterine growth using neonatal fat stores instead of birth weight as outcome measures: Fetal and neonatal measurements correlated with neonatal skinfold thicknesses
Authors: Sumners James E. , Findley Gatchina M. , Ferguson Karen A.
Published: February 2007

Neonatal anthropometry, including timed skinfold measurements, was performed on 55 products of selected pregnancies. These skinfold measurements were compared with published standards of measurements obtained by similar techniques. Values outside the 3rd percentile to 97th percentile range were overlaid on the birth weight/menstrual age relationship of these subjects. Seven of 10 subjects with the lowest midtriceps skinfolds weighed more than 2500 g at birth (2 more than 3500 g) and 2 of 4 with the largest midtriceps skinfold had birth weights less than 4000 g. This comparison emphasizes the imprecision of birth weight as a measure of quality of fetal growth. Since skinfold thickness measurement is cumbersome for clinical use, other neonatal measures that may be more readily available to the clinician were examined for correlation with skinfolds. Simple birth weight/crown–heel length ratio was found to have the closest relationship of the parameters examined. Although estimated fetal weight was found to be the ultrasonography‐derived parameter best correlated with skinfold thickness, ultrasonography discriminated poorly between babies with normal and low skinfolds. Low skinfold thickness predicted thermal vulnerability in the nursery better than did birth weight.
Recording of blood flow velocity waveforms in the uteroplacental and umbilical circulation: Reproducibility study and comparison of pulsed and continuous wave Doppler ultrasonography
Authors: Gudmundsson Saemundur , Fairlie Fiona , Lingman Göran , Maršál Karel
Published: February 2007

Reproducibility of the blood flow velocity waveforms (FVW) recorded from the umbilical artery and the arcuate arteries on the right and left side of the placenta was examined in 8 women with normal pregnancies and anterior placentas. The FVW were recorded using a 2‐MHz pulsed Doppler ultrasound system in combination with a real‐time linear‐array scanner. The FVW were characterized by the pulsatility index (PI) and systolic/diastolic (S/D) ratio. For the PI, the mean coefficients of variation between six operator pairs in the umbilical artery and the left and right arcuate arteries were 8.4%, 26%, and 21.5%, respectively. These findings suggest that, in clinical practice, the umbilical artery FVW is reproducible, but the usefulness of arcuate artery FVW is limited by the wide variation of Doppler signals.

Paired recordings of FVW were obtained from the umbilical, arcuate, and uterine arteries using pulsed wave and continuous wave Doppler ultrasonography in a randomized order in another 21 pregnant women with anterior placentas. There was no difference between the two Doppler modes for any of the measured waveform indices.
Sonographic features of colonic Crohn's disease: Comparison of in vivo and in vitro studies
Authors: Limberg Bernd
Published: February 2007

The entire length of the colon, starting at the recto‐sigmoid junction and ending at the cecum, can be sonographically visualized by retrograde water instillation into the colon. In order to evaluate the validity of colonic sonography as a diagnostic method, in vivo transabdominal ultrasound examination of the colon wall after water insufflation was compared with in vitro ultrasound examinzition of the same colon wall on four resected surgical specimens from patients with colonic Crohn's disease and four controls. The normal colon wall specimens were easy to recognize in that they had a thickness of 4 mm and five layers of different echo patterns, which could be demonstrated both in vivo and in vitro. On the other hand, in patients with Crohn's disease, a distinct wall thickening of up to 1.5 cm was found, and the typical five‐layer stratification could no longer be recognized. The sonographic changes demonstrated in vivo and in vitro were thus comparable both in wall thickness and wall structural alterations. This study shows that transabdominal colonic sonography of the fluid‐filled colon is a diagnostic method that permits a detailed and accurate assessment of the normal and the pathologically changed colonic wall.
Definition of anatomical planes for use in transvaginal sonography
Authors: Dodson Melvin G. , Deter Russell L.
Published: February 2007

Planes frequently used to identify radiologic and abdominal ultrasono‐graphic images such as transverse, coronal, and sagittal are generally not anatomically correct when applied to transvaginal ultrasonographic planes and images. More appropriate terminology specific for the planes imaged during transvaginal ultra‐sonography, such as TRANS‐pelvic and AP‐pelvic planes, are suggested. A TRANS‐pelvic plane refers to a plane imaged when the sound beam is directed across or from side to side in the pelvis. An AP‐pelvic plane refers to an image obtained when the sound beam is directed anteriorly and posteriorly.
Pleural effusion: An “acoustic window” for sonography of pleural metastases
Authors: Goerg Christian , Schwerk Wolf‐B. , Goerg Konrad , Walters Eddy
Published: February 2007

We report the sonographic findings in 32 patients with malignant disease associated with pleural effusions diagnosed by chest roentgenograms. No tumor lesions were seen in any case on X‐ray films. Thoracic sonography, however, detected previously undocumented metastatic disease with diaphragmatic (N = 19), parietal (N = 8), visceral (N = 2) or combined (N = 3) pleural involvement. Additionally, a distinction could be made between nodular lesions (N = 19), sheet‐like tumor masses (N = 10), and combined (N = 3) tumor spread. In all cases thoracentesis was performed. Cytology showed malignant cells in 28 patients. Pleural metastasis was histologically confirmed by ultrasound‐guided fine needle biopsy in 2 cases. The present study demonstrates the value of scrutinized thoracic sonography in patients with pleural effusion for the detection of pleural metastases.
Ultrasound findings in perihepatitis associated with pelvic inflammatory disease
Authors: Schoenfeld Alex , Fisch Benjamin , Cohen Maja , Vardy Michael , Ovadia Jardena
Published: February 2007

The width of the right anterior extrarenal tissue was increased on ultrasound examination in 9 patients with perihepatitis (Fitz‐Hugh‐Curtis syndrome). Normal values were obtained in 72 women without detectable or known disease and were found to be between 1 mm and 5 mm (mean 1.8 mm). The 9 patients with laparoscopically verified perihepatitis who demonstrated this thickening had values ranging from 6 mm to 12 mm, (mean 7.7 mm). Although the incidence of this inflammatory thickening in perihepatitis is not known, its value is that in its ultrasonic demonstration a careful search should be made for inflammatory disease in structures related to the anterior pararenal space.
Ultrasound imaging in tropical pancreatitis
Authors: Moorthy T. R. Kapila , Nalini N. , Narendranathan M.
Published: February 2007

Tropical pancreatitis differs in many respects from the chronic pancreatitis seen in Western countries. The present study was carried out to evaluate the role of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of tropical pancreatitis (TP) and to characterize the ultrasound findings in tropical pancreatitis. Patients referred with a suspected diagnosis of tropical pancreatitis formed the subjects for the study. Plain x‐rays of the abdomen, ultrasonography, and endoscopic retrograde cholangio‐pancreatography (ERCP) were carried out in all cases. Of the 25 cases, 17 patients had ERCP evidence of pancreatitis. Duct dilatation (82%) and demonstration of calculi were the most common ultrasound findings. Pancreatic atrophy (53%) was also a major feature of TP. Compared with ERCP, ultrasonography had a sensitivity of 94% and a specificity of 100%. Only one case with mild changes in ERCP was missed by ultrasonography. For the diagnosis and planning of surgery in TP, ultrasonography can replace ERCP. Even complications like cysts and malignancies are detected by ultrasonography.
The assessment of normal early pregnancy by transvaginal color Doppler ultrasonography
Authors: Kurjak Asim , Crvenkovic Gordon , Salihagic Aida , Zalud Ivica , Miljan Mladen
Published: February 2007

Transvaginal color Doppler was performed in 198 volunteer pregnant women whose menstrual age ranged from the fifth to the twelfth week. In all patients an attempt was made to obtain signals from both uterine arteries, peritrophoblastic/retroplacental vessels, umbilical arteries, fetal aorta, intracranial vessels, and corpus luteum flow.

With the combination of color and pulsed Doppler transvaginal sonography, detection of vascular structures was greatly facilitated and the amount of time for examination significantly reduced. Flow velocity waveforms were measured and results were analyzed by calculation of the Resistance Index.

During the early stage of pregnancy, we were able to locate both uterine arteries in all cases and continuous diastolic shift signal was found. Flow in the peritrophoblastic/retroplacental area was observed with an overall success rate of 94%. Blood flow in the umbilical artery and fetal aorta was visualized by color Doppler starting from the seventh week. Intracranial blood flow could be visualized starting from the tenth week in some cases. Diastolic flow in these vessels was detectable starting from the twelfth week. Corpus luteum flow was found in 148 cases (75%) and the Resistance Index decreased as pregnancy progressed © 1993 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Ultrasonographic scoring system: An auxiliary to differential diagnosis of gastric pathologies
Authors: Boyacioǧ Sedat , Dolar Enver , Acar Yaşar , Dalay Remzi , Temuçin Gülay
Published: February 2007

In a prospective clinical study, 64 patients with gastric pathologies (27 malignant and 37 benign) were examined ultrasonographically. Gastric wall layer changes, gastric wall thickness, lesion length, and protrusion into the lumen were evaluated. A scoring system was defined based on the distribution of these parameters and the score of each patient was calculated retrospectively. Six of the malignant cases had scores in the benign range and 3 of the benign cases had scores in the malignant range. Sensitivity of this scoring system in terms of detecting malignancy was 78% and specificity 92%. The positive predictive value was 88%, the negative predictive value was 85%, and overall diagnostic accuracy was 86%. This scoring system was considered to be a useful aid in the differential diagnosis of gastric pathologies. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The management of ovarian cysts by sono‐guided transvaginal cyst aspiration
Authors: Lee Chyi‐Long , Lai Ying‐Ming , Chang Shiuh‐Yang , Chang Ming‐Yang , Shueh Swei , Soong Yung‐Kwei
Published: February 2007

Nineteen transvaginal, sono‐guided ovarian cyst punctures were performed in 18 patients. These patients, who were high surgical risks, were diagnosed to possess benign ovarian tumors as revealed with sonography. Aspiration curettage of the inner surface of the cyst present during aspiration was also performed to facilitate cytologic diagnosis. The recurrence rate was 11.1%. Sono‐guided transvaginal cyst aspiration has been demonstrated here to be the treatment of choice for dealing with an ovarian cyst in patients at high surgical risk. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Investigation of abnormal first‐trimester gestations by color Doppler imaging
Authors: Jaffe Richard
Published: February 2007

Color Doppler imaging was employed to assess the uteroplacental circulation in abnormal first‐trimester gestations. Included in the study were 40 blighted ova, 35 missed abortions, 10 trophoblastic diseases, and 3 ectopic gestations. Normal gestations served as a control group. Flow was detected more frequently in the blighted ova than in the missed abortions. Flow was detected in all cases of trophoblastic disease and ectopic gestations. Resistance to flow was significantly lower in the trophoblastic group as compared to the other groups. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Transabdominal ultrasonographic evaluation of endometrial thickness in clomiphene citrate‐stimulated cycles in relation to conception
Authors: Wolman Igal , Sagi Joseph , Pauzner David , Yovel Israel , Seidman Daniel S. , David Menachem P.
Published: February 2007

The possible antiestrogenic effect of clomiphene citrate on endometrial growth was assessed by serial transabdominal ultrasonographic measurements in 46 women with unexplained infertility. A significantly higher (p < 0.05) rate of endometrial growth was observed in the 8 women who conceived compared with the 38 women who failed to conceive. A thicker endometrium (4.6 ± 0.3 mm) was observed from the third day before ovulation as well as a higher average growth rate in the three days prior to ovulation (0.7 ± 0.1 mm/day) in the group that achieved pregnancy compared to a lower endometrium (2.1 ± 0.2 mm) from the third day before ovulation and a slower growth rate in the three days prior to ovulation (0.2 ± 0.0 mm/day) in the group that did not achieve pregnancy (p < 0.05). These data suggest that clomiphene citrate may exert an antiestrogenic effect on the endometrium, and thus interfere with implantation. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Prediction of neonatal crown–heel length in normal singletons, twins, and triplets using individualized growth assessment
Authors: Milner Lizabeth L. , Deter Russell L. , Hill Reba M. , Hegemier Suzanne , Hata Toshiyuki , Stefos Theodor
Published: February 2007

In groups of normally growing singletons (20), twins (20), and triplets (13), predicted femur diaphysis length (FDL) values at birth were obtained using Rossavik growth models specified from second‐trimester ultrasound studies of fetal growth. Six previously published functions were utilized to obtain predicted crown–heel length (CHL) values from predicted FDL values. These values were compared to the actual CHL values and the percent differences calculated. Based on their systematic (mean percent difference) and random (standard deviation of percent difference) prediction errors, the functions of Vintzileos (singletons), Hadlock (twins), and Brown (triplets) were found to give optimal results (no systematic error; random error: ±6%). Using predicted CHL values obtained with these optimal functions, growth potential realization index values for CHL (GPRICHL) were determined for singletons, twins, and triplets. In all three groups, the mean GPRICHL value was 100% with a range of ∼95% to 105%. These results indicate that the CHL can be predicted from second‐trimester growth patterns and evaluated using individualized growth assessment methods. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Comparison of transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography in the diagnosis of intracardiac tumors in adults
Authors: Shyu Kou‐Gi , Chen Jin‐Jer , Cheng Jun‐Jack , Hwang Juey‐Jen , Kuan Peiliang , Lien Wen‐Pin
Published: February 2007

To compare transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography in the diagnosis of intracardiac tumors, 17 patients (8 men and 9 women, aged 19 years to 67 years) whose intracardiac tumors were detected by echocardiography were studied in a 4‐year period. Of these, 14 patients underwent cardiac surgery and 13 were proved to have tumors. There were 4 false‐positive and 2 false‐negative diagnoses by transthoracic echocardiography, but only one false‐positive and no false‐negative diagnosis by transesophageal echocardiography. The stalk of a myxoma was detected clearly in 5 of 11 patients by transthoracic echocardiography, whereas in 10 of 11 it was detected by transesophageal echocardiography. The detailed morphologic characteristics of the tumor, such as contour of the tumor, and the presence of cysts and calcification in the tumor, were seen more clearly with transesophageal echocardiography than with transthoracic echocardiography. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Diagnosis of interstitial pregnancy with sonography
Authors: Chen Gin‐Den , Lin Min‐Te , Lee Maw‐Sheng
Published: February 2007

Interstitial pregnancy is a rare and extremely dangerous form of ectopic pregnancy. Preoperative diagnosis of this condition prior to rupture is difficult, and early detection is essential to avoid a fatal outcome. Six cases in our series were diagnosed as interstitial pregnancy. Their clinical features were missed period, positive pregnancy test, and sudden onset of lower abdominal pain with or without vaginal spotting. The sonographic images showed an endometrial echo in uterine cavity, eccentric sac, protruding mass over the cornual area, and/or the presence of free fluid in the cul‐de‐sac. Five of 6 patients had sacs found in the cornual area or a protruding cornual mass. We termed the sonographic findings of interstitial pregnancy as “pregnancy in cornus.” High resolution transvaginal sonography permits determination of the exact location of the gestational sac and increases the diagnosis rate of interstitial pregnancy. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Renal blood flow velocity in neonates with and without umbilical artery catheters
Authors: Glickstein Julie S. , Rutkowski Monika , Schacht Robert , Friedman Deborah
Published: February 2007

We performed an observational prospective cohort study on the applicability of two‐dimensional echocardiography with pulsed Doppler technique as a noninvasive modality to serially evaluate renal blood velocities in premature neonates with and without umbilical artery catheters. We also sought to determine the incidence of umbilical artery catheter‐related thrombus formation in our neonatal intensive‐care unit. We established normative values for renal artery blood flow velocities in premature neonates and postulate that this echo‐Doppler technique is valid and can be used to evaluate renal developmental physiology in the neonatal population. In addition, we observed that even in the absence of clinical sequelae due to thrombus formation, the presence of a thrombus in the aorta caused abnormalities in renal hemody‐namics. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Hypertensive intra‐arterial chemotherapy for endometrial carcinoma assessed by transvaginal doppler ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Hata Kohkichi , Hata Toshiyuki , Fujiwaki Ritsuto , Manabe Atsushi , Kitao Manabu
Published: February 2007

We examined the effectiveness of hypertensive intra‐arterial chemotherapy for endometrial carcinoma using transvaginal Doppler ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging. Angiotensin II, 100 mg cisplatin, and 40 mg doxorubicin were prescribed for 8 patients with endometrial carcinoma (3 stage la; 3 stage Ib; 2 stage II). The resistance index (RI) was obtained for intratumoral blood flow velocity waveforms by transvaginal Doppler ultrasound and changes in RI (RI: differences before and after chemotherapy) were calculated. The tumor volume (TV) was also evaluated, based on the T2‐weighted image of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The decrease in tumor size [DR‐T: (TV before chemotherapy – TV after chemotherapy) / TV before chemotherapy × 100] was determined. RI measurements did not correlate with TV, either before or after chemotherapy. The ΔRI varied from 0.007 to 0.615 (mean: 0.207) and DR – T varied from 20.1% to 65.0% (mean: 45.5%). The correlation between ΔRI and DR – T [DR – T = 23.5 + 167.2 (ΔRI) – 165.6 (ΔRI)2; R2 = 0.772, p < 0.05] was significant. Therefore, we confirmed the effectiveness of hypertensive intra‐arterial chemotherapy for endometrial carcinoma using both transvaginal Doppler ultrasound and MRI. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Increased uterine and ovarian vascular resistance following filshie clip sterilization: Preliminary findings obtained with color Doppler ultrasonography
Authors: Sumiala Susanna , Pirhonen Jouko , Tuominen Juhani , Mäenpää Juhani
Published: February 2007

The effect of Filshie clip sterilization on uterine and ovarian circulation was studied with color Doppler ultrasonography in 16 women before and twice after the operation. As a whole, the vascular resistance was slightly raised in the largest uterine artery and in the fundal parts of the uterine arteries; likewise in the ovarian arteries 2 days after sterilization. The resistance in the uterine arteries approached the pre‐sterilization level at 3 months after the operation, although these changes were not statistically significant. Two women had pelvic pain in the first days after the procedure, and they were compared with the symptom‐free patients. Two days after sterilization, the patients with pain had significantly higher vascular resistance in all parts of the uterine arteries as compared to the symptom‐free patients. After 3 months the difference had decreased in the largest uterine arteries and in the middle parts of the uterine arteries, but in the fundal parts the resistance was still higher than before sterilization. Vascular resistance in the ovarian arteries was increased in both groups, although the elevation was more pronounced in patients with pain. These preliminary findings imply that sterilization may cause an increase in the local vascular resistance, which is measurable by color Doppler sonography. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Comparison of the performance of different reversed‐phase columns for liquid chromatography separation of 11 pollutant phenols
Authors: Cledera‐Castro M. , Santos‐Montes A. , Izquierdo‐Hornillos R. , Gonzalo‐Lumbreras R.
Published: February 2007

A systematic optimization of the HPLC separation of a mixture containing 11 pollutant phenols (PPs) using a Hypersil ODS (250 mm×4.6 mm, 5 μm) column and UV‐DAD detection has been carried out. The binary mobile phases used were obtained by mixing 50 mM phosphate (pH = 3.0) and methanol, ACN, or THF as organic modifiers. After selecting ACN as an organic modifier, the effects of pH and temperature on PPs separation were studied. A mobile phase of 50 mM acetate (pH = 5.0)–ACN (60 : 40 v/v) at 50°C allowed the separation of 11 phenols but not to baseline in 17 min. To improve the performance of this separation, the following RP columns were tested: Luna C18 (2), Purospher C18, Synergi C12, Synergi Fusion C18, Gemini C18, Luna Cyano, Lichrospher C8, and Envirosep‐PP (polymeric). In all the cases, the performance (analysis time, retention, selectivity, resolution, asymmetry factors, and efficiency) was evaluated. A further reoptimization of the mobile phase was carried out for all the columns by studying the ACN content and pH, with the aim of improving the above‐mentioned separations and selecting the most suitable one for PPs analysis.
New data on investigation of novel laser ceramic on the base of cubic scandium sesquioxide: two-band tunable CW generation of Yb3+:Sc2O3 with laser-diode pumping and the dispersion of refractive index in the visible and near-IR of undoped Sc2O3
Authors: Takaichi K , Yagi H , Becker P , Shirakawa A , Ueda K , Bohatý L , Yanagitani T , Kaminskii A A
Published: February 2007

We report on the first achievement of tunable two-band ``one-micron'' CW oscillation in the 2F5/2 → 2F7/2 channel of Yb3+ activator ions in Sc2O3 ceramics with CW laser-diode pumping, as well as on results of precise measurement of the refractive index and its dispersion in spectral range 0.365-2.325 μm and full transmission spectra of undoped Sc2O3 ceramics fabricated by the VSN method.
An upscale theory of particle simulation for two‐dimensional quasi‐static problems
Authors: Zhao Chongbin , Hobbs B. E. , Ord A. , Peng Shenglin , Liu Liangming
Published: February 2007

An upscale theory of the particle simulation, which is based on the distinct element method, is presented for two‐dimensional quasi‐static problems. Since the present upscale theory is comprised of four similarity criteria between different length‐scale particle‐simulation models, it reveals the intrinsic relationship between the particle‐simulation solution obtained from a small length‐scale (e.g. a laboratory length‐scale) model and that obtained from a large length‐scale (e.g. a geological length‐scale) one. The present upscale theory is of significant theoretical value in the particle simulation of two‐dimensional systems, at least from the following two points of view. (1) If the mechanical response of a particle model of a small length‐scale is used to indirectly investigate that of a large length‐scale, then the present upscale theory provides the necessary conditions, under which the particle model of the small length‐scale needs to be satisfied so that a similarity between the mechanical responses of two different length‐scale particle models can be maintained. (2) If a particle model of a large length‐scale is used to directly investigate the mechanical response of the model, then the present upscale theory can be used to determine the necessary particle‐scale mechanical properties from the macroscopic mechanical properties that are obtained from either a laboratory test or an in situ measurement. The related simulation results from two typical examples of significantly different length‐scales (i.e. a metre‐scale and a kilometre‐scale) have demonstrated the usefulness and correctness of the proposed upscale theory for simulating different length‐scale problems in quasi‐static geological systems. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reliability analysis on ductus venosus assessment at 11–14 weeks' gestation in a high‐risk population
Authors: Borrell Antoni , Perez Marimer , Figueras Francesc , Meler Eva , Gonce Anna , Gratacos Eduard
Published: February 2007

Objective

To assess the intra‐ and interobserver reliability of the fetal ductus venosus (DV) blood flow measurements at 11–14 weeks' gestation in a high‐risk population for chromosomal defects.

Methods

Thirty‐five consecutive singleton pregnancies at high risk for chromosomal or genetic anomalies were included. DV end‐diastolic velocity (EDV) and the pulsatility index for veins (PIV) were determined by manual tracing in three sets of waveforms by a single sonographist to assess intraobserver reliability using transvaginal ultrasound. Subsequently, the EDV and the PIV were also determined in a further set by a second sonographist to assess interobserver reliability. Reliability was evaluated by means of the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC). The degree of agreement was also examined using the limits of agreement method.

Results

The intraobserver reliability was 0.81 (95% C.I. 0.69–0.89) for EDV and 0.91 (95% C.I. 0.85–0.95) for the PIV, both corresponding to almost perfect reliability. The interobserver reliability was 0.50 (95% C.I. 0.20–0.70) for EDV, and 0.74 (95% C.I. 0.54–0.86) for PIV, corresponding respectively to moderate and substantial reliabilities. The 95% interval of the EDV differences (cm/s) within and between observers were (+6.1, − 4.6) and (+13.6, − 9.7), respectively. The 95% interval of the PIV differences within and between observers were (+0.32, − 0.36) and (+0.7, − 0.67), respectively.

Conclusions

Interobserver reliability for EDV is only moderate, whereas for the PIV is substantial, allowing its use for clinical purposes in a high‐risk population. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Induced helix formation and stabilization of a meta‐linked polymer containing pyridine units
Authors: Li Cuihong , Guo Yanbing , Lv Jing , Xu Jialiang , Li Yuliang , Wang Shu , Liu Huibiao , Zhu Daoben
Published: February 2007

A new amphiphilic polymer containing pyridine units was synthesized and characterized. The solvent‐dependent conformational transition from extended transoid to helical cisoid was studied by absorption, fluorescence, and 1H NMR measurements. The polar solvent promoted the formation of the helical structures. A metal ion or H+ could stabilize the ordered structure. Moreover, the solvophobically induced helical structure was stable to environmental stimuli. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 1403–1412, 2007.
The common sense model of self‐regulation and psychological adjustment to predictive genetic testing: a prospective study
Authors: van Oostrom Iris , Meijers‐Heijboer Hanne , Duivenvoorden Hugo J. , Bröcker‐Vriends Annette H. J. T. , van Asperen Christi J. , Sijmons Rolf H. , Seynaeve Caroline , Van Gool Arthur R. , Klijn Jan G. M. , Tibben Aad
Published: February 2007

This prospective study explored the contribution of illness representations and coping to cancer‐related distress in unaffected individuals undergoing predictive genetic testing for an identified mutation in BRCA1/2 (BReast CAncer) or an HNPCC (Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer)‐related gene, based on the common sense model of self‐regulation.

Coping with hereditary cancer (UCL), illness representations (IPQ‐R) and risk perception were assessed in 235 unaffected applicants for genetic testing before test result disclosure. Hereditary cancer distress (IES) and cancer worry (CWS) were assessed before, 2 weeks after and 6 months after result disclosure.

Timeline (r = 0.30), consequences (r = 0.25), illness coherence (r = 0.21) and risk perception (r = 0.20) were significantly correlated to passive coping. Passive coping predicted hereditary cancer distress and cancer worry from pre‐test (β = 0.46 and 0.42, respectively) up to 6 months after result disclosure (β = 0.32 and 0.19, respectively). Illness coherence predicted hereditary cancer distress up to 6 months after result disclosure (β = 0.24), too.

The self‐regulatory model may be useful to predict the cognitive and emotional reactions to genetic cancer susceptibility testing. Identifying unhelpful representations and cognitive restructuring may be appropriate interventions to help distressed individuals undergoing genetic susceptibility testing for a BRCA1/2 or a HNPCC‐related mutation. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Substituent effects on the gas‐phase fragmentation reactions of sulfonium ion containing peptides
Authors: Sierakowski James , Amunugama Mahasilu , Roberts Kade D. , Reid Gavin E.
Published: February 2007

The multistage mass spectrometric (MS/MS and MS3) gas‐phase fragmentation reactions of methionine side‐chain sulfonium ion containing peptides formed by reaction with a series of para‐substituted phenacyl bromide (XBr where X = CH2COC6H4R, and R = COOH, COOCH3, H, CH3 and CH2CH3) alkylating reagents have been examined in a linear quadrupole ion trap mass spectrometer. MS/MS of the singly (M+) and multiply ([M++nH](n+1)+) charged precursor ions results in exclusive dissociation at the fixed charge containing side chain, independently of the amino acid composition and precursor ion charge state (i.e., proton mobility). However, loss of the methylphenacyl sulfide side‐chain fragment as a neutral versus charged (protonated) species was observed to be highly dependent on the proton mobility of the precursor ion, and the identity of the phenacyl group para‐substituent. Molecular orbital calculations were performed at the B3LYP/6‐31+G** level of theory to calculate the theoretical proton affinities of the neutral side‐chain fragments. The log of the ratio of neutral versus protonated side‐chain fragment losses from the derivatized side chain were found to exhibit a linear dependence on the proton affinity of the side‐chain fragmentation product, as well as the proton affinities of the peptide product ions. Finally, MS3 dissociation of the nominally identical neutral and protonated loss product ions formed by MS/MS of the [M++H]2+ and [M++2H]3+ precursor ions, respectively, from the peptide GAILM(X)GAILK revealed significant differences in the abundances of the resultant product ions. These results suggest that the protonated peptide product ions formed by gas‐phase fragmentation of sulfonium ion containing precursors in an ion trap mass spectrometer do not necessarily undergo intramolecular proton ‘scrambling’ prior to their further dissociation, in contrast to that previously demonstrated for peptide ions introduced by external ionization sources. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
WebSEM: An Assessment of K‐12 Remote Microscopy Efforts
Authors: Chumbley A. E. , Chumbley L. S.
Published: February 2007

Within the past 10 years a number of institutions have developed and instituted systems and programs that enable remote control of a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Geared toward use by teachers and educators in K‐12 classrooms, these systems have offered access to advanced instrumentation to thousands of students over the past decade. However, despite the enormous potential and promise associated with remote microscopy, the reality has been that most such systems are not utilized to their fullest extent. This is partly due to time constraints on the instrument; many such systems are an integral part of the research and/or teaching focus of the institution that offers the service, and as such, K‐12 educators are forced to compete with institutional demands. Often this restricts the amount of lessons that can be conducted to a relatively small number, in rather narrowly defined windows of opportunity. However, even when such constraints do not exist, the number of lessons typically requested remains disappointingly low, and the lessons that are conducted are usually simple examinations lacking in depth. In an effort to determine why the promise of K‐12 remote microscopy has not been fully realized, a number of assessments have been carried out at Iowa State University in relation to operation and use of the WebSEM, the Web‐controllable SEM operated by the Materials Science and Engineering Department of Iowa State University as a part of Project ExCEL, the Extended Classroom for Enhanced Learning. These assessments indicate that the key to successful use of advanced equipment in K‐12 classrooms depends less upon hardware than it does upon local instructional situations. Establishing a personal relationship between the SEM operator and the teacher in the classroom appears to be the best way to increase current use of remote microscopy. SCANNING 29: 20–26, 2007. Copyright © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.