Analysis of the concordance between imaging and histopathologic finds in patients with retinoblastoma optic nerve invasion / 中华眼底病杂志

Objective:To analyze the consistency of clinical imaging and clinicopathological finds of retinoblastoma (RB) optic nerve invasion.Methods:A retrospective case study. Fifteen children with 15 eyes who were diagnosed with RB and underwent enucleation at the Eye Center of Beijing Tongren Hospital from November 2017 to January 2022 were included in the study. Among them, there were 9 males with 9 eyes and 6 females with 6 eyes. The mean age was 1.75±1.61 years. All affected eyes were designated International Classification of Retinoblastoma group E. There were 7 cases with secondary neovascularization glaucoma, 2 cases with closed funnel-shaped detachment of the retina and tumor touching the posterior capsule of the crystal, and 6 cases with tumor touching the back surface of the crystal and posterior chamber of the 15 children. All children underwent CT or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Among them, CT examination was performed in 4 cases, MRI examination in 4 cases, and MRI and CT examination in 7 cases. All the children underwent eyeball enucleation, paraffin sections were taken from the eyeball, and sagittal section of the eyeball with optic nerve tissue was taken for pathological examination. Imaging diagnosis was based on optic nerve thickening and/or enhancement. The pathological diagnosis was based on the growth of RB tumor cells across the post-laminar of optic nerve. The pathological diagnosis was based on the growth of RB tumor cells across the sieve plate. The area under the curve (AUC) of receiver operating characteristic curve was used to evaluate the diagnostic ability of imaging examination. The sensitivity, PPV and 95% confidence interval ( CI) of imaging examination were obtained based on the confusion matrix. With pathology as the gold standard, intragroup correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to test the consistency of imaging and pathology. Results:All the 15 cases were diagnosed with RB by pathological examination. Of the 15 cases, 7 cases were diagnosed with RB optic nerve invasion by imaging and 8 cases without nerve invasion; 12 cases of RB optic nerve invasion were diagnosed by pathology after operation. Three cases without nerve invasion. Among them, 4 cases had identical imaging and pathological findings. The sensitivity and PPV of MRI and CT were 0.33 (95% CI 0.11-0.64) and 0.57 (95% CI 0.20-0.88), respectively. The value of AUC (the area under the curve) in the ROC curve of MRI and CT were 0.51 (95% CI 0.24-0.77) and 0.52 (95% CI 0.25-0.78), respectively. The AUC values of both were 0.5-0.7, indicating low diagnostic accuracy. ICC test evaluated the consistency of MRI and CT with pathological examination, 0.61 (95% CI 0.97-0.87) and 0.63 (95% CI 0.12-0.88) for MRI and CT, respectively. Therefore, the consistency of MRI, CT and pathology was moderate. Conclusion:Compared with the pathological findings, the sensitivity and accuracy of MRI and CT in the diagnosis of RB optic nerve post-laminar invasion are lower, and the consistency between MRI and CT with pathology is only moderate.

Unilateral interlaminar approach 270° circular spinal canal decompression under the iLESSYS Delta for the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis in the elderly / 中国骨伤

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the clinical effect of unilateral interlaminar approach 270° circular spinal canal decompression under the Interlaminar Endoscopic Surgical System(iLESSYS) Delta for the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) in the elderly.@*METHODS@#Total of 29 patients with LSS treated with the iLESSYS Delta from December 2018 to January 2021 were retrospectively analyzed, including 12 males and 17 females with an average age of (71.52±10.82) years old ranging from 63 to 83 years old. All patients had definite intermittent claudication, mainly neurogenic symptoms of both lower limbs. All patients had single-level spinal stenosis, including L3,4 5 cases, L4,5 21 cases, and L5S1 3 cases. Visual analogue scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and modified Macnab assessment criteria were used to evaluate pain, low back pain dysfunction index and clinical efficacy, respectively.@*RESULTS@#All 29 cases were successfully completed. The operation time was (73.45±5.89) min, the intraoperative blood loss was (9.93±0.83) ml, the hospital stay was (4.03±0.41) days, and the follow-up was more than 12 months. The VAS scores of low back pain before surgery and 1 day, 1 month, 3 months, 1 year after surgery were 2.31±0.88, 1.45±0.62, 1.21±0.61, 1.10±0.55, 1.03±0.49;VAS of leg pain were 6.48±0.49 0.56, 1.97±0.61, 1.31±0.59, 1.17±0.59, 1.10±0.55;ODI scores were 38.41±2.74, 18.14±1.17, 5.17±0.53, 5.07±0.45, 4.90±0.48;low back and leg pain VAS score and ODI score have statistically significant differences between preoperative and postoperative follow-up time points (P<0.05). The MacNab efficacy evaluation at 1-year follow-up:excellent in 22 cases, good in 5 cases and fair in 2 cases.@*CONCLUSION@#The clinical effect of unilateral interlaminar approach 270° circular spinal canal decompression under the iLESSYS Delta for the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis in the elderly is satisfactory, with the advantages of less trauma and less bleeding, large microscopic operation space, sufficient decompression, and ideal post-operative recovery, and at the same time, it can minimize the damage to the stable structure of the lumbar spine, which is an ideal surgical method for the treatment of elderly lumbar spinal stenosis.

Ictiosis Laminar. Un caso familiar recurrente

Introducción: Las ictiosis hereditarias pueden ser sindrómicas y no sindrómicas, estas últimas, de acuerdo con la expresión fenotípica cutánea, incluyen, ictiosis comunes, ictiosis recesiva ligada al cromosoma X, ictiosis congénita autosómica recesiva, ictiosis queratinopática y otras formas. La ictiosis congénita autosómica recesiva, incluye tres fenotipos principales: La ictiosis arlequín, ictiosis laminar y eritrodermia ictiosiforme congénita. Comunicamos un caso clínico de ictiosis laminar recurrente en una familia. Reporte de caso: Recién nacido pretérmino, tiene hermana de 6 años, con diagnóstico de ictiosis lamelar. Madre niega consanguinidad con esposo, y parientes con esta enfermedad. Al nacer se observa cubierto de membrana colodión en toda la piel, ectropión y eclabio. El manejo inicial, fue gasa vaselinada, lagrimas artificiales, gasas húmedas en los ojos. Actualmente baños con crema de ducha, Shampoo y Aceite mineral, cremas y loción hidratantes y Acitretina, está en franca mejoría. Conclusiones: Con la historia clínica y los antecedentes familiares es posible diagnosticar ictiosis laminar. El manejo es multidisciplinario.

Introduction: Hereditary ichthyosis can be syndromic and non-syndromic, the latter, according to the cutaneous phenotypic expression, include common ichthyosis, X-linked recessive ichthyosis, autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis, keratinopathic ichthyosis and other forms. Autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis includes three main phenotypes: harlequin ichthyosis, lamellar ichthyosis, and congenital ichthyosiform erythroderma. We report a clinical case of recurrent lamellar ichthyosis in a family. Case Report: Preterm newborn, has a 6-year-old sister, diagnosed with lamellar ichthyosis. Mother denies consanguinity with husband, and relatives with this disease. At birth, it is observed covered with collodion membrane throughout the skin, ectropion and eclabio. The initial management was Vaseline gauze, artificial tears, wet gauze in the eyes. Currently baths with shower cream, Shampoo and mineral oil, moisturizing creams and lotions and Acitretin, is clearly improving. Conclusions: With the medical history and family history it is possible to diagnose lamellar ichthyosis. Management is multidisciplinary.

Predictive factors and prognosis of post-stroke seizures / 中华行为医学与脑科学杂志

Objective:To assess the predictive factors and prognosis of post-stroke seizures.Methods:A total of 315 inpatients with acute anterior circulation cerebral infarction from January 2018 to December 2018 were retrospectively collected, including 95 patients with PSS as observation group and 220 patients without PSS as control group.Clinical characteristics of the patients were recorded, including gender, age, lesion specificity, imaging features, past history, and the time and type of seizures.The Alberta stroke program early CT score (ASPECTS) was used to assess the extent of infarction, the national institutes of health stroke scale (NIHSS) and the modified rankin scale (MRS) were used to assess the severity and prognosis of cerebral infarction.The hemorrhage transformation of cerebral infarction was graded according to the European cooperative acute stroke study Ⅲ(ECASS Ⅲ) classification system.SPSS 21.0 software was used for data analysis.Chi-square test was used for categorical variables and t-test or non-parametric test was used for continuous variables. Results:The observation group had lower ASPECTS scores compared with the control group (5(4, 7), 7 (5, 8)), the presence of atrial fibrillation, hemorrhage transformation, laminar necrosis(LN) and hemosiderin deposition (31.6%, 45.3%, 24.2%, 26.3%) were higher than those of control group (20.9%, 28.2%, 9.1%, 16.4%), and the differences were statistically significant (all P<0.05). In multivariate analysis, ASPECTS score ( OR=0.658, 95% CI=0.556-0.778, P<0.001), hemorrhage transformation ( OR=2.307, 95% CI=1.311-4.059, P=0.004), LN ( OR=2.530, 95% CI=1.250-5.123, P=0.010) and hemosiderin deposition ( OR=2.308, 95% CI=1.201-4.436, P=0.012) were the influencing factors of PSS.Partial secondary generalized seizures was the most common type of seizures, and in this group it accounted for 42.1% (40/95), simple partial seizures and complex partial seizures accounted for 12.6% (12/95)respectively, and generalized seizures accounted for 32.6% (31/95). The mean follow-up time of the two groups was 24.1 months and 24.6 months, respectively.The scores of MRS at the last follow-up and discharge (3(2, 4), 2(1, 4)) of the observation group were better than those of the control group (2(1, 3), 1(1, 3)), and the differences were statistically significant(both P<0.05). Conclusions:PSS after cerebral infarction can affect the prognosis of patients, and the large infarction scope, hemorrhage transformation, LN and hemosiderin deposition are the high risk factors of PSS.

Identification and significance of cortical laminar necrosis after acute cerebral infarction / 中华神经科杂志

Objective:To observe the clinical and imaging features of cortical laminar necrosis (CLN) after acute cerebral infarction, and to explore its possible mechanism.Methods:Five hundred and three patients were recruited into study with acute anterior circulation cerebral infarction confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging in People′s Hospital of Zhengzhou University from June 2019 to June 2020. They were divided into 24 patients with CLN (CLN group) and 479 patients without CLN (NCLN group). The general information and clinical manifestations of the patients were recorded. National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale (MoCA) scores and cranial magnetic resonance imaging characteristics were compared between the two groups, and the possible mechanism was discussed.Results:After acute cerebral infarction, the incidence of CLN was 4.77% (24/503). CLN group had more cognitive impairment (MoCA total score 15.17±2.67; NCLN group 18.12±2.49) and less neurological impairment (NIHSS total score 6.93±3.63; NCLN group 8.86±3.26),and there were significant differences between the two group ( t=-5.58, t=-2.75; P<0.05). In the CLN group, the proportion of perfusion-weighted imaging showing hyper-perfusion in the laminar necrosis area (increased relative cerebral blood volume) was 87.5% (21/24), while in the NCLN group, the proportion of hyper-perfusion was lower [1.25% (6/479)]. There was statistically significant difference in the perfusion between the two groups (χ2=143.06, P<0.01). In the CLN group, CT angiography or magnetic resonance angiography showed common atherosclerotic stenosis or occlusion of the large intracranial arteries. Conclusion:CLN after cerebral infarction is relatively rare in clinical practice, and its occurrence may be related to local cortical hyper-perfusion.

Effect of Wiltse approach pedicle screw-laminar hook internal fixation combined with autologous ilium transplantation for repairing single-segment lumbar spondylolysis / 解放军医学杂志

[Abstract] Objective To analyze the characteristics of lumbar spondylolysis in military patients, and explore the clinical effect of Wiltse approach pedicle screw-laminar hook internal fixation combined with autologous ilium transplantation in repairing single-segment lumbar spondylolysis. Methods Thirty-three military patients with single-segment lumbar spondylolysis were admitted to the 940 Hospital of Joint Service Support Force of Chinese PLA from January 2016 to January 2019. The Wiltse approach pedicle screw-lamina hook internal fixation combined with autogenous ilium transplantation was performed to repair the lumber spondylolysis, the patients were then followed up to evaluate the visual analogue scale (VAS) and Oswestry dysfunction index (ODI) of lumbar pain, and compared with that before surgery. 3-D CT of lumbar spine was used to evaluate the bone graft fusion in the isthmus. Results The army patients accounted for 63.6% (21/33) of all the cases. The injured segments were located at L4 and L5 segment, with the L5 segment (84.8%, 28/33) being the most common. The operation time was 85-150 min, the intraoperative blood loss was 50-150 ml, postoperative drainage volume was 10-30 ml. VAS score of lower back pain decreased from 5.8±0.7 before surgery to 1.4±0.8 three months after surgery, and to 0.4±0.5 at the last follow-up, the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). ODI decreased from 41.2%±5.8% before surgery to 12%±3.9% 3 months after surgery, and to 9.5%±2.6% at the last follow-up, the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). At 3 months, 6 months and 12 months follow-up, the bone graft fusion rate was 18.2% (6/33), 48.5% (16/33) and 84.8% (28/33), respectively, and the average bone graft fusion time was 7.0±2.8 months. Conclusion Wiltse approach pedicle screw-laminar hook internal fixation combined with autogenous ilium transplantation is a feasible and effective minimally invasive solution for repairing single-segment lumbar spondylolysis of military patients with shorter bone graft fusion time.

Role of Non-Real Time Imaging in Improving Success of Blind Inter-Laminar Epidural Injection for Treatment of Symptomatic Prolapsed Lumbar Inter-Vertebral Disc

One of the most commonly employed methods of treatment for Lumbar disc herniation with leg pain is epidural steroid injection. Of the three routes being deployed, inter-laminar approach is preferred as needle entry can be directed more closely to the assumed site of pathology, requiring less volume than the caudal route and it is less risky compared to the trans-foraminal approach. For effective placement of the spinal needle in the epidural space, use of C-arm is a must. But, the operation theatre and C-arm is not available in most of the health centers in the developing countries especially in rural settings. Time taken to set up is another issue. To improve the success rate of needle placement in “blind method” of ILESI, we have developed a technique of using digital X-ray of lumbo-sacral spine, which is available universally nowadays, to measure the depth of the epidural space and level of the targeted inter-vertebral space. Objective: To assess the effectiveness of measurements in plain roentgenograms of lumbo-sacral spine in guiding needle placement into epidural space. Methods: A prospective study was taken up in the Dept. of PMR, JNIMS during the period May 2017- Feb 2018. 56 consecutive clinically diagnosed prolapsed PIVD patients were enrolled. Lengths of spinous process and skin thickness were measured using a caliper. A 22G Quincke needle was advanced to the expected depth given by digital xray measurement. 1 ml of Iohexol dye was injected. Position of needle was checked by C-arm x-ray. Results: Out of the total 56 subjects, 46 (82.1%) completed the treatment program. Needle was placed at proper depth in 36 cases by using Xray measurement, giving success rate of 87.8%. Mean (SD) depth of epidural space from skin was found to be 3.82 (o.74) cm as measured from X-ray and actual measurement confirmed by fluoroscopy was 3.9 (0.81) cm (Pearson’s correlation coefficient =0.86). Conclusion: Measurement of depth of epidural space using plain X-ray of LS spine improves the success rate of blind MILESI from around 50% to 87.8%. This method of non-real time imaging is cost effective in developing countries where C-arm X-ray facilities are not available

Short-term effectiveness of axis laminar screws for reducible atlantoaxial dislocation / 中国修复重建外科杂志

Objective: To investigate reliability and short-term effectiveness of axis laminar screws for reducible atlantoaxial dislocation (RAAD). Methods: A clinical data of 41 patients with RAAD who were admitted between February 2013 and February 2018 and met the inclusion criteria was retrospectively analyzed. The atlases in all patients were fixated by lateral mass screws, and the axes were fixed by laminar screws in 13 cases (LS group) and by pedicle screws in 28 cases (PS group). There was no significant difference in gender, age, and preoperative Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score between the two groups ( P>0.05). The effectiveness was estimated by post-operative JOA score; and the accuracy of the axis screw, atlantoaxial bone graft fusion, and the fixation stability were examined by X-ray film and CT. Results: All incisions healed by first intention. All patients were followed up 12-17 months (mean, 13.8 months) in LS group and 12-20 months (mean 14.1 months) in PS group, and the difference in follow-up time was not significant ( Z=-0.704, P=0.482). At last follow-up, JOA scores were 13.9±1.6 in LS group and 14.3±1.8 in PS group, which significantly improved when compared with the pre-operative scores in the two groups ( t=-9.033, P=0.000; t=-15.835, P=0.000); while no significant difference was found between the two groups ( t=-0.630, P=0.532). Twenty-five screws of 26 screws in LS group and 54 screws of 56 screws in PS group were implanted accurately, with no significant difference in the accuracy of the axis screw between the two groups ( Z=-0.061, P=0.951). All patients obtained atlantoaxial bone graft fusion, except 1 case in PS group. There was no significant difference in the atlantoaxial bone graft fusion between the two groups ( Z=-0.681, P=0.496). Conclusion: For RAAD, Axis laminar screws can maintain the atlantoaxial primary stability and had a good short-term effectiveness. So, it could be an alternative and reliable technique for axis screw.

Testing a new surgical instrument to obtain bovine hoof biopsy samples / Teste de viabilidade de um instrumento cirúrgico para obtenção de biópsias do tecido laminar do casco de bovinos

The histological and molecular analysis of biopsy samples are fundamental steps for the understanding of physiopathology, diagnosis and prognosis of the diseases. However, harvest of tissue biopsies from hoof lamellar tissue is a procedure with limitations due to lack of effective surgical instruments and techniques. The aim of the current study is to develop and test in vivo a surgical instrument with the specific purpose of harvesting lamellar tissue in cattle. A prototype called Falcão-Faleiros' lamellotome (INPIBR102013018765-8) was designed, produced and tested. After sedation, five adult cattle were restrained in lateral recumbency and locally anesthetized in two digits. The stratum corneum was worn down using a rotary tool coupled to a 3/8" high-speed cutter until the soft tissue proximity was reached. Next, the inner edge of the worn area was bounded with a scalpel. The lamellotome was introduced to obtain and hold the sample. The histological specimens of 16mm length by 6mm depth were stained with HE, PAS, Masson's thricome and Shorr. The structures of interest were differentiated in the histological analysis without technical artifacts and a mean number of 85 epidermal laminae per sample were counted. No relevant lameness or wound complication were seen following the procedure. In conclusion the technique using the lamellotme was effective in obtaining lamellar tissue biopsy samples without causing clinical harm in cattle. The procedure showed potential to be used in clinical research or even as a supplementary diagnosis method for routine bovine podiatry.(AU)

A avaliação das propriedades histológicas e da expressão de genes e proteínas em biópsias tem sido determinante para o entendimento da fisiopatologia, o diagnóstico e o prognóstico das enfermidades. Entretanto, a obtenção de biópsias do casco é um procedimento com limitações devido à ausência de técnicas e instrumentos específicos. O objetivo foi desenvolver e testar, na espécie bovina, um instrumento cirúrgico especificamente desenvolvido para realização de biópsias de casco nominado lamelótomo de Falcão-Faleiros (INPI, BR102013018765-8). Utilizaram-se cinco bovinos adultos que foram sedados, contidos em decúbito lateral e tiveram dois dígitos anestesiados. Em seguida, uma serra circular acoplada a uma microretífica foi usada para o desgaste do estrato córneo na parede dorsal até próximo do estrato lamelar. Após incisões retilíneas delimitando a borda interna da área desgastada, utilizou-se o lamelótomo para obtenção da amostra. Os fragmentos de 16mm de comprimento e 6mm de profundidade foram fixados em formalina e processados para histologia com colorações HE, PAS, Shorr e tricrômico de Masson. Nenhum dos animais apresentou claudicação ou complicação relevantes no período pós-opertório. As amostras foram consideradas adequadas quanto à integridade das lâminas e à preservação de sua arquitetura. Obtiveram-se média de 85 lâminas epidérmicas viáveis por biópsia. Conclui-se que o lamelótomo de Falcão-Faleiros é apropriado e seguro para a obtenção de biópsias de casco em bovinos, se mostrando promissor para uso em estudos clínicos e na rotina de diagnóstico de problemas podais em bovinos.(AU)

Construction and maintenance of the pharmacy intravenous admixture service / 中国医学装备

Objective: The construct a pharmacy intravenous admixture service (PIVAS) for changing configuration of intravenous drugs from decentralized configuration to centralized allocation supply so as to guarantee the safety of clinical drugs of hospital. Methods: Through constructed PIVAS, adopted purified air-condition system and established fluid-layers room of different grade to achieve sterile environment for configuration of intravenous drugs. And the centralized allocation should be implemented as the characteristics of different drugs. Results: The PIVAS could reduce the waste of drugs and decrease their cost. At the same time, it guaranteed the safety of clinical medication of hospital on the bases of enhancing work efficiency of clinical nurse and reasonably resolving allocation of human resources. Conclusion: The PIVAS that changes the configuration of intravenous drugs from decentralized configuration to centralized allocation supply can positively and effectively promote the safety of clinical medication and increase work efficiency of nursing and care.

Retrospective study on the prevention of infection in patients with hematological malignancies after chemotherapy in a class 100 laminar flow ward / 中国感染控制杂志

Objective To explore the value of class 100 laminar flow ward in the prevention of infection in patients with hematological malignancies(HM) after chemotherapy.Methods Patients with HM and received chemotherapy in the department of hematology in a hospital from March 2016 to February 2017 were surveyed retrospectively,according to patients' wishes,those who were admitted to the class 100 laminar flow ward and received chemotherapy were as trial group,and those who were admitted to the common ward and received chemotherapy were as control group.The incidence of infection,duration of fever,antimicrobial use time,length of hospital stay,and index of infection were compared and analyzed between two groups.Results A total of 267 patients with HM received chemotherapy,74 cases in trial group and 193 in control group.During the chemotherapy period,incidence of infection in trial group was lower than that of control group (47.3％ vs 72.0％,P＜0.001).Respiratory tract,digestive tract,and urinary tract were main infection sites in both groups.A total of 45 strains of pathogens were isolated from two groups of patients,7 strains were isolated from trial group and 38 from control group.The isolated pathogens were Escherichia coli,Klebsiella pneumoniae,Stenotrophomonas maltophilia,Pseudomonas aeruginosa,and yeast.Duration of fever,antimicrobial use time,and length of hospital stay in trial group were all lower than control group (all P＜0.05);serum procalcitonin (PCT) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels in trial group were both lower than control group(both P＜0.01),the time for PCT and CRP to return to normal in trial group were both lower than control group(both P＜0.05).Conclusion Patients with MH and receive chemotherapy in class 100 laminar flow ward can reduce the incidence of infection,shorten the length of stay,and reduce the economic burden,it is worthy of further clinical promotion.

Design and experimental research on mobile class 1000 laminar flow clean field surgery unit / 医疗卫生装备

Object To design a mobile class 1000 laminar flow clean field surgery unit to provide a clean space to facilitate the mobile medical rescue team to execute emergency operations in the field tent, private house and etc.Methods The principle of positive pressure isolation and finite element simulation were involved in the design of two-way air intake channel on the top, flexible isolation laminar flow clean module which could be constructed rapidly, three-stage composite clean air supply module and integrated surgery module with box instrumentation.Results The field surgery unit had all its performances meet the desired requirements, of which, the ventilation rate was 24 times per hour, the relative positive atmospheric pressure value was higher than 5 Pa in the surgical unit, and the cleanness reached level 6 at the operating and surrounding areas.Conclusion The field surgical unit can be deployed rapidly, and has the key indexes accord with the desired requirements for cleanness, ventilation rate and positive pressure difference, and thus can be used for the surgery support of the mobile medical rescue team during wartime operations and emergency medical rescue.

Performance evaluation of nebulizers based on aerodynamic droplet diameter characterization using the Direct Laminar Incidence (DLI)

Abstract Introduction Optical microscope images can be useful to evaluate nebulizers considering the size of droplets produced by these devices. From this perspective, the proposed method was compared to the classic concept of Mass Median Aerodynamic Diameter (MMAD) for the ideal droplet size between 0.5-5.5 µm. Methods We tested a sample of five home nebulizers sold on the Brazilian market. A high-speed camera coupled to a microscope obtained images of the droplets during the nebulization process, which allowed us to characterize the diameter of the aero-dispersed droplets. The Count Median Aerodynamic Diameter (CMAD) was used as measurement parameter. Results The images obtained during the nebulization process with the five different nebulizers provided data to determine the frequency distribution of the aero-dispersed droplet population. Successive images were obtained in the range of 2.0s to evaluate the dynamic behavior of the droplets. The generated data also allowed the elaboration of histograms emphasizing the ideal diameter range of droplets between 0.5 and 5.5 μm. Conclusion The Direct Laminar Incidence (DLI) model using digital image processing technique allowed the characterization of respirable particles. This model proposes the creation of a range of optimum absorption of the droplets by the respiratory tract. Although there is a technical limitation in the direct acquisition of images due to the depth of focus, presenting an error of 9.3%, the described method provides consistent results when compared to other droplets characterization techniques. Thus, the authors believe that Direct Laminar Incidence (DLI) is a viable method to assess the performance of nebulizers despite the requirement of adjustments and possible improvements required to minimize measurement errors.

Atlantoaxial Stabilization Using C1 and C2 Laminar Screw Fixation

We describe the use of a C1 laminar screw in combination with a C2 laminar screw as a salvage technique to treat two patients, one with persistent first intersegmental artery and the other with vertebral artery occlusion after cervical spine fracture. The combined use of C1 and C2 laminar screws allows for good fixation of the atlantoaxial joint with a lower risk of vertebral artery injury; therefore, it can be an alternative surgical procedure for patients with congenital or traumatic anomalous vertebral artery.

Cerebral cortical laminar necrosis in children: imaging findings and clinical features / 实用放射学杂志

Objective To evaluate the imaging features and causes of cerebral cortical laminar necrosis(CLN) in children,to improve understanding this sign.Methods The imaging and clinical data of 33 children diagnosed with CLN were analyzed retrospectively.The imaging features of CT and MRI were summarized and compared according to their etiologies.Results Children cerebral CLN involved multiple lobes of bilateral hemicerebrum, including the cortical region, subcortical region and basal ganglia region, and linear or gyral shape,patchy shape and punctate shape abnormal density or signal were demonstrated.The typical imaging features were high-signal intensity over the lateral cortical surfaces or along the gyri on T1WI and FLAIR.Diffusion weighted imaging(DWI) showed high signal with restricted diffusion on acute-stage, and Gd-DTPA enhancement demonstrated linear or gyrate enhanced appearance on early-stage.The extent of CLN of cerebral infarction was relatively limited.Acute anoxic encephalopathy showed an early imaging change and extensive involvement.While chronic anoxic encephalopathy and inflammatory encephalopathy showed a late imaging change and a longer existence.Conclusion Children cerebral CLN may have various causes and imaging features,and show characteristic chronological signal changes on imaging studies.The different causes result in the different patterns for CLN in distribution and time distribution.

Clinical application of unilateral C2 pedicle screw-plate combined with contralateral C2 laminar screw-rod for atlanto-axial joint and occipital cervical fixation / 临床外科杂志

Objective To discuss the clinical effect and safety of the unilateral C2 pedicle screw-plate(C2PSP)combined with contralateral C2 laminar screw-rod(C2LSR)for atlanto-axial joint and occipital cervical fixation.Methods 11 patients were treated by internal fixation with pedicle screw plate system combined with contralateral C2 laminar screw rod system.The cause of atlantoaxial instability was fresh type Ⅱ odontoid fracture in 5 patients,old odontoid fracture in 3 patients,occipitalization mal-formation in 2 patients,atlantoaxial instability in 2 patients.6 patients had small pedicle of the vertebral arch,2 patients had a high-riding vertebral artery(VA),2 patients had an asymmetrical VA,1 patient re-ceived a revision operation.9 patients performed C1-2 fixation,2 patients performed occipito-cervical fixa-tion.1 patient of irreducible atlantoaxial dislocation also performed anterior atlantoaxial joint release before posterior Fixation.All patients performed bone grafting to achieve a further occipito-cervical fusion or at-lantoaxial fusion.Before and after the operation,the neurologic function was scored according JOA scale. The X-ray and CT-scan also performed at regular intervals to evaluate cervical alignment and the fusion. Results All cases were complete reposition without vertebral artery,spinal cord or never root injuried.All patients were followed up for 6-32 months ( mean 16 months ),clinical symptom were improved visibly. The mean postoperative JOA scores was 14.9(13-16).The postoperative JOA score improvement rate was 76%-92%,and its mean value was 83%.All patients achieved bone fusion approved by CT scan after six months of operation.The reduction maintained well and the internal fixation was well positioned.Conclu-sion It will be an effective and safe way to achieve atlantoaxial fusion by posterior unilateral C2 pedicle screwing combined with contralateral C2 laminar screwing,but this study had not including clinical com-parative study.

Comparison between Radiological and Clinical Outcomes of Laminoplasties with Titanium Miniplates for Cervical Myelopathy

BACKGROUND: Laminoplasty is a surgical procedure frequently performed for cervical myelopathy. We investigated correlations between changes in the anteroposterior diameter (APD) of the spinal canal, spinal canal area (SCA), and laminar angle (LA) and clinical outcomes of laminoplasty. METHODS: Of the 204 cervical myelopathy patients who underwent laminoplasty from July 2010 to May 2015, 49 patients who were evaluated with pre- and postoperative computed tomography of the cervical vertebrae were included. The average age of the patients was 60.4 years (range, 31 to 82 years), and the average duration of follow-up was 31.6 months (range, 9 to 68 months). Changes in the APD and SCA were measured at the middle of the vertebral body. Changes in LA were measured where both pedicles were clearly visible. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score and visual analog scale score for pain preoperatively (1 day before surgery) and postoperatively (last outpatient visit) and examining postoperative complications. RESULTS: The APD showed an average of 54.7% increase from 11.5 to 17.8 mm. The SCA showed an average of 57.7% increase from 225.9 to 356.3 mm². The LA increased from 34.2° preoperatively to 71.9° postoperatively. The JOA score increased from an average of 9.1 preoperatively to 13.4 postoperatively. Three patients were found to have hinge fractures during surgery. Postoperative complications, including two cases of C5 palsy, were recorded. The correlation coefficient between the LA change and JOA score improvement was −0.449 (p < 0.05). Patients with a < 33° (25%) increase in the LA showed the most significant clinical improvement. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with a < 33° (25%) change in the LA after laminoplasty with a titanium miniplate showed the most significant clinical improvement. Thus, LA changes can be useful in predicting the clinical outcome of laminoplasty.

Effect of class 10000 laminar flow ward on the incidence of healthcare-as-sociated infection in patients with initial occurrence of acute leukemia dur-ing induction chemotherapy period / 中国感染控制杂志

Objective To evaluate the effect of class 10000 laminar flow ward on the incidence of healthcare-asso-ciated infection (HAI)in patients with initial occurrence of acute leukemia during induction chemotherapy period. Methods Patients with initial occurrence of acute leukemia admitted to a hematological department of a hospital be-tween October 2013 and June 2014 were investigated retrospectively,patients in class 10000 laminar flow ward was as trial group,in general ward was as control group. All patients received standard induction chemotherapy and the same nursing measures,the incidence of HAI between two groups of patients,and ward air cleanliness were com-pared.Results A total of 79 patients with initial acute leukemia were received (trial group,n= 39;control group, n= 40). The average air cleanliness value in rooms and corridors of laminar flow wards were both significantly dif-ferent with general ward (3.57×106/m3 vs 149.36×106/m3 ,t= 45.80,P<0.001;24.46×106/m3 vs 15854.38 ×106/m3 ,t= 108.70,P<0.001). Incidence of HAI between trial group and control group was significantly differ-ent (23.08% [9/39]vs 45.00% [18/40],χ2= 4.219,P= 0.040). The main infection site in trial group was gastro-intestinal tract (n= 5 ),in control group was lower respiratory tract (n= 8 ). The duration of fever,duration and cost of antimicrobial use in trial group were (6.20±2.10)d,(9.35±2.12)d,and (27113.79±1559.03)yuan re-spectively,in control group were (10.20±2.90)d,(14.15±3.14)d,and (58566.29±2217.54)yuan respectively, difference in duration of fever and cost of antimicrobial use between two groups were all significant(t= 1.021, 1377.45,both P<0.05).Conclusion Laminar flow ward can reduce the incidence of HAI in patients with initial occurrence of acute leukemia,and decrease cost of antimicrobial use.

Standardized method to obtain dermo-epidermal junction samples from bovine hoof / Método padronizado para obtenção de amostras da junção derme-epiderme do casco de bovinos

As afecções podais em bovinos causam importante impacto econômico negativo na bovinocultura. Pesquisas têm sido realizadas com o objetivo de avançar no entendimento dos processos ocorridos na junção derme-epiderme do casco de bovinos com laminite e nos demais tecidos moles durante as lesões infecciosas. Apesar disso, não foram encontrados na literatura consultada estudos que descrevessem um método padronizado para a obtenção de amostras do tecido laminar do casco. Nesse contexto, foi necessário criar e estabelecer um método viável para a colheita de amostras da junção derme-epiderme, de modo a viabilizar o estudo de pós-graduação que originou esta comunicação. O objetivo é relatar um método padronizado, testado e bem-sucedido para obtenção de amostras da junção derme-epiderme do casco de bovinos em suas regiões solear, axial e dorsal. Foram obtidos fragmentos transversais das unhas de vacas abatidas em frigorífico. A espessura desses fragmentos foi de 1,5cm, aproximadamente, e contemplava as regiões solear, axial e dorsal do casco. De forma sistematizada, amostras da junção derme-epiderme de cada uma dessas regiões foram removidas, fixadas em formol, processadas e incluídas em parafina. A análise usando microscopia de luz demonstrou cortes histológicos íntegros e sem artefatos, que permitiram ampla avaliação das estruturas tanto da derme quanto da epiderme. Concluiu-se que o método proposto viabiliza a obtenção de amostras de padrão e qualidade adequados ao estudo do tecido laminar do casco bovino.(AU)

Simultaneous Use of Both Bilateral Intralaminar and Pedicle Screws for C2 Stabilization

Four patients underwent stabilization surgery using both bilateral C2 pedicle screw (PS) and intralaminar screw (LS). Neural and vascular injury resulting from incorrect screw placement was assessed using computed tomography (CT). The evaluation of bone union was assessed by lateral flexion-extension X-ray films and CT. The symptoms were improved in all patients. There were no intraoperative complications. Furthermore, there were no cases of neurological worsening or vascular injury from incorrect screw placement. Failure of instrumentation or screw loosening during the follow-up period did not occur in any of the patients. All cases had accomplished bone union at the final follow-up. Theoretically, the stabilization technique using both bilateral C2 PS and LS at the same time can provide more stability than any other single technique. Simultaneous use of both bilateral C2 PS and LS is potentially a good choice for surgical repair.