Time-dependent relaxation of strained silicon-on-insulator lines using a partially coherent x-ray nanobeam.

We report on the quantitative determination of the strain map in a strained silicon-on-insulator line with a 200×70 nm2 cross section. In order to study a single line as a function of time, we used an x-ray nanobeam with relaxed coherence properties as a compromise between beam size, coherence, and intensity. We demonstrate how it is possible to refine the line deformation map at the nanoscale, and follow its evolution as the line relaxes under the influence of the x-ray nanobeam. We find that the strained line flattens itself under irradiation but maintains the same linear strain (ε(zz) unchanged).

[Cutaneous side effects of ketoprofen gels: results of a study based on 337 cases]. / Kétoprofène gel et effets secondaires cutanés: bilan d'une enquête sur 337 notifications.

Ketoprofen gels, since their introduction on the French market (1989), have been responsible for various cutaneous side-effects (essentially photosensitization and contact eczemas). A study conducted by the French drug surveillance system detected 337 cases. Analysis showed that the frequency of cutaneous adverse events was from 0.008/1000 to 0.023/1000 according to the commercial gel. The sex ratio was well distributed, and the population was young (30-40 years) and athletic. Treatment lasted about 7 days, and the appearance of the side-effect was sometimes quite delayed relative to discontinuance of treatment. Reactions were severe in 40 per cent of cases. The factors favourable to side-effects were essentially exposure to the sun (one-third of cases) and occlusive dressing. No particular predisposing conditions were noted, although 2.6 per cent and 8.5 per cent of cases respectively involved earlier sensitization by a topical NSAID. The side-effect lasted about 16 days. The course was usually favourable but hospitalization was required in about 10 per cent of cases. Photoallergological testing indicated photosensitization to ketoprofen. These results led the National Commission of the French drug surveillance system to request a modification in the indications for the prescription of the ketoprofen gels.

[Ketoprofen-induced contact photosensitivity disorders: 5 cases]. / Photosensibilisation de contract au kketoproféne. 5 Observations.

BACKGROUND: Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAID) are widely used in topical applications for benign diseases. Adverse skin reactions include contact eczema and photocontact dermatitis. Among the NSAID used in topical applications, arylpropionic derivatives, notably ketoprofen, are frequently implicated. CASE REPORTS: We observed 5 patients who developed eczema lesions after application of Ketum, a gel containing ketoprofen used on healthy skin after exposure to sunlight. Photoallergy explorations evidenced positive photopatch-tests for ketoprofen with UVA and total light. The anamnesis suggested a photoallergic mechanism which was confirmed by histological examination of the biopsy of a UVA positive photopatch-test and by negative photopatch-tests in 10 healthy controls. DISCUSSION: The photosensitizing potential of ketoprofen in the UVA spectrum is well known. Although the number of adverse reactions is quite small compared with widespread use, physicians should be aware of this photosensitivity and report all cases to the pharmacovigilance center.

A 2-year evaluation of questions concerning "Drugs--Pregnancy" at the CRPV in Nantes March 1992--March 1994. / Bilan de 2 années du suivi des questions "Médicaments--Grossesse" au CRPV de Nantes entre Mars 1992 et Mars 1994.

Since 1990, the 'Centre Regional de Pharmacovigilance' of Nantes has systematically monitored pregnant women exposed to drugs. To increase physicians' participation in this study (34 per cent), the protocol was modified in 1992. Phoned answers are confirmed by mail. At the supposed time of the delivery, the physician receives a questionnaire about the outcome of pregnancy. A second letter and phone call are planned. With this method, 89 per cent of the pregnancies were fully documented between March 92 and March 94. Answers are classified according to the type of the practice. Pregnancy outcome is studied according to the drugs and the moment of exposure during pregnancy. Quality of the information, motivation of the physicians, and the benefits and difficulties of this method are discussed.

[Cure of amineptine dependence with clonidine?]. / Sevrage d'une dépendance à l'amineptine par la clonidine?

Two patients with dependence to amineptine were treated with clonidine which is used in morphine withdrawals. After some days, the two patients stopped amineptine intake. The only way of action seems to be the potentialization of amineptine by clonidine, as probed in mice, or the increase of sensibilization of alpha 2 adrenoreceptors.