ABSTRACT
The diverse steady-state spectroscopic properties of poly(di-n-octylfluorene) are addressed from a molecular-level perspective. Modeling of representative oligomers support the experimental observation of at least three distinguishable classes of conformational isomers with differing chain torsion angles. One class appears to be populated by a single compact structural isomer, and this conforms to the so-called beta phase. A rigorous Franck-Condon analysis of the photoluminescence in conjunction with Frenkel-type exciton band structure calculations is performed. These results accurately reproduce all major spectral features of the photoabsorption and those of singlet exciton emission.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: Phenytoin is an effective anticonvulsant that has not previously been studied prophylactically in bipolar (BP) patients. Thus a study of phenytoin prophylaxis was undertaken and is herein reported. METHOD: Bipolar patients were studied who had at least one episode per year in the previous 2 years despite ongoing prophylaxis. Patients were stable for a mean of 4 months (range 1-13) before entering the study. Phenytoin or placebo was added to their current therapy in a double-blind cross-over design for 6 months in each phase. Thirty observation periods of 6 months each were studied for 23 patients. RESULTS: Three patients had relapse on phenytoin and nine had relapse on placebo. There was a significant prophylactic effect of phenytoin in BP disorder [Cox's F-test for comparing survival in two groups: F(6, 18) = 3.44, p = 0.02]. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests prophylactic effects of add-on phenytoin in BP illness. However, the number of patients was small and confirmation is necessary.
Subject(s)
Anticonvulsants/therapeutic use , Bipolar Disorder/drug therapy , Phenytoin/therapeutic use , Bipolar Disorder/prevention & control , Bipolar Disorder/psychology , Cross-Over Studies , Double-Blind Method , Female , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Phenytoin/adverse effects , Secondary Prevention , Treatment OutcomeABSTRACT
The Rocky Mountain Poison Center is a model system for regionalization. Minimal cost is achieved by concentrating expensive equipment and information materials in the main center. Access to information is rapid because each subregional center has a POISINDEX and thus the capacity to provide standardized initial therapy as soon as contact is made. Full integration of professional activities from training to education is accomplished within the framework of Emergency Medical Services. Public education is uniform throughout the region so that medical interaction is consistent and the public receives maximum reinforcement. Funding is found through many sources and includes a cost-sharing program in which 18 Colorado hospitals participate. Institutions with similar regionalized programs, integrated with Emergency Medical Services and drug consultation, will provide cost effective programs well-tailored to the unique characteristics of each region.
