Sample records for aorta simulating neoplasm

  1. Aorta-Lesion-Attenuation-Difference (ALAD) on contrast-enhanced CT: a potential imaging biomarker for differentiating malignant from benign oncocytic neoplasms.

    PubMed

    Dhyani, Manish; Grajo, Joseph R; Rodriguez, Dayron; Chen, Zhikui; Feldman, Adam; Tambouret, Rosemary; Gervais, Debra A; Arellano, Ronald S; Hahn, Peter F; Samir, Anthony E

    2017-06-01

    To evaluate whether the Aorta-Lesion-Attenuation-Difference on contrast-enhanced CT can aid in the differentiation of malignant and benign oncocytic renal neoplasms. Two independent cohorts-an initial (biopsy) dataset and a validation (surgical) dataset-with oncocytomas and chromophobe renal cell carcinomas (chRCC) were included in this IRB-approved retrospective study. A region of interest was placed on the renal mass and abdominal aorta on the same CT image slice to calculate an Aorta-Lesion-Attenuation-Difference (ALAD). ROC curves were plotted for different enhancement phases, and diagnostic performance of ALAD for differentiating chRCC from oncocytomas was calculated. Seventy-nine renal masses (56 oncocytomas, 23 chRCC) were analyzed in the initial (biopsy) dataset. Thirty-six renal masses (16 oncocytomas, 20 chRCC) were reviewed in the validation (surgical) cohort. ALAD showed a statistically significant difference between oncocytomas and chromophobes during the nephrographic phase (p < 0.001), early excretory phase (p < 0.001), and excretory phase (p = 0.029). The area under the ROC curve for the nephrographic phase was 1.00 (95% CI: 1.00-1.00) for the biopsy dataset and showed the narrowest confidence interval. At a threshold value of 25.5 HU, sensitivity was 100 (82.2%-100%) and specificity was 81.5 (61.9%-93.7%). When tested on the validation dataset on measurements made by an independent reader, the AUROC was 0.93 (95% CI: 0.84-1.00) with a sensitivity of 100 (80.0%-100%) and a specificity of 87.5 (60.4%-97.8%). Nephrographic phase ALAD has potential to differentiate benign and malignant oncocytic renal neoplasms on contrast-enhanced CT if histologic evaluation on biopsy is indeterminate.

  2. Monte Carlo simulation of aorta autofluorescence

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kuznetsova, A. A.; Pushkareva, A. E.

    2016-08-01

    Results of numerical simulation of autofluorescence of the aorta by the method of Monte Carlo are reported. Two states of the aorta, normal and with atherosclerotic lesions, are studied. A model of the studied tissue is developed on the basis of information about optical, morphological, and physico-chemical properties. It is shown that the data obtained by numerical Monte Carlo simulation are in good agreement with experimental results indicating adequacy of the developed model of the aorta autofluorescence.

  3. Palpation Simulator of Beating Aorta for Cardiovascular Surgery Training

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yamamoto, Yasuhiro; Nakao, Megumi; Kuroda, Tomohiro; Oyama, Hiroshi; Komori, Masaru; Matsuda, Tetsuya; Sakaguchi, Genichi; Komeda, Masashi; Takahashi, Takashi

    In field of cardiovascular surgeries, palpation of aorta plays important roles in decision of surgical site.This paper develops palpation simulator of aorta based on a finite element based physical model.The proposed model calculates soft tissue deformation according to the affection of inner pressure and the operation of a surgeon.The proposed method is implemented on a prototype with dual PHANToM device.Experimental results confirmed our model achieves real time simulation of the surgical palpation.

  4. The effects of tapering and artery wall stiffness on treatments for Coarctation of the Aorta.

    PubMed

    Pathirana, Dilan; Johnston, Barbara; Johnston, Peter

    2017-11-01

    Coarctation of the Aorta is a congenital narrowing of the aorta. Two commonly used treatments are resection and end-to-end anastomosis, and stent placements. We simulate blood flow through one-dimensional models of aortas. Different artery stiffnesses, due to treatments, are included in our model, and used to compare blood flow properties in the treated aortas. We expand our previously published model to include the natural tapering of aortas. We look at change in aorta wall radius, blood pressure and blood flow velocity, and find that, of the two treatments, the resection and end-to-end anastomosis treatment more closely matches healthy aortas.

  5. In vitro evaluation of the effect of aortic compliance on pediatric intra-aortic balloon pumping.

    PubMed

    Minich, L L; Tani, L Y; Hawkins, J A; Bartkowiak, R R; Royall, M L; Pantalos, G M

    2001-04-01

    OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of aortic compliance on pediatric intra-aortic balloon pumping (IABP). DESIGN: In vitro study using a mechanical model of the pediatric left heart circulation. SETTING: Cardiovascular fluid dynamics research laboratory. SUBJECT: Pulsatile flow system simulating the pediatric left heart circulation and two different aortas with compliances comparable to those of the pediatric aorta (0.12 and 0.07 mL/mm Hg). INTERVENTIONS: Measurements were made at a baseline peak aortic flow of 4 L/min, at simulated shock (1.7 L/min), and with 1:1 IABP (rates, 130 and 150 bpm; balloon volumes, 2.5 and 5.0 mL). MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Peak flow rates were measured in the ascending aorta, coronary arterial system, and brachiocephalic arterial systems. Aortic pressure was measured in the ascending aorta. For both aortas (0.12 and 0.07 mL/mm Hg), IABP resulted in diastolic augmentation (38 +/- 8 and 43 +/- 16 mm Hg) and afterload reduction (4 +/- 2 and 6 +/- 3 mm Hg). For both aortas, compared to shock, IABP resulted in significant increases in coronary arterial and brachiocephalic arterial flow and aortic pressure for both aortas. Aortic flow significantly increased only in the less-compliant aorta. CONCLUSIONS: In a laboratory model of pediatric left heart circulation, IABP results in diastolic augmentation, afterload reduction, and improved hemodynamics, even in aortas of greater compliance.

  6. Investigation of hemodynamics in the development of dissecting aneurysm within patient-specific dissecting aneurismal aortas using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations.

    PubMed

    Tse, Kwong Ming; Chiu, Peixuan; Lee, Heow Pueh; Ho, Pei

    2011-03-15

    Aortic dissecting aneurysm is one of the most catastrophic cardiovascular emergencies that carries high mortality. It was pointed out from clinical observations that the aneurysm development is likely to be related to the hemodynamics condition of the dissected aorta. In order to gain more insight on the formation and progression of dissecting aneurysm, hemodynamic parameters including flow pattern, velocity distribution, aortic wall pressure and shear stress, which are difficult to measure in vivo, are evaluated using numerical simulations. Pulsatile blood flow in patient-specific dissecting aneurismal aortas before and after the formation of lumenal aneurysm (pre-aneurysm and post-aneurysm) is investigated by computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. Realistic time-dependent boundary conditions are prescribed at various arteries of the complete aorta models. This study suggests the helical development of false lumen around true lumen may be related to the helical nature of hemodynamic flow in aorta. Narrowing of the aorta is responsible for the massive recirculation in the poststenosis region in the lumenal aneurysm development. High pressure difference of 0.21 kPa between true and false lumens in the pre-aneurismal aorta infers the possible lumenal aneurysm site in the descending aorta. It is also found that relatively high time-averaged wall shear stress (in the range of 4-8 kPa) may be associated with tear initiation and propagation. CFD modeling assists in medical planning by providing blood flow patterns, wall pressure and wall shear stress. This helps to understand various phenomena in the development of dissecting aneurysm. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Flow Dynamics of Contrast Dispersion in the Aorta

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Eslami, Parastou; Seo, Jung-Hee; Chen, Marcus; Mittal, Rajat

    2016-11-01

    The time profile of the contrast concentration or arterial input function (AIF) has many fundamental clinical implications and is of importance for many imaging modalities and diagnosis such as MR perfusion, CT perfusion and CT angiography (CTA). Contrast dispersion in CTA has been utilized to develop a novel method- Transluminal Attenuation Flow Encoding (TAFE)- to estimate coronary blood flow (CBF). However, in clinical practice, AIF is only available in the descending aorta and is used as a surrogate of the AIF at the coronary ostium. In this work we use patient specific computational models of the complete aorta to investigate the fluid dynamics of contrast dispersion in the aorta. The simulation employs a realistic kinematic model of the aortic valve and the dispersion patterns are correlated with the complex dynamics of the pulsatile flow in the curved aorta. The simulations allow us to determine the implications of using the descending aorta AIF as a surrogate for the AIF at the coronary ostium. PE is supported by the NIH Individual Partnership Program. -/abstract- Category: 4.7.1: Biological fluid dynamics: Physiological - Cardiovasc This work was done at Johns Hopkins University.

  8. Effect of exercise on hemodynamic conditions in the abdominal aorta.

    PubMed

    Taylor, C A; Hughes, T J; Zarins, C K

    1999-06-01

    The beneficial effect of exercise in the retardation of the progression of cardiovascular disease is hypothesized to be caused, at least in part, by the elimination of adverse hemodynamic conditions, including flow recirculation and low wall shear stress. In vitro and in vivo investigations have provided qualitative and limited quantitative information on flow patterns in the abdominal aorta and on the effect of exercise on the elimination of adverse hemodynamic conditions. We used computational fluid mechanics methods to examine the effects of simulated exercise on hemodynamic conditions in an idealized model of the human abdominal aorta. A three-dimensional computer model of a healthy human abdominal aorta was created to simulate pulsatile aortic blood flow under conditions of rest and graded exercise. Flow velocity patterns and wall shear stress were computed in the lesion-prone infrarenal aorta, and the effects of exercise were determined. A recirculation zone was observed to form along the posterior wall of the aorta immediately distal to the renal vessels under resting conditions. Low time-averaged wall shear stress was present in this location, along the posterior wall opposite the superior mesenteric artery and along the anterior wall between the superior and inferior mesenteric arteries. Shear stress temporal oscillations, as measured with an oscillatory shear index, were elevated in these regions. Under simulated light exercise conditions, a region of low wall shear stress and high oscillatory shear index remained along the posterior wall immediately distal to the renal arteries. Under simulated moderate exercise conditions, all the regions of low wall shear stress and high oscillatory shear index were eliminated. This numeric investigation provided detailed quantitative data on the effect of exercise on hemodynamic conditions in the abdominal aorta. Our results indicated that moderate levels of lower limb exercise are necessary to eliminate the flow reversal and regions of low wall shear stress in the abdominal aorta that exist under resting conditions. The lack of flow reversal and increased wall shear stress during exercise suggest a mechanism by which exercise may promote arterial health, namely with the elimination of adverse hemodynamic conditions.

  9. The impact of simplified boundary conditions and aortic arch inclusion on CFD simulations in the mouse aorta: a comparison with mouse-specific reference data.

    PubMed

    Trachet, Bram; Bols, Joris; De Santis, Gianluca; Vandenberghe, Stefaan; Loeys, Bart; Segers, Patrick

    2011-12-01

    Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations allow for calculation of a detailed flow field in the mouse aorta and can thus be used to investigate a potential link between local hemodynamics and disease development. To perform these simulations in a murine setting, one often needs to make assumptions (e.g. when mouse-specific boundary conditions are not available), but many of these assumptions have not been validated due to a lack of reference data. In this study, we present such a reference data set by combining high-frequency ultrasound and contrast-enhanced micro-CT to measure (in vivo) the time-dependent volumetric flow waveforms in the complete aorta (including seven major side branches) of 10 male ApoE -/- deficient mice on a C57Bl/6 background. In order to assess the influence of some assumptions that are commonly applied in literature, four different CFD simulations were set up for each animal: (i) imposing the measured volumetric flow waveforms, (ii) imposing the average flow fractions over all 10 animals, presented as a reference data set, (iii) imposing flow fractions calculated by Murray's law, and (iv) restricting the geometrical model to the abdominal aorta (imposing measured flows). We found that - even if there is sometimes significant variation in the flow fractions going to a particular branch - the influence of using average flow fractions on the CFD simulations is limited and often restricted to the side branches. On the other hand, Murray's law underestimates the fraction going to the brachiocephalic trunk and strongly overestimates the fraction going to the distal aorta, influencing the outcome of the CFD results significantly. Changing the exponential factor in Murray's law equation from 3 to 2 (as suggested by several authors in literature) yields results that correspond much better to those obtained imposing the average flow fractions. Restricting the geometrical model to the abdominal aorta did not influence the outcome of the CFD simulations. In conclusion, the presented reference dataset can be used to impose boundary conditions in the mouse aorta in future studies, keeping in mind that they represent a subsample of the total population, i.e., relatively old, non-diseased, male C57Bl/6 ApoE -/- mice.

  10. High Spatial Resolution Multi-Organ Finite Element Modeling of Ventricular-Arterial Coupling

    PubMed Central

    Shavik, Sheikh Mohammad; Jiang, Zhenxiang; Baek, Seungik; Lee, Lik Chuan

    2018-01-01

    While it has long been recognized that bi-directional interaction between the heart and the vasculature plays a critical role in the proper functioning of the cardiovascular system, a comprehensive study of this interaction has largely been hampered by a lack of modeling framework capable of simultaneously accommodating high-resolution models of the heart and vasculature. Here, we address this issue and present a computational modeling framework that couples finite element (FE) models of the left ventricle (LV) and aorta to elucidate ventricular—arterial coupling in the systemic circulation. We show in a baseline simulation that the framework predictions of (1) LV pressure—volume loop, (2) aorta pressure—diameter relationship, (3) pressure—waveforms of the aorta, LV, and left atrium (LA) over the cardiac cycle are consistent with the physiological measurements found in healthy human. To develop insights of ventricular-arterial interactions, the framework was then used to simulate how alterations in the geometrical or, material parameter(s) of the aorta affect the LV and vice versa. We show that changing the geometry and microstructure of the aorta model in the framework led to changes in the functional behaviors of both LV and aorta that are consistent with experimental observations. On the other hand, changing contractility and passive stiffness of the LV model in the framework also produced changes in both the LV and aorta functional behaviors that are consistent with physiology principles. PMID:29551977

  11. Fluid Structure Interaction simulation of heart prosthesis in patient-specific left-ventricle/aorta anatomies

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Le, Trung; Borazjani, Iman; Sotiropoulos, Fotis

    2009-11-01

    In order to test and optimize heart valve prosthesis and enable virtual implantation of other biomedical devices it is essential to develop and validate high-resolution FSI-CFD codes for carrying out simulations in patient-specific geometries. We have developed a powerful numerical methodology for carrying out FSI simulations of cardiovascular flows based on the CURVIB approach (Borazjani, L. Ge, and F. Sotiropoulos, Journal of Computational physics, vol. 227, pp. 7587-7620 2008). We have extended our FSI method to overset grids to handle efficiently more complicated geometries e.g. simulating an MHV implanted in an anatomically realistic aorta and left-ventricle. A compliant, anatomic left-ventricle is modeled using prescribed motion in one domain. The mechanical heart valve is placed inside the second domain i.e. the body-fitted curvilinear mesh of the anatomic aorta. The simulations of an MHV with a left-ventricle model underscore the importance of inflow conditions and ventricular compliance for such simulations and demonstrate the potential of our method as a powerful tool for patient-specific simulations.

  12. Medical Simulation for Trauma Management.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1997-10-01

    the inferior mesenteric vein and identify the aorta. Indications for surgical exploration of major trauma (McAninch and Carroll (1989...aorta. (5) Vascular control is obtained by clamping the renal vein and artery at their origins from the vena cava and the aorta, (mistake possible...as if they are being miniaturized and injected into the heart’s left atrium . Their mission, in Page 21 order to save the patient, is to maneuver

  13. A computational simulation of the effect of hybrid treatment for thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm on the hemodynamics of abdominal aorta

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wen, Jun; Yuan, Ding; Wang, Qingyuan; Hu, Yao; Zhao, Jichun; Zheng, Tinghui; Fan, Yubo

    2016-03-01

    Hybrid visceral-renal debranching procedures with endovascular repair have been proposed as an appealing technique to treat conventional thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA). This approach, however, still remained controversial because of the non-physiological blood flow direction of its retrograde visceral revascularization (RVR) which is generally constructed from the aortic bifurcation or common iliac artery. The current study carried out the numerical simulation to investigate the effect of RVR on the hemodynamics of abdominal aorta. The results indicated that the inflow sites for the RVR have great impact on the hemodynamic performance. When RVR was from the distal aorta, the perfusion to visceral organs were adequate but the flow flux to the iliac artery significantly decreased and a complex disturbed flow field developed at the distal aorta, which endangered the aorta at high risk of aneurysm development. When RVR was from the right iliac artery, the abdominal aorta was not troubled with low WSS or disturbed flow, but the inadequate perfusion to the visceral organs reached up to 40% and low WSS and flow velocity predominated appeared at the right iliac artery and the grafts, which may result in the stenosis in grafts and aneurysm growth on the host iliac artery.

  14. Evidence that simulated microgravity may alter the vascular nonreceptor tyrosine kinase second messenger pathway

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kahwaji, C. I.; Sheibani, S.; Han, S.; Siu, W. O.; Kaka, A. H.; Fathy, T. M.; el-Abbadi, N. H.; Purdy, R. E.

    2000-01-01

    Simulated microgravity (hind limb unweighting; HU) reduces maximal contractile capacity to norepinephrine (NE) but not 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) in the rat abdominal aorta of male Wistar rats. Our earlier study showed that voltage-operated calcium channels, the MAPK pathway [1], and vasoconstrictive prostaglandins contribute to the NE-induced contraction of control (C) but not HU, aorta rings. Genistein, a general tyrosine kinase inhibitor, caused a significant reduction in vascular contractility in C but not HU arteries. The present study explored the role of protein kinase C (PKC) and extracellular receptor-activated kinase 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) in the HU-induced vascular hyporesponsiveness to NE. Microgravity was simulated in Wistar rats by 20 day HU. The abdominal aorta was removed from control and HU rats, cut into 3 mm rings, and mounted in tissue baths to measure isometric contraction. Protein levels were determined using Western blot analysis. PD98059, a selective MAPKK inhibitor, caused a marked inhibition of NE-induced contraction in both C and HU arteries. Calphostin C, a PKC inhibitor, completely abolished the contractile response to NE in both C and HU tissues. Phosphorylated (activated) ERK1/2 protein mass was greater in C, compared to HU, aortas, and was reduced by genistein only in C tissues. MAPK total protein levels in the rat aorta were increased in the HU-treated, compared to C, animals. These results indicate that PKC represents an early transduction step in the contractile response to NE in the rat abdominal aorta. That inhibition of the step immediately before activation of MAPK reduced contraction in both C and HU tissues, while general tyrosine kinase inhibition with genistein blocked only the control responses, suggests that a nonreceptor tyrosine kinase may be involved in HU-induced vascular hyporesponsiveness to NE.

  15. INCLUDING AORTIC VALVE MORPHOLOGY IN COMPUTATIONAL FLUID DYNAMICS SIMULATIONS: INITIAL FINDINGS AND APPLICATION TO AORTIC COARCTATION

    PubMed Central

    Wendell, David C.; Samyn, Margaret M.; Cava, Joseph R.; Ellwein, Laura M.; Krolikowski, Mary M.; Gandy, Kimberly L.; Pelech, Andrew N.; Shadden, Shawn C.; LaDisa, John F.

    2012-01-01

    Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations quantifying thoracic aortic flow patterns have not included disturbances from the aortic valve (AoV). 80% of patients with aortic coarctation (CoA) have a bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) which may cause adverse flow patterns contributing to morbidity. Our objectives were to develop a method to account for the AoV in CFD simulations, and quantify its impact on local hemodynamics. The method developed facilitates segmentation of the AoV, spatiotemporal interpolation of segments, and anatomic positioning of segments at the CFD model inlet. The AoV was included in CFD model examples of a normal (tricuspid AoV) and a post-surgical CoA patient (BAV). Velocity, turbulent kinetic energy (TKE), time-averaged wall shear stress (TAWSS), and oscillatory shear index (OSI) results were compared to equivalent simulations using a plug inlet profile. The plug inlet greatly underestimated TKE for both examples. TAWSS differences extended throughout the thoracic aorta for the CoA BAV, but were limited to the arch for the normal example. OSI differences existed mainly in the ascending aorta for both cases. The impact of AoV can now be included with CFD simulations to identify regions of deleterious hemodynamics thereby advancing simulations of the thoracic aorta one step closer to reality. PMID:22917990

  16. Dynamics of the aortic arch submitted to a shock loading: Parametric study with fluid-structure models.

    PubMed

    El Baroudi, A; Razafimahery, F; Rakotomanana, L

    2012-01-01

    This work aims to present some fluid-structure models for analyzing the dynamics of the aorta during a brusque loading. Indeed, various lesions may appear at the aortic arch during car crash or other accident such as brusque falling. Aortic stresses evolution are simulated during the shock at the cross section and along the aorta. One hot question was that if a brusque deceleration can generate tissue tearing, or a shock is necessary to provoke such a damage. Different constitutive laws of blood are then tested whereas the aorta is assumed linear and elastic. The overall shock model is inspired from an experimental jig. We show that the viscosity has strong influence on the stress and parietal moments and forces. The nonlinear viscosity has no significant additional effects for healthy aorta, but modifies the stress and parietal loadings for the stenotic aorta.

  17. Are Radiation Therapy Oncology Group Para-aortic Contouring Guidelines for Pancreatic Neoplasm Applicable to Other Malignancies—Assessment of Nodal Distribution in Gynecological Malignancies

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kabolizadeh, Peyman; Fulay, Suyash; Beriwal, Sushil, E-mail: beriwals@upmc.edu

    Purpose: Intensity modulated radiation therapy is used to reduce dose to adjacent critical structures while maintaining adequate target coverage, but it requires precise target localization. We report the 3-dimensional distribution of para-aortic (PA) lymph nodes (LN) in pelvic malignancies. We propose a guideline to accurately define the PA LN by anatomic landmarks and compare our data with published guidelines for pancreatic cancer. Methods and Materials: A retrospective analysis was performed on 46 patients with pelvic malignancies and positive PA LNs. Positive LNs were defined based on size and morphology or fluorodeoxyglucose avidity. All PA LNs were characterized into 3 groupsmore » based on location: left PA (between aorta and left psoas muscle), aortocaval (between aorta and inferior vena cava), and right paracaval (between inferior vena cava and right psoas muscle). Patients with retrocrural LNs were also analyzed. Results: One hundred thirty-three positive PA LNs were evaluated. The majority of the PA LNs were in the left PA (59%) and aortocaval (35) regions, and only 8% were in the right paracaval region. All patients with positive right paracaval LNs also had involved left PA LNs, with only 1 exception. The highest PA LN involvement was at the level of the renal vessels and was seen in 28% of patients. Of these patients with disease extending to renal vessels, 38% had retrocrural LN involvement. Conclusions: The nodal contouring for the PA region should not be defined by a fixed circumferential margin around the vessels. The left PA and aortocaval spaces should be covered adequately because these are common locations of PA LNs. For microscopic disease superiorly, contouring should extend up to renal vessels rather than a fixed bony landmark. For patients who have nodal involvement at renal vessels, one can consider including retrocrural LNs. Radiation Therapy Oncology Group Para-aortic Contouring Guidelines for Pancreatic Neoplasm are not applicable to gynecological malignancies.« less

  18. The risks of aorta impingement from pedicle screw may increase due to aorta movement during posterior instrumentation in Lenke 5C curve: a computed tomography study.

    PubMed

    Chen, Ling; Xu, Leilei; Qiu, Yong; Qiao, Jun; Wang, Fei; Liu, Zhen; Shi, Benglong; Qian, Bang-ping; Zhu, Zezhang

    2015-07-01

    To investigate the aorta movement following correction surgery for patients with thoracolumbar/lumbar scoliosis and to determine the subsequent risk of the aorta impingement for pedicle screw (PS) misplacement. Thirty-six AIS patients with a main thoracolumbar or lumbar curve were included in this study. According to the direction of the main curve, the patients were divided into Group R and Group L, with Group R comprising 16 patients with a right-sided curve and Group L comprising 20 patients with a left-sided curve. All patients underwent CT scans of the lower thoracic and lumbar spine before and after surgery. To identify the relative positions of the aorta to vertebral body, several parameters were measured from the CT images of the middle transverse planes of vertebrae from T11 to L4, including aorta-vertebra angle (α), vertebral rotation angle (β), left safety distance (LSD) and right safety distance (RSD). The risk of the aorta impingement from T11 to L4 was calculated. An intragroup comparison regarding the position of the aorta relative to the vertebral body before and after correction surgery was performed accordingly. After surgery, the aorta moved toward the vertebral body among all levels in both groups. Compared with that in Group L, the aorta in Group R was significantly closer to the entry point at all levels, especially at T11. Before surgery, the aorta in Group R was at a high risk of impingement from left PS placement regardless of the diameters of the simulated screws. While in Group L, the risk of aorta impingement was mainly caused by the right placement of 45 mm PS. After surgery, both groups had an increased risk of aorta impingement from PS insertion, especially at T11. The risk of aorta impingement from PS placement was significantly higher in Group R than in Group L. The risk of aorta impingement increased as the aorta shifted leftward after correction surgery, especially in right-sided Lenke 5C curve. Thus, preoperative risk evaluation could be insufficient for clinical practice due to aorta movement following correction surgery. Surgeons should be aware of the potential risk of aorta impingement, especially when placing PS in patients with right-sided curves.

  19. Fabrication and evaluation of novel rabbit model cardiovascular simulator with 3D printer

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jang, Min; Lee, Min-Woo; Seo, See-Yoon; Shin, Sang-Hoon

    2017-03-01

    Simulators allow researchers to study the hemodynamics of the cardiovascular system in a reproducible way without using complicated equations. Previous simulators focused on heart functions. However, a detailed model of the vessels is required to replicate the pulse wave of the arterial system. A computer simulation was used to simplify the arterial branch because producing every small artery is neither possible nor necessary. A 3D-printed zig was used to make a hand-made arterial tree. The simulator that was developed was evaluated by comparing its results to in-vivo data, in terms of the hemodynamic parameters (waveform, augmentation index, impedance, etc.) that were measured at three points: the ascending aorta, the thoracic aorta, and the brachiocephalic artery. The results from the simulator showed good agreement with the in-vivo data. Therefore, this simulator can be used as a research tool for the cardiovascular study of animal models, specifically rabbits.

  20. Low Density Lipoprotein and Non-Newtonian Oscillating Flow Biomechanical Parameters for Normal Human Aorta.

    PubMed

    Soulis, Johannes V; Fytanidis, Dimitrios K; Lampri, Olga P; Giannoglou, George D

    2016-04-01

    The temporal variation of the hemodynamic mechanical parameters during cardiac pulse wave is considered as an important atherogenic factor. Applying non-Newtonian blood molecular viscosity simulation is crucial for hemodynamic analysis. Understanding low density lipoprotein (LDL) distribution in relation to flow parameters will possibly spot the prone to atherosclerosis aorta regions. The biomechanical parameters tested were averaged wall shear stress (AWSS), oscillatory shear index (OSI) and relative residence time (RRT) in relation to the LDL concentration. Four non-Newtonian molecular viscosity models and the Newtonian one were tested for the normal human aorta under oscillating flow. The analysis was performed via computational fluid dynamic. Tested viscosity blood flow models for the biomechanical parameters yield a consistent aorta pattern. High OSI and low AWSS develop at the concave aorta regions. This is most noticeable in downstream flow region of the left subclavian artery and at concave ascending aorta. Concave aorta regions exhibit high RRT and elevated LDL. For the concave aorta site, the peak LDL value is 35.0% higher than its entrance value. For the convex site, it is 18.0%. High LDL endothelium regions located at the aorta concave site are well predicted with high RRT. We are in favor of using the non-Newtonian power law model for analysis. It satisfactorily approximates the molecular viscosity, WSS, OSI, RRT and LDL distribution. Concave regions are mostly prone to atherosclerosis. The flow biomechanical factor RRT is a relatively useful tool for identifying the localization of the atheromatic plaques of the normal human aorta.

  1. Pulse-wave propagation in straight-geometry vessels for stiffness estimation: theory, simulations, phantoms and in vitro findings.

    PubMed

    Shahmirzadi, Danial; Li, Ronny X; Konofagou, Elisa E

    2012-11-01

    Pulse wave imaging (PWI) is an ultrasound-based method for noninvasive characterization of arterial stiffness based on pulse wave propagation. Reliable numerical models of pulse wave propagation in normal and pathological aortas could serve as powerful tools for local pulse wave analysis and a guideline for PWI measurements in vivo. The objectives of this paper are to (1) apply a fluid-structure interaction (FSI) simulation of a straight-geometry aorta to confirm the Moens-Korteweg relationship between the pulse wave velocity (PWV) and the wall modulus, and (2) validate the simulation findings against phantom and in vitro results. PWI depicted and tracked the pulse wave propagation along the abdominal wall of canine aorta in vitro in sequential Radio-Frequency (RF) ultrasound frames and estimates the PWV in the imaged wall. The same system was also used to image multiple polyacrylamide phantoms, mimicking the canine measurements as well as modeling softer and stiffer walls. Finally, the model parameters from the canine and phantom studies were used to perform 3D two-way coupled FSI simulations of pulse wave propagation and estimate the PWV. The simulation results were found to correlate well with the corresponding Moens-Korteweg equation. A high linear correlation was also established between PWV² and E measurements using the combined simulation and experimental findings (R² =  0.98) confirming the relationship established by the aforementioned equation.

  2. Effects of Aortic Irregularities on the Blood Flow

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gutmark-Little, Iris; Prahl-Wittberg, Lisa; van Wyk, Stevin; Mihaescu, Mihai; Fuchs, Laszlo; Backeljauw, Philippe; Gutmark, Ephraim

    2013-11-01

    Cardiovascular defects characterized by geometrical anomalies of the aorta and its effect on the blood flow are investigated. The flow characteristics change with the aorta geometry and the rheological properties of the blood. Flow characteristics such as wall shear stress often play an important role in the development of vascular disease. In the present study, blood is considered to be non-Newtonian and is modeled using the Quemada model, an empirical model that is valid for different red blood cell loading. Three patient-specific aortic geometries are studied using Large Eddy Simulations (LES). The three geometries represent malformations that are typical in patients populations having a genetic disorder called Turner syndrome. The results show a highly complex flow with regions of recirculation that are enhanced in two of the three aortas. Moreover, blood flow is diverted, due to the malformations, from the descending aorta to the three side branches of the arch. The geometry having an elongated transverse aorta has larger areas of strong oscillatory wall shear stress.

  3. Tensile characterisation of the aorta across quasi-static to blast loading strain rates

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Magnus, Danyal; Proud, William; Haller, Antoine; Jouffroy, Apolline

    2017-06-01

    The dynamic tensile failure mechanisms of the aorta during Traumatic Aortic Injury (TAI) are poorly understood. In automotive incidents, where the aorta may be under strains of the order of 100/s, TAI is the second largest cause of mortality. In these studies, the proximal descending aorta is the most common site where rupture is observed. In particular, the transverse direction is most commonly affected due to the circumferential orientation of elastin, and hence the literature generally concentrates upon axial samples. This project extends these dynamic studies to the blast loading regime where strain-rates are of the order of 1000/s. A campaign of uniaxial tensile experiments are conducted at quasi-static, intermediate (drop-weight) and high (tensile Split-Hopkinson Pressure Bar) strain rates. In each case, murine and porcine aorta models are considered and the extent of damage assessed post-loading using histology. Experimental data will be compared against current viscoelastic models of the aorta under axial stress. Their applicability across strain rates will be discussed. Using a multi-disciplinary approach, the conditions applied to the samples replicate in vivo conditions, employing a blood simulant-filled tubular specimen surrounded by a physiological solution.

  4. Extended resections of non-small cell lung cancers invading the aorta, pulmonary artery, left atrium, or esophagus: can they be justified?

    PubMed

    Reardon, Emily S; Schrump, David S

    2014-11-01

    T4 tumors that invade the heart, great vessels, or esophagus comprise a heterogenous group of locally invasive lung cancers. Prognosis depends on nodal status; this relationship has been consistently demonstrated in many of the small series of extended resection. Current National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines do not recommend surgery for T4 extension with N2-3 disease (stage IIIB). However, biopsy-proven T4 N0-1 (stage IIIA) may be operable. Localized tumors with invasion of the aorta, pulmonary artery, left atrium, or esophagus represent a small subset of T4 disease. Acquiring sufficient randomized data to provide statistical proof of a survival advantage for patients undergoing extended resections for these neoplasms will likely never be possible.Therefore, we are left to critically analyze current documented experience to make clinical decisions on a case-by-case basis.It is clear that the operative morbidity and mortality of extended resections for locally advanced T4 tumors have significantly improved over time,yet the risks are still high. The indications for such procedures and the anticipated outcomes should be clearly weighed in terms of potential perioperative complications and expertise of the surgical team. Patients with T4 N0-1 have the best prognosis and with complete resection may have the potential for cure. The use of induction therapy and surgery for advanced T4 tumors may improve survival. Current data suggest that for tumors that invade the aorta, pulmonary artery,left atrium, or esophagus, resection should be considered in relation to multidisciplinary care.For properly selected patients receiving treatment at high volume, experienced centers, extended resections may be warranted. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  5. Towards the evaluation of the pathological state of ascending thoracic aneurysms: integration of in-vivo measurements and hemodynamic simulations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Boccadifuoco, Alessandro; Mariotti, Alessandro; Celi, Simona; Martini, Nicola; Salvetti, Maria Vittoria

    2016-11-01

    Ascending thoracic aortic aneurysms are cardiovascular diseases consisting in a dilation of the ascending thoracic aorta. Since indicating a weakness of the arterial wall, they can lead to major complications with significant mortality rate. Clinical decisions about surgery are currently based on the maximum aortic diameter, but this single index does not seem a reliable indicator of the pathological state of the aorta. Numerical simulations of the blood flow inside the aneurysm may give supplementary information by quantifying important indices that are difficult to be measured, like the wall shear stress. Our aim is to develop an efficient platform in which in-vivo measurements are used to perform the hemodynamic simulations on a patient-specific basis. In particular, we used real geometries of thoracic aorta and focused on the use of clinical information to impose accurate boundary conditions at the inlet/outlets of the computational model. Stochastic analysis was also performed, to evaluate how uncertainties in the boundary parameters affect the main hemodynamic indicators, by considering both rigid and deformable walls. Stochastic calibration of numerical parameters against clinical data is in progress and results will be possibly shown.

  6. A patient-specific aortic valve model based on moving resistive immersed implicit surfaces.

    PubMed

    Fedele, Marco; Faggiano, Elena; Dedè, Luca; Quarteroni, Alfio

    2017-10-01

    In this paper, we propose a full computational framework to simulate the hemodynamics in the aorta including the valve. Closed and open valve surfaces, as well as the lumen aorta, are reconstructed directly from medical images using new ad hoc algorithms, allowing a patient-specific simulation. The fluid dynamics problem that accounts from the movement of the valve is solved by a new 3D-0D fluid-structure interaction model in which the valve surface is implicitly represented through level set functions, yielding, in the Navier-Stokes equations, a resistive penalization term enforcing the blood to adhere to the valve leaflets. The dynamics of the valve between its closed and open position is modeled using a reduced geometric 0D model. At the discrete level, a finite element formulation is used and the SUPG stabilization is extended to include the resistive term in the Navier-Stokes equations. Then, after time discretization, the 3D fluid and 0D valve models are coupled through a staggered approach. This computational framework, applied to a patient-specific geometry and data, allows to simulate the movement of the valve, the sharp pressure jump occurring across the leaflets, and the blood flow pattern inside the aorta.

  7. A theory for water and macromolecular transport in the pulmonary artery wall with a detailed comparison to the aorta

    PubMed Central

    Zeng, Zhongqing; Jan, Kung-Ming

    2012-01-01

    The pulmonary artery (PA) wall, which has much higher hydraulic conductivity and albumin void space and approximately one-sixth the normal transmural pressure of systemic arteries (e.g, aorta, carotid arteries), is rarely atherosclerotic, except under pulmonary hypertension. This study constructs a detailed, two-dimensional, wall-structure-based filtration and macromolecular transport model for the PA to investigate differences in prelesion transport processes between the disease-susceptible aorta and the relatively resistant PA. The PA and aorta models are similar in wall structure, but very different in parameter values, many of which have been measured (and therefore modified) since the original aorta model of Huang et al. (23). Both PA and aortic model simulations fit experimental data on transwall LDL concentration profiles and on the growth of isolated endothelial (horseradish peroxidase) tracer spots with circulation time very well. They reveal that lipid entering the aorta attains a much higher intima than media concentration but distributes better between these regions in the PA than aorta and that tracer in both regions contributes to observed tracer spots. Solutions show why both the overall transmural water flow and spot growth rates are similar in these vessels despite very different material transport parameters. Since early lipid accumulation occurs in the subendothelial intima and since (matrix binding) reaction kinetics depend on reactant concentrations, the lower intima lipid concentrations in the PA vs. aorta likely lead to slower accumulation of bound lipid in the PA. These findings may be relevant to understanding the different atherosusceptibilities of these vessels. PMID:22198178

  8. A computational fluid–structure interaction model to predict the biomechanical properties of the artificial functionally graded aorta

    PubMed Central

    Khosravi, Arezoo; Bani, Milad Salimi; Bahreinizade, Hossein; Karimi, Alireza

    2016-01-01

    In the present study, three layers of the ascending aorta in respect to the time and space at various blood pressures have been simulated. Two well-known commercial finite element (FE) software have used to be able to provide a range of reliable numerical results while independent on the software type. The radial displacement compared with the time as well as the peripheral stress and von Mises stress of the aorta have calculated. The aorta model was validated using the differential quadrature method (DQM) solution and, then, in order to design functionally graded materials (FGMs) with different heterogeneous indexes for the artificial vessel, two different materials have been employed. Fluid–structure interaction (FSI) simulation has been carried out on the FGM and a natural vessel of the human body. The heterogeneous index defines the variation of the length in a function. The blood pressure was considered to be a function of both the time and location. Finally, the response characteristics of functionally graded biomaterials (FGBMs) models with different values of heterogeneous material parameters were determined and compared with the behaviour of a natural vessel. The results showed a very good agreement between the numerical findings of the FGM materials and that of the natural vessel. The findings of the present study may have implications not only to understand the performance of different FGMs in bearing the stress and deformation in comparison with the natural human vessels, but also to provide information for the biomaterials expert to be able to select a suitable material as an implant for the aorta. PMID:27836981

  9. The aortic reservoir-wave as a paradigm for arterial haemodynamics: insights from three-dimensional fluid-structure interaction simulations in a model of aortic coarctation.

    PubMed

    Segers, Patrick; Taelman, Liesbeth; Degroote, Joris; Bols, Joris; Vierendeels, Jan

    2015-03-01

    The reservoir-wave paradigm considers aortic pressure as the superposition of a 'reservoir pressure', directly related to changes in reservoir volume, and an 'excess' component ascribed to wave dynamics. The change in reservoir pressure is assumed to be proportional to the difference between aortic inflow and outflow (i.e. aortic volume changes), an assumption that is virtually impossible to validate in vivo. The aim of this study is therefore to apply the reservoir-wave paradigm to aortic pressure and flow waves obtained from three-dimensional fluid-structure interaction simulations in a model of a normal aorta, aortic coarctation (narrowed descending aorta) and stented coarctation (stiff segment in descending aorta). We found no unequivocal relation between the intraaortic volume and the reservoir pressure for any of the simulated cases. When plotted in a pressure-volume diagram, hysteresis loops are found that are looped in a clockwise way indicating that the reservoir pressure is lower than the pressure associated with the change in volume. The reservoir-wave analysis leads to very high excess pressures, especially for the coarctation models, but to surprisingly little changes of the reservoir component despite the impediment of the buffer capacity of the aorta. With the observation that reservoir pressure is not related to the volume in the aortic reservoir in systole, an intrinsic assumption in the wave-reservoir concept is invalidated and, consequently, also the assumption that the excess pressure is the component of pressure that can be attributed to wave travel and reflection.

  10. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) study on the fetal aortic coarctation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhou, Yue; Zhang, Yutao; Wang, Jingying

    2018-03-01

    Blood flows in normal and coarctate fetal aortas are simulated by the CFD technique using T-rex grids. The three-dimensional (3-D) digital model of the fetal arota is reconstructed by the computer-aided design (CAD) software based on two-dimensional (2-D) ultrasono tomographic images. Simulation results displays the development and enhancement of the secondary flow structure in the coarctate fetal arota. As the diameter narrow ratio rises greater than 45%, the pressure and wall shear stress (WSS) of the aorta arch increase exponentially, which is consistent with the conventional clinical concept. The present study also demonstrates that CFD is a very promising assistant technique to investigate human cardiovascular diseases.

  11. [The Einstein sign].

    PubMed

    Treska, V

    2003-02-01

    Untreated rupture of an aneurysm of the abdominal aorta is fatal in almost 100% of the patients. In the majority of cases the assessment of a correct, early diagnosis is simple (hypotension, backache, abdominal pain, pulsating resistance in the abdomen) and makes a prompt surgical or endovascular operation possible. In some instances however rupture of aneurysms of the abdominal aorta simulates other clinical conditions (acute cholecystitis, acute diverculitis of the sigmoid) which may delay the correct diagnosis and reduce the patient's chance of survival. The author describes, based on historical documents, the treacherous course of the disease in the scientific genius Albert Einstein where rupture of an aneurysm simulated acute cholecystitis, and in the world literature this symptomatology was subsequently described as Einstein's sign.

  12. Finite element analysis of helical flows in human aortic arch: A novel index

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Cheng-Hung; Liu, Kuo-Sheng; Jhong, Guan-Heng; Liu, Shih-Jung; Hsu, Ming-Yi; Wang, Chao-Jan; Hung, Kuo-Chun

    2014-01-01

    This study investigates the helical secondary flows in the aortic arch using finite element analysis. The relationship between helical flow and the configuration of the aorta in patients of whose three-dimensional images constructed from computed tomography scans was examined. A finite element model of the pressurized root, arch, and supra-aortic vessels was developed to simulate the pattern of helical secondary flows. Calculations indicate that most of the helical secondary flow was formed in the ascending aorta. Angle α between the zero reference point and the aortic ostium (correlation coefficient (r) = −0.851, P = 0.001), the dispersion index of the cross section of the ascending (r = 0.683, P = 0.021) and descending aorta (r = 0.732, P = 0.010), all correlated closely with the presence of helical flow (P < 0.05). Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis confirmed angel α to be independently associated with the helical flow pattern in therein (standardized coefficients = −0.721, P = 0.023). The presence of helical fluid motion based on the atherosclerotic risks of patients, including those associated with diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or renal insufficiency, was also evaluated. Numerical simulation of the flow patterns in aortas incorporating the atherosclerotic risks may better explain the mechanism of formation of helical flows and provide insight into causative factors that underlie them. PMID:24803960

  13. Multiphase simulation of blood flow within main thoracic arteries of 8-year-old child with coarctation of the aorta

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Melka, Bartlomiej; Gracka, Maria; Adamczyk, Wojciech; Rojczyk, Marek; Golda, Adam; Nowak, Andrzej J.; Białecki, Ryszard A.; Ostrowski, Ziemowit

    2017-08-01

    In the research, a numerical Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model of the pulsatile blood flow was created and analysed. A real geometry of aorta and its thoracic branches of an 8-year old patient diagnosed with a congenital heart defect - coarctation of the aorta was used. The inlet boundary condition was implemented as the User Define Function according to measured values of volumetric blood flow. The blood flow was treated as multiphase using Euler-Euler approach. Plasma was set as the primary and dominant fluid phase, with the volume fraction of 0.585. The morphological elements (RBC and WBC) were set as dispersed phases being the remaining volume fraction.

  14. Failure of the Porcine Ascending Aorta: Multidirectional Experiments and a Unifying Microstructural Model

    PubMed Central

    Witzenburg, Colleen M.; Dhume, Rohit Y.; Shah, Sachin B.; Korenczuk, Christopher E.; Wagner, Hallie P.; Alford, Patrick W.; Barocas, Victor H.

    2017-01-01

    The ascending thoracic aorta is poorly understood mechanically, especially its risk of dissection. To make better predictions of dissection risk, more information about the multidimensional failure behavior of the tissue is needed, and this information must be incorporated into an appropriate theoretical/computational model. Toward the creation of such a model, uniaxial, equibiaxial, peel, and shear lap tests were performed on healthy porcine ascending aorta samples. Uniaxial and equibiaxial tests showed anisotropy with greater stiffness and strength in the circumferential direction. Shear lap tests showed catastrophic failure at shear stresses (150–200 kPa) much lower than uniaxial tests (750–2500 kPa), consistent with the low peel tension (∼60 mN/mm). A novel multiscale computational model, including both prefailure and failure mechanics of the aorta, was developed. The microstructural part of the model included contributions from a collagen-reinforced elastin sheet and interlamellar connections representing fibrillin and smooth muscle. Components were represented as nonlinear fibers that failed at a critical stretch. Multiscale simulations of the different experiments were performed, and the model, appropriately specified, agreed well with all experimental data, representing a uniquely complete structure-based description of aorta mechanics. In addition, our experiments and model demonstrate the very low strength of the aorta in radial shear, suggesting an important possible mechanism for aortic dissection. PMID:27893044

  15. Effect of non-Newtonian and pulsatile blood flow on mass transport in the human aorta.

    PubMed

    Liu, Xiao; Fan, Yubo; Deng, Xiaoyan; Zhan, Fan

    2011-04-07

    To investigate the effects of both non-Newtonian behavior and the pulsation of blood flow on the distributions of luminal surface LDL concentration and oxygen flux along the wall of the human aorta, we numerically compared a non-Newtonian model with the Newtonian one under both steady flow and in vivo pulsatile flow conditions using a human aorta model constructed from MRI images. The results showed that under steady flow conditions, although the shear thinning non-Newtonian nature of blood could elevate wall shear stress (WSS) in most regions of the aorta, especially areas with low WSS, it had little effect on luminal surface LDL concentration (c(w)) in most regions of the aorta. Nevertheless, it could significantly enhance c(w) in areas with high luminal surface LDL concentration through the shear dependent diffusivity of LDLs. For oxygen transport, the shear thinning non-Newtonian nature of blood could slightly reduce oxygen flux in most regions of the aorta, but this effect became much more apparent in areas with already low oxygen flux. The pulsation of blood flow could significantly reduce c(w) and enhance oxygen flux in these disturbed places. In most other regions of the aorta, the oxygen flux was also significantly higher than that for the steady flow simulation. In conclusion, the shear shining non-Newtonian nature of blood has little effect on LDL and oxygen transport in most regions of the aorta, but in the atherogenic-prone areas where luminal surface LDL concentration is high and oxygen flux is low, its effect is apparent. Similar is for the effect of pulsatile flow on the transport of LDLs. But, the pulsation of blood flow can apparently affect oxygen flux in the aorta, especially in areas with low oxygen flux. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  16. Numerical simulation of left ventricular assist device implantations: comparing the ascending and the descending aorta cannulations.

    PubMed

    Bonnemain, Jean; Malossi, A Cristiano I; Lesinigo, Matteo; Deparis, Simone; Quarteroni, Alfio; von Segesser, Ludwig K

    2013-10-01

    In this work we present numerical simulations of continuous flow left ventricle assist device implantation with the aim of comparing difference in flow rates and pressure patterns depending on the location of the anastomosis and the rotational speed of the device. Despite the fact that the descending aorta anastomosis approach is less invasive, since it does not require a sternotomy and a cardiopulmonary bypass, its benefits are still controversial. Moreover, the device rotational speed should be correctly chosen to avoid anomalous flow rates and pressure distribution in specific location of the cardiovascular tree. With the aim of assessing the differences between these two approaches and device rotational speed in terms of flow rate and pressure waveforms, we set up numerical simulations of network of one-dimensional models where we account for the presence of an outflow cannula anastomosed to different locations of the aorta. Then, we use the resulting network to compare the results of the two different cannulations for several stages of heart failure and different rotational speed of the device. The inflow boundary data for the heart and the cannulas are obtained from a lumped parameters model of the entire circulatory system with an assist device, which is validated with clinical data. The results show that ascending and descending aorta cannulations lead to similar waveforms and mean flow rate in all the considered cases. Moreover, regardless of the anastomosis region, the rotational speed of the device has an important impact on wave profiles; this effect is more pronounced at high RPM. Copyright © 2013 IPEM. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  17. Comparative Study of Continuous and Pulsatile Left Ventricular Assist Devices on Hemodynamics of a Pediatric End-to-Side Anastomotic Graft

    PubMed Central

    Yang, Ning; Deutsch, Steven; Paterson, Eric G.; Manning, Keefe B.

    2013-01-01

    Although there are many studies that focus on understanding the consequence of pumping mode (continuous vs. pulsatile) associated with ventricular assist devices (VADs) on pediatric vascular pulsatility, the impact on local hemodynamics has been largely ignored. Hence, we compare not only the hemodynamic parameters indicative of pulsatility but also the local flow fields in the aorta and the great vessels originating from the aortic arch. A physiologic graft anastomotic model is constructed based on a pediatric, patient specific, aorta with a graft attached on the ascending aorta. The flow is simulated using a previously validated second-order accurate Navier–Stokes flow solver based upon a finite volume approach. The major findings are: (1) pulsatile support provides a greater degree of vascular pulsatility when compared to continuous support, which, however, is still 20% less than pulsatility in the healthy aorta; (2) pulsatile support increases the flow in the great vessels, while continuous support decreases it; (3) complete VAD support results in turbulence in the aorta, with maximum principal Reynolds stresses for pulsatile support and continuous support of 7081 and 249 dyn/cm2, respectively; (4) complete pulsatile support results in a significant increase in predicted hemolysis in the aorta; and (5) pulsatile support causes both higher time-averaged wall shear stresses (WSS) and oscillatory shear indices (OSI) in the aorta than does continuous support. These findings will help to identify the risk of graft failure for pediatric patients with pulsatile and continuous VADs. PMID:24348881

  18. Human Thiel-Embalmed Cadaveric Aortic Model with Perfusion for Endovascular Intervention Training and Medical Device Evaluation.

    PubMed

    McLeod, Helen; Cox, Ben F; Robertson, James; Duncan, Robyn; Matthew, Shona; Bhat, Raj; Barclay, Avril; Anwar, J; Wilkinson, Tracey; Melzer, Andreas; Houston, J Graeme

    2017-09-01

    The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate human Thiel-embalmed cadavers with the addition of extracorporeal driven ante-grade pulsatile flow in the aorta as a model for simulation training in interventional techniques and endovascular device testing. Three human cadavers embalmed according to the method of Thiel were selected. Extracorporeal pulsatile ante-grade flow of 2.5 L per min was delivered directly into the aorta of the cadavers via a surgically placed connection. During perfusion, aortic pressure and temperature were recorded and optimized for physiologically similar parameters. Pre- and post-procedure CT imaging was conducted to plan and follow up thoracic and abdominal endovascular aortic repair as it would be in a clinical scenario. Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) and endovascular abdominal repair (EVAR) procedures were conducted in simulation of a clinical case, under fluoroscopic guidance with a multidisciplinary team present. The Thiel cadaveric aortic perfusion model provided pulsatile ante-grade flow, with pressure and temperature, sufficient to conduct a realistic simulation of TEVAR and EVAR procedures. Fluoroscopic imaging provided guidance during the intervention. Pre- and post-procedure CT imaging facilitated planning and follow-up evaluation of the procedure. The human Thiel-embalmed cadavers with the addition of extracorporeal flow within the aorta offer an anatomically appropriate, physiologically similar robust model to simulate aortic endovascular procedures, with potential applications in interventional radiology training and medical device testing as a pre-clinical model.

  19. Cardiovascular function during sustained +G/z/ stress

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Erickson, H. H.; Sandler, H.; Stone, H. L.

    1976-01-01

    The development of aerospace systems capable of very high levels of positive vertical accelerators stress has created a need for a better understanding of the cardiovascular responses to acceleration. Using a canine model, the heart and cardiovascular system were instrumented to continuously measure coronary blood flow, cardiac output, left ventricular and aortic root pressure, and oxygen saturation in the aorta, coronary sinus, and right ventricle. The animals were exposed to acceleration profiles up to +6 G, 120 s at peak G; a seatback angle of 45 deg was simulated in some experiments. Radiopaque contrast medium was injected to visualize the left ventricular chamber, coronary vasculature, aorta, and branches of the aorta. The results suggest mechanisms responsible for arrhythmias which may occur, and subendocardial hemorrhage which has been reported in other animals.

  20. A novel patient-specific model to compute coronary fractional flow reserve.

    PubMed

    Kwon, Soon-Sung; Chung, Eui-Chul; Park, Jin-Seo; Kim, Gook-Tae; Kim, Jun-Woo; Kim, Keun-Hong; Shin, Eun-Seok; Shim, Eun Bo

    2014-09-01

    The fractional flow reserve (FFR) is a widely used clinical index to evaluate the functional severity of coronary stenosis. A computer simulation method based on patients' computed tomography (CT) data is a plausible non-invasive approach for computing the FFR. This method can provide a detailed solution for the stenosed coronary hemodynamics by coupling computational fluid dynamics (CFD) with the lumped parameter model (LPM) of the cardiovascular system. In this work, we have implemented a simple computational method to compute the FFR. As this method uses only coronary arteries for the CFD model and includes only the LPM of the coronary vascular system, it provides simpler boundary conditions for the coronary geometry and is computationally more efficient than existing approaches. To test the efficacy of this method, we simulated a three-dimensional straight vessel using CFD coupled with the LPM. The computed results were compared with those of the LPM. To validate this method in terms of clinically realistic geometry, a patient-specific model of stenosed coronary arteries was constructed from CT images, and the computed FFR was compared with clinically measured results. We evaluated the effect of a model aorta on the computed FFR and compared this with a model without the aorta. Computationally, the model without the aorta was more efficient than that with the aorta, reducing the CPU time required for computing a cardiac cycle to 43.4%. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  1. Design of a cost-effective, hemodynamically adjustable model for resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) simulation.

    PubMed

    Keller, Benjamin A; Salcedo, Edgardo S; Williams, Timothy K; Neff, Lucas P; Carden, Anthony J; Li, Yiran; Gotlib, Oren; Tran, Nam K; Galante, Joseph M

    2016-09-01

    Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is an adjunct technique for salvaging patients with noncompressible torso hemorrhage. Current REBOA training paradigms require large animals, virtual reality simulators, or human cadavers for acquisition of skills. These training strategies are expensive and resource intensive, which may prevent widespread dissemination of REBOA. We have developed a low-cost, near-physiologic, pulsatile REBOA simulator by connecting an anatomic vascular circuit constructed out of latex and polyvinyl chloride tubing to a commercially available pump. This pulsatile simulator is capable of generating cardiac outputs ranging from 1.7 to 6.8 L/min with corresponding arterial blood pressures of 54 to 226/14 to 121 mmHg. The simulator accommodates a 12 French introducer sheath and a CODA balloon catheter. Upon balloon inflation, the arterial waveform distal to the occlusion flattens, distal pulsation within the simulator is lost, and systolic blood pressures proximal to the balloon catheter increase by up to 62 mmHg. Further development and validation of this simulator will allow for refinement, reduction, and replacement of large animal models, costly virtual reality simulators, and perfused cadavers for training purposes. This will ultimately facilitate the low-cost, high-fidelity REBOA simulation needed for the widespread dissemination of this life-saving technique.

  2. Investigation of pulsatile flowfield in healthy thoracic aorta models.

    PubMed

    Wen, Chih-Yung; Yang, An-Shik; Tseng, Li-Yu; Chai, Jyh-Wen

    2010-02-01

    Cardiovascular disease is the primary cause of morbidity and mortality in the western world. Complex hemodynamics plays a critical role in the development of aortic dissection and atherosclerosis, as well as many other diseases. Since fundamental fluid mechanics are important for the understanding of the blood flow in the cardiovascular circulatory system of the human body aspects, a joint experimental and numerical study was conducted in this study to determine the distributions of wall shear stress and pressure and oscillatory WSS index, and to examine their correlation with the aortic disorders, especially dissection. Experimentally, the Phase-Contrast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (PC-MRI) method was used to acquire the true geometry of a normal human thoracic aorta, which was readily converted into a transparent thoracic aorta model by the rapid prototyping (RP) technique. The thoracic aorta model was then used in the in vitro experiments and computations. Simulations were performed using the computational fluid dynamic (CFD) code ACE+((R)) to determine flow characteristics of the three-dimensional, pulsatile, incompressible, and Newtonian fluid in the thoracic aorta model. The unsteady boundary conditions at the inlet and the outlet of the aortic flow were specified from the measured flowrate and pressure results during in vitro experiments. For the code validation, the predicted axial velocity reasonably agrees with the PC-MRI experimental data in the oblique sagittal plane of the thoracic aorta model. The thorough analyses of the thoracic aorta flow, WSSs, WSS index (OSI), and wall pressures are presented. The predicted locations of the maxima of WSS and the wall pressure can be then correlated with that of the thoracic aorta dissection, and thereby may lead to a useful biological significance. The numerical results also suggest that the effects of low WSS and high OSI tend to cause wall thickening occurred along the inferior wall of the aortic arch and the anterior wall of the brachiocephalic artery, similar implication reported in a number of previous studies.

  3. What is needed to make low-density lipoprotein transport in human aorta computational models suitable to explore links to atherosclerosis? Impact of initial and inflow boundary conditions.

    PubMed

    De Nisco, Giuseppe; Zhang, Peng; Calò, Karol; Liu, Xiao; Ponzini, Raffaele; Bignardi, Cristina; Rizzo, Giovanna; Deng, Xiaoyan; Gallo, Diego; Morbiducci, Umberto

    2018-02-08

    Personalized computational hemodynamics (CH) is a promising tool to clarify/predict the link between low density lipoproteins (LDL) transport in aorta, disturbed shear and atherogenesis. However, CH uses simplifying assumptions that represent sources of uncertainty. In particular, modelling blood-side to wall LDL transfer is challenged by the cumbersomeness of protocols needed to obtain reliable LDL concentration profile estimations. This paucity of data is limiting the establishment of rigorous CH protocols able to balance the trade-offs among the variety of in vivo data to be acquired, and the accuracy required by biological/clinical applications. In this study, we analyze the impact of LDL concentration initialization (initial conditions, ICs) and inflow boundary conditions (BCs) on CH models of LDL blood-to-wall transfer in aorta. Technically, in an image-based model of human aorta, two different inflow BCs are generated imposing subject-specific inflow 3D PC-MRI measured or idealized (flat) velocity profiles. For each simulated BC, four different ICs for LDL concentration are applied, imposing as IC the LDL distribution resulting from steady-state simulations with average conditions, or constant LDL concentration values. Based on CH results, we conclude that: (1) the imposition of realistic 3D velocity profiles as inflow BC reduces the uncertainty affecting the representation of LDL transfer; (2) different LDL concentration ICs lead to markedly different patterns of LDL transfer. Given that it is not possible to verify in vivo the proper LDL concentration initialization to be applied, we suggest to carefully set and unambiguously declare the imposed BCs and LDL concentration IC when modelling LDL transfer in aorta, in order to obtain reproducible and ultimately comparable results among different laboratories. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  4. Analysis of flow patterns in a patient-specific aortic dissection model.

    PubMed

    Cheng, Z; Tan, F P P; Riga, C V; Bicknell, C D; Hamady, M S; Gibbs, R G J; Wood, N B; Xu, X Y

    2010-05-01

    Aortic dissection is the most common acute catastrophic event affecting the thoracic aorta. The majority of patients presenting with an uncomplicated type B dissection are treated medically, but 25% of these patients develop subsequent aneurysmal dilatation of the thoracic aorta. This study aimed at gaining more detailed knowledge of the flow phenomena associated with this condition. Morphological features and flow patterns in a dissected aortic segment of a presurgery type B dissection patient were analyzed based on computed tomography images acquired from the patient. Computational simulations of blood flow in the patient-specific model were performed by employing a correlation-based transitional version of Menter's hybrid k-epsilon/k-omega shear stress transport turbulence model implemented in ANSYS CFX 11. Our results show that the dissected aorta is dominated by locally highly disturbed, and possibly turbulent, flow with strong recirculation. A significant proportion (about 80%) of the aortic flow enters the false lumen, which may further increase the dilatation of the aorta. High values of wall shear stress have been found around the tear on the true lumen wall, perhaps increasing the likelihood of expanding the tear. Turbulence intensity in the tear region reaches a maximum of 70% at midsystolic deceleration phase. Incorporating the non-Newtonian behavior of blood into the same transitional flow model has yielded a slightly lower peak wall shear stress and higher maximum turbulence intensity without causing discernible changes to the distribution patterns. Comparisons between the laminar and turbulent flow simulations show a qualitatively similar distribution of wall shear stress but a significantly higher magnitude with the transitional turbulence model.

  5. Comparative hemodynamics in an aorta with bicuspid and trileaflet valves

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gilmanov, Anvar; Sotiropoulos, Fotis

    2016-04-01

    Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is a congenital heart defect that has been associated with serious aortopathies, such as aortic stenosis, aortic regurgitation, infective endocarditis, aortic dissection, calcific aortic valve and dilatation of ascending aorta. There are two main hypotheses to explain the increase prevalence of aortopathies in patients with BAV: the genetic and the hemodynamic. In this study, we seek to investigate the possible role of hemodynamic factors as causes of BAV-associated aortopathy. We employ the curvilinear immersed boundary method coupled with an efficient thin-shell finite-element formulation for tissues to carry out fluid-structure interaction simulations of a healthy trileaflet aortic valve (TAV) and a BAV placed in the same anatomic aorta. The computed results reveal major differences between the TAV and BAV flow patterns. These include: the dynamics of the aortic valve vortex ring formation and break up; the large-scale flow patterns in the ascending aorta; the shear stress magnitude, directions, and dynamics on the heart valve surfaces. The computed results are in qualitative agreement with in vivo magnetic resonance imaging data and suggest that the linkages between BAV aortopathy and hemodynamics deserve further investigation.

  6. Elasticity/distensibility of the ascending aorta: basal conditions and simulated conditions from space flights.

    PubMed

    Alessandri, N; Tufano, F; Petrassi, M; Alessandri, C; Lanzi, L; Fusco, L; Moscariello, F; De Angelis, C; Tomao, E

    2010-05-01

    The hysto-morfological composition of the ascending aorta wall gives to the vessel its characteristic elasticity/distensibility, which is deteriorated due to both physiological (age) and pathological events (hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia). This contributes to reduce the wall elasticity and to occurrence of cardiovascular events. Thirty young healthy subjects (20 males, 10 females, age <30 yr), were subjected to different postural conditions with and without Lower Body Negative Pressure (LBNP) with conventional procedures, to simulate the microgravity conditions in space flight. During this procedure the cardiovascular parameters and the aorta elasticity were assessed with ecocardiography. The observation of results and statistical comparison showed that despite different hemodynamic conditions and with significant variation of blood pressure related to posture, elasticity/distensibility did not change significantly. The elasticity/distensibility of arterial vessels is the result of two interdependent variables such as blood pressure and systolic and diastolic diameters. While blood pressure and heart rate vary physiologically in relation to posture, the compensation of the vessel diameters modifications maintains the aortic compliance invariate. Therefore, in young healthy people, despite the significant postural and the sudden pressure changes (equivalent to parietal stress) aortic compliance does not alter. This behavior might be related to the low rate of cardiovascular events that are present in healthy people aged under 30 yrs.

  7. Numerical simulation of haemodynamics and low-density lipoprotein transport in the rabbit aorta and their correlation with atherosclerotic plaque thickness

    PubMed Central

    Liu, Xiao; Zhang, Peng; Feng, Chenglong; Sun, Anqiang; Kang, Hongyan; Deng, Xiaoyan; Fan, Yubo

    2017-01-01

    Two mechanisms of shear stress and mass transport have been recognized to play an important role in the development of localized atherosclerosis. However, their relationship and roles in atherogenesis are still obscure. It is necessary to investigate quantitatively the correlation among low-density lipoproteins (LDL) transport, haemodynamic parameters and plaque thickness. We simulated blood flow and LDL transport in rabbit aorta using computational fluid dynamics and evaluated plaque thickness in the aorta of a high-fat-diet rabbit. The numerical results show that regions with high luminal LDL concentration tend to have severely negative haemodynamic environments (HEs). However, for regions with moderately and slightly high luminal LDL concentration, the relationship between LDL concentration and the above haemodynamic indicators is not clear cut. Point-by-point correlation with experimental results indicates that severe atherosclerotic plaque corresponds to high LDL concentration and seriously negative HEs, less severe atherosclerotic plaque is related to either moderately high LDL concentration or moderately negative HEs, and there is almost no atherosclerotic plaque in regions with both low LDL concentration and positive HEs. In conclusion, LDL distribution is closely linked to blood flow transport, and the synergetic effects of luminal surface LDL concentration and wall shear stress-based haemodynamic indicators may determine plaque thickness. PMID:28424305

  8. Mathematical modelling of intra-aortic balloon pump.

    PubMed

    Abdolrazaghi, Mona; Navidbakhsh, Mahdi; Hassani, Kamran

    2010-10-01

    Ischemic heart diseases now afflict thousands of Iranians and are the major cause of death in many industrialised countries. Mathematical modelling of an intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) could provide a better understanding of its performance and help to represent blood flow and pressure in systemic arteries before and after inserting the pump. A mathematical modelling of the whole cardiovascular system was formulated using MATLAB software. The block diagram of the model consists of 43 compartments. All the anatomical data was extracted from the physiological references. In the next stage, myocardial infarction (MI) was induced in the model by decreasing the contractility of the left ventricle. The IABP was mathematically modelled and inserted in the model in the thoracic aorta I artery just before the descending aorta. The effects of IABP on MI were studied using the mathematical model. The normal operation of the cardiovascular system was studied firstly. The pressure-time graphs of the ventricles, atriums, aorta, pulmonary system, capillaries and arterioles were obtained. The volume-time curve of the left ventricle was also presented. The pressure-time curves of the left ventricle and thoracic aorta I were obtained for normal, MI, and inserted IABP conditions. Model verification was performed by comparing the simulation results with the clinical observations reported in the literature. IABP can be described by a theoretical model. Our model representing the cardiovascular system is capable of showing the effects of different pathologies such as MI and we have shown that MI effects can be reduced using IABP in accordance with the modelling results. The mathematical model should serve as a useful tool to simulate and better understand cardiovascular operation in normal and pathological conditions.

  9. A novel sax-stent method in treatment of ascending aorta and aortic arch aneurysms evaluated by finite element simulations.

    PubMed

    Arokiaraj, M C; De Beule, M; De Santis, G

    2017-02-01

    A novel stent method to simplify treatment of proximal ascending aorta and aortic arch aneurysms was developed and investigated by finite element analysis. Therapy of ascending aortic and aortic arch aneurysms is difficult and challenging and is associated with various complications. A 55mm wide×120mm long stent was designed without the stent graft and the stent was deployed by an endovascular method in a virtual patient-specific aneurysm model. The stress-strain analysis and deployment characteristics were performed in a finite element analysis using the Abaqus software. The stent, when embedded in the aortic wall, significantly reduced aortic wall stresses, while preserving the side coronary ostia and side branches in the aortic arch. When tissue growth was modeled computationally over the stent struts the wall stresses in aorta was reduced. This effect became more pronounced when increasing the thickness of the tissue growth. There were no abnormal stresses in the aorta, coronary ostium and at the origin of aortic branches. The stent reduced aneurysm expansion cause by hypertensive condition from 2mm without stenting to 1.3mm after stenting and embedding. In summary, we uncovered a simple treatment method using a bare nitinol stent without stent graft in the treatment of the proximal aorta and aortic arch aneurysms, which could eventually replace the complex treatment methods for this disease. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  10. A detailed microscopic study of the changes in the aorta of experimental model of postmenopausal rats fed with repeatedly heated palm oil.

    PubMed

    Adam, Siti Khadijah; Das, Srijit; Jaarin, Kamsiah

    2009-06-01

    Hypercholesterolaemia, increase in lipid peroxidation and hyperhomocysteinaemia may contribute to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. This study was performed to examine the effects of repeatedly heated palm oil mixed with 2% cholesterol diet on atherosclerosis in oestrogen-deficient postmenopausal rats. Ovariectomy causes disruption of tunica intima layer of the rat aorta simulating a postmenopausal condition in females. Twenty-four ovariectomized female Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups. The control group received 2% cholesterol diet without palm oil. A diet with 2% cholesterol content fortified with fresh, once-heated and five-times-heated palm oil was given to the other treatment groups. The rats were sacrificed at the end of 4 months of study and the aortic arch tissue was processed for histomorphometry and electron microscopy. On observation, there was disruption of the intimal layer of the ovariectomized rat aorta. There was no obvious ultrastructural change in the aorta of the rats fed with fresh palm oil. The ultrastructural changes were minimal with once-heated palm oil, in which there was a focal disruption of the endothelial layer. The focal disruption was more pronounced with five-times-heated palm oil. The results of this study show that the ingestion of fresh palm oil may have a protective effect on the aorta but such a protective action may be lost when the palm oil is repeatedly heated. The study may be clinically important for all postmenopausal women who are susceptible to atherosclerosis.

  11. Hemodynamics in an Aorta with Bicuspid and Trileaflet Valves

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gilmanov, Anvar; Sotiropoulos, Fotis

    2015-11-01

    Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is a congenital heart defect that has been associated with serious aortopathies, such as ascending aortic aneurysm, aortic stenosis, aortic regurgitation, infective endocarditis, aortic dissection, calcific aortic valve and dilatation of ascending aorta. Two main hypotheses - the genetic and the hemodynamic are discussed in literature to explain the development and progression of aortopathies in patients with BAV. In this study we seek to investigate the possible role of hemodynamic factors as causes of BAV-associated aortopathy. We employ the Curvilinear Immersed Boundary (CURVIB) method coupled with an efficient thin-shell finite element (TS-FE) formulation for tissues to carry out fluid-structure interaction simulations of a healthy tri-leaflet aortic valve (TAV) and a BAV placed in the same anatomic aorta. The computed results reveal major differences between the TAV and BAV flow patterns. These include: the dynamics of the aortic valve vortex ring formation and break up; the large scale flow patterns in the ascending aorta; and the shear stress magnitude on the aortic wall. The computed results are in qualitative agreement with in vivo Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) data and suggest that the linkages between BAV aortopathy and hemodynamics deserve further investigation. This work is supported by the Lillehei Heart Institute at the University of Minnesota and the Minnesota Supercomputing Institute.

  12. Resolving Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) on the Human Aortic Surface Using Large Eddy Simulation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lantz, Jonas; Karlsson, Matts

    2011-11-01

    The prediction and understanding of the genesis of vascular diseases is one of the grand challenges in biofluid engineering. The progression of atherosclerosis is correlated to the build- up of LDL on the arterial surface, which is affected by the blood flow. A multi-physics simulation of LDL mass transport in the blood and through the arterial wall of a subject specific human aorta was performed, employing a LES turbulence model to resolve the turbulent flow. Geometry and velocity measurements from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were incorporated to assure physiological relevance of the simulation. Due to the turbulent nature of the flow, consecutive cardiac cycles are not identical, neither in vivo nor in the simulations. A phase average based on a large number of cardiac cycles is therefore computed, which is the proper way to get reliable statistical results from a LES simulation. In total, 50 cardiac cycles were simulated, yielding over 2.5 Billion data points to be post-processed. An inverse relation between LDL and WSS was found; LDL accumulated on locations where WSS was low and vice-versa. Large temporal differences were present, with the concentration level decreasing during systolic acceleration and increasing during the deceleration phase. This method makes it possible to resolve the localization of LDL accumulation in the normal human aorta with its complex transitional flow.

  13. Haemodynamic imaging of thoracic stent-grafts by computational fluid dynamics (CFD): presentation of a patient-specific method combining magnetic resonance imaging and numerical simulations.

    PubMed

    Midulla, Marco; Moreno, Ramiro; Baali, Adil; Chau, Ming; Negre-Salvayre, Anne; Nicoud, Franck; Pruvo, Jean-Pierre; Haulon, Stephan; Rousseau, Hervé

    2012-10-01

    In the last decade, there was been increasing interest in finding imaging techniques able to provide a functional vascular imaging of the thoracic aorta. The purpose of this paper is to present an imaging method combining magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to obtain a patient-specific haemodynamic analysis of patients treated by thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR). MRI was used to obtain boundary conditions. MR angiography (MRA) was followed by cardiac-gated cine sequences which covered the whole thoracic aorta. Phase contrast imaging provided the inlet and outlet profiles. A CFD mesh generator was used to model the arterial morphology, and wall movements were imposed according to the cine imaging. CFD runs were processed using the finite volume (FV) method assuming blood as a homogeneous Newtonian fluid. Twenty patients (14 men; mean age 62.2 years) with different aortic lesions were evaluated. Four-dimensional mapping of velocity and wall shear stress were obtained, depicting different patterns of flow (laminar, turbulent, stenosis-like) and local alterations of parietal stress in-stent and along the native aorta. A computational method using a combined approach with MRI appears feasible and seems promising to provide detailed functional analysis of thoracic aorta after stent-graft implantation. • Functional vascular imaging of the thoracic aorta offers new diagnostic opportunities • CFD can model vascular haemodynamics for clinical aortic problems • Combining CFD with MRI offers patient specific method of aortic analysis • Haemodynamic analysis of stent-grafts could improve clinical management and follow-up.

  14. Bicuspid aortic valves are associated with increased wall and turbulence shear stress levels compared to trileaflet aortic valves.

    PubMed

    Saikrishnan, Neelakantan; Mirabella, Lucia; Yoganathan, Ajit P

    2015-06-01

    Congenital bicuspid aortic valves (BAVs) are associated with accelerated disease progression, such as leaflet calcification and ascending aorta dilatation. Although common underlying genetic factors have been implicated in accelerated disease in BAV patients, several studies have suggested that altered hemodynamics also play a role in this disease process. The present study compares turbulence and wall shear stress (WSS) measurements between various BAV and trileaflet aortic valve (TAV) models to provide information for mechanobiological models of BAV disease. BAV and TAV models were constructed from excised porcine aortic valves to simulate parametric variations in BAV stenosis, hemodynamics and geometry. Particle image velocimetry experiments were conducted at physiological pressure conditions to characterize velocity fields in the ascending aorta. The velocity fields were post-processed to calculate turbulence, viscous and wall shear stresses in the ascending aorta. Stenosed BAV models showed the presence of eccentric systolic jets, causing increased WSS. Lower cardiac output resulted in a narrower jet, lower turbulence and lower viscous shear stress (VSS). The specific severe stenosis BAV model studied here showed reduced WSS due to reduction in non-fused leaflet mobility. Dilation of the aorta did not affect any turbulence or VSS, but reduced the WSS. In comparison with BAVs, TAVs have similar VSS values, but much smaller WSS and turbulence levels. These increased turbulence  and WSS levels in BAVs may play a key role in amplifying the biological responses of the ascending aorta wall and valvular leaflets, and support the hemodynamic underpinnings of BAV disease processes.

  15. CureOne Registry: Advanced Malignancy or Myelodysplasia, Tested by Standard Sequencing and Treated by Physician Choice

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2017-10-02

    Neoplasms; Lung Neoplasms; Colon Neoplasms; Breast Neoplasms; Pancreatic Neoplasms; Prostate Neoplasms; Kidney Neoplasms; Liver Neoplasms; Rectal Neoplasms; Hematologic Neoplasms; Multiple Myeloma; Myelodysplastic Syndromes; Ovarian Neoplasms; Bladder Neoplasms; Testicular Neoplasms; Endometrial Neoplasms; Brain Neoplasms; Biliary Tract Neoplasms; Head and Neck Neoplasms; Uterine Cervical Neoplasms; Skin Neoplasms; Melanoma; Gastric Neoplasms; Anal Neoplasms; Sarcoma

  16. Effects of simulated microgravity on arterial nitric oxide synthase and nitrate and nitrite content

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ma, Jin; Kahwaji, Chadi I.; Ni, Zhenmin; Vaziri, Nosratola D.; Purdy, Ralph E.

    2003-01-01

    The aim of the present work was to investigate the alterations in nitric oxide synthase (NOS) expression and nitrate and nitrite (NOx) content of different arteries from simulated microgravity rats. Male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to either a control group or simulated microgravity group. For simulating microgravity, animals were subjected to hindlimb unweighting (HU) for 20 days. Different arterial tissues were removed for determination of NOS expression and NOx. Western blotting was used to measure endothelial NOS (eNOS) and inducible NOS (iNOS) protein content. Total concentrations of NOx, stable metabolites of nitric oxide, were determined by the chemiluminescence method. Compared with controls, isolated vessels from simulated microgravity rats showed a significant increase in both eNOS and iNOS expression in carotid arteries and thoracic aorta and a significant decrease in eNOS and iNOS expression of mesenteric arteries. The eNOS and iNOS content of cerebral arteries, as well as that of femoral arteries, showed no differences between the two groups. Concerning NOx, vessels from HU rats showed an increase in cerebral arteries, a decrease in mesenteric arteries, and no change in carotid artery, femoral artery and thoracic aorta. These data indicated that there were differential alterations in NOS expression and NOx of different arteries after hindlimb unweighting. We suggest that these changes might represent both localized adaptations to differential body fluid redistribution and other factors independent of hemodynamic shifts during simulated microgravity.

  17. Quantitative angiographic anatomy of the renal arteries and adjacent aorta in the swine for preclinical studies of intravascular catheterization devices.

    PubMed

    Sakaoka, Atsushi; Koshimizu, Masafumi; Nakamura, Shintaro; Matsumura, Kiyoshi

    2018-05-10

    Swine are the most common animal model in preclinical studies of cardiovascular devices. Because of the recent trend for development of new devices for percutaneous catheterization, especially for the renal arteries (RAs), we examined the quantitative anatomical dimensions of the RAs and adjacent aorta in swine. Angiographic images were analyzed in 66 female Yorkshire/Landrace crossbred swine. The diameter of both the right and left main RA was 5.4 ± 0.6 mm. The length of the right main RA was significantly longer than that of the left (29.8 ± 7.5 mm vs. 20.6 ± 5.4 mm, respectively; P<0.001). The diameter of both the right and left branch RA with diameters ≥3 mm (the target vessel diameter of recently developed devices) was 3.8 ± 0.5 mm. The right branch RA was significantly longer than that of the left (18.9 ± 7.8 mm vs. 16.4 ± 7.4 mm, respectively; P<0.05). The branching angle of the right RA from the aorta was significantly smaller than that of the left (91 ± 12° vs. 103 ± 15°, respectively; P<0.001). The diameters of the suprarenal and infrarenal aorta were 10.6 ± 1.1 mm and 9.7 ± 0.9 mm, respectively. In conclusion, because of their similar dimensions to human, swine are an appropriate animal model for assessing the safety of, and determining optimal design of, catheter devices for RAs in simulated clinical use. However, there were species differences in the branching angle and adjacent aorta diameter, suggesting that swine models alone are inadequate to assess the delivery performance of catheter devices for RAs.

  18. Quantitative angiographic anatomy of the renal arteries and adjacent aorta in the swine for preclinical studies of intravascular catheterization devices

    PubMed Central

    Sakaoka, Atsushi; Koshimizu, Masafumi; Nakamura, Shintaro; Matsumura, Kiyoshi

    2018-01-01

    Swine are the most common animal model in preclinical studies of cardiovascular devices. Because of the recent trend for development of new devices for percutaneous catheterization, especially for the renal arteries (RAs), we examined the quantitative anatomical dimensions of the RAs and adjacent aorta in swine. Angiographic images were analyzed in 66 female Yorkshire/Landrace crossbred swine. The diameter of both the right and left main RA was 5.4 ± 0.6 mm. The length of the right main RA was significantly longer than that of the left (29.8 ± 7.5 mm vs. 20.6 ± 5.4 mm, respectively; P<0.001). The diameter of both the right and left branch RA with diameters ≥3 mm (the target vessel diameter of recently developed devices) was 3.8 ± 0.5 mm. The right branch RA was significantly longer than that of the left (18.9 ± 7.8 mm vs. 16.4 ± 7.4 mm, respectively; P<0.05). The branching angle of the right RA from the aorta was significantly smaller than that of the left (91 ± 12° vs. 103 ± 15°, respectively; P<0.001). The diameters of the suprarenal and infrarenal aorta were 10.6 ± 1.1 mm and 9.7 ± 0.9 mm, respectively. In conclusion, because of their similar dimensions to human, swine are an appropriate animal model for assessing the safety of, and determining optimal design of, catheter devices for RAs in simulated clinical use. However, there were species differences in the branching angle and adjacent aorta diameter, suggesting that swine models alone are inadequate to assess the delivery performance of catheter devices for RAs. PMID:29353822

  19. Hemodynamics in a Pediatric Ascending Aorta Using a Viscoelastic Pediatric Blood Model

    PubMed Central

    Good, Bryan C.; Deutsch, Steven; Manning, Keefe B.

    2015-01-01

    Congenital heart disease is the leading cause of infant death in the United States with over 36,000 newborns affected each year. Despite this growing problem there are few mechanical circulatory support devices designed specifically for pediatric and neonate patients. Previous research has been done investigating pediatric ventricular assist devices (PVADs) assuming blood to be a Newtonian fluid in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, ignoring its viscoelastic and shear-thinning properties. In contrast to adult VADs, PVADs may be more susceptible to hemolysis and thrombosis due to altered flow into the aorta, and therefore, a more accurate blood model should be used. A CFD solver that incorporates a modified Oldroyd-B model designed specifically for pediatric blood is used to investigate important hemodynamic parameters in a pediatric aortic model under pulsatile flow conditions. These results are compared to Newtonian blood simulations at three physiological pediatric hematocrits. Minor differences are seen in both velocity and WSS during early stages of the cardiac systole between the Newtonian and viscoelastic models. During diastole, significant differences are seen in the velocities in the descending aorta (up to 12%) and in the aortic branches (up to 30%) between the two models. Additionally, peak wall shear stress (WSS) differences are seen between the models throughout the cardiac cycle. At the onset of diastole, peak WSS differences of 43% are seen between the Newtonian and viscoelastic model and between the 20 and 60% hematocrit viscoelastic models at peak systole of 41%. PMID:26159560

  20. Carbon dioxide coronary angiography: A mechanical feasibility study with a cardiovascular simulator

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Corazza, Ivan; Taglieri, Nevio; Pirazzini, Edoardo; Rossi, Pier Luca; Lombi, Alessandro; Scalise, Filippo; Caridi, James G.; Zannoli, Romano

    2018-01-01

    The aim of this study was to carry out a bench evaluation of the biomechanical feasibility of carbon dioxide (CO2) coronary arteriography. Many patients among the aging population of individuals requiring cardiac intervention have underlying renal insufficiency making them susceptible to contrast-induced nephropathy. To include those patients, it is imperative to find an alternative and safe technique to perform coronary imaging on cardiac ischemic patients. As CO2 angiography has no renal toxicity, it may be a possible solution offering good imaging with negligible collateral effects. Theoretically, by carefully controlling the gas injection process, new automatic injectors may avoid gas reflux into the aorta and possible cerebral damage. A feasibility study is mandatory. A mechanical mock of the coronary circulation was developed and employed. CO2 was injected into the coronary ostium with 2 catheters (2F and 6F) and optical images of bubbles flowing inside the vessels at different injection pressures were recorded. The gas behavior was then carefully studied for quantitative and qualitative analysis. Video recordings showed that CO2 injection at a precise pressure in the interval between the arterial dicrotic notch and the minimum diastolic value does not result in gas reflow into the aorta. Gas reflow was easier to control with the smaller catheter, but the gas bubbles were smaller with different vascular filling. Our simulation demonstrates that carefully selected injection parameters allow CO2 coronary imaging without any risk of gas reflux into the aorta.

  1. The Effect of Aortic Compliance on Left Ventricular Power Requirement

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pahlevan, Niema; Gharib, Morteza

    2009-11-01

    Aortic compliance depends on both geometry and mechanical properties of the aorta. Reduction in arterial compliance has been associated with aging, smoking, and multiple cardiovascular diseases. Increased stiffness of the aorta affects the wave dynamics in the aorta by increasing both pulse pressure amplitude and wave speed. We hypothesized that decreased aortic compliance leads to an increased left ventricular power requirement for a fixed cardiac output due to altered pulse pressure and pulse wave velocity. We used a computational approach using the finite element method for solid and fluid domains coupled to each other by using the direct coupling method. A nonlinear material model was used for the solid wall. The fluid flow model was considered to be Newtonian, incompressible, and laminar. The simulation was performed for a heart rate of 75 beats per minute for six different compliances while keeping the cardiac output and the peripheral resistance constant. The results show a trend towards increased left ventricular energy expenditure per cycle with decreased compliance. The relevance of these findings to clinical observations will be discussed.

  2. Phase 1/2 Study of LOXO-195 in Patients With Previously Treated NTRK Fusion Cancers

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-05-30

    Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung; Thyroid Neoplasms; Sarcoma; Colorectal Neoplasms; Salivary Gland Neoplasms; Biliary Tract Neoplasms; Brain Neoplasm, Primary; Melanoma; Glioblastoma; Bile Duct Neoplasms; Astrocytoma; Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma; Pontine Glioma; Pancreatic Neoplasms; Ovarian Neoplasms; Carcinoma, Renal Cell; Cholangiocarcinoma; Skin Carcinoma; Carcinoma, Bronchogenic; Bronchial Neoplasms; Lung Neoplasms; Respiratory Tract Neoplasms; Thoracic Neoplasms; Neoplasms, Nerve Tissue; Nevi and Melanomas; Intestinal Neoplasms; Thyroid Cancer; GIST; Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors; Breast Secretory Carcinoma; Uterine Neoplasms; Fibrosarcoma; Infantile Fibrosarcoma; Congenital Mesoblastic Nephroma; Central Nervous System Neoplasms

  3. A teaching phantom for sonographers.

    PubMed

    Zagzebski, J A; Madsen, E L; Frank, G R

    1991-01-01

    An anthropomorphic torso section phantom is described that is intended for use during initial stages of ultrasonographer training. The phantom represents a section of the upper abdomen, with simulated ribs, liver, kidney with fat pad, gallbladder, aorta, and bowel gas. Positioned in the liver are ten simulated soft tissue masses, which produce a variety of typical echographic patterns. All simulated soft tissue components are formed of tissue-mimicking materials that match their corresponding tissue counterparts in terms of speed of sound, ultrasonic attenuation, and density. Construction details are presented and examples of images are shown.

  4. Cardiac Safety Study of Entinostat in Men and Women With Advanced Solid Tumors

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2017-04-14

    Neoplasms; Neoplasms, Glandular and Epithelial; Neoplasms by Histologic Type; Bronchial Neoplasms; Lung Neoplasms; Respiratory Tract Neoplasms; Thoracic Neoplasms; Digestive System Neoplasms; Endocrine Gland Neoplasms; Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung; Lung Diseases; Breast Neoplasms; Breast Diseases; Renal Neoplasm; Solid Tumors

  5. Study of LOXO-101 (Larotrectinib) in Subjects With NTRK Fusion Positive Solid Tumors (NAVIGATE)

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2017-09-05

    Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung; Thyroid Neoplasms; Sarcoma; Colorectal Neoplasms; Salivary Gland Neoplasms; Biliary Tract Neoplasms; Brain Neoplasm, Primary; Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast; Melanoma; Solid Tumors; Glioblastoma; Bile Duct Neoplasms; Astrocytoma; Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma; Pontine Glioma; Pancreatic Neoplasms; Ovarian Neoplasms; Carcinoma, Renal Cell; Cholangiocarcinoma; Carcinoma; Carcinoma, Bronchogenic; Bronchial Neoplasms; Lung Neoplasms; Respiratory Tract Neoplasms; Thoracic Neoplasms; Neoplasms, Nerve Tissue; Nevi and Melanomas

  6. Magnetic-Targeted Doxorubicin in Treating Patients With Cancer Metastatic to the Liver

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2005-06-23

    Metastases, Neoplasm; Colorectal Neoplasms; Esophageal Neoplasms; Stomach Neoplasms; Pancreatic Neoplasms; Breast Neoplasms; Melanoma; Sarcoma; Gastrointestinal Neoplasms; Lung Neoplasms; Liver Neoplasms; Cholangiocarcinoma

  7. Coarctation of the Aorta (For Teens)

    MedlinePlus

    ... for Educators Search English Español Coarctation of the Aorta KidsHealth / For Teens / Coarctation of the Aorta What's ... español Estrechamiento aórtico What Is Coarctation of the Aorta? The aorta (pronounced: ay-OR-tuh) is the ...

  8. Low Rectal Cancer Study (MERCURY II)

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2016-03-11

    Adenocarcinoma; Adenocarcinoma, Mucinous; Carcinoma; Neoplasms, Glandular and Epithelial; Neoplasms by Histologic Type; Neoplasms; Neoplasms, Cystic, Mucinous, and Serous; Colorectal Neoplasms; Intestinal Neoplasms; Gastrointestinal Neoplasms; Digestive System Neoplasms; Neoplasms by Site; Digestive System Diseases; Gastrointestinal Diseases; Intestinal Diseases; Rectal Diseases

  9. TAK228 With Carbo and Taxol in Advanced Malignancies

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-03-12

    Malignant Neoplasm of Breast; Malignant Neoplasms of Bone and Articular Cartilage; Malignant Neoplasms of Digestive Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Eye Brain and Other Parts of Central Nervous System; Malignant Neoplasms of Female Genital Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Ill-defined Secondary and Unspecified Sites; Malignant Neoplasms of Independent (Primary) Multiple Sites; Malignant Neoplasms of Lip Oral Cavity and Pharynx; Malignant Neoplasms of Male Genital Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Mesothelial and Soft Tissue; Malignant Neoplasms of Respiratory and Intrathoracic Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Thyroid and Other Endocrine Glands; Malignant Neoplasms of Urinary Tract; Malignant Neoplasms Stated as Primary Lymphoid Haematopoietic

  10. Solving the Puzzle of Metastasis: The Evolution of Cell Migration in Neoplasms

    PubMed Central

    Chen, Jun; Sprouffske, Kathleen; Huang, Qihong; Maley, Carlo C.

    2011-01-01

    Background Metastasis represents one of the most clinically important transitions in neoplastic progression. The evolution of metastasis is a puzzle because a metastatic clone is at a disadvantage in competition for space and resources with non-metastatic clones in the primary tumor. Metastatic clones waste some of their reproductive potential on emigrating cells with little chance of establishing metastases. We suggest that resource heterogeneity within primary tumors selects for cell migration, and that cell emigration is a by-product of that selection. Methods and Findings We developed an agent-based model to simulate the evolution of neoplastic cell migration. We simulated the essential dynamics of neoangiogenesis and blood vessel occlusion that lead to resource heterogeneity in neoplasms. We observed the probability and speed of cell migration that evolves with changes in parameters that control the degree of spatial and temporal resource heterogeneity. Across a broad range of realistic parameter values, increasing degrees of spatial and temporal heterogeneity select for the evolution of increased cell migration and emigration. Conclusions We showed that variability in resources within a neoplasm (e.g. oxygen and nutrients provided by angiogenesis) is sufficient to select for cells with high motility. These cells are also more likely to emigrate from the tumor, which is the first step in metastasis and the key to the puzzle of metastasis. Thus, we have identified a novel potential solution to the puzzle of metastasis. PMID:21556134

  11. 131Iodine-Tenatumomab Treatment in Tenascin-C Positive Cancer Patients

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-01-11

    Breast Neoplasm; Head and Neck Neoplasm; Skin Neoplasm; Respiratory Tract Neoplasm; Urogenital Neoplasm; Digestive System Neoplasm; Pancreatic Neoplasm; Connective and Soft Tissue Neoplasm; Lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin

  12. Early Non Invasive Ventilation and Hematological Malignancies

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-01-03

    Hematological Malignancies; Chronic Hypoxemic Respiratory Failure; Blood And Marrow Transplantation; Malignant Neoplasm of Breast; Malignant Neoplasms of Bone and Articular Cartilage; Malignant Neoplasms of Digestive Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Eye Brain and Other Parts of Central Nervous System; Malignant Neoplasms of Female Genital Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Ill-defined Secondary and Unspecified Sites; Malignant Neoplasms of Independent (Primary) Multiple Sites; Malignant Neoplasms of Lip Oral Cavity and Pharynx; Malignant Neoplasms of Male Genital Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Mesothelial and Soft Tissue; Malignant Neoplasms of Respiratory and Intrathoracic Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Thyroid and Other Endocrine Glands; Malignant Neoplasms of Urinary Tract; Malignant Neoplasms Stated as Primary Lymphoid Haematopoietic

  13. Study to Evaluate the Safety and Tolerability of Avelumab in Combination With Other Anti-Cancer Therapies in Patients With Advanced Malignancies

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-04-27

    Malignant Neoplasm of Breast; Malignant Neoplasms of Bone and Articular Cartilage; Malignant Neoplasms of Digestive Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Eye Brain and Other Parts of Central Nervous System; Malignant Neoplasms of Female Genital Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Ill-defined Secondary and Unspecified Sites; Malignant Neoplasms of Independent (Primary) Multiple Sites; Malignant Neoplasms of Lip Oral Cavity and Pharynx; Malignant Neoplasms of Male Genital Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Mesothelial and Soft Tissue; Malignant Neoplasms of Respiratory and Intrathoracic Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Thyroid and Other Endocrine Glands; Malignant Neoplasms of Urinary Tract; Neoplasms of Uncertain or Unknown Behavior

  14. Pembrolizumab With Intratumoral Injection of Clostridium Novyi-NT

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-06-22

    Malignant Neoplasm of Breast; Malignant Neoplasms of Digestive Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Eye Brain and Other Parts of Central Nervous System; Malignant Neoplasms of Female Genital Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Ill-defined Secondary and Unspecified Sites; Malignant Neoplasms of Independent (Primary) Multiple Sites; Malignant Neoplasms of Lip Oral Cavity and Pharynx; Malignant Neoplasms of Male Genital Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Mesothelial and Soft Tissue; Malignant Neoplasms of Respiratory and Intrathoracic Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Thyroid and Other Endocrine Glands; Malignant Neoplasms of Urinary Tract

  15. Hemodynamics of physiological blood flow in the aorta with nonlinear anisotropic heart valve

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sotiropoulos, Fotis; Gilmanov, Anvar; Stolarski, Henryk

    2016-11-01

    The hemodynamic blood flow in cardiovascular system is one of the most important factor, which causing several vascular diseases. We developed a new Curvilinear Immersed Boundary - Finite Element - Fluid Structure Interaction (CURVIB-FE-FSI) method to analyze hemodynamic of pulsatile blood flow in a real aorta with nonlinear anisotropic aortic valve at physiological conditions. Hyperelastic material model, which is more realistic for describing heart valve have been incorporated in the CURVIB-FE-FSI code to simulate interaction of aortic heart valve with pulsatile blood flow. Comparative studies of hemodynamics for linear and nonlinear models of heart valve show drastic differences in blood flow patterns and hence differences of stresses causing impact at leaflets and aortic wall. This work is supported by the Lillehei Heart Institute at the University of Minnesota.

  16. Optimum Timing for Surgery After Pre-operative Radiotherapy 6 vs 12 Weeks

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2015-06-22

    Adenocarcinoma of the Rectum; Adenocarcinoma; Adenocarcinoma, Mucinous; Carcinoma; Neoplasms, Glandular and Epithelial; Neoplasms by Histologic Type; Neoplasms; Neoplasms, Cystic, Mucinous, and Serous; Colorectal Neoplasms; Intestinal Neoplasms; Gastrointestinal Neoplasms; Digestive System Neoplasms; Neoplasms by Site; Digestive System Diseases; Gastrointestinal Diseases; Intestinal Diseases; Rectal Diseases

  17. Mechanical deterioration underlies malignant behavior of aneurysmal human ascending aorta.

    PubMed

    Koullias, George; Modak, Raj; Tranquilli, Maryann; Korkolis, Dimitris P; Barash, Paul; Elefteriades, John A

    2005-09-01

    The human ascending aorta becomes markedly prone to rupture and dissection at a diameter of 6 cm. The mechanical substrate for this malignant behavior is unknown. This investigation applied engineering analysis to human ascending aortic aneurysms and compared their structural characteristics with those of normal aortas. We measured the mechanical characteristics of the aorta by direct epiaortic echocardiography at the time of surgery in 33 patients with ascending aortic aneurysm undergoing aortic replacement and in 20 control patients with normal aortas undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. Six parameters were measured in all patients: aortic diameter in systole and diastole, aortic wall thickness in systole and diastole, and blood pressure in systole and diastole. These were used to calculate mechanical characteristics of the aorta from standard equations. Aortic distensibility reflects the elastic qualities of the aorta. Aortic wall stress reflects the disrupting force experienced within the aortic wall. Incremental elastic modulus indicates loss of elasticity reserve. Aortic distensibility falls to extremely low levels as aortic dimension rises toward 6 cm (3.02 mm Hg(-1) for small aortas versus 1.45 mm Hg(-1) for aortas larger than 5 cm, P < .05). Aortic wall stress rises to 157.8 kPa for the aneurysmal aorta, compared with 92.5 kPa for normal aortas. For 6-cm aortas at pressures of 200 mm Hg or more, wall stress rises to 857 kPa, nearly exceeding the known maximal tensile strength of human aneurysmal aortic wall. Incremental elastic modulus deteriorates (1.93 +/- 0.88 MPa vs 1.18 +/- 0.21 MPa, P < .05) in aneurysmal aortas relative to that in normal aortas. The mechanical properties of the aneurysmal aorta deteriorate dramatically as the aorta enlarges, reaching critical levels associated with rupture by a diameter of 6 cm. This mechanical deterioration provides an explanation in engineering terms for the malignant clinical behavior (rupture and dissection) of the aorta at these dimensions. This work adds to our fundamental understanding of the biology of aortic aneurysms and promises to permit future application of engineering measurements to supplement aneurysm size in clinical decision making in aneurysmal disease.

  18. Influence of surgical implantation angle of left ventricular assist device outflow graft and management of aortic valve opening on the risk of stroke in heart failure patients

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chivukula, V. Keshav; McGah, Patrick; Prisco, Anthony; Beckman, Jennifer; Mokadam, Nanush; Mahr, Claudius; Aliseda, Alberto

    2016-11-01

    Flow in the aortic vasculature may impact stroke risk in patients with left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) due to severely altered hemodynamics. Patient-specific 3D models of the aortic arch and great vessels were created with an LVAD outflow graft at 45, 60 and 90° from centerline of the ascending aorta, in order to understand the effect of surgical placement on hemodynamics and thrombotic risk. Intermittent aortic valve opening (once every five cardiac cycles) was simulated and the impact of this residual native output investigated for the potential to wash out stagnant flow in the aortic root region. Unsteady CFD simulations with patient-specific boundary conditions were performed. Particle tracking for 10 cardiac cycles was used to determine platelet residence times and shear stress histories. Thrombosis risk was assessed by a combination of Eulerian and Lagrangian metrics and a newly developed thrombogenic potential metric. Results show a strong influence of LVAD outflow graft angle on hemodynamics in the ascending aorta and consequently on stroke risk, with a highly positive impact of aortic valve opening, even at low frequencies. Optimization of LVAD implantation and management strategies based on patient-specific simulations to minimize stroke risk will be presented

  19. Molecular, Pathologic and MRI Investigation of the Prognostic and Redictive Importance of Extramural Venous Invasion in Rectal Cancer (MARVEL) Trial

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2017-03-08

    Adenocarcinoma; Rectal Diseases; Colorectal Neoplasms; Adenocarcinoma, Mucinous; Carcinoma; Neoplasms, Glandular and Epithelial; Neoplasms by Histologic Type; Neoplasms; Neoplasms, Cystic, Mucinous, and Serous; Intestinal Neoplasms; Gastrointestinal Neoplasms; Digestive System Neoplasms; Neoplasms by Site; Digestive System Diseases; Gastrointestinal Diseases; Intestinal Diseases

  20. Segmental and age differences in the elastin network, collagen, and smooth muscle phenotype in the tunica media of the porcine aorta.

    PubMed

    Tonar, Zbyněk; Kubíková, Tereza; Prior, Claudia; Demjén, Erna; Liška, Václav; Králíčková, Milena; Witter, Kirsti

    2015-09-01

    The porcine aorta is often used in studies on morphology, pathology, transplantation surgery, vascular and endovascular surgery, and biomechanics of the large arteries. Using quantitative histology and stereology, we estimated the area fraction of elastin, collagen, alpha-smooth muscle actin, vimentin, and desmin within the tunica media in 123 tissue samples collected from five segments (thoracic ascending aorta; aortic arch; thoracic descending aorta; suprarenal abdominal aorta; and infrarenal abdominal aorta) of porcine aortae from growing domestic pigs (n=25), ranging in age from 0 to 230 days. The descending thoracic aorta had the greatest elastin fraction, which decreased proximally toward the aortic arch as well as distally toward the abdominal aorta. Abdominal aortic segments had the highest fraction of actin, desmin, and vimentin positivity and all of these vascular smooth muscle markers were lower in the thoracic aortic segments. No quantitative differences were found when comparing the suprarenal abdominal segments with the infrarenal abdominal segments. The area fraction of actin within the media was comparable in all age groups and it was proportional to the postnatal growth. Thicker aortic segments had more elastin and collagen with fewer contractile cells. The collagen fraction decreased from ascending aorta and aortic arch toward the descending aorta. By revealing the variability of the quantitative composition of the porcine aorta, the results are suitable for planning experiments with the porcine aorta as a model, i.e. power test analyses and estimating the number of samples necessary to achieving a desirable level of precision. The complete primary morphometric data, in the form of continuous variables, are made publicly available for biomechanical modeling of site-dependent distensibility and compliance of the porcine aorta. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

  1. Prenatal Sonographic Predictors of Neonatal Coarctation of the Aorta.

    PubMed

    Anuwutnavin, Sanitra; Satou, Gary; Chang, Ruey-Kang; DeVore, Greggory R; Abuel, Ashley; Sklansky, Mark

    2016-11-01

    To identify practical prenatal sonographic markers for the postnatal diagnosis of coarctation of the aorta. We reviewed the fetal echocardiograms and postnatal outcomes of fetal cases of suspected coarctation of the aorta seen at a single institution between 2010 and 2014. True- and false-positive cases were compared. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine echocardiographic predictors of coarctation of the aorta. Optimal cutoffs for these markers and a multivariable threshold scoring system were derived to discriminate fetuses with coarctation of the aorta from those without coarctation of the aorta. Among 35 patients with prenatal suspicion of coarctation of the aorta, the diagnosis was confirmed postnatally in 9 neonates (25.7% true-positive rate). Significant predictors identified from multivariate analysis were as follows: Z score for the ascending aorta diameter of -2 or less (P = < .001), Z score for the mitral valve annulus of -2 or less (P= .033), Zscore for the transverse aortic arch diameter of -2 or less (P= .028), and abnormal aortic valve morphologic features (P= .026). Among all variables studied, the ascending aortic Z score had the highest sensitivity (78%) and specificity (92%) for detection of coarctation of the aorta. A multivariable threshold scoring system identified fetuses with coarctation of the aorta with still greater sensitivity (89%) and only mildly decreased specificity (88%). The finding of a diminutive ascending aorta represents a powerful and practical prenatal predictor of neonatal coarctation of the aorta. A multivariable scoring system, including dimensions of the ascending and transverse aortas, mitral valve annulus, and morphologic features of the aortic valve, provides excellent sensitivity and specificity. The use of these practical sonographic markers may improve prenatal detection of coarctation of the aorta. © 2016 by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine.

  2. Study to Evaluate the Safety and Tolerability of IACS-010759 in Subjects With Advanced Solid Tumors and Lymphoma

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-05-25

    Malignant Neoplasm of Breast; Malignant Neoplasms of Bone and Articular Cartilage; Malignant Neoplasms of Digestive Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Female Genital Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Lip Oral Cavity and Pharynx; Malignant Neoplasms of Male Genital Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Mesothelial and Soft Tissue; Malignant Neoplasms of Respiratory and Intrathoracic Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Thyroid and Other Endocrine Glands; Malignant Neoplasms of Urinary Tract; Malignant Neoplasms Stated as Primary Lymphoid Haematopoietic

  3. Characterization of Human Torso Vascular Morphometry in Normotensive and Hypotensive Trauma Patients

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2015-07-01

    Aorta Wall Measures Merged for Analysis Landmarks & User-aided Segmentation 5cm Volume...with Centerline Measures AORTA PROCESSING VENA CAVA PROCESSING Basic Morphomics Scan Identification Aorta Centerline Segmented Aorta and Vena...Analysis 49 Data Presentation Aorta  Radius  Popula/on       Normotensive   Hypotensive  

  4. A Trial for Patients With Advanced/Recurrent Endometrial Cancer

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2009-11-13

    Neoplasms; Neoplasms by Site; Urogenital Neoplasms; Genital Neoplasms, Female; Uterine Neoplasms; Endometrial Neoplasms; Cancer of Endometrium; Endometrial Cancer; Cancer of the Endometrium; Endometrium Cancer; Neoplasms, Endometrial

  5. Dose Escalation Versus Standard in Laryngopharyngeal Cancers

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-04-12

    Malignant Neoplasm of Oropharynx Stage III; Malignant Neoplasm of Larynx Stage III; Malignant Neoplasm of Hypopharynx Stage III; Malignant Neoplasm of Oropharynx Stage IVa; Malignant Neoplasm of Oropharynx Stage IVb; Malignant Neoplasm of Larynx Stage IV; Malignant Neoplasm of Hypopharynx Stage IVa; Malignant Neoplasm of Hypopharynx Stage IVb

  6. Investigation of Three Approaches to Address Fear of Recurrence Among Breast Cancer Survivors

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2017-08-16

    Breast Neoplasms; Breast Cancer; Breast Carcinoma; Malignant Neoplasm of Breast; Cancer of Breast; Mammary Neoplasm, Human; Human Mammary Carcinoma; Malignant Tumor of Breast; Mammary Cancer; Mammary Carcinoma; Anxiety; Fear; Neoplasm Remission, Spontaneous; Spontaneous Neoplasm Regression; Regression, Spontaneous Neoplasm; Remission, Spontaneous Neoplasm; Spontaneous Neoplasm Remission

  7. Facts about Coarctation of the Aorta

    MedlinePlus

    ... Media Policy Makers Facts about Coarctation of the Aorta Recommend on Facebook Tweet Share Compartir Click here ... narrower than usual. What is Coarctation of the Aorta? Coarctation of the aorta is a birth defect ...

  8. Biomechanical analysis of wrapping of the moderately dilated ascending aorta.

    PubMed

    Plonek, Tomasz; Rylski, Bartosz; Dumanski, Andrzej; Siedlaczek, Przemyslaw; Kustrzycki, Wojciech

    2015-08-01

    External wrapping is a surgical method performed to prevent the dilatation of the aorta and to decrease the risk of its dissection and rupture. However, it is also believed to cause degeneration of the aortic wall. A biomechanical analysis was thus performed to assess the stress of the aortic wall subjected to external wrapping. A stress analysis using the finite elements method was carried out on three models: a non-dilated aorta, a moderately dilated aorta and a wrapped aorta. The models were subjected to a pulsatile flow (120/80 mmHg) and a systolic aortic annulus motion of 11 mm. The finite elements analysis showed that the stress exerted on the outer surface of the ascending aorta in the wrapping model (0.05-0.8 MPa) was similar to that observed in the normal aorta (0.03-0.7 MPa) and was lower than in the model of a moderately dilated aorta (0.06-1.4 MPa). The stress on the inner surface of the ascending aorta ranged from 0.2 MPa to 0.4 MPa in the model of the normal aorta, from 0.3 to 1.3 MPa in the model of the dilated aorta and from 0.05 MPa to 0.4 MPa in the wrapping model. The results of this study suggest that the aortic wall is subjected to similar stress following a wrapping procedure to the one present in the normal aorta.

  9. Trial of Postoperative Radiation, Cisplatin, and Panitumumab in Locally Advanced Head and Neck Cancer

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2017-09-04

    Cancer of Head; Cancer of Head and Neck; Cancer of Neck; Cancer of the Head; Cancer of the Head and Neck; Cancer of the Neck; Head and Neck Cancer; Head Cancer; Head Neoplasms; Head, Neck Neoplasms; Neck Cancer; Neck Neoplasms; Neoplasms, Head; Neoplasms, Head and Neck; Neoplasms, Neck; Neoplasms, Upper Aerodigestive Tract; UADT Neoplasms; Upper Aerodigestive Tract Neoplasms

  10. Ex-Vivo Expanded Allogeneic NK Cells For The Treatment Of Pediatric Solid Tumors

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-05-11

    Malignant Neoplasms of Bone and Articular Cartilage; Malignant Neoplasms of Female Genital Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Independent (Primary) Multiple Sites; Malignant Neoplasms of Lip Oral Cavity and Pharynx; Malignant Neoplasms of Male Genital Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Mesothelial and Soft Tissue; Malignant Neoplasms of Thyroid and Other Endocrine Glands; Malignant Neoplasms of Urinary Tract; Melanoma and Other Malignant Neoplasms of Skin

  11. Study of the Pan-ERBB Inhibitor Neratinib Given in Combination With Everolimus, Palbociclib or Trametinib in Advanced Cancer Subjects With EGFR Mutation/Amplification, HER2 Mutation/Amplification or HER3/4 Mutation

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-03-26

    Malignant Neoplasm of Breast; Malignant Neoplasms of Digestive Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Female Genital Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Ill-defined Secondary and Unspecified Sites; Malignant Neoplasms of Independent (Primary) Multiple Sites; Malignant Neoplasms of Lip Oral Cavity and Pharynx; Malignant Neoplasms of Mesothelial and Soft Tissue; Malignant Neoplasms of Respiratory and Intrathoracic Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Thyroid and Other Endocrine Glands; Malignant Neoplasms of Urinary Tract; Neoplasms of Uncertain or Unknown Behavior

  12. Mechanical Characterization and Material Modeling of Diabetic Aortas in a Rabbit Model.

    PubMed

    Tong, Jianhua; Yang, F; Li, X; Xu, X; Wang, G X

    2018-03-01

    Diabetes has been recognized as a major risk factor to cause macrovascular diseases and plays a key role in aortic wall remodeling. However, the effects of diabetes on elastic properties of aortas remain largely unknown and quantitative mechanical data are lacking. Thirty adult rabbits (1.6-2.2 kg) were collected and the type 1 diabetic rabbit model was induced by injection of alloxan. A total of 15 control and 15 diabetic rabbit (abdominal) aortas were harvested. Uniaxial and biaxial tensile tests were performed to measure ultimate tensile strength and to characterize biaxial mechanical behaviors of the aortas. A material model was fitted to the biaxial experimental data to obtain constitutive parameters. Histological and mass fraction analyses were performed to investigate the underlying microstructure and dry weight percentages of elastin and collagen in the control and the diabetic aortas. No statistically significant difference was found in ultimate tensile strength between the control and the diabetic aortas. Regarding biaxial mechanical responses, the diabetic aortas exhibited significantly lower extensibility and significantly higher tissue stiffness than the control aortas. Notably, tissue stiffening occurred in both circumferential and axial directions for the diabetic aortas; however, mechanical anisotropy does not change significantly. The material model was able to fit biaxial experimental data very well. Histology showed that a number of isolated foam cells were embedded in the diabetic aortas and hyperplasia of collagen was identified. The dry weight percentages of collagen within the diabetic aortas increased significantly as compared to the control aortas, whereas no significant change was found for that of elastin. Our data suggest that the diabetes impairs elastic properties and alters microstructure of the aortas and consequently, these changes may further contribute to complex aortic wall remodeling.

  13. Increased plasma asymmetric dimethylarginine level is associated with ascending aorta dilatation: a case-control study.

    PubMed

    Satılmışoğlu, Muhammet Hulusi; Örnek Diker, Vesile; Taşbulak, Ömer; Diker, Mustafa; Birand, Ali; Kaya, Mehmet; İyigün, Taner; Eksik, Abdurrahman

    2017-01-01

    Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) is an endogenous inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase. We aimed to determine plasma ADMA levels in patients with ascending aorta dilatation in comparison to those without aorta dilatation, and to evaluate the diagnostic, predictive, and prognostic value of serum ADMA level for aorta dilatation. This was a cross-sectional case-control study. A total of 104 consecutive patients (female/male, 35/69; mean age, 62.75 ± 13.11 years) diagnosed with ascending aorta dilatation (≥ 4.5 cm) on echocardiography (case group), and 52 age-and gender-matched patients (female/male, 17/35; mean age, 63.44 ± 7.56 years) with normal aorta dimensions (≤ 3.8 cm) (control group) were included. Routine biochemical and haematological analysis in addition to measurement of serum ADMA level were performed. The mean diameter of ascending aorta measured on echocardiography was 4.95 ± 0.57 cm and 3.34 ± 0.36 cm in patients with aorta dilatation and those without aorta dilatation, respectively (p < 0.001). Serum ADMA level was significantly higher in patients with aorta dilatation than in the control group (1.70 ± 1.12 μmol/L vs. 0.79 ± 0.76 μmol/L, respectively, p < 0.001). There was significant positive correlation between ADMA level and aortic diameter in Spearman correlation analysis (r = 0.317, p < 0.001). In linear regression analysis, ADMA was found to be a significant independent predictor of aorta diameter (Beta = 0.26, p < 0.001). Receiver-operator characteristic curve analysis also revealed that serum ADMA cut-off level over 0.29 μmol/L predicts aorta dilatation (≥ 4.5 cm) with 94% sensitivity and 92% specificity and with high ac-curacy (area under curve: 0.786; 95% confidence interval: 0.709-0.863, p < 0.001). Serum ADMA level is diagnostic for ascending aorta dilatation with high sensitivity and specificity, and should be considered for use in clinical diagnosis of aorta dilatation.

  14. Elastic properties of the young aorta: ex vivo perfusion experiments in a porcine model.

    PubMed

    Krüger, Tobias; Grigoraviciute, Akvile; Veseli, Kujtim; Schibilsky, David; Wendel, Hans P; Schneider, Wilke; Schlensak, Christian

    2015-08-01

    To investigate the regional and directional compliance/distensibility of the healthy aorta. Complete fresh porcine aortas (n = 11) were perfused ex vivo under defined haemodynamic parameters using a custom-made pulse duplicator. Both circumferential and longitudinal compliance were measured optically. The pulse duplicator was able to perfuse the entire aorta with arbitrary haemodynamic parameters, generating a physiological pulse curve. Aortic compliance is pressure dependent, as we observed a linear relationship between pressure and distension in the range of 5-200 mmHg; however, above 200 mmHg, the porcine aorta behaved in an inelastic manner. Circumferential compliance was highest in the ascending aorta (24%/100 mmHg) but significantly (P < 0.05) decreased in both the arch (18%/100 mmHg) and the descending aorta (15%/100 mmHg). Longitudinal compliance was highest in the ascending aorta and clearly exceeded circumferential compliance. Compliance was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the outer curvatures of the ascending aorta and the aortic arch compared with the compliance of the inner curvature at these locations (30%/100 vs 23%/100 mmHg in the ascending aorta and 20%/100 vs 9%/100 mmHg in the arch, respectively). Longitudinal compliance of the ascending aorta, particularly the outer curvature, is predominantly responsible for the 'Windkessel effect'. Pathological changes such as elongation and pronounced angulation of the ascending aorta increase stress on the outer curvature and may be important factors in the development of aortic dissection. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

  15. Over length quantification of the multiaxial mechanical properties of the ascending, descending and abdominal aorta using Digital Image Correlation.

    PubMed

    Peña, Juan A; Corral, Victoria; Martínez, Miguel A; Peña, Estefanía

    2018-01-01

    In this paper, we hypothesize that the biaxial mechanical properties of the aorta may be dependent on arterial location. To demonstrate any possible position-related difference, our study analyzed and compared the biaxial mechanical properties of the ascending thoracic aorta, descending thoracic aorta and infrarenal abdominal aorta stemming from the same porcine subjects, and reported values of constitutive parameters for well-known strain energy functions, showing how these mechanical properties are affected by location along the aorta. When comparing ascending thoracic aorta, descending thoracic aorta and infrarenal abdominal aorta, abdominal tissues were found to be stiffer and highly anisotropic. We found that the aorta changed from a more isotropic to a more anisotropic tissue and became progressively less compliant and stiffer with the distance to the heart. We observed substantial differences in the anisotropy parameter between aortic samples where abdominal samples were more anisotropic and nonlinear than the thoracic samples. The phenomenological model was not able to capture the passive biaxial properties of each specific porcine aorta over a wide range of biaxial deformations, showing the best prediction root mean square error ε=0.2621 for ascending thoracic samples and, especially, the worst for the infrarenal abdominal samples ε=0.3780. The micro-structured model with Bingham orientation density function was able to better predict biaxial deformations (ε=0.1372 for ascending thoracic aorta samples). The root mean square error of the micro-structural model and the micro-structured model with von Mises orientation density function were similar for all positions. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  16. CHARACTERIZATION OF AORTIC TISSUE CUTTING PROCESS: EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION USING PORCINE ASCENDING AORTA

    PubMed Central

    Hu, Zhongwei; Sun, Wei; Zhang, Bi

    2012-01-01

    Understanding biomechanical responses during soft tissue cutting is important for developing surgical simulators and robot-assisted surgery with haptic feedback. The biomechanics involved in the aortic tissue cutting process is largely unknown. In this study, porcine ascending aorta was selected as a representative aortic tissue, and tissue cutting experiments were performed using a novel tissue cutting apparatus. The tissue cutting responses under various cutting conditions were investigated, including differing initial tissue lateral holding force and distance, cutting speed, cutter inclination angle, tissue anatomical orientation and thickness. The results from this study suggest that a “break-in” cutting force of about 4 – 12 N, a cutter “break-in” distance of 5 – 15 mm, and a continuous cutting force of 2 – 4 N were needed to cut through the porcine ascending aorta tissue. For all testing conditions investigated in this study, the cutting force vs. the cutter displacement curves exhibited similar characteristics. More importantly, this study demonstrated that tissue cutting involving one or more of the following conditions: a larger lateral holding force, a smaller lateral hold distance, a higher cutting speed or a larger inclination angle, could result in a smaller “break in” cutting force and a smaller “break-in” distance. In addition, it was found that the cutting force in the vessel longitudinal direction was larger than that in the circumferential direction. There was a strong correlation between the tissue thickness and the cutting force. The experimental results reported in this study could provide a basis for understanding the characteristic response of aortic tissue to scalpel cutting, and offer insight into the development of surgical simulators. PMID:23262306

  17. High prevalence of intracranial aneurysms in patients with aortic dissection or aneurysm: feasibility of extended aorta CT angiography with involvement of intracranial arteries.

    PubMed

    Lee, Dahye; Ahn, Sung Jun; Cho, Eun-Suk; Kim, Yong Bae; Song, Suk-Won; Jung, Woo Sang; Suh, Sang Hyun

    2017-10-01

    Previous studies have suggested a higher prevalence of intracranial aneurysms (IAs) in patients with aortic aneurysms (AAs). To carry out a preliminary study to evaluate the prevalence of IAs in these patients and the diagnostic feasibility of extended aorta CT angiography (CTA), including intracranial arteries as well as the aorta. We retrospectively reviewed all patients with a clinical diagnosis of AA or aortic dissection (AD) who had undergone aorta CTA as well as MR angiography, CTA, and/or DSA of the brain between 2009 and 2014. Since 2012, the extended aorta CTA protocol has been applied in these patients. Characteristics of IAs were classified with baseline clinical data. For quantitative and qualitative assessment by two independent raters, brain images obtained by extended aorta CTA and brain CTA were compared. The radiation dose of the two aorta protocols was compared. The prevalence of IA was 22.2% (35/158). All IAs were detected by extended aorta CTA, except one small aneurysm (<3 mm). The mean vascular attenuation value between brain images showed no difference (p=0.83), but the contrast-to-noise ratio was significantly lower in extended aorta CTA (p<0.001). In qualitative assessment, the interobserver agreement was substantial (k=0.79). For the radiation dose, the dose-length product of the extended aorta CTA increased with increment of the scan range (p=0.048). With a high prevalence of IAs in patients with ADs or AAs, extended aorta CTA could be used to evaluate aorta disease and IA in a single session. However, further prospective studies are needed to prove efficacy and safety of the extended aorta CTA protocol in patients with AAs or ADs. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

  18. Modelling and numerical simulation of the in vivo mechanical response of the ascending aortic aneurysm in Marfan syndrome.

    PubMed

    García-Herrera, Claudio M; Celentano, Diego J; Herrera, Emilio A

    2017-03-01

    Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a genetic disorder that affects connective tissue, impairing cardiovascular structures and function, such as heart valves and aorta. Thus, patients with Marfan disease have a higher risk of developing circulatory problems associated with mitral and aortic valves prolapse, manifested as dilated aorta and aortic aneurysm. However, little is known about the biomechanical characteristics of these structures affected with MFS. This study presents the modelling and simulation of the mechanical response of human ascending aortic aneurysms in MFS under in vivo conditions with intraluminal pressures within normotensive and hypertensive ranges. We obtained ascending aortic segments from five adults with MFS subjected to a vascular prosthesis implantation replacing an aortic aneurysm. We characterised the arterial samples via ex vivo tensile test measurements that enable fitting the material parameters of a hyperelastic isotropic constitutive model. Then, these material parameters were used in a numerical simulation of an ascending aortic aneurysm subjected to in vivo normotensive and hypertensive conditions. In addition, we assessed different constraints related to the movement of the aortic root. Overall, our results provide not only a realistic description of the mechanical behaviour of the vessel, but also useful data about stress/stretch-based criteria to predict vascular rupture. This knowledge may be included in the clinical assessment to determine risk and indicate surgical intervention.

  19. Mechanisms Underlying Isovolumic Contraction and Ejection Peaks in Seismocardiogram Morphology

    PubMed Central

    Gurev, Viatcheslav; Tavakolian, Kouhyar; Constantino, Jason; Kaminska, Bozena; Blaber, Andrew P.; Trayanova, Natalia A.

    2012-01-01

    A three-dimensional (3D) finite element electromechanical model of the heart is employed in simulations of seismocardiograms (SCGs). To simulate SCGs, a previously developed 3D model of ventricular contraction is extended by adding the mechanical interaction of the heart with the chest and internal organs. The proposed model reproduces the major peaks of seismocardiographic signals during the phases of the cardiac cycle. Results indicate that SCGs record the pressure of the heart acting on the ribs. In addition, the model reveals that the rotation of the rib with respect to the heart has a minor effect on seismocardiographic signal morphology during the respiratory cycle. SCGs are obtained from 24 human volunteers and their morphology is analyzed. Experimental results demonstrate that the peak of the maximum acceleration of blood in the aorta occurs at the same time as the global minimum of the SCG. It is confirmed that the first SCG peak after the electrocardiogram R-wave corresponds to aortic valve opening, as determined from the impedance cardiogram (p = 0.92). The simulation results reveal that the SCG peaks corresponding to aortic valve opening and the maximum acceleration of blood in the aorta result from ventricular contraction in the longitudinal direction of the ventricles and a decrease in the dimensions of the ventricles due to the ejection of blood, respectively. PMID:23105942

  20. Regional and directional compliance of the healthy aorta: an ex vivo study in a porcine model.

    PubMed

    Krüger, Tobias; Veseli, Kujtim; Lausberg, Henning; Vöhringer, Luise; Schneider, Wilke; Schlensak, Christian

    2016-07-01

    To gain differential knowledge about the physiological compliance and wall strength of the different regions of the aorta, including the ascending aorta, arch and descending aorta in both the circumferential and longitudinal directions, and to generate a hypothesis on the pathophysiological mechanisms that lead to Type A aortic dissection. Fresh tissue specimens from 22 ex vivo porcine aortas were analysed on a tensile tester. Regional and directional compliance, failure stress and failure strain were recorded. Aortic compliance appeared as a linear function of the natural logarithm (ln) of wall stress. Compliance significantly decreased along the length of the aorta. In the ascending aorta, longitudinal compliance significantly (P = 0.003) exceeded circumferential compliance, and the outer curvature was more compliant than the inner curvature (P = 0.03). In the descending aorta, this relationship is reversed: the circumferential compliance exceeded the longitudinal compliance, and the outer aspect was more compliant (P = 0.003). The median circumferential failure stress of all aortic segments was in the range of 2000-2750 kPa, whereas the longitudinal failure stress in the ascending aorta and the arch had values of 750-1000 kPa, which were significantly lower (P < 0.05). Surprisingly, the longitudinal failure stress of the inner aspect of the descending aorta was extraordinarily high (2000 kPa). Failure strain, similar to compliance, was highest in the ascending aorta and decreased along the aorta. The aorta appears to be a complex organ with distinct regional and directional differences in compliance and wall strength that is designed to effectively absorb the kinetic energy of cardiac systole and to cushion the momentum of systolic impact. Under normotensive conditions and a preconditioned physiological morphology, the aortic wall works in the steep part of the logarithmic strain-stress function; under hypertensive conditions and pathological morphology, the wall reacts in an non-compliant manner. The high longitudinal compliance and low failure stress of the ascending aorta and subsequent pathological changes may be the main determinants of the recurrent patho-anatomy of Type A aortic dissection. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

  1. Regional and directional compliance of the healthy aorta: an ex vivo study in a porcine model†

    PubMed Central

    Krüger, Tobias; Veseli, Kujtim; Lausberg, Henning; Vöhringer, Luise; Schneider, Wilke; Schlensak, Christian

    2016-01-01

    OBJECTIVES To gain differential knowledge about the physiological compliance and wall strength of the different regions of the aorta, including the ascending aorta, arch and descending aorta in both the circumferential and longitudinal directions, and to generate a hypothesis on the pathophysiological mechanisms that lead to Type A aortic dissection. METHODS Fresh tissue specimens from 22 ex vivo porcine aortas were analysed on a tensile tester. Regional and directional compliance, failure stress and failure strain were recorded. RESULTS Aortic compliance appeared as a linear function of the natural logarithm (ln) of wall stress. Compliance significantly decreased along the length of the aorta. In the ascending aorta, longitudinal compliance significantly (P = 0.003) exceeded circumferential compliance, and the outer curvature was more compliant than the inner curvature (P = 0.03). In the descending aorta, this relationship is reversed: the circumferential compliance exceeded the longitudinal compliance, and the outer aspect was more compliant (P = 0.003). The median circumferential failure stress of all aortic segments was in the range of 2000–2750 kPa, whereas the longitudinal failure stress in the ascending aorta and the arch had values of 750–1000 kPa, which were significantly lower (P < 0.05). Surprisingly, the longitudinal failure stress of the inner aspect of the descending aorta was extraordinarily high (2000 kPa). Failure strain, similar to compliance, was highest in the ascending aorta and decreased along the aorta. CONCLUSION The aorta appears to be a complex organ with distinct regional and directional differences in compliance and wall strength that is designed to effectively absorb the kinetic energy of cardiac systole and to cushion the momentum of systolic impact. Under normotensive conditions and a preconditioned physiological morphology, the aortic wall works in the steep part of the logarithmic strain–stress function; under hypertensive conditions and pathological morphology, the wall reacts in an non-compliant manner. The high longitudinal compliance and low failure stress of the ascending aorta and subsequent pathological changes may be the main determinants of the recurrent patho-anatomy of Type A aortic dissection. PMID:26993474

  2. Mathematical, numerical and experimental study in the human aorta with coexisting models of bicuspid aortic stenosis and coarctation of the aorta.

    PubMed

    Keshavarz-Motamed, Z; Garcia, J; Kadem, L

    2011-01-01

    Coarctation of the aorta is an obstruction of the aorta and is usually associated with other concomitant cardiovascular abnormalities especially with bicuspid aortic valve stenosis. The objectives of this study are, (1) to investigate the effects of coarctation on the hemodynamics in the aorta to gain a better understanding of the cause of certain post-surgical coarctation problems, (2) to develop and introduce a new lumped parameter model, mainly based on non-invasive data, allowing the description of the interaction between left ventricle, coarctation of the aorta, aortic valve stenosis, and the arterial system.

  3. Aorta: a management layer for mobile peer-to-peer massive multiplayer games

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Edlich, Stefan; Hoerning, Henrik; Brunnert, Andreas; Hoerning, Reidar

    2005-03-01

    The development of massive multiplayer games (MMPGs) for personal computers is based on a wide range of frameworks and technologies. In contrast, MMPG development for cell phones lacks the availability of framework support. We present Aorta as a multi-purpose lightweight MIDP 2.0 framework to support the transparent and equal API usage of peer-to-peer communication via http, IP and Bluetooth. Special experiments, such as load-tests on Nokia 6600s, have been carried out with Bluetooth support in using a server-as-client architecture to create ad-hoc networks by using piconet functionalities. Additionally, scatternet functionalities, which will be supported in upcoming devices, have been tested in a simulated environment on more than 12 cell phones. The core of the Aorta framework is the Etherlobby, which manages connections, peers, the game lobby, game policies and much more. The framework itself was developed to enable the fast development of mobile games, regardless of the distance between users, which might be within the schoolyard or much further away. The earliest market-ready application shown here is a multimedia game for cell phones utilizing all of the frameworks features. This game, called Micromonster, acts as platform for developer tests, as well as providing valuable information about interface usability and user acceptance.

  4. Efficacy and Tolerability of ABT-869 Versus Sorafenib in Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2012-09-07

    Hepatocellular Carcinoma Non-resectable; Hepatocellular Carcinoma Recurrent; Carcinoma, Hepatocellular; Liver Diseases; Neoplasms by Histologic Type; Digestive System Neoplasms; Carcinoma; Liver Neoplasms; Neoplasms; Neoplasms by Site; Digestive System Diseases; Adenocarcinoma; Neoplasms, Glandular and Epithelial

  5. Durvalumab and Tremelimumab in Combination With First-Line Chemotherapy in Advanced Solid Tumors

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-05-16

    Small Cell Lung Carcinoma; Carcinoma, Squamous Cell of Head and Neck; Stomach Neoplasms; Triple Negative Breast Neoplasms; Ovarian Neoplasms; Fallopian Tube Neoplasms; Peritoneal Neoplasms; Esophagogastric Junction Neoplasms; Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal; Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

  6. Techniques of imaging of the aorta and its first order branches by endoscopic ultrasound (with videos)

    PubMed Central

    Sharma, Malay; Rai, Praveer; Mehta, Varun; Rameshbabu, C. S.

    2015-01-01

    Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) is a useful modality for imaging of the blood vessels of the mediastinum and abdomen. The aorta acts as an important home base during EUS imaging. The aorta and its branches are accessible by standard angiographic methods, but endosonography also provides a unique opportunity to evaluate the aorta and its branches. This article describes the techniques of imaging of different part of the aorta by EUS. PMID:26020043

  7. Structural and functional characterization of the contractile aorta and associated hemocytes of the mosquito Anopheles gambiae.

    PubMed

    Sigle, Leah T; Hillyer, Julián F

    2018-06-22

    The primary pump of the circulatory system of insects is a dorsal vessel that traverses the length of the insect. The anterior portion, located in the head, neck and thorax, is the aorta, and the posterior portion, located in the abdomen, is the heart. Here, we characterize the structure and function of the aorta and conical chamber of the mosquito, Anopheles gambiae The aorta begins in the head with an excurrent opening located above the dorsal pharyngeal plate and ends at the thoraco-abdominal junction where it joins the conical chamber of the heart. The aorta lacks ostia, and based on the diameter of the vessel as well as the density and helical orientation of muscle, consists of three regions: the anterior aorta, the bulbous chamber, and the posterior aorta. The aorta contracts in the anterograde direction, but these contractions are independent of heart contractions and do not play a major role in hemolymph propulsion. Intravital imaging of the venous channels, the first abdominal segment and the neck revealed that hemolymph only travels through the aorta in the anterograde direction, and does so only during periods of anterograde heart flow. Furthermore, hemolymph only enters the thoraco-abdominal ostia of the conical chamber when the heart contracts in the retrograde direction, propelling this hemolymph to the posterior of the body. Finally, very few hemocytes associate with the aorta, and unlike what is seen in the periostial regions of the heart, infection does not induce the aggregation of hemocytes on the aorta. © 2018. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

  8. Extracolonic Findings on Computed Tomography (CT) Colonography

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2017-03-16

    Solitary Pulmonary Nodules; Multiple Pulmonary Nodules; Renal Neoplasms; Adrenal Gland Neoplasms; Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal; Liver Neoplasms; Adnexal and Skin Appendage Neoplasms; Lymphadenopathy; Pancreatic Neoplasms

  9. Toward translating near-infrared spectroscopy oxygen saturation data for the non-invasive prediction of spatial and temporal hemodynamics during exercise

    PubMed Central

    Ellwein, Laura; Samyn, Margaret M.; Danduran, Michael; Schindler-Ivens, Sheila; Liebham, Stacy; LaDisa, John F.

    2016-01-01

    Image-based computational fluid dynamics (CFD) studies conducted at rest have shown that atherosclerotic plaque in the thoracic aorta (TA) correlates with adverse wall shear stress (WSS), but there is a paucity of such data under elevated flow conditions. We developed a pedaling exercise protocol to obtain phase contrast magnetic resonance imaging (PC-MRI) blood flow measurements in the TA and brachiocephalic arteries during three-tiered supine pedaling at 130%, 150%, and 170% of resting heart rate (HR), and relate these measurements to noninvasive tissue oxygen saturation (StO2) acquired by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) while conducting the same protocol. Local quantification of WSS indices by CFD revealed low time-averaged WSS on the outer curvature of the ascending aorta and the inner curvature of the descending aorta (dAo) that progressively increased with exercise, but that remained low on the anterior surface of brachiocephalic arteries. High oscillatory WSS observed on the inner curvature of the aorta persisted during exercise as well. Results suggest locally continuous exposure to potentially deleterious indices of WSS despite benefits of exercise. Linear relationships between flow distributions and tissue oxygen extraction calculated from StO2 were found between the left common carotid versus cerebral tissue (r2=0.96) and the dAo versus leg tissue (r2=0.87). A resulting six-step procedure is presented to use NIRS data as a surrogate for exercise PC-MRI when setting boundary conditions for future CFD studies of the TA under simulated exercise conditions. Relationships and ensemble averaged PC-MRI inflow waveforms are provided in an online repository for this purpose. PMID:27376865

  10. Dacron graft as replacement to dissected aorta: A three-dimensional fluid-structure-interaction analysis.

    PubMed

    Jayendiran, R; Nour, B M; Ruimi, A

    2018-02-01

    Aortic dissection (AD) is a serious medical condition characterized by a tear in the intima, the inner layer of the aortic walls. In such occurrence, blood is being diverted to the media (middle) layer and may result in patient death if not quickly attended. In the case where the diseased portion of the aorta needs to be replaced, one common surgical technique is to use a graft made of Dacron, a synthetic fabric. We investigate the response of a composite human aortic segment-Dacron graft structure subjected to blood flow using the three-dimensional fluid-structure-interaction (FSI) capability in Abaqus. We obtain stress and strain profiles in each of the three layers of the aortic walls as well as in the Dacron graft. Results are compared when elastic and hyperelastic models are used and when isotropy vs. anisotropy is assumed. The more complex case (hyperelastic-anisotropy) is represented by the Holzapfel-Gasser-Ogden (HGO) model which also accounts for the orientation of the fibers present in the tissues. The fluid flow is taken as Newtonian, incompressible, pulsatile and turbulent. The simulation show that for all the cases, the von Mises stress distribution at aorta-Dacron interface is well below the ultimate strength of the aorta. No significant change in radial displacement at the interface of the two materials due to blood flow is observed. Computation cost is also addressed and results show that the hyperelastic-anisotropic model takes about three times longer to run than the elastic isotropic case. Trade-off between accuracy and computational cost has to be weighted. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  11. A wave dynamics criterion for optimization of mammalian cardiovascular system.

    PubMed

    Pahlevan, Niema M; Gharib, Morteza

    2014-05-07

    The cardiovascular system in mammals follows various optimization criteria covering the heart, the vascular network, and the coupling of the two. Through a simple dimensional analysis we arrived at a non-dimensional number (wave condition number) that can predict the optimum wave state in which the left ventricular (LV) pulsatile power (LV workload) is minimized in a mammalian cardiovascular system. This number is also universal among all mammals independent of animal size maintaining a value of around 0.1. By utilizing a unique in vitro model of human aorta, we tested our hypothesis against a wide range of aortic compliance (pulse wave velocity). We concluded that the optimum value of the wave condition number remains to be around 0.1 for a wide range of aorta compliance that we could simulate in our in-vitro system. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  12. Apico-brachiocephalic artery bypass for aortic stenosis with porcelain aorta.

    PubMed

    Shimizu, Shuji; Nakai, Mikizo; Itoh, Atsushi; Yoshizumi, Ko; Ochi, Yoshiki; Okada, Masahiro; Sano, Shunji

    2010-02-01

    Apicoaortic bypass for left ventricular outflow tract obstruction has been performed with acceptable mid-term mortality. However, sometimes it is difficult to anastomose the distal end of the conduit to the calcified descending aorta in patients with a porcelain aorta. We report an aortic non-touch modification of the apicoaortic bypass in an 80-year-old woman with valvular aortic stenosis and a porcelain aorta extending from the ascending to abdominal aorta. We performed apico-brachiocephalic artery bypass under circulatory arrest with deep hypothermia. This procedure may become a useful surgical option for patients with a severe porcelain aorta. 2010 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Selumetinib and Olaparib in Solid Tumors

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-05-02

    Malignant Neoplasm of Breast; Malignant Neoplasms of Digestive Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Female Genital Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Male Genital Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Thyroid and Other Endocrine Glands

  14. [«Man-in-the-barrel» syndrome: atypical manifestation of giant cell arteritis].

    PubMed

    Calle-Lopez, Y; Fernandez-Ramirez, A F; Franco-Dager, E; Gomez-Lopera, J G; Vanegas-Garcia, A L

    2018-06-01

    «Man-in-the-barrel» syndrome refers to diplegia of the upper extremities in which mobility of the head and lower limbs is preserved. Brachial plexitis that presents as «man-in-the-barrel» syndrome is an unusual manifestation of giant cell arteritis. We report a case of C5-C6 plexitis as part of the clinical features of a patient with giant cell arteritis. A 70-year-old male with a two-month history of weight loss, headache, facial pain and jaw claudication, associated with a persistent elevation of acute phase reactants and bilateral brachial plexopathy, with no evidence of neck or brain injuries or occult neoplasm and with negative autoimmunity tests. Results of the biopsy study of the temporal artery were compatible with giant cell arteritis, and the positron emission tomography scan revealed extensive vascular involvement of the aorta and its branches. Although the typical clinical manifestations of giant cell arteritis are headache, jaw claudication, loss of sight, constitutional symptoms and polymyalgia rheumatica, its presence must be suspected in patients over the age of 50 who manifest alterations affecting the peripheral nerve, including brachial diplegia with no other demonstrable cause.

  15. Axial nonuniformity of geometric and mechanical properties of mouse aorta is increased during postnatal growth.

    PubMed

    Huang, Yi; Guo, Xiaomei; Kassab, Ghassan S

    2006-02-01

    The hemodynamic conditions of aorta are relatively uniform prenatally and become more heterogeneous postnatally. Our objective was to quantify the heterogeneity of geometry and mechanical properties during growth and development. To accomplish this objective, we obtained a systematic set of data on the geometry and mechanical properties along the length of mouse aorta during postnatal development. C57BL/6 mice of ages 1-33 days were studied. The ascending aorta was cannulated in situ and preconditioned with several cyclic changes in pressure. We investigated the axial variations of geometry (diameter and length) and mechanical properties (stress-stain relation, elastic modulus and compliance) of the mouse aorta from the aortic valve to the common iliac. Our results show that the arterial blood pressure of mice increased from approximately 30 to 80 mmHg during the first 2 wk of life. The stretch ratio, diameter, wall (intima-media) thickness, and total lumen volume of mouse aorta increased with age. The aorta was transformed from a cylindrical tube at birth to a tapered structure during growth. Furthermore, we found the mechanical properties were fairly uniform along the length of the aorta at birth and become more nonuniform with age. We conclude that the rapid change of blood pressure and blood flow after birth alter the geometric and mechanical properties differentially along the length of the aorta. Hence, the axial nonuniformity of the aorta increases as the organ becomes more specialized during growth and development.

  16. Contribution of elastin and collagen to the inflation response of the pig thoracic aorta: assessing elastin's role in mechanical homeostasis.

    PubMed

    Lillie, M A; Armstrong, T E; Gérard, S G; Shadwick, R E; Gosline, J M

    2012-08-09

    This study was undertaken to understand elastin's role in the mechanical homeostasis of the arterial wall. The mechanical properties of elastin vary along the aorta, and we hypothesized this maintained a uniform mechanical environment for the elastin, despite regional variation in loading. Elastin's physiological loading was determined by comparing the inflation response of intact and autoclave purified elastin aortas from the proximal and distal thoracic aorta. Elastin's stretch and stress depend on collagen recruitment. Collagen recruitment started in the proximal aorta at systolic pressures (13.3 to 14.6 kPa) and in the distal at sub-diastolic pressures (9.3 to 10.6 kPa). In the proximal aorta collagen did not contribute significantly to the stress or stiffness, indicating that elastin determined the vessel properties. In the distal aorta, the circumferential incremental modulus was 70% higher than in the proximal aorta, half of which (37%) was due to a stiffening of the elastin. Compared to the elastin tissue in the proximal aorta, the distal elastin suffered higher physiological circumferential stretch (29%, P=0.03), circumferential stress (39%, P=0.02), and circumferential stiffness (37%, P=0.006). Elastin's physiological axial stresses were also higher (67%, P=0.003). These findings do not support the hypothesis that the loading on elastin is constant along the aorta as we expected from homeostasis. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  17. Attenuation of the anti-contractile effect of cooling in the rat aorta by perivascular adipose tissue.

    PubMed

    Rafique, Y; AlBader, M; Oriowo, M

    2017-09-01

    In addition to providing mechanical support for blood vessels, the perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) secretes a number of vasoactive substances and exerts an anticontractile effect. The main objective of this study was to find out whether the anticontractile effect of cooling in the rat aorta is affected by PVAT. Our hypothesis was that PVAT would enhance the anticontractile effect of cooling in the rat aorta. Aorta segments, with or without PVAT, were used in this investigation. Cumulative concentration-response curves were established for phenylephrine at 37°C or 24°C. Phenylephrine (10 -9 M - 10 -5 M) induced concentration-dependent contractions of aorta segments with or without PVAT at 37°C. The maximum response, but not pD 2 value, was reduced in aorta segments with PVAT. Cooling the tissues to 24 °C resulted in a significant reduction in the maximum response in aorta segments without PVAT with no change in pD 2 values. However, the anticontractile effect of cooling was attenuated in the presence of PVAT with no significant (p > 0.05) change in either the maximum response or pD 2 value. L-NAME potentiated PE-induced contractions and this was greater in aorta segments without PVAT at both temperatures. The expression of eNOS protein and basal tissue level of nitric oxide (NO) were greater in aorta segments with PVAT at both temperatures. However, PE significantly increased tissue levels of NO only in aorta segments without PVAT. We concluded that PVAT-induced loss of anticontractile effect of cooling against PE-induced contractions could be due to impaired generation of NO in aorta segments with PVAT. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  18. Age-Related Vascular Changes Affect Turbulence in Aortic Blood Flow

    PubMed Central

    Ha, Hojin; Ziegler, Magnus; Welander, Martin; Bjarnegård, Niclas; Carlhäll, Carl-Johan; Lindenberger, Marcus; Länne, Toste; Ebbers, Tino; Dyverfeldt, Petter

    2018-01-01

    Turbulent blood flow is implicated in the pathogenesis of several aortic diseases but the extent and degree of turbulent blood flow in the normal aorta is unknown. We aimed to quantify the extent and degree of turbulece in the normal aorta and to assess whether age impacts the degree of turbulence. 22 young normal males (23.7 ± 3.0 y.o.) and 20 old normal males (70.9 ± 3.5 y.o.) were examined using four dimensional flow magnetic resonance imaging (4D Flow MRI) to quantify the turbulent kinetic energy (TKE), a measure of the intensity of turbulence, in the aorta. All healthy subjects developed turbulent flow in the aorta, with total TKE of 3–19 mJ. The overall degree of turbulence in the entire aorta was similar between the groups, although the old subjects had about 73% more total TKE in the ascending aorta compared to the young subjects (young = 3.7 ± 1.8 mJ, old = 6.4 ± 2.4 mJ, p < 0.001). This increase in ascending aorta TKE in old subjects was associated with age-related dilation of the ascending aorta which increases the volume available for turbulence development. Conversely, age-related dilation of the descending and abdominal aorta decreased the average flow velocity and suppressed the development of turbulence. In conclusion, turbulent blood flow develops in the aorta of normal subjects and is impacted by age-related geometric changes. Non-invasive assessment enables the determination of normal levels of turbulent flow in the aorta which is a prerequisite for understanding the role of turbulence in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease. PMID:29422871

  19. Aortic angiography

    MedlinePlus

    Angiography - aorta; Aortography; Abdominal aorta angiogram; Aortic arteriogram; Aneurysm - aortic arteriogram ... this needle. The catheter is moved into the aorta. The doctor can see live images of the ...

  20. Photocarcinogenesis study of aloe vera [CAS NO. 481-72-1(Aloe-emodin)] in SKH-1 mice (simulated solar light and topical application study).

    PubMed

    2010-09-01

    The popular recognition of the Aloe barbadensis Miller (Aloe vera) plant as a therapeutic dermatologic agent has led to the widespread incorporation of Aloe vera leaf extracts in skincare products. Studies have suggested that Aloe vera in skincare preparations may enhance the induction of skin cancer by ultraviolet radiation. A 1-year study was conducted in mice to determine whether the topical application of creams containing Aloe vera plant extracts (aloe gel, whole leaf, or decolorized whole leaf) or creams containing aloe-emodin would enhance the photocarcinogenicity of simulated solar light (SSL). 1-YEAR STUDY: groups of 36 male and 36 female Crl:SKH-1 (hr -/hr -) hairless mice received topical applications of control cream or creams containing 3% or 6% (w/w) aloe gel, whole leaf, or decolorized whole leaf or 7.46 or 74.6 µg/g aloe-emodin to the dorsal skin region each weekday morning. The mice were irradiated with SSL emitted from filtered 6 kW xenon arc lamps each weekday afternoon. The topical applications of creams and irradiance exposures were conducted 5 days per week for a period of 40 weeks. A 12-week recovery/observation period followed the 40-week treatment/exposure period. Additional groups of 36 male and 36 female mice received no cream and were exposed to 0.00, 6.85, 13.70, or 20.55 mJ⋅CIE/cm2 SSL per day. Mice that received no cream treatment and were exposed to increasing levels of SSL showed significant SSL exposure-dependent decreases in survival and significant increases in the in-life observations of skin lesion onset, incidence, and multiplicity, and significant SSL exposure-dependent increases in the incidences and multiplicities of histopathology-determined squamous cell nonneoplastic skin lesions (squamous hyperplasia and focal atypical hyperplasia) and squamous cell neoplasms (papilloma, carcinoma in situ, and/or carcinoma). Squamous cell neoplasms were not detected in mice that received no SSL exposure. The topical treatment with the control cream of mice that were exposed to SSL did not impart a measurable effect when compared with comparable measurements in mice that received no cream treatment and were exposed to the same level of SSL, suggesting that the control cream used in these studies did not alter the efficiency of the SSL delivered to mice or the tolerability of mice to SSL. The application of aloe gel creams to mice had no effect on body weights, survival, or the in-life observations of skin lesion onset, incidence, or multiplicity. The administration of aloe gel creams to male mice had no effect on the incidences or multiplicities of histopathology-determined squamous cell nonneoplastic skin lesions or neoplasms. Female mice treated with aloe gel creams (3% and 6%) had significantly increased multiplicities of squamous cell neoplasms. There were no treatment-related effects on body weights, survival, or the in-life observations of skin lesion onset, incidence, or multiplicity in mice treated with the whole leaf creams. In male mice exposed to SSL and treated with the 6% whole leaf cream, a significant increase was observed in the multiplicity of squamous cell neoplasms. Female mice exposed to SSL and treated with the 3% whole leaf creams had significantly decreased multiplicity of squamous cell nonneoplastic lesions and significantly increased multiplicity of squamous cell neoplasms. Female mice exposed to SSL and treated with the 6% whole leaf cream had significantly decreased multiplicity of squamous cell nonneoplastic lesions. The application of decolorized whole leaf creams to mice had no effect on body weights, survival, or the in-life observations of skin lesion onset, incidence, or multiplicity. Male mice administered the 3% decolorized whole leaf cream had significantly increased multiplicity of squamous cell neoplasms. Female mice administered the 3% decolorized whole leaf cream had significantly decreased multiplicity of squamous cell nonneoplastic skin lesions and significantly increased multiplicity of squamous cell neoplasms. In female mice that received the 6% decolorized whole leaf cream, there was a significant increase in the multiplicity of squamous cell neoplasms. As with the Aloe vera plant extracts, the application of aloe-emodin creams to mice had no measurable effect on body weights, survival, or the in-life observations of skin lesion onset, incidence, or multiplicity. The administration of aloe-emodin creams to male mice had no effect on the incidence or multiplicity of histopathology-determined nonneoplastic skin lesions or squamous cell neoplasms. Female mice treated with the 74.6 µg/g aloe-emodin cream had significantly decreased multiplicity of histopathology-determined squamous cell nonneoplastic skin lesions and significantly increased multiplicity of squamous cell neoplasms. these experiments investigated the potential of topical application of creams containing extracts of Aloe barbadensis Miller plant (aloe gel, whole leaf, or decolorized whole leaf) or aloe-emodin to alter the photocarcinogenic activity of filtered xenon arc simulated solar light (SSL) in male and female SKH-1 hairless mice. Data on skin lesions were collected both on digital images during the in-life phase and by histopathologic evaluation at necropsy. No effects of creams upon SSL-induced skin lesions were identified from data collected during the in-life phase. ALOE GEL OR ALOE-EMODIN: under the conditions of these studies, there was a weak enhancing effect of aloe gel or aloe-emodin on the photocarcinogenic activity of SSL in female but not in male SKH-1 mice based on an increase in the multiplicity of histopathologically-determined squamous cell neoplasms. under the conditions of these studies, there was a weak enhancing effect of aloe whole leaf or decolorized whole leaf on the photocarcinogenic activity of SSL in both male and female SKH-1 mice based on an increase in the multiplicity of histopathologically-determined squamous cell neoplasms.

  1. Evaluation of Ocoxin®-Viusid® in Advanced Stomach Cancer and Gastric Esophagogastric Junction

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-05-25

    Stomach Neoplasm; Gastrointestinal Neoplasms; Digestive System Neoplasm; Esophageal Neoplasms; Head and Neck Neoplasms; Gastrointestinal Disease; Digestive System Disease; Esophageal Diseases; Stomach Diseases; Esophagogastric Junction Disorder

  2. Entinostat in Treating Pediatric Patients With Recurrent or Refractory Solid Tumors

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-05-23

    Childhood Brain Stem Neoplasm; Childhood Lymphoma; Childhood Solid Neoplasm; Pineal Region Neoplasm; Recurrent Childhood Central Nervous System Neoplasm; Recurrent Childhood Visual Pathway Glioma; Refractory Central Nervous System Neoplasm

  3. Wall shear stress estimation in the aorta: Impact of wall motion, spatiotemporal resolution, and phase noise.

    PubMed

    Zimmermann, Judith; Demedts, Daniel; Mirzaee, Hanieh; Ewert, Peter; Stern, Heiko; Meierhofer, Christian; Menze, Bjoern; Hennemuth, Anja

    2018-04-01

    Wall shear stress (WSS) presents an important parameter for assessing blood flow characteristics and evaluating flow-mediated lesions in the aorta. To investigate the robustness of WSS and oscillatory shear index (OSI) estimation based on 4D flow MRI against vessel wall motion, spatiotemporal resolution, and velocity encoding (VENC). Simulated and prospective. Synthetic 4D flow MRI data of the aorta, simulated using the Lattice-Boltzmann method; in vivo 4D flow MRI data of the aorta from healthy volunteers (n = 11) and patients with congenital heart defects (n = 17). 1.5T; 4D flow MRI with PEAK-GRAPPA acceleration and prospective electrocardiogram triggering. Predicated upon 3D cubic B-splines interpolation of the image velocity field, WSS was estimated in mid-systole, early-diastole, and late-diastole and OSI was derived. We assessed the impact of spatiotemporal resolution and phase noise, and compared results based on tracked-using deformable registration-and static vessel wall location. Bland-Altman analysis to assess WSS/OSI differences; Hausdorff distance (HD) to assess wall motion; and Pearson's correlation coefficient (PCC) to assess correlation of HD with WSS. Synthetic data results show systematic over-/underestimation of WSS when different spatial resolution (mean ± 1.96 SD up to -0.24 ± 0.40 N/m 2 and 0.5 ± 1.38 N/m 2 for 8-fold and 27-fold voxel size, respectively) and VENC-depending phase noise (mean ± 1.96 SD up to 0.31 ± 0.12 N/m 2 and 0.94 ± 0.28 N/m 2 for 2-fold and 4-fold VENC increase, respectively) are given. Neglecting wall motion when defining the vessel wall perturbs WSS estimates to a considerable extent (1.96 SD up to 1.21 N/m 2 ) without systematic over-/underestimation (Bland-Altman mean range -0.06 to 0.05). In addition to sufficient spatial resolution and velocity to noise ratio, accurate tracking of the vessel wall is essential for reliable image-based WSS estimation and should not be neglected if wall motion is present. 2 Technical Efficacy: Stage 2 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018. © 2018 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

  4. High blood pressure - infants

    MedlinePlus

    ... birth (congenital). Common examples include: Coarctation of the aorta (narrowing of the large blood vessel of the heart called the aorta) Patent ductus arteriosus (blood vessel between the aorta ...

  5. A Study of Varlilumab (Anti-CD27) and Sunitinib in Patients With Metastatic Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2017-11-10

    Carcinoma, Renal Cell; Kidney Diseases; Kidney Neoplasms; Urogenital Neoplasms; Urologic Diseases; Urologic Neoplasms; Neoplasms; Neoplasms by Histologic Type; Clear-cell Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma

  6. Nab-paclitaxel and Gemcitabine vs Gemcitabine Alone as Adjuvant Therapy for Patients With Resected Pancreatic Cancer (the "Apact" Study)

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-03-26

    Pancreatic Neoplasms; Digestive System Neoplasms; Neoplasms by Site; Neoplasms; Endocrine Gland Neoplasms; Pancreatic Diseases; Digestive System Diseases; Endocrine System Diseases; Gemcitabine; Antimetabolites, Antineoplastic

  7. HORIZONS: Understanding the Impact of Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment on Everyday Life

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-04-09

    Breast Cancer Female; Breast Neoplasm; Non-Hodgkin's B-cell Lymphoma; Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma, Adult High Grade; NonHodgkin Lymphoma; Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma; Diffuse Large Cell Lymphoma, Adult; Ovarian Cancer; Ovarian Neoplasm; Endometrial Cancer; Endometrial Neoplasms; Cervical Cancer; Cervical Neoplasm; Primary Peritoneal Carcinoma; Fallopian Tube Cancer; Fallopian Tube Neoplasms; Vulvar Cancer; Vulvar Neoplasms

  8. Selection of Reference Genes for Quantitative Real Time PCR (qPCR) Assays in Tissue from Human Ascending Aorta

    PubMed Central

    Rueda-Martínez, Carmen; Lamas, Oscar; Mataró, María José; Robledo-Carmona, Juan; Sánchez-Espín, Gemma; Jiménez-Navarro, Manuel; Such-Martínez, Miguel; Fernández, Borja

    2014-01-01

    Dilatation of the ascending aorta (AAD) is a prevalent aortopathy that occurs frequently associated with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV), the most common human congenital cardiac malformation. The molecular mechanisms leading to AAD associated with BAV are still poorly understood. The search for differentially expressed genes in diseased tissue by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) is an invaluable tool to fill this gap. However, studies dedicated to identify reference genes necessary for normalization of mRNA expression in aortic tissue are scarce. In this report, we evaluate the qPCR expression of six candidate reference genes in tissue from the ascending aorta of 52 patients with a variety of clinical and demographic characteristics, normal and dilated aortas, and different morphologies of the aortic valve (normal aorta and normal valve n = 30; dilated aorta and normal valve n = 10; normal aorta and BAV n = 4; dilated aorta and BAV n = 8). The expression stability of the candidate reference genes was determined with three statistical algorithms, GeNorm, NormFinder and Bestkeeper. The expression analyses showed that the most stable genes for the three algorithms employed were CDKN1β, POLR2A and CASC3, independently of the structure of the aorta and the valve morphology. In conclusion, we propose the use of these three genes as reference genes for mRNA expression analysis in human ascending aorta. However, we suggest searching for specific reference genes when conducting qPCR experiments with new cohort of samples. PMID:24841551

  9. High-pitch dual-source CT angiography without ECG-gating for imaging the whole aorta: intraindividual comparison with standard pitch single-source technique without ECG-gating

    PubMed Central

    Manna, Carmelinda; Silva, Mario; Cobelli, Rocco; Poggesi, Sara; Rossi, Cristina; Sverzellati, Nicola

    2017-01-01

    PURPOSE We aimed to perform intraindividual comparison of computed tomography (CT) parameters, image quality, and radiation exposure between standard CT angiography (CTA) and high-pitch dual source (DS)-CTA, in subjects undergoing serial CTA of thoracoabdominal aorta. METHODS Eighteen subjects with thoracoabdominal CTA by standard technique and high-pitch DS-CTA technique within 6 months of each other were retrieved for intraindividual comparison of image quality in thoracic and abdominal aorta. Quantitative analysis was performed by comparison of mean aortic attenuation, noise, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR). Qualitative analysis was performed by visual assessment of motion artifacts and diagnostic confidence. Radiation exposure was quantified by effective dose. Image quality was apportioned to radiation exposure by means of figure of merit. RESULTS Mean aortic attenuation and noise were higher in high-pitch DS-CTA of thoracoabdominal aorta, whereas SNR and CNR were similar in thoracic aorta and significantly lower in high-pitch DS-CTA of abdominal aorta (P = 0.024 and P = 0.016). High-pitch DS-CTA was significantly better in the first segment of thoracic aorta. Effective dose was reduced by 72% in high-pitch DS-CTA. CONCLUSION High-pitch DS-CTA without electrocardiography-gating is an effective technique for imaging aorta with very low radiation exposure and with significant reduction of motion artifacts in ascending aorta; however, the overall quality of high-pitch DS-CTA in abdominal aorta is lower than standard CTA. PMID:28703104

  10. Myelodysplastic/Myeloproliferative Neoplasm, Unclassifiable

    MedlinePlus

    ... Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Treatment Myelodysplastic/ Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Treatment Myelodysplastic/ Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version General Information About Myelodysplastic/ ...

  11. Myelodysplastic/ Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Treatment

    MedlinePlus

    ... Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Treatment Myelodysplastic/ Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Treatment Myelodysplastic/ Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version General Information About Myelodysplastic/ ...

  12. Heartbeat

    MedlinePlus

    ... The last of the great vessels is the aorta, the body's largest artery, which transports oxygen-rich ... through the aortic semilunar valves and into the aorta. From here, the aorta and its branches carry ...

  13. Glossary

    MedlinePlus

    ... Donors Corporate Sponsors Donor Privacy Policy Glossary Abdominal aorta Portion of the aorta within the abdominal cavity, ... Any substance, which inhibits clotting of the blood. Aorta Largest artery in the body originating at the ...

  14. Rat aorta as a pharmacological tool for in vitro and in vivo studies.

    PubMed

    Rameshrad, Maryam; Babaei, Hossein; Azarmi, Yadollah; Fouladi, Daniel Fadaei

    2016-01-15

    Rat aorta assay provides a low cost and rapid platform, especially for preclinical in vivo models. The signaling pathways of the analog on the vessels could be evaluated separately on the endothelium or smooth muscle cells by rings of the rat aorta in vitro. The rat aorta is used for angiogenesis modeling to integrate the benefits of the both in vivo and in vitro models. These explain the importance and usage of rat aorta in researches. Furthermore, about 4503 articles have been published with the key word "rat aorta" in title or abstract from 1955 until the end of 2013 in Medline. In this review, these articles were organized into two main categories: in vivo and in vitro studies. The in vitro section focused on the rat aorta model, as a tool for evaluate the mechanism of vasodilation, vasoconstriction and angiogenesis. In the in vivo section, the most important usage of this tissue was evaluated. Also, the vasotonic signaling pathways in the vessel are explained briefly and some rat aorta applications in vitro and in vivo have been discussed. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  15. Sorafenib Combined With Transarterial Chemoembolization in Treating HBV-infected Patients With Intermediate Hepatocellular Carcinoma

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2012-04-24

    PHENYTOIN/SORAFENIB [VA Drug Interaction]; Liver Neoplasms; Carcinoma, Hepatocellular; Digestive System Neoplasms; Neoplasms by Site; Liver Diseases; Adenocarcinoma; Carcinoma; Neoplasms, Glandular and Epithelial; Neoplasms by Histologic Type; DOXORUBICIN/TRASTUZUMAB [VA Drug Interaction]; HBV

  16. Sapanisertib and Ziv-Aflibercept in Treating Patients With Recurrent Solid Tumors That Are Metastatic or Cannot Be Removed by Surgery

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-03-07

    Advanced Malignant Solid Neoplasm; Fibrolamellar Carcinoma; Metastatic Malignant Solid Neoplasm; Ovarian Carcinoma; Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor; Recurrent Malignant Solid Neoplasm; Refractory Malignant Solid Neoplasm; Unresectable Solid Neoplasm

  17. The Spindle Cell Neoplasms of the Oral Cavity.

    PubMed

    Shamim, Thorakkal

    2015-01-01

    Spindle cell neoplasms are defined as neoplasms that consist of spindle-shaped cells in the histopathology. Spindle cell neoplasms can affect the oral cavity. In the oral cavity, the origin of the spindle cell neoplasms may be traced to epithelial, mesenchymal and odontogenic components. This article aims to review the spindle cell neoplasms of the oral cavity with emphasis on histopathology.

  18. The Spindle Cell Neoplasms of the Oral Cavity

    PubMed Central

    Shamim, Thorakkal

    2015-01-01

    Spindle cell neoplasms are defined as neoplasms that consist of spindle-shaped cells in the histopathology. Spindle cell neoplasms can affect the oral cavity. In the oral cavity, the origin of the spindle cell neoplasms may be traced to epithelial, mesenchymal and odontogenic components. This article aims to review the spindle cell neoplasms of the oral cavity with emphasis on histopathology. PMID:26351482

  19. Coarctation of the Aorta

    MedlinePlus

    ... aorta may include: Narrowing of the aortic valve (aortic stenosis) High blood pressure Stroke Enlargement in a section of the wall of the aorta (aneurysm) Aortic rupture or tear (dissection) Premature coronary ...

  20. Treatment of symptomatic coral reef aorta with an uncovered stent graft.

    PubMed

    Bosanquet, D C; Wood, A; Williams, I M

    2015-10-01

    Coral reef aorta is a rare condition characterised by extreme calcific growths affecting the juxta and suprarenal aorta. It can cause symptoms due to visceral ischaemia, lower limb hypoperfusion, and distal embolisation. We present a case of a 61-year-old man with unresponsive hypertension, who was found to have an occluded right renal artery, and an extensive coral reef aorta with a marked pressure gradient across the lesion. Renal hypoperfusion secondary to aortic coral reef aorta was thought to be the cause for his hypertension. Endovascular placement of a balloon expandable uncovered stent resolved his hypertension within one month, with no adverse effects noted at subsequent follow-up. Endovascular treatment of coral reef aorta is technically possible and avoids a major vascular procedure. © The Author(s) 2014.

  1. Treatment Options for Myelodysplastic/Myeloproliferative Neoplasms

    MedlinePlus

    ... Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Treatment Myelodysplastic/ Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Treatment Myelodysplastic/ Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version General Information About Myelodysplastic/ ...

  2. Treatment Option Overview (Myelodysplastic/Myeloproliferative Neoplasms)

    MedlinePlus

    ... Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Treatment Myelodysplastic/ Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Treatment Myelodysplastic/ Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version General Information About Myelodysplastic/ ...

  3. [Anesthesia for total and descending aorta replacement and aortic valve replacement for post-repair aneurysm of coarctation of aorta and aortic stenosis].

    PubMed

    Furuichi, Yuko; Shimizu, Jun; Sakamoto, Atsuhiro

    2012-04-01

    We experienced anesthesia for total arch and descending aorta replacement and aortic valve replacement for post-repair aneurysm of coarctation of aorta and aortic stenosis. Because there was possibility that post coarctectomy syndrome would occur after repair of coarctation of aorta, administration of depressor that acts on renin-angiotensin-aldosterone and careful observation were needed postoperatively. In consideration of the development of collateral vessels, preoperative imaging evaluation was added and operative method in cardiopulmonary bypass was adjusted. Careful preoperative evaluation is very important in cardiac anesthesia.

  4. Isolated Anomalous Origin of Left Pulmonary Artery From the Descending Aorta: An Embryologic Ambiguity.

    PubMed

    Gnanappa, Ganesh Kumar; Laohachai, Karina; Orr, Yishay; Ayer, Julian

    2016-11-01

    Anomalous origin of a branch pulmonary artery from the aorta is a rare malformation, accounting for 0.12% of all congenital heart defects. Anomalous origin of the left pulmonary artery from the aorta (ALPA) constitutes a small proportion of these cases. ALPA has been reported to arise from the ascending aorta with various embryologic postulates. We report a case of isolated ALPA arising from the descending aorta in association with a patent ductus arteriosus, to emphasize its embryologic ambiguity. Copyright © 2016 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  5. Thrombus formation in the interrupted segment of the aorta.

    PubMed

    Karavelioğlu, Yusuf; Kalçık, Macit; Yetim, Mucahit; Doğan, Tolga; Gölbaşı, Zehra

    2017-06-01

    Interrupted aorta is a very rare heart defect in which there is a gap between the ascending and the descending thoracic aorta. It is usually associated with other cardiac anomalies, including ventricular septal defect, ductus arteriosus, and truncus arteriosus. Severe cases present with serious complications such as hypertension, heart failure, or intracranial hemorrhage. Neurological complications are very rare form of presentation and commonly associated with intracranial aneurysms. We have reported a case of interrupted aorta who presented with transient ischemic attack due to thrombus formation in the interrupted segment of the aorta. © 2017, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  6. Penetrating injury of ascending aorta with arrow in situ.

    PubMed

    Lakhotia, Siddharth; Prakash, Shashi; Singh, Dinesh Kumar; Kumar, Ashok; Panigrahi, Debasish

    2012-04-01

    Penetrating injuries of the aorta are rare and highly lethal; very few patients are able to reach the hospital alive. We report a case of penetrating injury into the ascending aorta with the arrow still in situ, shot by a bow in a tribal region of India. The wound of entry into the aorta was sealed by the arrow itself. The patient came to us walking and supporting the arrow with his left hand. He was operated on, and the arrow was successfully removed from the aorta. Copyright © 2012 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  7. Using stroboscopic flow imaging to validate large-scale computational fluid dynamics simulations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Laurence, Ted A.; Ly, Sonny; Fong, Erika; Shusteff, Maxim; Randles, Amanda; Gounley, John; Draeger, Erik

    2017-02-01

    The utility and accuracy of computational modeling often requires direct validation against experimental measurements. The work presented here is motivated by taking a combined experimental and computational approach to determine the ability of large-scale computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to understand and predict the dynamics of circulating tumor cells in clinically relevant environments. We use stroboscopic light sheet fluorescence imaging to track the paths and measure the velocities of fluorescent microspheres throughout a human aorta model. Performed over complex physiologicallyrealistic 3D geometries, large data sets are acquired with microscopic resolution over macroscopic distances.

  8. Evaluation of Ocoxin-Viusid® in Advanced or Metastatic Ovarian Epithelial Cancer

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-06-08

    Carcinoma; Ovarian Neoplasm; Endocrine Gland Neoplasm; Urogenital Neoplasms; Ovarian Diseases; Adnexal Diseases; Genital Diseases, Female; Female Urogenital Diseases; Female Urogenital Diseases and Pregnancy Complications; Endocrine System Diseases; Gonadal Disorders; Genital Neoplasm, Female; Neoplasms, Glandular and Epithelial

  9. Multiple neoplasms among cervical cancer patients in the material of the lower Silesian cancer registry.

    PubMed

    Izmajłowicz, Barbara; Kornafel, Jan; Błaszczyk, Jerzy

    2014-01-01

    According to the definition by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), primary multiple neoplasms are two or more neoplasms of different histopathological build in one organ, or two or more tumors occurring in one patient, regardless of the time of their occurrence (synchronic - up to 6 months, metachronous - after 6 months), coming from an organ or a tissue and not being an infiltration from another neoplasm, a relapse or a metastasis. It was the aim of the study to analyze the frequency of the occurrence of multiple neoplasms among patients suffering from uterine cervix cancer, with a special interest in coexistent neoplasms, the time of their occurrence and total 5-year survivals. The data from the Lower Silesian Cancer Registry concerning the years 1984-2009 formed the material of the present study. 5.3% of all cervix neoplasms occurred as multiple cancers. Cervix neoplasms were 13.4% of multiple neoplasms. On average, cervical cancer occurred as a subsequent cancer in 6 patients yearly (60.7% of the occurrences of cervical cancer were in the period of 5 years following treatment for the first neoplasm). 5-year survival in patients suffering from primarily multiple cervix neoplasms constituted 57% and was convergent with the results for all patients suffering from cervical cancer. Cervical cancer as the first neoplasm occurred in 287 patients, on average in 11 patients annually. In the period of the first 5 years after the treatment of cervical cancer, there were 42.8% occurrences of other cancers. Cervical neoplasms most frequently coexisted with cancers of the breast, lung and large intestine. The frequency of the occurrence of multiple neoplasm among cervical cancer patients is increasing. Most frequently they coexist with other tobacco-related neoplasms, those related to HPV infections and with secondary post-radiation neoplasms. These facts should be taken into consideration during post-treatment observation and when directing diagnostic and prophylactic tests. Synchronic neoplasms require detailed diagnostics and planning of treatment by a team of specialists. The occurrence of primary multiple cervical neoplasms does not worsen the prognosis as compared to patients suffering exclusively from cervical cancer.

  10. A Study of Varlilumab and Atezolizumab in Patients With Advanced Cancer

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-04-26

    Carcinoma, Renal Cell; Kidney Diseases; Kidney Neoplasms; Urogenital Neoplasms; Urologic Diseases; Urologic Neoplasms; Neoplasms by Histologic Type; Neoplasms; Clear-cell Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma; Melanoma; Triple Negative Breast Cancer; Bladder Cancer; Head and Neck Cancer; Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

  11. Talazoparib and Temozolomide in Treating Younger Patients With Refractory or Recurrent Malignancies

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-03-02

    Adult Solid Neoplasm; Childhood Solid Neoplasm; Recurrent Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia; Recurrent Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia; Recurrent Childhood Central Nervous System Neoplasm; Recurrent Ewing Sarcoma/Peripheral Primitive Neuroectodermal Tumor; Recurrent Malignant Solid Neoplasm; Refractory Central Nervous System Neoplasm

  12. Protective effect of soybeans as protein source in the diet against cadmium-aorta redox and morphological alteration

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Pérez Díaz, Matías F.F.; Acosta, Mariano; Mohamed, Fabián H.

    We investigated the effects of cadmium exposition on thoracic aorta redox status and morphology, and the putative protective effect of soybeans in the diet. Male Wistar rats were separated into 6 groups: 3 fed with a diet containing casein and 3 containing soybeans, as protein source. Within each protein group, one was given tap water (control) and the other two tap water containing 15 and 100 ppm of Cd{sup 2+}, respectively, for two months. In rats fed with casein diet, 15 ppm of Cd induced an increase of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), and of the catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidasemore » (GPx) activities, which were even higher with 100 ppm of Cd{sup 2+}, in aorta. Also, 100 ppm Cd{sup 2+} exposure increased superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD) activity; CAT, GPX, SOD, Nrf2 and metallothioneine II mRNA expressions and CAT, GPx and NOX-2 protein levels, compared with control. Aorta endothelial and cytoplasmic alterations were observed. However, with the soybeans diet, 15 and 100 ppm of Cd{sup 2+} did not modify TBARS levels; CAT, GPX and Nrf2 mRNA expressions; CAT, GPx and NOX-2 protein; and the aorta morphology, compared with control. The soybean diet attenuates the redox changes and protects against morphological alterations induced, in a dose-dependent way, by Cd in aorta. - Highlights: • Under casein diet, 100 ppm Cd{sup 2+} in drinking water induces oxidative stress in aorta. • Under casein diet, 100 ppm Cd{sup 2+} increases Nrf2, MT II and NOX2 expressions in aorta. • Under casein diet, 100 ppm Cd{sup 2+} induces morphological changes in rat aorta. • The soybean diet attenuates the redox changes induced by Cd in rat aorta. • The soybean diet attenuates morphological alterations induced by Cd in rat aorta.« less

  13. Automated quantitative 3D analysis of aorta size, morphology, and mural calcification distributions

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kurugol, Sila, E-mail: sila.kurugol@childrens.harvard.edu; Come, Carolyn E.; Diaz, Alejandro A.

    Purpose: The purpose of this work is to develop a fully automated pipeline to compute aorta morphology and calcification measures in large cohorts of CT scans that can be used to investigate the potential of these measures as imaging biomarkers of cardiovascular disease. Methods: The first step of the automated pipeline is aorta segmentation. The algorithm the authors propose first detects an initial aorta boundary by exploiting cross-sectional circularity of aorta in axial slices and aortic arch in reformatted oblique slices. This boundary is then refined by a 3D level-set segmentation that evolves the boundary to the location of nearbymore » edges. The authors then detect the aortic calcifications with thresholding and filter out the false positive regions due to nearby high intensity structures based on their anatomical location. The authors extract the centerline and oblique cross sections of the segmented aortas and compute the aorta morphology and calcification measures of the first 2500 subjects from COPDGene study. These measures include volume and number of calcified plaques and measures of vessel morphology such as average cross-sectional area, tortuosity, and arch width. Results: The authors computed the agreement between the algorithm and expert segmentations on 45 CT scans and obtained a closest point mean error of 0.62 ± 0.09 mm and a Dice coefficient of 0.92 ± 0.01. The calcification detection algorithm resulted in an improved true positive detection rate of 0.96 compared to previous work. The measurements of aorta size agreed with the measurements reported in previous work. The initial results showed associations of aorta morphology with calcification and with aging. These results may indicate aorta stiffening and unwrapping with calcification and aging. Conclusions: The authors have developed an objective tool to assess aorta morphology and aortic calcium plaques on CT scans that may be used to provide information about the presence of cardiovascular disease and its clinical impact in smokers.« less

  14. Automated quantitative 3D analysis of aorta size, morphology, and mural calcification distributions.

    PubMed

    Kurugol, Sila; Come, Carolyn E; Diaz, Alejandro A; Ross, James C; Kinney, Greg L; Black-Shinn, Jennifer L; Hokanson, John E; Budoff, Matthew J; Washko, George R; San Jose Estepar, Raul

    2015-09-01

    The purpose of this work is to develop a fully automated pipeline to compute aorta morphology and calcification measures in large cohorts of CT scans that can be used to investigate the potential of these measures as imaging biomarkers of cardiovascular disease. The first step of the automated pipeline is aorta segmentation. The algorithm the authors propose first detects an initial aorta boundary by exploiting cross-sectional circularity of aorta in axial slices and aortic arch in reformatted oblique slices. This boundary is then refined by a 3D level-set segmentation that evolves the boundary to the location of nearby edges. The authors then detect the aortic calcifications with thresholding and filter out the false positive regions due to nearby high intensity structures based on their anatomical location. The authors extract the centerline and oblique cross sections of the segmented aortas and compute the aorta morphology and calcification measures of the first 2500 subjects from COPDGene study. These measures include volume and number of calcified plaques and measures of vessel morphology such as average cross-sectional area, tortuosity, and arch width. The authors computed the agreement between the algorithm and expert segmentations on 45 CT scans and obtained a closest point mean error of 0.62 ± 0.09 mm and a Dice coefficient of 0.92 ± 0.01. The calcification detection algorithm resulted in an improved true positive detection rate of 0.96 compared to previous work. The measurements of aorta size agreed with the measurements reported in previous work. The initial results showed associations of aorta morphology with calcification and with aging. These results may indicate aorta stiffening and unwrapping with calcification and aging. The authors have developed an objective tool to assess aorta morphology and aortic calcium plaques on CT scans that may be used to provide information about the presence of cardiovascular disease and its clinical impact in smokers.

  15. Automated quantitative 3D analysis of aorta size, morphology, and mural calcification distributions

    PubMed Central

    Kurugol, Sila; Come, Carolyn E.; Diaz, Alejandro A.; Ross, James C.; Kinney, Greg L.; Black-Shinn, Jennifer L.; Hokanson, John E.; Budoff, Matthew J.; Washko, George R.; San Jose Estepar, Raul

    2015-01-01

    Purpose: The purpose of this work is to develop a fully automated pipeline to compute aorta morphology and calcification measures in large cohorts of CT scans that can be used to investigate the potential of these measures as imaging biomarkers of cardiovascular disease. Methods: The first step of the automated pipeline is aorta segmentation. The algorithm the authors propose first detects an initial aorta boundary by exploiting cross-sectional circularity of aorta in axial slices and aortic arch in reformatted oblique slices. This boundary is then refined by a 3D level-set segmentation that evolves the boundary to the location of nearby edges. The authors then detect the aortic calcifications with thresholding and filter out the false positive regions due to nearby high intensity structures based on their anatomical location. The authors extract the centerline and oblique cross sections of the segmented aortas and compute the aorta morphology and calcification measures of the first 2500 subjects from COPDGene study. These measures include volume and number of calcified plaques and measures of vessel morphology such as average cross-sectional area, tortuosity, and arch width. Results: The authors computed the agreement between the algorithm and expert segmentations on 45 CT scans and obtained a closest point mean error of 0.62 ± 0.09 mm and a Dice coefficient of 0.92 ± 0.01. The calcification detection algorithm resulted in an improved true positive detection rate of 0.96 compared to previous work. The measurements of aorta size agreed with the measurements reported in previous work. The initial results showed associations of aorta morphology with calcification and with aging. These results may indicate aorta stiffening and unwrapping with calcification and aging. Conclusions: The authors have developed an objective tool to assess aorta morphology and aortic calcium plaques on CT scans that may be used to provide information about the presence of cardiovascular disease and its clinical impact in smokers. PMID:26328995

  16. Aortic elongation and the risk for dissection: the Tübingen Aortic Pathoanatomy (TAIPAN) project†.

    PubMed

    Krüger, Tobias; Oikonomou, Alexandre; Schibilsky, David; Lescan, Mario; Bregel, Katharina; Vöhringer, Luise; Schneider, Wilke; Lausberg, Henning; Blumenstock, Gunnar; Bamberg, Fabian; Schlensak, Christian

    2017-06-01

    We measured aortic dimensions, particularly length parameters, using 3D imaging with the aim of refining the risk-morphology for Stanford type A aortic dissection (TAD). Computer tomography angiography studies were analysed using the curved multiplanar reformats. At defined landmarks, the diameters and lengths of aortic segments were recorded. Three groups were compared retrospectively: patients actually suffering from a TAD (TAD-group; n  = 150), patients before suffering a TAD (preTAD-group n  = 15) and a healthy control group ( n  = 215). Receiver operating characteristic curves (ROCs) were analysed (control versus preTAD) to study the diagnostic value of the individual variables. Median diameters of preTAD (43 mm) and TAD (50 mm) aortas were significantly ( P  < 0.001) larger than those of the control group (35 mm). Ninety-three percent of preTAD and 68% of TAD aortas were less than 55 mm in the mid-ascending aorta. The ascending aorta and the aortic arch were significantly longer in both preTAD and TAD aortas compared to control aortas ( P  < 0.001); in the control aortas the central line distance from the aortic valve to the brachiocephalic trunk was 93 mm. In preTAD aortas, it was 111 mm, and it was 117 mm in TAD aortas ( P  < 0.001). In ROC analysis, the area under the curve was 0.912 for the ascending diameter and 0.787 for the ascending and arch lengths. TAD-prediction based on the aortic diameter is ineffective. Besides circumferential dilatation, ascending aorta elongation precedes TAD and appears to be a useful additional parameter for prognostication. We propose a diagnostic score involving ascending aorta diameter and length. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

  17. Bicuspid aortic valve

    MedlinePlus

    ... regulates blood flow from the heart into the aorta. The aorta is the major blood vessel that brings oxygen- ... blood to flow from the heart to the aorta. It prevents the blood from flowing back from ...

  18. A Numerical Modeling of A Vascular Implantable Cardiac Endovascular Assistant (AVICENA)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rahmani, Shahrokh; Tehrani, Pedram; Karimi, Alireza; Alizadeh, Mansour; Navidbakhsh, Mahdi

    2015-10-01

    Cardiovascular diseases have been recently shown to have a pivotal role in human death and endangers lives of many people around the world. One of the most common cardiovascular diseases is poor performance of left ventricle. In this case, the ventricle cannot pump the blood into the aorta and circulatory system with a suitable power which is required for normal circulatory system. AVICENA is a new cardiac assist device which is implanted into the aorta to help the ventricle to pump the blood into circulatory system with more power and to make a better perfusion of the coronary arteries as well. To reach a desire value of rotational speed of the pump, a control circuit is designed for counterpulsation of AVICENA based on the outcomes from previous studies. This control circuit uses a PID controller. The present study aims to simulate the blood flow through the balloon part of AVICENA in a heart cycle with focusing on the calculation of its pump rotational speed by controlling the electrical current of the pump. Results revealed that the desired rotational speed of the pump can be achieved according to the previous aorta pressure cycle by electrical current control which is higher during balloon inflation in comparison with balloon deflation. These findings may have implications not only for understanding the performance of AVICENA but also to help cardiac mechanics experts to improve the shortcoming of this newborn device.

  19. Cerebral and Renal Oxygen Saturation Are Not Compromised in the Presence of Retrograde Blood Flow in either the Ascending or Descending Aorta in Term or Near-Term Infants with Left-Sided Obstructive Lesions.

    PubMed

    van der Laan, Michelle E; Mebius, Mirthe J; Roofthooft, Marcus T R; Bos, Arend F; Berger, Rolf M F; Kooi, Elisabeth M W

    2017-01-01

    In infants with left-sided obstructive lesions (LSOL), the presence of retrograde blood flow in either the ascending or descending aorta may lead to diminished cerebral and renal blood flow, respectively. Our aim was to compare cerebral and renal tissue oxygen saturation (rSO2) between infants with LSOL with antegrade and retrograde blood flow in the ascending aorta and with and without diastolic backflow in the descending aorta. Based on 2 echocardiograms, the study group was categorized according to the direction of blood flow in the ascending and descending aorta. We measured cerebral and renal rSO2 using near-infrared spectroscopy and calculated fractional tissue oxygen extraction (FTOE). Nineteen infants with LSOL, admitted to the NICU between 0 and 28 days after birth, were included. Infants with antegrade blood flow (n = 12) and infants with retrograde blood flow in the ascending aorta (n = 7) had similar cerebral rSO2 and FTOE during both echocardiograms. Only during the first echocardiogram, infants with retrograde blood flow in the ascending aorta had lower renal FTOE (0.14 vs. 0.32, p = 0.04) and tended to have higher renal rSO2 (80 vs. 65%, p = 0.09). The presence of diastolic backflow in the descending aorta was not associated with cerebral or renal rSO2 and FTOE during the first (n = 8) as well as the second echocardiogram (n = 10). Retrograde blood flow in the ascending aorta was not associated with cerebral oxygenation, while diastolic backflow in the descending aorta was not associated with renal oxygenation in infants with LSOL. © 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  20. Using In Vivo and Tissue and Cell Explant Approaches to Study the Morphogenesis and Pathogenesis of the Embryonic and Perinatal Aorta.

    PubMed

    Misra, Ashish; Feng, Zhonghui; Zhang, Jiasheng; Lou, Zhi-Yin; Greif, Daniel M

    2017-09-12

    The aorta is the largest artery in the body. The aortic wall is composed of an inner layer of endothelial cells, a middle layer of alternating elastic lamellae and smooth muscle cells (SMCs), and an outer layer of fibroblasts and extracellular matrix. In contrast to the widespread study of pathological models (e.g., atherosclerosis) in the adult aorta, much less is known about the embryonic and perinatal aorta. Here, we focus on SMCs and provide protocols for the analysis of the morphogenesis and pathogenesis of embryonic and perinatal aortic SMCs in normal development and disease. Specifically, the four protocols included are: i) in vivo embryonic fate mapping and clonal analysis; ii) explant embryonic aorta culture; iii) SMC isolation from the perinatal aorta; and iv) subcutaneous osmotic mini-pump placement in pregnant (or non-pregnant) mice. Thus, these approaches facilitate the investigation of the origin(s), fate, and clonal architecture of SMCs in the aorta in vivo. They allow for modulating embryonic aorta morphogenesis in utero by continuous exposure to pharmacological agents. In addition, isolated aortic tissue explants or aortic SMCs can be used to gain insights into the role of specific gene targets during fundamental processes such as muscularization, proliferation, and migration. These hypothesis-generating experiments on isolated SMCs and the explanted aorta can then be assessed in the in vivo context through pharmacological and genetic approaches.

  1. Evaluation of Ocoxin®-Viusid® in Metastatic Colorectal Adenocarcinoma

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-06-15

    Colorectal Neoplasm; Intestinal Neoplasms; Gastrointestinal Neoplasms; Digestive System Neoplasm; Rectal Diseases; Colonic Diseases; Intestinal Disease; Gastrointestinal Disease; Digestive System Disease

  2. Heterogeneity in the Segmental Development of the Aortic Tree: Impact on Management of Genetically Triggered Aortic Aneurysms

    PubMed Central

    Sherif, Hisham M.F.

    2014-01-01

    An extensive search of the medical literature examining the development of the thoracic aortic tree reveals that the thoracic aorta does not develop as one unit or in one stage: the oldest part of the thoracic aorta is the descending aorta with the aortic arch being the second oldest, developing under influence from the neural crest cell. Following in chronological order are the proximal ascending aorta and aortic root, which develop from a conotruncal origin. Different areas of the thoracic aorta develop under the influence of different gene sets. These parts develop from different cell lineages: the aortic root (the conotruncus), developing from the mesoderm; the ascending aorta and aortic arch, developing from the neural crest cells; and the descending aorta from the mesoderm. Findings illustrate that the thoracic aorta is not a single entity, in developmental terms. It develops from three or four distinct areas, at different stages of embryonic life, and under different sets of genes and signaling pathways. Genetically triggered thoracic aortic aneurysms are not a monolithic group but rather share a multi-genetic origin. Identification of therapeutic targets should be based on the predilection of certain genes to cause aneurysmal disease in specific aortic segments. PMID:26798739

  3. Hypolipidemic and anti-inflammatory effects of aorta and heart tissues of cattle and pigs in the atherosclerosis rat model.

    PubMed

    Chernukha, Irina M; Fedulova, Liliya V; Kotenkova, Elena A; Takeda, Shiro; Sakata, Ryoichi

    2018-05-01

    The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of aorta and heart tissues obtained from cattle and pigs on atherosclerosis disorders. Atherosclerosis model rats were provided with the respective diets consisting of aorta and heart tissues. Administration of each tissue suppressed body weight gain as compared to that of the control. In particular, the aorta tissues of pigs and cattle demonstrated significant suppressions in body weight gain in the model rats. The aorta tissues of pigs and cattle showed a significant increase and decrease in the serum high-density lipoproteins and atherogenic index, respectively, which was correlated with the increase in apolipoprotein A1. Hematological analysis revealed that aorta tissues of pigs and cattle clearly reduced the ratio of granulocytes/lymphocytes in the atherosclerosis rats. Serum vascular cellular adhesion molecule-1 levels in the atherosclerosis rats, which were administered these aorta tissues, were also significantly reduced. Additionally, there was an increase in von Willebrand factor in the rat serum. Based on the results obtained, the aorta tissues of pigs and cattle, in particular, demonstrated positive effects in the atherosclerosis rats due to the alteration of lipid metabolism and reduction in inflammation related to atherosclerosis. © 2018 Japanese Society of Animal Science.

  4. Assessment of Hemodynamic Conditions in the Aorta Following Root Replacement with Composite Valve-Conduit Graft.

    PubMed

    Cheng, Zhuo; Kidher, Emaddin; Jarral, Omar A; O'Regan, Declan P; Wood, Nigel B; Athanasiou, Thanos; Xu, Xiao Yun

    2016-05-01

    This paper presents the analysis of detailed hemodynamics in the aortas of four patients following replacement with a composite bio-prosthetic valve-conduit. Magnetic resonance image-based computational models were set up for each patient with boundary conditions comprising subject-specific three-dimensional inflow velocity profiles at the aortic root and central pressure waveform at the model outlet. Two normal subjects were also included for comparison. The purpose of the study was to investigate the effects of the valve-conduit on flow in the proximal and distal aorta. The results suggested that following the composite valve-conduit implantation, the vortical flow structure and hemodynamic parameters in the aorta were altered, with slightly reduced helical flow index, elevated wall shear stress and higher non-uniformity in wall shear compared to normal aortas. Inter-individual analysis revealed different hemodynamic conditions among the patients depending on the conduit configuration in the ascending aorta, which is a key factor in determining post-operative aortic flow. Introducing a natural curvature in the conduit to create a smooth transition between the conduit and native aorta may help prevent the occurrence of retrograde and recirculating flow in the aortic arch, which is particularly important when a large portion or the entire ascending aorta needs to be replaced.

  5. A Methodology to Detect Abnormal Relative Wall Shear Stress on the Full Surface of the Thoracic Aorta Using 4D Flow MRI

    PubMed Central

    van Ooij, Pim; Potters, Wouter V.; Nederveen, Aart J.; Allen, Bradley D.; Collins, Jeremy; Carr, James; Malaisrie, S. Chris; Markl, Michael; Barker, Alex J.

    2014-01-01

    Purpose To compute cohort-averaged wall shear stress (WSS) maps in the thoracic aorta of patients with aortic dilatation or valvular stenosis and to detect abnormal regional WSS. Methods Systolic WSS vectors, estimated from 4D flow MRI data, were calculated along the thoracic aorta lumen in 10 controls, 10 patients with dilated aortas and 10 patients with aortic valve stenosis. 3D segmentations of each aorta were co-registered by group and used to create a cohort-specific aortic geometry. The WSS vectors of each subject were interpolated onto the corresponding cohort-specific geometry to create cohort-averaged WSS maps. A Wilcoxon rank sum test was used to generate aortic P-value maps (P<0.05) representing regional relative WSS differences between groups. Results Cohort-averaged systolic WSS maps and P-value maps were successfully created for all cohorts and comparisons. The dilation cohort showed significantly lower WSS on 7% of the ascending aorta surface, whereas the stenosis cohort showed significantly higher WSS aorta on 34% the ascending aorta surface. Conclusions The findings of this study demonstrated the feasibility of generating cohort-averaged WSS maps for the visualization and identification of regionally altered WSS in the presence of disease, as compared to healthy controls. PMID:24753241

  6. Biaxial tensile tests of the porcine ascending aorta.

    PubMed

    Deplano, Valérie; Boufi, Mourad; Boiron, Olivier; Guivier-Curien, Carine; Alimi, Yves; Bertrand, Eric

    2016-07-05

    One of the aims of this work is to develop an original custom built biaxial set-up to assess mechanical behavior of soft tissues. Stretch controlled biaxial tensile tests are performed and stereoscopic digital image correlation (SDIC) is implemented to measure the 3D components of the generated displacements. Using this experimental device, the main goal is to investigate the mechanical behavior of porcine ascending aorta in the more general context of human ascending aorta pathologies. The results highlight that (i) SDIC arrangement allows accurate assessment of displacements and so stress strain curves, (ii) porcine ascending aorta has a nearly linear and anisotropic mechanical behavior until 30% of strain, (iii) porcine ascending aorta is stiffer in the circumferential direction than in the longitudinal one, (iv) the material coefficient representing the interaction between the two loading directions is thickness dependent, (v) taking into account the variability of the samples the stress values are independent of the stretch rate in the range of values from 10(-3) to 10(-1)s(-1) and finally, (vi) unlike other segments of the aorta, 4-month-old pigs ascending aorta is definitely not a relevant model to investigate the mechanical behavior of the human ascending aorta. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. [Graft Pseudoaneurysm after Ascending to Abdominal Aorta Bypass for Atypical Coarctation Due to Aortitis Syndrome;Report of a Case].

    PubMed

    Yada, Masashi; Yamanaka, Kazuo; Miwa, Senri; Hirose, Keiichi; Sakaguchi, Hisashi; Yoshida, Yukiyo; Onga, Youhei; Tara, Yuichi

    2017-05-01

    We present a case of a 44-year-old woman, with pseudoaneurysm formation at the middle of the prosthetic graft, 60 mm in diameter. She had been diagnosed with atypical coarctation due to aortitis 27 years before, and had undergone a bypass operation with 14 mm-diameter Cooley double velour graft from the ascending aorta to the abdominal aorta. This time, endovascular aortic repair was performed to prevent rupture of the pseudoaneurysm. Though a knitted Dacron graft has a risk of psuedaneurysm formation long patency could be obtained when used in ascending aorta-abdominal aorta bypass.

  8. Severe Obstructive Calcification of the Descending Aorta: A Case Report of "Coral Reef Aorta".

    PubMed

    Ishigaki, Takahiro; Matsuda, Hitoshi; Henmi, Soichiro; Yoshida, Masato; Mukohara, Nobuhiko

    2017-06-25

    An 82-year-old man suffering from lower back pain and dyspnea presented to our institute in a state of shock. Computed tomography showed subtotal occlusion of the descending aorta with massive atherosclerotic calcification. As the proximal portion of the superior mesenteric artery was obstructed, emergency bypass from the right axillary artery to the bilateral external iliac arteries was performed, but the patient died 2 days later. Autopsy revealed that reddish-brown and verrucous masses obstructed the descending aorta, and high-grade thickening of the intima and extensive deposits of calcium in the lumina and medial layer were detected in the descending aorta histologically.

  9. Genetics Home Reference: familial thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection

    MedlinePlus

    ... and dissection ( familial TAAD ) involves problems with the aorta , which is the large blood vessel that distributes ... Familial TAAD affects the upper part of the aorta, near the heart. This part of the aorta ...

  10. Combination Adenovirus + Pembrolizumab to Trigger Immune Virus Effects

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-06-20

    Brain Cancer; Brain Neoplasm; Glioma; Glioblastoma; Gliosarcoma; Malignant Brain Tumor; Neoplasm, Neuroepithelial; Neuroectodermal Tumors; Neoplasm by Histologic Type; Neoplasm, Nerve Tissue; Nervous System Diseases

  11. Defining PET / CT Protocols With Optimized F18-FDG (Fluorodeoxyglucose) Dose, Focusing on Reduced Radiation Dose and Improved Image Quality

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2017-11-27

    Malignant Neoplasm of Breast; Hodgkin Disease; Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, Follicular (Nodular); Malignant Neoplasm of Bronchus and Lung; Malignant Neoplasm of Colon; Secondary Neoplasm Malignant and Unspecified Lymph Nodes; Malignant Melanoma of the Skin; Malignant Neoplasm of Small Intestine

  12. Atezolizumab and Bevacizumab in Rare Solid Tumors

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-05-25

    Malignant Neoplasms of Digestive Organs; Malignant Neoplasms of Lip Oral Cavity and Pharynx; Malignant Neoplasms of Mesothelial and Soft Tissue; Malignant Neoplasms of Respiratory and Intrathoracic Organs

  13. What Is a Stent?

    MedlinePlus

    ... the artery and keep it open. For the Aorta in the Abdomen or Chest The aorta is a major artery that carries oxygen-rich ... the abdomen. Over time, some areas of the aorta's walls can weaken. These weak areas can cause ...

  14. A rare case of acyanotic congenital heart disease, large patent ductus arteriosus with pre-ductal coarctation of descending thoracic aorta with patent ductus arteriosus closure and extra anatomical bypass grafting.

    PubMed

    Wani, Zara; Tiwari, Deepak; Gehlot, Rajeev; Kumar, Deepak; Chhabra, Sushil; Sharma, Meenaxi

    2017-01-01

    We report a case of 18-year-old female patient with large patent ductus arteriosus (PDA)-preductal coarctation of descending thoracic aorta. She underwent large PDA closure with a prosthetic graft from ascending aorta to descending thoracic aorta by mid-sternotomy on cardiopulmonary bypass machine under total hypothermic circulatory arrest.

  15. [Application of a tape-like bandage for the ascending aorta in its poststenotic dilation and correction of the aortal valve stenosis].

    PubMed

    Popov, V V; Bol'shak, A A

    2014-06-01

    The aortal valve prosthesis in combination with a tape-like bandage of ascending aorta application was performed in 106 patients, suffering a failure with predominance of the aortal valve stenosis in conjunction with the ascending aorta poststenotic dilation, in a 2005 - 2014 yrs period in the clinic. The hospital lethality have constituted 0.9%. In accordance to echocardiography, the ascending aorta diameter preoperatively have constituted (48.7 +/- 1.4) mm at average, before discharge from the hospital--(40.1 +/- 1.2) mm, in late follow-up period--(41.3 +/- 1.2) mm. It is expedient to recommend the original method of a tape-like bandage of ascending aorta from the base of noncoronary sinus in the aortal sinuses dilation (45 mm and more) in combination with the aortal valve prosthesis in poststenotic dilation of ascending aorta.

  16. Full blown cardiovascular syphilis with aneurysm of the innominate artery.

    PubMed

    Roberts, William Clifford; Lensing, Forrester Dubus; Kourlis, Harry; Ko, Jong Mi; Newberry, Jonathan Warren; Smerud, Michael John; Burton, Elizabeth C; Hebeler, Robert Frederick

    2009-12-01

    The investigators report the case of a 44-year-old man who presented acutely and was found to have saccular aneurysm of the innominate artery, narrowed or totally occluded aortic arch arteries, and marked thickening of the thoracic aorta except for the wall behind the sinuses of Valsalva. The abdominal aorta was entirely normal. Results of the serologic test for syphilis were strongly positive. Because cardiovascular syphilis appears to be a disease that affects the vasa vasora and because these channels are limited to the thoracic aorta, the abdominal aorta is uninvolved, as demonstrated so nicely in the patient described in this case report. Because most patients with cardiovascular syphilis are much older than the patient described, it is unusual to see a perfectly normal abdominal aorta, as in the present patient. In conclusion, syphilis producing aneurysm of the innominate artery is unusual but is always associated with syphilitic involvement of the thoracic aorta.

  17. Validated Computational Model to Compute Re-apposition Pressures for Treating Type-B Aortic Dissections.

    PubMed

    Ahuja, Aashish; Guo, Xiaomei; Noblet, Jillian N; Krieger, Joshua F; Roeder, Blayne; Haulon, Stephan; Chambers, Sean; Kassab, Ghassan S

    2018-01-01

    The use of endovascular treatment in the thoracic aorta has revolutionized the clinical approach for treating Stanford type B aortic dissection. The endograft procedure is a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery for the management of complicated type-B patients. The endograft is first deployed to exclude the proximal entry tear to redirect blood flow toward the true lumen and then a stent graft is used to push the intimal flap against the false lumen (FL) wall such that the aorta is reconstituted by sealing the FL. Although endovascular treatment has reduced the mortality rate in patients compared to those undergoing surgical repair, more than 30% of patients who were initially successfully treated require a new endovascular or surgical intervention in the aortic segments distal to the endograft. One reason for failure of the repair is persistent FL perfusion from distal entry tears. This creates a patent FL channel which can be associated with FL growth. Thus, it is necessary to develop stents that can promote full re-apposition of the flap leading to complete closure of the FL. In the current study, we determine the radial pressures required to re-appose the mid and distal ends of a dissected porcine thoracic aorta using a balloon catheter under static inflation pressure. The same analysis is simulated using finite element analysis (FEA) models by incorporating the hyperelastic properties of porcine aortic tissues. It is shown that the FEA models capture the change in the radial pressures required to re-appose the intimal flap as a function of pressure. The predictions from the simulation models match closely the results from the bench experiments. The use of validated computational models can support development of better stents by calculating the proper radial pressures required for complete re-apposition of the intimal flap.

  18. Myeloproliferative Neoplasms—Health Professional Version

    Cancer.gov

    Myeloproliferative neoplasms and myelodysplastic syndromes are diseases of the blood cells. They include chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms, myelodysplastic syndromes, and myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasms. Find evidence-based information on myeloproliferative neoplasms treatment.

  19. Concordance of Two Endoscopic Procedures for Diagnosis of Carcinoma of the Upper Aerodigestive Tract

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2014-08-15

    Upper Aerodigestive Tract Lesions; Neoplasms, Oropharyngeal; Oropharyngeal Cancer; Neoplasms, Hypopharyngeal; Hypopharyngeal Cancer; Head and Neck Neoplasms; UADT Neoplasms; Carcinoma, Squamous Cell; Papilloma

  20. Impaired Collagen Biosynthesis and Cross‐linking in Aorta of Patients With Bicuspid Aortic Valve

    PubMed Central

    Wågsäter, Dick; Paloschi, Valentina; Hanemaaijer, Roeland; Hultenby, Kjell; Bank, Ruud A.; Franco‐Cereceda, Anders; Lindeman, Jan H. N.; Eriksson, Per

    2013-01-01

    Background Patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) have an increased risk of developing ascending aortic aneurysm. In the present study, collagen homeostasis in nondilated and dilated aorta segments from patients with BAV was studied, with normal and dilated aortas from tricuspid aortic valve (TAV) patients as reference. Methods and Results Ascending aortas from 56 patients were used for biochemical and morphological analyses of collagen. mRNA expression was analyzed in 109 patients. Collagen turnover rates were similar in nondilated and dilated aortas of BAV patients, showing that aneurysmal formation in BAV is, in contrast to TAV, not associated with an increased collagen turnover. However, BAV in general was associated with an increased aortic collagen turnover compared with nondilated aortas of TAV patients. Importantly, the ratio of hydroxylysyl pyridinoline (HP) to lysyl pyridinoline (LP), 2 distinct forms of collagen cross‐linking, was lower in dilated aortas from patients with BAV, which suggests that BAV is associated with a defect in the posttranslational collagen modification. This suggests a deficiency at the level of lysyl hydroxylase (PLOD1), which was confirmed by mRNA and protein analyses that showed reduced PLOD1 expression but normal lysyl oxidase expression in dilated aortas from patients with BAV. This suggests that impaired collagen cross‐linking in BAV patients may be attributed to changes in the expression and/or activity of PLOD1. Conclusions Our results demonstrate an impaired biosynthesis and posttranslational modification of collagen in aortas of patients with BAV, which may explain the increased aortic aneurysm formation in BAV patients. PMID:23525417

  1. Aortic valve surgery - open

    MedlinePlus

    ... and into a large blood vessel called the aorta. The aortic valve separates the heart and aorta. The aortic valve opens so blood can flow ... to be able to see your heart and aorta. You may need to be connected to a ...

  2. Molecular diagnostics in the neoplasms of the pancreas, liver, gall bladder, and extrahepatic biliary tract.

    PubMed

    Weindel, Michael; Zulfiqar, Muhammad; Bhalla, Amarpreet; Shidham, Vinod B

    2013-12-01

    Pancreatic neoplasms, including ductal adenocarcinoma, intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm, solid pseudopapillary neoplasm, pancreatic endocrine neoplasms, acinar cell carcinoma, and ampullary carcinoma, are associated with different genetic abnormalities. Liver neoplasms, including hepatic adenomas, hepatocellular carcinomas, and cholangiocarcinomas, are associated with identifiable risk factors and genetic changes. Gall bladder adenomas and adenocarcinomas arise from distinct molecular pathways. The molecular abnormalities seen in these tumors are not used routinely in the molecular diagnostic laboratory. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. Endovascular Treatment of Distal Aortic Arch Aneurysm Associated with Coarctation of Aorta in a Jehovah's Witness

    PubMed Central

    Mannacio, Vito A.; Di Tommaso, Ettorino; Pinna, Giovanni B.; Fontana, Immacolata; Iannelli, Gabriele

    2017-01-01

    Late aneurysm formation in the proximal aorta or distal aortic arch is a recognized sequela of untreated stenosis of the aortic isthmus and is associated with substantial risk of aortic rupture. We describe the case of a 44-year-old man with untreated coarctation of the aorta who presented with a prestenotic dissecting thoracic aortic aneurysm. He declined surgery because he was a Jehovah's Witness. Instead, we performed emergency endovascular aortic repair in which 2 stent-grafts were placed in the descending aorta. Our experience suggests that this procedure is a useful and safe alternative to open surgery in patients who have aneurysms associated with coarctation of the aorta. PMID:29276439

  4. Identification of Prognostic Biomarkers for Progression of Invasive Squamous Cell Carcinoma

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2017-10-09

    Carcinoma, Squamous Cell; Carcinoma, Squamous; Squamous Cell Carcinoma; Lung Neoplasms; Cancer of Lung; Cancer of the Lung; Lung Cancer; Neoplasms, Lung; Neoplasms, Pulmonary; Pulmonary Cancer; Pulmonary Neoplasms

  5. Variations in local elastic modulus along the length of the aorta as observed by use of a scanning haptic microscope (SHM).

    PubMed

    Moriwaki, Takeshi; Oie, Tomonori; Takamizawa, Keiichi; Murayama, Yoshinobu; Fukuda, Toru; Omata, Sadao; Kanda, Keiichi; Nakayama, Yasuhide

    2011-12-01

    Variations in microscopic elastic structures along the entire length of canine aorta were evaluated by use of a scanning haptic microscope (SHM). The total aorta from the aortic arch to the abdominal aorta was divided into 6 approximately equal segments. After embedding the aorta in agar, it was cut into horizontal circumferential segments to obtain disk-like agar portions containing ring-like samples of aorta with flat surfaces (thickness, approximately 1 mm). The elastic modulus and topography of the samples under no-load conditions were simultaneously measured along the entire thickness of the wall by SHM by using a probe with a diameter of 5 μm and a spatial resolution of 2 μm at a rate of 0.3 s/point. The elastic modulus of the wall was the highest on the side of the luminal surface and decreased gradually toward the adventitial side. This tendency was similar to that of the change in the elastin fiber content. During the evaluation of the mid-portion of each tunica media segment, the highest elastic modulus (40.8 ± 3.5 kPa) was identified at the thoracic section of the aorta that had the highest density of elastic fibers. Under no-load conditions, portions of the aorta with high elastin density have a high elastic modulus.

  6. Pressure waves in the aorta during isolated abdominal belt loading: the magnitude, phasing, and attenuation.

    PubMed

    Arregui-Dalmases, C; Del Pozo, E; Stacey, S; Kindig, M; Lessley, D; Lopez-Valdes, F; Forman, J; Kent, R

    2011-07-01

    While rupture of the aorta is a leading cause of sudden death following motor vehicle crashes, the specific mechanism that causes this injury is not currently well understood. Aortic ruptures occurring in the field are likely due to a complex combination of contributing factors such as acceleration, compression of the chest, and increased pressure within the aorta. The objective of the current study was to investigate one of these factors in more detail than has been done previously; specifically, to investigate the in situ intra-aortic pressure generated during isolated belt loading to the abdomen. Ten juvenile swine were subjected to dynamic belt loads applied to the abdomen. Intraaortic pressure was measured at multiple locations to assess the magnitude and propagation of the resulting blood pressure wave. The greatest average peak pressure (113.6 +/- 43.5 kPa) was measured in the abdominal aorta. Pressures measured in the thoracic aorta and aortic arch were 70 per cent and 50 per cent, respectively, that measured in the abdominal aorta. No macroscopic aortic trauma was observed. To the authors' knowledge the present study is the first one to document the presence, propagation, and attenuation of a transient pressure wave in the aorta generated by abdominal belt loading. The superiorly moving wave is sufficient to generate hydrostatic and intimal shear stress in the aorta, possibly contributing to the hypothesized mechanisms of traumatic aortic rupture.

  7. Turner Syndrome in Girls Presenting with Coarctation of the Aorta.

    PubMed

    Eckhauser, Aaron; South, Sarah T; Meyers, Lindsay; Bleyl, Steven B; Botto, Lorenzo D

    2015-11-01

    To evaluate the frequency of Turner syndrome in a population-based, statewide cohort of girls with coarctation of the aorta. The Utah Birth Defects Network was used to ascertain a cohort of girls between 1997 and 2011 with coarctation of the aorta. Livebirths with isolated coarctation of the aorta or transverse arch hypoplasia were included and patients with complex congenital heart disease not usually seen in Turner syndrome were excluded. Of 244 girls with coarctation of the aorta, 77 patients were excluded, leaving a cohort of 167 girls; 86 patients (51%) had chromosomal studies and 21 (12.6%) were diagnosed with Turner syndrome. All patients were diagnosed within the first 4 months of life and 5 (24%) were diagnosed prenatally. Fifteen patients (71%) had Turner syndrome-related findings in addition to coarctation of the aorta. Girls with mosaicism were less likely to have Turner syndrome-associated findings (3/6 mosaic girls compared with 12/17 girls with non-mosaic 45,X). Twelve girls (57%) diagnosed with Turner syndrome also had a bicommissural aortic valve. At least 12.6% of girls born with coarctation of the aorta have karyotype-confirmed Turner syndrome. Such a high frequency, combined with the clinical benefits of an early diagnosis, supports genetic screening for Turner syndrome in girls presenting with coarctation of the aorta. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  8. Assessment of the accuracy of AortaScan for detection of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA).

    PubMed

    Abbas, A; Smith, A; Cecelja, M; Waltham, M

    2012-02-01

    AortaScan AMI 9700 is a portable 3D ultrasound device that automatically measures the maximum diameter of the abdominal aorta without the need for a trained sonographer. It is designed to rapidly diagnose or exclude an AAA and may have particular use in screening programs. Our objective was to determine its accuracy to detect AAA. Subjects from our AAA screening and surveillance programs were examined. The aorta was scanned using the AortaScan and computed tomography (CT). Ninety-one subjects underwent imaging (44 AAA on conventional ultrasound surveillance and 47 controls). The largest measurement obtained by AortaScan was compared against the CT-aortic measurement. The mean aortic diameter was 2.8 cm. The CT scan confirmed the diagnosis of AAA in 43 subjects. There was one false positive measurement on conventional ultrasound. AortaScan missed the diagnosis of AAA in eight subjects. There were thirteen false positive measurements. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were 81%, 72%, 72% and 81% respectively. A device to detect AAA without the need for a trained operator would have potential in a community-based screening programme. The AortaScan, however, lacks adequate sensitivity and significant technical improvement is necessary before it could be considered a replacement for trained screening personnel. Copyright © 2011 European Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  9. The Effect of Chlorpyrifos on Isolated Thoracic Aorta in Rats

    PubMed Central

    Yıldırım, Ebru; Baydan, Emine; Kanbur, Murat; Kul, Oğuz; Çınar, Miyase; Ekici, Hüsamettin; Atmaca, Nurgül

    2013-01-01

    This study investigated the effect of chlorpyrifos on thoracic aorta and on the level of NO in plasma and aorta. The effect of chlorpyrifos on thoracic aorta in organ bath was determined in 10 rats. Another 45 rats were assigned to 3 groups with 15 rats each: control group 1 received distilled water, control group 2 was given corn oil, and the last group was given 13.5 mg/kg chlorpyrifos dissolved in corn oil every other day for 8 weeks orally. Chlorpyrifos (10−10 M–10−5 M) showed no effect on isolated thoracic aorta. Plasma AChE activity was decreased, while LDH, ALT, GGT, and AST activities were increased in chlorpyrifos group compared to control groups. Plasma NO level was increased in chlorpyrifos group compared to control groups. iNOS expression was present in all groups in the cytoplasm of the endothelia and in the smooth muscle cells of aorta. According to semiquantitative histomorphological analysis, iNOS immunopositive reactions were seen in the decreasing order in chlorpyrifos, control 2, and control 1 groups. eNOS immunopositive reactions were observed in the endothelial cell cytoplasm, rarely in the subintimal layer, and the smooth muscle cells of aorta. There were no differences among the groups in terms of eNOS immunostaining. In conclusion, chlorpyrifos induced NO production in aorta following an increase in NOS expression. PMID:23878805

  10. The role of nitric oxide synthase in reduced vasocontractile responsiveness induced by prolonged α1-adrenergic receptor stimulation in rat thoracic aorta

    PubMed Central

    Gürdal, Hakan; Can, Alp; Uğur, Mehmet

    2005-01-01

    Prolonged exposure (6–12 h) of rat aorta to alpha1-adrenergic receptor (α1AR) agonist phenylephrine (Phe) leads to a decrease in α1AR-mediated vasoconstriction. This reduced responsiveness to α1AR stimulation was strongly dependent on the intactness of the endothelium. We examined the effect of Phe on nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity by measuring the conversion of [3H]L-arginine to [3H]L-citrulline in rat aorta or in endothelial cells isolated from rat aorta. Phe stimulation increased NOS activity in control aortas. This response was antagonized by prazosin. However, Phe increased neither the activity of NOS nor intracellular Ca2+ in the isolated endothelial cells from the control aortas, whereas acetylcholine (Ach) was able to stimulate both responses in these cells. This result suggests that Phe stimulates α1AR on vascular smooth muscle cells and has an indirect influence on endothelial cells to increase NOS activity. In Phe-exposed aortic rings, basal NOS activity was found to have increased compared to vehicle-exposed control rings. Stimulation with Phe or Ach caused a small increase over basal NOS activity in these preparations. Prolonged exposure to Phe also caused an enhancement of Ach-mediated vasorelaxation in rat aorta. Immunoblot and reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction experiments showed that prolonged exposure of rat aorta to Phe resulted in an increased expression of eNOS, but not iNOS. This increase was antagonized by nonselective antagonist prazosin. Immunohistochemical staining experiments also showed that expression of eNOS increased in endothelial cells after Phe exposure of the aortas. These results, all together, showed that prolonged exposure of rat aorta to α1AR agonist Phe enhanced the expression of eNOS and basal NOS activity, which probably causes a decreased vasocontractile response to Phe or to other agonists such as 5HT (5-hydroxytryptamine) in rat aorta. This phenomenon can be considered more as a functional antagonism of vasocontractile response to agonists mediated by endothelium than a specific desensitization of α1AR-mediated signalling in vascular smooth muscle cells. PMID:15753950

  11. Stages of Plasma Cell Neoplasms (Including Multiple Myeloma)

    MedlinePlus

    ... Health Professional Plasma Cell Neoplasms Treatment Research Plasma Cell Neoplasms (Including Multiple Myeloma) Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version General Information About Plasma Cell Neoplasms Go to Health Professional Version Key Points ...

  12. 77 FR 48985 - Notice of Meeting of the ICD-9-CM Coordination and Maintenance Committee

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-08-15

    ... Topics: ICD-10 Implementation Announcements Expansion of Thoracic Aorta Body Part Under Heart and Great... from thoracic aorta to abdominal aorta) ICD-10 MS-DRGs ICD-10 HAC Translations ICD-10 MCE Translations...

  13. BowelScope: Accuracy of Detection Using ENdocuff Optimisation of Mucosal Abnormalities

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2017-05-05

    Colorectal Neoplasms; Colonic Polyp; Adenoma; Neoplasia GI; Digestive System Neoplasms; Intestinal Neoplasms; Neoplasms, Glandular and Epithelial; Digestive Disease; Intestinal Diseases; Colonic Diseases; Rectal Diseases; Intestinal Polyps; Polyps; Pathological Conditions, Anatomical

  14. Treatment Options for Plasma Cell Neoplasms (Including Multiple Myeloma)

    MedlinePlus

    ... Health Professional Plasma Cell Neoplasms Treatment Research Plasma Cell Neoplasms (Including Multiple Myeloma) Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version General Information About Plasma Cell Neoplasms Go to Health Professional Version Key Points ...

  15. Treatment Option Overview (Plasma Cell Neoplasms Including Multiple Myeloma)

    MedlinePlus

    ... Health Professional Plasma Cell Neoplasms Treatment Research Plasma Cell Neoplasms (Including Multiple Myeloma) Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version General Information About Plasma Cell Neoplasms Go to Health Professional Version Key Points ...

  16. Measuring Cell Free DNA During the Course of Treatment for Esophageal Cancer as a Marker of Response and Recurrence

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2017-10-09

    Esophageal Neoplasm; Esophageal Neoplasms Malignancy Unspecified; Esophageal Neoplasms Malignant; Cancer of Esophagus; Cancer of the Esophagus; Esophageal Cancer; Esophagus Cancer; Neoplasm, Esophageal

  17. Survivorship Care in Reducing Symptoms in Young Adult Cancer Survivors

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2017-10-13

    Breast Carcinoma; Cancer Survivor; Depression; Fatigue; Leukemia; Lymphoma; Malignant Bone Neoplasm; Malignant Digestive System Neoplasm; Malignant Female Reproductive System Neoplasm; Malignant Male Reproductive System Neoplasm; Pain; Sleep Disorder; Soft Tissue Sarcoma

  18. Effect of atherothrombotic aorta on outcomes of total aortic arch replacement.

    PubMed

    Okada, Kenji; Omura, Atsushi; Kano, Hiroya; Inoue, Takeshi; Oka, Takanori; Minami, Hitoshi; Okita, Yutaka

    2013-04-01

    The effect of an atherothrombotic aorta on the short- and long-term outcomes of total aortic arch replacement, including postoperative neurologic deficits, remains unknown. We evaluated this relationship and also elucidated the synergistic effect of multiple other risk factors, in addition to an atherothrombotic aorta, on the neurologic outcome. A group of 179 consecutive patients undergoing total aortic arch replacement were studied. An atherothrombotic aorta was present in 34 patients (19%), more than moderate leukoaraiosis in 71 (39.7%), and significant extracranial carotid artery stenosis in 27 (15.1%). In-hospital deaths occurred in 2 patients, 1 (2.9%) of 34 patients with and 1 (0.7%) of 145 patients without an atherothrombotic aorta (P = .26). Permanent neurologic deficits occurred in 4 (2.2%) and transient neurologic deficits in 17 (9.5%) patients. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that the risk factors for transient neurologic deficits were an atherothrombotic aorta (odds ratio, 4.4), extracranial carotid artery stenosis (odds ratio, 5.5), moderate/severe leukoaraiosis (odds ratio, 3.6), and cardiopulmonary bypass time (odds ratio, 1.02). To calculate the probability of transient neurologic deficits, the following equation was derived: probability of transient neurologic deficits = {1 + exp [7.276 - 1.489 (atherothrombotic aorta) - 1.285 (leukoaraiosis) - 1.701 (extracranial carotid artery stenosis) - 0.017 (cardiopulmonary bypass time)]}(-1). An exponential increase occurred in the probability of transient neurologic deficits with presence of an atherothrombotic aorta and other risk factors in relation to the cardiopulmonary bypass time. Survival at 3 years after surgery was significantly reduced in patients with vs without an atherothrombotic aorta (75.0% ± 8.8% vs 89.2% ± 3.1%, P = .01). Patients with an atherothrombotic aorta and associated preoperative comorbidities might be predisposed to adverse short- and long-term outcomes, including transient neurologic deficits. Copyright © 2013 The American Association for Thoracic Surgery. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Diagnostic performance of focused cardiac ultrasound performed by emergency physicians for the assessment of ascending aorta dilation and aneurysm.

    PubMed

    Nazerian, Peiman; Vanni, Simone; Morello, Fulvio; Castelli, Matteo; Ottaviani, Maddalena; Casula, Claudia; Petrioli, Alessandra; Bartolucci, Maurizio; Grifoni, Stefano

    2015-05-01

    The diagnostic performance of transthoracic focused cardiac ultrasound (FoCUS) performed by emergency physicians (EP) to estimate ascending aorta dimensions in the acute setting has not been prospectively studied. The diagnostic accuracy and the interobserver variability of EP-performed FoCUS were investigated to estimate thoracic aortic dilation and aneurysm compared with the results of computed tomography angiography (CTA). This was a prospective single-center cohort study of a convenience sample of patients who underwent CTA in the emergency department for suspected aortic pathology. FoCUS was performed before CTA, and the maximum ascending aorta diameter evaluated in parasternal long-axis view. Aorta diameter < 40 mm by visual estimation or by diameter measurement was considered normal. Measurements were recorded in all patients with aorta diameter ≥ 40 mm. Diagnostic accuracy of FoCUS for detection of aortic dilation (diameter ≥ 40 mm) and aneurysm (diameter ≥ 45 mm) were calculated considering the CTA result as reference standard. In a subgroup of patients, a second EP-sonographer performed FoCUS to evaluate interobserver agreement for the diagnosis of ascending aorta dilation. A total of 140 patients were enrolled in the study. Ascending aorta dilation and aneurysm were detected with FoCUS in 50 (35.7%) and in 27 (17.8%) patients, respectively. Sensitivity and specificity of FoCUS were 78.6% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 65.6% to 88.4%) and 92.9% (95% CI = 85.1% to 97.3%), respectively, for ascending aorta dilation and 64.7% (95% CI = 46.5% to 80.2%) and 95.3% (95% CI = 89.3% to 98.4%), respectively, for ascending aorta aneurysm. Interobserver agreement of FoCUS was k = 0.82. FoCUS performed by EP is specific for ascending aorta dilation and aneurysm when compared to CTA and appears a reproducible technique. © 2015 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine.

  20. Fluid Dynamics of Coarctation of the Aorta and Effect of Bicuspid Aortic Valve

    PubMed Central

    Keshavarz-Motamed, Zahra; Garcia, Julio; Kadem, Lyes

    2013-01-01

    Up to 80% of patients with coarctation of the aorta (COA) have a bicuspid aortic valve (BAV). Patients with COA and BAV have elevated risks of aortic complications despite successful surgical repair. The development of such complications involves the interplay between the mechanical forces applied on the artery and the biological processes occurring at the cellular level. The focus of this study is on hemodynamic modifications induced in the aorta in the presence of a COA and a BAV. For this purpose, numerical investigations and magnetic resonance imaging measurements were conducted with different configurations: (1) normal: normal aorta and normal aortic valve; (2) isolated COA: aorta with COA (75% reduction by area) and normal aortic valve; (3) complex COA: aorta with the same severity of COA (75% reduction by area) and BAV. The results show that the coexistence of COA and BAV significantly alters blood flow in the aorta with a significant increase in the maximal velocity, secondary flow, pressure loss, time-averaged wall shear stress and oscillatory shear index downstream of the COA. These findings can contribute to a better understanding of why patients with complex COA have adverse outcome even following a successful surgery. PMID:24015239

  1. CT differentiation of mucin-producing cystic neoplasms of the liver from solitary bile duct cysts.

    PubMed

    Kim, Hyoung Jung; Yu, Eun Sil; Byun, Jae Ho; Hong, Seung-Mo; Kim, Kyoung Won; Lee, Jong Seok; Kim, So Yeon

    2014-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to identify the CT features required for differentiating mucin-producing cystic neoplasms of the liver (mucinous cystic neoplasms and cyst-forming intraductal papillary neoplasms of the bile duct) from solitary bile duct cysts. CT images of pathologically confirmed mucinous cystic neoplasms (n = 15), cyst-forming intraductal papillary neoplasms of the bile duct (n = 16), and solitary bile duct cysts (n = 31) were reviewed. Analysis of the CT findings included shape, presence of septa, location of septa (peripheral vs central), thickness of septa (thin vs thick), mosaic pattern, mural nodules, intracystic debris, calcification, upstream bile duct dilatation, downstream bile duct dilatation, and communication between a cystic lesion and the bile duct. The maximum size of a cystic lesion and the maximum size of the largest mural nodule were measured. The presence of septa, central septa, mural nodules, upstream bile duct dilatation, and downstream bile duct dilatation were found to be significant CT findings for differentiating mucinous cystic neoplasms and cyst-forming intraductal papillary neoplasms of the bile duct from solitary bile duct cysts (p < 0.05 for each finding). When two of these five criteria were used in combination, the sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing mucin-producing cystic neoplasms and cyst-forming intraductal papillary neoplasms of the bile duct were 87% (27 of 31) and 87% (27 of 31), respectively. When two of these five criteria were used in combination, the sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing mucinous cystic neoplasms and cyst-forming intraductal papillary neoplasms of the bile duct were 87% (27 of 31) and 87% (27 of 31), respectively [corrected]. With the use of specific CT criteria, mucin-producing cystic neoplasms of the liver can be differentiated from solitary bile duct cysts with a high degree of accuracy.

  2. [Coarctation of the descending aorta. A rare form of connatal aortic stenosis].

    PubMed

    Stammwitz, E; Schöttler, M; Brix, F; Poser, H L; Langkau, G; Yükseltan, I

    1983-07-01

    A clinical diagnosis of a coarctation of the aorta was made in a 17-year-old female hypertensive patient. Angiography revealed an atypical stenosis of the descending aorta which was surgically corrected. The causes of aortic stenoses are discussed.

  3. Clinical Study of Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta (REBOA) for Severe Pelvic Fracture and Intra Abdominal Hemorrhagic Shock using Continuous Vital Signs

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2016-03-01

    AWARD NUMBER: W81XWH-15-1-0025 TITLE: Clinical Study of Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta (REBOA) for Severe Pelvic...Intra-Abdominal Hemorrhagic Shock 5b. GRANT NUMBER W81XWH-15-1-0025 Clinical Study of Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta ...sites. Resuscitative balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) has been clinically demonstrated to stop bleeding below the diaphragm. It has the potential

  4. Case report: Open replacement of incomplete semi-circular traumatic ruptures of the ascending and descending aorta.

    PubMed

    Mytsyk, Miroslawa; Grapow, Martin T R; Shahinian, Jasmin; Maurer, Markus; Gurke, Lorenz; Eckstein, Friedrich S

    2016-07-16

    An incomplete traumatic rupture of the ascending aorta is a rare but life-threatening condition. Hence, the assessment of the extent of the injury prior to therapy is crucial. We report a case of a 50-year-old male with traumatic aortic rupture who underwent emergency surgery after the evaluation of computed tomography scan (CT-scan). The surgical treatment involved replacement of the ascending aorta and stent implantation in descending aorta due to its covered rupture.

  5. Effects of aortic root motion on wall stress in the Marfan aorta before and after personalised aortic root support (PEARS) surgery.

    PubMed

    Singh, S D; Xu, X Y; Pepper, J R; Izgi, C; Treasure, T; Mohiaddin, R H

    2016-07-05

    Aortic root motion was previously identified as a risk factor for aortic dissection due to increased longitudinal stresses in the ascending aorta. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of aortic root motion on wall stress and strain in the ascending aorta and evaluate changes before and after implantation of personalised external aortic root support (PEARS). Finite element (FE) models of the aortic root and thoracic aorta were developed using patient-specific geometries reconstructed from pre- and post-PEARS cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) images in three Marfan patients. The wall and PEARS materials were assumed to be isotropic, incompressible and linearly elastic. A static load on the inner wall corresponding to the patients' pulse pressure was applied. Cardiovascular MR cine images were used to quantify aortic root motion, which was imposed at the aortic root boundary of the FE model, with zero-displacement constraints at the distal ends of the aortic branches and descending aorta. Measurements of the systolic downward motion of the aortic root revealed a significant reduction in the axial displacement in all three patients post-PEARS compared with its pre-PEARS counterparts. Higher longitudinal stresses were observed in the ascending aorta when compared with models without the root motion. Implantation of PEARS reduced the longitudinal stresses in the ascending aorta by up to 52%. In contrast, the circumferential stresses at the interface between the supported and unsupported aorta were increase by up to 82%. However, all peak stresses were less than half the known yield stress for the dilated thoracic aorta. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. A penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer rupture in the ascending aorta with hemopericardium: a case report.

    PubMed

    Liu, Yuan-Hao; Ke, Hung-Yen; Lin, Yi-Chang; Tsai, Chien-Sung

    2016-07-11

    Acute aortic syndrome, including classic aortic dissection, intramural aortic hematoma, and penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer (PAU), is a term used to describe a group of conditions with similar clinical symptoms, but with different pathophysiological mechanisms. PAU is a lesion that penetrates the internal elastic lamina through the media. It is usually located in the descending aorta and rarely observed in the ascending aorta. A 76-year-old man with a history of essential hypertension was brought to the emergency department (ED) because of a sudden-onset chest pain at rest. He had not been taking his medication as ordered. His vital signs in the ED were a blood pressure of 82/60 mmHg, heart rate of 158 beats per min, respiratory rate of 22 breaths per min, and a body temperature of 37.2 °C. An electrocardiogram did not show an ST segment elevation, and cardiac enzymes were within normal limits. No widening mediastinum was found on chest radiography, but a large pericardial effusion with an impending cardiac tamponade was revealed on echocardiography. The diagnosis of PAU rupture in the ascending aorta with hemopericardium was made with chest computed tomography. An emergent sternotomy and ascending aorta reconstruction were performed. A ruptured ulcerative plaque through the intima to the adventitia without flap dissection in the ascending aorta was confirmed. The patient was discharged 18 days after the operation. Although PAU in the ascending aorta is uncommon, it is commonly lethal when it ruptures. With the current advances in endovascular techniques and devices, endovascular repair of PAU in the ascending aorta is currently recommended only for high-risk patients unsuitable for open repair. However, we anticipate that endovascular repair may become feasible in patients with PAU in the ascending aorta in the future.

  7. Automatic identification of origins of left and right coronary arteries in CT angiography for coronary arterial tree tracking and plaque detection

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhou, Chuan; Chan, Heang-Ping; Chightai, Aamer; Wei, Jun; Hadjiiski, Lubomir M.; Agarwal, Prachi; Kuriakose, Jean W.; Kazerooni, Ella A.

    2013-03-01

    Automatic tracking and segmentation of the coronary arterial tree is the basic step for computer-aided analysis of coronary disease. The goal of this study is to develop an automated method to identify the origins of the left coronary artery (LCA) and right coronary artery (RCA) as the seed points for the tracking of the coronary arterial trees. The heart region and the contrast-filled structures in the heart region are first extracted using morphological operations and EM estimation. To identify the ascending aorta, we developed a new multiscale aorta search method (MAS) method in which the aorta is identified based on a-priori knowledge of its circular shape. Because the shape of the ascending aorta in the cCTA axial view is roughly a circle but its size can vary over a wide range for different patients, multiscale circularshape priors are used to search for the best matching circular object in each CT slice, guided by the Hausdorff distance (HD) as the matching indicator. The location of the aorta is identified by finding the minimum HD in the heart region over the set of multiscale circular priors. An adaptive region growing method is then used to extend the above initially identified aorta down to the aortic valves. The origins at the aortic sinus are finally identified by a morphological gray level top-hat operation applied to the region-grown aorta with morphological structuring element designed for coronary arteries. For the 40 test cases, the aorta was correctly identified in 38 cases (95%). The aorta can be grown to the aortic root in 36 cases, and 36 LCA origins and 34 RCA origins can be identified within 10 mm of the locations marked by radiologists.

  8. Analysis of the influences of short-term levosimendan exposure on oxidant/antioxidant status and trace-element levels in the physiological status of the thoracic aorta of rats.

    PubMed

    Aydin, Cemalettin; Ay, Yasin; Basel, Halil; Kavak, Servet; Inan, Bekir; Bektaş, Hava; Gümrükçüoğlu, Hasan Ali; Ekim, Hasan; Demir, Halit

    2012-12-01

    The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of levosimendan (chemical formula C₁₄H₁₂N₆O) exposure on oxidant/antioxidant status and trace-element levels in the thoracic aorta of rats. Eighteen male Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into two groups of eight animals each. Group 1 was not exposed to levosimendan and served as a control. Levosimendan (12 μg/kg) diluted in 10 ml 0.5 % dextrose was administered intraperitoneally to group 2. Animals of both groups were killed after 3 days, and their thoracic aortae were harvested for determination of changes in tissue oxidant/antioxidant status and trace-element levels. The animals in both groups were killed 72 h after levosimendan exposure, and thoracic aortae were harvested for determination of the lipid peroxidation product MDA and antioxidant GSH levels and the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as SOD, GSH-Px and CAT. It was found that MDA, GSH and CAT enzyme levels increased in thoracic aortae of rats after levosimendan administration. SOD and CA enzyme activities and the level of antioxidant GSH decreased in thoracic aortae of rats after levosimendan treatment. Pb, Cd and Fe levels of thoracic aortae were significantly higher (P < 0.001) and Mg, Mn, Zn and Cu were significantly lower (P < 0.001) in the levosimendan group compared to the control group. These results suggest that short-term levosimendan treatment caused an increase in free radical production and a decrease in antioxidant enzyme activity in thoracic aortae of levosimendan-treated rats. It also causes a decrease or increase in many mineral levels of the thoracic aorta, which is an undesirable condition for normal pharmacological function.

  9. MSH-2 and MLH-1 Protein Expression in Muir Torre Syndrome-Related and Sporadic Sebaceous Neoplasms

    PubMed Central

    Morales-Burgos, Adisbeth; Sánchez, Jorge L.; Figueroa, Luz D.; De Jesús-Monge, Wilfredo E.; Cruz-Correa, Marcia R.; González-Keelan, Carmen; Nazario, Cruz María

    2009-01-01

    Background Muir-Torre Syndrome (MTS) is a rare autosomal-dominant disorder characterized by the predisposition to both sebaceous neoplasm and internal malignancies. MTS-associated sebaceous neoplasms reveal mutations in DNA mismatch repair (MMR) genes and microsatellite instability. A significant part of MTS patients represents a phenotypic variant, the hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC). A strong correlation between microsatellite instability and immunostaining has been demonstrated. The early recognition of sebaceous neoplasm as part of MTS, and their differentiation from sporadic sebaceous neoplasm may have an important application in a clinical setting. The absence of MLH-1 or MSH-2 expression by immunostaining identifies tumors with mismatch repair deficiency. Objectives Our aim is to determine whether an immunohistochemical approach, targeting DNA repair proteins MSH-2 and MLH-1 in MTS-related sebaceous neoplasm and their sporadic counterparts, can be used for their identification. Methods We examined 15 sebaceous neoplasms (including 6 internal malignancy- associated sebaceous neoplasms and 8 sporadic sebaceous neoplasms) from 11 patients for the expression of MSH-2 and MLH-1 by immunohistochemistry. Results Four of 5 internal malignancy-associated sebaceous neoplasms showed loss of expression of MSH-2 or MLH-1. Correlation of the immunostaining pattern of the sebaceous neoplasms and the patients’ positive history of colon carcinoma was 80%. Seven of 8 sporadic sebaceous neoplasms showed a positive expression of MSH-2 and MLH-1. The prevalence for loss of expression of MMR proteins in sebaceous neoplasms was 38.5%. MMR immunostaining had 87.5% specificity and 80% sensitivity. Limitations This study is limited by a small sample size, and by bias selection due to the use of non nationwide data-base as the resource of cases. Conclusions Our findings demonstrate that immunohistochemical testing for internal malignancy-associated sebaceous neoplasms is a practical approach to confirm a suspected inherited MMR gene defect, and an accurate method to distinguish between sporadic and MTS-associated sebaceous lesions. PMID:19069357

  10. Blood flow and coherent vortices in the normal and aneurysmatic aortas: a fluid dynamical approach to intra-luminal thrombus formation.

    PubMed

    Biasetti, Jacopo; Hussain, Fazle; Gasser, T Christian

    2011-10-07

    Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) are frequently characterized by the development of an intra-luminal thrombus (ILT), which is known to have multiple biochemical and biomechanical implications. Development of the ILT is not well understood, and shear-stress-triggered activation of platelets could be the first step in its evolution. Vortical structures (VSs) in the flow affect platelet dynamics, which motivated the present study of a possible correlation between VS and ILT formation in AAAs. VSs educed by the λ(2)-method using computational fluid dynamics simulations of the backward-facing step problem, normal aorta, fusiform AAA and saccular AAA were investigated. Patient-specific luminal geometries were reconstructed from computed tomography scans, and Newtonian and Carreau-Yasuda models were used to capture salient rheological features of blood flow. Particularly in complex flow domains, results depended on the constitutive model. VSs developed all along the normal aorta, showing that a clear correlation between VSs and high wall shear stress (WSS) existed, and that VSs started to break up during late systole. In contrast, in the fusiform AAA, large VSs developed at sites of tortuous geometry and high WSS, occupying the entire lumen, and lasting over the entire cardiac cycle. Downward motion of VSs in the AAA was in the range of a few centimetres per cardiac cycle, and with a VS burst at that location, the release (from VSs) of shear-stress-activated platelets and their deposition to the wall was within the lower part of the diseased artery, i.e. where the thickest ILT layer is typically observed. In the saccular AAA, only one VS was found near the healthy portion of the aorta, while in the aneurysmatic bulge, no VSs occurred. We present a fluid-dynamics-motivated mechanism for platelet activation, convection and deposition in AAAs that has the potential of improving our current understanding of the pathophysiology of fluid-driven ILT growth.

  11. Navitoclax and Sorafenib Tosylate in Treating Patients With Relapsed or Refractory Solid Tumors

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-06-01

    Cirrhosis; Hepatitis B Infection; Hepatitis C Infection; Metastatic Malignant Solid Neoplasm; Recurrent Hepatocellular Carcinoma; Recurrent Malignant Solid Neoplasm; Refractory Malignant Neoplasm; Stage IV Hepatocellular Carcinoma AJCC v7; Unresectable Solid Neoplasm

  12. Pulsatile flow in the aorta of the LVAD supported heart studied using particle image velocimetry

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Moyedi, Zahra

    Currently many patients die because of the end-stage heart failure, mainly due to the reduced number of donor heart transplant organs. Studies show that a permanent left ventricular assist device (LVAD), a battery driven pump which is surgically implanted, increased the survival rate of patients with end-stage heart failure and improved considerably their quality of life. The inlet conduit of the LVAD is attached to the left ventricle and the outflow conduit anastomosed to the ascending aorta. The purpose of LVAD support is to help a weakened heart to pump blood to the rest of the body. However LVAD can cause some alterations of the natural blood flow. When your blood comes in contact with something that isn't a natural part of your body blood clots can occur and disrupt blood flow. Aortic valve integrity is vital for optimal support of left ventricular assist LVAD. Due to the existence of high continuous transvalvular pressure on the aortic valve, the opening frequency of the valve is reduced. To prevent the development of aortic insufficiency, aortic valve closure during LVAD implantation has been performed. However, the closed aortic valve reduces wash out of the aortic root, which causes blood stagnation and potential thrombus formation. So for this reason, there is a need to minimize the risks of occurring blood clot, by having more knowledge about the flow structure in the aorta during LVAD use. The current study focuses on measuring the flow field in the aorta of the LVAD assisted heart with two different types of aortic valve (Flat and Finned) using the SDSU cardiac simulator. The pulsatile pump that mimics the natural pulsing action of the heart also added to the system. The flow field is visualized using Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV). Furthermore, The fluid mechanics of aorta has been studied when LVAD conduit attached to two different locations (proximal and distal to the aortic valve) with pump speeds of 8,000 to 10,000 revolutions per minute (RPM). As LVAD speed increases, the velocity of the defined area (close to the proximal anastomosis) increases linearly but inversely the stagnation index decreases. We observed that with Finned valve attachment, the stagnation value is lower than the flat valve so the results suggest that D1 valve has lower risk of thrombosis close to the aortic valve.

  13. Morphotype-Dependent Flow Characteristics in Bicuspid Aortic Valve Ascending Aortas: A Benchtop Particle Image Velocimetry Study

    PubMed Central

    McNally, Andrew; Madan, Ashish; Sucosky, Philippe

    2017-01-01

    The bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is a major risk factor for secondary aortopathy such as aortic dilation. The heterogeneous BAV morphotypes [left-right-coronary cusp fusion (LR), right-non-coronary cusp fusion (RN), and left-non-coronary cusp fusion (LN)] are associated with different dilation patterns, suggesting a role for hemodynamics in BAV aortopathogenesis. However, assessment of this theory is still hampered by the limited knowledge of the hemodynamic abnormalities generated by the distinct BAV morphotypes. The objective of this study was to compare experimentally the hemodynamics of a normal (i.e., non-dilated) ascending aorta (AA) subjected to tricuspid aortic valve (TAV), LR-BAV, RN-BAV, and NL-BAV flow. Tissue BAVs reconstructed from porcine TAVs were subjected to physiologic pulsatile flow conditions in a left-heart simulator featuring a realistic aortic root and compliant aorta. Phase-locked particle image velocimetry experiments were carried out to characterize the flow in the aortic root and in the tubular AA in terms of jet skewness and displacement, as well as mean velocity, viscous shear stress and Reynolds shear stress fields. While all three BAVs generated skewed and asymmetrical orifice jets (up to 1.7- and 4.0-fold increase in flow angle and displacement, respectively, relative to the TAV at the sinotubular junction), the RN-BAV jet was out of the plane of observation. The LR- and NL-BAV exhibited a 71% increase in peak-systolic orifice jet velocity relative to the TAV, suggesting an inherent degree of stenosis in BAVs. While these two BAV morphotypes subjected the convexity of the aortic wall to viscous shear stress overloads (1.7-fold increase in maximum peak-systolic viscous shear stress relative to the TAV-AA), the affected sites were morphotype-dependent (LR-BAV: proximal AA, NL-BAV: distal AA). Lastly, the LR- and NL-BAV generated high degrees of turbulence in the AA (up to 2.3-fold increase in peak-systolic Reynolds shear stress relative to the TAV) that were sustained from peak systole throughout the deceleration phase. This in vitro study reveals substantial flow abnormalities (increased jet skewness, asymmetry, jet velocity, turbulence, and shear stress overloads) in non-dilated BAV aortas, which differ from those observed in dilated aortas but still coincide with aortic wall regions prone to dilation. PMID:28203207

  14. Effect of coarctation of the aorta and bicuspid aortic valve on flow dynamics and turbulence in the aorta using particle image velocimetry

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Keshavarz-Motamed, Zahra; Garcia, Julio; Gaillard, Emmanuel; Maftoon, Nima; Di Labbio, Giuseppe; Cloutier, Guy; Kadem, Lyes

    2014-03-01

    Blood flow in the aorta has been of particular interest from both fluid dynamics and physiology perspectives. Coarctation of the aorta (COA) is a congenital heart disease corresponding to a severe narrowing in the aortic arch. Up to 85 % of patients with COA have a pathological aortic valve, leading to a narrowing at the valve level. The aim of the present work was to advance the state of understanding of flow through a COA to investigate how narrowing in the aorta (COA) affects the characteristics of the velocity field and, in particular, turbulence development. For this purpose, particle image velocimetry measurements were conducted at physiological flow and pressure conditions, with three different aorta configurations: (1) normal case: normal aorta + normal aortic valve; (2) isolated COA: COA (with 75 % reduction in aortic cross-sectional area) + normal aortic valve and (3) complex COA: COA (with 75 % reduction in aortic cross-sectional area) + pathological aortic valve. Viscous shear stress (VSS), representing the physical shear stress, Reynolds shear stress (RSS), representing the turbulent shear stress, and turbulent kinetic energy (TKE), representing the intensity of fluctuations in the fluid flow environment, were calculated for all cases. Results show that, compared with a healthy aorta, the instantaneous velocity streamlines and vortices were deeply changed in the presence of the COA. The normal aorta did not display any regions of elevated VSS, RSS and TKE at any moment of the cardiac cycle. The magnitudes of these parameters were elevated for both isolated COA and complex COA, with their maximum values mainly being located inside the eccentric jet downstream of the COA. However, the presence of a pathologic aortic valve, in complex COA, amplifies VSS (e.g., average absolute peak value in the entire aorta for a total flow of 5 L/min: complex COA: = 36 N/m2; isolated COA = 19 N/m2), RSS (e.g., average peak value in the entire aorta for a total flow of 5 L/min: complex COA: = 84.6 N/m2; isolated COA = 44 N/m2) and TKE (e.g., average peak value in the entire aorta for a total flow of 5 L/min: complex COA: = 215 N/m2; isolated COA = 100 N/m2). This demonstrates that the pathological aortic valve strongly interacts with the COA. Findings of this study indicate that the presence of both a COA and a pathological aortic valve significantly alters hemodynamics in the aorta and thus might contribute to the progression of the disease in this region. This study can partially explain the complications associated in patients with COA, in the presence of a pathological aortic valve and the consequent adverse outcome post-surgery.

  15. Primary Neoplasms of Bones in Mice: Retrospective Study and Review of Literature

    PubMed Central

    Kavirayani, A. M.; Sundberg, J. P.; Foreman, O.

    2011-01-01

    To compare and summarize the mechanisms, frequencies of occurrence, and classification schemes of spontaneous, experimental, and genetically engineered, mouse skeletal neoplasms, the literature was reviewed and archived case material at The Jackson Laboratory examined. The frequency of occurrence of spontaneous bone neoplasms was less than 1% for most strains, with the exceptions of osteomas in CF-1 (5.5% and 10% in two studies) and OF-1 outbred strains (35%), and osteosarcomas in NOD/ShiLtJ (11.5%) and NOD derived (7.1%) mice. The frequency was 100% for osteochondromas induced by conditional inactivation of exostoses (multiple) 1 (Ext1) in chondrocytes, osteosarcomas induced by tibial intramedullary inoculation of Moloney’s murine sarcoma virus, and osteosarcomas induced by conditional inactivation of Trp53-with or without inactivation of Rb1-in osteoblast precursors. Spontaneous osteogenic neoplasms were more frequent than spontaneous cartilaginous and vascular types. Malignant neoplasms were more frequent than benign ones. The age of occurrence for spontaneous neoplasms ranged from 37 to 720 (Mean 316.35) days for benign, and 35 to 990 (Mean 299.28) days for malignant neoplasms. In genetically engineered mice, the average age of occurrence ranged from 28 to 70 days for benign, and from 35 to 690 days for malignant neoplasms. Histologically, non-osteogenic neoplasms were similar across strains and mutant stocks; osteogenic neoplasms exhibited greater diversity. This comparison and summarization of mouse bone neoplasms provides valuable information for the selection of strains to create, compare, and validate models of bone neoplasms. PMID:21343597

  16. Pancreatic cystic neoplasms: Review of current knowledge, diagnostic challenges, and management options

    PubMed Central

    Jana, Tanima; Shroff, Jennifer; Bhutani, Manoop S.

    2015-01-01

    Pancreatic cystic lesions are being detected with increasing frequency, largely due to advances in cross-sectional imaging. The most common neoplasms include serous cystadenomas, mucinous cystic neoplasms, intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms, solid pseudopapillary neoplasms, and cystic pancreatic endocrine neoplasms. Computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) are currently used as imaging modalities. EUS-guided fine needle aspiration has proved to be a useful diagnostic tool, and enables an assessment of tumor markers, cytology, chemistries, and DNA analysis. Here, we review the current literature on pancreatic cystic neoplasms, including classification, diagnosis, treatment, and recommendations for surveillance. Data for this manuscript was acquired via searching the literature from inception to December 2014 on PubMed and Ovid MEDLINE. PMID:25821410

  17. Isolating and Testing Circulating Tumor DNA and Soluble Immune Markers During the Course of Treatment for Lung Cancer

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-01-08

    Lung Cancer; Lung Neoplasms; Cancer of Lung; Cancer of the Lung; Neoplasms, Lung; Neoplasms, Pulmonary; Pulmonary Cancer; Pulmonary Neoplasms; Carcinoma, Non-small-cell Lung; Adenocarcinoma; Squamous Cell Carcinoma

  18. Thymolipoma combined with hyperthyroidism discovered by neurological symptoms.

    PubMed

    Takahashi, Hidenobu; Harada, Masahiko; Kimura, Masakazu; Kato, Harubumi

    2007-04-01

    Thymolipomas are rare slow-growing mediastinal thymic neoplasms. Most cases are asymptomatic and are sometimes discovered as a huge mass on chest x-ray films. A few cases have been discovered during examinations for other diseases. We report the second case of thymolipoma combined with hyperthyroidism in the English language literature. Neurological symptoms suddenly appeared in a 45-year-old woman. Central nervous system disorder was suggested but no significant abnormalities were found on brain MR nor were there any neurological signs. Several months later, neurological and systemic examinations on admission revealed hyperthyroidism and an anterior mediastinal tumor, 9.0x5.0x3.0 cm in size on chest CT films. Despite treatment of hyperthyroidism by medication, her neurological symptoms remained. Neurologists recommended resection of the mediastinal tumor. Malignancy could not be ruled out because of the irregularity of the tumor appearance on contrast-enhanced chest CT. Furthermore, the tumor appeared to be attached to the ascending aorta, so cytological and/or pathological diagnosis by CT-guided needle biopsy before operation were contraindicated. Extended thymectomy was performed in May 2005. The pathological diagnosis was benign thymolipoma consisting of mature fatty tissue and thymic tissue structures with Hassall's corpuscles. Her neurological symptoms seemed slightly but not markedly improved. The relationship between thymolipoma and hyperthyroidism is still unknown.

  19. Is MRI-based CFD able to improve clinical treatment of coarctations of aorta?

    PubMed

    Goubergrits, L; Riesenkampff, E; Yevtushenko, P; Schaller, J; Kertzscher, U; Berger, F; Kuehne, T

    2015-01-01

    Pressure drop associated with coarctation of the aorta (CoA) can be successfully treated surgically or by stent placement. However, a decreased life expectancy associated with altered aortic hemodynamics was found in long-term studies. Image-based computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is intended to support particular diagnoses, to help in choosing between treatment options, and to improve performance of treatment procedures. This study aimed to prove the ability of CFD to improve aortic hemodynamics in CoA patients. In 13 patients (6 males, 7 females; mean age 25 ± 14 years), we compared pre- and post-treatment peak systole hemodynamics [pressure drops and wall shear stress (WSS)] vs. virtual treatment as proposed by biomedical engineers. Anatomy and flow data for CFD were based on MRI and angiography. Segmentation, geometry reconstruction and virtual treatment geometry were performed using the software ZIBAmira, whereas peak systole flow conditions were simulated with the software ANSYS(®) Fluent(®). Virtual treatment significantly reduced pressure drop compared to post-treatment values by a mean of 2.8 ± 3.15 mmHg, which significantly reduced mean WSS by 3.8 Pa. Thus, CFD has the potential to improve post-treatment hemodynamics associated with poor long-term prognosis of patients with coarctation of the aorta. MRI-based CFD has a huge potential to allow the slight reduction of post-treatment pressure drop, which causes significant improvement (reduction) of the WSS at the stenosis segment.

  20. First-in-Human Positron Emission Tomography Study Using the 18F-αvβ6-Binding-Peptide

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-03-01

    Breast Carcinoma; Colorectal Carcinoma; Lung Carcinoma; Metastatic Malignant Neoplasm in the Breast; Metastatic Malignant Neoplasm in the Colon; Metastatic Malignant Neoplasm in the Lung; Metastatic Malignant Neoplasm in the Rectum; Pancreatic Carcinoma

  1. Morphological and immunohistochemical characterization of spontaneous thyroid gland neoplasms in guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus).

    PubMed

    Gibbons, P M; Garner, M M; Kiupel, M

    2013-03-01

    Reports of thyroid gland neoplasms in guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) are rare, but thyroid tumors are among the most common neoplasms seen in cases submitted to Northwest ZooPath. This report describes the histological and immunohistochemical characteristics of thyroid neoplasms and lists the concurrent conditions found in guinea pig cases submitted to Northwest ZooPath during 1998 to 2008. Of 526 guinea pig case submissions, 19 had thyroid neoplasms. The most common clinical findings included a palpable mass on the ventral neck and progressive weight loss. Neoplasms were removed as an excisional biopsy from 7 guinea pigs, and 3 of these animals died within a few days after surgery. Radiographic mineral density was detected in 2 masses. Five of the neoplasms were reported as cystic; 5 were black or a dark color. Histologically, the neoplasms were classified as macrofollicular thyroid adenoma (8), thyroid cystadenoma (1), papillary thyroid adenoma (3), follicular thyroid carcinoma (5), follicular-compact thyroid carcinoma (1), and small-cell thyroid carcinoma (1). Osseous metaplasia was present in 8 neoplasms, and myeloid hyperplasia was present in 1 neoplasm. All 19 neoplasms were positive for thyroid transcription factor 1 and thyroglobulin but negative for parathyroid hormone and calcitonin. Numerous concurrent diseases, including hepatopathies, cardiomyopathies, and nephropathies, were present and considered to be the cause of death in many cases. Research is needed to determine the appropriate modalities for antemortem diagnosis and treatment and whether thyroid disease plays a role in the pathogenesis of chronic degenerative diseases in guinea pigs.

  2. An Abdominal Aorta Wall Extraction for Liver Cirrhosis Classification Using Ultrasonic Images

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hayashi, Takaya; Fujita, Yusuke; Mitani, Yoshihiro; Hamamoto, Yoshihiko; Segawa, Makoto; Terai, Shuji; Sakaida, Isao

    2011-06-01

    We propose a method to extract an abdominal aorta wall from an M-mode image. Furthermore, we propose the use of a Gaussian filter in order to improve image quality. The experimental results show that the Gaussian filter is effective in the abdominal aorta wall extraction.

  3. Co-existence of severe coarctation of the aorta and aortic valve stenosis in a 65-year-old woman: a case report.

    PubMed

    Onohara, Daisuke; Sato, Aiko; Tasaki, Yuichi; Yamada, Takafumi

    2014-01-01

    Coarctation of the aorta is usually diagnosed and corrected early in life. Survival to more than 60 years of age of a patient with unrepaired coarctation of the aorta is extremely unusual, and the optimal management strategies for such patients are controversial. We describe the case of a woman who was first diagnosed as having coarctation of the aorta and aortic valve stenosis at the age of 65 years and underwent successful aortic valve replacement.

  4. Pathologic aneurysmal dilation of the ascending aorta and dilation of the main pulmonary artery in patients with Kabuki syndrome: valve-sparing aortic root replacement.

    PubMed

    Dyamenahalli, Umesh; Abraham, Boban; Fontenot, Eudice; Prasad, Vinay; Imamura, Michiaki

    2007-01-01

    We report the aneurysmal dilation of the ascending aorta and the main pulmonary artery in 2 children with Kabuki syndrome. In 1 patient, there was progressive aneurysmal dilation of the ascending aorta necessitating aortoplasty. Histologic examination of the resected aorta revealed disrupted and fragmented elastic fibers in the medial layer, along with mucinous degeneration of the aortic wall. This is the first recognition and report of these findings as part of the Kabuki syndrome.

  5. Measuring, Reversing, and Modeling the Mechanical Changes Due to the Absence of Fibulin-4 in Mouse Arteries

    PubMed Central

    Le, Victoria P.; Yamashiro, Yoshito; Yanagisawa, Hiromi; Wagenseil, Jessica E.

    2014-01-01

    Mice with a smooth muscle cell (SMC) specific deletion of fibulin-4 (SMKO) show decreased expression of SMC contractile genes, decreased circumferential compliance, and develop aneurysms in the ascending aorta. Neonatal administration of drugs that inhibit the angiotensin II pathway encourage expression of contractile genes and prevent aneurysm development, but do not increase compliance in SMKO aorta. We hypothesized that multidimensional mechanical changes in the aorta and/or other elastic arteries may contribute to aneurysm pathophysiology. We found that the SMKO ascending aorta and carotid artery showed mechanical changes in the axial direction. These changes were not reversed by angiotensin II inhibitors, hence reversing the axial changes is not required for aneurysm prevention. Mechanical changes in the circumferential direction were specific to the ascending aorta, therefore mechanical changes in the carotid do not contribute to aortic aneurysm development. We also hypothesized that a published model of postnatal aortic growth and remodeling could be used to investigate mechanisms behind the changes in SMKO aorta and aneurysm development over time. Dimensions and mechanical behavior of adult SMKO aorta were reproduced by the model after modifying the initial component material constants and the aortic dilation with each postnatal time step. The model links biological observations to specific mechanical responses in aneurysm development and treatment. PMID:24526456

  6. Measuring, reversing, and modeling the mechanical changes due to the absence of Fibulin-4 in mouse arteries.

    PubMed

    Le, Victoria P; Yamashiro, Yoshito; Yanagisawa, Hiromi; Wagenseil, Jessica E

    2014-10-01

    Mice with a smooth muscle cell (SMC)-specific deletion of Fibulin-4 (SMKO) show decreased expression of SMC contractile genes, decreased circumferential compliance, and develop aneurysms in the ascending aorta. Neonatal administration of drugs that inhibit the angiotensin II pathway encourages the expression of contractile genes and prevents aneurysm development, but does not increase compliance in SMKO aorta. We hypothesized that multidimensional mechanical changes in the aorta and/or other elastic arteries may contribute to aneurysm pathophysiology. We found that the SMKO ascending aorta and carotid artery showed mechanical changes in the axial direction. These changes were not reversed by angiotensin II inhibitors, hence reversing the axial changes is not required for aneurysm prevention. Mechanical changes in the circumferential direction were specific to the ascending aorta; therefore, mechanical changes in the carotid do not contribute to aortic aneurysm development. We also hypothesized that a published model of postnatal aortic growth and remodeling could be used to investigate mechanisms behind the changes in SMKO aorta and aneurysm development over time. Dimensions and mechanical behavior of adult SMKO aorta were reproduced by the model after modifying the initial component material constants and the aortic dilation with each postnatal time step. The model links biological observations to specific mechanical responses in aneurysm development and treatment.

  7. Ascending aortic elongation and the risk of dissection.

    PubMed

    Krüger, Tobias; Forkavets, Oksana; Veseli, Kujtim; Lausberg, Henning; Vöhringer, Luise; Schneider, Wilke; Bamberg, Fabian; Schlensak, Christian

    2016-08-01

    Unlike aneurysm formation, the role of ascending aortic elongation in the pathogenesis of Type A aortic dissection (TAD) is largely unclear. We investigated the morphology of healthy, dissected and predissection aortas with a focus on ascending aortic length. We retrospectively compared clinical and computer tomography angiography (CTA) data from TAD patients (n = 130), patients who developed a TAD in the further clinical course (preTAD, n = 16) and healthy control patients who received a CTA for non-aortic emergencies (n = 165). The length of the ascending aorta was defined as the distance between the sinotubular junction (STJ) and the brachiocephalic trunk (BCT) at the central line, the outer and inner curvature as well as the direct distance in the frontal and sagittal planes. Additionally, the aortic diameters were analysed. In the healthy controls, we found a positive correlation of age with the aortic diameter (r = 0.57) and aortic length (r = 0.42). The correlation of the respective parameters with the body size was negligible (r < 0.2). The median ascending aortic diameter at the height of the pulmonary artery in TAD (50 mm) was significantly (P < 0.001) larger compared with the respective diameter of the healthy aortas (34 mm). The diameter of the preTAD aortas (40 mm) was also significantly larger compared with the healthy controls. These proportions were similar in all the aortic diameters. The midline length of the healthy ascending aortas was 71 mm. In the preTAD and TAD aortas, the same values were 81 mm and 92 mm, respectively (both P < 0.001). We evaluated the linear distance between the STJ and the BCT in the frontal plane as an easy-to-measure parameter of aortic length. In the TAD aortas (108 mm) and preTAD aortas (97 mm), this distance was significantly longer compared with the healthy aortas (84 mm). Aortic diameter might not be an optimal parameter to predict dissection. Most aortas dissect at diameters below 55 mm. Both the TAD and preTAD aortas were elongated compared with the healthy controls. Thus, aortic elongation may play a role in the pathogenesis of and may be a risk factor for TAD. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

  8. Enhancing Targeted Therapy for Myeloproliferative Neoplasms

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-10-01

    Myeloproliferative Neoplasms PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR: Gary W. Reuther CONTRACTING...2. REPORT TYPE Annual 3. DATES COVERED 30 2012-2 2013 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Enhancing Targeted Therapy for Myeloproliferative Neoplasms ...AVAILABILITY STATEMENT Approved for Public Release; Distribution Unlimited 13. SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES 14. ABSTRACT Myeloproliferative neoplasms

  9. A Phase 1 Study of CC-486 as a Single Agent and in Combination With Carboplatin or ABI-007 in Subjects With Relapsed or Refractory Solid Tumors

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2016-03-23

    Urinary Bladder Neoplasms; Carcinoma, Transitional Cell; Ovarian Neoplasms; Fallopian Tube Neoplasms; Peritoneal Neoplasms; Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung; Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal; Tumor Virus Infections

  10. Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia

    MedlinePlus

    ... Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Treatment Myelodysplastic/ Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Treatment Myelodysplastic/ Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version General Information About Myelodysplastic/ ...

  11. Safety Study of SEA-CD40 in Cancer Patients

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-06-21

    Cancer; Carcinoma; Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung; Carcinoma, Squamous Cell; Hematologic Malignancies; Hodgkin Disease; Lymphoma; Lymphoma, B-Cell; Lymphoma, Follicular; Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse; Melanoma; Neoplasms; Neoplasm Metastasis; Neoplasms, Head and Neck; Neoplasms, Squamous Cell; Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer; Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Metastatic; Non-small Cell Carcinoma; Squamous Cell Cancer; Squamous Cell Carcinoma; Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck; Squamous Cell Neoplasm; Lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin

  12. 3D MR flow analysis in realistic rapid-prototyping model systems of the thoracic aorta: comparison with in vivo data and computational fluid dynamics in identical vessel geometries.

    PubMed

    Canstein, C; Cachot, P; Faust, A; Stalder, A F; Bock, J; Frydrychowicz, A; Küffer, J; Hennig, J; Markl, M

    2008-03-01

    The knowledge of local vascular anatomy and function in the human body is of high interest for the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular disease. A comprehensive analysis of the hemodynamics in the thoracic aorta is presented based on the integration of flow-sensitive 4D MRI with state-of-the-art rapid prototyping technology and computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Rapid prototyping was used to transform aortic geometries as measured by contrast-enhanced MR angiography into realistic vascular models with large anatomical coverage. Integration into a flow circuit with patient-specific pulsatile in-flow conditions and application of flow-sensitive 4D MRI permitted detailed analysis of local and global 3D flow dynamics in a realistic vascular geometry. Visualization of characteristic 3D flow patterns and quantitative comparisons of the in vitro experiments with in vivo data and CFD simulations in identical vascular geometries were performed to evaluate the accuracy of vascular model systems. The results indicate the potential of such patient-specific model systems for detailed experimental simulation of realistic vascular hemodynamics. Further studies are warranted to examine the influence of refined boundary conditions of the human circulatory system such as fluid-wall interaction and their effect on normal and pathological blood flow characteristics associated with vascular geometry. (c) 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

  13. Atypical Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia

    MedlinePlus

    ... Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Treatment Myelodysplastic/ Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Treatment Myelodysplastic/ Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version General Information About Myelodysplastic/ ...

  14. The role of the JAK2 GGCC haplotype and the TET2 gene in familial myeloproliferative neoplasms

    PubMed Central

    Olcaydu, Damla; Rumi, Elisa; Harutyunyan, Ashot; Passamonti, Francesco; Pietra, Daniela; Pascutto, Cristiana; Berg, Tiina; Jäger, Roland; Hammond, Emma; Cazzola, Mario; Kralovics, Robert

    2011-01-01

    Background Myeloproliferative neoplasms constitute a group of diverse chronic myeloid malignancies that share pathogenic features such as acquired mutations in the JAK2, TET2, CBL and MPL genes. There are recent reports that a JAK2 gene haplotype (GGCC or 46/1) confers susceptibility to JAK2 mutation-positive myeloproliferative neoplasms. The aim of this study was to examine the role of the JAK2 GGCC haplotype and germline mutations of TET2, CBL and MPL in familial myeloproliferative neoplasms. Design and Methods We investigated patients with familial (n=88) or sporadic (n=684) myeloproliferative neoplasms, and a control population (n=203) from the same demographic area in Italy. Association analysis was performed using tagged single nucleotide polymorphisms (rs10974944 and rs12343867) of the JAK2 haplotype. Sequence analysis of TET2, CBL and MPL was conducted in the 88 patients with familial myeloproliferative neoplasms. Results Association analysis revealed no difference in haplotype frequency between familial and sporadic cases of myeloproliferative neoplasms (P=0.6529). No germline mutations in TET2, CBL or MPL that segregate with the disease phenotype were identified. As we observed variability in somatic mutations in the affected members of a pedigree with myeloproliferative neoplasms, we postulated that somatic mutagenesis is increased in familial myeloproliferative neoplasms. Accordingly, we compared the incidence of malignant disorders between sporadic and familial patients. Although the overall incidence of malignant disorders did not differ significantly between cases of familial and sporadic myeloproliferative neoplasms, malignancies were more frequent in patients with familial disease aged between 50 to 70 years (P=0.0198) than in patients in the same age range with sporadic myeloproliferative neoplasms. Conclusions We conclude that the JAK2 GGCC haplotype and germline mutations of TET2, CBL or MPL do not explain familial clustering of myeloproliferative neoplasms. As we observed an increased frequency of malignant disorders in patients with familial myeloproliferative neoplasms, we hypothesize that the germline genetic lesions that underlie familial clustering of myeloproliferative neoplasms predispose to somatic mutagenesis that is not restricted to myeloid hematopoietic cells but cause an increase in overall carcinogenesis. PMID:21173100

  15. Ultrastructural characterization of pulmonary neoplasms. II. The role of electron microscopy in characterization of uncommon epithelial pulmonary neoplasms, metastatic neoplasms to and from lung, and other tumors, including mesenchymal neoplasms.

    PubMed

    Herrera, G A; Alexander, C B; Jones, J M

    1985-01-01

    Ultrastructural analysis through better resolution adds significant information to the evaluation and classification of primary pulmonary neoplasms. Light microscopy is limited in the evaluation of lung neoplasms. In some cases the light microscopic appearance may be entirely misleading, whereas in others it is inconclusive. Immunocytochemistry provides information on cytoplasmic differentiation of various tumors and hence more data on their corresponding phenotypes. The data from immunocytochemistry without corresponding objective electron microscopic evaluation may be very difficult to interpret. Correlation of historical, gross, light, electron microscopic, and immunocytochemical data is essential for a final accurate diagnosis (fig. 20). Fine needle aspiration of pulmonary neoplasms is becoming very fashionable and a diagnosis, including type of neoplasm, is expected on the basis of examination of a limited number of cells which further emphasizes the importance of ultrastructural characterization in helping to establish an accurate diagnosis [63-69]. The current classification of pulmonary neoplasms may need to be modified in the near future to incorporate the newly created data [70-72]. At the present time, there appears to be, at least, a need for a 'double standard', as Sobin [73] has suggested, which would permit the evaluation of the biologic significance of the ultrastructural and immunocytochemical findings (as applied to classification of neoplasms) in an effort to derive meaningful clinicopathologic correlations. Figure 20 emphasizes the additive role which should be played by the various diagnostic modalities to enable a morphologic assessment which would be an accurate predictor of biologic behavior. With an accurate assessment of biologic behavior, a more appropriate and rational approach for therapy is possible. There is also an important role for ultrastructural analysis in metastatic pleural and pulmonary neoplasms, primarily adenocarcinomas, as well as in the differential diagnosis of pulmonary neoplasms versus other tumors that may be similar in histological appearance. The role of ultrastructure in mesenchymal neoplasms is also crucial in defining specific neoplastic cell populations and in some cases in the differentiation from other non-mesenchymal tumors. It seems that routine electron microscopic examination of pulmonary neoplasms provides additional information that may be of great value in the management of patients and in understanding the differentiation, and perhaps histogenesis, of pulmonary neoplasms.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

  16. Cardiovascular Involvement in Children with Osteogenesis Imperfecta

    PubMed Central

    Karamifar, Hamdollah; Ilkhanipoor, Homa; Ajami, Gholamhossein; Karamizadeh, Zohreh; Amirhakimi, Gholamhossein; Shakiba, Ali-Mohammad

    2013-01-01

    Objective Osteogenesis imperfecta is a hereditary disease resulting from mutation in type I procollagen genes. One of the extra skeletal manifestations of this disease is cardiac involvement. The prevalence of cardiac involvement is still unknown in the children with osteogenesis imperfecta. The present study aimed to investigate the prevalence of cardiovascular abnormalities in these patients. Methods 24 children with osteogenesis imperfecta and 24 normal children who were matched with the patients regarding sex and age were studied. In both groups, standard echocardiography was performed, and heart valves were investigated. Dimensions of left ventricle, aorta annulus, sinotubular junction, ascending and descending aorta were measured and compared between the two groups. Findings The results revealed no significant difference between the two groups regarding age, sex, ejection fraction, shortening fraction, mean of aorta annulus, sinotubular junction, ascending and descending aorta, but after correction based on the body surface area, dimensions of aorta annulus, sinotubular junction, ascending and descending aorta in the patients were significantly higher than those in the control group (P<0.05). Two (8.3%) patients had aortic insufficiency and five (20%) patients had tricuspid regurgitation, three of whom had gradient >25 mmHg and one patient had pulmonary insufficiency with indirect evidence of pulmonary hypertension. According to Z scores of aorta annulus, sinotubular junction and ascending aorta, 5, 3, and 1 out of 24 patients had Z scores >2 respectively. Conclusion The prevalence of valvular heart diseases and aortic root dilation was higher in children with osteogenesis imperfecta. In conclusion, cardiovascular investigation is recommended in these children. PMID:24800009

  17. Calcified pancreatic and peripancreatic neoplasms: spectrum of pathologies.

    PubMed

    Verde, Franco; Fishman, Elliot K

    2017-11-01

    A variety of pancreatic and peripancreatic neoplasms may contain calcifications. We present a review of common to uncommon pancreatic neoplasms that may contain calcifications to include ductal adenocarcinoma, pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors, serous cystadenomas, solid pseudopapillary tumors, intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms, mucinous cystic neoplasms, and lymphoepithelial cysts. In addition, duodenal mucinous adenocarcinoma can present as a peripancreatic mass that may contain calcification. Knowledge of the spectrum of calcification patterns can help the interpreting radiologist provide a meaningful differential.

  18. 77 FR 61768 - Neurological Devices Panel of the Medical Devices Advisory Committee; Notice of Meeting

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-10-11

    ... vasculature via partial occlusion of the descending aorta, including in patients with acute ischemic stroke... device is placed in the descending aorta. On March 30, 2005, a Humanitarian Device Exemption application... selectively stopping or controlling flow in the peripheral vasculature, which includes the descending aorta...

  19. Exploring inside a shaggy aorta using non-obstructive angioscopy.

    PubMed

    Komatsu, Sei; Takahashi, Satoru; Toyama, Yasuyuki; Kodama, Kazuhisa

    2017-05-22

    A shaggy aorta is reportedly related to atheromatous embolisation, which causes serious ischaemic damage to various organs. However, its characteristics are poorly understood. Non-obstructive angioscopy (NOA) has been developed to safely detect aortic plaques and injuries. A 70-year-old woman who was found to have a shaggy aorta on CT angiography underwent NOA for precise evaluation of vulnerable aortic plaques and injuries inside the aorta. Vulnerable aortic plaques included puff-like ruptures, chandelier-like ruptures and erosions seen throughout the aorta. Aortic injuries included flaps, slits, subintimal bleeding, dissection and multilayered partitions. The patient had no embolic symptoms or an elevated eosinophil count, estimated glomerular filtration rate or C reactive protein level, compared with the baseline. Various changes in spontaneous vulnerable plaques and injuries inside the aorta that were not apparent on CT were safely revealed on NOA. Thus, NOA may reveal findings indicative of spontaneous and postoperative atheromatous embolisation. © BMJ Publishing Group Ltd (unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

  20. Ascending Aorta to Hepatic and Mesenteric Artery Bypassing, in Patients with Chronic Mesenteric Ischemia and Extensive Aortic Disease-A Case Report and Review of the Literature.

    PubMed

    Barr, James; Kokotsakis, John; Tsipas, Pantelis; Papapavlou, Prodromos; Velissarios, Konstantinos; Kratimenos, Theodoros; Athanasiou, Thanos

    2017-02-01

    Chronic mesenteric ischemia (CMI) is a rare disorder caused by severe stenosis of the mesenteric arterial supply that results in postprandial pain and weight loss. Treatment options are surgical or endovascular. Surgical bypass can be performed in an antegrade fashion from the supraceliac abdominal aorta (AA) or the distal descending thoracic aorta or in a retrograde fashion from the infrarenal aorta or the common iliac artery. However, in some patients with disease of the descending thoracic aorta or the AA, another site for the proximal anastomosis needs to be found. In this article, we report the case of a 69-year-old man with a thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm and CMI in whom we performed bypass grafts to the hepatic and superior mesenteric arteries using the ascending aorta as the site for the proximal anastomoses via a median sternolaparotomy. In addition, we performed a literature review of all similar cases and provide an analysis of this technique and an assessment of the success rates. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  1. Recirculation zone length in renal artery is affected by flow spirality and renal-to-aorta flow ratio.

    PubMed

    Javadzadegan, Ashkan; Fulker, David; Barber, Tracie

    2017-07-01

    Haemodynamic perturbations such as flow recirculation zones play a key role in progression and development of renal artery stenosis, which typically originate at the aorta-renal bifurcation. The spiral nature of aortic blood flow, division of aortic blood flow in renal artery as well as the exercise conditions have been shown to alter the haemodynamics in both positive and negative ways. This study focuses on the combinative effects of spiral component of blood flow, renal-to-aorta flow ratio and the exercise conditions on the size and distribution of recirculation zones in renal branches using computational fluid dynamics technique. Our findings show that the recirculation length was longest when the renal-to-aorta flow ratio was smallest. Spiral flow and exercise conditions were found to be effective in reducing the recirculation length in particular in small renal-to-aorta flow ratios. These results support the hypothesis that in renal arteries with small flow ratios where a stenosis is already developed an artificially induced spiral flow within the aorta may decelerate the progression of stenosis and thereby help preserve kidney function.

  2. Serum lipid profile and inflammatory markers in the aorta of cholesterol-fed rats supplemented with extra virgin olive oil, sunflower oils and oil-products.

    PubMed

    Katsarou, Ageliki I; Kaliora, Andriana C; Papalois, Apostolos; Chiou, Antonia; Kalogeropoulos, Nick; Agrogiannis, George; Andrikopoulos, Nikolaos K

    2015-01-01

    Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) major and minor component anti-inflammatory effect on aorta was evaluated; Wistar rats were fed (9 weeks) on either a high-cholesterol diet (HCD) or a HCD supplemented with oils, i.e. EVOO, sunflower oil (SO), high-oleic sunflower oil (HOSO), or oil-products modified to their phenolic content, i.e. phenolics deprived-EVOO [EVOO(-)], SO enriched with the EVOO phenolics [SO(+)], HOSO enriched with the EVOO phenolics [HOSO(+)]. HCD induced dyslipidemia and resulted in higher aorta adhesion molecules levels at euthanasia. Groups receiving EVOO, EVOO(-), HOSO, HOSO(+) presented higher serum TC and LDL-c levels compared to cholesterol-fed rats; attenuation of aorta E-selectin levels was also observed. In EVOO/EVOO(-) groups, aorta vascular endothelial adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) was lower compared to HCD animals. SO/SO(+) diets had no effect on endothelial dysfunction amelioration. Overall, our results suggest that major and/or minor EVOO constituents improve aorta E-selectin and VCAM-1, while serum lipids do not benefit.

  3. CD1a immunopositivity in perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms: true expression or technical artifact? A streptavidin-biotin and polymer-based detection system immunohistochemical study of perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms and their morphologic mimics.

    PubMed

    Ahrens, William A; Folpe, Andrew L

    2011-03-01

    Perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms comprise a family of rare neoplasms composed of morphologically distinctive perivascular epithelioid cells exhibiting a "myomelanocytic" immunophenotype. The distinction of perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms from other tumors with melanocytic and smooth muscle differentiation can be difficult. A recent study has suggested that perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms routinely express CD1a, a Langerhans cell-associated transmembrane glycoprotein involved in antigen presentation and that expression of this marker may be helpful in the distinction of perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms from various mimics. We evaluated a series of perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms and potential mimics for CD1a expression. A total of 54 cases (27 perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms, 11 leiomyosarcomas, 10 melanomas, 6 clear cell sarcomas) were evaluated in 2 laboratories (Mayo Clinic Rochester: 31 cases, Carolinas Medical Center: 23 cases). Selected positive cases were retested at Carolinas Medical Center (11 cases) and Mayo Clinic Rochester (10 cases). Mayo Clinic Rochester methods were as follows: MTB1 clone (1:20, Novocastra, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK), heat-induced epitope retrieval in EDTA (pH 8.0), and Dako Advance detection system (Dako Corp, Carpinteria, CA) with background-reducing diluent. Carolinas Medical Center methods were as follows: MTB1 clone (1:30; CellMarque, Rocklin, CA), heat-induced epitope retrieval in Medium Cell Conditioner #1 (pH 8.0-9.0), and streptavidin-biotin detection system with diaminobenzidine chromogen, with and without biotin blocking. Scores were as follows: 1+, 5% to 25%; 2+, 26% to 50%; and 3+, more than 51%. Langerhans cells served as a positive internal control in all tested cases. All Mayo Clinic Rochester cases were negative. Sixteen Carolinas Medical Center perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms (14 renal angiomyolipomas, 1 soft tissue perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasm, 1 pulmonary clear cell "sugar" tumor) showed CD1a immunopositivity (1+: 7 cases; 2+: 7 cases; 3+: 2 cases) when tested without biotin blocking, 11 of these cases were retested with biotin blocking and were negative. All non-perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms were negative. All positive perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms showed cytoplasmic staining only, without membranous staining. Ten Carolinas Medical Center positive perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms were negative when retested a Mayo Clinic Rochester, using a polymer-based detection system. We conclude that perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms do not truly express CD1a in a biologically plausible membranous pattern, but may instead show aberrant cytoplasmic immunopositivity in some laboratories. Close inspection of published photomicrographs of previously reported CD1a-positive perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms shows an identical pattern of cytoplasmic positivity, likely reflecting abundant endogenous biotin within perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasm cells. We do not believe that there is a role for CD1a immunohistochemistry in the differential diagnosis of perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  4. In vivo and in vitro sensitivity of blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm to SL-401, an interleukin-3 receptor targeted biologic agent.

    PubMed

    Angelot-Delettre, Fanny; Roggy, Anne; Frankel, Arthur E; Lamarthee, Baptiste; Seilles, Estelle; Biichle, Sabeha; Royer, Bernard; Deconinck, Eric; Rowinsky, Eric K; Brooks, Christopher; Bardet, Valerie; Benet, Blandine; Bennani, Hind; Benseddik, Zehaira; Debliquis, Agathe; Lusina, Daniel; Roussel, Mikael; Solly, Françoise; Ticchioni, Michel; Saas, Philippe; Garnache-Ottou, Francine

    2015-02-01

    Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm is an aggressive malignancy derived from plasmacytoid dendritic cells. There is currently no accepted standard of care for treating this neoplasm, and therapeutic strategies have never been prospectively evaluated. Since blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm cells express high levels of interleukin-3 receptor α chain (IL3-Rα or CD123), antitumor effects of the interleukin-3 receptor-targeted drug SL-401 against blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm were evaluated in vitro and in vivo. The cytotoxicity of SL-401 was assessed in patient-derived blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm cell lines (CAL-1 and GEN2.2) and in primary blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm cells isolated from 12 patients using flow cytometry and an in vitro cytotoxicity assay. The cytotoxic effects of SL-401 were compared to those of several relevant cytotoxic agents. SL-401 exhibited a robust cytotoxicity against blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm cells in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, the cytotoxic effects of SL-401 were observed at substantially lower concentrations than those achieved in clinical trials to date. Survival of mice inoculated with a blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm cell line and treated with a single cycle of SL-401 was significantly longer than that of untreated controls (median survival, 58 versus 17 days, P<0.001). These findings indicate that blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm cells are highly sensitive to SL-401, and support further evaluation of SL-401 in patients suffering from blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm. Copyright© Ferrata Storti Foundation.

  5. In vivo and in vitro sensitivity of blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm to SL-401, an interleukin-3 receptor targeted biologic agent

    PubMed Central

    Angelot-Delettre, Fanny; Roggy, Anne; Frankel, Arthur E.; Lamarthee, Baptiste; Seilles, Estelle; Biichle, Sabeha; Royer, Bernard; Deconinck, Eric; Rowinsky, Eric K.; Brooks, Christopher; Bardet, Valerie; Benet, Blandine; Bennani, Hind; Benseddik, Zehaira; Debliquis, Agathe; Lusina, Daniel; Roussel, Mikael; Solly, Françoise; Ticchioni, Michel; Saas, Philippe; Garnache-Ottou, Francine

    2015-01-01

    Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm is an aggressive malignancy derived from plasmacytoid dendritic cells. There is currently no accepted standard of care for treating this neoplasm, and therapeutic strategies have never been prospectively evaluated. Since blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm cells express high levels of interleukin-3 receptor α chain (IL3-Rα or CD123), antitumor effects of the interleukin-3 receptor-targeted drug SL-401 against blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm were evaluated in vitro and in vivo. The cytotoxicity of SL-401 was assessed in patient-derived blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm cell lines (CAL-1 and GEN2.2) and in primary blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm cells isolated from 12 patients using flow cytometry and an in vitro cytotoxicity assay. The cytotoxic effects of SL-401 were compared to those of several relevant cytotoxic agents. SL-401 exhibited a robust cytotoxicity against blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm cells in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, the cytotoxic effects of SL-401 were observed at substantially lower concentrations than those achieved in clinical trials to date. Survival of mice inoculated with a blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm cell line and treated with a single cycle of SL-401 was significantly longer than that of untreated controls (median survival, 58 versus 17 days, P<0.001). These findings indicate that blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm cells are highly sensitive to SL-401, and support further evaluation of SL-401 in patients suffering from blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm. PMID:25381130

  6. Anomalous Posterior Intercostal Arterial Trunk Arising From the Abdominal Aorta

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Jie, Bing, E-mail: jbshh@163.com; Yu, Dong, E-mail: yudong-mail@126.com; Jiang, Sen, E-mail: jasfly77@vip.163.com

    A common trunk of the ipsilateral posterior intercostal artery (PIA) arising from the thoracic aorta is usually an anatomical variation. However, a common trunk of bilateral posterior intercostal arterial trunk (PIAT) arising from the abdominal aorta is rare. It is important to recognize this anatomical variation of PIA when performing interventional radiological procedures. We present a rare case of an anomalous PIAT that originated from the abdominal aorta in a patient with hemoptysis caused by tuberculosis sequelae. Bilateral 4th to 11th PIAs arose from a common trunk and the trunk arising from the posterior aspect of the abdominal aorta atmore » the level of T12/L1 intervertebral space. The pathological right 4th and 5th PIAs and bronchial arteries were embolized. Hemoptysis has been controlled for 3 months.« less

  7. Complete occlusion after blunt injury to the abdominal aorta.

    PubMed

    Meghoo, Colin A L; Gonzalez, Ernest A; Tyroch, Alan H; Wohltmann, Christopher D

    2003-10-01

    Injury to the abdominal aorta after blunt trauma is uncommon. When this injury results in complete vessel occlusion, the presentation is dramatic. Timely intervention is essential. After a case report, we examined all reported cases of complete occlusion after blunt injury to the abdominal aorta and reviewed the cause, presentation, and management of this injury. Complete vessel occlusion arises from intimal injury. The most frequent mechanism is compression from a seat belt or steering wheel during a motor vehicle crash. Patients present with absent femoral and distal pulses in association with lower extremity neuropathy. Intervention commonly involves bypass grafting of the abdominal aorta. Complete occlusion after blunt trauma to the abdominal aorta is rare. Neurologic deficits most commonly arise from peripheral nerve ischemia. Reperfusion within 6 hours confers a greater chance of limb salvage and neurologic recovery.

  8. A Study of ASN007 in Patients With Advanced Solid Tumors

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-01-29

    Cancer; Malignancy; Neoplasia; Neoplasm; Neoplasm Metastasis; Colon Cancer; Colonic Neoplasms; Colon Cancer Liver Metastasis; Metastatic Cancer; Metastatic Melanoma; Metastatic Colon Cancer; Metastatic Lung Cancer; Non Small Cell Lung Cancer Metastatic; Pancreatic Cancer; Pancreas Cancer; Pancreas Adenocarcinoma; Pancreas Neoplasm; Metastatic Nonsmall Cell Lung Cancer; Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer

  9. Aorta-Iliac Bypass in Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair in Young Chinese Patients.

    PubMed

    Duan, Yu-Yin; Ge, Yi-Peng; Zheng, Jun; Pan, Xu-Dong; Dong, Xiu-Hua; Ma, Wei-Guo; Cheng, Li-Jian; Zhu, Jun-Ming; Liu, Yong-Min; Sun, Li-Zhong

    2016-04-01

    Many surgical methods of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm repair (TAAAR) have been introduced over the past several decades, with varying degrees of success. We developed an aorta-iliac bypass technique to treat thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) in young Chinese patients. The aim of this study is to evaluate the results of this technique intraoperatively and postoperatively. From June 2014 to March 2015, 28 patients underwent TAAAR using aorta-iliac bypass technique. A four-branched tetrafurcate graft was used. Two branches of the graft are sutured to bilateral common iliac arteries in an end-to-side fashion. The trunk of the graft was sutured to the proximal descending aorta in an end-to-end fashion. Then aorta-iliac bypass was established, and the lower extremities, viscera organ and spinal cord (SC) obtained perfusion from proximal descending aorta via the bypass graft. The thoracic and abdominal aorta were clamped in a staged fashion. The patent segmental arteries (SAs), and visceral arteries (coeliac trunk, superior mesenteric arteries, and renal arteries) were reattached sequentially. Evoked potential (EP) monitoring was adopted to assess the SC ischaemia throughout the procedure. The postoperative outcomes and follow-up results of this technique were evaluated. There was no in-hospital mortality. Complications included acute kidney dysfunction and pulmonary haemorrhage in one case (3.6%) each. The SAs were reattached in all cases. The EP wave disappeared after proximal descending aorta was clamped, and gradually recovered after the patent SAs reattached. The median follow-up after operation was eight months (range, 1-10 months). There was no delayed neurologic deficit or late death. Thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm repair using aorta-iliac bypass may be a simple and safe choice for young Chinese patients with thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms. Copyright © 2015 Australian and New Zealand Society of Cardiac and Thoracic Surgeons (ANZSCTS) and the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand (CSANZ). Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  10. Loss of pulse pressure amplification between the ascending and descending aorta in patients after an aortic arch repair.

    PubMed

    Murakami, Tomoaki; Shiraishi, Masahiro; Nawa, Tomohiro; Takeda, Atsuhito

    2017-03-01

    One of the most important problems in patients with an aortic coarctation after an aortic arch repair is future cardiovascular disease. We previously reported the enhancement of the aortic pressure wave reflection in patients and hypothesized that the enhancement was caused by a new pressure wave reflection generated from the repaired site. To prove the hypothesis, we analyzed the pressure waveform in the ascending and descending aorta and examined their pulse pressure (PP) amplification. Fifteen patients after an aortic arch repair without a recoarctation were enrolled. The ascending and descending aorta pressure waveforms were recorded by a pressure sensor mounted catheter. The pressures were compared with those of age-matched controls. The patient's age was 7.3 ± 2.7 years, and they underwent the aortic arch repair at 30.1 ± 29.0 days. The ascending aorta SBP (106.1 ± 12.7 mmHg) was higher than in the control patients (97.9 ± 14.3) (P = 0.015). The PP at the ascending aorta in the patients (41.3 ± 7.8) was wider than that in the controls (36.4 ± 5.0) (P = 0.010). There was no difference concerning the PP at the descending aorta between the patients (41.0 ± 7.7) and controls (40.5 ± 6.5). The difference in the PP between the descending and ascending aorta (PP at the descending aorta - PP at the ascending aorta) in the patients was -0.3 ± 1.7 and 5.1 ± 2.9 in the controls (P < 0.0001). The ascending aortic PP was augmented in the patients after the aortic arch repair. It could be one of the causes of future cardiovascular disease.

  11. Transcriptional and phenotypic changes in aorta and aortic valve with aging and MnSOD deficiency in mice

    PubMed Central

    Roos, Carolyn M.; Hagler, Michael; Zhang, Bin; Oehler, Elise A.; Arghami, Arman

    2013-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to characterize changes in antioxidant and age-related gene expression in aorta and aortic valve with aging, and test the hypothesis that increased mitochondrial oxidative stress accelerates age-related endothelial and aortic valve dysfunction. Wild-type (MnSOD+/+) and manganese SOD heterozygous haploinsufficient (MnSOD+/−) mice were studied at 3 and 18 mo of age. In aorta from wild-type mice, antioxidant expression was preserved, although there were age-associated increases in Nox2 expression. Haploinsufficiency of MnSOD did not alter antioxidant expression in aorta, but increased expression of Nox2. When compared with that of aorta, age-associated reductions in antioxidant expression were larger in aortic valves from wild-type and MnSOD haploinsufficient mice, although Nox2 expression was unchanged. Similarly, sirtuin expression was relatively well-preserved in aorta from both genotypes, whereas expression of SIRT1, SIRT2, SIRT3, SIRT4, and SIRT6 were significantly reduced in the aortic valve. Expression of p16ink4a, a marker of cellular senescence, was profoundly increased in both aorta and aortic valve from MnSOD+/+ and MnSOD+/− mice. Functionally, we observed comparable age-associated reductions in endothelial function in aorta from both MnSOD+/+ and MnSOD+/− mice. Interestingly, inhibition of NAD(P)H oxidase with apocynin or gp91ds-tat improved endothelial function in MnSOD+/+ mice but significantly impaired endothelial function in MnSOD+/− mice at both ages. Aortic valve function was not impaired by aging or MnSOD haploinsufficiency. Changes in antioxidant and sirtuin gene expression with aging differ dramatically between aorta and aortic valve. Furthermore, although MnSOD does not result in overt cardiovascular dysfunction with aging, compensatory transcriptional responses to MnSOD deficiency appear to be tissue specific. PMID:23997094

  12. Aortic elongation in aortic aneurysm and dissection: the Tübingen Aortic Pathoanatomy (TAIPAN) project.

    PubMed

    Krüger, Tobias; Sandoval Boburg, Rodrigo; Lescan, Mario; Oikonomou, Alexandre; Schneider, Wilke; Vöhringer, Luise; Lausberg, Henning; Bamberg, Fabian; Blumenstock, Gunnar; Schlensak, Christian

    2018-01-24

    To study the lengths and diameters of aortic segments in healthy and diseased aortas and to assess the role of aortic elongation in Type A aortic dissection (TAD) prediction. Ectasia and aneurysm were defined by ascending aorta diameters of 45-54 mm and ≥55 mm, respectively. Computed tomography angiography studies of 256 healthy, 102 ectasia, 38 aneurysm, 17 pre-TAD and 166 TAD aortas were analysed using curved multiplanar reformats. The study groups were structurally equal. The diameter of the ascending aorta was 35 mm in the control group and was larger (P < 0.001) in the pre-TAD (43 mm) and TAD (56 mm) groups. The length of the ascending aorta from the aortic annulus to the brachiocephalic trunk was 92 mm in the control group, 113 mm in the ectasia group, 120 mm in the aneurysm group and 111 mm and 118 mm in the pre-TAD and TAD groups (all P < 0.001 compared with the control group). An ascending aorta length of 120 mm was exceeded in 2% of the control group, 31% of the ectasia group, 50% of the aneurysm group, 24% of the pre-TAD group and 48% of the TAD group. The correlation between the diameter and the length of the ascending aorta was r = 0.752; therefore, both parameters must be examined separately. A score considering both parameters identified 23.5% of pre-TAD patients, significantly more than the diameter alone, and 31.4% of ectasia aortas were elongated. Patients with ectatic (45-54 mm diameter) and elongated (≥120 mm) ascending aortas represent a high-risk subpopulation for TAD. © The Author(s) 2018. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

  13. Loss of Endothelial Barrier in Marfan Mice (mgR/mgR) Results in Severe Inflammation after Adenoviral Gene Therapy

    PubMed Central

    Weymann, Alexander; Arif, Rawa; Weber, Antje; Zaradzki, Marcin; Richter, Karsten; Ensminger, Stephan; Robinson, Peter Nicholas; Wagner, Andreas H.; Karck, Matthias; Kallenbach, Klaus

    2016-01-01

    Objectives Marfan syndrome is an autosomal dominant inherited disorder of connective tissue. The vascular complications of Marfan syndrome have the biggest impact on life expectancy. The aorta of Marfan patients reveals degradation of elastin layers caused by increased proteolytic activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). In this study we performed adenoviral gene transfer of human tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases-1 (hTIMP-1) in aortic grafts of fibrillin-1 deficient Marfan mice (mgR/mgR) in order to reduce elastolysis. Methods We performed heterotopic infrarenal transplantation of the thoracic aorta in female mice (n = 7 per group). Before implantation, mgR/mgR and wild-type aortas (WT, C57BL/6) were transduced ex vivo with an adenoviral vector coding for human TIMP-1 (Ad.hTIMP-1) or β-galactosidase (Ad.β-Gal). As control mgR/mgR and wild-type aortas received no gene therapy. Thirty days after surgery, overexpression of the transgene was assessed by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and collagen in situ zymography. Histologic staining was performed to investigate inflammation, the neointimal index (NI), and elastin breaks. Endothelial barrier function of native not virus-exposed aortas was evaluated by perfusion of fluorescent albumin and examinations of virus-exposed tissue were performed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Results IHC and ISZ revealed sufficient expression of the transgene. Severe cellular inflammation and intima hyperplasia were seen only in adenovirus treated mgR/mgR aortas (Ad.β-Gal, Ad.hTIMP-1 NI: 0.23; 0.43), but not in native and Ad.hTIMP-1 treated WT (NI: 0.01; 0.00). Compared to native mgR/mgR and Ad.hTIMP-1 treated WT aorta, the NI is highly significant greater in Ad.hTIMP-1 transduced mgR/mgR aorta (p = 0.001; p = 0.001). As expected, untreated Marfan grafts showed significant more elastolysis compared to WT (p = 0.001). However, elastolysis in Marfan aortas was not reduced by adenoviral overexpression of hTIMP-1 (compared to untreated Marfan aorta: Ad.hTIMP-1 p = 0.902; control Ad.β-Gal. p = 0.165). The virus-untreated and not transplanted mgR/mgR aorta revealed a significant increase of albumin diffusion through the endothelial barrier (p = 0.037). TEM analysis of adenovirus-exposed mgR/mgR aortas displayed disruption of the basement membrane and basolateral space. Conclusions Murine Marfan aortic grafts developed severe inflammation after adenoviral contact. We demonstrated that fibrillin-1 deficiency is associated with relevant dysfunction of the endothelial barrier that enables adenovirus to induce vessel-harming inflammation. Endothelial dysfunction may play a pivotal role in the development of the vascular phenotype of Marfan syndrome. PMID:26840980

  14. Ascending aorta dilatation in patients with bicuspid aortic valve stenosis: a prospective CMR study.

    PubMed

    Rossi, Alexia; van der Linde, Denise; Yap, Sing Chien; Lapinskas, Thomas; Kirschbaum, Sharon; Springeling, Tirza; Witsenburg, Maarten; Cuypers, Judith; Moelker, Adriaan; Krestin, Gabriel P; van Dijk, Arie; Johnson, Mark; van Geuns, Robert-Jan; Roos-Hesselink, Jolien W

    2013-03-01

    The aim of this study was to evaluate the natural progression of aortic dilatation and its association with aortic valve stenosis (AoS) in patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV). Prospective study of aorta dilatation in patients with BAV and AoS using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). Aortic root, ascending aorta, aortic peak velocity, left ventricular systolic and diastolic function and mass were assessed at baseline and at 3-year follow-up. Of the 33 enrolled patients, 5 needed surgery, while 28 patients (17 male; mean age: 31 ± 8 years) completed the study. Aortic diameters significantly increased at the aortic annulus, sinus of Valsalva and tubular ascending aorta levels (P < 0.050). The number of patients with dilated tubular ascending aortas increased from 32 % to 43 %. No significant increase in sino-tubular junction diameter was observed. Aortic peak velocity, ejection fraction and myocardial mass significantly increased while the early/late filling ratio significantly decreased at follow-up (P < 0.050). The progression rate of the ascending aorta diameter correlated weakly with the aortic peak velocity at baseline (R (2) = 0.16, P = 0.040). BAV patients with AoS showed a progressive increase of aortic diameters with maximal expression at the level of the tubular ascending aorta. The progression of aortic dilatation correlated weakly with the severity of AoS.

  15. Feasibility of low contrast media volume in CT angiography of the aorta.

    PubMed

    Seehofnerová, Anna; Kok, Madeleine; Mihl, Casper; Douwes, Dave; Sailer, Anni; Nijssen, Estelle; de Haan, Michiel J W; Wildberger, Joachim E; Das, Marco

    2015-01-01

    Using smaller volumes of contrast media (CM) in CT angiography (CTA) is desirable in terms of cost reduction and prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN). The purpose was to evaluate the feasibility of low CM volume in CTA of the aorta. 77 patients referred for CTA of the aorta were scanned using a standard MDCT protocol at 100 kV. A bolus of 50 ml CM (Iopromide 300 mg Iodine/ml) at a flow rate of 6 ml/s was applied (Iodine delivery rate IDR = 1.8 g/s; Iodine load 15 g) followed by a saline bolus of 40 ml at the same flow rate. Scan delay was determined by the test bolus method. Subjective image quality was assessed and contrast enhancement was measured at 10 anatomical levels of the aorta. Diagnostic quality images were obtained for all patients, reaching a mean overall contrast enhancement of 324 ± 28 HU. Mean attenuation was 350 ± 60 HU at the thoracic aorta and 315 ± 83 HU at the abdominal aorta. A straightforward low volume CM protocol proved to be technically feasible and led to CTA examinations reaching diagnostic image quality of the aorta at 100 kV. Based on these findings, the use of a relatively small CM bolus can be incorporated into routine clinical imaging.

  16. Catching a floating thrombus; a case report on the treatment of a large thrombus in the ascending aorta.

    PubMed

    de Maat, Gijs Eduard; Vigano, Giorgio; Mariani, Massimo Alessandro; Natour, Ehsan

    2017-05-19

    The ascending aorta is an uncommon site for non-infective thrombus. In non-aneurysmal and non-atherosclerotic vessels this condition becomes extremely rare, while it represents a source of potential cerebral and peripheral embolic events. Currently, there is no consensus in the guidelines on how to treat a free floating thrombus in ascending aorta, therefore we present our decision making process and therapeutic strategy. A healthy 48-year-old man was hospital admitted with acute abdominal pain. CT-scan showed a right renal embolism in presence of a defect in the distal ascending aorta suggestive for thrombus. After heart team discussion the patient was scheduled for surgery and successfully underwent an emergent thrombus removal. Also, owing to multiple aortic wall insertions, the ascending aorta was replaced. The patient's recovery was uneventful and histological examination showed no signs of connective tissue disorders of aortic wall while confirmed the thrombotic nature of the mass. We present a patient with a floating thrombus in the ascending aorta who underwent an ascending aorta replacement. While angio-CT scan led to a prompt diagnosis, intraoperative epi-aortic echocardiography allowed to define precise location of thrombus, minimizing operative risk. This case demonstrates that multi-disciplinary heart team discussion is essential to define a successful strategy, that surgical treatment is feasible with specific tools such as epi-aortic echocardiography.

  17. Automatic segmentation of thoracic aorta segments in low-dose chest CT

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Noothout, Julia M. H.; de Vos, Bob D.; Wolterink, Jelmer M.; Išgum, Ivana

    2018-03-01

    Morphological analysis and identification of pathologies in the aorta are important for cardiovascular diagnosis and risk assessment in patients. Manual annotation is time-consuming and cumbersome in CT scans acquired without contrast enhancement and with low radiation dose. Hence, we propose an automatic method to segment the ascending aorta, the aortic arch and the thoracic descending aorta in low-dose chest CT without contrast enhancement. Segmentation was performed using a dilated convolutional neural network (CNN), with a receptive field of 131 × 131 voxels, that classified voxels in axial, coronal and sagittal image slices. To obtain a final segmentation, the obtained probabilities of the three planes were averaged per class, and voxels were subsequently assigned to the class with the highest class probability. Two-fold cross-validation experiments were performed where ten scans were used to train the network and another ten to evaluate the performance. Dice coefficients of 0.83 +/- 0.07, 0.86 +/- 0.06 and 0.88 +/- 0.05, and Average Symmetrical Surface Distances (ASSDs) of 2.44 +/- 1.28, 1.56 +/- 0.68 and 1.87 +/- 1.30 mm were obtained for the ascending aorta, the aortic arch and the descending aorta, respectively. The results indicate that the proposed method could be used in large-scale studies analyzing the anatomical location of pathology and morphology of the thoracic aorta.

  18. Impact of Age-Dependent Adventitia Inflammation on Structural Alteration of Abdominal Aorta in Hyperlipidemic Mice

    PubMed Central

    Sakamoto, Sumiharu; Tsuruda, Toshihiro; Hatakeyama, Kinta; Imamura, Takuroh; Asada, Yujiro; Kitamura, Kazuo

    2014-01-01

    Background The adventitia is suggested to contribute to vascular remodeling; however, the site-selective inflammatory responses in association with the development of atherosclerosis remain to be elucidated. Methods and Results Wild-type or apolipoprotein E knockout male C57BL/6J background mice were fed standard chow for 16, 32, and 52 weeks, and the morphology of the aortic arch, descending aorta, and abdominal aorta was compared. Atheromatous plaque formation progressed with age, particularly in the aortic arch and abdominal aorta but not in the descending aorta. In addition, we found that the numbers of macrophages, T-lymphocytes, and microvessels, assessed by anti-F4/80, CD3, and CD31 antibodies, were higher in the adventitia of the abdominal aorta at 52 weeks. These numbers were positively correlated with plaque formation, but negatively correlated with elastin content, resulting in the enlargement of the total vessel area. In aortic tissues, interleukin-6 levels increased in the atheromatous plaque with age, whereas the level of regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES) increased with age, and compared with other sites, it was particularly distributed in inflammatory cells in the adventitia of the abdominal aorta. Conclusion This study suggests that adventitial inflammation contributes to the age-dependent structural alterations, and that the activation/inactivation of cytokines/chemokines is involved in the process. PMID:25153991

  19. Lipid Emulsion Attenuates Acetylcholine-Induced Relaxation in Isolated Rat Aorta

    PubMed Central

    Ok, Seong-Ho; Lee, Soo Hee; Yu, Jongsun; Park, Jungchul; Shin, Il-Woo; Lee, Youngju; Cho, Hyunhoo; Choi, Mun-Jeoung; Baik, Jiseok; Hong, Jeong-Min; Han, Jeong Yeol; Lee, Heon Keun; Chung, Young-Kyun; Sohn, Ju-Tae

    2015-01-01

    We investigated the effect of Lipofundin MCT/LCT and Intralipid on acetylcholine-induced nitric oxide- (NO-) mediated relaxation in rat aorta to determine which lipid emulsion (LE) is more potent in terms of inhibition of NO-induced relaxation. Dose-response curves of responses induced by acetylcholine, the calcium ionophore A23187, and sodium nitroprusside were generated using isolated rat aorta with or without LE. The effect of Lipofundin MCT/LCT on acetylcholine-induced endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) phosphorylation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was investigated using western blotting. Lipofundin MCT/LCT (0.1 and 0.2%) attenuated acetylcholine-induced relaxation in endothelium-intact aorta with or without tiron, whereas 0.2% Intralipid only inhibited relaxation. Lipofundin MCT/LCT inhibited relaxation induced by the calcium ionophore A23187 and sodium nitroprusside in endothelium-intact aorta, but Lipofundin MCT/LCT had no effect on sodium nitroprusside-induced relaxation in the endothelium-denuded aorta. Combined pretreatment with l-arginine plus Lipofundin MCT/LCT increased acetylcholine-induced maximal relaxation in endothelium-intact aorta compared with Lipofundin MCT/LCT alone. l-Arginine attenuated Lipofundin MCT/LCT-mediated inhibition of acetylcholine-induced eNOS phosphorylation in HUVECs. Taken together, Lipofundin MCT/LCT attenuated acetylcholine-induced NO-mediated relaxation via an inhibitory effect on the endothelium including eNOS, which is proximal to activation of guanylyl cyclase. PMID:26273653

  20. Lipid Emulsion Attenuates Acetylcholine-Induced Relaxation in Isolated Rat Aorta.

    PubMed

    Ok, Seong-Ho; Lee, Soo Hee; Yu, Jongsun; Park, Jungchul; Shin, Il-Woo; Lee, Youngju; Cho, Hyunhoo; Choi, Mun-Jeoung; Baik, Jiseok; Hong, Jeong-Min; Han, Jeong Yeol; Lee, Heon Keun; Chung, Young-Kyun; Sohn, Ju-Tae

    2015-01-01

    We investigated the effect of Lipofundin MCT/LCT and Intralipid on acetylcholine-induced nitric oxide- (NO-) mediated relaxation in rat aorta to determine which lipid emulsion (LE) is more potent in terms of inhibition of NO-induced relaxation. Dose-response curves of responses induced by acetylcholine, the calcium ionophore A23187, and sodium nitroprusside were generated using isolated rat aorta with or without LE. The effect of Lipofundin MCT/LCT on acetylcholine-induced endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) phosphorylation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was investigated using western blotting. Lipofundin MCT/LCT (0.1 and 0.2%) attenuated acetylcholine-induced relaxation in endothelium-intact aorta with or without tiron, whereas 0.2% Intralipid only inhibited relaxation. Lipofundin MCT/LCT inhibited relaxation induced by the calcium ionophore A23187 and sodium nitroprusside in endothelium-intact aorta, but Lipofundin MCT/LCT had no effect on sodium nitroprusside-induced relaxation in the endothelium-denuded aorta. Combined pretreatment with l-arginine plus Lipofundin MCT/LCT increased acetylcholine-induced maximal relaxation in endothelium-intact aorta compared with Lipofundin MCT/LCT alone. L-Arginine attenuated Lipofundin MCT/LCT-mediated inhibition of acetylcholine-induced eNOS phosphorylation in HUVECs. Taken together, Lipofundin MCT/LCT attenuated acetylcholine-induced NO-mediated relaxation via an inhibitory effect on the endothelium including eNOS, which is proximal to activation of guanylyl cyclase.

  1. Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome Improved by Enteral Nutritional Therapy according to the Controlling Nutritional Status Score.

    PubMed

    Takehara, Kazuhiro; Sakamoto, Kazuhiro; Takahashi, Rina; Kawai, Masaya; Kawano, Shingo; Munakata, Shinya; Sugimoto, Kiichi; Takahashi, Makoto; Kojima, Yutaka; Fukunaga, Tetsu; Kajiyama, Yoshiaki; Kawasaki, Seiji

    2017-01-01

    Superior mesenteric artery syndrome (SMAS) is a relatively rare disease that involves bowel obstruction symptoms, such as vomiting and gastric distension, owing to the compression of the third portion of the duodenum from the front by the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and from the rear by the abdominal aorta and the spine. SMAS is diagnosed on the basis of an upper gastrointestinal examination series indicating the obstruction of the third portion of the duodenum or a computed tomography scan indicating the narrowing of the branch angle between the aorta and the SMA (i.e., the aorta-SMA angle). Here, we report the case of a 78-year-old woman diagnosed with SMAS after a laparoscopic right hemicolectomy for cecal cancer, whose condition was improved by enteral nutritional therapy. We used her controlling nutritional status (CONUT) score as a nutrition assessment and noted the changes in the aorta-SMA angle over the course of the disease. This patient appeared to develop SMAS, on the basis of a worsened CONUT score and a decreased aorta-SMA angle, owing to the inflammation resulting from the intraoperative dissection of the tissues around the SMA and prolonged postoperative fasting. After the initiation of enteral nutritional therapy, the patient exhibited body weight gain and an improved aorta-SMA angle and CONUT score. Hence, assessment of the aorta-SMA angle and CONUT score is an important preoperative consideration.

  2. 77 FR 68788 - Neurological Devices Panel of the Medical Devices Advisory Committee; Notice of Meeting

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-11-16

    ... diverting cardiac output to the cerebral vasculature via partial occlusion of the descending aorta... inflation of the individual balloons. The device is placed in the descending aorta. On March 30, 2005, a... the descending aorta (K090970). CoAxia has submitted a de novo application for the NeuroFlo for the...

  3. 78 FR 36702 - Cardiovascular Devices; Reclassification of Intra-Aortic Balloon and Control Systems (IABP) for...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-06-19

    ... the femoral artery and resides in the descending aorta. Conventional timing sets inflation of the... pressure in the aorta. The deflation of the balloon takes place at the onset of systole during the... pressure in the aorta and this decrease in pressure assists the left ventricle by reducing the pressure...

  4. Helicobacter pylori-related chronic gastritis as a risk factor for colonic neoplasms.

    PubMed

    Inoue, Izumi; Kato, Jun; Tamai, Hideyuki; Iguchi, Mikitaka; Maekita, Takao; Yoshimura, Noriko; Ichinose, Masao

    2014-02-14

    To summarize the current views and insights on associations between Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)-related chronic gastritis and colorectal neoplasm, we reviewed recent studies to clarify whether H. pylori infection/H. pylori-related chronic gastritis is associated with an elevated risk of colorectal neoplasm. Recent studies based on large databases with careful control for confounding variables have clearly demonstrated an increased risk of colorectal neoplasm associated with H. pylori infection. The correlation between H. pylori-related chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG) and colorectal neoplasm has only been examined in a limited number of studies. A recent large study using a national histopathological database, and our study based on the stage of H. pylori-related chronic gastritis as determined by serum levels of H. pylori antibody titer and pepsinogen, indicated that H. pylori-related CAG confers an increased risk of colorectal neoplasm, and more extensive atrophic gastritis will probably be associated with even higher risk of neoplasm. In addition, our study suggested that the activity of H. pylori-related chronic gastritis is correlated with colorectal neoplasm risk. H. pylori-related chronic gastritis could be involved in an increased risk of colorectal neoplasm that appears to be enhanced by the progression of gastric atrophy and the presence of active inflammation.

  5. Helicobacter pylori-related chronic gastritis as a risk factor for colonic neoplasms

    PubMed Central

    Inoue, Izumi; Kato, Jun; Tamai, Hideyuki; Iguchi, Mikitaka; Maekita, Takao; Yoshimura, Noriko; Ichinose, Masao

    2014-01-01

    To summarize the current views and insights on associations between Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)-related chronic gastritis and colorectal neoplasm, we reviewed recent studies to clarify whether H. pylori infection/H. pylori-related chronic gastritis is associated with an elevated risk of colorectal neoplasm. Recent studies based on large databases with careful control for confounding variables have clearly demonstrated an increased risk of colorectal neoplasm associated with H. pylori infection. The correlation between H. pylori-related chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG) and colorectal neoplasm has only been examined in a limited number of studies. A recent large study using a national histopathological database, and our study based on the stage of H. pylori-related chronic gastritis as determined by serum levels of H. pylori antibody titer and pepsinogen, indicated that H. pylori-related CAG confers an increased risk of colorectal neoplasm, and more extensive atrophic gastritis will probably be associated with even higher risk of neoplasm. In addition, our study suggested that the activity of H. pylori-related chronic gastritis is correlated with colorectal neoplasm risk. H. pylori-related chronic gastritis could be involved in an increased risk of colorectal neoplasm that appears to be enhanced by the progression of gastric atrophy and the presence of active inflammation. PMID:24587623

  6. Systematic review of the clinical utility and validity of the Sendai and Fukuoka Consensus Guidelines for the management of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms of the Pancreas.

    PubMed

    Srinivasan, Nandhini; Teo, Jin-Yao; Chin, Yung-Ka; Hennedige, Tiffany; Tan, Damien M; Low, Albert S; Thng, Choon Hua; Goh, Brian K P

    2018-02-24

    This systematic review was performed to assess the clinical utility of the Sendai Consensus Guidelines (SCG) and Fukuoka Consensus Guidelines (FCG) for intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN). A computerized search of PubMed was performed to identify all the studies which evaluated the SCG and FCG in surgically resected, histologically confirmed IPMNs. Ten studies evaluating the FCG, 8 evaluating the SCG and 4 evaluating both guidelines were included. In 14 studies evaluating the FCG, out of a total of 2498 neoplasms, 849 were malignant and 1649 were benign neoplasms. Pooled analysis showed that 751 of 1801 (42%) FCG+ve neoplasms were malignant and 599 neoplasms of 697 (86%) FCG-ve neoplasms were benign. PPV of the high risk and worrisome risk groups were 465/986 (47%) and 239/520 (46%) respectively. In 12 studies evaluating the SCG, 1234 neoplasms were analyzed of which 388 (31%) were malignant and 846 (69%) were benign. Pooled analysis demonstrated that 265 of 802 (33%) SCG+ve neoplasms were malignant and 238 of 266 SCG-ve (90%) neoplasms were benign. The FCG had a higher PPV compared to the SCG. However, the NPV of the FCG was slightly lower than that of the SCG. Malignant and even invasive IPMN may be missed according to both guidelines. Copyright © 2018 International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Degenerated uterine fibroid mimicking hydrometra: fallacy in CT

    PubMed Central

    Tok, CH; Bux, SI; Mohamed, SI; Lim, BK

    2006-01-01

    Fibroids are the commonest uterine neoplasms, occurring in 20% - 30% of women of reproductive age. In women who have pelvic masses of unknown cause, unusual manifestations of fibroids such as necrosis or degeneration may simulate a carcinoma or hydrometra resulting in problems with image interpretation. We report a case of an unsuspected large degenerated uterine fibroid in a lady mistakenly diagnosed as hydrometra on computed tomography scanning. PMID:21614328

  8. Survival of patients with chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms and new primary cancers: a population-based cohort study.

    PubMed

    Frederiksen, Henrik; Farkas, Dóra Körmendiné; Christiansen, Christian Fynbo; Larsen, Thomas Stauffer; Hasselbalch, Hans Carl; Stentoft, Jesper; Sørensen, Henrik Toft

    2015-07-01

    Patients with chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms are at increased risk of new solid or haematological cancers, but how prognosis is affected in patients with preceding myeloproliferative neoplasms is unclear. We used data from population-based medical databases in Denmark from 1980 to 2011 to compare survival between cancer patients with and without a preceding diagnosis of myeloproliferative neoplasm, matched for age, sex, year of diagnosis, and type of cancer. We assessed outcomes by cancer stage and comorbidities. Data were available for 1246 patients with a history of myeloproliferative neoplasms and we matched 5155 patients without a history of myeloproliferative neoplasm for comparison. Among patients with new localised solid cancers, 5-year survival was 49.8% (95% CI 39.1-59.6) for patients with preceding essential thrombocythaemia, 47·9% (42·1-53·4) for those with preceding polycythaemia vera, and 48.0% (34.1-60.7) for those with preceding chronic myeloid leukaemia. The values were 72.4% (68.4-76.0), 63.9% (61.5-66.2), and 74.3% (68.2-79.4), respectively, in matched patients without preceding myeloproliferative neoplasms. The risk of death among patients with a solid tumour and preceding myeloproliferative neoplasm was 1.21-2.28 times higher than in patients without myeloproliferative neoplasms. Excess mortality risk was observed irrespective of whether new cancers were diagnosed within 5 years or 5 years or more after myeloproliferative neoplasm. Preceding myeloproliferative neoplasm is a predictor for poor outlook in patients who develop new primary cancers. Lundbeck and Novo Nordisk Foundation Programme for Clinical Research Infrastructure, Danish Cancer Society, and Aarhus University Research Foundation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  9. Loss of Anticontractile Effect of Perivascular Adipose Tissue on Pregnant Rats: A Potential Role of Tumor Necrosis Factor-α.

    PubMed

    Al-Jarallah, Aishah; Oriowo, Mabayoje A

    2016-02-01

    The present investigation examined the effect of pregnancy on the anticontractile effect of perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) on the rat. Ring segments of the aorta, with and without PVAT, were set up in organ baths for isometric tension recording. In both groups, concentration-response curves to 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) were displaced to the right with a reduction of the maximum response in aorta segments with PVAT. The anticontractile effect of PVAT was attenuated on segments from pregnant rats. 4-Aminopyridine (4-AP), an inhibitor of voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channels, enhanced 5-HT-induced contractions of aorta segments from pregnant and nonpregnant rats only when PVAT was attached. There was no difference in the effect of 4-aminopyridine on 5-HT-induced contractions of aorta segments with PVAT from pregnant and nonpregnant rats. There was also no significant difference in the expression of Kv7.4 channels in aorta segments (with PVAT) between pregnant and nonpregnant rats. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) was detected in PVAT from pregnant and nonpregnant rats. The level of TNF-α was significantly greater in PVAT from pregnant rats. Treatment of pregnant rats with pentoxyphyline significantly reduced the level of TNF-α in the PVAT and restored the anticontractile effect of PVAT on aorta segments from pregnant rats. Finally, TNF-α (10 ng/mL) potentiated 5-HT-induced contractions of PVAT-containing pregnant rat aorta. These results would suggest that the loss of anticontractile effect of PVAT in pregnant rat aorta could be due to enhanced production of TNF-α in the PVAT in these rats.

  10. Ascending aortic curvature as an independent risk factor for type A dissection, and ascending aortic aneurysm formation: a mathematical model.

    PubMed

    Poullis, Michael P; Warwick, Richard; Oo, Aung; Poole, Robert J

    2008-06-01

    To develop a mathematical model to demonstrate that ascending aortic curvature is an independent risk factor for type A dissections, in addition to hypertension, bicuspid aortic valve, aneurysm of ascending aorta, and intrinsic aortic tissue abnormalities, like Marfan's syndrome. A steady state one-dimensional flow analysis was performed, utilising Newton's third law of motion. Five different clinical scenarios were evaluated: (1) effect of aortic curvature; (2) effect of beta-blockers, (3) effect of patient size, (4) forces on a Marfan's aorta, and (5) site of entry flap in aortic dissection. Aortic curvature increases the forces exerted on the ascending aorta by a factor of over 10-fold. Aortic curvature can cause patients with a systolic blood pressure of 8 0mmHg to have greater forces exerted on their aorta despite smaller diameters and lower cardiac outputs, than patients with systolic blood pressures of 120 mmHg. In normal diameter aortas, beta-blockers have minimal effect compared with aortic curvature. Aortic curvature may help to explain why normal diameter aortas can dissect, and also that the point of the entry tear may be potentially predictable. Aortic curvature has major effects on the forces exerted on the aorta in patients with Marfan's syndrome. Aortic curvature is relatively more important that aortic diameter, blood pressure, cardiac output, beta-blocker use, and patient size with regard to the force acting on the aortic wall. This may explain why some patients with normal diameter ascending aortas with or without Marfan's syndrome develop type A dissections and aneurysms. Aortic curvature may also help to explain the site of entry tear in acute type A dissection. Further clinical study is needed to validate this study's finding.

  11. Regional distribution of circumferential residual strains in the human aorta according to age and gender.

    PubMed

    Sokolis, Dimitrios P; Savva, Giannis D; Papadodima, Stavroula A; Kourkoulis, Stavros K

    2017-03-01

    The biomechanical response of the human aorta varies with axial location, but little is known about the respective variation of residual strains. Such data are available for common lab animals, but in the traditional opening angle measurement the aorta is considered as an ideal cylinder and average residual strains are measured, so that the spatial variations of local residual strains are not determined. The present study provides opening angle and residual strain data throughout the course and around the circumference of the aorta harvested during autopsy. Opening angle showed notable topographical variation; the highest value was at the top of aortic arch, declining abruptly toward the ascending aorta and to a near-constant value in the descending aorta, and rising in the abdominal aorta. The variation of curvature and of external but not internal residual stretch resembled that of opening angle. Extensive residual stress and wall thickness differences were evidenced among quadrants, with the more pre-stressed being also the thicker quadrants. Gender had overall minor effects, but aging led to increased parameters, occurring earlier in the distal aorta but at later stages becoming predominant proximally. Differences in caliber were pronounced in older subjects, unlike those in opening angle, residual stretches, and thickness that were striking in middle-aged subjects. By contrast, curvature decreased with aging in relation to the smaller percentwise opening angle differences. Detailed knowledge of the zero-stress/no-load geometry of the human aortic wall is critical for an in-depth understanding of aortic physiology, while providing the basis for comparison with disease. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  12. Collagen-induced arthritis increases inducible nitric oxide synthase not only in aorta but also in the cardiac and renal microcirculation of mice.

    PubMed

    Palma Zochio Tozzato, G; Taipeiro, E F; Spadella, M A; Marabini Filho, P; de Assis, M R; Carlos, C P; Girol, A P; Chies, A B

    2016-03-01

    Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) may promote endothelial dysfunction. This phenomenon requires further investigation, especially in collagen-induced arthritis (CIA), as it is considered the experimental model most similar to RA. The objectives of this study were to identify CIA-induced changes in noradrenaline (NE) and acetylcholine (ACh) responses in mice aortas that may suggest endothelial dysfunction in these animals. Moreover, we characterize CIA-induced modifications in inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression in the aortas and cardiac and renal tissues taken from these mice that may be related to possible endothelial dysfunction. Male DBA/1J mice were immunized with 100 μg of emulsified bovine collagen type II (CII) plus complete Freund's adjuvant. Twenty-one days later, these animals received a boost of an additional 100 μg plus incomplete Freund's adjuvant. Fifteen days after the onset of the disease, aortic rings from CIA and control mice were challenged with NE and ACh in an organ bath. In these animals, iNOS was detected through immunohistochemical analysis of aorta, heart and kidneys. Plasma nitrite concentration was determined using the Griess reaction. CIA did not change NE or ACh responses in mice aorta but apparently increased the iNOS expression not only in aorta, but also in cardiac and renal microcirculation. In parallel, CIA reduced nitrite plasma concentration. In mice, CIA appears to increase the presence of iNOS in aorta, as well as in heart and in kidney microcirculation. This iNOS increase occurs apparently in parallel to a reduction of the bioavailability of NO. This phenomenon does not appear to change NE or ACh responses in aorta. © 2015 British Society for Immunology, Clinical and Experimental Immunology.

  13. Pulmonary arterial hypertension in children: diagnosis using ratio of main pulmonary artery to ascending aorta diameter as determined by multi-detector computed tomography.

    PubMed

    Caro-Domínguez, Pablo; Compton, Gregory; Humpl, Tilman; Manson, David E

    2016-09-01

    The ratio of the transverse diameter of the main pulmonary artery (MPA) to ascending aorta as determined at multi-detector CT is a tool that can be used to assess the pulmonary arterial size in cases of pulmonary arterial hypertension in children. To establish a ratio of MPA to ascending aorta diameter using multi-detector CT imaging suggestive of pulmonary arterial hypertension in children. We hypothesize that a defined ratio of MPA to ascending aorta is identifiable on multi-detector CT and that higher ratios can be used to reliably diagnose the presence of pulmonary arterial hypertension in children. We calculated the multi-detector CT ratio of MPA to ascending aorta diameter in 44 children with documented pulmonary arterial hypertension by right heart catheterization and in 44 age- and gender-matched control children with no predisposing factors for pulmonary arterial hypertension. We compared this multi-detector-CT-determined ratio with the MPA pressure in the study group, as well as with the ratio of MPA to ascending aorta in the control group. A threshold ratio value was calculated to accurately identify children with pulmonary arterial hypertension. Children with documented primary pulmonary arterial hypertension have a significantly higher ratio of MPA to ascending aorta (1.46) than children without pulmonary arterial hypertension (1.11). A ratio of 1.3 carries a positive likelihood of 34 and a positive predictive value of 97% for the diagnosis of pulmonary arterial hypertension. The pulmonary arteries were larger in children with pulmonary arterial hypertension than in a control group of normal children. A CT-measured ratio of MPA to ascending aorta of 1.3 should raise the suspicion of pulmonary arterial hypertension in children.

  14. Effects of nesfatin-1 on atrial contractility and thoracic aorta reactivity in male rats.

    PubMed

    Barutcigil, Ayşe; Tasatargil, Arda

    2017-10-13

    This study aimed to examine the effects of nesfatin-1 on thoracic aorta vasoreactivity and to investigate the inotropic and chronotropic effects of nesfatin-1 on the spontaneous contractions of the isolated rat atria. Isolated right atria and thoracic aorta were used in organ baths. The reactivity of the thoracic aorta was evaluated by potassium chloride (KCl), phenylephrine (Phe), acetylcholine (ACh), and sodium nitroprusside (SNP). The effects of nesfatin-1 on the spontaneous contractions of the rat atria were also examined. Nesfatin-1 (0.1-100 ng/ml) produced a concentration-dependent relaxation response in rat thoracic aorta. The relaxant responses to nesfatin-1 were inhibited by the removal of endothelium, NO synthase blocker N-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 10 -4  M), and soluble guanylate cyclase inhibitor 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ, 10 -5  M). Nesfatin-1 (10 ng/ml, 30 min) increased the relaxation responses to either ACh or SNP, and the contractile response to both Phe and KCl did not significantly change in the arteries that were incubated with nesfatin-1 compared with the controls. The thoracic aorta contractions induced by the stepwise addition of Ca 2+ to a high KCl solution with no Ca 2+ were not significantly changed by nesfatin-1. Under calcium-free conditions, the contractions of the thoracic aorta rings incubated with nesfatin-1 in response to Phe were not significantly lower than those of the rings from the control rats. Nesfatin-1 showed positive inotropic and chronotropic effects on rat atria. Nesfatin-1 significantly changed the vascular responsiveness in rat thoracic aorta and produced positive inotropic and chronotropic effects on rat atria.

  15. A Clinical Series of Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta for Hemorrhage Control and Resuscitation

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-01-01

    required to demonstrate proficiency through completion of a pretest and posttest including examination of hand- on skills with both animal and simulator...With available technology, this method of resuscitation can be performed by trauma and acute care surgeons who have benefited from instruction on a...the right posterior axillary line at the level of the eighth rib (Table 1). On arrival, his pulse was 119 beats per minute (bpm) and his blood pressure

  16. The oncocytic subtype is genetically distinct from other pancreatic intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm subtypes

    PubMed Central

    Basturk, Olca; Tan, Marcus; Bhanot, Umesh; Allen, Peter; Adsay, Volkan; Scott, Sasinya N; Shah, Ronak; Berger, Michael F; Askan, Gokce; Dikoglu, Esra; Jobanputra, Vaidehi; Wrzeszczynski, Kazimierz O; Sigel, Carlie; Iacobuzio-Donahue, Christine; Klimstra, David S

    2017-01-01

    In 2010, the World Health Organization reclassified the entity originally described as intraductal oncocytic papillary neoplasm as the ‘oncocytic subtype’ of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm. Although several key molecular alterations of other intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm subtypes have been discovered, including common mutations in KRAS, GNAS, and RNF3, those of oncocytic subtype have not been well characterized. We analyzed 11 pancreatic ‘oncocytic subtype’ of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms. Nine pancreatic ‘oncocytic subtype’ of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms uniformly exhibited typical entity-defining morphology of arborizing papillae lined by layers of cells with oncocytic cytoplasm, prominent, nucleoli, and intraepithelial lumina. The remaining two were atypical. One lacked the arborizing papilla and had flat oncocytic epithelium only; the other one had focal oncocytic epithelium in a background of predominantly intestinal subtype intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm. Different components of this case were analyzed separately. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded specimens of all cases were microdissected and subjected to high-depth-targeted next-generation sequencing for a panel of 300 key cancer-associated genes in a platform that enabled the identification of sequence mutations, copy number alterations, and select structural rearrangements involving all targeted genes. Fresh frozen specimens of two cases were also subjected to whole-genome sequencing. For the nine typical pancreatic ‘oncocytic subtype’ of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms, the number of mutations per case, identified by next-generation sequencing, ranged from 1 to 10 (median = 4). None of these cases had KRAS or GNAS mutations and only one had both RNF43 and PIK3R1 mutations. ARHGAP26, ASXL1, EPHA8, and ERBB4 genes were somatically altered in more than one of these typical ‘oncocytic subtype’ of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms but not in the other two atypical ones. In the neoplasm with flat oncocytic epithelium, the only mutated gene was KRAS. All components of the intestinal subtype intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms with focal oncocytic epithelium manifested TP53, GNAS, and RNF43 mutations. In conclusion, this study elucidates that ‘oncocytic subtype’ of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm is not only morphologically distinct but also genetically distinct from other intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm subtypes. Considering that now its biologic behavior is also being found to be different than other intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm subtypes, ‘oncocytic subtype’ of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm warrants being recognized separately. PMID:27282351

  17. Calcification detection of abdominal aorta in CT images and 3D visualization in VR devices.

    PubMed

    Garcia-Berna, Jose A; Sanchez-Gomez, Juan M; Hermanns, Judith; Garcia-Mateos, Gines; Fernandez-Aleman, Jose L

    2016-08-01

    Automatic calcification detection in abdominal aorta consists of a set of computer vision techniques to quantify the amount of calcium that is found around this artery. Knowing that information, it is possible to perform statistical studies that relate vascular diseases with the presence of calcium in these structures. To facilitate the detection in CT images, a contrast is usually injected into the circulatory system of the patients to distinguish the aorta from other body tissues and organs. This contrast increases the absorption of X-rays by human blood, making it easier the measurement of calcifications. Based on this idea, a new system capable of detecting and tracking the aorta artery has been developed with an estimation of the calcium found surrounding the aorta. Besides, the system is complemented with a 3D visualization mode of the image set which is designed for the new generation of immersive VR devices.

  18. Atresia of the Descending Aorta in a Young Woman Requiring Bypass Graft.

    PubMed

    Dsc, Adcasdc Sadfasdf; Mashhood, Ammarah; Ali, Taimur Asif; Fatimi, Saulat Hasnain

    2016-11-01

    Congenital aortic atresia is a malformation accounting for 4 - 6% of all congenital heart diseases in children. Left ventricular outflow obstruction due to atresia is common at the aortic valve but rarely has atresia been identified in the descending aorta. We report the case of a 25-year woman who was evaluated for headache and uncontrolled hypertension. CTscan chest showed a short atretic segment in the descending aorta at the isthmus, distal to the takeoff of the subclavian artery. She underwent surgery; a 22 mm Dacron graft was taken and jump graft was placed between the arch of the aorta and the descending aorta, using partial occlusion clamps. Patient tolerated the procedure well and was discharged on ACE Inhibitors and beta blockers, which were then weaned off over a period of one year. She remained stable and had no further complaints.

  19. Human Aorta Is a Passive Pump

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pahlevan, Niema; Gharib, Morteza

    2012-11-01

    Impedance pump is a simple valveless pumping mechanism that operates based on the principles of wave propagation and reflection. It has been shown in a zebrafish that a similar mechanism is responsible for the pumping action in the embryonic heart during early stages before valve formation. Recent studies suggest that the cardiovascular system is designed to take advantage of wave propagation and reflection phenomena in the arterial network. Our aim in this study was to examine if the human aorta is a passive pump working like an impedance pump. A hydraulic model with different compliant models of artificial aorta was used for series of in-vitro experiments. The hydraulic model includes a piston pump that generates the waves. Our result indicates that wave propagation and reflection can create pumping mechanism in a compliant aorta. Similar to an impedance pump, the net flow and the flow direction depends on the frequency of the waves, compliance of the aorta, and the piston stroke.

  20. Tissue, Blood, and Body Fluid Sample Collection From Patients With Hematologic Cancer

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2017-09-20

    Chronic Myeloproliferative Disorders; Leukemia; Lymphoma; Lymphoproliferative Disorder; Multiple Myeloma and Plasma Cell Neoplasm; Myelodysplastic Syndromes; Myelodysplastic/Myeloproliferative Neoplasms; Nonmalignant Neoplasm

  1. Selumetinib in Treating Patients With Relapsed or Refractory Advanced Solid Tumors, Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, or Histiocytic Disorders With Activating MAPK Pathway Mutations (A Pediatric MATCH Treatment Trial)

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-06-25

    Advanced Malignant Solid Neoplasm; Ann Arbor Stage III Childhood Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma; Ann Arbor Stage IV Childhood Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma; BRAF Gene Mutation; GNA11 Gene Mutation; GNAQ Gene Mutation; Histiocytosis; HRAS Gene Mutation; KRAS Gene Mutation; NF1 Gene Mutation; NRAS Gene Mutation; Recurrent Childhood Central Nervous System Neoplasm; Recurrent Childhood Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma; Recurrent Malignant Solid Neoplasm; Recurrent Neuroblastoma; Refractory Central Nervous System Neoplasm; Refractory Malignant Solid Neoplasm; Refractory Neuroblastoma; Refractory Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

  2. Margins for Benign Salivary Gland Neoplasms of the Head and Neck.

    PubMed

    Carlson, Eric R; McCoy, James Michael

    2017-08-01

    The proper ablation of any neoplasm of the head and neck requires the inclusion of linear and anatomic barrier margins surrounding the neoplasm. Extirpative surgery of the major and minor salivary glands is certainly no exception to this surgical principle. To this end, the selection and execution of the most appropriate ablative surgical procedure for a major or minor benign salivary gland neoplasm is an essential exercise in oral and maxillofacial surgery. Of equal importance is the intraoperative identification and preservation of the pseudocapsule surrounding the benign neoplasm. This article reviews these important elements specifically related to ablative surgery of benign neoplasms of the parotid, submandibular and minor salivary glands with strict attention to observed nomenclature. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. A Numerical Method for Solving the 3D Unsteady Incompressible Navier-Stokes Equations in Curvilinear Domains with Complex Immersed Boundaries.

    PubMed

    Ge, Liang; Sotiropoulos, Fotis

    2007-08-01

    A novel numerical method is developed that integrates boundary-conforming grids with a sharp interface, immersed boundary methodology. The method is intended for simulating internal flows containing complex, moving immersed boundaries such as those encountered in several cardiovascular applications. The background domain (e.g the empty aorta) is discretized efficiently with a curvilinear boundary-fitted mesh while the complex moving immersed boundary (say a prosthetic heart valve) is treated with the sharp-interface, hybrid Cartesian/immersed-boundary approach of Gilmanov and Sotiropoulos [1]. To facilitate the implementation of this novel modeling paradigm in complex flow simulations, an accurate and efficient numerical method is developed for solving the unsteady, incompressible Navier-Stokes equations in generalized curvilinear coordinates. The method employs a novel, fully-curvilinear staggered grid discretization approach, which does not require either the explicit evaluation of the Christoffel symbols or the discretization of all three momentum equations at cell interfaces as done in previous formulations. The equations are integrated in time using an efficient, second-order accurate fractional step methodology coupled with a Jacobian-free, Newton-Krylov solver for the momentum equations and a GMRES solver enhanced with multigrid as preconditioner for the Poisson equation. Several numerical experiments are carried out on fine computational meshes to demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method for standard benchmark problems as well as for unsteady, pulsatile flow through a curved, pipe bend. To demonstrate the ability of the method to simulate flows with complex, moving immersed boundaries we apply it to calculate pulsatile, physiological flow through a mechanical, bileaflet heart valve mounted in a model straight aorta with an anatomical-like triple sinus.

  4. A Numerical Method for Solving the 3D Unsteady Incompressible Navier-Stokes Equations in Curvilinear Domains with Complex Immersed Boundaries

    PubMed Central

    Ge, Liang; Sotiropoulos, Fotis

    2008-01-01

    A novel numerical method is developed that integrates boundary-conforming grids with a sharp interface, immersed boundary methodology. The method is intended for simulating internal flows containing complex, moving immersed boundaries such as those encountered in several cardiovascular applications. The background domain (e.g the empty aorta) is discretized efficiently with a curvilinear boundary-fitted mesh while the complex moving immersed boundary (say a prosthetic heart valve) is treated with the sharp-interface, hybrid Cartesian/immersed-boundary approach of Gilmanov and Sotiropoulos [1]. To facilitate the implementation of this novel modeling paradigm in complex flow simulations, an accurate and efficient numerical method is developed for solving the unsteady, incompressible Navier-Stokes equations in generalized curvilinear coordinates. The method employs a novel, fully-curvilinear staggered grid discretization approach, which does not require either the explicit evaluation of the Christoffel symbols or the discretization of all three momentum equations at cell interfaces as done in previous formulations. The equations are integrated in time using an efficient, second-order accurate fractional step methodology coupled with a Jacobian-free, Newton-Krylov solver for the momentum equations and a GMRES solver enhanced with multigrid as preconditioner for the Poisson equation. Several numerical experiments are carried out on fine computational meshes to demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method for standard benchmark problems as well as for unsteady, pulsatile flow through a curved, pipe bend. To demonstrate the ability of the method to simulate flows with complex, moving immersed boundaries we apply it to calculate pulsatile, physiological flow through a mechanical, bileaflet heart valve mounted in a model straight aorta with an anatomical-like triple sinus. PMID:19194533

  5. Combined open proximal and stent-graft distal repair for distal arch aneurysms: an alternative to total debranching.

    PubMed

    Zierer, Andreas; Sanchez, Luis A; Moon, Marc R

    2009-07-01

    We present herein a novel, combined, simultaneous open proximal and stent-graft distal repair for complex distal aortic arch aneurysms involving the descending aorta. In the first surgical step, the transverse arch is opened during selective antegrade cerebral perfusion, and a Dacron graft (DuPont, Wilmington, DE) is positioned down the descending aorta in an elephant trunk-like fashion with its proximal free margin sutured circumferentially to the aorta just distal to the left subclavian or left common carotid artery. With the graft serving as the new proximal landing zone, subsequent endovascular repair is performed antegrade during rewarming through the ascending aorta.

  6. Identification of differentially regulated genes in human patent ductus arteriosus

    PubMed Central

    Parikh, Pratik; Bai, Haiqing; Swartz, Michael F; Alfieris, George M

    2016-01-01

    In order to identify differentially expressed genes that are specific to the ductus arteriosus, 18 candidate genes were evaluated in matched ductus arteriosus and aortic samples from infants with coarctation of the aorta. The cell specificity of the gene's promoters was assessed by performing transient transfection studies in primary cells derived from several patients. Segments of ductus arteriosus and aorta were isolated from infants requiring repair for coarctation of the aorta and used for mRNA quantitation and culturing of cells. Differences in expression were determined by quantitative PCR using the ΔΔCt method. Promoter regions of six of these genes were cloned into luciferase reporter plasmids for transient transfection studies in matched human ductus arteriosus and aorta cells. Transcription factor AP-2b and phospholipase A2 were significantly up-regulated in ductus arteriosus compared to aorta in whole tissues and cultured cells, respectively. In transient transfection experiments, Angiotensin II type 1 receptor and Prostaglandin E receptor 4 promoters consistently gave higher expression in matched ductus arteriosus versus aorta cells from multiple patients. Taken together, these results demonstrate that several genes are differentially expressed in ductus arteriosus and that their promoters may be used to drive ductus arteriosus-enriched transgene expression. PMID:27465141

  7. Differences in the Thoracic Aorta by Region and Sex in a Murine Model of Marfan Syndrome.

    PubMed

    Jiménez-Altayó, Francesc; Siegert, Anna-Maria; Bonorino, Fabio; Meirelles, Thayna; Barberà, Laura; Dantas, Ana P; Vila, Elisabet; Egea, Gustavo

    2017-01-01

    Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a hereditary disorder of the connective tissue that causes life-threatening aortic aneurysm, which initiates at the aortic root and can progress into the ascending portion. However, analysis of ascending aorta reactivity in animal models of MFS has remained elusive. Epidemiologic evidence suggests that although MFS is equally prevalent in men and women, men are at a higher risk of aortic complications than non-pregnant women. Nevertheless, there is no experimental evidence to support this hypothesis. The aim of this study was to explore whether there are regional and sex differences in the thoracic aorta function of mice heterozygous for the fibrillin 1 ( Fbn1 ) allele encoding a missense mutation ( Fbn1 C1039G/+ ), the most common class of mutation in MFS. Ascending and descending thoracic aorta reactivity was evaluated by wire myography. Ascending aorta mRNA and protein levels, and elastic fiber integrity were assessed by qRT-PCR, Western blotting, and Verhoeff-Van Gieson histological staining, respectively. MFS differently altered reactivity in the ascending and descending thoracic aorta by either increasing or decreasing phenylephrine contractions, respectively. When mice were separated by sex, contractions to phenylephrine increased progressively from 3 to 6 months of age in MFS ascending aortas of males, whereas contractions in females were unchanged. Endothelium-dependent relaxation was unaltered in the MFS ascending aorta of either sex; an effect related to augmented endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization-type dilations. In MFS males, the non-selective cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor indomethacin prevented the MFS-induced enhancement of phenylephrine contractions linked to increased COX-2 expression. In MFS mice of both sexes, the non-selective nitric oxide synthase inhibitor L-NAME revealed negative feedback of nitric oxide on phenylephrine contractions, which was associated with upregulation of eNOS in females. Finally, MFS ascending aortas showed a greater number of elastic fiber breaks than the wild-types, and males exhibited more breaks than females. These results show regional and sex differences in Fbn1 C1039G/+ mice thoracic aorta contractility and aortic media injuries. The presence of more pronounced aortic alterations in male mice provides experimental evidence to support that male MFS patients are at increased risk of suffering aortic complications.

  8. Differences in the Thoracic Aorta by Region and Sex in a Murine Model of Marfan Syndrome

    PubMed Central

    Jiménez-Altayó, Francesc; Siegert, Anna-Maria; Bonorino, Fabio; Meirelles, Thayna; Barberà, Laura; Dantas, Ana P.; Vila, Elisabet; Egea, Gustavo

    2017-01-01

    Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a hereditary disorder of the connective tissue that causes life-threatening aortic aneurysm, which initiates at the aortic root and can progress into the ascending portion. However, analysis of ascending aorta reactivity in animal models of MFS has remained elusive. Epidemiologic evidence suggests that although MFS is equally prevalent in men and women, men are at a higher risk of aortic complications than non-pregnant women. Nevertheless, there is no experimental evidence to support this hypothesis. The aim of this study was to explore whether there are regional and sex differences in the thoracic aorta function of mice heterozygous for the fibrillin 1 (Fbn1) allele encoding a missense mutation (Fbn1C1039G/+), the most common class of mutation in MFS. Ascending and descending thoracic aorta reactivity was evaluated by wire myography. Ascending aorta mRNA and protein levels, and elastic fiber integrity were assessed by qRT-PCR, Western blotting, and Verhoeff-Van Gieson histological staining, respectively. MFS differently altered reactivity in the ascending and descending thoracic aorta by either increasing or decreasing phenylephrine contractions, respectively. When mice were separated by sex, contractions to phenylephrine increased progressively from 3 to 6 months of age in MFS ascending aortas of males, whereas contractions in females were unchanged. Endothelium-dependent relaxation was unaltered in the MFS ascending aorta of either sex; an effect related to augmented endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization-type dilations. In MFS males, the non-selective cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor indomethacin prevented the MFS-induced enhancement of phenylephrine contractions linked to increased COX-2 expression. In MFS mice of both sexes, the non-selective nitric oxide synthase inhibitor L-NAME revealed negative feedback of nitric oxide on phenylephrine contractions, which was associated with upregulation of eNOS in females. Finally, MFS ascending aortas showed a greater number of elastic fiber breaks than the wild-types, and males exhibited more breaks than females. These results show regional and sex differences in Fbn1C1039G/+ mice thoracic aorta contractility and aortic media injuries. The presence of more pronounced aortic alterations in male mice provides experimental evidence to support that male MFS patients are at increased risk of suffering aortic complications. PMID:29187826

  9. Quantification of regional differences in aortic stiffness in the aging human

    PubMed Central

    Roccabianca, S.; Figueroa, C.A.; Tellides, G.; Humphrey, J.D.

    2013-01-01

    There has been a growing awareness over the past decade that stiffening of the aorta, and its attendant effects on hemodynamics, is both an indicator and initiator of diverse cardiovascular, neurovascular, and renovascular diseases. Although different clinical metrics of arterial stiffness have been proposed and found useful in particular situations, there remains a need to understand better the complex interactions between evolving aortic stiffness and the hemodynamics. Computational fluid–solid-interaction (FSI) models are amongst the most promising means to understand such interactions for one can parametrically examine effects of regional variations in material properties and arterial geometry on local and systemic blood pressure and flow. Such models will not only increase our understanding, they will also serve as important steps towards the development of fluid–solid-growth (FSG) models that can further examine interactions between the evolving wall mechanics and hemodynamics that lead to arterial adaptations or disease progression over long periods. In this paper, we present a consistent quantification and comparison of regional nonlinear biaxial mechanical properties of the human aorta based on 19 data sets available in the literature and we calculate associated values of linearized stiffness over the cardiac cycle that are useful for initial large-scale FSI and FSG simulations. It is shown, however, that there is considerable variability amongst the available data and consequently that there is a pressing need for more standardized biaxial testing of the human aorta to collect data as a function of both location and age, particularly for young healthy individuals who serve as essential controls. PMID:23499251

  10. Methemoglobinemia in Young Patients With Hematologic Cancer or Aplastic Anemia Treated With Dapsone

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2017-04-13

    Chronic Myeloproliferative Disorders; Leukemia; Lymphoma; Lymphoproliferative Disorder; Methemoglobinemia; Multiple Myeloma and Plasma Cell Neoplasm; Myelodysplastic Syndromes; Myelodysplastic/Myeloproliferative Neoplasms; Nonmalignant Neoplasm

  11. Feasibility of low contrast media volume in CT angiography of the aorta

    PubMed Central

    Seehofnerová, Anna; Kok, Madeleine; Mihl, Casper; Douwes, Dave; Sailer, Anni; Nijssen, Estelle; de Haan, Michiel J.W.; Wildberger, Joachim E.; Das, Marco

    2015-01-01

    Objectives Using smaller volumes of contrast media (CM) in CT angiography (CTA) is desirable in terms of cost reduction and prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN). The purpose was to evaluate the feasibility of low CM volume in CTA of the aorta. Methods 77 patients referred for CTA of the aorta were scanned using a standard MDCT protocol at 100 kV. A bolus of 50 ml CM (Iopromide 300 mg Iodine/ml) at a flow rate of 6 ml/s was applied (Iodine delivery rate IDR = 1.8 g/s; Iodine load 15 g) followed by a saline bolus of 40 ml at the same flow rate. Scan delay was determined by the test bolus method. Subjective image quality was assessed and contrast enhancement was measured at 10 anatomical levels of the aorta. Results Diagnostic quality images were obtained for all patients, reaching a mean overall contrast enhancement of 324 ± 28 HU. Mean attenuation was 350 ± 60 HU at the thoracic aorta and 315 ± 83 HU at the abdominal aorta. Conclusions A straightforward low volume CM protocol proved to be technically feasible and led to CTA examinations reaching diagnostic image quality of the aorta at 100 kV. Based on these findings, the use of a relatively small CM bolus can be incorporated into routine clinical imaging. PMID:26937437

  12. In vitro investigation of a novel elastic vascular prosthesis for valve-sparing aortic root and ascending aorta replacement.

    PubMed

    Scharfschwerdt, Michael; Leonhard, Moritz; Lehmann, Judith; Richardt, Doreen; Goldmann, Helmut; Sievers, Hans-Hinrich

    2016-05-01

    Prosthetic replacement of the thoracic aorta with common Dacron prostheses impairs the aortic 'windkessel' and, in valve-sparing procedures, also aortic valve function. Elastic graft material may overcome these deficiencies. Fresh porcine aortas including the root were set up in a mock circulation before and after replacement of the ascending part with a novel vascular prosthesis providing elastic behaviours. In a first series (n = 14), haemodynamics and leaflet motions of the aortic valve were investigated and also cyclic changes of aortic dimensions at different levels of the root. In a second series (n = 7), intravascular pressure and dimensions of the proximal descending aorta were measured and the corresponding wall tension was calculated. Haemodynamics of the aortic valve remain comparable after replacement. Though the novel prosthesis does not feature such high distensibility as the native aorta, the dynamic of the root was significantly increased compared with common Dacron prostheses at the commissural level, preserving 'windkessel' function. Thus, wall tension of the residual aorta remained unchanged; nevertheless, maximum pressure-time differential dp/dt increased by 13%. The use of the novel elastic prosthesis for replacement of the ascending aorta seems to be beneficial, especially with regard to the preservation of the aortic windkessel. Further studies will be needed to clarify long-term utilization of the material in vivo. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

  13. APN401 in Treating Patients With Recurrent or Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, or Other Solid Tumors That Cannot Be Removed by Surgery

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-03-29

    Metastatic Malignant Neoplasm in the Brain; Metastatic Solid Neoplasm; Recurrent Colorectal Carcinoma; Recurrent Pancreatic Carcinoma; Recurrent Solid Neoplasm; Stage IV Colorectal Cancer; Stage IV Pancreatic Cancer; Stage IVA Colorectal Cancer; Stage IVA Pancreatic Cancer; Stage IVB Colorectal Cancer; Stage IVB Pancreatic Cancer; Unresectable Solid Neoplasm

  14. [Cardiac transplantation and neoplasms: experiences at Escola Paulista de Medicina of the Federal University of São Paulo].

    PubMed

    Mello Junior, Walter Teixeira de; Branco, João Nelson R; Catani, Roberto; Aguiar, Luciano de Figueiredo; Paez, Rodrigo Pereira; Buffolo, Enio

    2006-02-01

    To study the occurrence and types of neoplasms developed by patients who underwent an orthotopic cardiac transplantation under the Program of Cardiac Transplantation of Escola Paulista de Medicina, Federal University of São Paulo. This is an observational study of 106 patients who underwent orthotopic cardiac transplantation from November 1986 to September 2002 and survived at least thirty days following the procedure. The triple immunosuppressive regimen given included cyclosporin A, azathioprine and a corticosteroid agent. Only two patients received OKT3 in addition to the regimen established. Mean follow-up was 61.4 months (ranging from two months to 192 months). Twenty-three patients (21.3%) developed neoplasms--56.5% of these were skin neoplasm, 30.1%, solid tumors, and 13.4% of post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD). Mean interval between transplantation and diagnosis of neoplasm was: 54.9 months for skin neoplasm; 24.8 months for solid tumors and 70.3 months for PTLD. Malignant neoplasms are relatively common in the population studied. Skin cancer was the most common type compared to the other types of neoplasms. Solid tumors were more frequently diagnosed than the lymphoproliferative diseases in the population examined.

  15. Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas: report of a rare case and review of the literature.

    PubMed

    Yener, Arzu Neşe; Manukyan, Manuk; Mıdı, Ahmet; Cubuk, Rahmi

    2014-01-01

    Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm, a rare primary neoplasm of the pancreas that typically affects young women, is a relatively indolent entity with favorable prognosis. We here report a 20-year-old young girl with solid pseudopapillary neoplasm who presented with mild dull abdominal discomfort without any significant laboratory findings. On MRI, a heterogenous mass was found at the distal pancreas. The patient underwent en-block distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy with the presumptive diagnosis of cystic neoplasm of the pancreas. The tumor was well-circumscribed, encapsulated, 5.5 cm in the greatest dimension and showed typical papillary and pseudopapillary structures. Capsular invasion was seen on focal areas. The patient was not given any adjuvant therapy and shows no sign of disease after six months follow-up. It is important to differentiate this tumor from other pancreatic neoplasms because this neoplasm is amenable to cure after complete surgical resection even in cases with capsular invasion, unlike malignant tumors of the pancreas.

  16. A numerical method for solving the 3D unsteady incompressible Navier Stokes equations in curvilinear domains with complex immersed boundaries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ge, Liang; Sotiropoulos, Fotis

    2007-08-01

    A novel numerical method is developed that integrates boundary-conforming grids with a sharp interface, immersed boundary methodology. The method is intended for simulating internal flows containing complex, moving immersed boundaries such as those encountered in several cardiovascular applications. The background domain (e.g. the empty aorta) is discretized efficiently with a curvilinear boundary-fitted mesh while the complex moving immersed boundary (say a prosthetic heart valve) is treated with the sharp-interface, hybrid Cartesian/immersed-boundary approach of Gilmanov and Sotiropoulos [A. Gilmanov, F. Sotiropoulos, A hybrid cartesian/immersed boundary method for simulating flows with 3d, geometrically complex, moving bodies, Journal of Computational Physics 207 (2005) 457-492.]. To facilitate the implementation of this novel modeling paradigm in complex flow simulations, an accurate and efficient numerical method is developed for solving the unsteady, incompressible Navier-Stokes equations in generalized curvilinear coordinates. The method employs a novel, fully-curvilinear staggered grid discretization approach, which does not require either the explicit evaluation of the Christoffel symbols or the discretization of all three momentum equations at cell interfaces as done in previous formulations. The equations are integrated in time using an efficient, second-order accurate fractional step methodology coupled with a Jacobian-free, Newton-Krylov solver for the momentum equations and a GMRES solver enhanced with multigrid as preconditioner for the Poisson equation. Several numerical experiments are carried out on fine computational meshes to demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method for standard benchmark problems as well as for unsteady, pulsatile flow through a curved, pipe bend. To demonstrate the ability of the method to simulate flows with complex, moving immersed boundaries we apply it to calculate pulsatile, physiological flow through a mechanical, bileaflet heart valve mounted in a model straight aorta with an anatomical-like triple sinus.

  17. Early onset of a nasal perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasm not related to tuberous sclerosis complex.

    PubMed

    Gana, S; Morbini, P; Giourgos, G; Matti, E; Chu, F; Danesino, C; Pagella, F

    2012-06-01

    Perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms are a group of rare tumours reported in various organs under a variety of designations. Such tumours are of interest primarily because of the distinctive morphology of their cell population and their immunoreactivity with melanocytic and myoid markers. There is a strong association between perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms and tuberous sclerosis complex. Perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms very rarely occur in the upper aero-digestive tract. To date only three cases of nasal perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms have been reported in the literature. The present report refers to a 22-year old woman, without any stigmata of tuberous sclerosis complex, with early onset of a polypoid nasal mass with pathological and immunohistochemical features entirely compatible with those of a perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasm.

  18. Treatment of Neuropathic Pain after SCI with a Catalytic Oxidoreductant

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2015-10-01

    opening the scissor. The thoracic aorta was visualized and a small aneurysm clip was placed on the aorta at the level of T8 to induce ischemic injury...into aorta via left ventricle and a small cut was made on right atrium. The vasculature was 6 | P a g e     briefly rinsed with 60 mL saline by

  19. Obstruction of the Aorta and Left Pulmonary Artery After Gianturco Coil Occlusion of Patent Ductus Arteriosus

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kuo, H.-Cg; Ko, Sheung-Fat; Wu, Yu-Tsun

    We report an unusual case of simultaneous obstruction of the left pulmonary artery and descending thoracic aorta after Gianturco coil occlusion in a 15-month-old boy. The diagnosis was made by echocardiography and cardiac angiography. At surgery, thrombi coating on the protruded parts of the Gianturco coil in the pulmonary artery and aorta were found.

  20. Aberrant heartworm migration to the abdominal aorta and systemic arteriolitis in a dog presenting with vomiting and hemorrhagic diarrhea.

    PubMed

    Grimes, Janet A; Scott, Katherine D; Edwards, John F

    2016-01-01

    A 2-year-old Dachshund was presented for vomiting and diarrhea. Abdominal ultrasound revealed Dirofilaria immitis in the abdominal aorta and an avascular segment of small intestine. The dog was euthanized. Necropsy revealed D. immitis in the abdominal aorta and widespread necrotizing arteriolitis. This is a unique presentation of aberrant migration of D. immitis.

  1. The effect of proximal anastomosis on the expansion rate of a dilated ascending aorta in coronary artery bypass surgery: a prospective study

    PubMed Central

    Balcı, Ahmet Yavuz; Vural, Unsal; Özdemir, MD Fatih; Kızılay, Mehmet; Şenocak, Mutlu; Kayacıoğlu, Ilyas; Yekeler, Ibrahim; Aksoy, Rezan; Satılmış,, Seçkin; Şaşkın, Huseyin

    2017-01-01

    Summary Background: This study was designed to determine the short- and long-term effects of proximal aortic anastomosis, performed during isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in patients with dilatation of the ascending aorta who did not require surgical intervention. Methods: The study was performed on 192 (38 female and 160 male patients; mean age, 62.1 ± 9.2 years; range, 42–80 years) patients with dilatation of the ascending aorta who underwent CABG surgery between 1 June 2006 and 31 May 2014. In group 1 (n = 114), the saphenous vein and left internal mammarian artery grafts were used, and proximal anastomosis was performed on the ascending aorta. In group 2 (n = 78), left and right internal mammarian artery grafts were used, and proximal aortic anastomosis was not performed. Pre-operatively and in the first and third years postoperatively, the ascending aortic diameter was measured and recorded using transthoracic echocardiography at four different regions (annulus, sinus of Valsalva, sinotubular junction and tubular aorta). Results: A statistically significant difference was found between the groups for the number of grafts used and the duration of aortic cross-clamping and cardiopulmonary bypass. No significant intergroup difference was seen for the mean diameter of the ascending aorta (p > 0.05). Annual changes in the aortic diameter were found to be extremely significantly different in both groups (p = 0.0001). Mean values of the aortic diameter at the level of the sinotubular junction and tubular ascending aorta, mean aortic diameters (p = 0.002 and p = 0.0001, respectively), annual increase in diameter (p = 0.0001 and p = 0.0001, respectively), and mean annual difference in diameter (p = 0.0001 and p = 0.0001, respectively) at one and three years postoperatively were statistically significantly different between the groups. Conclusion: In patients with ascending aortic dilatation who did not require surgical intervention and who had proximal anastomosis of the ascending aorta and underwent only CABG, we detected statistically significant increases in the diameter of the sinotubular junction and tubular aorta up to three years postoperatively. PMID:27701487

  2. The Position of the Aorta Relative to the Vertebrae in Patients With Lenke Type 1 Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis.

    PubMed

    Bekki, Hirofumi; Harimaya, Katsumi; Matsumoto, Yoshihiro; Hayashida, Mitsumasa; Okada, Seiji; Doi, Toshio; Iwamoto, Yukihide

    2016-04-01

    A computed tomography study. The aim of the study was to clarify the position of the aorta relative to the spine in patients with Lenke type 1 adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Several authors have examined the position of the aorta in patients with scoliosis; however, their analysis included several types of curve. There is a possibility that the position of the aorta differs according to the scoliosis curve type. Thirty-eight patients with Lenke type 1 were analyzed. The angle (left pedicle aorta [LtP-Ao] angle) and distance (LtP-Ao distance) from the insertion point of the left pedicle screw to the aorta were measured from T4 through L2. The measured data were evaluated from 4 levels above to 4 levels below the apical vertebra. The difference between lumbar modifiers A and C was examined. Dangerous pedicles, which were defined as those in which the aorta entered the expected area based on the screw direction error and length, were counted from T10 to L2. The aorta was located posterolaterally and adjacent to the vertebra at the middle thoracic level, and anteromedially and distant at the thoracolumbar level. LtP-Ao angle was largest at 1 level above the apical vertebra, and LtP-Ao distance was shortest at 2 levels above. LtP-Ao angle of Lenke 1A was significantly larger than 1C from T11 to L2, and LtP-Ao distance of 1A was significantly shorter than 1C from T11 to L1. When the screw length was 40 mm and the direction error was within 10°, there were a large number of dangerous pedicles at T11, regardless of the lumbar modifier. The direction error has a potential risk of injuring the aorta around the apical vertebra. The selection of screws of the proper length is necessary to avoid a breach of the anterior vertebral wall at thoracolumbar level, especially at T11. 3.

  3. The effect of proximal anastomosis on the expansion rate of a dilated ascending aorta in coronary artery bypass surgery: a prospective study.

    PubMed

    Yavuz Balci, Ahmet; Vural, Unsal; Aksoy, Rezan; Özdemir, M Fatih; Satilmiş, Seçkin; Kizilay, Mehmet; Şenocak, Mutlu; Şaşkin, Huseyin; Kayacioğlu, Ilyas; Yekeler, Ibrahim

    This study was designed to determine the short- and long-term effects of proximal aortic anastomosis, performed during isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in patients with dilatation of the ascending aorta who did not require surgical intervention. The study was performed on 192 (38 female and 160 male patients; mean age, 62.1 ± 9.2 years; range, 42-80 years) patients with dilatation of the ascending aorta who underwent CABG surgery between 1 June 2006 and 31 May 2014. In group 1 (n = 114), the saphenous vein and left internal mammarian artery grafts were used, and proximal anastomosis was performed on the ascending aorta. In group 2 (n = 78), left and right internal mammarian artery grafts were used, and proximal aortic anastomosis was not performed. Pre-operatively and in the first and third years postoperatively, the ascending aortic diameter was measured and recorded using transthoracic echocardiography at four different regions (annulus, sinus of Valsalva, sinotubular junction and tubular aorta). A statistically significant difference was found between the groups for the number of grafts used and the duration of aortic cross-clamping and cardiopulmonary bypass. No significant intergroup difference was seen for the mean diameter of the ascending aorta (p > 0.05). Annual changes in the aortic diameter were found to be extremely significantly different in both groups (p = 0.0001). Mean values of the aortic diameter at the level of the sinotubular junction and tubular ascending aorta, mean aortic diameters (p = 0.002 and p = 0.0001, respectively), annual increase in diameter (p = 0.0001 and p = 0.0001, respectively), and mean annual difference in diameter (p = 0.0001 and p = 0.0001, respectively) at one and three years postoperatively were statistically significantly different between the groups. In patients with ascending aortic dilatation who did not require surgical intervention and who had proximal anastomosis of the ascending aorta and underwent only CABG, we detected statistically significant increases in the diameter of the sinotubular junction and tubular aorta up to three years postoperatively.

  4. A comparison of age-related changes in axial prestretch in human carotid arteries and in human abdominal aorta.

    PubMed

    Horný, Lukáš; Adámek, Tomáš; Kulvajtová, Markéta

    2017-02-01

    It is known that large arteries in situ are subjected to significant axial prestretch. This prestretch plays an important physiological role in optimizing the biomechanical response of an artery. It is also known that the prestretch declines with age. However, a detailed description of age-related changes in prestretch is available only for the abdominal aorta and for the femoropliteal artery. Our study presents results of measurements of axial prestretch in 229 left common carotid arteries excised in autopsies. It was found that the prestretch of the carotid artery correlates significantly with age ([Formula: see text], p value < 0.001). A linear regression model was used to fit the observations. Simultaneously with the measurement of the prestretch in the carotid artery, the axial prestretch was also measured in abdominal aorta. By comparing data obtained from these locations, it was concluded that the axial prestretch in the carotid artery is greater than in the abdominal aorta, and that atherosclerosis develops more rapidly in the abdominal aorta than in the carotid artery. Histological sections obtained from 8 carotid arteries and aortas suggest that the medial layer of the left common carotid artery is significantly thinner than aortic media (median/IQR: 0.343/0.086 vs. 0.482/0.172 mm, [Formula: see text] in Wilcoxon signed-rank test) and simultaneously that carotid media contains a lower number of elastic membranes (median/IQR: 26.5/11.8 vs. 31.5/11.8, [Formula: see text] in the Wilcoxon signed-rank test). This could be a reason for the different extent of the prestretch observed in aorta and in carotid artery. Our data sample also contains 5 measurements of the axial prestretch in abdominal aortas suffering from an aneurysm. It was found that aneurysmatic aortas also exhibit axial retraction when excised from in situ position. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that detailed data characterizing axial prestretch of the human left common carotid artery have been presented.

  5. Ensartinib in Treating Patients With Relapsed or Refractory Advanced Solid Tumors, Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, or Histiocytic Disorders With ALK or ROS1 Genomic Alterations (A Pediatric MATCH Treatment Trial)

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-06-25

    Advanced Malignant Solid Neoplasm; ALK Fusion Protein Expression; ALK Gene Mutation; ALK Gene Translocation; Ann Arbor Stage III Childhood Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma; Ann Arbor Stage IV Childhood Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma; Histiocytosis; Recurrent Childhood Central Nervous System Neoplasm; Recurrent Childhood Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma; Recurrent Malignant Solid Neoplasm; Recurrent Neuroblastoma; Refractory Central Nervous System Neoplasm; Refractory Malignant Solid Neoplasm; Refractory Neuroblastoma; Refractory Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma; ROS1 Fusion Positive; ROS1 Gene Mutation; ROS1 Gene Translocation

  6. Engagement of Patients With Advanced Cancer

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2017-05-12

    End of Life; Advanced Cancer; Lung Neoplasm; Gastric Cancer; Colon Cancer; Glioblastoma Multiforme; Head and Neck Neoplasms; Rectum Cancer; Melanoma; Kidney Cancer; Prostate Cancer; Testicular Neoplasms; Liver Cancer; Cancer of Unknown Origin

  7. Severe Obstructive Calcification of the Descending Aorta: A Case Report of “Coral Reef Aorta”

    PubMed Central

    Ishigaki, Takahiro; Matsuda, Hitoshi; Henmi, Soichiro; Yoshida, Masato; Mukohara, Nobuhiko

    2017-01-01

    An 82-year-old man suffering from lower back pain and dyspnea presented to our institute in a state of shock. Computed tomography showed subtotal occlusion of the descending aorta with massive atherosclerotic calcification. As the proximal portion of the superior mesenteric artery was obstructed, emergency bypass from the right axillary artery to the bilateral external iliac arteries was performed, but the patient died 2 days later. Autopsy revealed that reddish-brown and verrucous masses obstructed the descending aorta, and high-grade thickening of the intima and extensive deposits of calcium in the lumina and medial layer were detected in the descending aorta histologically. PMID:29034045

  8. Multiscale modeling and simulation of blood flow in coronary artery bypass graft surgeries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sankaran, Sethuraman; Esmaily Moghadam, Mahdi; Kahn, Andy; Marsden, Alison

    2011-11-01

    We present a computational framework for modeling and simulation of blood flow in patients who undergo coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgeries. We evaluate the influence of shape on the homeostatic state, cardiac output, and other quantities of interest. We present a case study on a patient with multiple CABG. We build a patient-specific model of the blood vessels comprised of the aorta, vessels branching from the top of the aorta (brachiocephalic artery and carotids) and the coronary arteries, in addition to bypass grafts. The rest of the circulatory system is modeled using lumped parameter 0D models comprised of resistances, compliances, inertances and elastance. An algorithm is presented that computes these parameters automatically given constraints on the flow. A Finite element framework is used to compute blood flow and pressure in the 3D model to which the 0D code is coupled at the model inlets and outlets. An adaptive closed loop BC is used to capture the coupling of the various outlets of the model with inlets, and is compared with a model with fixed inlet BC. We compare and contrast the pressure, flowrate, coronary perfusion, and PV curves obtained in the different cases. Further, we compare and contrast quantities of interest such as wall shear stress, wall shear stress gradients and oscillatory shear index for different surgical geometries and discuss implications of patient-specific optimization. I would like to acknowlege AHA for funding this work.

  9. Hepatic Hemangiomas Alter Morphometry and Impair Hemodynamics of the Abdominal Aorta and Primary Branches From Computer Simulations.

    PubMed

    Yin, Xiaoping; Huang, Xu; Li, Qiao; Li, Li; Niu, Pei; Cao, Minglu; Guo, Fei; Li, Xuechao; Tan, Wenchang; Huo, Yunlong

    2018-01-01

    Background: The formation of hepatic hemangiomas (HH) is associated with VEGF and IL-7 that alter conduit arteries and small arterioles. To our knowledge, there are no studies to investigate the effects of HH on the hemodynamics in conduit arteries. The aim of the study is to perform morphometric and hemodynamic analysis in abdominal conduit arteries and bifurcations of HH patients and controls. Methods: Based on morphometry reconstructed from CT images, geometrical models were meshed with prismatic elements for the near wall region and tetrahedral and hexahedral elements for the core region. Simulations were performed for computation of the non-Newtonian blood flow using the Carreau-Yasuda model, based on which multiple hemodynamic parameters were determined. Results: There was an increase of the lumen size, diameter ratio, and curvature in the abdominal arterial tree of HH patients as compared with controls. This significantly increased the surface area ratio of low time-averaged wall shear stress (i.e., SAR-TAWSS [Formula: see text] 100%) (24.1 ± 7.9 vs. 5 ± 6%, 11.6 ± 12.8 vs. < 0.1%, and 44.5 ± 9.2 vs. 21 ± 24% at hepatic bifurcations, common hepatic arteries, and abdominal aortas, respectively, between HH and control patients). Conclusions: Morphometric changes caused by HH significantly deteriorated the hemodynamic environment in abdominal conduit arteries and bifurcations, which could be an important risk factor for the incidence and progression of vascular diseases.

  10. Second malignant neoplasms in childhood cancer survivors in a tertiary paediatric oncology centre in Hong Kong, China.

    PubMed

    Sun, Wai-Fun; Cheng, Frankie Wai-Tsoi; Lee, Vincent; Leung, Wing-Kwan; Shing, Ming-Kong; Yuen, Patrick Man-Pan; Li, Chi-Kong

    2011-11-01

    Childhood cancer survivors were at risk of development of second malignant neoplasms. The aim of this study is to evaluate the incidence, risk factors and outcome of second malignant neoplasms in childhood cancer survivors in a tertiary paediatric oncology centre in Hong Kong, China. We performed a retrospective review of patients with childhood cancer treated in Children's Cancer Centre in Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, China between May 1984 and June 2009. Case records of patients who developed second malignant neoplasms were reviewed. Totally 1374 new cases aged less than 21-year old were treated in our centre in this 25-year study period. Twelve cases developed second malignant neoplasms with 10-year and 20-year cumulative incidence of 1.3% (95% confidence interval 0.3% - 2.3%) and 2.9% (95% confidence interval 1.1% - 4.7%) respectively. Another 4 cases were referred to us from other centres for the management of second malignant neoplasms. In this cohort of 16 children with second malignant neoplasms, the most frequent second malignant neoplasms were acute leukemia or myelodysplastic syndrome (n = 6) and central nervous system tumor (n = 4). Median interval between diagnosis of primary and second malignant neoplasms was 7.4 years (range 2.1 - 13.3 years). Eight patients developed second solid tumor within the previous irradiated field. Radiotherapy significantly increased the risk of development of second solid tumor in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (P = 0.027). Seven out of 16 patients who developed second malignant neoplasms had a family history of cancer among the first or second-degree relatives. Nine patients died of progression of second malignant neoplasms, mainly resulted from second central nervous system tumor and osteosarcoma. Cumulative incidence of second cancer in our centre was comparable to western countries. Radiotherapy was associated with second solid tumour among patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Patients who developed second brain tumor and osteosarcoma had a poor outcome.

  11. Incidental detection of late subsequent intracranial neoplasms with magnetic resonance imaging among adult survivors of childhood cancer.

    PubMed

    Sabin, Noah D; Santucci, Aimee K; Klimo, Paul; Hudson, Melissa M; Srivastava, Deokumar; Zhang, Nan; Kun, Larry E; Krasin, Matthew J; Pui, Ching-Hon; Patay, Zoltan; Reddick, Wilburn E; Ogg, Robert J; Hillenbrand, Claudia M; Robison, Leslie L; Krull, Kevin R; Armstrong, Gregory T

    2014-09-01

    Survivors of childhood cancer are at an increased risk of developing subsequent neoplasms. In long-term survivors of childhood malignancies treated with and without cranial radiation therapy (CRT), undergoing unenhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain, we estimated detection of intracranial neoplasms. To investigate neurocognitive outcomes, 219 survivors of childhood cancer underwent unenhanced screening MRI of the brain. Of the survivors, 164 had been treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) (125 received CRT) and 55 for Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) (none received CRT). MRI examinations were reviewed and systematically coded by a single neuroradiologist. Demographic and treatment characteristics were compared for survivors with and without subsequent neoplasms. Nineteen of the 219 survivors (8.7 %) had a total of 31 subsequent intracranial neoplasms identified by neuroimaging at a median time of 25 years (range 12-46 years) from diagnosis. All neoplasms occurred after CRT, except for a single vestibular schwannoma within the cervical radiation field in a HL survivor. The prevalence of subsequent neoplasms after CRT exposure was 14.4 % (18 of 125). By noncontrast MRI, intracranial neoplasms were most suggestive of meningiomas. Most patients presented with no specific, localizing neurological complaints. In addition to the schwannoma, six tumors were resected based on results of MRI screening, all of which were meningiomas on histologic review. Unenhanced brain MRI of long-term survivors of childhood cancer detected a substantial number of intracranial neoplasms. Screening for early detection of intracranial neoplasms among aging survivors of childhood cancer who received CRT should be evaluated. The high prevalence of incidentally detected subsequent intracranial neoplasms after CRT in long-term survivors of childhood cancer and the minimal symptoms reported by those with intracranial tumors in our study indicate that brain MRI screening of long-term survivors who received CRT may be warranted. Prospective studies of such screening are needed.

  12. Clinical Significance of Colonoscopy in Patients with Upper Gastrointestinal Polyps and Neoplasms: A Meta-Analysis

    PubMed Central

    Wu, Zhen-Jie; Lin, Yuan; Xiao, Jun; Wu, Liu-Cheng; Liu, Jun-Gang

    2014-01-01

    Background Some authors have studied the relationship between the presence of polyps, adenomas and cancers of upper gastrointestinal tract (stomach and duodenum) and risk of colorectal polyps and neoplasms; however, the results are controversial, which may be due to study sample size, populations, design, clinical features, and so on. No meta-analysis, which can be generalized to a larger population and could provide a quantitative pooled risk estimate of the relationship, of this issue existed so far. Methods We performed a meta-analysis to evaluate risk of colorectal polyps or neoplasms in patients with polyps, adenomas or cancers in upper gastrointestinal tract comparing with controls. A search was conducted through PubMed, EMBASE, reference lists of potentially relevant papers, and practice guidelines up to 27 November 2013 without languages restriction. Odd ratios (ORs) were pooled using random-effects models. Results The search yielded 3 prospective and 21 retrospective case-control studies (n = 37152 participants). The principal findings included: (1) OR for colorectal polyps was 1.15 (95% CI, 1.04–1.26) in the gastric polyps group comparing with control groups; (2) Patients with gastric polyps and neoplasms have higher risk (OR, 1.31 [95% CI, 1.06–1.62], and 1.72 [95% CI, 1.42–2.09], respectively) of colorectal neoplasms comparing with their controls; and (3) Positive association was found between the presence of colorectal neoplasms and sporadic duodenal neoplasms (OR, 2.59; 95% CI, 1.64–4.11). Conclusions Findings from present meta-analysis of 24 case-control studies suggest that the prevalence of colorectal polyps was higher in patients with gastric polyps than in those without gastric polyps, and the risk of colorectal neoplasms increases significantly in patients with gastric polyps, neoplasms, and duodenal neoplasms. Therefore, screening colonoscopy should be considered for patients with upper gastrointestinal polyps and neoplasms. PMID:24637723

  13. BRAF/KRAS gene sequencing of sebaceous neoplasms after mismatch repair protein analysis.

    PubMed

    Cornejo, Kristine M; Hutchinson, Lloyd; Deng, April; Tomaszewicz, Keith; Welch, Matthew; Lyle, Stephen; Dresser, Karen; Cosar, Ediz F

    2014-06-01

    Sebaceous neoplasms are cutaneous markers for the autosomal-dominant Muir-Torre syndrome (MTS). This phenotypic variant of Lynch syndrome (LS) is caused by germline mutations in DNA mismatch repair (MMR) genes. Microsatellite instability or loss of protein expression suggests a mutation or promoter hypermethylation in 1 of the MMR genes. BRAF gene sequencing may help to distinguish between patients with sporadic and LS-associated colorectal carcinomas with loss of MLH1 expression. LS-associated carcinomas are virtually negative for BRAF mutations, but a subset harbors KRAS mutations. The aim of our study was to test sebaceous neoplasms for V600E BRAF or KRAS mutations to determine if these mutations are associated with somatic or germline MMR defects, analogous to colorectal carcinomas. Over a 4-year period, 32 cases comprising 21 sebaceous adenomas, 3 sebaceomas, and 8 sebaceous carcinomas with sufficient material for testing were collected. MMR immunohistochemistry showed that 7 neoplasms had combined loss of MLH1-PMS2, 16 neoplasms had combined loss of MSH2-MSH6, 2 neoplasms had solitary loss of MSH6, and 7 sebaceous neoplasms had intact protein expression. BRAF/KRAS testing revealed all sebaceous neoplasms contained a wild-type BRAF gene. Two (15%) of 13 patients with MTS were found to harbor a KRAS mutation and loss of MLH1 expression. We conclude that a V600E BRAF mutation may not be helpful in distinguishing sporadic from MTS-associated sebaceous neoplasms. Further studies are needed to determine if KRAS mutations are restricted to patients with MTS or are also present in sporadic sebaceous neoplasms. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  14. Protection against atherogenesis with the polymer drag-reducing agent Separan AP-30.

    PubMed

    Faruqui, F I; Otten, M D; Polimeni, P I

    1987-03-01

    The inhibitory effect of Separan AP-30, an anionic polyacrylamide, on atherosclerotic plaque formation in aortas of rabbits on a high (2%) cholesterol diet was tested over a period extending from 37 to 170 days. Atherogenesis was quantified morphometrically by application of a computer-assisted image analysis of histologic cross sections of the aorta. The area of vessel wall-atheroma interface, fraction of lumen occluded, and other indexes of atherogenesis were measured in each of 26 segments of aorta excised from the animals, half of which were administered injections (intravenous) of Separan three times a week. Regression analysis of the morphometric data indicates that the polyelectrolyte exerts a powerful antiatherogenic effect in all regions of the aorta, inhibiting the formation of plaque mass to less than half in the aortic arch and about one-fifth in the descending aorta as compared with the aortic plaque masses in untreated rabbits. Results are compatible with the suggestion that a novel hemodynamic principle in vivo, polymer drag reduction, might be effectively applied against atherosclerosis.

  15. Epiaortic fat pad area: A novel index for the dimensions of the ascending aorta.

    PubMed

    Toufan, Mehrnoush; Pourafkari, Leili; Boudagh, Shabnam; Nader, Nader D

    2016-06-01

    We sought to investigate the possible association between the area of the epiaortic fat pad (EAFP) and dimensions of the ascending aorta. A total of 193 individuals underwent transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) prospectively. The area of the EAFP was traced anterior to the aortic root and correlated with the diameter of the aorta. The mean area of the EAFP was 5.16 ± 2.28 cm(2) Absolute and indexed dimensions of the ascending aorta had a significant correlation with the area of the EAFP (p <0.001 for all). In a multivariate linear regression model, age >65 (p <0.001), body mass index >30 kg/m(2) (p = 0.02) and a history of hyperlipidemia (p = 0.003) were identified as independent predictors of the area for EAFP. In conclusion, both the absolute and indexed diameters of the ascending aorta at the different segments that directly come into contact with the EAFP linearly correlate with the area of the EAFP measured by TTE. © The Author(s) 2016.

  16. Selenium Deficiency Influences the Expression of Selenoproteins and Inflammatory Cytokines in Chicken Aorta Vessels.

    PubMed

    Du, Qiang; Yao, Haidong; Yao, Linlin; Zhang, Ziwei; Lei, Xingen; Xu, Shiwen

    2016-10-01

    Selenium deficiency is known to cause cardiovascular diseases. However, the role of Se deficiency in causing oxidative damage and inflammation injury to the aorta vessels of chickens is not well known. In the present study, 180 1-day-old chickens were randomly divided into two groups, a low-Se group (L group) and a control-Se group (C group). The messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of 25 selenoproteins, the mRNA and protein expression levels of inflammatory cytokines (including NF-κB, TNF-α, COX-2, and PTGES), and the antioxidant levels in chicken aorta vessels were examined. The results showed that the mRNA levels of 25 selenoproteins and the activity of Gpx were decreased, while the mRNA and protein expression levels of inflammatory cytokines and the MDA content were increased by Se deficiency in chicken aorta vessels. The data from the present study indicated that Se deficiency decreases the expression of selenoproteins, reduces antioxidant function, and increases the expression of inflammatory factors in chicken aorta vessels.

  17. Interactions between mural cells and endothelial cells stabilize the developing zebrafish dorsal aorta

    PubMed Central

    Stratman, Amber N.; Pezoa, Sofia A.; Farrelly, Olivia M.; Castranova, Daniel; Dye, Louis E.; Butler, Matthew G.; Sidik, Harwin; Talbot, William S.

    2017-01-01

    Mural cells (vascular smooth muscle cells and pericytes) play an essential role in the development of the vasculature, promoting vascular quiescence and long-term vessel stabilization through their interactions with endothelial cells. However, the mechanistic details of how mural cells stabilize vessels are not fully understood. We have examined the emergence and functional role of mural cells investing the dorsal aorta during early development using the zebrafish. Consistent with previous literature, our data suggest that cells ensheathing the dorsal aorta emerge from a sub-population of cells in the adjacent sclerotome. Inhibition of mural cell recruitment to the dorsal aorta through disruption of pdgfr signaling leads to a reduced vascular basement membrane, which in turn results in enhanced dorsal aorta vessel elasticity and failure to restrict aortic diameter. Our results provide direct in vivo evidence for a functional role for mural cells in patterning and stabilization of the early vasculature through production and maintenance of the vascular basement membrane to prevent abnormal aortic expansion and elasticity. PMID:27913637

  18. Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta: A Bridge to Flight Survival.

    PubMed

    Goforth, Carl; Bradley, Matthew; Pineda, Benilani; See, Suzanne; Pasley, Jason

    2018-04-01

    Trauma endures as the leading cause of death worldwide, and most deaths occur in the first 24 hours after initial injury as a result of hemorrhage. Historically, about 90% of battlefield deaths occur before the injured person arrives at a theater hospital, and most are due to noncompressible hemorrhage of the torso. Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta is an evolving technique to quickly place a balloon into the thoracic or abdominal aorta to efficiently block blood flow to distal circulation. Maneuvers, such as resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta, to control endovascular hemorrhage offer a potential intervention to control noncompressible hemorrhage. This technique can be performed percutaneously or open in prehospital environments to restore hemodynamic functions and serve as a survival bridge until the patient is delivered to a treatment facility for definitive surgical hemostasis. This article describes the indications, complications, and application of resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta to military and civilian aeromedical transport. ©2018 American Association of Critical-Care Nurses.

  19. Reduction of thoracic aorta motion artifact with high-pitch 128-slice dual-source computed tomographic angiography: a historical control study.

    PubMed

    Nakagawa, Junichiro; Tasaki, Osamu; Watanabe, Yoshiyuki; Azuma, Takeo; Ohnishi, Mitsuo; Ukai, Isao; Tahara, Kenichi; Ogura, Hiroshi; Kuwagata, Yasuyuki; Hamasaki, Toshimitsu; Shimazu, Takeshi

    2013-01-01

    Electrocardiogram-gated imaging combined with multi-detector row computed tomography (MDCT) has reduced cardiac motion artifacts, but it was not practical in the emergency setting. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability of a high-pitch, 128-slice dual-source CT (DSCT) scanner to reduce motion artifacts in patients admitted to the emergency room. This study comprised 100 patients suspected of having thoracic aorta lesions. We examined 47 patients with the 128-slice DSCT scanner (DSCT group), and 53 patients were examined with a 64-slice MDCT scanner (MDCT group). Six anatomic areas in the thoracic aorta were evaluated. Computed tomography images in the DSCT group were distinct, and significant differences were observed in images of all areas between the 2 groups except for the descending aorta. The high-pitch DSCT scanner can reduce motion artifacts of the thoracic aorta and enable radiological diagnosis even in patients with tachycardia and without breath hold.

  20. A Safety Study of SGN-2FF for Patients With Advanced Solid Tumors

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-05-31

    Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung; Carcinoma, Renal Cell; Breast Neoplasms; Urinary Bladder Neoplasm; Carcinoma, Squamous Cell of Head and Neck; Colorectal Neoplasms; Gastric Adenocarcinoma; Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma

  1. [Incidence of haematological neoplasms in Castilla y León, Spain].

    PubMed

    Rodríguez-García, José Antonio; Vázquez, Lourdes; Ramos, Fernando; Cuevas, Beatriz; Martín, Alejandro; Smucler, Alicia; Guerola, Dulce Nombre; Cantalapiedra, Alberto; Alonso, José María; Fernández, Silvia; Díez, Eva; Rodríguez, María Jesús; Calmuntia, María José; Aguilar, Carlos; Sierra, Magdalena; Gracia, José Antonio; Cebeira, María José; Cantalejo, Rosa

    2015-06-08

    We aimed to assess the incidence of haematological neoplasms (HNs) in Castilla y León (2,5 million inhabitants) and its distribution by age, gender and histological type. The epidemiological profile based on the described variables of the 10,943 HNs diagnosed during a 10-years period was analyzed, compared with other studies. The overall age-adjusted incidence was 29.4 cases/10(5) inhabitants-year, with some geographical differences. The mean age was 67.3 years, with a turning point between the 6th-7th decades of life from which there was a very significant increase of incidence. Two relevant facts where simultaneous with advancing age: decreased lymphoid neoplasms incidence and increased low degree neoplasms incidence. Lymphoid low degree neoplasms accounted for half of the registered processes, showed the greatest preference for male and reached the mode before the rest of neoplasms. Myeloid neoplasms incidence (9.5) was higher than that reported in other European registries, specially compared to southern European countries, opposite to lymphoid neoplasms incidence (20.0). A higher myeloid neoplasms incidence and lower lymphoid one than expected was observed. The turning point of incidence is between the 6th-7th decades of life, with a preference for male that decreases with age. There is an increased incidence of HNs in the area where a higher density of potentially polluting facilities is concentrated. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

  2. Neoplasms of the nasal passages and paranasal sinuses in domesticated animals as reported by 13 veterinary colleges.

    PubMed

    Madewell, B R; Priester, W A; Gillette, E L; Snyder, S P

    1976-07-01

    Three hundred cases of primary neoplasms involving the nasal cavity or paranasal sinuses were found among the reports of 12,300 microscopically confirmed neoplasms. The multispecies data were compiled from abstracts of medical records by 13 colleges of veterinary medicine in the United States and Canada from 1964 to 1973. Significant numbers of neoplasms were observed in dogs, horses, and cats. Intranasal neoplasms were more frequent than those of the paranasal sinuses in dogs and cats. Only cats had a sex difference in the occurrence of nasal neoplasms, with a male predilection. The frequency of neoplasms of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses increased with age in all species examined. A clear relationship could not be established between nose length and of intranasal neoplasms. Of the tumors, 80% were malignant in dogs, 68% in horses, and 91% in cats. Detailed review of medical records in a subset of 49 dogs with neoplasms of the nasal passage and paranasal sinuses revealed major clinical signs of nasal and ocular discharge, facial deformity, and stertorous breathing. Median duration of signs prior to diagnosis was 3 months and 95% of the dogs had been given treatment prior to definitive diagnosis. All 49 tumors were malignant; 27 were classified histologically as carcinomas and 22 were sarcomas. Nineteen dogs were treated, using surgery alone or in combination with radiation therapy. Median survival duration was 5 months (mean 6.7 mo).

  3. [Endovascular and surgical treatment of a patient with traumatic rupture of the aorta and hepatic artery].

    PubMed

    Chernaya, N R; Muslimov, R Sh; Selina, I E; Kokov, L S; Vladimirova, E S; Navruzbekov, M S; Gulyaev, V A

    2016-01-01

    Traumatic rupture of the aorta is the second most common cause of death in closed chest injury. The latest findings of autopsy showed that 80% of lethal outcomes in aortic injury occur in the prehospital period. Taking into consideration the incidence and high rate of death prior to the diagnosis stage, aortic rupture in closed thoracic injury is an important problem. Due to the characteristic mechanism of the development (during sharp deceleration of the body) this type of traumatic lesion of the aorta became known as "deceleration syndrome". The most vulnerable to tension aortic portion is its neck where the mobile part of the thoracic aorta is connected to the fixed arch in the place of the arterial ligament attachment. Open surgical intervention in patients with severe closed chest injury (often concomitant injury) is associated with high mortality and complications. Currently endovascular prosthetic repair of the aorta is a method of choice at the primary stage of treatment of patients with aortic injury. In this article we present a rare case report of concomitant lesion of large vessels (the descending aortic portion and proper hepatic artery) in a patient with severe concomitant injury, as well as peculiarities of diagnosis and combined treatment (endovascular prosthetic repair of the aorta and hepatic artery with an aotovein).

  4. Vasodilator activity of the essential oil from aerial parts of Pectis brevipedunculata and its main constituent citral in rat aorta.

    PubMed

    Pereira, Sharlene Lopes; Marques, André Mesquita; Sudo, Roberto Takashi; Kaplan, Maria Auxiliadora Coelho; Zapata-Sudo, Gisele

    2013-03-07

    The essential oil of Pectis brevipedunculata (EOPB), a Brazilian ornamental aromatic grass, is characterized by its high content of citral (81.9%: neral 32.7% and geranial 49.2%), limonene (4.7%) and α-pinene (3.4%). Vasodilation induced by EOPB and isolated citral was investigated in pre-contracted vascular smooth muscle, using thoracic aorta from Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats which was prepared for isometric tension recording. EOPB promoted intense relaxation of endothelium-intact and denuded aortic rings with the concentration to induce 50% of the maximal relaxation (IC50) of 0.044% ± 0.006% and 0.093% ± 0.015% (p < 0.05), respectively. The IC50 values for citral in endothelium-intact and denuded rings were 0.024% ± 0.004% and 0.021% ± 0.004%, respectively (p > 0.05). In endothelium-intact aorta, EOPB-induced vasorelaxation was significantly reduced by L-NAME, a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor. The vasodilator activity of citral was increased in the KCl-contracted aorta and citral attenuated the contracture elicited by Ca2+ in depolarized aorta. EOPB and citral elicited vasorelaxation on thoracic aorta by affecting the NO/cyclic GMP pathway and the calcium influx through voltage-dependent L-type Ca2+ channels, respectively.

  5. Endothelium-Dependent and -Independent Vasodilator Effects of Dimethyl Sulfoxide in Rat Aorta.

    PubMed

    Kaneda, Takeharu; Sasaki, Noriyasu; Urakawa, Norimoto; Shimizu, Kazumasa

    2016-01-01

    This study examined the mechanism of vasorelaxation induced by dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) in endothelium-intact and -denuded rat aorta. DMSO (0.1-3%) inhibited phenylephrine (PE, 1 μmol/l)-induced contraction in a dose-dependent manner. However, this relaxation was lower in the absence of the endothelium. Increase in DMSO-induced relaxation in the presence of the endothelium was attenuated by preincubation in L-NG-nitroarginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 100 μmol/l) and by the removal of the endothelium. In the aorta with endothelium, DMSO (3%) and CCh (3 μmol/l) increased cGMP contents, significantly and L-NAME (100 μmol/l) inhibited the DMSO-induced increases of cGMP. In fura 2-loaded endothelium-denuded aorta, cumulative application of DMSO (1-3%) inhibited PE-induced muscle tension; however, this application did not affect the [Ca2+]i level. In PE-precontracted endothelium-denuded aorta, relaxation responses to fasudil were significantly less in the presence of DMSO compared to the control. These results suggest that DMSO causes relaxation by increasing the cGMP content in correlation with the release of NO from endothelial cells and by decreasing the Ca2+ sensitivity of contractile elements partly via inhibiting Rho-kinase in rat aorta. © 2016 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  6. Pulsatile Hyperglycaemia Induces Vascular Oxidative Stress and GLUT 1 Expression More Potently than Sustained Hyperglycaemia in Rats on High Fat Diet

    PubMed Central

    Rakipovski, Günaj; Lykkesfeldt, Jens; Raun, Kirsten

    2016-01-01

    Introduction Pulsatile hyperglycaemia resulting in oxidative stress may play an important role in the development of macrovascular complications. We investigated the effects of sustained vs. pulsatile hyperglycaemia in insulin resistant rats on markers of oxidative stress, enzyme expression and glucose metabolism in liver and aorta. We hypothesized that liver’s ability to regulate the glucose homeostasis under varying states of hyperglycaemia may indirectly affect oxidative stress status in aorta despite the amount of glucose challenged with. Methods Animals were infused with sustained high (SHG), low (SLG), pulsatile (PLG) glucose or saline (VEH) for 96 h. Oxidative stress status and key regulators of glucose metabolism in liver and aorta were investigated. Results Similar response in plasma lipid oxidation was observed in PLG as in SHG. Likewise, in aorta, PLG and SHG displayed increased expression of glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1), gp-91PHOX and super oxide dismutase (SOD), while only the PLG group showed increased accumulation of oxidative stress and oxidised low density lipoprotein (oxLDL) in aorta. Conclusion Pulsatile hyperglycaemia induced relatively higher levels of oxidative stress systemically and in aorta in particular than overt sustained hyperglycaemia thus supporting the clinical observations that pulsatile hyperglycaemia is an independent risk factor for diabetes related macrovascular complications. PMID:26790104

  7. Pulsatile Hyperglycaemia Induces Vascular Oxidative Stress and GLUT 1 Expression More Potently than Sustained Hyperglycaemia in Rats on High Fat Diet.

    PubMed

    Rakipovski, Günaj; Lykkesfeldt, Jens; Raun, Kirsten

    2016-01-01

    Pulsatile hyperglycaemia resulting in oxidative stress may play an important role in the development of macrovascular complications. We investigated the effects of sustained vs. pulsatile hyperglycaemia in insulin resistant rats on markers of oxidative stress, enzyme expression and glucose metabolism in liver and aorta. We hypothesized that liver's ability to regulate the glucose homeostasis under varying states of hyperglycaemia may indirectly affect oxidative stress status in aorta despite the amount of glucose challenged with. Animals were infused with sustained high (SHG), low (SLG), pulsatile (PLG) glucose or saline (VEH) for 96 h. Oxidative stress status and key regulators of glucose metabolism in liver and aorta were investigated. Similar response in plasma lipid oxidation was observed in PLG as in SHG. Likewise, in aorta, PLG and SHG displayed increased expression of glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1), gp-91PHOX and super oxide dismutase (SOD), while only the PLG group showed increased accumulation of oxidative stress and oxidised low density lipoprotein (oxLDL) in aorta. Pulsatile hyperglycaemia induced relatively higher levels of oxidative stress systemically and in aorta in particular than overt sustained hyperglycaemia thus supporting the clinical observations that pulsatile hyperglycaemia is an independent risk factor for diabetes related macrovascular complications.

  8. Spiral blood flow in aorta-renal bifurcation models.

    PubMed

    Javadzadegan, Ashkan; Simmons, Anne; Barber, Tracie

    2016-01-01

    The presence of a spiral arterial blood flow pattern in humans has been widely accepted. It is believed that this spiral component of the blood flow alters arterial haemodynamics in both positive and negative ways. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of spiral flow on haemodynamic changes in aorta-renal bifurcations. In this regard, a computational fluid dynamics analysis of pulsatile blood flow was performed in two idealised models of aorta-renal bifurcations with and without flow diverter. The results show that the spirality effect causes a substantial variation in blood velocity distribution, while causing only slight changes in fluid shear stress patterns. The dominant observed effect of spiral flow is on turbulent kinetic energy and flow recirculation zones. As spiral flow intensity increases, the rate of turbulent kinetic energy production decreases, reducing the region of potential damage to red blood cells and endothelial cells. Furthermore, the recirculation zones which form on the cranial sides of the aorta and renal artery shrink in size in the presence of spirality effect; this may lower the rate of atherosclerosis development and progression in the aorta-renal bifurcation. These results indicate that the spiral nature of blood flow has atheroprotective effects in renal arteries and should be taken into consideration in analyses of the aorta and renal arteries.

  9. Ca(2+)-channel blockade in rat thoracic aorta by protopine isolated from Corydalis tubers.

    PubMed

    Ko, F N; Wu, T S; Lu, S T; Wu, Y C; Huang, T F; Teng, C M

    1992-01-01

    The pharmacological properties and mechanism of the action of protopine on isolated rat thoracic aorta were examined. It inhibited norepinephrine (NE, 3 microM)-induced tonic contraction in rat thoracic aorta in a concentration-dependent manner (25-100 micrograms/ml). The phasic contraction caused by NE was inhibited only by a high concentration of protopine (100 micrograms/ml). At the plateau of NE-induced tonic contraction, the addition of protopine also caused relaxation. This relaxing effect of protopine was not antagonized by indomethacin (20 microM) or methylene blue (50 microM), and it still existed in denuded rat aorta or in the presence of nifedipine (2-100 microM). Protopine also inhibited high potassium (60 mM)-induced, calcium-dependent (0.03-3 mM) contraction of rat aorta in a concentration-dependent manner. Neither cAMP nor cGMP level was changed by protopine. Both the formation of inositol monophosphate caused by NE and the phasic contraction induced by caffeine were also not affected by protopine. 45Ca2+ influx caused by either NE or K+ was inhibited by protopine concentration-dependently. It is concluded that protopine relaxed the rat thoracic aorta mainly by suppressing the Ca2+ influx through both voltage- and receptor-operated calcium channels.

  10. Aortic expansion rate in patients with dilated post-stenotic ascending aorta submitted only to aortic valve replacement long-term follow-up.

    PubMed

    Gaudino, Mario; Anselmi, Amedeo; Morelli, Mauro; Pragliola, Claudio; Tsiopoulos, Vasileios; Glieca, Franco; Possati, Gianfederico

    2011-08-02

    This study was conceived to describe the evolution of aortic dimensions in patients with moderate post-stenotic ascending aorta dilation (50 to 59 mm) submitted to aortic valve replacement (AVR) alone. The appropriate treatment of post-stenotic ascending aorta dilation has been poorly investigated. Ninety-three patients affected by severe isolated calcific aortic valve stenosis in the tricuspid aortic valve accompanied by moderate dilation of the ascending aorta (50 to 59 mm) were submitted to AVR only. All patients were followed for a mean of 14.7 ± 4.8 years by means of periodic clinical evaluations and echocardiography and tomography scans of the thorax. Operative mortality was 1.0% (1 patient). During the follow-up, 16 patients died and 2 had to be reoperated for valve dysfunction. No patients experienced acute aortic events (rupture, dissection, pseudoaneurysm), and no patient had to be reoperated on the aorta. There was not a substantial increase in aortic dimensions: mean aortic diameter was 57 ± 11 mm at the end of the follow-up versus 56 ± 02 mm pre-operatively (p = NS). The mean ascending aorta expansion rate was 0.3 ± 0.2 mm/year. In the absence of connective tissue disorders, AVR alone is sufficient to prevent further aortic expansion in patients with moderate post-stenotic dilation of the ascending aorta. Aortic replacement can probably be reserved for patients with a long life expectancy. Copyright © 2011 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. Gia/Mthl5 is an aorta specific GPCR required for Drosophila heart tube morphology and normal pericardial cell positioning.

    PubMed

    Patel, Meghna V; Zhu, Jun-Yi; Jiang, Zhiping; Richman, Adam; VanBerkum, Mark F A; Han, Zhe

    2016-06-01

    G-protein signaling is known to be required for cell-cell contacts during the development of the Drosophila dorsal vessel. However, the identity of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that regulates this signaling pathway activity is unknown. Here we describe the identification of a novel cardiac specific GPCR, called Gia, for "GPCR in aorta". Gia is the only heart-specific GPCR identified in Drosophila to date and it is specifically expressed in cardioblasts that fuse at the dorsal midline to become the aorta. Gia is the only Drosophila gene so far identified for which expression is entirely restricted to cells of the aorta. Deletion of Gia led to a broken-hearted phenotype, characterized by pericardial cells dissociated from cardioblasts and abnormal distribution of cell junction proteins. Both phenotypes were similar to those observed in mutants of the heterotrimeric cardiac G proteins. Lack of Gia also led to defects in the alignment and fusion of cardioblasts in the aorta. Gia forms a protein complex with G-αo47A, the alpha subunit of the heterotrimeric cardiac G proteins and interacts genetically with G-αo47A during cardiac morphogenesis. Our study identified Gia as an essential aorta-specific GPCR that functions upstream of cardiac heterotrimeric G proteins and is required for morphological integrity of the aorta during heart tube formation. These studies lead to a redefinition of the bro phenotype, to encompass morphological integrity of the heart tube as well as cardioblast-pericardial cell spatial interactions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  12. Comparing five simple vascular storage protocols.

    PubMed

    van Doormaal, Tristan P C; Sluijs, Jurren H; Vink, Aryan; Tulleken, Cornelis A F; van der Zwan, Albert

    2014-11-01

    We aim to find a storage protocol for vessels that preserves their dimensional, histologic, and mechanical characteristics to facilitate reproducible anastomosis experiments and microsurgical training with constant quality. We compared stored rabbit aortas, harvested in a slaughterhouse, using five different protocols with fresh controls. Aortas were preserved for 125 d in (1) NaCl 0.9% at -18°C, (2) Roswell Park Memorial Institute 1640 90% with 10% dimethyl sulfoxide (RPMI/DMSO) at -18°C, (3) RPMI/DMSO at -70°C, (4) glycerol 85% at 4°C, and (5) glycerol in stepwise increased concentrations until 85% at 4°C. After preservation, we measured vessel diameter, wall thickness, and Young's Modulus indicating stiffness. Neurosurgeons compared stored vessels with fresh vessels, blinded for preservation subgroup. We performed histologic assessment blinded for preservation subgroup. Fresh rabbit aortas showed a mean diameter of 2.65 ± 0.14 mm, a mean wall thickness of 126 ± 22 μm, and a Young's Modulus of 11.4 ± 2.4 N/mm(2). NaCl 0.9%-preserved aortas showed a significantly increased vessel diameter and decreased stiffness. RPMI/DMSO-preserved aortas showed no significant differences from fresh aortas in dimensions and mechanical characteristics. Glycerol-preserved tissue showed a significant increase in wall thickness, a related significant decrease in diameter, and increase in stiffness. Neurosurgeons regarded RPMI/DMSO tissue as most comparable with fresh tissue. Histologic assessment revealed no differences between the different protocols and fresh control group. Storage of rabbit aortas in RPMI/DMSO most adequately preserves their dimensional and mechanical properties. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Correlation of laser-Doppler-velocity measurements and endothelial cell shape in a stenosed dog aorta.

    PubMed

    Liepsch, D W; Levesque, M; Nerem, R M; Moravec, S T

    1988-01-01

    Laser-Doppler-velocity measurements were carried out in an elastic 1:1 true-to-scale silicone rubber model of a dog aorta with stenosis. The model was constructed from a cast of a severely stenosed dog aorta (71% of its area). The stenosis in the dog aorta was prepared by wrapping a cotton band around the aorta. This band was tightened until the presence of a thrill or a bruit was felt distal to the band. Twelve weeks later the animal was sacrificed and a cast was prepared from the aorta. From this vascular cast, the cross-sectional area was calculated. Endothelial cell geometry and orientation was studied using computerized analysis to determine the cell area and shape index. An elastic silicone rubber model was prepared from the cast to measure the velocity profiles and to estimate the local wall shear stress. Velocity measurements were done at steady and pulsatile flow using a Newtonian aqueous-glycerol solution and a non-Newtonian blood-like fluid. From those velocity measurements the velocity gradients near the wall were determined and the shear stress calculated. The flow distal to the stenosis separates from the wall at physiological conditions. The endothelial cells are smaller and more elongated in the throat; distal to the stenosis they are larger and rounder. The shape index distribution along the stenosed aorta is correlated with the level of wall shear stress. It is shown that even low changes in the wall shear stress have an influence on the orientation of the endothelial cells.

  14. Immunohistological studies on neoplasms of female and male Onchocerca volvulus: filarial origin and absence of Wolbachia from tumor cells

    PubMed Central

    BRATTIG, N. W.; HOERAUF, A.; FISCHER, P. U.; LIEBAU, E.; BANDI, C.; DEBRAH, A.; BÜTTNER, M.; BÜTTNER, D. W.

    2010-01-01

    SUMMARY Up to 5% of untreated female Onchocerca volvulus filariae develop potentially fatal pleomorphic neoplasms, whose incidence is increased following ivermectin treatment. We studied the occurrence of 8 filarial proteins and of Wolbachia endobacteria in the tumor cells. Onchocercomas from patients, untreated and treated with antibiotics and anthelminthics, were examined by immunohistology. Neoplasms were diagnosed in 112 of 3587 female and in 2 of 1570 male O. volvulus. The following proteins and other compounds of O. volvulus were expressed in the cells of the neoplasms: glutathione S-transferase 1, lysosomal aspartic protease, cAMP-dependent protein kinase, alpha-enolase, aspartate aminotransferase, ankyrin E1, tropomyosin, heat shock protein 60, transforming growth factor-beta, and prostaglandin E2. These findings prove the filarial origin of the neoplasms and confirm the pleomorphism of the tumor cells. Signs indicating malignancy of the neoplasms are described. Wolbachia were observed in the hypodermis, oocytes, and embryos of tumor-harbouring filariae using antibodies against Wolbachia surface protein, Wolbachia HtrA-type serine protease, and Wolbachia aspartate aminotransferase. In contrast, Wolbachia were not found in the cells of the neoplasms. Further, neoplasm-containing worms were not observed after more than 10 months after the start of sufficient treatment with doxycycline or doxycycline plus ivermectin. PMID:20199697

  15. Associations between a Genetic Risk Score for Clinical CAD and Early Stage Lesions in the Coronary Artery and the Aorta.

    PubMed

    Salfati, Elias L; Herrington, David M; Assimes, Themistocles L

    2016-01-01

    The correlation between the extent of fatty streaks, more advanced atherosclerotic lesions, and community rates of coronary artery disease (CAD) is substantially higher for the coronary artery compared to the aorta. We sought to determine whether a genetic basis contributes to these differences. We conducted a cluster analysis of 6 subclinical atherosclerosis phenotypes documented in 564 white participants of the Pathobiological Determinants of Atherosclerosis in Youth study including the extent of fatty streaks and raised lesions in the coronary artery (CF and CR), thoracic aorta (TF and TR), and abdominal aorta (AF and AR) followed by a genetic association analysis of the same phenotypes. Our cluster analysis grouped all raised lesions and fatty streaks in the coronary into one cluster (CF, CR, TR, and AR) and the fatty streaks in the aorta into a second cluster (TF and AF). We found a genetic risk score of high-risk alleles at 57 susceptibility loci for CAD to be variably associated with the phenotypes in the first cluster (OR: 1.30 p = 0.009 for being in top quartile of degree of involvement of CF, 1.34 p = 0.005 for CR, 1.25: p = 0.11 for TR, and 1.19 p = 0.08 for AR) but not at all with the phenotypes in the second cluster (OR: 1.01, p = 0.95 for TF and 0.98, p = 0.82 for AF). The genetic determinants of fatty streaks in the aorta do not appear to overlap substantially with the genetic determinants of fatty streaks in the coronary as well as raised lesions in both the coronary and the aorta. These findings may explain why a larger fraction of fatty streaks in the aorta are less likely to progress to raised lesions compared to the coronary artery.

  16. Associations between a Genetic Risk Score for Clinical CAD and Early Stage Lesions in the Coronary Artery and the Aorta

    PubMed Central

    Herrington, David M.

    2016-01-01

    Objective The correlation between the extent of fatty streaks, more advanced atherosclerotic lesions, and community rates of coronary artery disease (CAD) is substantially higher for the coronary artery compared to the aorta. We sought to determine whether a genetic basis contributes to these differences. Approach and Results We conducted a cluster analysis of 6 subclinical atherosclerosis phenotypes documented in 564 white participants of the Pathobiological Determinants of Atherosclerosis in Youth study including the extent of fatty streaks and raised lesions in the coronary artery (CF and CR), thoracic aorta (TF and TR), and abdominal aorta (AF and AR) followed by a genetic association analysis of the same phenotypes. Our cluster analysis grouped all raised lesions and fatty streaks in the coronary into one cluster (CF, CR, TR, and AR) and the fatty streaks in the aorta into a second cluster (TF and AF). We found a genetic risk score of high-risk alleles at 57 susceptibility loci for CAD to be variably associated with the phenotypes in the first cluster (OR: 1.30 p = 0.009 for being in top quartile of degree of involvement of CF, 1.34 p = 0.005 for CR, 1.25: p = 0.11 for TR, and 1.19 p = 0.08 for AR) but not at all with the phenotypes in the second cluster (OR: 1.01, p = 0.95 for TF and 0.98, p = 0.82 for AF). Conclusions The genetic determinants of fatty streaks in the aorta do not appear to overlap substantially with the genetic determinants of fatty streaks in the coronary as well as raised lesions in both the coronary and the aorta. These findings may explain why a larger fraction of fatty streaks in the aorta are less likely to progress to raised lesions compared to the coronary artery. PMID:27861582

  17. Biomechanical properties of the thoracic aorta in Marfan patients

    PubMed Central

    Sulejmani, Fatiesa; Pokutta-Paskaleva, Anastassia; Ziganshin, Bulat; Leshnower, Bradley; Iannucci, Glen; Elefteriades, John

    2017-01-01

    Background Marfan syndrome (MFS), a genetic disorder of the connective tissue, has been strongly linked to dilation of the thoracic aorta, among other cardiovascular complications. As a result, MFS patients frequently suffer from aortic dissection and rupture, contributing to the high rate of mortality and morbidity among MFS patients. Despite the significant effort devoted to the investigation of mechanical and structural properties of aneurysmal tissue, studies on Marfan aneurysmal biomechanics are scarce. Ex vivo mechanical characterization of MFS aneurysmal tissue can provide a better insight into tissue strength outside the physiologic loading range and serve as a basis for improved risk assessment and failure prediction. Methods The mechanical and microstructural properties of MFS aneurysmal thoracic aorta (MFS, n=15, 39.5±3.91 years), non-MFS aneurysmal thoracic aorta (TAA, n=8, 52.8±4.9 years), healthy human thoracic aorta (HH, n=8, 75.4±6.1 years), and porcine thoracic aorta (n=10) are investigated. Planar biaxial tensile testing and uniaxial failure testing were utilized to characterize the mechanical and failure properties of the tissue, respectively. Verhoeff-Van Gieson (VVG) and PicroSirius Red stains were utilized to visualize the elastin and collagen fiber architecture, respectively. Results MFS tissue was found to have age-dependent but diameter-independent mechanical, structural, and morphological properties, also showing extensive elastin fiber degradation. Non-MFS thoracic aneurysmal aorta was thicker and stiffer than age-matched MFS tissue. Moreover, non-MFS thoracic aneurysmal mechanics resembled closely the mechanics of older healthy human tissue. Younger MFS tissue (<40 years) exhibited similar mechanical and structural properties to aged porcine tissue. Conclusions Both age and aneurysmal presence were found to be factors associated with increased stiffness in aortic tissue, and aortic diameter was not a significant determinant of mechanical property deterioration. Additionally, the presence of MFS was found to induce stiffening of the thoracic aorta, although not to the extent of the non-MFS aneurysm. PMID:29270373

  18. Cilostazol enhances atorvastatin-induced vasodilation of female rat aorta during aging.

    PubMed

    Nurullahoğlu-Atalık, K E; Kutlu, S; Solak, H; Koca, R Özen

    2017-09-01

    Statins have cholesterol-independent effects including an increased vascular nitric oxide activity and are commonly used by patients with cardiovascular disease. Such patients frequently have cardiovascular diseases, which may be treated with cilostazol, a platelet aggregation inhibitor. This study was designed to investigate whether combined use of cilostazol would increase the inhibitory effect of statin on vascular smooth muscle and how maturation would affect these responses. Female Wistar rats, aged 3-4 months (young) and 14-15 months (adult), were sacrificed by cervical dislocation and the thoracic aorta was dissected and cut into 3- to 4-mm-long rings. The rings were mounted under a resting tension of 1 g in a 20-ml organ bath filled with Krebs-Henseleit solution. Rings were precontracted with phenylephrine (10 -6  M), and the presence of endothelium was confirmed with acetylcholine (10 -6  M). Then, the concentration-response curves were obtained for atorvastatin alone (10 -10 to 3 × 10 -4  M; control) and in the presence of cilostazol (10 -6  M) in young and adult rat aortas. This experimental protocol was also carried out in aorta rings, which had been pretreated with N G -nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME, 10 -4  M). Atorvastatin induced concentration-dependent relaxations in young and adult rat thoracic aorta rings precontracted with phenylephrine. The pIC 50 value of atorvastatin was significantly decreased in adult rat aortas. In addition, pretreatment of aortas with cilostazol enhanced the potency of atorvastatin in both young and adult aortas. Incubation with l-NAME did not completely eliminate the relaxations to atorvastatin in the presence of cilostazol. These results suggest that combined application of cilostazol with atorvastatin was significantly more potent than atorvastatin alone. Combined drug therapy may be efficacious in delaying the occurrence of cardiovascular events.

  19. 6-Gingerol alleviates exaggerated vasoconstriction in diabetic rat aorta through direct vasodilation and nitric oxide generation.

    PubMed

    Ghareib, Salah A; El-Bassossy, Hany M; Elberry, Ahmed A; Azhar, Ahmad; Watson, Malcolm L; Banjar, Zainy Mohammed

    2015-01-01

    The aim of the present study is to investigate the effect and potential mechanism of action of 6-gingerol on alterations of vascular reactivity in the isolated aorta from diabetic rats. Male Wistar rats were divided into two experimental groups, control and diabetics. Diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (50 mg kg(-1)), and the rats were left for 10 weeks to develop vascular complications. The effect of in vitro incubation with 6-gingerol (0.3-3 μM) on the vasoconstrictor response of the isolated diabetic aortae to phenylephrine and the vasodilator response to acetylcholine was examined. Effect of 6-gingerol was also examined on aortae incubated with methylglyoxal as an advanced glycation end product (AGE). To investigate the mechanism of action of 6-gingerol, the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (100 μM), guanylate cyclase inhibitor methylene blue (5 μM), calcium-activated potassium channel blocker tetraethylammonium chloride (10 mM), and cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin (5 μM) were added 30 minutes before assessing the direct vasorelaxant effect of 6-gingerol. Moreover, in vitro effects of 6-gingerol on NO release and the effect of 6-gingerol on AGE production were examined. Results showed that incubation of aortae with 6-gingerol (0.3-10 μM) alleviated the exaggerated vasoconstriction of diabetic aortae to phenylephrine in a concentration-dependent manner with no significant effect on the impaired relaxatory response to acetylcholine. Similar results were seen in the aortae exposed to methylglyoxal. In addition, 6-gingerol induced a direct vasodilation effect that was significantly inhibited by Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride and methylene blue. Furthermore, 6-gingerol stimulated aortic NO generation but had no effect on AGE formation. In conclusion, 6-gingerol ameliorates enhanced vascular contraction in diabetic aortae, which may be partially attributed to its ability to increase the production of NO and stimulation of cyclic guanosine monophosphate.

  20. 6-Gingerol alleviates exaggerated vasoconstriction in diabetic rat aorta through direct vasodilation and nitric oxide generation

    PubMed Central

    Ghareib, Salah A; El-Bassossy, Hany M; Elberry, Ahmed A; Azhar, Ahmad; Watson, Malcolm L; Banjar, Zainy Mohammed

    2015-01-01

    The aim of the present study is to investigate the effect and potential mechanism of action of 6-gingerol on alterations of vascular reactivity in the isolated aorta from diabetic rats. Male Wistar rats were divided into two experimental groups, control and diabetics. Diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (50 mg kg−1), and the rats were left for 10 weeks to develop vascular complications. The effect of in vitro incubation with 6-gingerol (0.3–3 μM) on the vasoconstrictor response of the isolated diabetic aortae to phenylephrine and the vasodilator response to acetylcholine was examined. Effect of 6-gingerol was also examined on aortae incubated with methylglyoxal as an advanced glycation end product (AGE). To investigate the mechanism of action of 6-gingerol, the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (100 μM), guanylate cyclase inhibitor methylene blue (5 μM), calcium-activated potassium channel blocker tetraethylammonium chloride (10 mM), and cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin (5 μM) were added 30 minutes before assessing the direct vasorelaxant effect of 6-gingerol. Moreover, in vitro effects of 6-gingerol on NO release and the effect of 6-gingerol on AGE production were examined. Results showed that incubation of aortae with 6-gingerol (0.3–10 μM) alleviated the exaggerated vasoconstriction of diabetic aortae to phenylephrine in a concentration-dependent manner with no significant effect on the impaired relaxatory response to acetylcholine. Similar results were seen in the aortae exposed to methylglyoxal. In addition, 6-gingerol induced a direct vasodilation effect that was significantly inhibited by Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride and methylene blue. Furthermore, 6-gingerol stimulated aortic NO generation but had no effect on AGE formation. In conclusion, 6-gingerol ameliorates enhanced vascular contraction in diabetic aortae, which may be partially attributed to its ability to increase the production of NO and stimulation of cyclic guanosine monophosphate. PMID:26609223

  1. Myxomatous neoplasms in the perineal region of baboons

    PubMed Central

    Wallace, Shannon M.; Szabo, Kathleen A.; Schlabritz-Loutsevitch, Natalia E.; Dick, Edward J.; Blanchard, Terrell W.; Hubbard, Gene B.

    2012-01-01

    Background In baboons, Papio sp. neoplasms tend to affect the hematopoietic system most commonly, with rare documentation of myxomatous neoplasms. In contrast, women can develop myxomatous masses within deep peripelvic tissues with some frequency during their reproductive years. Methods We have identified and examined, retrospectively, myxomatous perineal masses in twelve female baboons within one research facility and compared their histopathologic, immunohistochemical and electron microscopic features to their human variants. Results Our results indicate that these myxomatous neoplasms, in humans and non-human primates, share common features. Conclusion Further research, particularly molecular genetic analysis, may be needed to identify the baboon as a true animal model for myxomatous perineal neoplasms. PMID:19017193

  2. Vemurafenib in Treating Patients With Relapsed or Refractory Advanced Solid Tumors, Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, or Histiocytic Disorders With BRAF V600 Mutations (A Pediatric MATCH Treatment Trial)

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-06-25

    Advanced Malignant Solid Neoplasm; Ann Arbor Stage III Childhood Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma; Ann Arbor Stage IV Childhood Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma; BRAF NP_004324.2:p.V600X; Ependymoma; Ewing Sarcoma; Hepatoblastoma; Histiocytosis; Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis; Malignant Germ Cell Tumor; Malignant Glioma; Osteosarcoma; Peripheral Primitive Neuroectodermal Tumor; Recurrent Childhood Central Nervous System Neoplasm; Recurrent Childhood Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma; Recurrent Malignant Solid Neoplasm; Recurrent Neuroblastoma; Refractory Central Nervous System Neoplasm; Refractory Malignant Solid Neoplasm; Refractory Neuroblastoma; Refractory Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma; Rhabdoid Tumor; Rhabdomyosarcoma; Soft Tissue Sarcoma; Wilms Tumor

  3. Antioxidant and triglyceride-lowering effects of vitamin E associated with the prevention of abnormalities in the reactivity and morphology of aorta from streptozotocin-diabetic rats. Antioxidants in Diabetes-Induced Complications (ADIC) Study Group.

    PubMed

    Karasu, C; Ozansoy, G; Bozkurt, O; Erdoğan, D; Omeroğlu, S

    1997-08-01

    In this study, we evaluated the effects of vitamin E on the vascular reactivity and structure of thoracic aorta from streptozotocin (STZ)-diabetic rats. Plasma glucose, cholesterol, and triglyceride concentrations in rats were increased markedly by STZ-diabetes. The thiobarbituric acid (TBA) reactivity level as an index of lipid peroxidation was higher in both plasma and aorta of STZ-diabetic rats compared with controls. The rings of thoracic aorta with or without endothelium were mounted in organ chambers for measurement of isometric tension and were contracted by a single dose (10-5 mol/L) and then cumulative doses of noradrenaline ([NA] 10(-9) to 10(-5) mol/L). Pretreatment with methylene blue (MB) or removal of the endothelium resulted in a similar degree of enhancement in NA-induced contraction of control rings. STZ-diabetes increased the fast and slow components of NA-induced contraction in all experiments. The maximal contractile response of aorta to NA was also augmented by STZ-diabetes, whereas the sensitivity (pD2) remained unaltered. STZ-diabetes resulted in significant increases in the maximum contractile response and sensitivity of aorta to KCl. STZ-diabetic rats showed a significant reduction in the percentage of endothelial response (PER). A group of diabetic rats was treated from the time of diabetes induction with a 0.5% dietary supplement of vitamin E. Vitamin E supplementation of STZ-diabetic rats eliminated accumulation of lipid peroxides and returned plasma triglycerides toward normal levels. Diabetes-induced abnormal contractility and endothelial dysfunction were significantly but not completely prevented by vitamin E treatment. The endothelium-independent relaxation response to sodium nitroprusside (SNP) was not affected by diabetes or vitamin E treatment. Electron microscopic examination of thoracic aorta revealed that normal tissue organization was disrupted in STZ-diabetic rats, and that vitamin E treatment can protect the morphological integrity of aorta against STZ-diabetes. The results suggest the following: (1) The increased triglycerides/lipid peroxides may be an important reason for morphological or functional disruption of endothelium and enhanced activation of contractile mechanisms of vascular smooth muscle in STZ-diabetic rats. Both contribute to an increased responsiveness of diabetic aorta to vasoconstrictor agents. (2) Vitamin E treatment of STZ-diabetic rats can prevent the development of abnormal contractility and structure and endothelial dysfunction in aorta. (3) The triglyceride- and/or lipid peroxidation-lowering effect of vitamin E may be crucial for the protective effect of this vitamin on the vasculature.

  4. Effects of age and cardiovascular risk factors on (18)F-FDG PET/CT quantification of atherosclerosis in the aorta and peripheral arteries.

    PubMed

    Pasha, Ahmed K; Moghbel, Mateen; Saboury, Babak; Gharavi, Mohammed H; Blomberg, Björn A; Torigian, Drew A; Kwee, Thomas C; Basu, Sandip; Mohler Iii, Emile R; Alavi, Abass

    2015-01-01

    To quantify fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose ((18)F-FDG) uptake in the aorta and peripheral arteries and assess the variation of (18)F-FDG uptake with age and cardiovascular risk factors. The subject population of this retrospective study comprises melanoma patients who underwent whole-body (18)F-FDG PET/CT scans. The patients' medical records were examined for cardiovascular risk factors and for a history of coronary artery disease or peripheral artery disease. Fluorine-18-FDG uptake in the peripheral arteries (iliac and femoral) and aorta was semi-quantified as a weighted-average mean standardized uptake value (wA-SUVmean), while background noise was accounted for by measuring mean venous blood pool SUV (V-SUVmean) in the superior vena cava. Atherosclerosis was semi-quantified by the tissue-to-background ratio (TBR) (wA-SUVmean divided by V-SUVmean). A regression model and t-test were used to evaluate the effect of age and location on the degree of atherosclerosis. To assess the effect of cardiovascular risk factors on atherosclerotic burden, the wA-SUVmean of patients with at least one of these risk factors was compared to that of patients without any risk factors. A total of 76 patients (46 men, 30 women; 22-91 years old) were included in this study. The average TBR of the aorta and peripheral arteries were 2.68 and 1.43, respectively, and increased with age in both locations. In regression analysis, the beta coefficients of age for TBR in the aorta and peripheral arteries were 0.55 (P<0.001) and 0.03 (P<0.001), respectively. In all age groups, the TBR of the aorta was significantly greater than that of the peripheral arteries. The Pearson correlation coefficients between the four age groups and the TBR of the aorta and peripheral arteries were 0.83 (P<0.001) and 0.75 (P<0.001), respectively. The wA-SUVmean of patients with cardiovascular risk factors was only significant (P<0.05) in the aorta. An increase in (18)F-FDG uptake was observed in the peripheral arteries and aorta with increasing age. Cardiovascular risk factors were significantly correlated with (18)F-FDG uptake in aorta. The early detection of atherosclerosis with (18)F-FDG PET may allow for the initiation of preventative interventions prior to the manifestation of significant structural abnormalities or symptoms of disease.

  5. Radical antegrade modular pancreatosplenectomy for adenocarcinomaof the body of the pancreas in a patient with portal annular pancreas, aberrant hepatic artery, and absence of the celiac trunk: A case report.

    PubMed

    Yuan, Hao; Wu, Pengfei; Chen, Jianmin; Lu, Zipeng; Chen, Lei; Wei, Jishu; Guo, Feng; Cai, Baobao; Yin, Jie; Xu, Dong; Jiang, Kuirong; Miao, Yi

    2017-12-01

    Portal annular pancreas is a rare anatomic variation, where the uncinated process of the pancreas connects with the dorsal pancreas and the pancreas tissue encases the portal vein (PV), superior mesenteric vein (SMV) or splenic vein (SV). Malignancies are quite uncommon in the patients, who have an annular pancreas especially portal annular pancreas. Ectopic common hepatic artery and absence of the celiac trunk (CT) are the other infrequent abnormalities. A 74-year-old man suffered from upper abdominal and back pain. Contrast enhanced computed tomography indicated a low-density mass in the body of the pancreas. Pathological report showed adenocarcinoma of the body of pancreas after radical antegrade modular pancreatosplenectomy (RAMPS). In the operation, we found the superior vein and portal vein was surrounded by the pancreatic tissue. The left gastric artery and splenic artery originated respectively from abdominal aorta, and celiac trunk was not viewed. In addition, the common hepatic artery was a branch from the superior mesenteric artery. In general, this is a novel clinical case of pancreatic carcinoma happening in the portal annular pancreas which was accompanied with aberrant hepatic artery and absence of the celiac trunk at the same time. Confronted with the pancreatic neoplasms, the possibility of coexistent annular pancreas and arterial variations should be considered.

  6. Influenza Vaccine in Preventing Flu in Patients Who Have Undergone Stem Cell Transplant and in Healthy Volunteers

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2015-06-03

    Brain and Central Nervous System Tumors; Chronic Myeloproliferative Disorders; Leukemia; Lymphoma; Lymphoproliferative Disorder; Multiple Myeloma and Plasma Cell Neoplasm; Myelodysplastic Syndromes; Myelodysplastic/Myeloproliferative Neoplasms; Nonmalignant Neoplasm; Viral Infection

  7. Pembrolizumab in Treating Patients With HIV and Relapsed, Refractory, or Disseminated Malignant Neoplasms

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-03-22

    AIDS-Related Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma; Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma; HIV Infection; Locally Advanced Malignant Neoplasm; Metastatic Malignant Neoplasm; Recurrent Hepatocellular Carcinoma; Recurrent Hodgkin Lymphoma; Recurrent Kaposi Sarcoma; Recurrent Malignant Neoplasm; Recurrent Melanoma of the Skin; Recurrent Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma; Recurrent Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma; Refractory Hodgkin Lymphoma; Refractory Malignant Neoplasm; Solid Neoplasm; Stage IIIA Cutaneous Melanoma AJCC v7; Stage IIIA Hepatocellular Carcinoma AJCC v7; Stage IIIA Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer AJCC v7; Stage IIIB Cutaneous Melanoma AJCC v7; Stage IIIB Hepatocellular Carcinoma AJCC v7; Stage IIIB Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer AJCC v7; Stage IIIC Cutaneous Melanoma AJCC v7; Stage IIIC Hepatocellular Carcinoma AJCC v7; Stage IV Cutaneous Melanoma AJCC v6 and v7; Stage IV Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer AJCC v7; Stage IVA Hepatocellular Carcinoma AJCC v7; Stage IVB Hepatocellular Carcinoma AJCC v7

  8. The presence of both horseshoe and a supernumerary kidney associated with coarctation of aorta.

    PubMed

    Unal, M; Erem, C; Serçe, K; Tuncer, C; Bostan, M; Gökçe, M

    1995-01-01

    Congenital urinary malformations associated with congenital heart disease are very rare. We present a case of horseshoe and supernumerary kidney associated with coarctation of aorta diagnosed by a combination of techniques of teleradiography, aortography, intravenous pyelography; ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging, and Dimercapto Succinic Acid (DMSA) and Diethylene Triamine Pentacetate (DTPA) imaging. This case represents the first reported instance of horseshoe and supernumerary kidney associated with coarctation of aorta.

  9. Case report of an unusual combination of purulent pericarditis and false aneurysm of the ascending aorta.

    PubMed

    Meier, David; Kirsch, Matthias; Qanadli, Salah Dine; Muller, Olivier; Fishman, Daniel; Trana, Catalina

    2018-01-29

    Purulent pericarditis is an uncommon entity, which is, in very rare cases, associated to infection of the aorta. We present the case of a 42-year-old male patient, who was admitted to hospital complaining of tiredness, diarrhea and leg edema. Clinical examination revealed a hypotensive and obviously shocked patient. He was ultimately diagnosed with a rare combination of purulent pericarditis followed by false aneurysm of the ascending aorta. He was successfully treated by surgical pericardial drainage, replacement of the ascending aorta and antibiotics. Mycotic aneurysms can rarely be associated with purulent pericarditis. Our literature review shows that there are two mechanisms explaining this association and that in most of the published cases infective endocarditis could not be demonstrated.

  10. Acute Left Arm Ischemia Associated with Floating Thrombus in the Proximal Descending Aorta: Combined Endovascular and Surgical Therapy

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Fanelli, F., E-mail: fabrizio.fanelli@uniroma1.it; Gazzetti, M.; Boatta, E.

    Free floating thrombus in the proximal descending aorta is an uncommon and dangerous condition that can be associated with acute peripheral embolization. The few cases described were solved with surgical and/or medical therapy. We report the case of a patient with acute left arm ischemia secondary to the presence of floating thrombus in the proximal descending aorta extending into the left subclavian artery, solved with combined endovascular and surgical therapy. Treatment was successfully performed with thrombembolectomy combined with temporary deployment, into the descending aorta, of a Wallstent in a 'basket-fashion' to avoid distal embolization secondary to thrombus fragmentation. At 1more » year follow-up the patient remained symptom-free.« less

  11. Aortic aneurysm repair - endovascular

    MedlinePlus

    EVAR; Endovascular aneurysm repair - aorta; AAA repair - endovascular; Repair - aortic aneurysm - endovascular ... to guide the stent graft up into your aorta, to where the aneurysm is located. Next open ...

  12. Coarctation of the aorta

    MedlinePlus

    ... brain Early development of coronary artery disease (CAD) Endocarditis (infection in the heart) Heart failure Hoarseness Kidney ... include: Continued or repeated narrowing of the aorta Endocarditis High blood pressure

  13. 42 CFR Appendix A to Part 81 - Glossary of ICD-9 Codes and Their Cancer Descriptions 1

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... Malignant neoplasm of brain. 192 Malignant neoplasm of other and unspecified parts of nervous system. 193... and ill-defined sites within the respiratory system and intrathoracic organs. 170 Malignant neoplasm...

  14. 42 CFR Appendix A to Part 81 - Glossary of ICD-9 Codes and Their Cancer Descriptions 1

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... Malignant neoplasm of brain. 192 Malignant neoplasm of other and unspecified parts of nervous system. 193... and ill-defined sites within the respiratory system and intrathoracic organs. 170 Malignant neoplasm...

  15. 42 CFR Appendix A to Part 81 - Glossary of ICD-9 Codes and Their Cancer Descriptions 1

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... Malignant neoplasm of brain. 192 Malignant neoplasm of other and unspecified parts of nervous system. 193... and ill-defined sites within the respiratory system and intrathoracic organs. 170 Malignant neoplasm...

  16. 42 CFR Appendix A to Part 81 - Glossary of ICD-9 Codes and Their Cancer Descriptions 1

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... Malignant neoplasm of brain. 192 Malignant neoplasm of other and unspecified parts of nervous system. 193... and ill-defined sites within the respiratory system and intrathoracic organs. 170 Malignant neoplasm...

  17. Collecting and Storing Blood Samples From Patients With Cancer

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2011-12-08

    Brain and Central Nervous System Tumors; Chronic Myeloproliferative Disorders; Leukemia; Lymphoma; Lymphoproliferative Disorder; Multiple Myeloma and Plasma Cell Neoplasm; Myelodysplastic Syndromes; Myelodysplastic/Myeloproliferative Neoplasms; Nonmalignant Neoplasm; Unspecified Adult Solid Tumor, Protocol Specific; Unspecified Childhood Solid Tumor, Protocol Specific

  18. Plasma Cell Neoplasms (Including Multiple Myeloma)—Health Professional Version

    Cancer.gov

    There are several types of plasma cell neoplasms, including monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), isolated plasmacytoma of the bone, extramedullary plasmacytoma, and multiple myeloma. Find evidence-based information on plasma cell neoplasms treatment, research, and statistics.

  19. Photoacoustic imaging of early gastric cancer diagnosis based on long focal area ultrasound transducer

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wu, Huaqin; Li, Zuoran; Liu, Lantian; Li, Zhifang; Wu, Shulian; Li, Hui

    2017-06-01

    We illustrated a novel imaging method to diagnose gastric neoplasms via photoacoustic tomography (PAT). Depending on the structural characteristics of gastric cavity, we used column diffusion fiber to irradiate the stomach tissue through the esophagus, and the externally placed telecentric focus ultrasonic transducer detected photoacoustic signals from the gastric tissue. We reconstructed the distribution of light energy deposition of the simulated gastric tumor, and obtained the location and size information of gastric tumor.

  20. Recent Advances in the Classification of Low-grade Papillary-like Thyroid Neoplasms and Aggressive Papillary Thyroid Carcinomas: Evolution of Diagnostic Criteria.

    PubMed

    Guo, Zhenying; Ge, Minghua; Chu, Ying-Hsia; Asioli, Sofia; Lloyd, Ricardo V

    2018-07-01

    Papillary thyroid carcinomas account for ∼80% of well-differentiated thyroid tumors. During the past decade, several new variants of papillary-like thyroid neoplasms and papillary thyroid carcinomas have been recognized. Some of these neoplasms that were previously classified as malignant have been reclassified as low-grade neoplasms, as the diagnostic criteria have evolved. Similarly, some of the papillary thyroid carcinomas that were previously classified as conventional or classic papillary thyroid carcinomas have now been recognized as more aggressive variants of papillary thyroid carcinomas. Recognizing these differences becomes more important for the proper medical, surgical, and radiotherapeutic management of patients with these neoplasms.

  1. Role of Alpha-Smooth Muscle Actin and Fibroblast Activation Protein Alpha in Ovarian Neoplasms.

    PubMed

    da Silva, Ana Carolinne; Jammal, Millena Prata; Etchebehere, Renata Margarida; Murta, Eddie Fernando Candido; Nomelini, Rosekeila Simões

    2018-04-05

    Studies show that tumor growth is not just determined by the presence of malignant cells, since interactions between cancer cells and stromal microenvironment have important impacts on the cancer growth and progression. Cancer-associated fibroblasts play a prominent role in this process. The aims of the study were to investigate 2 cancer-associated fibroblasts markers, alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and fibroblast activation protein alpha (FAP) in the stromal microenvironment of benign and malignant ovarian epithelial neoplasms, and to relate their tissue expression with prognostic factors in ovarian cancer. α-SMA and FAP were evaluated by immunohistochemistry in malignant (n = 28) and benign (n = 28) ovarian neoplasms. Fisher's exact test was used with a significance level lower than 0.05. FAP immunostaining was stronger in ovarian cancer when compared to benign neoplasms (p = 0.0366). There was no significant difference in relation to α-SMA expression between malignant and benign ovarian neoplasms as well as prognostic factors. In ovarian cancer, FAP stainings 2/3 was significantly related to histological grades 2 and 3 (p = 0.0183). FAP immunostaining is more intense in malignant neoplasms than in benign ovarian neoplasms, as well as in moderately differentiated and undifferentiated ovarian carcinomas compared to well-differentiated neoplasms, thus indicating that it can be used as a marker of worse prognosis. © 2018 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  2. Thoracic aortic aneurysm

    MedlinePlus

    ... the part of the body's largest artery (the aorta) that passes through the chest. ... Marfan or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome Inflammation of the aorta Injury from falls or motor vehicle accidents Syphilis

  3. Relationship Between Proximal Aorta Morphology and Progression Rate of Aortic Stenosis.

    PubMed

    Capoulade, Romain; Teoh, Jonathan G; Bartko, Philipp E; Teo, Eliza; Scholtz, Jan-Erik; Tastet, Lionel; Shen, Mylene; Mihos, Christos G; Park, Yong H; Garcia, Julio; Larose, Eric; Isselbacher, Eric M; Sundt, Thoralf M; MacGillivray, Thomas E; Melnitchouk, Serguei; Ghoshhajra, Brian B; Pibarot, Philippe; Hung, Judy

    2018-05-01

    The aim of this study was to examine the association between abnormal morphology of the proximal aorta and aortic stenosis (AS) progression rate. The main hypothesis was that morphologic changes of the proximal aorta, such as effacement of the sinotubular junction (STJ), result in increased biomechanical stresses and contribute to calcification and progression of AS. Between 2010 and 2012, 426 patients with mild to moderate AS were included in this study. Proximal aortic dimensions were measured at three different levels (i.e., sinus of Valsalva, STJ, and ascending aorta), and sinuses of Valsalva/STJ and ascending aorta/STJ ratios were used to determine degree of aortic deformity. AS progression rate was assessed by annualized increase in mean gradient (median follow-up time, 3.1 years; interquartile range, 2.6-3.9 years). The degree of aortic flow turbulence was examined in 18 matched patients with and without STJ effacement using cardiac magnetic resonance phase-contrast imaging. Patients' mean age was 71 ± 13 years, and 64% were men. Patients with low ratios had greater AS progression (P < .05). After comprehensive adjustment, sinuses of Valsalva/STJ (P = .025) and ascending aorta/STJ (P = .027) ratios were independently associated with greater AS progression rate. Compared with patients without STJ effacement, those with effacement of the STJ had higher degrees of aortic flow turbulence (24.4% vs 17.2%, P = .038). Effacement of the STJ is independently associated with greater AS progression, regardless of arterial hemodynamics, aortic valve phenotype, or baseline AS severity. Patients with abnormal proximal aortic geometry had disturbed aortic flow patterns. These findings suggest an interrelation between proximal aorta morphology and stenosis progression. Copyright © 2017 American Society of Echocardiography. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  4. Differential effects of eNOS uncoupling on conduit and small arteries in GTP-cyclohydrolase I-deficient hph-1 mice.

    PubMed

    d'Uscio, Livius V; Smith, Leslie A; Katusic, Zvonimir S

    2011-12-01

    In the present study, we used the hph-1 mouse, which displays GTP-cyclohydrolase I (GTPCH I) deficiency, to test the hypothesis that loss of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH(4)) in conduit and small arteries activates compensatory mechanisms designed to protect vascular wall from oxidative stress induced by uncoupling of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). Both GTPCH I activity and BH(4) levels were reduced in the aortas and small mesenteric arteries of hph-1 mice. However, the BH(4)-to-7,8-dihydrobiopterin ratio was significantly reduced only in hph-1 aortas. Furthermore, superoxide anion and 3-nitrotyrosine production were significantly enhanced in aortas but not in small mesenteric arteries of hph-1 mice. In contrast to the aorta, protein expression of copper- and zinc-containing superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD) was significantly increased in small mesenteric arteries of hph-1 mice. Protein expression of catalase was increased in both aortas and small mesenteric arteries of hph-1 mice. Further analysis of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS)/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) signaling demonstrated that protein expression of phosphorylated Ser(1177)-eNOS as well as basal cGMP levels and hydrogen peroxide was increased in hph-1 aortas. Increased production of hydrogen peroxide in hph-1 mice aortas appears to be the most likely mechanism responsible for phosphorylation of eNOS and elevation of cGMP. In contrast, upregulation of CuZnSOD and catalase in resistance arteries is sufficient to protect vascular tissue from increased production of reactive oxygen species generated by uncoupling of eNOS. The results of our study suggest that anatomical origin determines the ability of vessel wall to cope with oxidative stress induced by uncoupling of eNOS.

  5. Detection of thoracic vascular structures by electrical impedance tomography: a systematic assessment of prominence peak analysis of impedance changes.

    PubMed

    Wodack, K H; Buehler, S; Nishimoto, S A; Graessler, M F; Behem, C R; Waldmann, A D; Mueller, B; Böhm, S H; Kaniusas, E; Thürk, F; Maerz, A; Trepte, C J C; Reuter, D A

    2018-02-28

    Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) is a non-invasive and radiation-free bedside monitoring technology, primarily used to monitor lung function. First experimental data shows that the descending aorta can be detected at different thoracic heights and might allow the assessment of central hemodynamics, i.e. stroke volume and pulse transit time. First, the feasibility of localizing small non-conductive objects within a saline phantom model was evaluated. Second, this result was utilized for the detection of the aorta by EIT in ten anesthetized pigs with comparison to thoracic computer tomography (CT). Two EIT belts were placed at different thoracic positions and a bolus of hypertonic saline (10 ml, 20%) was administered into the ascending aorta while EIT data were recorded. EIT images were reconstructed using the GREIT model, based on the individual's thoracic contours. The resulting EIT images were analyzed pixel by pixel to identify the aortic pixel, in which the bolus caused the highest transient impedance peak in time. In the phantom, small objects could be located at each position with a maximal deviation of 0.71 cm. In vivo, no significant differences between the aorta position measured by EIT and the anatomical aorta location were obtained for both measurement planes if the search was restricted to the dorsal thoracic region of interest (ROIs). It is possible to detect the descending aorta at different thoracic levels by EIT using an intra-aortic bolus of hypertonic saline. No significant differences in the position of the descending aorta on EIT images compared to CT images were obtained for both EIT belts.

  6. ECG-triggered high-pitch CT for simultaneous assessment of the aorta and coronary arteries.

    PubMed

    Hachulla, Anne-Lise; Ronot, Maxime; Noble, Stéphane; Becker, Christoph D; Montet, Xavier; Vallée, Jean-Paul

    2016-01-01

    To study the image quality of ECG-gated-computed tomography (CT) acquisition with a high-pitch CT imaging for the exploration of both the aorta and coronary arteries. Eighty-four patients underwent high-pitch ECG-gated aortic CT without β-blockers with iterative reconstruction algorithms. Contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) between vessels and adjacent perivascular fat tissue were calculated on the aorta and the coronary arteries. Dose-length-products (DLP) were recorded. Two blinded readers graded image quality of the aorta and the coronary arteries on a 3-point scale. Coronary artery stenoses were compared with coronary angiograms in 24 patients. Kappa values were calculated. High-pitch acquisition resulted in a mean DLP of 234 ± 93 mGy cm(4.2 mSv) for an acquisition of the entire aorta, (mean 73 ± 16 bpm). CNR for ascending aorta was 10.6 ± 4 and CNR for coronary arteries was 9.85 ± 4.1. Image quality was excellent in 79/84 patients (94%), and excellent or moderate but diagnostic in 1087/1127 coronary artery segments (96%). 74 significant stenoses were observed, and 38/40 significant stenoses were confirmed by coronary angiography (K = 0.91, Sensitivity = 0.97, Specificity = 0.98). High-pitch ECG-gated aortic CT with iterative reconstructions allows an accurate exploration of both aorta and coronary arteries during the same acquisition, with limited dose deposition, despite the lack of β-blockers and relatively high heart rate. Radiologists need to be aware of the necessity to analyze and report coronary artery disease in aortic examination. Copyright © 2016 Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  7. Study of the Blood Supply Fraction of the Ascending Aorta and Its Effect in Diagnosing Early Ascending Aortic Atherosclerosis.

    PubMed

    Wang, Kun; Cao, Tiesheng; Zhao, Lianbi; Yang, Yong; Feng, Yang; Duan, Yunyou; Yuan, Lijun; Xing, Changyang; Ren, Huari

    2016-03-01

    To investigate the capacity of blood storage of certain large arteries during diastole, we first studied the ascending aorta by echocardiography. The concept of the blood supply fraction of the ascending aorta was then introduced to evaluate elastic retraction of the ascending aortic wall and determine its role in diagnosing early atherosclerosis of the ascending aorta. First, we enrolled 120 healthy volunteers and divided them into 3 groups according to age: 20 to 35 years (B1 group), 36 to 50 years (B2 group), and 51 to 65 years (B3 group); there were 40 volunteers in each group. We used echocardiography to measure the blood supply fraction in each volunteer and compared the results for each group. Then we enrolled 40 patients (51-65 years) with early atherosclerosis of the ascending aorta, measured the blood supply fraction of each, and compared the results with the B3 group. The mean blood supply fractions ± SD in the B1, B2, and B3 groups were 21.75% ± 1.53%, 20.76% ± 1.62%, and 18.44% ± 1.19%, respectively. The fraction in the B3 group was significantly lower than those in the B1 and B2 groups (P < .01). The fraction in the patients with early atherosclerosis was 14.92% ± 1.01%, which was obviously lower than that in the B3 group (P < .01). The blood supply fraction of the ascending aorta decreases with age, and it could be used as a parameter for diagnosis of early atherosclerosis of the ascending aorta. © 2016 by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine.

  8. Complications at the Proximal Landing Zone of Endovascular Stent Grafts Deployed in Surgically Replaced Ascending Aorta.

    PubMed

    Kotha, Vamshi K; Herget, Eric J; Appoo, Jehangir J

    2016-11-01

    The ascending aorta, with its hostile angulations and forces, is the next frontier in the evolution of endovascular surgery. Type II hybrid arch repair, involving surgical replacement of the ascending aorta, arch debranching, and stent graft deployment in the ascending aortic graft, offers an opportunity to study the behavior of an endovascular prosthesis in the ascending aorta. We report complications seen at the proximal landing zone after type II hybrid arch repair. A dedicated imaging protocol was used to monitor 20 consecutive patients who underwent type II hybrid arch repair at a single center from June 2009 to July 2014. Mean age was 66 years (range, 47 to 82 years). Mean imaging follow-up was 34 months (range, 12 to 64 months). There was 1 operative death (5%). Bird beaking (>5 mm of nonapposition) of the stent graft at the proximal landing zone occurred in 12 patients, and >20 mm of bird beaking occurred in 7 patients. Proximal landing zone complications occurred in 4 patients (20%), comprising 2 type Ia endoleaks, 1 graft migration, and 1 graft infolding detected on postoperative days 4, 11, 5, and 755, respectively. Three patients underwent endovascular reintervention for proximal landing zone complications. There were no late deaths. Thoracic aortic stent grafts may be prone to proximal landing zone complications when deployed in the ascending aorta. Bird beaking is common when endografts are deployed in the Dacron (DuPont, Wilmington, DE) ascending aorta. Angulation issues will likely need to be overcome by stent graft refinement to enable future closed chest approaches to the ascending aorta. Copyright © 2016 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  9. Natural history of the ascending aorta after aortic valve replacement: risk factor analysis for late aortic complications after aortic valve replacement.

    PubMed

    Tsutsumi, Koji; Hashizume, Kenichi; Inoue, Yoshito

    2016-05-01

    The purpose of this study was to clarify the natural history of the ascending aorta and to identify risk factors for late ascending aortic events after first isolated aortic valve replacement (AVR). A total of 287 patients undergoing AVR were enrolled. The patients were categorized into two groups based on the diameter of the ascending aorta at the time of AVR, as determined by computed tomography: Group A (n = 233) was defined as an ascending aortic diameter <40 mm, and Group B (n = 54) was defined as an ascending aortic diameter ≥40 mm. The mean follow-up period was 7.6 years. The baseline diameter of the ascending aorta was 31.4 ± 4.8 mm in Group A and 44.7 ± 4.2 mm in Group B. These values increased to 35.9 ± 7.4 mm in Group A and 50.1 ± 7.3 mm in Group B during the follow-up period (P < 0.001). Ten patients had acute type A aortic dissection (Group A: 1 patient vs. Group B: 9 patients; P < 0.001), and three patients had enlargement of the ascending aorta to ≥55 mm in diameter (Group A: 1 patient vs. Group B: 2 patients). Multivariate analysis revealed that the baseline ascending aortic diameter was the only significant risk factor for developing late ascending aortic events (P < 0.001). AVR alone may not prevent further enlargement of the ascending aorta. An ascending aorta ≥40 mm in diameter at the time of AVR increased the risk of late ascending aortic events.

  10. Racial differences in thoracic aorta atherosclerosis among ischemic stroke patients.

    PubMed

    Gupta, Vishal; Nanda, Navin C; Yesilbursa, Dilek; Huang, Wen Ying; Gupta, Vijaya; Li, Qing; Gomez, Camilo R

    2003-02-01

    Atherosclerosis of the thoracic aorta is an independent risk factor for stroke. There is little information on the impact of race in the prevalence of thoracic aorta atherosclerotic plaques among ischemic stroke patients. This study was an attempt to objectively assess the prevalence, thickness, and burden of thoracic aorta atherosclerotic plaques in a large population of ischemic stroke patients and to compare the differences between American blacks and whites. This is a retrospective study of clinical data and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) of 1553 ischemic stroke patients (664 blacks, 889 whites) over a period of 4.5 years. Atherosclerotic plaque prevalence, thickness, morphology, and burden (sum of maximum thickness in ascending aorta [AA], aortic arch [AO], and descending aorta [DA]) were assessed with TEE. Charts were reviewed for clinical information. Age and sex were similar among blacks and whites. Analyses of clinical data found that blacks had significantly higher hypertension (odds ratio [OR], 2.61; P<0.0001) and diabetes mellitus (OR, 1.99; P<0.0001) and significantly lower coronary artery disease (OR, 0.75; P=0.017) and carotid artery disease (OR, 0.62; P=0.0008) compared with whites. TEE showed that whites had significantly greater plaque prevalence (AA: OR, 1.37; P=0.04; AO: OR, 1.26; P=0.03; DA: OR, 1.39; P=0.002) and plaque burden (blacks, 4.28 mm; whites, 4.97 mm; P=0.007). Whites also had a trend of increased complex plaques and plaques >4 mm thick in all regions of the thoracic aorta. Among ischemic stroke patients, blacks had a lower prevalence of extra cranial atherosclerotic disease even though they had significantly higher hypertension and diabetes mellitus compared with whites. This difference cannot be explained by the existing risk factors in ischemic stroke patients.

  11. Alterations in the lipid metabolism of rat aorta: effects of vitamin a deficiency.

    PubMed

    Gatica, Laura V; Vega, Verónica A; Zirulnik, Fanny; Oliveros, Liliana B; Gimenez, María S

    2006-01-01

    Antioxidants are known to reduce cardiovascular disease by reducing the concentration of free radicals in the vessel wall and by preventing the oxidative modification of low-density lipoproteins. The prooxidative effect of a vitamin-A-deficient diet on the aorta has previously been demonstrated by us. In this study, the lipid metabolism in the aorta of rats fed on a vitamin-A-deficient diet was evaluated. Vitamin A deficiency induced a hypolipidemic effect (lower serum triglyceride and cholesterol levels) and a decreased serum paraoxonase 1/arylesterase activity. The concentrations of triglycerides, total cholesterol, free and esterified cholesterol, and phospholipids were increased in the aorta of vitamin-A-deficient rats. The phospholipid compositions showed an increase in phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylinositol plus phosphatidylserine and phosphatidylethanolamine, a decrease in sphingomyelin, and no change in phosphatidylglycerol. In the aorta, the increase in triglycerides was associated with an increased fatty acid synthesis and mRNA expression of diacylglycerol acyltransferase 1. The increased PC content was attributed to an increased synthesis, as measured by [methyl-(14)C]choline incorporation into PC and high CTP:phosphocholine cytidylyltransferase-alpha mRNA expression. The cholesterol synthesis, evaluated by [1-(14)C]acetate incorporated into cholesterol and mRNA expression of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase, did not change. The lipoprotein lipase and lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor 1 mRNA expression levels increased in the aorta of vitamin-A-deficient animals. The incorporation of vitamin A into the diet of vitamin-A-deficient rats reverted all the changes observed. These results indicate that a vitamin-A-deficient diet,in addition to having a prooxidative effect, alters the aorta lipid metabolism.

  12. Study on the Depth, Rate, Shape, and Strength of Pulse with Cardiovascular Simulator.

    PubMed

    Lee, Ju-Yeon; Jang, Min; Shin, Sang-Hoon

    2017-01-01

    Pulse diagnosis is important in oriental medicine. The purpose of this study is explaining the mechanisms of pulse with a cardiovascular simulator. The simulator is comprised of the pulse generating part, the vessel part, and the measurement part. The pulse generating part was composed of motor, slider-crank mechanism, and piston pump. The vessel part, which was composed with the aorta and a radial artery, was fabricated with silicon to implement pulse wave propagation. The pulse parameters, such as the depth, rate, shape, and strength, were simulated. With changing the mean pressure, the floating pulse and the sunken pulse were generated. The change of heart rate generated the slow pulse and the rapid pulse. The control of the superposition time of the reflected wave generated the string-like pulse and the slippery pulse. With changing the pulse pressure, the vacuous pulse and the replete pulse were generated. The generated pulses showed good agreements with the typical pulses.

  13. A Phase I Study of iPS Cell Generation From Patients With COPD

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-03-20

    Thoracic Diseases; Respiratory Tract Diseases; Cancer of Lung; Cancer of the Lung; Lung Cancer; Lung Diseases, Obstructive; COPD; Pulmonary Emphysema; Neoplasms, Lung; Neoplasms, Pulmonary; Pulmonary Cancer; Pulmonary Neoplasms; Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung; Carcinoma, Small Cell

  14. Use of the Abdominal Aortic Tourniquet for Hemorrhage Control

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2016-06-01

    compression to the aorta at the abdominal-pelvic junction to occlude blood flow in the common iliac and inguinal arteries. The target of the compression...circumferential device that utilizes a belt, windlass and pneumatic pressure to compress the aorta . The belt and windlass together greatly increase the...clamping the aorta or fully stopping all blood flow to the pelvis and lower extremities. In essence the AAT™ acts as a valve to figuratively ‘turn the

  15. Combined repair of adult coarctation of the aorta and aortic valvular stenosis.

    PubMed

    Ivert, T; Busund, R; Avenarius, D; Dahi, P E

    2000-06-01

    A 57-year-old man with a high-grade aortic stenosis and aortic coarctation was treated with concomitant valve replacement and insertion of a conduit from the ascending aorta to the retrocardiac descending aorta via the left pleura. Because heart failure has been reported shortly after cardiopulmonary bypass using this technique, the conduit was initially clamped until the postrepair haemodynamics was stable. Computed tomography after 14 months verified patency of the shunt.

  16. Correlation of ascending aorta elasticity and the severity of coronary artery stenosis in hypertensive patients with coronary heart disease assessed by M-mode and tissue Doppler echocardiography.

    PubMed

    Lu, Qixiu; Liu, Houlin

    2015-03-01

    The main objective of this study is to investigate the relationship between ascending aorta elasticity and the severity of coronary artery stenosis in essential hypertensive patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) using M-mode and tissue Doppler echocardiography. A total of 184 hypertensive patients with CHD were enrolled. Patients were divided into three groups based on the severity of coronary stenosis measured by coronary arteriography (CAG): slight stenosis (group 1), moderate stenosis (group 2) and serious stenosis (group 3). M-mode and tissue Doppler echocardiography were performed, and elasticity indexes of ascending aorta including stiffness index, distensibility index, and S wave speed of anterior wall were calculated and correlated with the severity of coronary stenosis. Ascending aorta stiffness index was increased, whereas distensibility index and S wave speed of anterior wall were decreased in moderate and severe stenosis groups compared with slight stenosis group (P < 0.01). Elasticity indexes change in a stepwise pattern with the narrowness of coronary artery, and there was a significant correlation between aortic elasticity and severity of coronary artery by Pearson correlation analysis (P < 0.01). Elasticity indexes of ascending aorta correlate well with severity of coronary stenosis. Elasticity indexes of ascending aorta can serve as predictors for coronary arterial lesion in hypertensive patients.

  17. Thoracic and abdominal aortas stiffen through unique extracellular matrix changes in intrauterine growth restricted fetal sheep.

    PubMed

    Dodson, R Blair; Rozance, Paul J; Petrash, Carson C; Hunter, Kendall S; Ferguson, Virginia L

    2014-02-01

    Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a fetal complication of pregnancy epidemiologically linked to cardiovascular disease in the newborn later in life. However, the mechanism is poorly understood with very little research on the vascular structure and function during development in healthy and IUGR neonates. Previously, we found vascular remodeling and increased stiffness in the carotid and umbilical arteries, but here we examine the remodeling and biomechanics in the larger vessels more proximal to the heart. To study this question, thoracic and abdominal aortas were collected from a sheep model of placental insufficiency IUGR (PI-IUGR) due to exposure to elevated ambient temperatures. Aortas from control (n = 12) and PI-IUGR fetuses (n = 10) were analyzed for functional biomechanics and structural remodeling. PI-IUGR aortas had a significant increase in stiffness (P < 0.05), increased collagen content (P < 0.05), and decreased sulfated glycosaminoglycan content (P < 0.05). Our derived constitutive model from experimental data related increased stiffness to reorganization changes of increased alignment angle of collagen fibers and increased elastin (P < 0.05) in the thoracic aorta and increased concentration of collagen fibers in the abdominal aorta toward the circumferential direction verified through use of histological techniques. This fetal vascular remodeling in PI-IUGR may set the stage for possible altered growth and development and help to explain the pathophysiology of adult cardiovascular disease in previously IUGR individuals.

  18. Differential Stiffening between the Abdominal and Thoracic Aorta: Effect of Salt Loading in Stroke-Prone Hypertensive Rats.

    PubMed

    Lindesay, George; Bézie, Yvonnick; Ragonnet, Christophe; Duchatelle, Véronique; Dharmasena, Chandima; Villeneuve, Nicole; Vayssettes-Courchay, Christine

    2018-06-08

    Central artery stiffening is recognized as a cardiovascular risk. The effects of hypertension and aging have been shown in human and animal models but the effect of salt is still controversial. We studied the effect of a high-salt diet on aortic stiffness in salt-sensitive spontaneously hypersensitive stroke-prone rats (SHRSP). Distensibility, distension, and β-stiffness were measured at thoracic and abdominal aortic sites in the same rats, using echotracking recording of the aortic diameter coupled with blood pressure (BP), in SHRSP-salt (5% salted diet, 5 weeks), SHRSP, and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. Hemodynamic parameters were measured at BP matched to that of WKY. Histological staining and immunohistochemistry were used for structural analysis. Hemodynamic isobaric parameters in SHRSP did not differ from WKY and only those from the abdominal aorta of SHRSP-salt presented decreased distensibility and increased stiffness compared with WKY and SHRSP. The abdominal and thoracic aortas presented similar thickening, increased fibrosis, and remodeling with no change in collagen content. SHRSP-salt presented a specific increased elastin disarray at the abdominal aorta level but a decrease in elastin content in the thoracic aorta. This study demonstrates the pro-stiffening effect of salt in addition to hypertension; it shows that only the abdominal aorta presents a specific pressure-independent stiffening, in which elastin disarray is likely a key mechanism. © 2018 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  19. Long-term risks of subsequent primary neoplasms among survivors of childhood cancer.

    PubMed

    Reulen, Raoul C; Frobisher, Clare; Winter, David L; Kelly, Julie; Lancashire, Emma R; Stiller, Charles A; Pritchard-Jones, Kathryn; Jenkinson, Helen C; Hawkins, Michael M

    2011-06-08

    Survivors of childhood cancer are at excess risk of developing subsequent primary neoplasms but the long-term risks are uncertain. To investigate long-term risks of subsequent primary neoplasms in survivors of childhood cancer, to identify the types that contribute most to long-term excess risk, and to identify subgroups of survivors at substantially increased risk of particular subsequent primary neoplasms that may require specific interventions. British Childhood Cancer Survivor Study--a population-based cohort of 17,981 5-year survivors of childhood cancer diagnosed with cancer at younger than 15 years between 1940 and 1991 in Great Britain, followed up through December 2006. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs), absolute excess risks (AERs), and cumulative incidence of subsequent primary neoplasms. After a median follow-up time of 24.3 years (mean = 25.6 years), 1354 subsequent primary neoplasms were ascertained; the most frequently observed being central nervous system (n = 344), nonmelanoma skin cancer (n = 278), digestive (n = 105), genitourinary (n = 100), breast (n = 97), and bone (n = 94). The overall SIR was 4 times more than expected (SIR, 3.9; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.6-4.2; AER, 16.8 per 10,000 person-years). The AER at older than 40 years was highest for digestive and genitourinary subsequent primary neoplasms (AER, 5.9 [95% CI, 2.5-9.3]; and AER, 6.0 [95%CI, 2.3-9.6] per 10,000 person-years, respectively); 36% of the total AER was attributable to these 2 subsequent primary neoplasm sites. The cumulative incidence of colorectal cancer for survivors treated with direct abdominopelvic irradiation was 1.4% (95% CI, 0.7%-2.6%) by age 50 years, comparable with the 1.2% risk in individuals with at least 2 first-degree relatives affected by colorectal cancer. Among a cohort of British childhood cancer survivors, the greatest excess risk associated with subsequent primary neoplasms at older than 40 years was for digestive and genitourinary neoplasms.

  20. Hemolytic anemia caused by aortic flap and inversion of felt strip after ascending aorta replacement.

    PubMed

    Sakaguchi, Masayuki; Takano, Tamaki

    2016-08-02

    Hemolysis related to a kinked prosthetic graft or inner felt strip is a very rare complication after aortic surgery. We describe herein a case of hemolytic anemia that developed due to aortic flap of the dissection and inversion of an inner felt strip that was applied at the proximal anastomosis of a replaced ascending aorta 10 years previously. A 74-year-old woman presented with consistent hemolytic anemia 10 years after replacement of the ascending aorta to treat Stanford type A acute aortic dissection. The cause of hemolysis was attributed to mechanical injury of red blood cells at a site of stenosis caused by aortic flap of the dissection and inversion of the felt strip used for the proximal anastomosis. Repeated resection of the strip and graft replacement of the ascending aorta resolved this problem. We considered that blood flow disrupted by a jet of blood at the site of the proximal inner felt strip was the cause of severe hemolysis, we describe rare hemolytic anemia at the site of aortic flap and inverted felt strip after replacement of the ascending aorta.

  1. Taxifolin and Fucoidin Abolish the Irradiation-Induced Increase in the Production of Reactive Oxygen Species in Rat Aorta.

    PubMed

    Arutyunyan, T V; Korystova, A F; Kublik, L N; Levitman, M Kh; Shaposhnikova, V V; Korystov, Yu N

    2016-03-01

    We studied changes in ROS content in the aorta of Wistar rats at early terms after irradiation in doses equal to single fraction used in tumor radiotherapy and the effects of taxifolin and fucoidin, blockers of leukocyte adhesion to endothelium, on ROS content. Male rats were exposed to X-rays (200 kW) in doses of 1-7.5 Gy. ROS production in aorta segments was measured in 1-48 h after irradiation by dichlorodihydrofluorescein oxidation. The content of ROS in the aorta of rats exposed to radiation in doses of 1-2.5 Gy increased in 1-24 h after irradiation, the peak ROS content was found in 2 h after irradiation. Taxifolin (100 μg/kg dihydroquercetin once a day with drinking water) and fucoidin (10 mg/kg, i.v.) abolished ROS accumulation. The content of ROS in rat aorta increased in 1-24 h after irradiation in doses used for tumor radiotherapy and this increase can be determined by leukocyte adhesion to the endothelium.

  2. TAVR Through Heavily Calcified Aorta Following Atheroma Retrieval With the "Elevator" Technique.

    PubMed

    Senguttuvan, N Boopathy; Ellozy, Sharif; Tejani, Furqan; Kovacic, Jason; Kini, Annapoorna S; Sharma, Samin K; Dangas, George D

    2015-10-01

    An 86-year-old Caucasian female with severe symptomatic, inoperable aortic stenosis was accepted for high-risk transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) approach due to severe calcification of the aorta. During initial passage of a 22 Fr sheath, there was dislodgment with proximal migration of a circumferential tunnel of calcium from the infrarenal aorta. A novel "elevator" technique was used to secure and retrieve the dislodged aorta en bloc back to its original infrarenal aortic position and allow in situ fixation with stenting. A new TAVR system was then successfully placed through the stent and a 23 mm Edwards Sapien valve (Edwards Lifesciences) was implanted as planned. In case of calcification protruding into the lumen of the aorta and limiting the passage of the large valve delivery system sheath, the obstruction can be managed by stenting the calcification against the luminal wall under fluoroscopic and intravascular-ultrasound guidance, allowing successful passage of the valve delivery system. The elevator technique allows axial transportation of any calcified vascular fragments, should they become dislodged.

  3. A mathematical model of aortic aneurysm formation

    PubMed Central

    Hao, Wenrui; Gong, Shihua; Wu, Shuonan; Xu, Jinchao; Go, Michael R.; Friedman, Avner; Zhu, Dai

    2017-01-01

    Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a localized enlargement of the abdominal aorta, such that the diameter exceeds 3 cm. The natural history of AAA is progressive growth leading to rupture, an event that carries up to 90% risk of mortality. Hence there is a need to predict the growth of the diameter of the aorta based on the diameter of a patient’s aneurysm at initial screening and aided by non-invasive biomarkers. IL-6 is overexpressed in AAA and was suggested as a prognostic marker for the risk in AAA. The present paper develops a mathematical model which relates the growth of the abdominal aorta to the serum concentration of IL-6. Given the initial diameter of the aorta and the serum concentration of IL-6, the model predicts the growth of the diameter at subsequent times. Such a prediction can provide guidance to how closely the patient’s abdominal aorta should be monitored. The mathematical model is represented by a system of partial differential equations taking place in the aortic wall, where the media is assumed to have the constituency of an hyperelastic material. PMID:28212412

  4. The Synchronous Prevalence of Colorectal Neoplasms in Patients with Stomach Cancer

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Sang Su; Kim, Cha Young; Ha, Chang Yoon; Min, Hyun Ju; Kim, Hyun Jin; Kim, Tae Hyo

    2011-01-01

    Purpose The association between stomach cancer and colorectal cancer is controversial. The purpose of this study was to determine the synchronous prevalence of colorectal neoplasms in patients with stomach cancer. Methods A total of 123 patients with stomach cancer (86 male) and 246 consecutive, age- and sex-matched persons without stomach cancer were analyzed from July 2005 to June 2010. All of them underwent colonoscopy within 6 months after undergoing gastroscopy. Results The prevalence of colorectal neoplasms was significantly higher in the stomach cancer group (35.8%) than in the control group (17.9%) (P < 0.001). Colorectal neoplasms were more prevalent in the patients with stomach cancer (odds ratio [OR], 3.10; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.71 to 5.63). In particular, the difference in the prevalence of colorectal neoplasms was more prominent in the patients above 50 years old (OR, 3.54; 95% CI, 1.80 to 6.98). Conclusion The results showed that the synchronous prevalence of colorectal neoplasms was higher in patients with stomach cancer than in those without stomach cancer. Therefore, patients with stomach cancer should be regarded as a high-risk group for colorectal neoplasms, and colonoscopy should be recommended for screening. PMID:22102975

  5. Fusion proteins in head and neck neoplasms: Clinical implications, genetics, and future directions for targeting

    PubMed Central

    Escalante, Derek A.; Wang, He; Fundakowski, Christopher E.

    2016-01-01

    ABSTRACT Fusion proteins resulting from chromosomal rearrangements are known to drive the pathogenesis of a variety of hematological and solid neoplasms such as chronic myeloid leukemia and non-small-cell lung cancer. Efforts to elucidate the role they play in these malignancies have led to important diagnostic and therapeutic triumphs, including the famous development of the tyrosine kinase inhibitor dasatinib targeting the BCR-ABL fusion. Until recently, there has been a paucity of research investigating fusion proteins harbored by head and neck neoplasms. The discovery and characterization of novel fusion proteins in neoplasms originating from the thyroid, nasopharynx, salivary glands, and midline head and neck structures offer substantial contributions to our understanding of the pathogenesis and biological behavior of these neoplasms, while raising new therapeutic and diagnostic opportunities. Further characterization of these fusion proteins promises to facilitate advances on par with those already achieved with regard to hematologic malignancies in the precise, molecularly guided diagnosis and treatment of head and neck neoplasms. The following is a subsite specific review of the clinical implications of fusion proteins in head and neck neoplasms and the future potential for diagnostic targeting. PMID:27636353

  6. HISTOPATHOLOGIC CHARACTERISTICS OF THYROID GLAND NEOPLASMS IN THOMSON'S GAZELLES ( EUDORCUS THOMSONII).

    PubMed

    French, Stephanie J; Garner, Michael M; Kiupel, Matti

    2018-03-01

    Published reports of neoplasms in Thomson's gazelles ( Eudorcas thomsonii) are very rare, but thyroid tumors were the most common neoplasm of this species, accounting for 12% of reported pathologies in a 1998-2012 retrospective study of cases submitted for histologic review of grossly enlarged thyroid glands. This report describes the histological and immunohistochemical characteristics of thyroid neoplasms in 10 Thomson's gazelles from five different zoological collections. Neoplasms were submitted as biopsies from six gazelles or collected during necropsy from four gazelles. The most common clinical findings included a palpable mass on the ventral neck and progressive weight loss. Radiographic mineral density was detected in one of the neoplastic masses. Histologically, the neoplasms were classified as microfollicular thyroid adenoma ( n = 2), solid thyroid adenoma ( n = 2), papillary thyroid adenoma ( n = 1), and solid thyroid carcinoma ( n = 5). Neoplastic cells in all 10 neoplasms were positive for thyroid transcription factor 1 and thyroglobulin, but negative for calcitonin. While five cases had histologic features of malignancy, there was no evidence of metastatic disease either clinically (biopsies) or on necropsy. Numerous concurrent diseases, including cardiomyopathies and nephropathies, were present and led to choice for euthanasia in several cases.

  7. Esophageal Cancer

    MedlinePlus

    ... Heart Disease Diseases of the arteries, valves, and aorta, as well as cardiac rhythm disturbances Aortic Valve ... Transposition of the Great Arteries Coarctation of the Aorta Truncus Arteriosus Single Ventricle Defects Patent Ductus Arteriosus ...

  8. Aortic Dissection

    MedlinePlus

    ... condition in which the inner layer of the aorta, the large blood vessel branching off the heart, ... causing the inner and middle layers of the aorta to separate (dissect). If the blood-filled channel ...

  9. Aneurysm Repair

    MedlinePlus

    ... heart to other parts of the body (the aorta). Aortic aneurysms can occur in the area below ... Aortic aneurysms in the upper chest (the ascending aorta) are usually operated on right away. Aneurysms in ...

  10. Isolated Aortitis

    MedlinePlus

    ... a general term which means inflammation of the aorta, the large blood vessel which transports blood from ... The aortic root is the part of the aorta which is directly connected to the left ventricle ( ...

  11. Marfan Syndrome

    MedlinePlus

    ... Over time, weak connective tissue can cause the aorta, the large artery that carries blood away from ... DYE-late), or widen. If not treated, the aorta can suddenly tear, causing blood to leak out. ...

  12. Coronary Arteries

    MedlinePlus

    ... its own vascular system, called coronary circulation. The aorta (the main blood supplier to the body) branches ... blood to the rest of the body. Tags: aorta , arteries , blood , coronary arteries , coronary artery , coronary artery ...

  13. Aortic Aneurysm

    MedlinePlus

    ... or even death. Most aneurysms are in the aorta, the main artery that runs from the heart ... TAA) - these occur in the part of the aorta running through the chest Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) - ...

  14. Truncus arteriosus

    MedlinePlus

    ... of the normal 2 vessels (pulmonary artery and aorta). It is present at birth ( congenital heart disease ). ... comes out of the right ventricle and the aorta comes out of the left ventricle, which are ...

  15. Immunization With AFP + GM CSF Plasmid Prime and AFP Adenoviral Vector Boost in Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2015-12-01

    Hepatocellular Carcinoma; Hepatoma; Liver Cancer, Adult; Liver Cell Carcinoma; Liver Cell Carcinoma, Adult; Cancer of Liver; Cancer of the Liver; Cancer, Hepatocellular; Hepatic Cancer; Hepatic Neoplasms; Hepatocellular Cancer; Liver Cancer; Neoplasms, Hepatic; Neoplasms, Liver

  16. Study of Efficacy and Safety of LEE011 in Men and Postmenopausal Women With Advanced Breast Cancer.

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2017-10-12

    Breast Neoplasms; Breast Diseases; Neoplasms; Neoplasms by Site; Fulvestrant; Antineoplastic Agents; Antineoplastic Agents, Hormonal; Estrogen Receptor Antagonists; Hormone Antagonists; Hormones, Hormone Substitutes, and Hormone Antagonists; Molecular Mechanisms of Pharmacological Action; Pharmacologic Actions; Therapeutic Use

  17. Combination Chemotherapy With or Without Ganitumab in Treating Patients With Newly Diagnosed Metastatic Ewing Sarcoma

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-06-28

    Metastatic Ewing Sarcoma; Metastatic Malignant Neoplasm in the Bone; Metastatic Malignant Neoplasm in the Bone Marrow; Metastatic Malignant Neoplasm in the Lung; Metastatic Peripheral Primitive Neuroectodermal Tumor of Bone; Peripheral Primitive Neuroectodermal Tumor of Soft Tissues

  18. Talazoparib, Carboplatin, and Paclitaxel in Treating Patients With Solid Tumors That Are Metastatic or Cannot Be Removed by Surgery

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2017-11-06

    Advanced Malignant Solid Neoplasm; BRCA Rearrangement; BRCA1 Gene Mutation; BRCA2 Gene Mutation; Deleterious BRCA1 Gene Mutation; Deleterious BRCA2 Gene Mutation; Metastatic Malignant Solid Neoplasm; Unresectable Solid Neoplasm

  19. CFD analysis of multiphase blood flow within aorta and its thoracic branches of patient with coarctation of aorta using multiphase Euler - Euler approach

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ostrowski, Z.; Melka, B.; Adamczyk, W.; Rojczyk, M.; Golda, A.; Nowak, A. J.

    2016-09-01

    In the research a numerical Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model of the pulsatile blood flow was created and analyzed. A real geometry of aorta and its thoracic branches of 8-year old patient diagnosed with a congenital heart defect - coarctation of aorta was used. The inlet boundary condition were implemented as the User Define Function according to measured values of volumetric blood flow. The blood flow was treated as multiphase: plasma, set as the primary fluid phase, was dominant with volume fraction of 0.585 and morphological elements of blood were treated in Euler-Euler approach as dispersed phases (with 90% Red Blood Cells and White Blood Cells as remaining solid volume fraction).

  20. Elastin and collagen fibre microstructure of the human aorta in ageing and disease: a review

    PubMed Central

    Tsamis, Alkiviadis; Krawiec, Jeffrey T.; Vorp, David A.

    2013-01-01

    Aortic disease is a significant cause of death in developed countries. The most common forms of aortic disease are aneurysm, dissection, atherosclerotic occlusion and ageing-induced stiffening. The microstructure of the aortic tissue has been studied with great interest, because alteration of the quantity and/or architecture of the connective fibres (elastin and collagen) within the aortic wall, which directly imparts elasticity and strength, can lead to the mechanical and functional changes associated with these conditions. This review article summarizes the state of the art with respect to characterization of connective fibre microstructure in the wall of the human aorta in ageing and disease, with emphasis on the ascending thoracic aorta and abdominal aorta where the most common forms of aortic disease tend to occur. PMID:23536538

  1. Alteration of time-resolved autofluorescence properties of rat aorta, induced by diabetes mellitus

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Uherek, M.; Uličná, O.; Vančová, O.; Muchová, J.; Ďuračková, Z.; Šikurová, L.; Chorvát, D.

    2016-10-01

    Changes in autofluorescence properties of isolated rat aorta, induced by diabetes mellitus, were detected using time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy with pulsed ultraviolet (UV) laser excitation. We demonstrated that time-resolved spectroscopy was able to detect changes in aorta tissues related to diabetes and unambiguously discriminate diabetic (τ 1 0.63  ±  0.05 ns, τ 2 3.66  ±  0.10 ns) samples from the control (τ 1 0.76  ±  0.03 ns, τ 2 4.48  ±  0.15 ns) group. We also report changes in the ratio of relative amplitudes of the two lifetime component in aorta tissue during diabetes, most likely related to the pseudohypoxic state with altered NADH homeostasis.

  2. Cystic neoplasms of the exocrine pancreas.

    PubMed

    Campbell, F; Azadeh, B

    2008-04-01

    The increasing use of radiological imaging has led to greater detection of small and asymptomatic cystic lesions of the pancreas. Most are resectable, but not all are neoplastic. This review provides an update on the histopathology, immunohistochemistry, molecular biology, pathogenesis and management of cystic neoplasms of the exocrine pancreas. These include the serous, the mucinous cystic, the intraductal papillary mucinous and the solid pseudopapillary neoplasms. Recently reported variants are described and very rare cystic variants of other pancreatic epithelial and mesenchymal neoplasms are briefly mentioned.

  3. Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic neoplasms in patients with McCune-Albright syndrome.

    PubMed

    Gaujoux, Sébastien; Salenave, Sylvie; Ronot, Maxime; Rangheard, Anne-Sophie; Cros, Jérôme; Belghiti, Jacques; Sauvanet, Alain; Ruszniewski, Philippe; Chanson, Philippe

    2014-01-01

    McCune-Albright syndrome (MAS), which includes polycystic fibrous dysplasia, precocious puberty, and café au lait spots, is a rare disorder caused by somatic activating mutations of the GNAS gene. GNAS mutations have also been implicated in various sporadic tumors, including hepatobiliary and pancreatic neoplasms. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of hepatobiliary and pancreatic neoplasms in patients with McCune-Albright syndrome. Nineteen patients diagnosed between 1995 and 2012 with MAS in a tertiary referral center for rare growth disorders were screened with dedicated gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging for hepatobiliary and pancreatic neoplasms between June 2011 and December 2012. Six (32%) of the 19 screened patients were found to have hepatic, pancreatic, or biliary lesions, excluding liver hemangiomas, liver cysts, and focal nodular hyperplasia. This includes pancreatic ductal lesions observed in 4 patients, including numerous branch-duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms in 3 patients. Biliary lesions were observed in 1 patient, with a large choledochal cyst also involving the left biliary branch. Finally, multiple inflammatory/telangiectatic hepatic adenomas were observed in 2 patients, including 1 with proven somatic GNAS mutation. We describe the first observation of syndromic intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms and the new association between MAS and pancreatic neoplasms, namely intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms of the pancreas but also rare hepatobiliary neoplasms including liver adenomas and choledochal cysts. These findings strongly suggest that somatic activating GNAS mutations, possibly through cAMP pathway disorders, are involved in the tumorigenesis of hepatobiliary and pancreatic tissues originating from the foregut endoderm and have led us to use a routine screening by dedicated magnetic resonance imaging including both pancreatobiliary and liver sequences in patients with MAS.

  4. PubMed Central

    GANA, S.; MORBINI, P.; GIOURGOS, G.; MATTI, E.; CHU, F.; DANESINO, C.; PAGELLA, F.

    2012-01-01

    SUMMARY Perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms are a group of rare tumours reported in various organs under a variety of designations. Such tumours are of interest primarily because of the distinctive morphology of their cell population and their immunoreactivity with melanocytic and myoid markers. There is a strong association between perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms and tuberous sclerosis complex. Perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms very rarely occur in the upper aero-digestive tract. To date only three cases of nasal perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasms have been reported in the literature. The present report refers to a 22-year old woman, without any stigmata of tuberous sclerosis complex, with early onset of a polypoid nasal mass with pathological and immunohistochemical features entirely compatible with those of a perivascular epithelioid cell neoplasm. PMID:22767987

  5. Heart in TLC

    MedlinePlus

    ... Although rare, some patients have coarctation of the aorta, renal artery stenosis, or thoracic or abdominal aneurysms. ... and thoracic vascular abnormalities, including coarctation of the aorta. An abdominal ultrasound is the initial modality of ...

  6. Aortic Valve Regurgitation

    MedlinePlus

    ... the main artery that leads to the body (aorta) doesn't close properly, which causes some blood ... Other diseases. Other rare conditions can enlarge the aorta and aortic valve and lead to regurgitation, including ...

  7. Mesenteric artery ischemia

    MedlinePlus

    ... blood to the intestines run directly from the aorta, the main artery from the heart. Hardening of ... clots most often come from the heart or aorta. These clots are more commonly seen in people ...

  8. Self-Expanding, Tough Biodegradable Elastomers for Wound Stasis

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2015-08-06

    laparotomy and small bowel was retracted to identify the abdominal aorta and vena cava. The peritoneumwas incised along a 3 cm length of the right external...Resuscitation protocol Duration Mortality Blood loss Sondeen et al. [7] Open 4.4 mm perforation of abdominal aorta 100% 300 mL/min IV lactated Ringer...g/kg Control 3. 50% 15 g/kg Kheirabadi et al. [6] Open 4.4 mm perforation of infrarenal aorta 100% Lactated Ringers, 3 pretreatment blood volume at

  9. Left ventricle descending aorta valved conduit to relieve congenital aortic stenosis in children.

    PubMed

    Eijgelaar, A; Hess, J; Cromme-Dijkhuis, A H; Karliczek, G F; Homan van der Heide, J N

    1984-10-01

    A valved conduit was inserted between the apex of the left ventricle and the descending aorta in 2 patients, 4 months and 10 years of age, respectively, who had valvular aortic stenosis. The development of both patients has been excellent since operation. At control catheterization (1 and 2 years postoperatively) no pressure gradient was found between the left ventricle and the aorta. In both patients the aortic valve area showed growth to near normal size on echocardiographic study 3 years postoperatively.

  10. Left aortic arch with right-sided descending aorta associated with sudden neonatal death: a case report.

    PubMed

    Pampin, J Blanco; Rivero, A Garcia; Tamayo, N Morte; Fonseca, R Hinojal

    2003-10-01

    We present the case of a 26-day-old female in whom left aortic arch with right-sided descending aorta occurred. The previously healthy newborn baby was found dead on her bed. This anomaly is very uncommon and its clinical presentation as sudden death is also exceptional with only a few cases having been reported in the literature. The pathological findings and embryological origins of this malformation, so-called 'circumflex aorta' are discussed. The pertinent literature is reviewed.

  11. A Study of Neoadjuvant Paclitaxel in Combination With Bavituximab in Early- Stage Triple- Negative Breast Cancer

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2017-03-08

    Breast Cancer; Triple Negative Breast Neoplasms; Triple-Negative Breast Neoplasm; Triple-Negative Breast Cancer; Triple Negative Breast Cancer; ER-Negative PR-Negative HER2-Negative Breast Neoplasms; ER-Negative PR-Negative HER2-Negative Breast Cancer

  12. Genomic Sequencing in Determining Treatment in Patients With Metastatic Cancer or Cancer That Cannot Be Removed by Surgery

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-01-22

    Metastatic Neoplasm; Recurrent Neoplasm; Recurrent Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma; Stage IIIA Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer; Stage IIIB Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer; Stage IV Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer; Unresectable Malignant Neoplasm

  13. 9 CFR 311.11 - Neoplasms.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 9 Animals and Animal Products 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Neoplasms. 311.11 Section 311.11 Animals and Animal Products FOOD SAFETY AND INSPECTION SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AGENCY... CERTIFICATION DISPOSAL OF DISEASED OR OTHERWISE ADULTERATED CARCASSES AND PARTS § 311.11 Neoplasms. (a) An...

  14. Chlorhexidine Gluconate Cleansing in Preventing Central Line Associated Bloodstream Infection and Acquisition of Multi-drug Resistant Organisms in Younger Patients With Cancer or Undergoing Donor Stem Cell Transplant

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-02-05

    Bacterial Infection; Benign Neoplasm; Malignant Neoplasm; Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus Infection; Recurrent Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia; Recurrent Childhood Acute Myeloid Leukemia; Untreated Childhood Myeloid Neoplasm

  15. Cystic lesions of the pancreas

    PubMed Central

    Karoumpalis, Ioannis; Christodoulou, Dimitrios K.

    2016-01-01

    Different types of benign or malignant cystic lesions can be observed in the pancreas. Pancreatic cystic lesions are classified under pathology terms into simple retention cysts, pseudocysts and cystic neoplasms. Mucinous cystic neoplasm is a frequent type of cystic neoplasm and has a malignant potential. Serous cystadenoma follows in frequency and is usually benign. Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms are the most commonly resected cystic pancreatic neoplasms characterized by dilated segments of the main pancreatic duct and/or side branches, the wall of which is covered by mucus secreting cells. These neoplasms can occupy the pancreatic head or any part of the organ. Solid pseudopapillary tumor is rare, has a low tendency for malignancy, and is usually located in the pancreatic body or tail. Endoscopic ultrasound with the use of fine-needle aspiration and cytology permits discrimination of those lesions. In this review, the main characteristics of those lesions are presented, as well as recommendations regarding their follow up and management according to recent guidelines. PMID:27065727

  16. On the flow through the normal fetal aortic arc at late gestation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pekkan, Kerem; Nourparvar, Paymon; Yerneni, Srinivasu; Dasi, Lakshmi; de Zelicourt, Diane; Fogel, Mark; Yoganathan, Ajit

    2006-11-01

    During the fetal stage, the aortic arc is a complex junction of great vessels (right and left ventricular outflow tracks (RVOT, LVOT), pulmonary arteries (PA), ductus, head-neck vessels, decending aorta (Dao)) delicately distributing the oxygenated blood flow to the lungs and the body -preferential to the brain. Experimental and computational studies are performed in idealized models of the fetal aorta to understand and visualize the unsteady hemodynamics. Unsteady in vitro flow, generated by two peristaltic pumps (RVOT and LVOT) is visualized with two colored dyes and a red laser in a rigid glass model with physiological diameters. Helical flow patterns at the PA's and ductal shunting to the Dao are visualized. Computational fluid dynamics of the same geometry is modeled using the commercial code Fidap with porous boundary conditions representing systemic and pulmonary resistances (˜400000 tetrahedral elements). Combined (RVOT+LVOT) average flow rates ranging from 1.9 to 2.1-L/min for 34 to 38-weeks gestation were simulated with the Reynolds and Womersly numbers (Dao) of 500 and 8. Computational results are compared qualitatively with the flow visualizations at this target flow condition. Understanding fetal hemodynamics is critical for congenital heart defects, tissue engineering, fetal cardiac MRI and surgeries.

  17. Effect of the Trendelenburg position on the distribution of arterial air emboli in dogs

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Butler, Bruce D.; Laine, Glen A.; Leiman, Basil C.; Warters, Dave; Kurusz, Mark

    1988-01-01

    The effect of Trendelenburg position (TP) on the distribution of arterial air emboli in dogs was examined in a two-part investigation. In the first part, the effects of the bubble size and the vessel angle on the bubble velocity and the direction of flow were investigated in vitro, using a simulated carotid artery preparation. It was found that larger bubbles increased in velocity in the same direction as the blood flow at 0-, 10-, and 30-deg vessel angles, and decreased when the vessel was positioned at 90 deg. Smaller bubbles did not change velocity from 0 to 30 deg, but acted to increase the velocity, in the same direction as the flood flow, at 90 deg. The second series of experiments examined the effect of 0 to 30 deg TP on carotid-artery distribution of gas bubbles injected into the left ventricle or ascending aorta of anesthetized dogs. It was found that, regardless of the degree of the TP, the bubbles passed into the carotid artery simultaneously with the passage into the abdominal aorta. It is concluded that the TP does not prevent arterial bubbles from reaching the brain.

  18. Aortic Wave Dynamics and Its Influence on Left Ventricular Workload

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pahlevan, Niema; Gharib, Morteza

    2010-11-01

    Clinical and epidemiologic studies have shown that hypertension plays a key role in development of left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy and ultimately heart failure mostly due to increased LV workload. Therefore, it is crucial to diagnose and treat abnormal high LV workload at early stages. The pumping mechanism of the heart is pulsatile, thus it sends pressure and flow wave into the compliant aorta. The wave dynamics in the aorta is dominated by interplay of heart rate (HR), aortic rigidity, and location of reflection sites. We hypothesized that for a fixed cardiac output (CO) and peripheral resistance (PR), interplay of HR and aortic compliance can create conditions that minimize LV power requirement. We used a computational approach to test our hypothesis. Finite element method with direct coupling method of fluid-structure interaction (FSI) was used. Blood was assumed to be incompressible Newtonian fluid and aortic wall was considered elastic isotropic. Simulations were performed for various heart rates and aortic rigidities while inflow wave, CO, and PR were kept constant. For any aortic compliance, LV power requirement becomes minimal at a specific heart rate. The minimum shifts to higher heart rates as aortic rigidity increases.

  19. Does lower limb exercise worsen renal artery hemodynamics in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm?

    PubMed

    Sun, Anqiang; Tian, Xiaopeng; Zhang, Nan; Xu, Zaipin; Deng, Xiaoyan; Liu, Ming; Liu, Xiao

    2015-01-01

    Renal artery stenosis (RAS) and renal complications emerge in some patients after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) to treat abdominal aorta aneurysm (AAA). The mechanisms for the causes of these problems are not clear. We hypothesized that for EVAR patients, lower limb exercise could negatively influence the physiology of the renal artery and the renal function, by decreasing the blood flow velocity and changing the hemodynamics in the renal arteries. To evaluate this hypothesis, pre- and post-operative models of the abdominal aorta were reconstructed based on CT images. The hemodynamic environment was numerically simulated under rest and lower limb exercise conditions. The results revealed that in the renal arteries, lower limb exercise decreased the wall shear stress (WSS), increased the oscillatory shear index (OSI) and increased the relative residence time (RRT). EVAR further enhanced these effects. Because these parameters are related to artery stenosis and atherosclerosis, this preliminary study concluded that lower limb exercise may increase the potential risk of inducing renal artery stenosis and renal complications for AAA patients. This finding could help elucidate the mechanism of renal artery stenosis and renal complications after EVAR and warn us to reconsider the management and nursing care of AAA patients.

  20. Patient-specific finite element analysis of ascending aorta aneurysms

    PubMed Central

    Martin, Caitlin; Elefteriades, John

    2015-01-01

    Catastrophic ascending aorta aneurysm (AsAA) dissection and rupture can be prevented by elective surgical repair, but identifying individuals at risk remains a challenge. Typically the decision to operate is based primarily on the overall aneurysm size, which may not be a reliable indicator of risk. In this study, AsAA inflation and rupture was simulated in 27 patient-specific finite element models constructed from clinical CT imaging data and tissue mechanical testing data from matching patients. These patients included n = 8 with concomitant bicuspid aortic valve (BAV), n = 10 with bovine aortic arch (BAA), and n = 10 with neither BAV nor BAA. AsAA rupture risk was found to increase with elevated systolic wall stress and tissue stiffness. The aortic size index was sufficient for identifying the patients with the lowest risk of rupture, but unsuitable for delineating between patients at moderate and high risk. There was no correlation between BAV or BAA and AsAA rupture risk; however, the AsAA morphology was different among these patients. These results support the use of mechanical parameters such as vessel wall stress and tissue stiffness for AsAA presurgical evaluation. PMID:25770248

  1. Three-Dimensional Printing of a Hemorrhagic Cervical Cancer Model for Postgraduate Gynecological Training

    PubMed Central

    Ryan, Stephen; Doucet, Gregory; Murphy, Deanna; Turner, Jacqueline

    2017-01-01

    Introduction A realistic hemorrhagic cervical cancer model was three-dimensionally (3D) printed and used in a postgraduate medical simulation training session. Materials and methods Computer-assisted design (CAD) software was the platform of choice to create and refine the cervical model. Once the prototype was finalized, another software allowed for the addition of a neoplastic mass, which included openings for bleeding from the neoplasm and cervical os. 3D printing was done using two desktop printers and three different materials. An emergency medicine simulation case was presented to obstetrics and gynecology residents who were at varying stages of their training. The scenario included history taking and physical examination of a standardized patient. This was a hybrid simulation; a synthetic pelvic task trainer that allowed the placement of the cervical model was connected to the standardized patient. The task trainer was placed under a drape and appeared to extend from the standardized patient’s body. At various points in the simulation, the standardized patient controlled the cervical bleeding through a peripheral venous line. Feedback forms were completed, and the models were discussed and evaluated with staff. Results A final cervical model was created and successfully printed. Overall, the models were reported to be similar to a real cervix. The models bled well. Most models were not sutured during the scenarios, but overall, the value of the printed cervical models was reported to be high. Discussion The models were well received, but it was suggested that more colors be integrated into the cervix in order to better emphasize the intended pathology. The model design requires further improvement, such as the addition of a locking mechanism, in order to ensure that the cervix stays inside the task trainer throughout the simulation. Adjustments to the simulated blood product would allow the bleeding to flow more vigorously. Additionally, a different simulation scenario might be more suitable to explore the residents’ ability to suture the cervical models, as cervical suturing of a neoplasm is not a common emergency department procedure. Conclusion 3D-printed cervical models are an economical and anatomically accurate option for simulation training and other educational purposes. PMID:28168128

  2. Learning about Turner Syndrome

    MedlinePlus

    ... heart murmur, sometimes associated with narrowing of the aorta (blood vessel exiting the heart). A tendency to ... with a heart murmur or narrowing of the aorta may need surgery to correct the problem. A ...

  3. Double outlet right ventricle

    MedlinePlus

    ... disease that is present from birth (congenital) . The aorta connects to the right ventricle (RV, the chamber ... carries oxygen-poor blood to the lungs) and aorta (which carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart ...

  4. Learning about Marfan Syndrome

    MedlinePlus

    ... threatening symptom of Marfan syndrome. They include dilated aorta just as it leaves the heart (at the ... clinical diagnostic features: Dilatation or dissection of the aorta at the level of the sinuses of Valsava. ...

  5. Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)

    MedlinePlus

    ... plaque buildup causes the walls of the abdominal aorta to become weak and bulge outward like a ... treated? What is an abdominal aortic aneurysm? The aorta, the largest artery in the body, is a ...

  6. Double Outlet Right Ventricle

    MedlinePlus

    ... the right ventricle into the lungs, and the aorta sends oxygen-rich blood from the left ventricle ... the body. Together, the pulmonary artery and the aorta are known as the great arteries. But with ...

  7. Facts about Truncus Arteriosis

    MedlinePlus

    ... Septal Defect Atrioventricular Septal Defect Coarctation of the Aorta D-Transposition of the Great Arteries Hypoplastic Left ... usual two vessels (the main pulmonary artery and aorta ). What is Truncus Arteriosus Click here to view ...

  8. Transposition of the great arteries

    MedlinePlus

    ... that carry blood away from the heart -- the aorta and the pulmonary artery -- are switched (transposed). ... side of the heart and travels out the aorta to the body. In TGA, venous blood returns ...

  9. Marfan Syndrome (For Parents)

    MedlinePlus

    ... have other medical problems, including: enlargement of the aorta (the large blood vessel that carries blood from ... to the body). If the wall of the aorta becomes very weak, it can tear and lead ...

  10. Takayasu's Arteritis

    MedlinePlus

    ... the largest blood vessel in the body (the aorta) and its branches. Thus, the complications of Takayasu’s ... with Takayasu’s, with obvious dilation of the ascending aorta on the left side of the picture. Clinicians ...

  11. Transient Receptor Potential Channel Opening Releases Endogenous Acetylcholine, which Contributes to Endothelium-Dependent Relaxation Induced by Mild Hypothermia in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rat but Not Wistar-Kyoto Rat Arteries.

    PubMed

    Zou, Q; Leung, S W S; Vanhoutte, P M

    2015-08-01

    Mild hypothermia causes endothelium-dependent relaxations, which are reduced by the muscarinic receptor antagonist atropine. The present study investigated whether endothelial endogenous acetylcholine contributes to these relaxations. Aortic rings of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats were contracted with prostaglandin F2 α and exposed to progressive mild hypothermia (from 37 to 31°C). Hypothermia induced endothelium-dependent, Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester-sensitive relaxations, which were reduced by atropine, but not by mecamylamine, in SHR but not in WKY rat aortae. The responses in SHR aortae were also reduced by acetylcholinesterase (the enzyme responsible for acetylcholine degradation), bromoacetylcholine (inhibitor of acetylcholine synthesis), hemicholinium-3 (inhibitor of choline uptake), and vesamicol (inhibitor of acetylcholine release). The mild hypothermia-induced relaxations in both SHR and WKY rat aortae were inhibited by AMTB [N-(3-aminopropyl)-2-[(3-methylphenyl)methoxy]-N-(2-thienylmethyl)-benzamide; the transient receptor potential (TRP) M8 inhibitor]; only those in SHR aortae were inhibited by HC-067047 [2-methyl-1-[3-(4-morpholinyl)propyl]-5-phenyl-N-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-1H-pyrrole-3-carboxamide; TRPV4 antagonist] while those in WKY rat aortae were reduced by HC-030031 [2-(1,3-dimethyl-2,6-dioxo-1,2,3,6-tetrahydro-7H-purin-7-yl)-N-(4-isopropylphenyl)acetamide; TRPA1 antagonist]. The endothelial uptake of extracellular choline and release of cyclic guanosine monophosphate was enhanced by mild hypothermia and inhibited by HC-067047 in SHR but not in WKY rat aortae. Compared with WKY rats, the SHR preparations expressed similar levels of acetylcholinesterase and choline acetyltransferase, but a lesser amount of vesicular acetylcholine transporter, located mainly in the endothelium. Thus, mild hypothermia causes nitric oxide-dependent relaxations by opening TRPA1 channels in WKY rat aortae. By contrast, in SHR aortae, TRPV4 channels are opened, resulting in endothelial production of acetylcholine, which, in an autocrine manner, activates muscarinic receptors on neighboring cells to elicit endothelium-dependent relaxations in response to mild hypothermia. Copyright © 2015 by The American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics.

  12. Proximal thoracic aorta dimensions after continuous-flow left ventricular assist device implantation: Longitudinal changes and relation to aortic valve insufficiency.

    PubMed

    Fine, Nowell M; Park, Soon J; Stulak, John M; Topilsky, Yan; Daly, Richard C; Joyce, Lyle D; Pereira, Naveen L; Schirger, John A; Edwards, Brooks S; Lin, Grace; Kushwaha, Sudhir S

    2016-04-01

    In this study we examined the impact of continuous-flow left ventricular assist device (CF-LVAD) support on proximal thoracic aorta dimensions. Aortic root and ascending aorta diameter were measured from serial echocardiograms before and after CF-LVAD implantation in patients with ≥6 months of support, and correlated with the development of >mild aortic valve insufficiency (AI). Of 162 patients included, mean age was 58 ± 11 years and 128 (79%) were male. Seventy-nine (63%) were destination therapy patients. Mean aortic root and ascending aorta diameters at baseline, 1 month, 6 months, 12 months and long-term follow-up (mean 2.0 ± 1.4 years) were 3.5 ± 0.4, 3.5 ± 0.3, 3.9 ± 0.3, 3.9 ± 0.2 and 4.0 ± 0.3, and 3.3 ± 0.2, 3.3 ± 0.3, 3.6 ± 0.2, 3.6 ± 0.3 and 3.6 ± 0.3 cm, respectively. Only change in aortic root diameter from 1-month to 6-month follow-up reached statistical significance (p = 0.03). Nine (6%) patients had accelerated proximal thoracic aorta expansion (>0.5 cm/year), occurring predominantly in the first 6 months after implantation. These patients were older and more likely to have hypertension and baseline proximal thoracic aorta dilation. Forty-five (28%) patients developed >mild AI at long-term follow-up, including 7 of 9 (78%) of those with accelerated proximal thoracic aorta expansion. All 7 had aortic valves that remained closed throughout the cardiac cycle, and this, along with duration of CF-LVAD support and increase in aortic root diameter, were significantly associated with developing >mild AI. CF-LVAD patients have small increases in proximal thoracic aorta dimensions that predominantly occur within the first 6 months after implantation and then stabilize. Increasing aortic root diameter was associated with AI development. Copyright © 2016 International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Endoscopic Ultrasound Imaging for Differential Diagnosis of Pancreatic Neoplasms: A 7-Year Study in a Chinese Population.

    PubMed

    Cui, Binxin; Fang, Weili; Khan, Samiullah; Li, Shu; Chang, Yixiang; Wang, Bangmao; Liu, Wentian

    2018-06-01

    BACKGROUND Currently, non-invasive methods for screening pancreatic cancer are lacking. There is little information regarding whether endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) imaging has a discriminatory ability for detecting benign and malignant pancreatic neoplasms. In this study, we retrospectively analyzed the demographic, clinicopathologic, and EUS features and follow-up information. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 58 patients with pancreatic neoplasms who underwent endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) over a 7-year period (2009-2016) at our Department of Digestive Diseases were enrolled in our study. RESULTS Of the 58 patients, 38 (65.5%) were diagnosed with malignant pancreatic neoplasms and 20 (34.5%) were benign ones. Of all the EUS findings, size of neoplasm (P=0.037) and regularity of margin (P=0.011) were significantly different between malignant and benign pancreatic neoplasms. However, age, sex, location, echo pattern, and dilation of main pancreatic duct did not show any significant difference (P>0.05). Size combined with regularity to detect malignant pancreatic neoplasms showed the following diagnostic values: sensitivity, 73.68%; specificity, 90%; positive predictive value, 76.60%; negative predictive value 81.82%; and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.887 (95% CI: 0.777-0.955, P<0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Our results showed the high value of EUS for differentiating malignant pancreatic neoplasms from benign ones. Due to this and its non-invasive nature, EUS should be the first-line method for detection of neoplastic pancreatic lesions.

  14. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Gupta, Pushpender, E-mail: pugupta@wakehealth.edu; Allen, Brian C., E-mail: bcallen2@wakehealth.edu; Chen, Michael Y., E-mail: mchen@wakehealth.edu

    Purpose: To evaluate renal function changes related to radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for the treatment of multifocal renal neoplasms. Methods: This is an institutional review board-approved, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act compliant retrospective study of all patients treated with computed tomography guided RFA for multifocal renal neoplasms at one institution. Fifty-seven subjects, mean age 70 (range 37-88) years, underwent RFA of 169 renal neoplasms (average size 2.0 cm). Subjects had between 2 and 8 (mean 2.96) neoplasms ablated. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was measured before and after RFA. Complications related to RFA were recorded. Results: eGFR decreased on averagemore » of 4.4 % per tumor treated and 6.7 % per ablation session (average 1.76 tumors treated per session). For subjects with the largest neoplasm measuring >3 cm, eGFR decreased an average of 14.5 % during the course of their treatment. If the largest neoplasm measured 2-3 cm, eGFR decreased an average of 7.7 %, and if the largest neoplasm measured <2 cm, eGFR decreased an average of 3.8 %. Subjects with reduced baseline renal function were more likely to have a greater decline in eGFR after RFA. There was a minor complication rate of 6.3 % (6 of 96 sessions), none of which required treatment, and a major complication rate of 4.2 % (4 of 96 sessions). Conclusion: RFA for the treatment of multifocal renal neoplasms results in mild decline of renal function.« less

  15. Three-dimentional simulation of flow-induced platelet activation in artificial heart valves

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hedayat, Mohammadali; Asgharzadeh, Hafez; Borazjani, Iman

    2015-11-01

    Since the advent of heart valve, several valve types such as mechanical and bio-prosthetic valves have been designed. Mechanical Heart Valves (MHV) are durable but suffer from thromboembolic complications that caused by shear-induced platelet activation near the valve region. Bio-prosthetic Heart Valves (BHV) are known for better hemodynamics. However, they usually have a short average life time. Realistic simulations of heart valves in combination with platelet activation models can lead to a better understanding of the potential risk of thrombus formation in such devices. In this study, an Eulerian approach is developed to calculate the platelet activation in three-dimensional simulations of flow through MHV and BHV using a parallel overset-curvilinear immersed boundary technique. A curvilinear body-fitted grid is used for the flow simulation through the anatomic aorta, while the sharp-interface immersed boundary method is used for simulation of the Left Ventricle (LV) with prescribed motion. In addition, dynamics of valves were calculated numerically using under-relaxed strong-coupling algorithm. Finally, the platelet activation results for BMV and MHV are compared with each other.

  16. Preleukaemic clonal haemopoiesis and risk of therapy-related myeloid neoplasms: a case-control study.

    PubMed

    Takahashi, Koichi; Wang, Feng; Kantarjian, Hagop; Doss, Denaha; Khanna, Kanhav; Thompson, Erika; Zhao, Li; Patel, Keyur; Neelapu, Sattva; Gumbs, Curtis; Bueso-Ramos, Carlos; DiNardo, Courtney D; Colla, Simona; Ravandi, Farhad; Zhang, Jianhua; Huang, Xuelin; Wu, Xifeng; Samaniego, Felipe; Garcia-Manero, Guillermo; Futreal, P Andrew

    2017-01-01

    Therapy-related myeloid neoplasms are secondary malignancies that are often fatal, but their risk factors are not well understood. Evidence suggests that individuals with clonal haemopoiesis have increased risk of developing haematological malignancies. We aimed to identify whether patients with cancer who have clonal haemopoiesis are at an increased risk of developing therapy-related myeloid neoplasms. We did this retrospective case-control study to compare the prevalence of clonal haemopoiesis between patients treated for cancer who later developed therapy-related myeloid neoplasms (cases) and patients who did not develop these neoplasms (controls). All patients in both case and control groups were treated at MD Anderson Cancer Center (Houston, TX, USA) from 1997 to 2015. We used the institutional medical database to locate these patients. Patients were included as cases if they were treated for a primary cancer, subsequently developed therapy-related myeloid neoplasms, and had available paired samples of bone marrow from the time of therapy-related myeloid neoplasm diagnosis and peripheral blood from the time of primary cancer diagnosis. Patients were eligible for inclusion as age-matched controls if they were treated for lymphoma, received combination chemotherapy, and did not develop therapy-related myeloid neoplasms after at least 5 years of follow-up. We used molecular barcode sequencing of 32 genes on the pretreatment peripheral blood samples to detect clonal haemopoiesis. For cases, we also used targeted gene sequencing on bone marrow samples and investigated clonal evolution from clonal haemopoiesis to the development of therapy-related myeloid neoplasms. To further clarify the association between clonal haemopoiesis and therapy-related myeloid neoplasm development, we also analysed the prevalence of clonal haemopoiesis in an external cohort of patients with lymphoma who were treated in a randomised trial of front-line chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone, with or without melatonin. This trial was done at MD Anderson Cancer Center between 1999 and 2001 (protocol number 98-009). We identified 14 cases and 54 controls. Of the 14 cases, we detected clonal haemopoiesis in the peripheral blood samples of ten (71%) patients. We detected clonal haemopoiesis in 17 (31%) of the 54 controls. The cumulative incidence of therapy-related myeloid neoplasms in both cases and controls at 5 years was significantly higher in patients with clonal haemopoiesis (30%, 95% CI 16-51) than in those without (7%, 2-21; p=0·016). In the external cohort, five (7%) of 74 patients developed therapy-related myeloid neoplasms, of whom four (80%) had clonal haemopoiesis; 11 (16%) of 69 patients who did not develop therapy-related myeloid neoplasms had clonal haemopoiesis. In the external cohort, the cumulative incidence of therapy-related myeloid neoplasms at 10 years was significantly higher in patients with clonal haemopoiesis (29%, 95% CI 8-53) than in those without (0%, 0-0; p=0·0009). In a multivariate Fine and Gray model based on the external cohort, the presence of clonal haemopoiesis significantly increased the risk of therapy-related myeloid neoplasm development (hazard ratio 13·7, 95% CI 1·7-108·7; p=0·013). Preleukaemic clonal haemopoiesis is common in patients with therapy-related myeloid neoplasms at the time of their primary cancer diagnosis and before they have been exposed to treatment. Our results suggest that clonal haemopoiesis could be used as a predictive marker to identify patients with cancer who are at risk of developing therapy-related myeloid neoplasms. A prospective trial to validate this concept is warranted. Cancer Prevention Research Institute of Texas, Red and Charline McCombs Institute for the Early Detection and Treatment of Cancer, NIH through MD Anderson Cancer Center Support Grant, and the MD Anderson MDS & AML Moon Shots Program. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  17. Nivolumab and Ipilimumab in Treating Patients With HIV Associated Relapsed or Refractory Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma or Solid Tumors That Are Metastatic or Cannot Be Removed by Surgery

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-06-11

    Advanced Malignant Solid Neoplasm; Anal Carcinoma; HIV Infection; Kaposi Sarcoma; Lung Carcinoma; Metastatic Malignant Solid Neoplasm; Recurrent Classic Hodgkin Lymphoma; Refractory Classic Hodgkin Lymphoma; Unresectable Solid Neoplasm

  18. Plasma Cell Neoplasms (Including Multiple Myeloma)—Patient Version

    Cancer.gov

    Plasma cell neoplasms occur when abnormal plasma cells form cancerous tumors. When there is only one tumor, the disease is called a plasmacytoma. When there are multiple tumors, it is called multiple myeloma. Start here to find information on plasma cell neoplasms treatment, research, and statistics.

  19. Congenital heart defect - corrective surgery

    MedlinePlus

    ... repair; Tetralogy of Fallot repair; Coarctation of the aorta repair; Atrial septal defect repair; Ventricular septal defect ... has a blood vessel that runs between the aorta (the main artery to the body) and the ...

  20. Aortic aneurysm repair - endovascular - discharge

    MedlinePlus

    ... artery that carries blood to your lower body (aorta). To perform the procedure: Your doctor made a ... to guide the stent and graft into your aorta where the aneurysm was located. The graft and ...

  1. What Is a Cardiothoracic Surgeon?

    MedlinePlus

    ... Heart Disease Diseases of the arteries, valves, and aorta, as well as cardiac rhythm disturbances Aortic Valve ... Transposition of the Great Arteries Coarctation of the Aorta Truncus Arteriosus Single Ventricle Defects Patent Ductus Arteriosus ...

  2. Birth Defects Data and Statistics

    MedlinePlus

    ... Septal Defect Atrioventricular Septal Defect Coarctation of the Aorta D-Transposition of the Great Arteries Hypoplastic Left ... Syndrome Disorders Gastroschisis Heart Defects Coarctation of the Aorta Hypoplastic left heart syndrome Tetralogy of Fallot Other ...

  3. Hemodynamic Evaluation of a Biological and Mechanical Aortic Valve Prosthesis Using Patient-Specific MRI-Based CFD.

    PubMed

    Hellmeier, Florian; Nordmeyer, Sarah; Yevtushenko, Pavlo; Bruening, Jan; Berger, Felix; Kuehne, Titus; Goubergrits, Leonid; Kelm, Marcus

    2018-01-01

    Modeling different treatment options before a procedure is performed is a promising approach for surgical decision making and patient care in heart valve disease. This study investigated the hemodynamic impact of different prostheses through patient-specific MRI-based CFD simulations. Ten time-resolved MRI data sets with and without velocity encoding were obtained to reconstruct the aorta and set hemodynamic boundary conditions for simulations. Aortic hemodynamics after virtual valve replacement with a biological and mechanical valve prosthesis were investigated. Wall shear stress (WSS), secondary flow degree (SFD), transvalvular pressure drop (TPD), turbulent kinetic energy (TKE), and normalized flow displacement (NFD) were evaluated to characterize valve-induced hemodynamics. The biological prostheses induced significantly higher WSS (medians: 9.3 vs. 8.6 Pa, P = 0.027) and SFD (means: 0.78 vs. 0.49, P = 0.002) in the ascending aorta, TPD (medians: 11.4 vs. 2.7 mm Hg, P = 0.002), TKE (means: 400 vs. 283 cm 2 /s 2 , P = 0.037), and NFD (means: 0.0994 vs. 0.0607, P = 0.020) than the mechanical prostheses. The differences between the prosthesis types showed great inter-patient variability, however. Given this variability, a patient-specific evaluation is warranted. In conclusion, MRI-based CFD offers an opportunity to assess the interactions between prosthesis and patient-specific boundary conditions, which may help in optimizing surgical decision making and providing additional guidance to clinicians. © 2017 International Center for Artificial Organs and Transplantation and Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  4. Correlation between local hemodynamics and lesion distribution in a novel aortic regurgitation murine model of atherosclerosis.

    PubMed

    Hoi, Yiemeng; Zhou, Yu-Qing; Zhang, Xiaoli; Henkelman, R Mark; Steinman, David A

    2011-05-01

    Following surgical induction of aortic valve regurgitation (AR), extensive atherosclerotic plaque development along the descending thoracic and abdominal aorta of Ldlr⁻/⁻ mice has been reported, with distinct spatial distributions suggestive of a strong local hemodynamic influence. The objective of this study was to test, using image-based computational fluid dynamics (CFD), whether this is indeed the case. The lumen geometry was reconstructed from micro-CT scanning of a control Ldlr⁻/⁻ mouse, and CFD simulations were carried out for both AR and control flow conditions derived from Doppler ultrasound measurements and literature data. Maps of time-averaged wall shear stress magnitude (TAWSS), oscillatory shear index (OSI) and relative residence time (RRT) were compared against the spatial distributions of plaque stained with oil red O, previously acquired in a group of AR and control mice. Maps of OSI and RRT were found to be consistent with plaque distributions in the AR mice and the absence of plaque in the control mice. TAWSS was uniformly lower under control vs. AR flow conditions, suggesting that levels (> 100 dyn/cm²) exceeded those required to alone induce a pro-atherogenic response. Simulations of a straightened CFD model confirmed the importance of anatomical curvature for explaining the spatial distribution of lesions in the AR mice. In summary, oscillatory and retrograde flow induced in the AR mice, without concomitant low shear, may exacerbate or accelerate lesion formation, but the distinct anatomical curvature of the mouse aorta is responsible for the spatial distribution of lesions.

  5. Simulations to Evaluate Accuracy and Patient Dose in Neutron-Stimulated, Emission-Computed Tomography (NSECT) for Diagnosis of Breast Cancer

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2008-04-01

    tissues , Cancer 52 (3) (1983) 508. [18] J.O. Ogunlewe, D.N. Osegbe, Zinc and cadmium concentrations in indigenous blacks with normal, hypertrophic...142 (1976) 65. [10] E.J. Margalioth, J.G. Schenker, M. Chevion, Copper and zinc levels in normal and malignant tissues , Cancer 52 (5) (1983) 868. [11...Krajewska, Zinc and cadmium analysis in human prostate neoplasms, Biol. Trace Elem. Res. 59 (1–3) (1997) 145. [22] V.Y. Zaichick, T.V. Sviridova

  6. [Polycystic hydatidosis: casual finding of calcified hydatid cyst simulating mesenteric neoplasm].

    PubMed

    Moraes, Mário A P; Sobreira, Maria de Nazareth M; Medeiros Filho, Plínio; Tavares, Alexandre Cavalca; Gomes, Maria Iolanda

    2003-01-01

    A case of abdominal hydatidosis, without hepatic involvement, in a patient from the State of Acre is reported. The hydatid, already in degeneration and partially calcified, was discovered incidentally by a radiologic examination of the vertebral column, carried out for evaluating the state of an intervertebral disk prolapse. Although the images suggested a mesenteric tumor, attached to the intestinal wall, the finding of rostellar hooklets in the dense contents of the cyst, after surgical removal, revealed the parasitic nature of the lesion.

  7. Transposition of the Greater Arteries (TGA)

    MedlinePlus

    ... Heart Disease Diseases of the arteries, valves, and aorta, as well as cardiac rhythm disturbances Aortic Valve ... Transposition of the Great Arteries Coarctation of the Aorta Truncus Arteriosus Single Ventricle Defects Patent Ductus Arteriosus ...

  8. Facts about Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome

    MedlinePlus

    ... Septal Defect Atrioventricular Septal Defect Coarctation of the Aorta D-Transposition of the Great Arteries Hypoplastic Left ... is very small. The ascending portion of the aorta is underdeveloped or is too small. Often, babies ...

  9. Genetics Home Reference: Loeys-Dietz syndrome

    MedlinePlus

    ... Dietz syndrome is characterized by enlargement of the aorta , which is the large blood vessel that distributes ... heart to the rest of the body. The aorta can weaken and stretch, causing a bulge in ...

  10. Genetics Home Reference: critical congenital heart disease

    MedlinePlus

    ... into and out of the heart (including the aorta and pulmonary artery). Still others involve a combination ... defects classified as CCHD include coarctation of the aorta , double-outlet right ventricle, D-transposition of the ...

  11. Heart and Blood Vessels in Marfan Syndrome

    MedlinePlus

    ... The most common of these problems affects the aorta, the main blood vessel carrying blood from the ... have problems in blood vessels other than the aorta. Even though heart and blood vessel problems affect ...

  12. Analysis of Dynamic Geometric Configuration of the Aortic Channel from the Perspective of Tornado-Like Flow Organization of Blood Flow.

    PubMed

    Zhorzholiani, Sh T; Mironov, A A; Talygin, E A; Tsyganokov, Yu M; Agafonov, A M; Kiknadze, G I; Gorodkov, A Yu; Bokeriya, L A

    2018-03-01

    Analysis of the data of morphometry of aortic casts, aortography at different pressures, and multispiral computer tomography of the aorta with contrast and normal pulse pressure showed that geometric configuration of the flow channel of the aorta during the whole cardiac cycle corresponded to the conditions of self-organization of tornado-like quasipotential flow described by exact solutions of the Navier-Stokes equation and continuity of viscous fluid typical for this type of fluid flows. Increasing pressure in the aorta leads to a decrease in the degree of approximation of the channel geometry to the ratio of exact solution and increases the risk of distortions in the structure of the flow. A mechanism of evolution of tornado-like flow in the aorta was proposed.

  13. Geodesic Distance Algorithm for Extracting the Ascending Aorta from 3D CT Images

    PubMed Central

    Jang, Yeonggul; Jung, Ho Yub; Hong, Youngtaek; Cho, Iksung; Shim, Hackjoon; Chang, Hyuk-Jae

    2016-01-01

    This paper presents a method for the automatic 3D segmentation of the ascending aorta from coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). The segmentation is performed in three steps. First, the initial seed points are selected by minimizing a newly proposed energy function across the Hough circles. Second, the ascending aorta is segmented by geodesic distance transformation. Third, the seed points are effectively transferred through the next axial slice by a novel transfer function. Experiments are performed using a database composed of 10 patients' CCTA images. For the experiment, the ground truths are annotated manually on the axial image slices by a medical expert. A comparative evaluation with state-of-the-art commercial aorta segmentation algorithms shows that our approach is computationally more efficient and accurate under the DSC (Dice Similarity Coefficient) measurements. PMID:26904151

  14. Arteriosclerosis in the ventral aorta and epicarditis in the bulbus arteriosus of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L).

    PubMed

    Dalum, A S; Kristthorsdottir, K H; Griffiths, D J; Bjørklund, K; Poppe, T T

    2017-06-01

    Spontaneous mortality of seemingly healthy, farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L) is an increasing problem in Norwegian aquaculture. In this study, we present a morphological study of the previously undescribed syndrome of arteriosclerosis of the ventral aorta and epicarditis of the adjacent bulbus arteriosus found in farmed Atlantic salmon, with wild-captured fish as a control group. Both the ventral aorta and epicardium are vital for correct arterial compliance and vascular resistance in the respiratory capillaries of the gills. We discuss the possible implications of ventral aorta arteriosclerosis and epicarditis for blood vascular health and in particular for the increasing frequency of spontaneous gill bleeding in farmed salmon. As both these conditions primarily occur in farmed salmon, we suggest that they should be considered pathological. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  15. Ross procedure for ascending aortic replacement.

    PubMed

    Elkins, R C; Lane, M M; McCue, C

    1999-06-01

    Patients with aortic valve disease and aneurysm or dilatation of the ascending aorta require both aortic valve replacement and treatment of their ascending aortic disease. In children and young adults, the Ross operation is preferred when the aortic valve requires replacement, but the efficacy of extending this operation to include replacement of the ascending aorta or reduction of the dilated aorta has not been tested. We reviewed the medical records of 18 (5.9%) patients with aortic valve disease and an ascending aortic aneurysm and 26 (8.5%) patients with dilation of the ascending aorta, subgroups of 307 patients who had a Ross operation between August 1986 and February 1998. We examined operative and midterm results, including recent echocardiographic assessment of autograft valve function and ability of the autograft root and ascending aortic repair or replacement to maintain normal structural integrity. There was one operative death (2%) related to a perioperative stroke. Forty-two of 43 survivors have normal autograft valve function, with trace to mild autograft valve insufficiency, and one patient has moderate insufficiency at the most recent echocardiographic evaluation. None of the patients has dilatation of the autograft root or of the replaced or reduced ascending aorta. Early results with extension of the Ross operation to include replacement of an ascending aortic aneurysm or vertical aortoplasty for reduction of a dilated ascending aorta are excellent, with autograft valve function equal to that seen in similar patients without ascending aortic disease.

  16. Fructose-rich diet induces gender-specific changes in expression of the renin-angiotensin system in rat heart and upregulates the ACE/AT1R axis in the male rat aorta.

    PubMed

    Bundalo, Maja M; Zivkovic, Maja D; Romic, Snjezana Dj; Tepavcevic, Snezana N; Koricanac, Goran B; Djuric, Tamara M; Stankovic, Aleksandra D

    2016-01-01

    The cardiovascular renin-angiotensin system (RAS) could be affected by gender and dietary regime. We hypothesized that male rats will be more susceptible to activation of RAS in the heart and aorta, as a response to a fructose-rich diet (FRD). Both male and female Wistar rats were given a 10% (w/v) fructose solution for 9 weeks. We measured the biochemical parameters, blood pressure (BP) and heart rate. We used Western blot and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to quantify protein and gene expression. In the male rats, the FRD elevated BP and expression of cardiac angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), while the expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and angiotensin II Type 2 receptor (AT2R) were significantly decreased. In female rats, there were no changes in cardiac RAS expression due to FRD. Furthermore, the ACE/AT1R axis was overexpressed in the FRD male rats' aortae, while only AT1R was upregulated in the FRD female rats' aortae. ACE2 expression remained unchanged in the aortae of both genders receiving the FRD. The FRD induced gender-specific changes in the expression of the RAS in the heart and aortae of male rats. Further investigations are required in order to get a comprehensive understanding of the underlying mechanisms of gender-specific fructose-induced cardiovascular pathologies. © The Author(s) 2016.

  17. Fructose-rich diet induces gender-specific changes in expression of the renin–angiotensin system in rat heart and upregulates the ACE/AT1R axis in the male rat aorta

    PubMed Central

    Bundalo, Maja M; Zivkovic, Maja D; Romic, Snjezana Dj; Tepavcevic, Snezana N; Koricanac, Goran B; Djuric, Tamara M; Stankovic, Aleksandra D

    2016-01-01

    Introduction: The cardiovascular renin–angiotensin system (RAS) could be affected by gender and dietary regime. We hypothesized that male rats will be more susceptible to activation of RAS in the heart and aorta, as a response to a fructose-rich diet (FRD). Materials and methods: Both male and female Wistar rats were given a 10% (w/v) fructose solution for 9 weeks. We measured the biochemical parameters, blood pressure (BP) and heart rate. We used Western blot and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to quantify protein and gene expression. Results: In the male rats, the FRD elevated BP and expression of cardiac angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), while the expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and angiotensin II Type 2 receptor (AT2R) were significantly decreased. In female rats, there were no changes in cardiac RAS expression due to FRD. Furthermore, the ACE/AT1R axis was overexpressed in the FRD male rats’ aortae, while only AT1R was upregulated in the FRD female rats’ aortae. ACE2 expression remained unchanged in the aortae of both genders receiving the FRD. Conclusions: The FRD induced gender-specific changes in the expression of the RAS in the heart and aortae of male rats. Further investigations are required in order to get a comprehensive understanding of the underlying mechanisms of gender-specific fructose-induced cardiovascular pathologies. PMID:27121972

  18. Microsurgical Bypass Training Rat Model, Part 1: Technical Nuances of Exposure of the Aorta and Iliac Arteries.

    PubMed

    Tayebi Meybodi, Ali; Lawton, Michael T; Mokhtari, Pooneh; Yousef, Sonia; Gandhi, Sirin; Benet, Arnau

    2017-11-01

    Animal models using rodents are frequently used for practicing microvascular anastomosis-an essential technique in cerebrovascular surgery. However, safely and efficiently exposing rat's target vessels is technically difficult. Such difficulty may lead to excessive hemorrhage and shorten animal survival. This limits the ability to perform multiple anastomoses on a single animal and may increase the overall training time and costs. We report our model for microsurgical bypass training in rodents in 2 consecutive articles. In part 1, we describe the technical nuances for a safe and efficient exposure of the rat abdominal aorta and common iliac arteries (CIAs) for bypass. Over a 2-year period, 50 Sprague-Dawley rats underwent inhalant anesthesia for practicing microvascular anastomosis on the abdominal aorta and CIAs. Lessons learned regarding the technical nuances of vessel exposure were recorded. Several technical nuances were important for avoiding intraoperative bleeding and preventing animal demise while preparing an adequate length of vessels for bypass. The most relevant technical nuances include (1) generous subcutaneous dissection; (2) use of cotton swabs for the blunt dissection of the retroperitoneal fat; (3) combination of sharp and blunt dissection to isolate the aorta and iliac arteries from the accompanying veins; (4) proper control of the posterior branches of the aorta; and (5) efficient division and mobilization of the left renal pedicle. Applying the aforementioned technical nuances enables safe and efficient preparation of the rat abdominal aorta and CIAs for microvascular anastomosis. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Quantification of Regional Aortic Stiffness Using MR Elastography: A Phantom and Ex-vivo Porcine Aorta Study

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Nan; Chen, Jun; Yin, Meng; Glaser, Kevin J.; Xu, Lei; Ehman, Richard L.

    2015-01-01

    MR Elastography (MRE) is a noninvasive technique for measuring tissue stiffness that has been used to assess the average stiffness of the abdominal aorta. The utility of aortic MRE would be improved if it could provide information about local variations in aortic stiffness. We hypothesize that regional variations in aortic stiffness can also be measured with MRE and the purpose of this work was to demonstrate that MRE can measure regional stiffness variations in a vascular phantom and in ex vivo porcine aortas. A vascular phantom was fabricated, containing two silicone tubes embedded in gel. A segment of one of the tubes was modified to increase its stiffness. MRE was performed on the phantom with a continuous flow of water through the tubes. The stiffness distribution along the modified tube was measured and compared to the reference tube. MRE was also performed in porcine aortas embedded in gel with segments treated with saline or formalin for 4 days. The stiffness difference between saline- and formalin-treated aortic segments was measured by MRE and mechanical tests. A positive correlation was found between the regional stiffnesses measured by MRE and mechanical tests. The results indicate that MRE can be used to evaluate the local stiffness distribution in silicone tubes and ex vivo porcine aortas. It may therefore be possible to apply MRE to measure regional stiffness variations of the aorta in vivo. PMID:26597836

  20. Hypercholesterolemia Up-Regulates the Expression of Intermedin and Its Receptor Components in the Aorta of Rats via Inducing the Oxidative Stress.

    PubMed

    Meng, Qingtao; Shi, Di; Feng, Jiayue; Su, Yanling; Long, Yang; He, Sen; Wang, Si; Wang, Yong; Zhang, Xiangxun; Chen, Xiaoping

    2016-01-01

    Hypercholesterolemia can cause damage to the artery. Intermedin (IMD) is a novel member of the calcitonin gene-related peptide family. This study aims to investigate the aortic expression of IMD and its receptors in hypercholesterolemia without atherosclerosis. Male Wistar rats were fed with high cholesterol diet, with or without simvastatin and vitamin C. Both the malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in plasma and aorta were determined as the oxidative stress biomarkers. The plasma IMD was assessed by radioimmunoassay. Within the aorta, the mRNA expression of IMD along with its receptor components was determined, and the corresponding protein level of the CRLR/RAMPs was also assessed. The hypercholesterolemia rats without atherosclerotic lesion manifested a higher level of MDA and SOD and the plasma IMD elevated. Increased expression of IMD and all its receptor components (CRLR, RAMP1, RAMP2, and RAMP3) were displayed within the aorta. The simvastatin indirectly attenuated oxidative stress by improving lipid profiles, while the vitamin C directly reduced oxidative stress without interfering with the serum lipids. Both simvastatin and vitamin C ameliorated the aortic injury, decreased the plasma IMD level, and recovered the expression of IMD and its receptors within the aorta. The up-regulated expression of IMD is observed within the aorta of the hypercholesterolemia rats. In addition, the oxidative stress participates in the up-regulation. © 2016 by the Association of Clinical Scientists, Inc.

  1. Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonism protects the aorta from vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and collagen deposition in a rat model of adrenal aldosterone-producing adenoma.

    PubMed

    Yan, Yongji; Wang, Chao; Lu, Yiqin; Gong, Huijie; Wu, Zhun; Ma, Xin; Li, Hongzhao; Wang, Baojun; Zhang, Xu

    2018-02-01

    The number of patients with adrenal aldosterone-producing adenomas (APAs) has gradually increased. However, even after adenoma resection, some patients still suffer from high systolic blood pressure (SBP), which is possibly due to great arterial remodeling. Moreover, mineralocorticoid receptors (MRs) were found to be expressed in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). This study aims to determine whether MR antagonism protects the aorta from aldosterone-induced aortic remolding. Male rats were subcutaneously implanted with an osmotic minipumps and randomly divided into four groups: control; aldosterone (1 μg/h); aldosterone plus a specific MR antagonist, eplerenone (100 mg/kg/day); and aldosterone plus a vasodilator, hydralazine (25 mg/kg/day). After 8 weeks of infusion, aortic smooth muscle cell proliferation and collagen deposition, as well as the MDM2 and TGF-β1 expression levels in the aorta, were examined. Model rats with APAs were successfully constructed. Compared with the control rats, the model rats exhibited (1) marked SBP elevation, (2) no significant alteration in aortic morphology, (3) increased VSMC proliferation and MDM2 expression in the aorta, and (4) enhanced total collagen and collagen III depositions in the aorta, accompanied with up-regulated expression of TGF-β1. These effects were significantly inhibited by co-administration with eplerenone but not with hydralazine. These findings suggested that specific MR antagonism protects the aorta from aldosterone-induced VSMC proliferation and collagen deposition.

  2. Customized CT angiogram planning for intraoperative transesophageal echography-guided endovascular exclusion of thoracic aorta penetrating ulcer.

    PubMed

    Piazza, Michele; Lupia, Mario; Grego, Franco; Antonello, Michele

    2015-04-01

    The technique is demonstrated in a 78-year-old man; the preoperative CT angiogram showed a descending thoracic aorta ulcer of 5.9 cm in maximum diameter and 3.8 cm longitudinal extension. A ZTEG-2P-36-127-PF (Cook Medical) single tubular endograft was planned to be deployed. From the preoperative CT angiogram we planned to land 4.7 cm above the midline of the descending thoracic aorta ulcer and 8.0 cm below. In the operating room, under radioscopic vision the centre of the transesophageal echography probe was used as marker to identify the correspondent midline of the descending thoracic aorta ulcer and a centimeter-sized pigtail catheter in the aorta was used to calculate the desired length above and below the ulcer midline. The endograft was introduced and placed in the desired position compared to the transesophageal echography probe and the catheter; under transesophageal echography vision the graft was finally deployed. The CT angiogram at 1 month showed the correct endograft position, descending thoracic aorta ulcer exclusion with no signs of endoleak. In selected cases, this method allows planning in advance safe stent graft positioning and deployment totally assisted by transesophageal echography, with no risk of periprocedural contrast-related renal failure and reduced radiation exposure for the patient and operators. © The Author(s) 2014 Reprints and permissions: sagepub.co.uk/journalsPermissions.nav.

  3. Extracellular Matrix Disarray as A Mechanism for Greater Abdominal vs. Thoracic Aortic Stiffness with Aging in Primates

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Jie; Zhao, Xin; Vatner, Dorothy E; McNulty, Tara; Bishop, Sanford; Sun, Zhe; Shen, You-Tang; Chen, Li; Meininger, Gerald A; Vatner, Stephen F

    2016-01-01

    Objective Increased vascular stiffness is central to the pathophysiology of aging, hypertension, diabetes and atherosclerosis. However, relatively few studies have examined vascular stiffness in both the thoracic and abdominal aorta with aging, despite major differences in anatomy, embryological origin and relation to aortic aneurysm. Approach and Results The two other unique features of this study were 1) to study young (9±1 years) and old (26±1 years) male monkeys, and 2) to study direct and continuous measurements of aortic pressure and thoracic and abdominal aortic diameters in conscious monkeys. As expected, aortic stiffness, β, was increased p<0.05, 2–3 fold, in old vs. young thoracic aorta, and augmented further with superimposition of acute hypertension with phenylephrine. Surprisingly, stiffness was not greater in old thoracic aorta than young abdominal aorta. These results can be explained in part by the collagen/elastin ratio, but more importantly, by disarray of collagen and elastin, which correlated best with vascular stiffness. However, vascular smooth muscle cell stiffness, was not different in thoracic vs. abdominal aorta in either young or old monkeys. Conclusions Thus, aortic stiffness increases with aging as expected, but the most severe increases in aortic stiffness observed in the abdominal aorta is novel, where values in young monkeys equaled, or even exceeded, values of thoracic aortic stiffness in old monkeys. These results can be explained by alterations in collagen/elastin ratio, but even more importantly by collagen and elastin disarray. PMID:26891739

  4. Automated aortic calcification detection in low-dose chest CT images

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xie, Yiting; Htwe, Yu Maw; Padgett, Jennifer; Henschke, Claudia; Yankelevitz, David; Reeves, Anthony P.

    2014-03-01

    The extent of aortic calcification has been shown to be a risk indicator for vascular events including cardiac events. We have developed a fully automated computer algorithm to segment and measure aortic calcification in low-dose noncontrast, non-ECG gated, chest CT scans. The algorithm first segments the aorta using a pre-computed Anatomy Label Map (ALM). Then based on the segmented aorta, aortic calcification is detected and measured in terms of the Agatston score, mass score, and volume score. The automated scores are compared with reference scores obtained from manual markings. For aorta segmentation, the aorta is modeled as a series of discrete overlapping cylinders and the aortic centerline is determined using a cylinder-tracking algorithm. Then the aortic surface location is detected using the centerline and a triangular mesh model. The segmented aorta is used as a mask for the detection of aortic calcification. For calcification detection, the image is first filtered, then an elevated threshold of 160 Hounsfield units (HU) is used within the aorta mask region to reduce the effect of noise in low-dose scans, and finally non-aortic calcification voxels (bony structures, calcification in other organs) are eliminated. The remaining candidates are considered as true aortic calcification. The computer algorithm was evaluated on 45 low-dose non-contrast CT scans. Using linear regression, the automated Agatston score is 98.42% correlated with the reference Agatston score. The automated mass and volume score is respectively 98.46% and 98.28% correlated with the reference mass and volume score.

  5. Neoplastic stomach lesions and their mimickers: spectrum of imaging manifestations

    PubMed Central

    Virmani, Vivek; Sethi, Vineeta; Fraser-Hill, Margret; Fasih, Najla; Kielar, Ania

    2012-01-01

    Abstract This review illustrates a wide spectrum of gastric neoplasms with emphasis on imaging findings helpful in characterizing various gastric neoplasms. Both the malignant and benign neoplasms along with focal gastric masses mimicking tumour are illustrated. Moreover, imaging clues to reach an accurate diagnosis are emphasized. PMID:22935192

  6. Molecular Diagnostics in the Neoplasms of Small Intestine and Appendix: 2018 Update.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Yingtao; Zulfiqar, Muhammad; Bluth, Martin H; Bhalla, Amarpreet; Beydoun, Rafic

    2018-06-01

    Neoplasms of the small intestine are rare in comparison with colorectal tumors. The most common tumor types arising in the small intestine are adenocarcinomas, well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors, gastrointestinal stromal tumors, and lymphoma. Primary appendiceal neoplasms are rare and found in less than 2% of appendectomy specimens with an incidence of approximately 1.2 cases per 100,000 people per year in the United States. This article explores molecular diagnostics in the neoplasms of small intestine and appendix. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  7. College athletics, body size, and cancer mortality

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Polednak, A.P.

    Data are presented on mortality from neoplasms as determined from death certificates in a cohort of 8393 college men, according to athletic status in college. Major athletes (lettermen) died significantly more often from neoplasms than nonathletes. Mean age at death from neoplasms (underlying cause) was significantly lower in major athletes than in both minor athletes and nonathletes. After matching major athletes with nonathletes of comparable body size (height and weight), differences in proportional mortality and mean age at death from neoplasms persisted, although not statistically significant for the smaller samples. Correlation coefficients (Pearson r) and partial r's between weight inmore » college and age at death from neoplasms were negative but of low magnitude. Some possible explanations for the differences between major athletes and nonathletes are discussed.« less

  8. Malignant nerve-sheath neoplasms in neurofibromatosis: distinction from benign tumors by using imaging techniques

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Levine, E.; Huntrakoon, M.; Wetzel, L.H.

    Malignant peripheral nerve-sheath neoplasms frequently complicate neurofibromatosis causing pain, enlarging masses, or neurologic deficits. However, similar findings sometimes also occur with benign nerve neoplasms. Our study was done retrospectively to determine if imaging techniques can differentiate malignant from benign nerve tumors in neurofibromatosis. Eight patients with symptomatic neoplasms (three benign, five malignant) were studied by CT in eight, MR in six, and /sup 67/Ga-citrate scintigraphy in seven. Uptake of /sup 67/Ga occurred in all five malignant lesions but not in two benign neoplasms studied. On CT or MR, all eight lesions, including three benign neoplasms, showed inhomogeneities. Of five lesionsmore » with irregular, infiltrative margins on CT or MR, four were malignant and one was benign. Of three lesions with smooth margins, one was malignant and two were benign. One malignant neoplasm caused irregular bone destruction. Accordingly, CT and MR could not generally distinguish malignant from benign lesions with certainty. However, both CT and MR provided structural delineation to help surgical planning for both types of lesion. /sup 67/Ga scintigraphy appears promising as a screening technique to identify lesions with malignant degeneration in patients with neurofibromatosis. Any area of abnormal radiogallium uptake suggests malignancy warranting further evaluation by CT or MR. Biopsy of any questionable lesion is essential.« less

  9. Mature B-cell neoplasms in Chernobyl clean-up workers of 1986-1987: summary of cytomorphological and immunocytochemical study in 25 years after Chernobyl accident.

    PubMed

    Gluzman, D F; Sklyarenko, L M; Nadgornaya, V A; Zavelevich, M P

    2011-03-01

    The data on the verified cases of mature B-cell neoplasms (chronic lymphocytic leukemia - CLL, B-prolymphocytic leukemia, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in leukemization phase and multiple myeloma - MM; 146 cases in total) in the consecutive group of Ukrainian clean-up workers within 10-25 years after Chernobyl accident are summarized. B-cell neoplasms represent the most prevalent group among all diagnosed neoplasms of hematopoietic and lymphoid tissues in clean-up worker patients under study (49.4%). MM percentage in the patients of Chernobyl clean-up worker group turned out to be significantly higher than in the patients of the general populations studied at the same period. While the percentage of B-CLL is similar in clean-up worker patients and patients of general population, the trend towards younger age of patients with mature B-cell neoplasms in clean-up worker group is evident. The current concepts on the possible association between mature B-cell neoplasms (mainly B-CLL) and radiation exposure are briefly outlined. Only the precise diagnosis of hematopoietic malignancies combining with large-scale analytical epidemiological studies with careful dose assessment and long-term follow-up may represent the basis for resolving the question whether mature B-cell neoplasms may be radiogenic.

  10. Use of CBL exon 8 and 9 mutations in diagnosis of myeloproliferative neoplasms and myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative disorders: an analysis of 636 cases

    PubMed Central

    Schnittger, Susanne; Bacher, Ulrike; Alpermann, Tamara; Reiter, Andreas; Ulke, Madlen; Dicker, Frank; Eder, Christiane; Kohlmann, Alexander; Grossmann, Vera; Kowarsch, Andreas; Kern, Wolfgang; Haferlach, Claudia; Haferlach, Torsten

    2012-01-01

    We analyzed 636 patients with diverse myeloproliferative neoplasms or myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasms for mutations of the Casitas B-cell lymphoma gene (CBLmut) in exons 8 and 9 and performed correlations to other genetic alterations. CBLmut were detected in 63 of 636 (9.9%) of these selected patients. CBLmut were more frequent in myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasms than myeloproliferative neoplasms (51 of 328, 15.5% vs. 12 of 291, 4.1%; P<0.001). Frequency was 48 of 278 (17.3%) in chronic myelomonocytic leukemia and 3 of 33 (9.1%) in unclassifiable myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasms. CBLmut was not detected in polycythemia vera, primary myelofibrosis, essential thrombocythemia, or refractory anemia with ring sideroblasts and marked thrombocytosis. CBLmut were underrepresented in JAK2V617F mutated as compared to JAK2V617wt cases (P<0.001), and mutually exclusive of JAK2exon12mut and MPLW515mut. CBLmut were associated with monosomy 7 (P=0.008) and TET2mut (P=0.003). In chronic myelomonocytic leukemia, CBLmut had no significant impact on survival outcomes. Therefore, CBLmut are frequent in chronic myelomonocytic leukemia, absent in classical myeloproliferative neoplasms, and are only exceptionally found in coincidence with JAK-STAT pathway activating mutations. PMID:22733026

  11. Evaluation of TGF beta1 expression and comparison the thickness of different aorta layers in experimental diabetes.

    PubMed

    Cuce, G; Kalkan, S S; Esen, H H

    2011-01-01

    It was aimed to investigate the effects of experimental diabetes on TGF beta1 expression and tunica intima and media thickness in abdominal and thoracic aorta. Fourteen three months old female rats were divided into two groups, non-diabetic and streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetic group. Hematoxylin-Eosin and Verhoeff's Van Gieson elastic staining and TGF beta1 immunohistochemistry staining were performed. Abdominal and thoracic intima and media thickness of aortas were measured with the oculometer. Evaluation of intima and media thickness measurements showed no significant statistical differences between non-diabetic and diabetic groups. TGF beta1 expression increased significantly in thoracic diabetic (TD) group. The 60 day duration of diabetes is not sufficiently enough time for the development of pathological changes that could lead to thickening in aortic intima-media layers. TGF beta1 expression was negative in the abdominal aorta that can predispose to the development of atherosclerosis, which could develop overtime. This finding may be interpreted as an appropriate basis for the development of atherosclerosis. In the thoracic aorta TGF beta1 may coordinate cellular events such as tissue repair (Fig. 5, Ref. 23).

  12. Vocal cord paralysis after surgery to the descending thoracic aorta via left posterolateral thoracotomy.

    PubMed

    Ohta, Noriyuki; Mori, Takahiko

    2007-11-01

    Vocal cord paralysis is one of the frequently encountered complications after aortic surgery. However, reports of vocal cord paralysis after aortic surgery have been limited. In a retrospective cohort study of vocal cord paralysis after aortic surgery at a general hospital, we sought factors related to its development after aortic surgery to the descending thoracic aorta via left posterolateral thoracotomy. We reviewed data for a total of 69 patients who, between 1989 and 1995, underwent aortic surgery to the descending thoracic aorta. We assessed factors associated with the development of vocal cord paralysis and postoperative complications. Postoperative vocal cord paralysis appeared in 19 patients. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed two risk factors for vocal cord paralysis: chronic dilatation of the aorta at the left subclavian artery (odds ratio = 8.67) and anastomosis proximal to the left subclavian artery (odds ratio = 17.7). The duration of mechanical ventilation was significantly prolonged for patients with vocal cord paralysis. Certain surgical factors associated with left subclavian artery increase the risk of vocal cord paralysis after surgery on the descending thoracic aorta. Vocal cord paralysis after aortic surgery did not increase aspiration pneumonia but was associated with pulmonary complications.

  13. The influence of the aortic valve angle on the hemodynamic features of the thoracic aorta

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ha, Hojin; Kim, Guk Bae; Kweon, Jihoon; Lee, Sang Joon; Kim, Young-Hak; Kim, Namkug; Yang, Dong Hyun

    2016-08-01

    Since the first observation of a helical flow pattern in aortic blood flow, the existence of helical blood flow has been found to be associated with various pathological conditions such as bicuspid aortic valve, aortic stenosis, and aortic dilatation. However, an understanding of the development of helical blood flow and its clinical implications are still lacking. In our present study, we hypothesized that the direction and angle of aortic inflow can influence helical flow patterns and related hemodynamic features in the thoracic aorta. Therefore, we investigated the hemodynamic features in the thoracic aorta and various aortic inflow angles using patient-specific vascular phantoms that were generated using a 3D printer and time-resolved, 3D, phase-contrast magnetic resonance imaging (PC-MRI). The results show that the rotational direction and strength of helical blood flow in the thoracic aorta largely vary according to the inflow direction of the aorta, and a higher helical velocity results in higher wall shear stress distributions. In addition, right-handed rotational flow conditions with higher rotational velocities imply a larger total kinetic energy than left-handed rotational flow conditions with lower rotational velocities.

  14. The influence of the aortic valve angle on the hemodynamic features of the thoracic aorta.

    PubMed

    Ha, Hojin; Kim, Guk Bae; Kweon, Jihoon; Lee, Sang Joon; Kim, Young-Hak; Kim, Namkug; Yang, Dong Hyun

    2016-08-26

    Since the first observation of a helical flow pattern in aortic blood flow, the existence of helical blood flow has been found to be associated with various pathological conditions such as bicuspid aortic valve, aortic stenosis, and aortic dilatation. However, an understanding of the development of helical blood flow and its clinical implications are still lacking. In our present study, we hypothesized that the direction and angle of aortic inflow can influence helical flow patterns and related hemodynamic features in the thoracic aorta. Therefore, we investigated the hemodynamic features in the thoracic aorta and various aortic inflow angles using patient-specific vascular phantoms that were generated using a 3D printer and time-resolved, 3D, phase-contrast magnetic resonance imaging (PC-MRI). The results show that the rotational direction and strength of helical blood flow in the thoracic aorta largely vary according to the inflow direction of the aorta, and a higher helical velocity results in higher wall shear stress distributions. In addition, right-handed rotational flow conditions with higher rotational velocities imply a larger total kinetic energy than left-handed rotational flow conditions with lower rotational velocities.

  15. The influence of the aortic valve angle on the hemodynamic features of the thoracic aorta

    PubMed Central

    Ha, Hojin; Kim, Guk Bae; Kweon, Jihoon; Lee, Sang Joon; Kim, Young-Hak; Kim, Namkug; Yang, Dong Hyun

    2016-01-01

    Since the first observation of a helical flow pattern in aortic blood flow, the existence of helical blood flow has been found to be associated with various pathological conditions such as bicuspid aortic valve, aortic stenosis, and aortic dilatation. However, an understanding of the development of helical blood flow and its clinical implications are still lacking. In our present study, we hypothesized that the direction and angle of aortic inflow can influence helical flow patterns and related hemodynamic features in the thoracic aorta. Therefore, we investigated the hemodynamic features in the thoracic aorta and various aortic inflow angles using patient-specific vascular phantoms that were generated using a 3D printer and time-resolved, 3D, phase-contrast magnetic resonance imaging (PC-MRI). The results show that the rotational direction and strength of helical blood flow in the thoracic aorta largely vary according to the inflow direction of the aorta, and a higher helical velocity results in higher wall shear stress distributions. In addition, right-handed rotational flow conditions with higher rotational velocities imply a larger total kinetic energy than left-handed rotational flow conditions with lower rotational velocities. PMID:27561388

  16. Double-arterial cannulation for aortic valve replacement with porcelain aorta.

    PubMed

    De Paulis, Ruggero; Maselli, Daniele; Scaffa, Raffaele; Nardella, Saverio

    2009-10-01

    We describe a new technique of aortic valve replacement (AVR) in patients with porcelain aorta. Three patients (mean age 75 years) were treated. The cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) was established after side-graft right axillary artery and direct femoral artery cannulation. Venous drainage was obtained by atrio-caval cannulation. The procedures were performed in mild hypothermia (30 degrees C). Cerebral perfusion was carried out by clamping the innominate artery and all epiaortic vessels. The aorta was endoclamped by a Foley balloon inserted into the isthmus. The aorta was then opened longitudinally for 10 cm to expose and replace the aortic valve. Near-infra-red spectroscopy (NIRS) and bilateral radial artery pressure were used to monitor effective cerebral perfusion. Operative mortality was absent. The mean time of CPB was 73 min. NIRS-derived tissue oxygenation was maintained above 55%. Postoperative course was uneventful. This technique has several advantages: first, the cannulation of right axillary and the common femoral artery allows simultaneous cerebral and systemic perfusion. Second, any form of cross-clamp is avoided and the aorta is occluded away from the epiaortic vessels. Third, there is an increased freedom to choose the best place for aortotomy.

  17. High level cross of the esophagus with the descending aorta in scoliosis: CT study

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Takahashi, Koji; Kikuno, Motoyuki; Hyodoh, Hideki

    1996-05-01

    The esophagus occasionally crosses the descending aorta at an unusually high level (3-5 cm inferior to the carina) in right-sided scoliosis. The purpose of this study was to analyze the mechanism of this finding. We prospectively evaluated thoracic CT scans in 30 patients with right-sided scoliosis. We assessed the alterations in the positions of the esophagus and the descending aorta by the thoracic deformity. The descending aorta followed the scoliotic curve of the spine in 26 (87%) patients. The esophagus followed the scoliotic curve of the spine in 14 (47%) patients and did not in 16 (53%). The anteroposterior diametermore » of the thorax in the former group was significantly smaller than that in the latter (p < 0.01). High level cross of both structures was identified in 14 (47%) patients, and all of them belonged to the group in which the esophagus did not follow the scoliotic curve of the spine. The unusual high level cross of the esophagus with the descending aorta occasionally seen in scoliosis is due to a difference in the positional alterations of the two structures resulting from the scoliosis. 6 refs., 3 figs.« less

  18. Anomalous left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery

    MedlinePlus

    ... begins from the pulmonary artery instead of the aorta. ALCAPA is present at birth (congenital) . Causes ALCAPA ... the normal heart, the LCA originates from the aorta. It supplies oxygen-rich blood to the heart ...

  19. Aortic arch syndrome

    MedlinePlus

    ... including: Congenital absence of a branch of the aorta Isolation of the subclavian arteries Vascular rings An ... Braverman AC. Diseases of the aorta. In: Bonow RO, Mann DL, Zipes DP, ... Heart Disease: A Textbook of Cardiovascular Medicine . 10th ...

  20. Bortezomib as a new therapeutic approach for blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm

    PubMed Central

    Philippe, Laure; Ceroi, Adam; Bôle-Richard, Elodie; Jenvrin, Alizée; Biichle, Sabeha; Perrin, Sophie; Limat, Samuel; Bonnefoy, Francis; Deconinck, Eric; Saas, Philippe; Garnache-Ottou, Francine; Angelot-Delettre, Fanny

    2017-01-01

    Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm is an aggressive hematologic malignancy with a poor prognosis. No consensus regarding optimal treatment modalities is currently available. Targeting the nuclear factor-kappa B pathway is considered a promising approach since blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm has been reported to exhibit constitutive activation of this pathway. Moreover, nuclear factor-kappa B inhibition in blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm cell lines, achieved using either an experimental specific inhibitor JSH23 or the clinical drug bortezomib, interferes in vitro with leukemic cell proliferation and survival. Here we extended these data by showing that primary blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm cells from seven patients were sensitive to bortezomib-induced cell death. We confirmed that bortezomib efficiently inhibits the phosphorylation of the RelA nuclear factor-kappa B subunit in blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm cell lines and primary cells from patients in vitro and in vivo in a mouse model. We then demonstrated that bortezomib can be associated with other drugs used in different chemotherapy regimens to improve its impact on leukemic cell death. Indeed, when primary blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm cells from a patient were grafted into mice, bortezomib treatment significantly increased the animals’ survival, and was associated with a significant decrease of circulating leukemic cells and RelA nuclear factor-kappa B subunit expression. Overall, our results provide a rationale for the use of bortezomib in combination with other chemotherapy for the treatment of patients with blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm. Based on our data, a prospective clinical trial combining proteasome inhibitor with classical drugs could be envisaged. PMID:28798071

  1. PIK3CA Mutations in Mucinous Cystic Neoplasms of the Pancreas

    PubMed Central

    Garcia-Carracedo, Dario; Chen, Zong-Ming; Qiu, Wanglong; Huang, Alicia S.; Tang, Sophia M.; Hruban, Ralph H.; Su, Gloria H.

    2014-01-01

    Objectives Mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCNs) are rare, potentially curable, mucin-producing neoplasms of the pancreas. We have previously reported PIK3CA (phosphoinositide-3-kinase catalytic subunit, p110α) mutations in intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms, another mucin-producing neoplasm of the pancreas. In this study, we analyzed the presence of PIK3CA and AKT1/PKB (V-akt murine thymoma viral oncogene homolog 1) hot-spot mutations in MCN specimens. Methods Using the genomic DNA sequencing of tumor tissues isolated by laser capture microdissection, we evaluated 15 well-characterized MCNs for the E542K, E545K(exon 9), and H1047R (exon 20) hot-spotmutations in the PIK3CA gene and the E17K mutation in the AKT1 gene. Results A hot-spotmutation (E545K) of the PIK3CA gene was detected in 1 of the 15 MCNs and further confirmed by a mutant-enriched method. Interestingly, this mutation was found to be present only in the high-grade but not in low-grade dysplastic epithelium obtained from this neoplasm and coexisted with a KRASG12D mutation. No mutations were identified in the AKT1 gene. Conclusions Our data, when combined with previous reports on intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms, indicate that oncogenic activation of the PI3K pathway involving PIK3CA gene mutations can contribute to the progression of mucin-producing neoplasms but not pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia. PIK3CA status could be useful for understanding their progression to malignancy. PMID:24518503

  2. Single coronary artery with bicuspid aortic valve stenosis and aneurysm of the ascending aorta: report of a case.

    PubMed

    Ishida, Narihiro; Shimabukuro, Katsuya; Matsuno, Yukihiro; Ogura, Hiroki; Takemura, Hirofumi

    2014-03-01

    A 73-year-old man with a severely stenosed bicuspid valve and an aneurysm of the ascending aorta underwent valve and aortic surgery. Preoperative imaging revealed a single coronary artery arising from the right side of the sinus of Valsalva and a branch that perfused into the left side of the heart to pass through the front of the pulmonary artery. We replaced the aortic valve and ascending aorta, painstakingly avoiding damage to the coronary artery and obstruction of the sole coronary ostium.

  3. [Evaluation of the invasion of esophageal cancer to the aorta by cine-MR imaging].

    PubMed

    Kawahara, I; Nishimura, H; Uchida, M; Ueda, H; Fujimoto, K; Meno, S; Hayabuchi, N; Fujita, H

    1993-01-25

    We examined the usefulness of cine-MR imaging for evaluation of the invasion of esophageal cancer to the aorta in 12 cases. We used the technique of field echo pulse sequence. When the low intensity stripe was recognized between the tumor and the wall of aorta, we interpreted it as negative finding of the direct tumor invasion. By using this criteria, 11 of the 12 cases (92%) of the esophageal cancer for aortic wall invasion were correctly diagnosed as compared with 75% correct diagnosis by conventional MR imaging.

  4. Novel Models to Study Effect of High-Altitude Hypoxic Exposure and Placental Insufficency on Fetal Oxygen Metabolism and Congenital Heart Defects

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2016-10-01

    normally present, such as the 4-chambered heart, the great vessels ( aorta , pulmonary arteries) and their anatomic relationships. A notable abnormality in...connections with the ventricles ( aorta to the left ventricle and pulmonary artery to the right ventricle). These are the most common sites of human...the septum. AO, Aorta ; PA, DoD Award # W81XWH-15-1-0238 Annual Report 21 Figure 5. MATcKO Hif-1α causes reduction in uterine Natural

  5. [Urgent laparoscopic adrenalectomy in acute crisis caused by pheochromocytoma].

    PubMed

    Bereczky, Bíborka; Madách, Krisztina; Gál, János; István, Gábor; Sugár, István; Ondrejka, Pál; Vörös, Attila

    2014-06-01

    Authors present the case of a 30-year-old female patient, who was admitted to the ICU because of hypertensive crisis accompanied by chest complains, cardiac decompensation, progrediating short of breath and unconsciousness. Despite the quick examinations and the prompt treatment multi-organ failure developed 3 days after admission. Investigations revealed the underlying cause, which was a left-sided suprarenal neoplasm. Hence, multidisciplinary decision was made to carry out a laparoscopic adrenalectomy urgently. The histology examination of the removed neoplasm was pheochromocytoma. In the postoperative period the condition of the patient gradually improved, her symptoms and complains settled, and finally she was discharged in a healthy condition. The diagnosis of a pheochromocytoma is a difficult task, the symptoms and complains caused by it can simulate many other illnesses. The acute crisis caused by pheochromocytoma usually can be treated conservatively, but in more severe cases with impending multi-organ failure an urgent operative treatment can be unavoidable. Though the operative risk is relatively high, the correct intra- and postoperative treatment with a quick laparoscopic procedure can be effective.

  6. Early Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation in Treating Patients With Relapsed or Refractory High-Grade Myeloid Neoplasms

    ClinicalTrials.gov

    2018-02-06

    Blasts 10 Percent or More of Bone Marrow Nucleated Cells; Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia-2; High Grade Malignant Neoplasm; Myelodysplastic Syndrome; Myelodysplastic Syndrome With Excess Blasts-2; Myeloid Neoplasm; Previously Treated Myelodysplastic Syndrome; Recurrent Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia; Recurrent Childhood Acute Myeloid Leukemia; Refractory Acute Myeloid Leukemia

  7. CT findings associated with blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm: a case report

    PubMed Central

    Choi, Jung W; Jeong, Katherine; Sokol, Lubomir

    2016-01-01

    Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) is a rare hematologic malignancy that is frequently misdiagnosed. We present a case of a 53-year-old man diagnosed with blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm with extensive computed tomography (CT) findings and provide an imaging focused review of this uncommon malignancy. PMID:27504192

  8. [Closed needle-biopsy in the diagnosis of neoplasms].

    PubMed

    Sforza, M; Perelli Ercolini, M; Beani, G

    1979-04-01

    The AA. demonstrate with this communication the validity of the needle biopsie for the diagnosis of neoplasms. They had used it for the breast, thyroid, flg and some other superficial tumefactions. In the mass-screening for the feminine neoplasms the clinical examination and the needle biopsy are very good method for a careful diagnosis.

  9. Three endocrine neoplasms: an unusual combination of pheochromocytoma, pituitary adenoma, and papillary thyroid carcinoma.

    PubMed

    Sisson, James C; Giordano, Thomas J; Avram, Anca M

    2012-04-01

    Three endocrine neoplasms-bilateral pheochromocytomas, somatotrophic pituitary adenoma inducing acromegaly, and papillary carcinoma of the thyroid-occurred concurrently in a patient. A genetic mutation was hypothesized. Possible previously described genetic mutations were explored. Clinical assessments, laboratory data, images of tumors, histopathology, and immunohistochemistry of excised tissues documented the three neoplasms. Clinical assessment of the patient, family history, and a review of the literature sought a familial basis for the disorders. The methods confirmed the presence of three endocrine neoplasms. Each neoplasm was surgically excised and histologically verified. Surgical and (131)I treatments reduced the papillary carcinoma, but eventually this tumor progressed to a lethal degree. History, including that of nine siblings, uncovered no familial neoplasms. No similar case was found in the literature, but possible associations with germline mutations were considered. The concurrent development of pheochromocytomas, pituitary somatotrophic adenoma, and papillary thyroid carcinoma appears to be unique. Nevertheless, such tumors, particularly bilateral pheochromocytomas, strongly suggest a de novo germline mutation in a gene not previously associated with multiple endocrine neoplasia syndromes.

  10. Morphological analysis of the hagfish heart. I. The ventricle, the arterial connection and the ventral aorta.

    PubMed

    Icardo, José M; Colvee, Elvira; Schorno, Sarah; Lauriano, Eugenia R; Fudge, Douglas S; Glover, Chris N; Zaccone, Giacomo

    2016-03-01

    We have studied the heart in three species of hagfish: Myxine glutinosa, Eptatretus stoutii, and Eptatretus cirrhatus and report about the morphology of the ventricle, the arterial connection and the ventral aorta. On the whole, the hagfish heart lacks outflow tract components, the ventricle and atrium adopt a dorso-caudal rather than a ventro-dorsal relationship, and the sinus venosus opens into the left side of the atrium. This may indicate a "defective" cardiac looping during embryogenesis. The ventral aorta is elongated in M. glutinosa and E. stoutii but sac-like in E. cirrhatus. The ventricles are entirely trabeculated. The myocytes show a low myofibrillar content and junctional complexes formed by fascia adherens and desmosomes. Gap junctions could not be demonstrated. Myocardial cells in M. glutinosa contain numerous lipid droplets. These droplets are less numerous in E. stoutii and practically absent in E. cirrhatus, suggesting different metabolic requirements. Other cell types present in the ventricle are chromaffin cells and granular leukocytes that contain rod-shaped granules. The ventricle-aorta connection is guarded by a bicuspid valve with left and right, pocket-like leaflets. The leaflets extend from the cranial end of the ventricle into the aorta but the junction is asymmetrical. This junction contains a ganglion-like structure in E. cirrhatus. The ventral aorta shows endothelial, media, and adventitial layers. The media contains smooth muscle cells surrounded by dense bands formed by tightly-packed extracellular filaments. In addition, a short number of elastic fibers are observed in M. glutinosa and E. stoutii. Cellular and extracellular elements are more loosely organized in the aorta of E. cirrhatus. The collagenous adventitia contains ganglion-like cells in the three species. In the absence of nerves, chromaffin and ganglion-like cells may control the activity of the myocardium and that of the aortic smooth muscle cells, respectively. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  11. Trans-apical aortic valve implantation in patients with severe calcification of the ascending aorta.

    PubMed

    Buz, Semih; Pasic, Miralem; Unbehaun, Axel; Drews, Thorsten; Dreysse, Stephan; Kukucka, Marian; Mladenow, Alexander; Hetzer, Roland

    2011-08-01

    In patients with calcification of the ascending aorta, postoperative stroke and mortality rates remain high after conventional aortic valve replacement, but the results of trans-apical aortic valve implantation in these patients are not known. We evaluate the outcome of trans-apical aortic valve implantation in patients with severely calcified ascending aorta in a single center with expanded procedural experience. Between April 2008 and July 2010, 258 patients underwent trans-apical aortic valve implantation using Edwards Sapien valve. By computed tomography (CT) scan, we identified 46 (18%) patients with severe calcification of the ascending aorta (16 with porcelain aorta and 30 with severe, but not complete, calcification). Of 46 patients (mean age 77 ± 10 years, range 63-90 years; EuroSCORE (European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation) 45 ± 22%; STS (Society of Thoracic Surgeons) score 23 ± 13) with calcified aorta, 15 received 23-mm valves and 31 patients 26-mm valves. Primary valve implantation was successful in 44 patients and a second valve was implanted (valve-in-valve) in two. Six patients underwent concomitant interventions (three elective percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), one off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB), one tricuspid valve reconstruction, and one left-ventricular (LV) aneurysmectomy). The final procedural results showed valve incompetence (trace or grade 1) in 17 (37%) patients and paravalvular leak in 15 (32.6%) (trace in 10 and grade 1 in five). There was no 30-day mortality. Postoperatively, cranial CT showed new cerebral ischemia areas in three patients (6.2%), but only one patient (2.1%) experienced postoperative neurological deficit (temporary aphasia). Survival at 6 and 12 months was 88% and 85.2%, respectively. Trans-apical aortic valve implantation can be performed safely in patients with aortic valve stenosis and severe calcification of the ascending aorta. Copyright © 2010 European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. Talk to Your Doctor about Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

    MedlinePlus

    ... problems with blood vessels) What is AAA? The aorta (“ay-OAR-tah”) is your body’s main artery. ... tube) that carries blood from your heart. The aorta carries blood from your heart to your abdomen, ...

  13. Surgical management of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm with main duct involvement: an international expert survey and case-vignette study.

    PubMed

    Scholten, Lianne; van Huijgevoort, Nadine C M; Bruno, Marco J; Fernandez-Del Castillo, Carlos; Satoi, Sohei; Sauvanet, Alain; Wolfgang, Christopher; Fockens, Paul; Chari, Suresh T; Del Chiaro, Marco; van Hooft, Jeanin E; Besselink, Marc G

    2018-05-16

    The risk of invasive cancer in resected intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm with main pancreatic duct involvement is 33%-60%. Most guidelines, therefore, advise resection of main duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm and mixed type intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm in surgically fit patients, although advice on the surgical strategy (partial or total pancreatectomy) differs. We performed a survey amongst international experts to guide the design of future studies and help to prepare for a single international set of guidelines. An online survey including case vignettes was sent to 221 international experts who had published on main duct/mixed type intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm in the previous decade and to all surgeon and gastroenterologist members of the pancreatic cyst guideline committees of the European Study Group and the International Association of Pancreatology. Overall, 97 experts (67 surgeons, 30 gastroenterologists) from 19 countries replied (44% response rate). Most (93%) worked in an academic hospital, with a median of 15 years' experience with intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm treatment. In main duct/mixed type intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm patients with pancreatic duct dilation (>5 mm) in the entire pancreas, 41% (n = 37) advised nonoperative surveillance every 3-6 months, whereas 59% (n = 54) advised operative intervention. Of those who advised operative intervention, 46% (n = 25) would perform a total pancreatectomy and 31% (n = 17) pancreatoduodenectomy with follow-up. No structural differences in advice were seen between surgeons and gastroenterologists, between continents where the respondents lived, and based on years of experience. This international survey identified a clinically relevant lack of consensus in the treatment strategy in main duct/mixed type intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm among experts. Studies with long-term follow-up including quality of life after partial and total pancreatectomy for main duct/mixed type intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm are required. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  14. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Teng, Cheming; Yu, Sheumeei; Chen, Chienchih

    Magnolol is an antiplatelet agent isolated from Chinese herb Magnolia officinalis. It inhibited norepinephrine-induced phasic and tonic contractions in rat thoracic aorta. At the plateau of the NE-induced tonic contraction, addition of magnolol caused two phases (fast and slow) of relaxation. These two relaxations were concentration-dependent, and were not inhibited by indomethacin. The fast relaxation was completely antagonized by hemoglobin and methylene blue, and disappeared in de-endothelialized aorta while the slow relaxation was not affected by the above treatments. Magnolol also inhibited high potassium-induced, calcium-dependent contraction of rat aorta in a concentration-dependent manner. {sup 45}Ca{sup ++} influx induced by highmore » potassium or NE was markedly inhibited by magnolol. Cyclic GMP, but not PGI{sub 2}, was increased by magnolol in intact, but not in de-endothelialized aorta. It is concluded that magnolol relaxed vascular smooth muscle by releasing endothelium-derived relaxing factor (EDRF) and by inhibiting calcium influx through voltage-gated calcium channels.« less

  15. ELASTIN: DIMINISHED REACTIVITY WITH ALDEHYDE REAGENTS IN COPPER DEFICIENCY AND LATHYRISM

    PubMed Central

    Miller, E. J.; Fullmer, Harold M.

    1966-01-01

    Elastin fibers in the aortas of control, lathyritic, copper-supplemented, and copper-deficient chicks were examined histochemically and chemically for aldehyde content. Diminished staining for aldehydes was obtained in the fibers from the aortas of lathyritic and copper-deficient chicks. Chemical studies of elastin isolated from the aortas of control and lathyritic chicks showed an apparent loss of lysine residues in control elastin to be associated with an increase in aldehyde content providing evidence that lysine is converted to an aldehyde-containing intermediate during biosynthesis of desmosine and isodesmosine. Approximately 6 aldehyde groups were present for every 1000 amino acids in elastin isolated from the aortas of control animals, while the corresponding number in lathyritic elastin was 4. At least two types of aldehydes, saturated and α,β-unsaturated, appear to be associated with elastin, suggesting the presence of more than one intermediate between lysine and the desmosines. PMID:5941783

  16. Click-coated, heparinized, decellularized vascular grafts

    PubMed Central

    Dimitrievska, Sashka; Cai, Chao; Weyers, Amanda; Balestrini, Jenna L.; Lin, Tylee; Sundaram, Sumati; Hatachi, Go; Spiegel, David A.; Kyriakides, Themis R.; Miao, Jianjun; Li, Guoyun; Niklason, Laura; Linhardt, Robert J.

    2014-01-01

    A novel method enabling the engineering of a dense and appropriately oriented heparin-containing layer on decellularized aortas has been developed. Amino groups of decellularized aortas were first modified to azido groups using 3-azidobenzoic acid. Azide-clickable dendrons were attached onto the azido groups through “alkyne-azide” click chemistry, affording a ten-fold amplification of adhesions sites. Dendron end groups were finally decorated with end-on modified heparin chains. Heparin chains were oriented like heparan sulfate groups on native endothelial cells surface. XPS, NMR, MS and FTIR were used to characterize the synthesis steps, building the final heparin layered coatings. Continuity of the heparin coating was verified using fluorescent microscopy and histological analysis. Efficacy of heparin linkage was demonstrated with factor Xa antithrombogenic assay and platelet adhesion studies. The results suggest that oriented heparin immobilization to decellularized aortas may improve the in vivo blood compatibility of decellularized aortas and vessels. PMID:25463496

  17. Tenascin C protects aorta from acute dissection in mice

    PubMed Central

    Kimura, Taizo; Shiraishi, Kozoh; Furusho, Aya; Ito, Sohei; Hirakata, Saki; Nishida, Norifumi; Yoshimura, Koichi; Imanaka-Yoshida, Kyoko; Yoshida, Toshimichi; Ikeda, Yasuhiro; Miyamoto, Takanobu; Ueno, Takafumi; Hamano, Kimikazu; Hiroe, Michiaki; Aonuma, Kazutaka; Matsuzaki, Masunori; Imaizumi, Tsutomu; Aoki, Hiroki

    2014-01-01

    Acute aortic dissection (AAD) is caused by the disruption of intimomedial layer of the aortic walls, which is immediately life-threatening. Although recent studies indicate the importance of proinflammatory response in pathogenesis of AAD, the mechanism to keep the destructive inflammatory response in check is unknown. Here, we report that induction of tenascin-C (TNC) is a stress-evoked protective mechanism against the acute hemodynamic and humoral stress in aorta. Periaortic application of CaCl2 caused stiffening of abdominal aorta, which augmented the hemodynamic stress and TNC induction in suprarenal aorta by angiotensin II infusion. Deletion of Tnc gene rendered mice susceptible to AAD development upon the aortic stress, which was accompanied by impaired TGFβ signaling, insufficient induction of extracellular matrix proteins and exaggerated proinflammatory response. Thus, TNC works as a stress-evoked molecular damper to maintain the aortic integrity under the acute stress. PMID:24514259

  18. Optical coherence tomography assessment of vessel wall degradation in aneurysmatic thoracic aortas

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Real, Eusebio; Eguizabal, Alma; Pontón, Alejandro; Val-Bernal, J. Fernando; Mayorga, Marta; Revuelta, José M.; López-Higuera, José; Conde, Olga M.

    2013-06-01

    Optical coherence tomographic images of ascending thoracic human aortas from aneurysms exhibit disorders on the smooth muscle cell structure of the media layer of the aortic vessel as well as elastin degradation. Ex-vivo measurements of human samples provide results that correlate with pathologist diagnosis in aneurysmatic and control aortas. The observed disorders are studied as possible hallmarks for aneurysm diagnosis. To this end, the backscattering profile along the vessel thickness has been evaluated by fitting its decay against two different models, a third order polynomial fitting and an exponential fitting. The discontinuities present on the vessel wall on aneurysmatic aortas are slightly better identified with the exponential approach. Aneurysmatic aortic walls present uneven reflectivity decay when compared with healthy vessels. The fitting error has revealed as the most favorable indicator for aneurysm diagnosis as it provides a measure of how uniform is the decay along the vessel thickness.

  19. [Vascular effect of extract from mulberry leaves and underlying mechanism].

    PubMed

    Xia, Man-Li; Gao, Qin; Zhou, Xin-Mei; Qian, Ling-Bo; Shen, Zhong-Hua; Jiang, Hui-di; Xia, Qiang

    2007-01-01

    To investigate the vascular activity of extract from mulberry leaves (EML) on rat thoracic aorta and the underlying mechanism. Isolated thoracic rings of Sprague-Dawley rats were mounted on the organ bath and the tension of the vessel was recorded. (1) EML produced a concentration-dependent vasorelaxation of aorta preconstricted by high K(+) (60 mmol/L) or 10(-6) mol/L phenylephrine (PE) in endothelium-intact and endothelium-denuded arteries. (2) EML at EC(50) concentration reduced the calcium dose-response curve. (3) After incubation of aorta with verapamil, EML induced vasocontraction of aorta preconstricted by PE, which was abolished by ruthenium red. The vascular effect of EML is biphasic, the vasorelaxation is greater than the vasocontraction. The vasorelaxation induced by EML may be mediated by inhibition of voltage-and receptor-dependent calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle cells, while the vasocontraction is via activation of ryanodine receptor in endoplasmic reticulum.

  20. Rupture of the thoracic aorta associated with experimental Angiostrongylus vasorum infection in a dog

    PubMed Central

    Mozzer, L.R.; Lima, W.S.

    2012-01-01

    This note describes the sudden death of a dog by the rupture of the thoracic aorta caused by the presence of Angiostrongylus vasorum. A female mongrel canine with a history of weight loss and exhaustion died two hours after clinical examination. At necropsy, performed one hour after death, showed the presence of clotted blood in the thoracic cavity. Haemothorax was diagnosed. The thoracic aorta wall was thin, congested and an abnormal hole in the wall was detected approximately 0.5 cm from the entrance to the diaphragm. From clotted blood collected from the thoracic cavity, 224 first stage larvae (L1) and 15 adults of Angiostrongylus vasorum were recovered alive. Also, from a blood clot found in the aorta, four adult females and 47 L1 larvae were recovered alive. Possibly, this parasite was responsible for the aortic rupture and death of the animal. PMID:22550632

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