Tube wall thickness measurement apparatus

DOEpatents

Lagasse, Paul R.

1987-01-01

An apparatus for measuring the thickness of a tube's wall for the tube's entire length and circumference by determining the deviation of the tube wall thickness from the known thickness of a selected standard item. The apparatus comprises a base and a first support member having first and second ends. The first end is connected to the base and the second end is connected to a spherical element. A second support member is connected to the base and spaced apart from the first support member. A positioning element is connected to and movable relative to the second support member. An indicator is connected to the positioning element and is movable to a location proximate the spherical element. The indicator includes a contact ball for first contacting the selected standard item and holding it against the spherical element. The contact ball then contacts the tube when the tube is disposed about the spherical element. The indicator includes a dial having a rotatable needle for indicating the deviation of the tube wall thickness from the thickness of the selected standard item.

Ultrasonographic wall thickness measurement of the upper and lower uterine segments in the prediction of the progress of preterm labour.

PubMed

Sayed Ahmed, W A; Madny, E H; Habash, Y H; Ibrahim, Z M; Morsy, A G K; Said, M E

2015-01-01

To assess the role of ultrasonographic measurement of the upper and lower uterine segments wall thickness in predicting the progress of preterm labour in patients presenting with preterm labour pains. Fifty pregnant women presenting at Obstetrics Department - Suez Canal University, Egypt with regular lower abdominal pains and diagnosed as having preterm labour were enrolled in the study. Measurements of the upper and lower uterine segments wall thickness by transabdominal ultrasonography in-between contractions and with full bladder were taken. The upper/lower uterine wall thickness ratio was calculated and correlated to the progress of the preterm labour and to the response to tocolytics. The ultrasonographic upper/lower uterine wall thickness ratio was directly related to the progress of preterm delivery (PTD). The change in this ratio is correlated inversely with the response to tocolysis. Using the ROC curve, when the upper/lower uterine wall thickness ratio was ≤ 1.26 the sensitivity was 94.74 and the specificity was 100.00, and when the ratio was ≤ 1.52 the sensitivity was 100.00 and the specificity was 83.33. These data may serve as a baseline ultrasonographic reference values for further studies in prediction the progress of preterm labour in patients presenting with preterm labour pains.

Induced transducer orientation during ultrasound imaging: effects on abdominal muscle thickness and bladder position.

PubMed

Whittaker, Jackie L; Warner, Martin B; Stokes, Maria J

2009-11-01

The use of ultrasound imaging (USI) by physiotherapists to assess muscle behavior in clinical settings is increasing. However, there is relatively little evidence of whether the clinical environment is conducive to valid and reliable measurements. Accurate USI measurements depend on maintaining a relatively stationary transducer position, because motion may distort the image and lead to erroneous conclusions. This would seem particularly important during dynamic studies typical of a physiotherapy assessment. What is not known is how much transducer motion can occur before error is introduced. The aim of this study is to shed some light on this question. Eight healthy volunteers (19 to 52 y) participated. USI images were taken of the lateral abdominal wall (LAW) and bladder base (midline suprapubic) at various manually induced transducer orientations (approximately -10 to 10 degrees about 3 axes of rotation), which were quantified by a digital optical motion capture system. Measurements of transversus abdominis (TrA) thickness and bladder base position (cranial /caudal and anterior/posterior) were calculated. Repeated measures analysis of variance was performed to determine if the measurements obtained at the induced transducer orientations were statistically different (p<0.05) from an image corresponding to a reference or starting transducer orientation. Motion analysis data corresponding to measurements that did not differ from reference image measurements were summarized to provide a range of acceptable transducer motion (relative to the pelvis) for clockwise (CW)/counter-clockwise (CCW) rotation, cranial/caudal tilting, medial/lateral tilting and inward/outward displacement. There were no significant changes in TrA thickness measurements if CW/CCW transducer motion was <9 degrees and cranial/caudal or medial/lateral transducer tilting was <5 degrees . Further, there were no significant changes in measurements of bladder base position if CW/CCW transducer motion

Wall thickness measuring method and apparatus

DOEpatents

Salzer, L.J.; Bergren, D.A.

1987-10-06

An apparatus for measuring the wall thickness of a nonmagnetic article having a housing supporting a magnet and a contiguous supporting surface. The tubular article and the housing are releasably secured to the supporting surface and a support member of an optical comparator, respectively. To determine the wall thickness of the article at a selected point, a magnetically responsive ball is positioned within the tubular article over said point and retained therein by means of a magnetic field produced by the magnet. Thereafter, an optical comparator is employed to project a magnified image of the ball on a screen and the wall thickness at the selected point is calculated by using a ball surface measurement taken with the comparator in conjunction with a previously determined base line measurement.

Wall thickness measuring method and apparatus

DOEpatents

Salzer, Leander J.; Bergren, Donald A.

1989-01-01

An apparatus for measuring the wall thickness of a nonmagnetic article having a housing supporting a magnet and a contiguous supporting surface. The tubular article and the housing are releasably secured to the supporting surface and a support member of an optical comparator, respectively. To determine the wall thickness of the article at a selected point, a magnetically responsive ball is positioned within the tubular article over said point and retained therein by means of a magnetic field produced by the magnet. Thereafter, an optical comparator is employed to project a magnified image of the ball on a screen and the wall thickness at the selected point is calculated by using a ball surface measurement taken with the comparator in conjunction with a previously determined base line measurement.

Spontaneous puerperal extraperitoneal bladder wall rupture in young woman with diagnostic dilemma

PubMed Central

Sabat, Debabrat Kumar; Panigrahi, Pradeep Kumar; Sahoo, Ranjan Kumar; Acharya, Mousumi; Sahu, Mahesh Ch

2015-01-01

A young female presented with an acute abdominal pain and oliguria for 1 week following normal vaginal delivery. No history of hematuria was present. Patient was having lochia rubra. Sealed uterine rupture was suspected clinically. Initial ultrasound of the patient showed distended urinary bladder containing Foley catheter ballon with clamping of Foley catheter and particulate ascites. Abdominal paracentesis revealed hemorrhagic fluid. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography of abdomen revealed ascites, distended urinary bladder and no extraluminal contrast extravasation in delayed scan. As patient condition deteriorated, repeat ultrasound guided abdominal paracentesis was done which revealed transudative peritoneal collection with distended bladder. Cystoscopy revealed urinary bladder ruptures with exudate sealing the rupture site. Exploratory laparotomy was done and a diagnosis of extraperitoneal bladder rupture was confirmed. The rent was repaired in layers. She was put on continuous bladder drainage for 3 weeks followed by bladder training. It presented in a unique way as there was hemorrhagic peritoneal tap, no macroscopic hematuria and urinary bladder was distended in spite of urinary bladder wall rupture which delayed the diagnosis and treatment. Complete emptying of urinary bladder before second stage of labor and during postpartum period with perineal repair is mandatory to prevent urinary bladder rupture. PMID:26985426

Spontaneous puerperal extraperitoneal bladder wall rupture in young woman with diagnostic dilemma.

PubMed

Sabat, Debabrat Kumar; Panigrahi, Pradeep Kumar; Sahoo, Ranjan Kumar; Acharya, Mousumi; Sahu, Mahesh Ch

2015-01-01

A young female presented with an acute abdominal pain and oliguria for 1 week following normal vaginal delivery. No history of hematuria was present. Patient was having lochia rubra. Sealed uterine rupture was suspected clinically. Initial ultrasound of the patient showed distended urinary bladder containing Foley catheter ballon with clamping of Foley catheter and particulate ascites. Abdominal paracentesis revealed hemorrhagic fluid. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography of abdomen revealed ascites, distended urinary bladder and no extraluminal contrast extravasation in delayed scan. As patient condition deteriorated, repeat ultrasound guided abdominal paracentesis was done which revealed transudative peritoneal collection with distended bladder. Cystoscopy revealed urinary bladder ruptures with exudate sealing the rupture site. Exploratory laparotomy was done and a diagnosis of extraperitoneal bladder rupture was confirmed. The rent was repaired in layers. She was put on continuous bladder drainage for 3 weeks followed by bladder training. It presented in a unique way as there was hemorrhagic peritoneal tap, no macroscopic hematuria and urinary bladder was distended in spite of urinary bladder wall rupture which delayed the diagnosis and treatment. Complete emptying of urinary bladder before second stage of labor and during postpartum period with perineal repair is mandatory to prevent urinary bladder rupture.

Diffusion and localization of hematoporphyrin derivative in the normal bladder wall of pig and rat after local administration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bisson, Jean F.; Notter, Dominique; Labrude, P.; Vigneron, C.; Guillemin, Francois H.

1996-01-01

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) consists in the administration of a photosensitizer and subsequent irradiation of the tumor with visible light. Routinely, the photosensitizer is given intravenously (i.v.), but the major drawback of this procedure is the resulting skin photosensitivity. The goal of our study was to examine whether intravesical (i.b.) instillation of the photosensitizer for PDT of bladder cancer might be feasible in order to target the tumors and to avoid the photosensitization phenomenon. After studying the normal bladder histology of pig and rat, not much described so far, we studied the diffusion and localization of hematoporphyrin derivative (HpD) in vitro on the pig bladder and the biodistribution of HpD in vivo in the rat bladder, two and four hours after intravesical administration, by spectrofluorimetry and fluorescence microscopy. We have the following results: (1) no diffusion through the pig bladder wall was detected; (2) the penetration depth of HpD into the pig bladder wall was 450 plus or minus 44 micrometers (n equals 8), including urothelium and chorion in totality and a small part of the muscles; (3) the penetration depth of HpD into the rat bladder wall was 55 plus or minus 9 micrometer (n equals 9) after two hours and 960 plus or minus 118 micrometer (n equals 9) after four hours, corresponding respectively to the totality of the urothelium and a small part of the chorion or almost completely in the bladder wall, a small part of the adventicia being excluded. In conclusion, intravesical instillation is feasible and, as superficial bladder cancer, especially carcinoma in situ particularly occur in the urothelium or in the chorion, a bladder instillation of two hours should be advantageous.

An ex vivo investigation into the transurothelial permeability and bladder wall distribution of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory ketorolac.

PubMed

Williams, Nicholas A; Bowen, Jenna L; Al-Jayyoussi, Ghaith; Gumbleton, Mark; Allender, Chris J; Li, Jamie; Harrah, Tim; Raja, Aditya; Joshi, Hrishi B

2014-03-03

Transurothelial drug delivery continues to be an attractive treatment option for a range of urological conditions; however, dosing regimens remain largely empirical. Recently, intravesical delivery of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory ketorolac has been shown to significantly reduce ureteral stent-related pain. While this latest development provides an opportunity for advancing the management of stent-related pain, clinical translation will undoubtedly require an understanding of the rate and extent of delivery of ketorolac into the bladder wall. Using an ex vivo porcine model, we evaluate the urothelial permeability and bladder wall distribution of ketorolac. The subsequent application of a pharmacokinetic (PK) model enables prediction of concentrations achieved in vivo. Ketorolac was applied to the urothelium and a transurothelial permeability coefficient (Kp) calculated. Relative drug distribution into the bladder wall after 90 min was determined. Ketorolac was able to permeate the urothelium (Kp = 2.63 × 10(-6) cm s(-1)), and after 90 min average concentrations of 400, 141 and 21 μg g(-1) were achieved in the urothelium, lamina propria and detrusor respectively. An average concentration of 87 μg g(-1) was achieved across the whole bladder wall. PK simulations (STELLA) were then carried out, using ex vivo values for Kp and muscle/saline partition coefficient (providing an estimation of vascular clearance), to predict 90 min in vivo ketorolac tissue concentrations. When dilution of the drug solution with urine and vascular clearance were taken into account, a reduced ketorolac concentration of 37 μg g(-1) across the whole bladder wall was predicted. These studies reveal crucial information about the urothelium's permeability to agents such as ketorolac and the concentrations achievable in the bladder wall. It would appear that levels of ketorolac delivered to the bladder wall intravesically would be sufficient to provide an anti-inflammatory effect. The

[Feasibility of using connective tissue prosthesis for autoplastic repair of urinary bladder wall defects (an experimental study)].

PubMed

Tyumentseva, N V; Yushkov, B G; Medvedeva, S Y; Kovalenko, R Y; Uzbekov, O K; Zhuravlev, V N

2016-12-01

Experiments on laboratory rats have shown the feasibility of autoplastic repair of urinary bladder wall defects using a connective-tissue capsule formed as the result of an inflammatory response to the presence of a foreign body. The formation of connective tissue prosthesis is characterized by developing fibrous connective tissue, ordering of collagen fibers, reducing the number of cells per unit area with a predominance of more mature cells - fibroblasts. With increasing time of observation, connective tissue prostheses were found to acquire a morphological structure similar to that of the urinary bladder wall. By month 12, the mucosa, the longitudinal and circular muscle layers were formed. The proposed method of partial autoplastic repair of urinary bladder wall is promising, has good long-term results, but requires further experimental studies.

Tissue-mimicking bladder wall phantoms for evaluating acoustic radiation force-optical coherence elastography systems.

PubMed

Ejofodomi, O'tega A; Zderic, Vesna; Zara, Jason M

2010-04-01

Acoustic radiation force-optical coherence elastography (ARF-OCE) systems are novel imaging systems that have the potential to simultaneously quantify and characterize the optical and mechanical properties of in vivo tissues. This article presents the construction of bladder wall phantoms for use in ARF-OCE systems. Mechanical, acoustic, and optical properties are reported and compared to published values for the urinary bladder. The phantom consisted of 0.2000 +/- 0.0089 and 6.0000 +/- 0.2830 microm polystyrene microspheres (Polysciences Inc., Warrington, PA, Catalog Nos. 07304 and 07312), 7.5 +/- 1.5 microm copolymer microspheres composed of acrylonitrile and vinylidene chloride, (Expancel, Duluth, GA, Catalog No. 461 DU 20), and bovine serum albumin within a gelatin matrix. Young's modulus was measured by successive compression of the phantom and obtaining the slope of the resulting force-displacement data. Acoustic measurements were performed using the transmission method. The phantoms were submerged in a water bath and placed between transmitting and receiving 13 mm diameter unfocused transducers operating at a frequency of 3.5 MHz. A MATLAB algorithm to extract the optical scattering coefficient from optical coherence tomography (OCT) images of the phantom was used. The phantoms possess a Young's modulus of 17.12 +/- 2.72 kPa, a mass density of 1.05 +/- 0.02 g/cm3, an acoustic attenuation coefficient of 0.66 +/- 0.08 dB/cm/MHz, a speed of sound of 1591 +/- 8.76 m/s, and an optical scattering coefficient of 1.80 +/- 0.23 mm(-1). Ultrasound and OCT images of the bladder wall phantom are presented. A material that mimics the mechanical, optical, and acoustic properties of healthy bladder wall has been developed. This tissue-mimicking bladder wall phantom was developed as a control tool to investigate the feasibility of using ARF-OCE to detect the mechanical and optical changes that may be indicative of the onset or development of cancer in the urinary bladder

Quantitative elasticity measurement of urinary bladder wall using laser-induced surface acoustic waves.

PubMed

Li, Chunhui; Guan, Guangying; Zhang, Fan; Song, Shaozhen; Wang, Ruikang K; Huang, Zhihong; Nabi, Ghulam

2014-12-01

The maintenance of urinary bladder elasticity is essential to its functions, including the storage and voiding phases of the micturition cycle. The bladder stiffness can be changed by various pathophysiological conditions. Quantitative measurement of bladder elasticity is an essential step toward understanding various urinary bladder disease processes and improving patient care. As a nondestructive, and noncontact method, laser-induced surface acoustic waves (SAWs) can accurately characterize the elastic properties of different layers of organs such as the urinary bladder. This initial investigation evaluates the feasibility of a noncontact, all-optical method of generating and measuring the elasticity of the urinary bladder. Quantitative elasticity measurements of ex vivo porcine urinary bladder were made using the laser-induced SAW technique. A pulsed laser was used to excite SAWs that propagated on the bladder wall surface. A dedicated phase-sensitive optical coherence tomography (PhS-OCT) system remotely recorded the SAWs, from which the elasticity properties of different layers of the bladder were estimated. During the experiments, series of measurements were performed under five precisely controlled bladder volumes using water to estimate changes in the elasticity in relation to various urinary bladder contents. The results, validated by optical coherence elastography, show that the laser-induced SAW technique combined with PhS-OCT can be a feasible method of quantitative estimation of biomechanical properties.

Impact of wall thickness and saccular geometry on the computational wall stress of descending thoracic aortic aneurysms.

PubMed

Shang, Eric K; Nathan, Derek P; Sprinkle, Shanna R; Fairman, Ronald M; Bavaria, Joseph E; Gorman, Robert C; Gorman, Joseph H; Jackson, Benjamin M

2013-09-10

Wall stress calculated using finite element analysis has been used to predict rupture risk of aortic aneurysms. Prior models often assume uniform aortic wall thickness and fusiform geometry. We examined the effects of including local wall thickness, intraluminal thrombus, calcifications, and saccular geometry on peak wall stress (PWS) in finite element analysis of descending thoracic aortic aneurysms. Computed tomographic angiography of descending thoracic aortic aneurysms (n=10 total, 5 fusiform and 5 saccular) underwent 3-dimensional reconstruction with custom algorithms. For each aneurysm, an initial model was constructed with uniform wall thickness. Experimental models explored the addition of variable wall thickness, calcifications, and intraluminal thrombus. Each model was loaded with 120 mm Hg pressure, and von Mises PWS was computed. The mean PWS of uniform wall thickness models was 410 ± 111 kPa. The imposition of variable wall thickness increased PWS (481 ± 126 kPa, P<0.001). Although the addition of calcifications was not statistically significant (506 ± 126 kPa, P=0.07), the addition of intraluminal thrombus to variable wall thickness (359 ± 86 kPa, P ≤ 0.001) reduced PWS. A final model incorporating all features also reduced PWS (368 ± 88 kPa, P<0.001). Saccular geometry did not increase diameter-normalized stress in the final model (77 ± 7 versus 67 ± 12 kPa/cm, P=0.22). Incorporation of local wall thickness can significantly increase PWS in finite element analysis models of thoracic aortic aneurysms. Incorporating variable wall thickness, intraluminal thrombus, and calcifications significantly impacts computed PWS of thoracic aneurysms; sophisticated models may, therefore, be more accurate in assessing rupture risk. Saccular aneurysms did not demonstrate a significantly higher normalized PWS than fusiform aneurysms.

Novel Multisensor Probe for Monitoring Bladder Temperature During Locoregional Chemohyperthermia for Nonmuscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer: Technical Feasibility Study

PubMed Central

Geijsen, Debby E.; Zum Vörde Sive Vörding, Paul J.; Schooneveldt, Gerben; Sijbrands, Jan; Hulshof, Maarten C.; de la Rosette, Jean; de Reijke, Theo M.; Crezee, Hans

2013-01-01

Abstract Background and Purpose: The effectiveness of locoregional hyperthermia combined with intravesical instillation of mitomycin C to reduce the risk of recurrence and progression of intermediate- and high-risk nonmuscle-invasive bladder cancer is currently investigated in clinical trials. Clinically effective locoregional hyperthermia delivery necessitates adequate thermal dosimetry; thus, optimal thermometry methods are needed to monitor accurately the temperature distribution throughout the bladder wall. The aim of the study was to evaluate the technical feasibility of a novel intravesical device (multi-sensor probe) developed to monitor the local bladder wall temperatures during loco-regional C-HT. Materials and Methods: A multisensor thermocouple probe was designed for deployment in the human bladder, using special sensors to cover the bladder wall in different directions. The deployment of the thermocouples against the bladder wall was evaluated with visual, endoscopic, and CT imaging in bladder phantoms, porcine models, and human bladders obtained from obduction for bladder volumes and different deployment sizes of the probe. Finally, porcine bladders were embedded in a phantom and subjected to locoregional heating to compare probe temperatures with additional thermometry inside and outside the bladder wall. Results: The 7.5 cm thermocouple probe yielded optimal bladder wall contact, adapting to different bladder volumes. Temperature monitoring was shown to be accurate and representative for the actual bladder wall temperature. Conclusions: Use of this novel multisensor probe could yield a more accurate monitoring of the bladder wall temperature during locoregional chemohyperthermia. PMID:24112045

Location-dependent correlation between tissue structure and the mechanical behaviour of the urinary bladder.

PubMed

Morales-Orcajo, Enrique; Siebert, Tobias; Böl, Markus

2018-05-25

The mechanical properties of the urinary bladder wall are important to understand its filling-voiding cycle in health and disease. However, much remains unknown about its mechanical properties, especially regarding regional heterogeneities and wall microstructure. The present study aimed to assess the regional differences in the mechanical properties and microstructure of the urinary bladder wall. Ninety (n=90) samples of porcine urinary bladder wall (ten samples from nine different locations) were mechanically and histologically analysed. Half of the samples (n=45) were equibiaxially tested within physiological conditions, and the other half, matching the sample location of the mechanical tests, was frozen, cryosectioned, and stained with Picro-Sirius red to differentiate smooth muscle cells, extracellular matrix, and fat. The bladder wall shows a non-linear stress-stretch relationship with hysteresis and softening effects. Regional differences were found in the mechanical response and in the microstructure. The trigone region presents higher peak stresses and thinner muscularis layer compared to the rest of the bladder. Furthermore, the ventral side of the bladder presents anisotropic characteristics, whereas the dorsal side features perfect isotropic behaviour. This response matches the smooth muscle fibre bundle orientation within the tunica muscularis. This layer, comprising approximately 78% of the wall thickness, is composed of two fibre bundle arrangements that are cross-oriented, one with respect to the other, varying the angle between them across the organ. That is, the ventral side presents a 60°/120° cross-orientation structure, while the muscle bundles were oriented perpendicular in the dorsal side. In the present study, we demonstrate that the mechanical properties and the microstructure of the urinary bladder wall are heterogeneous across the organ. The mechanical properties and the microstructure of the urinary bladder wall within nine specific

49 CFR 192.109 - Nominal wall thickness (t) for steel pipe.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 49 Transportation 3 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Nominal wall thickness (t) for steel pipe. 192.109 Section 192.109 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued) PIPELINE AND... Nominal wall thickness (t) for steel pipe. (a) If the nominal wall thickness for steel pipe is not known...

49 CFR 192.109 - Nominal wall thickness (t) for steel pipe.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 49 Transportation 3 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Nominal wall thickness (t) for steel pipe. 192.109 Section 192.109 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued) PIPELINE AND... Nominal wall thickness (t) for steel pipe. (a) If the nominal wall thickness for steel pipe is not known...

49 CFR 192.109 - Nominal wall thickness (t) for steel pipe.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 49 Transportation 3 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Nominal wall thickness (t) for steel pipe. 192.109 Section 192.109 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued) PIPELINE AND... Nominal wall thickness (t) for steel pipe. (a) If the nominal wall thickness for steel pipe is not known...

49 CFR 192.109 - Nominal wall thickness (t) for steel pipe.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 3 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Nominal wall thickness (t) for steel pipe. 192.109 Section 192.109 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued) PIPELINE AND... Nominal wall thickness (t) for steel pipe. (a) If the nominal wall thickness for steel pipe is not known...

49 CFR 192.109 - Nominal wall thickness (t) for steel pipe.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 49 Transportation 3 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Nominal wall thickness (t) for steel pipe. 192.109 Section 192.109 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued) PIPELINE AND... Nominal wall thickness (t) for steel pipe. (a) If the nominal wall thickness for steel pipe is not known...

Chronic cystitis with ossification of the bladder wall in a 6-month-old German shepherd dog

PubMed Central

Zotti, Alessandro; Fant, Pierluigi; De Zan, Gabrita; Mollo, Antonio; Busetto, Roberto

2007-01-01

Ossification of the bladder wall, detected radiographically as a nonhomogeneous radiopaque area in the cranioventral part of the bladder in a puppy, is reported. We speculate that chronic inflammation due to the presence of uroliths in the lumen may have stimulated a metaplastic transformation of the cells. PMID:17966335

Vesicular thick-walled swollen hyphae in pulmonary zygomycosis.

PubMed

Kimura, Masatomo; Ito, Hiroyuki

2009-03-01

An autopsy case of pulmonary zygomycosis in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis on immunosuppressive therapy is presented herein. There was a pulmonary cavitated infarct caused by mycotic thrombosis. Thin-walled narrow hyphae and vesicular thick-walled swollen hyphae were found on the pleural surface and in the necrotic tissue at the periphery of the cavity. Findings of such shaped fungal elements may cause erroneous histopathological diagnosis because pauciseptate broad thin-walled hyphae are usually the only detectable fungal elements in zygomycosis tissue. Although immunohistochemistry confirmed these unusual elements to be zygomycetous in the present case, it is important for the differential diagnosis to be aware that zygomycetes can form thin narrow hyphae and vesicular thick-walled swollen hyphae.

Role of 17 beta-estradiol on type IV collagen fibers volumetric density in the basement membrane of bladder wall.

PubMed

de Fraga, Rogerio; Dambros, Miriam; Miyaoka, Ricardo; Riccetto, Cássio Luís Zanettini; Palma, Paulo César Rodrigues

2007-10-01

The authors quantified the type IV collagen fibers volumetric density in the basement membrane of bladder wall of ovariectomized rats with and without estradiol replacement. This study was conducted on 40 Wistar rats (3 months old) randomly divided in 4 groups: group 1, remained intact (control); group 2, submitted to bilateral oophorectomy and daily replacement 4 weeks later of 17 beta-estradiol for 12 weeks; group 3, sham operated and daily replacement 4 weeks later of sesame oil for 12 weeks; and group 4, submitted to bilateral oophorectomy and killed after 12 weeks. It was used in immunohistochemistry evaluation using type IV collagen polyclonal antibody to stain the fibers on paraffin rat bladder sections. The M-42 stereological grid system was used to analyze the fibers. Ovariectomy had an increase effect on the volumetric density of the type IV collagen fibers in the basement membrane of rat bladder wall. Estradiol replacement in castrated animals demonstrated a significative difference in the stereological parameters when compared to the castrated group without hormonal replacement. Surgical castration performed on rats induced an increasing volumetric density of type IV collagen fibers in the basement membrane of rats bladder wall and the estradiol treatment had a significant effect in keeping a low volumetric density of type IV collagen fibers in the basement membrane of rats bladder wall.

Average chest wall thickness at two anatomic locations in trauma patients.

PubMed

Schroeder, Elizabeth; Valdez, Carrie; Krauthamer, Andres; Khati, Nadia; Rasmus, Jessica; Amdur, Richard; Brindle, Kathleen; Sarani, Babak

2013-09-01

Needle thoracostomy is the emergent treatment for tension pneumothorax. This procedure is commonly done using a 4.5cm catheter, and the optimal site for chest wall puncture is controversial. We hypothesize that needle thoracostomy cannot be performed using this catheter length irrespective of the site chosen in either gender. A retrospective review of all chest computed tomography (CT) scans obtained on trauma patients from January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2011 was performed. Patients aged 18 and 80 years were included and patients whose chest wall thickness exceeded the boundary of the images acquired were excluded. Chest wall thickness was measured at the 2nd intercostal (ICS), midclavicular line (MCL) and the 5th ICS, anterior axillary line (AAL). Injury severity score (ISS), chest wall thickness, and body mass index (BMI) were analyzed. 201 patients were included, 54% male. Average (SD) BMI was 26 (7)kg/m(2). The average chest wall thickness in the overall cohort was 4.08 (1.4)cm at the 2nd ICS/MCL and 4.55 (1.7)cm at the 5th ICS/AAL. 29% of the overall cohort (27 male and 32 female) had a chest wall thickness greater than 4.5cm at the 2nd ICS/MCL and 45% (54 male and 36 female) had a chest wall thickness greater than 4.5cm at the 5th ICS/AAL. There was no significant interaction between gender and chest wall thickness at either site. BMI was positively associated with chest wall thickness at both the 2nd and 5th ICS/AAL. A 4.5cm catheter is inadequate for needle thoracostomy in most patients regardless of puncture site or gender. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A huge bladder calculus causing acute renal failure.

PubMed

Komeya, Mitsuru; Sahoda, Tamami; Sugiura, Shinpei; Sawada, Takuto; Kitami, Kazuo

2013-02-01

A 81-year-old male was referred to our emergency outpatient unit due to acute renal failure. The level of serum creatinine was 276 μmol/l. A CT scan showed bilateral hydronephroureter, large bladder stone (7 cm × 6 cm × 6 cm) and bladder wall thickness. He was diagnosed as post renal failure due to bilateral hydronephroureter. Large bladder stone is thought to be the cause of bilateral hydronephroureter and renal failure. To improve renal failure, we performed open cystolithotomy and urethral catheterization. Three days after the surgery, the level of serum creatinine decreased to 224 μmol/l. He was discharged from our hospital with uneventful course. Bladder calculus is thought to be a rare cause of renal failure. We summarize the characteristics of bladder calculus causing renal failure. We should keep that long-term pyuria and urinary symptom, and repeated urinary tract infection can cause huge bladder calculus and renal failure in mind.

Diffusion and localization of hematoporphyrin derivative in the normal bladder wall of a pig and a rat after local administration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bisson, Jean F.; Notter, Dominique; Labrude, P.; Vigneron, C.; Guillemin, Francois H.

1996-04-01

Photochemotherapy using I.V. administered porphyrin photosensitizers has been used to treat superficial bladder cancers. In order to avoid cutaneous photosensitivity, lasting 6 - 8 weeks, we instilled the photosensitizer intravesically. After first studying the diffusion and localization of HpD in aqueous phase (5 mg/ml) in vitro through the bladder wall of pig by spectrofluorimetry ((lambda) ex equals 392 nm and (lambda) em equals 612.8 nm) and fluorescence microscopy, we determined the biodistribution of HpD in vivo in the rat bladder wall, 2 and 4 hours after bladder instillation of 0.4 ml of HpD: (1) the controls show only a weak autofluorescence restricted to the urothelium after 2 hours (24 micrometers plus or minus 5 micrometers, n equals 3) as well as after 4 hours (29.5 micrometers plus or minus 5 micrometers, n equals 3); (2) on the test preparation a higher fluorescence was observed: after 2 hours, HpD was localized in the urothelium and a very small part of the chorion (55 micrometers plus or minus 9 micrometers, n equals 9) whereas after 4 hours, it penetrated almost completely in the bladder wall (960 micrometers plus or minus 118 micrometers, n equals 9). In conclusion, a bladder instillation of 2 hours seems to be the optimal time of application in the rat since superficial bladder cancers, like carcinoma in situ, particularly occur in the urothelium (stage 0, pTa) or in the chorion (stage 1, pT1).

A Novel Vesicoscopic Bladder Wall Suture Fixation Technique to Aid Endoscopic Vesicostomy Button Insertion

PubMed Central

Adam, Ahmed; Sookram, Jayveer

2018-01-01

Background To describe a novel bladder fixation technique for use during endoscopic vesicostomy button insertion. Methods After standard cystoscopic visualization of the bladder, a standard 18 G intravenous cannula was inserted into the bladder. A non-absorbable suture thread was placed through this intravenous cannula under cystoscopic vision. The proximal end of the suture was then removed using standard ureteroscopic grasping forceps (3 Fr) through another needle (15 G) inserted next to the initial puncture site (following a path at 30 degrees from the initial puncture tract) into the bladder. The suture ends were brought out of the bladder and tied at the skin level, 2 cm from the intended vesicostomy site. Sutures were removed on the second postoperative day. Results This fixation technique allows for adequate fixation of the bladder dome to the anterior abdominal wall. These sutures also have less potential for cutaneous scarring and pain. No complications were reported. Conclusion This simple fixation technique is easily performed using materials found in every urology suite. It also avoids the skills required with other previously reported fixation suture techniques, and can also be utilized for bladder fixation in cases of vesicoscopic laparoscopic or robotic assisted laparoscopic procedures. PMID:29692696

Fetal stomach and gallbladder in contact with the bladder wall is a common ultrasound sign of stomach-down left congenital diaphragmatic hernia.

PubMed

Morgan, Tara A; Basta, Amaya; Filly, Roy A

2017-01-01

The aim of this study was to identify sonographic (US) findings that can assist in prenatal diagnosis of stomach-down left congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), specifically related to positioning of the abdominal contents including the stomach, bladder, and gallbladder. All US examinations with a postnatally confirmed diagnosis of stomach-down left CDH over a 13-year period were retrospectively reviewed for abnormal position of the abdominal contents, including whether the fetal stomach was in contact with the urinary bladder. Normal fetuses that underwent comprehensive US surveys were similarly evaluated for comparison in a 2:1 ratio. Twenty-two fetuses with stomach-down left CDH were identified in a cohort of 278 fetuses with left CDH. In 15/22 (68.2%) cases of stomach-down left CDH, the bladder and stomach walls were in contact. Contact of the fetal gallbladder with the fetal bladder wall was also observed and was present even more commonly (17/22 cases [77.3%]). There was no case of either the stomach or gallbladder in contact with the bladder wall in the normal fetal cohort (n = 44). Recognition of the fetal stomach and/or gallbladder in contact with the bladder wall can help in the detection of stomach-down left CDH. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 45:8-13, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

A Convex Hull-Based New Metric for Quantification of Bladder Wall Irregularity in Pediatric Patients With Congenital Anomalies of the Kidney and Urinary Tract.

PubMed

Stember, Joseph N; Newhouse, Jeffrey; Behr, Gerald; Alam, Shumyle

2017-11-01

Early identification and quantification of bladder damage in pediatric patients with congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT) is crucial to guiding effective treatment and may affect the eventual clinical outcome, including progression of renal disease. We have developed a novel approach based on the convex hull to calculate bladder wall trabecularity in pediatric patients with CAKUT. The objective of this study was to test whether our approach can accurately predict bladder wall irregularity. Twenty pediatric patients, half with renal compromise and CAKUT and half with normal renal function, were evaluated. We applied the convex hull approach to calculate T, a metric proposed to reflect the degree of trabeculation/bladder wall irregularity, in this set of patients. The average T value was roughly 3 times higher for diseased than healthy patients (0.14 [95% confidence interval, 0.10-0.17] versus 0.05 [95% confidence interval, 0.03-0.07] for normal bladders). This disparity was statistically significant (P < .01). We have demonstrated that a convex hull-based procedure can measure bladder wall irregularity. Because bladder damage is a reversible precursor to irreversible renal parenchymal damage, applying such a measure to at-risk pediatric patients can help guide prompt interventions to avert disease progression. © 2017 by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine.

Bladder necrosis: 'A man without a bladder'.

PubMed

Bosschieter, Judith; Oudshoorn, Frederik H K; Meuleman, Eric J H; Nieuwenhuijzen, Jakko A

2018-02-17

Since the use of antibiotics, bladder necrosis has become a rare condition. We report a case of bladder necrosis in a 90-year-old man following urinary retention. After insertion of a transurethral catheter (TUC), 2 L of urine was evacuated. In the following days, the TUC became intermittently blocked. Adequate bladder drainage could not be obtained despite intensive rinsing and placement of a suprapubic catheter. On surgical exploration necrosis of almost the entire bladder wall, except for the trigone, was encountered. Surgical debridement of the non-viable bladder wall without opening the abdominal cavity was conducted, and a TUC was placed in the Retzius cavity to ensure evacuation of urine. Since the patient was haemodynamically unstable, construction of a urinary diversion was waived and urinary drainage of the Retzius cavity by the TUC was accepted, resulting in adequate urinary drainage without compromising renal function. © BMJ Publishing Group Ltd (unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Ultrasonographic evaluation of the canine urinary bladder following cystotomy for treatment of urolithiasis.

PubMed

Mariano, Abigail D; Penninck, Dominique G; Sutherland-Smith, James; Kudej, Raymond K

2018-05-01

OBJECTIVE To describe the ultrasonographic appearance of the urinary bladder incision site in dogs that underwent cystotomy for treatment of urolithiasis. DESIGN Prospective, longitudinal study. ANIMALS 18 client-owned dogs. PROCEDURES Dogs underwent urinary bladder ultrasonography at baseline (≤ 1 day before surgery) and at 1 day and approximately 2, 6, and 12 weeks after cystotomy for urocystolith removal. A baseline ratio between ventral (cystotomy site) and corresponding dorsal midline wall thickness was calculated and used to account for measurement variations attributable to bladder distension at subsequent visits. Patient signalment, weight, medications administered, urocystolith composition, and culture results were recorded. Clinical signs, reoccurrence of hyperechoic foci, and suture visualization were recorded at follow-up examinations. Variables were evaluated for association with cystotomy site thickening and resolution of thickening. RESULTS Median wall thickness at the ventral aspect of the bladder was significantly greater than that of the corresponding dorsal aspect at baseline. Cystotomy site thickening peaked 1 day after surgery and decreased at subsequent visits in a linear manner. Twelve weeks after surgery, 5 of 10 clinically normal dogs evaluated had persistent cystotomy site thickening. Eleven of 18 dogs had reoccurrence of hyperechoic foci within the bladder at some time during the study (median time to first detection, 17 days after surgery). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Persistent cystotomy site thickening can be present up to 3 months after cystotomy for urolithiasis in dogs without lower urinary tract signs. Reoccurrence of hyperechoic foci in the bladder, although subclinical, was detected earlier and at a higher rate than anticipated.

Gas turbine bucket wall thickness control

DOEpatents

Stathopoulos, Dimitrios; Xu, Liming; Lewis, Doyle C.

2002-01-01

A core for use in casting a turbine bucket including serpentine cooling passages is divided into two pieces including a leading edge core section and a trailing edge core section. Wall thicknesses at the leading edge and the trailing edge of the turbine bucket can be controlled independent of each other by separately positioning the leading edge core section and the trailing edge core section in the casting die. The controlled leading and trailing edge thicknesses can thus be optimized for efficient cooling, resulting in more efficient turbine operation.

Computer-aided detection of bladder masses in CT urography (CTU)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cha, Kenny H.; Hadjiiski, Lubomir M.; Chan, Heang-Ping; Caoili, Elaine M.; Cohan, Richard H.; Weizer, Alon; Samala, Ravi K.

2017-03-01

We are developing a computer-aided detection system for bladder cancer in CT urography (CTU). We have previously developed methods for detection of bladder masses within the contrast-enhanced and the non-contrastenhanced regions of the bladder individually. In this study, we investigated methods for detection of bladder masses within the entire bladder. The bladder was segmented using our method that combined deep-learning convolutional neural network with level sets. The non-contrast-enhanced region was separated from the contrast-enhanced region with a maximum-intensity-projection-based method. The non-contrast region was smoothed and gray level threshold was applied to the contrast and non-contrast regions separately to extract the bladder wall and potential masses. The bladder wall was transformed into a straightened thickness profile, which was analyzed to identify lesion candidates in a prescreening step. The candidates were mapped back to the 3D CT volume and segmented using our auto-initialized cascaded level set (AI-CALS) segmentation method. Twenty-seven morphological features were extracted for each candidate. A data set of 57 patients with 71 biopsy-proven bladder lesions was used, which was split into independent training and test sets: 42 training cases with 52 lesions, and 15 test cases with 19 lesions. Using the training set, feature selection was performed and a linear discriminant (LDA) classifier was designed to merge the selected features for classification of bladder lesions and false positives. The trained classifier was evaluated with the test set. FROC analysis showed that the system achieved a sensitivity of 86.5% at 3.3 FPs/case for the training set, and 84.2% at 3.7 FPs/case for the test set.

Pulse wave velocity as a diagnostic index: The effect of wall thickness

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hodis, Simona

2018-06-01

Vascular compliance is a major determinant of wave propagation within the vascular system, and hence the measurement of pulse wave velocity (PWV) is commonly used clinically as a method of detecting vascular stiffening. The accuracy of that assessment is important because vascular stiffening is a major risk factor for hypertension. PWV is usually measured by timing a pressure wave as it travels from the carotid artery to the femoral or radial artery and estimating the distance that it traveled in each case to obtain the required velocity. A major assumption on which this technique is based is that the vessel wall thickness h is negligibly small compared with the vessel radius a . The extent to which this assumption is satisfied in the cardiovascular system is not known because the ratio h /a varies widely across different regions of the vascular tree and under different pathological conditions. Using the PWV as a diagnostic test without knowing the effect of wall thickness on the measurement could lead to error when interpreting the PWV value as an index of vessel wall compliance. The aim of the present study was to extend the validity of the current practice of assessing wall stiffness by developing a method of analysis that goes beyond the assumption of a thin wall. We analyzed PWVs calculated with different wall models, depending on the ratio of wall thickness to vessel radius and the results showed that PWV is not reliable when it is estimated with the classic thin wall theory if the vessel wall is not around 25% of vessel radius. If the arterial wall is thicker than 25% of vessel radius, then the wave velocity calculated with the thin wall theory could be overestimated and in the clinical setting, this could lead to a false positive. For thicker walls, a thick wall model presented here should be considered to account for the stresses within the wall thickness that become dominant compared with the wall inertia.

Study of Individual Characteristic Abdominal Wall Thickness Based on Magnetic Anchored Surgical Instruments

PubMed Central

Dong, Ding-Hui; Liu, Wen-Yan; Feng, Hai-Bo; Fu, Yi-Li; Huang, Shi; Xiang, Jun-Xi; Lyu, Yi

2015-01-01

Background: Magnetic anchored surgical instruments (MASI), relying on magnetic force, can break through the limitations of the single port approach in dexterity. Individual characteristic abdominal wall thickness (ICAWT) deeply influences magnetic force that determines the safety of MASI. The purpose of this study was to research the abdominal wall characteristics in MASI applied environment to find ICAWT, and then construct an artful method to predict ICAWT, resulting in better safety and feasibility for MASI. Methods: For MASI, ICAWT is referred to the thickness of thickest point in the applied environment. We determined ICAWT through finding the thickest point in computed tomography scans. We also investigated the traits of abdominal wall thickness to discover the factor that can be used to predict ICAWT. Results: Abdominal wall at C point in the middle third lumbar vertebra plane (L3) is the thickest during chosen points. Fat layer thickness plays a more important role in abdominal wall thickness than muscle layer thickness. “BMI-ICAWT” curve was obtained based on abdominal wall thickness of C point in L3 plane, and the expression was as follow: f(x) = P1 × x2 + P2 × x + P3, where P1 = 0.03916 (0.01776, 0.06056), P2 = 1.098 (0.03197, 2.164), P3 = −18.52 (−31.64, −5.412), R-square: 0.99. Conclusions: Abdominal wall thickness of C point at L3 could be regarded as ICAWT. BMI could be a reliable predictor of ICAWT. In the light of “BMI-ICAWT” curve, we may conveniently predict ICAWT by BMI, resulting a better safety and feasibility for MASI. PMID:26228215

Evolution of thick domain walls in de Sitter universe

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

Dolgov, A.D.; Godunov, S.I.; Rudenko, A.S., E-mail: dolgov@fe.infn.it, E-mail: sgodunov@itep.ru, E-mail: a.s.rudenko@inp.nsk.su

We consider thick domain walls in a de Sitter universe following paper by Basu and Vilenkin. However, we are interested not only in stationary solutions found therein, but also investigate the general case of domain wall evolution with time. When the wall thickness parameter, δ{sub 0}, is smaller than H {sup −1}/√2, where H is the Hubble parameter in de Sitter space-time, then the stationary solutions exist, and initial field configurations tend with time to the stationary ones. However, there are no stationary solutions for δ{sub 0} ≥ H {sup −1}/√2. We have calculated numerically the rate of the wallmore » expansion in this case and have found that the width of the wall grows exponentially fast for δ{sub 0} >> H {sup −1}. An explanation for the critical value δ{sub 0} {sub c} = H {sup −1}/√2 is also proposed.« less

MiR-133 modulates TGF-β1-induced bladder smooth muscle cell hypertrophic and fibrotic response: implication for a role of microRNA in bladder wall remodeling caused by bladder outlet obstruction.

PubMed

Duan, Liu Jian; Qi, Jun; Kong, Xiang Jie; Huang, Tao; Qian, Xiao Qiang; Xu, Ding; Liang, Jun Hao; Kang, Jian

2015-02-01

Bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) evokes urinary bladder wall remodeling significantly, including the phenotype shift of bladder smooth muscle cells (BSMCs) where transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-β1) plays a pivotal role given the emerging function of modulating cellular phenotype. miR-133 plays a role in cardiac and muscle remodeling, however, little is known about its roles in TGF-β1-induced BSMC hypertrophic and fibrotic response. Here, we verified BOO induced bladder wall remodeling and TGF-β1 expression mainly located in bladder endothelium. Furthermore, we uncovered miR-133a/b expression profile in BOO rats, and then explored its regulated effects on BSMCs' phenotypic shift. Our study found that miR-133 became down-regulated during rat bladder remodeling. Next, we sought to examine whether the expression of miR-133 was down-regulated in primary BSMCs in response to TGF-β1 stimulation and whether forced overexpression of miR-133 could regulate profibrotic TGF-β signaling. We found that stimulation of BSMCs with exogenous TGF-β1 of increasing concentrations resulted in a dose-dependent decrease of miR-133a/b levels and transfection with miR-133 mimics attenuated TGF-β1-induced α-smooth muscle actin, extracellular matrix subtypes and fibrotic growth factor expression, whereas it upregulated high molecular weight caldesmon expression compared with the negative control. Also, downregulation of p-Smad3, not p-Smad2 by miR-133 was detected. Additionally, miR-133 overexpression suppressed TGF-β1-induced BSMC hypertrophy and proliferation through influencing cell cycle distribution. Bioinformatics analyses predicted that connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) was the potential target of miR-133, and then binding to the 3'-untranslated region of CTGF was validated by luciferase reporter assay. These results reveal a novel regulator for miR-133 to modulate TGF-β1-induced BSMC phenotypic changes by targeting CTGF through the TGF-β-Smad3 signaling pathway

Bladder function after sacrospinous hysteropexy and vaginal wall repair in women with uterovaginal prolapse.

PubMed

Sayed Ahmed, Waleed A; Taha, Omima T; Hamdy, Mostafa A; Ibrahim, Zakia M; Elshahat, Amal M

2018-05-01

To evaluate the impact of repair of uterovaginal prolapse using sacrospinous hysteropexy and vaginal wall repair on the bladder function. The study was conducted at the urogynecology clinic of Suez Canal University Hospitals, Ismailia from January 2014 to March 2016. This study included women with a diagnosis of uterovaginal prolapse and wishing to preserve their uteri. Bladder function was evaluated through assessment of urological symptoms using a standardized questionnaire - the urogenital distress inventory (UDI-6) - in addition to urodynamic studies just before and six-months after the sacrospinous hysteropexy ± associated vaginal wall repair operation. Twenty-seven patients completed the study with a mean age of 36.5 ± 4 years. Only 3 women had sacrospinous hysteropexy with no additional procedures. Other procedures included anterior colporrhaphy (12), posterior colporrhaphy (9) and perineorrhaphy (15). Based on UDI-6, there was no significant difference between the pre- and post-operative symptoms of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) [8/27 (29.6%) vs. 9/27 (33.3%) respectively; p value = 0.7]. The pre- and post-operative symptoms of urge urinary incontinence were also insignificantly different [13/27 (48.1%) vs. 15/27 (55.5%); p value = 0.5]. The total score of UDI-6 increased from 24.5 ± (14.2) to 32.8 ± (29.4) which was not statistically significant (p value = 0.12). Urodynamically, voiding dysfunction was found less frequently after the operation, however the difference was statistically insignificant [9/27 (33.3%) vs. 8/27 (29.6%); p value = 0.7]. Sacrospinous hysteropexy and associated vaginal wall repair do not affect the bladder function either subjectively or objectively. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

The Bulging Behavior of Thick-Walled 6063 Aluminum Alloy Tubes Under Double-Sided Pressures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cui, Xiao-Lei; Wang, Xiao-Song; Yuan, Shi-Jian

2015-05-01

To make further exploration on the deformation behavior of tube under double-sided pressures, the thick-walled 6063 aluminum alloy tubes with an outer diameter of 65 mm and an average thickness of 7.86 mm have been used to be bulged under the combined action of internal and external pressures. In the experiment, two ends of the thick-walled tubes were fixed using the tooth and groove match. Three levels of external pressure (0 MPa, 40 MPa, and 80 MPa), in conjunction with the internal pressure, were applied on the tube outside and inside simultaneously. The effect of external pressure on the bulging behavior of the thick-walled tubes, such as the limiting expansion ratio, the bulging zone profile, and the thickness distribution, has been investigated. It is shown that the limiting expansion ratio, the bulging zone profile, and the thickness distribution in the homogeneous bulging area are all insensitive to the external pressure. However, the external pressure can make the thick-walled tube achieve a thinner wall at the fracture area. It reveals that the external pressure can only improve the fracture limit of the thick-walled 6063 tubes, but it has very little effect on their homogeneous bulging behavior. It might be because the external pressure can only increase the magnitude of the hydrostatic pressure for the tube but has no effect on the Lode parameter.

Influence of the internal wall thickness of electrical capacitance tomography sensors on image quality

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liang, Shiguo; Ye, Jiamin; Wang, Haigang; Wu, Meng; Yang, Wuqiang

2018-03-01

In the design of electrical capacitance tomography (ECT) sensors, the internal wall thickness can vary with specific applications, and it is a key factor that influences the sensitivity distribution and image quality. This paper will discuss the effect of the wall thickness of ECT sensors on image quality. Three flow patterns are simulated for wall thicknesses of 2.5 mm to 15 mm on eight-electrode ECT sensors. The sensitivity distributions and potential distributions are compared for different wall thicknesses. Linear back-projection and Landweber iteration algorithms are used for image reconstruction. Relative image error and correlation coefficients are used for image evaluation using both simulation and experimental data.

Enhancing cell-free layer thickness by bypass channels in a wall.

PubMed

Saadatmand, M; Shimogonya, Y; Yamaguchi, T; Ishikawa, T

2016-07-26

When blood flows near a wall, red blood cells (RBCs) drift away from the wall and a cell-free layer (CFL) is formed adjacent to the wall. Controlling the CFL thickness is important for preventing adhesion of cells in the design of biomedical devices. In this study, a novel wall configuration with stenoses and bypass channels is proposed to increase the CFL thickness. We found that the presence of bypass channels modified the spatial distribution of cells and substantially increased the CFL downstream of the stenosis. A single-bypass geometry with 5% hematocrit (Hct) blood flow showed a 1.7μm increase in CFL thickness compared to without the bypass. In the case of three bypass channels, a 3μm increase in CFL thickness was observed. The CFL enhancement was observed up to 10% Hct, but no significant enhancement of CFL was indicated for 20% Hct blood flow. The mechanism of the CFL enhancement was investigated using a numerical simulation of the flow field. The results showed that the distance between each streamline and the corner of the stenosis compared with size of RBC was important parameter in regulating CFL thickness. These results show the potential of the proposed mechanism to prevent adhesion of cells to biomedical devices. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Wall structure and material properties cause viscous damping of swimbladder sounds in the oyster toadfish Opsanus tau

PubMed Central

King, Terrence L.; Ali, Heba; Sidker, Nehan; Cameron, Timothy M.

2016-01-01

Despite rapid damping, fish swimbladders have been modelled as underwater resonant bubbles. Recent data suggest that swimbladders of sound-producing fishes use a forced rather than a resonant response to produce sound. The reason for this discrepancy has not been formally addressed, and we demonstrate, for the first time, that the structure of the swimbladder wall will affect vibratory behaviour. Using the oyster toadfish Opsanus tau, we find regional differences in bladder thickness, directionality of collagen layers (anisotropic bladder wall structure), material properties that differ between circular and longitudinal directions (stress, strain and Young's modulus), high water content (80%) of the bladder wall and a 300-fold increase in the modulus of dried tissue. Therefore, the swimbladder wall is a viscoelastic structure that serves to damp vibrations and impart directionality, preventing the expression of resonance. PMID:27798293

On thick domain walls in general relativity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goetz, Guenter; Noetzold, Dirk

1989-01-01

Planar scalar field configurations in general relativity differ considerably from those in flat space. It is shown that static domain walls of finite thickness in curved space-time do not possess a reflection symmetry. At infinity, the space-time tends to the Taub vacuum on one side of the wall and to the Minkowski vacuum (Rindler space-time) on the other. Massive test particles are always accelerated towards the Minkowski side, i.e., domain walls are attractive on the Taub side, but repulsive on the Minkowski side (Taub-vacuum cleaner). It is also proved that the pressure in all directions is always negative. Finally, a brief comment is made concerning the possibility of infinite, i.e., bigger than horizon size, domain walls in our universe. All of the results are independent of the form of the potential V(phi) greater than or equal to 0 of the scalar field phi.

Bladder Monitor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1993-01-01

Diagnostic Ultrasound Corporation's Bladder Scan Monitor continuously records and monitors bladder fullness and alerts the wearer or caretaker when voiding is required. The sensor is held against the lower abdomen by a belt and connected to the monitor by a cable. The sensor obtains bladder volume data from sound waves reflecting off the bladder wall. The device was developed by Langley Research Center, the Ames Research Center and the NASA Technology Applications Team. It utilizes Langley's advanced ultrasound technology. It is licensed to the ARC for medical applications, and sublicensed to Diagnostics Ultrasound. Central monitoring systems are planned for the future.

A Probabilistic Method for Estimation of Bowel Wall Thickness in MR Colonography

PubMed Central

Menys, Alex; Jaffer, Asif; Bhatnagar, Gauraang; Punwani, Shonit; Atkinson, David; Halligan, Steve; Hawkes, David J.; Taylor, Stuart A.

2017-01-01

MRI has recently been applied as a tool to quantitatively evaluate the response to therapy in patients with Crohn’s disease, and is the preferred choice for repeated imaging. Bowel wall thickness on MRI is an important biomarker of underlying inflammatory activity, being abnormally increased in the acute phase and reducing in response to successful therapy; however, a poor level of interobserver agreement of measured thickness is reported and therefore a system for accurate, robust and reproducible measurements is desirable. We propose a novel method for estimating bowel wall-thickness to improve the poor interobserver agreement of the manual procedure. We show that the variability of wall thickness measurement between the algorithm and observer measurements (0.25mm ± 0.81mm) has differences which are similar to observer variability (0.16mm ± 0.64mm). PMID:28072831

[A case of eosinophilic cystitis mimicking an invasive bladder cancer].

PubMed

Okazaki, Satoshi; Hori, Jun-Ichi; Kita, Masafumi; Yamaguchi, Satoshi; Kawakami, Norihiro; Kakizaki, Hidehiro

2014-12-01

A 60-year-old woman was referred to our hospital because of gross hematuria, right lumbar pain and lower abdominal pain. Computed tomography (CT) scan revealed hydronephrosis of the right kidney, irregular bladder wall thickening at the right lateral and posterior portion and external iliac lymph node swelling of the right side. Laboratory data revealed disseminated intravascular coagulation syndrome (DIC) and eosinophilia. Because she developed a high fever that was caused by acute obstructive pyelonephritis of the right kidney, percutaneous nephrostomy was placed and the therapy for DIC was initiated. Pathological examination of transurethral resection of bladder tumor performed twice showed no malignancy but inflammatory infiltration of many eosinocytes, leading to the diagnosis of eosinophilic cystitis (EC). We considered the possibility of allergic reaction to the drugs she was taking as the etiology of EC and discontinued all drugs. Although eosinophilia was resolved afterward, she then developed brain infarction, followed by cerebral hemorrhage. She was transferred to a rehabilitation hospital for long-term care. CT scan that was performed 4 months after the initial presentation showed the resolution of hydronephrosis of the right kidney and external iliac lymph node swelling and the improvement of bladder wall thickness. Hydronephrosis of the right kidney has not recurred after removing the nephrostomy catheter. EC is a rare condition that could mimic an invasive bladder cancer. EC should be considered if bladder tumor is associated with eosinophilia. Therapeutic consideration for thromboembolic events should be made in patients with EC.

Female urinary incontinence at orgasm: a possible marker of a more severe form of detrusor overactivity. Can ultrasound measurement of bladder wall thickness explain it?

PubMed

Serati, Maurizio; Salvatore, Stefano; Cattoni, Elena; Siesto, Gabriele; Soligo, Marco; Braga, Andrea; Sorice, Paola; Cromi, Antonella; Ghezzi, Fabio; Cardozo, Linda; Bolis, Pierfrancesco

2011-06-01

Coital incontinence (CI) during orgasm is a form of urinary incontinence possibly because of detrusor overactivity (DO), as the underlying pathophysiological condition. Women with this symptom usually show a pharmacological lower cure rate than those with DO alone. The ultrasound measurement of the bladder wall thickness (BWT) allows an indirect evaluation of detrusor muscle thickness, giving a potential index of detrusor activity. We wanted to understand if CI at orgasm could be a marker of severity of DO by comparing BWT in women with both DO and CI at orgasm vs. women with DO alone. In addition we aimed to confirm if CI during orgasm is related to antimuscarinics treatment failure. This is a prospective cohort study performed in two tertiary urogynecological referral departments, recruiting consecutive patients seeking treatment for symptomatic DO. All patients were thoroughly assessed including physical examination, urodynamic evaluation, and BWT measurement according to the International Continence Society/International Urogynecological Association and ICI recommendations. Solifenacine 5 mg once daily was then prescribed and follow-up was scheduled to evaluate treatment. Multiple logistic regression (MLR) was performed to identify risk factors for treatment failure. Between September 2007 and March 2010, 31 (22.6%) and 106 (77.4%) women with DO with and without CI at orgasm were enrolled. Women complaining of CI at orgasm had significantly higher BWT than the control group (5.8 ± 0.6 mm vs. 5.2 ± 1.2 mm [P=0.007]). In patients with CI at orgasm, the nonresponder rate to antimuscarinics was significantly higher than controls (P=0.01). After MLR, CI at orgasm was the only independent predictor decreasing antimuscarinics efficacy (odds ratio [OR] 3.16 [95% CI 1.22-8.18], P=0.02). Women with DO and CI at orgasm showed a significantly higher BWT values and worse cure rates than women with DO alone. CI at orgasm could be a marker of a more severe form of DO. �

Abdominal wall dysfunction in adult bladder exstrophy: a treatable but under-recognized problem.

PubMed

Manahan, M A; Campbell, K A; Tufaro, A P

2016-08-01

Bladder exstrophy is defined by urogenital and skeletal abnormalities with cosmetic and functional deformity of the lower anterior abdominal wall. The primary management objectives have historically been establishment of urinary continence with renal function preservation, reconstruction of functional and cosmetically acceptable external genitalia, and abdominal wall closure of some variety. The literature has focused on the challenges of neonatal approaches to abdominal wall closure; however, there has been a paucity of long-term followup to identify the presence and severity of abdominal wall defects in adulthood. Our goal was to characterize the adult disease and determine effective therapy. A retrospective review of a consecutive series of six patients was performed. We report and characterize the presence of severe abdominal wall dysfunction in these adult exstrophy patients treated as children. We tailored an abdominal wall and pelvic floor reconstruction with long-term success to highlight a need for awareness of the magnitude of the problem and its solvability. The natural history of abdominal wall laxity and the long-term consequences of cloacal exstrophy closure have gone unexplored and unreported. Evaluation of our series facilitates understanding in this complex area and may be valuable for patients who are living limited lives thinking that no solution is available.

Post-cast EDM method for reducing the thickness of a turbine nozzle wall

DOEpatents

Jones, Raymond Joseph; Bojappa, Parvangada Ganapathy; Kirkpatrick, Francis Lawrence; Schotsch, Margaret Jones; Rajan, Rajiv; Wei, Bin

2002-01-01

A post-cast EDM process is used to remove material from the interior surface of a nozzle vane cavity of a turbine. A thin electrode is passed through the cavity between opposite ends of the nozzle vane and displaced along the interior nozzle wall to remove the material along a predetermined path, thus reducing the thickness of the wall between the cavity and the external surface of the nozzle. In another form, an EDM process employing a profile as an electrode is disposed in the cavity and advanced against the wall to remove material from the wall until the final wall thickness is achieved, with the interior wall surface being complementary to the profile surface.

Quantification of esophageal wall thickness in CT using atlas-based segmentation technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Jiahui; Kang, Min Kyu; Kligerman, Seth; Lu, Wei

2015-03-01

Esophageal wall thickness is an important predictor of esophageal cancer response to therapy. In this study, we developed a computerized pipeline for quantification of esophageal wall thickness using computerized tomography (CT). We first segmented the esophagus using a multi-atlas-based segmentation scheme. The esophagus in each atlas CT was manually segmented to create a label map. Using image registration, all of the atlases were aligned to the imaging space of the target CT. The deformation field from the registration was applied to the label maps to warp them to the target space. A weighted majority-voting label fusion was employed to create the segmentation of esophagus. Finally, we excluded the lumen from the esophagus using a threshold of -600 HU and measured the esophageal wall thickness. The developed method was tested on a dataset of 30 CT scans, including 15 esophageal cancer patients and 15 normal controls. The mean Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) and mean absolute distance (MAD) between the segmented esophagus and the reference standard were employed to evaluate the segmentation results. Our method achieved a mean Dice coefficient of 65.55 ± 10.48% and mean MAD of 1.40 ± 1.31 mm for all the cases. The mean esophageal wall thickness of cancer patients and normal controls was 6.35 ± 1.19 mm and 6.03 ± 0.51 mm, respectively. We conclude that the proposed method can perform quantitative analysis of esophageal wall thickness and would be useful for tumor detection and tumor response evaluation of esophageal cancer.

Significance of Random Bladder Biopsies in Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer

PubMed Central

Kumano, Masafumi; Miyake, Hideaki; Nakano, Yuzo; Fujisawa, Masato

2013-01-01

Background/Aims To evaluate retrospectively the clinical outcome of random bladder biopsies in patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) undergoing transurethral resection (TUR). Patients and Method This study included 234 consecutive patients with NMIBC who underwent random biopsies from normal-appearing urothelium of the bladder, including the anterior wall, posterior wall, right wall, left wall, dome, trigone and/or prostatic urethra, during TUR. Result Thirty-seven patients (15.8%) were diagnosed by random biopsies as having urothelial cancer. Among several factors available prior to TUR, preoperative urinary cytology appeared to be independently related to the detection of urothelial cancer in random biopsies on multivariate analysis. Urinary cytology prior to TUR gave 50.0% sensitivity, 91.7% specificity, 56.8% positive predictive value and 89.3% negative predictive value for predicting the findings of the random biopsies. Conclusion Biopsies of normal-appearing urothelium resulted in the additional detection of urothelial cancer in a definite proportion of NMIBC patients, and it remains difficult to find a reliable alternative to random biopsies. Collectively, these findings suggest that it would be beneficial to perform random biopsies as part of the routine management of NMIBC. PMID:24917759

49 CFR 179.500-4 - Thickness of wall.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued) PIPELINE AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SAFETY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (CONTINUED) SPECIFICATIONS FOR TANK CARS Specification for Cryogenic Liquid Tank Car Tanks and Seamless Steel Tanks (Classes DOT-113 and 107A) § 179.500-4 Thickness of wall...

Local and systemic effects of leg cycling training on arterial wall thickness in healthy humans.

PubMed

Thijssen, Dick H J; Dawson, Ellen A; van den Munckhof, Inge C L; Birk, Gurpreet K; Timothy Cable, N; Green, Daniel J

2013-08-01

Exercise training is associated with direct effects on conduit artery function and structure. Cross-sectional studies suggest the presence of systemic changes in wall thickness as a result of exercise in healthy subjects, but no previous study has examined this question in humans undertaking exercise training. To examine the change in superficial femoral (SFA, i.e. local effect) and carotid (CA, i.e. systemic effect) artery wall thickness across 8 weeks of lower limb cycle training in healthy young men. Fourteen healthy young male subjects were assigned to an 8-week training study of cycling exercise (n = 9) or a control period (n = 5). Before, during (2, 4 and 6 weeks) and after training, SFA and CA wall thickness was examined using automated edge-detection of high resolution ultrasound images. We also measured resting diameter and calculated the wall:lumen(W:L)-ratio. Exercise training did not alter CA or SFA baseline diameter (P = 0.14), but was associated with gradual, consistent and significant decreases in wall thickness and W:L-ratio in both the CA and SFA (P < 0.001 and 0.002, respectively). Two-way ANOVA revealed a comparable magnitude of decrease in wall thickness and W:L-ratio in both arteries across the 8-week period (interaction-effect; P = 0.29 and 0.12, respectively). No changes in artery diameter, wall thickness or W:L-ratio were apparent in controls (0.82, 0.38 and 0.52, respectively). We found that cycle exercise training in healthy young individuals is associated with modest, but significant, decreases in wall thickness in the superficial femoral and carotid arteries. These findings suggest that exercise training causes systemic adaptation of the arterial wall in healthy young subjects. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Prevalence and histopathological finding of thin-walled and thick-walled Sarcocysts in slaughtered cattle of Karaj abattoir, Iran.

PubMed

Nourollahi-Fard, Saeid R; Kheirandish, Reza; Sattari, Saeid

2015-06-01

Sarcocystosis is a zoonotic disease caused by Sarcocystis spp. with obligatory two host life cycle generally alternating between an herbivorous intermediate host and a carnivorous definitive host. Some species of this coccidian parasite can cause considerable morbidity and mortality in cattle. The present study was set to investigate the prevalence of Sarcocystis spp. and type of cyst wall in slaughtered cattle of Karaj abattoir, Iran. For this purpose 125 cattle (88 males and 37 females) were investigated for the presence of macroscopic and microscopic Sarcocystis cysts in muscular tissues. No macroscopic Sarcocystis cysts were found in any of the samples. In light microscopy, 121 out of 125 cattle (96.8 %) had thin-walled cysts of Sarcocystis cruzi, while 43 out of them (34.4 %) had thick-walled Sarcocystis cyst. In this survey, the most infected tissue was esophagus and heart and the less was diaphragm. Thin-walled cysts (S. cruzi) mostly found in heart and skeletal muscle showed the less. However, thick-walled cyst (S. hominis or S. hirsuta) mostly were detected in diaphragm, heart muscle showed no thick-walled cyst. No significant relation was observed between age and sex and the rate of infection. The results showed that Sarcocystis cyst is prevalent in cattle in the North part of Iran and the evaluation of infection potential can be useful when considering control programs.

The impact of personalized probabilistic wall thickness models on peak wall stress in abdominal aortic aneurysms.

PubMed

Biehler, J; Wall, W A

2018-02-01

If computational models are ever to be used in high-stakes decision making in clinical practice, the use of personalized models and predictive simulation techniques is a must. This entails rigorous quantification of uncertainties as well as harnessing available patient-specific data to the greatest extent possible. Although researchers are beginning to realize that taking uncertainty in model input parameters into account is a necessity, the predominantly used probabilistic description for these uncertain parameters is based on elementary random variable models. In this work, we set out for a comparison of different probabilistic models for uncertain input parameters using the example of an uncertain wall thickness in finite element models of abdominal aortic aneurysms. We provide the first comparison between a random variable and a random field model for the aortic wall and investigate the impact on the probability distribution of the computed peak wall stress. Moreover, we show that the uncertainty about the prevailing peak wall stress can be reduced if noninvasively available, patient-specific data are harnessed for the construction of the probabilistic wall thickness model. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Method and apparatus for determining diameter and wall thickness of minute hollow spherical shells

DOEpatents

Steinman, D.A.

1980-05-30

Method and apparatus for determining diameter and wall thickness of hollow microspheres or shells wherein terminal velocities of shells traveling in fluid-filled conduits of differing diameters are measured. A wall-effect factor is determined as a ratio of the terminal velocities, and shell outside diameter may then be ascertained as a predetermined empirical function of wall-effect factor. For shells of known outside diameter, wall thickness may then be ascertained as a predetermined empirical function of terminal velocity in either conduit.

Method and apparatus for determining diameter and wall thickness of minute hollow spherical shells

DOEpatents

Steinman, David A.

1982-01-01

Method and apparatus for determining diameter and wall thickness of hollow microspheres or shells wherein terminal velocities of shells traveling in fluid-filled conduits of differing diameters are measured. A wall-effect factor is determined as a ratio of the terminal velocities, and shell outside diameter may then be ascertained as a predetermined empirical function of wall-effect factor. For shells of known outside diameter, wall thickness may then be ascertained as a predetermined empirical function of terminal velocity in either conduit.

The influence of botulinum toxin type A (BTX) on the immunohistochemical characteristics of noradrenergic and cholinergic nerve fibers supplying the porcine urinary bladder wall.

PubMed

Lepiarczyk, E; Bossowska, A; Kaleczyc, J; Majewski, M

2011-01-01

Botulinum toxin (BTX) belongs to a family of neurotoxins which strongly influence the function of autonomic neurons supplying the urinary bladder. Accordingly, BTX has been used as an effective drug in experimental therapies of a range of neurogenic bladder disorders. However, there is no detailed information dealing with the influence of BTX on the morphological and chemical properties of nerve fibres supplying the urinary bladder wall. Therefore, the present study investigated, using double-labeling immunohistochemistry, the distribution, relative frequency and chemical coding of cholinergic and noradrenergic nerve fibers supplying the wall of the urinary bladder in normal female pigs (n = 6) and in the pigs (n = 6) after intravesical BTX injections. In the pigs injected with BTX, the number of adrenergic (DbetaH-positive) nerve fibers distributed in the bladder wall (urothelium, submucosa and muscle coat) was distinctly higher while the number of cholinergic (VAChT-positive) nerve terminals was lower than that found in the control animals. Moreover, the injections of BTX resulted in some changes dealing with the chemical coding of the adrenergic nerve fibers. In contrast to the normal pigs, in BTX injected animals the number of DbetaH/NPY- or DbetaH/CGRP-positive axons was higher in the muscle coat, and some fibres distributed in the urothelium and submucosa expressed immunoreactivity to CGRP. The results obtained suggest that the therapeutic effects of BTX on the urinary bladder might be dependent on changes in the distribution and chemical coding of nerve fibers supplying this organ.

Comparison of Maximal Wall Thickness in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Differs Between Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Transthoracic Echocardiography.

PubMed

Bois, John P; Geske, Jeffrey B; Foley, Thomas A; Ommen, Steve R; Pellikka, Patricia A

2017-02-15

Left ventricular (LV) wall thickness is a prognostic marker in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HC). LV wall thickness ≥30 mm (massive hypertrophy) is independently associated with sudden cardiac death. Presence of massive hypertrophy is used to guide decision making for cardiac defibrillator implantation. We sought to determine whether measurements of maximal LV wall thickness differ between cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and transthoracic echocardiography (TTE). Consecutive patients were studied who had HC without previous septal ablation or myectomy and underwent both cardiac MRI and TTE at a single tertiary referral center. Reported maximal LV wall thickness was compared between the imaging techniques. Patients with ≥1 technique reporting massive hypertrophy received subset analysis. In total, 618 patients were evaluated from January 1, 2003, to December 21, 2012 (mean [SD] age, 53 [15] years; 381 men [62%]). In 75 patients (12%), reported maximal LV wall thickness was identical between MRI and TTE. Median difference in reported maximal LV wall thickness between the techniques was 3 mm (maximum difference, 17 mm). Of the 63 patients with ≥1 technique measuring maximal LV wall thickness ≥30 mm, 44 patients (70%) had discrepant classification regarding massive hypertrophy. MRI identified 52 patients (83%) with massive hypertrophy; TTE, 30 patients (48%). Although guidelines recommend MRI or TTE imaging to assess cardiac anatomy in HC, this study shows discrepancy between the techniques for maximal reported LV wall thickness assessment. In conclusion, because this measure clinically affects prognosis and therapeutic decision making, efforts to resolve these discrepancies are critical. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Efficacy and problems of bladder volume measurement using portable three dimensional ultrasound scanning device--in particular, on measuring bladder volume lower than 100ml].

PubMed

Oh-Oka, Hitoshi; Nose, Ryuichiro

2005-09-01

Using a portable three dimensional ultrasound scanning device (The Bladder Scan BVI6100, Diagnostic Ultrasound Corporation), we examined measured values of bladder volume, especially focusing on volume lower than 100 ml. A total of 100 patients (male: 66, female: 34) were enrolled in the study. We made a comparison study between the measured value (the average of three measurements of bladder urine volume after a trial in male and female modes) using BVI6100, and the actual measured value of the sample obtained by urethral catheterization in each patient. We examined the factors which could increase the error rate. We also introduced the effective techniques to reduce measurement errors. The actual measured values in all patients correlated well with the average value of three measurements after a trial in a male mode of the BVI6100. The correlation coefficient was 0.887, the error rate was--4.6 +/- 24.5%, and the average coefficient of variation was 15.2. It was observed that the measurement result using the BVI6100 is influenced by patient side factors (extracted edges between bladder wall and urine, thickened bladder wall, irregular bladder wall, flattened rate of bladder, mistaking prostate for bladder in male, mistaking bladder for uterus in a female mode, etc.) or examiner side factors (angle between BVI and abdominal wall, compatibility between abdominal wall and ultrasound probe, controlling deflection while using probe, etc). When appropriate patients are chosen and proper measurement is performed, BVI6100 provides significantly higher accuracy in determining bladder volume, compared with existing abdominal ultrasound methods. BVI6100 is a convenient and extremely effective device also for the measurement of bladder urine over 100 ml.

Gastric full-thickness suturing during EMR and for treatment of gastric-wall defects (with video).

PubMed

von Renteln, Daniel; Schmidt, Arthur; Riecken, Bettina; Caca, Karel

2008-04-01

The endoscopic full-thickness Plicator device was initially developed to provide an endoscopic treatment option for patients with GERD. Because the endoscopic full-thickness Plicator enables rapid and easy placement of transmural sutures, comparable with surgical sutures, we used the Plicator device for endoscopic treatment or prevention of GI-wall defects. To describe the outcomes and complications of endoscopic full-thickness suturing during EMR and for the treatment of gastric-wall defects. A report of 4 cases treated with the endoscopic full-thickness suturing between June 2006 and April 2007. A large tertiary-referral center. Four subjects received endoscopic full-thickness suturing. The subjects were women, with a mean age of 67 years. Of the 4 subjects, 3 received endoscopic full-thickness suturing during or after an EMR. One subject received endoscopic full-thickness suturing for treatment of a fistula. Primary outcome measurements were clinical procedural success and procedure-related adverse events. The mean time for endoscopic full-thickness suturing was 15 minutes. In all cases, GI-wall patency was restored or ensured, and no procedure-related complications occurred. All subjects responded well to endoscopic full-thickness suturing. The resection of one GI stromal tumor was incomplete. Because of the Plicator's 60F distal-end diameter, endoscopic full-thickness suturing could only be performed with the patient under midazolam and propofol sedation. The durable Plicator suture might compromise the endoscopic follow-up after EMR. The endoscopic full-thickness Plicator permits rapid and easy placement of transmural sutures and seems to be a safe and effective alternative to surgical intervention to restore GI-wall defects or to ensure GI-wall patency during EMR procedures.

Analysis of thermoelastic characteristics in a thick walled FGM cylinder

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tanvir, A. N. M.; Islam, Md. Didarul; Ahmed, Faisal

2017-12-01

This study is concerned with the behavior of stress and strain in a thick walled functionally graded material (FGM) cylinder under internal pressure. The incompatible eigenstrain and equivalent eigenstrain developed in the cylinder, are taken into account. As a demonstration, a TiC/Al2O3 FGM cylinder is considered and different components of stress and strain are presented in order to study the effects of internal pressure, temperature difference (between room and sintering temperature), cylinder wall thickness and material distribution. The numerical result presented here shows that the thermoelastic characteristic like stress and strain of an FGM cylinder is significantly influenced by some of the above-mentioned parameters and can be controlled by properly controlling these parameters.

Ultrasonic Wall Thickness Monitoring at High Temperatures (>500 °C)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cegla, F. B.; Allin, J.; Davies, J. O.; Collins, P.; Cawley, P.

2011-06-01

Corrosion and erosion shorten the life of components that are used in the petrochemical industry. In order to mitigate the safety and financial risks posed by the degradation mechanisms, plant operators monitor wall thicknesses at regular inspection intervals. In high temperature locations inspections have to be carried out at plant shut downs because conventional ultrasonic sensors cannot withstand the high operating temperatures. The authors have developed a waveguide based high temperature thickness gauge for monitoring of wall thicknesses in high temperature areas. The waveguide allows the use of conventional transduction systems (max temp. 60 °C) at one end and guides ultrasonic waves into the high temperature region where the inspection is to be carried out. Slender stainless steel waveguides allow a temperature drop of ˜500-600 °C per 200 mm length to be sustained simply by natural convection cooling. This paper describes the technical challenges that had to be overcome (dispersion and source/receiver characteristics) in order to implement this "acoustic cable". A range of experimental results of thickness measurements on components of different thickness, and furnace tests at different temperatures are presented. An accelerated corrosion test that demonstrates the effectiveness of the monitoring for corrosion is also presented.

Three-dimensional atrial wall thickness maps to inform catheter ablation procedures for atrial fibrillation.

PubMed

Bishop, Martin; Rajani, Ronak; Plank, Gernot; Gaddum, Nicholas; Carr-White, Gerry; Wright, Matt; O'Neill, Mark; Niederer, Steven

2016-03-01

Transmural lesion formation is critical to success in atrial fibrillation ablation and is dependent on left atrial wall thickness (LAWT). Pre- and peri-procedural planning may benefit from LAWT measurements. To calculate the LAWT, the Laplace equation was solved over a finite element mesh of the left atrium derived from the segmented computed tomographic angiography (CTA) dataset. Local LAWT was then calculated from the length of field lines derived from the Laplace solution that spanned the wall from the endocardium or epicardium. The method was validated on an atrium phantom and retrospectively applied to 10 patients who underwent routine coronary CTA for standard clinical indications at our institute. The Laplace wall thickness algorithm was validated on the left atrium phantom. Wall thickness measurements had errors of <0.2 mm for thicknesses of 0.5-5.0 mm that are attributed to image resolution and segmentation artefacts. Left atrial wall thickness measurements were performed on 10 patients. Successful comprehensive LAWT maps were generated in all patients from the coronary CTA images. Mean LAWT measurements ranged from 0.6 to 1.0 mm and showed significant inter and intra patient variability. Left atrial wall thickness can be measured robustly and efficiently across the whole left atrium using a solution of the Laplace equation over a finite element mesh of the left atrium. Further studies are indicated to determine whether the integration of LAWT maps into pre-existing 3D anatomical mapping systems may provide important anatomical information for guiding radiofrequency ablation. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author 2015. For permissions please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Urothelium update: how the bladder mucosa measures bladder filling.

PubMed

Janssen, D A W; Schalken, J A; Heesakkers, J P F A

2017-06-01

This review critically evaluates the evidence on mechanoreceptors and pathways in the bladder urothelium that are involved in normal bladder filling signalling. Evidence from in vitro and in vivo studies on (i) signalling pathways like the adenosine triphosphate pathway, cholinergic pathway and nitric oxide and adrenergic pathway, and (ii) different urothelial receptors that are involved in bladder filling signalling like purinergic receptors, sodium channels and TRP channels will be evaluated. Other potential pathways and receptors will also be discussed. Bladder filling results in continuous changes in bladder wall stretch and exposure to urine. Both barrier and afferent signalling functions in the urothelium are constantly adapting to cope with these dynamics. Current evidence shows that the bladder mucosa hosts essential pathways and receptors that mediate bladder filling signalling. Intracellular calcium ion increase is a dominant factor in this signalling process. However, there is still no complete understanding how interacting receptors and pathways create a bladder filling signal. Currently, there are still novel receptors investigated that could also be participating in bladder filling signalling. Normal bladder filling sensation is dependent on multiple interacting mechanoreceptors and signalling pathways. Research efforts need to focus on how these pathways and receptors interact to fully understand normal bladder filling signalling. © 2016 Scandinavian Physiological Society. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

[The cutaneous groin flap for coverage of a full-thickness abdominal wall defect].

PubMed

Doebler, O; Spierer, R

2010-08-01

A full-thickness defect of the abdominal wall is rare and may occur as a complication of extended abdominal surgery procedures. We report about a 69-year-old patient who was presented to our department with a full-thickness abdominal wall defect and a fully exposed collagen-mesh for reconstructive wound closure. 13 operations with resections of necrotic parts of the abdominal wall were performed following a complicated intraabdominal infection. After debridement and mesh explantation, closure of the remaining defect of the lower abdominal region was achieved by a cutaneous groin flap. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart New York.

Sensitivity of dual-wall structures under hypervelocity impact to multi-layer thermal insulation thickness and placement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schonberg, William P.

1993-04-01

Results are presented from an experimental study in which Al dual-wall structures were tested, under various high-speed impact conditions, with a view to the effect of multilayer insulation thickness and location on perforation resistance. Attention is given to comparisons of the damage sustained by dual-wall systems with multilayer insulation blankets of various thicknesses and at various locations within the dual-wall system, under comparable impact loading conditions. The placement of the insulation has a significant effect on the ballistic limit of the dual-wall structures considered, while reducing insulation thickness by as much as a third did not.

Construction of Extended 3D Field of Views of the Internal Bladder Wall Surface: A Proof of Concept

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ben-Hamadou, Achraf; Daul, Christian; Soussen, Charles

2016-09-01

3D extended field of views (FOVs) of the internal bladder wall facilitate lesion diagnosis, patient follow-up and treatment traceability. In this paper, we propose a 3D image mosaicing algorithm guided by 2D cystoscopic video-image registration for obtaining textured FOV mosaics. In this feasibility study, the registration makes use of data from a 3D cystoscope prototype providing, in addition to each small FOV image, some 3D points located on the surface. This proof of concept shows that textured surfaces can be constructed with minimally modified cystoscopes. The potential of the method is demonstrated on numerical and real phantoms reproducing various surface shapes. Pig and human bladder textures are superimposed on phantoms with known shape and dimensions. These data allow for quantitative assessment of the 3D mosaicing algorithm based on the registration of images simulating bladder textures.

Dietary fat intake and carotid artery wall thickness: the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study.

PubMed

Tell, G S; Evans, G W; Folsom, A R; Shimakawa, T; Carpenter, M A; Heiss, G

1994-05-15

Associations between atherosclerosis and dietary fat and cholesterol have been demonstrated in numerous animal experiments. The relation between these dietary components and atherosclerosis has not previously been reported in a population-based study among human beings. The associations of dietary fat and cholesterol with carotid artery wall thickness (atherosclerosis) were investigated in a population-based study, the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study, from 1987 to 1989. Participants were 2,095 black women, 5,146 white women, 1,318 black men and 4,589 white men, aged 45-64 years, recruited from four US communities: Jackson, Mississippi; Forsyth County, North Carolina; Washington County, Maryland; and Minneapolis, Minnesota. Habitual diet was assessed with a food frequency questionnaire. Wall thickness was measured with B-mode ultrasound. After adjustment for age and energy intake, animal fat, saturated fat, monounsaturated fat, cholesterol, and Keys' score were positively related to wall thickness, while vegetable fat and polyunsaturated fat were inversely related to wall thickness. These associations persisted after further adjustment for smoking and hypertension and were consistent across the four race and sex groups. Thus, elements of habitual dietary intake were consistently associated with carotid artery wall thickness, compatible with their putatively atherogenic and antiatherogenic properties.

Experimental investigations on intracavity sonography. Part 2: Alteration of imaging by artificial alterations in the wall of isolated porcine urinary bladders.

PubMed

Jaeger, N; Vahlensieck, W

1986-01-01

Because the determination of the depth of urinary bladder tumors by means of intracavity sonography depends on several factors (tumor size, reflection behavior of the tumor etc.), we checked the imaging of this diagnostic technique in the isolated porcine urinary bladder under various experimental conditions. Different tissues of defined size were fixed on the inner or outer surface of the bladder wall; both the bladder mucosa and the foreign tissue were damaged thermally or by incision. The importance of a limited depth of sound penetration or of a sound shadow depending on the characteristics of the tissue under investigation was revealed; tissue types could not be distinguished unequivocally by the reflection pattern; above all, a sonographic diagnosis of the tumor was not possible in the presence of histo-pathologically detectable tissue changes due to thermal damage.

Forming limit diagrams of tubes with initial wall-thickness difference based on different instability criteria

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Qiwen; Yang, Lianfa; He, Yulin

2018-05-01

The Forming limit diagram (FLD), also known as a forming limit curves (FLC), is generally used in metal forming for predicting forming behavior of metals. The purpose of the study is to clarify the difference among the FLC of tubes with initial wall-thickness difference under tension-compression strain states using finite element (FE) simulation of tube hydroforming (THF) and different instability criteria. Firstly, geometrical models for SUS304 stainless steel tubes with initial wall-thickness differences were built by introducing an index `wall-thickness deviation rate'. Secondly, forced-end hydro-bugling of the tubes was modeled and the forming process was simulated by using the commercial finite element (FE) code ABAQUS/Explicit 6.10. Afterwards, the limiting strains of the material in the hydro-bugling process were calculated based on the simulated resultant data and three instability criteria-strain change criterion, strain rate change criterion and strain path change criterion, respectively. Finally, the FLD for the tubes was established and the effect of wall-thickness deviation rate on the FLD was analyzed and the differences among the FLC based on the three instability criteria were compared. The results showed that the FLC are observed to shift in the major-minor strain coordinate system due to the initial non-uniform wall-thickness; however, no distinct differences among the FLC based on the three instability criteria were observed.

[Plastic closure of a bladder wall defect by use of a pedicled auto-alloplastic prosthesis in experiments].

PubMed

Sedlarik, K; Stanulla, H; Samohýl, J

1975-01-01

The problems of substituting larger areas of the bladder wall are not definitely solved. Experiments on implantation of auto-allografts resulted in complications, which prevented correct epithelization of the interior surface, due to ischemia. In successful experiments on 34 rabbits, the authors obtained sufficient blood supply of the implantate and re-epithelization of the graft's interior surface in a two-stage operation.

Computer-aided detection of bladder mass within non-contrast-enhanced region of CT Urography (CTU)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cha, Kenny H.; Hadjiiski, Lubomir M.; Chan, Heang-Ping; Caoili, Elaine M.; Cohan, Richard H.; Weizer, Alon; Zhou, Chuan

2016-03-01

We are developing a computer-aided detection system for bladder cancer in CT urography (CTU). We have previously developed methods for detection of bladder masses within the contrast-enhanced region of the bladder. In this study, we investigated methods for detection of bladder masses within the non-contrast enhanced region. The bladder was first segmented using a newly developed deep-learning convolutional neural network in combination with level sets. The non-contrast-enhanced region was separated from the contrast-enhanced region with a maximum-intensityprojection- based method. The non-contrast region was smoothed and a gray level threshold was employed to segment the bladder wall and potential masses. The bladder wall was transformed into a straightened thickness profile, which was analyzed to identify lesion candidates as a prescreening step. The lesion candidates were segmented using our autoinitialized cascaded level set (AI-CALS) segmentation method, and 27 morphological features were extracted for each candidate. Stepwise feature selection with simplex optimization and leave-one-case-out resampling were used for training and validation of a false positive (FP) classifier. In each leave-one-case-out cycle, features were selected from the training cases and a linear discriminant analysis (LDA) classifier was designed to merge the selected features into a single score for classification of the left-out test case. A data set of 33 cases with 42 biopsy-proven lesions in the noncontrast enhanced region was collected. During prescreening, the system obtained 83.3% sensitivity at an average of 2.4 FPs/case. After feature extraction and FP reduction by LDA, the system achieved 81.0% sensitivity at 2.0 FPs/case, and 73.8% sensitivity at 1.5 FPs/case.

An exact solution for a thick domain wall in general relativity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goetz, Guenter; Noetzold, Dirk

1989-01-01

An exact solution of the Einstein equations for a static, planar domain wall with finite thickness is presented. At infinity, density and pressure vanish and the space-time tends to the Minkowski vacuum on one side of the wall and to the Taub vacuum on the other side. A surprising feature of this solution is that the density and pressure distribution are symmetric about the central plane of the wall whereas the space-time metric and therefore also the gravitational field experienced by a test particle is asymmetric.

Differentiation of human endometrial stem cells into urothelial cells on a three-dimensional nanofibrous silk-collagen scaffold: an autologous cell resource for reconstruction of the urinary bladder wall.

PubMed

Shoae-Hassani, Alireza; Mortazavi-Tabatabaei, Seyed Abdolreza; Sharif, Shiva; Seifalian, Alexander Marcus; Azimi, Alireza; Samadikuchaksaraei, Ali; Verdi, Javad

2015-11-01

Reconstruction of the bladder wall via in vitro differentiated stem cells on an appropriate scaffold could be used in such conditions as cancer and neurogenic urinary bladder. This study aimed to examine the potential of human endometrial stem cells (EnSCs) to form urinary bladder epithelial cells (urothelium) on nanofibrous silk-collagen scaffolds, for construction of the urinary bladder wall. After passage 4, EnSCs were induced by keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) and seeded on electrospun collagen-V, silk and silk-collagen nanofibres. Later we tested urothelium-specific genes and proteins (uroplakin-Ia, uroplakin-Ib, uroplakin-II, uroplakin-III and cytokeratin 20) by immunocytochemistry, RT-PCR and western blot analyses. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and histology were used to detect cell-matrix interactions. DMEM/F12 supplemented by KGF and EGF induced EnSCs to express urothelial cell-specific genes and proteins. Either collagen, silk or silk-collagen scaffolds promoted cell proliferation. The nanofibrous silk-collagen scaffolds provided a three-dimensional (3D) structure to maximize cell-matrix penetration and increase differentiation of the EnSCs. Human EnSCs seeded on 3D nanofibrous silk-collagen scaffolds and differentiated to urothelial cells provide a suitable source for potential use in bladder wall reconstruction in women. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The implications of different lateral wall thicknesses on surgical access to the maxillary sinus.

PubMed

Lim, Ee Lian; Ngeow, Wei Cheong; Lim, Daniel

2017-11-27

The objective of this study was to measure the topographic thickness of the lateral wall of the maxillary sinus in selected Asian populations. Measurements were made on the lateral walls of maxillary sinuses recorded using CBCT in a convenient sample of patients attending an Asian teaching hospital. The points of measurement were the intersections between the axes along the apices of the canine, first premolar, and second premolar and along the mesiobuccal and distobuccal apices of the first and second molars and horizontal planes 10 mm, 20 mm, 30 mm and 40 mm beneath the orbital floor. The CBCT images of 109 patients were reviewed. The mean age of the patients was 33.0 (SD 14.8) years. Almost three quarters (71.8%) of the patients were male. The mean bone thickness decreased beginning at the 10-mm level and continuing to 40 mm below the orbital floor. Few canine regions showed encroachment of the maxillary sinus. The thickness of the buccal wall gradually increased from the canine region (where sinus encroachment of the canine region was present) to the first molar region, after which it decreased to the thickness observed at the canine region. The buccal wall of the maxillary sinus became thicker anteroposteriorly, except in the region of the second molar, and thinner superoinferiorly. These changes will affect the approach used to osteotomize the lateral sinus wall for oral surgery and for the sinus lift procedure.

Impact of the radiotherapy technique on the correlation between dose-volume histograms of the bladder wall defined on MRI imaging and dose-volume/surface histograms in prostate cancer patients

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maggio, Angelo; Carillo, Viviana; Cozzarini, Cesare; Perna, Lucia; Rancati, Tiziana; Valdagni, Riccardo; Gabriele, Pietro; Fiorino, Claudio

2013-04-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between the ‘true’ absolute and relative dose-volume histograms (DVHs) of the bladder wall, dose-wall histogram (DWH) defined on MRI imaging and other surrogates of bladder dosimetry in prostate cancer patients, planned both with 3D-conformal and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) techniques. For 17 prostate cancer patients, previously treated with radical intent, CT and MRI scans were acquired and matched. The contours of bladder walls were drawn by using MRI images. External bladder surfaces were then used to generate artificial bladder walls by performing automatic contractions of 5, 7 and 10 mm. For each patient a 3D conformal radiotherapy (3DCRT) and an IMRT treatment plan was generated with a prescription dose of 77.4 Gy (1.8 Gy/fr) and DVH of the whole bladder of the artificial walls (DVH-5/10) and dose-surface histograms (DSHs) were calculated and compared against the DWH in absolute and relative value, for both treatment planning techniques. A specific software (VODCA v. 4.4.0, MSS Inc.) was used for calculating the dose-volume/surface histogram. Correlation was quantified for selected dose-volume/surface parameters by the Spearman correlation coefficient. The agreement between %DWH and DVH5, DVH7 and DVH10 was found to be very good (maximum average deviations below 2%, SD < 5%): DVH5 showed the best agreement. The correlation was slightly better for absolute (R = 0.80-0.94) compared to relative (R = 0.66-0.92) histograms. The DSH was also found to be highly correlated with the DWH, although slightly higher deviations were generally found. The DVH was not a good surrogate of the DWH (R < 0.7 for most of parameters). When comparing the two treatment techniques, more pronounced differences between relative histograms were seen for IMRT with respect to 3DCRT (p < 0.0001).

Sci—Thur AM: YIS - 11: Estimation of Bladder-Wall Cumulative Dose in Multi-Fraction Image-Based Gynaecological Brachytherapy Using Deformable Point Set Registration

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

Zakariaee, R; Brown, C J; Hamarneh, G

2014-08-15

Dosimetric parameters based on dose-volume histograms (DVH) of contoured structures are routinely used to evaluate dose delivered to target structures and organs at risk. However, the DVH provides no information on the spatial distribution of the dose in situations of repeated fractions with changes in organ shape or size. The aim of this research was to develop methods to more accurately determine geometrically localized, cumulative dose to the bladder wall in intracavitary brachytherapy for cervical cancer. The CT scans and treatment plans of 20 cervical cancer patients were used. Each patient was treated with five high-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy fractions ofmore » 600cGy prescribed dose. The bladder inner and outer surfaces were delineated using MIM Maestro software (MIM Software Inc.) and were imported into MATLAB (MathWorks) as 3-dimensional point clouds constituting the “bladder wall”. A point-set registration toolbox for MATLAB, Coherent Point Drift (CPD), was used to non-rigidly transform the bladder-wall points from four of the fractions to the coordinate system of the remaining (reference) fraction, which was chosen to be the emptiest bladder for each patient. The doses were accumulated on the reference fraction and new cumulative dosimetric parameters were calculated. The LENT-SOMA toxicity scores of these patients were studied against the cumulative dose parameters. Based on this study, there was no significant correlation between the toxicity scores and the determined cumulative dose parameters.« less

Cross-Sectional Elasticity Imaging of Arterial Wall by Comparing Measured Change in Thickness with Model Waveform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tang, Jiang; Hasegawa, Hideyuki; Kanai, Hiroshi

2005-06-01

For the assessment of the elasticity of the arterial wall, we have developed the phased tracking method [H. Kanai et al.: IEEE Trans. Ultrason. Ferroelectr. Freq. Control 43 (1996) 791] for measuring the minute change in thickness due to heartbeats and the elasticity of the arterial wall with transcutaneous ultrasound. For various reasons, for example, an extremely small deformation of the wall, the minute change in wall thickness during one heartbeat is largely influenced by noise in these cases and the reliability of the elasticity distribution obtained from the maximum change in thickness deteriorates because the maximum value estimation is largely influenced by noise. To obtain a more reliable cross-sectional image of the elasticity of the arterial wall, in this paper, a matching method is proposed to evaluate the waveform of the measured change in wall thickness by comparing the measured waveform with a template waveform. The maximum deformation, which is used in the calculation of elasticity, was determined from the amplitude of the matched model waveform to reduce the influence of noise. The matched model waveform was obtained by minimizing the difference between the measured and template waveforms. Furthermore, a random error, which was obtained from the reproducibility among the heartbeats of the measured waveform, was considered useful for the evaluation of the reliability of the measured waveform.

Inverse Transient Analysis for Classification of Wall Thickness Variations in Pipelines

PubMed Central

Tuck, Jeffrey; Lee, Pedro

2013-01-01

Analysis of transient fluid pressure signals has been investigated as an alternative method of fault detection in pipeline systems and has shown promise in both laboratory and field trials. The advantage of the method is that it can potentially provide a fast and cost effective means of locating faults such as leaks, blockages and pipeline wall degradation within a pipeline while the system remains fully operational. The only requirement is that high speed pressure sensors are placed in contact with the fluid. Further development of the method requires detailed numerical models and enhanced understanding of transient flow within a pipeline where variations in pipeline condition and geometry occur. One such variation commonly encountered is the degradation or thinning of pipe walls, which can increase the susceptible of a pipeline to leak development. This paper aims to improve transient-based fault detection methods by investigating how changes in pipe wall thickness will affect the transient behaviour of a system; this is done through the analysis of laboratory experiments. The laboratory experiments are carried out on a stainless steel pipeline of constant outside diameter, into which a pipe section of variable wall thickness is inserted. In order to detect the location and severity of these changes in wall conditions within the laboratory system an inverse transient analysis procedure is employed which considers independent variations in wavespeed and diameter. Inverse transient analyses are carried out using a genetic algorithm optimisation routine to match the response from a one-dimensional method of characteristics transient model to the experimental time domain pressure responses. The accuracy of the detection technique is evaluated and benefits associated with various simplifying assumptions and simulation run times are investigated. It is found that for the case investigated, changes in the wavespeed and nominal diameter of the pipeline are both important

Fine-tuning the Wall Thickness of Ordered Mesoporous Graphene by Exploiting Ligand Exchange of Colloidal Nanocrystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Dandan; Yan, Yancui; Wei, Jishi; Wang, Biwei; Li, Tongtao; Guo, Guannan; Yang, Dong; Xie, Songhai; Dong, Angang

2017-12-01

Because of their unique physical properties, three-dimensional (3D) graphene has attracted enormous attention over the past years. However, it is still a challenge to precisely control the layer thickness of 3D graphene. Here, we report a novel strategy to rationally adjust the wall thickness of ordered mesoporous graphene (OMG). By taking advantage of ligand exchange capability of colloidal Fe3O4 nanocrystals, we are able to fine-tune the wall thickness of OMG from 2 to 6 layers of graphene by tailoring the hydrocarbon ligands attached to the nanocrystal surface. When evaluated as electrocatalyst for oxygen reduction reaction upon S and N doping, the 4-layer OMG is found to show better catalytic performance compared with its 2- and 6-layer counterparts, which we attribute to the enhanced exposure of active sites resulting from its ultrathin wall thickness and high surface area.

Echocardiographic Manifestations of Glycogen Storage Disease III: Increase in Wall Thickness and Left Ventricular Mass over Time

PubMed Central

Vertilus, Shawyntee M.; Austin, Stephanie L.; Foster, Kimberly S.; Boyette, Keri E.; Bali, Deeksha; Li, Jennifer S.; Kishnani, Priya S.; Wechsler, Stephanie Burns

2013-01-01

Purpose Glycogen Storage Disease (GSD) type III, glycogen debranching enzyme deficiency, causes accumulation of glycogen in liver, skeletal, and cardiac muscle. Some patients develop increased left ventricular (LV) thickness by echocardiography, but the rate of increase and its significance remain unclear. Methods We evaluated 33 patients with GSD type III, 23 with IIIa and 10 with IIIb, ages 1 month – 55.5 yrs, by echocardiography for wall thickness, LV mass, shortening and ejection fractions, at 1 time point (n = 33) and at 2 time points in patients with more than 1 echocardiogram (13 of the 33). Results Of 23 cross-sectional patients with type IIIa, 12 had elevated LV mass, 11 had elevated wall thickness. One type IIIb patient had elevated LV mass but 4 had elevated wall thickness. For those with multiple observations, 9 of 10 with type IIIa developed increased LV mass over time, with 3 already increased at first measurement. Shortening and ejection fractions were generally normal. Conclusion Elevated LV mass and wall thickness is more common in patients with type IIIa but develops rarely in type IIIb, though ventricular systolic function is preserved. This suggests serial echocardiograms with attention to LV thickness and mass are important for care of these patients. PMID:20526204

Fluorescein angiography of the bladder: technique and relevance to bladder cancer and interstitial cystitis patients.

PubMed

Zimmern, P E; Laub, D; Leach, G E

1995-07-01

Fluorescein angiography has been used in the study of bleeding vessels, neovascularity, tumors and ischemic tissues in a variety of disorders. This pilot study was designed to evaluate the feasibility, safety and relevance of this interesting technology for the evaluation of bladder wall vessels in patients with interstitial cystitis and bladder cancer. Five patients with National Institutes of Health defined interstitial cystitis symptoms and 10 with bladder cancer were studied during cytoscopy while they were under general anesthesia. A yellow-green barrier filter (520 nm.) was placed over the cystoscope eyepiece and a blue exciter filter (465 nm.) was attached to the light source. Patients received a 5 ml. bolus of 10% fluorescein intravenously. After hydrodistension, glomerulations in interstitial cystitis patients were more prominent with fluorescein angiography and occurred in the venule phase. Areas of papillary transitional cell tumor and carcinoma in situ developed a brilliant yellow-green fluorescence. Adjacent normal urothelium was nonfluorescent and provided a contrasting dark background facilitating the detection of all lesions. No allergic reaction or other adverse effect related to the fluorescein injection was observed. These unique observations in a limited number of patients suggest that fluorescein angiography of the bladder is a safe and simple procedure. This preliminary report underscores the relevance of fluorescein angiography in the detection of bladder tumor and offers a new approach to the evaluation of bladder wall vessels in interstitial cystitis patients.

Terahertz inline wall thickness monitoring system for plastic pipe extrusion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hauck, J.; Stich, D.; Heidemeyer, P.; Bastian, M.; Hochrein, T.

2014-05-01

Conventional and commercially available inline wall thickness monitoring systems for pipe extrusion are usually based on ultrasonic or x-ray technology. Disadvantages of ultrasonic systems are the usual need of water as a coupling media and the high damping in thick walled or foamed pipes. For x-ray systems special safety requirements have to be taken into account because of the ionizing radiation. The terahertz (THz) technology offers a novel approach to solve these problems. THz waves have many properties which are suitable for the non-destructive testing of plastics. The absorption of electrical isolators is typically very low and the radiation is non-ionizing in comparison to x-rays. Through the electromagnetic origin of the THz waves they can be used for contact free measurements. Foams show a much lower absorption in contrast to acoustic waves. The developed system uses THz pulses which are generated by stimulating photoconductive switches with femtosecond laser pulses. The time of flight of THz pulses can be determined with a resolution in the magnitude of several ten femtoseconds. Hence the thickness of an object like plastic pipes can be determined with a high accuracy by measuring the time delay between two reflections on materials interfaces e.g. at the pipe's inner and outer surface, similar to the ultrasonic technique. Knowing the refractive index of the sample the absolute layer thickness from the transit time difference can be calculated easily. This method in principle also allows the measurement of multilayer systems and the characterization of foamed pipes.

Quantification of common carotid artery and descending aorta vessel wall thickness from MR vessel wall imaging using a fully automated processing pipeline.

PubMed

Gao, Shan; van 't Klooster, Ronald; Brandts, Anne; Roes, Stijntje D; Alizadeh Dehnavi, Reza; de Roos, Albert; Westenberg, Jos J M; van der Geest, Rob J

2017-01-01

To develop and evaluate a method that can fully automatically identify the vessel wall boundaries and quantify the wall thickness for both common carotid artery (CCA) and descending aorta (DAO) from axial magnetic resonance (MR) images. 3T MRI data acquired with T 1 -weighted gradient-echo black-blood imaging sequence from carotid (39 subjects) and aorta (39 subjects) were used to develop and test the algorithm. The vessel wall segmentation was achieved by respectively fitting a 3D cylindrical B-spline surface to the boundaries of lumen and outer wall. The tube-fitting was based on the edge detection performed on the signal intensity (SI) profile along the surface normal. To achieve a fully automated process, Hough Transform (HT) was developed to estimate the lumen centerline and radii for the target vessel. Using the outputs of HT, a tube model for lumen segmentation was initialized and deformed to fit the image data. Finally, lumen segmentation was dilated to initiate the adaptation procedure of outer wall tube. The algorithm was validated by determining: 1) its performance against manual tracing; 2) its interscan reproducibility in quantifying vessel wall thickness (VWT); 3) its capability of detecting VWT difference in hypertensive patients compared with healthy controls. Statistical analysis including Bland-Altman analysis, t-test, and sample size calculation were performed for the purpose of algorithm evaluation. The mean distance between the manual and automatically detected lumen/outer wall contours was 0.00 ± 0.23/0.09 ± 0.21 mm for CCA and 0.12 ± 0.24/0.14 ± 0.35 mm for DAO. No significant difference was observed between the interscan VWT assessment using automated segmentation for both CCA (P = 0.19) and DAO (P = 0.94). Both manual and automated segmentation detected significantly higher carotid (P = 0.016 and P = 0.005) and aortic (P < 0.001 and P = 0.021) wall thickness in the hypertensive patients. A reliable and reproducible pipeline for fully

SU-C-BRA-04: Use of Esophageal Wall Thickness in Evaluation of the Response to Chemoradiation Therapy for Esophageal Cancer

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

Wang, J; Kligerman, S; Lu, W

2015-06-15

Purpose: To quantitatively evaluate the esophageal cancer response to chemoradiation therapy (CRT) by measuring the esophageal wall thickness in CT. Method: Two datasets were used in this study. The first dataset is composed of CT scans of 15 esophageal cancer patients and 15 normal controls. The second dataset is composed of 20 esophageal cancer patients who underwent PET/CT scans before (Pre-CRT) and after CRT (Post-CRT). We first segmented the esophagus using a multi-atlas-based algorithm. The esophageal wall thickness was then computed, on each slice, as the equivalent circle radius of the segmented esophagus excluding the lumen. To evaluate the changesmore » of wall thickness, we computed the standard deviation (SD), coefficient of variation (COV, SD/Mean), and flatness [(Max–Min)/Mean] of wall thickness along the entire esophagus. Results: For the first dataset, the mean wall thickness of cancer patients and normal controls were 6.35 mm and 6.03 mm, respectively. The mean SD, COV, and flatness of the wall thickness were 2.59, 0.21, and 1.27 for the cancer patients and 1.99, 0.16, and 1.13 for normal controls. Statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) were identified in SD and flatness. For the second dataset, the mean wall thickness of pre-CRT and post-CRT patients was 7.13 mm and 6.84 mm, respectively. The mean SD, COV, and flatness were 1.81, 0.26, and 1.06 for pre-CRT and 1.69, 0.26, and 1.06 for post-CRT. Statistically significant difference was not identified for these measurements. Current results are based on the entire esophagus. We believe significant differences between pre- and post-CRT scans could be obtained, if we conduct the measurements at tumor sites. Conclusion: Results show thicker wall thickness in pre-CRT scans and differences in wall thickness changes between normal and abnormal esophagus. This demonstrated the potential of esophageal wall thickness as a marker in the tumor CRT response evaluation. This work was supported in

Dose Distribution in Bladder and Surrounding Normal Tissues in Relation to Bladder Volume in Conformal Radiotherapy for Bladder Cancer

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

Majewski, Wojciech, E-mail: wmajewski1@poczta.onet.p; Wesolowska, Iwona; Urbanczyk, Hubert

2009-12-01

Purpose: To estimate bladder movements and changes in dose distribution in the bladder and surrounding tissues associated with changes in bladder filling and to estimate the internal treatment margins. Methods and Materials: A total of 16 patients with bladder cancer underwent planning computed tomography scans with 80- and 150-mL bladder volumes. The bladder displacements associated with the change in volume were measured. Each patient had treatment plans constructed for a 'partially empty' (80 mL) and a 'partially full' (150 mL) bladder. An additional plan was constructed for tumor irradiation alone. A subsequent 9 patients underwent sequential weekly computed tomography scanningmore » during radiotherapy to verify the bladder movements and estimate the internal margins. Results: Bladder movements were mainly observed cranially, and the estimated internal margins were nonuniform and largest (>2 cm) anteriorly and cranially. The dose distribution in the bladder worsened if the bladder increased in volume: 70% of patients (11 of 16) would have had bladder underdosed to <95% of the prescribed dose. The dose distribution in the rectum and intestines was better with a 'partially empty' bladder (volume that received >70%, 80%, and 90% of the prescribed dose was 23%, 20%, and 15% for the rectum and 162, 144, 123 cm{sup 3} for the intestines, respectively) than with a 'partially full' bladder (volume that received >70%, 80%, and 90% of the prescribed dose was 28%, 24%, and 18% for the rectum and 180, 158, 136 cm{sup 3} for the intestines, respectively). The change in bladder filling during RT was significant for the dose distribution in the intestines. Tumor irradiation alone was significantly better than whole bladder irradiation in terms of organ sparing. Conclusion: The displacements of the bladder due to volume changes were mainly related to the upper wall. The internal margins should be nonuniform, with the largest margins cranially and anteriorly. The changes in

Adenocarcinoma arising in urinary bladder endocervicosis.

PubMed

Nakaguro, Masato; Tsuzuki, Toyonori; Shimada, Satoko; Taki, Tetsuro; Tsuchiyama, Mari; Kitamura, Atsuko; Suzuki, Yasuhiko; Nakano, Yojiro; Ono, Kenzo

2016-02-01

Endocervicosis is a rare benign condition characterized by the presence of endocervical-type mucinous glands. Urinary bladder endocervicosis forms an elevated lesion in the posterior wall of the urinary bladder and is sometimes misdiagnosed as a malignant tumor clinically and pathologically. Herein we describe the first case of adenocarcinoma arising in urinary bladder endocervicosis. The patient, a 58-year-old woman, presented with asymptomatic hematuria. Cystoscopy revealed a nodular mass measuring 4 cm in diameter in the posterior wall, and total cystectomy was performed. Histology revealed that the elevated lesion of the bladder wall was composed of haphazard proliferation of cystic glands lined by benign endocervical-type epithelium. An adenocarcinoma arose at the center of this endocervicosis. Mucin histochemistry revealed the presence of sulfomucin in both the endocervicosis and adenocarcinoma components. Immunohistochemically, the endocervicosis was positive for cytokeratin (CK) 7, AE1/AE3, CAM5.2, HBME1, CA19-9, and estrogen receptor (ER), and negative for CK20, CDX2, progesterone receptor (PR), MUC5AC, and β-catenin. The adenocarcinoma showed similar immunohistochemical results, except for loss of ER expression and a slight increase in the ratio of Ki-67-positive cells. This case indicates that endocervicosis, known as a benign lesion, harbors the possibility of malignant transformation. © 2016 The Authors. Pathology International published by Japanese Society of Pathology and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.

Impact of emphysema and airway wall thickness on quality of life in smoking-related COPD.

PubMed

Gietema, Hester A; Edwards, Lisa D; Coxson, Harvey O; Bakke, Per S

2013-08-01

Limited data are available as to the relationship between computed tomography (CT) derived data on emphysema and airway wall thickness, and quality of life in subjects with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Such data may work to clarify the clinical correlate of the CT findings. We included 1778 COPD subjects aged 40-75 years with a smoking history of at least 10 pack-years. They were examined with St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ-C) and high-resolution chest CT. Level of emphysema was assessed as percent low-attenuation areas less than -950 Hounsfield units (%LAA). Airway wall thickness was estimated by calculating the square root of wall area of an imaginary airway with an internal perimeter of 10 mm (Pi10). In both men and women, the mean total score and most of the subscores of SGRQ-C increased with increasing level of emphysema and increasing level of airway wall thickness, after adjusting for age, smoking status, pack years, body mass index and FEV1. The highest gradient was seen in the relationship between the activity score and the emphysema level. The activity score increased by 35% from the lowest to the highest emphysema tertile. The relationship between level of emphysema and the total SGRQ-C score became weaker with increasing GOLD (Global initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease) stages (p < 0.001), while the impact of gender was limited. In subjects with COPD, increasing levels of emphysema and airway wall thickness are independently related to impaired quality of life. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The concept of peripheral modulation of bladder sensation

PubMed Central

Eastham, Jane E; Gillespie, James I

2013-01-01

It is recognized that, as the bladder fills, there is a corresponding increase in sensation. This awareness of the volume in the bladder is then used in a complex decision making process to determine if there is a need to void. It is also part of everyday experience that, when the bladder is full and sensations strong, these sensations can be suppressed and the desire to void postponed. The obvious explanation for such altered perceptions is that they occur centrally. However, this may not be the only mechanism. There are data to suggest that descending neural influences and local factors might regulate the sensitivity of the systems within the bladder wall generating afferent activity. Specifically, evidence is accumulating to suggest that the motor-sensory system within the bladder wall is influenced in this way. The motor-sensory system, first described over 100 years ago, appears to be a key component in the afferent outflow, the afferent “noise,” generated within the bladder wall. However, the presence and possible importance of this complex system in the generation of bladder sensation has been overlooked in recent years. As the bladder fills the motor activity increases, driven by cholinergic inputs and modulated, possibly, by sympathetic inputs. In this way information on bladder volume can be transmitted to the CNS. It can be argued that the ability to alter the sensitivity of the mechanisms generating the motor component of this motor-sensory system represents a possible indirect way to influence afferent activity and so the perception of bladder volume centrally. Furthermore, it is emerging that the apparent modulation of sensation by drugs to alleviate the symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB), the anti-cholinergics and the new generation of drugs the β3 sympathomimetics, may be the result of their ability to modulate the motor component of the motor sensory system. The possibility of controlling sensation, physiologically and pharmacologically, by

Optimization of Surface Roughness and Wall Thickness in Dieless Incremental Forming Of Aluminum Sheet Using Taguchi

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hamedon, Zamzuri; Kuang, Shea Cheng; Jaafar, Hasnulhadi; Azhari, Azmir

2018-03-01

Incremental sheet forming is a versatile sheet metal forming process where a sheet metal is formed into its final shape by a series of localized deformation without a specialised die. However, it still has many shortcomings that need to be overcome such as geometric accuracy, surface roughness, formability, forming speed, and so on. This project focus on minimising the surface roughness of aluminium sheet and improving its thickness uniformity in incremental sheet forming via optimisation of wall angle, feed rate, and step size. Besides, the effect of wall angle, feed rate, and step size to the surface roughness and thickness uniformity of aluminium sheet was investigated in this project. From the results, it was observed that surface roughness and thickness uniformity were inversely varied due to the formation of surface waviness. Increase in feed rate and decrease in step size will produce a lower surface roughness, while uniform thickness reduction was obtained by reducing the wall angle and step size. By using Taguchi analysis, the optimum parameters for minimum surface roughness and uniform thickness reduction of aluminium sheet were determined. The finding of this project helps to reduce the time in optimising the surface roughness and thickness uniformity in incremental sheet forming.

Multimodal optical measurement in vitro of surface deformations and wall thickness of the pressurized aortic arch

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Genovese, Katia; Humphrey, Jay D.

2015-04-01

Computational modeling of arterial mechanics continues to progress, even to the point of allowing the study of complex regions such as the aortic arch. Nevertheless, most prior studies assign homogeneous and isotropic material properties and constant wall thickness even when implementing patient-specific luminal geometries obtained from medical imaging. These assumptions are not due to computational limitations, but rather to the lack of spatially dense sets of experimental data that describe regional variations in mechanical properties and wall thickness in such complex arterial regions. In this work, we addressed technical challenges associated with in vitro measurement of overall geometry, full-field surface deformations, and regional wall thickness of the porcine aortic arch in its native anatomical configuration. Specifically, we combined two digital image correlation-based approaches, standard and panoramic, to track surface geometry and finite deformations during pressurization, with a 360-deg fringe projection system to contour the outer and inner geometry. The latter provided, for the first time, information on heterogeneous distributions of wall thickness of the arch and associated branches in the unloaded state. Results showed that mechanical responses vary significantly with orientation and location (e.g., less extensible in the circumferential direction and with increasing distance from the heart) and that the arch exhibits a nearly linear increase in pressure-induced strain up to 40%, consistent with other findings on proximal porcine aortas. Thickness measurements revealed strong regional differences, thus emphasizing the need to include nonuniform thicknesses in theoretical and computational studies of complex arterial geometries.

[Clinical study of bladder injury].

PubMed

Abe, Kazuhiro; Oishi, Yukihiko; Onodera, Syoichi; Ikemoto, Isao; Kiyota, Hiroshi; Asano, Koji; Ueda, Masataka; Wada, Tetsuro; Tashiro, Kazuya

2002-03-01

Since bladder injury has no specific clinical symptoms, accurate diagnosis at first consultation is relatively difficult. To elucidate the clinical characters type of injury, clinical symptoms, laboratory findings, methods of therapy and diagnosis, we reviewed 15 patients with bladder injury over a 9-year-period 1990-1998 (10 were traumatic injuries and 5 spontaneous injuries). We found no specific clinical symptom of bladder injury. Bladder injury may occur anywhere in the bladder wall, but most commonly occurred at the dome of the bladder (60.0%). Gross hematuria was not seen in 40.0% of the cases. The accuracy of diagnosis at first consultation was relatively low (46.7%) and the tendency to make a misdiagnosis as acute abdomen on digestive organs was found. Of the traumatic injuries 60% were afflicted in the drunken state, so alcohol intoxication was considered as an important enviromental factor of bladder injury. Surgical repair of injury sites was employed in 11 cases (73.3%: 7 were intraperitoneal injuries, 4 were extraperitoneal injuries), 4 cases were managed with indwelling urethral catheter. With appropriate treatment, the prognosis is excellent.

Scaffolds for whole organ tissue engineering: Construction and in vitro evaluation of a seamless, spherical and hollow collagen bladder construct with appendices.

PubMed

Hoogenkamp, Henk R; Pot, Michiel W; Hafmans, Theo G; Tiemessen, Dorien M; Sun, Yi; Oosterwijk, Egbert; Feitz, Wout F; Daamen, Willeke F; van Kuppevelt, Toin H

2016-10-01

The field of regenerative medicine has developed promising techniques to improve current neobladder strategies used for radical cystectomies or congenital anomalies. Scaffolds made from molecularly defined biomaterials are instrumental in the regeneration of tissues, but are generally confined to small flat patches and do not comprise the whole organ. We have developed a simple, one-step casting method to produce a seamless large hollow collagen-based scaffold, mimicking the shape of the whole bladder, and with integrated anastomotic sites for ureters and urethra. The hollow bladder scaffold is highly standardized, with uniform wall thickness and a unidirectional pore structure to facilitate cell infiltration in vivo. Human and porcine bladder urothelial and smooth muscle cells were able to attach to the scaffold and maintained their phenotype in vitro. The closed luminal side and the porous outside of the scaffold facilitated the formation of an urothelial lining and infiltration of smooth muscle cells, respectively. The cells aligned according to the provided scaffold template. The technology used is highly adjustable (shape, size, materials) and may be used as a starting point for research to an off-the-shelf medical device suitable for neobladders. In this study, we describe the development of a simple, one-step casting method to produce a seamless large hollow collagen-based scaffold mimicking the shape of the whole bladder with integrated anastomotic sites for ureters and urethra. The hollow bladder scaffold is highly standardized with uniform wall thickness and a unidirectional pore structure to facilitate cell infiltration in vivo. The closed luminal surface and the porous exterior of the scaffold facilitated the formation of a urothelial lining and infiltration of smooth muscle cells, respectively. The applied technology is highly adjustable (shape, size, materials) and can be the starting point for research to an off-the-shelf medical device suitable for

The Effects of Modified Wall Squat Exercises on Average Adults’ Deep Abdominal Muscle Thickness and Lumbar Stability

PubMed Central

Cho, Misuk

2013-01-01

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of bridge exercises applying the abdominal drawing-in method and modified wall squat exercises on deep abdominal muscle thickness and lumbar stability. [Subjects] A total of 30 subjects were equally divided into an experimental group and a control group. [Methods] The experimental group completed modified wall squat exercises, and the control group performed bridge exercises. Both did so for 30 minutes three times per week over a six-week period. Both groups’ transversus abdominis (Tra), internal oblique (IO), and multifidus muscle thickness were measured using ultrasonography, while their static lumbar stability and dynamic lumbar stability were measured using a pressure biofeedback unit. [Results] A comparison of the pre-intervention and post-intervention measures of the experimental group and the control group was made; the Tra and IO thicknesses were significantly different in both groups. [Conclusion] The modified wall squat exercise and bridge exercise affected the thicknesses of the Tra and the IO muscles. While the bridge exercise requirs space and a mattress to lie on, the modified wall squat exercise can be conveniently performed anytime. PMID:24259831

Effect of the Coronal Wall Thickness of Dental Implants on the Screw Joint Stability in the Internal Implant-Abutment Connection.

PubMed

Lee, Ji-Hye; Huh, Yoon-Hyuk; Park, Chan-Jin; Cho, Lee-Ra

2016-01-01

To evaluate the effect of implant coronal wall thickness on load-bearing capacity and screw joint stability. Experimental implants were customized after investigation of the thinnest coronal wall thickness of commercially available implant systems with a regular platform diameter. Implants with four coronal wall thicknesses (0.2, 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5 mm) were fabricated. Three sets of tests were performed. The first set was a failure test to evaluate load-bearing capacity and elastic limit. The second and third sets were cyclic and static loading tests. After abutment screw tightening of each implant, vertical cyclic loading of 250 N or static loading from 250 to 800 N was applied. Coronal diameter expansion, axial displacement, and removal torque values of the implants were compared. Repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used for statistical analysis (α = .05). Implants with 0.2-mm coronal wall thickness demonstrated significantly low load-bearing capacity and elastic limit (both P < .05). These implants also showed significantly large coronal diameter expansion and axial displacement after screw tightening (both P < .05). Greater vertical load and thinner coronal wall thickness significantly increased coronal diameter expansion of the implant, axial displacement of the abutment, and removal torque loss of the abutment screw (all P < .05). Implant coronal wall thickness of 0.2 mm produces significantly inferior load-bearing capacity and screw joint stability.

The development and structure of thick-walled, multicellular, aerial spores in Diheterospora chlamydosporia (=Verticillium chlamydosporium).

PubMed

Cambell, W P; Griffiths, D A

1975-07-01

The aerial, thick-walled spores in Diheterospara chlamydosporia arose as terminal swellings on erect hyphae. Repeated septation of the continuously swelling spore resulted in a multicellular structure. Immediately after the onset of septation secondary wall material was laid down between the two-layered primary wall and the plasmalemma. The presence of secondary wall material indicates that the multicellular spore is a dictyochlamydospore and not an aleuriospore. The relationship between chlamydospores and aleuriospores in other fungi is discussed.

Effect of multi-layer thermal insulation thickness and location on the hypervelocity impact response of dual-wall structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schonberg, William P.

Traditional perforation-resistant wall design for long-duration spacecraft consists of a "bumper" that is placed a small distance away from the main "pressure wall" of a spacecraft compartment or module. This concept has been studied extensively as a means of reducing the perforation threat of hypervelocity projectiles such as meteoroids and orbital debris. If a dual-wall system is employed on an earth-orbiting spacecraft, then a blanket of multi-layer insulation (MLI) will typically be included within the dual-wall system for thermal protection purposes. This paper presents the results of an experimental study in which aluminum dual-wall structures were tested under a variety of high-speed impact conditions to study the effect of MLI thickness and location on perforation resistance. The results presented consist of test-by-test comparisons of the damage sustained by similar dual-wall systems with blanket MLI of various thicknesses and at various locations within the dual-wall systems under similar impact loading conditions. The analyses performed revealed that the placement of the MLI had a significant effect on the ballistic limit of the dual-wall structures considered while reducing the thickness of the MLI by as much as 1/3 did not.

Suppression of the PI3K pathway in vivo reduces cystitis-induced bladder hypertrophy and restores bladder capacity examined by magnetic resonance imaging.

PubMed

Qiao, Zhongwei; Xia, Chunmei; Shen, Shanwei; Corwin, Frank D; Liu, Miao; Guan, Ruijuan; Grider, John R; Qiao, Li-Ya

2014-01-01

This study utilized magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to monitor the real-time status of the urinary bladder in normal and diseased states following cyclophosphamide (CYP)-induced cystitis, and also examined the role of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway in the regulation of urinary bladder hypertrophy in vivo. Our results showed that under MRI visualization the urinary bladder wall was significantly thickened at 8 h and 48 h post CYP injection. The intravesical volume of the urinary bladder was also markedly reduced. Treatment of the cystitis animals with a specific PI3K inhibitor LY294002 reduced cystitis-induced bladder wall thickening and enlarged the intravesical volumes. To confirm the MRI results, we performed H&E stain postmortem and examined the levels of type I collagen by real-time PCR and western blot. Inhibition of the PI3K in vivo reduced the levels of type I collagen mRNA and protein in the urinary bladder ultimately attenuating cystitis-induced bladder hypertrophy. The bladder mass calculated according to MRI data was consistent to the bladder weight measured ex vivo under each drug treatment. MRI results also showed that the urinary bladder from animals with cystitis demonstrated high magnetic signal intensity indicating considerable inflammation of the urinary bladder when compared to normal animals. This was confirmed by examination of the pro-inflammatory factors showing that interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)α levels in the urinary bladder were increased with cystitis. Our results suggest that MRI can be a useful technique in tracing bladder anatomy and examining bladder hypertrophy in vivo during disease development and the PI3K pathway has a critical role in regulating bladder hypertrophy during cystitis.

Effects of shielded or unshielded laser and electrohydraulic lithotripsy on rabbit bladder.

PubMed

Bhatta, K M; Rosen, D I; Flotte, T J; Dretler, S P; Nishioka, N S

1990-04-01

The pulsed dye laser and electrohydraulic lithotriptor (EHL) are both effective devices for fragmenting urinary and biliary calculi. Both fragment stones by producing a plasma-mediated shockwave. Recently, a plasma shield consisting of a hollow spring and a metal end cap has been described for use with the laser and EHL devices in an attempt to minimize tissue damage without adversely affecting stone fragmentation rates. The tissue effects produced by a pulsed dye laser and an EHL device with and without plasma shields were examined and compared using rabbit urinary bladders. If blood was present, the unshielded laser perforated the bladder wall in two pulses. However, in the absence of blood, over 100 pulses were needed for the laser to perforate the bladder. A mean of six pulses were required to perforate the bladder wall with a shielded laser. The unshielded EHL perforated the bladder wall in two pulses, whereas, the shielded EHL required a mean of 35 pulses. Microscopically, areas of exposure revealed hemorrhage and tissue ablation. We conclude that all devices examined can produce significant tissue damage when discharged directly onto bladder epithelium.

Collagen content in the bladder of men with LUTS undergoing open prostatectomy: A pilot study.

PubMed

Averbeck, Marcio A; De Lima, Nelson G; Motta, Gabriela A; Beltrao, Lauro F; Abboud Filho, Nury J; Rigotti, Clarice P; Dos Santos, William N; Dos Santos, Steven K J; Da Silva, Luis F B; Rhoden, Ernani L

2018-03-01

To evaluate the collagen content in the bladder wall of men undergoing open prostate surgery. From July 2014 to August 2016, men aged ≥ 50 years, presenting LUTS and undergoing open prostate surgery due to benign prostatic enlargement (BPE) or prostate cancer were prospectively enrolled. Preoperative assessment included validated questionnaires (IPSS and OAB-V8), lower urinary tract ultrasound, and urodynamics. Bladder biopsies were obtained during open prostatectomy for determination of collagen content (sirius red-picric acid stain; polarized light analysis). Collagen to smooth muscle ratio (C/M) in the detrusor was measured and its relationship with preoperative parameters was investigated. The level of significance was P < 0.05. Thirty-eight consecutive patients were included in this pilot study. Mean age was 66.36 ± 6.44 years and mean IPSS was 11.05 ± 8.72 points. Men diagnosed with diabetes mellitus (DM2) were found to have higher collagen content in the bladder wall when compared to non-diabetic patients (17.71 ± 6.82% vs 12.46 ± 5.2%, respectively; P = 0.024). Reduced bladder compliance was also marker for higher collagen content (P = 0.042). Bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) was not a predictor of increased collagen deposition in the bladder wall (P = 0.75). Patients with PVR ≥ 200 mL showed a higher collagen to smooth muscle ratio in the bladder wall (P = 0.036). DM2 and urodynamic parameters, such as increased PVR and reduced bladder compliance, were associated with higher collagen content in the bladder wall of men with LUTS. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

A microangiographic study of the effect of hyperthermia on the rabbit bladder

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hietala, S. O.; Howells, R.; Hazra, I. A.

1978-01-01

A model was used to study the effect of hyperthermia on a normal tissue. The model selected was the rabbit bladder and the end point measured was the changes in the micro-vasculature of the bladder wall. It was already demonstrated clinically that hot water bladder infusions produce regression in bladder tumors.

Comparative physical and chemical analyses of cotton fibers from two near isogenic upland lines differing in fiber wall thickness

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The thickness of cotton fiber cell walls is an important property that partially determines the economic value of cotton. To better understand the physical and chemical manifestations of the genetic variations that regulate the degree of fiber wall thickness, we used a comprehensive set of methods t...

Photoelastic Analysis of Cracked Thick Walled Cylinders

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pastramă, Ştefan Dan

2017-12-01

In this paper, the experimental determination of the stress intensity factor in thick walled cylinders subject to uniform internal pressure and having longitudinal non-penetrating cracks is presented. Photoelastic measurements were used together with the expressions of the stress field near the crack tip for Mode I crack extension and a specific methodology for stress intensity factor determination. Two types of longitudinal cracks - internal and external - were considered. Four plane models were manufactured and analyzed in a plane polariscope at different values of the applied internal pressure. The values of the normalized stress intensity factor were calculated and the results were compared to those reported by other authors. A good accuracy was noticed, showing the reliability of the experimental procedure.

The use of water-soluble mucoadhesive gels for the intravesical delivery of epirubicin to the bladder for the treatment of non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer.

PubMed

Chatta, Dani; Cottrell, Lewis; Burnett, Bruce; Laverty, Garry; McConville, Christopher

2015-10-01

To develop an epirubicin-loaded, water-soluble mucoadhesive gels that have the correct rheological properties to facilitate their delivery into the bladder via a catheter, while allowing for their spread across the bladder wall with limited expansion of the bladder and increasing the retention of epirubicin in the bladder and flushing with urine. Epirubicin-loaded hydroxyl ethyl cellulose (HEC) and hydroxy propyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) gels were manufactured and tested for their rheological properties. Their ability to be pushed through a catheter was also assessed as was their in-vitro drug release, spreading in a bladder and retention of epirubicin after flushing with simulated urine. Epirubicin drug release was viscosity-dependent. The 1 and 1.5% HEC gels and the 1, 1.5 and 2% HPMC gels had the correct viscosity to be administered through a model catheter and spread evenly across the bladder wall under the pressure of the detrusor muscle. The epirubicin-loaded gels had an increased retention time in the bladder when compared with a standard intravesical solution of epirubicin, even after successive flushes with simulated urine. The increased retention of epirubicin in the bladder by the HEC and HPMC gels warrant further investigation, using an in-vivo model, to assess their potential for use as treatment for non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer. © 2015 Royal Pharmaceutical Society.

Development of a Flexible Broadband Rayleigh Waves Comb Transducer with Nonequidistant Comb Interval for Defect Detection of Thick-Walled Pipelines

PubMed Central

He, Cunfu; Yan, Lyu; Zhang, Haijun

2018-01-01

It is necessary to develop a transducer that can quickly detect the inner and outer wall defects of thick-walled pipes, in order to ensure the safety of such pipes. In this paper, a flexible broadband Rayleigh-waves comb transducer based on PZT (lead zirconate titanate) for defect detection of thick-walled pipes is studied. The multiple resonant coupling theory is used to expand the transducer broadband and the FEA (Finite Element Analysis) method is used to optimize transducer array element parameters. Optimization results show that the best array element parameters of the transducer are when the transducer array element length is 30 mm, the thickness is 1.2 mm, the width of one end of is 1.5 mm, and the other end is 3 mm. Based on the optimization results, such a transducer was fabricated and its performance was tested. The test results were consistent with the finite-element simulation results, and the −3 dB bandwidth of the transducer reached 417 kHz. Transducer directivity test results show that the Θ−3dB beam width was equal to 10 °, to meet the defect detection requirements. Finally, defects of thick-walled pipes were detected using the transducer. The results showed that the transducer could detect the inner and outer wall defects of thick-walled pipes within the bandwidth. PMID:29498636

Development of a Flexible Broadband Rayleigh Waves Comb Transducer with Nonequidistant Comb Interval for Defect Detection of Thick-Walled Pipelines.

PubMed

Zhao, Huamin; He, Cunfu; Yan, Lyu; Zhang, Haijun

2018-03-02

It is necessary to develop a transducer that can quickly detect the inner and outer wall defects of thick-walled pipes, in order to ensure the safety of such pipes. In this paper, a flexible broadband Rayleigh-waves comb transducer based on PZT (lead zirconate titanate) for defect detection of thick-walled pipes is studied. The multiple resonant coupling theory is used to expand the transducer broadband and the FEA (Finite Element Analysis) method is used to optimize transducer array element parameters. Optimization results show that the best array element parameters of the transducer are when the transducer array element length is 30 mm, the thickness is 1.2 mm, the width of one end of is 1.5 mm, and the other end is 3 mm. Based on the optimization results, such a transducer was fabricated and its performance was tested. The test results were consistent with the finite-element simulation results, and the -3 dB bandwidth of the transducer reached 417 kHz. Transducer directivity test results show that the Θ -3dB beam width was equal to 10 °, to meet the defect detection requirements. Finally, defects of thick-walled pipes were detected using the transducer. The results showed that the transducer could detect the inner and outer wall defects of thick-walled pipes within the bandwidth.

Assessment of bronchial wall thickness and lumen diameter in human adults using multi-detector computed tomography: comparison with theoretical models

PubMed Central

Montaudon, M; Desbarats, P; Berger, P; de Dietrich, G; Marthan, R; Laurent, F

2007-01-01

A thickened bronchial wall is the morphological substratum of most diseases of the airway. Theoretical and clinical models of bronchial morphometry have so far focused on bronchial lumen diameter, and bronchial length and angles, mainly assessed from bronchial casts. However, these models do not provide information on bronchial wall thickness. This paper reports in vivo values of cross-sectional wall area, lumen area, wall thickness and lumen diameter in ten healthy subjects as assessed by multi-detector computed tomography. A validated dedicated software package was used to measure these morphometric parameters up to the 14th bronchial generation, with respect to Weibel's model of bronchial morphometry, and up to the 12th according to Boyden's classification. Measured lumen diameters and homothety ratios were compared with theoretical values obtained from previously published studies, and no difference was found when considering dichotomic division of the bronchial tree. Mean wall area, lumen area, wall thickness and lumen diameter were then provided according to bronchial generation order, and mean homothety ratios were computed for wall area, lumen area and wall thickness as well as equations giving the mean value of each parameter for a given bronchial generation with respect to its value in generation 0 (trachea). Multi-detector computed tomography measurements of bronchial morphometric parameters may help to improve our knowledge of bronchial anatomy in vivo, our understanding of the pathophysiology of bronchial diseases and the evaluation of pharmacological effects on the bronchial wall. PMID:17919291

Automatic Thickness and Volume Estimation of Sprayed Concrete on Anchored Retaining Walls from Terrestrial LIDAR Data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martínez-Sánchez, J.; Puente, I.; GonzálezJorge, H.; Riveiro, B.; Arias, P.

2016-06-01

When ground conditions are weak, particularly in free formed tunnel linings or retaining walls, sprayed concrete can be applied on the exposed surfaces immediately after excavation for shotcreting rock outcrops. In these situations, shotcrete is normally applied conjointly with rock bolts and mesh, thereby supporting the loose material that causes many of the small ground falls. On the other hand, contractors want to determine the thickness and volume of sprayed concrete for both technical and economic reasons: to guarantee their structural strength but also, to not deliver excess material that they will not be paid for. In this paper, we first introduce a terrestrial LiDAR-based method for the automatic detection of rock bolts, as typically used in anchored retaining walls. These ground support elements are segmented based on their geometry and they will serve as control points for the co-registration of two successive scans, before and after shotcreting. Then we compare both point clouds to estimate the sprayed concrete thickness and the expending volume on the wall. This novel methodology is demonstrated on repeated scan data from a retaining wall in the city of Vigo (Spain), resulting in a rock bolts detection rate of 91%, that permits to obtain a detailed information of the thickness and calculate a total volume of 3597 litres of concrete. These results have verified the effectiveness of the developed approach by increasing productivity and improving previous empirical proposals for real time thickness estimation.

Relationship between Pipeline Wall Thickness (Gr. X60) and Water Depth towards Avoiding Failure during Installation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Razak, K. Abdul; Othman, M. I. H.; Mat Yusuf, S.; Fuad, M. F. I. Ahmad; yahaya, Effah

2018-05-01

Oil and gas today being developed at different water depth characterized as shallow, deep and ultra-deep waters. Among the major components involved during the offshore installation is pipelines. Pipelines are a transportation method of material through a pipe. In oil and gas industry, pipeline come from a bunch of line pipe that welded together to become a long pipeline and can be divided into two which is gas pipeline and oil pipeline. In order to perform pipeline installation, we need pipe laying barge or pipe laying vessel. However, pipe laying vessel can be divided into two types: S-lay vessel and J-lay vessel. The function of pipe lay vessel is not only to perform pipeline installation. It also performed installation of umbilical or electrical cables. In the simple words, pipe lay vessel is performing the installation of subsea in all the connecting infrastructures. Besides that, the installation processes of pipelines require special focus to make the installation succeed. For instance, the heavy pipelines may exceed the lay vessel’s tension capacities in certain kind of water depth. Pipeline have their own characteristic and we can group it or differentiate it by certain parameters such as grade of material, type of material, size of diameter, size of wall thickness and the strength. For instances, wall thickness parameter studies indicate that if use the higher steel grade of the pipelines will have a significant contribution in pipeline wall thickness reduction. When running the process of pipe lay, water depth is the most critical thing that we need to monitor and concern about because of course we cannot control the water depth but we can control the characteristic of the pipe like apply line pipe that have wall thickness suitable with current water depth in order to avoid failure during the installation. This research will analyse whether the pipeline parameter meet the requirements limit and minimum yield stress. It will overlook to simulate pipe

Method of controlling the side wall thickness of a turbine nozzle segment for improved cooling

DOEpatents

Burdgick, Steven Sebastian

2002-01-01

A gas turbine nozzle segment has outer and inner bands and a vane extending therebetween. Each band has a side wall, a cover and an impingement plate between the cover and nozzle wall defining two cavities on opposite sides of the impingement plate. Cooling steam is supplied to one cavity for flow through apertures of the impingement plate to cool the nozzle wall. The side wall of the band has an inturned flange defining with the nozzle wall an undercut region. The outer surface of the side wall is provided with a step prior to welding the cover to the side wall. A thermal barrier coating is applied in the step and, after the cover is welded to the side wall, the side wall is finally machined to a controlled thickness removing all, some or none of the coating.

Dynamic film thickness between bubbles and wall in a narrow channel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ito, Daisuke; Damsohn, Manuel; Prasser, Horst-Michael; Aritomi, Masanori

2011-09-01

The present paper describes a novel technique to characterize the behavior of the liquid film between gas bubbles and the wall in a narrow channel. The method is based on the electrical conductance. Two liquid film sensors are installed on both opposite walls in a narrow rectangular channel. The liquid film thickness underneath the gas bubbles is recorded by the first sensor, while the void fraction information is obtained by measuring the conductance between the pair of opposite sensors. Both measurements are taken on a large two-dimensional domain and with a high speed. This makes it possible to obtain the two-dimensional distribution of the dynamic liquid film between the bubbles and the wall. In this study, this method was applied to an air-water flow ranging from bubbly to churn regimes in the narrow channel with a gap width of 1.5 mm.

Orthotopic neo- bladder in women.

PubMed

Schettini, Manlio

2010-12-01

Radical cystectomy is the most effective treatment madality for high grade urinary bladder carcinoma and orthotopic reconstruction is the better urinary diversion modality also in women. From 2002 to 2007 we performed 14 radical cystectomies followed by orthotopic reconstruction in women aged between 47 and 68 years (mean age 56) affected by urinary bladder carcinoma. Our reconstructive technique requires the preparation of two strips of the recti muscles fascia, the sectioning of the bladder neck and, when the uterus is present, hysteroannessiectomy and cystectomy en block leaving intact the lateral and inferior vaginal walls. The pelvic floor is stabilized by a colposacropexis with a prosthesis and placing an omental flap over the prosthesis. The orthotopic reconstruction is achieved via a neobladder according to the Padovana technique. The ureters are anastomized to the neobladder and splinted with single J stents. The pathological examination demonstrated in all patients the presence of a high grade carcinoma (G3): more specifically 4 patients had a full thickness intramural infiltration (T2), 2 patients had involvment of the perivescical fat (T3) ad 8 patients were in T1 stage. Lymphnodes were negative for tumour (NO). In 8 patients blood transfusions were necessary to treat post surgical anemia. No significant intra-, peri- or post operative complications were noted. The mean follow-up was 45 months: a patient died for diffuse metastatic disease after 11 months. The remaining patients are still alive and report normal lifestyle: 10 with normal micturition and 4 with urinary retention treated with intermittent self-catetherization. Two patients report nocturnal incontinence treated with hourly micturition and one pad. The five patients who had normal preoperative sexual intercourse resumed a normal sexual activity. The possibility to orthotopically recontruct the female urinary bladder has been established long time after the introduction of orthotopic

New research perspectives from a novel approach to quantify tracheid wall thickness.

PubMed

Prendin, Angela Luisa; Petit, Giai; Carrer, Marco; Fonti, Patrick; Björklund, Jesper; von Arx, Georg

2017-07-01

The analysis of xylem cell anatomical features in dated tree rings provides insights into xylem functional responses and past growth conditions at intra-annual resolution. So far, special focus has been given to the lumen of the water-conducting cells, whereas the equally relevant cell wall thickness (CWT) has been less investigated due to methodological limitations. Here we present a novel approach to measure tracheid CWT in high-resolution images of wood cross-sections that is implemented within the specialized image-analysis tool 'ROXAS'. Compared with the traditional manual line measurements along a selection of few radial files, this novel image-analysis tool can: (i) measure CWT of all tracheids in a tree-ring cross-section, thus increasing the number of individual tracheid measurements by a factor of ~10-20; (ii) measure the tangential and radial walls separately; and (iii) laterally integrate the measurements in a customizable way from only the thinnest central part of the cell walls up to the thickest part of the tracheids at the corners. Cell wall thickness measurements performed with our novel approach and the traditional manual approach showed comparable accuracy for several image resolutions, with an optimal accuracy-efficiency balance at 100× magnification. The configurable settings intended to underscore different cell wall properties indeed changed the absolute levels and intra- and inter-annual patterns of CWT. This versatility, together with the high data production capacity, allows to tailor the measurements of CWT to the specific goal of each study, which opens new research perspectives, e.g., for investigating structure-function relationships, tree stress responses and carbon allocation patterns, and for reconstructing climate based on intra- and inter-annual variability of anatomical wood density. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Intraperitoneally placed Foley catheter via verumontanum initially presenting as a bladder rupture.

PubMed

Raheem, Omer A; Jeong, Young Beom

2011-09-01

Since urethral Foley catheterization is usually easy and safe, serious complications related to this procedure have been rarely reported. Herein, we describe a case of intraperitoneally placed urethral catheter via verumontanum presenting as intraperitoneal bladder perforation in a chronically debilitated elderly patient. A 82-yr-old male patient was admitted with symptoms of hematuria, lower abdominal pain after traumatic Foley catheterization. The retrograde cystography showed findings of intraperitoneal bladder perforation, but emergency laparotomy with intraoperative urethrocystoscopy revealed a tunnel-like false passage extending from the verumontanum into the rectovesical pouch between the posterior wall of the bladder and the anterior wall of the rectum with no bladder injury. The patient was treated with simple closure of the perforated rectovesical pouch and a placement of suprapubic cystostomy tube.

Standard Approach to Urinary Bladder Endometriosis.

PubMed

Fernandes, Rodrigo Pinto; Centini, Gabriele; Afors, Karolina; Puga, Marco; Alves, Joao; Wattiez, Arnaud

2017-12-28

Urinary endometriosis accounts for 1% of all endometriosis where the bladder is the most affected organ. Although the laparoscopic removal of bladder endometriosis has been demonstrated to be effective in terms of symptom relief with a low recurrence rate, there is no standardized technique. Partial cystectomy allows the complete removal of the disease and is associated with low intra- and postoperative complications. Here we describe a stepwise approach to a rare case of a large endometriosis nodule affecting the trigone of the urinary bladder. Step-by-step video explanation of a large endometriotic nodule excision (Canadian Task Force classification III). IRCAD AMITS - Barretos | Hospital Pio XVI. The video was approved by the local institutional review board. A 31-year-old woman. Laparoscopic approach for bladder endometriosis. We present a case of a 31-year-old woman who complained of dysuria and hematuria with a bladder nodule of 3 cm affecting the bladder trigone. Laparoscopic complete excision of the nodule was performed. Laparoscopy began with full inspection of the pelvic and abdominal cavity. Vaginal examination under laparoscopic view helped to determinate the dimensions of the bladder nodule. Strategy consisted of bilateral dissection of the paravesical fossae and the identification of both uterine arteries and ureters. The bladder was slowly dissected from the uterine isthmus and was intentionally opened, thus helping the surgeons to identify the lateral and lower limits of the nodule and its proximity to both ureters. Bilateral double J stents were previously placed to guide the excision and further suture. Once the nodule was removed, the remaining wall consisted of the lower aspect of the trigone, both medial lower parts of the ureter, and the apex of the bladder. Suturing was performed in 2 steps. A simple monofilament interrupted suture was applied vertically at the lower wall between both ureters. The same technique was applied horizontally on

Comparison between Carotid Artery Wall Thickness Measured by Multidetector Row Computed Tomography Angiography and Intimae-Media Thickness Measured by Sonography

PubMed Central

Savić, Živorad N.; Soldatović, Ivan I.; Brajović, Milan D.; Pavlović, Aleksandra M.; Mladenović, Dušan R.; Škodrić-Trifunović, Vesna D.

2011-01-01

The increased thickness of the carotid wall >1 mm is a significant predictor of coronary and cerebrovascular diseases. The purpose of our study was to assess the agreement between multidetector row computed tomography angiography (MDCTA) in measuring carotid artery wall thickness (CAWT) and color Doppler ultrasound (CD-US) in measuring intimae-media thickness (IMT). Eighty-nine patients (aged 35–81) were prospectively analyzed using a 64-detector MDCTA and a CD-US scanner. Continuous data were described as the mean value ± standard deviation, and were compared using the Mann–Whitney U test. A p value <0.05 was considered significant. Bland–Altman statistics were employed to measure the agreement between MDCTA and CD-US. CAWT ranged from 0.62 to 1.60 mm, with a mean value of 1.09 mm. IMT ranged from 0.60 to 1.55 mm, with a mean value of 1.06 mm. We observed an excellent agreement between CD-US and MDCTA in the evaluation of the common carotid artery thickness, with a bias between methods of 0.029 mm (which is a highly statistically important difference of absolute values [t = 43.289; p < 0.01] obtained by paired T test), and limits of agreement from 0.04 to 0.104. Pearson correlation coefficient was 0.9997 (95% CI 0.9996–0.9998; p < 0.01). We conclude that there is an excellent correlation between CAWT and IMT measurements obtained with the MDCTA and CD-US. PMID:22224072

Risk Assessment of Abdominal Wall Thickness Measured on Pre-Operative Computerized Tomography for Incisional Surgical Site Infection after Abdominal Surgery.

PubMed

Tongyoo, Assanee; Chatthamrak, Putipan; Sriussadaporn, Ekkapak; Limpavitayaporn, Palin; Mingmalairak, Chatchai

2015-07-01

The surgical site infection (SSI) is a common complication of abdominal operation. It relates to increased hospital stay, increased healthcare cost, and decreased patient's quality of life. Obesity, usually defined by BMI, is known as one of the risks of SSI. However, the thickness of subcutaneous layers of abdominal wall might be an important local factor affecting the rate of SSI after the abdominal operations. The objective of this study is to assess the importance of the abdominal wall thickness on incisional SSI rate. The subjects of the present study were patients who had undergone major abdominal operations at Thammasat University Hospital between June 2013 and May 2014, and had been investigated with CT scans before their operations. The demographic data and clinical information of these patients were recorded. The thickness ofsubcutaneous fatty tissue from skin down to the most superficial layer of abdominal wall muscle at the surgical site was measured on CT images. The wound infectious complication was reviewed and categorized as superficial and deep incisional SSIfollowing the definition from Centersfor Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines. The significance ofeach potentialfactors on SSI rates was determined separately with student t-test for quantitative data and χ2-test for categorical data. Then all factors, which had p < 0.10, were included into the multivariate logistic regression analysis and were analyzed with significance at p < 0.05. One hundred and thirty-nine patients were included in this study. They all underwent major abdominal surgery and had had pre-operative CTscans. Post-operative SSI was 25.2% (35/139), superficial and deep types in 27 and 8 patients, respectively. The comparison of abdominal wall thickness between patients with and without infection was significantly different (20.0 ± 8.4 mm and 16.0 ± 7.2 mm, respectively). When the thickness at 20 mm was used as the cut-off value, 43 of 139 patients had abdominal wall

Noninvasive evaluation of gastric emptying and gastric wall thickness in SLE patients.

PubMed

Shen, Hao-Lin; Yang, Shu-Ping; Wang, Kang-Jian; Huang, Bei-Lei; Huang, Wen-Bao; Wu, Jin-Zhi; Lyu, Guo-Rong

2017-04-01

The objective of this study is to evaluate the gastric emptying in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with gastrointestinal involvement using three-dimensional (3D) ultrasonography. The gastric emptying times at 25% (T1), 50% (T2), and 75% (T3) of SLE patients with gastrointestinal involvement (n = 40) and healthy controls (n = 80) were evaluated and compared. In addition, the correlations among the gastric wall thickness, SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI), and upper gastrointestinal symptoms were calculated. The gastric wall thickness was correlated with the SLEDAI (r = 0.928, p < 0.001) and the upper gastrointestinal symptom index (r = 0.848, p < 0.001). The emptying times T1, T2, and T3 of the SLE patients were 17.08 ± 2.65 min (mean ± standard deviation), 39.85 ± 6.54 min, and 83.58 ± 7.12 min, respectively. For healthy controls, they were 19.65 ± 5.39 min, 41.08 ± 7.51 min, and 70.34 ± 8.03 min. The T1 of the SLE patients was shorter (p < 0.01), while the T3 was longer (p < 0.001). Moreover, T3 in the SLE group had the best correlation with the upper gastrointestinal symptom index (r = 0.553, p < 0.001). T1 in the SLE group was anti-correlated with early satiety (r = -0.366, p < 0.05). Combining the emptying times T1 and T3, as well as the gastric wall thickness, the SLEDAI and the upper gastrointestinal symptoms index can provide accurate clinical diagnosis of SLE with gastric involvement.

A thermoelastic transversely isotropic thick walled cylinder/disk application: An analytical solution and study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Arnold, S. M.

1989-01-01

A continuum theory is utilized to represent the thermoelastic behavior of a thick walled composite cylinder that can be idealized as transversely isotropic. A multiaxial statement of the constitutive theory employed is presented, as well as the out of the plane of isotropy, plane stress, and plane strain reductions. The derived analytical solution presented is valid for a cylindrical tube or thin disk with a concentric hole, subjected to internal and/or external pressure and a general radial temperature distribution. A specific problem examined is that of a thick walled cylinder subjected to an internal and external pressure loading and a linear radial temperature distribution. The results are expressed in nondimensional form and the effects on the response behavior are examined for various material properties, fiber orientation and types of loadings.

The influence of head diameter and wall thickness on deformations of metallic acetabular press-fit cups and UHMWPE liners: a finite element analysis.

PubMed

Goebel, Paul; Kluess, Daniel; Wieding, Jan; Souffrant, Robert; Heyer, Horst; Sander, Manuela; Bader, Rainer

2013-03-01

To increase the range of motion of total hip endoprostheses, prosthetic heads need to be enlarged, which implies that the cup and/or liner thickness must decrease. This may have negative effects on the wear rate, because the acetabular cups and liners could deform during press-fit implantation and hip joint loading. We compared the metal cup and polyethylene liner deformations that occurred when different wall thicknesses were used in order to evaluate the resulting changes in the clearance of the articulating region. A parametric finite element model utilized three cup and liner wall thicknesses to analyze cup and liner deformations after press-fit implantation into the pelvic bone. The resultant hip joint force during heel strike was applied while the femur was fixed, accounting for physiological muscle forces. The deformation behavior of the liner under joint loading was therefore assessed as a function of the head diameter and the resulting clearance. Press-fit implantation showed diametral cup deformations of 0.096, 0.034, and 0.014 mm for cup wall thicknesses of 3, 5, and 7 mm, respectively. The largest deformations (average 0.084 ± 0.003 mm) of liners with thicknesses of 4, 6, and 8 mm occurred with the smallest cup wall thickness (3 mm). The smallest liner deformation (0.011 mm) was obtained with largest cup and liner wall thicknesses. Under joint loading, liner deformations in thin-walled acetabular cups (3 mm) reduced the initial clearance by about 50 %. Acetabular press-fit cups with wall thicknesses of ≤5 mm should only be used in combination with polyethylene liners >6 mm thick in order to minimize the reduction in clearance.

Cone Beam CT Imaging Analysis of Interfractional Variations in Bladder Volume and Position During Radiotherapy for Bladder Cancer

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

Yee, Don, E-mail: dony@ualberta.c; Parliament, Matthew; Rathee, Satyapal

2010-03-15

Purpose: To quantify daily bladder size and position variations during bladder cancer radiotherapy. Methods and Materials: Ten bladder cancer patients underwent daily cone beam CT (CBCT) imaging of the bladder during radiotherapy. Bladder and planning target volumes (bladder/PTV) from CBCT and planning CT scans were compared with respect to bladder center-of-mass shifts in the x (lateral), y (anterior-posterior), and z (superior-inferior) coordinates, bladder/PTV size, bladder/PTV margin positions, overlapping areas, and mutually exclusive regions. Results: A total of 262 CBCT images were obtained from 10 bladder cancer patients. Bladder center of mass shifted most in the y coordinate (mean, -0.32 cm).more » The anterior bladder wall shifted the most (mean, -0.58 cm). Mean ratios of CBCT-derived bladder and PTV volumes to planning CT-derived counterparts were 0.83 and 0.88. The mean CBCT-derived bladder volume (+- standard deviation [SD]) outside the planning CT counterpart was 29.24 cm{sup 3} (SD, 29.71 cm{sup 3}). The mean planning CT-derived bladder volume outside the CBCT counterpart was 47.74 cm{sup 3} (SD, 21.64 cm{sup 3}). The mean CBCT PTV outside the planning CT-derived PTV was 47.35 cm{sup 3} (SD, 36.51 cm{sup 3}). The mean planning CT-derived PTV outside the CBCT-derived PTV was 93.16 cm{sup 3} (SD, 50.21). The mean CBCT-derived bladder volume outside the planning PTV was 2.41 cm{sup 3} (SD, 3.97 cm{sup 3}). CBCT bladder/ PTV volumes significantly differed from planning CT counterparts (p = 0.047). Conclusions: Significant variations in bladder and PTV volume and position occurred in patients in this trial.« less

Mechanoreceptor afferent activity compared with receptor field dimensions and pressure changes in feline urinary bladder.

PubMed

Downie, J W; Armour, J A

1992-11-01

The relationship between vesical mechanoreceptor field dimensions and afferent nerve activity recorded in pelvic plexus nerve filaments was examined in chloralose-anesthetized cats. Orthogonal receptor field dimensions were monitored with piezoelectric ultrasonic crystals. Reflexly generated bladder contractile activity made measurements difficult, therefore data were collected from cats subjected to actual sacral rhizotomy. Afferent activity was episodic and was initiated at different pressure and receptor field dimension thresholds. Maximum afferent activity did not correlate with maximum volume or pressure. Furthermore, activity was not linearly related to intravesical pressure, receptor field dimensions, or calculated wall tension. Pressure-length hysteresis of the receptor fields occurred. The responses of identified afferent units and their associated receptor field dimensions to brief contractions elicited by the ganglion stimulant 1,1-dimethyl-4-phenylpiperazinium iodide (2.5-20 micrograms i.a.), studied under constant volume or constant pressure conditions, are compatible with bladder mechanoreceptors behaving as tension receptors. Because activity generated by bladder mechanoreceptors did not correlate in a simple fashion with intravesical pressure or receptor field dimensions, it is concluded that such receptors are influenced by the viscoelastic properties of the bladder wall. Furthermore, as a result of the heterogeneity of the bladder wall, receptor field tension appears to offer a more precise relationship with the activity of bladder wall mechanoreceptors than does intravesical pressure.

Bladder control training in girls with lower urinary tract dysfunction.

PubMed

Amira, Peco-Antić; Dušan, Paripović; Gordana, Miloševski-Lomić; Sandra, Trojanović; Ivaniševic, Ivana

2013-01-01

To evaluate the efficacy of standard and biofeedback bladder control training (BCT) on the resolution of dysfunctional elimination syndrome (primary outcome), and on the reduction of urinary tract infections (UTI) and the use of medications such as antibacterial prophylaxis and/or anticholinergic/alpha-blockers (secondary outcome) in girls older than aged least 5 years. 72 girls, median age of 8 years (interquartile range, IQR 7-10) were subjected to standard BCT (cognitive, behavioural and constipation treatment) and 12 one-hour sessions of animated biofeedback using interactive computer games within 8 weeks. Fifty patients were reevaluated after median 11 (IQR, 6-17) months. Effectiveness of BCT was determined by reduction of dysfunctional voiding score (DVS), daytime urinary incontinence (DUI), constipation, UTI, nocturnal enuresis (NE), post void residual (PVR), and improvements in bladder capacity and uroflow/EMG patterns. BCT resulted in significant normalization of DUI, NE, constipation, bladder capacity, uroflow/EMG, while decrease of PVR didn't reach statistical significance. In addition, the incidence of UTI, antibacterial prophylaxis and medical urotherapy significantly decreased. There were no significant differences in DVS, DVI, NE, bladder capacity and voiding pattern at the end of the BCT and at the time of reevaluation. The success on BCT was supported by parenteral perception of the treatment response in 63.9% and full response in additional 15.3% of the patients. Combination of standard and biofeedback BCT improved dysfunctional elimination syndrome and decreased UTI with discontinuation of antibacterial prophylaxis and/or anticholinergic/alpha-blockers in the majority of the patients. Better training results are expected in patients with higher bladder wall thickness as well as in those with vesicoureteral reflux, while presence of nocturnal enuresis may be a negative predictor of the training effect.

Clinical efficiency of Piezo-ICSI using micropipettes with a wall thickness of 0.625 μm.

PubMed

Hiraoka, Kenichiro; Kitamura, Seiji

2015-12-01

The purposes of the present study are to assess the clinical efficiency of Piezo-intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and to improve the Piezo-ICSI method for human oocytes. We examined three ICSI methods to determine their clinical efficiency by comparing the survival, fertilization, good-quality day-3 embryo, pregnancy, and live birth rates. The three ICSI methods tested were conventional ICSI (CI) (using beveled spiked micropipettes with a wall thickness of 1 μm), conventional Piezo-ICSI (CPI) (using flat-tipped micropipettes with a wall thickness of 0.925 μm), and improved Piezo-ICSI (IPI) (using flat-tipped micropipettes with a wall thickness of 0.625 μm). We collectively investigated 2020 mature oocytes retrieved from 437 patients between October 2010 and January 2014. The survival rates after CI, CPI, and IPI were 90, 95, and 99 %, respectively. The fertilization rates after CI, CPI, and IPI were 68, 75, and 89 %, respectively. The good-quality day-3 embryo rates after CI, CPI, and IPI were 37, 43, and 55 %, respectively. The pregnancy rates after the transfer of good-quality day-3 embryo of CI, CPI, and IPI were 19, 21, and 31 %, respectively. The live birth rates of CI, CPI, and IPI were 15, 16, and 25 %, respectively. Significantly higher survival, fertilization, good-quality day-3 embryo, pregnancy, and live birth rates were obtained using IPI. When comparing the IPI to the CI and CPI, the results revealed that the Piezo-ICSI using flat-tipped micropipettes with a wall thickness of 0.625 μm significantly improves survival, fertilization, good-quality day-3 embryo, pregnancy, and live birth rates.

Charged magnetic domain walls as observed in nanostructured thin films: dependence on both film thickness and anisotropy.

PubMed

Favieres, C; Vergara, J; Madurga, V

2013-02-13

The magnetic domain configurations of soft magnetic, nanostructured, pulsed laser-deposited Co films were investigated. Their dependence on both the thickness t (20 nm ≤ t ≤ 200 nm) and the anisotropy was studied. Charged zigzag walls, with a characteristic saw-tooth vertex angle θ, were observed. θ changed with t from θ ≈ 17° to ≈25°, presenting an intermediate sharp maximum that has not been described before. The reduced length of the zigzag walls also exhibited a peak at t ≈ 70 nm. The relationship between the total reduced length and the density energy of the magnetic wall allowed us to establish a change from a Néel-type to a Bloch-type core of the zigzag walls at this thickness, t ≈ 70 nm. We also accounted for the magnetic energy arising from the surface roughness of the thinner films after imaging the film surface morphologies. Moreover, this distinctive behaviour of the zigzag walls of these low-anisotropy films was compared to that of high-anisotropy films.

Sarcocystis sinensis is the most prevalent thick-walled Sarcocystis species in beef on sale for consumers in Germany.

PubMed

Moré, G; Pantchev, A; Skuballa, J; Langenmayer, M C; Maksimov, P; Conraths, F J; Venturini, M C; Schares, G

2014-06-01

Bovines are intermediate hosts of Sarcocystis cruzi, Sarcocystis hirsuta, and Sarcocystis hominis, which use canids, felids, or primates as definitive hosts, respectively. Cattle represent also intermediate hosts of Sarcocystis sinensis, but the definitive hosts of this parasite are not yet known. Sarcocystosis in cattle is frequently asymptomatic. The infection is characterized by the presence of thin-walled (S. cruzi) or thick-walled muscle cysts or sarcocysts (S. hominis, S. sinensis, and S. hirsuta). Recent reports suggest high prevalence of the zoonotic S. hominis in beef in Europe. We therefore aimed at differentiating Sarcocystis spp. in beef offered to consumers in Germany using molecular and microscopical methods, focusing on those species producing thick-walled sarcocysts. A total of 257 beef samples were obtained from different butcheries and supermarkets in Germany and processed by conventional and multiplex real-time PCR. In addition, 130 of these samples were processed by light microscopy and in 24.6% thick-walled cysts were detected. Transmission electron microscopical analysis of six of these samples revealed an ultrastructural cyst wall pattern compatible with S. sinensis in five samples and with S. hominis in one sample. PCR-amplified 18S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) fragments of 28 individual thick-walled cysts were sequenced, and sequence identities of ≥98% with S. sinensis (n = 22), S. hominis (n = 5) and S. hirsuta (n = 1) were observed. Moreover, nine Sarcocystis sp. 18S rDNA full length gene sequences were obtained, five of S. sinensis, three of S. hominis, and one of S. hirsuta. Out of all samples (n = 257), 174 (67.7%) tested positive by conventional PCR and 179 (69.6%) by multiplex real-time PCR for Sarcocystis spp. Regarding individual species, 134 (52%), 95 (37%), 17 (6.6%), and 16 (6.2%) were positive for S. cruzi, S. sinensis, S. hirsuta, and S. hominis, respectively. In conclusion, S. sinensis is the most prevalent thick-walled

Tissue factor levels and the fibrinolytic system in thin and thick intraluminal thrombus and underlying walls of abdominal aortic aneurysms.

PubMed

Siennicka, Aldona; Zuchowski, Marta; Kaczmarczyk, Mariusz; Cnotliwy, Miłosław; Clark, Jeremy Simon; Jastrzębska, Maria

2018-03-20

The hemostatic system cooperates with proteolytic degradation in processes allowing abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) formation. In previous studies, it has been suggested that aneurysm rupture depends on intraluminal thrombus (ILT) thickness, which varies across each individual aneurysm. We hypothesized that hemostatic components differentially accumulate in AAA tissue in relation to ILT thickness. Thick (A1) and thin (B1) segments of ILTs and aneurysm wall sections A (adjacent to A1) and B (adjacent to B1) from one aneurysm sac were taken from 35 patients undergoing elective repair. Factor levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay of protein extract. Tissue factor (TF) activities were significantly higher in thinner segments of AAA (B1 vs A1, P = .003; B vs A, P < .001; B vs A1, P < .001; B vs B1, P = .001). Significantly higher tissue plasminogen activator was found in thick thrombus-covered wall segments (A) than in B, A1, and B1 (P = .015, P < .001, and P < .001, respectively). Plasminogen concentrations were highest in ILT. Concentrations of α 2 -antiplasmin in thin ILT adjacent walls (B) were higher compared with wall (A) adjacent to thick ILT (P = .021) and thick ILT (A1; P < .001). Significant correlations between levels of different factors were mostly found in thick ILT (A1). However, no correlations were found at B sites, except for a correlation between plasmin and TF activities (r = 0.55; P = .004). These results suggest that higher TF activities are present in thinner AAA regions. These parameters and local fibrinolysis may be part of the processes leading to destruction of the aneurysm wall. Copyright © 2018 Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Measurement of three-dimensional normal vectors, principal curvatures, and wall thickness of the heart using cine-MRI

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Coghlan, Leslie; Singleton, H. R.; Dell'Italia, L. J.; Linderholm, C. E.; Pohost, G. M.

1995-05-01

We have developed a method for measuring the detailed in vivo three dimensional geometry of the left and right ventricles using cine-magnetic resonance imaging. From data in the form of digitized short axis outlines, the normal vectors, principal curvatures and directions, and wall thickness were computed. The method was evaluated on simulated ellipsoids and on human MRI data. Measurements of normal vectors and of wall thickness were very accurate in simulated data and appeared appropriate in patient data. On simulated data, measurements of the principal curvature k1 (corresponding approximately to the short axis direction of the left ventricle) and of principal directions were quite accurate, but measurements of the other principal curvature (k2) were less accurate. The reasons behind this are considered. We expect improvements in the accuracy with thinner slices and improved representation of the surface data. Gradient echo images were acquired from 8 dogs with a 1.5T system (Philips Gyroscan) at baseline and four months after closed chest experimentally produced mitral regurgitation (MR). The product (k1 + k2) X wall thickness averaged over all slices at end-diastole was significantly lower after surgery (n equals 8, p < 0.005). These geometry changes were consistent with the expected increase in wall stress after MR.

Incidence of non-pulmonary cancer and lung cancer by amount of emphysema and airway wall thickness: a community-based cohort.

PubMed

Aamli Gagnat, Ane; Gjerdevik, Miriam; Gallefoss, Frode; Coxson, Harvey O; Gulsvik, Amund; Bakke, Per

2017-05-01

There is limited knowledge about the prognostic value of quantitative computed tomography (CT) measures of emphysema and airway wall thickness in cancer.The aim of this study was to investigate if using CT to quantitatively assess the amount of emphysema and airway wall thickness independently predicts the subsequent incidence of non-pulmonary cancer and lung cancer.In the GenKOLS study of 2003-2005, 947 ever-smokers performed spirometry and underwent CT examination. The main predictors were the amount of emphysema measured by the percentage of low attenuation areas (%LAA) on CT and standardised measures of airway wall thickness (AWT-PI10). Cancer data from 2003-2013 were obtained from the Norwegian Cancer Register. The hazard ratio associated with emphysema and airway wall thickness was assessed using Cox proportional hazards regression for cancer diagnoses.During 10 years of follow-up, non-pulmonary cancer was diagnosed in 11% of the subjects with LAA <3%, in 19% of subjects with LAA 3-10%, and in 17% of subjects with LAA ≥10%. Corresponding numbers for lung cancer were 2%, 3% and 11%, respectively. After adjustment, the baseline amount of emphysema remained a significant predictor of the incidence of non-pulmonary cancer and lung cancer. Airway wall thickness did not predict cancer independently.This study offers a strong argument that emphysema is an independent risk factor for both non-pulmonary cancer and lung cancer. Copyright ©ERS 2017.

Effects of thickness, insulation, and surface color on the net heat loss through an adobe wall

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

Herman, R.W.

1980-01-01

A finite difference computer program was written and run to study the net thermal losses through a large variety of adobe walls. Fifty-four different combinations of surface color, wall thickness, and insulation position and R value were modeled over a typical two week winter period for locations similar to Albuquerque, New Mexico. A transient analysis of the heat loss from the room to the interior wall surface was compared to both conventional U value and steady-state calculations.

New portable pipe wall thickness measuring technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pascente, Joseph E.

1998-03-01

One of the biggest inspection challenges facing many of the process industries; namely the petrochemical, refining, fossil power, and pulp and paper industries is: How to effectively examine their insulated piping? While there are a number of failure mechanisms involved in various process piping systems, piping degradation through corrosion and erosion are by far the most prevalent. This degradation can be in the form of external corrosion under insulation, internal corrosion through a variety of mechanisms, and internal erosion caused by the flow of the product through the pipe. Refineries, chemical plants and electrical power plants have MANY thousands of miles of pipe that are insulated to prevent heat loss or heat absorption. This insulation is often made up of several materials, with calcium based material being the most dense. The insulating material is usually wrapped with an aluminum or stainless steel outer wrap. Verification of wall thickness of these pipes can be accomplished by removing the insulation and doing an ultrasound inspection or by taking x- rays at a tangent to the edge of the pipe through the insulation. Both of these processes are slow and expensive. The time required to obtain data is measured in hours per meter. The ultrasound method requires that the insulation be plugged after the inspection. The surface needs to be cleaned or the resulting data will not be accurate. The tangent x-ray only shows two thicknesses and requires that the area be roped off because of radiation safety.

Thermal dosimetry for bladder hyperthermia treatment. An overview.

PubMed

Schooneveldt, Gerben; Bakker, Akke; Balidemaj, Edmond; Chopra, Rajiv; Crezee, Johannes; Geijsen, Elisabeth D; Hartmann, Josefin; Hulshof, Maarten C C M; Kok, H Petra; Paulides, Margarethus M; Sousa-Escandon, Alejandro; Stauffer, Paul R; Maccarini, Paolo F

2016-06-01

The urinary bladder is a fluid-filled organ. This makes, on the one hand, the internal surface of the bladder wall relatively easy to heat and ensures in most cases a relatively homogeneous temperature distribution; on the other hand the variable volume, organ motion, and moving fluid cause artefacts for most non-invasive thermometry methods, and require additional efforts in planning accurate thermal treatment of bladder cancer. We give an overview of the thermometry methods currently used and investigated for hyperthermia treatments of bladder cancer, and discuss their advantages and disadvantages within the context of the specific disease (muscle-invasive or non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer) and the heating technique used. The role of treatment simulation to determine the thermal dose delivered is also discussed. Generally speaking, invasive measurement methods are more accurate than non-invasive methods, but provide more limited spatial information; therefore, a combination of both is desirable, preferably supplemented by simulations. Current efforts at research and clinical centres continue to improve non-invasive thermometry methods and the reliability of treatment planning and control software. Due to the challenges in measuring temperature across the non-stationary bladder wall and surrounding tissues, more research is needed to increase our knowledge about the penetration depth and typical heating pattern of the various hyperthermia devices, in order to further improve treatments. The ability to better determine the delivered thermal dose will enable clinicians to investigate the optimal treatment parameters, and consequentially, to give better controlled, thus even more reliable and effective, thermal treatments.

Correlation between capillary oxygen saturation and small intestinal wall thickness in the equine colic patient

PubMed Central

Mirle, Elisabeth; Wogatzki, Anna; Kunzmann, Robert; Schoenfelder, Axel M; Litzke, Lutz F

2017-01-01

The surgical evaluation of haemorrhagic infarcted intestine and the decision for or against bowel resection require a lot of experience and are subjective. The aim of this prospective, clinical study was to examine the correlation between oxygen saturation and small intestinal wall (IW) thickness, using two objective methods. In 22 colicky horses, the blood flow, oxygen saturation and relative amount of haemoglobin were measured intraoperatively via laser Doppler and white light spectroscopy (O2C, oxygen to see, LEA Medizintechnik) at six measuring points (MPs) in small and large intestines. Furthermore, the IW thickness was measured ultrasonographically. Nine of 22 horses had an increased small IW thickness greater than 4 mm (Freeman 2002, Scharner and others 2002, le Jeune and Whitcomb 2014) at measuring point 1 (MP1) (strangulated segment), four horses had a thickened bowel wall at measuring point 3 (MP3) (poststenotic) and one at measuring point 2 (MP2). The oxygen saturation was 0 at MP1 in six horses, at MP3 in two horses and at MP2 (prestenotic) in one. Oxygen saturation and small IW thickness were independent of each other at MP1 and MP2. At MP3, the two parameters were negatively correlated. In summary, it is not possible to draw conclusions about oxygen saturation based on IW thickness. PMID:28761667

Correlation between capillary oxygen saturation and small intestinal wall thickness in the equine colic patient.

PubMed

Mirle, Elisabeth; Wogatzki, Anna; Kunzmann, Robert; Schoenfelder, Axel M; Litzke, Lutz F

2017-01-01

The surgical evaluation of haemorrhagic infarcted intestine and the decision for or against bowel resection require a lot of experience and are subjective. The aim of this prospective, clinical study was to examine the correlation between oxygen saturation and small intestinal wall (IW) thickness, using two objective methods. In 22 colicky horses, the blood flow, oxygen saturation and relative amount of haemoglobin were measured intraoperatively via laser Doppler and white light spectroscopy (O2C, oxygen to see, LEA Medizintechnik) at six measuring points (MPs) in small and large intestines. Furthermore, the IW thickness was measured ultrasonographically. Nine of 22 horses had an increased small IW thickness greater than 4 mm (Freeman 2002, Scharner and others 2002, le Jeune and Whitcomb 2014) at measuring point 1 (MP1) (strangulated segment), four horses had a thickened bowel wall at measuring point 3 (MP3) (poststenotic) and one at measuring point 2 (MP2). The oxygen saturation was 0 at MP1 in six horses, at MP3 in two horses and at MP2 (prestenotic) in one. Oxygen saturation and small IW thickness were independent of each other at MP1 and MP2. At MP3, the two parameters were negatively correlated. In summary, it is not possible to draw conclusions about oxygen saturation based on IW thickness.

New clinical trial open for patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer | Center for Cancer Research

Cancer.gov

Muscle-invasive bladder cancer is an aggressive form of bladder cancer in which the tumor invades deep into the musculature of the bladder wall, making it more likely to spread to other parts of the body. Standard treatment involves cisplatin-based chemotherapy followed by radical cystectomy, which is surgery to remove the bladder and nearby organs. However, many patients

Effects of finite wall thickness and sinusoidal heating on convection in nanofluid-saturated local thermal non-equilibrium porous cavity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alsabery, A. I.; Chamkha, A. J.; Saleh, H.; Hashim, I.; Chanane, B.

2017-03-01

The effects of finite wall thickness and sinusoidal heating on convection in a nanofluid-saturated local thermal non-equilibrium (LTNE) porous cavity are studied numerically using the finite difference method. The finite thickness vertical wall of the cavity is maintained at a constant temperature and the right wall is heated sinusoidally. The horizontal insulated walls allow no heat transfer to the surrounding. The Darcy law is used along with the Boussinesq approximation for the flow. Water-based nanofluids with Cu nanoparticles are chosen for investigation. The results of this study are obtained for various parameters such as the Rayleigh number, periodicity parameter, nanoparticles volume fraction, thermal conductivity ratio, ratio of wall thickness to its height and the modified conductivity ratio. Explanation for the influence of the various above-mentioned parameters on the streamlines, isotherms, local Nusselt number and the weighted average heat transfer is provided with regards to the thermal conductivities of nanoparticles suspended in the pure fluid and the porous medium. It is shown that the overall heat transfer is significantly increased with the relative non-uniform heating. Further, the convection heat transfer is shown to be inhibited by the presence of the solid wall. The results have possible applications in the heat-storage fluid-saturated porous systems and the applications of the high power heat transfer.

HPLC assisted Raman spectroscopic studies on bladder cancer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zha, W. L.; Cheng, Y.; Yu, W.; Zhang, X. B.; Shen, A. G.; Hu, J. M.

2015-04-01

We applied confocal Raman spectroscopy to investigate 12 normal bladder tissues and 30 tumor tissues, and then depicted the spectral differences between the normal and the tumor tissues and the potential canceration mechanism with the aid of the high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) technique. Normal tissues were demonstrated to contain higher tryptophan, cholesterol and lipid content, while bladder tumor tissues were rich in nucleic acids, collagen and carotenoids. In particular, β-carotene, one of the major types of carotenoids, was found through HPLC analysis of the extract of bladder tissues. The statistical software SPSS was applied to classify the spectra of the two types of tissues according to their differences. The sensitivity and specificity of 96.7 and 66.7% were obtained, respectively. In addition, different layers of the bladder wall including mucosa (lumps), muscle and adipose bladder tissue were analyzed by Raman mapping technique in response to previous Raman studies of bladder tissues. All of these will play an important role as a directive tool for the future diagnosis of bladder cancer in vivo.

Ceramic inlays and partial ceramic crowns: influence of remaining cusp wall thickness on the marginal integrity and enamel crack formation in vitro.

PubMed

Krifka, Stephanie; Anthofer, Thomas; Fritzsch, Marcus; Hiller, Karl-Anton; Schmalz, Gottfried; Federlin, Marianne

2009-01-01

No information is currently available about what the critical cavity wall thickness is and its influence upon 1) the marginal integrity of ceramic inlays (CI) and partial ceramic crowns (PCC) and 2) the crack formation of dental tissues. This in vitro study of CI and PCC tested the effects of different remaining cusp wall thicknesses on marginal integrity and enamel crack formation. CI (n = 25) and PCC (n = 26) preparations were performed in extracted human molars. Functional cusps of CI and PCC were adjusted to a 2.5 mm thickness; for PCC, the functional cusps were reduced to a thickness of 2.0 mm. Non-functional cusps were adjusted to wall thicknesses of 1) 1.0 mm and 2) 2.0 mm. Ceramic restorations (Vita Mark II, Cerec3 System) were fabricated and adhesively luted to the cavities with Excite/Variolink II. The specimens were exposed to thermocycling and central mechanical loading (TCML: 5000 x 5 degrees C-55 degrees C; 30 seconds/cycle; 500000 x 72.5N, 1.6Hz). Marginal integrity was assessed by evaluating a) dye penetration (fuchsin) on multiple sections after TCML and by using b) quantitative margin analysis in the scanning electron microscope (SEM) before and after TCML. Ceramic- and tooth-luting agent interfaces (LA) were evaluated separately. Enamel cracks were documented under a reflective light microscope. The data were statistically analyzed with the Mann Whitney U-test (alpha = 0.05) and the Error Rates Method (ERM). Crack formation was analyzed with the Chi-Square-test (alpha = 0.05) and ERM. In general, the remaining cusp wall thickness, interface, cavity design and TCML had no statistically significant influence on marginal integrity for both CI and PCC (ERM). Single pairwise comparisons showed that the CI and PCC of Group 2 had a tendency towards less microleakage along the dentin/LA interface than Group 1. Cavity design and location had no statistically significant influence on crack formation, but the specimens with 1.0 mm of remaining wall

Multilayered disease-mimicking bladder phantom with realistic surface topology for optical coherence tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, Gennifer T.; Lurie, Kristen L.; Khan, Saara A.; Liao, Joseph C.; Ellerbee, Audrey K.

2014-03-01

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has shown potential as a complementary modality to white light cystoscopy (WLC), the gold standard for imaging bladder cancer. OCT can visualize sub-surface details of the bladder wall, which enables it to stage cancers and detect tumors that are otherwise invisible to WLC. Currently, OCT systems have too slow a speed and too small a field of view for comprehensive bladder imaging, which limits its clinical utility. Validation and feasibility testing of technological refinements aimed to provide faster imaging and wider fields of view necessitates a realistic bladder phantom. We present a novel process to fabricate the first such phantom that mimics both the optical and morphological properties of layers of the healthy and pathologic bladder wall as they characteristically appear with OCT. The healthy regions of the silicone-based phantom comprises three layers: the urothelium, lamina propria and muscularis propria, each containing an appropriate concentration of titanium dioxide to mimic its distinct scattering properties. As well, the layers each possess a unique surface appearance imposed by a textured mold. Within this phantom, pathologic tissue-mimicking regions are created by thickening specific layers or creating inclusions that disrupt the layered appearance of the bladder wall, as is characteristic of bladder carcinomas. This phantom can help to evaluate the efficacy of new OCT systems and software for tumor localization. Moreover, the procedure we have developed is highly generalizable for the creation of OCT-relevant, multi-layer phantoms for tissues that incorporate diseased states characterized by the loss of layered structures.

Quantitative evaluation of the relationship between dorsal wall length, sole thickness, and rotation of the distal phalanx in the bovine claw using computed tomography.

PubMed

Tsuka, T; Murahata, Y; Azuma, K; Osaki, T; Ito, N; Okamoto, Y; Imagawa, T

2014-10-01

Computed tomography (CT) was performed on 800 untrimmed claws (400 inner claws and 400 outer claws) of 200 pairs of bovine hindlimbs to investigate the relationships between dorsal wall length and sole thickness, and between dorsal wall length and the relative rotation angle of distal phalanx-to-sole surface (S-D angle). Sole thickness was 3.8 and 4.0 mm at the apex of the inner claws and outer claws, respectively, with dorsal wall lengths <70 mm. These sole thickness values were less than the critical limit of 5 mm, which is associated with a softer surface following thinning of the soles. A sole thickness of 5 mm at the apex was estimated to correlate with dorsal wall lengths of 72.1 and 72.7 mm for the inner and outer claws, respectively. Sole thickness was 6.1 and 6.4 mm at the apex of the inner and outer claws, respectively, with dorsal wall lengths of 75 mm. These sole thickness values were less than the recommended sole thickness of 7 mm based on the protective function of the soles. A sole thickness >7 mm at the apex was estimated to correlate with a dorsal wall length of 79.8 and 78.4mm for the inner and outer claws, respectively. The S-D angles were recorded as anteversions of 2.9° and 4.7° for the inner and outer claws, respectively, with a dorsal wall length of 75 mm. These values indicate that the distal phalanx is likely to have rotated naturally forward toward the sole surface. The distal phalanx rotated backward to the sole surface at 3.2° and 7.6° for inner claws with dorsal wall lengths of 90-99 and ≥100 mm, respectively; and at 3.5° for outer claws with a dorsal wall length ≥100 mm. Dorsal wall lengths of 85.7 and 97.2 mm were estimated to correlate with a parallel positional relationship of the distal phalanx to the sole surface in the inner and outer claws, respectively. Copyright © 2014 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Primary Bladder Neurofibroma: A Rare Case with Clinical Implications and Diagnostic Challenges.

PubMed

Umakanthan, Srikanth; Naik, Ramadas; Bukelo, Maryann Margaret; Rai, Sharada; Prabhu, Laxman

2015-09-01

Neurofibroma of the genito-urinary tract is rare. Urinary bladder is the commonest organ involved in cases of urinary tract involvement. Patients present early in life and there is male preponderance. We discuss here a case of primary neurofibroma of the urinary bladder in a 52-year-male presenting with haematuria, irritative bladder symptoms and pelvic mass. Cystoscopy showed a swelling in the left lateral wall. A transurethral biopsy revealed neurofibroma of the urinary bladder. Immunohistochemical studies confirmed the diagnosis.

Primary Bladder Neurofibroma: A Rare Case with Clinical Implications and Diagnostic Challenges

PubMed Central

Naik, Ramadas; Bukelo, Maryann Margaret; Rai, Sharada; Prabhu, Laxman

2015-01-01

Neurofibroma of the genito-urinary tract is rare. Urinary bladder is the commonest organ involved in cases of urinary tract involvement. Patients present early in life and there is male preponderance. We discuss here a case of primary neurofibroma of the urinary bladder in a 52-year-male presenting with haematuria, irritative bladder symptoms and pelvic mass. Cystoscopy showed a swelling in the left lateral wall. A transurethral biopsy revealed neurofibroma of the urinary bladder. Immunohistochemical studies confirmed the diagnosis. PMID:26500913

Analysis of the effects of gravity and wall thickness in a model of blood flow through axisymmetric vessels.

PubMed

Payne, S J

2004-11-01

The effects of gravitational forces and wall thickness on the behaviour of a model of blood flow through axisymmetric vessels were studied. The governing fluid dynamic equations were derived from the Navier-Stokes equations for an incompressible fluid and linked to a simple model of the vessel wall. A closed form of the hyperbolic partial differential equations was found, including a significant source term from the gravitational forces. The inclination of the vessel is modelled using a slope parameter that varied between -1 and 1. The wave speed was shown to be related to the wall thickness, and the time to first shock formation was shown to be directly proportional to this thickness. Two non-dimensional parameters were derived for the ratio of gravitational forces to viscous and momentum forces, respectively, and their values were calculated for the different types of vessel found in the human vasculature, showing that gravitational forces were significant in comparison with either viscous or momentum forces for every type of vessel. The steady-state solution of the governing equations showed that gravitational forces cause an increase in area of approximately 5% per metre per unit slope. Numerical simulations of the flow field in the aorta showed that a positive slope causes a velocity pulse to change in amplitude approximately linearly with distance: -4% per metre and +5% per metre for vessels inclined vertically upwards and downwards, respectively, in comparison with only +0.5% for a horizontal vessel. These simulations also showed that the change relative to the zero slope condition in the maximum rate of change of area with distance, which was taken to be a measure of the rate of shock formation, is proportional to both the slope and the wall thickness-to-inner radius ratio, with a constant of proportionality of 1.2. At a ratio of 0.25, typical of that found in human arteries, the distance to shock formation is thus decreased and increased by 30% for vessels

Stress intensity factors in a reinforced thick-walled cylinder

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tang, R.; Erdogan, F.

1984-01-01

An elastic thick-walled cylinder containing a radial crack is considered. It is assumed that the cylinder is reinforced by an elastic membrane on its inner surface. The model is intended to simulate pressure vessels with cladding. The formulation of the problem is reduced to a singular integral equation. Various special cases including that of a crack terminating at the cylinder-reinforcement interface are investigated and numerical examples are given. Results indicate that in the case of the crack touching the interface the crack surface displacement derivative is finite and consequently the stress state around the corresponding crack tip is bounded; and generally, for realistic values of the stiffness parameter, the effect of the reinforcement is not very significant.

Fracture resistance of welded thick-walled high-pressure vessels in power plants. Report No. 2. Approach to evaluating static strength

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

Gorynin, I.V.; Filatov, V.M.; Ignatov, V.A.

1986-07-01

The authors examine data on the effect of defects on the fracture resistance of high-pressure vessels and their models obtained within the framework of the HSST program. Results of internal-pressure tests of two types of vessels with a wall thickness of 152 mm made from forgings of steels SA508 and SA533, as well as small vessels with a wall thickness of 11.5 and 23mm made of steel SA533 are shown. The authors state that testing thick-walled welded high-pressure vessels and thin-walled vessels with surface defects of different sizes has demonstrated that there are substantial static-strength reserves in structures designed bymore » existing domestic and foreign standards on the strength of power-plant equipment. A correction was proposed for the presently used method of calculating the resistance of highpressure vessels to brittle fracture that allows for the dimensions of the defects in relation to the type of vessel, the manufacturing technology, and the method of inspection.« less

Fibrosarcoma of the urinary bladder in a cat.

PubMed

Capasso, Angelo; Raiano, Vera; Sontuoso, Antonio; Olivero, Daniela; Greci, Valentina

2015-01-01

A 5-year-old female spayed domestic shorthair cat was presented with haematuria, pollakiuria and stranguria of 2 months' duration, and a firm non-painful mass in the urinary bladder was palpated. Abdominal radiographs showed thickening and irregular cranial margins of the urinary bladder wall. Abdominal ultrasound showed a vascularised mass of mixed echogenicity almost entirely occupying the urinary bladder lumen. During explorative laparotomy, the mass appeared pedunculated and was totally excised. Histopathology was characterised by infiltration of the mucosal, submucosal and muscular layers by proliferated atypical mesenchymal cells; immunochemistry confirmed the diagnosis of fibrosarcoma. The cat was discharged with normal urination 5 days after surgery. The owner declined any imaging follow-up but reported the cat to be free of any clinical signs at 16 months after surgery. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of primary fibrosarcoma of the urinary bladder in the cat. Fibrosarcoma should be included in the differential diagnosis of urinary bladder neoplasia.

The effect of fig wall thickness in Ficus erecta var. beecheyana on parasitism

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tzeng, Hsy-Yu; Ou, Chern-Hsiung; Lu, Fu-Yuan; Bain, Anthony; Chou, Lien-Siang; Kjellberg, Finn

2014-05-01

Fig wasp communities constitute a model system to analyse determinants of community complexity and to investigate how biological interaction networks are maintained. It has been suggested for monoecious figs, that fig pollinating wasps avoid ovipositing in flowers located close to the fig wall because of strong parasitic pressure by wasps ovipositing through the fig wall. This behaviour could help explain why mainly seeds are produced in flowers located close to the fig wall, thus stabilizing the fig-pollinating wasp mutualism. In this contribution we explore, for dioecious figs, whether ovipositor length of parasitic species may really be limiting. In dioecious figs, functionally male figs produce pollinating wasps and pollen while female figs produce only seeds, facilitating selection of traits favouring pollinator reproduction in male figs. We show in Ficus erecta that fig walls are thicker in male figs than in female figs. Male figs presenting thick walls, thicker than the length of the parasites' ovipositors, went unparasitized while male figs presenting thinner walls were systematically parasitized. Hence, in F. erecta, ovipositor length of the parasites is limiting access to some figs. However, we also show that in another dioecious species, Ficus formosana, presenting thin walled male figs, no fig is protected against oviposition by its two parasites. Hence in dioecious as well as in monoecious figs, in some Ficus species, ovipositors of the parasites are limiting access to ovules, while in other Ficus species all ovules are exposed to parasitism.

Pure Small Cell Carcinoma of the Bladder: A Case Report.

PubMed

Trabelsi, Amel; Abdelkrim, Soumaya Ben; Tebra, Samah; Gharbi, Olfa; Jaidane, Lilia; Bouaouina, Noureddine; Abbassi, Dajla Bakir; Mokni, Moncef

2010-06-01

Small cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder is an uncommon tumor that has been described in case reports or small series. We report a new case in a 67-year-old male who presented with gross hematuria and irritative symptoms. Cystoscopy revealed an extensive mass of the bladder and computed tomography scan showed an important thickening of the bladder wall. Diagnosis of small cell carcinoma was established after radical cystectomy and microscopic examination. The patient received pelvic hemostatic radiotherapy and platinium-based chemotherapy. Three months after the diagnosis, he developed bone, renal and adrenal metastases.

Impact of Age and Aerobic Exercise Training on Conduit Artery Wall Thickness: Role of the Shear Pattern.

PubMed

Tanahashi, Koichiro; Kosaki, Keisei; Sawano, Yuriko; Yoshikawa, Toru; Tagawa, Kaname; Kumagai, Hiroshi; Akazawa, Nobuhiko; Maeda, Seiji

2017-01-01

Hemodynamic shear stress is the frictional force of blood on the arterial wall. The shear pattern in the conduit artery affects the endothelium and may participate in the development and progression of atherosclerosis. We investigated the role of the shear pattern in age- and aerobic exercise-induced changes in conduit artery wall thickness via cross-sectional and interventional studies. In a cross-sectional study, we found that brachial shear rate patterns and brachial artery intima-media thickness (IMT) correlated with age. Additionally, brachial artery shear rate patterns were associated with brachial artery IMT in 102 middle-aged and older individuals. In an interventional study, 39 middle-aged and older subjects were divided into 2 groups: control and exercise. The exercise group completed 12 weeks of aerobic exercise training. Aerobic exercise training significantly increased the antegrade shear rate and decreased the retrograde shear rate and brachial artery IMT. Moreover, changes in the brachial artery antegrade shear rate and the retrograde shear rate correlated with the change in brachial artery IMT. The results of the present study indicate that changes in brachial artery shear rate patterns may contribute to age- and aerobic exercise training-induced changes in brachial artery wall thickness. © 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Diffusion capacity and CT measures of emphysema and airway wall thickness - relation to arterial oxygen tension in COPD patients.

PubMed

Saure, Eirunn Waatevik; Bakke, Per Sigvald; Lind Eagan, Tomas Mikal; Aanerud, Marianne; Jensen, Robert Leroy; Grydeland, Thomas Blix; Johannessen, Ane; Nilsen, Roy Miodini; Thorsen, Einar; Hardie, Jon Andrew

2016-01-01

Decreased diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO) is associated with emphysema. DLCO is also related to decreased arterial oxygen tension (PaO2), but there are limited data on associations between PaO2 and computed tomography (CT) derived measures of emphysema and airway wall thickness. To examine whether CT measures of emphysema and airway wall thickness are associated with level of arterial oxygen tension beyond that provided by measurements of diffusion capacity and spirometry. The study sample consisted of 271 smoking or ex-smoking COPD patients from the Bergen COPD Cohort Study examined in 2007-2008. Emphysema was assessed as percent of low-attenuation areas<-950 Hounsfield units (%LAA), and airway wall thickness as standardised measure at an internal perimeter of 10 mm (AWT-Pi10). Multiple linear regression models were fitted with PaO2 as the outcome variable, and %LAA, AWT-Pi10, DLCO and carbon monoxide transfer coefficient (KCO) as main explanatory variables. The models were adjusted for sex, age, smoking status, and haemoglobin concentration, as well as forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1). Sixty two per cent of the subjects were men, mean (SD) age was 64 (7) years, mean (SD) FEV1 in percent predicted was 50 (15)%, and mean PaO2 (SD) was 9.3 (1.1) kPa. The adjusted regression coefficient (CI) for PaO2 was -0.32 (-0.04-(-0.019)) per 10% increase in %LAA (p<0.01). When diffusion capacity and FEV1 were added to the model, respectively, the association lost its statistical significance. No relationship between airway wall thickness and PaO2 was found. CT assessment of airway wall thickness is not associated with arterial oxygen tension in COPD patients. Emphysema score measured by chest CT, is related to decreased PaO2, but cannot replace measurements of diffusion capacity in the clinical evaluation of hypoxaemia.

Measurement of thickness of film deposited on the plasma-facing wall in the QUEST tokamak by colorimetry.

PubMed

Wang, Z; Hanada, K; Yoshida, N; Shimoji, T; Miyamoto, M; Oya, Y; Zushi, H; Idei, H; Nakamura, K; Fujisawa, A; Nagashima, Y; Hasegawa, M; Kawasaki, S; Higashijima, A; Nakashima, H; Nagata, T; Kawaguchi, A; Fujiwara, T; Araki, K; Mitarai, O; Fukuyama, A; Takase, Y; Matsumoto, K

2017-09-01

After several experimental campaigns in the Kyushu University Experiment with Steady-state Spherical Tokamak (QUEST), the originally stainless steel plasma-facing wall (PFW) becomes completely covered with a deposited film composed of mixture materials, such as iron, chromium, carbon, and tungsten. In this work, an innovative colorimetry-based method was developed to measure the thickness of the deposited film on the actual QUEST wall. Because the optical constants of the deposited film on the PFW were position-dependent and the extinction coefficient k 1 was about 1.0-2.0, which made the probing light not penetrate through some thick deposited films, the colorimetry method developed can only provide a rough value range of thickness of the metal-containing film deposited on the actual PFW in QUEST. However, the use of colorimetry is of great benefit to large-area inspections and to radioactive materials in future fusion devices that will be strictly prohibited from being taken out of the limited area.

Ultrasonic guided wave tomography for wall thickness mapping in pipes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Willey, Carson L.

Corrosion and erosion damage pose fundamental challenges to operation of oil and gas infrastructure. In order to manage the life of critical assets, plant operators must implement inspection programs aimed at assessing the severity of wall thickness loss (WTL) in pipelines, vessels, and other structures. Maximum defect depth determines the residual life of these structures and therefore represents one of the key parameters for robust damage mitigation strategies. In this context, continuous monitoring with permanently installed sensors has attracted significant interest and currently is the subject of extensive research worldwide. Among the different monitoring approaches being considered, significant promise is offered by the combination of guided ultrasonic wave technology with the principles of model based inversion under the paradigm of what is now referred to as guided wave tomography (GWT). Guided waves are attractive because they propagate inside the wall of a structure over a large distance. This can yield significant advantages over conventional pulse-echo thickness gage sensors that provide insufficient area coverage -- typically limited to the sensor footprint. While significant progress has been made in the application of GWT to plate-like structures, extension of these methods to pipes poses a number of fundamental challenges that have prevented the development of sensitive GWT methods. This thesis focuses on these challenges to address the complex guided wave propagation in pipes and to account for parametric uncertainties that are known to affect model based inversion and which are unavoidable in real field applications. The main contribution of this work is the first demonstration of a sensitive GWT method for accurately mapping the depth of defects in pipes. This is achieved by introducing a novel forward model that can extract information related to damage from the complex waveforms measured by pairs of guided wave transducers mounted on the pipe

Enhanced washout of 99mTc-tetrofosmin in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: quantitative comparisons with regional 123I-BMIPP uptake and wall thickness determined by MRI.

PubMed

Thet-Thet-Lwin; Takeda, Tohoru; Wu, Jin; Fumikura, Yuko; Iida, Keiji; Kawano, Satoru; Yamaguchi, Iwao; Itai, Yuji

2003-07-01

The diagnostic value of technetium-99m tetrofosmin (TF) washout in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) was examined by investigating its relation to the metabolic abnormality depicted by iodine-123 beta-methyl- p-iodophenylpentadecanoic acid (BMIPP) uptake and the left ventricular (LV) myocardial wall thickness as measured by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). TF washout was evaluated in 31 patients with HCM and 23 normal control subjects using 30-min (early) and 3-h (delayed) TF single-photon emission tomography images. The LV myocardial wall was divided into 19 segments and the percentage TF washout, regional BMIPP uptake and LV wall thickness were measured in each segment. Mean TF washout in the patients with HCM was significantly faster than that in normal control subjects (23.7+/-5.7 vs 13.4+/-4.1, P<0.0001). In the patients with HCM, TF washout showed an excellent correlation with MRI wall thickness ( r=0.82, P<0.0001) and a good inverse correlation with regional BMIPP uptake ( r=-0.72, P<0.0001). In addition, a good linear correlation was observed between TF uptake and MRI wall thickness in the 19 regional segments. In conclusion, the degree of TF washout corresponds well with the severity of myocardial wall thickness and the degree of metabolic abnormality in patients with HCM. These results suggest that enhanced TF washout might provide additional clinical information regarding metabolic alterations in HCM.

Comparison of Coregistration Accuracy of Pelvic Structures Between Sequential and Simultaneous Imaging During Hybrid PET/MRI in Patients with Bladder Cancer.

PubMed

Rosenkrantz, Andrew B; Balar, Arjun V; Huang, William C; Jackson, Kimberly; Friedman, Kent P

2015-08-01

The aim of this study was to compare coregistration of the bladder wall, bladder masses, and pelvic lymph nodes between sequential and simultaneous PET and MRI acquisitions obtained during hybrid (18)F-FDG PET/MRI performed using a diuresis protocol in bladder cancer patients. Six bladder cancer patients underwent (18)F-FDG hybrid PET/MRI, including IV Lasix administration and oral hydration, before imaging to achieve bladder clearance. Axial T2-weighted imaging (T2WI) was obtained approximately 40 minutes before PET ("sequential") and concurrently with PET ("simultaneous"). Three-dimensional spatial coordinates of the bladder wall, bladder masses, and pelvic lymph nodes were recorded for PET and T2WI. Distances between these locations on PET and T2WI sequences were computed and used to compare in-plane (x-y plane) and through-plane (z-axis) misregistration relative to PET between T2WI acquisitions. The bladder increased in volume between T2WI acquisitions (sequential, 176 [139] mL; simultaneous, 255 [146] mL). Four patients exhibited a bladder mass, all with increased activity (SUV, 9.5-38.4). Seven pelvic lymph nodes in 4 patients showed increased activity (SUV, 2.2-9.9). The bladder wall exhibited substantially less misregistration relative to PET for simultaneous, compared with sequential, acquisitions in in-plane (2.8 [3.1] mm vs 7.4 [9.1] mm) and through-plane (1.7 [2.2] mm vs 5.7 [9.6] mm) dimensions. Bladder masses exhibited slightly decreased misregistration for simultaneous, compared with sequential, acquisitions in in-plane (2.2 [1.4] mm vs 2.6 [1.9] mm) and through-plane (0.0 [0.0] mm vs 0.3 [0.8] mm) dimensions. FDG-avid lymph nodes exhibited slightly decreased in-plane misregistration (1.1 [0.8] mm vs 2.5 [0.6] mm), although identical through-plane misregistration (4.0 [1.9] mm vs 4.0 [2.8] mm). Using hybrid PET/MRI, simultaneous imaging substantially improved bladder wall coregistration and slightly improved coregistration of bladder masses and

The effect of wall thickness distribution on mechanical reliability and strength in unidirectional porous ceramics.

PubMed

Seuba, Jordi; Deville, Sylvain; Guizard, Christian; Stevenson, Adam J

2016-01-01

Macroporous ceramics exhibit an intrinsic strength variability caused by the random distribution of defects in their structure. However, the precise role of microstructural features, other than pore volume, on reliability is still unknown. Here, we analyze the applicability of the Weibull analysis to unidirectional macroporous yttria-stabilized-zirconia (YSZ) prepared by ice-templating. First, we performed crush tests on samples with controlled microstructural features with the loading direction parallel to the porosity. The compressive strength data were fitted using two different fitting techniques, ordinary least squares and Bayesian Markov Chain Monte Carlo, to evaluate whether Weibull statistics are an adequate descriptor of the strength distribution. The statistical descriptors indicated that the strength data are well described by the Weibull statistical approach, for both fitting methods used. Furthermore, we assess the effect of different microstructural features (volume, size, densification of the walls, and morphology) on Weibull modulus and strength. We found that the key microstructural parameter controlling reliability is wall thickness. In contrast, pore volume is the main parameter controlling the strength. The highest Weibull modulus ([Formula: see text]) and mean strength (198.2 MPa) were obtained for the samples with the smallest and narrowest wall thickness distribution (3.1 [Formula: see text]m) and lower pore volume (54.5%).

The effect of wall thickness distribution on mechanical reliability and strength in unidirectional porous ceramics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seuba, Jordi; Deville, Sylvain; Guizard, Christian; Stevenson, Adam J.

2016-01-01

Macroporous ceramics exhibit an intrinsic strength variability caused by the random distribution of defects in their structure. However, the precise role of microstructural features, other than pore volume, on reliability is still unknown. Here, we analyze the applicability of the Weibull analysis to unidirectional macroporous yttria-stabilized-zirconia (YSZ) prepared by ice-templating. First, we performed crush tests on samples with controlled microstructural features with the loading direction parallel to the porosity. The compressive strength data were fitted using two different fitting techniques, ordinary least squares and Bayesian Markov Chain Monte Carlo, to evaluate whether Weibull statistics are an adequate descriptor of the strength distribution. The statistical descriptors indicated that the strength data are well described by the Weibull statistical approach, for both fitting methods used. Furthermore, we assess the effect of different microstructural features (volume, size, densification of the walls, and morphology) on Weibull modulus and strength. We found that the key microstructural parameter controlling reliability is wall thickness. In contrast, pore volume is the main parameter controlling the strength. The highest Weibull modulus (?) and mean strength (198.2 MPa) were obtained for the samples with the smallest and narrowest wall thickness distribution (3.1 ?m) and lower pore volume (54.5%).

A tale of two neglected systems-structure and function of the thin- and thick-walled sieve tubes in monocotyledonous leaves.

PubMed

Botha, C E J

2013-01-01

There is a large body of information relating to the ontogeny, development and the vasculature of eudicotyledonous leaves. However, there is less information available concerning the vascular anatomy of monocotyledonous leaves. This is surprising, given that there are two uniquely different phloem systems present in large groups such as grasses and sedges. Monocotyledonous leaves contain marginal, large, intermediate, and small longitudinal veins that are interconnected by numerous transverse veins. The longitudinal veins contain two metaphloem sieve tube types, which, based upon their ontogeny and position within the phloem, are termed early (thin-walled) and late (thick-walled) sieve tubes. Early metaphloem comprises sieve tubes, companion cells and vascular parenchyma (VP) cells, whilst the late metaphloem, contains thick-walled sieve tubes (TSTs) that lack companion cells. TSTs are generally adjacent to, or no more than one cell removed from the metaxylem. Unlike thin-walled sieve tube (ST) -companion cell complexes, TSTs are connected to parenchyma by pore-plasmodesma units and are generally symplasmically isolated from the STs. This paper addresses key structural and functional differences between thin- and thick-walled sieve tubes and explores the unique advantages of alternate transport strategies that this 5-7 million years old dual system may offer. It would seem that these two systems may enhance, add to, or play a significant role in increasing the efficiency of solute retrieval as well as of assimilate transfer.

Airway wall thickness of allergic asthma caused by weed pollen or house dust mite assessed by computed tomography.

PubMed

Liu, Liping; Li, Guangrun; Sun, Yuemei; Li, Jian; Tang, Ningbo; Dong, Liang

2015-03-01

Little was known about Airway wall thickness of asthma patients with different allergen allergy. So we explored the possible difference of Airway wall thickness of asthma patients mono-sensitized to weed pollen or HDM using high-resolution computed tomography. 85 severe asthma patients were divided into weed pollen group and HDM group according to relevant allergen. 20 healthy donors served as controls. Airway wall area, percentage wall area and luminal area at the trunk of the apical bronchus of the right upper lobe were quantified using HRCT and compared. The values of pulmonary function were assessed as well. There were differences between HDM group and weed pollen group in WA/BSA,WA% and FEF25-75% pred, and no significant difference in FEV1%pred, FEV1/FVC and LA/BSA. In weed pollen group, WA/BSA was observed to correlate with the duration of rhinitis, whereas in HDM group, WA/BSA and LA/BSA was observed to correlate with the duration of asthma. In weed pollen group, FEV1/FVC showed a weak but significant negative correlation with WA%, but in HDM group FEV1/FVC showed a significant positive correlation with WA% and a statistical negative correlation with LA/BSA. FEV1/FVC and FEF25-75% pred were higher and WA/BSA and LA/BSA were lower in healthy control group than asthma group. FEV1%pred and WA% was no significant difference between asthma patients and healthy subjects. There are differences between HDM mono-sensitized subjects and weed pollen mono-sensitized subjects, not only in airway wall thickness, but also small airway obstruction. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Pure Small Cell Carcinoma of the Bladder: A Case Report

PubMed Central

Trabelsi, Amel; Abdelkrim, Soumaya Ben; Tebra, Samah; Gharbi, Olfa; Jaidane, Lilia; Bouaouina, Noureddine; Abbassi, Dajla Bakir; Mokni, Moncef

2010-01-01

Small cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder is an uncommon tumor that has been described in case reports or small series. We report a new case in a 67-year-old male who presented with gross hematuria and irritative symptoms. Cystoscopy revealed an extensive mass of the bladder and computed tomography scan showed an important thickening of the bladder wall. Diagnosis of small cell carcinoma was established after radical cystectomy and microscopic examination. The patient received pelvic hemostatic radiotherapy and platinium-based chemotherapy. Three months after the diagnosis, he developed bone, renal and adrenal metastases. PMID:29147197

Extremely thick cell walls and low mesophyll conductance: welcome to the world of ancient living!

PubMed Central

Tosens, Tiina; Laanisto, Lauri; Niinemets, Ülo

2017-01-01

Abstract Mesophyll conductance is thought to be an important photosynthetic limitation in gymnosperms, but they currently constitute the most understudied plant group in regard to the extent to which photosynthesis and intrinsic water use efficiency are limited by mesophyll conductance. A comprehensive analysis of leaf gas exchange, photosynthetic limitations, mesophyll conductance (calculated by three methods previously used for across-species comparisons), and the underlying ultra-anatomical, morphological and chemical traits in 11 gymnosperm species varying in evolutionary history was performed to gain insight into the evolution of structural and physiological controls on photosynthesis at the lower return end of the leaf economics spectrum. Two primitive herbaceous species were included in order to provide greater evolutionary context. Low mesophyll conductance was the main limiting factor of photosynthesis in the majority of species. The strongest sources of limitation were extremely thick mesophyll cell walls, high chloroplast thickness and variation in chloroplast shape and size, and the low exposed surface area of chloroplasts per unit leaf area. In gymnosperms, the negative relationship between net assimilation per mass and leaf mass per area reflected an increased mesophyll cell wall thickness, whereas the easy-to-measure integrative trait of leaf mass per area failed to predict the underlying ultrastructural traits limiting mesophyll conductance. PMID:28419340

Tissue engineering of urinary bladder - current state of art and future perspectives.

PubMed

Adamowicz, Jan; Kowalczyk, Tomasz; Drewa, Tomasz

2013-01-01

Tissue engineering and biomaterials science currently offer the technology needed to replace the urinary tract wall. This review addresses current achievements and barriers for the regeneration of the urinary blad- der based on tissue engineering methods. Medline was search for urinary bladder tissue engineering regenerative medicine and stem cells. Numerous studies to develop a substitute for the native urinary bladder wall us- ing the tissue engineering approach are ongoing. Stem cells combined with biomaterials open new treatment methods, including even de novo urinary bladder construction. However, there are still many issues before advances in tissue engineering can be introduced for clinical application. Before tissue engineering techniques could be recognize as effective and safe for patients, more research stud- ies performed on large animal models and with long follow-up are needed to carry on in the future.

Fibrosarcoma of the urinary bladder in a cat

PubMed Central

Capasso, Angelo; Raiano, Vera; Sontuoso, Antonio; Olivero, Daniela

2015-01-01

Case summary A 5-year-old female spayed domestic shorthair cat was presented with haematuria, pollakiuria and stranguria of 2 months’ duration, and a firm non-painful mass in the urinary bladder was palpated. Abdominal radiographs showed thickening and irregular cranial margins of the urinary bladder wall. Abdominal ultrasound showed a vascularised mass of mixed echogenicity almost entirely occupying the urinary bladder lumen. During explorative laparotomy, the mass appeared pedunculated and was totally excised. Histopathology was characterised by infiltration of the mucosal, submucosal and muscular layers by proliferated atypical mesenchymal cells; immunochemistry confirmed the diagnosis of fibrosarcoma. The cat was discharged with normal urination 5 days after surgery. The owner declined any imaging follow-up but reported the cat to be free of any clinical signs at 16 months after surgery. Relevance and novel information To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of primary fibrosarcoma of the urinary bladder in the cat. Fibrosarcoma should be included in the differential diagnosis of urinary bladder neoplasia. PMID:28491352

Afferent Nerve Regulation of Bladder Function in Health and Disease

PubMed Central

de Groat, William C.; Yoshimura, Naoki

2012-01-01

The afferent innervation of the urinary bladder consists primarily of small myelinated (Aδ) and unmyelinated (C-fiber) axons that respond to chemical and mechanical stimuli. Immunochemical studies indicate that bladder afferent neurons synthesize several putative neurotransmitters, including neuropeptides, glutamic acid, aspartic acid, and nitric oxide. The afferent neurons also express various types of receptors and ion channels, including transient receptor potential channels, purinergic, muscarinic, endothelin, neurotrophic factor, and estrogen receptors. Patch-clamp recordings in dissociated bladder afferent neurons and recordings of bladder afferent nerve activity have revealed that activation of many of these receptors enhances neuronal excitability. Afferent nerves can respond to chemicals present in urine as well as chemicals released in the bladder wall from nerves, smooth muscle, inflammatory cells, and epithelial cells lining the bladder lumen. Pathological conditions alter the chemical and electrical properties of bladder afferent pathways, leading to urinary urgency, increased voiding frequency, nocturia, urinary incontinence, and pain. Neurotrophic factors have been implicated in the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the sensitization of bladder afferent nerves. Neurotoxins such as capsaicin, resiniferatoxin, and botulinum neurotoxin that target sensory nerves are useful in treating disorders of the lower urinary tract. PMID:19655106

How should bladder sensation be measured? ICI-RS 2011.

PubMed

De Wachter, S; Smith, Philip P; Smith, P; Tannenbaum, C; Van Koeveringe, G; Drake, M; Wyndaele, J J; Chapple, C

2012-03-01

Disturbed bladder sensations, or in broader terms, sensory dysfunctions are increasingly recognized as key elements in the origin and manifestation of symptom syndromes of urinary dysfunction. Adequate assessment of bladder sensation is crucial to improve our understanding of the pathophysiology and treatment of urinary dysfunction. This manuscript summarizes the discussions of a think tank on "How to measure bladder sensation" held at the ICI-RS meeting in 2011. Based upon literature reviews on bladder sensation presented at the think tank in the ICI-RS meeting, discussions evolved which were summarized in the ICI-RS report. Different physicians/researchers further elaborated on this report, which is presented in this manuscript. Bladder sensations are not merely the result of bladder distension. Other factors inside the bladder or bladder wall: central processing and/or cognitive manipulation may play an important role. Current methods to measure sensations such as urodynamics, voiding diaries, forced diuresis, electrical stimulation and brain imaging are likely sub-optimal as they only consider part of these factors in isolation. Different methods to measure bladder sensations have been described and are used in clinical practice. Current methods only address part of the parameters responsible for the generation and perception of urinary sensations. Further focused research is required, and several recommendations are provided. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The urinary bladder of spontaneously hypertensive rat demonstrates bladder hypertrophy, inflammation, and fibrosis but not hyperplasia

PubMed Central

Shen, Shanwei; Xia, Chun-mei; Qiao, Li-Ya

2014-01-01

The present study aims to systemically characterize the factors that are associated with urinary bladder organ enlargement in the spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Material and Methods We compared the SHR to age-matched normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) control rats in the levels of bladder pro-inflammatory factors, collagen expression (type I), and detrusor smooth muscle growth. Key Findings Our results showed that enhanced inflammatory responses and fibrosis were key factors that were closely associated with bladder wall thickening in SHR. Specifically the mRNA levels of inflammatory factors interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-6 and TNFα were significantly higher in SHR than those in WKY. The SHR also had a higher number of mast cells in the suburothelium space. Type I collagen production was also significantly higher in SHR when compared to those in control rats. However, the smooth muscle content stayed the same in SHR and WKY rats. This was shown as that the ratio of α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) to the nuclear protein histone H3 showed no difference between these two rat strains. The mRNA and protein levels of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) also showed no change in the urinary bladder of SHR and WKY. Further study showed that the phosphorylation level of Akt in the urinary bladder was not changed in SHR when compared to WKY. In contrast, the phosphorylation level of ERK1/2 was significantly higher in SHR bladder when compared to WKY. Significance These results suggest that inflammation and fibrosis are primary factors that may lead to urinary bladder hypertrophy in SHR. PMID:25445218

Virtual 3D bladder reconstruction for augmented medical records from white light cystoscopy (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lurie, Kristen L.; Zlatev, Dimitar V.; Angst, Roland; Liao, Joseph C.; Ellerbee, Audrey K.

2016-02-01

Bladder cancer has a high recurrence rate that necessitates lifelong surveillance to detect mucosal lesions. Examination with white light cystoscopy (WLC), the standard of care, is inherently subjective and data storage limited to clinical notes, diagrams, and still images. A visual history of the bladder wall can enhance clinical and surgical management. To address this clinical need, we developed a tool to transform in vivo WLC videos into virtual 3-dimensional (3D) bladder models using advanced computer vision techniques. WLC videos from rigid cystoscopies (1280 x 720 pixels) were recorded at 30 Hz followed by immediate camera calibration to control for image distortions. Video data were fed into an automated structure-from-motion algorithm that generated a 3D point cloud followed by a 3D mesh to approximate the bladder surface. The highest quality cystoscopic images were projected onto the approximated bladder surface to generate a virtual 3D bladder reconstruction. In intraoperative WLC videos from 36 patients undergoing transurethral resection of suspected bladder tumors, optimal reconstruction was achieved from frames depicting well-focused vasculature, when the bladder was maintained at constant volume with minimal debris, and when regions of the bladder wall were imaged multiple times. A significant innovation of this work is the ability to perform the reconstruction using video from a clinical procedure collected with standard equipment, thereby facilitating rapid clinical translation, application to other forms of endoscopy and new opportunities for longitudinal studies of cancer recurrence.

Stress-intensity factors for a thick-walled cylinder containing an annular imbedded or external or internal surface crack

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Erdol, R.; Erdogan, F.

1976-01-01

The elastostatic axisymmetric problem for a long thick-walled cylinder containing a ring-shaped internal or edge crack is considered. Using the standard transform technique the problem is formulated in terms of an integral equation which has a simple Cauchy kernel for the internal crack and a generalized Cauchy kernel for the edge crack as the dominant part. As examples the uniform axial load and the steady-state thermal stress problems have been solved and the related stress intensity factors have been calculated. Among other findings the results show that in the cylinder under uniform axial stress containing an internal crack the stress intensity factor at the inner tip is always greater than that at the outer tip for equal net ligament thicknesses and in the cylinder with an edge crack which is under a state of thermal stress the stress intensity factor is a decreasing function of the crack depth, tending to zero as the crack depth approaches the wall thickness.

High levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone are associated with aortic wall thickness in the general population.

PubMed

Ittermann, Till; Lorbeer, Roberto; Dörr, Marcus; Schneider, Tobias; Quadrat, Alexander; Heßelbarth, Lydia; Wenzel, Michael; Lehmphul, Ina; Köhrle, Josef; Mensel, Birger; Völzke, Henry

2016-12-01

Our aim was to investigate the association of thyroid function defined by serum concentrations of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) with thoracic aortic wall thickness (AWT) as a marker of atherosclerotic processes. We pooled data of 2,679 individuals from two independent population-based surveys of the Study of Health in Pomerania. Aortic diameter and AWT measurements were performed on a 1.5-T MRI scanner at the concentration of the right pulmonary artery displaying the ascending and the descending aorta. TSH, treated as continuous variable, was significantly associated with descending AWT (β = 0.11; 95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.02-0.21), while the association with ascending AWT was not statistically significant (β = 0.20; 95 % CI -0.01-0.21). High TSH (>3.29 mIU/L) was significantly associated with ascending (β = 0.12; 95 % CI 0.02-0.23) but not with descending AWT (β = 0.06; 95 % CI -0.04-0.16). There was no consistent association between TSH and aortic diameters. Our study demonstrated that AWT values increase with increasing serum TSH concentrations. Thus, a hypothyroid state may be indicative for aortic atherosclerosis. These results fit very well to the findings of previous studies pointing towards increased atherosclerotic risk in the hypothyroid state. • Serum TSH concentrations are positively associated with aortic wall thickness. • Serum TSH concentrations are not associated with the aortic diameters. • Serum 3,5-diiodothyronine concentrations may be positively associated with aortic wall thickness.

A tale of two neglected systems—structure and function of the thin- and thick-walled sieve tubes in monocotyledonous leaves

PubMed Central

Botha, C. E. J.

2013-01-01

There is a large body of information relating to the ontogeny, development and the vasculature of eudicotyledonous leaves. However, there is less information available concerning the vascular anatomy of monocotyledonous leaves. This is surprising, given that there are two uniquely different phloem systems present in large groups such as grasses and sedges. Monocotyledonous leaves contain marginal, large, intermediate, and small longitudinal veins that are interconnected by numerous transverse veins. The longitudinal veins contain two metaphloem sieve tube types, which, based upon their ontogeny and position within the phloem, are termed early (thin-walled) and late (thick-walled) sieve tubes. Early metaphloem comprises sieve tubes, companion cells and vascular parenchyma (VP) cells, whilst the late metaphloem, contains thick-walled sieve tubes (TSTs) that lack companion cells. TSTs are generally adjacent to, or no more than one cell removed from the metaxylem. Unlike thin-walled sieve tube (ST) -companion cell complexes, TSTs are connected to parenchyma by pore-plasmodesma units and are generally symplasmically isolated from the STs. This paper addresses key structural and functional differences between thin- and thick-walled sieve tubes and explores the unique advantages of alternate transport strategies that this 5–7 million years old dual system may offer. It would seem that these two systems may enhance, add to, or play a significant role in increasing the efficiency of solute retrieval as well as of assimilate transfer. PMID:23964280

Variations of thickness of trigonal muscle layer in different age and sex.

PubMed

Sultana, J; Khalil, M; Sultana, S Z; Mannan, S; Choudhury, S; Ara, A; Sumi, M S; Farzana, T; Sultana, R; Tania, A H

2014-10-01

This cross sectional descriptive study was to measure the thickness of muscular layer in trigone of the urinary bladder and to establish the difference between sexes of different age groups in Bangladeshi cadaver. A total 60 human urinary bladders were collected by purposive sampling from May 2013 to October 2013. Among them from male 43 and from female 17 were collected from Bangladeshi cadavers of age ranging from 01 to 60 years, from autopsy laboratory of the Department of Forensic Medicine of Mymensingh Medical College, Mymensingh. The thickness of muscular layer in trigone of the urinary bladder was measured and significant differences of the value between age and sex groups were observed. The mean±SD thickness of muscular layer of trigone of the urinary bladder was 318.59±93.15μm in age Group A (01 to 20 years), 633.25±79.79μm in age Group B (21 to 40 years), and 352.50±116.15μm in age Group C (41 to 60 years). The mean difference of muscular layer of the trigone of the urinary bladder between age Groups A&B, B&C was statistically highly significant, where p=0.001. In statistical analysis, differences between age groups were calculated by using one way ANOVA test. The present study revealed that the value of thickness of muscular layer in trigone of the urinary bladder was increased with the increase of age and it was declined to a low level in the late age. The mean value of muscular layer of the trigone of the urinary bladder was higher in male than that of in female of Group A, B & C.

Fabrication of chitosan single-component microcapsules with a micrometer-thick and layered wall structure by stepwise core-mediated precipitation.

PubMed

Han, Yuanyuan; Tong, Weijun; Zhang, Yuying; Gao, Changyou

2012-02-27

Incubation of CaCO(3) microparticles in chitosan (CS) solution at pH 5.2 and following with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid disodium salt (EDTA) treatment resulted in CS single-component microcapsules with an ultra-thick wall structure. Repeating the incubation caused stepwise increase of wall thickness and finally resulted in CS microcapsules with a layered structure. This unique method is mediated by precipitation of CS on the CaCO(3) particles as a result of pH increase caused by the partial dissolution of CaCO(3) . The obtained CS capsules are stable at neutral pH. Copyright © 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

In vitro and in vivo effects of CpG-Oligodeoxynucleotides (CpG-ODN) on murine transitional cell carcinoma and on the native murine urinary bladder wall.

PubMed

Olbert, Peter Jochen; Schrader, Andres Jan; Simon, Corinna; Dalpke, Alexander; Barth, Peter; Hofmann, Rainer; Hegele, Axel

2009-06-01

Intravesical BCG instillation is established and efficient in the prophylaxis of recurrent transitional cell carcinoma. A Th-1 biased immune response is postulated. Recent work has proven the efficacy of synthetic CpG-Oligodeoxynucleotides (ODN) as inducers and adjuvants for a strong Th1-response and there is evidence for a direct and/or adjuvant anti-neoplastic effect. The purpose of this study was to examine the local effects of CpG-ODN on the murine bladder wall after intravesical instillation and the effects on cytokine expression in an orthotopic murine bladder cancer model. Histopathology, immunohistochemistry and fluorescence microscopy were performed after different instillation schedules of stimulatory, non-stimulatory biotinylized and FITC-labelled CpG-ODN into the murine bladder. MB-49 murine bladder cancer cells were tested for TLR-9 expression to exclude a potential direct responsiveness to CpG-ODN. Furthermore induction of apoptosis was tested by annexin V staining and FACS analysis of CpG-ODN stimulated tumor cells. In an orthotopic C57/Bl6 murine bladder cancer model, the expressions of IL-12, IFNgamma, IL-10 and TGF-beta were evaluated after repeated CpG-ODN treatment. Single and repeated instillation of CpG-ODN induced subepithelial and urothelial lymphocytic infiltrations with consecutive apoptoses. PBS and non-stimulative ODN induced no visible reaction. Bladder submucosa stained positive for biotin. Controls showed no endogenic biotin staining. FITC-labelled ODN adhered to the bladder mucosa and penetration of the mucosal barrier was not detected. MB-49 TCC cells did not express TLR-9 and CpG-ODN did not induce apoptosis in these cells. Repeated intravesical instillations of CpG-ODN in orthotopic murine tumor bearing urinary bladders resulted in significant up-regulation of both Th-1 and Th-2 cytokines. CpG-ODNs have promising anti-neoplastic potential. They exert a pronounced immunological response both in the native murine urinary bladder and

Magnet Fall inside a Conductive Pipe: Motion and the Role of the Pipe Wall Thickness

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Donoso, G.; Ladera, C. L.; Martin, P.

2009-01-01

Theoretical models and experimental results are presented for the retarded fall of a strong magnet inside a vertical conductive non-magnetic tube. Predictions and experimental results are in good agreement modelling the magnet as a simple magnetic dipole. The effect of varying the pipe wall thickness on the retarding magnetic drag is studied for…

Vaginal prolapse with urinary bladder incarceration and consecutive irreducible rectal prolapse in a dog.

PubMed

Ober, Ciprian-Andrei; Peștean, Cosmin Petru; Bel, Lucia Victoria; Taulescu, Marian; Cătoi, Cornel; Bogdan, Sidonia; Milgram, Joshua; Schwarz, Guenter; Oana, Liviu Ioan

2016-09-22

True vaginal prolapse is a rare condition in dogs and it is occasionally observed in animals with constipation, dystocia, or forced separation during breeding. If a true prolapse occurs, the bladder, the uterine body and/or distal part of the colon, may be present in the prolapse. A 2-year-old intact non pregnant Central Asian Shepherd dog in moderate condition, was presented for a true vaginal and rectal prolapse. The prolapses were confirmed by physical examination and ultrasonography. Herniation of the urinary bladder was identified within the vaginal prolapse. The necrotic vaginal wall was resected, the urinary bladder was reduced surgically and fixed to the right abdominal wall to prevent recurrence. Rectal resection and anastomosis was necessary to correct the rectal prolapse. Recurrence of the prolapses was not observed and the dog recovered completely after the surgical treatment. In our opinion, extreme tenesmus arising from constipation may have predisposed to the vaginal prolapse with bladder incarceration and secondarily to rectal prolapse. In the young female dog, true vaginal prolapse with secondary involvement of the urinary bladder and irreducible rectal prolapse is an exceptionally rare condition.

[Physics of materials and female stress urinary continence: New concepts: I) Elasticity under bladder].

PubMed

Guerquin, B

2015-09-01

Improving the understanding of the adaptation to stress of urinary continence. A transversal analysis between physics of materials and the female anatomy. Laws of physics of the materials and of their viscoelastic behavior are applied to the anatomy of the anterior vaginal wall. The anterior vaginal wall may be divided into two segments of different viscoelastic behavior, the vertical segment below the urethra and the horizontal segment below the bladder. If the urethra gets crushed on the first segment according to the hammock theory, the crushing of the bladder on the second segment is, on the other hand, damped by its important elasticity. The importance of this elasticity evokes an unknown function: damping under the bladder that moderates and delays the increase of intravesical pressure. This damping function below the bladder is increased in the cystocele, which is therefore a continence factor; on the other hand, it is impaired in obesity, which is therefore a factor of SUI. It is necessary to include in the theory of stress continence, the notion of a damping function below the bladder. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Ultrasonic thickness measuring and imaging system and method

DOEpatents

Bylenok, Paul J.; Patmos, William M.; Wagner, Thomas A.; Martin, Francis H.

1992-08-04

An ultrasonic thickness measuring and imaging system uses an ultrasonic fsed beam probe for measuring thickness of an object, such as a wall of a tube, a computer for controlling movement of the probe in a scanning pattern within the tube and processing an analog signal produced by the probe which is proportional to the tube wall thickness in the scanning pattern, and a line scan recorder for producing a record of the tube wall thicknesses measured by the probe in the scanning pattern. The probe is moved in the scanning pattern to sequentially scan circumferentially the interior tube wall at spaced apart adjacent axial locations. The computer processes the analog signal by converting it to a digital signal and then quantifies the digital signal into a multiplicity of thickness points with each falling in one of a plurality of thickness ranges corresponding to one of a plurality of shades of grey. From the multiplicity of quantified thickness points, a line scan recorder connected to the computer generates a pictorial map of tube wall thicknesses with each quantified thickness point thus being obtained from a minute area, e.g. 0.010 inch by 0.010 inch, of tube wall and representing one pixel of the pictorial map. In the pictorial map of tube wall thicknesses, the pixels represent different wall thicknesses having different shades of grey.

Ultrasonic thickness measuring and imaging system and method

DOEpatents

Bylenok, Paul J.; Patmos, William M.; Wagner, Thomas A.; Martin, Francis H.

1992-01-01

An ultrasonic thickness measuring and imaging system uses an ultrasonic fsed beam probe for measuring thickness of an object, such as a wall of a tube, a computer for controlling movement of the probe in a scanning pattern within the tube and processing an analog signal produced by the probe which is proportional to the tube wall thickness in the scanning pattern, and a line scan recorder for producing a record of the tube wall thicknesses measured by the probe in the scanning pattern. The probe is moved in the scanning pattern to sequentially scan circumferentially the interior tube wall at spaced apart adjacent axial locations. The computer processes the analog signal by converting it to a digital signal and then quantifies the digital signal into a multiplicity of thickness points with each falling in one of a plurality of thickness ranges corresponding to one of a plurality of shades of grey. From the multiplicity of quantified thickness points, a line scan recorder connected to the computer generates a pictorial map of tube wall thicknesses with each quantified thickness point thus being obtained from a minute area, e.g. 0.010 inch by 0.010 inch, of tube wall and representing one pixel of the pictorial map. In the pictorial map of tube wall thicknesses, the pixels represent different wall thicknesses having different shades of grey.

Collapse Pressure Analysis of Transversely Isotropic Thick-Walled Cylinder Using Lebesgue Strain Measure and Transition Theory

PubMed Central

Aggarwal, A. K.; Sharma, Richa; Sharma, Sanjeev

2014-01-01

The objective of this paper is to provide guidance for the design of the thick-walled cylinder made up of transversely isotropic material so that collapse of cylinder due to influence of internal and external pressure can be avoided. The concept of transition theory based on Lebesgue strain measure has been used to simplify the constitutive equations. Results have been analyzed theoretically and discussed numerically. From this analysis, it has been concluded that, under the influence of internal and external pressure, circular cylinder made up of transversely isotropic material (beryl) is on the safer side of the design as compared to the cylinders made up of isotropic material (steel). This is because of the reason that percentage increase in effective pressure required for initial yielding to become fully plastic is high for beryl as compared to steel which leads to the idea of “stress saving” that reduces the possibility of collapse of thick-walled cylinder due to internal and external pressure. PMID:24523632

Two differentially structured collagen scaffolds for potential urinary bladder augmentation: proof of concept study in a Göttingen minipig model.

PubMed

Leonhäuser, Dorothea; Stollenwerk, Katja; Seifarth, Volker; Zraik, Isabella M; Vogt, Michael; Srinivasan, Pramod K; Tolba, Rene H; Grosse, Joachim O

2017-01-04

The repair of urinary bladder tissue is a necessity for tissue loss due to cancer, trauma, or congenital abnormalities. Use of intestinal tissue is still the gold standard in the urological clinic, which leads to new problems and dysfunctions like mucus production, stone formation, and finally malignancies. Therefore, the use of artificial, biologically derived materials is a promising step towards the augmentation of this specialised tissue. The aim of this study was to investigate potential bladder wall repair by two collagen scaffold prototypes, OptiMaix 2D and 3D, naïve and seeded with autologous vesical cells, as potential bladder wall substitute material in a large animal model. Six Göttingen minipigs underwent cystoplastic surgery for tissue biopsy and cell isolation followed by implantation of unseeded scaffolds. Six weeks after the first operation, scaffolds seeded with the tissue cultured autologous urothelial and detrusor smooth muscle cells were implanted into the bladder together with additional unseeded scaffolds for comparison. Cystography and bladder ultrasound were performed to demonstrate structural integrity and as leakage test of the implantation sites. Eighteen, 22, and 32 weeks after the first operation, two minipigs respectively were sacrificed and the urinary tract was examined via different (immunohistochemical) staining procedures and the usage of two-photon laser scanning microscopy. Both collagen scaffold prototypes in vivo had good ingrowth capacity into the bladder wall including a quick lining with urothelial cells. The ingrowth of detrusor muscle tissue, along with the degradation of the scaffolds, could also be observed throughout the study period. We could show that the investigated collagen scaffolds OptiMaix 2D and 3D are a potential material for bladder wall substitution. The material has good biocompatible properties, shows a good cell growth of autologous cells in vitro, and a good integration into the present bladder

Immunotherapy for bladder cancer

PubMed Central

Fuge, Oliver; Vasdev, Nikhil; Allchorne, Paula; Green, James SA

2015-01-01

It is nearly 40 years since Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) was first used as an immunotherapy to treat superficial bladder cancer. Despite its limitations, to date it has not been surpassed by any other treatment. As a better understanding of its mechanism of action and the clinical response to it have evolved, some of the questions around optimal dosing and treatment protocols have been answered. However, its potential for toxicity and failure to produce the desired clinical effect in a significant cohort of patients presents an ongoing challenge to clinicians and researchers alike. This review summarizes the evidence behind the established mechanism of action of BCG in bladder cancer, highlighting the extensive array of immune molecules that have been implicated in its action. The clinical aspects of BCG are discussed, including its role in reducing recurrence and progression, the optimal treatment regime, toxicity and, in light of new evidence, whether or not there is a superior BCG strain. The problems of toxicity and non-responders to BCG have led to development of new techniques aimed at addressing these pitfalls. The progress made in the laboratory has led to the identification of novel targets for the development of new immunotherapies. This includes the potential augmentation of BCG with various immune factors through to techniques avoiding the use of BCG altogether; for example, using interferon-activated mononuclear cells, BCG cell wall, or BCG cell wall skeleton. The potential role of gene, virus, or photodynamic therapy as an alternative to BCG is also reviewed. Recent interest in the immune check point system has led to the development of monoclonal antibodies against proteins involved in this pathway. Early findings suggest benefit in metastatic disease, although the role in superficial bladder cancer remains unclear. PMID:26000263

Contribution of CT quantified emphysema, air trapping and airway wall thickness on pulmonary function in male smokers with and without COPD.

PubMed

Mohamed Hoesein, Firdaus A A; de Jong, Pim A; Lammers, Jan-Willem J; Mali, Willem P Th M; Mets, Onno M; Schmidt, Michael; de Koning, Harry J; Aalst, Carlijn van der; Oudkerk, Matthijs; Vliegenthart, Rozemarijn; Ginneken, Bram van; van Rikxoort, Eva M; Zanen, Pieter

2014-09-01

Emphysema, airway wall thickening and air trapping are associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). All three can be quantified by computed tomography (CT) of the chest. The goal of the current study is to determine the relative contribution of CT derived parameters on spirometry, lung volume and lung diffusion testing. Emphysema, airway wall thickening and air trapping were quantified automatically on CT in 1,138 male smokers with and without COPD. Emphysema was quantified by the percentage of voxels below -950 Hounsfield Units (HU), airway wall thickness by the square root of wall area for a theoretical airway with 10 mm lumen perimeter (Pi10) and air trapping by the ratio of mean lung density at expiration and inspiration (E/I-ratio). Spirometry, residual volume to total lung capacity (RV/TLC) and diffusion capacity (Kco) were obtained. Standardized regression coefficients (β) were used to analyze the relative contribution of CT changes to pulmonary function measures. The independent contribution of the three CT measures differed per lung function parameter. For the FEV1 airway wall thickness was the most contributing structural lung change (β = -0.46), while for the FEV1/FVC this was emphysema (β = -0.55). For the residual volume (RV) air trapping was most contributing (β = -0.35). Lung diffusion capacity was most influenced by emphysema (β = -0.42). In a cohort of smokers with and without COPD the effect of different CT changes varies per lung function measure and therefore emphysema, airway wall thickness and air trapping need to be taken in account.

High Power Laser Beam Welding of Thick-walled Ferromagnetic Steels with Electromagnetic Weld Pool Support

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fritzsche, André; Avilov, Vjaceslav; Gumenyuk, Andrey; Hilgenberg, Kai; Rethmeier, Michael

The development of modern high power laser systems allows single pass welding of thick-walled components with minimal distortion. Besides the high demands on the joint preparation, the hydrostatic pressure in the melt pool increases with higher plate thicknesses. Reaching or exceeding the Laplace pressure, drop-out or melt sagging are caused. A contactless electromagnetic weld support system was used for laser beam welding of thick ferromagnetic steel plates compensating these effects. An oscillating magnetic field induces eddy currents in the weld pool which generate Lorentz forces counteracting the gravity forces. Hysteresis effects of ferromagnetic steels are considered as well as the loss of magnetization in zones exceeding the Curie temperature. These phenomena reduce the effective Lorentz forces within the weld pool. The successful compensation of the hydrostatic pressure was demonstrated on up to 20 mm thick plates of duplex and mild steel by a variation of the electromagnetic power level and the oscillation frequency.

Acute and Chronic Deficits in the Urinary Bladder after Spinal Contusion Injury in the Adult Rat

PubMed Central

Herrera, Juan J.; Haywood-Watson, Ricky J.L.

2010-01-01

Abstract Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) permanently alters bladder function in humans. Hematuria and cystitis occur in both human SCI as well as in rodent models of SCI. Others have reported early SCI-dependent disruption to bladder uroepithelial integrity that results in increased permeability to urine and urine-borne substances. This can result in cystitis, or inflammation of the bladder, an ongoing pathological condition present throughout the chronic phase of SCI in humans. The goals of our study were twofold: (1) to begin to examine the inflammatory and molecular changes that occur within the bladder uroepithelium using a clinically-relevant spinal contusion model of injury, and (2) to assess whether these alterations continue into the chronic phase of SCI. Rats received either moderate SCI or sham surgery. Urine was collected from SCI and sham subjects over 7 days or at 7 months to assess levels of excreted proteins. Inflammation in the bladder wall was assessed via biochemical and immunohistochemical methods. Bladder tight junction proteins, mediators of uroepithelial integrity, were also measured in both the acute and chronic phases of SCI. Urine protein and hemoglobin levels rapidly increase following SCI. An SCI-dependent elevation in numbers of neutrophils within the bladder wall peaked at 48 h. Bladder tight junction proteins demonstrate a rapid but transient decrease as early as 2 h post-SCI. Surprisingly, elevated levels of urine proteins and significant deficits in bladder tight junction proteins could be detected in chronic SCI, suggesting that early pathological changes to the bladder may continue throughout the chronic phase of injury. PMID:19891526

Pneumovesicoscopic treatment of congenital bladder diverticula in children: our experience.

PubMed

Marte, Antonio; Sabatino, Maria D; Borrelli, Micaela; Del Balzo, Biago; Nino, Fabiano; Prezioso, Maurizio; Parmeggiani, Pio

2010-02-01

In this article, we report our experience with diverticulectomies of symptomatic congenital bladder diverticula in children, which was performed by utilizing pneumovesicoscopy. Six boys, 4-8 years of age (mean, 5.6) underwent pneumovesicoscopic diverticulectomy at our institution from June 2007 to June 2008. There were 4 right-single diverticula and 2 double-left diverticula. Under cystoscopic control, after the cystopexy to the abdominal wall, a midline 5-mm trocar for a 0-degree telescope and two lateral 3-mm reusable trocars through the anterolateral wall of the bladder in the midclavicular line were introduced, insufflating the bladder with carbondioxide to 10-12 mm Hg pressure. The diverticulum/a were inverted into the bladder and the mucosa around the neck was circumcized by using scissors and a monopolar hook. The defect was sutured with interrupted sutures and the bladder was drained with a Foley catheter, which was introduced at the site of the 5-mm port, and a urethral catheter. Mean operative time was 110 minutes. No major peri- or postoperative complications were recorded, except that the displacement of one of the lateral trocars that resulted in gas leakage in 1 case. The trocar was replaced and the procedure was completed. An ultrasound and a voiding cystourethrogram, performed from 3 to 6 months after the operation, showed the disappearance of the diverticulum/a. In our experience, pneumovesicoscopic diverticulectomy is an easy, safe procedure and can be considered a valid alternative to the open or laparoscopic procedures. It also provides no postoperative discomfort and a good cosmetic result.

Riser Difference Uncertainty Methodology Based on Tank AY-101 Wall Thickness Measurements with Application to Tank AN-107

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

Weier, Dennis R.; Anderson, Kevin K.; Berman, Herbert S.

2005-03-10

The DST Integrity Plan (RPP-7574, 2003, Double-Shell Tank Integrity Program Plan, Rev. 1A, CH2M HILL Hanford Group, Inc., Richland, Washington.) requires the ultrasonic wall thickness measurement of two vertical scans of the tank primary wall while using a single riser location. The resulting measurements are then used in extreme value methodology to predict the minimum wall thickness expected for the entire tank. The representativeness of using a single riser in this manner to draw conclusions about the entire circumference of a tank has been questioned. The only data available with which to address the representativeness question comes from Tank AY-101more » since only for that tank have multiple risers been used for such inspection. The purpose of this report is to (1) further characterize AY-101 riser differences (relative to prior work); (2) propose a methodology for incorporating a ''riser difference'' uncertainty for subsequent tanks for which only a single riser is used, and (3) specifically apply the methodology to measurements made from a single riser in Tank AN-107.« less

Biofabricated Structures Reconstruct Functional Urinary Bladders in Radiation-injured Rat Bladders.

PubMed

Imamura, Tetsuya; Shimamura, Mitsuru; Ogawa, Teruyuki; Minagawa, Tomonori; Nagai, Takashi; Silwal Gautam, Sudha; Ishizuka, Osamu

2018-05-08

The ability to repair damaged urinary bladders through the application of bone marrow-derived cells is in the earliest stages of development. We investigated the application of bone marrow-derived cells to repair radiation-injured bladders. We used a three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting robot system to biofabricate bone marrow-derived cell structures. We then determined if the biofabricated structures could restore the tissues and functions of radiation-injured bladders. The bladders of female 10-week-old Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were irradiated with 2-Gy once a week for 5 weeks. Adherent and proliferating bone marrow-derived cells harvested from the femurs of male 17-week-old green fluorescence protein-transfected Tg-SD rats were cultured in collagen-coated flasks. Bone marrow-derived cell spheroids were formed in 96-well plates. Three layers of spheroids were assembled by the bioprinter onto a 9x9 microneedle array. The assembled spheroids were perfusion cultured for 7 days, and then the microneedle array was removed. Two weeks after the last radiation treatment, the biofabricated structures were transplanted into an incision on the anterior wall of the bladders (n=10). Control rats received the same surgery but without the biofabricated structures (sham-structure, n=12). At 2 and 4 weeks after surgery, the sham-structure control bladder tissues exhibited disorganized smooth muscle layers, decreased nerve cells, and significant fibrosis with increased presence of fibrosis-marker P4HB-positive cells and hypoxia-marker HIF1α-positive cells. The transplanted structures survived within the recipient tissues, and blood vessels extended within them from the recipient tissues. The bone marrow-derived cells in the structures differentiated into smooth muscle cells and formed smooth muscle clusters. The recipient tissues near the transplanted structures had distinct smooth muscle layers and reconstructed nerve cells, and only minimal fibrosis with decreased presence of P4

Inflatable bladder provides accurate calibration of pressure switch

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, N. J.

1965-01-01

Calibration of a pressure switch is accurately checked by a thin-walled circular bladder. It is placed in the pressure switch and applies force to the switch diaphragm when expanded by an external pressure source. The disturbance to the normal operation of the switch is minimal.

Ureteral wall thickness at the impacted ureteral stone site: a critical predictor for success rates after SWL.

PubMed

Sarica, Kemal; Kafkasli, Alper; Yazici, Özgür; Çetinel, Ali Cihangir; Demirkol, Mehmet Kutlu; Tuncer, Murat; Şahin, Cahit; Eryildirim, Bilal

2015-02-01

The aim of the study was to determine the possible predictive value of certain patient- and stone-related factors on the stone-free rates and auxiliary procedures after extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy in patients with impacted proximal ureteral calculi. A total of 111 patients (86 male, 25 females M/F: 3.44/1) with impacted proximal ureteral stones treated with shock wave lithotripsy were evaluated. Cases were retrieved from a departmental shock wave lithotripsy database. Variables analyzed included BMI of the case, diameter of proximal ureter and renal pelvis, stone size and Hounsfield unit, ureteral wall thickness at the impacted stone site. Stone-free status on follow-up imaging at 3 months was considered a successful outcome. All patients had a single impacted proximal ureteral stone. While the mean age of the cases was 46 ± 13 years (range 26-79 years), mean stone size was 8.95 mm (5.3-15.1 mm). Following shock wave lithotripsy although 87 patients (78.4%) were completely stone-free at 3-month follow-up visit, 24 (21.6%) cases had residual fragments requiring further repeat procedures. Prediction of the final outcome of SWL in patients with impacted proximal ureteral stones is a challenging issue and our data did clearly indicate a highly significant relationship between ureteral wall thickness and the success rates of shock wave lithotripsy particularly in cases requiring additional procedures. Of all the evaluated stone- and patient-related factors, only ureteral wall thickness at the impacted stone site independently predicted shock wave lithotripsy success.

Formation of Rhamnogalacturonan II-Borate Dimer in Pectin Determines Cell Wall Thickness of Pumpkin Tissue1

PubMed Central

Ishii, Tadashi; Matsunaga, Toshiro; Hayashi, Noriko

2001-01-01

Boron (B) deficiency results in inhibition of pumpkin (Cucurbia moschata Duchesne) growth that is accompanied by swelling of the cell walls. Monomeric rhamnogalacturonan II (mRG-II) accounted for 80% to 90% of the total RG-II in B-deficient walls, whereas the borate ester cross-linked RG-II dimer (dRG-II-B) accounted for more than 80% of the RG-II in control plants. The results of glycosyl residue and glycosyl linkage composition analyses of the RG-II from control and B-deficient plants were similar. Thus, B deficiency does not alter the primary structure of RG-II. The addition of 10B-enriched boric acid to B-deficient plants resulted within 5 h in the conversion of mRG-II to dRG-II-10B. The wall thickness of the 10B-treated plants and control plants was similar. The formation and possible functions of a borate ester cross-linked RG-II in the cell walls are discussed. PMID:11500567

Rapidly quantifying the relative distention of a human bladder

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Companion, John A. (Inventor); Heyman, Joseph S. (Inventor); Mineo, Beth A. (Inventor); Cavalier, Albert R. (Inventor); Blalock, Travis N. (Inventor)

1991-01-01

A device and method was developed to rapidly quantify the relative distention of the bladder of a human subject. An ultrasonic transducer is positioned on the human subject near the bladder. A microprocessor controlled pulser excites the transducer by sending an acoustic wave into the human subject. This wave interacts with the bladder walls and is reflected back to the ultrasonic transducer where it is received, amplified, and processed by the receiver. The resulting signal is digitized by an analog to digital converter, controlled by the microprocessor again, and is stored in data memory. The software in the microprocessor determines the relative distention of the bladder as a function of the propagated ultrasonic energy. Based on programmed scientific measurements and the human subject's past history as contained in program memory, the microprocessor sends out a signal to turn on any or all of the available alarms. The alarm system includes and audible alarm, the visible alarm, the tactile alarm, and the remote wireless alarm.

Pitfalls and Limitations of Diffusion-Weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Diagnosis of Urinary Bladder Cancer

PubMed Central

Lin, Wei-Ching; Chen, Jeon-Hor

2015-01-01

Adequately selecting a therapeutic approach for bladder cancer depends on accurate grading and staging. Substantial inaccuracy of clinical staging with bimanual examination, cystoscopy, and transurethral resection of bladder tumor has facilitated the increasing utility of magnetic resonance imaging to evaluate bladder cancer. Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) is a noninvasive functional magnetic resonance imaging technique. The high tissue contrast between cancers and surrounding tissues on DWI is derived from the difference of water molecules motion. DWI is potentially a useful tool for the detection, characterization, and staging of bladder cancers; it can also monitor posttreatment response and provide information on predicting tumor biophysical behaviors. Despite advancements in DWI techniques and the use of quantitative analysis to evaluate the apparent diffusion coefficient values, there are some inherent limitations in DWI interpretation related to relatively poor spatial resolution, lack of cancer specificity, and lack of standardized image acquisition protocols and data analysis procedures that restrict the application of DWI and reproducibility of apparent diffusion coefficient values. In addition, inadequate bladder distension, artifacts, thinness of bladder wall, cancerous mimickers of normal bladder wall and benign lesions, and variations in the manifestation of bladder cancer may interfere with diagnosis and monitoring of treatment. Recognition of these pitfalls and limitations can minimize their impact on image interpretation, and carefully applying the analyzed results and combining with pathologic grading and staging to clinical practice can contribute to the selection of an adequate treatment method to improve patient care. PMID:26055180

CMR assessment of the left ventricle apical morphology in subjects with unexplainable giant T-wave inversion and without apical wall thickness ≥15 mm.

PubMed

Wu, Bailin; Lu, Minjie; Zhang, Yan; Song, Bo; Ling, Jian; Huang, Jinghan; Yin, Gang; Lan, Tian; Dai, Linlin; Song, Lei; Jiang, Yong; Wang, Hao; He, Zuoxiang; Lee, Jongmin; Yong, Hwan Seok; Patel, Mehul B; Zhao, Shihua

2017-02-01

Patients with unexplainable giant T-wave inversion in the precordial leads and apical wall thickness <15 mm have been reported. These patients cannot be diagnosed as apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (AHCM) according to the current criteria. The objective of this study was to evaluate the apical morphological features of this type of patients using cardiac magnetic resonance. Institutional ethics approval and written informed consent were obtained. A total of 60 subjects with unexplainable giant T-wave inversion and 76 healthy volunteers were prospectively enrolled in the study. The segmented left ventricular (LV) wall thickness was measured according to the American Heart Association 17-segmented model. The apical angle (apA) as well as the regional variations in LV wall thickness was analysed. Considerable variation in LV wall thickness in normals was observed with progressive thinning from the base to apex (male and female, P < 0.01). The apical thickness of subjects with giant T-wave inversion was 8.10 ± 1.67 mm in male, which is thicker than that of controls (4.14 ± 1.17 mm, P < 0.01). In female, the apical thickness was also significantly different from controls (5.85 ± 2.16 vs. 2.99 ± 0.65 mm, P < 0.01). Compared with normals, the apA decreased significantly in male (87.44 ± 13.86 vs.115.03 ± 9.90°, P < 0.01) and female (90.69 ± 8.84 vs. 110.07 ± 13.58°, P < 0.01) subjects, respectively. Although the absolute thickness of apical wall was below the current diagnostic criteria of AHCM, the apical morphological features of subjects with unexplainable giant T-wave inversion were significantly different from normals. Whether these subjects should be included into a preclinical scope of AHCM needs further investigations. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author 2016. For permissions please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Thinner regions of intracranial aneurysm wall correlate with regions of higher wall shear stress: a 7.0 tesla MRI

PubMed Central

Blankena, Roos; Kleinloog, Rachel; Verweij, Bon H.; van Ooij, Pim; ten Haken, Bennie; Luijten, Peter R.; Rinkel, Gabriel J.E.; Zwanenburg, Jaco J.M.

2016-01-01

Purpose To develop a method for semi-quantitative wall thickness assessment on in vivo 7.0 tesla (7T) MRI images of intracranial aneurysms for studying the relation between apparent aneurysm wall thickness and wall shear stress. Materials and Methods Wall thickness was analyzed in 11 unruptured aneurysms in 9 patients, who underwent 7T MRI with a TSE based vessel wall sequence (0.8 mm isotropic resolution). A custom analysis program determined the in vivo aneurysm wall intensities, which were normalized to signal of nearby brain tissue and were used as measure for apparent wall thickness (AWT). Spatial wall thickness variation was determined as the interquartile range in AWT (the middle 50% of the AWT range). Wall shear stress was determined using phase contrast MRI (0.5 mm isotropic resolution). We performed visual and statistical comparisons (Pearson’s correlation) to study the relation between wall thickness and wall shear stress. Results 3D colored AWT maps of the aneurysms showed spatial AWT variation, which ranged from 0.07 to 0.53, with a mean variation of 0.22 (a variation of 1.0 roughly means a wall thickness variation of one voxel (0.8mm)). In all aneurysms, AWT was inversely related to WSS (mean correlation coefficient −0.35, P<0.05). Conclusions A method was developed to measure the wall thickness semi-quantitatively, using 7T MRI. An inverse correlation between wall shear stress and AWT was determined. In future studies, this non-invasive method can be used to assess spatial wall thickness variation in relation to pathophysiologic processes such as aneurysm growth and –rupture. PMID:26892986

The thick left ventricular wall of the giraffe heart normalises wall tension, but limits stroke volume and cardiac output.

PubMed

Smerup, Morten; Damkjær, Mads; Brøndum, Emil; Baandrup, Ulrik T; Kristiansen, Steen Buus; Nygaard, Hans; Funder, Jonas; Aalkjær, Christian; Sauer, Cathrine; Buchanan, Rasmus; Bertelsen, Mads Frost; Østergaard, Kristine; Grøndahl, Carsten; Candy, Geoffrey; Hasenkam, J Michael; Secher, Niels H; Bie, Peter; Wang, Tobias

2016-02-01

Giraffes--the tallest extant animals on Earth--are renowned for their high central arterial blood pressure, which is necessary to secure brain perfusion. Arterial pressure may exceed 300 mmHg and has historically been attributed to an exceptionally large heart. Recently, this has been refuted by several studies demonstrating that the mass of giraffe heart is similar to that of other mammals when expressed relative to body mass. It thus remains unexplained how the normal-sized giraffe heart generates such massive arterial pressures. We hypothesized that giraffe hearts have a small intraventricular cavity and a relatively thick ventricular wall, allowing for generation of high arterial pressures at normal left ventricular wall tension. In nine anaesthetized giraffes (495±38 kg), we determined in vivo ventricular dimensions using echocardiography along with intraventricular and aortic pressures to calculate left ventricular wall stress. Cardiac output was also determined by inert gas rebreathing to provide an additional and independent estimate of stroke volume. Echocardiography and inert gas-rebreathing yielded similar cardiac outputs of 16.1±2.5 and 16.4±1.4 l min(-1), respectively. End-diastolic and end-systolic volumes were 521±61 ml and 228±42 ml, respectively, yielding an ejection fraction of 56±4% and a stroke volume of 0.59 ml kg(-1). Left ventricular circumferential wall stress was 7.83±1.76 kPa. We conclude that, relative to body mass, a small left ventricular cavity and a low stroke volume characterizes the giraffe heart. The adaptations result in typical mammalian left ventricular wall tensions, but produce a lowered cardiac output. © 2016. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

Thickness-dependent domain wall reorientation in 70/30 lead magnesium niobate- lead titanate thin films

DOE PAGES

Keech, Ryan; Morandi, Carl; Wallace, Margeaux; ...

2017-04-11

Continued reduction in length scales associated with many ferroelectric film-based technologies is contingent on retaining the functional properties as the film thickness is reduced. Epitaxial and polycrystalline lead magnesium niobate - lead titanate (70PMN-30PT) thin films were studied over the thickness range of 100-350 nm for the relative contributions to property thickness dependence from interfacial and grain boundary low permittivity layers. Epitaxial PMN-PT films were grown on SrRuO 3 /(001)SrTiO 3, while polycrystalline films with {001}-Lotgering factors >0.96 were grown on Pt/TiO 2/SiO 2/Si substrates via chemical solution deposition. Both film types exhibited similar relative permittivities of ~300 at highmore » fields at all measured thicknesses with highly crystalline electrode/dielectric interfaces. These results, with the DC-biased and temperature dependent dielectric characterization, suggest irreversible domain wall mobility is the major contributor to the overall dielectric response and its thickness dependence. In epitaxial films, the irreversible Rayleigh coefficients reduced 85% upon decreasing thickness from 350 to 100 nm. The temperature at which a peak in the relative permittivity is observed was the only measured small signal quantity which was more thickness dependent in polycrystalline than epitaxial films. This is attributed to the relaxor nature present in the films, potentially stabilized by defect concentrations, and/or chemical inhomogeneity. Finally, the effective interfacial layers are found to contribute to the measured thickness dependence in the longitudinal piezoelectric coefficient.« less

Simulation of the development and interaction of instabilities in a relativistic electron beam under variation of the beam wall thickness

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

Badarin, A. A.; Kurkin, S. A.; Koronovskii, A. A.

The development and interaction of Bursian and diocotron instabilities in an annular relativistic electron beam propagating in a cylindrical drift chamber are investigated analytically and numerically as functions of the beam wall thickness and the magnitude of the external uniform magnetic field. It is found that the interaction of instabilities results in the formation of a virtual cathode with a complicated rotating helical structure and several reflection regions (electron bunches) in the azimuthal direction. It is shown that the number of electron bunches in the azimuthal direction increases with decreasing beam wall thickness and depends in a complicated manner onmore » the magnitude of the external magnetic field.« less

Pneumovesical ureteric reimplantation using T-fastener: A modification for bladder wall anchorage.

PubMed

Lau, Chin Tung; Lan, Lawrence Chuen Leung; Wong, Kenneth Kak Yuen; Tam, Paul

2017-06-01

Bladder anchoring during pneumovesical ureteric reimplantation (PUR) can be difficult. Here we describe our new technique using a T-fastener (Kimberly Clark, Irving, TX, USA) to tackle this problem. A T-fastener has been applied to all patients who underwent PUR in our center since 2011. Seventeen consecutive cases were performed between 2011 and 2015. No bladder dislodgement or air leak was observed in any of the operations. No morbidity or mortality has been associated with the use of T-fasteners. In our experience, this technique is simple to learn and transferrable. It decreases intraoperative complications and helps to climb the learning curve. Copyright © 2017 Journal of Pediatric Urology Company. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Glandular squamous cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder].

PubMed

Kovylina, M V; Pushkar', D Iu; Zaĭrat'iants, O V; Rasner, P I

2006-01-01

The paper gives a clinical observation of a 52 year-old male with a rare histological urinary bladder tumor primary grandular-squamous-cell carcinoma (pT3N IM0). The tumor is represented by two components large acinic-cell adenocarcinoma and squamous-cell carcinoma with keratinization, which smoothly pass one into another; the tumor has grown through all layers of the urinary bladder wall but it has failed to grow into the peritoneum. A microscopic study has indicated that the urachus is intact. Metastases were found in 3 of 8 lymph nodes: one showed high-grade adenocarcinoma and two others displayed average-grade squamous-cell carcinoma.

Age-Related Alterations in Regeneration of the Urinary Bladder after Subtotal Cystectomy

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-11-01

buffer. The bladders were cut into approximately equally sized strips along the longitudinal axis. The strips were denuded of the urothelium and sub... urothelium and then were attached to tissue holds at one end and to force transducers at the other end in an organ bath system (Danish Myo Technology...of the urothelium and the bladder wall to reseal immediately after STC in old animals. This suppo- sition is consistent with the decreased PCNA

Human urinary bladder regeneration through tissue engineering - an analysis of 131 clinical cases.

PubMed

Pokrywczynska, Marta; Adamowicz, Jan; Sharma, Arun K; Drewa, Tomasz

2014-03-01

Replacement of urinary bladder tissue with functional equivalents remains one of the most challenging problems of reconstructive urology over the last several decades. The gold standard treatment for urinary diversion after radical cystectomy is the ileal conduit or neobladder; however, this technique is associated with numerous complications including electrolyte imbalances, mucus production, and the potential for malignant transformation. Tissue engineering techniques provide the impetus to construct functional bladder substitutes de novo. Within this review, we have thoroughly perused the literature utilizing PubMed in order to identify clinical studies involving bladder reconstruction utilizing tissue engineering methodologies. The idea of urinary bladder regeneration through tissue engineering dates back to the 1950s. Many natural and synthetic biomaterials such as plastic mold, gelatin sponge, Japanese paper, preserved dog bladder, lyophilized human dura, bovine pericardium, small intestinal submucosa, bladder acellular matrix, or composite of collagen and polyglycolic acid were used for urinary bladder regeneration with a wide range of outcomes. Recent progress in the tissue engineering field suggest that in vitro engineered bladder wall substitutes may have expanded clinical applicability in near future but preclinical investigations on large animal models with defective bladders are necessary to optimize the methods of bladder reconstruction by tissue engineering in humans.

[Contribution of ultrasound signs for the prenatal diagnosis of posterior urethral valves: Experience of 3years at the maternity of the Bicêtre Hospital].

PubMed

Roy, S; Colmant, C; Cordier, A-G; Sénat, M-V

2016-05-01

Posterior urethral valves (PUV) are the most common cause of renal impairment in boys during early childhood. The aim of this study was to evaluate the value of ultrasound (US) criteria currently used to diagnose PUV. From 2009 to 2012, 31 patients were referred to the Bicêtre Hospital after detection of fetal bilateral hydronephrosis in male fetus. The ultrasound criteria were bladder dilation, thick-walled bladder, urethral dilation ("keyhole sign"), and amniotic fluid volume. Patients were divided in two groups: suspected or not to have PUV. US diagnosis of PUV was done in 18 fetuses and confirmed in 14 new borns, one of them without prenatal diagnosis. Sensitivity and specificity of US scan were 92.8 and 66.7%. The likelihood ratio (LHR) was 4.8 for a thick-walled bladder, 4.2 for oligohydramnios, 3.6 for the "keyhole sign", 2.4 for bladder dilation and 1.6 for ureteral dilation. The first four signs were combined in four fetuses, all of them with PUV. US scan is a very sensitive exam for the diagnosis of PUV but with a low specificity. A thick-walled bladder seems to have a better diagnostic performance than the "keyhole sign". Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Bladder sensation measures and overactive bladder.

PubMed

Rapp, David E; Neil, Nancy J; Govier, Fred E; Kobashi, Kathleen C

2009-09-01

We performed a prospective multicomponent study to determine whether subjective and objective bladder sensation instruments may provide data on sensory dysfunction in patients with overactive bladder. We evaluated 70 prospectively enrolled patients with urodynamics and questionnaires on validated urgency (Urgency Perception Score), general overactive bladder (Urogenital Distress Inventory) and quality of life (Incontinence Impact Questionnaire). We first sought a correlation between sensory specific (Urgency Perception Score) and quality of life questionnaire scores. We then assessed a correlation between sensory questionnaire scores and urodynamic variables, exploring the hypothesis that certain urodynamic parameters may be bladder sensation measures. We evaluated 2 urodynamic derivatives (first sensation ratio and bladder urgency velocity) to increase sensory finding discrimination. We noted a moderate correlation between the Urgency Perception Score (0.56) and the Urogenital Distress Inventory (0.74) vs the Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (each p <0.01). A weak negative correlation was seen between Urgency Perception Score and bladder capacity (-0.25, p <0.05). No correlation was noted for the other urodynamics parameters. First sensation ratio and bladder urgency velocity statistically significantly correlated with the Urgency Perception Score despite the lesser or absent correlation associated with the individual components of these derivatives. Bladder sensation questionnaires may be valuable to identify patients with sensory dysfunction and provide additional data not obtained in generalized symptom questionnaires. Urodynamic variables correlated with bladder sensation questionnaire scores and may be an objective method to assess sensory dysfunction.

Large-scale, thick, self-assembled, nacre-mimetic brick-walls as fire barrier coatings on textiles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Das, Paramita; Thomas, Helga; Moeller, Martin; Walther, Andreas

2017-01-01

Highly loaded polymer/clay nanocomposites with layered structures are emerging as robust fire retardant surface coatings. However, time-intensive sequential deposition processes, e.g. layer-by-layer strategies, hinders obtaining large coating thicknesses and complicates an implementation into existing technologies. Here, we demonstrate a single-step, water-borne approach to prepare thick, self-assembling, hybrid fire barrier coatings of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)/montmorillonite (MTM) with well-defined, bioinspired brick-wall nanostructure, and showcase their application on textile. The coating thickness on the textile is tailored using different concentrations of CMC/MTM (1-5 wt%) in the coating bath. While lower concentrations impart conformal coatings of fibers, thicker continuous coatings are obtained on the textile surface from highest concentration. Comprehensive fire barrier and fire retardancy tests elucidate the increasing fire barrier and retardancy properties with increasing coating thickness. The materials are free of halogen and heavy metal atoms, and are sourced from sustainable and partly even renewable building blocks. We further introduce an amphiphobic surface modification on the coating to impart oil and water repellency, as well as self-cleaning features. Hence, our study presents a generic, environmentally friendly, scalable, and one-pot coating approach that can be introduced into existing technologies to prepare bioinspired, thick, fire barrier nanocomposite coatings on diverse surfaces.

Suprascarpal fat pad thickness may predict venous drainage patterns in abdominal wall flaps.

PubMed

Bast, John; Pitcher, Austin A; Small, Kevin; Otterburn, David M

2016-02-01

Abdominal wall flaps are routinely used in reconstructive procedures. In some patients inadequate venous drainage from the deep vein may cause fat necrosis or flap failure. Occasionally the superficial inferior epigastric vessels (SIEV) are of sufficient size to allow for microvascular revascularization. This study looked at the ratio of the sub- and suprascarpal fat layers, the number of deep system perforators, and SIEV diameter to determine any correlation of the fat topography and SIEV. 50 abdominal/pelvic CT angiograms (100 hemiabdomens) were examined in women aged 34-70 years for number of perforators, SIEV diameter, and fat pad thickness above and below Scarpa's fascia. Data was analyzed using multivariate model. The average suprascarpal and subscarpal layers were 18.6 ± 11.5 mm and 6.2 ± 7.2 mm thick, respectively. The average SIEV diameter was 2.06 ± 0.81 mm and the average number of perforators was 2.09 ± 1.03 per hemiabdomen. Hemiabdomens with suprascarpal thickness>23 mm had greater SIEV diameter [2.69 mm vs. 1.8 mm (P < 0.0001)] The fat layer thickness did not correlate with the number of perforators. Neither subscarpal fat thickness nor suprascarpal-to-subscarpal fat layer thickness correlated significantly with SIEV caliber or number of perforators in multivariate model. Suprascarpal fat pad thicker than 23 mm had larger SIEVs irrespective of the number of deep system perforators. This may indicate a cohort of patients at risk of venous congestion from poor venous drainage if only the deep system is revascularized. We recommend harvesting the SIEV in patients with suprascarpal fat pad >23 mm to aid in superficial drainage. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Case report of metastatic invasive breast lobular carcinoma to the urinary bladder.

PubMed

Al Ibraheemi, Ahmed A

2016-01-01

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women except skin cancer. The common metastatic sites include lymph node, lung, liver and bone. However, metastasis to the bladder is extremely rare. To our knowledge, this is the first case of breast cancer metastasis to urinary bladder in Jordan which is reported. Nine years after the initial diagnosis of lobular breast carcinoma, the patient suffered from left side leg edema; Ultrasonography and Computed tomography scanning showed thickening of posterior bladder wall and bilateral hydronephrosis. The biopsy of the bladder confirmed metastatic lesion from the breast. In contrast to the primary tumor, bladder metastasis showed negative expression of estrogen (ER) and progesterone (PR) receptors. However, Her2neu test was negative in both. The reported case confirms that bladder metastasis from breast cancer tend to occur late after the diagnosis of the primary tumor. Furthermore, bladder metastasis can be asymptomatic and heterogeneous in ER and PR expression in comparison with the primary tumor. This report supports the need for careful follow-up and early intervention whenever such clinical situation is suspected. This report supports further evaluation of receptor status at time of metastasis.

New clinical trial open for patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer | Center for Cancer Research

Cancer.gov

Muscle-invasive bladder cancer is an aggressive form of bladder cancer in which the tumor invades deep into the musculature of the bladder wall, making it more likely to spread to other parts of the body. Standard treatment involves cisplatin-based chemotherapy followed by radical cystectomy, which is surgery to remove the bladder and nearby organs. However, many patients don’t receive chemotherapy before surgery or may not respond to it. Other patients are ineligible for cisplatin treatment due to poor kidney function. CCR investigators are leading a phase III trial to determine whether an immunotherapy drug given shortly after cystectomy can help these patients. Read more…

Numerical Determination of Natural Frequencies and Modes of the Vibrations of a Thick-Walled Cylindrical Shell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grigorenko, A. Ya.; Borisenko, M. Yu.; Boichuk, E. V.; Prigoda, A. P.

2018-01-01

The dynamic characteristics of a thick-walled cylindrical shell are determined numerically using the finite-element method implemented with licensed FEMAR software. The natural frequencies and modes are compared with those obtained earlier experimentally by the method of stroboscopic holographic interferometry. Frequency coefficients demonstrating how the natural frequency depends on the physical and mechanical parameters of the material are determined.

Street ketamine-associated bladder dysfunction: an emerging health problem.

PubMed

Lee, Py; Ong, Ta; Chua, Cb; Lei, Ccm; Teh, Gc

2009-01-01

Ketamine is frequently abused nowadays as a recreational drug. Case reports are emerging since 2007 to describe a new clinical entity of severe bladder dysfunction associated with chronic abuse of street ketamine. Severe lower urinary tract symptoms of urinary frequency and urgency which are refractory to conventional treatment. Quality of life is adversely affected as a consequence. Chronic kidney disease will develop in advanced cases. Investigation findings: The urine is sterile on culture. Ultrasound will show reduced bladder capacity with thickened bladder wall. In advanced stage, hydronephrosis and renal impairment will develop. Patients should be advised to stop street ketamine use immediately. Anticholinergic medication could be tried to alleviate the symptoms. Refractory cases with dilatation of the upper urinary tract might need urinary diversion. Awareness of this new condition is essential in diagnosis. Early intervention offers better treatment outcome.

Rapidly quantifying the relative distention of a human bladder

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Companion, John A. (Inventor); Heyman, Joseph S. (Inventor); Mineo, Beth A. (Inventor); Cavalier, Albert R. (Inventor); Blalock, Travis N. (Inventor)

1989-01-01

A device and method of rapidly quantifying the relative distention of the bladder in a human subject are disclosed. The ultrasonic transducer which is positioned on the subject in proximity to the bladder is excited by a pulser under the command of a microprocessor to launch an acoustic wave into the patient. This wave interacts with the bladder walls and is reflected back to the ultrasonic transducer, when it is received, amplified and processed by the receiver. The resulting signal is digitized by an analog-to-digital converter under the command of the microprocessor and is stored in the data memory. The software in the microprocessor determines the relative distention of the bladder as a function of the propagated ultrasonic energy; and based on programmed scientific measurements and individual, anatomical, and behavioral characterists of the specific subject as contained in the program memory, sends out a signal to turn on any or all of the audible alarm, the visible alarm, the tactile alarm, and the remote wireless alarm.

[A novel technique for distal ureterectomy and bladder cuff excision].

PubMed

Sotelo, R; Ramírez, D; Carmona, O; di Grazia, E; de Andrade, R; Giedelman, C; Pascal, Z; Gill, I; Desai, M

2011-03-01

We describe a novel endoscopic approach and provide a literature review for the "en bloc" dissection of the distal ureter and bladder cuff during laparoscopic radical nephroureterectomy using a transvesical single port approach under pneumovesicum. The procedure was performed in an 80-year old male with a history of gross hematuria due to left renal pelvic TCC and no history of prior bladder TCC. Laparoscopic radical nephroureterectomy was performed and the ureter was dissected down to the bladder and clipped. A single-port device was inserted transvesically and pneumovesicum established. A full thickness incision of the bladder around the ureter was performed with progressive intravesical mobilization of the distal ureter. Subsequently, a water-tight closure of the bladder defect was achieved. The distal ureter, together with the bladder cuff, was then delivered en bloc laparoscopically with the specimen. The operating time (LESS radical nephroureterectomy, RPLND, and bladder cuff excision) was 6hours and 15minutes. The bladder cuff time was 45minutes. There were no intra or postoperative complications and the catheter was removed after 6 days. Histopathological analysis showed kidney-invasive papillary urothelial cancer, pT3 pN0 (0/7) G3. The distal ureter and bladder cuff techniques have not yet been standardized. Management of the bladder cuff with a single port is feasible. Additional studies are needed to identify the best approach for management of the distal ureter at the time of laparoscopic nephroureterectomy. Copyright © 2010 AEU. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

LYMPHOEPITHELIOMA-LIKE CARCINOMA OF THE URINARY BLADDER ASSOCIATED WITH SCHISTOSOMIASIS: A CASE REPORT AND REVIEW OF LITERATURE.

PubMed

Mina, Samir N; Antonios, Sanaa N

2015-08-01

Lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma is an undifferentiated carcinoma with histological features similar to undifferentiated, non-keratinizing carcinoma of the nasopharynx. Lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma of the urinary bladder is uncommon with a reported. incidence of 0.4% -1.3% of all bladder cancers. This case describes an 80 years old Egyptian male patient presented with recurrent hematuria and necroturia. Cystoscopy revealed a tumor involving the left lateral and the posterior wall of the urinary bladder. The patient underwent transurethral resection of the bladder tumor. Pathological examination showed muscle invasive lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma associated with schistosomiasis of the urinary bladder. To the best of our knowledge the association of schistosomiasis with lymphoepithelioma-like bladder cancer was not described in the literature before this case report.

Myocardial effective transverse relaxation time T2* Correlates with left ventricular wall thickness: A 7.0 T MRI study.

PubMed

Huelnhagen, Till; Hezel, Fabian; Serradas Duarte, Teresa; Pohlmann, Andreas; Oezerdem, Celal; Flemming, Bert; Seeliger, Erdmann; Prothmann, Marcel; Schulz-Menger, Jeanette; Niendorf, Thoralf

2017-06-01

Myocardial effective relaxation time T2* is commonly regarded as a surrogate for myocardial tissue oxygenation. However, it is legitimate to assume that there are multiple factors that influence T2*. To this end, this study investigates the relationship between T2* and cardiac macromorphology given by left ventricular (LV) wall thickness and left ventricular radius, and provides interpretation of the results in the physiological context. High spatio-temporally resolved myocardial CINE T2* mapping was performed in 10 healthy volunteers using a 7.0 Tesla (T) full-body MRI system. Ventricular septal wall thickness, left ventricular inner radius, and T2* were analyzed. Macroscopic magnetic field changes were elucidated using cardiac phase-resolved magnetic field maps. Ventricular septal T2* changes periodically over the cardiac cycle, increasing in systole and decreasing in diastole. Ventricular septal wall thickness and T2* showed a significant positive correlation, whereas the inner LV radius and T2* were negatively correlated. The effect of macroscopic magnetic field gradients on T2* can be considered minor in the ventricular septum. Our findings suggest that myocardial T2* is related to tissue blood volume fraction. Temporally resolved T2* mapping could be beneficial for myocardial tissue characterization and for understanding cardiac (patho)physiology in vivo. Magn Reson Med 77:2381-2389, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Trypanosoma cruzi infection induced changes in the innervation, structure and function of the murine bladder.

PubMed

Boczko, Judd; Tar, Moses; Melman, Arnold; Jelicks, Linda A; Wittner, Murray; Factor, Stephen M; Zhao, Dazhi; Hafron, Jason; Weiss, Louis M; Tanowitz, Herbert B; Christ, George J

2005-05-01

The involvement of the lower urinary tract in chronic Chagas' disease has received little attention. Therefore, we investigated pathology and functional alterations in the bladder of Trypanosoma cruzi infected mice. CD1 mice were infected with 5 x 10 T. cruzi trypomastigotes of the Brazil strain of T. cruzi. At day 100 after infection bladder structure and function were examined by pathological evaluation, magnetic resonance imaging and cystometric studies. The bladder in infected mice weighed more and were large, dilated, deformed, friable and thin walled compared with control mice. Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed these observations. Inflammation, fibrosis and ganglionitis was observed. Cystometric studies revealed that baseline, threshold and micturition pressures were increased in infected mice. Bladder overactivity and decreased bladder compliance were also noted in infected mice. There were no detectable differences in bladder capacity, micturition volume or residual volume between infected and uninfected mice. Bladder abnormalities may be a more common clinical sequelae of T. cruzi infection than previously appreciated.

Xanthogranulomatous cystitis: a challenging imitator of bladder cancer.

PubMed

Ekici, Sinan; Dogan Ekici, Isin; Ruacan, Sevket; Midi, Ahmet

2010-06-29

Xanthogranulomatous cystitis is a rare, benign, chronic inflammatory disease of the bladder, mimicking malignancy with unknown etiology. Herein, we report a 57-year-old man who presented with pollakiuria, nocturia, dysuria, left flank pain, and a palpable mass on the right lower abdomen. Computerized tomography demonstrated an obstructing 10-mm stone in the lower third of the left ureter and a 6-cm solid mass on the right at the anterolateral wall of the bladder. The mass presented local perivesical invasion at the anterolateral side. Cystouretroscopy revealed a mass protruding into the bladder cavity with edematous smooth surface. Frozen section analysis of the partial cystectomy specimen could not rule out malignancy. Therefore, radical cystoprostatectomy and ureterolithotomy were performed. Histologically, fibrosis, numerous plasma cells, eosinophils, and, immunohistochemically, CD68-positive epithelioid and foamy macrophages were detected. Localized prostatic adenocarcinoma was also found. The present case of xanthogranulomatous cystitis is the 23rd to be reported in the world literature.

Xanthogranulomatous Cystitis: A Challenging Imitator of Bladder Cancer

PubMed Central

Ekici, Sinan; Dogan Ekici, Isin; Ruacan, Sevket; Midi, Ahmet

2010-01-01

Xanthogranulomatous cystitis is a rare, benign, chronic inflammatory disease of the bladder, mimicking malignancy with unknown etiology. Herein, we report a 57-year-old man who presented with pollakiuria, nocturia, dysuria, left flank pain, and a palpable mass on the right lower abdomen. Computerized tomography demonstrated an obstructing 10-mm stone in the lower third of the left ureter and a 6-cm solid mass on the right at the anterolateral wall of the bladder. The mass presented local perivesical invasion at the anterolateral side. Cystouretroscopy revealed a mass protruding into the bladder cavity with edematous smooth surface. Frozen section analysis of the partial cystectomy specimen could not rule out malignancy. Therefore, radical cystoprostatectomy and ureterolithotomy were performed. Histologically, fibrosis, numerous plasma cells, eosinophils, and, immunohistochemically, CD68-positive epithelioid and foamy macrophages were detected. Localized prostatic adenocarcinoma was also found. The present case of xanthogranulomatous cystitis is the 23rd to be reported in the world literature. PMID:20602075

On the Opening of Thick Walled Elastic Tubes: A Fluid-Structure Model for Acid Reflux

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghosh, Sudip; Kahrilas, Peter

2005-11-01

A coupled fluid-structure mathematical model was developed to quantify rapid opening of thick-walled elastic tubes, a phenomenon underlying biological flows such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The wall was modeled using non-linear finite deformation theory to predict space-time radial distention of an axisymmetric tube with luminal fluid flow. Anisotropic azimuthal and longitudinal muscle-induced stresses were incorporated, and interstitial material properties were assumed isotropic and linearly elastic. Fluid flow was modeled using lubrication theory with inertial correction. Opening and flow were driven by a specified inflow pressure and zero pressure gradient was specified at outflow. No-slip and surface force balance were applied at the fluid-wall interface. Viscoelasticity was modeled with ad hoc damping and the evolution of the tube geometry was predicted at mid-layer. A potentially important discovery was made when applied to studies of initiation of opening with GERD: while material stiffness is of minor consequence, small changes in resting lumen distension (˜2 mm diameter) may be a sensitive distinguishing feature of the disease.

Bladder urine oxygen tension for assessing renal medullary oxygenation in rabbits: experimental and modeling studies

PubMed Central

Sgouralis, Ioannis; Kett, Michelle M.; Ow, Connie P. C.; Abdelkader, Amany; Layton, Anita T.; Gardiner, Bruce S.; Smith, David W.; Lankadeva, Yugeesh R.

2016-01-01

Oxygen tension (Po2) of urine in the bladder could be used to monitor risk of acute kidney injury if it varies with medullary Po2. Therefore, we examined this relationship and characterized oxygen diffusion across walls of the ureter and bladder in anesthetized rabbits. A computational model was then developed to predict medullary Po2 from bladder urine Po2. Both intravenous infusion of [Phe2,Ile3,Orn8]-vasopressin and infusion of NG-nitro-l-arginine reduced urinary Po2 and medullary Po2 (8–17%), yet had opposite effects on renal blood flow and urine flow. Changes in bladder urine Po2 during these stimuli correlated strongly with changes in medullary Po2 (within-rabbit r2 = 0.87–0.90). Differences in the Po2 of saline infused into the ureter close to the kidney could be detected in the bladder, although this was diminished at lesser ureteric flow. Diffusion of oxygen across the wall of the bladder was very slow, so it was not considered in the computational model. The model predicts Po2 in the pelvic ureter (presumed to reflect medullary Po2) from known values of bladder urine Po2, urine flow, and arterial Po2. Simulations suggest that, across a physiological range of urine flow in anesthetized rabbits (0.1–0.5 ml/min for a single kidney), a change in bladder urine Po2 explains 10–50% of the change in pelvic urine/medullary Po2. Thus, it is possible to infer changes in medullary Po2 from changes in urinary Po2, so urinary Po2 may have utility as a real-time biomarker of risk of acute kidney injury. PMID:27385734

Bladder biopsy

MedlinePlus

... than usual ( oliguria ). You cannot urinate despite a strong urge to do so. Alternative Names Biopsy - bladder Images Bladder catheterization, female Bladder catheterization, male Female urinary tract Male urinary tract Bladder biopsy ...

Large-scale, thick, self-assembled, nacre-mimetic brick-walls as fire barrier coatings on textiles

PubMed Central

Das, Paramita; Thomas, Helga; Moeller, Martin; Walther, Andreas

2017-01-01

Highly loaded polymer/clay nanocomposites with layered structures are emerging as robust fire retardant surface coatings. However, time-intensive sequential deposition processes, e.g. layer-by-layer strategies, hinders obtaining large coating thicknesses and complicates an implementation into existing technologies. Here, we demonstrate a single-step, water-borne approach to prepare thick, self-assembling, hybrid fire barrier coatings of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)/montmorillonite (MTM) with well-defined, bioinspired brick-wall nanostructure, and showcase their application on textile. The coating thickness on the textile is tailored using different concentrations of CMC/MTM (1–5 wt%) in the coating bath. While lower concentrations impart conformal coatings of fibers, thicker continuous coatings are obtained on the textile surface from highest concentration. Comprehensive fire barrier and fire retardancy tests elucidate the increasing fire barrier and retardancy properties with increasing coating thickness. The materials are free of halogen and heavy metal atoms, and are sourced from sustainable and partly even renewable building blocks. We further introduce an amphiphobic surface modification on the coating to impart oil and water repellency, as well as self-cleaning features. Hence, our study presents a generic, environmentally friendly, scalable, and one-pot coating approach that can be introduced into existing technologies to prepare bioinspired, thick, fire barrier nanocomposite coatings on diverse surfaces. PMID:28054589

A voxel-based finite element model for the prediction of bladder deformation

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

Chai Xiangfei; Herk, Marcel van; Hulshof, Maarten C. C. M.

2012-01-15

Purpose: A finite element (FE) bladder model was previously developed to predict bladder deformation caused by bladder filling change. However, two factors prevent a wide application of FE models: (1) the labor required to construct a FE model with high quality mesh and (2) long computation time needed to construct the FE model and solve the FE equations. In this work, we address these issues by constructing a low-resolution voxel-based FE bladder model directly from the binary segmentation images and compare the accuracy and computational efficiency of the voxel-based model used to simulate bladder deformation with those of a classicalmore » FE model with a tetrahedral mesh. Methods: For ten healthy volunteers, a series of MRI scans of the pelvic region was recorded at regular intervals of 10 min over 1 h. For this series of scans, the bladder volume gradually increased while rectal volume remained constant. All pelvic structures were defined from a reference image for each volunteer, including bladder wall, small bowel, prostate (male), uterus (female), rectum, pelvic bone, spine, and the rest of the body. Four separate FE models were constructed from these structures: one with a tetrahedral mesh (used in previous study), one with a uniform hexahedral mesh, one with a nonuniform hexahedral mesh, and one with a low-resolution nonuniform hexahedral mesh. Appropriate material properties were assigned to all structures and uniform pressure was applied to the inner bladder wall to simulate bladder deformation from urine inflow. Performance of the hexahedral meshes was evaluated against the performance of the standard tetrahedral mesh by comparing the accuracy of bladder shape prediction and computational efficiency. Results: FE model with a hexahedral mesh can be quickly and automatically constructed. No substantial differences were observed between the simulation results of the tetrahedral mesh and hexahedral meshes (<1% difference in mean dice similarity

Adenoviral receptor expression of normal bladder and transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder.

PubMed

Buscarini, Maurizio; Quek, Marcus L; Gilliam-Hegarich, Susan; Kasahara, Nori; Bochner, Bernard

2007-01-01

clinical and pathological data. Normal bladder: Normal bladder mucosa demonstrated a marked positivity for CAR in 29/35 (82.8%) cases. In contrast, normal transitional epithelial cells were uniformly negative when tested for the integrins alpha(v)beta3 and alpha(v)beta5. Subepithelial tissues, specifically the connective tissue components of the lamina propria and deep muscle wall of the bladder, were positive for alpha(v)beta3 and for alpha(v)beta5 in 61 and 75% of samples, respectively. Endothelial cells associated with the various layers throughout the bladder uniformly expressed both integrins and served as a consistent internal control for both antibodies. An almost identical staining pattern of the endothelium was observed using LM609 and P1F6 in all samples tested. Bladder transitional cell carcinoma: CAR immunoreactivity against TCC cells was uniformly decreased compared to normal transitional cells. Nine tumors exhibited a weak positivity for CAR while the remaining samples were negative. In some cases, the absence of CAR positivity was associated with histological evidence of carcinoma in situ. In 6 cases, it led to the identification of small regions of carcinoma in situ that were not noted on primary pathological evaluation. Peritumoral connective tissue expressed both integrins in the majority of cases, similar to the pattern described above for normal bladder. Transitional cell cancers demonstrated a similar pattern of expression of alpha(v)beta5, in which all tumor cells exhibited minimal or no staining. The success of all viral-mediated gene therapy strategies relies on the ability of the vector to efficiently deliver its genetic material to a target cell population. In the current study, we demonstrate that the bladder epithelial layer consistently expresses high levels of CAR. Deeper layers of the epithelium also express CAR, including the basal layer cells. A decrease in the expression of CAR appears as an early event in bladder carcinogenesis. We

Structural and vascular response of normal and obstructed rabbit whole bladders to distension.

PubMed

Matsumoto, Seiji; Chichester, Paul; Kogan, Barry A; Levin, Robert M

2003-12-01

To investigate the structural and morphologic effect of distension after partial outlet obstruction in rabbits. Thirty male New Zealand white rabbits were separated into two groups: control (sham) and partial outlet obstruction (3 weeks). Three rabbits from each group were distended to 5%, 25%, 50%, 100%, and 125% of capacity. Each bladder was fixed at the volume in buffered formalin for 6 to 8 hours. Sections of dorsal and ventral bladder were blocked, and cross sections were evaluated. Quantitative morphometry was performed, and CD31 immunohistochemistry was used to characterize the vascularity. Partial outlet obstruction resulted in increased bladder weight and capacity and increased thickness of the mucosa, submucosa, detrusor, and serosa. In the control bladder, the greatest thinning was seen between 5% and 25% capacity, and in the obstructed group, the greatest thinning occurred between 25% and 50%. The level of vascular collapse was significantly greater for the control bladders than for the obstructed bladders at all levels of distension. Finally, the obstructed bladders showed a significantly greater level of vascularity in the submucosa than the control bladders. Normal bladder distension resulted in significant morphologic changes when the bladder was distended to 25% of capacity but changed relatively little between 25% and 125%. However, distension of the obstructed bladder resulted in significant morphologic changes when the bladder was distended from 25% to 50% of capacity but changed relatively little between 50% and 125%.

Bladder cancer diagnosis during cystoscopy using Raman spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grimbergen, M. C. M.; van Swol, C. F. P.; Draga, R. O. P.; van Diest, P.; Verdaasdonk, R. M.; Stone, N.; Bosch, J. H. L. R.

2009-02-01

Raman spectroscopy is an optical technique that can be used to obtain specific molecular information of biological tissues. It has been used successfully to differentiate normal and pre-malignant tissue in many organs. The goal of this study is to determine the possibility to distinguish normal tissue from bladder cancer using this system. The endoscopic Raman system consists of a 6 Fr endoscopic probe connected to a 785nm diode laser and a spectral recording system. A total of 107 tissue samples were obtained from 54 patients with known bladder cancer during transurethral tumor resection. Immediately after surgical removal the samples were placed under the Raman probe and spectra were collected and stored for further analysis. The collected spectra were analyzed using multivariate statistical methods. In total 2949 Raman spectra were recorded ex vivo from cold cup biopsy samples with 2 seconds integration time. A multivariate algorithm allowed differentiation of normal and malignant tissue with a sensitivity and specificity of 78,5% and 78,9% respectively. The results show the possibility of discerning normal from malignant bladder tissue by means of Raman spectroscopy using a small fiber based system. Despite the low number of samples the results indicate that it might be possible to use this technique to grade identified bladder wall lesions during endoscopy.

Sex, race, and age distributions of mean aortic wall thickness in a multiethnic population-based sample.

PubMed

Rosero, Eric B; Peshock, Ronald M; Khera, Amit; Clagett, Patrick; Lo, Hao; Timaran, Carlos H

2011-04-01

Reference values and age-related changes of the wall thickness of the abdominal aorta have not been described in the general population. We characterized age-, race-, and gender-specific distributions, and yearly rates of change of mean aortic wall thickness (MAWT), and associations between MAWT and cardiovascular risk factors in a multi-ethnic population-based probability sample. Magnetic resonance imaging measurements of MAWT were performed on 2466 free-living white, black, and Hispanic adult subjects. MAWT race/ethnicity- and gender-specific percentile values across age were estimated using regression analyses. MAWT was greater in men than in women and increased linearly with age in all the groups and across all the percentiles. Hispanic women had the thinnest and black men the thickest aortas. Black men had the highest and white women the lowest age-related MAWT increase. Age, gender, ethnicity, smoking status, systolic blood pressure, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels, high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels, and fasting glucose levels were independent predictors of MAWT. Age, gender, and racial/ethnic differences in MAWT distributions exist in the general population. Such differences should be considered in future investigations assessing aortic atherosclerosis and the effects of anti-atherosclerotic therapies. Published by Mosby, Inc.

Huge domain-wall speed variation with respect to ferromagnetic layer thickness in ferromagnetic Pt/Co/TiO2/Pt films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Dae-Yun; Park, Min-Ho; Park, Yong-Keun; Yu, Ji-Sung; Kim, Joo-Sung; Kim, Duck-Ho; Min, Byoung-Chul; Choe, Sug-Bong

2018-02-01

In this study, we investigate the influence of the ferromagnetic layer thickness on the magnetization process. A series of ultrathin Pt/Co/TiO2/Pt films exhibits domain-wall (DW) speed variation of over 100,000 times even under the same magnetic field, depending on the ferromagnetic layer thickness. From the creep-scaling analysis, such significant variation is found to be mainly attributable to the thickness-dependence of the creep-scaling constant in accordance with the creep-scaling theory of the linear proportionality between the creep-scaling constant and the ferromagnetic layer thickness. Therefore, a thinner film shows a faster DW speed. The DW roughness also exhibits sensitive dependence on the ferromagnetic layer thickness: a thinner film shows smoother DW. The present observation provided a guide for an optimal design rule of the ferromagnetic layer thickness for better performance of DW-based devices.

Microwave background distortions from domain walls

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goetz, Guenter; Noetzold, Dirk

1990-01-01

Domain walls arising in a cosmic phase transition after decoupling were recently proposed as seeds for the formation of large scale structure. The distortion induced in the microwave background radiation is calculated in dependence of the wall thickness, surface density, scalar field potential, cosmic redshift and the velocity of the wall. It was found that the maximal redshift distortion for both spherical and planar walls is of the order pi G sigma H(sup -1)(sub 0), where sigma is the surface energy density and H(sup -1)(sub 0) the Hubble parameter. It was also found that, for a wall thickness smaller than the horizon, walls can be treated as infinitely thin, i.e., the redshift distortion is independent of the wall thickness and the specific form of the scalar potential. For planar walls moving with a Lorentz-factor gamma the redshift distortion is enhanced by gamma cubed.

Bladder accumulated dose in image-guided high-dose-rate brachytherapy for locally advanced cervical cancer and its relation to urinary toxicity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zakariaee, Roja; Hamarneh, Ghassan; Brown, Colin J.; Gaudet, Marc; Aquino-Parsons, Christina; Spadinger, Ingrid

2016-12-01

The purpose of this study was to estimate locally accumulated dose to the bladder in multi-fraction high-dose-date (HDR) image-guided intracavitary brachytherapy (IG-ICBT) for cervical cancer, and study the locally-accumulated dose parameters as predictors of late urinary toxicity. A retrospective study of 60 cervical cancer patients who received five HDR IG-ICBT sessions was performed. The bladder outer and inner surfaces were segmented for all sessions and a bladder-wall contour point-set was created in MATLAB. The bladder-wall point-sets for each patient were registered using a deformable point-set registration toolbox called coherent point drift (CPD), and the fraction doses were accumulated. Various dosimetric and volumetric parameters were calculated using the registered doses, including r{{\\text{D}}n \\text{c{{\\text{m}}\\text{3}}}} (minimum dose to the most exposed n-cm3 volume of bladder wall), r V n Gy (wall volume receiving at least m Gy), and r\\text{EQD}{{2}n \\text{c{{\\text{m}}\\text{3}}}} (minimum equivalent biologically weighted dose to the most exposed n-cm3 of bladder wall), where n  =  1/2/5/10 and m  =  3/5/10. Minimum dose to contiguous 1 and 2 cm3 hot-spot volumes was also calculated. The unregistered dose volume histogram (DVH)-summed equivalent of r{{\\text{D}}n \\text{c{{\\text{m}}3}}} and r\\text{EQD}{{2}n \\text{c{{\\text{m}}3}}} parameters (i.e. s{{\\text{D}}n \\text{c{{\\text{m}}\\text{3}}}} and s\\text{EQD}{{2}n \\text{c{{\\text{m}}3}}} ) were determined for comparison. Late urinary toxicity was assessed using the LENT-SOMA scale, with toxicity Grade 0-1 categorized as Controls and Grade 2-4 as Cases. A two-sample t-test was used to identify the differences between the means of Control and Case groups for all parameters. A binomial logistic regression was also performed between the registered dose parameters and toxicity grouping. Seventeen patients were in the Case and 43 patients in the Control group. Contiguous

A hybrid method for airway segmentation and automated measurement of bronchial wall thickness on CT.

PubMed

Xu, Ziyue; Bagci, Ulas; Foster, Brent; Mansoor, Awais; Udupa, Jayaram K; Mollura, Daniel J

2015-08-01

Inflammatory and infectious lung diseases commonly involve bronchial airway structures and morphology, and these abnormalities are often analyzed non-invasively through high resolution computed tomography (CT) scans. Assessing airway wall surfaces and the lumen are of great importance for diagnosing pulmonary diseases. However, obtaining high accuracy from a complete 3-D airway tree structure can be quite challenging. The airway tree structure has spiculated shapes with multiple branches and bifurcation points as opposed to solid single organ or tumor segmentation tasks in other applications, hence, it is complex for manual segmentation as compared with other tasks. For computerized methods, a fundamental challenge in airway tree segmentation is the highly variable intensity levels in the lumen area, which often causes a segmentation method to leak into adjacent lung parenchyma through blurred airway walls or soft boundaries. Moreover, outer wall definition can be difficult due to similar intensities of the airway walls and nearby structures such as vessels. In this paper, we propose a computational framework to accurately quantify airways through (i) a novel hybrid approach for precise segmentation of the lumen, and (ii) two novel methods (a spatially constrained Markov random walk method (pseudo 3-D) and a relative fuzzy connectedness method (3-D)) to estimate the airway wall thickness. We evaluate the performance of our proposed methods in comparison with mostly used algorithms using human chest CT images. Our results demonstrate that, on publicly available data sets and using standard evaluation criteria, the proposed airway segmentation method is accurate and efficient as compared with the state-of-the-art methods, and the airway wall estimation algorithms identified the inner and outer airway surfaces more accurately than the most widely applied methods, namely full width at half maximum and phase congruency. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Multimodal flexible cystoscopy for creating co-registered panoramas of the bladder urothelium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seibel, Eric J.; Soper, Timothy D.; Burkhardt, Matthew R.; Porter, Michael P.; Yoon, W. Jong

2012-02-01

Bladder cancer is the most expensive cancer to treat due to the high rate of recurrence. Though white light cystoscopy is the gold standard for bladder cancer surveillance, the advent of fluorescence biomarkers provides an opportunity to improve sensitivity for early detection and reduced recurrence resulting from more accurate excision. Ideally, fluorescence information could be combined with standard reflectance images to provide multimodal views of the bladder wall. The scanning fiber endoscope (SFE) of 1.2mm in diameter is able to acquire wide-field multimodal video from a bladder phantom with fluorescence cancer "hot-spots". The SFE generates images by scanning red, green, and blue (RGB) laser light and detects the backscatter signal for reflectance video of 500-line resolution at 30 frames per second. We imaged a bladder phantom with painted vessels and mimicked fluorescent lesions by applying green fluorescent microspheres to the surface. By eliminating the green laser illumination, simultaneous reflectance and fluorescence images can be acquired at the same field of view, resolution, and frame rate. Moreover, the multimodal SFE is combined with a robotic steering mechanism and image stitching software as part of a fully automated bladder surveillance system. Using this system, the SFE can be reliably articulated over the entire 360° bladder surface. Acquired images can then be stitched into a multimodal 3D panorama of the bladder using software developed in our laboratory. In each panorama, the fluorescence images are exactly co-registered with RGB reflectance.

Blood-urine barrier formation in mouse urinary bladder development.

PubMed

Jezernik, K; Pipan, N

1993-04-01

Formation of the blood-urine permeability barrier in differentiating mouse transitional urothelium was studied. It was established that the development of superficial cell barrier is a two-phase process: beginning with formation of the tight junctions, followed by formation of fusiform vesicles and asymmetric apical plasma membranes. Fusiform vesicles differentiate during days 15 and 17 of gestation and fuse with the apical plasmalemma. Thus a thick membrane is formed before the excretion of hypertonic urine into the embryonic bladder. Through some degenerative superficial cells slough between fetal day 17 and the day of birth, the bladder epithelium in mice does not lack an effective permeability barrier.

Method and apparatus to produce and maintain a thick, flowing, liquid lithium first wall for toroidal magnetic confinement DT fusion reactors

DOEpatents

Woolley, Robert D.

2002-01-01

A system for forming a thick flowing liquid metal, in this case lithium, layer on the inside wall of a toroid containing the plasma of a deuterium-tritium fusion reactor. The presence of the liquid metal layer or first wall serves to prevent neutron damage to the walls of the toroid. A poloidal current in the liquid metal layer is oriented so that it flows in the same direction as the current in a series of external magnets used to confine the plasma. This current alignment results in the liquid metal being forced against the wall of the toroid. After the liquid metal exits the toroid it is pumped to a heat extraction and power conversion device prior to being reentering the toroid.

Mucinous adenocarcinoma of the bladder associated with long term suprapubic tube: a case report.

PubMed

Bauman, Tyler M; Potretzke, Theodora A; Potretzke, Aaron M; Siegel, Cary L; Brandes, Steven B

2015-12-03

Chronic indwelling catheters may induce histologic changes within the bladder, and these changes are sometimes pre-malignant. There are many documented cases of squamous cell carcinoma associated with indwelling catheters, but only three cases of catheter-associated adenocarcinoma have been reported. In this case report, we present radiographic findings of a case of mucinous adenocarcinoma of the bladder and suprapubic (SP) tract in a quadriplegic patient. A 71-year-old male with a history of spinal cord injury presented with hematuria and SP discharge after SP catheterization for 51 years. CT urography was performed and revealed an irregular, infiltrative, and heterogeneous mass arising from the anterior bladder at the level of the suprapubic catheter and extending along the SP tube tract. Cystoscopy and biopsy revealed an adenocarcinoma of the anterior bladder and stoma with extensive associated mucin production and a background of acute and chronic inflammation. Surgical therapy included cystoprostatectomy, abdominal wall resection, ileal conduit creation, and abdominal wall reconstruction. The final diagnosis was a high-grade, T2a/N0/M0 (Stage II) mucinous adenocarcinoma of the bladder. There has been no evidence of tumor recurrence over the previous 5 years. Few cases of adenocarcinoma associated with long term indwelling catheter have been reported in the literature, and due to the rarity of this disease process, the prognosis with surgical therapy is not well known. The patient described herein has been free of recurrence for the previous five years, suggesting that surgery is a viable management option for these patients.

In vivo fluorescence imaging of an orthotopic rat bladder tumor model indicates differential uptake of intravesically instilled near-infrared labeled 2-deoxyglucose analog by neoplastic urinary bladder tissues

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Piao, Daqing; Davis, Carole A.; Hurst, Robert E.; Slaton, Joel W.

2017-02-01

Bladder cancer is one of the most expensive cancers to manage due to frequent recurrences requiring life-long surveillance and treatment. A near-infrared labeled 2-deoxy-d-glucose probe IRDye800CW-DG targeting glucose metabolism pathway has shown to enhance the sensitivity of diagnosing several types of cancers as tested on tumor models not including bladder tumor. This pilot study has explored differential uptake of intravesically administered IRDye800CW-DG in an orthotopic rat bladder tumor model. Twenty-five female Fischer rats were randomly grouped to four conditions: no-tumor-control (n=3), no-tumor-control intravesically instilled with IRDye800CWDG (n=6), rats bearing GFP-labeled AY-27 rat bladder urothelial cell carcinoma cells and washed with saline (n=5), and rats bearing AY-27 tumors and intravesically instilled with IRDye800CW-DG (n=11). Near-infrared fluorescence was measured from the opened bladder wall of anesthetized rat at an excitation wavelength of 750nm and an emission wavelength of 776nm, by using an in-house fluorescence imaging system. There is no statistically significant difference of the peak fluorescence intensity among the no-tumor-control bladders (n=3), the no-tumorcontrol bladders instilled with IRDye800CW-DG (n=6), and the GFP-labeled AY-27 treated bladders washed by saline (n=5). When compared to that of the no-tumor-control bladders instilled with IRDye800CW-DG (n=6), the fluorescence intensity of GFP-labeled AY-27 treated bladders instilled with IRDye800CW-DG and with histology confirmed neoplastic bladder tissue (n=11) was remarkably more intense (3.34 fold of over the former) and was also statistically significant (p<0.0001). The differential uptake of IRDye800CW-DG by the neoplastic urinary bladder tissues suggests the potential for cystoscopy-adaptation to enhance diagnosis and guiding surgical management of flat urinary bladder cancer.

Social stress induces changes in urinary bladder function, bladder NGF content, and generalized bladder inflammation in mice

PubMed Central

Peterson, Abbey; Erickson, Cuixia Shi; Nelson, Mark T.; Vizzard, Margaret A.

2014-01-01

Social stress may play a role in urinary bladder dysfunction in humans, but the underlying mechanisms are unknown. In the present study, we explored changes in bladder function caused by social stress using mouse models of stress and increasing stress. In the stress paradigm, individual submissive FVB mice were exposed to C57BL/6 aggressor mice directly/indirectly for 1 h/day for 2 or 4 wk. Increased stress was induced by continuous, direct/indirect exposure of FVB mice to aggressor mice for 2 wk. Stressed FVB mice exhibited nonvoiding bladder contractions and a decrease in both micturition interval (increased voiding frequency) and bladder capacity compared with control animals. ELISAs demonstrated a significant increase in histamine protein expression with no change in nerve growth factor protein expression in the urinary bladder compared with controls. Unlike stressed mice, mice exposed to an increased stress paradigm exhibited increased bladder capacities and intermicturition intervals (decreased voiding frequency). Both histamine and nerve growth factor protein expression were significantly increased with increased stress compared with control bladders. The change in bladder function from increased voiding frequency to decreased voiding frequency with increased stress intensity suggests that changes in social stress-induced urinary bladder dysfunction are context and duration dependent. In addition, changes in the bladder inflammatory milieu with social stress may be important contributors to changes in urinary bladder function. PMID:25100077

Sonography of tumors and tumor-like lesions that mimic carcinoma of the urinary bladder

PubMed Central

Szopiński, Tomasz; Gołąbek, Tomasz; Ostasz, Oksana; Bojko, Stefania

2014-01-01

One of the basic abdominal organs that is assessed during transabdominal ultrasound examination for urological reasons is the urinary bladder. The bladder must be filled with urine. This is a prerequisite for a reliable assessment and, at the same time, an acoustic window in examining adjacent structures and organs, for instance the prostate gland. In some cases, doubts occur with respect to the nature of lesions detected. The paper presents anatomic lesions, defects and pathologies which might be erroneously interpreted as tumors of the urinary bladder, i.e. transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder. The following lesions are discussed: 1) anatomic defects (including urachus remnants, ligaments that stabilize the bladder or cyst in the opening of the ureter into the bladder – ureterocele); 2) tumor- like lesions in the lumen of the urinary bladder (such as blood clots, fungus balls, stones or foreign bodies); 3) bladder wall pathologies (i.e. cystitis or endometriosis), focal decidual transformation of stromal cells or inflammatory pseudotumor; 4) lesions impressing on the bladder from the outside (the mesentery of the sigmoid colon, the bowel, pathological lesions in organs adjacent to the urinary bladder, inflammatory infiltration, vasogenic compression of the bladder, pelvic lipomatosis, pathological lesions of the pubic symphysis); 5) postoperative lesions. All these lesions may mimic carcinoma of the urinary bladder in sonography. Bearing this fact in mind is significant in establishing a diagnosis. Due to the malignant character of carcinoma of the urinary bladder and the need for aggressive surgical treatment, a correct diagnosis of this disease is essential for patients, particularly because the lack of adequate treatment and delayed treatment considerably affect prognosis. PMID:26672732

Fast mean and variance computation of the diffuse sound transmission through finite-sized thick and layered wall and floor systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Decraene, Carolina; Dijckmans, Arne; Reynders, Edwin P. B.

2018-05-01

A method is developed for computing the mean and variance of the diffuse field sound transmission loss of finite-sized layered wall and floor systems that consist of solid, fluid and/or poroelastic layers. This is achieved by coupling a transfer matrix model of the wall or floor to statistical energy analysis subsystem models of the adjacent room volumes. The modal behavior of the wall is approximately accounted for by projecting the wall displacement onto a set of sinusoidal lateral basis functions. This hybrid modal transfer matrix-statistical energy analysis method is validated on multiple wall systems: a thin steel plate, a polymethyl methacrylate panel, a thick brick wall, a sandwich panel, a double-leaf wall with poro-elastic material in the cavity, and a double glazing. The predictions are compared with experimental data and with results obtained using alternative prediction methods such as the transfer matrix method with spatial windowing, the hybrid wave based-transfer matrix method, and the hybrid finite element-statistical energy analysis method. These comparisons confirm the prediction accuracy of the proposed method and the computational efficiency against the conventional hybrid finite element-statistical energy analysis method.

Bladder Management

MedlinePlus

... Catheterization • Urinary Tract Infections: Indwelling (Foley) Catheter Bladder Management [ Download this pamphlet: "Bladder Management" - (PDF, 499KB) ] The ... and medication or surgery may be helpful. Bladder Management Foley or Suprapubic Catheter A tube is inserted ...

Bladder Cancer

MedlinePlus

... have an elevated risk of developing bladder cancer. Chronic bladder inflammation. Chronic or repeated urinary infections or inflammations (cystitis), ... the world, squamous cell carcinoma is linked to chronic bladder inflammation caused by the parasitic infection known as schistosomiasis. ...

49 CFR 179.400-8 - Thickness of plates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... Liquid Tank Car Tanks and Seamless Steel Tanks (Classes DOT-113 and 107A) § 179.400-8 Thickness of plates... joints, except that for seamless heads, E = 1.0. (b) The minimum wall thickness, after forming, of any 3..., except that for seamless heads, E=1.0. (c) The minimum wall thickness, after forming, of a flanged and...

49 CFR 179.400-8 - Thickness of plates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... Liquid Tank Car Tanks and Seamless Steel Tanks (Classes DOT-113 and 107A) § 179.400-8 Thickness of plates... joints, except that for seamless heads, E = 1.0. (b) The minimum wall thickness, after forming, of any 3..., except that for seamless heads, E=1.0. (c) The minimum wall thickness, after forming, of a flanged and...

49 CFR 179.400-8 - Thickness of plates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... Liquid Tank Car Tanks and Seamless Steel Tanks (Classes DOT-113 and 107A) § 179.400-8 Thickness of plates... joints, except that for seamless heads, E = 1.0. (b) The minimum wall thickness, after forming, of any 3..., except that for seamless heads, E=1.0. (c) The minimum wall thickness, after forming, of a flanged and...

49 CFR 179.400-8 - Thickness of plates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... Liquid Tank Car Tanks and Seamless Steel Tanks (Classes DOT-113 and 107A) § 179.400-8 Thickness of plates... joints, except that for seamless heads, E = 1.0. (b) The minimum wall thickness, after forming, of any 3..., except that for seamless heads, E=1.0. (c) The minimum wall thickness, after forming, of a flanged and...

Pharmacotherapy in Pediatric Neurogenic Bladder Intravesical Botulinum Toxin Type A

PubMed Central

Sager, Cristian; Burek, Carol; Durán, Victor; Corbetta, Juan Pablo; Weller, Santiago; Juan, Bortagaray; López, Juan Carlos

2012-01-01

When the neurogenic bladder is refractory to anticholinergics, botulinum toxin type A is used as an alternative. The neurotoxin type A reduces bladder pressure and increases its capacity and wall compliance. Additionally, it contributes to improving urinary continence and quality of life. This novel therapy is ambulatory with a low incidence of adverse effects. Due to its transitory effect, it is necessary to repeat the injections in order to sustain its therapeutic effect. In these review article we talk about Mechanism of Action, Indications, effects, administration and presentations of the Botulinum Neurotoxin Type A in pediatric patients. Also, we make references to controversial issues surrounding its use. A bibliographic search was done selecting articles and revisions from Pubmed. The key words used were botulinum toxin A, neurogenic bladder, and children. The search was limited to patients younger than 18 years of age and reports written in English in the past ten years. PMID:22720170

Agreement between methods of measurement of mean aortic wall thickness by MRI.

PubMed

Rosero, Eric B; Peshock, Ronald M; Khera, Amit; Clagett, G Patrick; Lo, Hao; Timaran, Carlos

2009-03-01

To assess the agreement between three methods of calculation of mean aortic wall thickness (MAWT) using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). High-resolution MRI of the infrarenal abdominal aorta was performed on 70 subjects with a history of coronary artery disease who were part of a multi-ethnic population-based sample. MAWT was calculated as the mean distance between the adventitial and luminal aortic boundaries using three different methods: average distance at four standard positions (AWT-4P), average distance at 100 automated positions (AWT-100P), and using a mathematical computation derived from the total vessel and luminal areas (AWT-VA). Bland-Altman plots and Passing-Bablok regression analyses were used to assess agreement between methods. Bland-Altman analyses demonstrated a positive bias of 3.02+/-7.31% between the AWT-VA and the AWT-4P methods, and of 1.76+/-6.82% between the AWT-100P and the AWT-4P methods. Passing-Bablok regression analyses demonstrated constant bias between the AWT-4P method and the other two methods. Proportional bias was, however, not evident among the three methods. MRI methods of measurement of MAWT using a limited number of positions of the aortic wall systematically underestimate the MAWT value compared with the method that calculates MAWT from the vessel areas. Copyright (c) 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Longwave Stability of Two Liquid Layers Coating Both Sides of a Thick Wall in the Absence of Gravity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dávalos-Orozco, L. A.

2018-05-01

A system of two coupled nonlinear equations was calculated to describe the thermocapillary evolution of the free surface deformations of two liquid layers coating both sides of a wall of finite thickness and thermal conductivity in the absence of gravity. The equations were obtained under the small wavenumber approximation. A temperature gradient appears perpendicular to the liquid-wall-liquid system due to the temperature difference between the atmospheres outside the free surfaces of both fluid layers. The linear growth rate of the system was investigated with respect to a variety of parameters. Under some conditions, two stationary modes and one oscillatory mode between them were found. The second stationary mode was concluded to be always stable. It was also found that under different conditions only stationary convection is possible. These results depended on the relative thickness of the two fluid films. It is of interest to know if the coupled free surface perturbations presented a nonlinear sinuous or varicose mode. Thus, a two-dimensional numerical analysis was performed to find out which conditions lead to the sinuous or to the varicose mode of instability.

Neurogenic Bladder

PubMed Central

Dorsher, Peter T.; McIntosh, Peter M.

2012-01-01

Congenital anomalies such as meningomyelocele and diseases/damage of the central, peripheral, or autonomic nervous systems may produce neurogenic bladder dysfunction, which untreated can result in progressive renal damage, adverse physical effects including decubiti and urinary tract infections, and psychological and social sequelae related to urinary incontinence. A comprehensive bladder-retraining program that incorporates appropriate education, training, medication, and surgical interventions can mitigate the adverse consequences of neurogenic bladder dysfunction and improve both quantity and quality of life. The goals of bladder retraining for neurogenic bladder dysfunction are prevention of urinary incontinence, urinary tract infections, detrusor overdistension, and progressive upper urinary tract damage due to chronic, excessive detrusor pressures. Understanding the physiology and pathophysiology of micturition is essential to select appropriate pharmacologic and surgical interventions to achieve these goals. Future perspectives on potential pharmacological, surgical, and regenerative medicine options for treating neurogenic bladder dysfunction are also presented. PMID:22400020

Bladder stones after bladder augmentation are not what they seem.

PubMed

Szymanski, Konrad M; Misseri, Rosalia; Whittam, Benjamin; Lingeman, James E; Amstutz, Sable; Ring, Joshua D; Kaefer, Martin; Rink, Richard C; Cain, Mark P

2016-04-01

Bladder and renal calculi after bladder augmentation are thought to be primarily infectious, yet few studies have reported stone composition. The primary aim was to assess bladder stone composition after augmentation, and renal stone composition in those with subsequent nephrolithiasis. The exploratory secondary aim was to screen for possible risk factors for developing infectious stones. Patients treated for bladder stones after bladder augmentation at the present institution between 1981 and 2012 were retrospectively reviewed. Data were collected on demographics, surgeries and stone composition. Patients without stone analysis were excluded. Stones containing struvite, carbonate apatite or ammonium acid ureate were classified as infectious. The following variables were analyzed for a possible association with infectious bladder stone composition: gender, history of cloacal exstrophy, ambulatory status, nephrolithiasis, recurrent urea-splitting urinary tract infections, first vs recurrent stones, timing of presentation with a calculus, history of bladder neck procedures, catheterizable channel and vesicoureteral reflux. Fisher's exact test was used for analysis. Of the 107 patients with bladder stones after bladder augmentation, 85 met inclusion criteria. Median age at augmentation was 8.0 years (follow-up 10.8 years). Forty-four patients (51.8%) recurred (14 multiple recurrences, 143 bladder stones). Renal calculi developed in 19 (22.4%) patients with a bladder stone, and 10 (52.6%) recurred (30 renal stones). Overall, 30.8% of bladder stones were non-infectious (Table). Among patients recurring after an infectious bladder stone, 30.4% recurred with a non-infectious one. Among patients recurring after a non-infectious stone, 84.6% recurred with a non-infectious one (P = 0.005). Compared with bladder stones, renal stones were more likely to be non-infectious (60.0%, P = 0.003). Of patients with recurrent renal calculi after an infectious stone, 40.0% recurred with

Dosimetric impact in the dose-volume histograms of rectal and vesical wall contouring in prostate cancer IMRT treatments.

PubMed

Gómez, Laura; Andrés, Carlos; Ruiz, Antonio

2017-01-01

The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the differences in dose-volume histograms of IMRT treatments for prostate cancer based on the delineation of the main organs at risk (rectum and bladder) as solid organs or by contouring their wall. Rectum and bladder have typically been delineated as solid organs, including the waste material, which, in practice, can lead to an erroneous assessment of the risk of adverse effects. A retrospective study was made on 25 patients treated with IMRT radiotherapy for prostate adenocarcinoma. 76.32 Gy in 36 fractions was prescribed to the prostate and seminal vesicles. In addition to the delineation of the rectum and bladder as solid organs (including their content), the rectal and bladder wall were also delineated and the resulting dose-volume histograms were analyzed for the two groups of structures. Data analysis shows statistically significant differences in the main parameters used to assess the risk of toxicity of a prostate radiotherapy treatment. Higher doses were received on the rectal and bladder walls compared to doses received on the corresponding solid organs. The observed differences in terms of received doses to the rectum and bladder based on the method of contouring could gain greater importance in inverse planning treatments, where the treatment planning system optimizes the dose in these volumes. So, one should take into account the method of delineating of these structures to make a clinical decision regarding dose limitation and risk assessment of chronic toxicity.

Use of computed tomography to identify atrial fibrillation associated differences in left atrial wall thickness and density.

PubMed

Dewland, Thomas A; Wintermark, Max; Vaysman, Anna; Smith, Lisa M; Tong, Elizabeth; Vittinghoff, Eric; Marcus, Gregory M

2013-01-01

Left atrial (LA) tissue characteristics may play an important role in atrial fibrillation (AF) induction and perpetuation. Although frequently used in clinical practice, computed tomography (CT) has not been employed to describe differences in LA wall properties between AF patients and controls. We sought to noninvasively characterize AF-associated differences in LA tissue using CT. CT images of the LA were obtained in 98 consecutive patients undergoing AF ablation and in 89 controls. A custom software algorithm was used to measure wall thickness and density in four prespecified regions of the LA. On average, LA walls were thinner (-15.5%, 95% confidence interval [CI] -23.2 to -7.8%, P < 0.001) and demonstrated significantly lower density (-19.7 Hounsfield Units [HU], 95% CI -27.0 to -12.5 HU, P < 0.001) in AF patients compared to controls. In linear mixed models adjusting for demographics, clinical variables, and other CT measurements, the average LA, interatrial septum, LA appendage, and anterior walls remained significantly thinner in AF patients. After adjusting for the same potential confounders, history of AF was associated with reduced density in the LA anterior wall and increased density below the right inferior pulmonary vein and in the LA appendage. Application of an automated measurement algorithm to CT imaging of the atrium identified significant thinning of the LA wall and regional alterations in tissue density in patients with a history of AF. These findings suggest differences in LA tissue composition can be noninvasively identified and quantified using CT. ©2012, The Authors. Journal compilation ©2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Optimum Material Composition for Minimizing the Stress Intensity Factor of Edge Crack in Thick-Walled FGM Circular Pipes Under Thermomechanical Loading

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sekine, Hideki; Yoshida, Kimiaki

This paper deals with the optimization problem of material composition for minimizing the stress intensity factor of radial edge crack in thick-walled functionally graded material (FGM) circular pipes under steady-state thermomechanical loading. Homogenizing the FGM circular pipes by simulating the inhomogeneity of thermal conductivity by a distribution of equivalent eigentemperature gradient and the inhomogeneity of Young's modulus and Poisson's ratio by a distribution of equivalent eigenstrain, we present an approximation method to obtain the stress intensity factor of radial edge crack in the FGM circular pipes. The optimum material composition for minimizing the stress intensity factor of radial edge crack is determined using a nonlinear mathematical programming method. Numerical results obtained for a thick-walled TiC/Al2O3 FGM circular pipe reveal that it is possible to decrease remarkably the stress intensity factor of radial edge crack by setting the optimum material composition profile.

Hypertensive heart disease versus hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: multi-parametric cardiovascular magnetic resonance discriminators when end-diastolic wall thickness ≥ 15 mm.

PubMed

Rodrigues, Jonathan C L; Rohan, Stephen; Ghosh Dastidar, Amardeep; Harries, Iwan; Lawton, Christopher B; Ratcliffe, Laura E; Burchell, Amy E; Hart, Emma C; Hamilton, Mark C K; Paton, Julian F R; Nightingale, Angus K; Manghat, Nathan E

2017-03-01

European guidelines state left ventricular (LV) end-diastolic wall thickness (EDWT) ≥15mm suggests hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), but distinguishing from hypertensive heart disease (HHD) is challenging. We identify cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) predictors of HHD over HCM when EDWT ≥15mm. 2481 consecutive clinical CMRs between 2014 and 2015 were reviewed. 464 segments from 29 HCM subjects with EDWT ≥15mm but without other cardiac abnormality, hypertension or renal impairment were analyzed. 432 segments from 27 HHD subjects with EDWT ≥15mm but without concomitant cardiac pathology were analyzed. Magnitude and location of maximal EDWT, presence of late gadolinium enhancement (LGE), LV asymmetry (>1.5-fold opposing segment) and systolic anterior motion of the mitral valve (SAM) were measured. Multivariate logistic regression was performed. Significance was defined as p<0.05. HHD and HCM cohorts were age-/gender-matched. HHD had significantly increased indexed LV mass (110±27g/m 2 vs. 91±31g/m 2 , p=0.016) but no difference in site or magnitude of maximal EDWT. Mid-wall LGE was significantly more prevalent in HCM. Elevated indexed LVM, mid-wall LGE and absence of SAM were significant multivariate predictors of HHD, but LV asymmetry was not. Increased indexed LV mass, absence of mid-wall LGE and absence of SAM are better CMR discriminators of HHD from HCM than EDWT ≥15mm. • Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is often diagnosed with end-diastolic wall thickness ≥15mm. • Hypertensive heart disease (HHD) can be difficult to distinguish from HCM. • Retrospective case-control study showed that location and magnitude of EDWT are poor discriminators. • Increased left ventricular mass and midwall fibrosis are independent predictors of HHD. • Cardiovascular magnetic resonance parameters facilitate a better discrimination between HHD and HCM.

Sonographic evidence of ascites, pleura-pericardial effusion and gallbladder wall edema for dengue fever.

PubMed

Motla, M; Manaktala, S; Gupta, V; Aggarwal, M; Bhoi, S K; Aggarwal, P; Goel, A

2011-10-01

Radiographic findings of dengue fever have not yet been clearly elucidated in relation to clinical and serological findings, despite the fact that two-fifths of the world population lives in areas where the virus is endemic. The current study is a retrospective analysis of ultrasonographic (USG) features of patients presenting with probable dengue fever during the outbreak of DF of 2006 in North India. Case records of a 169 patients with probable dengue fever were included. Ten individual sonographic parameters were reviewed vis-à-vis ascites, hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, gall bladder wall edema (GBWE), pleural effusion (right or left or both), pericardial effusion, pericholecystic collection, perinephric collection. Subjects who had GB wall thickness >3 mm as measured on ultrasound were identified as positive for GBWE. The cases were analyzed in view of their serological profile. The mean age of the subjects was 27.9 +/- 13.4 years. The mean value of the platelet count was 57.4 +/- 22.3 x 103/cmm. The most common ultrasonographic feature was ascites (126, 74.6%) followed by gall bladder wall edema (122, 72%), hepatomegaly (78, 46.2%), splenomegaly (66, 39.1%) and pericholecystic collection (63, 37.3%); 48 (28.4%) subjects demonstrated evidence of pleural effusion on the right side, while 19 (11.2%) had bilateral effusion. None of the subjects had an isolated left pleural effusion. Twenty-seven (16%) subjects reported bleeding manifestations in the form of petechiae and five (3%) developed renal dysfunction. Presence of pleural and pericardial effusions was found to be specific while ascites and GBWE were identified as highly sensitive markers for seropositive Primary DF. Ultrasonographic evidence of ascites, pleuro-pericardial effusion, and gallbladder wall edema are rapidly acquired, non-invasive markers of dengue and can be helpful before serological investigations become available. These findings may indicate severity and may herald the onset of bleeding

Portable Bladder Ultrasound

PubMed Central

2006-01-01

Executive Summary Objective The aim of this review was to assess the clinical utility of portable bladder ultrasound. Clinical Need: Target Population and Condition Data from the National Population Health Survey indicate prevalence rates of urinary incontinence are 2.5% in women and 1.4 % in men in the general population. Prevalence of urinary incontinence is higher in women than men and prevalence increases with age. Identified risk factors for urinary incontinence include female gender, increasing age, urinary tract infections (UTI), poor mobility, dementia, smoking, obesity, consuming alcohol and caffeine beverages, physical activity, pregnancy, childbirth, forceps and vacuum-assisted births, episiotomy, abdominal resection for colorectal cancer, and hormone replacement therapy. For the purposes of this review, incontinence populations will be stratified into the following; the elderly, urology patients, postoperative patients, rehabilitation settings, and neurogenic bladder populations. Urinary incontinence is defined as any involuntary leakage of urine. Incontinence can be classified into diagnostic clinical types that are useful in planning evaluation and treatment. The major types of incontinence are stress (physical exertion), urge (overactive bladder), mixed (combined urge and stress urinary incontinence), reflex (neurological impairment of the central nervous system), overflow (leakage due to full bladder), continuous (urinary tract abnormalities), congenital incontinence, and transient incontinence (temporary incontinence). Postvoid residual (PVR) urine volume, which is the amount of urine in the bladder immediately after urination, represents an important component in continence assessment and bladder management to provide quantitative feedback to the patient and continence care team regarding the effectiveness of the voiding technique. Although there is no standardized definition of normal PVR urine volume, measurements greater than 100 mL to 150 m

Gynaecomastia: an unusual presenting symptom of bladder cancer.

PubMed

Ahmed, Mashrafi; Kanji, Aleem; Begum, Tahmina

2015-06-25

A 74-year-old man presented to the outpatient clinic with painful gynaecomastia. A detailed physical examination to sort out possible causes of the gynaecomastia, including intracranial tumour, liver cirrhosis, hyperthyroidism, and adrenal and testicular tumour, was negative. No offending agent was found in his medication list. A CT scan of the head and ultrasound of the scrotum did not show any mass lesion. His serum β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) and oestradiol levels were elevated. A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis revealed bladder wall thickening with soft tissue mass. A cystoscopic biopsy confirmed transitional cell carcinoma with muscle invasion. The patient was started on chemotherapy but responded poorly. This case report describes the β-hCG and oestradiol-secreting transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder presenting as gynaecomastia in an older man. 2015 BMJ Publishing Group Ltd.

A 3D Printed Implantable Device for Voiding the Bladder Using Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) Actuators.

PubMed

Hassani, Faezeh Arab; Peh, Wendy Yen Xian; Gammad, Gil Gerald Lasam; Mogan, Roshini Priya; Ng, Tze Kiat; Kuo, Tricia Li Chuen; Ng, Lay Guat; Luu, Percy; Yen, Shih-Cheng; Lee, Chengkuo

2017-11-01

Underactive bladder or detrusor underactivity (DU) is defined as a reduction of contraction strength or duration of the bladder wall. Despite the serious healthcare implications of DU, there are limited solutions for affected individuals. A flexible 3D printed implantable device driven by shape memory alloys (SMA) actuators is presented here for the first time to physically contract the bladder to restore voluntary control of the bladder for individuals suffering from DU. This approach is used initially in benchtop experiments with a rubber balloon acting as a model for the rat bladder to verify its potential for voiding, and that the operating temperatures are safe for the eventual implantation of the device in a rat. The device is then implanted and tested on an anesthetized rat, and a voiding volume of more than 8% is successfully achieved for the SMA-based device without any surgical intervention or drug injection to relax the external sphincter.

Miniature Microwave Applicator for Murine Bladder Hyperthermia Studies

PubMed Central

Salahi, Sara; Maccarini, Paolo F.; Rodrigues, Dario B.; Etienne, Wiguins; Landon, Chelsea D.; Inman, Brant A.; Dewhirst, Mark W.; Stauffer, Paul R.

2012-01-01

Purpose Novel combinations of heat with chemotherapeutic agents are often studied in murine tumor models. Currently, no device exists to selectively heat small tumors at depth in mice. In this project, we modelled, built and tested a miniature microwave heat applicator, the physical dimensions of which can be scaled to adjust the volume and depth of heating to focus on the tumor volume. Of particular interest is a device that can selectively heat murine bladder. Materials and Methods Using Avizo® segmentation software, we created a numerical mouse model based on micro-MRI scan data. The model was imported into HFSS™ simulation software and parametric studies were performed to optimize the dimensions of a water-loaded circular waveguide for selective power deposition inside a 0.15ml bladder. A working prototype was constructed operating at 2.45GHz. Heating performance was characterized by mapping fiber-optic temperature sensors along catheters inserted at depths of 0-1mm (subcutaneous), 2-3mm (vaginal), and 4-5mm (rectal) below the abdominal wall, with the mid-depth catheter adjacent to the bladder. Core temperature was monitored orally. Results Thermal measurements confirm the simulations which demonstrate that this applicator can provide local heating at depth in small animals. Measured temperatures in murine pelvis show well-localized bladder heating to 42-43°C while maintaining normothermic skin and core temperatures. Conclusions Simulation techniques facilitate the design optimization of microwave antennas for use in pre-clinical applications such as localized tumor heating in small animals. Laboratory measurements demonstrate the effectiveness of a new miniature water-coupled microwave applicator for localized heating of murine bladder. PMID:22690856

Miniature microwave applicator for murine bladder hyperthermia studies.

PubMed

Salahi, Sara; Maccarini, Paolo F; Rodrigues, Dario B; Etienne, Wiguins; Landon, Chelsea D; Inman, Brant A; Dewhirst, Mark W; Stauffer, Paul R

2012-01-01

Novel combinations of heat with chemotherapeutic agents are often studied in murine tumour models. Currently, no device exists to selectively heat small tumours at depth in mice. In this project we modelled, built and tested a miniature microwave heat applicator, the physical dimensions of which can be scaled to adjust the volume and depth of heating to focus on the tumour volume. Of particular interest is a device that can selectively heat murine bladder. Using Avizo(®) segmentation software, we created a numerical mouse model based on micro-MRI scan data. The model was imported into HFSS™ (Ansys) simulation software and parametric studies were performed to optimise the dimensions of a water-loaded circular waveguide for selective power deposition inside a 0.15 mL bladder. A working prototype was constructed operating at 2.45 GHz. Heating performance was characterised by mapping fibre-optic temperature sensors along catheters inserted at depths of 0-1 mm (subcutaneous), 2-3 mm (vaginal), and 4-5 mm (rectal) below the abdominal wall, with the mid depth catheter adjacent to the bladder. Core temperature was monitored orally. Thermal measurements confirm the simulations which demonstrate that this applicator can provide local heating at depth in small animals. Measured temperatures in murine pelvis show well-localised bladder heating to 42-43°C while maintaining normothermic skin and core temperatures. Simulation techniques facilitate the design optimisation of microwave antennas for use in pre-clinical applications such as localised tumour heating in small animals. Laboratory measurements demonstrate the effectiveness of a new miniature water-coupled microwave applicator for localised heating of murine bladder.

Effects of acute urinary bladder overdistension on bladder response during sacral neurostimulation.

PubMed

Bross, S; Schumacher, S; Scheepe, J R; Zendler, S; Braun, P M; Alken, P; Jünemann, K

1999-10-01

Urinary retention and micturition disorders after overdistension are clinically well-known complications of subvesical obstruction. We attempted to evaluate whether bladder overdistension influences bladder response and whether overdistension supports detrusor decompensation. Following lumbal laminectomy in 9 male foxhounds, the sacral anterior roots S2 and S3 were placed into a modified Brindley electrode for reproducible and controlled detrusor activation. The bladder was filled in stages of 50 ml from 0 to 700 ml, corresponding to an overdistension. At each volume, the bladder response during sacral anterior root stimulation was registered. After overdistension, the bladder was refilled stepwise from 0 to 300 ml and stimulated. In all dogs, the bladder response was influenced by the intravesical volume. The maximum pressure (mean 69.1 cm H(2)O) was observed at mean volume of 100 ml. During overdistension, a significant reduction in bladder response of more than 80% was seen. After overdistension, a significant reduction in intravesical pressure of 19.0% was observed. In 2 cases, reduction in bladder response was more than 50% after a single overdistension. We conclude that motoric bladder function is influenced during and after overdistension. A single bladder overdistension can support acute and long-lasting detrusor decompensation. In order to protect motoric bladder function, bladder overdistension must be prevented.

Detrusor expulsive strength is preserved, but responsiveness to bladder filling and urinary sensitivity is diminished in the aging mouse

PubMed Central

DeAngelis, Anthony; Kuchel, George A.

2012-01-01

The prevalence of urinary symptoms increases with age and is a significant source of distress, morbidity, and expense in the elderly. Recent evidence suggests that symptoms in the aged may result from sensory dysfunction, rather than abnormalities of detrusor performance. Therefore, we employed a pressure/flow multichannel urethane-anesthetized mouse cystometry model to test the hypothesis that in vivo detrusor performance does not degrade with aging. Secondarily, we sought to evaluate sensory responsiveness to volume using pressure-volume data generated during bladder filling. Cystometric data from 2-, 12-, 22-, and 26-mo-old female C57BL6 mice were compared. All 2- and 12-mo-old mice, 66% of 22-mo-old mice, and 50% of 26-mo-old mice responded to continuous bladder filling with periodic reflex voiding. Abdominal wall contraction with voiding had a minimal contribution to expulsive pressure, whereas compliance pressure was a significant contributor. Maximum bladder pressure, estimated detrusor pressure, detrusor impulse (pressure-time integral), as well as indices of detrusor power and work, did not decrease with aging. Bladder precontraction pressures decreased, compliance increased, and nonvoiding contraction counts did not change with increasing age. Intervoid intervals, per-void volumes, and voiding flow rates increased with age. Calculations approximating wall stress during filling suggested loss of bladder volume sensitivity with increasing age. We conclude that aging is associated with an impaired ability to respond to the challenge of continuous bladder filling with cyclic voiding, yet among responsive animals, voiding detrusor contraction strength does not degrade with aging in this murine model. Furthermore, indirect measures suggest that bladder volume sensitivity is diminished. Thus, changes in homeostatic reserve and peripheral and/or central sensory mechanisms may be important contributors to aging-associated changes in bladder function. PMID:22204955

Effects of increased left ventricular wall thickness on the myocardium in severe aortic stenosis with normal left ventricular ejection fraction: Two- and three-dimensional multilayer speckle tracking echocardiography.

PubMed

Cho, Eun Jeong; Park, Sung-Ji; Kim, Eun Kyoung; Lee, Ga Yeon; Chang, Sung-A; Choi, Jin-Oh; Lee, Sang-Chol; Park, Seung Woo

2017-04-01

The aim of this study was to determine the capability of real time three-dimensional echocardiography (RT3DE) and two-dimensional (2D) multilayer speckle tracking echocardiography (MSTE) for evaluation of early myocardial dysfunction triggered by increased left ventricular (LV) wall thickness in severe aortic stenosis (AS) with normal LV ejection fraction (EF≥55%). Conventional, RT3D STE and 2D MSTE were performed in 45 patients (mean 68.9±9.0 years) with severe AS (aortic valve area <1 cm 2 , aortic velocity Vmax >4 m/s or mean PG >40 mm Hg) and normal left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) without overt coronary artery disease and in 18 age-, sex-matched healthy controls. Global longitudinal strain (GLS), global circumferential strain (GCS), global area strain (GAS), and global radial strain (GRS) were calculated using RT3DE and MSTE. The severe AS group had lower 3D GLS, GRS, GAS and 2D epicardium, and mid-wall and endocardium GLS compared to healthy controls. In MSTE analysis, 2D LS and CS values decreased from the endocardial layer toward the epicardial layer. Severe AS patients with increased LV wall thickness had lower 3D GLS and 2D epicardium, and mid-wall and endocardium GLS compared with severe AS patients without LV wall thickening. GLS on RT3D STE was correlated with GLS on 2D MSTE, left ventricular mass index, LVEF, left atrial volume index, and lnNT-proBNP. RT3DE and 2D MSTE can be used to identify subtle contractile dysfunction triggered by increased LV wall thickness in severe AS with normal LVEF. Therefore, RT3D STE and 2D MSTE may provide additional information that can facilitate decision-making regarding severe AS patients with increased LV wall thickness and normal LV function. © 2017, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Simultaneous uterine and urinary bladder rupture in an otherwise successful vaginal birth after cesarean delivery.

PubMed

Ho, Szu-Ying; Chang, Shuenn-Dhy; Liang, Ching-Chung

2010-12-01

Uterine rupture is the primary concern when a patient chooses a trial of labor after a cesarean section. Bladder rupture accompanied by uterine rupture should be taken into consideration if gross hematuria occurs. We report the case of a patient with uterine rupture during a trial of labor after cesarean delivery. She had a normal course of labor and no classic signs of uterine rupture. However, gross hematuria was noted after repair of the episiotomy. The patient began to complain of progressive abdominal pain, gross hematuria and oliguria. Cystoscopy revealed a direct communication between the bladder and the uterus. When opening the bladder peritoneum, rupture sites over the anterior uterus and posterior wall of the bladder were noted. Following primary repair of both wounds, a Foley catheter was left in place for 12 days. The patient had achieved a full recovery by the 2-year follow-up examination. Bladder injury and uterine rupture can occur at any time during labor. Gross hematuria immediately after delivery is the most common presentation. Cystoscopy is a good tool to identify the severity of bladder injury. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Spatial and temporal profile of cisplatin delivery by ultrasound-assisted intravesical chemotherapy in a bladder cancer model.

PubMed

Sasaki, Noboru; Ishi, Kazuhiro; Kudo, Nobuki; Nakayama, Shouta M M; Nakamura, Kensuke; Morishita, Keitaro; Ohta, Hiroshi; Ishizuka, Mayumi; Takiguchi, Mitsuyoshi

2017-01-01

Non-muscle invasive bladder cancer is one of the most common tumors of the urinary tract. Despite the current multimodal therapy, recurrence and progression of disease have been challenging problems. We hereby introduced a new approach, ultrasound-assisted intravesical chemotherapy, intravesical instillation of chemotherapeutic agents and microbubbles followed by ultrasound exposure. We investigated the feasibility of the treatment for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer. In order to evaluate intracellular delivery and cytotoxic effect as a function to the thickness, we performed all experiments using a bladder cancer mimicking 3D culture model. Ultrasound-triggered microbubble cavitation increased both the intracellular platinum concentration and the cytotoxic effect of cisplatin at the thickness of 70 and 122 μm of the culture model. The duration of enhanced cytotoxic effect of cisplatin by ultrasound-triggered microbubble cavitation was approximately 1 hr. Based on the distance and duration of delivery, we further tested the feasibility of repetition of the treatment. Triple treatment increased the effective distance by 1.6-fold. Our results clearly showed spatial and temporal profile of delivery by ultrasound-triggered microbubble cavitation in a tumor-mimicking structure. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the increase in intracellular concentration results in the enhancement of the cytotoxic effect in a structure with the certain thickness. Repetition of ultrasound exposure would be treatment of choice in future clinical application. Our results suggest ultrasound-triggered microbubble cavitation can be repeatable and is promising for the local control of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer.

Bladder Leiomyoma.

PubMed

Caliskan, Selahattin; Sungur, Mustafa

2017-03-01

Leiomyoma of the bladder is a very rare disorder that accounts for 0.43% of all bladder neoplasms. Although the pathophysiology of the bladder leiomyoma is unknown, there are some theories in it. The patients can be asymptomatic; and clinical symptoms, when present, are associated with the tumor size and location. Imaging techniques such as ultrasonography, intravenous urography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging are helpful but definitive diagnosis is made by histopathological examination. Surgical resection of tumor with transurethral, open, laparoscopic and robotic approaches is the main treatment. We present a case of leiomyoma of the bladder in an adult male patient.

CT Urography: Segmentation of Urinary Bladder using CLASS with Local Contour Refinement

PubMed Central

Cha, Kenny; Hadjiiski, Lubomir; Chan, Heang-Ping; Caoili, Elaine M.; Cohan, Richard H.; Zhou, Chuan

2016-01-01

Purpose We are developing a computerized system for bladder segmentation on CT urography (CTU), as a critical component for computer-aided detection of bladder cancer. Methods The presence of regions filled with intravenous contrast and without contrast presents a challenge for bladder segmentation. Previously, we proposed a Conjoint Level set Analysis and Segmentation System (CLASS). In case the bladder is partially filled with contrast, CLASS segments the non-contrast (NC) region and the contrast-filled (C) region separately and automatically conjoins the NC and C region contours; however, inaccuracies in the NC and C region contours may cause the conjoint contour to exclude portions of the bladder. To alleviate this problem, we implemented a local contour refinement (LCR) method that exploits model-guided refinement (MGR) and energy-driven wavefront propagation (EDWP). MGR propagates the C region contours if the level set propagation in the C region stops prematurely due to substantial non-uniformity of the contrast. EDWP with regularized energies further propagates the conjoint contours to the correct bladder boundary. EDWP uses changes in energies, smoothness criteria of the contour, and previous slice contour to determine when to stop the propagation, following decision rules derived from training. A data set of 173 cases was collected for this study: 81 cases in the training set (42 lesions, 21 wall thickenings, 18 normal bladders) and 92 cases in the test set (43 lesions, 36 wall thickenings, 13 normal bladders). For all cases, 3D hand segmented contours were obtained as reference standard and used for the evaluation of the computerized segmentation accuracy. Results For CLASS with LCR, the average volume intersection ratio, average volume error, absolute average volume error, average minimum distance and Jaccard index were 84.2±11.4%, 8.2±17.4%, 13.0±14.1%, 3.5±1.9 mm, 78.8±11.6%, respectively, for the training set and 78.0±14.7%, 16.4±16.9%, 18.2�

A temperature correlation for the radiation resistance of a thick-walled circular duct exhausting a hot gas

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mahan, J. R.; Cline, J. G.; Jones, J. D.

1984-01-01

It is often useful to know the radiation impedance of an unflanged but thick-walled circular duct exhausting a hot gas into relatively cold surroundings. The reactive component is shown to be insensitive to temperature, but the resistive component is shown to be temperature dependent. A temperature correlation is developed permitting prediction of the radiation resistance from a knowledge of the temperature difference between the ambient air and the gas flowing from the duct, and a physical basis for this correlation is presented.

Bladder urothelial carcinoma extending to rectal mucosa and presenting with rectal bleeding

PubMed Central

Aneese, Andrew M; Manuballa, Vinayata; Amin, Mitual; Cappell, Mitchell S

2017-01-01

An 87-year-old-man with prostate-cancer-stage-T1c-Gleason-6 treated with radiotherapy in 1996, recurrent prostate cancer treated with leuprolide hormonal therapy in 2009, and bladder-urothelial-carcinoma in situ treated with Bacillus-Calmette-Guerin and adriamycin in 2010, presented in 2015 with painless, bright red blood per rectum coating stools daily for 5 mo. Rectal examination revealed bright red blood per rectum; and a hard, fixed, 2.5 cm × 2.5 cm mass at the normal prostate location. The hemoglobin was 7.6 g/dL (iron saturation = 8.4%, indicating iron-deficiency-anemia). Abdominopelvic-CT-angiography revealed focal wall thickening at the bladder neck; a mass containing an air cavity replacing the normal prostate; and adjacent rectal invasion. Colonoscopy demonstrated an ulcerated, oozing, multinodular, friable, 2.5 cm × 2.5 cm mass in anterior rectal wall, at the usual prostate location. Histologic and immunohistochemical analysis of colonoscopic biopsies of the mass revealed poorly-differentiated-carcinoma of urothelial origin. At visceral angiography, the right-superior-rectal-artery was embolized to achieve hemostasis. The patient subsequently developed multiple new metastases and expired 13 mo post-embolization. Comprehensive literature review revealed 16 previously reported cases of rectal involvement from bladder urothelial carcinoma, including 11 cases from direct extension and 5 cases from metastases. Patient age averaged 63.7 ± 9.6 years (all patients male). Rectal involvement was diagnosed on average 13.5 ± 11.8 mo after initial diagnosis of bladder urothelial carcinoma. Symptoms included constipation/gastrointestinal obstruction-6, weight loss-5, diarrhea-3, anorexia-3, pencil thin stools-3, tenesmus-2, anorectal pain-2, and other-5. Rectal examination in 9 patients revealed annular rectal constriction-6, and rectal mass-3. The current patient had the novel presentation of daily bright red blood per rectum coating the stools simulating

Endometrial stem cell differentiation into smooth muscle cell: a novel approach for bladder tissue engineering in women.

PubMed

Shoae-Hassani, Alireza; Sharif, Shiva; Seifalian, Alexander M; Mortazavi-Tabatabaei, Seyed Abdolreza; Rezaie, Sassan; Verdi, Javad

2013-10-01

To investigate manufacturing smooth muscle cells (SMCs) for regenerative bladder reconstruction from differentiation of endometrial stem cells (EnSCs), as the recent discovery of EnSCs from the lining of women's uteri, opens up the possibility of using these cells for tissue engineering applications, such as building up natural tissue to repair prolapsed pelvic floors as well as building urinary bladder wall. Human EnSCs that were positive for cluster of differentiation 146 (CD146), CD105 and CD90 were isolated and cultured in Dulbecco's modified Eagle/F12 medium supplemented with myogenic growth factors. The myogenic factors included: transforming growth factor β, platelet-derived growth factor, hepatocyte growth factor and vascular endothelial growth factor. Differentiated SMCs on bioabsorbable polyethylene-glycol and collagen hydrogels were checked for SMC markers by real-time reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), western blot (WB) and immunocytochemistry (ICC) analyses. Histology confirmed the growth of SMCs in the hydrogel matrices. The myogenic growth factors decreased the proliferation rate of EnSCs, but they differentiated the human EnSCs into SMCs more efficiently on hydrogel matrices and expressed specific SMC markers including α-smooth muscle actin, desmin, vinculin and calponin in RT-PCR, WB and ICC experiments. The survival rate of cultures on the hydrogel-coated matrices was significantly higher than uncoated cultures. Human EnSCs were successfully differentiated into SMCs, using hydrogels as scaffold. EnSCs may be used for autologous bladder wall regeneration without any immunological complications in women. Currently work is in progress using bioabsorbable nanocomposite materials as EnSC scaffolds for developing urinary bladder wall tissue. © 2013 The Authors. BJU International © 2013 BJU International.

Control over structure-specific flexibility improves anatomical accuracy for point-based deformable registration in bladder cancer radiotherapy

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

Wognum, S.; Chai, X.; Hulshof, M. C. C. M.

2013-02-15

Purpose: Future developments in image guided adaptive radiotherapy (IGART) for bladder cancer require accurate deformable image registration techniques for the precise assessment of tumor and bladder motion and deformation that occur as a result of large bladder volume changes during the course of radiotherapy treatment. The aim was to employ an extended version of a point-based deformable registration algorithm that allows control over tissue-specific flexibility in combination with the authors' unique patient dataset, in order to overcome two major challenges of bladder cancer registration, i.e., the difficulty in accounting for the difference in flexibility between the bladder wall and tumormore » and the lack of visible anatomical landmarks for validation. Methods: The registration algorithm used in the current study is an extension of the symmetric-thin plate splines-robust point matching (S-TPS-RPM) algorithm, a symmetric feature-based registration method. The S-TPS-RPM algorithm has been previously extended to allow control over the degree of flexibility of different structures via a weight parameter. The extended weighted S-TPS-RPM algorithm was tested and validated on CT data (planning- and four to five repeat-CTs) of five urinary bladder cancer patients who received lipiodol injections before radiotherapy. The performance of the weighted S-TPS-RPM method, applied to bladder and tumor structures simultaneously, was compared with a previous version of the S-TPS-RPM algorithm applied to bladder wall structure alone and with a simultaneous nonweighted S-TPS-RPM registration of the bladder and tumor structures. Performance was assessed in terms of anatomical and geometric accuracy. The anatomical accuracy was calculated as the residual distance error (RDE) of the lipiodol markers and the geometric accuracy was determined by the surface distance, surface coverage, and inverse consistency errors. Optimal parameter values for the flexibility and bladder weight

Control over structure-specific flexibility improves anatomical accuracy for point-based deformable registration in bladder cancer radiotherapy.

PubMed

Wognum, S; Bondar, L; Zolnay, A G; Chai, X; Hulshof, M C C M; Hoogeman, M S; Bel, A

2013-02-01

Future developments in image guided adaptive radiotherapy (IGART) for bladder cancer require accurate deformable image registration techniques for the precise assessment of tumor and bladder motion and deformation that occur as a result of large bladder volume changes during the course of radiotherapy treatment. The aim was to employ an extended version of a point-based deformable registration algorithm that allows control over tissue-specific flexibility in combination with the authors' unique patient dataset, in order to overcome two major challenges of bladder cancer registration, i.e., the difficulty in accounting for the difference in flexibility between the bladder wall and tumor and the lack of visible anatomical landmarks for validation. The registration algorithm used in the current study is an extension of the symmetric-thin plate splines-robust point matching (S-TPS-RPM) algorithm, a symmetric feature-based registration method. The S-TPS-RPM algorithm has been previously extended to allow control over the degree of flexibility of different structures via a weight parameter. The extended weighted S-TPS-RPM algorithm was tested and validated on CT data (planning- and four to five repeat-CTs) of five urinary bladder cancer patients who received lipiodol injections before radiotherapy. The performance of the weighted S-TPS-RPM method, applied to bladder and tumor structures simultaneously, was compared with a previous version of the S-TPS-RPM algorithm applied to bladder wall structure alone and with a simultaneous nonweighted S-TPS-RPM registration of the bladder and tumor structures. Performance was assessed in terms of anatomical and geometric accuracy. The anatomical accuracy was calculated as the residual distance error (RDE) of the lipiodol markers and the geometric accuracy was determined by the surface distance, surface coverage, and inverse consistency errors. Optimal parameter values for the flexibility and bladder weight parameters were determined

[Congenital bladder diverticula and vesicoureteral reflux].

PubMed

Garat, José María; Angerri, Oriol; Caffaratti, Jorge; Moscatiello, Pietro

2008-03-01

To analyze our series of primary congenital diverticula (PCD) and their association with vesicoureteral reflux. We have taken care of 23 children with PCD. Eleven of them had big diverticula (> 2 cm) and twelve small. In the first group, 4 children had vesicoureteral reflux and 5 in the second group. In group A, ureteral reimplantation was performed at the time of diverticulum excision. Nor diverticula neither refluxes were operated in group B. We analyze separately results in both groups. Group A: Patients were operated including diverticulum excision. There were not recurrences except in one case with Ehler-Danlos Syndrome. No reimplanted ureter showed postoperative reflux. Nevertheless, one case with multiple bladder diverticula without reflux presented reflux after the excision of several diverticula without reimplantation. Group B: Small diverticula did not undergo surgery Spontaneous outcome of reflux was similar to that of the general population without diverticula. Bladder diverticula are frequently associated with vesicoureteral reflux. The presence of reflux is not an absolute condition for surgical or endoscopic treatment. When diverticula are big in size (Group A) the indication for surgery comes from recurrent infection or voiding disorders, not from reflux. If they undergo surgery, ureteral reimplantation is performed in the case they had reflux or for technical reasons like bladder wall weakness. When diverticula are small (Group B) the presence of reflux does not condition treatment, being the rate of spontaneous resolution similar to the general population.

Optimization of wall thickness and lay-up for the shell-like composite structure loaded by non-uniform pressure field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shevtsov, S.; Zhilyaev, I.; Oganesyan, P.; Axenov, V.

2017-01-01

The glass/carbon fiber composites are widely used in the design of various aircraft and rotorcraft components such as fairings and cowlings, which have predominantly a shell-like geometry and are made of quasi-isotropic laminates. The main requirements to such the composite parts are the specified mechanical stiffness to withstand the non-uniform air pressure at the different flight conditions and reduce a level of noise caused by the airflow-induced vibrations at the constrained weight of the part. The main objective of present study is the optimization of wall thickness and lay-up of composite shell-like cowling. The present approach assumes conversion of the CAD model of the cowling surface to finite element (FE) representation, then its wind tunnel testing simulation at the different orientation of airflow to find the most stressed mode of flight. Numerical solutions of the Reynolds averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations supplemented by k-w turbulence model provide the spatial distributions of air pressure applied to the shell surface. At the formulation of optimization problem the global strain energy calculated within the optimized shell was assumed as the objective. A wall thickness of the shell had to change over its surface to minimize the objective at the constrained weight. We used a parameterization of the problem that assumes an initiation of auxiliary sphere with varied radius and coordinates of the center, which were the design variables. Curve that formed by the intersection of the shell with sphere defined boundary of area, which should be reinforced by local thickening the shell wall. To eliminate a local stress concentration this increment was defined as the smooth function defined on the shell surface. As a result of structural optimization we obtained the thickness of shell's wall distribution, which then was used to design the draping and lay-up of composite prepreg layers. The global strain energy in the optimized cowling was reduced in2

Expression of vesicular glutamate transporters in sensory and autonomic neurons innervating the mouse bladder.

PubMed

Brumovsky, Pablo R; Seal, Rebecca P; Lundgren, Kerstin H; Seroogy, Kim B; Watanabe, Masahiko; Gebhart, G F

2013-06-01

VGLUTs, which are essential for loading glutamate into synaptic vesicles, are present in various neuronal systems. However, to our knowledge the expression of VGLUTs in neurons innervating the bladder has not yet been analyzed. We studied VGLUT1, VGLUT2 and VGLUT3 in mouse bladder neurons. We analyzed the expression of VGLUT1, VGLUT2 and calcitonin gene-related peptide by immunohistochemistry in the retrograde labeled primary afferent and autonomic neurons of BALB/c mice after injecting fast blue in the bladder wall. To study VGLUT3 we traced the bladder of transgenic mice, in which VGLUT3 is identified by enhanced green fluorescent protein detection. Most bladder dorsal root ganglion neurons expressed VGLUT2. A smaller percentage of neurons also expressed VGLUT1 or VGLUT3. Co-expression with calcitonin gene-related peptide was only observed for VGLUT2. Occasional VGLUT2 immunoreactive neurons were seen in the major pelvic ganglia. Abundant VGLUT2 immunoreactive nerves were detected in the bladder dome and trigone, and the urethra. VGLUT1 immunoreactive nerves were discretely present. We present what are to our knowledge novel data on VGLUT expression in sensory and autonomic neurons innervating the mouse bladder. The frequent association of VGLUT2 and calcitonin gene-related peptide in sensory neurons suggests interactions between glutamatergic and peptidergic neurotransmissions, potentially influencing commonly perceived sensations in the bladder, such as discomfort and pain. Copyright © 2013 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

High vancomycin MICs within the susceptible range in Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia isolates are associated with increased cell wall thickness and reduced intracellular killing by human phagocytes.

PubMed

Falcón, Rocío; Martínez, Alba; Albert, Eliseo; Madrid, Silvia; Oltra, Rosa; Giménez, Estela; Soriano, Mario; Vinuesa, Víctor; Gozalbo, Daniel; Gil, María Luisa; Navarro, David

2016-05-01

Vancomycin minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) at the upper end of the susceptible range for Staphylococcus aureus have been associated with poor clinical outcomes of bloodstream infections. We tested the hypothesis that high vancomycin MICs in S. aureus bacteraemia isolates are associated with increased cell wall thickness and suboptimal bacterial internalisation or lysis by human phagocytes. In total, 95 isolates were evaluated. Original vancomycin MICs were determined by Etest. The susceptibility of S. aureus isolates to killing by phagocytes was assessed in a human whole blood assay. Internalisation of bacterial cells by phagocytes was investigated by flow cytometry. Cell wall thickness was evaluated by transmission electron microscopy. Genotypic analysis of S. aureus isolates was performed using a DNA microarray system. Vancomycin MICs were significantly higher (P=0.006) in isolates that were killed suboptimally (killing index <60%) compared with those killed efficiently (killing index >70%) and tended to correlate inversely (P=0.08) with the killing indices. Isolates in both killing groups were internalised by human neutrophils and monocytes with comparable efficiency. The cell wall was significantly thicker (P=0.03) in isolates in the low killing group. No genotypic differences were found between the isolates in both killing groups. In summary, high vancomycin MICs in S. aureus bacteraemia isolates were associated with increased cell wall thickness and reduced intracellular killing by phagocytes. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. and the International Society of Chemotherapy. All rights reserved.

Bladder Diseases

MedlinePlus

... frequent, urgent urination Bladder cancer Doctors diagnose bladder diseases using different tests. These include urine tests, x- ... National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

Near infrared imaging to identify sentinel lymph nodes in invasive urinary bladder cancer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Knapp, Deborah W.; Adams, Larry G.; Niles, Jacqueline D.; Lucroy, Michael D.; Ramos-Vara, Jose; Bonney, Patty L.; deGortari, Amalia E.; Frangioni, John V.

2006-02-01

Approximately 12,000 people are diagnosed with invasive transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder (InvTCC) each year in the United States. Surgical removal of the bladder (cystectomy) and regional lymph node dissection are considered frontline therapy. Cystectomy causes extensive acute morbidity, and 50% of patients with InvTCC have occult metastases at the time of diagnosis. Better staging procedures for InvTCC are greatly needed. This study was performed to evaluate an intra-operative near infrared fluorescence imaging (NIRF) system (Frangioni laboratory) for identifying sentinel lymph nodes draining InvTCC. NIRF imaging was used to map lymph node drainage from specific quadrants of the urinary bladder in normal dogs and pigs, and to map lymph node drainage from naturally-occurring InvTCC in pet dogs where the disease closely mimics the human condition. Briefly, during surgery NIR fluorophores (human serum albumen-fluorophore complex, or quantum dots) were injected directly into the bladder wall, and fluorescence observed in lymphatics and regional nodes. Conditions studied to optimize the procedure including: type of fluorophore, depth of injection, volume of fluorophore injected, and degree of bladder distention at the time of injection. Optimal imaging occurred with very superficial injection of the fluorophore in the serosal surface of the moderately distended bladder. Considerable variability was noted from dog to dog in the pattern of lymph node drainage. NIR fluorescence was noted in lymph nodes with metastases in dogs with InvTCC. In conclusion, intra-operative NIRF imaging is a promising approach to improve sentinel lymph node mapping in invasive urinary bladder cancer.

49 CFR 179.400-8 - Thickness of plates.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... Specification for Cryogenic Liquid Tank Car Tanks and Seamless Steel Tanks (Classes DOT-113 and 107A) § 179.400... welded joints, except that for seamless heads, E = 1.0. (b) The minimum wall thickness, after forming, of..., except that for seamless heads, E=1.0. (c) The minimum wall thickness, after forming, of a flanged and...

Corrections to the thin wall approximation in general relativity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Garfinkle, David; Gregory, Ruth

1989-01-01

The question is considered whether the thin wall formalism of Israel applies to the gravitating domain walls of a lambda phi(exp 4) theory. The coupled Einstein-scalar equations that describe the thick gravitating wall are expanded in powers of the thickness of the wall. The solutions of the zeroth order equations reproduce the results of the usual Israel thin wall approximation for domain walls. The solutions of the first order equations provide corrections to the expressions for the stress-energy of the wall and to the Israel thin wall equations. The modified thin wall equations are then used to treat the motion of spherical and planar domain walls.

Flow characteristics and scaling past highly porous wall-mounted fences

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodríguez-López, Eduardo; Bruce, Paul J. K.; Buxton, Oliver R. H.

2017-07-01

An extensive characterization of the flow past wall-mounted highly porous fences based on single- and multi-scale geometries has been performed using hot-wire anemometry in a low-speed wind tunnel. Whilst drag properties (estimated from the time-averaged momentum equation) seem to be mostly dependent on the grids' blockage ratio; wakes of different size and orientation bars seem to generate distinct behaviours regarding turbulence properties. Far from the near-grid region, the flow is dominated by the presence of two well-differentiated layers: one close to the wall dominated by the near-wall behaviour and another one corresponding to the grid's wake and shear layer, originating from between this and the freestream. It is proposed that the effective thickness of the wall layer can be inferred from the wall-normal profile of root-mean-square streamwise velocity or, alternatively, from the wall-normal profile of streamwise velocity correlation. Using these definitions of wall-layer thickness enables us to collapse different trends of the turbulence behaviour inside this layer. In particular, the root-mean-square level of the wall shear stress fluctuations, longitudinal integral length scale, and spanwise turbulent structure is shown to display a satisfactory scaling with this thickness rather than with the whole thickness of the grid's wake. Moreover, it is shown that certain grids destroy the spanwise arrangement of large turbulence structures in the logarithmic region, which are then re-formed after a particular streamwise extent. It is finally shown that for fences subject to a boundary layer of thickness comparable to their height, the effective thickness of the wall layer scales with the incoming boundary layer thickness. Analogously, it is hypothesized that the growth rate of the internal layer is also partly dependent on the incoming boundary layer thickness.

Bladder Cancer—Patient Version

Cancer.gov

The most common type of bladder cancer is transitional cell carcinoma, also called urothelial carcinoma. Smoking is a major risk factor for bladder cancer. Bladder cancer is often diagnosed at an early stage. Start here to find information on bladder cancer treatment, screening, research, and statistics.

Study on thickness distribution of thermoformed medical PVC blister

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Yiping

2017-08-01

Vacuum forming has many advantages over other plastic forming processes due to its cost effectiveness, time efficiency, higher product precision, and more design flexibility. Nevertheless, when pressures greater than the atmospheric value are required to force the thermo-plastic into more intimate contact with the mold surface, pressure forming is a better choice. This paper studies the process of air-pressure thermoforming of plastic sheet, and focuses on medical blister PVC products. ANSYS POLYFLOW tool is used to simulate the process and analyze the wall thickness distribution of the blister. The influence of mold parameters on the wall thickness distribution of thermoformed part is thus obtained through simulation. Increasing radius between mold and side wall at the bottom of blister and draft prove to improve the wall thickness distribution.

Cohort profile: The Swedish National Register of Urinary Bladder Cancer (SNRUBC) and the Bladder Cancer Data Base Sweden (BladderBaSe).

PubMed

Häggström, Christel; Liedberg, Fredrik; Hagberg, Oskar; Aljabery, Firas; Ströck, Viveka; Hosseini, Abolfazl; Gårdmark, Truls; Sherif, Amir; Malmström, Per-Uno; Garmo, Hans; Jahnson, Staffan; Holmberg, Lars

2017-09-27

To monitor the quality of bladder cancer care, the Swedish National Register of Urinary Bladder Cancer (SNRUBC) was initiated in 1997. During 2015, in order to study trends in incidence, effects of treatment and survival of men and women with bladder cancer, we linked the SNRUBC to other national healthcare and demographic registers and constructed the Bladder Cancer Data Base Sweden (BladderBaSe). The SNRUBC is a nationwide register with detailed information on 97% of bladder cancer cases in Sweden as compared with the Swedish Cancer Register. Participants in the SNRUBC have registered data on tumour characteristics at diagnosis, and for 98% of these treatment data have been captured. From 2009, the SNRUBC holds data on 88% of eligible participants for follow-up 5 years after diagnosis of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer, and from 2011, data on surgery details and complications for 85% of participants treated with radical cystectomy. The BladderBaSe includes all data in the SNRUBC from 1997 to 2014, and additional covariates and follow-up data from linked national register sources on comorbidity, socioeconomic factors, detailed information on readmissions and treatment side effects, and causes of death. Studies based on data in the SNRUBC have shown inequalities in survival and treatment indication by gender, regions and hospital volume. The BladderBaSe includes 38 658 participants registered in SNRUBC with bladder cancer diagnosed from 1 January 1997 to 31 December 2014. The BladderBaSe initiators are currently in collaboration with researchers from the SNRUBC investigating different aspects of bladder cancer survival. The SNRUBC and the BladderBaSe project are open for collaborations with national and international research teams. Collaborators can submit proposals for studies and study files can be uploaded to servers for remote access and analysis. For more information, please contact the corresponding author. © Article author(s) (or their employer

Cytokine expression in patients with bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis ESSIC type 3C.

PubMed

Logadottir, Yr; Delbro, Dick; Fall, Magnus; Gjertsson, Inger; Jirholt, Pernilla; Lindholm, Catharina; Peeker, Ralph

2014-11-01

Bladder wall nitric oxide production in patients with bladder pain syndrome type 3C is increased compared to undetectable nitric oxide in patients with nonHunner bladder pain syndrome and healthy controls. However, the underlying mechanism/s of the increased nitric oxide production is largely unknown. We compared mRNA expression of a select group of cytokines in patients with bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis type 3C and in pain-free controls. Cold cup biopsies from 7 patients with bladder pain syndrome type 3C and 6 healthy subjects were analyzed. mRNA expression of IL-4, 6, 10 and 17A, iNOS, TNF-α, TGF-β and IFN-γ was estimated by real-time polymerase chain reaction. IL-17 protein expression was determined by immunohistochemistry. Mast cells were labeled with tryptase to evaluate cell appearance and count. IL-6, 10 and 17A, and iNOS mRNA levels as well as the number of mast cells infiltrating the bladder mucosa were significantly increased in patients with bladder pain syndrome type 3C compared to healthy controls. TNF-α, TGF-β and IFN-γ mRNA levels were similar in patients and controls. IL-17A expression at the protein level was up-regulated and localized to inflammatory cells and urothelium in patients with bladder pain syndrome type 3C. Patients with bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis had increased mRNA levels of IL-17A, 10 and 6, and iNOS. IL-17A might be important in the inflammatory process. To our knowledge the increase in IL-17A is a novel finding that may have new treatment implications. Copyright © 2014 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Adenocarcinoma of the urinary bladder

PubMed Central

Dadhania, Vipulkumar; Czerniak, Bogdan; Guo, Charles C

2015-01-01

Adenocarcinoma is an uncommon malignancy in the urinary bladder which may arise primarily in the bladder as well as secondarily from a number of other organs. Our aim is to provide updated information on primary and secondary bladder adenocarcinomas, with focus on pathologic features, differential diagnosis, and clinical relevance. Primary bladder adenocarcinoma exhibits several different growth patterns, including enteric, mucinous, signet-ring cell, not otherwise specified, and mixed patterns. Urachal adenocarcinoma demonstrates similar histologic features but it can be distinguished from bladder adenocarcinoma on careful pathologic examination. Secondary bladder adenocarcinomas may arise from the colorectum, prostate, endometrium, cervix and other sites. Immunohistochemical study is valuable in identifying the origin of secondary adenocarcinomas. Noninvasive neoplastic glandular lesions, adenocarcinoma in situ and villous adenoma, are frequently associated with bladder adenocarcinoma. It is also important to differentiate bladder adenocarcinoma from a number of nonneoplastic lesions in the bladder. Primary bladder adenocarcinoma has a poor prognosis largely because it is usually diagnosed at an advanced stage. Urachal adenocarcinoma shares similar histologic features with bladder adenocarcinoma, but it has a more favorable prognosis than bladder adenocarcinoma, partly due to the relative young age of patients with urachal adenocarcinoma. PMID:26309895

Accuracy Evaluation in the Measurement of a Small Change in the Thickness of Arterial Walls and the Measurement of Elasticity of the Human Carotid Artery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hasegawa, Hideyuki; Kanai, Hiroshi; Hoshimiya, Nozomu; Chubachi, Noriyoshi; Koiwa, Yoshiro

1998-05-01

For the diagnosis of the early stages of atherosclerosis, it isimportant to evaluate the local acoustic characteristics of thearterial wall. For this purpose, it is necessary to increase thespatial resolution in the axial direction to several millimeters,which corresponds to the size of the macular lesion on the surface ofthe wall. We have proposed a method for measuring small velocitysignals on the intima and adventitia of the arterial wall from theskin surface using pulsive ultrasonic waves. The small change inthickness of the arterial wall is obtained by integrating thedifference between the two velocity signals on the intima andadventitia. The elastic property of the arterial wall is noninvasivelyevaluated from the change in thickness and the arterial innerpressure. In this paper, we evaluate the accuracy of the proposedmethod for measuring the small displacement. Moreover, we applied thismethod to evaluate the elastic property of the arterial wall of 50patients and 8 healthy subjects.

Ellipsometric measurement of liquid film thickness

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chang, Ki Joon; Frazier, D. O.

1989-01-01

The immediate objective of this research is to measure liquid film thickness from the two equilibrium phases of a monotectic system in order to estimate the film pressure of each phase. Thus liquid film thicknesses on the inside walls of the prism cell above the liquid level have been measured elliposmetrically for the monotectic system of succinonitrile and water. The thickness varies with temperature and composition of each plane. The preliminary results from both layers at 60 deg angle of incidence show nearly uniform thickness from about 21 to 23 C. The thickness increases with temperature but near 30 C the film appears foggy and scatters the laser beam. As the temperature of the cell is raised beyond room temperature it becomes increasingly difficult to equalize the temperature inside and outside the cell. The fogging may also be an indication that solution, not pure water, is adsorbed onto the substrate. Nevertheless, preliminary results suggest that ellipsometric measurement is feasible and necessary to measure more accurately and rapidly the film thickness and to improve thermal control of the prism walls.

Correlation of gene expression with bladder capacity in interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome.

PubMed

Colaco, Marc; Koslov, David S; Keys, Tristan; Evans, Robert J; Badlani, Gopal H; Andersson, Karl-Erik; Walker, Stephen J

2014-10-01

Interstitial cystitis and bladder pain syndrome are terms used to describe a heterogeneous chronic pelvic and bladder pain disorder. Despite its significant prevalence, our understanding of disease etiology is poor. We molecularly characterized interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome and determined whether there are clinical factors that correlate with gene expression. Bladder biopsies from female subjects with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome and female controls without signs of the disease were collected and divided into those with normal and low anesthetized bladder capacity, respectively. Samples then underwent RNA extraction and microarray assay. Data generated by these assays were analyzed using Omics Explorer (Qlucore, Lund, Sweden), GeneSifter® Analysis Edition 4.0 and Ingenuity® Pathway Analysis to determine similarity among samples within and between groups, and measure differentially expressed transcripts unique to each phenotype. A total of 16 subjects were included in study. Principal component analysis and unsupervised hierarchical clustering showed clear separation between gene expression in tissues from subjects with low compared to normal bladder capacity. Gene expression in tissue from patients with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome who had normal bladder capacity did not significantly differ from that in controls without interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome. Pairwise analysis revealed that pathways related to inflammatory and immune response were most involved. Microarray analysis provides insight into the potential pathological condition underlying interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome. This pilot study shows that patients with this disorder who have low compared to normal bladder capacity have significantly different molecular characteristics, which may reflect a difference in disease pathophysiology. Copyright © 2014 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc

Alexithymia and anesthetic bladder capacity in interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome.

PubMed

Chiu, Chui-De; Lee, Ming-Huei; Chen, Wei-Chih; Ho, Hoi Lam; Wu, Huei-Ching

2017-09-01

In contrast to the inconsistent results of organic causes, it has been found that psychological risk factors are reliably related to functional somatic syndromes (FSSs), including interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS). Compared to patients with acute cystitis, a subgroup of IC/BPS patients with a history of childhood relational trauma reported intensified unregulated affective states (i.e., anxiety and depression) and trauma-related psychopathology (i.e., dissociation). Nevertheless, it remains unknown whether psychosocial risk factors can be separated from bladder-centric factors. This study aimed to verify whether psychosocial factors such as alexithymia, which is a key psychological factor of FSSs, are less likely to be linked to a low bladder capacity in patients with IC/BPS. Ninety-four female IC/BPS patients were recruited from the outpatient departments of urology, obstetrics, and gynecology. Anxiety, depression, dissociation, childhood relational trauma, and alexithymia were assessed using standardized scales, and anesthetic bladder capacity was examined by cystoscopic hydrodistention. Positive correlations were found between anesthetic bladder capacity and the psychosocial variables, including alexithymia. An increased bladder capacity was associated with anxiety, dissociation, and childhood relational trauma, and a combination of high cognitive and low affective alexithymia mediated the correlations between bladder capacity and the psychosocial variables. Psychosocial variables that are associated with an aversive childhood relational environment and affect dysregulation may constitute a pathogenic trajectory that differs from bladder-centric defects such as a lower bladder capacity. The findings of this study support the notion that IC/BPS in some patients may be due to an FSS. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Novel [corrected] medical management of primary bladder endometriosis with dienogest: a case report.

PubMed

Takagi, H; Matsunami, K; Ichigo, S; Imai, A

2011-01-01

Because of its low incidence, medical treatment of has not yet been well established although surgical excision is generally considered effective. We report the first case of primary bladder endometriosis successfully managed with a novel progestin dienogest. A 39-year-old woman, nulligravida, presented with lower urinary tract symptoms, especially during menstruation. Cystoscopy, with subsequent cold cup biopsy, revealed a solitary submucosal mass (2 x 2 cm) in the bladder on the posterior wall; histopathology revealed the diagnosis of extraperitoneal endometriosis. MRI and laparoscopy confirmed no peritoneal endometriosis implants or adenomyosis. She was treated with oral 2 mg/day dienogest for six months. The measurable lesion exhibited a remarkable reduction in its size, accompanied with immediate relief of the lesion-related symptoms. At one year after medication cessation, she is well and symptom-free. Dienogest may be a novel conservative alternative for bladder endometriosis, in particular for women who wish to avoid surgical intervention.

[Bladder-conserving treatment for bladder cancer: potential of and developments in radiotherapy].

PubMed

Hulshof, Maarten C C M; Pieters, Bradley R; Koning, Caro C E

2013-01-01

The standard treatment for muscle-invasive bladder cancer is surgical removal of the bladder and construction of a neobladder. Recently, important improvements have been made in the potential for bladder-conserving treatment using radiotherapy. External beam radiotherapy has undergone technological improvements, as a result of which it is possible to radiate the tumour more precisely while decreasing radiation to healthy tissue. Radiochemotherapy improves local recurrence-free and overall survival compared with radiotherapy alone. The results of this combined treatment are comparable with those of surgery. Additionally, Dutch radiotherapy departments have collected data in a national database of 1040 selected patients with confined bladder cancer. These patients were treated with external beam radiation, limited surgery and brachytherapy. The 5-year local recurrence-free survival was 75%. Bladder conserving treatment options for muscle-invasive bladder cancer should be discussed during the multidisciplinary meeting.

Compliance of the abdominal wall during laparoscopic insufflation.

PubMed

Becker, Chuck; Plymale, Margaret A; Wennergren, John; Totten, Crystal; Stigall, Kyle; Roth, J Scott

2017-04-01

To provide adequate workspace between the viscera and abdominal wall, insufflation with carbon dioxide is a common practice in laparoscopic surgeries. An insufflation pressure of 15 mmHg is considered to be safe in patients, but all insufflation pressures create perioperative and postoperative physiologic effects. As a composition of viscoelastic materials, the abdominal wall should distend in a predictable manner given the pressure of the pneumoperitoneum. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the relationship between degree of abdominal distention and the insufflation pressure, with the goal of determining factors which impact the compliance of the abdominal wall. A prospective, IRB-approved study was conducted to video record the abdomens of patients undergoing insufflation prior to a laparoscopic surgery. Photo samples were taken every 5 s, and the strain of the patient's abdomen in the sagittal plane was determined, as well as the insufflator pressure (stress) at bedside. Patients were insufflated to 15 mmHg. The relationship between the stress and strain was determined in each sample, and compliance of the patient's abdominal wall was calculated. Subcutaneous fat thickness and rectus abdominus muscle thickness were obtained from computed tomography scans. Correlations between abdominal wall compliances and subcutaneous fat and muscle content were determined. Twenty-five patients were evaluated. An increased fat thickness in the abdominal wall had a direct exponential relationship with abdominal wall compliance (R 2  = 0.59, p < 0.05). There was no correlation between muscle and fat thickness. All insufflation pressures create perioperative and postoperative complications. The compliance of patients' abdominal body walls differs, and subcutaneous fat thickness has a direct exponential relationship with abdominal wall compliance. Thus, insufflation pressures can be better tailored per the patient. Future studies are needed to demonstrate the

Bladder stones

MedlinePlus

Stones - bladder; Urinary tract stones; Bladder calculi ... Benway BM, Bhayani SB. Lower urinary tract calculi. In: Wein AJ, Kavoussi LR, Partin AW, Peters CA, eds. Campbell-Walsh Urology . 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2016:chap 55. Sharma R, ...

Perforation of the urinary bladder caused by transurethral insertion of a pencil for the purpose of masturbation in a 29-year-old female.

PubMed

Bantis, Athanasios; Sountoulides, Petros; Kalaitzis, Christos; Giannakopoulos, Stelios; Agelonidou, Eleni; Foutzitzi, Soultana; Touloupidis, Stavros

2010-01-01

The urethra is a usual site of introduction of foreign bodies for autoerotic stimulation. We present an unusual case of bladder perforation caused by foreign body that was self-inserted in the urethra and consequently slipped inside the bladder in a 29-year-old female patient with psychiatric disease. The patient was referred to our department for macroscopic hematuria and abdominal pain. Imaging studies revealed the presence of a foreign body in the pelvic area which had perforated the left lateral wall of the bladder. The foreign body was removed via open cystotomy. In psychiatric patients hematuria and pelvic pain may result from insertion of a foreign body in the bladder usually during masturbation.

Perforation of the Urinary Bladder Caused by Transurethral Insertion of a Pencil for the Purpose of Masturbation in a 29-Year-Old Female

PubMed Central

Bantis, Athanasios; Sountoulides, Petros; Kalaitzis, Christos; Giannakopoulos, Stelios; Agelonidou, Eleni; Foutzitzi, Soultana; Touloupidis, Stavros

2010-01-01

The urethra is a usual site of introduction of foreign bodies for autoerotic stimulation. We present an unusual case of bladder perforation caused by foreign body that was self-inserted in the urethra and consequently slipped inside the bladder in a 29-year-old female patient with psychiatric disease. The patient was referred to our department for macroscopic hematuria and abdominal pain. Imaging studies revealed the presence of a foreign body in the pelvic area which had perforated the left lateral wall of the bladder. The foreign body was removed via open cystotomy. In psychiatric patients hematuria and pelvic pain may result from insertion of a foreign body in the bladder usually during masturbation. PMID:20862362

Intravesical Bacillus Calmette-Guérin therapy for murine bladder tumors: initiation of the response by fibronectin-mediated attachment of Bacillus Calmette-Guérin.

PubMed

Ratliff, T L; Palmer, J O; McGarr, J A; Brown, E J

1987-04-01

Intravesical Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) is considered to be one of the most effective treatments for superficial bladder cancer. Although the mechanisms by which BCG inhibits tumor growth are not known, previous studies have shown that systemic immunization to BCG and the local expression of the immune response in the bladder are associated with a favorable response to BCG therapy. We have investigated the conditions required for the initiation of an immunological response after the intravesical instillation of BCG. Initial histological studies showed that BCG attached to the bladder wall only in areas where the urothelium was damaged by electrocautery and suggested that attachment was associated with the fibrin clot. Quantitative studies verified the histological observations. Minimal BCG attachment (mean less than 10(2) colony forming units) was observed in normal bladders in contrast with a mean of 1.42 X 10(4) colony forming units/bladder in bladders damaged by electrocautery (10 separate experiments). BCG attachment to the bladder wall was durable since organisms were observed in bladders 48 h after instillation. To investigate the proteins to which BCG attached, we tested the binding of BCG to extracellular matrix and inflammatory proteins which comprise a significant portion of the fibrin clot. BCG bound in vitro to coverslips coated in vivo with extracellular matrix proteins but did not bind to control albumin-coated coverslips. BCG also bound to coverslips coated with purified plasma fibronectin but not to coverslips coated with other purified extracellular matrix proteins including laminin, fibrinogen, and type IV collagen. BCG attachment to coverslips coated with either extracellular matrix proteins or purified fibronectin was inhibited by antibodies specific for fibronectin. Moreover, BCG attachment to cauterized bladders in vivo was inhibited by antifibronectin antibodies. These results demonstrate that fibronectin mediates the attachment of BCG

Morphologic study of three collagen materials for body wall repair.

PubMed

Soiderer, Emily E; Lantz, Gary C; Kazacos, Evelyn A; Hodde, Jason P; Wiegand, Ryan E

2004-05-15

The search for ideal prostheses for body wall repair continues. Synthetic materials such as polypropylene mesh (PPM) are associated with healing complications. A porcine-derived collagen-based material (CBM), small intestinal submucosa (SIS), has been studied for body wall repair. Renal capsule matrix (RCM) and urinary bladder submucosa (UBS) are CBMs not previously evaluated in this application. This is the first implant study using RCM. Full-thickness muscle/fascia ventral abdominal wall defects were repaired with SIS, RCM, UBS, and PPM in rats with omentum and omentectomy. A random complete block design was used to allot implant type to each of 96 rats. Healing was evaluated at 4 and 8 weeks. Adhesion tenacity and surface area were scored. Implant site dimensions were measured at implantation and necropsy. Inflammation, vascularization, and fibrosis were histopathologically scored. Data were compared by analysis of variance (P < 0.05). PPM produced a granulomatous foreign body response in contrast to the organized healing of CBM implants. CBM mean scores were lower than PPM scores for adhesion tenacity, surface area, and inflammation at each follow-up time for rats with omentums (P < 0.02). The CBMs had less tenacity and inflammation than PPM at each follow-up time in omentectomy groups (P < 0.008). Wound contraction was greater for PPM (P < 0.0001) for all rats. RCM and UBS were similar to SIS invoking reduced inflammation, adhesion, and contraction compared to PPM. The fibrotic response to PPM was unique and more intense compared to CBMs. These CBM implants appear morphologically acceptable and warrant continued investigation.

Photodynamic management of bladder cancer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johansson, A.; Stepp, H.; Beyer, W.; Pongratz, T.; Sroka, R.; Bader, M.; Kriegmair, M.; Zaak, D.; Waidelich, R.; Karl, A.; Hofstetter, A.; Stief, C.; Baumgartner, R.

2009-06-01

Bladder cancer (BC) is among the most expensive oncological diseases. Any improvement in diagnosis or therapy carries a high potential for reducing costs. Fluorescence cystoscopy relies on a selective formation of Protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) or more general photoactive porphyrins (PAP) in malignant urothelium upon instillation of 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) or its hexyl-derivative h-ALA. Fluorescence cystoscopy equipment has been developed with the aim to compensate for the undesired distortion caused by the tissue optical properties by displaying the red fluorescence simultaneously with the backscattered blue light. Many clinical studies proved a high sensitivity in detecting flat carcinoma in situ and small papillary malignant tumours. As a result, recurrence rates were significantly decreased in most studies. The limitation lies in a low specificity, caused by false positive findings at inflamed bladder wall. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is currently being investigated as a promising tool to overcome this limitation. H-ALA-PDT (8 or 16 mM h-ALA in 50 ml instillation for 1-2 h, white light source, catheter applicator) has recently been investigated in a phase I study. 17 patients were applied 100 J/cm2 (3 patients received incrementing doses of 25 - 50 - 100 J/cm2) during approx. 1 hour irradiation time in 3 sessions, 6 weeks apart. PDT was performed without any technical complications. Complete photobleaching of the PpIX-fluorescence, as intended, could be achieved in 43 of 45 PDT-sessions receiving 100 J/cm2. The most prominent side effects were postoperative urgency and bladder pain, all symptoms being more severe after 16 mM h-ALA. Preliminary evaluation shows complete response assessed at 3 months after the third PDT-session (i.e. 6 months after first treatment) in 9 of 12 patients. 2 of these patients were free of recurrence until final follow-up at 84 weeks.

Testing of Alternative Materials for Advanced Suit Bladders

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bue, Grant; Orndoff, Evelyne; Makinen, Janice; Tang, Henry

2011-01-01

Several candidate advanced pressure bladder membrane materials have been developed for NASA Johnson Space Center by DSM Biomedical for selective permeability of carbon dioxide and water vapor. These materials were elasthane and two other formulations of thermoplastic polyether polyurethane. Each material was tested in two thicknesses for permeability to carbon dioxide, oxygen and water vapor. Although oxygen leaks through the suit bladder would amount to only about 60 cc/hr in a full size suit, significant amounts of carbon dioxide would not be rejected by the system to justify its use. While the ratio of carbon dioxide to oxygen permeability is about 48 to 1, this is offset by the small partial pressure of carbon dioxide in acceptable breathing atmospheres of the suit. Humidity management remains a possible use of the membranes depending on the degree to which the water permeability is inhibited by cations in the sweat. Tests are underway to explore cation fouling from sweat.

Urinary bladder cancer T-staging from T2-weighted MR images using an optimal biomarker approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Chuang; Udupa, Jayaram K.; Tong, Yubing; Chen, Jerry; Venigalla, Sriram; Odhner, Dewey; Guzzo, Thomas J.; Christodouleas, John; Torigian, Drew A.

2018-02-01

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is often used in clinical practice to stage patients with bladder cancer to help plan treatment. However, qualitative assessment of MR images is prone to inaccuracies, adversely affecting patient outcomes. In this paper, T2-weighted MR image-based quantitative features were extracted from the bladder wall in 65 patients with bladder cancer to classify them into two primary tumor (T) stage groups: group 1 - T stage < T2, with primary tumor locally confined to the bladder, and group 2 - T stage < T2, with primary tumor locally extending beyond the bladder. The bladder was divided into 8 sectors in the axial plane, where each sector has a corresponding reference standard T stage that is based on expert radiology qualitative MR image review and histopathologic results. The performance of the classification for correct assignment of T stage grouping was then evaluated at both the patient level and the sector level. Each bladder sector was divided into 3 shells (inner, middle, and outer), and 15,834 features including intensity features and texture features from local binary pattern and gray-level co-occurrence matrix were extracted from the 3 shells of each sector. An optimal feature set was selected from all features using an optimal biomarker approach. Nine optimal biomarker features were derived based on texture properties from the middle shell, with an area under the ROC curve of AUC value at the sector and patient level of 0.813 and 0.806, respectively.

Intraperitoneal Urinary Bladder Perforation with Pneumoperitoneum in Association with Indwelling Foley Catheter Diagnosed in Emergency Department.

PubMed

Zhan, Chenyang; Maria, Pedro P; Dym, R Joshua

2017-11-01

Indwelling Foley catheter is a rare cause of urinary bladder perforation, a serious injury with high mortality that demands accurate and prompt diagnosis. While the gold standard for diagnosis of bladder injury is computed tomography (CT) cystography, few bladder ruptures associated with Foley catheter have been reported to be diagnosed in the emergency department (ED). An 83-year-old man with indwelling Foley catheter presented to the ED for hematuria and altered mental status. He was diagnosed to have intraperitoneal rupture of the urinary bladder in the ED using abdominal and pelvic CT without contrast, which demonstrated bladder wall discontinuity, intraperitoneal free fluid, and pneumoperitoneum. The patient was treated successfully with medical management and bladder drainage. WHY SHOULD AN EMERGENCY PHYSICIAN BE AWARE OF THIS?: To our knowledge, this is the first report of intraperitoneal urinary bladder perforation associated with Foley catheter diagnosed in the ED by CT without contrast. Pneumoperitoneum found in this case was a clue to the diagnosis and is a benign finding that does not necessitate urgent surgical intervention. The early and accurate diagnosis in this case allowed for effective management with good clinical outcome. The use of indwelling Foley catheter has a high prevalence, especially in long-term care facility residents, who are frequent visitors in the ED. Therefore, emergency physicians and radiologists should be familiar with the presentation and imaging findings of this potential injury associated with Foley catheters. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Mechanosensation Dynamically Coordinates Polar Growth and Cell Wall Assembly to Promote Cell Survival.

PubMed

Davì, Valeria; Tanimoto, Hirokazu; Ershov, Dmitry; Haupt, Armin; De Belly, Henry; Le Borgne, Rémi; Couturier, Etienne; Boudaoud, Arezki; Minc, Nicolas

2018-04-23

How growing cells cope with size expansion while ensuring mechanical integrity is not known. In walled cells, such as those of microbes and plants, growth and viability are both supported by a thin and rigid encasing cell wall (CW). We deciphered the dynamic mechanisms controlling wall surface assembly during cell growth, using a sub-resolution microscopy approach to monitor CW thickness in live rod-shaped fission yeast cells. We found that polar cell growth yielded wall thinning and that thickness negatively influenced growth. Thickness at growing tips exhibited a fluctuating behavior with thickening phases followed by thinning phases, indicative of a delayed feedback promoting thickness homeostasis. This feedback was mediated by mechanosensing through the CW integrity pathway, which probes strain in the wall to adjust synthase localization and activity to surface growth. Mutants defective in thickness homeostasis lysed by rupturing the wall, demonstrating its pivotal role for walled cell survival. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Ballistic Limit Equation for Single Wall Titanium

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ratliff, J. M.; Christiansen, Eric L.; Bryant, C.

2009-01-01

Hypervelocity impact tests and hydrocode simulations were used to determine the ballistic limit equation (BLE) for perforation of a titanium wall, as a function of wall thickness. Two titanium alloys were considered, and separate BLEs were derived for each. Tested wall thicknesses ranged from 0.5mm to 2.0mm. The single-wall damage equation of Cour-Palais [ref. 1] was used to analyze the Ti wall's shielding effectiveness. It was concluded that the Cour-Palais single-wall equation produced a non-conservative prediction of the ballistic limit for the Ti shield. The inaccurate prediction was not a particularly surprising result; the Cour-Palais single-wall BLE contains shield material properties as parameters, but it was formulated only from tests of different aluminum alloys. Single-wall Ti shield tests were run (thicknesses of 2.0 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.0 mm, and 0.5 mm) on Ti 15-3-3-3 material custom cut from rod stock. Hypervelocity impact (HVI) tests were used to establish the failure threshold empirically, using the additional constraint that the damage scales with impact energy, as was indicated by hydrocode simulations. The criterion for shield failure was defined as no detached spall from the shield back surface during HVI. Based on the test results, which confirmed an approximately energy-dependent shield effectiveness, the Cour-Palais equation was modified.

Mixed metazoan and bacterial infection of the gas bladder of the lined seahorse-a case report.

PubMed

Anderson, Paul A; Petty, Barbara D

2013-03-01

Five wild-caught Lined Seahorses Hippocampus erectus from an aquarium system presented with altered buoyancy and distended upper trunks. Radiography of one specimen revealed a reduced air volume in the gas bladder. Pneumocystocentesis revealed a brown exudate of numerous leukocytes, parasite ova, and Gram- and acid-fast-positive bacilli under wet mounts and stains. Necropsies revealed enlarged, friable kidneys and distended gas bladders containing copious purulent exudate, necrotic tissue, and adult digeneans Dictysarca virens. Bacterial isolates from exudate cultures grown on Lowenstein-Jensen medium were identified as Gordonia sp. and Mycobacterium poriferae by high-performance liquid chromatography and 16S ribosomal DNA sequencing. Histopathology demonstrated a histiocytic response in kidney and gas bladder exudate, inflammation of the gas bladder wall, and infection of the gas bladder lumen with parasite ova and acid-fast-positive and Gomori's methenamine silver-positive bacilli. Praziquantel is prescribed for digenean infections but dissolves incompletely in seawater and is toxic to this host. Eradication of intermediate host vectors is a management option. Treatment of Gordonia infection has not been addressed in nonhuman animals, and there is no known effective treatment for Mycobacterium spp. infection in fishes. This is the first case report of digenean infection of the gas bladder in a syngnathid, Gordonia sp. infection in a nonhuman animal, and M. poriferae infection in a fish.

Elective bladder-sparing treatment for muscle invasive bladder cancer.

PubMed

Lendínez-Cano, G; Rico-López, J; Moreno, S; Fernández Parra, E; González-Almeida, C; Camacho Martínez, E

2014-01-01

Radical cystectomy is the standard treatment for localised muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). We offer a bladder-sparing treatment with TURB +/- Chemotherapy+Radiotherapy to selected patients as an alternative. We analyze, retrospectively, 30 patients diagnosed with MIBC from March 1991 to October 2010. The mean age was 62.7 years (51-74). All patients were candidates for a curative treatment, and underwent strict selection criteria: T2 stage, primary tumor, solitary lesion smaller than 5cm with a macroscopic disease-free status after TURB, negative random biopsy without hydronephrosis. Staging CT evaluation was normal. Restaging TURB or tumor bed biopsy showed a disease-free status or microscopic muscle invasion. 14 patients underwent TURB alone, 13 TURB+Chemotherapy and 3 TURB+Chemotherapy+Radiotherapy. The mean follow up was 88.7 months (19-220). 14 patients remained disease free (46.6%), 10 had recurrent non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (33%). 81.3% complete clinical response. 71% bladder preserved at 5-years. Overall, 5-years survival rate was 79% and 85% cancer-specific survival rate. Although radical cystectomy is the standard treatment for localised MIBC, in strictly selected cases, bladder-sparing treatment offers an alternative with good long term results. Copyright © 2013 AEU. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

Bladder perforations in children.

PubMed

Bakal, U; Sarac, M; Tartar, T; Ersoz, F; Kazez, A

2015-01-01

Bladder perforations in children occur due to several different reasons. In this clinical series study, we focused on bladder perforations due to the pelvic injury, and our aim also was to create awareness for a rare type of bladder injuries. This was a retrospective study of the patients who were treated in our clinic for bladder perforation between 2006 and 2011. We reviewed the documents of childhood bladder perforations, and demographic and clinical characteristics of the patients were obtained. No statistical analyses were used because of the limited number of cases. There were ten patients who suffered from bladder perforation in 5-year period; 5 were male, and 5 were female. The mean age of the patients was 4.35 years. Four patients (40%) experienced iatrogenic perforation and six patients (60%) experienced perforation due to the accident. Common symptoms were hematuria, abdominal tenderness, and inability to urinate. Three patients were diagnosed via emergency laparotomy, without any radiological examinations performed before surgery. Four patients suffered from the intraperitoneal perforation, three patients suffered from extraperitoneal injury and three of them both of intraperitoneal and extraperitoneal injuries. Mean recovery time for patients was 15 days. One patient developed a urinary tract infection and one newborn died due to accompanying morbidities. Nine patients were discharged from the hospital. If the patients had a pelvic injury, surgeons must pay attention for the bladder perforation. Isolated bladder perforations are rare, and they are generally associated with iatrogenic injuries. Clinicians should pay attention to findings such as anuria, inability to insert a urinary catheter, and free fluid in the abdomen in order to diagnose the bladder perforation in newborns. Novice surgeons should pay more attention to avoid causing iatrogenic bladder perforation during inguinal hernia repair.

Sustained release of VEGF from PLGA nanoparticles embedded thermo-sensitive hydrogel in full-thickness porcine bladder acellular matrix

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Geng, Hongquan; Song, Hua; Qi, Jun; Cui, Daxiang

2011-12-01

We fabricated a novel vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-loaded poly(lactic- co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-nanoparticles (NPs)-embedded thermo-sensitive hydrogel in porcine bladder acellular matrix allograft (BAMA) system, which is designed for achieving a sustained release of VEGF protein, and embedding the protein carrier into the BAMA. We identified and optimized various formulations and process parameters to get the preferred particle size, entrapment, and polydispersibility of the VEGF-NPs, and incorporated the VEGF-NPs into the (poly(ethylene oxide)-poly(propylene oxide)-poly(ethylene oxide) (Pluronic®) F127 to achieve the preferred VEGF-NPs thermo-sensitive gel system. Then the thermal behavior of the system was proven by in vitro and in vivo study, and the kinetic-sustained release profile of the system embedded in porcine bladder acellular matrix was investigated. Results indicated that the bioactivity of the encapsulated VEGF released from the NPs was reserved, and the VEGF-NPs thermo-sensitive gel system can achieve sol-gel transmission successfully at appropriate temperature. Furthermore, the system can create a satisfactory tissue-compatible environment and an effective VEGF-sustained release approach. In conclusion, a novel VEGF-loaded PLGA NPs-embedded thermo-sensitive hydrogel in porcine BAMA system is successfully prepared, to provide a promising way for deficient bladder reconstruction therapy.

[Nitric oxide pathway and female lower urinary tract. Physiological and pathophysiological role].

PubMed

Gamé, X; Rischmann, P; Arnal, J-F; Malavaud, B

2013-09-01

The aim was to review the literature on nitric oxide and female lower urinary tract. A literature review through the PubMed library until December, 31 2012 was carried out using the following keywords: lower urinary tract, bladder, urethra, nervous central system, innervation, female, women, nitric oxide, phosphodiesterase, bladder outlet obstruction, urinary incontinence, overactive bladder, urinary tract infection. Two nitric oxide synthase isoforms, the neuronal (nNOS) and the endothelial (eNOS), are constitutively expressed in the lower urinary tract. Nevertheless, nNOS is mainly expressed in the bladder neck and the urethra. In the bladder, NO modulates the afferent neurons activity. In pathological condition, inducible NOS expression induces an increase in detrusor contractility and bladder wall thickness and eNOS facilitates Escherichia coli bladder wall invasion inducing recurrent urinary tract infections. In the urethra, NO play a major role in smooth muscle cells relaxation. The NO pathway plays a major role in the female lower urinary tract physiology and physiopathology. While it acts mainly on bladder outlet, in pathological condition, it is involved in bladder dysfunction occurrence. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Lymphoma of the Urinary Bladder

PubMed Central

Venyo, Anthony Kodzo-Grey

2014-01-01

Background. Lymphoma of the urinary bladder (LUB) is rare. Aims. To review the literature on LUB. Methods. Various internet databases were used. Results. LUB can be either primary or secondary. The tumour has female predominance; most cases occur in middle-age women. Secondary LUB occurs in 10% to 25% of leukemias/lymphomas and in advanced-stage systemic lymphoma. Less than 100 cases have been reported. MALT typically affects adults older than 60 years; 75% are female. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma is also common and may arise from transformation of MALT. LUB presents with haematuria, dysuria, urinary frequency, nocturia, and abdominal or back pain. Macroscopic examination of LUBs show large discrete tumours centred in the dome or lateral walls of the bladder. Positive staining of LUB varies by the subtype of lymphoma; B-cell lymphomas are CD20 positive. MALT lymphoma is positively stained for CD20, CD19, and FMC7 and negatively stained for CD5, CD10, and CD11c. LUB stains negatively with Pan-keratin, vimentin, CK20, and CK7. MALT lymphoma exhibits t(11; 18)(q21: 21). Radiotherapy is an effective treatment for the MALT type of LUB with no recurrence. Conclusions. LUB is diagnosed by its characteristic morphology and immunohistochemical characteristics. Radiotherapy is a useful treatment. PMID:24511310

Work Capacity of the Bladder During Voiding: A Novel Method to Evaluate Bladder Contractile Function and Bladder Outlet Obstruction

PubMed Central

Liu, Ning; Man, Li-Bo; He, Feng; Huang, Guang-Lin; Zhou, Ning; Zhu, Xiao-Fei

2015-01-01

Background: Work in voiding (WIV) of the bladder may be used to evaluate bladder status throughout urination rather than at a single time point. Few studies, however, have assessed WIV owing to the complexity of its calculations. We have developed a method of calculating work capacity of the bladder while voiding and analyzed the associations of bladder work parameters with bladder contractile function and bladder outlet obstruction (BOO). Methods: The study retrospectively evaluated 160 men and 23 women, aged >40 years and with a detrusor pressure at maximal flow rate (Pdet Qmax) of ≥40 cmH2O in men, who underwent urodynamic testing. The bladder power integration method was used to calculate WIV; WIV per second (WIV/t) and WIV per liter of urine voided (WIV/v) were also calculated. In men, the relationships between these work capacity parameters and Pdet Qmax and Abrams-Griffiths (AG) number were determined using linear-by-linear association tests, and relationships between work capacity parameters and BOO grade were investigated using Spearman's association test. Results: The mean WIV was 1.15 ± 0.78 J and 1.30 ± 0.88 J, mean WIV/t was 22.95 ± 14.45 mW and 23.78 ± 17.02 mW, and mean WIV/v was 5.59 ± 2.32 J/L and 2.83 ± 1.87 J/L in men and women, respectively. In men, WIV/v showed significant positive associations with Pdet Qmax (r = 0.845, P = 0.000), AG number (r = 0.814, P = 0.000), and Schafer class (r = 0.726, P = 0.000). Conversely, WIV and WIV/t showed no associations with Pdet Qmax or AG number. In patients with BOO (Schafer class > II), WIV/v correlated positively with increasing BOO grade. Conclusions: WIV can be calculated from simple urodynamic parameters using the bladder power integration method. WIV/v may be a marker of BOO grade, and the bladder contractile function can be evaluated by WIV and WIV/t. PMID:26668148

Myocardium wall thickness transducer and measuring method

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Feldstein, C.; Lewis, G. W.; Silver, R. H.; Culler, V. H. (Inventor)

1976-01-01

A miniature transducer for measuring changes of thickness of the myocardium is described. The device is easily implantable without traumatizing the subject, without affecting the normal muscle behavior, and is removable and implantable at a different muscle location. Operating features of the device are described.

Building and degradation of secondary cell walls: are there common patterns of lamellar assembly of cellulose microfibrils and cell wall delamination?

PubMed

De Micco, Veronica; Ruel, Katia; Joseleau, Jean-Paul; Aronne, Giovanna

2010-08-01

During cell wall formation and degradation, it is possible to detect cellulose microfibrils assembled into thicker and thinner lamellar structures, respectively, following inverse parallel patterns. The aim of this study was to analyse such patterns of microfibril aggregation and cell wall delamination. The thickness of microfibrils and lamellae was measured on digital images of both growing and degrading cell walls viewed by means of transmission electron microscopy. To objectively detect, measure and classify microfibrils and lamellae into thickness classes, a method based on the application of computerized image analysis combined with graphical and statistical methods was developed. The method allowed common classes of microfibrils and lamellae in cell walls to be identified from different origins. During both the formation and degradation of cell walls, a preferential formation of structures with specific thickness was evidenced. The results obtained with the developed method allowed objective analysis of patterns of microfibril aggregation and evidenced a trend of doubling/halving lamellar structures, during cell wall formation/degradation in materials from different origin and which have undergone different treatments.

[The role of telomerase activity in non-invasive diagnostics of bladder cancer].

PubMed

Glybochko, P V; Alyaev, J G; Potoldykova, N V; Polyakovsky, K A; Vinarov, A Z; Glukhov, A I; Gordeev, S A

2016-08-01

To evaluate the potentials of determining the telomerase activity (TA) in the cellular material of the urine for noninvasive diagnosis of bladder cancer (BC). Evaluation of TA was performed in the urine of 48 patients with bladder cancer (study group) before and after transurethral resection of the bladder wall (n=38), an open resection of the bladder (n=4), and cystectomy (n=6). TA was also evaluated in 48 tumor tissue samples obtained from these patients during removal of the bladder tumor. Each sample of the tumor tissue was separated into two parts, one of which was subjected to histological examination, and the latter was used to determine the telomerase activity. In all cases, the diagnosis of bladder cancer was confirmed morphologically. Determination of TA in the samples was performed by the modified TRAP-method (telomerase repeat amplification protocol), RT-PCR, PCR, and electrophoresis. As a control, cell material of the urine and tissue in 12 patients with chronic cystitis was investigated. TA before surgery was found in 45 (93.75%) of 48 samples of cellular material of the urine from patients with suspected bladder cancer. BC was histologically verified in all patients in this group. In the postoperative period, TA was not observed in the 48 samples of cellular material of the urine from patients with BC. In the control group of patients with histologically verified cystitis, weak TA was determined only in one sample of cellular material of the urine. The analysis indicates statistically significant predominance of patients with bladder cancer in case of TA in the urine (P=0.001). TA was detected in all samples of tumor tissue. We also analyzed the dependence of TA levels in urine and tissue on the degree of BC differentiation. In patients with highly differentiated BC, mean AT in the cellular materials of the urine was 0,61% (n=15), in patients with moderately differentiated BC - 0.95% (n=23), in patients with low-grade bladder cancer - 1.33% (n=10

2D and 3D visualization methods of endoscopic panoramic bladder images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Behrens, Alexander; Heisterklaus, Iris; Müller, Yannick; Stehle, Thomas; Gross, Sebastian; Aach, Til

2011-03-01

While several mosaicking algorithms have been developed to compose endoscopic images of the internal urinary bladder wall into panoramic images, the quantitative evaluation of these output images in terms of geometrical distortions have often not been discussed. However, the visualization of the distortion level is highly desired for an objective image-based medical diagnosis. Thus, we present in this paper a method to create quality maps from the characteristics of transformation parameters, which were applied to the endoscopic images during the registration process of the mosaicking algorithm. For a global first view impression, the quality maps are laid over the panoramic image and highlight image regions in pseudo-colors according to their local distortions. This illustration supports then surgeons to identify geometrically distorted structures easily in the panoramic image, which allow more objective medical interpretations of tumor tissue in shape and size. Aside from introducing quality maps in 2-D, we also discuss a visualization method to map panoramic images onto a 3-D spherical bladder model. Reference points are manually selected by the surgeon in the panoramic image and the 3-D model. Then the panoramic image is mapped by the Hammer-Aitoff equal-area projection onto the 3-D surface using texture mapping. Finally the textured bladder model can be freely moved in a virtual environment for inspection. Using a two-hemisphere bladder representation, references between panoramic image regions and their corresponding space coordinates within the bladder model are reconstructed. This additional spatial 3-D information thus assists the surgeon in navigation, documentation, as well as surgical planning.

Compound Walls For Vacuum Chambers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frazer, Robert E.

1988-01-01

Proposed compound-wall configuration enables construction of large high-vacuum chambers without having to use thick layers of expensive material to obtain necessary strength. Walls enclose chambers more than 1 m in diameter and several kilometers long. Compound wall made of strong outer layer of structural-steel culvert pipe welded to thin layer of high-quality, low-outgassing stainless steel.

A Non-Invasive Bladder Sensory Test Supports a Role for Dysmenorrhea Increasing Bladder Noxious Mechanosensitivity

PubMed Central

TU, Frank F.; EPSTEIN, Aliza E.; POZOLO, Kristen E.; SEXTON, Debra L.; MELNYK, Alexandra I.; HELLMAN, Kevin M.

2012-01-01

Objective Catheterization to measure bladder sensitivity is aversive and hinders human participation in visceral sensory research. Therefore, we sought to characterize the reliability of sonographically-estimated female bladder sensory thresholds. To demonstrate this technique’s usefulness, we examined the effects of self-reported dysmenorrhea on bladder pain thresholds. Methods Bladder sensory threshold volumes were determined during provoked natural diuresis in 49 healthy women (mean age 24 ± 8) using three-dimensional ultrasound. Cystometric thresholds (Vfs – first sensation, Vfu – first urge, Vmt – maximum tolerance) were quantified and related to bladder urgency and pain. We estimated reliability (one-week retest and interrater). Self-reported menstrual pain was examined in relationship to bladder pain, urgency and volume thresholds. Results Average bladder sensory thresholds (mLs) were Vfs (160±100), Vfu (310±130), and Vmt (500±180). Interrater reliability ranged from 0.97–0.99. One-week retest reliability was Vmt = 0.76 (95% CI 0.64–0.88), Vfs = 0.62 (95% CI 0.44–0.80), and Vfu = 0.63, (95% CI 0.47–0.80). Bladder filling rate correlated with all thresholds (r = 0.53–0.64, p < 0.0001). Women with moderate to severe dysmenorrhea pain had increased bladder pain and urgency at Vfs and increased pain at Vfu (p’s < 0.05). In contrast, dysmenorrhea pain was unrelated to bladder capacity. Discussion Sonographic estimates of bladder sensory thresholds were reproducible and reliable. In these healthy volunteers, dysmenorrhea was associated with increased bladder pain and urgency during filling but unrelated to capacity. Plausibly, dysmenorrhea sufferers may exhibit enhanced visceral mechanosensitivity, increasing their risk to develop chronic bladder pain syndromes. PMID:23370073

Functional, histological structure and mastocytes alterations in rat urinary bladders following acute and [corrected] chronic cyclophosphamide treatment.

PubMed

Juszczak, K; Gil, K; Wyczolkowski, M; Thor, P J

2010-08-01

Neurogenic inflammation is linked to urinary bladder overactivity development. Cyclophosphamide (CYP) damages all mucosal defence lines of urinary bladder and induces cystitis with overactivity. The aim of this study was to estimate the effect of CYP on rat urinary bladder function, histological structure and mastocytes numbers following acute and chronic CYP treatment. Fourty two female rats were divided into four groups: I (control), II (acute cystitis), III (chronic cystitis), IV (sham group). Acute and chronic cystitis were induced by CYP in single dose and four doses (1(st), 3(rd), 5(th), 7(th) day), respectively. In group I-III the cystometric evaluation was performed. Sections of the bladder were stained with HE and toluidine blue for the detection of mastocytes. The severity of inflammation was examined according to mucosal abrasion, haemorrhage, leukocyte infiltration and oedema. Acute and chronic CYP treatment caused inflammatory macroscopic and microscopic changes (mucosal abrasion, haemorrhage, oedema) and increased infiltration of inflammatory cells in urinary bladder. Acute treatment induced the infiltration of mastocytes within bladder wall contrary to chronic one decrement. Acute treatment caused more severe mucosal abrasion, whereas chronic one revealed more developed haemorrhage changes. Additionally, cystometric evaluation revealed urinary bladder overactivity development in both types of cystitis. Basal pressure and detrusor overactivity index after acute treatment increased considerably in comparison with the increase obtained after chronic one. Our results proved that acute model of CYP-induced cystitis in rats is more credible for further evaluation of neurogenic inflammation response in pathogenesis of overactive bladder as compared to chronic one.

Production test IP-544-A, irradiation of 1.6% enriched thick walled single tube elements in KER-1 and 2

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

Kratzer, W.K.; Wise, M.J.

1962-12-12

The objective of this production test is to authorize the irradiation of coextruded Zr-2 jacketed thick walled 1.6% enriched tubular elements in KER loops 1 and 2 to evaluate the swelling behavior of fuel elements at high uranium temperatures Coextruded Zr-2 jacketed 1.6% enriched tubular fuel elements 1.79 inch OD, 0.97 inch ID, and 12 inches long will be irradiated KER loops 1 and 2 to exposures no greater than 2500 MWD/T.

LB03.04: SPHYGMOMANOMETER CUFF CONSTRUCTION AND MATERIALS AFFECT TRANSMISSION OF PRESSURE FROM CUFF TO ARTERIAL WALL. FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS OF HUMAN PRESSURE MEASUREMENTS AND DICOM DATA.

PubMed

Lewis, P; Naqvi, S; Mandal, P; Potluri, P

2015-06-01

Sphygmomanometer cuff pressure during deflation is assumed to equal systolic arterial pressure at the point of resumption of flow. Previous studies demonstrated that pressure decreases with increasing depth of soft tissues whilst visco-elastic characteristics of the arm tissue cause spatial and temporal variation in pressure magnitude. These generally used non-anatomical axisymmetrical arm simulations without incorporating arterial pressure variation. We used data from a volunteer's Magnetic Resonance (MR) arm scan and investigated the effect of variations in cuff materials and construction on the simulated transmission of pressure from under the cuff to the arterial wall under sinusoidal flow conditions. Pressure was measured under 8 different cuffs using Oxford Pressure Monitor Sensors placed at 90 degrees around the mid upper arm of a healthy male. Each cuff was inflated 3 times to 155 mmHg and then deflated to zero with 90 seconds between inflations. Young's modulus, flexural rigidity and thickness of each cuff was measured.Using DICOM data from the MR scan of the arm, a 3D model was derived using ScanIP and imported into Abaqus for Finite Element Analysis (FEA). Published mechanical properties of arm tissues and geometric non-linearity were assumed. The measured sub-cuff pressures were applied to the simulated arm and pressure was calculated around the brachial arterial wall. which was loaded with a sinusoidal pressure of 125/85 mmHg. FEA estimates of pressure around the brachial artery cuffs varied by up to 27 mmHg SBP and 17 mmHg DBP with different cuffs. Pressures within the cuffs varied up to 27 mmHg. Pressure transmission from the cuff to the arterial surface achieved a 95% transmission ratio with one rubber-bladdered cuff but varied between 76 and 88% for the others. Non-uniform pressure distribution around the arterial wall was strongly related to cuff fabric elastic modulus. Identical size cuffs with a separate rubber bladder produced peri

Unexpected complication after cystometry in the hypocompliant urinary bladder: formation of a knot in the double lumen urethral catheter--a case report.

PubMed

Ayyildiz, Ali; Huri, Emre; Nuhoğlu, Bariş; Germiyanoğlu, Cankon

2006-01-01

Urodynamic evaluation is frequently used in the follow-up of the treatment and diagnosis of incontinence, which develops in connection with a neurogenic or non-neurogenic reason. There is no identified serious complication during or after urodynamic evaluation, present in the literature up to date. Hematuria, due to the urethral catheter, the development of oedema in the urinary bladder wall and the development of urinary bladder spasm as a result of catheter irritation, are some of the complications, which may occur. In this paper, twist and knot formation in the double lumen urethral catheter after cystometry of a patient with a hypocompliant urinary bladder, has been presented.

Measuring Thicknesses of Wastewater Films

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schubert, F. H.; Davenport, R. J.

1987-01-01

Sensor determines when thickness of film of electrically conductive wastewater on rotating evaporator drum exceeds preset value. Sensor simple electrical probe that makes contact with liquid surface. Made of materials resistant to chemicals in liquid. Mounted on shaft in rotating cylinder, liquid-thickness sensor extends toward cylinder wall so tip almost touches. Sensor body accommodates probe measuring temperature of evaporated water in cylinder.

Visualization of the aneurysm wall: a 7.0-tesla magnetic resonance imaging study.

PubMed

Kleinloog, Rachel; Korkmaz, Emine; Zwanenburg, Jaco J M; Kuijf, Hugo J; Visser, Fredy; Blankena, Roos; Post, Jan A; Ruigrok, Ynte M; Luijten, Peter R; Regli, Luca; Rinkel, Gabriel J E; Verweij, Bon H

2014-12-01

Risk prediction of rupture of intracranial aneurysms is poor and is based mainly on lumen characteristics. However, characteristics of the aneurysm wall may be more informative predictors. The limited resolution of currently available imaging techniques and the thin aneurysm wall make imaging of wall thickness challenging. To introduce a novel protocol for imaging wall thickness variation using ultra--high-resolution 7.0-Tesla (7.0-T) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We studied 33 unruptured intracranial aneurysms in 24 patients with a T1-weighted 3-dimensional magnetization-prepared inversion-recovery turbo-spin-echo whole-brain sequence with a resolution of 0.8 × 0.8 × 0.8 mm. We performed a validation study with a wedge phantom and with 2 aneurysm wall biopsies obtained during aneurysm treatment using ex vivo MRI and histological examination and correlating variations in MRI signal intensity with variations in actual thickness of the aneurysm wall. In vivo, the aneurysm wall was visible in 28 of the 33 aneurysms. Variation in signal intensity was observed in all visible aneurysm walls. Ex vivo MRI showed variation in signal intensity across the wall of the biopsies, similar to that observed on the in vivo images. Signal intensity and actual thickness in both biopsies had a linear correlation, with Pearson correlation coefficients of 0.85 and 0.86. Unruptured intracranial aneurysm wall and its variation in thickness can be visualized with 7.0-T MRI. Aneurysm wall thickness variation can now be further studied as a risk factor for rupture in prospective studies.

Role of fibronectin in intravesical BCG therapy for superficial bladder cancer.

PubMed

Ratliff, T L; Kavoussi, L R; Catalona, W J

1988-02-01

Intravesical bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) has been demonstrated to be effective both for prophylaxis and treatment of superficial bladder cancer. In order to identify the progression of events that result in BCG-mediated antitumor activity, studies were performed to evaluate the mechanism of binding of BCG within the bladder. Histological and quantitative studies in a mouse model revealed that BCG attached to the bladder wall only in areas of urothelial damage. Preliminary in vitro data showed that BCG attached to surfaces coated with extracellular matrix proteins. Further studies were then performed using purified extracellular matrix proteins to identify the proteins responsible for attachment. BCG were observed to attach to surfaces coated only with purified fibronectin (FN) but not to other purified proteins including laminin, collagen or fibrinogen. The attachment of BCG to purified FN in vitro was dose dependent and was inhibited by anti-FN antibodies. Moreover, BCG attachment in vivo to bladders with damaged urothelial surfaces was inhibited more than 95% by anti-FN antibodies, but binding was not affected by anti-laminin antibodies or preimmune serum. A survey of commercially available BCG vaccines (Pasteur, Tice, Glaxo, Connaught) showed that only Glaxo BCG did not attach to FN-coated surfaces. Glaxo BCG also was shown to express inferior antitumor activity suggesting that the absence of FN binding by Glaxo may have been associated with the absence of antitumor activity of the vaccine.

A film-based wall shear stress sensor for wall-bounded turbulent flows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amili, Omid; Soria, Julio

2011-07-01

In wall-bounded turbulent flows, determination of wall shear stress is an important task. The main objective of the present work is to develop a sensor which is capable of measuring surface shear stress over an extended region applicable to wall-bounded turbulent flows. This sensor, as a direct method for measuring wall shear stress, consists of mounting a thin flexible film on the solid surface. The sensor is made of a homogeneous, isotropic, and incompressible material. The geometry and mechanical properties of the film are measured, and particles with the nominal size of 11 μm in diameter are embedded on the film's surface to act as markers. An optical technique is used to measure the film deformation caused by the flow. The film has typically deflection of less than 2% of the material thickness under maximum loading. The sensor sensitivity can be adjusted by changing the thickness of the layer or the shear modulus of the film's material. The paper reports the sensor fabrication, static and dynamic calibration procedure, and its application to a fully developed turbulent channel flow at Reynolds numbers in the range of 90,000-130,000 based on the bulk velocity and channel full height. The results are compared to alternative wall shear stress measurement methods.

Non-invasive quantification of tumour heterogeneity in water diffusivity to differentiate malignant from benign tissues of urinary bladder: a phase I study.

PubMed

Nguyen, Huyen T; Shah, Zarine K; Mortazavi, Amir; Pohar, Kamal S; Wei, Lai; Jia, Guang; Zynger, Debra L; Knopp, Michael V

2017-05-01

To quantify the heterogeneity of the tumour apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) using voxel-based analysis to differentiate malignancy from benign wall thickening of the urinary bladder. Nineteen patients with histopathological findings of their cystectomy specimen were included. A data set of voxel-based ADC values was acquired for each patient's lesion. Histogram analysis was performed on each data set to calculate uniformity (U) and entropy (E). The k-means clustering of the voxel-wised ADC data set was implemented to measure mean intra-cluster distance (MICD) and largest inter-cluster distance (LICD). Subsequently, U, E, MICD, and LICD for malignant tumours were compared with those for benign lesions using a two-sample t-test. Eleven patients had pathological confirmation of malignancy and eight with benign wall thickening. Histogram analysis showed that malignant tumours had a significantly higher degree of ADC heterogeneity with lower U (P = 0.016) and higher E (P = 0.005) than benign lesions. In agreement with these findings, k-means clustering of voxel-wise ADC indicated that bladder malignancy presented with significantly higher MICD (P < 0.001) and higher LICD (P = 0.002) than benign wall thickening. The quantitative assessment of tumour diffusion heterogeneity using voxel-based ADC analysis has the potential to become a non-invasive tool to distinguish malignant from benign tissues of urinary bladder cancer. • Heterogeneity is an intrinsic characteristic of tumoral tissue. • Non-invasive quantification of tumour heterogeneity can provide adjunctive information to improve cancer diagnosis accuracy. • Histogram analysis and k-means clustering can quantify tumour diffusion heterogeneity. • The quantification helps differentiate malignant from benign urinary bladder tissue.

Long-term complications following bladder augmentations in patients with spina bifida: bladder calculi, perforation of the augmented bladder and upper tract deterioration.

PubMed

Husmann, Douglas A

2016-02-01

We desire to review our experience with bladder augmentation in spina bifida patients followed in a transitional and adult urologic practice. This paper will specifically focus on three major complications: bladder calculi, the most frequent complication found following bladder augmentation, perforation of the augmentation, its most lethal complication and finally we will address loss of renal function as a direct result of our surgical reconstructive procedures. We reviewed a prospective data base maintained on patients with spina bifida followed in our transitional and adult urology clinic from 1986 to date. Specific attention was given to patients who had developed bladder calculi, sustained a spontaneous perforation of the augmented bladder or had developed new onset of renal scarring or renal insufficiency (≥ stage 3 renal failure) during prolonged follow-up. The development of renal stones (P<0.05) and symptomatic urinary tract infections (P<0.0001) were found to be significantly reduced by the use of high volume (≥240 mL) daily bladder wash outs. Individuals who still developed bladder calculi recalcitrant to high volume wash outs were not benefited by the correction of underlying metabolic abnormalities or mucolytic agents. Spontaneous bladder perforations in the adult patient population with spina bifida were found to be directly correlated to substance abuse and noncompliance with intermittent catheterization, P<0.005. Deterioration of the upper tracts as defined by the new onset of renal scars occurred in 40% (32/80) of the patients managed by a ileocystoplasty and simultaneous bladder neck outlet procedure during a median follow-up interval 14 years (range, 8-45 years). Development of ≥ stage 3 chronic renal failure occurred within 38% (12/32) of the patients with scarring i.e., 15% (12/80) of the total patient population. Prior to the development of the renal scarring, 69% (22/32) of the patients had been noncompliant with intermittent

Long-term complications following bladder augmentations in patients with spina bifida: bladder calculi, perforation of the augmented bladder and upper tract deterioration

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

Background We desire to review our experience with bladder augmentation in spina bifida patients followed in a transitional and adult urologic practice. This paper will specifically focus on three major complications: bladder calculi, the most frequent complication found following bladder augmentation, perforation of the augmentation, its most lethal complication and finally we will address loss of renal function as a direct result of our surgical reconstructive procedures. Methods We reviewed a prospective data base maintained on patients with spina bifida followed in our transitional and adult urology clinic from 1986 to date. Specific attention was given to patients who had developed bladder calculi, sustained a spontaneous perforation of the augmented bladder or had developed new onset of renal scarring or renal insufficiency (≥ stage 3 renal failure) during prolonged follow-up. Results The development of renal stones (P<0.05) and symptomatic urinary tract infections (P<0.0001) were found to be significantly reduced by the use of high volume (≥240 mL) daily bladder wash outs. Individuals who still developed bladder calculi recalcitrant to high volume wash outs were not benefited by the correction of underlying metabolic abnormalities or mucolytic agents. Spontaneous bladder perforations in the adult patient population with spina bifida were found to be directly correlated to substance abuse and noncompliance with intermittent catheterization, P<0.005. Deterioration of the upper tracts as defined by the new onset of renal scars occurred in 40% (32/80) of the patients managed by a ileocystoplasty and simultaneous bladder neck outlet procedure during a median follow-up interval 14 years (range, 8–45 years). Development of ≥ stage 3 chronic renal failure occurred within 38% (12/32) of the patients with scarring i.e., 15% (12/80) of the total patient population. Prior to the development of the renal scarring, 69% (22/32) of the patients had been noncompliant

Empty-bladder (hysterographic) view on US for evaluation of intrauterine devices. Work in progress.

PubMed

Carroll, R; Gombergh, R

1987-06-01

Ultrasound scanning of the pelvis with an empty bladder permits a true frontal view of the uterus to be easily obtained. This view is comparable to the en face view seen at hysterography performed with contrast material. Good definition both of the endometrium and the uterine wall makes this the optimal method for the evaluation of an intrauterine contraceptive device.

A case-control study on the association between bladder cancer and prior bladder calculus.

PubMed

Chung, Shiu-Dong; Tsai, Ming-Chieh; Lin, Ching-Chun; Lin, Herng-Ching

2013-03-15

Bladder calculus is associated with chronic irritation and inflammation. As there is substantial documentation that inflammation can play a direct role in carcinogenesis, to date the relationship between stone formation and bladder cancer (BC) remains unclear. This study aimed to examine the association between BC and prior bladder calculus using a population-based dataset. This case-control study included 2,086 cases who had received their first-time diagnosis of BC between 2001 and 2009 and 10,430 randomly selected controls without BC. Conditional logistic regressions were employed to explore the association between BC and having been previously diagnosed with bladder calculus. Of the sampled subjects, bladder calculus was found in 71 (3.4%) cases and 105 (1.1%) controls. Conditional logistic regression analysis revealed that the odds ratio (OR) of having been diagnosed with bladder calculus before the index date for cases was 3.42 (95% CI = 2.48-4.72) when compared with controls after adjusting for monthly income, geographic region, hypertension, diabetes, coronary heart disease, and renal disease, tobacco use disorder, obesity, alcohol abuse, and schistosomiasis, bladder outlet obstruction, and urinary tract infection. We further analyzed according to sex and found that among males, the OR of having been previously diagnosed with bladder calculus for cases was 3.45 (95% CI = 2.39-4.99) that of controls. Among females, the OR was 3.05 (95% CI = 1.53-6.08) that of controls. These results add to the evidence surrounding the conflicting reports regarding the association between BC and prior bladder calculus and highlight a potential target population for bladder cancer screening.

ATP release from bladder urothelium and serosa in a rat model of partial bladder outlet obstruction.

PubMed

Shiina, Kazuhiro; Hayashida, Ken-Ichiro; Ishikawa, Kazuo; Kawatani, Masahito

2016-01-01

Overactive bladder is one of the major health problem especially in elderly people. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is released from urinary bladder cells and acts as a smooth muscle contraction and sensory signal in micturition but little is known about the role of ATP release in the pathophysiology of overactive bladder. To assess the relationship between ATP and overactive bladder, we used a partial bladder outlet obstruction (pBOO) model in rats. The bladder caused several changes by pBOO: An increase in bladder weight, hypertrophy of sub-urothelium and sub-serosal area, and frequent non-voiding bladder contraction during urine storage. Basal ATP release from urothelium and serosa of pBOO rats was significantly higher than that of normal rats. Distentioninduced ATP release from urothelium of normal and pBOO rats had no significant change. However, distention-induced ATP release from serosa of pBOO rats was higher than that of normal. These findings may identify ATP especially released from serosa as one of causes of non-voiding contractions and overactive bladder symptoms.

Caudal clonidine-bupivicaine block with bladder hydrodistension: a novel combined treatment for the painful bladder.

PubMed

Tempest, Heidi; Stoneham, Mark; Frampton, Claire; Noble, Jeremy

2011-04-19

The authors describe a new combination procedure consisting of bladder hydrodistension with clonidine-bupivicaine caudal block for the symptomatic relief of bladder pain. They report this new technique whereby patients who had tried multiple forms of therapy with little response, including bladder hydrodistension under general anaesthesia for their chronic pelvic bladder pain, responded to this novel combination therapy.

Technique of Antireflux Procedure without Creating Submucosal Tunnel for Surgical Correction of Vesicoureteric Reflux during Bladder Closure in Exstrophy.

PubMed

Sunil, Kanoujia; Gupta, Archika; Chaubey, Digamber; Pandey, Anand; Kureel, Shiv Narain; Verma, Ajay Kumar

2018-01-01

To report the clinical application of the new surgical technique of antireflux procedure without creating submucosal tunnel for surgical correction of vesicoureteric reflux during bladder closure in exstrophy. Based on the report of published experimental technique, the procedure was clinically executed in seven patients of classic exstrophy bladder with small bladder plate with polyps, where the creation of submucosal tunnel was not possible, in last 18 months. Ureters were mobilized. A rectangular patch of bladder mucosa at trigone was removed exposing the detrusor. Mobilized urteres were advanced, crossed and anchored to exposed detrusor parallel to each other. Reconstruction included bladder and epispadias repair with abdominal wall closure. The outcome was measured with the assessment of complications, abolition of reflux on cystogram and upper tract status. At 3-month follow-up cystogram, reflux was absent in all. Follow-up ultrasound revealed mild dilatation of pelvis and ureter in one. The technique of extra-mucosal ureteric reimplantation without the creation of submucosal tunnel is simple to execute without risk and complications and effectively provides an antireflux mechanism for the preservation of upper tract in bladder exstrophy. With the use of this technique, reflux can be prevented since the very beginning of exstrophy reconstruction.

Caudal clonidine-bupivicaine block with bladder hydrodistension: a novel combined treatment for the painful bladder

PubMed Central

Tempest, Heidi; Stoneham, Mark; Frampton, Claire; Noble, Jeremy

2011-01-01

The authors describe a new combination procedure consisting of bladder hydrodistension with clonidine-bupivicaine caudal block for the symptomatic relief of bladder pain. They report this new technique whereby patients who had tried multiple forms of therapy with little response, including bladder hydrodistension under general anaesthesia for their chronic pelvic bladder pain, responded to this novel combination therapy. PMID:22696635

Bladder Control and Nerve Disease

MedlinePlus

... VUR) The Urinary Tract & How It Works Bladder Control Problems & Nerve Disease For the urinary system to ... the bladder do not work properly. What bladder control problems does nerve damage cause? Nerves that work ...

Implantable Bladder Sensors: A Methodological Review

PubMed Central

Dakurah, Mathias Naangmenkpeong; Koo, Chiwan; Choi, Wonseok; Joung, Yeun-Ho

2015-01-01

The loss of urinary bladder control/sensation, also known as urinary incontinence (UI), is a common clinical problem in autistic children, diabetics, and the elderly. UI not only causes discomfort for patients but may also lead to kidney failure, infections, and even death. The increase of bladder urine volume/pressure above normal ranges without sensation of UI patients necessitates the need for bladder sensors. Currently, a catheter-based sensor is introduced directly through the urethra into the bladder to measure pressure variations. Unfortunately, this method is inaccurate because measurement is affected by disturbances in catheter lines as well as delays in response time owing to the inertia of urine inside the bladder. Moreover, this technique can cause infection during prolonged use; hence, it is only suitable for short-term measurement. Development of discrete wireless implantable sensors to measure bladder volume/pressure would allow for long-term monitoring within the bladder, while maintaining the patient’s quality of life. With the recent advances in microfabrication, the size of implantable bladder sensors has been significantly reduced. However, microfabricated sensors face hostility from the bladder environment and require surgical intervention for implantation inside the bladder. Here, we explore the various types of implantable bladder sensors and current efforts to solve issues like hermeticity, biocompatibility, drift, telemetry, power, and compatibility issues with popular imaging tools such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. We also discuss some possible improvements/emerging trends in the design of an implantable bladder sensor. PMID:26620894

Fetal bladder catheterization in severe obstructive uropathy before the 24th week of pregnancy.

PubMed

Szaflik, K; Kozarzewski, M; Adamczewski, D

1998-01-01

Fetal obstructive uropathy is simple to diagnose before the 24th week of life. Drainage of the pathologically enlarged fetal bladder avoids development of hydronephrosis and destruction of kidneys and, obviously, prevents development of secondary oligohydramnios and pulmonary hypoplasia. The aim of our study was to evaluate the usefulness of a fetal bladder shunt in cases of obstructive uropathy before the 24th week of gestation. From January 1997 we diagnosed 6 cases of fetal obstructive uropathy before the 24th week of gestation. In all cases oligohydramnios or ahydramnios was also observed. After evaluation of the renal function on the basis of fetal urine samples, we shunted 5 fetuses. After routine preparation of the operative field, a special puncture needle was inserted through the abdominal wall of mother and fetus into the fetal bladder. Through the needle a fetal bladder catheter was inserted between the fetal bladder and the amniotic sac. After shunt placement, fetal urine fills the amniotic sac and the fetal bladder is decompressed. After the procedure, the patients were hospitalized and serial sonographic examinations were performed to evaluate shunt function. Bladder size, presence and size of hydronephrosis, and volume of amniotic fluid were evaluated. The Rocket Medical catheters have an excellent 'shape memory'. All but 1 newborns had a good perinatal outcome. Mean Apgar score was 8 at 1 min, weight at delivery was between 1,700 and 3,100 g. No pulmonary hypoplasia was observed. All deliveries were after the 33rd week of gestation (range 33-38 weeks). The minimum drainage time was 11 weeks, maximum 18 weeks. In 2 cases premature delivery occurred because of premature rupture of the membranes. One newborn died of respiratory distress syndrome. Early bladder drainage (before the 24th week of gestation) enables delivery of newborns with a good perinatal outcome, without pulmonary hypoplasia. This method of therapy limits renal damage and allows time

What are the origins and relevance of spontaneous bladder contractions? ICI-RS 2017.

PubMed

Drake, Marcus J; Fry, Christopher H; Hashitani, Hikaru; Kirschner-Hermanns, Ruth; Rahnama'i, Mohammad S; Speich, John E; Tomoe, Hikaru; Kanai, Anthony J; McCloskey, Karen D

2018-01-23

Storage phase bladder activity is a counter-intuitive observation of spontaneous contractions. They are potentially an intrinsic feature of the smooth muscle, but interstitial cells in the mucosa and the detrusor itself, as well as other muscular elements in the mucosa may substantially influence them. They are identified in several models explaining lower urinary tract dysfunction. A consensus meeting at the International Consultation on Incontinence Research Society (ICI-RS) 2017 congress considered the origins and relevance of spontaneous bladder contractions by debating which cell type(s) modulate bladder spontaneous activity, whether the methodologies are sufficiently robust, and implications for healthy and abnormal lower urinary tract function. The identified research priorities reflect a wide range of unknown aspects. Cellular contributions to spontaneous contractions in detrusor smooth muscle are still uncertain. Accordingly, insight into the cellular physiology of the bladder wall, particularly smooth muscle cells, interstitial cells, and urothelium, remains important. Upstream influences, such as innervation, endocrine, and paracrine factors, are particularly important. The cellular interactions represent the key understanding to derive the integrative physiology of organ function, notably the nature of signalling between mucosa and detrusor layers. Indeed, it is still not clear to what extent spontaneous contractions generated in isolated preparations mirror their normal and pathological counterparts in the intact bladder. Improved models of how spontaneous contractions influence pressure generation and sensory nerve function are also needed. Deriving approaches to robust evaluation of spontaneous contractions and their influences for experimental and clinical use could yield considerable progress in functional urology. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Multimodal, 3D pathology-mimicking bladder phantom for evaluation of cystoscopic technologies (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, Gennifer T.; Lurie, Kristen L.; Zlatev, Dimitar V.; Liao, Joseph C.; Ellerbee, Audrey K.

2016-02-01

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) and blue light cystoscopy (BLC) have shown significant potential as complementary technologies to traditional white light cystoscopy (WLC) for early bladder cancer detection. Three-dimensional (3D) organ-mimicking phantoms provide realistic imaging environments for testing new technology designs, the diagnostic potential of systems, and novel image processing algorithms prior to validation in real tissue. Importantly, the phantom should mimic features of healthy and diseased tissue as they appear under WLC, BLC, and OCT, which are sensitive to tissue color and structure, fluorescent contrast, and optical scattering of subsurface layers, respectively. We present a phantom posing the hollow shape of the bladder and fabricated using a combination of 3D-printing and spray-coating with Dragon Skin (DS) (Smooth-On Inc.), a highly elastic polymer to mimic the layered structure of the bladder. Optical scattering of DS was tuned by addition of titanium dioxide, resulting in scattering coefficients sufficient to cover the human bladder range (0.49 to 2.0 mm^-1). Mucosal vasculature and tissue coloration were mimicked with elastic cord and red dye, respectively. Urethral access was provided through a small hole excised from the base of the phantom. Inserted features of bladder pathology included altered tissue color (WLC), fluorescence emission (BLC), and variations in layered structure (OCT). The phantom surface and underlying material were assessed on the basis of elasticity, optical scattering, layer thicknesses, and qualitative image appearance. WLC, BLC, and OCT images of normal and cancerous features in the phantom qualitatively matched corresponding images from human bladders.

Bladder Cancer—Health Professional Version

Cancer.gov

Transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder can be low-grade or high-grade. Bladder cancer is also divided into muscle-invasive and nonmuscle-invasive disease. Find evidence-based information on bladder cancer including treatment, screening, research, and statistics.

Bladder cancer: overview and disease management. Part 1: non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer.

PubMed

Anderson, Beverley

2018-05-10

Part 1 of this two-part article provides an overview of bladder cancer and discusses its management. Since publication of a previous article entitled 'Understanding the role of smoking in the aetiology of bladder cancer' ( Anderson, 2009 ), the author has received many requests for an update. This article provides an overview of bladder cancer and its current management practices, underlining the continued role of smoking as the predominant risk factor in the disease's development. The management of bladder cancer is governed by specific guidelines. Management of non-muscle-invasive cancers, including surgical intervention with transurethral resection, and intravesical therapy using chemotherapy and immunotherapy agents, is discussed. Cystectomy (removal of the bladder), is sometimes necessary. Treatments are effective in reducing tumour recurrence, but the effects of the risks and side-effects on the individual's quality of life can be significant. The prevalence of bladder cancer, and the nature of its management make this cancer one of the most expensive for the NHS to treat. The effectiveness of health promotional strategies in increasing peoples' awareness of their risk of developing the disease, and in enabling them to change long-term health behaviours is discussed. The role of the multidisciplinary team is explored, along with that of the uro-oncology cancer nurse specialist. Part 2 will consider the management of muscle-invasive and metastatic bladder cancer.

Innovation in Bladder Cancer Immunotherapy.

PubMed

Grossman, H Barton; Lamm, Donald L; Kamat, Ashish M; Keefe, Stephen; Taylor, John A; Ingersoll, Molly A

2016-10-01

Bladder cancer is understudied despite its high prevalence and its remarkable response to immunotherapy. Indeed, funding for studies to explore mechanisms of tumor immunity and novel new therapeutics is disproportionately lower for bladder cancer in comparison with malignancies of the breast, prostate, or lung. However, the recent successes of checkpoint blockade therapy suggest that new therapeutic strategies are on the horizon for bladder cancer. Here, we give a perspective into the evolution of bladder cancer therapy, focusing on strategies to treat high-risk nonmuscle invasive disease, followed by a discussion of recent advances in the treatment of muscle invasive bladder cancer and their potential applicability to lower stage disease. Finally, we explore immunotherapeutic strategies, which have been demonstrated to be successful in the treatment of other malignancies, for their potential to treat and cure patients with nonmuscle and muscle invasive bladder cancer.

Feeling Wall Tension in an Interactive Demonstration of Laplace's Law

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Letic, Milorad

2012-01-01

Laplace's Law plays a major role in explanations of the wall tension of structures like blood vessels, the bladder, the uterus in pregnancy, bronchioles, eyeballs, and the behavior of aneurisms or the enlarged heart. The general relation of Laplace's law, expressing that the product of the radius of curvature (r) and pressure (P) is equal to wall…

Ketamine-induced bladder fibrosis involves epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition mediated by transforming growth factor-β1.

PubMed

Wang, Junpeng; Chen, Yang; Gu, Di; Zhang, Guihao; Chen, Jiawei; Zhao, Jie; Wu, Peng

2017-10-01

Bladder wall fibrosis is a major complication of ketamine-induced cystitis (KC), but the underlying pathogenesis is poorly understood. The aim of the present study was to elucidate the mechanism of ketamine-induced fibrosis in association with epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) mediated by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly distributed into four groups, which received saline, ketamine, ketamine combined with a TGF-β receptor inhibitor (SB-505124) for 16 wk, or 12 wk of ketamine and 4 wk of abstinence. In addition, the profibrotic effect of ketamine was confirmed in SV-40 immortalized human uroepithelial (SV-HUC-1) cells. The ketamine-treated rats displayed voiding dysfunction and decreased bladder compliance. Bladder fibrosis was accompanied by the appearance of a certain number of cells expressing both epithelial and mesenchymal markers, indicating that epithelial cells might undergo EMT upon ketamine administration. Meanwhile, the expression level of TGF-β1 was significantly upregulated in the urothelium of bladders in ketamine-treated rats. Treatment of SV-HUC-1 cells with ketamine increased the expression of TGF-β1 and EMT-inducing transcription factors, resulting in the downregulation of E-cadherin and upregulation of fibronectin and α-smooth muscle actin. Administration of SB-505124 inhibited EMT and fibrosis both in vitro and vivo. In addition, withdrawal from ketamine did not lead to recovery of bladder urinary function or decreased fibrosis. Taken together, our study shows for the first time that EMT might contribute to bladder fibrosis in KC. TGF-β1 may have an important role in bladder fibrogenesis via an EMT mechanism. Copyright © 2017 the American Physiological Society.

Measurement of wall thickness alone does not accurately assess the presence of left ventricular hypertrophy.

PubMed

Leibowitz, David; Planer, David; Ben-Ibgi, Fanny; Rott, David; Weiss, A Teddy; Bursztyn, Michael

2007-02-01

Clinical echocardiographic assessment of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is generally performed by measuring wall thickness alone (WT). The objective of this study was to compare the assessment of LVH using the measurement of WT to that using indexed LV mass. Hypertensive patients underwent echocardiography with the measurement of LV WT and LV mass. For each patient, the presence of LVH was assessed by both methods with WT compared to the gold standard of LV mass index. In all, 92 patients (51M/41F) were entered, and in only 55 patients (60%) were the two methods concordant. There was a tendency for WT to underestimate LVH in females (sensitivity 37%, specificity 79%) and overestimate LVH in males (sensitivity 88%, specificity 56%). The measurement of WT alone overestimates LVH in males and underestimates LVH in females and should not be used as a surrogate marker for increased LV mass.

The effect of bladder outlet obstruction on tissue oxygen tension and blood flow in the pig bladder.

PubMed

Greenland, J E; Hvistendahl, J J; Andersen, H; Jörgensen, T M; McMurray, G; Cortina-Borja, M; Brading, A F; Frøkiaer, J

2000-06-01

To investigate the effect of partial bladder outlet obstruction on detrusor blood flow and oxygen tension (PdetO2) in female pigs. Detrusor-layer oxygen tension and blood flow were measured using oxygen-sensitive electrode and radiolabelled microsphere techniques in five female Large White pigs with a partial urethral obstruction and in five sham-operated controls. The effects of chronic outlet obstruction on bladder weight, and cholinergic nerve density and distribution, are also described. In the obstructed bladders, blood flow and oxygen tension were, respectively, 54.9% and 74.3% of control values at low bladder volume, and 47.5% and 42.5% at cystometric capacity. Detrusor blood flow declined by 27.8% and 37.5% in the control and obstructed bladders, respectively, as a result of bladder filling, whilst PdetO2 did not decrease in the controls, but fell by 42.7% in the obstructed bladders. Bladder weight increased whilst cholinergic nerve density decreased in the obstructed animals. In pigs with chronic bladder outlet obstruction, blood flow and oxygen tension in the detrusor layer were lower than in control animals. In addition, increasing detrusor pressure during filling caused significantly greater decreases in blood flow and oxygen tension in the obstructed than in the control bladders.

Bladder cancer.

PubMed

Patton, Suzanne E; Hall, M Craig; Ozen, Haluk

2002-05-01

Bladder cancer is a common and chemotherapy-responsive tumor, related to tobacco smoking, environmental arsenic exposure, industrial dye exposure, and parasitic schistosomiasis exposure. Both reduction of carcinogen exposure and chemoprevention, possibly with cyclooxygenase 2 inhibitors, should reduce the incidence. The search for the ideal screening and monitoring test continues with some promising new candidates, including survivin. Although 10-year survival can be achieved in 87% of early-stage patients with muscle-invasive disease rendered T(0) and 57% of those rendered T(1) at second look after transurethral resection bladder tumor, most still require radical cystectomy. Continued improvements in surgical techniques permit gains in quality of life after the procedure. Ten-year survival can still be achieved with cystectomy in the face of grossly positive lymph nodes in 32% of T(2) and 10% of T(3) patients. A recent meta-analysis indicates that preoperative irradiation is unlikely to be beneficial, but definitive chemoradiation can produce significant 5-year survival rates in nonoperative candidates and those desiring bladder preservation. The Intergroup now has preliminary data from a Southwest Oncology Group-based trial showing a significant benefit for neoadjuvant methotrexate, vinblastine, doxorubicin, and cisplatin. The regimen of gemcitabine and cisplatin is equally efficacious with less toxicity than methotrexate, vinblastine, doxorubicin, and cisplatin. It has been adopted as the standard arm in a phase III trial for advanced bladder cancer, comparing it with the triplet of gemcitabine, paclitaxel, and cisplatin. Other active agents in bladder cancer include ifosfamide, carboplatin, docetaxel, and vinorelbine, and various doublets of these agents are being tested in phase II trials, with promising results.

Bladder calculi in the augmented bladder: a follow-up study of 160 children and adolescents.

PubMed

Kisku, S; Sen, S; Karl, S; Mathai, J; Thomas, R J; Barla, R

2015-04-01

Bladder augmentation (BA) has been used for various congenital and acquired conditions to create a low pressure, continent catheterizable reservoir. The prevalence of calculi within the BA have been reported to be from 3 to 52.5%. The present study reports the prevalence and risk factors of bladder calculi in patients with BA. A retrospective review of 160 patients was performed from January 1997 through December 2012. The various risk factors for the formation of bladder calculi such as the nature of the anatomical defect, presence of preoperative urinary calculi, type of bowel augmentation, addition of a mitrofanoff and/or bladder neck procedure, prevalence of post-operative urinary tract infections (UTIs), need for mitrofanoff revision due to stenosis/difficulty catheterization, postoperative significant hydronephrosis and bladder calculi were recorded for analysis. The children underwent open removal or endoscopic cystolithotripsy. One hundred and eight males and 52 females (average age 6.3 years) were followed up for a median of 70.5 months. All patients performed daily bladder irrigation with tap or drinking water. Post-operative bladder calculi were noted in 14 (8.8%) of 160 patients following BA. Median time to stone formation was 37.5 months (11-120 months). Recurrent febrile UTIs were noted in 16 of the 160 patients following BA. The various risk factors and their outcomes are summarized in table. Eight patients underwent open cystolithotomy and four patients were treated by cystolithotripsy. Post-operative recurrent bladder calculi were noted in 2 patients. Multivariate analysis revealed that exstrophy/epispadias (OR 17.2) and recurrent UTI (OR 55.4) were independent risk factors for developing postoperative calculi in bladder augmentations. All other risk factors did not achieve statistical significance. There seemed to be no difference in the prevalence of calculi in the ileal or colonic augmentations. Mucus secreted by the bowel segment blocks

Attenuation of radiation from distributed gamma sources as a function of wall thickness of a concrete blockhouse

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

Schmoke, M. A.; Rexroad, R. E.; Tiller, H. J.

1963-06-15

The experiment described constitutes part of the shielding program conducted by Army Nuclear Defense Laboratory and was designed to experimentally verify theoretical calculations used to predict the amount of radiation protection afforded by above-ground structures in a fallout radiation field. This method requires the knowledge of some physical parameters of a structure such as mass thickness of the walls and the geometric orientation of the detectors within the structure. From this information, a reduction factor for any given structure may be calculated. This Laboratory's experimental program was initially begun by measuring the attenuation of a simple structure with no complicatingmore » internal or external geometries and will proceed to more complex structures with basements, interior partitions, and upper floors. (auth)« less

In vivo optical coherence tomography in endoscopic diagnostics of bladder disease

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Daniltchenko, Dmitri; Lankenau, Eva; Konig, Frank; Shay, Brian; Huettmann, Gereon; Sachs, Markus D.; Schnorr, Dietmar; Loening, Stefan A.

2004-07-01

Purpose: OCT is a new imaging method which produces a 3 mm wide x 2.5 mm deep 2D picture with a resolution of 15 μm. Materials and Methods: We utilised the Tomograph Sirius 713, developed at the Medical Laser Centre in cooperation with 4-Optics AG, Lubeck, Germany. This apparatus uses a special Super-Luminescence-Diode (SLD) that produces light within the near infrared wavelength, with a central wavelength of 1300 nm and spectral width of 45 nm. The coherence length is reduced to 15 μm. The light is introduced into a fibreglass optic which is a couple of meters long and is easy to handle. To measure the depth of invasion and position of urothelial bladder tumours, the fibreglass optic is attached to a regular endoscope (Wolf, Knittlingen, Germany) via a OCT adapter. That way, in parallel to the regular endoscopic view of the bladder mucosa with or without pathologic findings, an OCT picture of the superficial as well as the deeper muscle layers is visible online. OCT was used to obtaine 275 images from the bladder of 30 patients. Results: OCT of normal bladder mucosa produces an image with a cross section of up to 2.5 mm. It is possible to distinguish transitional epithelium, lamina propria, smooth muscles and capillaries. In cystitis the thickness of the mucosa is constant, but the distinction between the different layers is blurred. In squamous metaplasia there is thickening of the epithelial layer, with preservation of lamination of the lower layers. In transitional cell carcinoma there is a complete loss of the regular layered structure. Thus, the border between tumour and normal bladder tissue can be easily distinguished. Conclusions: This method can provide valuable information on tumour invasion and extension in real time and therefore influence therapeutic strategies

The Other Bladder Syndrome: Underactive Bladder

PubMed Central

Miyazato, Minoru; Yoshimura, Naoki; Chancellor, Michael B

2013-01-01

Detrusor underactivity, or underactive bladder (UAB), is defined as a contraction of reduced strength and/or duration resulting in prolonged bladder emptying and/or a failure to achieve complete bladder emptying within a normal time span. UAB can be observed in many neurologic conditions and myogenic failure. Diabetic cystopathy is the most important and inevitable disease developing from UAB, and can occur silently and early in the disease course. Careful neurologic and urodynamic examinations are necessary for the diagnosis of UAB. Proper management is focused on prevention of upper tract damage, avoidance of overdistension, and reduction of residual urine. Scheduled voiding, double voiding, al-blockers, and intermittent self-catheterization are the typical conservative treatment options. Sacral nerve stimulation may be an effective treatment option for UAB. New concepts such as stem cell therapy and neurotrophic gene therapy are being explored. Other new agents for UAB that act on prostaglandin E2 and EP2 receptors are currently under development. The pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries that have a pipeline in urology and women’s health may want to consider UAB as a potential target condition. Scientific counsel and review of the current pharmaceutical portfolio may uncover agents, including those in other therapeutic fields, that may benefit the management of UAB. PMID:23671401

Receptors involved in the modulation of guinea pig urinary bladder motility by prostaglandin D2

PubMed Central

Guan, Na N; Svennersten, Karl; de Verdier, Petra J; Wiklund, N Peter; Gustafsson, Lars E

2015-01-01

Background and Purpose We have described a urothelium-dependent release of PGD2-like activity which had inhibitory effects on the motility of guinea pig urinary bladder. Here, we have pharmacologically characterized the receptors involved and localized the sites of PGD2 formation and of its receptors. Experimental Approach In the presence of selective DP and TP receptor antagonists alone or combined, PGD2 was applied to urothelium-denuded diclofenac-treated urinary bladder strips mounted in organ baths. Antibodies against PGD2 synthase and DP1 receptors were used with Western blots and for histochemistry. Key Results PGD2 inhibited nerve stimulation -induced contractions in strips of guinea pig urinary bladder with estimated pIC50 of 7.55 ± 0.15 (n = 13), an effect blocked by the DP1 receptor antagonist BW-A868C. After blockade of DP1 receptors, PGD2 enhanced the contractions, an effect abolished by the TP receptor antagonist SQ-29548. Histochemistry revealed strong immunoreactivity for PGD synthase in the urothelium/suburothelium with strongest reaction in the suburothelium. Immunoreactive DP1 receptors were found in the smooth muscle of the bladder wall with a dominant localization to smooth muscle membranes. Conclusions and Implications In guinea pig urinary bladder, the main effect of PGD2 is an inhibitory action via DP1 receptors localized to the smooth muscle, but an excitatory effect via TP receptors can also be evoked. The urothelium with its suburothelium might signal to the smooth muscle which is rich in PGD2 receptors of the DP1 type. The results are important for our understanding of regulation of bladder motility. PMID:25917171

The effect of rectal distension on bladder function in patients with overactive bladder.

PubMed

Akl, Mohamed N; Jacob, Kristina; Klauschie, Jennifer; Crowell, Michael D; Kho, Rosanne M; Cornella, Jeffrey L

2012-04-01

To investigate the effect of rectal distension on bladder sensation volumes and the number of detrusor contractions in patients with overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms. A prospective randomized study included patients with OAB symptoms. Multichannel urodynamic studies were completed with and without rectal balloon distension. Bladder sensation volumes and detrusor contractions were compared. Twenty-six patients were included in the study. The mean age was 67 years and mean BMI was 28.3 kg/m(2) . Bladder sensation volumes were lower with rectal distention as follows: normal desire to void (139 ml SD, ±114 vs. 197 ml SD ±150, P = 0.01), strong desire to void (260 ml SD ±171 vs. 330 ml SD ±172, P = 0.01), and maximum cystometric capacity (326 ml SD ±183 vs. 403 ml SD ±180, P = 0.0001). There was no difference in the number of detrusor contractions or the bladder volume at which the first detrusor contraction had occurred with and without rectal distension. Rectal distention in patients with OAB symptoms significantly lowered bladder sensation volumes (normal desire, strong desire, and maximal capacity). Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Updated results of bladder-sparing trimodality approach for invasive bladder cancer.

PubMed

Zapatero, Almudena; Martin de Vidales, Carmen; Arellano, Ramón; Bocardo, Gloria; Pérez, Mar; Ríos, Patricia

2010-01-01

To update long-term results with selective organ preservation in invasive bladder cancer using aggressive transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) and radiochemotherapy (RCT) and to identify treatment factors that may predict overall survival (OS). Between 1990 and 2007, a total of 74 patients with T2-T4 bladder cancer were enrolled in 2 sequential bladder-sparing protocols including aggressive TURB and RCT. From 1990 to 1999, 41 patients were included in protocol no. 1 (P1) that consisted of three cycles of neoadjuvant methotrexate, cisplatin, and vinblastine (MCV) chemotherapy prior to re-evaluation and followed by radiotherapy (RT) 60 Gy in complete responders. Between 2000 and 2007, 33 patients were entered in protocol no. 2 (P2) that consisted of concurrent RCT 64, 8 Gy with weekly cisplatin. In case of invasive residual tumor or recurrence, salvage cystectomy was recommended. Primary endpoints were OS, overall survival with bladder preservation (OSB), and late toxicity. The mean follow-up for the whole series was 54 months (range 9-156), 69 months for patients in P1 and 36 months for patients in P2. The actuarial 5-year OS and OSB for all series were 72% and 60%, respectively. Distant metastases were diagnosed in 11 (15%) patients. Grade 3 late genitourinary (GU) and intestinal (GI) complications were 5% and 1.3%, respectively. There were no significant differences in the incidence of superficial recurrences (P = 0.080), muscle-invasive relapses (P = 0.722), distant metastasis (P = 0.744), grade >/=2 late complications (P = 0.217 for GU and P = 0.400 for GI), and death among the 2 protocols (P value for OS = 0.643; P value for OSB = 0.532). These data confirm that trimodality therapy with bladder preservation represents a real alternative to radical cystectomy in selected patients, resulting in an acceptable rate of the long-term survivors retaining functional bladders. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Photodynamic therapy of bladder cancer - a phase I study using hexaminolevulinate (HAL).

PubMed

Bader, M J; Stepp, Herbert; Beyer, Wolfgang; Pongratz, Thomas; Sroka, Ronald; Kriegmair, Martin; Zaak, Dirk; Welschof, Mona; Tilki, Derya; Stief, Christian G; Waidelich, Raphaela

2013-10-01

To assess the safety and feasibility of hexaminolevulinate (HAL) based photodynamic therapy (PDT) as adjuvant treatment after transurethral resection of the bladder (TURB) in patients with intermediate or high-risk urothelial cell carcinoma (UCC) of the bladder. Seventeen patients received 50 ml of either a 16 mM (4 patients) or 8 mM HAL (13 patients) solution instilled intravesically. Bladder wall irradiation was performed using an incoherent white light source coupled via a quartz fiber assembled into a flexible transurethral irrigation catheter. Each patient received 3 treatments with HAL-PDT 6 weeks apart. After PDT, patients were followed by regular cystoscopy for up to 21 months to assess time to recurrence. Reported adverse events (AEs) were coded according the World Health Organization Adverse Reaction Terminology (WHO-ART). Efficacy was assessed by cystoscopy, cytology, and histology, and was defined as the number of patients who were tumor-free at 6 or 21 months after initial PDT treatment. Transient bladder irritability was reported by 15 of the 17 patients and resolved completely in all patients. No evidence of a cumulative effect of treatment on the incidence of AEs could be detected. PDT treatment was performed without any technical complications. Furthermore preliminary assessment of efficacy showed that of the 17 patients included, 9 (52.9%; 95% CI: 27.8-77.0) were tumor-free at 6 months, 4 (23.5%; 95% CI: 6.8-49.9) were tumor-free at 9 months, and 2 (11.8%, 95% CI: 1.5-36.4) were tumor-free after 21 months. PDT using hexaminolevulinate and an incoherent white light system with the special flexible irradiation catheter system is technically feasible and safe and may offer an alternative in the treatment of non-muscle-invasive intermediate and high-risk bladder cancer. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Human Uterine Wall Tension Trajectories and the Onset of Parturition

PubMed Central

Sokolowski, Peter; Saison, Francis; Giles, Warwick; McGrath, Shaun; Smith, David; Smith, Julia; Smith, Roger

2010-01-01

Uterine wall tension is thought to be an important determinant of the onset of labor in pregnant women. We characterize human uterine wall tension using ultrasound from the second trimester of pregnancy until parturition and compare preterm, term and twin pregnancies. A total of 320 pregnant women were followed from first antenatal visit to delivery during the period 2000–2004 at the John Hunter Hospital, NSW, Australia. The uterine wall thickness, length, anterior-posterior diameter and transverse diameter were determined by serial ultrasounds. Subjects were divided into three groups: women with singleton pregnancies and spontaneous labor onset, either preterm or term and women with twin pregnancies. Intrauterine pressure results from the literature were combined with our data to form trajectories for uterine wall thickness, volume and tension for each woman using the prolate ellipsoid method and the groups were compared at 20, 25 and 30 weeks gestation. Uterine wall tension followed an exponential curve, with results increasing throughout pregnancy with the site of maximum tension on the anterior wall. For those delivering preterm, uterine wall thickness was increased compared with term. For twin pregnancies intrauterine volume was increased compared to singletons (), but wall thickness was not. There was no evidence for increased tension in those delivering preterm or those with twin gestations. These data are not consistent with a role for high uterine wall tension as a causal factor in preterm spontaneous labor in singleton or twin gestations. It seems likely that hormonal differences in multiple gestations are responsible for increased rates of preterm birth in this group rather than increased tension. PMID:20585649

SU-E-J-214: Comparative Assessment On IGRT On Partial Bladder Cancer Treatment Between CT-On-Rails (CTOR) and KV Cone Beam CT (CBCT)

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

Lin, T; Ma, C

2014-06-01

Purpose: Image-Guided radiation therapy(IGRT) depends on reliable online patient-specific anatomy information to address random and progressive anatomy changes. Large margins have been suggested to bladder cancer treatment due to large daily bladder anatomy variation. KV Cone beam CT(CBCT) has been used in IGRT localization prevalently; however, its lack of soft tissue contrast makes clinicians hesitate to perform daily soft tissue alignment with CBCT for partial bladder cancer treatment. This study compares the localization uncertainties of bladder cancer IGRT using CTon- Rails(CTOR) and CBCT. Methods: Three T2N0M0 bladder cancer patients (total of 66 Gy to partial bladder alone) were localized dailymore » with either CTOR or CBCT for their entire treatment course. A total of 71 sets of CTOR and 22 sets of CBCT images were acquired and registered with original planning CT scans by radiation therapists and approved by radiation oncologists for the daily treatment. CTOR scanning entailed 2mm slice thickness, 0.98mm axial voxel size, 120kVp and 240mAs. CBCT used a half fan pelvis protocol from Varian OBI system with 2mm slice thickness, 0.98axial voxel size, 125kVp, and 680mAs. Daily localization distribution was compared. Accuracy of CTOR and CBCT on partial bladder alignment was also evaluated by comparing bladder PTV coverage. Results: 1cm all around PTV margins were used in every patient except target superior limit margin to 0mm due to bowel constraint. Daily shifts on CTOR averaged to 0.48, 0.24, 0.19 mms(SI,Lat,AP directions); CBCT averaged to 0.43, 0.09, 0.19 mms(SI,Lat,AP directions). The CTOR daily localization showed superior results of V100% of PTV(102% CTOR vs. 89% CBCT) and bowel(Dmax 69.5Gy vs. 78Gy CBCT). CTOR images showed much higher contrast on bladder PTV alignment. Conclusion: CTOR daily localization for IGRT is more dosimetrically beneficial for partial bladder cancer treatment than kV CBCT localization and provided better soft tissue PTV

HAMLET treatment delays bladder cancer development.

PubMed

Mossberg, Ann-Kristin; Hou, Yuchuan; Svensson, Majlis; Holmqvist, Bo; Svanborg, Catharina

2010-04-01

HAMLET is a protein-lipid complex that kills different types of cancer cells. Recently we observed a rapid reduction in human bladder cancer size after intravesical HAMLET treatment. In this study we evaluated the therapeutic effect of HAMLET in the mouse MB49 bladder carcinoma model. Bladder tumors were established by intravesical injection of MB49 cells into poly L-lysine treated bladders of C57BL/6 mice. Treatment groups received repeat intravesical HAMLET instillations and controls received alpha-lactalbumin or phosphate buffer. Effects of HAMLET on tumor size and putative apoptotic effects were analyzed in bladder tissue sections. Whole body imaging was used to study HAMLET distribution in tumor bearing mice compared to healthy bladder tissue. HAMLET caused a dose dependent decrease in MB49 cell viability in vitro. Five intravesical HAMLET instillations significantly decreased tumor size and delayed development in vivo compared to controls. TUNEL staining revealed selective apoptotic effects in tumor areas but not in adjacent healthy bladder tissue. On in vivo imaging Alexa-HAMLET was retained for more than 24 hours in the bladder of tumor bearing mice but not in tumor-free bladders or in tumor bearing mice that received Alexa-alpha-lactalbumin. Results show that HAMLET is active as a tumoricidal agent and suggest that topical HAMLET administration may delay bladder cancer development. Copyright (c) 2010 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Researchers studying alternative to bladder removal for bladder cancer patients | Center for Cancer Research

Cancer.gov

A new phase I clinical trial conducted by researchers at the Center for Cancer Research (CCR) is evaluating the safety and tolerability, or the degree to which any side effects can be tolerated by patients, of a two-drug combination as a potential alternative to bladder removal for bladder cancer patients. The trial targets patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer

Inguinoscrotal hernia containing the urinary bladder successfully repaired using laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal repair technique: A case report.

PubMed

Tazaki, Tatsuya; Sasaki, Masaru; Kohyama, Mohei; Sugiyama, Yoichi; Uegami, Shinnosuke; Shintakuya, Ryuta; Imamura, Yuji; Nakamitsu, Atsushi

2018-05-23

We report herein a patient with an inguinoscrotal hernia containing the urinary bladder. The hernia was safely repaired using the laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal repair technique. A 76-year-old man was admitted to our hospital with abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. His scrotum was swollen to fist size. Abdominal CT showed herniation of the sigmoid colon and the bladder into the right inguinal region, and his abdominal pain was attributed to incarceration of the sigmoid colon; this was manually reduced. About 1 month later, we performed transabdominal preperitoneal repair. After the direct hernial orifice was identified, the bladder was noted to be sliding from the medial side of the hernia; this was reduced. Peeling on the medial side was carried out to the middle of the abdominal wall, and the myopectineal orifice was covered with mesh. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 1. © 2018 Japan Society for Endoscopic Surgery, Asia Endosurgery Task Force and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.

Estrogen replacement avoids the decrease of bladder innervations in ovariectomized adult virgin rats: in vivo stereological study.

PubMed

de Fraga, Rogerio; Palma, Paulo; Dambros, Miriam; Riccetto, Cassio L Z; Mandarim-de-Lacerda, Carlos; Miyaoka, Ricardo

2009-05-01

The authors quantified the nerve fibers in the bladder wall of ovariectomized rats with and without estradiol replacement. This study was conducted on 40 Wistar rats (3 months old). Group 1: remained intact; Group 2: underwent bilateral ovariectomy, and after 30 days was started on subcutaneous sesame oil replacement (0.2 ml per day) for 90 days; Group 3: sham-operated, and after 30 days was started on subcutaneous sesame oil replacement (0.2 ml per day) for 90 days; Group 4: bilateral ovariectomy, and after 30 days was started on subcutaneous injection of 17β-estradiol (10 μg/kg body weight) for 90 days. S-100 was used to stain nerves myelinized fibers on paraffin rat bladder sections. The G-50 grid system was used to quantitatively analyze the fibers. Long-term estrogen deprivation caused significant changes in bladder innervations, which can be characterized by a decreased number of nerve fibers by 65% (p < 0.001).

Urinary bladder segmentation in CT urography using deep-learning convolutional neural network and level sets

PubMed Central

Cha, Kenny H.; Hadjiiski, Lubomir; Samala, Ravi K.; Chan, Heang-Ping; Caoili, Elaine M.; Cohan, Richard H.

2016-01-01

Purpose: The authors are developing a computerized system for bladder segmentation in CT urography (CTU) as a critical component for computer-aided detection of bladder cancer. Methods: A deep-learning convolutional neural network (DL-CNN) was trained to distinguish between the inside and the outside of the bladder using 160 000 regions of interest (ROI) from CTU images. The trained DL-CNN was used to estimate the likelihood of an ROI being inside the bladder for ROIs centered at each voxel in a CTU case, resulting in a likelihood map. Thresholding and hole-filling were applied to the map to generate the initial contour for the bladder, which was then refined by 3D and 2D level sets. The segmentation performance was evaluated using 173 cases: 81 cases in the training set (42 lesions, 21 wall thickenings, and 18 normal bladders) and 92 cases in the test set (43 lesions, 36 wall thickenings, and 13 normal bladders). The computerized segmentation accuracy using the DL likelihood map was compared to that using a likelihood map generated by Haar features and a random forest classifier, and that using our previous conjoint level set analysis and segmentation system (CLASS) without using a likelihood map. All methods were evaluated relative to the 3D hand-segmented reference contours. Results: With DL-CNN-based likelihood map and level sets, the average volume intersection ratio, average percent volume error, average absolute volume error, average minimum distance, and the Jaccard index for the test set were 81.9% ± 12.1%, 10.2% ± 16.2%, 14.0% ± 13.0%, 3.6 ± 2.0 mm, and 76.2% ± 11.8%, respectively. With the Haar-feature-based likelihood map and level sets, the corresponding values were 74.3% ± 12.7%, 13.0% ± 22.3%, 20.5% ± 15.7%, 5.7 ± 2.6 mm, and 66.7% ± 12.6%, respectively. With our previous CLASS with local contour refinement (LCR) method, the corresponding values were 78.0% ± 14.7%, 16.5% ± 16.8%, 18.2% ± 15.0%, 3.8 ± 2.3 mm, and 73.9% ± 13

Duplex gall bladder: bystander or culprit.

PubMed

Kumar, Jogender; Yadav, Arushi

2017-08-30

Gall bladder (GB) duplication is a rare anatomical malformation, which can be detected by preoperative imaging study. We present a case of duplex gall bladder in a 14-year-old boy who presented with abdominal pain. On ultrasound, he had right nephrolithiasis and duplex gall bladder. Duplex gall bladder was confirmed on MR cholangiopancreatography. There was a dilemma for surgical management of duplex gall bladder; however, he became asymptomatic after conservative treatment. Prophylactic surgery is not recommended for asymptomatic incidentally detected duplex gall bladder. Radiologists and paediatric surgeons should be sensitised about the exact anatomy of this entity. © 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.

Whole-Pelvis or Bladder-Only Chemoradiation for Lymph Node-Negative Invasive Bladder Cancer: Single-Institution Experience

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

Tunio, Mutahir A., E-mail: drmutahirtonio@hotmail.com; Hashmi, Altaf; Qayyum, Abdul

2012-03-01

Purpose: Whole-pelvis (WP) concurrent chemoradiation (CCRT) is the standard bladder preserving option for patients with invasive bladder cancer. The standard practice is to treat elective pelvic lymph nodes, so our aim was to evaluate whether bladder-only (BO) CCRT leads to results similar to those obtained by standard WP-CCRT. Methods and Materials: Patient eligibility included histopathologically proven muscle-invasive bladder cancer, lymph nodes negative (T2-T4, N-) by radiology, and maximal transurethral resection of bladder tumor with normal hematologic, renal, and liver functions. Between March 2005 and May 2006, 230 patients were accrued. Patients were randomly assigned to WP-CCRT (120 patients) and BO-CCRTmore » (110 patients). Data regarding the toxicity profile, compliance, initial complete response rates at 3 months, and occurrence of locoregional or distant failure were recorded. Results: With a median follow-up time of 5 years (range, 3-6), WP-CCRT was associated with a 5-year disease-free survival of 47.1% compared with 46.9% in patients treated with BO-CCRT (p = 0.5). The bladder preservation rates were 58.9% and 57.1% in WP-CCRT and BO-CCRT, respectively (p = 0.8), and the 5-year overall survival rates were 52.9% for WP-CCRT and 51% for BO-CCRT (p = 0.8). Conclusion: BO-CCRT showed similar rates of bladder preservation, disease-free survival, and overall survival rates as those of WP-CCRT. Smaller field sizes including bladder with 2-cm margins can be used as bladder preservation protocol for patients with muscle-invasive lymph node-negative bladder cancer to minimize the side effects of CCRT.« less

Pathobiology and Chemoprevention of Bladder Cancer

PubMed Central

Tanaka, Takuji; Miyazawa, Katsuhito; Tsukamoto, Tetsuya; Kuno, Toshiya; Suzuki, Koji

2011-01-01

Our understanding of the pathogenesis of bladder cancer has improved considerably over the past decade. Translating these novel pathobiological discoveries into therapies, prevention, or strategies to manage patients who are suspected to have or who have been diagnosed with bladder cancer is the ultimate goal. In particular, the chemoprevention of bladder cancer development is important, since urothelial cancer frequently recurs, even if the primary cancer is completely removed. The numerous alterations of both oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes that have been implicated in bladder carcinogenesis represent novel targets for therapy and prevention. In addition, knowledge about these genetic alterations will help provide a better understanding of the biological significance of preneoplastic lesions of bladder cancer. Animal models for investigating bladder cancer development and prevention can also be developed based on these alterations. This paper summarizes the results of recent preclinical and clinical chemoprevention studies and discusses screening for bladder cancer. PMID:21941546

Research on wall shear stress considering wall roughness when shear swirling flow vibration cementing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cui, Zhihua; Ai, Chi; Feng, Fuping

2017-01-01

When shear swirling flow vibration cementing, the casing is revolving periodically and eccentrically, which leads to the annulus fluid in turbulent swirling flow state. The wall shear stress is more than that in laminar flow field when conventional cementing. The paper mainly studied the wall shear stress distribution on the borehole wall when shear swirling flow vibration cementing based on the finite volume method. At the same time, the wall roughness affected and changed the turbulent flow near the borehole wall and the wall shear stress. Based on the wall function method, the paper established boundary conditions considering the wall roughness and derived the formula of the wall shear stress. The results showed that the wall roughness significantly increases the wall shear stress. However, the larger the wall roughness, the greater the thickness of mud cake, which weakening the cementing strength. Considering the effects in a comprehensive way, it is discovered that the particle size of solid phase in drilling fluid is about 0.1 mm to get better cementing quality.

Bladder function - neurological control

MedlinePlus Videos and Cool Tools

... with urine, sensory nerves send impulses to the brain indicating that the bladder is full. The sensory ... cord to relay this information. In turn, the brain sends impulses back to the bladder instructing the ...

Disulfide high mobility group box-1 causes bladder pain through bladder Toll-like receptor 4.

PubMed

Ma, Fei; Kouzoukas, Dimitrios E; Meyer-Siegler, Katherine L; Westlund, Karin N; Hunt, David E; Vera, Pedro L

2017-05-25

Bladder pain is a prominent symptom in several urological conditions (e.g. infection, painful bladder syndrome/interstitial cystitis, cancer). Understanding the mechanism of bladder pain is important, particularly when the pain is not accompanied by bladder pathology. Stimulation of protease activated receptor 4 (PAR4) in the urothelium results in bladder pain through release of urothelial high mobility group box-1 (HMGB1). HGMB1 has two functionally active redox states (disulfide and all-thiol) and it is not known which form elicits bladder pain. Therefore, we investigated whether intravesical administration of specific HMGB1 redox forms caused abdominal mechanical hypersensitivity, micturition changes, and bladder inflammation in female C57BL/6 mice 24 hours post-administration. Moreover, we determined which of the specific HMGB1 receptors, Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) or receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), mediate HMGB1-induced changes. Disulfide HMGB1 elicited abdominal mechanical hypersensitivity 24 hours after intravesical (5, 10, 20 μg/150 μl) instillation. In contrast, all-thiol HMGB1 did not produce abdominal mechanical hypersensitivity in any of the doses tested (1, 2, 5, 10, 20 μg/150 μl). Both HMGB1 redox forms caused micturition changes only at the highest dose tested (20 μg/150 μl) while eliciting mild bladder edema and reactive changes at all doses. We subsequently tested whether the effects of intravesical disulfide HMGB1 (10 μg/150 μl; a dose that did not produce inflammation) were prevented by systemic (i.p.) or local (intravesical) administration of either a TLR4 antagonist (TAK-242) or a RAGE antagonist (FPS-ZM1). Systemic administration of either TAK-242 (3 mg/kg) or FPS-ZM1 (10 mg/kg) prevented HMGB1 induced abdominal mechanical hypersensitivity while only intravesical TLR4 antagonist pretreatment (1.5 mg/ml; not RAGE) had this effect. The disulfide form of HMGB1 mediates bladder pain directly (not

Superficial bladder cancer.

PubMed Central

Hall, R. R.

1994-01-01

Bladder cancer is almost certainly a product of the industrial revolution and the cigarette smoking that has accompanied it. Exposure to a chemical bladder carcinogen such as beta naphthylamine, benzidine, or 4-diphenylaniline can be proved in only a small proportion of patients and only a handful obtain industrial diseases benefit after developing "Prescribed Industrial Disease C23." None the less, the continued use of known carcinogenic substances in British industry for many years after their identification, the wide range of industries with a known or suspected increased risk of bladder cancer, and our ignorance of the carcinogenic potential of many materials used in current manufacturing should be a cause for continuing concern. Images p912-a PMID:8173377

Rotational stabilization of the resistive wall modes in tokamaks with a ferritic wall

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

Pustovitov, V. D.; National Research Nuclear University “MEPhI,” Kashirskoe sh. 31, Moscow 115409; Yanovskiy, V. V.

The dynamics of the rotating resistive wall modes (RWMs) is analyzed in the presence of a uniform ferromagnetic resistive wall with μ{sup ^}≡μ/μ{sub 0}≤4 (μ is the wall magnetic permeability, and μ{sub 0} is the vacuum one). This mimics a possible arrangement in ITER with ferromagnetic steel in test blanket modules or in future experiments in JT-60SA tokamak [Y. Kamada, P. Barabaschi, S. Ishida, the JT-60SA Team, and JT-60SA Research Plan Contributors, Nucl. Fusion 53, 104010 (2013)]. The earlier studies predict that such a wall must provide a destabilizing influence on the plasma by reducing the beta limit and increasingmore » the growth rates, compared to the reference case with μ{sup ^}=1. This is true for the locked modes, but the presented results show that the mode rotation changes the tendency to the opposite. At μ{sup ^}>1, the rotational stabilization related to the energy sink in the wall becomes even stronger than at μ{sup ^}=1, and this “external” effect develops at lower rotation frequency, estimated as several kHz at realistic conditions. The study is based on the cylindrical dispersion relation valid for arbitrary growth rates and frequencies. This relation is solved numerically, and the solutions are compared with analytical dependences obtained for slow (s/d{sub w}≫1) and fast (s/d{sub w}≪1) “ferromagnetic” rotating RWMs, where s is the skin depth and d{sub w} is the wall thickness. It is found that the standard thin-wall modeling becomes progressively less reliable at larger μ{sup ^}, and the wall should be treated as magnetically thick. The analysis is performed assuming only a linear plasma response to external perturbations without constraints on the plasma current and pressure profiles.« less