scholarly journals Metasurface-Enhanced Antennas for Microwave Brain Imaging

Diagnostics ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (3) ◽  
pp. 424
Author(s):  
Eleonora Razzicchia ◽  
Pan Lu ◽  
Wei Guo ◽  
Olympia Karadima ◽  
Ioannis Sotiriou ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Haemorrhagic Stroke ◽  
Head Model ◽  
Imaging Method ◽  
Correct Treatment ◽  
Non Invasive ◽  
Detailed Simulation ◽  
Brain Stroke ◽  
Coupling Medium ◽  
Transmission And Reflection

Stroke is a very frequent disorder and one of the major leading causes of death and disability worldwide. Timely detection of stroke is essential in order to select and perform the correct treatment strategy. Thus, the use of an efficient imaging method for an early diagnosis of this syndrome could result in an increased survival’s rate. Nowadays, microwave imaging (MWI) for brain stroke detection and classification has attracted growing interest due to its non-invasive and non-ionising properties. In this paper, we present a feasibility study with the goal of enhancing MWI for stroke detection using metasurface (MTS) loaded antennas. In particular, three MTS-enhanced antennas integrated in different brain scanners are presented. For the first two antennas, which operate in a coupling medium, we show experimental measurements on an elliptical brain-mimicking gel phantom including cylindrical targets representing the bleeding in haemorrhagic stroke (h-stroke) and the not oxygenated tissue in ischaemic stroke (i-stroke). The reconstructed images and transmission and reflection parameter plots show that the MTS loadings improve the performance of our imaging prototype. Specifically, the signal transmitted across our head model is indeed increased by several dB‘s over the desired frequency range of 0.5–2.0 GHz, and an improvement in the quality of the reconstructed images is shown when the MTS is incorporated in the system. We also present a detailed simulation study on the performance of a new printed square monopole antenna (PSMA) operating in air, enhanced by a MTS superstrate loading. In particular, our previous developed brain scanner operating in an infinite lossy matching medium is compared to two tomographic systems operating in air: an 8-PSMA system and an 8-MTS-enhanced PSMA system. Our results show that our MTS superstrate enhances the antennas’ return loss by around 5 dB and increases the signal difference due to the presence of a blood-mimicking target up to 25 dB, which leads to more accurate reconstructions. In conclusion, MTS structures may be a significant hardware advancement towards the development of functional and ergonomic MWI scanners for stroke detection.

scholarly journals Carbon Dioxide Laser Vulvovaginal Rejuvenation: A Systematic Review

Cosmetics ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 8 (3) ◽  
pp. 56
Author(s):  
Tassahil Messas ◽  
Achraf Messas ◽  
George Kroumpouzos
Keyword(s):  
Carbon Dioxide ◽  
Systematic Review ◽  
Laser Therapy ◽  
Carbon Dioxide Laser ◽  
Invasive Treatment ◽  
Erbium:Yag Laser ◽  
Non Invasive ◽  
Level I ◽  
Carbon Dioxide Co2

Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) causes significant symptomatic aggravation that affects the quality of life (QoL). Vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA), the hallmark of GSM, is managed with topical non-hormonal therapy, including moisturizers and lubricants, and topical estrogen application. Patients not responding/being unsatisfied with previous local estrogen therapies are candidates for a noninvasive modality. Carbon dioxide (CO2) laser therapy, especially the fractionated type (FrCO2), has drawn considerable attention over the past two decades as a non-invasive treatment for GSM. This systematic review describes the accumulated evidence from 40 FrCO2 laser studies (3466 participants) in GSM/VVA. MEDLINE, Scopus and Cochrane databases were searched through April 2021. We analyze the effects of FrCO2 laser therapy on symptoms, sexual function, and QoL of patients with GSM/VVA. As shown in this review, FrCO2 laser therapy for GSM shows good efficacy and safety. This modality has the potential to advance female sexual wellness. Patient satisfaction was high in the studies included in this systematic review. However, there is a lack of level I evidence, and more randomized sham-controlled trials are required. Furthermore, several clinical questions, such as the number of sessions required that determine cost-effectiveness, should be addressed. Also, whether FrCO2 laser therapy may exert a synergistic effect with systemic and/or local hormonal/non-hormonal treatments, energy-based devices, and other modalities to treat GMS requires further investigation. Lastly, studies are required to compare FrCO2 laser therapy with other energy-based devices such as erbium:YAG laser and radiofrequency.

scholarly journals POS1388 ULTRASOUND FOR PANNICULITIS

2021 ◽  
Vol 80 (Suppl 1) ◽  
pp. 977.1-977
Author(s):  
A. Potapova ◽  
O. Egorova ◽  
O. Alekseeva ◽  
A. Volkov ◽  
S. Radenska-Lopovok
Keyword(s):  
Dynamic Range ◽  
Subcutaneous Fat ◽  
Diagnostic Value ◽  
High Energy ◽  
Contralateral Side ◽  
Imaging Method ◽  
Non Invasive ◽  
M 12

Background:Ultrasound (US) is a non-invasive and safe imaging method that allows in vivo differentiation of the morphological structures of subcutaneous fat (SCF) tissue in in normal and pathology.Objectives:Reveal features of ultrasound changes in SCF in panniculitis (Pn).Methods:57 patients (f – 45, m - 12) aged 18 - 67 years with an initial diagnosis of erythema nodosum and a disease duration of 3.6 ± 1.4 years were examined. In addition to the general clinical examination, a computed tomography of the chest organs and a pathomorphological examination of a skin biopsy from the site of the node were performed. Ultrasound was performed on a MyLabTwice apparatus (ESAOTE, Italy) using a multi-frequency linear transducer (10-18 MHz) with the PD technique, the parameters of which were adapted for recording low-speed flows (PRF 300-600 Hz, low filter, dynamic range - 20-40 dB), the presence of vascularization was assessed not only in the affected area, but also on the contralateral side using high-energy Doppler.Results:33 patients were diagnosed with septal Pn (SPn), 24 - lobular Pn (LPn). In all cases, the diagnosis was verified by histological examination. Ultrasound made it possible to assess the thickness, echoicity and vascularization of the SCF. In 35 patients, significant thickening of the SCF was revealed (as compared to the contralateral side), of which in 14 cases with SPn, in 21 - with LPn. Significant diffuse thickening of the SCF with the contralateral side was observed in 18 patients, incl. in 12 (66%) patients with LPn. Limited thickening was more typical for SPn (73%). A significant increase in the echoicity of the SCF was noted in all forms of Pn. A “lobular” echo pattern with an anechogenic environment was observed in 25 patients, of which 18 (72%) had LPn. An increase in vascularization compared to the contralateral side was recorded in 30 cases (SPn-17, LPn-13).Conclusion:The obtained preliminary results indicate the important role of ultrasound in assessing the depth and prevalence of the inflammatory process at Pn. To clarify the diagnostic value of this method, further studies are needed on a larger sample of patients.Disclosure of Interests:None declared

scholarly journals Levels of detail analysis of microwave scattering from human head models for brain stroke detection

PeerJ ◽  
2017 ◽  
Vol 5 ◽  
pp. e4061 ◽  
Author(s):  
Awais Munawar Qureshi ◽  
Zartasha Mustansar
Keyword(s):  
Scattering Problem ◽  
Human Head ◽  
Computational Time ◽  
Head Model ◽  
Microwave Scattering ◽  
Levels Of Detail ◽  
Realistic Head Model ◽  
Different Types ◽  
Brain Stroke ◽  
Brain Tissues

In this paper, we have presented a microwave scattering analysis from multiple human head models. This study incorporates different levels of detail in the human head models and its effect on microwave scattering phenomenon. Two levels of detail are taken into account; (i) Simplified ellipse shaped head model (ii) Anatomically realistic head model, implemented using 2-D geometry. In addition, heterogenic and frequency-dispersive behavior of the brain tissues has also been incorporated in our head models. It is identified during this study that the microwave scattering phenomenon changes significantly once the complexity of head model is increased by incorporating more details using magnetic resonance imaging database. It is also found out that the microwave scattering results match in both types of head model (i.e., geometrically simple and anatomically realistic), once the measurements are made in the structurally simplified regions. However, the results diverge considerably in the complex areas of brain due to the arbitrary shape interface of tissue layers in the anatomically realistic head model.After incorporating various levels of detail, the solution of subject microwave scattering problem and the measurement of transmitted and backscattered signals were obtained using finite element method. Mesh convergence analysis was also performed to achieve error free results with a minimum number of mesh elements and a lesser degree of freedom in the fast computational time. The results were promising and the E-Field values converged for both simple and complex geometrical models. However, the E-Field difference between both types of head model at the same reference point differentiated a lot in terms of magnitude. At complex location, a high difference value of 0.04236 V/m was measured compared to the simple location, where it turned out to be 0.00197 V/m. This study also contributes to provide a comparison analysis between the direct and iterative solvers so as to find out the solution of subject microwave scattering problem in a minimum computational time along with memory resources requirement.It is seen from this study that the microwave imaging may effectively be utilized for the detection, localization and differentiation of different types of brain stroke. The simulation results verified that the microwave imaging can be efficiently exploited to study the significant contrast between electric field values of the normal and abnormal brain tissues for the investigation of brain anomalies. In the end, a specific absorption rate analysis was carried out to compare the ionizing effects of microwave signals to different types of head model using a factor of safety for brain tissues. It is also suggested after careful study of various inversion methods in practice for microwave head imaging, that the contrast source inversion method may be more suitable and computationally efficient for such problems.

Measurement of cortical plate volume based on CBCT of frontal teeth in studies with retrusion and normality

2021 ◽  
pp. 17-21
Author(s):  
N. G. Meskhiya ◽  
I. S. Kopetskiy ◽  
I. A. Nikolskaya ◽  
D. A. Eremin ◽  
O. N. Kovaleva
Keyword(s):  
Orthodontic Treatment ◽  
Soft Tissues ◽  
Three Dimensions ◽  
Cone Beam ◽  
Cortical Plate ◽  
Imaging Method ◽  
New Approach ◽  
Accuracy Of Measurements ◽  
Bone Structures

Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) is the preferred imaging method for a comprehensive orthodontic examination. Thanks to the development of this technique, clinicians today can make most accurate measurements without fear of errors associated with projection distortion or localization of landmarks on radiographs. The quality of CBCT images gives to orthodontists the ability to analyze bone structures, teeth (even impacted teeth), and soft tissue in three dimensions. The accuracy of measurements of hard and soft tissues from CBCT images determines the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment planning. A fundamentally new approach has been proposed, which makes it possible to thoroughly study the bone tissue surrounding the tooth at the stages of planning orthodontic treatment. Аnalysis of radiation studies of patients with dentoalveolar anomalies was carried out to select the optimal treatment tactics and to control its effectiveness.

Non-Invasive Blood Glucose Monitoring by Means of near Infrared Spectroscopy: Methods for Improving the Reliability of the Calibration Models

1997 ◽  
Vol 20 (5) ◽  
pp. 285-290 ◽  
Author(s):  
U.A. Müller ◽  
B. Mertes ◽  
C. Fischbacher ◽  
K.U. Jageman ◽  
K. Danzer
Keyword(s):  
Blood Glucose ◽  
Near Infrared ◽  
Glucose Monitoring ◽  
Blood Glucose Monitoring ◽  
Least Squares Regression ◽  
Non Invasive ◽  
Infrared Reflection ◽  
Calibration Models ◽  
Infrared Reflection Spectroscopy

The feasibility of using near infrared reflection spectroscopy for non-invasive blood glucose monitoring is discussed. Spectra were obtained using a diode-array spectrometer with a fiberoptic measuring head with a wavelength ranging from 800 nm to 1350 nm. Calibration was performed using partial least-squares regression and radial basis function networks. The results of different methods used to evaluate the quality of the recorded spectra in order to improve the reliability of the calibration models, are presented.

scholarly journals Low-Intensity Electromagnetic Millimeter Waves for Pain Therapy

2006 ◽  
Vol 3 (2) ◽  
pp. 201-207 ◽  
Author(s):  
Taras I. Usichenko ◽  
Hardy Edinger ◽  
Vasyl V. Gizhko ◽  
Christian Lehmann ◽  
Michael Wendt ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Pain Relief ◽  
Methodological Quality ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Case Series ◽  
Treatment Method ◽  
Rapid Onset ◽  
Acupuncture Points ◽  
Non Invasive ◽  
Review Criteria

Millimeter wave therapy (MWT), a non-invasive complementary therapeutic technique is claimed to possess analgesic properties. We reviewed the clinical studies describing the pain-relief effect of MWT. Medline-based search according to review criteria and evaluation of methodological quality of the retrieved studies was performed. Of 13 studies, 9 of them were randomized controlled trials (RCTs), only three studies yielded more than 3 points on the Oxford scale of methodological quality of RCTs. MWT was reported to be effective in the treatment of headache, arthritic, neuropathic and acute postoperative pain. The rapid onset of pain relief during MWT lasting hours to days after, remote to the site of exposure (acupuncture points), was the most characteristic feature in MWT application for pain relief. The most commonly used parameters of MWT were the MW frequencies between 30 and 70 GHz and power density up to 10 mW cm−2. The promising results from pilot case series studies and small-size RCTs for analgesic/hypoalgesic effects of MWT should be verified in large-scale RCTs on the effectiveness of this treatment method.

scholarly journals Challenges and opportunities for monitoring wild Nile crocodiles with scute mark-recapture photography

Koedoe ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 60 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Bernard W.T. Coetzee ◽  
Sam M. Ferreira ◽  
Kristine Maciejewski
Keyword(s):  
Conservation Status ◽  
Field Conditions ◽  
High Turnover ◽  
Mark Recapture ◽  
Non Invasive ◽  
Open Population ◽  
Challenges And Opportunities ◽  
In Captivity ◽  
In The Wild

The global conservation status of Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) was last assessed in 1996. The species presents particular difficulty in monitoring because it can be cryptic, require expertise to handle, and caudal tail tags and transmitters are often lost. Some studies advocate mark-recapture techniques based on photograph identification of the unique scute markings of crocodile tails as a non-invasive means of monitoring their populations. Researchers developed this method with crocodiles in captivity. In this study, we test the technique under field conditions by monitoring crocodiles from 2015 to 2017 in the Sunset Dam in the Kruger National Park. Using a Cormack-Jolly-Seber open population model, we found that the dam may host 15–30 individuals, but that there is a high turnover of individuals and much uncertainty in model outputs. The dam’s population thus has high rates of immigration and emigration. The method proved challenging under field conditions, as there was bias in identifying scute markings consistently. The efficient use of the method requires an exceptional quality of photographic equipment. Animal crypsis, however, remains an issue. In this study, we discuss how to improve the mark-recapture photography methodology, especially to adapt the technique for citizen science initiatives.Conservation implications: Using scute mark-recapture photography presents challenges under field conditions. These challenges require innovative, practical and analytical solutions to successfully use the technique before monitoring programmes, aimed at ensuring the persistence of crocodiles in the wild, can be implemented.

scholarly journals Importance of Diagnostic Waxing in Oral Rehabilitation: Case Report

2020 ◽  
Vol 22 (2) ◽  
pp. 146-150
Author(s):  
Mariana Lima da Costa Valente ◽  
Marcela Silva Costa ◽  
Paulo Marcos Bérgamo ◽  
Denise Tornavoi de Castro
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Life ◽  
Treatment Plan ◽  
Dental Restoration ◽  
Oral Rehabilitation ◽  
Correct Treatment ◽  
Life Planning ◽  
End Of Treatment ◽  
Patient Reported ◽  
And Function

Currently, aesthetics, and especially the smile, adds considerable social value. In this way, patients suffering from dental loss wish that their rehabilitation be performed quickly and safely. The aim of oral rehabilitation is to restore masticatory, phonetic, aesthetic and quality of life to the patient. The diagnostic step is one of the most important and relevant steps in establishing a correct treatment plan and, in this way, it is possible to obtain excellent results. The present study aimed to demonstrate the importance of diagnostic waxing in oral rehabilitation. Patient sought treatment at the Dental Prosthesis Specialization Course at Odonto School, due to complaints associated with aesthetics and function. To improve their quality of life, planning of case was carried out through diagnostic waxing and a prosthetic solution was proposed. At the end of treatment and during the follow-up of the case, the patient reported satisfaction and significant improvement in quality of life. It can be concluded that the diagnostic waxing presents customized solutions offering, through a previous study, an effective clinical resolution to the patient. Keywords: Mouth Rehabilitation. Dental Restoration, Temporary. Dental Restoration, Temporary. Resumo Atualmente, a estética, e em especial o sorriso, agregam um valor social considerável. Dessa forma, ao sofrerem a perda dental, os pacientes desejam que sua reabilitação seja realizada de forma rápida e segura. A reabilitação oral tem como objetivo devolver ao paciente a eficiência mastigatória, fonética, estética e a qualidade de vida. A etapa diagnóstica constitui um dos passos mais importantes e relevantes no estabelecimento de um correto planejamento do tratamento e, desta forma, torna-se possível obter resultados de excelência. O presente estudo teve como objetivo demonstrar a importância do enceramento diagnóstico na reabilitação oral. Paciente procurou tratamento no Curso de Especialização em Prótese Dentária da Odonto School, devido a queixas associadas a estética e função. Para melhorar sua qualidade de vida, foi realizado o planejamento do caso por meio do enceramento diagnóstico e uma solução protética foi proposta. Ao final do tratamento e durante o acompanhamento do caso, a paciente relatou satisfação e melhora significativa na qualidade de vida. Pode-se concluir que o enceramento diagnóstico apresenta soluções personalizadas oferecendo, por meio de estudo prévio, uma resolução clínica efetiva ao paciente. Palavras-chave: Reabilitação Bucal. Restauração Dentária Temporária. Prótese Dentária Temporária.

scholarly journals FEATURES OF BRONCHIAL ASTHMA CONTROL AND COURSE IN CHILDREN WITH AN ALTERNATIVE ONSET OF THE DISEASE

2020 ◽  
Vol 8 (4) ◽  
pp. 383-392
Author(s):  
О.К. Koloskova ◽  
Т.М. Bilous ◽  
N.O. Shevchenko ◽  
V.V. Bilous
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Life ◽  
Respiratory Tract ◽  
Medical Care ◽  
Asthma Control ◽  
Bronchial Asthma ◽  
Diagnostic Procedures ◽  
Individualized Treatment ◽  
Economic Losses ◽  
Non Invasive

Despite the large number of studies on the diagnosis and treatment of asthma and the constant updating of recommendations for the provision of medical care to patients with asthma, this disease still has a significant impact on the quality of life of patients and their families and significant economic losses. However, the peculiarities of bronchial asthma and the diagnosis of certain phenotypes of the disease in children, depending on biomarkers of inflammatory activity in the airways, require greater use of non-invasive diagnostic procedures and optimization of individualized treatment depending on the nature and intensity of inflammation in the respiratory tract.

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