Finney and Jaboulay pyloroplasties for the treatment of benign gastric outlet lesions in dogs and cats: technique and outcome in 13 cases (2015-2024).

OBJECTIVES: To describe the use, complications and outcome of Finney or Jaboulay pyloroplasties for the treatment of benign gastric outlet lesions in dogs and cats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The medical records of dogs and cats surgically treated with Finney or Jaboulay pyloroplasty for benign gastric outflow tract disease in three institutions between January 1, 2015 and August 31, 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: Eight dogs and five cats were diagnosed with benign obstructive or perforating gastric outlet lesions, including chronic hypertrophic pyloric gastropathy (n = 4), perforating pyloro-duodenal peptic ulcer (4), sub-obstructive pyloro-duodenal eosinophilic sclerosing fibroplasia (2) and antral or proximal duodenal obstructive mass (3). Nine cases were treated using hand-sewn Finney pyloroplasty and four cases were treated using stapled Jaboulay pyloroplasty. No major complications were recorded. Cases were followed for a median of 16.1 [11 to 29.6] months. At the last follow-up, the outcome was excellent in all cases, with no clinical signs recorded and no medical treatment required. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: This case series suggests that Finney and Jaboulay pyloroplasties were safe and effective procedures for the surgical treatment of benign obstructive or perforating gastric outlet lesions in dogs and cats.

Description of serum symmetric dimethylarginine concentration and of urinary SDS-AGE pattern in dogs with ACTH dependent hyperadrenocorticism.

Serum symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) and patterns of urinary protein separated by sodium dodecyl sulfate agarose gel electrophoresis (SDS-AGE) have not been investigated as biomarkers in dogs with ACTH-dependent hyperadrenocorticism (ADHAC). This exploratory prospective study aimed to evaluate SDMA, serum creatinine (sCR), and SDS-AGE in dogs with ADHAC with and without proteinuria (ADHAC-P and ADHAC-nP, respectively). Thirty-five pet dogs classified as ADHAC-P (n=16), ADHAC-nP (n=6) and healthy (n=13) were included. Renal biomarkers were evaluated in all dogs at diagnosis. Baseline concentration of SDMA was not significantly different between the three groups (P = 0.15) whereas sCr was significantly lower in dogs in ADHAC dogs compared to healthy dogs (88.0 µmol/L [70.4-132.6; 79.2-114.4]) whether they had proteinuria or not (P = 0.014 and 0.002, respectively). However, baseline concentrations of sCr and SDMA were not significantly different between dogs with ADHAC-P dogs (SDMA, 8 µg/dL [5-12; 7-9]; sCr, 57.2 µmol/L [35.2-212.2; 52.8-92.4]) and ADHAC-nP dogs (SDMA, 8.5 µg/dL [7-13; 8-10]; sCr, 70.4 µmol/L [61.6-79.2; 61.6-70.4]) (P = 0.35 and P = 0.41, respectively). Proteinuria in dogs with ADHAC-P was mainly of glomerular origin (SDS-AGE pattern: glomerular in 10/16 dogs; mixed glomerular/tubular in four dogs). In our study, SDMA was neither significantly different in dogs with ADHAC whether they were proteinuric or not, nor between ADHAC and healthy dogs. Urinary electrophoresis provides additional information to the UPC and further investigations are needed to determine whether it may help identify dogs with ADHAC-P requiring specific antiproteinuric treatment.

Evaluation of a small-bore needle arthroscope for diagnosis and treatment of medial coronoid disease in dogs: a pilot study with short-term assessment.

CASE HISTORY: Dogs (n = 15) that were presented to a single veterinary teaching hospital with elbow dysplasia-associated lameness between September 2021 and May 2022, and were determined to require arthroscopy based on imaging results, were prospectively recruited into the study. The median duration of lameness was 4 (min 1, max 24) months. CLINICAL FINDINGS: Various breeds were represented with a median body weight of 31.6 (min 15, max 46.4) kg and median age at presentation of 14 (min 8, max 83) months. Results of imaging modalities (CT) were consistent with medial coronoid disease with fissured or fragmented medial coronoid process in all dogs. ARTHROSCOPIC FINDINGS: Feasibility of the needle arthroscopy (NA) procedure was firstly assessed in a preliminary cadaveric study in forelimbs (n = 10) collected from 10 adult dogs euthanised for reasons unrelated to the study. Elbow exploration was performed through a medial approach beginning with NA (1.9 mm 0° angle scope) followed by standard arthroscopy (SA; 2.4 mm 30° angle scope). The quality and extent of visualisation (scored through the number of anatomical structures visualised) were recorded and statistically compared. As the cadaver study indicated that NA allowed safe inspection of all structures in medial/caudal compartments, this procedure was then used in the dogs requiring treatment. In the clinical setting, elbow exploration was successful in all dogs and the treatment (removal of osteochondral fragments) was performed without requiring conversion into SA. One month after surgery, all dogs had an improvement in their lameness score (0-5) and 12/15 dogs were no longer lame. There was a reduction in Canine Orthopaedic Index scores measured a median of 99 (min 47, max 180) days after surgery (24 (IQR 19.5-31.5)) compared to the pre-operative period (49 (IQR 46.5-57); p < 0.001). CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Needle arthroscopy-assisted removal of osteochondral fragments was performed in all dogs with satisfactory short-term clinical outcome. NA is a feasible technique for diagnosis and lesion assessment in dogs with a fissured or fragmented coronoid process. Larger clinical studies with longer follow-up are necessary to validate the NanoScope operative arthroscopy system as an alternative strategy to SA for video-assisted treatment of medial coronoid disease.

Ultrafast carbon nanotubes growth on recycled carbon fibers and their evaluation on interfacial shear strength in reinforced composites.

The global demand for products manufactured with carbon fibers (CFs) has increased in recent years; however, the waste generated at the end of the product lifetime has also increased. In this research, the impact of the addition of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on the interlaminated resistance of recycled carbon fibers (RCFs) was studied. In this work, a recycling process of the composite material was applied via thermolysis to obtain the CFs, followed by the growth of CNTs on their surface using the Poptube technique. The recycling temperature were 500 °C and 700 °C; and ferrocene and polypyrrole were used to grow CNTs on CFs surface. CNTs were verified by Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Finally, to determine the interlaminar resistance, a double cantilever beam (DCB) test was performed. The results indicate that with Poptube technique, CNTs can be grown on RCFs using both impregnations. Thermolysis recycling process at 500 °C allowed CFs without resin residues and without visible damage. The DCB tests showed a decrease in the fracture resistance in mode I loading of 34.9% for the polypyrrole samples and 29.3% for the ferrocene samples compared with the virgin carbon fibers (VCFs) samples with a resistance of 1052.5 J/m2.

Low expression of ANT1 confers oncogenic properties to rhabdomyosarcoma tumor cells by modulating metabolism and death pathways.

Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most frequent form of pediatric soft-tissue sarcoma. It is divided into two main subtypes: ERMS (embryonal) and ARMS (alveolar). Current treatments are based on chemotherapy, surgery, and radiotherapy. The 5-year survival rate has plateaued at 70% since 2000, despite several clinical trials. RMS cells are thought to derive from the muscle lineage. During development, myogenesis includes the expansion of muscle precursors, the elimination of those in excess by cell death and the differentiation of the remaining ones into myofibers. The notion that these processes may be hijacked by tumor cells to sustain their oncogenic transformation has emerged, with RMS being considered as the dark side of myogenesis. Thus, dissecting myogenic developmental programs could improve our understanding of RMS molecular etiology. We focused herein on ANT1, which is involved in myogenesis and is responsible for genetic disorders associated with muscle degeneration. ANT1 is a mitochondrial protein, which has a dual functionality, as it is involved both in metabolism via the regulation of ATP/ADP release from mitochondria and in regulated cell death as part of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore. Bioinformatics analyses of transcriptomic datasets revealed that ANT1 is expressed at low levels in RMS. Using the CRISPR-Cas9 technology, we showed that reduced ANT1 expression confers selective advantages to RMS cells in terms of proliferation and resistance to stress-induced death. These effects arise notably from an abnormal metabolic switch induced by ANT1 downregulation. Restoration of ANT1 expression using a Tet-On system is sufficient to prime tumor cells to death and to increase their sensitivity to chemotherapy. Based on our results, modulation of ANT1 expression and/or activity appears as an appealing therapeutic approach in RMS management.

[Computed tomography in children with cystic fibrosis: The role of an expiratory protocol]. / Scanner thoracique chez l'enfant atteint de mucoviscidose : intérêt d'un protocole en expiration séquentielle pour réduire la dose d'irradiation.

INTRODUCTION: Chest computed tomography (CT) is essential to monitor lung disease in children with cystic fibrosis, but it involves recurrent exposure to ionizing radiation. The aim of this study was to compare the current complete CT protocol (volumetric end-inspiratory plus sequential expiratory acquisition) to a sequential expiratory acquisition protocol alone in terms of image analysis and ionizing radiation dose. METHODS: Seventy-eight CT scans from 57 children aged 5 to 18 years old were scored on the complete protocol images and on the expiratory sequential images only. Each CT protocol was scored independently, using the Brody scoring system, by two paediatric radiologists. RESULTS: Correlations between the Brody global scores of the two different CT protocols were very good (r=0.90 for both observers), for the bronchiectasis score (r=0.72 and 0.86), mucus plugging score (r=0.87 and 0.83), and expiratory trapped air (r=0.96 and 0.92). Total ionizing radiation dose was reduced, with the measured dose length product (DLP) reduced from 103.31mGy.cm (complete protocol) to 3.06mGy.cm (expiratory protocol) (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: An expiratory chest CT protocol was accurate in diagnosing early signs of CF disease and permitted significant reduction of radiation dose. This protocol would allow spacing out of complete CT scanning with its higher radiation dose and should be considered for the monitoring of lung disease severity in children with CF.

A microfluidic device for digital manipulation of gaseous samples.

Digital microfluidics is known for fine manipulation of sub-millimeter samples, with applications from biological sample preparation to diagnostic testing. Unfortunately, until now, it has been only limited to liquid phases. In this paper, we present a new system based on a digital microfluidic platform (DMFP), which is able to digitally manipulate gaseous samples, such as alkanes from n-hexane to n-nonane. The DMFP relies mostly on interconnected micropreconcentrators (µPCs) to trap and release the samples depending on their controlled temperature. We show that the DMFP is capable of performing all basic operations of digital microfluidics: trapping/releasing and moving samples, adding samples and separating samples. As a first example of a more complex programmable use of our DMFP, we measured the breakthrough volume of alkanes on a Tenax TA adsorbent. The results were consistent with tabulated values obtained with standard laboratory instruments. This DMFP promises great possibilities for more complex programmable gas microfluidics digital devices and the development of new digital gas sample preparation and analysis methods.

Assessing the management of pediatric bone and joint infections according to French guidelines.

BACKGROUND: Short treatments for acute bone and joint infections (BJI) are recommended. We implemented a protocol in 2009 to improve diagnosis and bacteriological documentation, and to shorten antibiotic therapies as per French guidelines (French Pediatric Infectious Disease Group, GPIP). METHODS: To assess the impact of the new clinical protocol for BJI, we conducted a retrospective study from January 1st, 2006 to August 31st, 2012. Two successive cohorts were compared, before and after protocol implementation. All children suspected of community-acquired BJI were included. Confirmed osteomyelitis and septic arthritis required a positive bacterial isolate; otherwise, cases were considered probable. We compared clinical, biological, and radiological data; duration of antibiotic therapy and hospital length of stay; and complications and sequelae. RESULTS: A total of 377 children with suspected BJI were included. The bacteriological identification improved from 32% to 44% when patients were completely evaluated. Isolated bacteria were Staphylococcus aureus (53%), Kingella kingae (17%), Streptococcus pyogenes (15%), and Streptococcus pneumoniae (8%). Before protocol implementation, 70% of patients had a central venous line versus 9% after implementation. Mean duration of IV antibiotics (11 days versus 6 days), mean duration of total antibiotic therapy (45 days versus 32 days) and mean hospital length of stay (13 days versus 7 days) had significantly improved. CONCLUSION: Improvement in bacteriological diagnosis and shorter antibiotic regimens lead to shorter hospital length of stays with no additional morbidity. Simplifying the protocol and better diffusion among health professionals should contribute to shortening BJI treatment duration.

Osteochondritis dissecans of the knee.

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the knee is an idiopathic, focal, subchondral-bone abnormality that can cause instability or detachment of a bone fragment and overlying articular cartilage, with subsequent progression to osteoarthritis. The diagnosis is usually made during adolescence. Mechanical factors play a major role in the pathophysiology of OCD. When the radiographic diagnosis is made early in a patient with open physes, healing can often be obtained simply by restricting sports activities. The degree of lesion instability can be assessed by magnetic resonance imaging. When the lesion remains unstable and the pain persists despite a period of rest, surgery is indicated. Arthroscopic exploration is always the first step. Drilling of the lesion produces excellent outcomes if the lesion is stable. Unstable lesions require fixation and, in some cases, bone grafting. Defects must be filled, depending on their surface area. Although many surgical techniques are available, the therapeutic indications are now standardized.

Comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography for biogas and biomethane analysis.

The gas industry is going to be revolutionized by being able to generate bioenergy from biomass. The production of biomethane - a green substitute of natural gas - is growing in Europe and the United-States of America. Biomethane can be injected into the gas grid or used as fuel for vehicles after compression. Due to various biomass inputs (e.g. agricultural wastes, sludges from sewage treatment plants, etc.), production processes (e.g. anaerobic digestion, municipal solid waste (MSW) landfills), seasonal effects and purification processes (e.g. gas scrubbers, pressure swing adsorption, membranes for biogas upgrading), the composition and quality of biogas and biomethane produced is difficult to assess. All previous publications dealing with biogas analysis reported that hundreds of chemicals from ten chemical families do exist in trace amounts in biogas. However, to the best of our knowledge, no study reported a detailed analysis or the implementation of comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC×GC) for biogas matrices. This is the reason why the benefit of implementing two-dimensional gas chromatography for the characterization of biogas and biomethane samples was evaluated. In a first step, a standard mixture of 89 compounds belonging to 10 chemical families, representative of those likely to be found, was used to optimize the analytical method. A set consisting of a non-polar and a polar columns, respectively in the first and the second dimension, was used with a modulation period of six seconds. Applied to ten samples of raw biogas, treated biogas and biomethane collected on 4 industrial sites (two MSW landfills, one anaerobic digester on a wastewater treatment plant and one agricultural biogas plant), this analytical method provided a "fingerprint" of the gases composition at the molecular level in all biogas and biomethane samples. Estimated limits of detection (far below the µgNm-3) coupled with the resolution of GC×GC allowed the comparison of the real samples considered. This first implementation of GC×GC for the analysis of biogas and biomethane demonstrated unambiguously that it is a promising tool to provide a "fingerprint" of samples, and to monitor trace compounds by families.

MRI of acute osteomyelitis in long bones of children: Pathophysiology study.

INTRODUCTION: The classic pathophysiology of acute osteomyelitis in children described by Trueta has a metaphyseal infection as the starting point. This hypothesis was recently brought into question by Labbé's study, which suggested a periosteal origin. Thus, we wanted to study this disease's pathophysiology through early MRI examinations and to look for prognostic factors based on abnormal findings. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This was a prospective, multicentre study that included cases of long bone osteomyelitis in children who underwent an MRI examination within 7days of the start of symptoms and within 24hours of the initiation of antibiotic therapy. We also collected clinical, laboratory and treatment-related data. RESULTS: Twenty patients were included, including one with a bifocal condition. The lower limb was involved in most cases (19/21). Staphylococcus aureus was found most frequently. Metaphyseal involvement was present in all cases. No isolated periosteal involvement was found in any of the cases. No prognostic factors were identified based on the various abnormal findings on MRI. CONCLUSION: Our study supports the metaphyseal origin of acute osteomyelitis in children. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II.

[Intussusception in infancy and childhood: Radiological and surgical management]. / Conduite à tenir devant une invagination intestinale aiguë du nourrisson et de l'enfant.

Ileocolic intussusception in infants and children requires emergency treatment and has a very good prognosis. Abdominal ultrasonography imaging has a high sensitivity and specificity in its detection. Management of ileocolic intussusceptions now requires fewer surgical procedures because interventional radiology is usually efficient. Surgery (laparoscopy or laparotomy) is reserved for failed radiological reductions and advanced or immediately complicated intussusceptions (pneumoperitoneum, acute peritonitis, shock). Radiology teams have two reduction techniques: hydrostatic barium enema under fluoroscopic or sonographic guidance and air enema under fluoroscopic guidance. The superiority of one radiological reduction technique over the other cannot be asserted, and the choice depends on experience and available equipment. Current management of intussusceptions should be performed by pediatric radiology, anesthesiology and surgery teams.

[Laparoscopic transposition of lower polar vessels for pyelo-ureteral junction obstruction: preliminary experience]. / Transposition des vaisseaux polaires pour syndrome de la jonction pyélo-urétérale : expérience préliminaire.

AIM OF THE STUDY: Lower pole vessels are a classical cause of PUJO even in children. The "gold standard" in the management of PUJ obstructions remains a dismembered pyeloplasty as described by Anderson and Hynes. However, some authors have developed an alternative procedure to this approach with encouraging results. The aim of our study was to evaluate our preliminary results concerning laparoscopic vascular hitch for crossing vessels. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We conducted a retrospective, monocentric study of all patients managed by this technique from January 2010 to December 2012. RESULTS: Eleven patients (7 boys, 4 girls) were managed by laparoscopy at a mean age of 10.7 years (5.4-17). They were referred to our center for clinical symptoms (intermittent pain 7, high blood pressure 1, UTI 1), antenatal diagnosis or accidental discovery. Obstruction was confirmed by MAG3 nephrogram and the presence of obstructive vessels by tomodensitometry or MRI. Mean operative time was 90.2minutes (48-184). Seven patients over 11 were strictly managed by laparoscopic transposition of lower pole vessels. Four required a classical video-assisted dismembered pyeloplasty due to a potential intraluminal stenosis. The latter were suspected by a distension test with furosemid in all four cases. Mean follow-up was 12.9±3 months. Nine patients over 11 were totally non symptomatic, whereas 2 still present mild intermittent pain. In all cases, ultrasound scans show an improvement of the pelvic dilatation. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic transposition of lower pole vessels is a suitable and feasible alternative for the management of obstructive PUJ. Our preliminary experience emphasizes the need for a precise preoperative selection of patients along with a per operative evaluation of the obstruction. Further experience seems required to improve our criteria in this indication. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 5.

Prognosis value of early diffusion MRI in Legg Perthes Calvé disease.

PURPOSE: To evaluate diffusion MRI of the proximal femoral epiphysis and metaphysis as a prognosis factor in Legg Calvé Perthes (LCP) disease. METHODS: Thirty-one children (mean age 5.5 years, range 2.5-10.5) with unilateral LCP were included in a prospective, consecutive series. Radiographs were analysed and classified as per Herring criteriae. Mean follow-up was 19 months (range 6-30). Forty-nine MRI scans were performed at either the condensation or fragmentation stage. Apparent Diffusion Coefficient (ADC) of both the femoral epiphysis and metaphysis were measured bilaterally and ADC ratio were calculated, then compared to the Herring group. RESULTS: Sixteen hips were rated Herring A or B, 3 Herring B-C and 12 Herring C. ADC was increased in affected hips compared to unaffected sides, both at the femoral epiphysis (P<0.001) and metaphysis (P<0.0001). ADC ratio of the femoral metaphysis was positively correlated to Herring classification: if superior to 1.63, it was associated with a bad prognosis (Herring B-C or C) (P=0.0017, sensitivity=89%, specificity=58%). Interobserver reliability of ADC measurement was excellent. The 1.63 threshold could be determined as early as the condensation stage. CONCLUSIONS: Diffusion presents several advantages including being non radiating and non invasive. It does not need contrast medium administration and it can be performed without anaesthesia. The origin of the increased ADC remains unknown. Basically, it reflects molecular changes (true diffusion) but it is also influenced by the vascular supply (pseudo-diffusion). ADC ratio could provide an early prognosis before Herring classification is applicable. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III. Prospective uncontrolled study.

Determination of elemental distribution in green micro-algae using synchrotron radiation nano X-ray fluorescence (SR-nXRF) and electron microscopy techniques--subcellular localization and quantitative imaging of silver and cobalt uptake by Coccomyxa actinabiotis.

The newly discovered unicellular micro-alga Coccomyxa actinabiotis proves to be highly radio-tolerant and strongly concentrates radionuclides, as well as large amounts of toxic metals. This study helps in the understanding of the mechanisms involved in the accumulation and detoxification of silver and cobalt. Elemental distribution inside Coccomyxa actinabiotis cells was determined using synchrotron nano X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy at the ID22 nano fluorescence imaging beamline of the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility. The high resolution and high sensitivity of this technique enabled the assessment of elemental associations and exclusions in subcellular micro-algae compartments. A quantitative treatment of the scans was implemented to yield absolute concentrations of each endogenous and exogenous element with a spatial resolution of 100 nm and compared to the macroscopic content in cobalt and silver determined using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. The nano X-ray fluorescence imaging was complemented by transmission electron microscopy coupled to X-ray microanalysis (TEM-EDS), yielding differential silver distribution in the cell wall, cytosol, nucleus, chloroplast and mitochondria with unique resolution. The analysis of endogenous elements in control cells revealed that iron had a unique distribution; zinc, potassium, manganese, molybdenum, and phosphate had their maxima co-localized in the same area; and sulfur, copper and chlorine were almost homogeneously distributed among the whole cell. The subcellular distribution and quantification of cobalt and silver in micro-alga, assessed after controlled exposure to various concentrations, revealed that exogenous metals were mainly sequestered inside the cell rather than on mucilage or the cell wall, with preferential compartmentalization. Cobalt was homogeneously distributed outside of the chloroplast. Silver was localized in the cytosol at low concentration and in the whole cell excluding the nucleus at high concentration. Exposure to low concentrations of cobalt or silver did not alter the localization nor the concentration of endogenous elements within the cells. To our knowledge, this is the first report on element co-localization and segregation at the sub-cellular level in micro-algae by means of synchrotron nano X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy.

Sputtered alumina as a novel stationary phase for micro machined gas chromatography columns.

Silica and graphite sputtering have previously been reported as novel solid stationary phase deposition techniques for micro gas chromatography columns. As a conventional solid stationary phase in gas chromatography, compatible with sputtering yet so far unreported, alumina was evaluated in this study. Alumina sputtered semi-packed micro columns were fabricated (including an activation step) and proved able to separate a mixture of volatile alkanes (C1-C4 with isomers) in less than 1 min. Kinetic and a thermodynamic evaluation led to calculation of 4,500 theoretical plates for ethane in 1.1 m (HETPmin = 250 µm) and a Gibbs free energy for propane of 30.2 kJ mol(-1), making this stationary phase's properties very close to those observed with silica-sputtered micro columns.

Review of stationary phases for microelectromechanical systems in gas chromatography: feasibility and separations.

This review covers the recent development of stationary phases for chip-based gas chromatography (GC). Portable systems for rapid and reliable analysis are urgently needed. One way to achieve this is to miniaturize the entire analysis. Because the column is the central component of the GC system and determines the feasibility and quality of separation, this review focuses on stationary phases reported in the literature and their use in different fields during the last two decades, with emphasis on different methods for introducing the stationary phase into the GC column.

Diffusion MRI of the neck of the femur in Legg-Calve-Perthes disease: a preliminary study.

PURPOSE: To evaluate diffusion MR imaging of the neck of the femur in Legg-Calve-Perthes disease (LCPD). MATERIAL AND METHODS: This is a prospective study in 27 children followed for unilateral LCPD. Forty-six MRIs were carried out with bilateral quantification of the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) of the neck of the femur. The intra- and inter-observer variability of the ADC measurements was evaluated. The association between the ADC and age as well as the healthy or pathological status of the neck of the femur and the Catterall classification were looked for. RESULTS: Intra- and inter-observer reproducibility of the ADC measurements was excellent. A statistically significant negative correlation between the ADC of the healthy neck of the femur and age was found. There was a significant increase in the ADC of the pathological neck of the femur compared to the healthy neck. The ratio of the pathological neck ADC and the healthy neck ADC was significantly associated with the Catterall classification. CONCLUSION: The quantification of the ADC of the neck of the femur is reproducible. This could be useful in the treatment of LCPD, where there is an early and significant increase in the ADC on the pathological side. This increase could have a prognostic value, as it is correlated with the Catterall classification.

Temperature-programmed sputtered micromachined gas chromatography columns: an approach to fast separations in oilfield applications.

In a previous study, a new stationary phase deposition technique for micromachined gas chromatography columns was presented. The rerouting of the sputtering technique to this purpose enabled collective and reproducible fabrication of microcolumns in a silicon wafer. Silica-sputtered micromachined columns showed promising separations of light alkanes in isothermal conditions. In order to go beyond the limitations of isothermal separations, the columns were equipped with sputtered platinum filaments to enable high-speed and low-power temperature programming. The separation performances of temperature-programmed silica- or graphite-sputtered microcolumns were investigated: a separation of light alkanes (C1-C5) was completed in 9 s, and heavier alkanes (until C9), cyclic, isomeric, and unsaturated hydrocarbons were also successfully separated. Versatility of these microcolumns was demonstrated with a high-temperature C1-C2 separation and a C1-C5 separation with nitrogen as carrier gas instead of helium. By matching the requirements of a gas chromatography-based monitoring sensor, in terms of low-cost and industry-ready fabrication process, fast temperature programming and analysis, low power consumption, and good versatility (ambient temperature, carrier gas), these columns should be used in various applications related to oilfield gas analyses.

Ovarian cysts in prepubertal girls.

Visualization of follicles is perfectly physiological during childhood, their diameter generally does not exceed 10 mm. Ovarian cyst in childhood is well defined for a fluid image >20 mm. Generally mild and asymptomatic, ovarian cysts are fluid formations usually discovered incidentally by ultrasound. Some are hormonally active and cause the development of sexual characteristics. The natural history of functional cysts is eventual regression, and persistence is suggestive of organic tumor. The onset of pain is a sign of complication, and an abrupt sharp pain with vomiting is suggestive of ovarian torsion, in which case surgical intervention is urgent. In all cases, the diagnosis is based on pelvic ultrasound. MRI and tumor marker assays are required to determine the nature of an organic cyst before proceeding to surgery. These cysts may appear functional from the fetal period onward and will require management from the first days of life. Certain endocrine disorders such as precocious puberty, hypothyroidism, and aromatase deficiency cause functional cysts in girls. Recurrent bleeding is due to hormonally active cysts and suggests McCune-Albright syndrome. Although the persistence of a cyst suggests a neoplasm, a fluid character indicates benignity. Imagery is a useful aid in the diagnosis of epithelial tumors (cystadenomas) or teratoma (dermoid cyst).