OBJECTIVE to evaluate the thickness of the gastric wall at the time of intra gastric balloon (IGB) placement, at the time of its withdrawal and one month after withdrawal. METHODS fifteen morbidly obese patients underwent the introduction of IGB under general anesthesia. In all patients, there was infusion of 500ml of distilled water in the balloon for the test. Measurements of the thickness ...

A recently introduced brachytherapy system for partial breast irradiation, MammoSite, consists of a balloon applicator filled with contrast solution and a catheter for insertion of an 192Ir high-dose-rate (HDR) source. In using this system, the treatment dose is typically prescribed to be delivered 1 cm from the balloon's surface. Most treatment-planning systems currently in use for brachythera...

Two genera of Vernonieae subtribe Erlangeinae with Type A pollen, 5-ribbed achenes, and blunt-tipped sweeping hairs on the styles are described as new, Hoffmannanthus with one species and with Vernonia brachycalyx O. Hoffm. as type, and Jeffreycia with five known species, with Vernonia zanzibarensis Less. as type. Vernonia abbotiana O. Hoffm. is neotypified and is an older name for V. brachycalyx.

Partridge bands have been developed and marketed on the assumption that their ribbed under-surface would ensure less interference with periosteal and cortical blood flow than other cerclage systems. Three cases are reported of serious clinical complications from loss of cortical bone under the band, and interference with the external bridging callus response.

this paper presents a three-dimensional numerical investigation carried out in turbulent forced convection in a tube with helical ribs. enhancement of heat transfer using helically corrugated tubes has beenstudied experimentally by many researchers but there exist a few published numerical analyses results. the paper also introduces the results of heat transfer and friction factor data for inco...

Acute right ventricular failure (RVF) is an increasing clinical problem and a life-threatening condition. Right ventricular assist devices represent a reasonable treatment option for patients with refractory RVF. We here present a novel percutaneously implantable device for right ventricular support. The PERKAT device is based on a nitinol stent cage, which is covered with valve-carrying foils....

iii Acknowledgements I would like to emphasize the contribution from my major professor Dr. K. Akyuzlu. Without his knowledge and mentorship this work could not be completed. I would also like to thank my committee members Dr.