Intravascular laser irradiation of blood as novel migraine treatment: an observational study.

Background: Migraine is one of four major chronic diseases that cause disability. Decreases in regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) occur during migraine attacks. Laser therapy is extensively employed in treating other vascular diseases; nevertheless, its effectiveness in migraine management remains largely unknown.

Investigation of the variants at the binding site of inflammatory transcription factor NF-κB in patients with end-stage renal disease.

Background: A chronic inflammatory state is a prominent feature in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) is a transcription factor that regulates the expression of genes involved in inflammation. Some genetic studies have demonstrated that the NF-κB genetic mutation could cause kidney injury and kidney disease progression.

Rapid Analyses of Polyetheretherketone Wear Characteristics by Accelerated Wear Testing with Microfabricated Surfaces for Artificial Joint Systems.

Wear particle-induced biological responses are the major factors resulting in the loosening and then failure of total joint arthroplasties. It is feasible to improve the lubrication and reduce the wear of artificial joint system. Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is considered as a potential bearing material due to its mechanical characteristics of resistance to fatigue strain.

Interruption of the Inferior Vena Cava With Azygos Continuation.

This report describes a 19-year-old man with interruption of the inferior vena cava with azygos continuation. Both radionuclide venography and MRI clearly showed venous return of the lower limbs through prominent collateral systems.