The Use of a Software-Assisted Method to Estimate Fetal Weight at and Near Term Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

Objective: The aim of this study was to apply a semi-automated calculation method of fetal body volume and, thus, of magnetic resonance-estimated fetal weight (MR-EFW) prior to planned delivery and to evaluate whether the technique of measurement could be simplified while remaining accurate.

Methods: MR-EFW was calculated using a semi-automated method at 38.6 weeks of gestation in 36 patients and compared to the picture archiving and communication system (PACS).

Neurobehavioural effects of occupational exposure to cadmium: a cross sectional epidemiological study.

Background: A patient with unexplained minor behavioural changes associated with an axonal sensorimotor polyneuropathy had a history of chronic occupational exposure to cadmium (Cd). Although animal studies have shown that Cd is a potent neurotoxicant, little is known about its toxicity for the human central nervous system. The aim of this study was to investigate the toxic potential of chronic occupational exposure to Cd on neurobehavioural functions.

Cadmium: a possible etiological factor in peripheral polyneuropathy.

Uncovering the exact cause of polyneuropathies seems to be impossible in up to 24% of the cases. Experimental studies have shown that cadmium (Cd), which is a well-known occupational and environmental hazard, can be a potent neurotoxicant for the peripheral nervous system. Moreover, Cd has a half-life of more than 15 years in humans.

Reversibility of microproteinuria in cadmium workers with incipient tubular dysfunction after reduction of exposure.

The study aimed at assessing the evolution of cadmium (Cd)-induced renal tubular dysfunction in Cd workers according to the severity of the microproteinuria observed at the time the exposure was substantially decreased. Male workers employed in the Cd production industry for whom formerly high exposure had markedly decreased by 1984 and for whom standardized medical data were available during two observation periods (1980-1984 and 1990-1992) were eligible for the study. A total of 32 Cd workers fulfilling this profile were divided into two groups on the basis of historical records of urinary Cd concentration (Cd-U) covering the period until 1984.

Quantification of the extent and severity of perfusion defects in canine myocardium by PET polar mapping.

Unlabelled: This study validates perfusion defect extent and severity as derived by PET polar maps in vivo against measurements derived from radiolabeled microspheres.

Methods: In seven open-chest dogs, either the left anterior descending (n = 11) or left circumflex coronary artery (n = 13) were ligated sequentially from distal to proximal. After each occlusion, gated PET images were acquired with 13N-ammonia (20 mCi) while radiolabeled microspheres were administered into the left atrium.