X-ray generation by fs-laser processing of biological material.

The use of ultrashort pulse lasers in medical treatments is increasing and is already an essential tool, particularly in the treatment of eyes, bones and skin. One of the main advantages of laser treatment is that it is fast and minimally invasive. Due to the interaction of ultrashort laser pulses with matter, X-rays can be generated during the laser ablation process.

Potential hazards and mitigation of X-ray radiation generated by laser-induced plasma from research-grade laser systems.

A large range of laser-matter applications employ ultrashort pulses and high laser intensity. Such processes can lead to unrequired X-ray generation, which represents a hazardous radiation factor even for common laboratory research-grade laser systems. We present here an analysis of the radiation dose rate and X-ray spectrum emitted during ablation of a rotating copper cylinder with respect to several laser parameters.

Synchronized beamline at FLASH2 based on high-order harmonic generation for two-color dynamics studies.

We present the design, integration, and operation of the novel vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) beamline installed at the free-electron laser (FEL) FLASH. The VUV source is based on high-order harmonic generation (HHG) in gas and is driven by an optical laser system synchronized with the timing structure of the FEL. Ultrashort pulses in the spectral range from 10 to 40 eV are coupled with the FEL in the beamline FL26, which features a reaction microscope (REMI) permanent endstation for time-resolved studies of ultrafast dynamics in atomic and molecular targets.

A synchronized VUV light source based on high-order harmonic generation at FLASH.

Ultrafast measurements in the extreme ultraviolet (XUV) spectral region targeting femtosecond timescales rely until today on two complementary XUV laser sources: free electron lasers (FELs) and high-harmonic generation (HHG) based sources. The combination of these two source types was until recently not realized. The complementary properties of both sources including broad bandwidth, high pulse energy, narrowband tunability and femtosecond timing, open new opportunities for two-color pump-probe studies.

Fabrication of a Monolithic Lab-on-a-Chip Platform with Integrated Hydrogel Waveguides for Chemical Sensing.

Hydrogel waveguides have found increased use for variety of applications where biocompatibility and flexibility are important. In this work, we demonstrate the use of polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) waveguides to realize a monolithic lab-on-a-chip device. We performed a comprehensive study on the swelling and optical properties for different chain lengths and concentrations in order to realize an integrated biocompatible waveguide in a microfluidic device for chemical sensing.

Effects of Kinesio Taping on breast cancer-related lymphedema: A meta-analysis in clinical trials.

Background: Lymphedema is known as a secondary complication of breast cancer treatment, caused by reduction on lymphatic flow and lymph accumulation on interstitial space. The Kinesio Taping (KT) has become an alternative treatment for lymphedema volume reduction. The objective of the study was to evaluate the literature through a systematic review on KT effects on lymphedema related to breast cancer.

New treatments for gout.

Gout is a commonly occurring medical condition that can lead to significant morbidity. Therapies available for the treatment of both acute and chronic gouty arthritis have not changed significantly since the 1960s. Although these treatments are well established, they are often contraindicated in the presence of various different comorbidities, including diabetes, renal insufficiency, hypertension and gastrointestinal disease, all of which can occur frequently in patients with gout.

Keys to effective regional health planning--an organizational behaviour approach.

Given its political appeal, economic logic and community-based focus, regional planning has re-emerged as a significant strategic initiative in our shifting health care system. As regional planning becomes more prevalent in Canada, it is increasingly necessary to establish a framework of sound organizational behaviour principles in which it can succeed. These principles--which relate to human relations and group interactions--are especially relevant in a complex undertaking such as regional health planning which is often encumbered by stakeholder self-interest, philosophical differences and a tradition of autonomy and independent initiative.

Mount Sinai Hospital's journey into TQM.

Toronto's Mount Sinai Hospital commenced its total quality management journey in the late 1980s as a complement to its extensive experience in quality assurance. This article focuses on Phase I--the process of setting up teams. This phase includes project nomination and selection; team membership selection and education; and the quality improvement process.

Board takes action in quality assurance role.

A standing committee of the board at Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, reviews nonclinical, nonmedical, departmental documents to identify problems regarding quality of care.