Compression ratio: a novel method to quantify compressibility as a diagnostic measurement in giant cell arteritis.

Objectives: Ultrasonographic assessment of giant cell arteritis (GCA) relies on the demonstration of a non-compressible halo. Several ultrasonographic methods have been developed to quantify arterial wall thickness, however arterial compressibility has not been quantified. This study presents a possible solution for quantifying compressibility to assist in diagnosing GCA.

Investigating the Feasibility of Processing Activated Carbon/UHMWPE Polymer Composite Using Laser Powder Bed Fusion.

Activated Carbon (AC) is widely available at a relatively low cost, has a high porosity and is commonly used as a filter material for a range of applications. However, it is a brittle and friable material. Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) polymer is a tough engineering plastic that has been used as a binder.

Characterisation of UHMWPE Polymer Powder for Laser Sintering.

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is a thermoplastic semicrystalline polymer that has outstanding mechanical properties, low friction coefficient, excellent wear resistance, and is highly resistant to corrosive chemicals. UHMWPE is found in many applications including artificial joints and filtration. However, UHMWPE parts cannot be produced easily by traditional techniques, such as injection moulding and extrusion because of its very high melt viscosity owing to the extremely long polymer chains.

Adult-onset Still's disease with prominent polyserositis.

Adult-onset Still's disease is a systemic autoinflammatory disease the presentation of which can often mimic infection. As a consequence, there is often a delay in diagnosis. Serositis is a recognised but less common clinical feature that can result in complications including cardiac tamponade and constrictive pericarditis.

Clinical features of septic discitis in the UK: a retrospective case ascertainment study and review of management recommendations.

Septic discitis is a rare but important cause of spinal pain caused by intervertebral disc infection. This retrospective observational case series analysis will examine the clinical features and management of septic discitis in 23 patients and compare with a similar 2001 study. We will also review the evidence behind management recommendations to identify areas for future research.

An Investigation into the Scale and Impact of Self-Reported Foot Problems Associated with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Study Protocol and Survey Questionnaire Development.

Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can manifest with arthralgia and myalgia, and, in severe cases, disorganization of the joints and tendon rupture. Further, Raynaud's phenomenon and other circulatory problems such as vasculitis have been reported, and may be associated with loss of sensation and ulcers. Associated with impaired peripheral neurovascular function there is the potential for changes in tissue viability leading to thinning of the skin or callus formation.