Effectiveness of photopolymerization in composite resins using a novel 445-nm diode laser in comparison to LED and halogen bulb technology.

Challenges especially in the minimal invasive restorative treatment of teeth require further developments of composite polymerization techniques. These include, among others, the securing of a complete polymerization with moderate thermal stress for the pulp. The aim of this study is to compare current light curing sources with a blue diode laser regarding curing depth and heat generation during the polymerization process.

Practical considerations for the use of tapentadol prolonged release for the management of severe chronic pain.

Purpose: Chronic pain is often challenging to address appropriately. Although patients with severe chronic pain may respond to treatment with an opioid analgesic, opioids are often associated with adverse effects that may lead patients to disrupt or discontinue therapy. In addition, opioid analgesics alone may not be effective for all types of chronic pain, including neuropathic pain.

Study of in vitro mitral valve filling flow.

Diastolic function is a good indicator of overall cardiac health. This study is in support of a non-invasive technique to measure diastolic function. Interpretation of mitral flow, and early diagnosis of normality or dysfunction, can be enhanced by improved understanding of the fluid dynamics.

Laparoscopic surgery in a mobile army surgical hospital deployed to the former Yugoslavia.

The 212th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital was deployed from a United States military base in Germany to the former Yugoslavia to provide medical support for more than 25,000 United Nations soldiers. This medical unit was the first mobile hospital ever to deploy with a capability for laparoscopic surgery. During a 2-month trial period, seven laparoscopic procedures were performed for various abdominal emergencies.