Impact of Gd-153 scanning line source attenuation correction on downstream invasive testing.

Background: Attenuation correction (AC) using hardware and software solutions has been shown to increase the specificity of SPECT MPI by decreasing false positive results and improving prognostic ability. Theoretically this should reduce downstream testing and unnecessary costs. We sought to assess the consequences of the use of Gd-153 scanning line source attenuation correction during SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) on downstream invasive testing.

Mechanisms mediating cholinergic antral circular smooth muscle contraction in rats.

Aim: To investigate the pathway (s) mediating rat antral circular smooth muscle contractile responses to the cholinomimetic agent, bethanechol and the subtypes of muscarinic receptors mediating the cholinergic contraction.

Methods: Circular smooth muscle strips from the antrum of Sprague-Dawley rats were mounted in muscle baths in Krebs buffer. Isometric tension was recorded.