Quantitative analysis of left-ventricular function using gated single photon emission tomography.

International audienceWe describe a quantitative method that measures segmental motion of the left ventricle, using tomographic slices obtained by gated single photon emission tomography (GSPECT). These slices contain the major axis of the left ventricle and are presumed to show wall motion directed towards a center of contraction. Values of parameters describing segmental wall motion in GSPECT were obtained from 61 patients, who received a left cardiac catheterization 1 hr later. These values were compared with results of similar calculations applied to data from contrast ventriculography. We conclude that GSPECT allows a detailed and quantitative, noninvasive study of wall motion of all left ventricular segments, with high inter- and intraobserver reproducibility

Quantitative analysis of left-ventricular function using gated single photon emission tomography.

International audienceWe describe a quantitative method that measures segmental motion of the left ventricle, using tomographic slices obtained by gated single photon emission tomography (GSPECT). These slices contain the major axis of the left ventricle and are presumed to show wall motion directed towards a center of contraction. Values of parameters describing segmental wall motion in GSPECT were obtained from 61 patients, who received a left cardiac catheterization 1 hr later. These values were compared with results of similar calculations applied to data from contrast ventriculography. We conclude that GSPECT allows a detailed and quantitative, noninvasive study of wall motion of all left ventricular segments, with high inter- and intraobserver reproducibility

Value of copeptin and the S-100b protein assay in ruling out the diagnosis of stroke-induced dizziness pattern in emergency departments

International audienceBackground: Dizziness is a frequent reason for visiting emergency departments (EDs). Differentiating stroke from other causes is challenging for physicians. The role of biomarkers has been poorly assessed. We evaluated whether copeptin and S100b protein (PS100b) assessment, alone or in combination, could rule out stroke in patients visiting EDs for dizziness.Methods: We included patients 18 years of age or older, visiting the adult ED of a French university hospital for a new episode of dizziness evolving for less than 72 h. All patients underwent standardized physical examination (HINT [Head Impulse test, Nystagmus, test of skew deviation] maneuvers), copeptin and S-100b protein (PS100) measurement and injected brain imaging. Stroke diagnosis involved diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging or, if not available, neurological examination and contrast brain CT scan compatible with the diagnosis.Results: Of the 135 patients participating in the study, 13 (10%) had stroke. The sensitivity, specificity and positive and negative predictive values of copeptin/PS100 combination were 100% (95%CI, 77-100%), 48% (40-57%), 14% (11-27%) and 100% (94-100%), respectively. Values for copeptin alone were 77% (CI95% 0.50-0.91), 50% (CI95% 0.49-0.58), 14% (CI95% 0.08-0.24), 93% (CI95% 0.87-0.98), and for PS100 alone were 54% (CI95% 0.29-0.77), 97% (CI95% 0.92-0.99), 64% (CI95% 0.35-0.84), 95% (CI95% 0.90-0.98).Conclusions: Absence of copeptin and PS100 elevation seems to ruling out the diagnosis of stroke in patients visiting the ED for a new episode of dizziness. These results need to be confirmed in a large-scale study

Final Summary Report on Target Design

The present document is the D13 deliverable report of work package 1, Target Development, from the MEGAPIE TEST project of the 5th European Framework Program. Deliverable D13 is the final summary report on the activities performed within WP 1. The manufacturer (ATEA) has indicated to deliver the target to PSI in the middle of 2005. Assuming that this date is realistic, it can be foreseen that the integral out-of beam test will be conducted during the end of the year 2005 and the beginning of the year 2006. It can be assumed that the irradiation of the MEGAPIE target will start during the second quarter of 2006. The content of the present work package 1 final summary report reflects the status of the MEGAPIE target and ancillary system development at the end of 2004