New multiplexing scheme for monitoring fiber optic Bragg grating sensors in the coherence domain

A new multiplexing scheme for monitoring fiber optic Bragg gratings in the coherence domain has been developed. Grating pairs with different grating distances are distributed along a fiber line, and interference between their reflections is monitored with a scanning Michelson interferometer. The Bragg wavelength of the individual sensor elements is determined from the interference signal frequency

Prognostic factors in patients with diffuse type gastric cancer (linitis plastica) after operative treatment

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Objective</p> <p>Treatment options for patients with diffuse type gastric cancer (linitis plastica) are discussed controversial. It is sometimes discussed that these patients should be treated primarily in palliative intention conservative without resection.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>In a single-center analysis, we investigated 120 patients with diffuse type gastric cancer. All patients underwent a total gastrectomy, 45 patients even a multivisceral resection because of infiltrating growth, or metastases. Serum tumor marker CEA, CA 72-4, and CA 19-9 were recorded in all patients before surgery. An immunocytochemical detection of free peritoneal tumor cells (FPTC) using Ber-EP4 antibody was correlated with tumor stage and survival. Median follow-up time was 38 months.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>Complete resection rate was 31% (n = 37). 61% (n = 73) of all patients had already distant metastases at the time of surgery, 80% of them peritoneal carcinomatosis. Median survival for the whole group was 8 months, after complete resection 17 months. Lavage cytology, distant metastases, resection rate, and CA19-9 levels had significant influence on survival.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>A significant survival advantage for patients with diffuse type gastric cancer can only be achived after complete resection. We could define a subset of patients with an extremely poor prognosis even after surgical resection. Meticulous preoperative staging, including a diagnostic laparoscopy to exclude peritoneal carcinomatosis and free peritoneal tumor cells before resection should be mandatory in these patients.</p

Making Educational Reform: Hard Times in Detroit 1988-1995

This article examines education reform in Detroit, employing data from over 75 semi-structured elite interviews. The research explores the apparent collapse of a local education reform effort in Detroit despite broad dissatisfaction with the current education system. Both collaborative and competitive approaches to reform are investigated through a regime framework. Reformers who implemented change were removed from office and yet a business school compact, neighborhood-based empowerment schools, and schools of choice remain as a legacy. This indicates that although short-term political support for change in Detroit did collapse, some long-term institutional impact of the reform remains