Electrode Position Research Articles

A Review of Coating Methods for Surface Protection

For various coating applications, a broad range of coating techniques and materials are available, all of which have the same general goal of shielding a component or structure from mechanical or chemical harm. Reduced manufacturing costs are one advantage of this protective feature since it eliminates the need to fabricate new parts. Hard and rigid metallic alloys, ceramics, bio-glasses, polymers, and tailored plastic materials are among the coating materials that are available, offering designers a wide range of options for long-lasting protection. Many techniques have been developed and studied up to this point, including thermal spraying, sol-gel, micro-arc oxidation, physical/chemical vapor deposition, and electrode position. Despite the benefits that each of these procedures offers, there are always issues that restrict their use. However, by using the advantages of each process in a multi-method coating, there are several ways to address the shortcomings of coating procedures. These coating techniques are contrasted and categorized in this article. Future developments might lead to improved protective properties through the use of increasingly sophisticated coating methods and materials.

Susceptibility-Weighted MRI Approximates Intraoperative Microelectrode Recording During Deep Brain Stimulation of the Subthalamic Nucleus for Parkinson's Disease

Deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus (STN-DBS) for Parkinson's disease can be performed with intraoperative neurophysiological and radiographic guidance. Conventional T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging sequences, however, often fail to provide definitive borders of the STN. Novel magnetic resonance imaging sequences, such as susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI), might better localize the STN borders and facilitate radiographic targeting. We compared the radiographic location of the dorsal and ventral borders of the STN using SWI with intraoperative microelectrode recording (MER) during awake STN-DBS for Parkinson's disease. Thirteen consecutive patients who underwent placement of 24 STN-DBS leads for Parkinson's disease were analyzed retrospectively. Preoperative targeting was performed with SWI, and MER data were obtained from intraoperative electrophysiology records. The boundaries of the STN on SWI were identified by a blinded investigator. The final electrode position differed significantly from the planned coordinates in depth but not in length or width, indicating that MER guided the final electrode depth. When we compared the boundaries of the STN by MER and SWI, SWI accurately predicted the entry into the STN but underestimated the length and ventral boundary of the STN by 1.2 mm. This extent of error approximates the span of a DBS contact and could affect the placement of directional contacts within the STN. MER might continue to have a role in STN-DBS. This could potentially be mitigated by further refinement of imaging protocols to better image the ventral boundary of the STN.

Electrochemical codeposition of La and Fe-group metals in a dicyanamide ionic liquid

Room-temperature electrochemical deposition of lanthanides and their alloys can be achieved employing organic ionic media, such as ionic liquids (ILs). Here, we study the electrochemical (co)deposition of La and Fe-group transition metals from solutions in 1-butyl-1-methyl-pyrrolidinium dicyanamide IL, [BMP][DCA], with controlled water content. We show that electroreduction of La(III) ions starts in the two-component solutions containing La(III) + Me(II) (Me = Co, Fe, or Ni) and no added water in the same potential interval as the electroreduction of respective Me(II). La is thus codeposited with the respective Fe-group metal, as evidenced by voltammetric, microscopic, and X-ray analyses, at considerably more positive potentials than in a solution containing only La(III) ions. Such a promoting effect is not observed in the presence of Cu(I) and Sn(II). Furthermore, the effect of water on the (co)deposition of La and Fe-group metals is systematically investigated. The La-Me (Me = Co, Fe, or Ni) codeposition is inhibited in the presence of moderate amounts of water (up to 0.32 M). At higher water contents, particularly ≥0.32 M H2O in the La(III) + Ni(II) solution, the electroreduction of La starts at more positive potentials than the deposition of Ni. This allows obtaining La-Ni deposits with a high La content. The XPS data indicate that La is present in the deposits in both metallic and oxidized states, even if deposition occurs in a solution with no added water. The results obtained in this study offer valuable insight into the electro(co)deposition of La from IL solutions and contribute to the progress of techniques for producing lanthanide-based functional coatings.

Post-operative evaluation of computed tomography imaging following cochlear implantation

PurposeThis study utilized an automated segmentation algorithm to assess the cochlear implant electrode array within the cochlea and investigate its impact on audiologic outcomes as measured by post-operative speech perception scores. Furthermore, manual evaluations of electrode placement were compared to automatic segmentation methods to determine their accuracy in predicting post-operative audiologic outcomes. Materials and methodsThis retrospective chart review was conducted at a tertiary care referral center involving adult post-lingually deafened cochlear implant recipients implanted from 2015 to 2019. Patients with appropriate postoperative imaging and speech testing were included. Patients were excluded if non-English speaking, had a cognitive deficit, or a labyrinthine malformation. Automated and manual methods were used to analyze computed tomography (CT) scans and correlate the findings with post-operative speech perception scores and detection of electrode translocation. ResultsAmong the 47 patients who met inclusion criteria, 15 had electrode translocations confirmed by automatic segmentation methods. Controlling for CI usage and pre-operative AzBio scores, patients with translocation exhibited significantly lower consonant-nucleus consonant (CNC) and AzBio scores at 6-months post-implantation compared to patients with ST insertions. Moreover, the number of translocated electrode contacts was significantly associated with post-operative CNC scores. Manual evaluations of electrode location were predictive but less sensitive to electrode translocations when compared with automated 3D segmentation. ConclusionsPlacement of CI electrode contacts within ST without translocation into SV, leads to improved audiologic outcomes. Manual assessment of electrode placement via temporal bone CT, without 3D reconstruction, provides a less sensitive method to determine electrode placement than automated methods. Level of evidenceLevel 4. Lay summaryThis study investigated the impact of electrode placement on speech outcomes for cochlear implant recipients. Using advanced imaging techniques, the researchers compared automated and manual methods for evaluating electrode position and examined the relationship between electrode translocation and audiologic outcomes. The findings revealed that proper placement within the cochlea without translocation into inappropriate compartments inside the cochlea improves speech understanding. Manual evaluations were somewhat accurate but less sensitive in detecting translocations compared to automated methods, which offer more precise predictions of patient outcomes. These results contribute to our understanding of factors influencing cochlear implant success and highlight the importance of optimizing electrode placement for improved speech outcomes.

Cardiac Computed Tomography to Guide the Selection of Better Display Angle of Cardiac Right Ventricular Pacing Electrode in Radiography.

Traditional radiography angles do not adequately reveal the shape and position of the right ventricular pacing electrode. This study aimed to explore better radiography angles with the help of cardiac computed tomography (CT). We analyzed the cardiac CT images of consecutive outpatients from 2018 to 2019. The right anterior oblique (RAO) 30° and the left anterior oblique (LAO) 40° were found to sufficiently display the shape and position of the right ventricular pacing electrode. A total of 214 consecutive outpatients were enrolled, whose average age was 55.0 ± 13.0 years, and 151 were male (70.6%). Through analyzing the cardiac CT images, the α angle (33.7° ± 6.1) and the γ angle (38.8° ± 8.0) were determined. Furthermore, we verified these angles in 48 patients after pacemaker implantation. The results showed that the ratio of the length of right ventricular electrode using the RAO α angle (≈30°) to the posterior-anterior position (PA position) was 1.099 ± 0.157 vs. 1.053 ± 0.182 (the ratio using the traditional RAO 45°) (P < 0.001). We observed that the relationship between the right ventricular active electrode and the ventricular septum was better identified using the LAO γ angle (≈40°) than the traditional 60° angle. With the help of cardiac CT, we found that RAO 30° could better show the shape and length of the right ventricular pacing electrode, and LAO 40° could better show the positional relationship between the pacing electrode and the ventricular septum.

Evaluation of CI electrode position from imaging: comparison of an automated technique with the established manual method

BackgroundA manual evaluation of the CI electrode position from CT and DVT scans may be affected by diagnostic errors due to cognitive biases. The aim of this study was to compare the CI electrode localization using an automated method (image-guided cochlear implant programming, IGCIP) with the clinically established manual method.MethodsThis prospective experimental study was conducted on a dataset comprising N=50 subjects undergoing cochlear implantation with a Nucleus® CI532 or CI632 Slim Modiolar electrode. Scalar localization, electrode-to-modiolar axis distances (EMD) and angular insertion depth (aDOI) were compared between the automated IGCIP tool and the manual method. Two raters made the manual measurements, and the interrater reliability (±1.96·SD) was determined as the reference for the method comparison. The method comparison was performed using a correlation analysis and a Bland-Altman analysis.ResultsConcerning the scalar localization, all electrodes were localized both manually and automatically in the scala tympani. The interrater differences ranged between ±0.2 mm (EMD) and ±10° (aDOI). There was a bias between the automatic and manual method in measuring both localization parameters, which on the one hand was smaller than the interrater variations. On the other hand, this bias depended on the magnitude of the EMD respectively aDOI. A post-hoc analysis revealed that the deviations between the methods were likely due to a different selection of mid-modiolar axis.ConclusionsThe IGCIP is a promising tool for automated processing of CT and DVT scans and has useful functionality such as being able to segment the cochlear using post-operative scans. When measuring EMD, the IGCIP tool is superior to the manual method because the smallest possible distance to the axis is determined depending on the cochlear turn, whereas the manual method selects the helicotrema as the reference point rigidly. Functionality to deal with motion artifacts and measurements of aDOI according to the consensus approach are necessary, otherwise the IGCIP is not unrestrictedly ready for clinical use.

Improving Behavior Monitoring of Free-Moving Dairy Cows Using Noninvasive Wireless EEG Approach and Digital Signal Processing Techniques

Electroencephalography (EEG) is the most common method to access brain information. Techniques to monitor and extract brain signal characteristics in farm animals are not as developed as those for humans and laboratory animals. The objective of this study was to develop a noninvasive method for monitoring brain signals in cattle, allowing the animals to move freely, and to characterize these signals. Brain signals from six Holstein heifers that could move freely in a paddock compartment were acquired. The control group consisted of the same number of bovines, contained in a climatic chamber (restrained group). In the second step, the signals were characterized by Power Spectral Density, Short-Time Fourier Transform, and Lempel–Ziv complexity. The preliminary results revealed an optimal electrode position, referred to as POS2, which is located at the center of the frontal region of the animal’s head. This positioning allowed for attaching the electrodes to the front of the bovine’s head, resulting in the acquisition of longer artifact-free signal sections. The signals showed typical EEG frequency bands, like the bands found in humans. The Lempel–Ziv complexity values indicated that the bovine brain signals contained random and chaotic components. As expected, the signals acquired from the retained bovine group displayed sections with a larger number of artifacts due to the hot 32 degree C temperature in the climatic chamber. We present a method that helps to monitor and extract brain signal features in unrestrained bovines. The method could be applied to investigate changes in brain electrical activity during animal farming, to monitor brain pathologies, and to other situations related to animal behavior.

Effects of Electrode Position Targeting in Noninvasive Electromyography Technologies for Finger and Hand Movement Prediction

PurposeStroke patients may need to undergo rehabilitation therapy to improve their mobility. Electromyography (EMG) can be used to improve the effectiveness of at-home therapy programs, as it can assess recovery progress in the absence of a health professional. In particular, EMG armbands have the advantage of being easy to use compared to other EMG technologies, which could allow patients to complete therapy programs without external assistance. However, it is unclear whether there are drawbacks associated with the fixed electrode placement imposed by current armband designs. This study compared the hand gesture prediction capabilities of an off-the-shelf EMG armband with fixed electrode placement and an EMG setup with flexible electrode positioning.MethodsTen able-bodied participants performed a series of hand and finger gestures with their dominant hand, once with an EMG armband (Untargeted condition) and once with electrodes deliberately placed on specific muscles (Targeted condition). EMG features were extracted from overlapping sliding windows and were used to (1) classify the gestures and (2) predict finger joint positions as measured by a robotic hand exoskeleton.ResultsFor the classification task, a logistic regression model performed significantly better (p < 0.001) for the Targeted condition (55.8% pm 10.1%) compared to the Untargeted condition (47.9% pm 11.6%). For the regression task, a k-nearest neighbours model obtained significantly lower (p = 0.007) mean RMSE values for the Targeted condition (0.260 pm 0.037) compared to the Untargeted condition (0.270 pm 0.043).ConclusionWe observed a trade-off between predictive accuracy and ease-of-use of the EMG devices used in this study. It is important to consider such a trade-off when developing clinical applications such as at-home stroke rehabilitation therapy programs.

Microfluidic Mixing: A Physics-Oriented Review.

This comprehensive review paper focuses on the intricate physics of microfluidics and their application in micromixing techniques. Various methods for enhancing mixing in microchannels are explored, with a keen emphasis on the underlying fluid dynamics principles. Geometrical micromixers employ complex channel designs to induce fluid-fluid interface distortions, yielding efficient mixing while retaining manufacturing simplicity. These methods synergize effectively with external techniques, showcasing promising potential. Electrohydrodynamics harnesses electrokinetic phenomena like electroosmosis, electrophoresis, and electrothermal effects. These methods offer dynamic control over mixing parameters via applied voltage, frequency, and electrode positioning, although power consumption and heating can be drawbacks. Acoustofluidics leverages acoustic waves to drive microstreaming, offering localized yet far-reaching effects. Magnetohydrodynamics, though limited in applicability to certain fluids, showcases potential by utilizing magnetic fields to propel mixing. Selecting an approach hinges on trade-offs among complexity, efficiency, and compatibility with fluid properties. Understanding the physics of fluid behavior and rationalizing these techniques aids in tailoring the most suitable micromixing solution. In a rapidly advancing field, this paper provides a consolidated understanding of these techniques, facilitating the informed choice of approach for specific microfluidic mixing needs.

Two Discrete Types of Tip Fold-Over in Cochlear Implantation Using Slim Modiolar Electrodes: Influence of Cochlear Duct Length on Tip Fold-Over.

Precise electrode positioning is crucial for achieving optimal audiological outcomes in cochlear implantation. The slim modiolar electrode (SME), a thin, flexible, and precurved electrode, exhibits favorable modiolar proximity. However, tip fold-over can affect optimal electrode placement. Herein, we share our experiences with tip fold-over in SMEs and present an analysis of conditions that may predispose to tip fold-over. Retrospective medical record review. In total, 475 patients (671 ears) underwent cochlear implantation using SMEs (Nucleus CI532 or CI632 from Cochlear) performed by a single surgeon at a tertiary center between June 14, 2018, and December 1, 2022. Intraoperative x-ray scans (cochlear view), operative records, and cochlear duct length (CDL) were reviewed. Tip fold-over patterns on plain x-ray images (proximal versus distal). Electrode tip fold-over was observed in 18 (2.7%) of the 671 ears with SMEs. This fold-over occurred more frequently in cases with long CDL (>36 mm). Among the 14 cases with available initial x-rays before correction of the tip fold-over, half were classified as proximal and the other half as distal. A predilection for proximal tip fold-over was found in those with a CDL of 36 mm or longer, and longer CDLs were observed for proximal cases than for distal cases. Our pilot data suggest that identifying the type of tip fold-over can aid in correcting it more efficiently. Tip fold-over of SME does not occur uniformly and is more common in ears with long CDL. This tendency is particularly pronounced for the proximal type of tip fold-over. Therefore, preoperative measurement of the CDL and meticulous examination of intraoperative imaging are essential for customized correction.

Positioning of epidural electrode for motor cortex stimulation in general anesthesia based on intraoperative electrophysiological monitoring to treat refractory trigeminal neuropathic pain

BackgroundMotor cortex stimulation (MCS) represents a treatment option for refractory trigeminal neuralgia (TGN). Usually, patients need to be awake during surgery to confirm a correct position of the epidural electrode above the motor cortex, reducing patient’s comfort.MethodEpidural cortical mapping (ECM) and motor evoked potentials (MEPs) were intraoperatively performed for correct localization of motor cortex under general anesthesia that provided comparable results to test stimulation after letting the patient to be awake during the operation.ConclusionIntraoperative ECM and MEPs facilitate a confirmation of correct MCS-electrode position above the motor cortex allowing the MCS-procedure to be performed under general anesthesia.

Intraoperative physiology augments atlas-based data in awake deep brain stimulation

BackgroundDeep brain stimulation (DBS) is commonly performed with patients awake to perform intraoperative microelectrode recordings and/or macrostimulation testing to guide final electrode placement. Supplemental information from atlas-based databases derived from...

A Novel Event-Driven Spiking Convolutional Neural Network for Electromyography Pattern Recognition.

Electromyography (EMG) pattern recognition is an important technology for prosthesis control and human-computer interaction etc. However, the practical application of EMG pattern recognition is hampered by poor accuracy and robustness due to electrode shift caused by repeated wearing of the signal acquisition device. Moreover, the user's acceptability is low due to the heavy training burden, which is caused by the need for a large amount of training data by traditional methods. In order to explore the advantage of spiking neural network (SNN) in solving the poor robustness and heavy training burden problems in EMG pattern recognition, a spiking convolutional neural network (SCNN) composed of cyclic convolutional neural network (CNN) and fully connected modules is proposed and implemented in this study. High density surface electromyography (HD-sEMG) signals collected from 6 gestures of 10 subjects at 6 electrode positions are taken as the research object. Compared to CNN with the same structure, CNN-Long Short Term Memory (CNN-LSTM), linear kernel linear discriminant analysis classifier (LDA) and spiking multilayer perceptron (Spiking MLP), the accuracy of SCNN is 50.69%, 33.92%, 32.94% and 9.41% higher in the small sample training experiment, 6.50%, 4.23%, 28.73%, and 2.57% higher in the electrode shifts experiment respectively. In addition, the power consumption of SCNN is about 1/93 of CNN. The advantages of the proposed framework in alleviating user training burden, mitigating the adverse effect of electrode shifts and reducing power consumption make it very meaningful for promoting the development of user-friendly real-time myoelectric control system.

Lateral Spread Response: Unveiling the Smoking Gun for Cured Hemifacial Spasm.

Hemifacial spasm (HFS) is a rare disorder characterized by involuntary facial muscle contractions. The primary cause is mechanical compression of the facial nerve by nearby structures. Lateral spread response (LSR) is an abnormal muscle response observed during electromyogram (EMG) testing and is associated with HFS. Intraoperative monitoring of LSR is crucial during surgery to confirm successful decompression. Proper anesthesia and electrode positioning are important for accurate LSR monitoring. Stimulation parameters should be carefully adjusted to avoid artifacts. The disappearance of LSR during surgery is associated with short-term outcomes, but its persistence does not necessarily indicate poor long-term outcomes. LSR monitoring has both positive and negative prognostic value, and its predictive ability varies across studies. Early disappearance of LSR can occur before decompression and may indicate better clinical outcomes. Further research is needed to fully understand the implications of LSR monitoring in HFS surgery.

Emotion Recognition from Electroencephalogram Signals based on Deep Neural Networks

Emotion recognition using deep learning methods through electroencephalogram (EEG) analysis has marked significant progress. Nevertheless, the complexities and time-intensive nature of EEG analysis present challenges. This study proposes an efficient EEG analysis method that foregoes feature extraction and sliding windows, instead employing one-dimensional Neural Networks for emotion classification. The analysis utilizes EEG signals from the Database for Emotion Analysis using Physiological Signals (DEAP) and focuses on thirteen EEG electrode positions closely associated with emotion changes. Three distinct Neural Models are explored for emotion classification: two Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) and a combined approach using Convolutional Neural Networks and Long Short-Term Memory (CNN-LSTM). Additionally, two emotion labels are considered: four emotional ranges encompassing low arousal and low valence (LALV), low arousal and high valence (LAHV), high arousal and high valence (HAHV), and high arousal and low valence (HALV); and high valence (HV) and low valence (LV). Results demonstrate CNN_1 achieving an average accuracy of 97.7% for classifying four emotional ranges, CNN_2 with 97.1%, and CNN-LSTM reaching an impressive 99.5%. Notably, in classifying HV and LV labels, our methods attained remarkable accuracies of 100%, 98.8%, and 99.7% for CNN_1, CNN_2, and CNN-LSTM, respectively. The performance of our models surpasses that of previously reported studies, showcasing their potential as highly effective classifiers for emotion recognition using EEG signals.

Spatiotemporal Pattern Formation of Metal Electrodissolution Reactions Using Multielectrode Arrays in Lab-on-Chip Cells

Electrochemical reactions can generate complex spatiotemporal patterns due to the inherent nonlinearities in the reaction kinetics, which often couple with various mass transfer and electrical coupling effects. We explore spatiotemporal pattern formation using multielectrode arrays embedded in flow channels. The kinetic equations are expressed as a superposition of local kinetics with a network of electrical coupling due to ohmic potential drops in the electrolyte. The networks are revealed by analysis of the synchronization patterns with the use of an oscillatory chemical reaction (nickel electrodissolution) and are further confirmed by direct decoding using phase model analysis. In dual electrode configuration, a variety coupling schemes, (uni- or bidirectional positive or negative) were identified depending on the relative placement of the reference and counter electrodes (e.g., placed at the same or the opposite ends of the ow channel). The synchronization patterns and the network configuration are compared for the linear and the branched channel configurations. With straight channel and multiple electrodes, a scale-free network was formed. With branched channels, the global to local coupling can be changed by the position of electrodes in the channel, and introduction of different concentration of electrolyte can mediate coupling between only the downstream electrodes. In fluidic network with cross channels, nonlinearity can be induced by obstacles in the channel which open ways to investigate the Braess’s paradox. The networked, electrode potential (current) spike generating electrochemical reactions hold potential for construction of an in-situ information processing unit to be used in electrochemical devices in sensors and batteries.

Structure and performance of iridium electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction obtained by electrodeposition and double glow plasma: A comparative study

Iridium (Ir), with low overpotential and excellent stability, is a promising catalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in alkaline electrolyte. Structure and HER performance of Ir electrocatalysts fabricated by electrodeposition (ED) and double glow plasma (DGP) were investigated. ED Ir nano electrocatalyst with rough surface was not completely covered and consisted of a mixture of nanocrystalline and amorphous. Homogeneous and dense DGP Ir electrocatalyst with micro-size was composed of many coarse particles. After ablation, the Ir grains coarsened, and many holes were formed. Boasting a large electroactive surface area and high electrical conductivity, ED Ir electrocatalysts exhibited a superior electrocatalytic activity in 1.0 M KOH solution, requiring only 0.044 V overpotential to obtain a current density of 10 mA·cm−2, with a low Tafel slope of 34 mV·dec-1 and a high exchange current density of 0.669 mA·cm−2, compared with DGP Ir electrocatalysts with and without high-temperature treatment. The electrocatalytic activities of the electrocatalysts were in order of ED Ir > DGP Ir > ablation Ir electrocatalysts.

Relation between 25-Hydroxy Vitamin D Deficiency and Success of Cardioversion for Lone Atrial Fibrillation (AF)

Abstract Aim and objectives The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and extent of success of cardioversion in patients with lone atrial fibrillation (AF). Patients and Methods This observational cross-sectional study included 50 patients (18-60 years old) who presented to the cardiology department of Ain Shams university hospitals with lone atrial fibrillation with structurally normal heart for cardioversion after fulfilling the inclusion criteria, considering that failure of cardioversion was defined as failure of restoration to normal sinus rhythm after applying the cardioversion protocol that is being used in our cardiology department in Ain Shams University hospitals. Serum vitamin D level on admission was sampled for all patients before cardioversion, and cardioversion was assessed after then whether success or failure. Cardioversion success was restoration of normal sinus rhythm and that the patient was discharged in sinus rhythm. Cardioversion protocol that was being used was applied as Loading dose of Intravenous (IV) Amiodarone of 300 mg diluted in 250 ml 5% dextrose over 30-60 minutes, then follow up dose of 900 mg IV over 24 hours diluted in 500-1000 ml of normal saline, then if failed, application of biphasic synchronized direct current electrical cardioversion at 200 joules at anteriorlateral electrode positions. Results The success rate of cardioversion was 80% (40 out of 50) in all the patients presented, and the failure rate was 20% (10 out of 50). In the success group, majority of patients 23 (57.5%) had sufficient Vitamin D levels (≥30 ng/ml), 15 patients (37.5%) had insufficient vitamin D levels (21-29 ng/ml) and 2 patients (5%) had deficient vitamin D levels (≤20 ng/ml). Meanwhile, in the failure group, the majority of patients 8 (80%) had deficient vitamin D levels (≤20 ng/ml), 1 patient (10%) had insufficient vitamin D level (21-29 ng/ml), and 1 patient (10%) had sufficient vitamin D level (≥30 ng/ml).This difference was statistically significant with a P value of &amp;lt; 0.01. Vitamin D level measured (25-OH vitamin D) had values of mean ± SD of 29.41 ± 4.89 ng/ml in the success group vs 19.22 ± 4.68 ng/ml in the failure group, which was statistically significant with a P value of &amp;lt;0.01. A-P (antero-posterior) LAD (left atrial diameter) measured in parasternal long axis view during routine pre-cardioversion work-up study by echocardiography that has been done, had values of mean ± SD of 37.60 ± 3.20 mm in the success group vs 37.80 ± 2.86 mm in the failure group, which was statistically non- significant with a P value of 0.858. There was not a statistically significant difference between the 2 groups regarding age, sex, BMI, smoking, duration of AF(duration of onset of symptoms), number of previous trials of cardioversion, previous antiarrythmic drugs that have been administered and heart rate at time of cardioversion. Conclusion Failure rate of cardioversion was found to be higher in patients with vitamin D deficiency in comparison to patients with sufficient and insufficient vitamin D levels. Abbreviations AF: Atrial Fibrillation; A-P: Antero-posterior; BMI: Body mass index; LAD: Left atrial diameter; SD: Standard deviation

Deep Brain Stimulation Lead Localization Variability Comparing Intraoperative MRI Versus Postoperative Computed Tomography.

Commercially available lead localization software for deep brain stimulation (DBS) often relies on postoperative computed tomography (CT) scans to define electrode positions. When cases are performed with intraoperative MRI, another imaging set exists with which to perform these localizations. To compare DBS localization error between postoperative CT scans and intraoperative MRI. A retrospective cohort of patients who underwent MRI-guided placement of DBS electrodes using the ClearPoint platform was identified. Using Brainlab Elements, postoperative CT scans were coregistered to intraoperative magnetic resonance images visualizing the ClearPoint guidance sheaths and ceramic stylets. DBS electrodes were identified in CT scans using Brainlab's lead localization tool. Trajectory and vector errors were quantified between scans for each lead in each patient. Eighty patients with a total of 157 implanted DBS electrodes were included. We observed mean trajectory and vector errors of 0.78 ± 0.44 mm (range 0.1-2.0 mm) and 1.57 ± 0.79 mm (range 0.2-4.2 mm), respectively, between postoperative CT and intraoperative MRI. There were 7 patients with CT scans collected at multiple time points. Trajectory error increased by 0.15 ± 0.42 mm ( P = .31), and vector error increased by 0.22 ± 0.53 mm ( P = .13) in the later scans. Across all scans, there was no significant association between trajectory ( P = .053) or vector ( P = .98) error and the date of CT acquisition. DBS electrodes targeting the subthalamic nucleus had significantly greater trajectory errors ( P = .02) than those targeting the globus pallidus pars internus nucleus. Commercially available software produced largely concordant lead localizations when comparing intraoperative MRIs with postoperative CT scans, with trajectory errors on average <1 mm. CT scans tend to be more comparable with intraoperative MRI in the immediate postoperative period, with increased time intervals associated with a greater magnitude of error between modalities.

Exploring the Rules of Related Parameters in Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation for Cancer Pain Based on Data Mining.

This study aims to investigate the regularity of related parameters in the treatment of cancer pain using transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). A comprehensive literature search was conducted in databases such as PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, OVID, CNKI, CBM, VIP, and WANNGFANG from inception up to December 2022. A database was established, and data mining techniques were applied to analyze the relevant TENS parameters. A total of 27 articles were included, encompassing nine current frequencies, four retention times, four treatment frequencies, and two wave types. On the basis of the analysis of parameter association rules, the most closely related parameter combination for clinical TENS in the treatment of cancer pain was a current frequency of 2/100Hz, a treatment frequency of once a day, a retention time of 30min, and the dilatational wave. Moreover, the study involved 22 acupuncture points distributed along 13 meridians. According to the analysis of acupuncture point association rules, Hegu (LI04), Zusanli (ST36), and Sanyinjiao (SP06) were the most closely related acupuncture points and could be used in combination for clinical TENS in cancer pain treatment. Furthermore, cluster analysis was conducted on acupuncture points with a frequency ≥ 5, resulting in three categories: the first category included Sanyinjiao (SP06), Zusanli (ST36), Hegu (LI04), Jiaji point, and Neiguan (PC06); the second category included Ashi point; and the third category included Back shu point. In the treatment of cancer pain using TENS, it is recommended to use a current frequency of 2/100Hz, a treatment frequency of once a day, a retention time of 30min, and the dilatational wave. The electrode positions were primarily selected from Ashi point, Back shu point, Sanyinjiao (SP06), Zusanli (ST36), Hegu (LI04), Jiaji point, and Neiguan (PC06) to achieve the best analgesic effect.