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Biomedical subjects

P Blais

Publications and source records attributed to P Blais.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed2001

Tetraaza analogues of lithium and sodium alums: synthesis and X-ray structures of the single strand polymer [Li(THF)2(Al[SO2(NtBu)2]2)] infinity and the contact ion pairs [Na(15-crown-5)][Al(SO2(NtBu)2)2] and ([Na(15-crown-5)][O2S(mu-NBn)2Al(mu-NBnSO2NBn)])2.

The reaction of an alkali metal aluminohydride MAlH4 (M = Li, Na) with N,N'-bis-(tert-butyl)sulfamide or N,N'-bis-(benzyl)sulfamide in THF produces the complex ions (Al[SO2(NR)2]2)- (R = tBu, Bn). The X-ray structures of [Li(THF)2(Al[SO2(NtBu)2]2)] infinity (1), [Na(15-crown-5)][Al(SO2(NtBu)2)2], (2) and ([Na(15-crown-5)][O2S(mu-NBn)2Al(mu-NBnSO2NBn)])2 (3.3THF) are reported. The two diazasulfate ligands [SO2(NtBu)2]2- are N,N' chelated to Al3+ in both 1 and 2. In the lithium derivative 1 the spirocyclic (Al[SO2(NtBu)2]2)- anions are bridged by the bis-solvated cations Li(THF)2+ to give a polymeric strand. In the sodium salt 2 the complex anion is O,O' chelated to Na+, which is further encapsulated by a 15-crown-5 ligand to give a monomeric ion-pair complex. By contrast, the benzyl derivative 3 forms a dimer in which the terminal [SO2(NBn)2]2- ligands are (N,N'),(O,O') bis-chelated to Al3+ and Na+, respectively, and the bridging ligands adopt a novel N,O-chelate, N'-monodentate bonding mode. The central core of 3 consists of two four-membered AlOSN rings bridged by two NtBu groups. Crystal data: 1, orthorhombic, Pna2(1), a = 20.159(5) degrees, b = 10.354(3) degrees, c = 15.833(4) degrees, alpha = beta = gamma = 90 degrees, V = 3304.7(15) A3, Z = 4; 2, monoclinic, P2(1)/n, a = 16.031(2) A, b = 9.907(2) A, c = 23.963(4) A, beta = 103.326(2) degrees, Z = 4; 3, triclinic, P1, a = 12.7237(11) A, b = 14.0108(13) A, c = 16.2050(14) A, alpha = 110.351(2) degrees, beta = 111.538(2) degrees, gamma = 97.350(2) degrees, Z = 1.

Journal Article↗
PubMed1992

The polyurethane foam covering the Même breast prosthesis: a biomedical breakthrough or a biomaterial tar baby?

Because controversy continues to surround the implantation of the polyurethane foam-covered Même breast prosthesis, in vitro experiments were conducted to determine: (1) whether the polyurethane foam contains extractable toluene diamine isomers (TDAs), and (2) whether the polyurethane foam releases TDAs on exposure to mild hydrolytic conditions. Results confirmed the presence of extractable TDAs and other impurities in the foam covering the unused Même prosthesis, and that the concentrations of these impurities could be significantly reduced by washing the foam in a regular detergent. This washing step was omitted from the manufacturer's production process. Furthermore, on exposure to mild alkalis, the foam exhibited significant degradation, rapid fragmentation, loss of mechanical strength and physical integrity, as well as the release of additional TDAs. Because of the potential long-term risks associated with the release of TDAs in vivo, continued clinical use of the Même prosthesis containing this particular type of foam appears questionable.

Biocompatible Materials↗
PubMed1988

Degradation of explanted polyurethane cardiac pacing leads and of polyurethane.

Polyurethane cardiac pacing leads explanted at autopsy and from reoperated patients were examined for degradation in the insulation. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis showed cracks on the polyurethane surface which were both parallel and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the lead. Surface analyses of leads were performed using Fourier-Transform Infra-red (FT-IR) spectrophotometry in the attenuated total reflectance mode. The FT-IR spectra of visibly deteriorated polyurethane from explanted lead sheaths were compared with that of unused polyurethane tubing used for such sheaths. Changes were most evident in the regions of 3000-2800, 1730 and 1368 cm-1. The observed alterations in the FT-IR spectra were consistent with a degradation mechanism involving oxidative chain cleavage in the polyurethane amorphous regions. New polyurethane tubing (Pellethane-Type 80A) was exposed to sodium hypochlorite to simulate a possible in-vivo process and generate reference material. Degradation with associated decreases in tensile strength and molecular weight was recorded. This study showed that polyurethane insulation used in pacing leads is susceptible to oxidative degradation.

Biocompatible Materials↗
PubMed1987

Textile arterial prostheses: is water permeability equivalent to porosity?

Porosity and water permeability are two distinct terms that describe different characteristics of vascular prostheses. The porosity is a measure of the void fraction within the prosthesis wall and is believed to give a rough prediction of the capacity of the graft to anchor newly formed surrounding tissue after implantation, whereas the water permeability indicates the rate at which water can flow through the prosthesis wall and, when measured under physiological pressure conditions, provides the surgeon with information about the need for preclotting prior to implantation. The literature has not always clearly distinguished between these two terms, and some authors in fact have suggested that they both refer to the same property of a prosthesis. In an attempt to clarify the issue, porosity and water permeability measurements were made on 34 commercial vascular prostheses having different textile constructions. Linear regression analysis demonstrated that these two characteristics are only weakly related (r = 0.59). It is therefore recommended that the current draft standards for such devices reference both properties: porosity and water permeability.

Blood Vessel Prosthesis↗
PubMed1987

Perfluorocarbon blood substitutes.

The salient physicochemical properties of the fluorocarbons are briefly reviewed, including their solubility for the physiologically important gases and their properties relevant to formulation (nonmiscibility with water). The preparations used to date are described, including their properties and compositions, with some comment about the available knowledge of the properties of the constituents. A critical review of the biological aspects and the possible uses of fluorocarbon emulsions constitutes the main body of the manuscript. Gas-transporting capabilities are considered quantitatively. The biological effects of these preparations are reviewed in in vivo, whole body systems, with some in vitro evidence where appropriate. The usefulness of these preparations investigated to date are reviewed under the broad headings of cardiovascular system, radiology, intoxications, and organ preservation. Finally, the shortcomings and potential usefulness are discussed, with recommendations for potential modifications.

Biological Transport↗
PubMed1986

Chemically fixed human umbilical cord vein grafts as arterial substitutes: potential and limits.

In spite of reported successes, synthetic fabric grafts and microporous and plain synthetic conduits have proven unsuitable for aorto-coronary bypasses and showed weaknesses below the knee. Readily available and uniform diameter vascular substitutes with biological and mechanical properties comparable to human vessels would be of paramount interest. Following reported successes with chemically fixed human umbilical veins (HUV), we have attempted to develop smaller diameter blood conduits and have improved the currently prevalent techniques of fixation, preparation and storage to generate more convenient surgical products. In vitro assessment of the processed HUV demonstrated that the HUV can be easily processed to make an arterial substitute that can be preserved either in a liquid medium or as a dry product. However, the in vivo implantations in dogs led to disappointing results for liquid-preserved or albuminated veins. Critical-point dried grafts gave better results, unfortunately they do not heal and they can only degrade after implantation.

Animals↗
PubMed1985

Aggregation of insulin, containing surfactants, in contact with different materials.

The aggregation of insulin and of insulin protected with surfactants was studied by shaking at 37 degrees C in glass, in polypropylene and polystyrene vials, and in CPI and Auto-Syringe insulin syringes and infusion sets. Surfactants such as Pluronic 17R8 and 25R5 hastened the aggregation, whereas Pluronic F68 was effective in preventing it. Furthermore, there was no change in the immunoreactivity of insulin containing Pluronic F68 even after 8 days of shaking. Unprotected insulin aggregated in all the vials. There appears to be little problem with the commercial syringes tested, but the infusion sets could cause aggregation of insulin if used over an extended period of time. Although Pluronic F68 prevented insulin aggregation in situ, it extracted more impurities from the contacting plastics. Further development in materials and design of insulin sets and insulin containers appears necessary.

Chemical Phenomena↗
PubMed1984

Preliminary findings on used cervical caps.

Rubber cervical caps (Lambert-Dalston), used for periods of time ranging from 1 month to 3 years, were collected and assessed for deterioration and contamination as part of a product safety and efficacy study. Examination at magnification of 10 to 30 times as well as evaluation of surface damage and bulk mechanical properties revealed significant deterioration on all caps used consistently for more than one year. Changes were also evident on caps worn for shorter periods. Potential for adverse reaction from rubber degradation products and contamination adsorbed from disinfecting agents does not appear negligible. This problem, in combination with the inability to satisfactorily clean the caps after use, further limits their clinical value. A rethinking of cap design and the choice of better cap materials appears necessary to minimize long-term user problems and to mitigate product-related aesthetic deficiencies of this fertility control method.

Consumer Product Safety↗
PubMed1984

[Venous homografts as femoro-popliteal bypasses or as vascular access routes in chronic hemodialysis].

Saphenous vein homografts preserved by freezing at 40 degrees C in the presence of antibiotics for periods of as much as six months were implanted as part of a clinical evaluation program. Candidates included one requiring femoro-popliteal reconstruction with two separate bypass procedure and reoperations for thrombosis and false aneurysm in the left limb as well as 23 maintenance hemodialysis patients (32 arteriovenous blood access shunts for a total of 424 patient-months). Explanted veins used as femoro-popliteal bypasses were examined after collection incidental to reoperations and autopsy. In-vivo dwell time varied between 7 and 51 months. The femoro-popliteal by-passes exhibited calcification and sclerosis. The dialysis access shunts had average service lives of about a year; 21 were replaced because of thrombosis, 10 were stenosed, 7 had aneurysms and necrosis was present in six. Although this implant provides a workable alternative approach to vascular reconstruction, the rapid degeneration of such veins in vivo is a limitation.

Aged↗
PubMed1983

Polyester prostheses as substitutes in the thoracic aorta of dogs. I. Evaluation of commercial prostheses.

Using canine models, a representative selection of polyester or Dacron vascular prostheses, including woven, knitted, and velour types, were evaluated for their relative healing characteristics and for their structural changes during implantation. Following residence periods ranging from 4 h to 6 months at the site of the thoracic aorta, the dogs were sacraficed, and the grafts were excized for measurement of the thrombogenicity of the flow surface and for pathological examination by light microscopy and SEM. The kidneys were also removed and examined for infarcts caused by any trapped circulating emboli. The extent of healing, the presence of embolizing nuclei, and the thrombogenicity and morphology of the lumen surface were also assessed. The healing characteristics of each type of device proved similar. Velour fabrics exhibited more extensive encapsulation, but frequently their internal capsules failed to incorporate all the fibers. In all cases, cellular development on the lumen was limited to areas contiguous to the anastomoses. The initial porosity of the devices as measured by water permeability did not appear to influence the healing sequence to a significant extent. The grafts did exhibit differences in structural stability depending on whether they were of a knitted or woven construction. We suggest that users consider these different mechanical and structural properties when making their choice of a graft. Despite these differences, we believe that the healing process is far more host dependent than graft dependent.

Angiography↗
PubMed1982

New alternatives in the preparation of chemically fixed human umbilical veins as arterial substitutes.

Following reports of the successful use of chemically processed human umbilical veins as medium and small diameter arterial substitutes, the development of new and improved techniques for the preparation, fixation and storage of these bioprostheses has been attempted. A series of physical and "in vitro" tests was undertaken to predict the "in vivo" performance of these devices. The results indicate that the new techniques are not only technically feasible but may provide a more convenient, versatile and effective surgical product.

Arteries↗
PubMed1982

[Analysis of silicone testicular implants after explantation].

Two juvenile size silicone testicular prostheses were analyzed following replacement by adult size devices after 72 and 99 months in situ. Scanning electron microscopy and electron microprobe studies were carried out on the explanted silicone prostheses and their attached tissue capsules. The material at the surface of the prostheses gave no evidence of biodeterioration. However, localized sites of calcification were observed. The adjacent tissue capsule consisted of two distinct concentric layers with different morphologies; the one adjacent to the prosthesis consisted of dense arrays of collagen fibres oriented parallel to the silicone surface and extending outward to a thickness of 100-120 microns. The outer layer was less dense, more disordered and was uneven in thickness. It contained numerous discrete particles of silicon-rich material. Technical and clinical implications of these results are discussed.

Adolescent↗
PubMed1981

Effects of traumatic manipulations on grafts, sutures, and host arteries during vascular surgery procedures. Experiments on dogs.

Scanning electron microscopy was used to diagnose incidents of trauma and the pattern of healing following surgical implantation of microporous blood vessel substitutes. Vascular reconstruction procedures using autogenous or synthetic prosthetic material inflict damage to the adjacent tissues as well as the prosthesis. This affects the thrombotic behavior and healing pattern of the area. The prognosis for long-term success are, as a consequence, directly influenced. Various vessel-occluding devices were evaluated in canine models with respect to their ability to damage blood vessels at the clamped site. The impact of suture needles on tissues and prosthetic materials was also considered. Of the various vessel-clamping devices which are commercially available, those which have elastomeric shields on the clamping components were found to be most satisfactory. The development of less traumatic surgical devices is discussed with the aim of further reducing surgical trauma.

Animals↗
PubMed1981

[Aneurysm formation on dacron prosthesis after 84 months of use. Pathology, structural and chemical evaluation of the explanted device (author's transl)].

A 56 year old patient fitted with a femoro-popliteal Dacron prosthesis (Weavenit-Meadox Medical) 84 months earlier, presented with a severe palpable dilation in the middle part of the graft. The dilated segment of the prosthesis was resected locally and spliced to a new fabric device. The explanted section of prosthesis was analyzed; the dilation was found to extend only over several centimeters near the centre of the prosthesis. The degree of "healing" was found to be satisfactory except in the part which was most distended; this area also revealed mild bacterial colonization. Physico-chemical analysis of the fabric revealed that the dilation had taken place subsequently to hydrolytic degradation of the polyester fibres. Manufacturing conditions may have contributed to predisposing parts of the prosthesis to accelerated biodeterioration in vivo.

Biodegradation, Environmental↗