Partial complex seizures in children: an analysis of 69 seizures in 24 patients using EEG FM radiotelemetry and videotape recording

The electroencephalographic and clinical manifestations of 69 partial complex seizures in 24 pediatric patients recorded during EEG-FM radiotelemetry and videotape monitoring were reviewed. The seizure could be divided into 3 electro-clinical types. Type I attacks were characterized by an initial motionless stare often followed by automatisms and associated with initial lateralized EEG changes. Type II attacks began with automatic behavior and had bilateral, diffuse changes on the EEG initially. Type II attacks began with a loss of body tone followed by automatisms and with bilateral EEG changes initially. This study demonstrates that both the clinical and electroencephalographic aspects of partial complex seizures in children are similar to those reported in adults. This similarity may be secondary to the early maturation of the limbic structures.

A survey of prehospital care paramedic/physician communication for Multnomah County (Portland), Oregon

All field paramedic/patient encounters requiring advanced life support management in Multnomah County, Oregon, required radio/telephone communications with the emergency department physicians of the county's single medical resource hospital for a period of 6 months. A survey of these communications (compliance estimated to be 75% to 80%) demonstrated that paramedics established contact during management or transport in one-half of instances and after transport in the remainder. Consultation was estimated to be helpful in 12% to 17% of cases and of critical importance rarely. Additional benefits were seen in hospital notification, education, and as an adjunct to the medical record; and the concept of a single centralized resource hospital was established in this community.

Monitoring of movement with radio frequency transducers

Two approaches to the problem of monitoring human movement using radio frequency transducers are described. A simple two dimensional solution can monitor movement restricted to one plane, whilst a three dimensional transducer (linked to a computer), can follow movement in any plane. In both cases, by measuring the magnetic field produced by a set of small coils powered with high frequency current it is possible to calculate their relative displacement. If the coils are attached to the surface of the human body they can thus be used as a monitor of human movement.

In vivo desensitization of a severe driving phobia through radio contact with telemonitoring of neurophysiological reactions

A 34 year-old man with a severe driving phobia was treated by in vivo desensitization. A radio transceiver was used to provide the anxiety inhibiting effects of voice contact during exposure to phobic driving experiences. Transceivers were linked to a Telemonitor apparatus programmed to broadcast heartbeat and GSR readings automatically every 15 minutes or on demand, each of 10 seconds duration. The therapist was therefore in touch with the subjective and physiological arousal of the patient from distances up to 7 miles. This allowed him to conduct more efficiently a program of in vivo graduated exposure. Treatment effects were maintained at a 9-month follow-up.