T Brandon

Publications (2)6.62 Total impact

• Article: Calcium alginate gel: a biocompatible and mechanically stable polymer for endovascular embolization.

  T A Becker, D R Kipke, T Brandon
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  ABSTRACT: The development and optimization of calcium alginate for potential use in endovascular occlusion was investigated by testing its in vitro and in vivo mechanical stability and biocompatibility. The compressive resistance, rheology, and polymer yield of reacted alginate, and the polymer viscosity of unreacted alginate, were assessed. Biocompatibility was tested by injecting calcium alginate into the kidney capsule of rats. The reactivity of alginates with various structures and levels of purity were compared visually and histologically. Results suggest that calcium alginate is a biocompatible and mechanically stable gel for endovascular applications. Purified alginates exhibited compressive strength of 22 kPa and above at 40% compression, with no significant loss in elasticity. Purified alginate strength was significantly higher than that of crude alginates (p < 0.08). Purified alginates also exhibited significantly lower tissue reaction than crude alginates (p < 0.05). Of the alginates tested, purified high guluronic acid alginates (PHG) exhibited optimal strength and polymer yield, increased biocompatibility, and decreased viscosity. Clinical embolization treatments may be improved with the development of stable and biocompatible polymers such as calcium alginate. Possible uses of improved endovascular polymers include treating arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), aneurysms, blood flow to tumors, and vascular hemorrhaging.
  Journal of Biomedical Materials Research 01/2001; 54(1):76-86.
• Source

  Available from: rcpsych.org

  Article: Operation and organisation of services for people with severe mental illness in the UK. A survey of the Care Programme Approach.

  J Schneider, J Carpenter, T Brandon
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  ABSTRACT: Since 1991, English mental health policy guidelines have been explicit in recommending inter-professional working, involvement of patients and carers, harmonisation between health and social services and targeting at people with severe mental illness. To explore the structure and operation of mental health services in practice and relate them to measurable data. A survey of mental health trusts was conducted in 1997-1998. Responses were compared with a concurrent survey of social services departments. Some qualitative data were collected. Harmonisation and targeting scores were devised and tested for association. The response rate was 79%. The frequency with which different professionals, patients and carers were involved in the care process is described. Reasons for this are discussed briefly. Levels of harmonisation and targeting were found to vary widely and to be positively associated. This survey portrays mental health services' practice in relation to Government policy. However, adherence to guidelines cannot be taken as a guarantee of service quality or efficiency.
  The British Journal of Psychiatry 12/1999; 175:422-5. · 6.62 Impact Factor