bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association Between Lower-Extremity Function and Arterial Compliance in Older Adults
Authors: Nickel Kevin J. , Acree Luke S. , Montgomery Polly S. , Gardner Andrew W.
Published: April 2008

The purpose was to identify the association between lower-extremity function and arterial compliance in older men and women. Participants included 46 healthy men (n = 18) and women (n = 28) 60 years of age or older. Lower-extremity functional performance was assessed by the summary performance score (SPS) that includes tests of 5 timed repeated chair rises, standing balance, and 4-meter walking velocity. Arterial compliance and arterial pressure were analyzed through pulsewave analysis. Small arterial compliance (3.74 ± 2.14; mean ± SD) was related ( r = 0.34, P = .028) to SPS (11.09 ± 1.19) after adjusting for body surface area, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension. Systolic blood pressure (138 ± 14) also was related to SPS ( r = −0.314, P = .040). These results suggest diminished lower-extremity function is associated with decreased small arterial compliance and elevated arterial pressure in older men and women.
Gigantic Bronchial Artery Aneurysm Treated With Transcatheter Arterial Embolization: A Case Report
Authors: Yajima Noriyuki , Tsutsui Hiroshi , Yoshioka Toru , Kasai Hiroki , Tomita Takeshi , Kumazaki Setsuo , Koyama Jun , Yazaki Yoshikazu , Kinoshita Osamu , Yamada Akira , Ueda Kazuhiko , Kadoya Masumi , Amano Jun , Ikeda Uichi
Published: April 2008

Bronchial artery aneurysm (BAA) is a rare condition. Rupture of BAA can cause critical hemorrhage, and intervention for BAA is thus recommended. A 69-year-old woman presented with BAA 70 mm in diameter in the right hilum of the lung. Transcatheter arterial embolization for afferent arteries of the BAA was performed and the BAA has subsequently been shrinking as observed by radiography. We present this case and a brief review of management of BAA based on the literature.
The Right Atrial Thrombus: The Sword of Damocles With Real Risk of Massive Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Kirin Marijan , Cerić Reuf , Špoljarić Marko , Pehar Mario , Cavrić Gordana , Rajćan Špoljarić Ivana , Kirin Ivan
Published: April 2008

Cases of 6 patients admitted at the intensive care unit for massive pulmonary embolism are reported. All patients presented with dyspnea, tachypnea, and tachycardia, and 4 were hypotensive and had syncope. Lung ventilation/ perfusion scans revealed perfusion defects in 4 patients. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) demonstrated acute cor pulmonale. It also revealed mobile right atrial thrombi in 5 patients, adherent thrombus in the right atrium in 1 patient and patent foramen ovale in 4 patients. Thrombolytic therapy was initiated in 4 patients, and 2 patients received heparin infusion only. Effects of thrombolysis were monitored using bedside TTE during the first 24 hours and in follow-up. The outcome of 4 patients who received thrombolytic therapy was good whereas other 2 patients, who received only heparin, died. Thrombotic mass disappeared 8 to 12 hours after initiation of therapy, and 10 weeks after discharge TTE showed normalized right ventricle dimensions and function in all 4 patients.
Augmentation Index and Pulse Wave Velocity as Indicators of Cardiovascular Stiffness
Authors: Nakae Ichiro , Matsuo Shinro , Matsumoto Tetsuya , Mitsunami Kenichi , Horie Minoru
Published: April 2008

The authors examine the clinical significance of radial augmentation index (rAI) and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV). In 78 hypertensive patients, rAI correlates inversely with pulse rate (PR; r = −0.57, P < .001), but baPWV does not. A weak correlation between rAI and systolic blood pressure (SBP) is observed (r = 0.28, P < .05). rAI has no significant correlation with diastolic blood pressure (DBP). In contrast, baPWV correlates positively with both SBP (r = 0.54, P < .001) and DBP (r = 0.43, P < .001). In 56 of these patients, baPWV correlates with the diastolic parameters—the mitral E/A ratio (r = —0.35, P < .01), pulmonary vein S/D ratio (r = 0.41, P < .01), and deceleration time (r = 0.28, P < .05)—by echocardiography, but AI.P75 (rAI corrected for PR 75 bpm because of PR dependence) does not. Therefore, for detection of diastolic dysfunction, baPWV may be more sensitive than rAI.
Apical Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Mimicking Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Olearczyk Beth , Gollol-Raju Narasimha , Menzies Dhananjai J.
Published: April 2008

Apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a form of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy localized to the left ventricular apex. It is common in Japanese and other Asian populations, where it is generally considered relatively benign. However, its presence has also been recognized, though less commonly, in non-Asian patients. In these patients, the electrocardiographic changes and symptoms associated with apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy often mimic acute coronary syndromes. Invasive or noninvasive evaluation of the left ventricular cavity confirms the diagnosis, with the “ace-of-spades” sign on left ventriculography being pathognomonic. Its prognosis is relatively benign in terms of cardiovascular mortality; however, morbid sequelae, such as diastolic dysfunction, left atrial enlargement, apical thrombi, ventricular aneurysms, and myocardial infarction, are not uncommon. The authors present a case of apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in a Caucasian patient who presented with findings suggestive of acute coronary syndrome and review the literature on apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
Traumatic Dissection of the Left Circumflex Artery After a Fall From Height
Authors: Dounis George B , Rentoukas Elias I. , Mandila Christina G. , Papanikolaou John G. , Matsakas Evangelos P. , Karabinis Andreas P.
Published: April 2008

The authors present the case of a healthy 40-year-old man who developed a myocardial infarction because of traumatic dissection of the left circumflex coronary artery following a fall from height. To our knowledge, this is the first time that a traumatic lesion of the left circumflex artery is being reported after a fall.
Age-Related Differences in Arterial Compliance Are Independent of Body Mass Index
Authors: Fjeldstad Anette S. , Montgomery Polly S. , Gardner Andrew W.
Published: April 2008

The aim of this study is to examine the effect of age on large and small arterial compliance in apparently healthy adults, and to determine whether this effect is independent of body mass index. The subjects consisted of 126 men and women, aged 45 years and above. The subjects rested supine while pulse contour analysis was measured from the radial artery to evaluate large and small arterial compliance. Large (12.0 ± 4.2 mL/mm Hg × 10, mean ± standard deviation) and small (3.3 ± 1.9 mL/mm Hg × 100) arterial compliance were lower in the oldest group ( P = .007, P = .002, respectively) compared with the youngest group (15.2 ± 4.6 mL/mm Hg × 10 and 5.0 ± 2.5 mL/mm Hg × 100, respectively). After adjusting for body mass index, large and small arterial compliance remained lower in the oldest group. Large and small arterial compliance are decreased with advancing age, independent of body mass index.
Leiomyosarcoma of the Inferior Vena Cava: A Case Report
Authors: Crema Eduardo , Zanier Gomes Marília Gabriela , Monteiro Isabela de Oliveira , de Lima Tatiana Silva , Silva Alex Augusto
Published: April 2008

Leiomyosarcoma of the inferior vena cava is an extremely rare tumor that is characterized by a poor prognosis and nonspecific symptoms, a fact that may delay the diagnosis for several years. The only therapeutic modality proven to prolong the survival of patients is total surgical resection of the tumor. In this study, the authors report the case of a 50-year-old patient with a diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma of the inferior vena cava, affecting the middle and distal thirds, who was submitted to surgical treatment.
Syncope Due to Paroxysmal Atrioventricular Block in a Patient With Systemic Sclerosis: A Case Report
Authors: Oe Kotaro , Mori Kiyoo , Gommori Satoshi , Konno Tetsuo , Fujino Noboru , Yamagishi Masakazu
Published: April 2008

A 79-year-old woman with systemic sclerosis was admitted to our hospital because of syncope. On admission, electrocardiogram showed progression of intraventricular conduction defect. Chest radiograph showed marked cardiomegaly. Echocardiogram revealed deterioration of left ventricular systolic function. We suspected progressive myocardial disease with Stokes-Adams attack. When we were preparing a temporary pacemaker, paroxysmal atrioventricular block with asystole for 15 seconds and convulsion occurred. Electrophysiological study showed His-ventricular block and sinus node dysfunction. A permanent pacemaker was implanted. In systemic sclerosis, progression of ventricular conduction defect may warrant prompt electrophysiological study and prophylactic pacemaker implantation.
Risk Stratification of Apolipoprotein B, Apolipoprotein A1, and Apolipoprotein B/AI Ratio on the Prevalence of the Metabolic Syndrome: the ATTICA Study
Authors: Pitsavos Christos , Panagiotakos Demosthenes B. , Skoumas John , Papadimitriou Labros , Stefanadis Christodoulos
Published: April 2008

We investigated the association of apolipoproteins AI and B in relation to the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in a random sample of cardiovascular disease— free adults from the ATTICA study (1,514 men, aged 18-87 y; 1,528 women, aged 18-89 y). Metabolic syndrome was defined according to the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III criteria. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 25% in men and 15% in women ( P < .001). Using the area under the Receiver Operation Characteristic curve, apolipoprotein B/AI was the best diagnostic marker of metabolic syndrome, the optimal discriminating cut-off value of this ratio was 0.72 (sensitivity 74%, specificity 67%), and individuals with apolipoprotein B/AI ratio greater than 0.74 had 3.29 times higher odds of having metabolic syndrome (95% confidence interval: 2.56-4.21) after adjusting for potential confounders.
Doppler Ultrasound Compared With Strain Gauge for Measurement of Systolic Ankle Blood Pressure
Authors: Joensen J.B. , Juul S. , Abrahamsen J. , Henneberg E.W. , Lindholt Jes S.
Published: April 2008

This study assesses measurement variation in the measurement of ankle systolic blood pressure (ABP) when measured with Doppler ultrasound and with the strain gauge method. Ninety-seven patients were included. ABP was measured with Doppler ultrasound and with the strain gauge method. The methods were compared graphically by scatterplots and analyzed by paired t test, analysis of variance, and Pitman's paired variance ratio test. ABP was measured by strain gauge in all extremities, whereas no Doppler signal was obtainable in 7 limbs (4%). There was no systematic difference in measurements between the means of the two measurements. However, a substantial difference of more than 25 mm Hg was found in 15% of limbs and more than 20 mm Hg in 20%. In the majority of patients, measurements of ABP by Doppler ultrasound and the strain gauge method give similar results, but for a minority the discrepancy is substantial.
Successful Treatment of Primary Cardiac Angiosarcoma With Docetaxel and Radiotherapy
Authors: Nakamura-Horigome Miki , Koyama Jun , Eizawa Takayuki , Kasai Hiroki , Kumazaki Setsuo , Tsutsui Hiroshi , Koiwai Keiichiro , Oguchi Kazuhiro , Kinoshita Osamu , Ikeda Uichi
Published: April 2008

A 49-year-old man was admitted for primary cardiac angiosarcoma with a cardiac tamponade. Transthoracic echocardiography and contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan demonstrated a large mass in the right atrium and thickening of the right ventricular wall. 18F-labeled deoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) scan showed increased FDG uptake in the mediastinum and over the heart. The patient responded to combination therapy with docetaxel and radiotherapy and tolerated the treatment well, except for radiation esophagitis, which required a soft diet and resolved 1 month after treatment. This combination therapy resulted in a minimal response with slight regression in the tumor size, but FDG-PET initially showed an increase in FDG uptake by the tumor that was no longer seen after combination therapy. There is no evidence of progression or metastasis even at 12 months after diagnosis.
Relationship Between Collateral Circulation and Successful Myocardial Reperfusion in Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Subanalysis of the PREMIAR Trial
Authors: Albertal Mariano , Cura Fernando , Escudero Alejandro G. , Padilla Lucio T. , Thierer Jorge , Trivi Marcelo , Belardi Jorge A , PREMIAR InvestigatorsBelardi
Published: April 2008

The aim of this study was to determine whether the presence of collateral circulation had a beneficial effect following primary angioplasty. In all, 114 patients who underwent primary angioplasty were included. Patients with collateral circulation had lower basal ST-segment deviation ( P = .004), white cell count ( P = .001), peak creatine kinase ( P = .001), and regional wall motion score values ( P = .03) than patients without collateral circulation. After the procedure, the group with collaterals was associated with higher rates of normal myocardial blush, complete ST resolution, and shorter time to stable ST-recovery. Multivariable logistic analysis identified the presence of collateral circulation as independent predictor of normal myocardial blush (adjusted odds ratio = 3.98, 95% confidence interval, 1.12-14.09; P = .033) and rapid reperfusion (time to stable ST-segment recovery <7 minutes, adjusted odds ratio = 4.0, 95% confidence interval, 1.57-10.20; P = .004). The presence of collateral circulation has a protective effect on infarct size, resulting in faster reperfusion.
The Effect of Hypercholestrolemia on Calf Muscle Hemoglobin Oxygen Saturation in Patients With Intermittent Claudication
Authors: Afaq Azhar , Montgomery Polly S. , Scott Kristy J. , Blevins Steve M. , Whitsett Thomas L. , Gardner Andrew W.
Published: April 2008

The purpose was to compare calf muscle hemoglobin oxygen saturation and exercise performance in hypercholesterolemic and normocholesterolemic patients with peripheral arterial disease. Hypercholesterolemic and normocholesterolemic patients had similar ankle/ brachial index (0.72 ± 0.24 vs 0.79 ± 0.28, [mean ± SD]; P = .334). Hypercholesterolemic patients had shorter initial claudication distance (214 ± 168 m vs 331 ± 185 m, P = .026), absolute claudication distance (391 ± 219 m vs 549 ± 211 m, P = .035), and lower calf muscle hemoglobin oxygen saturation at the occurrence of initial claudication distance (27 ± 21% vs 39 ± 20%; P = .013), and absolute claudication distance (26 ± 21% vs 36 ± 21%; P = .021). Hypercholesterolemia is associated with shorter walking distances and calf muscle hemoglobin oxygen saturation during exercise in patients limited by intermittent claudication.
Secondary Prevention of Arterial Disease in Very Elderly People: Results From a Prospective Registry (FRENA)
Authors: López-Jiménez Luciano , Camafort Miguel , Tiberio Gregorio , Carmona José Antonio , Guijarro Carlos , Martínez-Peñalver Francisco , Monreal Manuel ,   FRENA Investigators
Published: April 2008

There is little information on the effectiveness of secondary prevention interventions in very elderly patients. In this article, the incidence of major cardiovascular events during a 12-month follow-up period in a series of consecutive patients with coronary, cerebrovascular, or peripheral artery disease is analyzed. As of October 2006, 1264 patients had been enrolled. Of these, 324 (26%) were ≥75 years of age. Their incidence rate of 22 events per 100 patient-years (95% CI, 17-28) was over 2-fold the 7.9 (95% CI, 6.2-10) found in those <75 years of age. Among them, only chronic heart failure and diabetes were independently associated with an increased risk for major events, whereas the use of angiotensin II antagonists was associated with a lower risk. Patients ≥75 years of age had an over 2-fold higher incidence of major cardiovascular events. The use of angiotensin II antagonists was associated with a lower risk.
Effects of Atrial Fibrillation on Arterial Stiffness in Patients With Hypertension
Authors: Lee Sang-Hak , Choi Seonghoon , Jung Jae-Hun , Lee Namho
Published: April 2008

Arterial stiffness is significantly correlated with cardiovascular risk in patients with hypertension. Although arterial stiffness increases with age and other vascular risk factors, the effect of heart rhythm on arterial stiffness is uncertain. The aim of this study was to determine whether the presence of atrial fibrillation is associated with arterial stiffness, as determined by heart to femoral pulse wave velocity, in patients with hypertension. Heart to femoral pulse wave velocity was measured, and comprehensive transthoracic echocardiography was performed in 68 subjects (35 subjects with sinus rhythm, 33 subjects with atrial fibrillation). Potential determinants of heart to femoral pulse wave velocity were identified by univariate and multivariate analyses. Individuals with atrial fibrillation had higher heart to femoral pulse wave velocity than those with sinus rhythm (1028 ± 222 vs 923 ± 110 cm/s, P = .03). Age, the presence of atrial fibrillation, systolic blood pressure, and pulse pressure were found to be significantly correlated with heart to femoral pulse wave velocity. After adjusting for possible con-founders, multivariate analysis identified systolic blood pressure ( P = .003) and the presence of atrial fibrillation ( P = .007) as independent determinants of heart to femoral pulse wave velocity. The presence of atrial fibrillation was significantly correlated with a higher pulse wave velocity, independently of age or blood pressure in patients with hypertension.
Myocardial Perfusion in Patients With a Totally Occluded Left Anterior Descending Coronary Artery Reinjected by a Normal Right Coronary Artery: The Role of Collateral Circulation
Authors: Chammas Elie , Hussein Ayman , Ballane Ghada , Helou Antoine , Yatim Ahmad , Tarcha Walid , Ghanem Georges
Published: April 2008

In this article, myocardial perfusion in patients with a totally occluded left anterior descending artery reinjected by a normal right coronary artery is assessed using stress single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). In all, 20 patients, with a totally occluded left anterior descending artery reinjected by normal right coronary artery, underwent myocardial single photon emission computed tomography imaging within 60 days of angiography. All patients had abnormal perfusion single photon emission computed tomography results and 70% had reversible defects. Perfusion defects at rest were present in 75% of patients, with perinecrotic residual ischemia in 45% of patients whereas for 30% of patients, no viable myocardium was detected in the collateral-dependent segments. In all, 25% of patients had no resting perfusion defects but all are presented with stress-induced ischemia. Collaterals are not protective against stress-induced ischemia, but they can preserve myocardial viability. This conclusion is highly supported by the presence of residual ischemia in the collateral-dependent segments.
Dynamic Nutcracker-Like Compression ofAu Saphenous Vein Graft by Adjacent Stents
Authors: Chen Jack P. , Herring Tracy
Published: April 2008

Systolic compression of coronary flow is a rare angiographic finding and usually results from intramyocardial bridging. In this article, the first reported case of iatrogenic dynamic saphenous vein graft compression by adjacent stents is presented. The cyclic movements of the stents resemble the action of a nutcracker with the involved segment at the fulcrum. Previous angiography 4 months prior showed no evidence of such flow impairment, thereby excluding intramyocardial bridging as a potential etiology. Progressive scarring and fibrosis may result in adhesion of a noncoronary conduit to a stationary mediastinal structure. Thus, conceptually, such vessels would be more prone to systolic compression and torsion, as they do not move with the cardiac cycle. Although the stent deployment may be beneficial in some scenarios, complications of vessel rupture and stent collapse can occur. The pathophysiology, natural history, and treatment of dynamic vessel compression are briefly reviewed.
Bilateral Carotid and Bilateral Vertebral Artery Dissection Following Facial Massage
Authors: Chakrapani Andrea L. , Zink Walter , Zimmerman Robert , Riina Howard , Benitez Ronald
Published: April 2008

A 50-year-old woman underwent facial massage. After 13 days, she experienced left retro-orbital pain, ptosis, and miosis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed stenotic dissection of bilateral cervical internal carotid and vertebral arteries. The intracranial vasculature was intact. She was treated conservatively with long-term oral anticoagulation and remains asymptomatic 18 months later.
A Retrospective Analysis of Hospitalized Patients With Documented Deep-Venous Thrombosis and Their Risk of Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Manganaro Agatino , Ando Giuseppe , Lembo Daniela , Sutera Sardo Luciano , Buda Domenico
Published: April 2008

The question of when and how intensively patients with deep-venous thrombosis (DVT) can ambulate remains scarcely underlined. The authors evaluated the evolution of DVT by comparing bed rest and mobilization and using all variables potentially relevant to a risk/benefit evaluation in 252 patients. The end points were the progression of the thrombotic disease and the incidence of pulmonary embolism (PE) at 30 days. Immobilized patients had a higher incidence of events (hazard ratio 4.39; P < .0001). At multivariate analysis, immobilization (hazard ratio 2.41; P = .026) and the lack of leg compression (hazard ratio 4.58; P = .009) were the only independent predictors of the clinical end point. This retrospective analysis raises the question as to whether all patients with confirmed DVT should ambulate and receive an adequate leg compression. A prospective study is needed to determine whether immobilization of such patients actually increases their risk of developing pulmonary embolism.
Ostial Lesions of Left Main and Right Coronary Arteries: Demographic and Angiographic Features
Authors: Darabian Sirous , Reza Amirzadegan Ali , Sadeghian Hakimeh , Sadeghian Saeed , Abbasi Ali , Raeesi Maria
Published: April 2008

In 258 patients with left main tract disease, the atherosclerotic risk factors were compared between patients with ostial and nonostial lesions of the left main coronary artery. Also, it was done for patients with ostial right coronary artery. Women were more likely to have ostial left main coronary artery and/or ostial right coronary artery. A multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the female sex (odds ratio: 2.336) and hypertriglyceridemia (odds ratio: 1.004) were independent risk factors of ostial left main coronary artery lesion. For ostial right coronary artery lesion, the female sex and family history of coronary artery disease were independent predictors. Ostial left main coronary artery and right coronary artery lesions were strongly correlated. The demographic and clinical profiles of ostial stenosis suggest that this group may represent a distinct entity, different from the more common atherosclerotic left main trunk stenosis (LMTD). The female sex and serum triglyceride level can be considered as independent predictors of ostial left main tract disease.
Late Angiographic Stent Thrombosis: The LAST Straw for Drug-Eluting Stents?
Authors: Chen Jack P. , Crisco Larry V. , Jabara Refat , King Spencer B.
Published: April 2008

The long-term patency advantage of drug-eluting stents represents a quantum leap in the percutaneous treatment of ischemic heart disease. Although initial landmark trials demonstrated equivalent safety to bare-metal stents, subsequent follow-up analyses have suggested a slight late thrombotic risk. This widely publicized issue poses major public health implications for the medical and lay communities. However, available data indicate that this late risk is counterbalanced by the dramatic drug-eluting stent reduction in target lesion revascularizations, resulting in equivalent overall major adverse cardiovascular event rates than that of the bare-metal stents The recent Food and Drug Administration's guidelines regarding these devices are delineated in detail. Specifically, compliance with dual antiplatelet therapy (minimum 1 year) is of paramount consideration in patient selection for drug-eluting stents. Moreover, when deployed for “on-label” indications, they provide significant restenosis advantage, with a slight late thrombotic risk but without overall increase in death or infarction.
A-Wave Acceleration: A New Doppler Echocardiographic Index for Evaluation of Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction in Elderly Patients
Authors: Abd El-Aziz Tarek A.
Published: April 2008

Age alters Doppler indexes of left ventricular diastolic performance. Thus, the Doppler detection of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in the elderly is difficult. The reliability of Doppler indexes in detecting left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in the elderly patients with cardiac diseases known to affect diastolic function were evaluated. Diastolic function using pulsed Doppler in 6 groups of 10 subjects each: elderly normal, young normal, and elderly with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, aortic stenosis, coronary artery disease, and dilated cardiomyopathy was tested. The comparison of elderly normal with young normal showed that A-wave acceleration did not change significantly. Comparing elderly normal to elderly with diseases showed that all tested indexes except A-wave acceleration failed to separate normal elderly from diseased elderly. A-wave acceleration appears to be a useful index that can help in diagnosis of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in elderly patients independent of age effects.
Relationships Between Vascular Indexes and Atherosclerotic Risk Factors in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Wakabayashi Ichiro , Masuda Hiroshi
Published: April 2008

The relationships of cardio-ankle vascular index, (a new indicator of arterial stiffness), common carotid artery intima-media thickness, and ankle-brachial pressure index with atherosclerotic risk factors were compared in patients with type 2 diabetes. There were significant correlations between each pair of the above vascular indexes. Both cardio-ankle vascular index and intima-media thickness showed significant correlations with age, systolic blood pressure, pulse pressure, and serum total cholesterol. Ankle-brachial pressure index showed a significant negative correlation with pulse pressure but not with systolic blood pressure and total cholesterol. Logistic regression analysis showed that cardio-ankle vascular index and intima-media thickness were associated with systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure independently of age. These results suggest that there are significant associations among the 3 vascular indexes and that systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure are major, age-independent determinants of cardio-ankle vascular index and common carotid artery intima-media thickness in patients with diabetes.
Photoplethysmographic Assessment of Hemodynamic Variations Using Pulsatile Tissue Blood Volume
Authors: Foo Jong Y. A. , Lim Chu S. , Wilson Stephen J.
Published: April 2008

Sympathetic responses to provocative tests have shown to provide an early prognosis of abnormalities in the human autonomic nervous system. Photoplethysmographic signal characteristics have been studied to identify vascular diseases. However, knowledge about the pulse-added arterial volume of the photoplethysmographic waveforms during these clinical investigations is limited. In all, 16 normotensive adults (9 men) were recruited to perform 3 provocative test (2 postural changes and 1 resistive breathing) activities with photoplethysmographic signals being monitored on the upper and lower peripheries using customized devices. In all, 4 parameters derived from the photoplethysmographic waveforms that related to the pulsatile tissue blood volume changes were then assessed. The results obtained showed that amplitude-related parameters during these activities showed significant changes (>9.63%; P < .05). However, comparison of pulse-added arterial volume showed insignificant changes (<5.56%; P > .05) for all test settings. Hence, the findings herein suggest that there is clinical potential in using this aspect of the photoplethysmographic waveform.
Association Between Protein-Bound Sialic Acid and High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein in Essential Hypertension: A Possible Indication of Underlying Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Sathiyapriya Viswanathan , Nandeesha Hanumanthappa , Selvaraj Nambiar , Bobby Zachariah , Agrawal Aparna , Pavithran Purushothaman
Published: April 2008

The aim of this study was to examine the possible alteration in the levels of C-reactive protein, protein-bound sialic acid, and other lipid risk factors in newly diagnosed essential hypertensive subjects. In all, 56 hypertensive and 33 normotensive male subjects were enrolled in the study. Lipid profile, C-reactive protein, apolipoprotein-B, and protein-bound sialic acid were estimated in both the groups. Total cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein—cholesterol, C-reactive protein, apolipoprotein-B, and protein-bound sialic acid were significantly increased in patients with essential hypertension. Correlation analysis revealed a significant association between the protein-bound sialic acid with mean arterial pressure, C-reactive protein, and low-density lipoprotein—cholesterol. The findings of the present study suggest that in essential hypertension there is an association between protein-bound sialic acid and C-reactive protein, which reflects the clustering of cardiovascular risk factors in these patients.
The Optimal Time of Elective Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for Stable Patients after ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Yazici Guliz Erdem , Erden Murat , Tacoy Gulten Aydogdu , Yavuz Burcu Balam , Turkoglu Sedat , Timurkaynak Timur
Published: April 2008

Objective

To find the optimal time (early: ≤3 days; late: >3 days) for revascularization in ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients in the subacute phase.

Methods

Ninety-nine STEMI patients who were admitted to Gazi University Faculty of Medicine between 2000 and 2004 were enrolled into this study. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to time from the beginning of symptoms to the percutaneous coronary intervention. Coronary angiograms before and after the revascularization were evaluated using the quantitative coronary angiogram technique.

Results

45 early (group I) and 54 late (group II) revascularized patients were evaluated. There were no significant differences between the 2 groups regarding demographic properties, thrombus score, success of the procedure, quantitative angiographic parameters, and clinical results of the procedure.

Conclusions

Waiting for the development of stable phase in STEMI to apply PCI has no obvious benefit for angiographic and clinical results.
Elevated Osteopontin Levels in Patients with Peripheral Arterial Disease
Authors: Koshikawa Megumi , Aizawa Kazunori , Kasai Hiroki , Izawa Atsushi , Tomita Takeshi , Kumazaki Setsuo , Tsutsui Hiroshi , Koyama Jun , Shimodaira Shigetaka , Takahashi Masafumi , Ikeda Uichi
Published: April 2008

This study was carried out to compare concentrations of osteopontin (OPN) and osteoprotegerin (OPG) in peripheral arterial disease (PAD). The study population consisted of 200 consecutive subjects in whom both OPN/OPG and ankle–brachial index were measured. It was found that OPN levels, but not OPG levels, were significantly more increased in patients with PAD than those without PAD. Serum OPN levels were significantly lower in subjects with angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers than those without these agents. In this study, it has been demonstrated for the first time that serum OPN levels are related to PAD. Inhibition of renin—angiotensin system could decrease OPN levels and prevent the progression of PAD.
The Effects of Different β-Blockers on Left-Ventricular Volume and Function After Primary Coronary Stenting in Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Lee Sang-Hak , Yoon Seong-Bo , Cho Jung-Rae , Choi Seonghoon , Jung Jae-Hun , Lee Namho
Published: April 2008

The beneficial effect of β-blockers is reported in myocardial infarction (MI). This study compared the effects of propranolol and carvedilol on left-ventricular (LV) volume and function after acute MI. Serial echocardiographic studies were performed on acute MI patients who were treated with primary coronary stenting and medical treatment, including propranolol or carvedilol. Determinants of the changes in LV volume and function were identified by regression analyses. At 6 months, there was no significant difference in change in the LV end-diastolic volume between patients receiving 2 β-blockers. The increase of LV ejection fraction was greater in patients receiving carvedilol. On multivariate analyses, it was found that the kind of β-blocker had no significant influence on the changes in LV volume or ejection fraction, whereas gender and baseline LV ejection fraction were predictive of change in LV ejection fraction. Compared with propranolol, carvedilol did not have a significant benefit on LV remodeling or function after primary coronary stenting in acute MI.
Life-Threatening Pacemaker Dysfunction Associated with Therapeutic Radiation: A Case Report
Authors: Zweng Andreas , Schuster Reinhard , Hawlicek Robert , Weber Heinz Stefan
Published: April 2008

Reports about pacemaker (PM) dysfunction during irradiation (IR) are very rare, which is because of the extensive protective mechanisms that exist in these devices against electromagnetic interference (EMI). We report a case in which one of the most clinically relevant type of PM malfunctions, a runaway PM, occurred during radiation in a 76-year-old woman who was treated for inoperable esophageal cancer with a course of photon IR. The estimated IR dose of 0.11 Gy was the lowest in vivo dose ever reported. So a direct radiation effect as cause for this malfunction appears to be improbable. It could be concluded that the PM dysfunction was most likely induced by EMI during radiotherapy. The real reason of the device's software failure remains unclear.
Yarn Evenness Parameters Evaluation: A New Approach
Authors: Carvalho Vítor , Monteiro João L. , Soares Filomena O. , Vasconcelos Rosa M.
Published: April 2008

This paper presents MPS1 (Mass Parameterization System), an automatic system for determination of mass characteristics of textile yarn. It is based on 1 mm parallel capacitive sensors, working online or offline. This new approach allows direct measurement of yarn mass in the 1 mm range (increasing the resolution by eight times) [Pinto, J. G., Dissertação de Mestrado, Minho University, 2004; Baxter, L. Capacitive sensors: design and applications, IEEE Press, 1997]. Acquisition and data processing are performed in Labview™ from National Instruments. All parameters commonly used in the textile industry are determined for different values of sensitivity defined interactively by the operator. In MPS1, the new parameters were used (integral of deviation rate [IDR%], signal processing techniques based on the fast Walsh-Hadamard Transform and on fast impulse frequency determination [FDFI]) and others adapted (deviation rate [DR%], spectograms, frequency and mass variation diagrams, coefficient of variation [CV%], mean deviation [U%], faults counting and extension). Anew feature of this system is also the online automatic quality classification of mass parameters.
The Comparison of Cotton Knitted Fabric Properties Made of Compact and Conventional Ring Yarns Before and After the Printing Process
Authors: Özgüney A.T. , Dönmez Kretzschmar S. , Özçelik G. , Özerdem A.
Published: April 2008

Compact spinning is a new version of ring spinning and the most distinct features of these yarns are their high strength and elongation values and low hairiness. In this study, we attempted to find the differences between compact and conventional ring knitted fabrics. One hundred % cotton yarns, produced from the same cotton blend, were spun according to compact and conventional ring spinning principles in two different yarns counts and twist multipliers. Three different knitting structures, interlock, rib and single jersey, were produced from these yarns. The physical properties of these fabrics were investigated and compared with each other before and after the printing processes. When the results were studied, it was seen that hairiness of compact yarns was less and their strength and elongation percentages were higher. They showed less tendency to pilling and had higher bursting strength. No statistical differences were observed with regard to weight, abrasion resistance, color efficiency and rubbing fastness.
Computer Simulation of Woven Fabric Appearances Based on Digital Video Camera Recordings of Moving Yarns
Authors: Özdemir Hakan , Başer Güngör
Published: April 2008

In this work, a method has been developed to simulate fabric surface appearance from achieved yarn properties. The simulation of woven fabric surface appearance depends on yarn and fabric cross sectional geometry as well as on yarn measurements and yarn image recordings. A yarn winding device has been designed to take snapshots by digital video camera along the length of an actual yarn. The fabric simulations are confined to single fabrics of plain, matt, and twill weaves.
Prediction of Mechanical Properties of 3-D Braided Composite using CAD system
Authors: Tae Jin Kang  , Kim Sungjun , Jung Kyungho
Published: April 2008

The geometrical and mechanical properties of three-dimensionally braided glass/epoxy composite were investigated using the CAD system. The three-dimensional (3-D) yarn path was described using third order spline curves referring to our previous work about the circular braided preform. The CAD system for the flat plate-shaped composite was developed by modifying that for the circular preform. The 3-D braided glass/ epoxy composite was manufactured using the resin transfer molding (RTM) process and the tensile modulus in the axial as well as transverse directions were measured. The tensile modulus of the composite was predicted using the developed CAD system adopting the volume averaging method. The prediction exhibited good agreement with the experimental results. The effects of pitch length and the number of layers on the mechanical properties of braided composite were successfully estimated using the CAD system.
Solar Protection — Effect of Selected Fabric and Use Characteristics on Ultraviolet Transmission
Authors: Wilson Cheryl A. , Bevin Nicola K. , Laing Raechel M. , Niven Brian E.
Published: April 2008

Clothing is worn in single- and multiple-layer arrangements and during use subjected to conditions such as extension and wetting. This study investigated how selected variables affected transmission of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) through fabrics and whether these variables interacted to modify transmission. Using a spectrophotometer the effect of i) fabric type (two knitted, two woven), color (black and white), wetness (dry, damp, wet), and extension (relaxed, extended (10 × 10%, 10 × 20%)), and ii) fabric type and layering (1, 2, 3 layers) of white fabrics, on UVR (290—400 nm), UVA (315—400 nm), UVB (290—315 nm), and ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) rating was investigated. Differences among variables were identified using univariate and repeated measures ANOVA, and interactions among variables identified and described. Selecting dark colors, limiting extension and layering fabric were shown to be effective ways of increasing UV protection and UPF by decreasing transmittance. However, the effect of color, extension and layering varied among fabric types and modified UVA and UVB transmittance differently.
Economic and Social Impacts of Tourism in Mexico
Authors: Wilson Tamar Diana
Published: April 2008

In developing its tourist industry, the Mexican government had three main goals: earning foreign exchange, creating employment, and diverting internal migration toward tourism development poles. Statistics on employment and in-migration to Mazatlán, Puerto Vallarta, Cancún, and Los Cabos show that it has been relatively successful in achieving these goals. However, Mexico has increased its dependency on loans, foreign capital, and foreign patronage and has imposed costs on the working class employed in low-waged and precarious tourist jobs, including de facto social and economic apartheid.
Tropical Blues
Authors: Cabezas Amalia L.
Published: April 2008

Tourism development is the backbone of many Caribbean economies, and its advocates argue that it contributes to sustainable development, the alleviation of poverty, and integration into the globalized economy. Scholars and activists, in contrast, point to tourism-related ecological deterioration, profit leakage, distorted cultural patterns, rising land values, and prostitution. They suggest that tourism perpetuates existing disparities, fiscal problems, and social tensions. Examination of tourism development in the Dominican Republic indicates that it deskills and devalues Dominican workers, marginalizing them from tourist development and sexualizing their labor. The majority of people are relegated, at best, to positions of servitude in low-paid jobs in the formal sector, unemployment, or unstable activities in the informal sector that include the commoditization of sexuality and affective relations.
Tourism for Whom?
Authors: Bartholo Roberto , Delamaro Mauricio , Bursztyn Ivan
Published: April 2008

The tourism policies pursued by the Brazilian government since the 1990s have not produced the benefits that were expected from mass tourism. The example of two very successful cases of community-based tourism, stressing paths rooted in a development model that is fair and environmentally responsible, shows that tourism development can improve the quality of life in communities that receive an influx of tourists provided that the local community is taken into account and the planning and implementation of such development focus on creating opportunities and benefits for its members.
African-American Roots Tourism in Brazil
Authors: de Santana Pinho Patricia
Published: April 2008

The novelty of African-American roots tourism to Brazil is that to some extent it defies the secondary position occupied by Brazil in the African diaspora, a context marked by the hegemony of U.S.-centric conceptions of blackness. At the same time, roots tourism entails three kinds of inequalities: the disparity between those who have access to travel and those who do not, the belief of many African-American tourists that they can exchange what they view as their “modernity” for the “traditions” of the local black communities with whom they interact during their travels, and the much greater access of African-Americans to the means by which Africa and the diaspora can be represented. Blacks located in the North and the South of the American continent have unequal access to global currents of power. Thus, at the same time that it offers the possibility of challenging traditional North-South flows of cultural exchange, African-American roots tourism confirms the existing hierarchy within the black Atlantic.
Living within the Mundo Maya Project
Authors: Little Walter E.
Published: April 2008

Mundo Maya (Maya World) tourism promotional materials prominently feature female Maya vendors because they are the Mayas most visible and accessible to outsiders. However, these vendors do not directly reap the benefits of monetary or institutional aid. Instead, they have learned to use the ways in which they are represented by tourism promotions for economic gain. Their experience reflects the contradictions between representation and agency in an expanding economic system that is increasingly commoditizing cultural practices generated by women.
“Operationalizing” Human Security in South Africa
Authors: Ferreira Rialize , Henk Dan
Published: April 2008

Since the UN promulgation of the concept of human security in the early 1990s, one of the countries most enthusiastic about the new paradigm has been South Africa. That country has endeavored to reflect human security values in virtually all state activities. This article examines how South Africa has applied the concept to its armed forces. It argues that the military “operationalization” is evident in two key respects: first, in the country's support for Africa's emerging security architecture; and second, in an increasing willingness to commit military forces to external peace operations. However, this application has largely occurred at the national strategic level. It was much less clear in 2007 that any human security ethos was forming within the South African armed forces themselves.
On the Immediate Consequences of Intergroup Categorization: Activation of Approach and Avoidance Motor Behavior Toward Ingroup and Outgroup Members
Authors: Paladino Maria-Paola , Castelli Luigi
Published: April 2008

The present research argues that intergroup categorization has immediate behavioral consequences. Specifically, intergroup categorization is hypothesized to prepare the organism to respond differently to ingroup and outgroup members so that approach-like motor movements should be faster toward ingroup- versus outgroup-related stimuli. In contrast, avoidance-like behavior should be facilitated when reacting to outgroup versus ingroup members. Studies 1 and 2 test the basic hypothesis in relation to ethnic, national, age, and political categorization. Study 3 uses a minimal group paradigm to test the hypothesis in relation to newly formed groups. Across these experiments, participants were generally faster in performing approach-like motor movements toward ingroup members or avoidance behaviors toward outgroup members. The evolutionary function and the cognitive underpinnings of this state of “physical readiness” to approach ingroup and avoid outgroup members are discussed.
Determinants of Task Performance and Invested Effort: A Need for Closure by Relative Cognitive Capacity Interaction Analysis
Authors: Roets Arne , Van Hiel Alain , Cornelis Ilse , Soetens Barbara
Published: April 2008

This study examines the simultaneous effects of need for closure (NFC) and relative cognitive capacity on invested effort and task performance within the integrative analysis framework using behavioral data. Two main results were obtained. First, the authors revealed a significant interaction effect between relative cognitive capacity (manipulated through task difficulty) and NFC (manipulated through time pressure, noise, and fear of invalidity as well as assessed by an individual differences measure) on effort investment. Second, contrary to dispositional NFC, manipulations yielded a “dual effect” because they negatively affected task performance as well as invested effort. The latter result was interpreted as an indication that noise and time pressure manipulations also tax cognitive resources. The two main findings are discussed and the authors go further into the divergences between dispositional and manipulated NFC.