bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease and its association with obesity, insulin resistance and increased serum levels of C‐reactive protein in Hispanics
Authors: Riquelme Arnoldo , Arrese Marco , Soza Alejandro , Morales Arturo , Baudrand René , Pérez‐Ayuso Rosa María , González Robinson , Alvarez Manuel , Hernández Verónica , García‐Zattera María José , Otarola Francisco , Medina Brenda , Rigotti Attilio , Miquel Juan Francisco , Marshall Guillermo , Nervi Flavio
Published: March 2010

Background: Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a metabolic disorder of the liver, which may progress to fibrosis or cirrhosis. Recent studies have shown a significant impact of ethnicity on susceptibility to steatosis‐related liver disease.

Aims: To estimate the prevalence of NAFLD among Chilean Hispanics as well as the clinical and biochemical variables associated with the disease.

Methods: Population‐based study among Chilean Hispanics. The diagnosis of NAFLD was made on the basis of ultrasound evidence of fatty liver and absence of significant alcohol consumption and hepatitis C virus infection.

Results: A total of 832 Hispanic subjects were included. Ultrasound findings revealed diffuse fatty liver in 23% of the subjects. Variables associated with fatty liver in multivariate analysis were body mass index >26.9 [odds ratio (OR) 6.2; 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.3–11.5], abnormal aspartate aminotransferase levels (OR 14; 95% CI 8.2–23.7), presence of insulin resistance as measured by homoeostasis model assessment‐insulin resistance (OR 3; 95% CI 1.8–4.8) and serum levels of high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) greater than 0.86 mg/L (OR 2.9; 95% CI 1.6–5.2). Among subjects with NAFLD, levels of hs‐CRP were similar regardless of the alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level.

Conclusions: Chilean Hispanics exhibit a high prevalence of NAFLD. Obesity, insulin resistance, abnormal aminotransferase levels and elevated hs‐CRP were independently associated with the presence of NAFLD. ALT elevation underestimates the presence of ultrasonographical fatty liver, whereas hs‐CRP is a sensitive independent marker of NAFLD, which may be useful for detecting fatty liver in the general population.
Homocysteine levels and sustained virological response to pegylated‐interferon α2b plus ribavirin therapy for chronic hepatitis C: a prospective study
Authors: Borgia Guglielmo , Gentile Ivan , Fortunato Giuliana , Borrelli Francesco , Borelli Salvatore , De Caterina Maurizio , Di Taranto Maria Donata , Simone Maria , Borgia Federico , Viola Chiara , Reynaud Laura , Cerini Raimondo , Sacchetti Lucia
Published: March 2010

Background: Chronic hepatitis C affects about 3% of the world's population. Pegylated interferon (IFN) α plus ribavirin is the gold standard treatment. Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase(MTHFR) is a key enzyme in the metabolism of homocysteine. MTHFR gene polymorphisms and high levels of homocysteine are associated with a high degree of steatosis and fibrosis, conditions associated with a low sustained virological response (SVR) rate.

Aims: To evaluate whether MTHFR polymorphisms and homocysteine levels are predictors of the outcome of treatment in 102 prospectively enrolled patients with chronic hepatitis C naive to treatment.

Methods: Patients were treated with pegylated interferon α‐2b plus ribavirin. All patients underwent blood tests, assessment of homocysteine, vitamin B12, folate, hepatitis C virus (HCV)‐RNA levels, screening for MTHFR gene polymorphisms and liver ultrasound examination.

Results: Homocysteine levels were deranged (>16 μmol/L) in 10.5% of MTHFR wild‐type patients vs 40.3% of non‐wild‐type patients (P=0.015). Homocysteine levels were 14.4 μmol/L in SVR patients and 15.5 μmol/L in non‐SVR patients (P=0.049). The SVR rate was 40.0% in MTHFR wild‐type patients, 52.0% in heterozygote mutants and 39.3% in homozygote mutants (P=0.467). At logistic regression analysis, genotypes 2 and 3 (odds ratio: 12.328, 95% confidence interval: 3.390–44.837, P=0.0001), homocysteine <16 μmol/L (odds ratio: 3.397, 95% confidence interval: 1.033–11.177, P=0.044) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels <48 U/L (odds ratio: 3.262, 95% confidence interval: 1.125–9.458, P=0.029) were independent predictors of SVR.

Conclusions: In patients with chronic hepatitis C, homocysteine levels are associated with the outcome of pegylated‐IFNα plus ribavirin treatment, while polymorphisms of MTHFR are not.
Prognostic factors and evaluation of a clinical score for predicting survival after resection of colorectal liver metastases
Authors: Konopke Ralf , Kersting Stephan , Distler Marius , Dietrich Jeannine , Gastmeier Jörg , Heller Axel , Kulisch Eberhard , Saeger Hans‐Detlev
Published: March 2010

Background: Patient outcome after resection of colorectal liver metastases can be predicted by various prognostic factors.

Aims: Development of a model for risk stratification based on analysis of prognostic factors.

Methods: Data of 201 patients were collected prospectively and included in a single‐centre trial. A total of 20 factors were analysed as to their influence on recurrence‐free and overall survival. Independent prognostic factors were entered into a model of a clinical risk score.

Results: Median recurrence‐free survival reached 24 months for all patients; median overall survival was 50 months. Only a synchronous manifestation of primary colorectal carcinoma and liver metastases, the presence of four or more metastases and a carcino‐embryonic antigen level of 200 ng/ml or more significantly influenced recurrence‐free and overall survival in the multivariate analysis. The derived risk stratification grouped the patients according to the following criteria: low risk, zero prognostic factors (n=112); intermediate risk, one factor (n=74); high risk, two or more factors (n=15). The median recurrence‐free survival for low, intermediate and high risk were 30.0, 23.0 and 11.0 months, respectively; the median overall survival was 94.0, 40.0 and 33.0 months. Compared with the low‐risk group, patients with intermediate risk demonstrated an increased hazard ratio (HR) of 1.57‐fold for recurrence (P=0.018) and 1.91‐fold for mortality (P=0.007). For the high‐risk group, the HR rose significantly to 3.26 for recurrence (P<0.0005) and to 3.10 for mortality (P=0.001).

Conclusions: The presented clinical score may allow for patients with colorectal liver metastases to be stratified appropriately and for optimization of their subsequent therapeutic management.
A multicenter retrospective cohort study of practice patterns and clinical outcome on radiotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma in Korea
Authors: Seong Jinsil , Lee Ik Jae , Shim Su Jung , Lim Do Hoon , Kim Tae Hyun , Kim Jong Hoon , Jang Hong Seok , Kim Mi Sook , Chie Eui Kyu , Kim Jin Hee , Nam Taek‐Keun , Lee Hyung Sik , Han Chul Joo
Published: March 2010

Aim: To determine the national practice processes of care and outcomes of radiotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Korea.

Patients and Methods: A national survey of 53 institutions nationwide was conducted by requesting data on their experience of radiotherapy for HCC. Among them, 10 institutions were selected for performing more detailed analysis, based on the radiotherapy experience of at least five HCC patients between 2004 and 2005.

Results: This study covered the treatment of 398 HCC patients for 2 years. Most patients (78%) were in stage III or IV. Radiotherapy was chosen after the failure of other treatments, most frequently transarterial chemoembolization. Radiotherapy was performed predominantly using the three‐dimensional conformal technique (3D‐CRT, 81.9%) mostly with a total dose of ≥45 Gy. In 9.3% of the patients, radiotherapy was performed using radiosurgery. In a biologically effective dose (BED) with 10 Gy of α/β, 4.2–124.3 Gy10 was delivered. The median survival time was 12 months, and the 2‐year overall survival rate was 27.9%. A tumour size <5 cm, a negative lymph node and BED >53.1 Gy10 were shown by multivariate analysis to be significant factors for a better prognosis. In a subset analysis for the 326 patients treated with 3D‐CRT, better liver function with Child–Pugh class A was shown to be an additional factor for a better prognosis.

Conclusions: Radiotherapy has been used to treat advanced HCC in various modes, but mostly as a salvage treatment. Although this study was retrospective, it indicates that radiotherapy is a quite effective modality for HCC patients.
Industrial Recycling Networks as Starting Points for Broader Sustainability‐Oriented Cooperation?
Authors: Posch Alfred
Published: March 2010

Closing loops by intercompany recycling of by‐products is a core theme of industrial ecology (IE). This article considers whether industrial recycling networks or industrial symbiosis projects can be used as a starting point for much broader intercompany cooperation for sustainable development. Evidence presented is based on the results of an empirical investigation of the recycling network Styria in Austria, the recycling network Oldenburger Münsterland in Germany, and the manufacturing sector in Austria.

Statistical analysis shows that the percentage of by‐products that are passed on to other companies for recycling purposes is not higher in member companies of the recycling networks than in the other companies of the manufacturing sector in Austria. In terms of cooperation, the relationships with the respective recycling partners are found to be very similar to regular customer relations. Furthermore, the companies of the recycling networks remain unaware of the network to which they belong. Instead, one of the main findings of this study is that intercompany recycling activities are regarded by the company representatives as bilateral market transactions, not as collaborative network activities.

This has potentially significant implications for the use of industrial symbiosis networks as starting points for sustainability networks with broader cooperation toward sustainability. The findings raise interesting questions as to whether such broader cooperation might result from a conscious planning process or might emerge largely spontaneously as part of normal market coordination. In any case, intercompany recycling is clearly considered to be a very important field of collaborative action for sustainability in industry.
Maximum Daily 6 Minutes of Activity: An Index of Functional Capacity Derived from Actigraphy and Its Application to Older Adults with Heart Failure
Authors: Howell Jason , Strong B. Michelle , Weisenberg Jenny , Kakade Anagha , Gao Qian , Cuddihy Paul , Delisle Susan , Kachnowski Stan , Maurer Mathew S.
Published: March 2010

OBJECTIVES: To compare the correlation between the maximum 6 minutes of daily activity (M6min) and standard measures of functional capacity in older adults with heart failure (HF) with that in younger subjects and its prognostic utility.

DESIGN: Prospective, cohort study.

SETTING: Tertiary care, academic HF center.

PARTICIPANTS: Sixty, ambulatory, adults, New York Heart Association (NYHA) Class I to III, stratified into young (50.9 ± 9.4) and older cohorts (76.8 ± 8.0).

MEASUREMENTS:

Correlation between M6min and measures of functional capacity (6‐minute walk test; 6MWT) and peak oxygen consumption (VO2) according to cardiopulmonary exercise testing in a subset of subjects. Survival analysis was employed to evaluate the association between M6min and adverse events.

RESULTS: Adherence to actigraphy was high (90%) and did not differ according to age. The correlation between M6min and 6MWT was higher in subjects aged 65 and older than in those younger than 65 (correlation coefficient (r=0.702, P<.001 vs r=0.490, P=.002). M6min was also significantly associated with peak VO2 (r=0.612, P=.006). During the study, 26 events occurred (2 deaths, 10 hospitalizations, 8 emergency department visits, and 6 intercurrent illnesses). The M6min was significantly associated with subsequent events (hazard ratio=2.728, 95% confidence interval=1.10–6.77, P=.03), independent of age, sex, ejection fraction, NYHA class, brain natriuretic peptide, and 6MWT.

CONCLUSION: The high adherence to actigraphy and association with standard measures of functional capacity and independent association with subsequent morbid events suggest that it may be useful for monitoring older adults with HF.
Depressive Symptoms and Cognitive Decline in Community‐Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Köhler Sebastian , van Boxtel Martin P.J. , van Os Jim , Thomas Alan J. , O'Brien John T. , Jolles Jelle , Verhey Frans R.J. , Allardyce Judith
Published: March 2010

OBJECTIVES: To examine the temporal association between depressive symptoms and cognitive functioning and estimate the effect measure modification of the apolipoprotein E (APOE) ɛ4 allele on this relationship.

DESIGN: Prospective cohort study.

SETTING: General community.

PARTICIPANTS: Population‐based sample of 598 cognitively intact older adults aged 60 and older, with re‐assessments after 3 (N=479) and 6 years (N=412).

MEASUREMENTS: Depressive symptoms (Symptom Checklist) and neurocognitive functioning (memory, Visual Verbal Learning Test; attention, Stroop Color–Word Test; processing speed, Letter Digit Substitution Test; general cognition, Mini‐Mental State Examination). Longitudinal associations were assessed using linear mixed models. The risk for cognitive impairment, no dementia (CIND) was examined using logistic regression.

RESULTS: Adjusting for age, sex, education, and baseline cognition, the rate of change in memory z‐scores was 0.00, −0.11, −0.20, and −0.37 for those in the lowest (reference group), second, third, and highest depressive symptom quartiles at baseline, respectively (P<.001 for highest vs lowest quartile). The odds ratios for developing CIND with amnestic features were 1.00, 0.87, 0.69, and 2.98 for the four severity groups (P=.05 for highest vs lowest quartile). Associations were strongest for those with persistent depressive symptoms, defined as high depressive symptoms at baseline and at least one follow‐up visit. Results were similar for processing speed and global cognitive function but were not as strong for attention. No APOE interaction was observed.

CONCLUSION: Depression and APOE act independently to increase the risk for cognitive decline and may provide targets for prevention and early treatment.
Intercommissural Lead Placement into a Right Ventricular Coronary Sinus—Utility of Intracardiac Echo Guidance
Authors: McLEOD CHRISTOPHER J. , AMMASH NASER M. , ASIRVATHAM SAMUEL J.
Published: March 2010

Patients with congenital heart disease and prosthetic valves frequently present management dilemmas related to cardiac pacing and lead placement. Permanent pacing of the right ventricle across a bioprosthetic tricuspid valve presents discreet issues related to its potential for traumatic injury and subsequent prosthetic valve dysfunction. Coronary sinus (CS) lead placement is being used more frequently to avoid valvular dysfunction. We report an unusual case in which the CS ostium was located ventricular to the tricuspid prosthesis. Intracardiac echocardiography was used to position a CS lead between the commissures of the tricuspid prosthesis resulting in trivial regurgitation acutely and at 1‐year follow‐up. (PACE 2011; 34:e30–e32)
Li‐Deficient, Off‐Congruent MgO:LiNbO3 Crystals Prepared by Postgrown Li‐Poor Vapor Transport Equilibration for Integrated Optics
Authors: Zhang De‐Long , Hua Ping‐Rang , Liu Xiao‐Xi , Pun Edwin Yue‐Bun
Published: March 2010

Li‐deficient, off‐congruent Z‐cut MgO:LiNbO3 (MgO:LN) crystals for integrated optics were prepared by carrying out postgrown Li‐poor vapor transport equilibration (VTE) treatments on congruently grown MgO (5 mol% in melt):LiNbO3 plates at 1100°C for durations ranging from 40 to 395 h. Secondary ion mass spectrometry analysis, surface ordinary refractive index measurement, and neutron activation analysis were carried out on the VTE crystals to verify that the Mg and Nb ions did not diffuse out of the crystal during the VTE procedure and their distributions over the whole plate retain its homogeneity. The VTE duration dependence of the Li2O content reduction was determined using gravimetric method, and the crystalline phase was by powder X‐ray diffraction. The results show that the Li2O content decreases with a prolonged VTE and the Li2O content reduction in the saturation regime is about 2.9 mol%. All of the VTE crystals still retain the LN phase, and Li‐vacancy and NbLi are the major defects in the VTE crystal. OH absorption study reveals that the doped MgO concentration is below the photorefractive threshold for all VTE crystals. The optical absorption edge (OAE) of the VTE‐treated MgO:LN was also measured as a function of the VTE duration. On the basis of the known Li2O content and measured OAE, the photon‐energy fit reported previously, valid for the evaluation of Li2O content in a pure LN, is corrected for the Li‐poor VTE‐treated MgO:LNs. Finally, the applicability of the Li‐deficient off‐congruent MgO:LN crystals prepared by the Li‐poor VTE method is demonstrated by characterizing the optical damage and Er diffusion properties of a single‐mode Ti:MgO:Er:LiNbO3 strip waveguide fabricated on an Li‐poor VTE‐prepared MgO:LN crystal.
Compositional Effect on the Electrical Properties of V2O5–P2O5–WO3 System
Authors: Chung Woon Jin , Kim Kyoung Hoon , Choi Yong Gyu , Shin Dong Wook
Published: March 2010

Glass‐forming range and electrical conduction properties of V2O5–P2O5–WO3 ternary system were investigated. The glass‐forming ability of this system was quite good within a wide compositional area where the P2O5 content ranges from 20 to 80 mol%. This glass exhibited a high dc‐conductivity up to 6.71 × 10−4Ω/cm at 473 K. The variation of conductivity (log(σT)) of the glass with temperature (1/T) exhibited a linear relationship, which suggests electrical conduction through the small polaron hopping above room temperature. Compositional effect on the conductivity was studied upon varying WO3 and P2O5 concentration. Substitution of V2O5 with P2O5 resulted in a decrease of the conductivity with the increase of activation energy, while substitution of WO3 showed relatively little effect on the activation energy. Structural modification along with the valence state change of vanadium and tungsten ions were discussed in connection with Raman spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis.
Internal Residual Stress Measurements in a Bioactive Glass–Ceramic Using Vickers Indentation
Authors: Peitl Oscar , Serbena Francisco C. , Mastelaro Valmor R. , Zanotto Edgar D.
Published: March 2010

The residual stress distribution that arises in the glass matrix during cooling of a partially crystallized 17.2Na2O–32.1CaO–48.1SiO2–2.5P2O5 (mol%) bioactive glass–ceramic was measured using the Vickers indentation method proposed by Zeng and Rowcliffe (ZR). The magnitude of the determined residual stress at the crystal/glass boundary was 1/4–1/3 of the values measured using X‐ray diffraction (within the crystals) and calculated using Selsing's model. A correction for the crack geometry factor, assuming a semi‐elliptical shape, is proposed and then good agreement between experimental and theoretical values is found. Thus, if the actual crack geometry is taken into account, the indentation technique of ZR can be successfully used. In addition, a numerical model for the calculation of residual stresses that takes into account the hemispherical shape of the crystalline precipitates at a free surface was developed. The result is that near the sample surface, the radial component of the residual stress is increased by 70% in comparison with the residual stress calculated by Selsing's model.
Reciprocating Friction and Wear Behavior of Zr2[Al(Si)]4C5 and Zr2[Al(Si)]4C5–SiC Composite Against Si3N4 Ball
Authors: Wu Ling , He Ling‐Feng , Chen Ji‐Xin , Lu Xin‐Po , Zhou Yan‐Chun
Published: March 2010

The reciprocating sliding friction and wear properties of two novel materials of Zr2[Al(Si)]4C5 ceramic and Zr2[Al(Si)]4C5–30 vol% SiC composite against Si3N4 ball were investigated. The sliding friction process of Zr2[Al(Si)]4C5 against Si3N4 experiences two different stages under constant normal load and involves friction and wear mechanism transition. The static coefficient of friction increases with an increasing normal load. The friction force mainly comes from the interfacial shear between Si3N4 ball and Zr2[Al(Si)]4C5, which changes with varied sliding distances and normal loads. In contrast, the friction process of the composite experiences one stage and the friction coefficient is not related to the test durations and normal loads. The friction force between Zr2[Al(Si)]4C5–30 vol% SiC composite and Si3N4 is mainly from the plough between SiC particles and Si3N4 ball, which appears not to be influenced significantly by different normal load and sliding distance. In addition, microfracture induced mechanical wear is the rate‐control wear mechanism in both Zr2[Al(Si)]4C5 and Zr2[Al(Si)]4C5–30 vol% SiC composite. Adding SiC improves the wear resistance of the single‐phase material, because the second phase bears normal load and slows down material removal.
Dielectric Properties of Low‐Firing Bi2Mo2O9 Thick Films Screen Printed on Al Foils and Alumina Substrates
Authors: Liu Weihong , Wang Hong , Zhou Di , Li Kecheng
Published: March 2010

Low‐firing Bi2Mo2O9 thick films with a thickness of 15–20 μm were screen printed on Al foils and alumina substrates by screen‐printing technology. The phase evolution, morphologies, and dielectric properties of the thick films were investigated. The thick films showed a pure Bi2Mo2O9 phase at temperatures below 610°C. A mixture of Bi2MoO6, Bi2Mo3O12, and Bi2Mo2O9 phases was found in the thick films sintered at 610°C and higher temperatures. The Bi2Mo2O9 thick films on Al foils sintered at 645°C showed excellent dielectric properties with a relative permittivity of 38 and a dielectric loss of 0.7% at 5 MHz. At the microwave frequency range from 5 to 19 GHz, the Bi2Mo2O9 thick films on alumina substrates sintered at 645°C had a relative permittivity of ∼35 and Q×f of ∼12 500 GHz. It indicates that the Bi2Mo2O9 composition as potentially useful for low‐temperature cofired ceramic using Al electrode.
Calcium Aluminoborosilicate‐Based Dielectrics Containing CaCu3Ti4O12 as a Filler
Authors: Kim Byeong Kon , Lee Dong Wook , Key Sung Hun , Jo Tae Jin , Jeong Seong Min , Kim Kwang Jin , Jeon Min Seok , Song Jun Kwang , Cho Yong Soo
Published: March 2010

High dielectric constant (k) CaCu3Ti4O12 (CCTO) has been studied as a potential filler for low‐temperature cofired ceramics (LTCC) based on typical calcium aluminoborosilicate glass. CCTO does not appear to be chemically reactive with the glass regardless of the firing temperature over the compositional range of 30–90 wt% CCTO. Dielectric constant and dielectric loss turned out to depend strongly on the relative content of CCTO and firing temperature. As an optimal composition, the glass with 60 wt% CCTO exhibited a k∼32 and tan δ∼0.01 as a result of firing at 850°C, which is preferably applicable for the medium k LTCC applications. The higher content of 90 wt% CCTO needed to be densified at 900°C for better densification with a higher dielectric constant of ∼150. However, the 900°C firing was not acceptable for the 30 and 60 wt% CCTO‐containing samples due to the unexpected expansion of samples leading to significantly enlarged pores.
Temporary Test Occlusion of Distal Middle Cerebral Artery Using GDC Coil
Authors: Douds G. Logan , Kalapos Paul , Cockroft Kevin M.
Published: March 2010

The treatment of small distal intracranial aneurysms often requires parent vessel occlusion. However, this may be particularly challenging in patients in which the parent vessel serves eloquent brain. Superselective amytal testing is often conducted in these cases, but may prove unreliable or inconclusive. In order to more specifically assess the functional significance of the parent vessel in this patient with a distal left middle cerebral artery pseudoaneurysm who had failed superselective amytal testing, we used a Guglielmi Detachable coil to perform a temporary test occlusion. Testing was performed with the patient awake and examinable, and after no neurological changes were noted, the vessel was permanently occluded, successfully treating the aneurysm. To our knowledge, this is the first report to describe this unique method for assessing a parent vessel that previously had been thought to supply eloquent brain during amytal testing.
Structural Correlates of Functional Language Dominance: A Voxel‐Based Morphometry Study
Authors: Jansen Andreas , Liuzzi Gianpiero , Deppe Michael , Kanowski Martin , Ölschläger Christian , Albers Johannes M. , Schlaug Gottfried , Knecht Stefan
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The goal of this study was to explore the structural correlates of functional language dominance by directly comparing the brain morphology of healthy subjects with left‐ and right‐hemisphere language dominance.

METHODS

Twenty participants were selected based on their language dominance from a cohort of subjects with known language lateralization. Structural differences between both groups were assessed by voxel‐based morphometry, a technique that automatically identifies differences in the local gray matter volume between groups using high‐resolution T1‐weighted magnetic resonance images.

RESULTS

The main findings can be summarized as follows: (1) Subjects with right‐hemisphere language dominance had significantly larger gray matter volume in the right hippocampus than subjects with left‐hemisphere language dominance. (2) Leftward structural asymmetries in the posterior superior temporal cortex, including the planum temporale (PT), were observed in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study does not support the still prevalent view that asymmetries of the PT are related in a direct way to functional language lateralization. The structural differences found in the hippocampus underline the importance of the medial temporal lobe in the neural language network. They are discussed in the context of recent findings attributing a critical role of the hippocampus in the development of language lateralization.
Quantitative and Qualitative Measures of Hippocampal Atrophy Are Not Correlated in Healthy Older Men
Authors: Ferguson Karen J. , Wardlaw Joanna M. , MacLullich Alasdair M. J.
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

In neuroimaging studies of dementia and mild cognitive impairment, hippocampal atrophy (HA) is commonly assessed by qualitative ratings of hippocampal appearance, or by measuring hippocampal volumes. These estimates of HA are considered to be equivalent. However, few studies have examined their relationship, especially in healthy older individuals. We therefore examined the relationship between hippocampal qualitative atrophy scores and quantitative volumetric measurements in healthy older men.

METHODS

Ninety‐seven healthy community‐dwelling 65‐70‐year‐old men underwent magnetic resonance imaging scanning. Hippocampal volumes were measured and adjusted for intracranial size. A validated 4‐point visual rating scale was used to assess hippocampal atrophy.

RESULTS

There was a wide range of unadjusted hippocampal volumes among subjects (right: 2,582 to 5,196 mm3[mean 3,626 mm3; SD 465.5 mm3] and left: 2,111 to 4,580 mm3[mean 3,501 mm3; SD 439.5 mm3]), which was maintained following adjustment for intracranial size. However, only 9% of subjects were rated as having moderate or severe HA. Qualitative and quantitative measures were not significantly correlated (left hippocampus: rho = .07, P= .52; right hippocampus: rho = .10, P= .34).

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that qualitative and quantitative indices of hippocampal atrophy in healthy older men are not equivalent. Small hippocampal volumes do not necessarily equate to hippocampal atrophy.
Meta‐regression analysis of the initial bone height for predicting implant survival rates of two sinus elevation procedures
Authors: Chao Yueh‐Ling , Chen Hsiu‐His , Mei Chih‐Chun , Tu Yu‐Kang , Lu Hsein‐Kun
Published: March 2010

Chao Y‐L, Chen H‐H, Mei C‐C, Tu Y‐K, Lu H‐K. Meta‐regression analysis of the initial bone height for predicting implant survival rates of two sinus elevation procedures. J Clin Periodontol 2010; 37: 456–465. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2010.01555.x.

Aim: To undertake a systematic review for the association between the initial alveolar bone height and the success of dental implants with sinus elevation procedures.

Materials and Methods: An online search was performed using the following electronic databases: PubMed, Medline, Science Direct, and Blackwell synergy. Two investigators independently assessed publications for inclusion and extracted data. Meta‐regression analyses were used to test the associations between the initial alveolar bone height and implant survival with lateral window or osteotome sinus elevation procedures.

Results: Of 635 studies, 21 were included for analysis. A quadratic curve‐fitting meta‐regression showed an increasing trend of implant survival rate with greater initial bone height for the lateral window technique (p<0.0001, adjusted R2=0.97). The result of the meta‐regression for hazard rates showed a decreasing trend (p=0.0041, adjusted R2=0.89). No association was found for the osteotome technique.

Conclusions: For the lateral window technique, meta‐regression analysis suggested a positive association between the initial alveolar bone height and implant survival rates. No relationship was found between the initial alveolar bone height and implant survival rate for the osteotome technique due to a lack of data below 4 mm of initial bone height.
Assessing a multilevel model of young children’s oral health with national survey data
Authors: Bramlett Matthew D. , Soobader Mah‐J , Fisher‐Owens Susan A. , Weintraub Jane A. , Gansky Stuart A. , Platt Larry J. , Newacheck Paul W.
Published: March 2010

Bramlett MD, Soobader M‐J, Fisher‐Owens SA, Weintraub JA, Gansky SA, Platt LJ, Newacheck PW. Assessing a multilevel model of young children’s oral health with national survey data. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol 2010; 38: 287–298. Published 2010. This article is a US Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

Abstract –  Objectives:  To empirically test a multilevel conceptual model of children’s oral health incorporating 22 domains of children’s oral health across four levels: child, family, neighborhood and state.

Data source:  The 2003 National Survey of Children’s Health, a module of the State and Local Area Integrated Telephone Survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics, is a nationally representative telephone survey of caregivers of children.

Study design:  We examined child‐, family‐, neighborhood‐, and state‐level factors influencing parent’s report of children’s oral health using a multilevel logistic regression model, estimated for 26 736 children ages 1–5 years.

Principal findings:  Factors operating at all four levels were associated with the likelihood that parents rated their children’s oral health as fair or poor, although most significant correlates are represented at the child or family level. Of 22 domains identified in our conceptual model, 15 domains contained factors significantly associated with young children’s oral health. At the state level, access to fluoridated water was significantly associated with favorable oral health for children.

Conclusions:  Our results suggest that efforts to understand or improve children’s oral health should consider a multilevel approach that goes beyond solely child‐level factors.
Combined 677CC/1298AC genotypes of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR ) reduce susceptibility to precursor B lymphoblastic leukemia in a Chinese population
Authors: Lv Ling , Wu Cuie , Sun Henjuan , Zhu Saijuan , Yang Yongchen , Chen Xi , Fu Hua , Bao Liming
Published: March 2010

The methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) encodes a major enzyme in folate metabolism. It has been suggested that two MTHFR polymorphisms, 677C>T and 1298A>C, influence risk of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Most studies on relation of MTHFR polymorphisms to ALL susceptibility have been in pediatric populations because ALL is relatively rare in adults. Here, we report a case–control study of 127 Chinese patients with adult precursor B lymphoblastic leukemia (B‐ALL) to examine correlation between the MTHFR polymorphisms and B‐ALL susceptibility in adults. Our data show that although the prevalence of genotype 1298CC was significantly higher in the female patients than in the controls (P = 0.04), the differences in distributions of combined genotypes of 1298CC with either 677CC or 677CT between the cases and the controls were statistically insignificant. Haplotype analysis revealed no significant difference between the cases and the controls. The prevalence for joint MTHFR genotypes 677CC/1298AC was significantly lower in the female B‐ALL cases than in the controls [odds ratio (OR) = 0.06, 95% CI = 0.00–0.53, P = 0.0033] and no differences among the men [OR = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.20–2.53, P = 0.55], suggesting that protective effects of combined MTHFR 677CC/1298AC genotypes on susceptibility of adult B‐ALL are gender bias toward women with 677CC/1298AC women being at a 17‐fold reduced odds to develop B‐ALL.
Physical Activity and PDE5 Inhibitors in the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction: Results of a Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Maio Giuseppe , Saraeb Salim , Marchiori Antonio
Published: March 2010

Introduction

Physical activity (PhA) has proven to be a protective factor for normal erectile function in numerous epidemiological studies.

Aim

The aim of this study was to establish if PhA could have a therapeutic role in the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED).

Methods

This was a randomized, open-label study. A total of 60 patients complaining of ED were studied. Patients were assessed at baseline and after 3 months of study treatment. At baseline, patients were randomized to receive phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor (PDE5i) alone (group A) or PDE5i plus regular (≥3 hours/week), aerobic, non-agonistic PhA (group B).

Main Outcome Measures

All subjects completed the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-15) questionnaire and performed total testosterone (TT).

Results

Mean PhA was 3.4 hours/week in group B vs. 0.43 in group A; mean energy expenditure in group B was 1,868 kcal/ week or 22.8 metabolic equivalent (MET)/week. IIEF restoration of ED occurred in 77.8% (intervention group) vs. 39.3% (control) (P <0.004). The IIEF-15 score resulted in statistical improvement in intervention group in all the domains but one (orgasm): erectile function 24.7 vs. 26.8 (P = 0.003); confidence (Q15) 3.53 vs. 4.07 (P = 0.006); sexual desire 6.46 vs. 7.18 (P = 0.028); intercourse satisfaction 9.85 vs. 11.25 (P = 0.001); total satisfaction 7.17 vs. 8.07 (P = 0.009); total score 56.2 vs. 61.07 (P = 0.007). TT was statistically similar in the two groups; separate analysis in each group showed statistical increase in group B 4.24 vs. 4.55 (P = 0.012). At multivariate logistic regression analysis, PhA was the only independent variable for normal erection (P = 0.010) (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.036–0.643), higher sexual satisfaction (P = 0.022) (95% CI 0.084–0.821) and normal total IIEF-15 score (P = 0.023) (95% CI 0.85–0.837).

Conclusion

In this randomized controlled pilot study, PDE5i plus PhA was more effective than PDE5i alone in the treatment of ED.
Evaluation of Tramadol on Demand Vs. Daily Paroxetine as a Long-Term Treatment of Lifelong Premature Ejaculation
Authors: Alghobary Moheiddin , El-Bayoumy Youssef , Mostafa Yosry , Mahmoud El-Hassanin Mohamed , Amr Mostafa
Published: March 2010

Introduction

Premature ejaculation (PE) is the most common male sexual dysfunction with many lines of treatment that show conflicting results. Paroxetine and tramadol were both reported to be effective in treatment of PE.

Aim

To investigate the effectiveness of long-term daily paroxetine vs. on-demand tramadol HCl in treatment of PE.

Main Outcome Measures

Intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT) and Arabic Index of PE (AIPE) were used to assess the efficacy of investigated drugs.

Methods

Thirty-five cases with lifelong PE were enrolled in this study. Baseline recording of IELT using a stop watch and AIPE was done. Patients were randomized to take tramadol HCl on-demand or daily paroxetine. Reassessment was done after 6 and 12 weeks. A wash-out period for 2 weeks was given before cross-over to the other medication. Assessment of the effect of the second medication after 6 and 12 weeks was done.

Results

Tramadol and paroxetine increased IELT significantly after 6 weeks by seven- and 11-folds, respectively, compared with baseline. After 12 weeks, a decline of IELT to fivefolds was recorded with tramadol whereas further increase of IELT to 22-folds was recorded with paroxetine compared with baseline (P <0.05). Tramadol improved AIPE score significantly after 6 weeks but not after 12 weeks vs. baseline, whereas paroxetine increased the AIPE score after 6 and 12 weeks vs. baseline (P <0.05).

Conclusions

Daily paroxetine is more effective than on-demand tramadol for treatment of lifelong PE. Tramadol is not recommended as a long-term treatment of lifelong PE.
Pentoxifylline Attenuates Transforming Growth Factor-β1-Stimulated Collagen Deposition and Elastogenesis in Human Tunica Albuginea-Derived Fibroblasts Part 1: Impact on Extracellular Matrix
Authors: Shindel Alan W. , Lin Guiting , Ning Hongxiu , Banie Lia , Huang Yun-Ching , Liu Gang , Lin Ching-Shwun , Lue Tom F.
Published: March 2010

Introduction

Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of Peyronie’s disease (PD) and also plays a role in collagen and elastin metabolism. Pentoxifylline (PTX) antagonizes the effects of TGF-β1 and has been utilized in our clinic for the management of PD.

Aim

We studied the effects of TGF-β1 and PTX on collagen metabolism and elastogenesis in tunica albuginea-derived fibroblasts (TADFs).

Methods

TADFs from men with and without PD were cultured and treated with TGF-β1 and PTX as monotherapy at differing concentrations and time points. Combination treatment (TGF-β1 followed by PTX and vice versa) was also investigated.

Main Outcome Measures

Cell proliferation assay, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and immunohistochemistry were utilized to assess the impact of TGF-β1 and PTX on TADF with respect to elastin and collagen I metabolism.

Results

PTX inhibited fibroblast proliferation at doses of 100 µM. TGF-β1 stimulated elastogenesis and collagen I fiber deposition in TADF in a dose- and time-dependent fashion. Pretreatment with PTX dramatically attenuated TGF-β1-mediated elastogenesis and collagen fiber deposition in TADF from men with and without PD. Interestingly, production of collagen I was higher in untreated Peyronie’s tunica (PT) cells relative to normal tunica (NT) cells; furthermore, PTX attenuated collagen production to levels similar to untreated control TADF in PT cells but not in NT cells, suggesting important intrinsic differences between PT and NT cells.

Conclusion

Both elastin and collagen are upregulated by TGF-β1 in TADF. This likely contributes to the PD phenotype. Pretreatment with PTX attenuates both collagen fiber deposition and elastogenesis in TADF exposed to TGF-β1; these effects suggest a useful role for PTX in the management of PD.
Erectile Dysfunction and Risk of Clinical Cardiovascular Events: A Meta-Analysis of Seven Cohort Studies
Authors: Guo Wenbin , Liao Cun , Zou Yaguang , Li Fei , Li Tieqiu , Zhou Qizhao , Cao Yunfei , Mao Xiangming
Published: March 2010

Introduction

For many years, erectile dysfunction (ED) has been considered as a complication of cardiovascular disease (CVD) or regarded as a late consequence of generalized arterial disease. However, a growing body of evidence suggests that ED is an early manifestation of atherosclerosis and a precursor to systemic vascular disease.

Aim

We conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the association between ED and the risk of CVD events.

Methods

Relevant studies published between January 1966 and September 2009 were identified by searching Medline, Embase, and The Cochrane Library. Studies were selected using a prior defined criteria. The strength of the relationship between ED and CVD events was assessed by adjusted relative risks (RRs).

Main Outcome Measures

The adjusted RRs of CVD events.

Results

A total of 45,558 participants from seven cohort studies (eight full-text articles) were identified in this meta-analysis. The studies provided adjusted RRs estimates for ED subjects comparing with health subjects, leading to a pooled adjusted RR of 1.47 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.29–1.66, P <0.001; P for heterogeneity=0.152; I† = 36.2%) for CVD events. The risks of CVD, all-cause mortality and myocardial infarction were 1.41 (95% CI, 1.22–1.64 P <0.001), 1.23 (95% CI, 1.02–1.48; P = 0.034), and 1.43 (95% CI, 1.10–1.85 P = 0.007), respectively. The overall adjusted RR decreased significant from 1.63 (<7 years) to 1.37 (≥7 years) along with the elongation of follow-up.

Conclusions

There is evidence of an increased risk of CVD events for patients with ED. Patients who are discovered to have ED are supposed to be thoroughly assessed for cardiovascular risk and occult systemic vascular disease.
Validity of the Patient-Reported Clinical Global Impression of Change as a Measure of Treatment Response in Men with Premature Ejaculation
Authors: Althof Stanley E. , Brock Gerald B. , Rosen Raymond C. , Rowland David L. , Aquilina Joseph W. , Rothman Margaret , Tesfaye Fisseha , Bull Scott
Published: March 2010

Introduction

The Clinical Global Impression of Change (CGIC) measures have high utility in clinical practice. However, it is unknown whether the CGIC is valued for assessing premature ejaculation (PE) symptoms and/or the relationship between CGIC and other validated PE patient-reported measures.

Aim

The study aims to assess the validity of the patient-reported CGIC measure in men with PE and to examine the relationship between CGIC ratings and assessments of control, satisfaction, personal distress, and interpersonal difficulty.

Methods

Data from a randomized, double-blind, 24-week phase 3 trial in 1,162 men with PE who received dapoxetine (30 mg or 60 mg) or placebo on demand provided the basis for the analysis. Patients were ≥18 years, in a stable monogamous relationship for ≥6 months, met the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Fourth Edition-Text Revision criteria for PE for ≥6 months, and had an intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT) ≤2 minutes in ≥75% of intercourse episodes.

Main Outcome Measures

The CGIC asked patients to rate improvement or worsening of their PE compared with the start of the study using a 7-point response scale; other patient-reported measures were control over ejaculation, satisfaction with sexual intercourse, interpersonal difficulty, and personal distress related to ejaculation. Stopwatch-measured IELT was recorded. Associations between CGIC and change in other measures at study end point were assessed.

Results

The magnitude of IELT increased for each category of improvement on the CGIC: 1.63, 4.03, and 7.15 minutes for slightly better, better, and much better, respectively. Higher CGIC ratings were correlated with greater improvement in control (r = 0.73), satisfaction (r = 0.62), greater reduction in distress (r = −0.52), and interpersonal difficulty (r = −0.39). Total variance accounted for was 57.4%: control (48.7%), satisfaction (4.5%), IELT (2.8%), and distress (1.15%).

Conclusions

The analyses support the validity of the CGIC measure in men with PE. The CGIC can provide clinicians in practice with a valid and brief outcome assessment of their patient’s condition.
Patient Expectations Prior to Coloplast Titan Penile Prosthesis Implant Predicts Postoperative Satisfaction
Authors: Kramer Andrew C. , Schweber Adam
Published: March 2010

Introduction

Managing and understanding expectations of patients prior to inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) surgery is a critical. Clinicians vary in the way they explain the operation, and patients have varied expectations prior to surgery.

Aims

The goal is to understand the role that preoperative counseling and patients’ realistic understanding of IPP surgery play in determining postoperative satisfaction.

Methods

21 Patients underwent IPP surgery, and received a preoperative expectations survey, then, 4 months later, gave a single score of 1–100 (1 is very dissatisfied, 100 is extremely satisfied).

Main Outcome Measures

The results were correlated with an R2 value and visualized on a scatter plot. This significance is tested using a two-tailed test.

Results

Lower preoperative expectations scores correlated almost linearly with higher satisfaction scores after surgery. The R (Pearson) value was −0.489, with an R2 of 0.239. This was significant using a two-tailed test, with a P value of 0.0245.

Conclusion

Giving patients an accurate description of the procedure and setting realistic expectations leads to higher postoperative satisfaction.
Baylor University Roundtable on The Corporate Mission, CEO Pay, and Improving the Dialogue with Investors
Authors: Martin John , Jensen Michael , Naples Ron , Harris Trevor , Chew Don
Published: March 2010

A small group of academics and practitioners discusses four major controversies in the theory and practice of corporate finance:

What is the social purpose of the public corporation? Should corporate managements aim to maximize the profitability and value of their companies, or should they instead try to balance the interests of their shareholders against those of “stakeholder” groups, such as employees, customers, and local communities?

Should corporate executives consider ending the common practice of earnings guidance? Are there other ways of shifting the focus of the public dialogue between management and investors away from near‐term earnings and toward longer‐run corporate strategies, policies, and goals? And can companies influence the kinds of investors who buy their shares?

Are U.S. CEOs overpaid? What role have equity ownership and financial incentives played in the past performance of U.S. companies? And are there ways of improving the design of U.S. executive pay?

Can the principles of corporate governance and financial management at the core of the private equity model—notably, equity incentives, high leverage, and active participation by large investors—be used to increase the values of U.S. public companies?