Home About us Contact
|
Home About us Contact | ||
|
|
||
Overall
Selected AbstractsEvaluation of a treatment programme for alcohol-related aggressionCRIMINAL BEHAVIOUR AND MENTAL HEALTH, Issue 4 2008Anna McCulloch Background,The development of effective treatments for alcohol-related aggression and violence is important in binge drinking cultures, as in parts of the UK. Aim,The aim was to evaluate the progress and experience of 10 participants in Control of Violence for Angry Impulsive Drinkers (COVAID) using a single case methodology. Method,Participants completed 10 individual weekly sessions with trained facilitators following the COVAID manual. Change scores on psychometric questionnaires were examined by calculating clinical significance and reliability of change. Self-reports of alcohol consumption and aggression were examined. Follow-up data on convictions were collected. Participants were asked their opinions about COVAID. Results,Scores on the Alcohol-Related Aggression Questionnaire (ARAQ) improved for nine participants; change was both clinically significant and reliable in five cases. Nine participants improved on the Controlled Drinking Self-Efficacy Scale (CDSES), with seven showing clinically significant improvement. Six participants reported a reduction in alcohol consumption from the first to the second half of the programme. At a mean of 29 weeks post-treatment, none of the participants had been reconvicted for a violent offence. Participants reported finding COVAID useful and interesting. Conclusion,Overall, our findings support the possibility that COVAID may assist in reducing alcohol-related violence and violent offending. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Incidence and cytological features of pulmonary hamartomas indeterminate on CT scanCYTOPATHOLOGY, Issue 3 2008A. Saqi Objective:, Pulmonary hamartomas have a characteristic heterogeneous radiological appearance. However, when composed predominantly of undifferentiated mesenchymal fibromyxoid component, their homogeneous appearance on computed tomography is indeterminate for malignancy. Rendering an accurate preoperative diagnosis in these cases can alter management. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence and accuracy of cytodiagnosis for hamartomas ,indeterminate' by imaging. Methods:, We retrospectively reviewed records for hamartomas diagnosed by transthoracic fine needle aspiration (FNA) including immediate impressions and final diagnoses. Cytological features evaluated included the presence of fibromyxoid stroma, bronchioloalveolar cell hyperplasia, fibroadipose tissue, cartilage and smooth muscle. Results:, Eighteen (1.3%) hamartomas were identified from 1355 transthoracic FNAs. The immediate impression was hamartoma in 13 (72%), carcinoid in one (6%), mucinous bronchioloalveolar carcinoma in two (11%) and non-diagnostic in two (11%). The final diagnosis of hamartoma in cases diagnosed as carcinoid, mucinous bronchioloalaveolar carcinoma and non-diagnostic on immediate impression was rendered following assessment of all cytological material. Conclusion:, Overall, FNAs are highly reliable for diagnosing hamartomas even when composed principally of undifferentiated mesenchymal fibromyxoid stroma, especially with the aid of all available preparations including Diff-Quik smears, Papanicolaou smears, ThinPreps and cell block material. [source] Frequency and clinical correlates of adult separation anxiety in a sample of 508 outpatients with mood and anxiety disordersACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 1 2010S. Pini Pini S, Abelli M, Shear KM, Cardini A, Lari L, Gesi C, Muti M, Calugi S, Galderisi S, Troisi A, Bertolino A, Cassano GB. Frequency and clinical correlates of adult separation anxiety in a sample of 508 outpatients with mood and anxiety disorders. Objective:, To evaluate the frequency and clinical correlates of adult separation anxiety disorder in a large cohort of patients with mood and anxiety disorders. Method:, Overall, 508 outpatients with anxiety and mood disorders were assessed by the structured clinical interview for diagnostic and statistical manual (IV edition) axis I disorders for principal diagnosis and comorbidity and by other appropriate instruments for separation anxiety into adulthood or childhood. Results:, Overall, 105 subjects (20.7%) were assessed as having adult separation anxiety disorder without a history of childhood separation anxiety and 110 (21.7%) had adult separation anxiety disorder with a history of childhood separation anxiety. Adult separation anxiety was associated with severe role impairment in work and social relationships after controlling for potential confounding effect of anxiety comorbidity. Conclusion:, Adult separation anxiety disorder is likely to be much more common in adults than previously recognized. Research is needed to better understand the relationships of this condition with other co-occurring affective disorders. [source] Subjective quality of life of Nigerian schizophrenia patients: sociodemographic and clinical correlatesACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 2 2009A. O. Adewuya Objective:, Subjective quality of life (QOL) is dependent upon culture and its evaluation based on one's particular belief system. This study aimed to examine the subjective QOL of Nigerian out-patients with schizophrenia and its correlates. Method:, Out-patients with Schizophrenia (n = 99) completed the WHOQOL-BREF as a measure of their subjective QOL. Sociodemographic, illness related and medication related details were also obtained. Results:, Overall, 21 patients (21.2%) were categorised as having ,good' and 36 (36.4%) as having ,poor' subjective QOL. ,Poor' subjective QOL correlated with anxiety/depression symptoms (OR 4.88, 95% CI 2.93,11.48), comorbid medical problems (OR 4.75, 95% CI 1.43,16.33), unemployment (OR 3.75, 95% CI 1.25,11.72) and poor social support (OR 4.60, 95% CI 1.49,14.28). Conclusion:, Efforts to improve the QOL of patients with schizophrenia in this environment should encompass the identified variables. Larger, longitudinal and multi-centred studies are needed to adequately identify factors predicting QOL in this environment. [source] The relationship between depression and diabetes mellitus: findings from the Hertfordshire Cohort StudyDIABETIC MEDICINE, Issue 6 2009R. I. G. Holt Abstract Aims, To assess the relationship between depression scores and diabetes, glucose and insulin in a cross-sectional population-based study. Methods, One thousand, five hundred and seventy-nine men and 1418 women from the Hertfordshire Cohort Study were assessed for diabetes. Plasma glucose and insulin concentrations were measured at 0, 30 and 120 min during a standard 75-g oral glucose tolerance test. Depressive and anxiety symptoms were measured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Results, Overall, 431 (14.6%) were diagnosed with diabetes [232 men (14.9%) and 199 women (14.3%)]. One hundred and eight (47%) men and 74 (37%) women had known diabetes. The remainder were previously undiagnosed. Fifty-nine (3.7%) men and 65 (4.6%) women had possible depression (HAD-D scores 8,10) and 17 (1.1%) men and 20 (1.4%) women had probable depression (HAD-D scores , 11). Probable depression was associated with an adjusted odds ratio for diabetes of 3.89 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.28,11.88] in men and 1.51 (95% CI 0.47,4.84) in women. In men without previously diagnosed diabetes, fasting insulin (P = 0.035), 2-h glucose concentrations (P = 0.028) and insulin resistance (P = 0.032) were significantly associated with HAD-D scores. With the exception of 2-h glucose concentrations (P = 0.034), the associations were not significant in women. Conclusions, These data support the hypothesis that depression may increase the risk for diabetes. The relationship between depression score and metabolic variables extends across the whole population and is not confined to those with either diagnosed depression or diabetes. This relationship should lead clinicians to consider screening for diabetes in those with depression and vice versa. [source] Focal Ictal , Discharge on Scalp EEG Predicts Excellent Outcome of Frontal Lobe Epilepsy SurgeryEPILEPSIA, Issue 3 2002Gregory A. Worrell Summary: ,Purpose: To determine whether a focal ,-frequency discharge at seizure onset on scalp EEG predicts outcome of frontal lobe epilepsy (FLE) surgery. Methods: We identified 54 consecutive patients with intractable FLE who underwent epilepsy surgery between December 1987 and December 1996. A blind review of EEGs and magnetic resonance images (MRIs) was performed. Lesional epilepsy is defined as presence of an underlying structural abnormality on MRI. Results: Overall, 28 (52%) patients were seizure free, with a mean follow-up of 46.5 months. Presence of a focal ,-frequency discharge at seizure onset on scalp EEG predicted seizure-free outcome in lesional (p = 0.02) and nonlesional (p = 0.01) epilepsy patients. At least 90% of patients who had either lesional or nonlesional epilepsy were seizure free if scalp EEG revealed a focal , discharge at ictal onset. Moreover, logistic regression analysis showed that focal ictal , pattern and completeness of lesion resection were independently predictive of seizure-free outcome. Ictal onset with lateralized EEG activity of any kind and postresection electrocorticographic spikes did not predict surgical outcome (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Only about 25% of FLE surgical patients have a focal ,-frequency discharge at seizure onset on scalp EEG. However, its presence is highly predictive of excellent postsurgical seizure control in either lesional or nonlesional FLE surgical patients. [source] Correlation between routine radiographic findings and early racing career in French TrottersEQUINE VETERINARY JOURNAL, Issue S36 2006C. ROBERT Summary Reasons for performing study: The relationship between the presence of radiological abnormalities and subsequent racing performance is controversial. However, as training is expensive and time consuming, it would save time and money to identify subjects with osteo-articular lesions not compatible with a normal racing career on the basis of routine radiographic screenings at yearling age. Objectives: To evaluate the impact of osteo-articular lesions on racing ability in French Trotters and identify radiographic changes associated with failure in ,qualification', in order to provide objective criteria for selection of horses based on their osteo-articular status. Hypothesis: The influence of radiographic findings (RF) on racing ability depends on their nature, location, clinical relevance and number. Methods: The limbs of 202 French Trotters were radiographed just before they started training. All the RF were graded according to a standardised protocol depending on their severity. The success in ,qualification' (first race in career of French Trotters) was the criteria used to assess racing ability. Breeders and trainers were questioned about the causes for horses not racing. Results: Overall 113 (55.9%) horses qualified. Osteoarticular lesions were directly responsible for nonqualification in 31% of the horses. Subjects with more than one abnormal RF, with abnormal RF on the fore-, hind-fetlock or proximal tarsus were less likely to qualify. Dorsal modelling in the front fetlock and osteochondrosis of the lateral trochlear ridge of the femur also significantly reduced the qualification rate. Conclusions: Most RF are compatible with beginning a racing career, but severe RF or multiple abnormal RF significantly compromise future racing career. Potential relevance: This study supports the use of routine radiographic programmes for detection of osteoarticular lesions in yearlings. A synthetic radiographic score, based on both the severity and the number of lesions, could be useful for breeders and trainers as complementary information to select their horses. [source] Industry sponsorship and selection of comparators in randomized clinical trialsEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL INVESTIGATION, Issue 2 2010D. N. Lathyris Eur J Clin Invest 2010; 40 (2): 172,182 Abstract Background, Most clinical trials on medical interventions are sponsored by the industry. The choice of comparators shapes the accumulated evidence. We aimed to assess how often major companies sponsor trials that involve only their own products. Methods, Studies were identified by searching ClinicalTrials.gov for trials registered in 2006. We focused on randomized trials involving the 15 companies that had sponsored the largest number of registered trials in ClinicalTrials.gov in that period. Results, Overall, 577 randomized trials were eligible for analysis and 82% had a single industry sponsor [89% (166/187) of the placebo-control trials, 87% (91/105) of trials comparing different doses or ways of administration of the same intervention, and 78% (221/285) of other active control trials]. The compared intervention(s) belonged to a single company in 67% of the trials (89%, 81% and 47% in the three categories respectively). All 15 companies strongly preferred to run trials where they were the only industry sponsor or even the only owner of the assessed interventions. Co-sponsorship typically reflected co-ownership of the same intervention by both companies. Head-to-head comparison of different active interventions developed by different companies occurred in only 18 trials with two or more industry sponsors. Conclusions, Each company generates a clinical research agenda that is strongly focused on its own products, while comparisons involving different interventions from different companies are uncommon. This diminishes the ability to understand the relative merits of different interventions for the same condition. [source] Soil animals influence microbial abundance, but not plant,microbial competition for soil organic nitrogenFUNCTIONAL ECOLOGY, Issue 5 2004L. COLE Summary 1In a microcosm experiment we examined the effects of individual species of microarthropods, and variations in microarthropod diversity of up to eight species, on soil microbial properties and the short-term partitioning of a dual-labelled organic nitrogen source (glycine-2- 13C- 15N) between a grassland plant, Agrostis capillaris, and the soil microbial biomass, to determine how soil fauna and their diversity influence plant,microbial competition for organic N. 2We hypothesized that variations in the diversity of animals would influence the partitioning of 15N inputs between plants and the microbial biomass, due to the effect of animal grazing on the microbial biomass, and hence its ability to sequester N. 3Certain individual species of Collembola influenced the microbial community of the soil. Folsomia quadrioculata reduced microbial biomass, whereas Mesaphorura macrochaeta enhanced arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) colonization of A. capillaris roots. Effects of increasing species richness of microarthropods on microbial biomass and AM colonization were detected, but these effects could be interpreted in relation to the presence or absence of individual species. 4Microbial uptake of added 15N was not affected by the presence of any of the individual species of animal in the monoculture treatments. Similarly, increasing diversity of microarthropods had no detectable effect on microbial 15N. 5Root and shoot uptake of 15N was also largely unaffected by both single species and variations in diversity of microarthropods. However, one collembolan species, Ceratophysella denticulata, reduced root 15N capture when present in monoculture. We did not detect 13C in plant tissue under any experimental treatments, indicating that all N was taken up by plants after mineralization. 6Our data suggest that, while single species and variations in diversity of microarthropods influence microbial abundance in soil, there is no effect on microbial or plant uptake of N. Overall, these data provide little support for the notion that microbial-feeding soil animals are regulators of microbial,plant competition for N. [source] Long-Term, Open-Label Safety Study of Oral Almotriptan 12.5 mg for the Acute Treatment of Migraine in AdolescentsHEADACHE, Issue 5 2010Frank Berenson MD (Headache 2010;50:795-807) Objectives., This study evaluated the long-term safety of oral almotriptan 12.5 mg for the treatment of multiple migraine episodes in adolescents over a 12-month period. Efficacy outcomes were assessed as a secondary objective. Methods., Adolescent migraineurs aged 12-17 years were enrolled in this 12-month, open-label study (Study ID CR002827). Patients were instructed to record their assessments on paper headache records whenever they experienced a migraine headache that they treated with study medication. Safety was assessed descriptively and assessments included adverse event (AE) recording, change in laboratory values, vital signs, and electrocardiogram parameters. Efficacy outcomes were assessed descriptively and outcomes included rates for 2- and 24-hour pain relief and sustained pain relief, 2- and 24-hour pain-free and sustained pain-free, and presence of migraine-associated symptoms of photophobia, phonophobia, nausea and vomiting. Results., Overall, 67.1% of patients reported ,1 AE over the course of the trial, 7.6% had an AE judged by the study investigator to be related to treatment with almotriptan, 2.4% discontinued because of an AE, and 1.9% reported serious AEs. The most commonly reported treatment-related AEs (occurring in ,1% of patients) were nausea (1.4%) and somnolence (1.4%). Pain relief responses for treated migraines of moderate or severe intensity at baseline were 61.7% and 68.6%, at 2 and 24 hours, respectively; the sustained pain relief rate was 55.5%. Pain-free responses were reported for 40.5% of all treated migraines at 2 hours and 65.9% of treated migraines at 24 hours; the sustained pain-free rate was 38.4%. The proportion of migraines that achieved the pain relief, sustained pain relief, pain-free and sustained pain-free endpoints were similar in the 12- to 14-year and 15- to 17-year age groups. Treating with almotriptan 12.5 mg when headache pain was mild was associated with higher rates of pain relief and pain-free at 2 and 24 hours, and sustained pain relief and sustained pain-free, compared with treatment initiated when pain was severe. Conclusions., Almotriptan 12.5 mg was well tolerated in this adolescent population over a 12-month period. No unexpected safety or tolerability concerns were revealed over the course of this study. The results are consistent with almotriptan 12.5 mg being effective for the acute treatment of pain and symptoms associated with migraine in both younger and older adolescents. [source] Migraine Education Improves Quality of Life in a Primary Care SettingHEADACHE, Issue 4 2010Timothy R. Smith MD (Headache 2010;50:600-612) Objective., The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the Mercy Migraine Management Program (MMMP), an educational program for physicians and patients. The primary outcome was change in headache days from baseline at 3, 6, and 12 months. Secondary outcomes were changes in migraine-related disability and quality of life, worry about headaches, self-efficacy for managing migraines, emergency room (ER) visits for headache, and satisfaction with headache care. Background., Despite progress in the understanding of the pathophysiology of migraine and development of effective therapeutic agents, many practitioners and patients continue to lack the knowledge and skills to effectively manage migraine. Educational efforts have been helpful in improving the quality of care and quality of life for migraine sufferers. However, little work has been performed to evaluate these changes over a longer period of time. Also, there is a paucity of published research evaluating the influence of education about migraine management on cognitive and emotional factors (for example, self-efficacy for managing headaches, worry about headaches). Methods., In this open-label, prospective study, 284 individuals with migraine (92% female, mean age = 41.6) participated in the MMMP, an educational and skills-based program. Of the 284 who participated in the program, 228 (80%) provided data about their headache frequency, headache-related disability (as measured by the Headache Impact Test-6 (HIT-6), migraine-specific quality of life (MSQ), worry about headaches, self-efficacy for managing headaches, ER visits for headaches, and satisfaction with care at 4 time points over 12 months (baseline, 3 months, 6 months, 12 months). Results., Overall, 46% (106) of subjects reported a 50% or greater reduction in headache frequency. Over 12 months, patients reported fewer headaches and improvement on the HIT-6 and MSQ (all P < .001). The improvement in headache impact and quality of life was greater among those who had more worry about their headaches at baseline. There were also significant improvements in "worry about headaches,""self-efficacy for managing headaches," and "satisfaction with headache care." Conclusion., The findings demonstrate that patients participating in the MMMP reported improvements in their headache frequency as well as the cognitive and emotional aspects of headache management. This program was especially helpful among those with high amounts of worry about their headaches at the beginning of the program. The findings from this study are impetus for further research that will more clearly evaluate the effects of education and skill development on headache characteristics and the emotional and cognitive factors that influence headache. [source] Gene Expression Profiling in Cluster Headache: A Pilot Microarray StudyHEADACHE, Issue 10 2006Christina Sjöstrand MD Background.,Cluster headache (CH) is a primary neurovascular headache disorder characterized by attacks of excruciating pain accompanied by ipsilateral autonomic symptoms. CH pathophysiology is presumed to involve an activation of hypothalamic and trigeminovascular systems, but inflammation and immunological mechanisms have also been hypothesized to be of importance. Objective.,To identify differentially expressed genes during different clinical phases of CH, assuming that changes of pathophysiological importance would also be seen in peripheral venous blood. Methods.,Blood samples were drawn at 3 consecutive occasions from 3 episodic CH patients: during attacks, between attacks and in remission, and at 1 occasion from 3 matched controls. Global gene expression was analyzed with microarray tehnology using the Affymetrix Human Genome U133 2.0 Plus GeneChip® Set, covering more than 54,000 gene transcripts, corresponding to almost 22,000 genes. Quantitative RT-PCR on S100P gene expression was analyzed in 6 patients and 14 controls. Results.,Overall, quite small differences were seen intraindividually and large differences interindividually. However, pairwise comparisons of signal values showed upregulation of several S100 calcium binding proteins; S100A8 (calgranulin A), S100A12 (calgranulin C), and S100P during active phase of the disease compared to remission. Also, annexin A3 (calcium-binding) and ICAM3 showed upregulation. BIRC1 (neuronal apoptosis inhibitory protein), CREB5, HLA-DQA1, and HLA-DQB1 were upregulated in patients compared to controls. The upregulation of S100P during attack versus remission was confirmed by quantitative RT-PCR analysis. Conclusions.,The S100A8 and S100A12 proteins are considered markers of non-infectious inflammatory disease, while the function of S100P is still largely unknown. Furthermore, upregulation of HLA-DQ genes in CH patients may also indicate an inflammatory response. Upregulation of these pro-inflammatory genes during the active phase of CH has not formerly been reported. Data from this pilot microarray study provide a basis for further studies in CH. [source] Contrasts in cortical magnesium, phospholipid and energy metabolism between migraine syndromes.HEADACHE, Issue 4 2003MD Boska Neurology. 2002;58:1227-1233. BACKGROUND: Previous single voxel (31)P MRS pilot studies of migraine patients have suggested that disordered energy metabolism or Mg(2+) deficiencies may be responsible for hyperexcitability of neuronal tissue in migraine patients. These studies were extended to include multiple brain regions and larger numbers of patients by multislice (31)P MR spectroscopic imaging. METHODS: Migraine with aura (MWA), migraine without aura (MwoA), and hemiplegic migraine patients were studied between attacks by (31)P MRS imaging using a 3-T scanner. RESULTS: Results were compared with those in healthy control subjects without headache. In MwoA, consistent increases in phosphodiester concentration [PDE] were measured in most brain regions, with a trend toward increase in [Mg(2+)] in posterior brain. In MWA, phosphocreatine concentration ([PCr]) was decreased to a minor degree in anterior brain regions and a trend toward decreased [Mg(2+)] was observed in posterior slice 1, but no consistent changes were found in phosphomonoester concentration [PME], [PDE], inorganic phosphate concentration ([Pi]), or pH. In hemiplegic migraine patients, [PCr] had a tendency to be lower, and [Mg(2+)] was significantly lower than in the posterior brain regions of control subjects. Trend analysis showed a significant decrease of brain [Mg(2+)] and [PDE] in posterior brain regions with increasing severity of neurologic symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the results support no substantial or consistent abnormalities of energy metabolism, but it is hypothesized that disturbances in magnesium ion homeostasis may contribute to brain cortex hyperexcitability and the pathogenesis of migraine syndromes associated with neurologic symptoms. In contrast, migraine patients without a neurologic aura may exhibit compensatory changes in [Mg(2+)] and membrane phospholipids that counteract cortical excitability. Comment: If the theory of hyperexcitability of migraine brain is correct, basic scientists will need to find clear markers for the neuronal abnormalities that underlie this excitability. Using their techniques, these researchers could not find such markers. SJT [source] High Level of Antimicrobial Resistance in French Helicobacter pylori IsolatesHELICOBACTER, Issue 1 2010Josette Raymond Abstract Background: Helicobacter pylori is a human pathogen responsible for serious diseases including peptic ulcer disease and gastric cancer. The recommended triple therapy included clarithromycin but increasing resistance has undermined its effectiveness. It is therefore important to be aware of the local prevalence of antimicrobial resistance to adjust treatment strategy. Materials and Methods: Overall, 530 biopsies were collected between 2004 and 2007. The antimicrobial susceptibility of H. pylori was determined by E-test and molecular methods. Results: Among these, 138/530 (26%) strains were resistant to clarithromycin, 324/530 (61%) to metronidazole and 70/530 (13.2%) to ciprofloxacin. Whereas no resistance against amoxicillin and tetracycline was observed, only one strain was resistant to rifampicin. Compared to the patients never treated for H. pylori infection, the prevalence of resistance was significantly higher in patients previously treated (19.1% vs 68% for clarithromycin; 13.2% vs 53.3% for both clarithromycin and metronidazole). The trend analysis revealed an increase of primary resistance to ciprofloxacin between 2004 and 2005 (7.3%) vs 2006,2007 (14.1%) (p = .04) and the secondary resistance reached 22.7% in 2007. Interestingly, 27 biopsies (19.6%) contained a double population of clarithromycin-susceptible and -resistant strains. Conclusions: The reported high prevalence of clarithromycin and multiple resistances of H. pylori suggest that the empiric therapy with clarithromycin should be abandoned as no longer pretreatment susceptibility testing has assessed the susceptibility of the strain. As culture and antibiogram are not routinely performable in most clinical laboratories, the use of molecular test should be developed to allow a wide availability of pretreatment susceptibility testing. [source] Identification of plasma membrane autoantigens in autoimmune hepatitis type 1 using a proteomics tool,,HEPATOLOGY, Issue 3 2008Fatima Tahiri Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a liver disease with circulating autoantibodies predominantly directed against widely held cellular components. Because AIH is a liver-specific disease, autoantibodies against plasma membrane antigens may be involved in its pathogenesis and have been reported; however, no definite identification has been described. We thus investigated the fine specificity of anti-hepatocyte plasma membrane autoantibodies in type 1 AIH (AIH-1) using a proteomic tool. A plasma membrane,enriched fraction was validated using enzymatic activity and western blot analysis experiments. Sera from AIH-1 patients (n = 65) and from 90 controls, that is, healthy blood donors (n = 40) and patients with systemic diseases (n = 20) or other liver diseases (n = 30), were studied by immunoblot performed with plasma membrane proteins resolved by either sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) or 2-dimensional (2D) electrophoresis. Proteins contained in the immunoreactive spots were identified by sequences provided by ion-trap mass spectrometry. Hepatocytes probed with sera were also studied using confocal immunofluorescence and immunoelectron microscopy. The more prominent bands stained by patient sera were located at 38 kDa, 48, 50, 52 kDa, 62 kDa, 70 kDa, and a 95-kDa double band. Six proteins with known potential plasma membrane expression were identified: liver arginase (38 kDa), cytokeratins (CK) 8 and 18 (48-52 kDa), heat shock proteins (HSP) of 60, 70, 90 kDa, and valosin-containing protein (VCP) of 92 kDa. The presence of anti-membrane antibodies was confirmed by immunofluorescence and immunoelectron microscopy. Conclusion: Overall, our data demonstrate that liver arginase, CK 8/18, HSP 60, HSP 70, HSP 90, and VCP represent potential candidate targets on liver membrane for autoantibodies in AIH-1. (HEPATOLOGY 2008;47:937,948.) [source] Effect of extended MMX mesalamine therapy for acute, mild-to-moderate Ulcerative ColitisINFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASES, Issue 1 2009Michael A. Kamm MD Abstract Background: Many patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) respond to mesalamine therapy within 8 weeks. Those not achieving remission after 8 weeks are often treated with steroids or other immunosuppressive therapies. This study aimed to determine the effect of 8 weeks' high-dose MMX mesalamine extension therapy in patients with active, mild-to-moderate UC who had previously failed to achieve complete remission in 2 phase III, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies of MMX mesalamine (SPD476-301 and -302). Methods: Patients with active, mild-to-moderate UC who did not achieve clinical and endoscopic remission after ,8 weeks' treatment with MMX mesalamine (2.4 or 4.8 g/day), ASACOL® (mesalamine) delayed-release tablets 2.4 g/day, or placebo in the phase III studies received MMX mesalamine 4.8 g/day for 8 weeks. The aim was to assess remission at week 8, defined as a total modified UC Disease Activity Index score of ,1, calculated as: scores of 0 for rectal bleeding and stool frequency, a combined Physician's Global Assessment score and sigmoidoscopy score of ,1, no mucosal friability, and a ,1 point reduction from baseline in sigmoidoscopy score. Results: Overall, 304 patients who entered this acute extension study were evaluated; 59.5% achieved remission at week 8. Remission rates were similar irrespective of prior treatment in the initial acute phase III studies. Conclusions: Most patients with mild-to-moderate UC who fail to achieve remission with up to 8 weeks' initial mesalamine therapy can achieve clinical and endoscopic remission following a further 8 weeks' treatment with high-dose MMX mesalamine therapy, thereby avoiding step-up therapy. (Inflamm Bowel Dis 2008) [source] Health-related quality of life improves in children and adolescents with inflammatory bowel disease after attending a camp sponsored by the Crohn's and colitis foundation of AmericaINFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASES, Issue 2 2005Melissa A. Shepanski MS Abstract Purpose: To describe the reported health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in children and adolescents with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) after attending an IBD summer camp. Methods: A prospective analysis of quality of life was completed at an overnight camp that was exclusively for patients with IBD, which was sponsored by the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America. The IMPACT-II questionnaire (Canada and United States) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory for Children were administered to the campers at the beginning and at the end of a 1-week camp to assess HRQOL and anxiety. The IMPACT-II questionnaire consists of 35 questions measuring 6 quality-of-life domains (i.e., bowel domain, systemic symptoms, emotional functioning, social functioning, body image, and treatment/interventions). The State-Trait Anxiety Inventory for Children consists of 2 different 20-item sets of questions. One set assesses state anxiety, and the other, trait anxiety. A repeated-measures multivariate analysis of variance was performed to determine the differences between scores attained before and after camp on the IMPACT-II questionnaire and in each of its domains. Paired sample t tests were performed on state and trait anxiety before and after camp. Results: A total of 125 individuals consented to participate, but 61 patients (50 girls and 11 boys; age range, 9 to 16 y) completed the IMPACT-II questionnaire in full. Of those 61 patients, 47 had Crohn's disease and 14 had ulcerative colitis. There was statistically significant improvement between the mean (±SD) precamp total score (172.95 ± 36.61) and the mean postcamp total score (178.71 ± 40.97; P = 0.035), bowel symptoms scores (P = 0.036), social functioning scores (P = 0.022), and treatment interventions scores (P = 0.012). No difference was found between anxiety scores before and after camp on either the state or trait anxiety inventories (n = 55; P > 0.05). Conclusions: Overall, HRQOL improved in children after attending IBD summer camp. This exploratory study suggests that contributing factors for these improvements may be an increase in social functioning, a better acceptance of IBD symptoms, and less distress regarding treatment interventions, suggesting that a camp that is specifically designed for children with IBD may normalize the chronic illness experience. However, future research using a multimodal measurement approach is warranted to support these conclusions. [source] Decalcification of root canal dentine by citric acid, EDTA and sodium citrateINTERNATIONAL ENDODONTIC JOURNAL, Issue 6 2004L. F. Machado-Silveiro Abstract Aim, To measure the demineralization capability of 1 and 10% citric acid, 10% sodium citrate and 17% EDTA during immersions of 5, 10 and 15 min on root canal dentine. Methodology, Crowns were sectioned from eight maxillary canines. The cementum was removed from the cervical third of the roots to expose the dentine. Canals were prepared using a handpiece-mounted Largo Peeso reamer. A 3-mm thick cross-sectional slice was obtained from the cervical third of each root. Each slice was sectioned into four equal parts. These specimens were assigned to one of four groups (n = 8) for the application of 1% citric acid, 10% citric acid, 10% sodium citrate or 17% EDTA. Each specimen underwent three successive 5-min immersions in each solution at room temperature. The solutions were not renewed between immersions. Two millimetres of solution were collected from the extracts and lanthanum oxide was added for the calcium reading by spectrophotometry. To compare the amounts of calcium removed by each solution, the Friedman test was used for the global comparison and the Wilcoxon test for paired comparisons. Differences between groups were evaluated using the Kruskal,Wallis test for the global comparison and Mann,Whitney test for paired comparisons. Results, Overall, 1 and 10% citric acid were more effective than EDTA or sodium citrate at the three immersion times (P < 0.001); 10% citric acid was more effective than 1% citric acid (P < 0.001). EDTA and 1 and 10% citric acid showed decreasing effectiveness with time, and the decrease was significant for citric acid at both concentrations (P < 0.001). Although sodium citrate removed little calcium during the three time periods, the small increase recorded was significant (P < 0.01). Conclusions, Citric acid at 10% was the most effective decalcifying agent, followed by 1% citric acid, 17% EDTA and 10% sodium citrate. [source] Radiation-induced gene expression profile of human cells deficient in 8-hydroxy-2,-deoxyguanine glycosylaseINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CANCER, Issue 3 2006M. Ahmad Chaudhry Abstract The human OGG1 gene encodes a DNA glycosylase that is involved in the base excision repair of 8-hydroxy-2,-deoxyguanine (8-OH-dG) from oxidatively damaged DNA. Cellular 8-OH-dG levels accumulate in the absence of this activity and could be deleterious for the cell. To assess the role of 8-oxoguanine glycosylase (OGG1) in the cellular defense mechanism in a specific DNA repair defect background, we set out to determine the expression pattern of base excision repair genes and other cellular genes not involved in the base excision pathway in OGG1-deficient human KG-1 cells after ionizing radiation exposure. KG-1 cells have lost OGG1 activity due to a homozygous mutation of Arg229Gln. Gene expression alterations were monitored at 4, 8, 12 and 24 hr in 2 Gy irradiated cells. Large-scale gene expression profiling was assessed with DNA microarray technology. Gene expression analysis identified a number of ionizing radiation-responsive genes, including several novel genes. There were 2 peaks of radiation-induced gene induction or repression: one at 8 hr and the other at 24 hr. Overall the number of downregulated genes was higher than the number of upregulated genes. The highest number of downregulated genes was at 8 hr postirradiation. Genes corresponding to cellular, physiologic, developmental and extracellular processes were identified. The highest number of radiation-induced genes belonged to the signal transduction category, followed by genes involved in transcription and response to stress. Microarray gene expression data were independently validated by relative quantitative RT-PCR. Surprisingly, none of the genes involved in the base excision repair of radiation-induced DNA damage showed altered expression. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] A randomised comparison of oral desmopressin lyophilisate (MELT) and tablet formulations in children and adolescents with primary nocturnal enuresisINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PRACTICE, Issue 9 2007H. Lottmann Summary Aims:, Desmopressin is a useful treatment for primary nocturnal enuresis (PNE), a common childhood condition that can persist into adolescence. This open-label, randomised, cross-over study evaluated the preference of children and adolescents with PNE for sublingual desmopressin oral lyophilisate (MELT) vs. tablet treatment, and the efficacy, safety, compliance and ease of use associated with each formulation. In total, 221 patients aged 5,15 years who were already receiving desmopressin tablets were randomised 1 : 1 to receive desmopressin treatment in the order MELT/tablet (n = 110) or tablet/MELT (n = 111) for 3 weeks each. Each formulation was administered in bioequivalent doses (0.2/0.4 mg tablets , 120/240 ,g MELT). Following treatment, patients were questioned regarding treatment preference. Diary card data and 100 mm Visual Analogue Scale scores were also recorded. Results:, Overall, patients preferred the MELT formulation to the tablet (56% vs. 44%; p = 0.112). This preference was age dependent (p = 0.006); patients aged < 12 years had a statistically significant preference for desmopressin MELT (p = 0.0089). Efficacy was similar for both formulations (MELT: 1.88 ± 1.94 bedwetting episodes/week; tablet: 1.90 ± 1.85 episodes/week). Ease of use of both formulations was high. Compliance (, 80%) was 94.5% for MELT patients vs. 88.9% for the tablet (p = 0.059). No serious/severe adverse events were reported. Conclusions:, There was an overall preference for the MELT, and a statistically significant preference for desmopressin MELT in children aged 5,11 years. Desmopressin MELT had similar levels of efficacy and safety at lower dosing levels than the tablet, and therefore facilitates early initiation of PNE treatment in children aged 5,6 years. [source] The safety and tolerability of duloxetine in depressed elderly patients with and without medical comorbidityINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PRACTICE, Issue 8 2007T. N. Wise Summary Aim and methods:, The impact of medical comorbidity on the efficacy and tolerability of duloxetine in elderly patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) was investigated in this study. Data were obtained from a multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 311 patients with MDD aged 65,89. The primary outcome measure was a prespecified composite cognitive score based on four cognitive tests: (i) Verbal Learning and Recall Test; (ii) Symbol Digit Substitution Test; (iii) 2-Digit Cancellation Test and (iv) Letter-Number Sequencing Test. Secondary measures included the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), 17-Item Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD17), Clinical Global Impression-Severity (CGI-S) Scale, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain and 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). Tolerability measures included adverse events reported as the reason for discontinuation and treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs). The consistency of the effect of duloxetine vs. placebo comparing patients with and without medical comorbidity (vascular disease, diabetes, arthritis or any of these) was investigated. Results:, Overall, duloxetine 60 mg/day demonstrated significantly greater improvement compared with placebo for the composite cognitive score, GDS and HAMD17 total scores, CGI-Severity, HAMD17 response and remission rates, and some of the SF-36 and VAS measures. There were few significant treatment-by-comorbidity subgroup interactions for these efficacy variables, or for adverse events reported as the reason for discontinuation and common TEAEs. Conclusions:, The present analyses suggested that the efficacy of duloxetine on cognition and depression in elderly patients, and its tolerability, were not largely affected by the comorbidity status. These results further support the use of duloxetine in elderly patients with MDD. [source] Comparative efficacy of two nit combs in removing head lice (Pediculus humanus var. capitis) and their eggsINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 12 2007Rick Speare BVS Background, Fine tooth lice combs fall into two classes based on the material from which their teeth are made: plastic or metal. Metal combs are further divided into those that are made from a flat sheet of metal, and hence have rectangular teeth, and those that have cylindrical teeth embedded in a plastic base. Methods, The efficacy of two fine tooth combs [Lice Meister comb (metal) and Lady Jayne comb (plastic)] in removing head lice (Pediculus humanus var. capitis) and their eggs from the hair of children was evaluated after treatment with a viscous head lice product (Lice Blaster; Emerald Forest Pharmaceuticals Pty Ltd, Currumbin, Qld, Australia). The hair of 27 children was divided into two sections sagitally, and each comb was randomly assigned to one half of the hair, and the lice and eggs removed by the combs were counted. Results, In 96% of subjects, the Lice Meister comb removed more eggs than the Lady Jayne comb, with an average of three to four times more hatched, dead, and live eggs removed. The Lice Meister comb removed more lice than the Lady Jayne comb in 10 subjects, the same in eight subjects, and less in nine subjects. Conclusion, Overall, the Lice Meister comb is recommended as a more effective comb for use in controlling head lice infestations, whether employed with conditioner or with insecticide treatment. This appears to be the first study investigating the efficacy of nit combs in vivo. Further research is needed to determine which characteristics of fine tooth combs are the most important in removing head lice eggs. [source] Adding a caveat to the urgent clinical notification of anaemia does not reduce inappropriate emergency room referral ratesINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LABORATORY HEMATOLOGY, Issue 3 2003P. Froom Summary Background: Urgent clinician notification of low haemoglobin values might influence the clinicians' decision to refer patients to the emergency room (ER). Methods: We compared the effects of urgent clinician notification for low haemoglobin values with and without an added statement, that an urgent visit to the ER is not required if the patient has a haemoglobin value of 50 g/l or more and is clinically stable. We compared the referral rates and outcomes of 100 consecutive cases reported previously to that of 99 consecutive new cases with the added caveat. Results: Overall 47 (47%) of the historical control patients were referred to the ER compared with 45 (45.5%) in the study group (relative risk, 0.97, 95% CI, 0.72,1.3). Five patients were inappropriately transfused and almost none of the ER visits were an emergency. Conclusions: Adding a caveat to the urgent clinician notification that anaemia in clinically stable patients is not a medical emergency does not decrease the rate of ER referrals. Further studies are needed in order to find ways to decrease the number of inappropriate ER referrals. [source] A study into dentists' knowledge of the treatment of traumatic injuries to young permanent incisorsINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PAEDIATRIC DENTISTRY, Issue 1 2005M. N. KOSTOPOULOU Summary. Objective., The aims of this study were to evaluate dentists' knowledge of the emergency treatment of traumatic injuries to young permanent incisors, and to investigate barriers to treatment. Design., A closed-ended questionnaire was sent to 1023 general dental practitioners (GDPs) and community dental officers (CDOs) in West/North Yorkshire and Humberside, UK. Methods., The questionnaire comprised 17 questions. Six questions asked for general information about the participants (i.e. profession, age, gender, year of graduation, training or education on dental trauma, and willingness to provide emergency care), 10 were relevant to the emergency treatment of crown fractures, root fractures, luxation and avulsion injuries, and the last question queried any perceived barriers to treatment. Results., Seven hundred and twenty-four questionnaires were returned, a response rate of 71%, and these indicated that dentists' knowledge of the emergency treatment of dentoalveolar trauma in children was inadequate. The CDOs were significantly more knowledgeable than the GDPs, as were younger and more recently graduated dentists compared with older ones. The GDPs regarded the difficulty of treating children and the inadequate fees of the UK National Health Service as important barriers to treatment. Dentists who attended continuing dental education courses on dental traumatology had a more thorough knowledge than those who did not. Conclusion., Overall, the dentists' knowledge of the emergency treatment of dentoalveolar trauma in children was inadequate. Greater emphasis on undergraduate and postgraduate education in this area is indicated. [source] Lack of association of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies with joint failure as indicated by joint surgery in rheumatoid arthritisINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RHEUMATIC DISEASES, Issue 1 2005Andrew BROADFOOT Abstract Aim:, The objective of this study was to investigate a possible association in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) of perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (pANCA) and joint failure requiring joint surgery as a well-defined functional end point. Methods:, 188 patients with RA according to the American College of Rheumatology criteria, with a mean duration of disease of 18 years, were enrolled in a cross-sectional study. Patients were assessed for history of joint surgery, previous/current therapies, function according to the modified Health Assessment Questionnaire (mHAQ), rheumatoid factor (RF) and clinical and laboratory parameters of disease activity. ANCA were detected using indirect immunofluorescence. Results:, Overall, 36.7% of patients were pANCA positive (including atypical pANCA) and 35.1% of patients had a history of joint surgery. There was no association between the presence of pANCA and joint surgery. No association was demonstrated between ANCA status and other prognostic markers such as RF, previous or current therapies and disease activity or function. Conclusion:, No association between pANCA and joint surgery was demonstrated in this cohort of RA patients. [source] Development and internal validation of a nomogram predicting extracapsular extension in radical prostatectomy specimensINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF UROLOGY, Issue 3 2010Naoya Satake Objectives: To present a nomogram predicting the side-specific probability of extracapsular extension (ECE) in radical prostatectomy (RP) specimens. Methods: Three hundred and fifty-four patients with T1c-T3a prostate cancer undergoing RP were included in the analysis. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was carried out to evaluate the predictive values of each clinical and pathological factor, separately and in combination. Based on logistic regression analysis, a nomogram predicting the side-specific probability of ECE was developed. Results: Overall, 146 (40%) of 354 patients and 165 (23%) of 708 lobes had ECE pathologically. The areas under the ROC curve (AUC) of the standard features, such as serum PSA, clinical stage and biopsy Gleason sum on each side, in predicting side-specific probability of ECE were 0.624, 0.627, and 0.747, respectively. When these three features were combined, AUC increased to 0.773 which was not significantly different from 0.791 of maximum percent of cancer alone (P = 0.613) and significantly enhanced by including maximum percent of cancer on each side, 0.799 (P = 0.022). The resulting nomogram was internally validated and had excellent calibration. Conclusions: The accuracy in predicting ECE is increased by combining standard clinical factors (clinical stage, serum PSA, highest Gleason score) and biopsy features, such as maximum percent of cancer in the cores. The developed nomogram is helpful when deciding whether or not neurovascular bundles can be preserved. [source] BK virus nephropathy: Clinical experience in a university hospital in JapanINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF UROLOGY, Issue 12 2009Tatsuya Takayama Objectives: To review the medical records of patients with BK virus nephropathy (BKVN) following kidney transplantation in our institution. Methods: We screened patients for decoy cells using urine cytology, assessed serum creatinine levels, and conducted a graft biopsy, as well as assessed the presence of plasma BK virus DNA by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The treatment of BKVN was based on the decreased use of immunosuppressants. Results: Overall, six male patients were studied (mean age 40.8 years, range 18,58; mean donor age 45.2 years, range 15,67). A positive urine cytology screen led to the subsequent detection of plasma BK virus DNA in the five patients with urine cytology results positive for decoy cells. In the four patients in whom plasma BK virus DNA was detected, a maximum value of DNA of ,10 000 copies/mL was observed. Time elapsed from transplantation to BKVN diagnosis ranged from 3 to 62 months. Although the two cadaver grafts were lost, the loss was not due to any effects directly associated with BKVN. The other four grafts are still functioning with a mean creatinine level of 1.8 mg/dL. Most of the patients with BKVN were regarded as being in a state of heightened immunosuppression. BK virus transition to blood was prevented in one patient. Conclusions: Early diagnosis of BKV infection with reduction of immunosuppression may potentially counter BK viremia and retard progression of BKV nephropathy. Decoy cell screening by urine cytology as well as plasma BK virus DNA screening should be considered in addition to the required graft biopsy in kidney transplant recipients, particularly in those with impaired graft function. [source] Computed tomography angiogram: Accuracy in renal surgeryINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF UROLOGY, Issue 1 2009Danny M Rabah Objectives: To determine the sensitivity and specificity of computed tomography angiogram (CTA) in detecting number and location of renal arteries and veins as well as crossing vessels causing uretero-pelvic junction obstruction (UPJO), and to determine if this can be used in decision-making algorithms for treatment of UPJO. Methods: A prospective study was carried out in patients undergoing open, laparoscopic and robotic renal surgery from April 2005 until October 2006. All patients were imaged using CTA with 1.25 collimation of arterial and venous phases. Each multi-detector CTA was then read by one radiologist and his results were compared prospectively with the actual intra-operative findings. Results: Overall, 118 patients were included. CTA had 93% sensitivity, 77% specificity and 90% overall accuracy for detecting a single renal artery, and 76% sensitivity, 92% specificity and 90% overall accuracy for detecting two or more renal arteries (Pearson ,2 = 0.001). There was 95% sensitivity, 84% specificity and 85% overall accuracy for detecting the number of renal veins. CTA had 100% overall accuracy in detecting early dividing renal artery (defined as less than 1.5 cm branching from origin), and 83.3% sensitivity, specificity and overall accuracy in detecting crossing vessels at UPJ. The percentage of surgeons stating CTA to be helpful as pre-operative diagnostic tool was 85%. Conclusion: Computed tomography angiogram is simple, quick and can provide an accurate pre-operative renal vascular anatomy in terms of number and location of renal vessels, early dividing renal arteries and crossing vessels at UPJ. [source] Clinical course linkage among different priapism subtypes: Dilemma in the management strategiesINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF UROLOGY, Issue 11 2008Shin-ichi Hisasue Objectives: Priapism is a rare condition whose management differs according to the etiology. We report the clinical course of three forms of priapism to assess the feasibility and safety of recent management strategies. Methods: The study included eight patients complaining of persistent erection for ,4 h who were treated in our institution between January 1996 and July 2007. Results: Overall, we categorized 12 cases of priapism in eight patients divided as follows: five cases of ischemic priapism (IP), three of stuttering priapism (SP), and four of non-ischemic priapism (NIP). Two of five IP patients needed a shunt procedure, which led to the subsequent erectile dysfunction. The other three were treated successfully with a corporal injection of sympathomimetic agents and subsequently suffered from SP. One of the three SP patients suffered from mimicked NIP with increased arterial blood flow during the initial treatment for IP. Four of the NIP patients including the mimicked one achieved complete detumescence, through arterial embolization in two and conservative management in two. Conclusions: Current management seems effective and safe in the short-term. However, the long-term outcome of the treatment for IP is still disappointing. Careful long-term observation is needed for an appropriate management. [source] Usefulness of single photon emission computed tomography imaging in the detection of lumbar vertebral metastases from prostate cancerINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF UROLOGY, Issue 6 2008Tetsuo Nozaki Objective: To determine whether single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) is useful in the detection of prostate cancer bone metastases in the lumbar vertebrae. Methods: Thirty-nine patients (12 with benign prostatic hyperplasia, 27 with prostate cancer) were considered and submitted to bone SPECT. All of them had increased uptake in lumbar vertebrae on bone scintigraphy. In those with prostate cancer, definitive diagnosis of bone metastases was established by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). SPECT axial images were classified into five accumulation patterns: mosaic, large hot, diffuse, peripheral, and articular (or pediculate). Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of bone SPECT were calculated. Results: Overall, 116 vertebral lesions (49 metastatic, 67 degenerative) were studied. Mosaic, large hot and diffuse patterns were more frequently associated with metastatic lesions (84.2%, 70.3%, and 63.1% of the cases, respectively). On the other hand, peripheral and articular (or pediculate) patterns were mostly ascribed to degenerative lesions (100% and 87.5% of the cases, respectively). Sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV of bone SPECT were 95.9% (47/49), 73.1% (49/67), 72.3% (47/65), and 96.1% (49/51), respectively. Conclusions: Bone SPECT provides better accuracy than bone scintigraphy in differential diagnosis of lumbar vertebral lesions from prostate cancer. [source] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||