The impact of athrosclerosis on cognition and disability in multiple sclerosis patients: the ATHUS score.

AIM: Atherosclerosis of the large arteries of the neck could be related to the cognitive and motor deficit. We investigated if the atherosclerosis of common carotid and femoral arteries in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) is directly linked with a disability and has an inverse relationship with cognitive performance. METHODS: We enrolled, in this prospective study, a random sample of 105 patients with MS and 22 healthy controls. All participants received a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment. The physical disability was quantified with the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). We utilized ultrasound of the carotid and femoral arteries to evaluate the degree of stenosis and intima-media thickness (IMT). We created a novice ultrasound index of atherosclerosis (ATHUS score) based on the arterial stenosis and the IMT of the carotid and femoral arteries. We then compared the results of the psychometric assessment and EDSS with the ATHUS score. RESULTS: The analysis demonstrated that higher cognitive function is correlated with lower values of ATHUS score (p =0.01). Also, there was a direct correlation between the ATHUS score and EDSS (p =0.001). CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that the degree of atherosclerosis, as calculated by the ATHUS score, is directly related to low cognitive score and higher sensory and motor disability. HIPPOKRATIA 2019, 23(2): 81-86.

Hydrocolloid interferences in the determination of pectin by the carbazole method.

In the colorimetric determination of pectin by the carbazole method, some of the interfering compounds have been identified but the possible interference of different hydrocolloids is not known. Several hydrocolloids are currently used in the preparation of imitation and adulterated orange juice for cloud stabilization. Hydrocolloids studied were gum arabic, carboxylmethyl cellulose, sodium alginate, carrageenan, guar gum, and xanthan. The effects of these hydrocolloids on the carbazole method for pectin determination was studied. Procedures are proposed for the correct use of the carbazole method for pectin determination in the presence of extraneous hydrocolloids.

Ground-glass pattern fibrous dysplasia of frontal sinus.

The case of a 5-year-old boy with ground-glass pattern craniofacial fibrous dysplasia (FD) presenting with progressive swelling in the right frontal region is reported. The imaging findings with computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings are presented. The differential diagnosis with inspissated mucocele is discussed as well. Fibrous tissue could be hypo dense on CT. Post-contrast enhancement of the lesion on MRI is the key for diagnosis.