Correlación del índice de masa corporal y grosor de tejido adiposo en glúteos / Correlation of body mass index and adipose tissue thickness in glutes

Introducción: Con el aumento de la prevalencia de obesidad, se esperaría un mayor espesor glúteo, lo que sería un factor importante en futuras intervenciones en región glútea con fines de optimizar mejores resultados estéticos. Objetivo: Correlacionar el índice de masa corporal y el grosor de tejido adiposo en glúteos en voluntarias que acudieron al Servicio de Cirugía Plástica y Reconstructiva del Hospital Dr. Miguel Pérez Carreño entre enero a marzo, 2023. Métodos: El estudio fue prospectivo, descriptivo y de corte transversal. Se utilizó un sonógrafo Sono Eye 1 para realizar las medidas del glúteo. Mediante una báscula, se midió peso y talla, para posteriormente calcular el IMC, fueron 29 voluntarias de sexo femenino entre 18 a 60 años, sin antecedentes quirúrgicos estéticos previos. Las correlaciones fueron evaluadas con el coeficiente de correlación de Pearson. Se consideró un valor significativo si p < 0,05. Los datos fueron tabulados con STATA 17. Resultados: La edad promedio fue 39 ± 12 años. La mayoría con preobesidad (55,2 %). No hubo diferencias estadísticas en grosor de tejido adiposo, de musculo y espesor de glúteo de acuerdo a la lateralidad; de acuerdo al coeficiente de correlación de Pearson, el IMC no hubo asociación con las medidas combinadas del glúteo izquierdo y derecho del grosor de tejido graso (r = 0,137), grosor muscular (r = 0,115) y espesor glúteo (r = 0,193). Conclusión: Los cambios de las medidas antropométricas de acuerdo al índice de masa corporal, no presentaron correlación estadística con el espesor glúteo. (AU)

Introduction: With the increasing prevalence of obesity, a greater gluteal thickness would be expected, which would be an important factor in future interventions in the gluteal region aimed at optimizing better aesthetic outcomes. Objective: To correlate the body mass index (BMI) and the thickness of adipose tissue in the buttocks of volunteers who attended the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service at Dr. Miguel Pérez Carreño Hospital from January to March, 2023. Methods: The study was prospective, descriptive, and cross-sectional. A Sono Eye 1 sonograph was used to measure the gluteal thickness. Using a scale, weight and height were measured to subsequently calculate the BMI; there were 29 female volunteers aged between 18 and 60 years, without previous aesthetic surgical history. Correlations were assessed using Pearson's correlation coefficient. A significant value was considered if p < 0.05. Data were tabulated using STATA 17. Results: The average age was 39 ± 12 years. The majority had pre-obesity (55,2%). There were no statistical differences in adipose tissue thickness, muscle thickness, and gluteal thickness according to laterality; according to Pearson's correlation coefficient, BMI was not associated with combined measurements of left and right buttock adipose tissue thickness (r = 0,137), muscle thickness (r = 0,115), and gluteal thickness (r = 0,193). Conclusion: Changes in anthropometric measurements according to body mass index did not show a statistical correlation with gluteal thickness. (AU)

Examination of the thickness of the different components of gallbladder wall in cases with mucocele and/or cholecystitis.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the thickness of each layer of the gallbladder wall with different diseases in dogs. SAMPLE: 72 gallbladders. METHODS: Retrospective study of dogs that underwent cholecystectomy. Histopathological specimens of the gallbladders were reviewed. Histopathological diagnosis was made as gallbladder mucocele or cholecystitis, and cholecystitis was further categorized into chronic cholecystitis, acute-on-chronic cholecystitis, acute cholecystitis, and necrotic cholecystitis. The thickness of each layer of the gallbladder wall was measured. RESULTS: 22 dogs were diagnosed with gallbladder mucocele without cholecystitis, 24 with gallbladder mucocele and cholecystitis, 20 with only cholecystitis, and 6 as normal. Histopathological subclassification of cholecystitis in 44 gallbladders led to diagnosis of chronic cholecystitis in 21 gallbladders, acute-on-chronic cholecystitis in 10 gallbladders, acute cholecystitis in 6 gallbladders, and necrotic cholecystitis in 7 gallbladders. The thickness of the entire wall of the gallbladder (P < .0001) and the thickness of the mucosa (P < .0001) and subserosa (P < .0001) were affected by the different disease processes. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Layers of the gallbladder wall were affected by diseases present in the gallbladder. It resulted in a difference in the thickness of the wall of the gallbladder among the gallbladder diseases in this study. Histopathological changes should be taken into consideration before surgery while deciding what technique to use to perform a cholecystectomy.

Performance, nutrient utilization and meat quality traits in Bos indicus cattle: a meta-analysis examining the effect of residual feed intake.

This meta-analysis aims to investigate the effects of residual feed intake (RFI) phenotype on performance, nutrient utilization and meat quality traits in Zebu (Bos indicus) cattle. Twenty-three peer-reviewed publications with 37 treatment means were included in the dataset. Weighted mean difference analysis compared animals categorized into low RFI (more efficient) versus medium or high RFI (less efficient) groups. Data heterogeneity via meta-regression and subgroup analysis, considering variables such as animal age, sex class, experimental duration, RFI group, dietary concentrate, and estimated metabolizable energy intake were also explored. The predominant genetic group of cattle in the dataset was Nellore (89.18%), followed by Brahman (10.81%). More efficient animals (low RFI phenotype) exhibited less dry matter intake (DMI; P < 0.010) than medium or high RFI animals (-0.95 kg vs. -0.42 kg/d). Cattle dietary crude protein and fiber digestibility were consistent across RFI groups (P > 0.05), while dietary ether extract digestibility tended to decrease (P = 0.050) in low RFI animals (-13.20 g/kg DM). Low RFI animals tended to increased (P = 0.065) ribeye area (REA) compared to the high/medium RFI groups, while carcass backfat thickness (BFT) decreased (P = 0.042) compared to high/medium RFI groups. Moreover, there was an increase (P < 0.001) of 0.22 kg in Warner-Bratzler shear force (WBSF) and a reduction (P < 0.001) in the myofibrillar fragmentation index (MFI) in low RFI animals. Meat color parameters (lightness [L*] and yellowness [b*]) and visual marbling scores were consistent (P > 0.05) across RFI groups. In conclusion, Zebu cattle classified as efficient (low RFI) exhibited reduced DMI, which improves their feed efficiency. However, BFT and meat quality parameters such as tenderness (WBSF and MFI) and redness [a*] were compromised by low RFI phenotype, highlighting the challenge of enhancing feed efficiency and meat quality traits in Zebu cattle.

Relationship between Carotid Intima-Media Thickness, Periodontal Disease, and Systemic Inflammation Biomarkers in an Adult Population.

A positive relationship has been reported between advanced periodontitis and carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) measurement. The aim of this study was to investigate this relationship with parameters for periodontitis, such as PISA and systemic inflammation biomarkers. An observational descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted. A blood sample was collected from 75 subjects to analyze glucose, total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and cytokine values. Increased cIMT was found in 32% of the patients with fewer teeth. Patients with periodontitis had a larger periodontal inflamed surface area (PISA) (p = 0.000) and had a 1.42-times-higher risk of having increased cIMT values compared to periodontally healthy individuals, though without a statistically significant association. Higher values in the left cIMT, IL-8, and TNF-α were found in men than in women with significant differences. In the multivariate analysis involving cytokines, age continues to be linked to increased cIMT values. INF-γ showed a trend towards a protective effect; as the IMT-M decreases, there is an increase in the expression of INF-γ, and a higher proportion of subjects with elevated INF-γ concentrations demonstrated normal IMT-C. This study did not find a statistically significant association between cIMT and periodontal disease, but the risk of having increased cIMT is 1.42-times higher for individuals with periodontitis.

Exploring botulinum toxin's impact on masseter hypertrophy: a randomized, triple-blinded clinical trial.

The present study aimed to assess the effectiveness and functional adverse effects of a single and multiple injections of botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A) for masseter hypertrophy (MH). Twenty-six women complaining about lower third facial enlargement due to MH, received 75 U of BoNT-A (abobotulinum toxin) in each masseter muscles. After 3 months, patients were randomly assigned to receive a second treatment session of Saline Solution: (G1; n = 11) or BoNT-A: (G2; n = 12). Muscle thickness (ultrasound), electrical activity (electromyography; EMG), masticatory performance, and subjective perception of MH were evaluated. Follow-up was performed at 1, 3 and 6 months. Muscle thickness, EMG activity, and masticatory performance were analyzed using ANOVA two-way and Sidak test as post-hoc. Masticatory performance was analyzed by the Friedman's test and Mann-Whitney test. Regarding inter-groups comparisons, there was a significant decrease in the left masseter muscle thickness in the G2 group at the 6 month follow-up (p < 0.02). For EMG, significant differences were evident at the 6 month assessment, with higher masseter activity for G1 (p < 0.05). For masticatory performance, no significant differences were observed throughout the study (p > 0.05) and a higher improvement in subjective perception of MH was observed in the 1 month follow-up for G2 (p < 0.05). In conclusion, BoNT-A is effective for MH, however multiple injections cause functional adverse effects in masseter muscle.

Multi-perspective ultrasound evaluation of Carotid Intima-Media thickness in hemodialysis access patients and its possible use to predict clinical outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Hemodialysis (HD) patients present an increased carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and calcified plaques, and studies have demonstrated that CIMT is predictor for cardiovascular death in this patient population; hence, the importance of identifying early non-invasive markers of atherosclerosis. We aim to propose a new three-perspective CIMT measuring method in HD population, and to further investigate the possible use and value of this method to predict outcomes. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted, the CIMT was measured with duplex ultrasound during the perioperative access planning. Software provided maximum CIMT in a 10 mm (mm) width of the common carotid artery. CIMT was measured in Right (R) and Left (L) carotid arteries, both in anterior (a), lateral (l), and posterior (p) view. The sum of these values (Ra+Rl+Rp+La+Ll+Lp) was completed and termed as Sixth Carotid Intimal (SCI) score. We stratified either in low (summation <4) or high (>=4) SCI score groups. Demographics, patency rates, complications, and mortality were collected; chi-square test was used for our analysis. RESULTS: A total of 30 patients (mean age 49 years and 56% females) that underwent access creation in the upper arm from 2010 to 2016 were selected and studied. A low SCI score was found 19 patients and 11 had high SCI, no significant difference was observed in demographics, history cardiovascular disease, and clinical outcomes as early thrombosis, and primary, primary-assisted patency at 12 months. Interestingly, during the follow up period of 36 months a significant higher difference in late thrombosis rates occurred (63.6% vs 26.3%, p = .044) and a higher all-cause mortality (54.4% vs 15.7%, p = .025) in patients with SCI score group above 4. CONCLUSIONS: The SCI score method, might offer a screening tool for traditional cardiovascular risk factors in HD patients. In this study, we demonstrate an increased rate in late thrombosis and mortality in those with high SCI. Further research is necessary to better define the role of CIMT in vascular surgical procedures.

Thickness dependence of the room-temperature ethanol sensor properties of Cu2O polycrystalline films.

This study investigates the fabrication process of copper thin films via thermal evaporation, with precise control over film thickness achieved throughZ-position adjustment. Analysis of the as-fabricated copper films reveals a discernible relationship between grain size (〈D〉) andZ-position, characterized by a phenomenological equation〈D〉XRDn(Z)=〈D〉0n1+32rZ2+158rZ4, which is further supported by a growth exponent (n) of 0.41 obtained from the analysis. This value aligns well with findings in the literature concerning the growth of copper films, thus underlining the validity and reliability of our experimental outcomes. The resulting crystallites, ranging in size from 20 to 26 nm, exhibit a resistivity within the range of 3.3-4.6µΩ · cm. Upon thermal annealing at 200 °C, cuprite Cu2O thin films are produced, demonstrating crystallite sizes ranging from ∼9 to ∼24 nm with increasing film thickness. The observed monotonic reduction in Cu2O crystallites relative to film thickness is attributed to a recrystallization process, indicating amorphization when oxygen atoms are introduced, followed by the nucleation and growth of newly formed copper oxide phase. Changes in the optical bandgap of the Cu2O films, ranging from 2.31 to 2.07 eV, are attributed mainly to the quantum confinement effect, particularly important in Cu2O with size close than the Bohr exciton diameter (5 nm) of the Cu2O. Additionally, correlations between refractive index and extinction coefficient with film thickness are observed, notably a linear relationship between refractive index and charge carrier density. Electrical measurements confirm the presence of a p-type semiconductor with carrier concentrations of ∼1014cm-3, showing a slight decrease with film thickness. This phenomenon is likely attributed to escalating film roughness, which introduces supplementary scattering mechanisms for charge carriers, leading to a resistivity increase, especially as the roughness approaches or surpasses the mean free path of charge carriers (8.61 nm). Moreover,ab-initiocalculations on the Cu2O crystalline phase to investigate the impact of hydrostatic strain on its electronic and optical properties was conducted. We believe that our findings provide crucial insights that support the elucidation of the experimental results. Notably, thinner cuprite films exhibit heightened sensitivity to ethanol gas at room temperature, indicating potential for highly responsive gas sensors, particularly for ethanol breath testing, with significant implications for portable device applications.

Influence of CBCT filters and contrast adjustments on peri-implant buccal bone thickness measurement and blooming expression.

OBJECTIVES: To assess whether filter and contrast adjustments can improve the accuracy of CBCT in measuring the buccal bone thickness (BBT) adjacent to dental implants by reducing blooming artifacts. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Homogeneous bone blocks with peri-implant BBT of 0.3 mm, 0.5 mm, and 1 mm were scanned using the Orthophos SL system. Three dentists measured the BBT in 234 CBCT scans under different settings of contrast adjustments and 'Sharpen' filter activation. Additionally, implant diameter measurements were taken to assess blooming artifact expression. The differences between tomographic and actual measurements of BBT and implant diameter [(CBCT - actual) * 100 / actual] were subjected to Mixed ANOVA (α = 0.05). RESULTS: The group with the thinnest BBT (0.3 mm) had the greatest difference between tomographic and actual measurements (79.9% ± 29.0%). Conversely, the 0.5 mm (36.1% ± 38.4%) and 1 mm (29.4% ± 12.3%) groups exhibited lower differences (p < 0.05). 'Sharpen' filter activation reduced blooming expression since it resulted in a lower difference for implant diameter (p < 0.05), but it did not influence BBT measurements (p = 0.673). Contrast settings had no impact on BBT (p = 0.054) or implant diameter measurements (p = 0.079). CONCLUSION: Although filter activation reduced blooming artifacts, neither filter nor contrast adjustments improved the accuracy of CBCT in measuring peri-implant BBT; actual BBT influenced this task. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: When assessing the peri-implant buccal bone plate in the CBCT system studied, dental surgeons may find it beneficial to adjust contrast and apply filters according to their preferences, since such adjustments were found to have no adverse effects on the diagnostic accuracy of this task. The use of the 'Sharpen' filter may lead to improved representation of implant dimensions.

Shaping ability of three heat-treated NiTi systems in Vertucci's type III root canals of mandibular incisors: An ex vivo study.

Introduction: The anatomical configuration classified as Vertucci's type III is described as the second most prevalent in mandibular incisors. Methods: Thirty-six Vertucci's type III mandibular incisors were evaluated by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and divided into 3 groups (n = 12) according to the root canal preparation protocol (HyFlex CM [HCM], HyFlex EDM [HEDM], and Sequence Rotary File [SRF]). The teeth were scanned before and after performing 0.25 mm and 0.40 mm apical diameter preparations. The canal volume, dentin thickness, percentage of accumulated debris and untouched canal areas, transportation, and centering ability were measured. The data were statistically analyzed by ANOVA, Tukey, Kruskal-Wallis, and Dunn tests (P < 0.05). Results: The volume increase was more evident in the apical third. After 0.40 mm preparation, the SRF system provided a higher reduction (P < 0.05) in dentin thickness on the buccal surface 1 mm from the apex. There was higher canal transportation in the bucco-lingual direction. The 0.40 mm apical preparation reduced the percentage of untouched canal areas. The apical third had the highest percentage of untouched canal areas. The cervical third had the lowest volume of accumulated debris. Conclusions: Increasing the apical preparation to a diameter of 0.40 mm with the HCM, HEDM, and SRF systems in Vertucci's type III root canals of mandibular incisors proved to be safe and effective, reducing untouched canal areas. Clinical relevance: Root flattening can be intense to the point of generating a root canal bifurcation. Despite the decrease in the root canal diameter, a greater enlargement of the apical region is necessary and safe.

Reliability and reference values for diaphragmatic excursion, thickness, and thickening fraction and quadriceps femoris muscle thickness in full-term newborns evaluated by ultrasound.

To determine the diaphragm thickness, thickening fraction, and excursion and thickness of the quadriceps femoris muscle in full-term newborns and to evaluate the intra- and interrater reliability of these measurements. This was a prospective, observational clinical study including full-term newborns born within the first 48 h after birth. Serial measurements of the thickness, thickening fraction, and mobility of the diaphragm muscles and the thickness of the quadriceps muscle were obtained using ultrasound images. A total of 69 newborns with a mean gestational age of 39 weeks were included. The following measurements were obtained and are expressed as the mean (standard deviation): inspiratory diaphragm thickness, 0.19 cm (0.04); expiratory diaphragm thickness, 0.16 cm (0.04); diaphragm thickness fraction, 16.70 cm (10.27); diaphragmatic excursion, 0.68 cm (0.22); and quadriceps thickness, 0.99 cm (0.14). Intrarater reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Excellent intrarater agreement was observed for the two groups of operators (ICC > 0.86, p < 0.001) for all measurements except for the diaphragm thickening fraction, which showed good agreement for both operator groups (ICC = 0.70, p < 0.001). Regarding interrater reliability, moderate agreement between the raters was observed in the means of all measures (ICC > 0.49, p < 0.001), except for the diaphragm thickening fraction, which showed poor agreement.    Conclusion: Good intrarater and moderate interrater reliability were achieved in ultrasound evaluations of the thickness and mobility of the diaphragm and quadriceps femoris muscles in full-term newborns, demonstrating the feasibility of this technique for clinical use. This pioneering study offers reference values for these muscles in a single study, allowing comparisons between different clinical conditions. What is Known: • Ultrasound is a highly reliable tool for muscle assessment that can be used to assess muscular atrophy in critically ill patients. • Muscle atrophy worsens the patient's condition and has been associated with worse outcomes. What is New: • To our knowledge, this is the first study to jointly evaluate the diaphragm and quadriceps muscle thickness and evaluate the reliability of all measurements. • Our study presents reference values for both muscles, enabling comparisons between different clinical conditions.

The effects of endometrial thickness on outcomes of pregnancy following embryo transfer: A retrospective cohort.

OBJECTIVE: The safety of assisted reproductive technology can be assessed by examining birth weight as an outcome measure. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of endometrial thickness during embryo transfer on newborn birth weight and preterm labor. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study at the infertility department of a teaching hospital affiliated with a university of medical sciences. Eligible women were ≥18 years old and conceived a singleton pregnancy with embryo transfer and an endometrial thickness of ≥7 mm. None of the patients had diabetes, blood hypertension, and polycystic ovarian syndrome. We assessed maternal and newborn characteristics and perinatal pregnancy outcomes. RESULTS: In total, 100 eligible patients with a mean (SD) age of 32.8 (6.2) years were included. The mean endometrial thickness during embryo transfer was 9.1 (1.2) mm, and the mean birth weight was 3040.7 (565.3)g. There were no statistically significant associations between endometrial thickness and preterm labor (p=0.215) and between endometrial thickness and stillbirth or intra-uterine fetal death (p=0.880). However, after adjusting for confounding factors, the association of endometrial thickness with birth weight was statistically significant [b=124.6 (51.6), p=0.018]. CONCLUSIONS: Within the range of ≥7mm, endometrial thickness during embryo transfer is a predictor of newborn weight; however, it is not related to the risk of preterm labor, stillbirth, or intra-uterine fetal death.

Do therapeutic exercises impact supraspinatus tendon thickness? Secondary analyses of the combined dataset from two randomized controlled trials in patients with rotator cuff-related shoulder pain.

BACKGROUND: The mechanistic response of rotator cuff tendons to exercises within the context of rotator cuff-related shoulder pain (RCRSP) remains a significant gap in current research. A greater understanding of this response can shed light on why individuals exhibit varying responses to exercise interventions. It can also provide information on the influence of certain types of exercise on tendons. The primary aim of this article is to explore if changes in supraspinatus tendon thickness (SSTT) ratio differ between exercise interventions (high load vs. low load). The secondary aims are to explore if changes in SSTT ratio differ between ultrasonographic tendinopathy subgroups (reactive vs. degenerative) and if there are associations between tendinopathy subgroups, changes in tendon thickness ratio, and clinical outcomes (disability). METHODS: This study comprises secondary analyses of the combined dataset from two randomized controlled trials that compared high and low-load exercises in patients with RCRSP. In those trials, different exercise interventions were compared: 1) progressive high-load strengthening exercises and 2) low-load strengthening with or without motor control exercises. In 1 trial, there was also a third group that was not allocated to exercises (education only). Ultrasound-assessed SSTT ratio, derived from comparing symptomatic and asymptomatic sides, served as the primary measure in categorizing participants into tendinopathy subgroups (reactive, normal and degenerative) at baseline. RESULTS: Data from 159 participants were analyzed. Two-way repeated measures ANOVAs revealed significant Group (P < .001) and Group × Time interaction (P < .001) effects for the SSTT ratio in different tendinopathy subgroups, but no Time effect (P = .63). Following the interventions, SSTT ratio increased in the "Degenerative" subgroup (0.14 [95% confidence interval {CI}: 0.09-0.19]), decreased in the "Reactive" subgroup (-0.11 [95% CI: -0.16 to -0.06]), and remained unchanged in the "Normal" subgroup (-0.01 [95% CI: -0.04 to 0.02]). There was no Time (P = .21), Group (P = .61), or Group × Time interaction (P = .66) effect for the SSTT ratio based on intervention allocation. Results of the linear regression did not highlight any significant association between the tendinopathy subgroup (P = .25) or change in SSTT ratio (P = .40) and change in disability score. CONCLUSION: Findings from this study suggest that, over time, SSTT in individuals with RCRSP tends to normalize, compared to the contralateral side, regardless of the exercise intervention. Different subgroups of symptomatic tendons behave differently, emphasizing the need to potentially consider tendinopathy subtypes in RCRSP research. Future adequately powered studies should investigate how those different tendinopathy subgroups may predict long-term clinical outcomes.

Effect of fasting glucose levels on carotid intima-media thickness in premenopausal versus postmenopausal women.

Objective: To investigate the relationship between fasting blood glucose (FBG) and carotid intimamedia thickness (IMT) in premenopausal and postmenopausal women. Subjects and methods: The study enrolled 2,959 women seen at the Maanshan People's Hospital of Anhui Province from December 2013 to December 2018. Carotid IMT was measured using Doppler ultrasound. Linear regression and R smoothing curves were used to analyze the relationship between blood glucose level and carotid IMT in the premenopausal and postmenopausal groups. Results: Postmenopausal compared with premenopausal women had higher mean IMT (mIMT; 0.81 ± 0.23 mm versus 0.70 ± 0.14 mm, respectively, p < 0.001) and maximum IMT (maxIMT; 0.86 ± 0.35 mm versus 0.74 ± 0.16 mm, respectively, p < 0.001) values. On linear regression analysis, mIMT values increased with increasing FBG values when FBG level was ≤ 7 mmol/L, but no significance was found between FBG and maxIMT. After stratification by menopausal status, mIMT and maxIMT increased with increasing FBG when FBG was ≤ 7 mmol/L in the premenopausal group. In the postmenopausal group, mIMT and maxIMT increased with increasing FBG. After adjustment for covariate factors, the relationship between FBG and mIMT remained the same as before the adjustment, but when FBG was ≤ 11 mmol/L, the maxIMT increased with increasing FBG. In the stratification analysis, maxIMT increased with increasing FBG when FBG was ≤ 7 mmol/L in the premenopausal group, while both mIMT and maxIMT increased with increasing FBG when FBG was > 10 mmol/L in the postmenopausal group. Conclusion: Levels of FBG contributed more to increased IMT in postmenopausal than premenopausal women. The influence of FBG was greater on maxIMT than mIMT. Additionally, FBG was helpful in assessing focal thickening of the carotid intima.

Structural changes in the retina as a potential biomarker in Parkinson's disease: an approach from optical coherence tomography.

Introduction: Parkinson's disease (PD) presents challenges in early diagnosis and follow-up due to the lack of characteristic findings. Recent studies suggest retinal changes in PD are possibly indicative of neurodegeneration. We explored these changes using optical coherence tomography (OCT) to assess retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and ganglion cell complex (GCC) thickness. Methods: Thirty PD and non-PD patients were matched according to demographic characteristics and OCT and clinical evaluations to rule out other neurodegenerative and visual diseases. Results: We observed a significant thinning of the RNFL in patients diagnosed with PD compared to non-PD patients (p = 0.015). Additionally, this reduction in RNFL thickness was found to correlate with the severity of the disease (p = 0.04). Conclusion: The OCT serves as a tool for quantifying neurodegeneration in PD, showing a significant correlation with disease severity. These findings suggest that OCT could play a crucial role as a potential biomarker in the diagnosis and monitoring of PD.

Cardiovascular risk in women with nonclassical congenital adrenal hyperplasia.

CONTEXT: The outcomes related to cardiovascular risk (CVR) in patients with nonclassical form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (NCAH) are unknown, especially those related to therapeutic options, including low doses of glucocorticoids (GCs) or oral contraceptive pills. OBJECTIVES: to analyze CVR by markers of atherosclerosis in females with nonclassical form according to therapeutic options. DESIGN AND SETTING: a cross-sectional study at a tertiary center. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Forty-seven females with NCAH (33.4 ± 10 years) were subdivided into: G1 (n = 28) treated with dexamethasone (0.14 ± 0.05 mg/m2/day); G2 (n = 19) with oral contraceptive pills; and G3 (30 matched controls). CVR was analyzed through serum lipids, HOMA-IR, inflammatory cytokines levels and quantitative image evaluations (pulse wave velocity-PWV, endothelial function by flow mediated dilatation-FMD, carotid intima media thickness-CIMT and visceral fat-VAT by abdominal tomography. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences in BMI, HOMA-IR, HDL-cholesterol, or triglyceride levels among groups (p > 0.05). Serum interleukin-6 levels ​​were higher in G1 than in G2 (p = 0.048), and interleukin-8 levels were higher in G1 than in G2/3 (p = 0.008). There were no statistically significant differences in VAT, PWV, FMD or CIMT among groups (p > 0.05). In multivariable regression analysis, there was no statistically significant association between glucocorticoid dose and evaluated outcomes. CONCLUSION: Adult females with NCAH did not show increased CVR using methodologies for detection of precocious atherosclerosis. Although patients receiving dexamethasone therapy had increased IL-6 and 8 levels, these data were not associated with radiological markers of atherosclerosis. Our cohort was composed of young adults and should be reevaluated in a long-term follow-up.

Novel surgical approaches for treating myopic traction maculopathy: a meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Myopic traction maculopathy (MTM) is a complication of pathological myopia and encompasses various pathological conditions caused by tractional changes in the eye. These changes include retinoschisis, foveal retinal detachment, and lamellar or full-thickness macular holes (FTMHs). This meta-analysis evaluated the safety and efficacy of novel surgical for treating MTM. METHODS: To compare the outcomes of different surgical approaches for MTM, multiple databases, including Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, ClinicalTrials.gov, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, and the Meta-Register of Controlled Trials, were comprehensively searched. The meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.1. RESULTS: Nine comparative studies involving 350 eyes were included in this meta-analysis. There were significant differences between fovea-sparing internal limiting membrane peeling (FSIP) and standard internal limiting membrane peeling (ILMP). Preoperative best-corrected visual acuity BCVA (standard mean difference (SMD): -0.10, 95% CI: -0.32 to 0.12) and central foveal thickness CFT (SMD: 0.05, 95% CI: -0.22 to 0.33) were not significantly different (p = 0.39 and p = 0.71, respectively). However, the postoperative BCVA improved significantly (SMD = - 0.47, 95% CI: - 0.80, - 0.14, p = 0.006) in the FSIP group compared to the standard ILMP group. Postoperative CFT did not differ significantly between the two groups (p = 0.62). The FSIP group had a greater anatomical success rate than the other groups, although the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.26). The incidence of postoperative macular hole formation was significantly lower (OR = 0.19, 95% CI = 0.07-0.54; p = 0.05) in the FSIP group than in the standard ILMP group. The unique characteristics of highly myopic eyes, such as increased axial length and structural changes, may have contributed to the greater incidence of FTMH in the ILMP group. CONCLUSION: Based on the findings of this meta-analysis, FSIP is the initial surgical approach for early-stage MTM and has shown promising outcomes. However, to establish the safest and most efficient surgical technique for treating different MTM stages, further comparative studies, specifically those focusing on ILMP and FSIP, are necessary. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Retrospectively registered.

Optical coherence tomography detection of retinal neural loss in patients with tuberous sclerosis.

PURPOSE: Tuberous Sclerosis (TS) is a rare, multisystem genetic disease caused by mutations in the TSC1 and TSC2 genes, leading to abnormalities in cell differentiation and proliferation. This study aimed to evaluate the neural integrity of individuals with TS by using Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) to examine the peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness and the macular thickness in patients with TS and to compare with healthy controls. METHODS: Peripapillary and macular OCT scans (Optopol Revo NX SD OCT) were performed on 41 eyes from 22 TS patients, divided into two groups based on the presence of retinal hamartomas, and compared to 20 eyes from a control group. The average peripapillary RNFL thickness was measured for each quadrant. The macular total thickness and ganglion cell layer (GCL) + inner plexiform layer (IPL) thickness were measured based on the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) map. All measurements were then compared between the groups and controls. RESULTS: The TS group showed significantly reduced RNFL thickness and macular thickness when compared to the control group. Specifically, patients with retinal hamartomas exhibited an even more pronounced thinning of both RNFL and macular thickness. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that TS patients undergo significant changes in retinal neurodevelopment and experience axonal loss. This finding may have significant prognostic utility regarding central nervous system degeneration in TS, particularly among patients with retinal hamartomas. OCT may serve as a valuable tool for assessing axonal structural abnormalities in TS patients. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: Not applicable.

Early choroidal and retinal changes detected by swept-source oct in type 2 diabetes and their association with diabetic kidney disease: a longitudinal prospective study.

BACKGROUND: To evaluate structural changes in retina and choroid in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and their association with diabetic kidney disease (DKD). METHODS: T2D patients with mild or no diabetic retinopathy (DR) were followed for 3 years using structural SS-OCT and OCT angiography (OCT-A) taken every 6 months. Parameters were compared longitudinally and according to the DKD status on baseline. RESULTS: One hundred and sixty eyes from 80 patients were followed for 3 years, 72 with no DKD (nDKD) at baseline and 88 with DKD. Trend analysis of T2D showed significant thinning in GCL + and circumpapillary retinal fiber neural layer (cRFNL), choroid, and decreased vascular density (VD) in superficial plexus and central choriocapillaris with foveal avascular zone (FAZ) enlargement. Patients with no DKD on baseline presented more significant declines in retinal center and choroidal thickness, increased FAZ and loss of nasal and temporal choriocapillaris volume. In addition, the nDKD group had worse glycemic control and renal parameters at the end of the study. CONCLUSION: Our data suggests the potential existence of early and progressive neurovascular damage in the retina and choroid of patients with Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) who have either no or mild Diabetic Retinopathy (DR). The progression of neurovascular damage appears to be correlated with parameters related to glycemic control and renal damage.

Influence of TMX2-CTNND1 polymorphism on cortical thickness in schizophrenia patients and unaffected siblings: an exploratory study based on target region sequencing.

OBJECTIVE: The advancement of neuroimaging and genetic research has revealed the presence of morphological abnormalities and numerous risk genes, along with their associations. We aimed to estimate magnetic resonance imaging-derived cortical thickness across multiple brain regions. METHODS: The cortical thickness of 129 schizophrenia patients, 42 of their unaffected siblings, and 112 healthy controls was measured and the candidate genes were sequenced. Comparisons were made of cortical thickness (including 68 regions of the Desikan-Killiany Atlas) and genetic variants (in 108 risk genes for schizophrenia) among the three groups, and correlation analyses were performed regarding cortical thickness, clinical symptoms, cognitive tests (such as the N-back task and the logical memory test), and genetic variants. RESULTS: Schizophrenia patients had significantly thinner bilateral frontal, temporal, and parietal gyri than healthy controls and unaffected siblings. Association analyses in target genes showed that four single nucleotide variants (SNVs) were significantly associated with schizophrenia, including thioredoxin-related transmembrane protein 2-catenin, cadherin-associated protein, delta 1 (SNV20673) (positive false discovery rate [PFDR] = 0.008) and centromere protein M (rs35542507, rs41277477, rs73165153) (PFDR = 0.030). Additionally, cortical thickness in the right pars triangularis was lower in carriers of the SNV20673 variant than in non-carriers (PFDR = 0.048). Finally, a positive correlation was found between right pars triangularis cortical thickness and logical memory in schizophrenia patients (r = 0.199, p = 0.032). CONCLUSIONS: This study identified regional morphological abnormalities in schizophrenia, including the right homologue of Broca's area, which was associated with a risk variant that affected delta-1 catenin and logical memory. These findings suggest a potential association between candidate gene loci, cortical thickness, and schizophrenia.