Hippokratia
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This study aims at demonstrating the ability of BLADE sequences to reduce or even eliminate all the image artifacts as well as verifying the significance of using this technique in certain pathological conditions. ⋯ BLADE sequence was found to decrease both flow artifacts in the temporal lobes and motion artifacts from the orbits. Additionally, it was shown to improve flow artifacts and image quality in cystic pathologies such as arachnoid cysts. Hippokratia 2016, 20(3): 244-248.
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Although effective treatment in terms of inducing virological and biochemical response for chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is available, its effect on the clinical course of the disease has not yet been accurately estimated. Objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of antiviral therapy and its type [interferon +/- nucleos(t)ide analogs (NAs) vs. NAs] on the occurrence of a clinical event (liver decompensation, liver transplant, hepatocellular carcinoma and death from a liver-related cause) in CHB patients. ⋯ Data from observational studies can provide useful inference, provided they are analyzed appropriately. The current study has shown that the available treatment options for CHB offer a significant clinical benefit to CHB infected individuals. Hippokratia 2016, 20(3): 214-221.
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In the present study, we aimed to assess the relationship between the levels of soluble Klotho (s-Klotho) and oxidative stress markers in diabetic nephropathy patients with different stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and albuminuria levels. ⋯ Oxidative stress is greater in patients with diabetic nephropathy, and the TOS was positively correlated with s-Klotho levels in diabetic patients. The therapeutic reduction of oxidative stress in patients with diabetic nephropathy could improve the renal and cardiovascular outcomes. Hippokratia 2016, 20(3): 198-203.
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Parachute mitral valve (PMV) is commonly associated with mitral valve stenosis but may occasionally be associated with mitral valve regurgitation. ⋯ Cardiovascular imaging with the use of transoesophageal echocardiogram and cardiac magnetic resonance were essential tools for the diagnosis and quantification of the severity of mitral valve regurgitation. Hippokratia 2016, 20(3): 238-240.
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Case Reports
Left atrial appendage pericardial fluid: contrast-enhanced transesophageal echocardiography makes it visible.
Contrast-enhanced transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) for the opacification of left atrial appendage (LAA) is not clearly suggested by the current guidelines and only scarce data are available. ⋯ Contrast-enhanced TEE has been demonstrated to safely and accurately enlighten LAA anatomy. Hippokratia 2016, 20(3): 235-237.