Common polymorphisms of Fibulin-5 and the risk of abdominal aortic aneurysm development.

Fibulin-5 is a crucial protein in the connective tissue structure of the aortic wall. The purpose of this study was to determine if genetic variation within the Fibulin-5 gene was associated with abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA). AAA patients, with disease-free controls, were recruited and a past medical history questionnaire completed.

The vascular and biochemical effects of cilostazol in patients with peripheral arterial disease.

Objectives: Cilostazol improves walking distance and quality of life in patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD). This study assessed the vascular and biochemical effects of cilostazol therapy in PAD patients.

Methods: PAD patients were prospectively recruited to a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial.