Visceral fat in different locations assessed by ultrasound: Correlation with computed tomography and cut-off values in patients with metabolic syndrome.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between ultrasound measurements of visceral adipose tissue (VAT) in different locations and visceral fat area parameters estimated by computed tomography (CT), as well as to determine the cut-off values of ultrasound measurements in patients with metabolic syndrome and in normal controls. Altogether, 304 patients aged 18 to 65 years were enrolled in the study. Ultrasound measurements of visceral fat volume were performed using a number of already described techniques.

Randomised non-inferiority trial: 1600 mg versus 400 mg tablets of mesalazine for the treatment of mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis.

Background: High concentration mesalazine formulations are more convenient than conventional low concentration formulations for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC).

Aim: To compare the efficacy and safety of 1600 mg and 400 mg tablet mesalazine formulations.

Methods: Patients with mild-to-moderate active UC (Mayo Clinic Score >5; N=817) were randomised to 3.

[Adherence with proton pump inhibitor therapy, by continuously taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs].

Aim: To estimate the impact of adherence with proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy on the incidence of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-induced gastropathy (NSAID gastropathy) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Subjects And Methods: PPI pharmacotherapy adherence was estimated using the Medication Adherence Questionnaire (MAQ) in 92 patients with RA, including 32 patients did not take a PPI and 60 used a PPI. The groups were matched for age, disease duration, and used NSAIDs.

Pepsinogen testing for evaluation of the success of Helicobacter pylori eradication at 4 weeks after completion of therapy.

Background And Objective: Pepsinogen levels in plasma are increased by inflammation in the gastric mucosa, including inflammation resulting from Helicobacter pylori infection. A decrease in pepsinogen II level has been suggested as a reliable marker to confirm the successful eradication of infection. The aim of our study was to evaluate the potential role of pepsinogens I and II, gastrin-17 and H.

Interobserver variation in assessment of gastric premalignant lesions: higher agreement for intestinal metaplasia than for atrophy.

Background: Either atrophy or intestinal metaplasia of the gastric mucosa are considered premalignant lesions. The new operative link for gastritis assessment staging system is based on the detection of atrophy, and the operative link for assessment of intestinal metaplasia staging system is based on the detection of intestinal metaplasia. Good interobserver agreement is necessary for identification of any premalignant condition.