We assessed the credibility of aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2)
as a genetic instrument for alcohol use in Southern Chinese men.
Methods We genotyped the single nucleotide polymorphism rs671 of ALDH2 in 4867 men from the Guangzhou Biobank Cohort Study. We used linear regression to assess the click here strength of the association of ALDH2 variants with alcohol use, whether ALDH2 variants were independently associated with socio-economic position or other potential confounders and whether associations of ALDH2 variants with cardiovascular risk factors (systolic and diastolic blood pressure, HDL- and LDL-esterol, fasting glucose), triglycerides, body mass index, self reported cardiovascular disease, self-reported ischaemic heart disease, cognitive function (delayed 10-word recall
and Mini Mental State Examination score) and liver function (alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase) were fully mediated by alcohol use.
Results The minor allele frequency (A) of ALDH2 was 0.29. The F statistic for ALDH2 variants was 75.0, suggesting that substantial weak instrument bias is unlikely. ALDH2 variants C59 wnt were not associated with socio-economic position, smoking or physical activity. ALDH2 variants were only associated with diastolic blood pressure and HDL-cholesterol, but these genetic associations with blood pressure and HDL-cholesterol were attenuated after adjusting for alcohol use, suggesting the apparent genetic associations were possibly mediated by alcohol use.
Conclusions ALDH2 variants are a credible genetic instrument for Mendelian randomization studies of alcohol use and many attributes of health in Southern Chinese men.”
“Objective Imaging of patients with large metal implants remains one of the most difficult endeavours for radiologists. This article reviews the theory of dual-energy CT (DECT) and its ability to reduce metal artefact, thus enhancing the diagnostic value of musculoskeletal imaging. The strengths, weaknesses, and alternative applications of DECT, as well as areas A-1155463 requiring further research, will also be reviewed.
Currently, DECT stands as the frontier for metal artefact reduction
in musculoskeletal imaging. DECT requires no additional radiation and provides significantly enhanced image acquisition. When considered along with its other capabilities, DECT is a promising new tool for musculoskeletal and trauma radiologists.”
“Objectives: Routine chest radiography following pediatric tracheostomy is commonly performed in order to evaluate for air-tracking complications. Routine chest radiography affords disadvantages of radiation exposure and cost. The primary objective of this study was to determine the utility of routine postoperative chest radiography following tracheostomy in pediatric patients. Secondary objectives were to compare the rates of postoperative complications by various patient and surgeon characteristics.