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Background: Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by memory loss and cognitive impairment. The diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease according to symptomatic events is still a puzzling task. Developing a biomarker-based, low-cost, and high-throughput test, readily applicable in clinical laboratories, dramatically impacts the rapid and reliable detection of the disease. Objective: This study aimed to develop an accurate, sensitive, and reliable screening tool for diagnosing Alzheimer's disease, which can significantly reduce the cost and time of existing methods. Methods: We have employed a MALDI-TOF-MS-based methodology combined with a microaffinity chromatography enrichment approach using affinity capture resins to determine serum kappa (κ) and lambda (light chain levels in control and patients with AD. Results: We observed a statistically significant difference in the kappa light chain over lambda light chain (κLC/LC) ratios between patients with AD and controls (% 95 CI: -0.547 to -0.269, p#60;0.001). Our method demonstrated higher sensitivity (100.00%) and specificity (71.43%) for discrimination between AD and controls. Conclusion: We have developed a high-throughput screening test with a novel sample enrichment method for determining κLC/LC ratios associated with AD diagnosis. Following further validation, we believe our test has a potential for clinical laboratories.

Objective The aim of this study was to determine differences in GCF and serum levels of fractalkine/CX3CL1 and its receptor/ CX3CR1 between the patients with stage III/grade B periodontitis and periodontally healthy subjects. Background Fractalkine (CX3CL1), the only member of CX3C chemokine family, is involved in the pathogenesis of several systemic inflammatory diseases' disorders including rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, tonsillitis, and diabetes mellitus. It has critical functions in inflammatory cell migration, adhesion, and proliferation. Methods 20 stage III/grade B periodontitis (P) and 20 healthy individuals (control; C) were included in this clinical study (all never smokers and systemically healthy). Clinical periodontal parameters were measured. Serum and GCF levels of CX3CL1, CX3CR1, and IL-1 beta were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and reported as total amounts and concentration. Results The GCF concentrations and also total amount of CX3CL1, CX3CR1, and IL-1 beta were statistically significantly higher in the patients with periodontitis compared with control group (P < 0.05). CX3CL1, CX3CR1, and IL-1 beta levels in the GCF were significantly and positively correlated with all the clinical periodontal parameters (PI, PPD, BOP, and CAL; P < 0.01, P < 0.05). There was a significant correlation between IL-1 beta, CX3CL1, and CX3CR1 concentrations in the GCF (respectively; r = 0.838 and r = 0.874, P < 0.01). Conclusion Fractalkine and its receptor may play role in mechanisms through the regulation of inflammation or on the pathogenesis of periodontal disease.

BACKGROUND Non-invasive methods for periodontitis diagnosis would be a clinically important tool. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the association between oxidative stress, glycation, and inflammation markers and periodontal clinical parameters in periodontitis and periodontally healthy patients with type 2 diabetes and corresponding systemically healthy controls. METHODS Sixty-seven periodontally healthy (DM-H, n = 32) and periodontitis (DM-P, n = 35) patients with type 2 diabetes, and 54 systemically healthy periodontitis (H-P, n = 26) and periodontally healthy (H-H, n = 28) controls were included. Clinical periodontal parameters, body mass index, fasting glucose, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), along with saliva and serum 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), malondialdehyde (MDA), 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE), advanced glycation end products (AGE), AGE receptor (RAGE) and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) levels were recorded and analyzed. RESULTS Salivary 8-OHdG levels were significantly higher in periodontitis compared to periodontally healthy patients, regardless of systemic status (P

Introduction: Measurement of parathyroid hormone (PTH) is essential in the investigation and management of calcium metabolism disorders. To assess the significance of any assay result when clinical decision making biological variation (BV) of the measurand must be taken into consideration. The aim of the present study is determining the BV parameters for serum PTH. Materials and methods: Blood samples were taken at weekly intervals from 20 healthy subjects for ten weeks in this prospective BV study. Serum “intact PTH” concentrations were measured with electrochemiluminescence method. Biological variation parameters were estimated using the approach proposed by Fraser. Results: The values of within-subject biological variation (CVI), between-subject biological variation (CVG), analytical variation (CVA), reference change value (RCV) and individuality index (II) for serum PTH were 21.1%, 24.9%, 3.8%, 59.4% and 0.8%, respectively. Within-subject biological variation and CVG were also determined according to gender separately; 18.5% and 24.0%; 26.2% and 18.6% for male and female, respectively. Calculated desirable precision and bias goals were < 10.6% and < 6.3%, respectively. Conclusion: This study may contribute to BV data on serum PTH as it includes a sufficient number of volunteers from both genders over an acceptable period of time. We do not recommend the usage of population-based reference intervals for serum PTH concentrations. Reference change value may be helpful for the evaluation of serial serum PTH results. Nonetheless, evaluation of data according to gender is necessary when setting analytical performance specifications. © 2019, Biochemia Medica, Editorial Office. All rights reserved.

To identify and compare the free amino acids in the saliva of periodontitis patients and healthy individuals and to assess their levels in different periodontal disease types. There were three groups: healthy individuals (control (C); n = 20), Stage III Grade B generalized periodontitis (GP-B; n = 20), and Stage III Grade C generalized periodontitis (GP-C; n = 20). Clinical periodontal parameters were measured. Amino acid analysis of the saliva was accomplished by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC MS/MS), taking the mean concentration. Citrulline and carnosine concentrations were significantly higher in patients with periodontitis than in the control group (p < 0.017). Methionine, glutamic acid, and arginine showed significantly higher concentrations in GP-C, whereas proline and tryptophan showed higher concentrations in the GP-B group (p < 0.017). There was a significant correlation between methionine, citrulline, arginine, and carnosine and clinical periodontal parameters. Our results demonstrate that periodontal status and disease type can result in variations in salivary amino acid (AA) content in correlation with clinical inflammatory signs. The significant correlation of methionine, citrulline, carnosine, and arginine with clinical parameters, regardless of systemic status, suggests that the levels of different salivary free AAs play roles in periodontitis. Salivary free AAs may be suggested as a potential diagnostic compound in patients with periodontitis. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04642716

To compare the course of the transcutaneous bilirubin (TcB) values of early-term newborns with those of term newborns in the first month of life and to investigate whether early-term newborns have an increased risk of significant hyperbilirubinemia requiring treatment.A prospective, controlled cohort analysis.A tertiary level mother-child birth and health care center.Four hundred early-term (37 0/7 to 38 6/7 weeks) and 320 term (39 0/7 to 41 6/7 weeks) newborns born during a 27-month period.A total of six TcB measurements in a longitudinal manner were made in early-term and term newborns: the first two at 6 and 48 hours after birth and the next four on routine examination days (Days 4, 7, 15, and 30). Demographic characteristics, values of daily TcB measurements, number of newborns with significant hyperbilirubinemia, and risk of jaundice requiring treatment were compared between the two groups.All six TcB values were significantly greater in the early-term group than in the term group (p .001 for each). Early-term newborns had a statistically significant increased risk of jaundice requiring treatment compared to term newborns (risk ratio = 1.91; 95% confidence interval [1.23-2.96]; p = .0046). Results of the repeated-measures analysis of variance and post hoc adjusted multiple comparison analysis showed that TcB levels increased to and peaked at 96 hours after birth and then gradually decreased to baseline (first measurement) levels at 30 days after birth in each group.Early-term newborns should not be treated as full-term newborns because they have significantly higher TcB levels. These newborns should be closely monitored for pathologic jaundice because they have increased risk for significant hyperbilirubinemia requiring phototherapy.

Introduction Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus, is a major public health concern spanning from healthy carriers to patients with life-threatening conditions. Although most of COVID-19 patients have mild-to-moderate clinical symptoms, some patients have severe pneumonia leading to death. Therefore, the early prediction of disease prognosis and severity is crucial in COVID-19 patients. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the haemocytometric parameters and identify severity score associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Methods Clinical and laboratory records were retrospectively reviewed from 97 cases of COVID-19 admitted to hospitals in Istanbul, Turkey. The patient groups were subdivided into three major groups: Group 1 (Non-critical): 59 patients, Group 2 (Critical-Survivors): 23 patients and Group 3 (Critical-Non-survivors):15 patients. These data was tested for correlation, including with derived haemocytometric parameters. The blood analyses were performed the Sysmex XN-series automated hematology analyser using standard laboratory protocols. All statistical testing was undertaken using Analyse-it software. Results 97 patients with COVID-19 disease and 935 sequential complete blood count (CBC-Diff) measurements (days 0–30) were included in the final analyses. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that red cell distribution width (RDW) (>13.7), neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (4.4), Hemoglobin (Hgb) (5.2), Plateletcount (PLT) (>142 x103/L) and RDW (>14) were important haemocytometric parameters, and the mortality risk value created by their combination had the highest AUC value (AUC = 0.911, 95% CI, 0886–0.931). Trend analysis of CBC-Diff parameters over 30 days of hospitalization, NLR on day 2, MNR on day 4, RDW on day 6 and PLT on day 7 of admission were found to be the best time related parameters in discrimination non-critical (mild-moderate) patient group from critical (severe and non-survivor) patient group. Conclusion NLR is a strong predictor for the prognosis for severe COVID-19 patients when the cut-off chosen was 4.4, the combined mortality risk factor COVID-19 disease generated from RDW-CV, NLR, MNR and PLT is best as a mortality haematocytometric index.

Background Several potential benefits have been attributed to the platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), including enhanced tissue healing properties. In this study, we hypothesized that the application of PRF as an adjunct to conventional scaling and root planing (ScRp) would enhance the outcomes of non-surgical periodontal therapy. Methods The present study was a split-mouth randomized controlled clinical trial design in 24 deep periodontal pockets in 12 patients with periodontitis. The pockets were randomly assigned as test or control. The test group received PRF as an adjunct to ScRp, whereas the control group received ScRp only. We measured periodontal clinical parameters at baseline, 3, and 6 months after the treatments. To study the initial healing in response to treatment, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and collagen-1 (Col-1) in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay at baseline, third, seventh, and 14th days. Results The test group showed a significantly greater pocket reduction, higher clinical attachment gain, and less gingival recession than the control group at 3 and 6 months. The test Col-1 levels (1.27 ± 1.05, 1.35 ± 0.76, 0.97 ± 0.53 ng/site) and TGF-β levels (11.93 ± 2.68, 12.54 ± 3.66, 17.19 ± 11.66 pg/site) were higher than the control Col-1 levels (0.76 ± 0.20, 0.84 ± 0.24, 0.57 ± 0.19 ng/site) and TGF-β levels (6.34 ± 1.67, 6.35 ± 3.44, 7.51 ± 2.85 pg/site) at all measurement days respectively. Conclusions Non-surgical application of the PRF as an adjunct to conventional ScRp may effectively improve the periodontal clinical parameters via increasing expression of the GCF TGF-β and Col-1 levels.

Endocan, a 50 kDa soluble proteoglycan, also called endothelial cell-specific molecule-1 (ESM-1), is involved in many major cellular activities and has been reported to be overexpressed in inflammatory conditions. This study aims to determine ESM-1 levels in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) samples from individuals with periodontitis to determine the correlation between the levels of lymphocyte-function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), and clinical findings of periodontitis. This study enrolled 27 individuals diagnosed with Stage III-Grade C generalized periodontitis and 16 individuals as healthy controls. Bleeding on probing (BOP), probing pocket depth (PPD), and clinical attachment loss (CAL) were calculated. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test was used for detecting the levels of ESM-1, ICAM-1, and LFA-1 in GCF samples. PPD, BOP, CAL, and GCF volumes were significantly increased in patients with periodontitis in comparison to the control group (p < 0.001). The total amount of ESM-1, ICAM-1, and LFA-1 levels in GCF were increased in the periodontitis group (p < 0.001). ESM-1 level correlated with PPD, BOP, and CAL (p < 0.05). ICAM-1 level correlated with BOP and CAL (p < 0.05). LFA-1 level correlated with PPD and CAL (p < 0.05). Our data indicate that ESM-1, ICAM-1, and LFA-1 levels are increased in GCF of patients with periodontitis. These molecules could be associated with the pathogenesis and progression of periodontal disease.

Keles U, Iscan E, Yilmaz HE, Karakulah G, Suner A, Bal E, Tasdemir N, Cavga AD, Ekin U, Mutlu Z, Kahyaoglu S, Serdar MA, Atabey N, Ozturk M. Differential expression of full-length and NH2terminally truncated FAM134B isoforms in normal physiology and cancer. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 319: G733-G747, 2020. First published October 14, 2020; doi:10.1152/ ajpgi.00094.2020.-Selective autophagy of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), namely ER-phagy, is mediated by ER-localized receptors, which are recognized and sequestered by GABARAP/LC3B-decorated phagophores and transferred to lysosomes for degradation. Being one such receptor, FAM134B plays critical roles in cellular processes such as protein quality control and neuronal survival. FAM134B has also been associated with different cancers, although its exact role remains elusive. We report here that the FAM134B gene encodes not one but at least two different protein isoforms: the full-length and the NH2terminally truncated forms. Their relative expression shows extreme variation, both within normal tissues and among cancer types. Expression of full-length FAM134B is restricted to the brain, testis, spleen, and prostate. In contrast, NH2 terminally truncated FAM134B is dominant in the heart, skeletal muscle, kidney, pancreas, and liver. We compared wild-type and knockout mice to study the role of the Fam134b gene in starvation. NH2terminally truncated FAM134B-2 was induced in the liver, skeletal muscle, and heart but not in the pancreas and stomach following starvation. Upon starvation, Fam134b-/-mice differed from wild-type mice by less weight loss and less hyperaminoacidemic and hypocalcemic response but increased levels of serum albumin, total serum proteins, and a-amylase. Interestingly, either NH2terminally truncated FAM134B or both isoforms were downregulated in liver, lung, and colon cancers. In contrast, upregulation was observed in stomach and chromophobe kidney cancers. NEW & NOTEWORTHY We reported tissues expressing FAM134B-2 such as the kidney, muscle, heart, and pancreas, some of which exhibit stimulated expression upon nutrient starvation. We also demonstrated the effect of Fam134b deletion during ad libitum and starvation conditions. Resistance to weight loss and hypocalcemia, accompanied by an increase in serum albumin and a-amylase levels, indicate critical roles of Fam134b in physiology. Furthermore, the differential expression of FAM134B isoforms was shown to be significantly dysregulated in human cancers. © 2020 American Physiological Society. All rights reserved., National Institutes of Health, NIH National Institute of Mental Health, NIMH National Institute on Drug Abuse, NIDA National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, NHLBI National Human Genome Research Institute, NHGRI National Cancer Institute, NCI National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, NINDS Dokuz Eylül Üniversitesi: KB.SAG.047, This study is supported by Dokuz Eylul University, Department of Scientific Research Projects (with the Project code 2014.KB.SAG.047), and Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center’s (IBG) institutional funds. The Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) Project was supported by the Common Fund of the Office of the Director of the National Institutes of Health and by the National Cancer Institute, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institute of Mental Health, and National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. The data used for the analyses described in this article were obtained from the GTEx Portal on 11/14/2018 and/or dbGaP Accession No. phs000424.v3.p1., This study is supported by Dokuz Eylul University, Department of Scientific Research Projects (with the Project code 2014.KB.SAG.047), and Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center's (IBG) institutional funds. The Genotype- Tissue Expression (GTEx) Project was supported by the Common Fund of the Office of the Director of the National Institutes of Health and by the National Cancer Institute, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institute of Mental Health, and National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. The data used for the analyses described in this article were obtained from the GTEx Portal on 11/14/2018 and/or dbGaP Accession No. phs000424.v3.p1. We thank the Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center-Vivarium Rodent Facility and the optical imaging core facility for great support in the experimental procedures. We are also deeply grateful to Deniz Donmez for efforts in improving the manuscript's language. We also thank Christian Hu7die;bner for kind donation of Fam134b-/-animals.

Anti-inflammatory properties of fish-oil are well known and suggested during pregnancy. MMP-1 is involved in inflammation and tissue remodelling. There have been studies focused on anti-inflammatory effect of maternal omega use on human milk while little is known about the effect of omega use on breastmilk proteases. Leptin is an important hormone that influences MMP levels in various tissues and exerts its metabolic effects. In our study we assessed the levels of MMP-1, TIMP-1, leptin, IL-6 and FA's including PUFA in breastmilk from women who used omega-3.Our study was a cross-sectional study included 67(Group 1,Matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) levels in breastmilk were significantly lower in breastmilk from omega users (mean ± SD, 0.455 ± 0.1) than non-users (mean ± SD, 0.677 ± 0.289) (MMP-1 levels in breastmilk, may be modified by maternal omega use in pregnancy which may help to redirect extracellular matrix remodelling and metabolic programming in early infancy.

BACKGROUND Although the relationship between umbilical cord clamping time and various parameters such as hemoglobin (Hb) levels, iron deficiency, and risk of neonatal jaundice has previously been studied, to the best of our knowleadge there have been no studies investigating the relationship between cord clamping time and the risk of significant hyperbilirubinemia. We aimed to investigate the relationship between the time of umbilical cord clamping and transcutaneous bilirubin (TcB) measurements made on various postnatal hours, Hb and serum total bilirubin (STB) levels measured on postnatal 4th day, and the risk of development of significant hyperbilirubinemia requiring phototherapy treatment. METHODS Eligible newborns were divided into two groups on the basis of the time of cord clamping: those clamped late (60 seconds or more; Group I) and those clamped early (less than 60 seconds; Group II). Groups were compared with respect to the parameters of cord Hb, postnatal TcB measurements at 6th, 48th, 96th and 168th hours, and 96th hour Hb, STB and direct bilirubin levels. RESULTS TcB levels at the 96th and 168th hour were significantly higher in Group I when compared to Group II (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). The 96th hour STB level was significantly higher in Group I when compared to Group II (p < 0.001). The need of phototherapy requirement was higher in Group I when compared to Group II (p=0.001). Increase in cord blood Hb for each 1 gr/dl caused a 3.94-fold increased risk in the requirement of phototherapy treatment. Cord clamping time showed statistically significant positive correlations with both cord blood and 96th hour venous Hb levels, with both 96th hour and 168th hour TcB levels, and with 96th hour STB levels. CONCLUSIONS Newborns whose cords are clamped late should be followed up closely with respect to high postnatal bilirubin levels and other risks associated with significant hyperbilirubinemia requiring phototherapy treatment.

OBJECTIVE The objective of the study is to examine the connection between oral status and the extent of coronary artery disease (CAD), which is diagnosed by angiography. BACKGROUND Periodontitis and tooth loss have been linked to atherosclerosis and CAD in previous studies. However, no distinct connection was revealed due to the diversity of the results and the variety of diagnostic methods. To provide a more consistent data pool and stronger evidence, there is a need for studies with standard measurements and diagnostic criteria. METHODS 309 patients, who consulted to Ankara University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Cardiology and had coronary angiography, were enrolled to this study. Individuals were grouped based on their coronary angiography results, as CAD (+) (n = 233) and CAD (-) (n = 76). Studied parameters included cardiovascular risk factors, plaque index (PI), remaining teeth count, bleeding on probing (BOP), and probing pocket depth (PPD). Periapical radiographs were taken from teeth with ≥4 mm PPD. Oral status was categorized as periodontally healthy subjects/patients with gingivitis (Group 1), patients with periodontitis (Group 2), and edentulous subjects (Group 3). RESULTS PI (P

ObjectiveTo assess published reports of oncological surgical success rates in patients who underwent transoral laser supraglottic surgery and robotic surgery for supraglottic cancer.MethodsA systematic review of the literature was conducted and a meta-analysis of published data was performed. PubMed, Sage, Medline and Cochrane data sources were investigated. Overall survival rates, disease-specific survival rates, additional treatments and recurrence rates were investigated to determine the success of the surgical procedures.ResultsThe meta-analysis included 24 studies; 1617 studies were excluded. There were no statistically significant differences between the transoral laser supraglottic surgery and transoral robotic supraglottic surgery groups in terms of overall survival (77.0 per cent and 82.4 per cent respectively) and disease-specific survival (75.8 per cent and 87.0 per cent respectively). There was recurrence in 164 out of 832 patients (19.7 per cent) in the transoral laser supraglottic surgery group and in only 6 out of 66 patients (9 per cent) in the transoral robotic supraglottic surgery group.ConclusionTransoral laser surgery and robotic surgery appear to have comparable and acceptable oncological success rates.

The aim of the present study was to determine the relation between the simultaneous fasting plasma glucose level and HbA1c in a large population of patients presenting to the hospital, based on various measurement methods available for HbA1c. HbA1c levels of 162,210 patients presenting to various hospitals and laboratories were measured based on seven different systems, and at the same time, eAG levels were calculated based on HbA1c levels. The correlation coefficients (r) between serum plasma glucose and HbA1c levels were found to be 0.809, 0.774, 0.779, 0.817, 0.704, 0.796, and 0.747 in Bio-Rad Variant II, Tosoh G8, ADAMS A1c, Trinity Boronate Affinity, Chromsystems HPLC, Roche Tina-quant, and Abbott Architect, respectively. The concordance correlation coefficients between the eAG levels as calculated with the formulas provided in the text and the eAG levels as calculated according to NGSP directions (where eAG = (28.7*HbA1c) - 46.7) were found to be between 0.9339 and 0.9866. Despite the progress made for the standardization of HbA1c measurements, the relation between serum glucose and HbA1c still demonstrated certain discrepancies pertaining to the differences in measurement methodologies. As a conclusion, each laboratory could determine different eAG levels depending on the data originated by their individual analyzer.

There are many consequences of mold exposure related to respiratory system health of children This retrospective cohort study aims to find the association between adenoid hypertrophy and mold exposure in children living in damp environments.Children with history of recurrent respiratory tract infections were enrolled in the study between June 2012 and June 2013 and were followed up for adenoid hypertrophy from June 2013 to June 2016. One hundred and forty two children were residents of moldy houses and 242 were living in normal houses. Skin prick test results for 60 common allergens, vitamin D levels, IgE levels, age, presence of comorbidities such as urticaria, atopic dermatitis, allergic conjunctivitis, allergic rhinitis, asthma, frequency of upper respiratory tract infections and lower respiratory tract infections, were evaluated in both groups.A total of 384 children (mean age ± standard deviation = 53.37 ± 36 months; 198 males and 186 females) were included. The children were classified into 2 groups (1)Children living normal houses (n = 242) (2); Children living in damp houses (n = 142) according to mold exposure. Children with adenoid hypertrophy (p 0,001) and higher IgE levels (p 0,001) were more common in mold exposed group. Lower respiratory tract infections were more common in children with mold exposure (p 0,05). Bivariate correlation analysis showed no significant association between IgE levels and adenoid hypertrophy. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to evaluate IgE levels, vitamin D levels, and presence of adenoid as independent variables; age as dependent variable among two groups and was found statistically significant (p 0,001). Dermatophagoid sensitive group living in damp houses had a significant increase in adenoid hypertrophy (p = 0,01). Housedustmite sensitive children with recurrent lower respiratory tract infection and upper respiratory tract infection were mainly residents of damp houses (p 0,001). Allergic comorbidities were significantly more in damp environment group (p 0,001), but there was no significant increase in any of the subgroups.Children with mold exposure had significantly increased adenoid hypertrophy regardless of their atopic nature, however, they may have become more sensitized due to other environmental triggers and genetic factors. In damp environments, sensitization to dermatophagoids, was significantly increased in children with adenoid hypertrophy. During the period of infancy, when children were mostly vitamin D supplemented, they were not sensitized and had normal adenoids. As children with recurrent respiratory tract infections grow, they tend to have lower vitamin D levels, become more atopic and tend to have adenoid hypertrophy.

Background Vitamin D and intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) play a crucial role in calcium homeostasis and bone health of children. Serum level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD) is considered to be the most accurate marker for vitamin D status. However, there have only been a few studies, with limited number of subjects, investigating the relationship between 25-OHD and parathyroid hormone (PTH) in children. The aim of this study was to evaluate the seasonal 25-OHD levels and its associations with intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) in Turkish children at all pediatric ages; and then to define a critical decision threshold level for 25-OHD deficiency in Turkish children. Methods A retrospective record review of 90,042 children, was performed on serum 25-OHD and for 3525 iPTH levels. They were measured by mass spectrometry method and by electrochemiluminescence immunoassay simultaneously. Results 25-OHD levels showed a sinusoidal fluctuation througout the year; being significantly higher in summer and autumn (p

Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of non-surgical periodontal therapy on gingival crevicular fluid levels of matrix metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with periodontal disease. Material and Methods Twenty-seven patients with gingivitis and periodontitis with RA, 26 patients with gingivitis and periodontitis that were systemically healthy and 13 periodontally and systemically healthy volunteers (control group) were included in this study. RA activity was assessed by disease activity score test. The clinical periodontal parameters, fasting venous blood and gingival crevicular fluid samples were obtained and gingival crevicular fluid MMP-8, IL-6 and PGE2 levels were evaluated at baseline and at 3 mo follow-up after non-surgical periodontal treatment. Results Gingival crevicular fluid MMP-8, PGE2 and IL-6 levels were higher in all groups than the control group. Following periodontal therapy, there were significant decreases in gingival crevicular fluid MMP-8, PGE2 and IL-6 levels from patients with RA with periodontitis (p

Purpose: Diabetes mellitus is considered a relative contraindication for dental implant therapy, depending on levels of glycemic control. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the peri-implant conditions and measure the levels of interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in the peri-implant crevicular fluid (PICF) in patients with glycemic-controlled type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Materials and Methods: Thirteen patients with well-controlled T2DM and seven systemically healthy patients were recruited for this study. Clinical measurements were recorded, and samples of gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and PICF were collected from the sulci of both adjacent teeth and implants at baseline (after implant placement), 1 month, 4 months, and 7 months. Levels of IL-1β and TNF-α in the GCF and PICF were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Standardized intraoral radiographs were taken at baseline (after implant placement), 4 months, and 7 months. Implant stability was assessed by resonance frequency analysis at baseline, at 1 month, and at 4 months. Results: Glycosylated hemoglobin levels in the T2DM group were significantly increased at 7 months compared to baseline levels. Implant stability quotient levels at 4 months were increased significantly compared to baseline in both groups. Alveolar bone levels around implants were statistically lower at 4 and 7 months compared to baseline and statistically decreased at 7 months compared to 4 months in the T2DM group. There were no significant differences between groups in bone levels around implants, and no significant differences were found in levels of IL-1β and TNF-α at either teeth or implants or between the groups. Conclusion: The results suggest that dental implant therapy can be offered to patients with well-controlled T2DM, as there were no significant differences between control and diabetic patients in terms of clinical parameters or GCF and PICF cytokine levels.

Background Health care programs for children with Down syndrome (DS) help improve the overall outcome and quality of life of these children. It is therefore very important to focus on the most common and serious problems of these patients, such as congenital heart defects and cardiac problems, and to keep medical guidelines updated with regard to these problems. Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate aortic intima-media thickness (aIMT), lipid profiles and blood pressure in DS patients in comparison with a control group of ageand gender-matched neonates without DS. Material and methods Serum concentrations of lipids (total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, and triglyceride), blood pressure and abdominal aIMT were measured in newborns with DS, and compared with the measurements from ageand gender-matched newborns without DS. Results No statistically significant differences between the 2 groups of newborns were detected with respect to aIMT, lipid levels or blood pressure. Conclusions This study represents the first investigation of aIMT - one of the most important indicators of atherosclerosis - in DS patients, but neither a significantly increased aIMT, nor any significant changes in lipid profiles or blood pressure were detected in this group of patients. Whether aIMT differs according to the type of congenital heart defect (such as atrial septal defect, ventricular septal defect, patent ductus arteriosus, and atrioventricular septal defect) among DS patients remains to be determined in future studies.

In recent years, adipokines have been reported to play an important role in chronic inflammatory diseases. In this study, our aim was to investigate the salivary levels of visfatin, chemerin, and progranulin and their relationship with periodontal health and disease.A total of 72 patients were included in the study, 23 of which were periodontally healthy, 24 had gingivitis, and 25 had periodontitis. The clinical periodontal parameters including plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing depth (PD), and clinical attachment levels (CAL) were recorded. Unstimulated saliva samples were collected, and the concentration of adipokines was evaluated using standard enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Salivary visfatin levels were higher in patients with gingivitis and periodontitis compared to those of healthy subjects, while there was no difference between the mean values of gingivitis and periodontitis groups (P 0.05). There was no difference between the mean values of gingivitis and healthy groups regarding salivary chemerin (P 0.05), whereas it was detected at higher levels in the periodontitis group compared to the gingivitis and the healthy groups (P 0.01). Salivary progranulin levels were similar in all groups (P 0.05). The salivary visfatin level was positively related to PI and GI. The salivary chemerin level was positively related to GI, PD, and CAL.These results demonstrated that the higher levels of chemerin in the saliva of patients with periodontitis were correlated with the degree of tissue destruction.Chemerin may be a novel biomarker in saliva to determine the severity of periodontal disease.

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the effect of α-tocopherol and selenium on gingival fibroblasts (GFs) and periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PDLFs) in terms of proliferation, basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) release, collagen type I synthesis, and wound healing.Primary cultures of human GFs and PDLFs were isolated. Four test groups and a control group free of medication was formed. In group E, 60 μM α-tocopherol was used, and in groups ES1, ES2, and ES3, the combination of 60 μM α-tocopherol with 5 × 10(-9) M, 10 × 10(-9) M, and 50 × 10(-9) M selenium was used, respectively. Viability, proliferation, bFGF, and collagen type I synthesis from both cell types were evaluated at 24, 48, and 72 hours, and healing was compared on a new wound-healing model at 12, 24, 36, 48, and 72 hours.α-Tocopherol alone significantly increased the healing rate of PDLFs at 12 hours and increased bFGF and collagen type I release from GFs and PDLFs at 24, 48, and 72 hours. The α-tocopherol/selenium combination significantly enhanced the proliferation rate of both cells at 48 hours, decreased the proliferation of PDLFs at 72 hours, and increased the healing rate of GFs at 12 hours and PDLFs at 12 and 48 hours. bFGF and collagen type I synthesis was also increased in both cell types at 24, 48, and 72 hours by α-tocopherol/selenium combination.α-Tocopherol and α-tocopherol/selenium combination is able to accelerate the proliferation rate and wound-healing process and increase the synthesis of bFGF and collagen type I from both GFs and PDLFs.

To provide a simple fibrosis index combining the routine laboratory markers for predicting significant fibrosis (SF) and cirrhosis in patients with chronic HCV.Platelet count, ALT, AST, AST to ALT Ratio, AST to Platelet Ratio Index (APRI), Forns index, FIB-4 and Age Platelet Index of 202 liver biopsy performed HCV-infected patients were reviewed. METAVIR classification was used to determine the stage of liver fibrosis. The predictive fibrosis index was constructed by multiple linear regression analysis (- 2.948 + 0.562 × Forns index + 0.288 × APRI + 0.006 × platelet count [10(9)/L]).Median (25th-75th interquartile range) age was 52 (42-59) years, and 61% were male. 65.8% (n = 133) had SF (F2-F4) and 23.3% (n = 47) had cirrhosis (F4). For discrimination of SF, AUROCs were: Fibrosis index = 0.869, Forns index = 0.837, APRI = 0.814, platelet count = 0.764. For cirrhosis, AUROCs were: Fibrosis index = 0.911, Forns index = 0.883, APRI = 0.847, platelet count = 0.827. A cut-off point of ≤ 1.2 for fibrosis index excluded SF in 89% of patients with sensitivity of 96%, while2.0 predicted SF in 88% of patients with specificity of 86%. Threshold of ≤ 1.9 excluded cirrhosis in 95% of patients with sensitivity of 94%, while2.7 showed cirrhosis in 88% of patients with specificity of 95%. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, OR (95% CI) of fibrosis index was 7.825 (3.682-16.629) for SF (p0.001) and was 8.672 (4.179-17.996) for cirrhosis (p0.001).SF and cirrhosis were predicted with accuracy of 82% and 89% and were excluded with accuracy of 74% and 82% using this fibrosis index which may potentially decrease the need for liver biopsy in 76% and 83% of patients, respectively.

The aim of this study was to determine 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OH-dG) levels in trichloroethylene (TCE)-exposed workers. Oxidative stress biomarkers and biochemical parameters were monitored among 26 TCE-exposed workers and 78 age-matched control subjects. Levels of urinary 8-OH-dG were analyzed by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Urinary 8-OH-dG levels were significantly higher for TCE-exposed group (p < .001). Spearman's correlation test revealed positive correlations between urinary trichloroacetic acid levels and age, urinary 8-OH-dG, urinary total oxidant status, and urinary total antioxidant status (p = .042, p < .001, p < .001, and p < .001, respectively). 8-OH-dG may be a useful marker to determine the extent of TCE exposure.

Metabolic disorders and cardiovascular events are increased in hypogonadism. Serum HDL composition is a better cardiovascular predictor than the HDL counts. However, there is no information about the HDL subfractions in patients with hypogonadism. We designed a prospective study to investigate the HDL subfractions in treatment naïve subjects with hypogonadism and the effects of 2 different testosterone replacement regimens on the HDL subfractions. Seventy young male patients with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) and 70 age and BMI-matched healthy males were enrolled in the present study. The patients were assigned to receive intramuscular injections of testosterone esters 250 mg every 3 weeks and transdermal testosterone applications 50 mg daily. Biochemical investigations including HDL subfractions and insulin resistance were done. Patients with CHH had higher levels of insulin, HOMA-IR, WC, triglyceride, and diastolic blood pressure. Although, the HDL cholesterol concentrations were similar in both groups, hypogonadal patients had lower HDL2 and higher HDL3 levels. The total testosterone levels were independent determinants of the HDL2 subfractions. During the follow-up, a significant increase in the BMI and WC values and a significant decrease in the levels of total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and HDL3 were observed. No difference was present between the 2 treatment arms. These results show that patients with hypogonadism have unfavorable HDL compositions in addition to the other dysmetabolic features. However, testosterone replacement for about six months neither improves the metabolic problems nor the HDL composition. Mechanistic studies are warranted to better understand the cardiovascular effects of unfavorable HDL compositions in hypogonadism.

SERDAR, Muhittin A./0000-0002-3014-748X WOS: 000406981400004 PubMed: 28177133 Background and Objective: Recent studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) on physiological processes and on a variety of chronic inflammatory diseases, including periodontal diseases. In this study, we evaluated the impact of omega-3 PUFAs in conjunction with scaling and root planing (SRP) on salivary markers in patients with chronic periodontitis. Material and Methods: Thirty systemically healthy subjects with chronic periodontitis were enrolled and randomly allocated into two groups. The control group (n = 15) was treated with SRP + placebo whereas the test group was treated with SRP and dietary supplementation of low-dose omega-3 PUFAs (6.25 mg eicosapentaenoic acid and 19.19 mg docosahexaenoic acid). Clinical parameters were taken at baseline, 1, 3 and 6 mo following therapy. Saliva samples were obtained at the same time intervals and analyzed for tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Results: Both groups showed significant changes in clinical parameters in response to treatment compared to baseline with no significant difference between groups. Salivary TNF- a levels showed a statistically significant decrease in the test group at 6 mo compared to the control group. Salivary SOD levels increased significantly at 3 and 6 mo in the test group and at 6 mo in placebo groups compared to baseline with no statistically significant differences between the groups. Conclusion: The results demonstrated that dietary supplementation with low-dose omega-3 PUFAs improves salivary TNF-alpha without any significant impact on clinical parameters in patients with chronic periodontitis, suggesting that the systemic benefits of dietary omega-3 PUFAs may not be translated to periodontal health.

WOS: 000399955500030 PubMed ID: 27781272 Background and ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of nonsurgical periodontal therapy on clinical parameters and gingival crevicular fluid levels of tissue/blood vessel-type plasminogen activator (t-PA) and plasminogen activator inhibitor-2 (PAI-2) in patients with periodontitis, with or without rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Material and MethodsFifteen patients with RA and chronic periodontitis (RA-P), 15 systemically healthy patients with chronic periodontitis (H-P) and 15 periodontally and systemically healthy volunteers (C) were included in the study. Plaque index, gingival index, probing pocket depth, clinical attachment level, bleeding on probing, gingival crevicular fluid t-PA and PAI-2 levels, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, serum C-reactive protein and disease activity score were evaluated at baseline and 3 mo after mechanical nonsurgical periodontal therapy. ResultsAll periodontal clinical parameters were significantly higher in the RA-P and H-P groups compared with the C group (p < 0.001) and decreased significantly after treatment (p < 0.001). Pretreatment t-PA levels were highest in the RA-P group and significantly decreased post-treatment (p = 0.047). Pre- and post-treatment PAI-2 levels were significantly lower in controls compared with both periodontitis groups (p < 0.05). Gingival crevicular fluid volume and the levels of t-PA and PAI-2 were significantly correlated. ConclusionIn patients with periodontitis and RA, nonsurgical periodontal therapy reduced the pretreatment gingival crevicular fluid t-PA levels, which were significantly correlated with gingival crevicular fluid PAI-2 levels. The significantly higher t-PA and PAI-2 gingival crevicular fluid levels in periodontal patients, regardless of systemic status, suggest that the plasminogen activating system plays a role in the disease process of periodontitis. Ankara University Scientific Research Projects Office, Ankara, Turkey [08B3334005] This study was supported by the Ankara University Scientific Research Projects Office, Ankara, Turkey (08B3334005). The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest.

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of non-surgical periodontal treatment on markers of oxidative stress in saliva and serum in patients with chronic periodontitis. In total, 25 patients, who were diagnosed with generalized chronic periodontitis (11 females and 14 males), and 26 systemically and periodontally healthy individuals (15 females and 11 males) were included. The plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing pocket depth (PPD), attachment loss (AL), gingival recession (GR), and bleeding on probing (BOP) were recorded at baseline and 6 weeks later. Malondialdehyde (MDA), 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE) were assessed in saliva and serum samples before and after the non-surgical treatment by enzyme-linked immune sorbent assay (ELISA). In the group with chronic periodontitis, all clinical parameters were significantly higher compared to the control group at baseline (p

OBJECTIVE We aimed to develop a transcutaneous bilirubin (TcB) nomogram for assessment of the risk of significant hyperbilirubinemia and prolonged jaundice during the first month of life in term and late-preterm Turkish newborns. METHODS On the basis of the daily (3rd, 7th, 15th and 30th days) TcB measurements, 3rd, 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, 90th and 97th percentiles, and 5 percentile tracks were obtained. TcB measurements were made by a transcutaneous bilirubinometer (JaundiceDetector JH20-1C). RESULTS We screened 729 healthy term and late-preterm Turkish infants 3-30 days old and developed a nomogram of TcB levels. TcB level was ≥5 mg/dl in 41.98% and 25.9% of infants at age 15.0 ± 2.1 days and 30.9 ± 2.6 days, respectively. The TcB measurement-based nomogram values of the 97th percentiles (cutoff values) at age 15.0 ± 2.1 and 30.9 ± 2.6 days were 11.4 (10.82-12.13) mg/dl and 10.0 (9.40-10.70) mg/dl, respectively. CONCLUSION This nomogram can be used to determine the risk status of Turkish newborns regarding significant hyperbilirubinemia and prolonged jaundice on the basis of TcB measurement in the first month of life.

SERDAR, Muhittin A./0000-0002-3014-748X; LUTFIOGLU, MUGE/0000-0003-1499-5902 WOS: 000377403000008 PubMed: 27088277 Objective: This study evaluated the impact of photobiomodulation (PBM) on the healing of the donor palatal area following free gingival graft (FGG) harvesting by examining changes in transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta(1), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB, and interleukin (IL)-8 levels in palatal wound fluid (PWF). Material and methods: Thirty patients were selected and randomly assigned to receive PBM (laser group) or PBM sham (sham group) in the palatine area after FGG harvesting. Aneodymium-doped yttrium aluminumgarnet (Nd:YAG) laser (1064 nm) was applied to the test sites immediately after surgery and every 24 h thereafter for 4 days. PWF was collected on Days 7 and 12, and PWF TGF-beta(1), PDGF-BB, and IL-8 levels were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Results: PWF TGF-beta(1), PDGF-BB, and IL-8 levels were significantly lower on Day 12 than on Day 7 for both groups. PWF TGF-beta(1), PDGF-BB, and IL-8 levels of the laser group were significantly higher than those of sham group on Day 7 (p < 0.05). PWF TGF-beta(1) levels were also significantly higher in laser group than in the sham group on Day 12; however, differences in PDGF-BB and IL-8 levels between groups on Day 12 were statistically nonsignificant. Conclusions: Observed increases in PWF TGF-beta(1), PDGF-BB, and IL-8 levels suggest that PBM may accelerate wound healing by stimulating production of selected mediators. Ondokuz Mayis UniversityOndokuz Mayis University [PYO.DIS.1901.13.003] The study was funded by Ondokuz Mayis University (PYO.DIS.1901.13.003).

Adipokines enhance the synthesis of proinflammatory cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which play a role in extracellular matrix degeneration. The aim of this study is to determine the levels of some adipokines, proinflammatory cytokines, and MMPs in the saliva of patients with periodontitis and healthy individuals and to evaluate the changes after non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT).Of 32 individuals included in the study, 17 had periodontitis and 15 had healthy gingiva. Saliva samples were obtained from all individuals. In patients with periodontitis, samples were recollected 3 and 6 months after NSPT. Visfatin, chemerin, progranulin, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-8, MMP-8, and MMP-13 levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.In patients with periodontitis, all of the parameters measured in the saliva were higher than those of healthy individuals. At 3 months, visfatin, progranulin, IL-8, and MMP-8 levels were significantly decreased compared with baseline values. The levels of other biochemical parameters, chemerin and IL-1β, were significantly decreased compared with baseline values at 6 months, and the levels became similar to those in healthy individuals. In the periodontitis group, positive correlations were found among visfatin and IL-8 (r = 0.909, P0.01), MMP-8 (r = 0.702, P = 0.02), and MMP-13 (r = 0.781, P = 0.01); chemerin and IL-8 (r = 0.913, P0.01), MMP-8 (r = 0.770, P0.01), and MMP-13 (r = 0.788, P0.01); and progranulin and IL-8 (r = 0.762, P0.01), MMP-8 (r = 0.845, P0.01), and MMP-13 (r = 0.813, P0.01).Adipokines may contribute to the breakdown of periodontal tissue in periodontitis by stimulating the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and MMPs.

Introduction Pseudothrombocytopenia (PTCP), caused by platelet (PLT) aggregation, is usually associated with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)-dependent antibodies and cold aggluti-nins against PLT antigens. The aim of this study was to identify the PTCP and discover the most practical method to distinguish it from real thrombocytopenia. Methods This study included 85 patients without hemorrhagic abnormalities and suspected PTCP. Blood samples containing EDTA, citrate and EDTA-kanamycin (KN) were analyzed at room temperature and 37°C. Results PTCP was detected in 24 of 85 patients. In 23 of 24 patients, EDTA-dependent pseudothrombocytopenia (EDTA-PTCP) was detected; 5 of whom had also the cold agglutinin-dependent PTCP. In only 1 of 24 patients, the cold agglu-tinin-dependent PTCP was found. In this study, no significant difference was observed in leukocyte counts comparing EDTA and citrate blood samples in cases with EDTA-PTCP. Conclusion In clinical laboratories, a significant portion of the cases with low PLT counts was attributable to EDTA-PTCP and, therefore, did not require treatment. Even if these cases can be detected by bringing the blood samples containing EDTA to 37°C or by adding KN to blood samples containing EDTA, the use of blood samples containing citrate taken for erythrocyte sedimentation rate analysis is a more practical priority method.

Measurement of urinary 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) has recently become more popular as a means of assessing oxidative stress in the human body. The aim of this study is to compare the levels of urine 8-OHdG in patients with type 2 diabetes with and without nephropathy and to evaluate its role as a biochemical marker for distinguishing these patients from healthy and patients without complications.For this purpose, 52 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (32 with nephropathy (DMN), 20 without nephropathy (DM)) and 20 healthy control subjects (C) were included in this study. The urine concentrations of 8-OHdG were measured by modified LC-MS/MS method and compared with the first morning voiding urine albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR) and HbA1c values of the same patients.The concentrations of urine 8-OHdG in DMN and DM patients were higher than those of the control subjects (3.47 ± 0.94, 2.92 ± 1.73, 2.1 ± 0.93 nmol/mol creatinine, respectively). But there was no statistical difference between DMN and DM (p = 0.115). There is significant correlation between urinary 8-OHdG and UACR (r = 0.501, p 0.001). According to ROC analysis, the AUC value of HbA1c was higher than the value of the AUC of 8-OHdG (0.882 and 0.771, respectively).This study shows that the urine 8-OHdG levels increase in diabetic patients. However, urinary 8-OHdG is not a useful clinical marker, compared with UACR, to predict the development of diabetic nephropathy in diabetic patients.

The knowledge about vitamin B 12 and folic acid levels in preserving bone mass in older men is limited. In this retrospective study, we aimed to find out whether levels of vitamin B 12 and folic acid are related to BMD in older men. Two hundred and sixty-nine older men were included in the study. Forty-two (15.6%) of them had osteoporotic, 150 (55.8%) had osteopenic, and 77 (28.6%) had normal BMD. Vitamin B 12 and folic acid levels were categorized as indicating normal, borderline, or low vitamin statuses. Femur neck densities showed statistically significant differences in subjects having low, borderline, and normal vitamin B 12 , respectively. There were no significant differences between the three tertiles of vitamin B 12 in femur total, trochanteric, and intertrochanteric densities. After adjustment for age, body mass index (BMI), alcohol, smoking, and exercise with analysis of covariance, the difference was still statistically significant between two groups for femur neck density ( p = 0.011). No significant difference was observed between the groups of folic acid in any femur sites. We found that the normal level of vitamin B 12 in older men may be related to a decrease of femur neck bone loss.

It was the aim of the present study to evaluate whether the laser irradiation of osteoblasts could enhance the release of growth factors including basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), and receptor of IGF-I (IGFBP3).Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been shown to have biostimulatory effects on various cell types by enhancing production of some cytokines and growth factors.Human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were seeded in osteogenic medium and differentiated into osteoblasts. Three groups were formed: in the first group (single dose group), osteoblasts were irradiated with laser (685 nm, 25 mW, 14.3 mW/cm(2), 140 sec, 2 J/cm(2)) for one time; and in the second group, energy at the same dose was applied for 2 consecutive days (double dose group). The third group was not irradiated with laser and served as the control group. Proliferation, viability, bFGF, IGF-I, and IGFBP3 levels were compared between groups.Both of the irradiated groups revealed higher proliferation, viability, bFGF, IGF-I, and IGFBP3 expressions than did the nonirradiated control group. There was increase in bFGF and IGF-I expressions and decrease in IGFBP3 in the double dose group compared to single dose group.The results of the present study indicate that LLLT increases the proliferation of osteoblast cells and stimulates the release of bFGF, IGF-I, and IGFBP3 from these cells. The biostimulatory effect of LLLT may be related to the enhanced production of the growth factors.

Hair analysis is a promising tool for routine clinical screening and diagnosis of heavy metal exposure and essential trace element status in the human body. Systemic intoxications have been identified by anomalously high values of toxins in hair samples. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the relationship between smoking habit of the family members and the levels of toxic and nontoxic trace elements in hair samples of children. The randomized cross-sectional controlled study comprised of 95 children (41 girls and 54 boys) between the ages of 1 and 6 years. After written informed consent was obtained, a face-to-face interview was conducted with the families about educational background, total income of the family, and smoking habits of family members. The mineral elements considered in this study were Zn, Se, B, V, Co, Mo, Mn, iron (Fe), Be, aluminum (Al), As, cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), Hg, chromium (Cr), Ag, Be, nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), Sn, and antimony (Sb). Hair mineral contents were measured by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. The results showed that the levels of Cd, Pb, Cr, Sb, Fe, and Al in hair samples of children whose parents smoked were significantly higher than those whose parents were nonsmokers. The number of smokers and the frequency of smoking at home were positively correlated with Pb, Cd, Cu, Ni, and Sb levels found. At the same time, it was found that there was no correlation between toxic element concentrations and family income or educational background excluding the levels of Cd. A correlation was observed between the smoking status of family members and levels of toxic trace elements in hair where this correlation was more significant with the levels of Pb and Cd. High socioeconomic status and the level of education of family members did not have any effect on toxic trace levels in hair samples of children.

The amount of epicardial adipose tissue (EAT), a component of body visceral adiposity, has been linked to the presence and severity of cardiovascular disease through multiple mechanisms. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by insulin resistance and subclinical inflammation, which participate in the mechanism of atherosclerosis. We searched if the patients with PCOS have increased EAT thickness (EATT), along with its relation to the measures of adiposity and insulin sensitivity. A total of 41 subjects with PCOS and 46 age and body mass index (BMI) matched healthy controls were enrolled. EAT was measured by echocardiography above the free wall of the right ventricle. Insulin resistance was assessed by homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) formula, and plasma adiponectin level was measured by ELISA. Compared to healthy controls EATT and HOMA-IR score were significantly higher (p=0.0001 for both) while plasma adiponectin concentration was significantly lower (p=0.048) in women with PCOS. EATT correlated positively with total cholesterol, triglyceride, luteinizing hormone (LH) and negatively with sex hormon binding globuline (p

INTRODUCTION Diabetes-related complications may be prevented if good metabolic control is achieved. In addition to drug therapy, patient education may facilitate better glycemic control. OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between glycemic control and effective diabetes education using the knowledge and awareness (KA) questionnaire in type 2 diabetic patients. Moreover, the effect of age, duration of diabetes, sex, body mass index (BMI), and education level on glycemic control was assessed cross-sectionally. PATIENTS AND METHODS The study included 164 patients with type 2 diabetes. The KA questionnaire, adapted for Turkish population, was distributed among patients after establishing whether they received diabetes education. Associations between the questionnaire scores and glycated hemoglobin (HbA(1c)), fasting blood glucose (FBG), and BMI were assessed. RESULTS A significant negative correlation was observed between KA scores and HbA(1c) and FBG levels. Sixty-three patients had received diabetes education. These patients had higher KA scores compared with the remaining group (24.0 ±4.0 vs. 16.8 ±5.37, respectively; P

The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the effects of two self-etch adhesive materials on the induction of oxidative stress and production of transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1) and bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) by cultured human gingival fibroblasts (HGF). Inflammation-free attached gingiva was obtained from healthy donors under informed consent. Following 24- and 72-h exposure of HGF to two different elutes of the test materials, cell viability was determined using the 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Lipid peroxidation, a major indicator of oxidative stress, was measured by the thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) assay. TGF-beta1 and BMP-2 levels in cell-free culture media were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Cell viability of the test groups was significantly lower than those of control at 24 and 72 h (P0.001), but showed an increase at 72 h (P0.001). The TBARS levels of both test groups were significantly greater than that of control (P0.05), and displayed similar values at 72 h (P0.05). For both materials, the levels of TGF-beta1 and BMP-2 were significantly greater than that of control (P0.05). Both test groups showed increased TGF-beta1 levels. These results indicate that the tested self-etch adhesives might be capable of inducing production of TGF-beta1 and BMP-2 in cultured HGF, despite their cytotoxic and oxidative stress-producing potential.

Cigarette smoking has been identified as an important risk factor for the initiation and progression of chronic periodontitis (CP). The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of phase I periodontal therapy and adjunctive flurbiprofen administration on matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-8 levels in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) samples from smoking and non-smoking patients with CP.Twenty-nine non-smoking and 29 smoking patients with CP were divided into four groups according to periodontal treatment modalities. Group 1 (non-smokers with CP) and group 3 (smokers with CP) patients received daily 100-mg flurbiprofen tablets in a 2 x 1 regimen for 10 days together with scaling and root planing (SRP). Patients in group 2 (non-smokers with CP) and group 4 (smokers with CP) received placebo tablets in a 2 x 1 regimen for 10 days together with SRP. Plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing depth (PD), and clinical attachment level (CAL) measurements were recorded; GCF samples were collected from each sampling area at baseline and after the 10-day period of drug intake by a single examiner who was unaware of the treatment modality. Assays for GCF MMP-8 were carried out by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.All groups showed statistically significant reductions in PI and GI scores following the phase I periodontal treatment (P0.05), but no statistical differences were observed in PD and CAL scores after therapy. In all groups, the reduction of GCF MMP-8 levels after therapy was statistically significant compared to baseline levels (P0.001). When groups 1 and 3 and 2 and 4 were compared according to GCF MMP-8 levels after the therapy, no statistically significant differences were observed (P = 0.117 and P = 0.485, respectively).Flurbiprofen administration had no additional inhibitory effect over SRP alone on GCF levels of MMP-8 in smokers compared to non-smokers with CP.

The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the effects of two commercial mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) cements (ProRoot MTA and MTA Angelus) on transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta1 and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-2 levels produced by cultured human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs). Human gingival tissues were obtained from individuals with healthy periodontium. HGFs were grown at 37 degrees C in humidified atmosphere of 5% CO(2) in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium, supplemented with 10% fetal calf serum, penicillin, and streptomycin. After 24 and 72 hours of exposure to the MTA products, HGF viability was determined by using 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay. TGF-beta1 and BMP-2 levels in cell-free culture media were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Cell viability of the test groups was significantly lower than that of control at 24 and 72 hours (p0.05) but showed an increase at 72 hours (p0.05). Both test groups showed increased TGF beta-1 levels at 72 hours (p0.05), whereas the MTA Angelus group displayed higher TGF beta-1 levels than control and ProRoot MTA groups at 24 and 72 hours (p0.05). At 24 hours, BMP-2 levels of the ProRoot group were significantly higher than that of MTA Angelus (p0.05). Both test materials increased the BMP-2 levels within time (p0.05) and displayed similar levels at 72 hours (p0.05). These results suggest that both MTA products are capable of stimulating HGF to produce BMP-2, whereas the stimulatory effect for TGF beta-1 is material dependent.

Chitotriosidase (CHIT) belongs to the family of glycosylhydrolases and is highly homologous to chitinases from lower organisms. The enzyme CHIT is of interest for clinical reasons, because it is selectively expressed in chronically activated tissue macrophages. In most ethnic groups, approximately 6% of all individuals are homozygous for CHIT deficiency. Pathological tissue macrophages in several disease conditions massively express CHIT. A shared feature of such cells in the different conditions is the accumulation of lipid material in the lysosomal apparatus. Serum CHIT activity is significantly increased in individuals suffering from atherosclerosis disease and is related to the severity of the atherosclerotic lesion, suggesting a possible role as atherosclerotic extent marker. Our objective is to determine the levels of serum CHIT activity in healthy elderly subjects. Healthy 90 (between 65-94 years old) elderly people and 69 (between 20-44 years old) young people were chosen. Serum CHIT enzymatic activity was determined with the flurometric enzyme activity assay using artificial 4-MU substrate. We found CHIT activity 270 +/- 21 (nmol/mL/h) (values are mean +/- SD) in elderly people and 136 +/- 17 in young people. There are statistical differences between elderly and young subjects.

Objectives: To compare levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α while applying continuous and heavy interrupted forces. Materials and Methods: A hybrid retractor was used in the first group. In the second group, rapid canine distalization through periodontal distraction was performed. Gingival crevicular fluid samples were collected from the distal sides of the canine teeth before attaching the appliances and at 1 hour, 24 hours, and 1 week after the force was applied. Results: In the hybrid reactor group, concentration of TNF-α decreased at 1 week according to 24-hour measurements. In the rapid canine distalization group, it severely increased at 1 hour. In the evaluation of between-group differences, significantly higher values were determined in the rapid canine distalization group at 1 hour and 1 week. Conclusions: Heavy interrupted force induces a rapid release of TNF-α, and the tissue response continues for a longer time period. To avoid the harmful effects of heavy interrupted force, there might be feedback mechanisms that prevent the mediators from increasing excessively.

There is little clinical information on the relationship between periodontopathogens and visfatin. The purpose of this study is to determine visfatin levels in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of healthy individuals and patients with periodontitis and to investigate the possible relationship between this adipokine and the presence and levels of Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Prevotella nigrescense, and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).Eighteen healthy individuals and 27 patients with periodontitis were included in this study. GCF and plaque samples were obtained from all individuals. Visfatin levels were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and the bacterial numbers were evaluated by the reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction method.In patients with periodontitis, the visfatin levels in the GCF (mean: 84.29 ng/mL; range: 63.8 to 108.9 ng/mL) were significantly higher compared with those of the healthy individuals (mean: 38.06 ng/mL; range: 13.8 to 89.02 ng/mL) (P0.01). There was a positive correlation between the visfatin levels and P. gingivalis (r = 0.266, P0.05), whereas no correlation was found between visfatin levels and other microorganisms. In addition, the visfatin levels were found to be higher in individuals in whom P. gingivalis was detected than for those without P. gingivalis (P0.01). The visfatin levels were also found to be higher in individuals in whom EBV was detected (P0.05).To the best of the authors' knowledge, the present study is the first one to show the correlation of periodontopathogens and GCF visfatin levels. P. gingivalis colonization of the periodontal pockets may increase visfatin secretion. Furthermore, the presence of EBV in the plaque may be another factor that causes an increase in visfatin levels.

To assess published reports in the literature on surgical success rates in patients with congenital stapes fixation (CSF) and juvenile otosclerosis (JO).Systematic review of the literature and meta-analysis of published data.PubMed, SAGE, MEDLINE, and Cochrane.A literature search was performed and evaluated based on established criteria. Two independent reviewers (b.a., m.b.) inspected titles and abstracts of the studies. The full texts of the studies were examined to assess their relevance to the meta-analysis. An air-bone gap (ABG) of 0 to 10 dB hearing level was described as success of surgery.A random effects model was used to analyze the data. A total of 27 studies were included in the meta-analysis, whereas 934 were excluded. The total number of operated ears was 445 (256 ears with JO and 189 ears with CSF). At the time of surgery, the age of the patients ranged from 3 to 18 years. The success rate was 80.2% for JO and 54% for CSF. The overall success rate was 69.9%. The rate of postoperative sensorineural hearing loss was 3.4% for JO and 2.1% for CSF.Overall, stapes surgery in children with JO or CSF has a moderate success rate (69.9%) to provide ABG closure of 10 dB. The success rate for CSF in the setting of ossicular abnormalities is 54%. This meta-analysis suggests that if JO can be determined before surgery, a higher success rate is possible (80.2%).

Objective: Triple test with measured maternal serum α-fetoprotein, human chorionic gonadotropin, and unconjugated estriol combination as a routine procedure for fetal Down's syndrome, trisomy 18 and neural tube defect screening has some intrinsic problems, such as precision. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of analytical variation of triple test on prenatal risk estimation. Method: Five different serum pools were prepared and triple test was performed seven times for within run and five times for between run precision determination. Result: Within run and between run, precision values of risk estimations by measuring the same sample for Triple test were calculated to be 7.9–21.4% and 14.1–31.0% for trisomy 21, 13.2–23.7% and 14.2–15.1% for trisomy 18, 47.2 and 42.0 % for neural tube defect, respectively. Conclusion: These results demonstrated that analytical variations have great impact on second trimester risk estimation procedures; therefore, triple test analyses should be carried out in laboratories using strict internal and external quality control programs. Moreover, triple test results should always be interpreted by considering analytical and biological variations.

Plasma levels of ionized magnesium (IMg) measured by ion-selective electrode were investigated in neonatal hyperbilirubinemia by comparing the newborns with (or =205 microM) and without (205 microM) significant hyperbilirubinemia (groups of severe and moderate hyperbilirubinemia, respectively). Serum bilirubin, plasma IMg, and ionized calcium (ICa) levels were determined in 165 healthy term newborns with nonhemolytic indirect hyperbilirubinemia during the first 10 d of life. Mean serum bilirubin, plasma IMg, and ICa levels were 200.1 +/- 126.5 microM, 0.54 +/- 0.12 mM, and 1.15 +/- 0.12 mM, respectively, in 165 newborns whose mean postnatal age was 156.1 +/- 46.5 h, and there was a significant positive correlation between the mean serum bilirubin and plasma IMg levels (r = 0.535, p0.001). Serum bilirubin levels (304.4 +/- 83.8 microM versus 94.1 +/- 54.7 microM) and plasma IMg levels (0.6 +/- 0.12 mM versus 0.49 +/- 0.1 mM) were significantly higher and plasma ICa levels (1.13 +/- 0.12 mM versus 1.18 +/- 0.12 mM) were significantly lower in the group of severe hyperbilirubinemia (n = 83) when compared with the group with moderate hyperbilirubinemia (n = 82). Seventeen of the 83 cases of severe hyperbilirubinemia had IMg levels above the normal range (or =0.69 mM), whereas none of the 82 cases of moderate hyperbilirubinemia had elevated IMg levels. Fifteen of the 17 with high IMg levels had bilirubin levels290 microM. Results of the present study suggest that increase in plasma IMg may be due to extracellular movement of Mg, a principally intracellular ion, resulting from generalized cellular injury including neurons and erythrocytes. Considering neuroprotective functions and beneficial effects of Mg ion in improving neurologic outcome, we also may speculate the possibility of a neuroprotective role or a compensatory mechanism in IMg increase against emerging toxicity risk of increasing serum bilirubin levels.