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The evolutionary conserved Taurine Upregulated Gene 1 (TUG1) is a ubiquitously expressed gene that is one of the highest expressed genes in human and rodent endothelial cells (ECs). We here show that TUG1 expression decreases significantly in aging mouse carotid artery ECs and human ECs in vitro, indicating a potential role in the aging endothelial vasculature system. We therefore investigated if, and how, TUG1 might function in aging ECs, but despite extensive phenotyping found no alterations in basal EC proliferation, apoptosis, barrier function, migration, mitochondrial function, or monocyte adhesion upon TUG1 silencing in vitro. TUG1 knockdown did slightly and significantly decrease cumulative sprout length upon vascular endothelial growth factor A stimulation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), though TUG1-silenced HUVECs displayed no transcriptome-wide mRNA expression changes explaining this effect. Further, ectopic expression of the highly conserved and recently discovered 153 amino acid protein translated from certain TUG1 transcript isoforms did not alter angiogenic sprouting in vitro. Our data show that, despite a high expression and strong evolutionary conservation of both the TUG1 locus and the protein sequence it encodes, TUG1 does not seem to play a major role in basic endothelial cell function.

The genomic organization into active and inactive chromatin domains imposes specific requirements for having domain boundaries to prohibit interference between the opposing activities of neighbouring domains. These boundaries provide an insulator function by binding architectural proteins that mediate long-range interactions. Among these, CTCF plays a prominent role in establishing chromatin loops (between pairs of CTCF binding sites) through recruiting cohesin. CTCF-mediated long-range interactions are integral for a multitude of topological features of interphase chromatin, such as the formation of topologically associated domains, domain insulation, enhancer blocking and even enhancer function.

Nissen fundoplication (NF) is commonly performed in children with gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD). Patients undergoing NF often have co-morbidities. Reported outcomes of NF vary considerably. This study investigated which factors might predict multiple readmissions or death in the first year following NF at our institution. A retrospective chart review of 187 children who underwent NF at our institution between January 2004 and December 2015 was undertaken. Underlying medical conditions, age, weight, presence of malnutrition, length of hospital stay prior to surgery and type of surgery were recorded. Patients who had more than one admission in the first post-operative year were compared to those who had one or none, and patients who died within the first post-operative year were compared to those who did not. Risk factors for multiple readmissions were underlying cardiac disease (p = 0.011), esophageal atresia (EA) (p = 0.011), and esophageal stricture (p = 0.0002). Risk factors for death included younger age (p = 0.028), need for gastrostomy tube (GT) (p = 0.01) and prolonged pre-operative hospital admission (p = 0.0003). This study identified multiple factors associated with readmission and death in the first year after NF. These findings will help with the counseling patients and caregivers regarding expectations following NF.

BACKGROUND: Some studies have shown an increased relative risk of death for patients with higher levels of Kt/V, which may be associated with marked malnutrition. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the target dose for hemodialysis adequacy, as measured by Kt/V, and various nutritional parameters in hemodialysis patients. DESIGN: Cross-sectional. SETTINGS: Sakarya University Faculty of Medicine, Turkey between February 2014 and March 2014. PATIENTS AND METHODS: For consecutive patients who met criteria, the following were recorded: nutritional status, dialysis malnutrition score (DMS), the geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI), serum albumin level, anthropometric measurements, and bioelectrical impedance analysis. Patients were classified into two groups according to the target hemodialysis dose for single-pool Kt/V: patients with spKt/V ≥1.4 and patients with spKt/V

The purpose of this prospective study was to evaluate the efficiency, feasibility, and surgical outcomes of microlaparoscopy-assisted pull-through (MAPT) for Hirschsprung's disease.Starting in 2005, pull-through procedures for Hirschsprung's disease were performed exclusively using 2-mm instruments and miniscopes (microlaparoscopy). Three miniports were inserted laterally in the right abdominal wall in one line, with the miniscope at the level of the umbilicus and the working trocars cranially/caudally of the scope. The left colon was dissected, and transanal pull-through was performed.MAPT was performed in 16 children (10 boys and 6 girls; average age: 5.7 months). Six patients had previous abdominal surgeries. A 1.9-mm cystoscope or a 2.4-mm arthroscope was used in the first 5 cases. In the remainder, a recently developed 2.4-mm miniscope was used for visualization. The length of the resected colon segment was up to the left colonic flexur in 5 children, up to the middle of the descending colon in 4 cases and up to the sigmoid-descending segment in 7 children. The average operation time was 185 minutes (range: 120-330 minutes). The only intraoperative complication that occurred was an injury of the right iliac vein by inadvertent slippage of an electrocautery hook requiring laparotomy. At follow-up, 80% of the parents were unable to identify the scars after microlaparoscopy.MAPT is a safe and practical procedure regardless of age or previous surgery.

The goal of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of the LigaSure™ Vessel Sealing System (LVSS) when used for cystic duct closure during laparoscopic cholecystectomy in children and adolescents. The laparoscopic cholecystectomy was performed beginning with visualization of Calot’s triangle, and dissection of Calot’s triangle was achieved using a monopolar cautery device. Once the cystic duct was exposed, sealing was performed proximally and distally, and the cystic duct was divided midway using the LVSS. The procedure was completed in the standard fashion. The closure of the cystic duct was performed in seven cases of simultaneous cholecystectomy and splenectomy and in 15 cases of microlaparoscopic cholecystectomy. The patients’ ages ranged from 7 to 21 years (average = 14.5 years), and body weight ranged from 42 to 83 kg (average = 58 kg). There was no bile leakage noted, and the closure of the cystic duct was sufficient in all cases. We noted one case of common bile duct obstruction on postoperative day 1. In this case, an exploration of the biliary tree was performed by laparotomy. No direct injury to the common bile duct was found during exploration, but thermal changes were detected in the surrounding tissues as a result of transmitted thermal energy caused by bipolar cautery device. The closure of the cystic duct using the LVSS is feasible and effective in laparoscopic cholecystectomy in children. However, it is important to keep a safe distance from other intra-abdominal structures when using thermal energy devices to prevent thermal collateral damage.

WOS: 000229669300014 PubMed: 16107107 We investigated the relationship between P wave dispersion, which is easily measured on the surface electrocardiogram and may be used in evaluating the risk of atrial fibrillation, and left ventricular diastolic function. There were 133 patients: 73 with diastolic dysfunction and 60 without. P wave dispersions were calculated by measuring minimum and maximum P wave duration values on the surface electrocardiogram. The relationships between P wave dispersion and the presence, cause, severity, and echocardiographic measurements of diastolic dysfunction were investigated. P wave dispersion was 53 +/- 9 ms in patients with diastolic dysfunction and 43 9 ms in the control group (P < 0.01). When patients were grouped according to stage of diastolic dysfunction. P wave dispersion was 48 +/- 7 ms in stage 1, 54 +/- 8 ms in stage 2 and 58 +/- 9 ms in stage 3. As the severity of diastolic dysfunction increased, P wave dispersion increased but the difference did not reach statistical significance (P < 0.05). When the cause of diastolic dysfunction was considered, P wave dispersion was 53 +/- 8 ms in patients with ischemic heart disease and 52 +/- 9 ms in patients with left ventricular hypertrophy (P > 0.05). We conclude that P wave dispersion increases in diastolic dysfunction, but that this increase is not related to the severity or cause of diastolic dysfunction. When clinical and echocardiographic variables are taken into account, there is a weak but significant correlation only between P wave dispersion and left ventricular ejection fraction.

Background Myeloproliferative disorders are characterized by proliferation of 1 or more lineage of hematologic cells. Rapid proliferation of cells may lead to depletion of vitamin B12, which may be falsely elevated by conventional assays in these disorders. We evaluated vitamin B12 status with conventional vitamin B12 assay and levels of serum methylmalonic acid (MMA), serum holotranscobalamin (holoTC), and plasma homocysteine in myeloproliferative disorders. Methods In 58 patients who had myeloproliferative disorders and normal serum creatinine levels, we measured levels of vitamin B12, MMA, holoTC, and homocysteine. Correlations were evaluated between these tests, with MMA as the reference standard for vitamin B12 deficiency. Results Prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency was 69%, despite high serum vitamin B12 levels. Levels of holoTC of 40.6 pmol/L or less and homocysteine of greater than 14 mol/L were the best cutoff levels with sensitivity values of 75% and 70%, specificity values of 80% and 68%, and positive predictive values of 88% and 80%. Logistic regression showed that cutoff values of holoTC of 40.6 pmol/L or less and homocysteine of greater than 14 mol/L resulted in odds ratio 15.5 for low versus high holoTC, and odds ratio 5.4 for high versus low homocysteine, to confirm vitamin B12 deficiency. Conclusions Patients who had myeloproliferative disorders had a high prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency, despite high serum vitamin B12 levels. Therefore, vitamin B12 status should be evaluated in patients with myeloproliferative disorders. Holotranscobalamin level may be the best initial test and may replace vitamin B12 assay to accompany MMA and homocysteine levels.

Objective: Higher subclinical enthesitis on US has been reported in IBD and celiac disease, separately. The objective of this study was to compare IBD and celiac disease for enthesitis on US. Higher enthesitis scores in IBD compared with celiac disease would support a shared pathogenic mechanism between IBD and spondyloarthritis, whereas similar scores may suggest a general impact of gut inflammation on the enthesis. Methods: Patients with IBD, celiac disease and healthy controls (HCs) were recruited and 12 entheses were scanned by US, blind to the diagnosis and clinical assessment. Elementary lesions for enthesitis were scored on a scale between 0 and 3, for inflammation, damage and total US scores. Results: A total of 1260 entheses were scanned in 44 patients with celiac disease, 43 patients with IBD and 18 HCs. The three groups were matched for age and BMI. Patients with celiac disease and IBD had higher inflammation scores than HCs [10.4 (6.5), 9.6 (5.4) and 5.6 (5.2), respectively, P = 0.007) whereas damage scores were similar. Both age and BMI had significant effects on the entheseal scores, mostly for inflammation scores but when controlling for these the US enthesopathy scores were still higher in celiac disease and IBD. Conclusion: The magnitude of subclinical enthesopathy scores is similar between celiac disease and IBD in comparison with HCs. These findings suggest that the common factor between both diseases and enthesopathy is abnormal gut permeability, which may be modified by the genetic architecture of IBD leading to clinical arthropathy.

Objective: To evaluate the relationship of vitamin D status and vitamin D replacement therapy with glycemic control, serum uric acid (SUA) levels, and microalbuminuria (MAU) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Subjectsand Methods: A total of 1,463 patients with T2DM and CKD (aged 14-88 years), 927 females and 536 males, were included in this study. The serum data of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, i.e., 25(OH)D, level, SUA, hemoglobin (Hb)A1c, creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) were obtained from the medical records. The Mann-Whitney U test, the χ2 test, the Mantel-Haenszel test, and linear regression models were used for data analysis. Results: Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency were evident in 770 (52.0%) and 357 (24.0%) patients, respectively. Median HbA1c levels (7.3 [IQR 3.9] vs. 6.5 [IQR 2.3]%; p < 0.01) were significantly higher in patients deficient in vitamin D than in those with a normal vitamin D status. A significantly low level of vitamin D was noted with a high UACR (β −0.01; 95% CI −0.01 to −0.001; p = 0.017) and HbA1c (β −1.1; 95% CI −1.6 to −0.6; p < 0.001), but with low levels of SUA (β 1.3; 95% CI 0.5-2.2; p = 0.002). Vitamin D replacement was associated with a significantly low level of HbA1c (7.4 [2.7] vs. 6.7 [1.9]%; p < 0.001]. Conclusion: In this study, there was a high prevalence of hypovitaminosis D among T2DM patients with CKD, with a higher UACR, higher HbA1c, and lower SUA being noted as playing a role in predicting a decrease in vitamin D levels and potential benefits of vitamin D replacement therapy on glycemic control in T2DM management.

Alcelik, Aytekin/0000-0002-3156-1076 WOS: 000256508900010 PubMed: 18509239 Paralleling the rise in the incidence of obesity and diabetes worldwide, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is being increasingly recognized as one of the major causes of chronic liver disease. Doppler sonography is used as a diagnostic method in the non-invasive assessment of the hemodynamics of hepatic vascular flow in liver diseases. We investigated the effects of fatty infiltration in the liver on the Doppler flow hemodynamics of the portal vein. Doppler sonography of the liver and portal vein was performed in 60 subjects with NAFLD and 20 healthy volunteers (control). The patients were grouped into mild (grade 1), moderate (grade 2), and severe (grade 3) according to sonographic appearance of hepatosteatosis (n = 20 for each group). The vein pulsatility index (VPI), mean flow velocity (MFV), peak maximum velocity (V-max), and peak minimum velocity (V-min) of the portal vein were significantly lower in patients with NAFLD than those of the controls (p < 0.001). The VPI was 0.20 in the patients and 0.31 in the control. The MFV was 12.3 cm/sec in the patients and 16.5 cm/sec in the control group. The portal vein flow was found to be decreased as the grade of fatty infiltration increased for VPI (r = -0.946, p < 0.001),MFV(r=-0.951,p < 0.001). The alteration in Doppler waveform pattern of portal vein with fatty liver population suggests reduced vascular compliance in the liver.

Objective: Poisonings are among the major causes of emergency visits and intensive care hospitalizations. The aim of our study is to evaluate intoxicated patients at follow‑up and treated in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) in terms of demographic characteristics, type of poisonings and results of treatment.Materials and Methods: Patients at follow‑up aged 17 or older admitted with intoxication to the ICU between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2011 were included in the study. Age, gender, presenting symptoms, duration of hospitalization, type of poisoning, the way of poisoning, medical history, seasons, hospitalization costs, treatment and prognosis of the patients were analyzed.Results: Totally, 153 (8.9%) out of 1375 follow‑up patients in the ICU had acute intoxication. The mean age of intoxicated patients was 29.4 ± 11, 68% of them were female, 78.4% of them were under 35 years old, and intoxication was most common in the 17–25 age group. 114 of them (94.1%) were suicidal. The most common cause of poisoning was drug‑poisoning by 88.2%, and most common presenting symptoms were nausea and vomiting by 71.2%. Mean length of stay was 2.4 ± 1.6 days, and the average cost of hospitalization was 761 ± 884 Turkish Liras or 271 ± 315 USD. 5 patients (3.3%) were intubated because of respiratory failure. There was no mortal case.Conclusion: Suicide attempts are prominent in acute poisoning, and the young female population is at higher risk. It was found that drugs, particularly antidepressants and antipsychotic agents were the most common cause of poisoning. The high cost of treatment of acute intoxication cases is a major cause of economic burden. Clinicians should be more careful when prescribing such drugs.Key words: Cost, intensive care, intoxication, prognosis

Background: Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) is a common autoimmune disorder. Genetic, environmental, and immunological factors all play a role in the pathogenesis of HT, but the effects of lymphocytes and platelets on the pathophysiology of HT are still unknown. In this study, we evaluated the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and mean platelet volume (MPV) in HT groups and HT subgroups with low cardiovascular risks. Methods: This study included 92 patients with HT and 38 control subjects. Among the HT patients, three subgroups were formed according to thyroid function: overt (n = 12), subclinical (n = 38), and euthyroid (normally functioning thyroid; n = 42). Results: Age and gender distributions were similar between the patient and control groups. Body mass index was higher in the patient group than in the control group. The C reactive protein level was higher in patients than controls (p = 0.064). The thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) level was higher and the mean free thyroxine level lower in the patient group than in the control group (p < 0.05). There were no differences between the groups with regard to leukocytes, neutrophils, platelets, or MPV (p > 0.05). The NLR and PLR were significantly different in one subgroup of HT patients relative to healthy subjects (p < 0.05). However, we did not find any statistical differences in the MPV among the three subgroups (p = 0.547). A positive correlation was found among the NLR, anti-thyroglobulin (TG) antibodies, and anti-thyroid peroxidase (TPO) antibodies (p < 0.01), although there was a negative correlation between the PLR, TSH, anti-TPO, and anti-TG (p < 0.001). Conclusions: A single marker or panel of biomarkers is not a consistent indicator of HT, but NLR combined with PLR testing may offer a more reliable diagnosis. © 2016, Verlag Klinisches Labor GmbH. All rights reserved.

Introduction: Influenza-like illness (ILI) and acute respiratory infection (ARI) are common presentations during winter and indiscriminate antibiotic use contributes significantly to the emerging post-antibiotic era. Methodology: Otherwise healthy 152 patients, presenting to outpatient clinics with ILI/ARI, were included. Patients had history & physical, CRP, hemogram and nasopharyngeal swabs for rhinovirus A/B, influenza A/B, adenovirus A/B/C/D/E, coronavirus 229E/NL63 and OC43, parainfluenza virus 1/2/3, respiratory syncytial virusA/B, metapneumovirus and Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydia pneumoniae, Legionella pneumophila and Bordetella pertussis by PCR and for ABHS culture. Results: Median (IR) age was 26.5 (16.5). Time to presentation was shorter in men (p = 0.027). Patients with rhinovirus had lower rates (20%) of myalgia (p = 0.043). Patients with influenza virus had higher rates (97%) of elevated CRP (p = 0.016). Logistic regression revealed that patients with ILI/ARI and CRP ≥ 5 mg/L were 60 times more likely to have influenza virus infection than other viral agents (OR = 60.0, 95% CI = 2.65 to 1,358.2, p = 0.010). Rhinovirus predominated in December (54%), March (36%), and April (33%). Influenza virus predominated in January (51%). Fever was most common with adenovirus (p = 0.198). All GABHS cultures were negative. Atypical organisms and Bordetella pertussis were negative in all but one patient. Conclusions: Influenza virus is the most likely pathogen in ILI/ARI when CRP ≥ 5 mg/L. This might be explained by tissue destruction. Myalgia is rare with rhinovirus probably due to absence of viremia. Negative bacteria by PCR and culture suggest unnecessary antibiotic use in ILI/ARI.

To investigate association between renal functions, lactic acid levels and acid–base balance in type 2 diabetes patients with chronic kidney disease under metformin treatment and after metformin discontinuation in a real-life setting. A total of 65 patients with diabetes (mean age 68.5 ± 8.9 years, 56.9 % females) in whom metformin treatment was discontinued due to reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR) were included in this retrospective study. Data on patient demographics, metformin treatment and laboratory findings on the last day of metformin treatment and 2–3 weeks after metformin discontinuation including blood lactate and creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and acid–base balance measurements in blood [pH, bicarbonate, base excess] were collected from medical records. The correlation of lactate levels with eGFR, blood pH and creatinine levels and changes in laboratory findings after metformin discontinuation were evaluated. Before metformin discontinuation, hyperlactatemia was observed in 78.5 % of patients and metabolic acidosis in 36.9 % of patients, but none had lactic acidosis. Patients with normolactatemia and hyperlactatemia were similar in terms of metformin dosage and laboratory parameters. Lactate levels were not significantly correlated with serum creatinine (r = −0.14; p = 0.263) and eGFR (r = 0.11, p = 0.374). After metformin discontinuation, a significant decrease was observed in median lactate levels (from 2.20 to 1.85 mmol/L; p = 0.002). In conclusion, our findings support the low risk of MALA among patients with mild-to-moderate renal impairment and the likelihood of metformin to be an innocent bystander without a pathogenic role in the lactic acidosis in most cases.

The growth factor midkine (MK) is a protein that is involved in cancer, inflammation, immunity. Vitamin D is a potent immunomodulator. Anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibody (ASCA) is reported in autoimmune disorders, some of which are among the causes of vitamin D deficiency. The objective of this study was to investigate a possible association of MK and ASCA with vitamin D deficiency. 208 adults presented to internal medicine outpatient clinic for history and physical examination has been studied. Serum biochemistry, vitamin D, MK, ASCA-IgG and -IgA, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, PDGF, VEGF were obtained. Vitamin D deficiency was 74.2 %. Serum MK level was significantly higher in vitamin D-deficient compared to vitamin D-sufficient individuals (1138.1 ± 262.8 vs 958.6 ± 189 pg/mL, respectively; P

Objective: To determine the rate of distal symmetrical polyneuropathy (DSP) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, to evaluate the role of history, neurological examination and the electrodiagnostic methods in the diagnosis of DSP, and to determine the association between electromyography-supported neuropathy (ESN), neuropathic complaints (NCs) and risk factors. Subjects and Methods: A total of 191 type 2 DM patients (109 female, 82 male; mean age 58.7 ± 10 years) were recruited. The NCs were recorded. All patients had electromyographic (EMG) examinations. The relationship between ESN, NCs and risk factors were evaluated. Results: Of the 191 patients, 83 (43.5%) had DSP on EMG examinations and 92 (48.2%) patients suffered from NCs. Among the ESN patients, a significant relationship existed with HbA1c level, illness duration, smoking, male gender or insulin usage (p < 0.05) but not with age, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia or hypertriglyceridemia. The frequency of NCs was higher in patients with ESN. There was also a significant association between NCs and ESN (p < 0.05). The presence of NCs was not related to age, gender, smoking, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia (p > 0.05) but NCs were correlated to HbA1c level, illness duration and insulin usage (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Our data show that a strong association exists between the presence of DSP and illness duration, HbA1c, smoking, thereby indicating that cessation of smoking and near normal glycemic control would be additional precautions to delay the beginning or progression of polyneuropathy.

Background: Malnutrition is a clinical state resulting in prolonged hospital stay, increase in severity of infections and poor wound healing. Aims: Our aim was to investigate the prevalence and etiologic factors of malnutrition in medical inpatients. Study Design: A total of 290 consecutively admitted internal medicine patients from February to May 2012 were included. On admission, demographic data, anthropometric measurements, laboratory parameters and nutritional screening test results were recorded. Methods: Nutritional risk score‑2002 for patients under 65 years old, mini nutritional assessment for older patients and subjective global assessment (SGA) tests performed. Relation of demographic characteristics, laboratory parameters, weight and body mass index (BMI) with nutritional status were evaluated. Results: Mean age was 61 ± 17 years; 145 patients were male. Among 160 patients < 65 years old, 34 were in malnutrition (21%), 41 (26%) were under risk of malnutrition and 85 (53%) were normal. When they were divided into three groups according to SGA, we found significant difference in hemoglobin, low density lipoprotein (LDL), high density lipoprotein, cholesterol, triglyceride, albumin and protein, weight and BMI. Among 130 patients over 65 years old, 47 patients (37%) were in malnutrition, 41 (31%) were under risk of malnutrition and 42 (32%) were normal. There was significant difference in LDL, cholesterol, albumin, protein, weight and BMI between three groups; each 1 g/dl decrease in serum albumin and age older than 65 years old increased malnutrition risk 5.21 and 1.97 times, respectively. Conclusion: Malnutrition risk is high among internal medicine inpatients and risk seems to be higher among older patients. Nutritional screening of geriatric patients, close follow‑up and providing earlier health care would contribute rehabilitation of chronic diseases and decrease re‑admissions. Keywords: Internal Medicine Inpatients, Malnutrition Related Laboratory Parameters, Nutritional Status

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is related to metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and cardiovascular metabolic syndromes. This is particularly true for individuals with central and abdominal obesity because visceral abdominal adipose tissue (VAAT) and epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) produce a large number of proinflammatory and proatherogenic cytokines. The present study aimed to determine whether there are changes in VAAT and EAT levels which were considered as indirect predictors for subclinical atherosclerosis in lean patients with PCOS. Methods: The clinical and demographic characteristics of 35 patients with PCOS and 38 healthy control subjects were recorded for the present study. Additionally, the serum levels of various biochemical parameters were measured and EAT levels were assessed using 2D-transthoracic echocardiography. Results: There were no significant differences in mean age (p = 0.056) or mean body mass index (BMI) (p = 0.446) between the patient and control groups. However, the body fat percentage, waist-to-hip ratio, amount of abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue, and VAAT thickness were higher in the PCOS patient group than in the control group. The amounts of EAT in the patient and control groups were similar (p = 0.384). EAT was correlated with BMI, fat mass, waist circumference, and hip circumference but not with any biochemical metabolic parameters including the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance index or the levels of triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. However, there was a small positive correlation between the amounts of VAAT and EAT. VAAT was directly correlated with body fat parameters such as BMI, fat mass, and abdominal subcutaneous adipose thickness and inversely correlated with the HDL cholesterol level. Conclusions: The present study found that increased abdominal adipose tissue in patients with PCOS was associated with atherosclerosis. Additionally, EAT may aid in the determination of the risk of atherosclerosis in patients with PCOS because it is easily measured. © 2015 Arpaci et al.

This study investigated the frequency of malnutrition in geriatric hemodialysis patients according to biochemical, anthropometric, bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), modified quantitative subjective global assessment (MQSGA), and geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI) methods, and the effect of gender on these different parameters. A total of 160 chronic hemodialysis patients (older than 65 years old) were included in this study. There were 82 males (51.2 %) and mean age was 72.8 +/- A 6.1 years. Nutritional status of patients was evaluated by using serum albumin, body mass index (BMI), triceps skinfold (TSF), mid-arm circumference (MAC), mid-arm muscle circumference (MAMC), calf circumference (CC), BIA, MQSGA, and GNRI. The prevalence of malnutrition according to the aforementioned methods were as following: MAC 62.5 %, MQSGA 60 %, MAMC 50 %, CC 43.1 %, TSF 39.4 %, body fat percentage 33.8 %, albumin 29.1 %, GNRI 15 %, and BMI 8 %. While malnutrition was found to be more prevalent among women according to MQSGA, TSF, and body fat percentage (p = 0.008, p < 0.001, p = 0.042, respectively), it was more frequent in men when we used MAC and MAMC (p = 0.012, p < 0.001, respectively). Our data indicated that while there was a difference in malnutrition prevalence between female and male geriatric hemodialysis patients according to MQSGA, TSF, MAC, and body fat percentage, there was no difference between genders in terms of malnutrition prevalence according to GNRI, albumin, BMI, and CC.

WOS: 000315798600001, PubMed ID: 23311725, Background: Diabetes is an important reason for end-stage renal failure and diabetic foot wounds worsen the life qualities of these patients. Protein and amino acid support accelerates the wound healing. The purpose of this retrospective study is to examine the effect of beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate, arginine and glutamine (Abound (R)) supplementation on the wound healing. Methods: A total of 11 diabetic dialysis patients were included in this retrospective study aiming to evaluate the effect of the diet support with beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate, arginine and glutamine on wound healing in diabetic dialysis patients. Pre-treatment and post-treatment wound depth and wound appearance were scored in accordance with the "Bates-Jensen" wound assessment tool. The results of 4-week treatment with beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate, arginine and glutamine (Abound (R)) support were evaluated in terms of wound healing. Results: The mean age of patients was 66 (SD: 10, range: 51-81) and 9 (81.8%) of them were males. After the 4-week treatment, in accordance with the Bates-Jensen scoring, healing was observed on the wound depth score of 7(63.6%) patients and on wound appearance score of 8(72.7%) patients out of 11. While the wound depth score of 4(36.4%) cases and wound appearance score of 3(27.3%) cases remained the same, no deterioration was observed on any cases throughout the follow-up period. Conclusion: In conclusion, our findings revealed that Abound treatment makes a positive contribution to the wound healing in diabetic dialysis patients., Abbott Nutrition Turkey, We thank to Cagla Isman, MD and Prof. Sule Oktay, MD, PhD. from KAPPA Consultancy Training Research Ltd, Istanbul who provided editorial support, and to Mehmet Berktas, MD, MICR from KAPPA Consultancy Training Research Ltd, Istanbul for statistical analysis, and these services were supported by an unconditional research grant from Abbott Nutrition Turkey. Abbott Nutrition Turkey was not involved in study design, in the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data; in the writing of the manuscript; and in the decision to submit the manuscript for publication.

Bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS) is used to assess volume status in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. However, it is proposed that it may be troubling in patients with abnormal fluid distribution and body geometry. It is not clear whether having an empty abdomen or not interferes with the BIS results and its relation with echocardiographic findings in PD patients.Twenty-five prevalent PD patients were enrolled. Echocardiography and body composition analysis using BIS technique (50 frequencies, the Body Composition Monitor, BCM) were performed. Overhydration (OH), extracellular water (ECW) in liters and OH/ECW ratio were used as volume status indices. Differences in volume and echocardiographic findings, in patients with empty and with full abdomen, and their correlations with echocardiographic parameters were investigated.Mean age and PD duration were 61 ± 2.5 years and 42 ± 33 months, respectively. Sixty-four percent were male and 24% were diabetic. Mean left ventricular mass index (LVMi) was 131 ± 43 g/m (,) (2) mean left atrium diameter (LA) was 4.1 ± 0.1 cm, mean left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) was 64 ± 10%. Mean OH in patients with full abdomen were 1.67 ± 1.51 L and 1.68 ± 1.48 L, depending on the inclusion or exclusion of the dialysate volume, respectively. In patients with an empty abdomen, mean OHs were 2.12 ± 1.76 L and 1.91 ± 1.56 L, depending on the inclusion or exclusion of the dialysate volume. BIS measurements with an empty, but not with a full abdomen, was related to the echocardiographic parameters.BIS is a reliable method to evaluate volume status in PD patients. BIS performed after peritoneal equilibration test with an empty abdomen, better reflects overhydration and is related to echocardiographic parameters.

WOS:000243835300004 PubMed: 17225879 The aim of the present prospective, randomized study was to investigate and compare the safety and efficacy of dexmedetomidine versus midazolam in providing sedation for gastroscopy. A total of 50 adult patients (25 patients receiving dexmedetomidine and 25 patients receiving midazolam), 18 to 60 years of age, and rated I and II on the American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status classification system were included. A brief questionnaire was used to collect demographic data; patients were asked to rate anxiety, satisfaction wit care to data and expected discomfort on a visual analogue scale. The following parameters were measured continuously and recorded every minute; heart rate, mean arterial pressure, hemoglobin oxygen saturation and respiratory rate. The two groups were similar with regard to age, body mass index, sex, education, duration of endoscopy, and ethanol or tobacco use. After the procedure, full recovery time, mean arterial pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate and hemoglobin oxygen saturation levels were similar in both groups. Both groups also had low levels of perceived procedural gagging, discomfort and anxiety scores (P > 0.05), and high satisfaction levels (90.1+/-3.0 for dexmedetomidine versus 84.9+/-4.5 for midazolam; P>0.05). Retching and endoscopist satisfaction were significantly different in patient receiving dexmedetomidine versus those receiving midazolam (88.8+/-6.5 versus 73.5+/-16.4, P

WOS:000226633000005 PubMed: 15649235 Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common arrhythmia occurring in about 10-20% of patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). P-wave dispersion (PWd) and P-wave duration (PWD) have been used to evaluate the discontinuous propagation of sinus impulse and the prolongation of atrial conduction time, respectively. This study was conducted to compare the effects of reperfusion either by thrombolytic therapy or primary angioplasty on P-wave duration and dispersion in patients with acute anterior wall myocardial infarction. Methods: We have evaluated 72 consecutive patients retrospectively (24 women, 48 men; aged 58 +/- 12 years) experiencing acute anterior wall myocardial infarction (AMI) for the first time. Patients were grouped according to the reperfusion therapy received (primary angioplasty (PTCA) versus thrombolytic therapy). Left atrial diameter and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) were determined by echocardiography in all patients. Electrocardiography was recorded from all patients on admission and every day during hospitalization. Maximum (P max) and minimum (P min) P-wave durations and P-wave dispersions were calculated before and after the treatment. Results: There were not any significant differences between the groups regarding age, gender, left ventricular ejection fraction, left atrial diameter and volume, cardiovascular risk factors, and duration from symptom onset to treatment. P-wave dispersions and P-wave durations were significantly decreased after PTCA [Mean P max was 113 +/- 111 ms before and 95 +/- 17 ms after the treatment (P = 0.007)]. Mean PWd was 46 +/- 12 ms before and 29 +/- 10 ms after the treatment (P = 0.001). Also, P max and PWd were significantly lower in PTCA group (for P max 97 +/- 22 ms vs 114 +/- 16 ms and for PWd 31 +/- 13 ms vs 55 +/- 5 ms, respectively). Conclusions: Primary angioplasty reduces the incidence of AF by decreasing P max and P-wave dispersion.

PubMed: 15069729 Aim: To investigate the efficacy and tolerability of albendazole and metranidazole treatment in giardiasis. Methods: The open comparative randomized trial was carried out prospectively from December 1999 to July 2001 in Duzce City of Turkey. The diagnosis was based on the presence of signs and symptoms compatible with giardiasis including a positive stool examination of giardia cysts or trophozoite. Metranidazole group consisted of 29 patients and was given metranidazole 500 mg, three times a day for 5 d and albendazole group was consisted of 28 patients and was given albendazole 400 mg/d for 5 d. Results: There were no significant differences in demographical and therapeutical effects and patient's compliance between both groups. But side effects were seen more in metranidazole group than in albendazole group. Conclusion: Albendazole is as effective as metranidazole in adults' giardiasis. Albendazole has less side effect potentials than metranidazole in the treatment of giardiasis. Copyright © 2004 by The WJG Press.

WOS:000187606800014 PubMed: 14669316 AIM: To investigate the effect of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) on acute viral hepatitis (AVH). METHODS: We administered 200 mg oral NAC three times daily (600 mg/day) to the study group and placebo capsules to the control group. All patients were hospitalized and diagnosed as AVH. Blood total and direct bilirubin, ALT, AST, alkaline phosphatese, albumin and globulin levels of each patient were measured twice weekly until total bilirubin level dropped under 2 mg/dl, ALT level under 100 U/L, follow up was continued and then the patients were discharged. RESULTS: A total of 41(13 female and 28 male) AVH patients were included in our study. The period for normalization of ALT and total bilirubin in the study group was 19.7+/-6.9 days and 13.7+/-8.5 days respectively. In the control group it was 20.4+/-6.5 days and 16.9+/-7.8 days respectively (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: NAC administration effected neither the time necessary for normalization of ALT and total bilirubin values nor duration of hospitalization, so we could not suggest NAC for the treatment of icteric AVH cases. However, our results have shown that this drug is not harmful to patients with AVH.

Background Tetanus is a serious but vaccine-preventable disease and fatality rate of the disease is high in the neonates and the elderly. The aim of this study was to detect the tetanus antibody prevalence in the over sixty-year age residents of the nursing homes in Bolu. Methods A voluntary-based study was done in the residents of two nursing homes in Bolu, Turkey. Blood samples were taken from 71 volunteers residing in there nursing homes. Tetanus IgG antibodies were measured by a commercial ELISA kit. Results Among overall subjects, only 11 (15.7 %) had the protective tetanus antibody titers at the time of the study. Totally, 10 subjects were examined in emergency rooms due to trauma or accidents within the last ten years and, four (40%) of them had protective antibody levels. Of the remaining 61 subjects only 7 (11%) had protective antibody levels (p < 0.05) [Relative Risk = 3.49, 95% Confidence Interval 1.24–9.77]. Conclusions Tetanus antibody level is below the protective level in the majority of the over-sixty-year-age subjects residing in the nursing homes. Each over sixty-year age person in our country should be vaccinated. Until this is accomplished, at least, nursing home residents should be vaccinated during registration.