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Background It is unclear whether different exercise programs lead to an increase in the concentration of plasma Pentraxin3 (PTX3), an anti-inflammatory protein. This study aimed to investigate the effects of aerobic exercise (AE) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on plasma PTX3 levels in overweight and obese women. Method A total of 45 sedentary women aged between 32.26 ± 6.30 voluntarily participated in the study. The control group (CG, n = 15) was selected among normal-weight women. Women in the group of participants who partook in exercise consisted of overweight and obese women according to a random method, including the AE group (n = 15) and the HIIT group (n = 15). The AE session conducted was 50 min in duration and consisted of warm-up exercises (5 min), and primary exercises (40 min, basic aerobic-step exercises). HIIT consists of warm-up exercises (5 min), primary exercises (work intervals: 6−10 × 1 min (80–90% HRmax), rest intervals: 1 min (walk, 50% HRmax), 21–29 min running. The exercises were applied for three sessions/week for 12 weeks. Fasting blood samples were taken from all participants before and after exercise and their body composition was measured. Results As a result of two different 12-week exercises, serum PTX3 levels increased significantly by 47.53% in the AE group and 50.21% in the HIIT group (p .05). Also, no significant differences were found between the two types of exercises in terms of parameters. A significant negative correlation in the total sample was found between PTX3 with BMI, fat mass, LDL-C, and hsCRP. Conclusion The percentage change in PTX3 values was not different between exercise types, whereas PTX3 was increased with exercise, regardless of the type of exercise. It can be said that both aerobic and HIIT increase PTX3, VO2max levels and improve lipid metabolism in overweight and obese women.

AbstractObjective To evaluate the serotype distribution and antibiotic resistance in pneumococcal infections in adults and to provide a perspective regarding serotype coverage of both current and future pneumococcal vaccines.Patients and methods This passive surveillance study was conducted with the Streptococcus pneumoniae strains isolated from the specimens of patients with pneumonia (materials isolated from bronchoalveolar lavage), bacteraemia, meningitis, pleuritis and peritonitis between 2015 and 2018. Serogrouping and serotyping were performed by latex particle agglutination and by conventional Quellung reaction using commercial type-specific antisera, respectively. The strains were analysed for penicillin, cefotaxime, erythromycin and moxifloxacin susceptibilities by E-test.Results In the whole study group (410 samples from adults aged ≥18 years), the most frequent serotypes were 3 (14.1%), 19 F (12%) and 1 (9.3%). The vaccine coverage for PCV13, PCV15, PCV20 and PPV23 was 63.9%, 66.6%, 74.1% and 75.9%, respectively, in all isolates. Penicillin non-susceptibility in invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) was 70.8% and 57.1% in the patients aged

Abstract Cervical cancer has recently become one of the most prevalent cancers among women throughout the world. Traditional cancer therapies generate side effects due to off-target toxicity. Thus, novel cancer medications coupled with suitable drug delivery systems are required to improve cancer therapies. Melittin peptide has a high affinity to disrupt cancer cells. In this study, we designed targeted and redox-responsive Melittin conjugates for cervical cancer and then tested them in vitro. Folic acid and squamous cell carcinoma-specific peptide (CKQNLAEG) were used as targeting agents to design various conjugates. Our findings indicate that both anticancer conjugates were effective against different cancer cell lines, including MCF-7, C33A, and HeLa. Moreover, these conjugates were found to have antioxidant and antibacterial effects as well as reduced hemolytic activity. The CM–Target (N-terminus cysteine modified-Melittin–targeting peptide-functionalized conjugate) has become more stable and acted specifically against squamous cell carcinoma, whereas folic acid (FA)–containing conjugates acted efficiently against all cancer types studied, especially for breast cancer. According to our results, these anticancer conjugates may be possible anticancer drug candidates that have fewer adverse effects.

Autosomal dominant hyper-IgE syndrome (AD-HIES) is an inborn error of immunity (IEI) caused by a dominant-negative mutation in the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT 3). This disease is characterized by chronic eczematoid dermatitis, recurrent staphylococcal skin abscesses, pneumonia, pneumatoceles, and extremely high serum IgE levels. Loss-of-function STAT3 mutations may also result in distinct non-immunologic features such as dental, facial, skeletal, and vascular abnormalities, central nervous system malformations and an increased risk for bone fractures. Prophylactic treatment of Candida infections and prophylactic antimicrobial therapy for staphylococcal skin infections and sinopulmonary infections are essential. An awareness of the oral and maxillofacial features of HIES may facilitate early diagnosis with genetic counselling and may improve future patient care. This study describes oral, dental, and maxillofacial manifestations in 14 patients with genetically defined AD-HIES. We also review the literature and propose recommendations for the complex care of patients with this rare primary immunodeficiency.

Objective Dipeptidase-1 (DPEP-1) is a recently discovered leucocyte adhesion receptor for neutrophils and monocytes in the lungs and kidneys and serves as a potential therapeutic target to attenuate inflammation in moderate-to-severe COVID-19. We aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the DPEP-1 inhibitor, LSALT peptide, to prevent specific organ dysfunction in patients hospitalised with COVID-19.Design Phase 2a randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blinded, trial.Setting Hospitals in Canada, Turkey and the USA.Participants A total of 61 subjects with moderate-to-severe COVID-19.Interventions Randomisation to LSALT peptide 5 mg intravenously daily or placebo for up to 14 days.Primary and secondary outcome measures The primary endpoint was the proportion of subjects alive and free of respiratory failure and/or the need for renal replacement therapy (RRT). Numerous secondary and exploratory endpoints were assessed including ventilation-free days, and changes in kidney function or serum biomarkers.Results At 28 days, 27 (90.3%) and 28 (93.3%) of subjects in the placebo and LSALT groups were free of respiratory failure and the need for RRT (p=0.86). On days 14 and 28, the number of patients still requiring more intensive respiratory support (O2 ≥6 L/minute, non-invasive or invasive mechanical ventilation or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) was 6 (19.4%) and 3 (9.7%) in the placebo group versus 2 (6.7%) and 2 (6.7%) in the LSALT group, respectively (p=0.14; p=0.67). Unadjusted analysis of ventilation-free days demonstrated 22.8 days for the LSALT group compared with 20.9 in the placebo group (p=0.4). LSALT-treated subjects had a significant reduction in the fold expression from baseline to end of treatment of serum CXCL10 compared with placebo (p=0.02). Treatment-emergent adverse events were similar between groups.Conclusion In a Phase 2 study, LSALT peptide was demonstrated to be safe and tolerated in patients hospitalised with moderate-to-severe COVID-19.Trial registration number NCT04402957.

Garre’s osteomyelitis is a rare chronic inflammatory disease with reactive peripheral bone formation due to low-grade local infection. Here, we present a 12-year-old female with chronic osteomyelitis and proliferative periostitis with no definite source of infection, such as caries or periodontitis. The patient had a history of 4-5 hospitalizations with the same symptoms intermittently over the previous two years at the hospital which referred her to our hospital. The patient had undergone a biopsy at the referring hospital, and she was referred to our hospital with a histopathological diagnosis of osteoid osteoma. Physical examination showed a unilateral swelling in the right mandible at admission to our hospital. Since we could not exclude the diagnosis of bacterial osteomyelitis, antibiotics were continued. Periapical radiography, magnetic resonance, computed tomography, and clinical features supported the diagnosis of Garre’s osteomyelitis, so antimicrobial therapy was discontinued. Her biopsy materials were re-examined by the pathologist at our hospital, and Garre’s osteomyelitis was considered. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were started. We added colchicine treatment because she failed to achieve remission, and normal facial symmetrical morphology was not achieved in the two-month follow-up period. However, the symptoms regressed within one year, and the swelling disappeared.

OBJECTIVE(S): Due to cross-clamping of the aorta during aortic aneurysm surgeries, ischemia-reperfusion (IR) develops, and it may cause damage to aorta itself or even to remote organs by oxidative stress or inflammation. Fluoxetine (FLX) which might be used in the preoperative period for its tranquilizing effect also has antioxidant effects in short-term use. The purpose of our study is to examine whether FLX protects aorta tissue, against the damage caused by IR.METHODS: 3 groups of Wistar rats formed randomly. 1) Control group (sham-operated), 2) IR group (60 min. ischemia+120 min. perfusion), 3) FLX+IR group (FLX dose was 20 mg/kg for 3 days i.p. before IR). At the end of each procedure, aorta samples were collected, and oxidant-antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic status of the aorta were evaluated. Histological examinations of the samples were provided. RESULTS: Levels of LOOH, MDA, ROS, TOS, MPO, TNFα, IL-1β, IL-6, NF-kB, MMP-9, caspase-9, 8-OHdG, NO, and HA were found to be significantly increased in the IR group compared to control (p

Accidents that occur in the home or its surroundings are called home accidents. Our aim in this study was to identify the causes of admissions due to home accidents and to assess the awareness and attitudes of mothers. This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted in the emergency departments of Cobanbey and Azaz Vatan hospitals. Eighty-one mothers that have an average age of 30.02±7.56 years participated in the study. 53.1% (n=43) of the children admitted due to home accidents were males and the number of applicants in the 0-6 years age group was 54 (65.8%). The most common reason for admission was falls (53.1%, n=43), followed by burns (21%, n=17). It was found that the majority kept toxic substances such as rat poison and pesticides out of the reach of children (98.8%, n=80), warned their children to stay away from water wells (92.6%, n=75), and kept ignitable substances such as matches and lighters out of the reach of children (90.1%, n=73). In addition, 92.6% (n=75) left a teapot on the stove, 88.9% (n=72) left electrical appliances in the outlet, and 80.2% (n=65) reported that children could light the stove by themselves. The mean score calculated in the questionnaire on mothers' awareness and attitude toward home accidents was 15.44±3.40. It is very necessary to carry out studies on health systems with national and international cooperation in victimized regions such as the northwest of Syria and to inform families about accident risks and safety measures. [Med-Science 2023; 12(1.000): 338-43]

Priapism is a rare condition in the newborn. The aim of this study was to investigate the demographic, etiologic and clinical features of neonatal priapism. We retrospectively analysed the data of 11 patients diagnosed with neonatal priapism in the neonatal intensive care unit between 2000 and 2019. Priapism was defined as an erection in the neonatal period, lasting more than 4 hours. Etiological examinations revealed polycythemia in one (9.09%) patient, D-dimer elevation in three patients, and heterozygous methyltetrahydrofolate 667 gene mutations in one patient. Other patients were considered idiopathic. Detumescence was achieved in all 11 (100%) patients during the follow-up period. The median hospitalization duration was 6 (IQR [4, 8]; range, 2–9) days. The median follow-up duration was 38 (IQR [30, 42]; range, 13–94) months for patients followed-up in our hospital after discharge. Neonatal priapism is a rare condition. Successful treatment results can be achieved with conservative methods. Data acquired from our study showed that diseases with a tendency to hypercoagulation belong to the etiology by damaging penile microcirculation and make the response to conservative treatment more challenging.

Abstract As in many countries, there is neither a surveillance system nor a study to reveal the hemodialysis (HD) related infection rates in Turkey. We aimed to investigate the infection rate among HD outpatients and implement CDC’s surveillance system. A multicenter prospective surveillance study is performed to investigate the infection rate among HD patients. CDC National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) dialysis event (DE) protocol is adopted for definitions and reporting. During April 2016–April 2018, 9 centers reported data. A total of 199 DEs reported in 10,035 patient-months, and the overall DE rate was 1.98 per 100 patient-months. Risk of blood culture positivity is found to be 17.6 times higher when hemodialysis was through a tunneled catheter than through an arteriovenous fistula. DE rate was significantly lower in patients educated about the care of their vascular access site. Staphylococcus aureus was the most causative microorganism among mortal patients. Outcomes of DEs were hospitalization (73%), loss of vascular access (18.2%), and death (7.7%). This first surveillance study revealed the baseline status of HD related infections in Turkey and showed that CDC National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) DE surveillance system can be easily implemented even in a high workload dialysis unit and be adopted as a nationwide DE surveillance program.

Post-entubation tracheal stenosis(PETS) is observed in patients who are hospitalized in the intensive care unit due to various etiological reasons and who are exposed to prolonged intubation during follow-up as a result of the pressure applied to the tracheal mucosa to cause necrosis or scarring in the trachea. In our study,we aimed to retrospectively evaluate the results of patients who underwent dilatation with rigid bronchoscopy and those whose conditions did not improve despite dilatation and underwent tracheal resection and reconstruction, and compare the with the literature. This study was conducted to retrospectively analyze the data of 20 patients who underwent surgical intervention due to PETS between 2019-2022.The patients were divided into 2 groups according to the Cotton Myer PETS index of the data obtained as a result of measuring the diameter of the stenotic tracheal segment according to bronchoscopic and CT measurements. When the patients were classified according to the post-intubation tracheal stenosis classification described by Cotton Myer,it was seen that 7 patients were Grade 1.10 patients were Grade 2 and 3 patients were Grade 3. Tracheal resection and reconstruction surgery is a difficult procedure and requires surgical experience due to the lack of experienced anesthesia team in every center.For this reason,we recommend sequential bronchoscopic dilatation in patients with comorbidity who are not suitable for tracheal resection and in grade 1 patients. However, we suggest that tracheal resection and reconstruction surgery should be performed after appropriate preoperative preparation in patients with grade 2 and 3 without comorbidity. [Med-Science 2022; 11(4.000): 1711-4]

Göğüs ağrısı acil servis başvuru nedenleri arasında en önde gelen şikayetler arasında olup geniş bir ayırıcı tanı yelpazesine sahiptir. Tanısal yaklaşım yapılan kapsamlı bir klinik değerlendirmeye dayansa da, kimi zaman tanı koymak son derece zordur. Bu yazımızda göğüs ağrısının nadir nedenlerinden birisi olan pseudoanevrizma olgusunun literatür eşliğinde gözden geçirilmesi amaçlanmıştır.

Background Dysphagia is a geriatric syndrome. Changes in the whole body that occur with aging also affect swallowing functions and cause presbyphagia. This condition may progress to oropharyngeal and/or esophageal dysphagia in the presence of secondary causes that increase in incidence with aging. However, no study has been published that provides recommendations for use in clinical practice that addresses in detail all aspects of the management of dysphagia in geriatric individuals. This study aimed to answer almost all potential questions and problems in the management of geriatric dysphagia in clinical practice. Methods A multidisciplinary team created this recommendation guide using the seven-step and three-round modified Delphi method via e-mail. The study included 39 experts from 29 centers in 14 cities. Results Based on the 5W and 1H method, we developed 216 detailed recommendations for older adults from the perspective of different disciplines dealing with older people. Conclusion This consensus-based recommendation is a useful guide to address practical clinical questions in the diagnosis, rehabilitation, and follow-up for the management of geriatric dysphagia and also contains detailed commentary on these issues.

Cranial nerve (CN) lesions are observed due to congenital, infectious, neoplastic formations, migraine and head trauma. Along with the patient's age, clinical findings and neuroradiological imaging studies guide the diagnosis. A 57-year-old female patient was brought to the emergency room (ER) by Emergency Medical Services (EMS) due to a motor vehicle accident. No medical history. She was conscious, cooperative and orientated. Vital findings were normal. She had ptosis in the left eye, loss in the direct light reflex, restricted medial movements and mydriasis were determined. Radiological examination is normal. The patient was hospitalized with the diagnosis of isolated 3rd cranial nerve palsy (OCNP). Isolated OCNP is a rare condition usually secondary to major trauma. In addition to, there may be isolated unilateral OCNP without any evidence of neuroimaging abnormality. Emergency physicians should be vigilant in such cases that should perform detailed neurological examination and clinical follow-up for the patient's complaints.

112 emergency call system is crucial for geriatric patients because the safe and secure transport of these patients can decrease mortality and morbidity. The present study was a temporal and clinical evaluation of cases with COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 older than 65 years of age during the pandemic. Of the 10948 cases accepted diagnosed with novel coronavirus between March 11 and May 1, 2020, 51.6% (n=5650) were female, 48.4% (n=5298) were male and the median age was 75.0 (70.0-81.0) years. The patients were compared concerning age, gender, month distribution, symptoms, comorbidity, computed tomography results, hospitalization, and discharge criteria. Concerning symptoms, the findings showed that 50.0% (n=5476) had high fever, 50.3% (n=5504) had cough, 59.5% (n=6509) had shortness of breath. Atypical complaints were found in 21.3% (n=2337) of the patients. Concerning comorbidity, 10.3% (n=1126) had hypertension, 5.8% (n=633) had diabetes mellitus, 7.2% (n=784) had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and 0.9% (n=95) had cerebrovascular disease. The findings showed that 26.0% of the cases were hospitalized, while 74.0% (n=8098) were discharged. In 112 call center calls, being more careful and alert in the anamnesis of the geriatric patient group defined as important concerning the atypical course and potential risk factors and in the use of protective equipment is important for safe and secure transport of patients and since this will decrease mortality and morbidity. [Med-Science 2022; 11(2.000): 613-6]

Aim:Although there are few studies on the predictive value of C-reactive protein-to-albumin ratio (CAR) in coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) patients, to the best of our knowledge, there are no studies specifically conducted in COVID-19 patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study assessed the use of baseline CAR levels to predict death in hospitalized COVID-19 patients with CVD.Methods:This study was designed as a single-center cross-sectional study. Patients diagnosed with COVID-19 who were admitted to the University of Health Sciences Turkey, Bagcilar Training and Research Hospital between April 16 and May 20, 2020 were analyzed retrospectively. The patients were divided into 2 groups: those who died and those who survived, considering the follow-up period. The CAR values of the study population, as well as patients with CVD, were calculated, and the association of CAR with in-hospital mortality was evaluated.Results:The in-hospital mortality rate was 11.1% (49/442 pts) in all populations. Deceased patients had significantly more frequent CVD (p

INTRODUCTION: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome. Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is spreading rapidly around the world. Asymptomatic infection is highly contagious, potentially leading to viral spread. We aimed to determine the rate of patients positive for COVID-19 PCR performed for safety measures before thyroid fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB). METHODS: The patients applied to Ankara City Hospital, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinics between 15.03.2020 and 15.08.2020 and underwent routine COVID-19 PCR test before FNAB were evaluated retrospectively. Age, gender, history of hypertension and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), use of levothyroxine (LT4) or antithyroid drug, 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 [25(OH)D3], TSH, freeT3 (fT3), free (fT4) levels, FNAB results were obtained from the records. RESULTS: Asymptomatic COVID-19 infection was detected in 29 (2.43%) of 1195 patients who underwent FNAB. There was no statistically significant difference between patients with COVID-19 PCR test positive asymptomatic and negative patients in terms of age, gender, median values of 25(OH)D3, TSH, fT3, fT4, the ratio of hypertension and T2DM. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The healthcare professionals work devotedly against COVID-19 infection, demonstrating a great example of struggle worldwide. FNAB is an invasive procedure requiring close contact. It should be known by the clinician that COVID-19 infection is associated with a high risk of transmission in asymptomatic patients. The rate of 2.43% in the population can not be underestimated and indicates the importance of the use of personal protective equipment and taking infection prevention measures.

Systemic inflammation is accepted as a nontraditional cardiovascular risk factor and has been shown to play a role in all stages of atherosclerosis. Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disease. In our study, we aimed to evaluate the cardiovascular risk in rosacea patients. 40 people with rosacea (30 women, 10 men) and a control group of 40 age- and sex-matched individuals (28 women, 12 men) who had no chronic inflammatory skin disease were included in the study. Participants' body mass index (BMI) was calculated and their blood pressure was measured. Fasting blood glucose, fasting blood insulin, lipid profile, hemogram, basic biochemical parameters, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and C-reactive protein levels were analyzed after at least 8 hours of fasting. In all participants, carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) was measured using high-resolution B-mode ultrasonography (with a 4 MHz linear transducer. The mean CIMT values were 0.62 (0.18) mm in the rosacea group and 0.50 (0.14) mm in the control group. Statistical comparison indicated that mean CIMT was significantly greater in the patients with rosacea compared to the control group (p=0.001). There was no significant difference between the rosacea and control groups in terms of mean height, weight, BMI, or systolic and diastolic blood pressures (p>0.05). People with rosacea should be monitored periodically in terms of cardiovascular disease risk. [Med-Science 2022; 11(1.000): 331-4]

Aim:Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer diagnosed in women. Screening programs to diagnose breast anomalies increase the likelihood of early diagnosis and survival. This study describes the most extensive breast cancer screening program in Istanbul/Turkey between 2018 and 2019 and offers recommendations for nationwide programs.Methods:We collected data from the Istanbul Health Directorate’s cancer surveillance database from May 2018 to December 2019. We analyzed data on patients referred for further investigation due to suspicion of possible tumors in their screening radiography. The database included socio-demographic information and further examination details (tests, outcomes, and planned treatment).Results:The mean age of the 3,577 women who were invited for further examination was 52.3 [standard deviation (SD): 7.5]. The age group with the highest percentage of further investigation invitations was between 50 and 54. The mean time between the results of screening mammography was 16.2 days (SD: 15.3). 5.1% of the women referred were diagnosed with some sort of cancer. Women who went to the place of scheduled appointments, instead of getting an appointment in another place of their choosing, were diagnosed and treated earlier.Conclusion:For a breast screening program to reach the entirety of the target population, a comprehensive approach to every step of the process (screening, diagnosis, treatment) needs to be considered together.

INTRODUCTION: The objective of this study was to retrospectively compare clinical features and prognostic values between the patients who were referred to the general surgery clinic of our hospital with the presumed diagnosis of acute appendicitis and underwent positive or negative appendectomy. METHODS: Patients were divided into two groups as positive (n: 362) and negative appendectomy (n: 284) and the data obtained were compared between these two groups. Laboratory investigations were performed in all patients, and white blood cell, mean platelet volume (MPV), neutrophils count, neutrophils (%) (NEU%), C-reactive protein and total bilirubin (TBIL) values were studied. RESULTS: The mean CRP value was found as 57.68 in positive appendectomy (PA) group and 41.43 in negative appendectomy (NA) group, and the mean CRP value was statistically significantly higher in PA group, compared to NA group. The mean TBIL value was 0.97 mg/dl in PA group and 0.69 mg/dl in NA group, and the mean TBIL value was statistically significantly higher in PA group. The other parameters were similar between the groups. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: According to the results of our study, CRP and TBIL values significantly differ between positive and negative appendectomy patients. Therefore, these values may be used as specific biomarkers in predicting positive acute appendicitis.

Abstract Background : Acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) is a life-threatening pathology that often requires urgent surgical intervention. It is frequently faced in elderly patients. Despite advances in the diagnosis of AMI morbidity, and mortality rates are still high. The presence of comorbidities delayed surgical intervention due to diagnostic difficulties, and in most cases, older patients with heart problems may be remarkable factors for higher mortality rates. Diagnostic challenges are tried to be overcome with both imaging methods and laboratory findings. Unfortunately, to date, no clear laboratory parameters have been described in diagnosing or predicting mortality of mesenteric ischemia. Materials and Methods : The patients diagnosed with acute arterial mesenteric ischemia between the dates 2010-2019 were enrolled in the study. Demographic characteristics, diagnostic biochemical parameters (lymphocyte, neutrophil, albumin, C-reactive protein, lactate, lactate dehydrogenase, Di-Dimer, troponin, white blood count, platelet, fibrinogen, creatine kinase-MB) levels, as well as comorbidities of the patients, were evaluated. Results : A total of 149 patients was enrolled in the study, with a mean age of 66.11 . In the non-survivor group, neutrophil, RDW, lactate, DDM, Fibrinogen, and CK-MB levels, furthermore albumin levels were defined as significantly elevated in the survivor group (p0.05). Hypertension was the major comorbidity by far in both groups. Conclusion : High levels of fibrinogen, lactate, DDM, CK-MB levels and low levels of albumin levels may be predictors of mortality in mesenteric ischemia.

Introduction: Early childhood caries (ECC) is considered a global health concern due to its high prevalence and effect on the overall health of children.Aim: The present study aimed to investigate prevalence of ECC and associated risk factors in a Turkish subpopulation of children.Materials and methods: Five hundred forty-two (299 boys, 243 girls) children were enrolled in this study. Caries experience on primary teeth was measured using decayed or filled teeth (dft) index and the presence of caries was diagnosed if dft >0. A structured questionnaire was employed to mothers through interview.Results: ECC was significantly associated with increased age (OR=1.032; 95% CI, 1.018–1.047; p

Abstract Anesthetic mumps is a rare complication that occurs with sudden swelling of the parotid gland, especially after surgery. Symptomatic treatment or spontaneous regression within days without sequelae. It is thought that it may be due to vasodilation, hyperemia, air leakage into the stenone duct, perioperative use of drugs such as atropine, succinylcholine, morphine, and propofol, and the posture position of the patient in the operation. Anesthetic mumps appears within the first few weeks after the operation. In this article, we presented the complication that developed in the event of a short-term procedure such as double J catheter removal.

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to develop a simple, rapid urine test based on the level of foaming that occurs in the urine sample due to the excretion of peptide structures containing amino acids specific to the antigenic structure of COVID-19. In this study, we present the preliminary results of the first clinical study with a newly developed urine foaming test (UFT). METHODS: This study was conducted in a tertiary hospital in Istanbul. After obtaining the approval of the ethics committee, urine samples were taken from three groups of patients whose informed consent was obtained. The groups were created according to the COVID-19 Diagnostic Guide of Ministry of Health: A: outpatients with suspected COVID-19, B: inpatients for follow-up and treatment, C: patients treated in intensive care unit (ICU). Also, 30 healthy volunteers were included as the control group D. Urine samples taken from all groups were delivered to the laboratory. 2.5 ml urine sample was added to the test tube and shaken for 15 seconds and the level of foam formed was visually evaluated according to the color scale. Other data of the patients were obtained from the hospital information management system and the physician caring for the patient. The clinical status, PCR test results, computed tomography (CT), if any, laboratory tests, and UFT results were compared and the level of statistical significance was expressed as p≤0.05 in the 95% confidence intervals (CI). Performance characteristics, such as sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value of the UFT, were statistically calculated according to the RT-PCR result and/or CT. RESULTS: A statistically significant difference was observed between UFT distributions of the control, outpatient, inpatient and ICU patients (p=0.0001). The results of UFT orange and red in inpatients and ICU patients were statistically significantly higher than in the control and outpatient groups. The diagnostic accuracy of UFT was detected in all group, the pooled sensitivity was 92% (95% CI: 87–95%) and specificity was 89% (95%CI: 80–98%). CONCLUSION: Our preliminary results suggest that the UFT is useful, particularly in predicting the clinical severity of COVID-19. The UFT could be recommended as a point of care test, rapid and non-invasive method in the diagnosis and follow-up of COVID-19.

Abstract Background The term mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) designates an assorted cell population comprised of stem cells, progenitor cells, fibroblasts, and stromal cells. MSCs contribute to the homeostatic maintenance of many organs through paracrine and long-distance signaling. Tissue environment, in both physiological and pathological conditions, may affect the intercellular communication of MSCs. Methods We performed a secretome analysis of MSCs isolated from subcutaneous adipose tissue (sWAT) and visceral adipose tissue (vWAT), and from bone marrow (BM), of normal and obese mice. Results The MSCs isolated from tissues of healthy mice share a common core of released factors: components of cytoskeletal and extracellular structures; regulators of basic cellular functions, such as protein synthesis and degradation; modulators of endoplasmic reticulum stress; and counteracting oxidative stress. It can be hypothesized that MSC secretome beneficially affects target cells by the horizontal transfer of many released factors. Each type of MSC may exert specific signaling functions, which could be determined by looking at the many factors that are exclusively released from every MSC type. The vWAT-MSCs release factors that play a role in detoxification activity in response to toxic substances and drugs. The sWAT-MSC secretome contains proteins involved in in chondrogenesis, osteogenesis, and angiogenesis. Analysis of BM-MSC secretome revealed that these cells exert a signaling function by remodeling extracellular matrix structures, such as those containing glycosaminoglycans. Obesity status profoundly modified the secretome content of MSCs, impairing the above-described activity and promoting the release of inflammatory factors. Conclusion We demonstrated that the content of MSC secretomes depends on tissue microenvironment and that pathological condition may profoundly alter its composition. Video abstract

Subacute thyroiditis (SAT), is a self-limiting inflammatory disorder which is linked to a viral infection. A few cases of SAT were reported after Severe Acute Respiratory syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. We here reported a case of SAT that occurred two weeks after SARS-CoV-2 infection. A thirty-nine-year-old male with no comorbid diseases applied to our outpatient clinic with the complaints of sore throat, fatigue and subfebrile fever. He had a contact history of his wife who has a positive SARS-CoV-2 reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test. The nasopharyngeal swab was performed and his SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR test was confirmed positive. He recovered from all symptoms in one week. On the second week of the first diagnosis, he developed neck pain, fatigue, muscle pains, palpitation and tremors. Because his thyroid palpation was painful and he was more symptomatic thyroid function tests were performed. Thyrotropin was suppressed (0.01 mIU/L), free triiodothyronine and free thyroxine levels were high as 11 ng/L and 3.72 ng/dL, respectively. His cervical ultrasound also revealed SAT. He was treated with prednisolone, ibuprofen and propranolol. Within one week, there was a progressive resolution of signs and symptoms. After the third week, his laboratory results returned to normal ranges.

We present the interim results of the efficacy, immunogenicity, and safety of the two-dose schedules of TURKOVAC versus CoronaVac. This was a randomized, observer-blinded, non-inferiority trial (NCT04942405). Volunteers were 18–55 years old and randomized at a 1:1 ratio to receive either TURKOVAC or CoronaVac at Day 0 and Day 28, both of which are 3 μg/0.5 mL of inactivated severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) adsorbed to aluminum hydroxide. The primary efficacy outcome was the prevention of polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-confirmed symptomatic coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) at least 14 days after the second dose in the modified per-protocol (mPP) group. Safety analyses were performed in the modified intention-to-treat (mITT) group. Between 22 June 2021 and 7 January 2022, 1290 participants were randomized. The mITT group consisted of 915 participants, and the mPP group consisted of 732 participants. During a median follow-up of 90 (IQR 86–90) days, the relative risk reduction with TURKOVAC compared to CoronaVac was 41.03% (95% CI 12.95–60.06) for preventing PCR-confirmed symptomatic COVID-19. The incidences of adverse events (AEs) overall were 58.8% in TURKOVAC and 49.7% in CoronaVac arms (p = 0.006), with no fatalities or grade four AEs. TURKOVAC was non-inferior to CoronaVac in terms of efficacy and demonstrated a good safety and tolerability profile.

INTRODUCTION[|]Vitamin D deficiency may play a role in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia by causing abnormal placental implantation and by affecting the inflammatory response. The aim of this study was to compare the cord blood vitamin D level in neonates born to preeclamptic mothers with that of a control group of newborns whose mothers were not preeclamptic.[¤]METHODS[|]The preeclamptic group was made up of newborns of mothers classified as having moderate to severe preeclampsia. Neonates of a similar gestational age and birth weight born to normotensive mothers comprised the control group. The cord blood vitamin D level of both groups of newborns was measured and the results were statistically compared. [¤]RESULTS[|]Sixty neonates born to preeclamptic mothers and 47 born to normotensive mothers were included in the study. The mean serum vitamin D level of the study group was 12.62+-5.43 ng/mL and 12.85+-5.56 ng/mL in the control group. The percentage of those determined to have a serum vitamin D level

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive cutaneous malignancy with uncertain histogenesis. Here, we present an unusual presentation of giant MCC of the skin with concomitant intra-abdominal metastasis to pancreas. A 53-year-old man was admitted to our clinic with a giant ulcerated mass in the gluteal region. Incisional biopsy of the mass revealed primary poorly differentiated neuroendocrine tumor of the cutaneous origin and confirmed the diagnosis of MCC. Clinically, the patient complained of abdominal discomfort and weight loss of 15 kg over the past 4 months. Intra-abdominal computerized tomographic examination demonstrated a heterogenous-appearing giant mass of the right upper quadrant invading the superior mesenteric artery and leading to obstruction of common biliary duct and a second mass (6 cm Χ 6 cm) located at the inferior pole of pancreas extending toward the duodenum. As the gluteal mass was prone to trauma and leading to massive hemorrhage, excision of the gluteal mass with 2 cm of tumor-free margin was performed. V-Y advancement flap based on the perforators of the inferior gluteal and profunda femoris artery was elevated to cover the resulting defect (22 cm Χ 17 cm). Although the patient was referred to medical oncology for further therapeutic management, he could only survive for 11 months from his initial diagnosis. We would like to emphasize that MCC has the potential to spread to unusual organs in short intervals and prompt evaluation and proper management is essential for optimal survival of these patients.

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is caused by the central nervous system-derived glial cells, and represents the most common (50%-60%) form of primary brain tumors. The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro effects of selenium on human GBM cells. In the present study, GMS-10 and DBTRG-05MG human GBM cell lines were used as a model to examine selenium entering the cell, cell proliferation, cytotoxicity, DNA fragmentation and Ki-67 protein expression in selenomethionine treated and non-treated groups. Seleno-L-methionine (SeMet) as the organic source of selenium exerted effects on cell proliferation and cytotoxicity, as assessed with WST-1 and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) tests, respectively. Apoptosis was assessed by DNA fragmentation with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Ki-67 protein expression was determined by Western blotting, while selenium measurements were performed in the supernatants and lysates by using Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. Th is is the first study to examine the effects of SeMet on cell proliferation and death in GMS-10 and DBTRG-05MG cells. Both GBM cell lines responded to SeMet in a dose- and time-dependent manner. WST-1 test showed that low-dose SeMet treatment (50 and 100 μM) increased cell proliferation. Analysis of intracellular SeMet levels by using AAS showed results consistent with viability and cytotoxicity tests. SeMet treatment for 72 h caused increased DNA fragmentation in both cell lines. In conclusion, our results suggest that SeMet induces cell death at high doses, while increasing cell proliferation at low doses. In the view of the data obtained in this investigation, further studies focusing on the possibility of using SeMet against different types of GBM and in combination with prospect synergic compounds are considered to be worthwhile.

Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy is a demyelinating polyneuropathy characterized by distal/proximal weakness, which shows gradual progression over a period of 8 weeks or longer. Guillan-Barre Syndrome is a condition characterized by acute monophasic paralysis typically following an infectious assault, and it usually peaks in severity over 3-4 weeks at most. Although rare, there are acute-onset chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy cases that show progression over a period shorter than 4 weeks, as is the case in Guillan-Barre Syndrome .This report discusses a case of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy in a HBsAg-positive patient, which started as Guillan-Barre Syndrome but showed 3 recurrences within 6 months, each with rapidly progressing quadriplegia, respiratory arrest, and elevated liver enzymes and HBV DNA. [Cukurova Med J 2016; 41(4.000): 782-786]

BACKGROUND: Knowing risk factors for colistin resistance is important since colistin is the only remaining choice for the treatment of infections caused by multi-drug resistant microorganisms. OBJECTIVE: Evaluate risk factors associated with infection by colistin-resistant microorganisms. DESIGN: Retrospective study. SETTINGS: Tertiary healthcare centers. PATIENTS AND METHODS: An e-mail including the title and purpose of the study was sent to 1500 infectious disease specialists via a scientific and social web portal named “Infeksiyon Dunyasi (Infection World)”. Demographic and clinical data was requested from respondents. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Colistin-resistance. RESULTS: Eighteen infectious disease specialists from twelve tertiary care centers responded to the invitation. Data was collected on 165 patients, 56 cases (39.9%) and 109 (66.0%) age- and sex-matched controls. The colistin-resistant microorganisms isolated from cases were 29 Acinetobacter baumannii (51.8%), 18 Pseudomonas aeruginosa (32.1%) and 9 Klebsiella spp. Colistin, carbapenem, and quinolone use in the last three months were risk factors for colistin resistance in the univariate analysis. Previous quinolone use in the last three months (P=.003; RR:3.2; 95% CI:1.5-6,7) and previous colistin use in the last three months (P=.001; RR: 3.6; 95% CI: 1.63-7.99) were significant risk factors in the multivariate analysis. CONCLUSION: Clinicians should limit the use of quinolones and remain aware of the possibility of resistance developing during colistin use. LIMITATIONS: The lack of a heteroresistance analysis on the isolates. No data on use of a loading dose or the use of colistin in combination.