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OBJECTIVE: We planned to investigate the effect of close monitoring on compliance and the factors affecting compliance among patients receiving positive airway pressure (PAP) treatment due to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). PATIENTS AND METHODS: This study was a single-center, prospective, randomized, controlled study. Between January 2022 and May 2022, 192 patients who were 18 years of age or older, had been newly diagnosed with OSA, and underwent PAP titration at our sleep laboratory were included in the study. RESULTS: One hundred twenty-eight patients were randomized as group 1 (study group) and group 2 (control group). There was no correlation between good continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) compliance and diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hyperthyroidism, or allergic rhinitis. However, there was a statistically significant correlation between good CPAP compliance and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma. CONCLUSIONS: Sleeping with such a device will be very difficult and uncomfortable. As observed from previous studies, adherence to CPAP is a critical problem worldwide regardless of geography, education, age, and sex. Telemedicine monitoring may be a good follow-up tool. Nevertheless, the essential tool is interpersonal communication by phone calls, face-to-face computer communication, or frequent visits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction/objective Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a pulmonary disease characterized by persistent respiratory difficulties and impaired airflow. COPD patients have a higher risk for lung infections, like the flu or pneumonia, lung cancer, heart problems, weak muscles, brittle bones, depression, and anxiety. The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of ECG abnormalities in patients with COPD experiencing exacerbations. Patients and methods The research encompassed a cohort of 832 individuals diagnosed with COPD who encountered episodes of exacerbations. Five hundred seventy-five (69.11%) of the included participants were women, and 257 (30.89%) were men. The included participants ranged from 18 to 60 years old. It was ensured that none of the participants had received any treatment for their condition for more than 3 days. Results Based on the level of exacerbation severity, the patient population is categorized into three distinct groups: moderate, comprising 330 (39.66%) individuals; severe, encompassing 406 (48.79%) individuals; and extremely severe, consisting of 96 (11.53%) individuals. During episodes of exacerbation in patients with COPD, the following ECG alterations were observed: a QTc less than 0.40 s in 99.15% of cases, a transitional ECG zone in 74.33% of cases, a P more than 2.5 mm in 45.67% of cases, an axis deviation towards the second quadrant (axis II) in 28% of cases, an incomplete right bundle branch block in 26.32% of cases, and a full right bundle branch block in 25.60% of cases. Conclusion Regardless of prior cardiac pathology, ECG is a low-cost, quick, and dependable modality for detecting ischemic changes in people experiencing a flare-up of COPD.

Introduction. Staphylococcus (S.) aureus is one of the most omnipresent and dangerous human pathogens, whose main characteristic is the production of the enzyme coagulase. This characteristic serves to identify and assess the pathogenicity of the bacteria. In addition to skin infections, endocarditis, osteomyelitis, and infectious arthritis, it is a common cause of pneumonia both in children and adults. Case report. We described a case of a 65-year-old woman with a dry cough and malaise with patchy areas of consolidation on the chest X-ray and “ground-glass” opacity with bronchial wall thickening and unilateral mediastinal lymphadenopathy on chest computed tomography imaging. Methicillin-resistant S. aureus was isolated from the bronchoalveolar aspirate taken during bronchoscopy. The woman was empirically treated with azithromycin, and later, based on the antibiogram findings, azithromycin was replaced with meropenem, after which her health improved. Conclusion. We presented a rare case of pneumonia with unconvincing symptomatology and laboratory and radiological findings. Paying more attention to such cases in the future is crucial, especially to the use of antibiotics to which staphylococci are increasingly developing resistance.

Introduction. Li-Fraumeni syndrome (LFS) is a hereditary familial predisposition to a wide range of certain, often rare malignant diseases. Patients also have an increased risk of developing secondary and even tertiary malignancies throughout their lifetime. The most common malignancies are soft-tissue and bone sarcomas, breast cancer, brain tumors, adrenocortical carcinoma, and acute leukemia. The syndrome is inherited as an autosomal dominant disorder. In most families with LFS, germline mutations of the tumor protein have been identified on the TP53 gene. To our knowledge, this is the second case report of LFS that has been reported in our country so far. Case report. We present five members of the same family with malignant diseases typical for LFS. A woman at the age of 21 had recurrent astrocytoma and mediastinal liposarcoma. Her older sister had rhabdomyosarcoma and liver cancer and died at the age of 18. The mother of their father was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 45, and she died at the age of 52. The father’s sister had osteosarcoma and died before the age of 40. The father was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma at the age of 49, two years after the death of his second daughter. Genetic analysis identified a pathogenic, heterozygous germline mutation of the TP53 gene. He also has a third, 8-year-old daughter for whom he denied testing for LFS. Conclusion. Genetic analysis for LFS of all family members is required in patients with rare and multiple malignancies but also frequent and early onset malignancies in the family. Screening for the detection of early cancer manifestation is the key to prolonged survival in people with LFS.

Introduction. A percutaneous transhepatic approach has been used to place tunneled catheters in the inferior vena cava for hemodialysis. This route through the suprahepatic vein could be used to place a tunnelled catheter for permanent haemodialysis without complications and with an excellent permeability rate. Single centre expirience. From 2011 to 2020 in a Military Medical Academy we treated 4 patients with transhepatic central venous catheter for hemodialysis. All of them had exhausted approaches during period of hemodialysis. Arterio-venous fistulas had been thrombosed on the arms, thrombosis subclavian vein billateraly or superior cava veinand complications by femoral catheters was present. Peritoneal dialysis was not possible. Discusion. Limited number of papers descripted outcome of placement transhepatic catheters for hemodialysis. In our expirience one patient needed scroll catheter due hemodialysis had not well outcome, and one patient needed thrombolysis catheter.Two of them are on hemodialysis without complications for 300 and 1650 days. Conclusion. The transhepatic venous access under ultrasound and radioscopic guidance is a simple and safe method. It is an acceptable alternative for permanent haemodialysis catheters when other venous accesses are exhausted, and when it is performed by a well-trained team.

Introduction/Objective. Cardiovascular disease is one of the most common comorbidities among subjects with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The aim of this study is to evaluate electrocardiogram (ECG) parameters and mortality predictors in COPD patients. Methods. A total of 835 consecutive patients were included. The patients were classified to suffer from COPD if the forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC) was < 70% in three consecutive postbronchodilator measurements. The following ECG changes were observed: axis, P wave, low ORS complex, transitional zone, left bundle branch block (LBBB), right bundle branch block (RBBB), incomplete RBBB, S1S2S3 configuration, negative T in V1–V3. The patients were followed up for mortality over a five-year period. Results. Both survivors and non-survivors were of similar age, sex, and COPD status. FVC and FEV1, as well as Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease stadiums were significantly higher in the survivor group (p < 0.016, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, respectively). Normal axis was in significantly higher percentage in non-survived patients (p = 0.020). RBBB and incomplete RBBB are more frequent findings in patients who died (p < 0.001, p < 0.05, respectively). LBBB, S1S2S3 configuration is in significantly higher percentage present in non-survivors (p < 0.016, p < 0.001, respectively). In the multivariable logistic model, patients with LBBB have two times higher chance of mortality compared to patients without LBBB. In contrast, patients with RBBB have 1.6 times lower chance of having death outcome. Conclusion. The main ECG predictors of COPD patients’ five-year mortality are LBBB and RBBB, but according to statistical model, ECG should be further explored and possibly obligatory involved in a routine clinical practice as an easy and low-cost screening method.

Abstract: Introduction: Secondary antiphospholipid syndrome (SAPS) is APS that occurs in the context of another medical condition. Although antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) can occur in patients with viral, bacterial, or protozoal infections, they are rarely associated with thrombosis. Aim: To present an uncommon case of pneumonia and pleural effusion complicated with pulmonary thromboembolism in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), due to non-diagnosed secondary antiphospholipid syndrome. Case report: A 28 years old woman, never pregnant, with a family history of systemic lupus erythematosus, has been suffering from SLE from the age of 18. She had only articular and skin manifestations, without internal organ involvement. She has been taking Methotrexate (10 mg weekly) and Prednisone (5 mg daily) in the previous 10 years. She was presented at the Emergency department with the radiological finding of pleuropneumonia followed by temperature up to 39C, shortness of breath, cough, fatigue, and weakness. Results: She was treated initially with three antibiotics and thoracocentesis. She developed pulmonary thrombosis without deep venous thrombosis. Laboratory findings were: ESR = 37 mm/h, CRP = 2+, ANA = 1/80 peripheral, RF negative, anti-dsDNA = 147 (positive > 40), anti-Sm negative, anticardiolipin IgG antibody 158 GPL (up to 12), anticardiolipin IgM antibody 5.5 MPL (up to 10), anti-beta2-glycoprotein IgG and IgM were negative and lupus anti-coagulant was 88" (18"-55"). The patient underwent Heparin and Warfarin treatment, by checking INR to be in a 2.6 to 3.5 range. Prednisolone and Hydroxychloroquine were also started. Conclusion: All patients suspected with SLE should be evaluated for antiphospholipid antibodies (APL). However, APS diagnosis requires both clinical and laboratory features.

Introduction: Although pleural effusion is a common clinical manifestation, the differential diagnosis of the cause of the pleural effusion is often challenging, especially in the early differentiation of tuberculous pleurisy (TP) from other pleural effusion. Case report: We present a previously healthy man who had no contagious or TB contact but developed massive tuberculous pleural effusion which eventually was unexpected tuberculous. He started with therapy per protocol and feeling well. The purpose of this case and review of literature was to remind the physicians that tuberculosis is not a sickening illness, but on the contrary, it is in the expansion. Discussion: When a patient presents with new pleural effusion, the diagnosis of tuberculous pleuritis should be considered. The patient is at great risk for developing pulmonary or extra pulmonary TB if the diagnosis is not made properly. Between 3% and 25% of patients with TB will have TB pleuritic or more in immunocompromised patients.The treatment for TB pleuritis is the same as that for pulmonary TB. Conclusion:The gold standard for the diagnosis of tuberculous pleural effusion remains the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in pleural fluid, or pleural biopsy specimens, either by microscopy and/or culture, or the histological demonstration of caseating granulomas in the pleura along with acid fast bacilli.

Bacground/Aim. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) involves repeated episodes of cessation of breathing that occur due to a decrease in pharyngeal muscle tone. This disorder is more common in men and represents a significant risk factor for serious cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events. The gold standard in the diagnosis of this disorder represents a polysomnography (PSG), which is technically a complex and multidisciplinary method. Respiratory polygraphy (RP) may constitute an adequate replacement for most uncomplicated cases of obstructive sleep apnea. The aim of the study was to examine the efficacy of using respiratory polygraphies in diagnosing of obstructive sleep apnea. Methods. On all the patients with suspected obstructive sleep apnea, RP and a retrospective analysis of the obtained results were performed. Results. By completing our examination, we proved that there was a positive correlation between the results obtained by using RP and the predictors of obstructive sleep apnea such as the Epworth sleepiness scale (EPWORTH) score, neck circumference and body mass index. Conclusion. Respiratory polygraphy represents a cheaper and simpler replacement for PSG, especially with uncomplicated obstructive breathing disorders during sleep.

Introduction. Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, known as venous thromboembolism, constitute a major global burden of disease. Both entities share the same risk factors. Psoriasis is a common, chronic skin disease. It also presents multisystemic inflammation, mainly affecting skin and joints, but it is also associated with the significant cardiovascular and metabolic states and comorbidities, on the so-called “psoriatic march”. Case report. We presented a 78-year-old female patient, with psoriasis associated with pulmonary embolism which is accidentally discovered. We did not find any other predisposing factor of this disease (primary or secondary thrombophilia), except hyperhomocysteinemia. The patient was treated with low molecular weight heparin (enoxaparin), followed by the administration of an oral vitamin K antagonist (warfarin sodium) in the weight adjusted regimens. Additionally, we recommended vitamin B complex, including folate. Supposed link between hyperhomocysteinemia and psoriasis was the decreased serum folate level as the result of increased vitamin utilization in the skin because of increased DNA synthesis. Conclusion. The reported case reflects existing literary knowledge about the increased risk of VTE and arterial thromboembolic events in the psoriatic patients. The highest risk appears in the patients with a severe disease and may be a consequence of systemic inflammation and hyperhomocysteinemia.

Background/Aim. As lung cancer is considered the greatest contributor to death among all cancer types any help might be valuable in the assessment of treatment effects. The aim of this study was for assess the quality of life (QoL) in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with gemcitabine- cisplatin regimen as the first line of chemotherapy. Methods. The QoL was assessed using certified Serbian translations of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality Life Questionnaire Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30) and Lung Cancer Module (QLQ-LC13) - version 3. The questionnaire was used before starting treatment and after the completion of the 2nd and the 4th cycle of chemotherapy. The questionnaire scales and single items were compared in order to assess the impact of treatment on the QoL. Results. A total of 60 patients started and 51 completed all questionnaires. There were no changes in the global health status score between the baseline, the 2nd and the 4th cycle of chemotherapy (42.78 ± 15.76, 45.56 ± 17.59, 48.20 ± 19.24, respectively; p = 0.1). Social function score, symptom scores: nausea and vomiting, pain, appetite loss, constipation, diarrhea and financial difficulties score differed significantly among chemotherapy cycles, indicating improved or worsened the QoL. In the lung cancer symptom score a significant difference between measurements was observed in cough, alopecia, chest pain and in using analgesics. Conclusion. Monitoring of changes in the QoL among patients with locally advanced and metastatic NSCLC showed that chemotherapy did not decrease the global health status but led to significant changes in the social and financial functioning of patients. Some symptoms associated with the disease reduced in the intensity but some new occurred as a result of chemotherapy. Using questionnaires to assess the QoL helped in easier identification of adverse effects and specific problems for adequate treatment.

Introduction/Aim. The disturbances in hemostasis are often in open surgical repair (OR) and endovascular repair (EVAR) of an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). These changes may influence the perioperative and early postoperative period inducing serious complications. The aim of this study was to compare the impact of OR and EVAR of AAA on clot quality assessed by rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM®) tests. Methods. The study included 40 patients who underwent elective AAA surgery and were devided into two groups (the OR and the EVAR group - 20 patients in each group). The ROTEM ® test was performed in 4 points: point 1 - 10 min before starting anesthesia in both groups; point 2 - 10 min after aortic clapming in the OR group and 10 min after the stent-graft trunk release in the EVAR group; point 3 - 10 min after the releasing of aortic clamp in the OR group and 10 min after stentgraft placement and releasing the femoral clamp in the EVAR group; point 4 - one hour after the procedure in both groups. Three ROTEM® tests were performed as: extrinsically activated assay with tissue factor (EXTEM), intrinsically activated test using kaolin (INTEM), and extrinsically activated test with tissue factor and the platelet inhibitor cytochalasin D (FIBTEM). All tests included the assessment of the maximum clot firmness (MCF) and the platelet component of clot strength was presented as maximal clot elasticity (MCE). Results. No significant difference in age, gender and diameter of AAA between groups was found. The time required for the procedure was significantly longer and loss of blood was greater in the OR group than in the EVAR group (p < 0.001). The significant deviation of MCF values in EXTEM test was found mainly in the point 3 (p ≤ 0.004) with significant difference between groups (p < 0.001). A significant difference of MCF values in INTEM test between groups was found in the points 3 and 4 (p < 0.001), which were dose-dependent by heparin sulfate. The MCF values in FIBTEM test were more prominent in the OR group than in the EVAR group without significant difference. The significant changes of MCF values in the FIBTEM test were found during time in both groups (p < 0.001). The values of MCE were lower in both groups, but without significant changes and difference between groups (p = 0.105). Conclusion. The disorders of hemostatic parameters assessed by ROTEM® tests are present in both the OR and the EVAR groups being more prominent in OR of AAA. Vigilant monitoring of hemostatic parameters evaluated by ROTEM® tests could help in administration of the adequate and target therapy in patients who underwent EVAR or OR of AAA.

Introduction. Rupture of an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a potentially lethal state. Only half of patients with ruptured AAA reach the hospital alive. The alternative for open reconstruction of this condition is endovascular repair (EVAR). We presented a successful endovascular reapir of ruptured AAA in a patient with a number of comorbidities. Case report. A 60-year-old man was admitted to our institution due to diffuse abdominal pain with flatulence and belching. Initial abdominal ultrasonography showed an AAA that was confirmed on multislice computed tomography scan angiography which revealed a large retroperitoneal haematoma. Because of patient’s comorbidites (previous surgery of laryngeal carcinoma and one-third laryngeal stenosis, arterial hypertension and cardiomyopathy with left ventricle ejection fraction of 30%, stenosis of the right internal carotid artery of 80%) it was decided that endovascular repair of ruptured AAA in local anaesthesia and analgosedation would be treatment of choice. Endovascular grafting was achieved with aorto-bi-iliac bifurcated excluder endoprosthesis with complete exclusion of the aneurysmal sac, without further enlargment of haemathoma and no contrast leakage. The postoperative course of the patient was eventless, without complications. On recall examination 3 months after, the state of the patient was well. Conclusion. The alternative for open reconstruction of ruptured AAA in haemodynamically stable patients with suitable anatomy and comorbidities could be emergency EVAR in local anesthesia. This technique could provide greater chances for survival with lower intraoperative and postoperative morbidity and mortality, as shown in the presented patient.

Introduction. Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis is an uncommon disease characterized by the accumulation of surfactant proteins and phospholipids within the alveolar spaces. Acquired disease can be idiopathic (primary) and secondary. The prevalence of acquired pulmonary alveolar proteinosis is about 0.37 per 100,000 persons. Common symptoms are dyspnea and cough. Chest X-ray shows bilateral perihilar infiltrates. Open-lung biopsy is the gold standard for the diagnosis. Treatment includes whole-lung lavage, application of granulocyte-macrophage colonystimulating factor and lung transplantation. Case report. We reported a 51 year-old man with primary form of the disease. It was the second case of this extremely rare disease in the past 30 years in our clinic. The symptoms were longlasting dry cough, fever and physical deterioration. Chest Xray revealed bilateral pulmonary infiltrates; computed tomography showed patchy ground-glass opacification with interlobular thickening. The diagnosis was established by open lung biopsy. Additional tests were performed to exclude secondary form of the disease. Conclusion. We presented a rare clinical entity with typical clinical features and clinical and radiological course of the disease, in order to improve differential diagnostic approach to patients with bilateral lung infiltrations. In patients with pulmonary alveolar proteinosis timely diagnosis and adequate treatment can improve a prognosis.

Introduction. Nitrofurantoin, a furan derivative, introduced in the fifties has widely been used as an effective agent for the treatment and prevention of urinary tract infections (UTI). Spectrum of adverse reactions to nitrofurantoin is wide, ranging from eosinophilic interstitial lung disease, acute hepatitis and granulomatous reaction, to the chronic active hepatitis, a very rare adverse effect, that can lead to cirrhosis and death. Case report. We presented a 55-year-old female patient with eosinophilic interstitial lung disease, severe chronic active hepatitis and several other immune- mediated multisystemic manifestations of prolonged exposure to nitrofurantoin because of the recurrent UTI caused by Escherichia coli. We estimated typical radiographic and laboratory disturbances, also restrictive ventilatory changes, severe reduction of carbon monoxide diffusion capacity and abnormal liver function tests. Lymphocytic-eosinophylic alveolitis was consistent with druginduced reaction. Hepatitis was confirmed by liver biopsy. After withdrawal of nitrofurantoin and application of high dose of glicocorticosteroids, prompt clinical and laboratory recovery was achieved. Conclusion. Adverse drug reactions should be considered in patients with concomitant lung and liver disease. The mainstay of treatment is drug withdrawal and the use of immunosuppressive drugs in severe cases. Consideration should be given to monitor lung and liver function tests during long term nitrofurantoin therapy.

Objective: The prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) and metabolic syndrome is increasing worldwide, in part linked to epidemic of obesity. The purposes of this study were to establish the rate of metabolic syndrome and to compare fibrinogen, homocysteine, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), leptin levels, and homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in the obese patients with and without OSAS. Methods: The study population included 36 consecutive obese patients with OSAS (23 males; mean age, 50.0 ±19.7 years), and 34 obese patients without OSAS (17 males; mean age, 49.7±11.1 years) were enrolled as control group. Metabolic syndrome was investigated; fibrinogen, homocysteine, CRP, and leptin levels were measured, and IR was assessed. Results: Metabolic syndrome was found in 17 (47.2%) obese OSAS patients, whereas only 29.4% of obese subjects had metabolic syndrome (P > 0.05). Obese patients with OSAS had significantly higher mean levels of triglyceride (P< 0.001), total-cholesterol ( P = 0.003), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol ( P = 0.001), fasting glucose ( P = 0.01), HOMA-IR ( PP = 0.03), fibrinogen ( P < 0.003), hsCRP ( P P = 0.03) than control group . Besides, leptin level was positively correlated with waist ( r = 0.512, P = 0.03) and neck circumferences ( r = 0.547, P = 0.03), and fasting glucose (r = 0.471, P = 0.04) in OSAS patients, but not in obese subjects. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that obese OSAS patients may have an increased rate of metabolic syndrome and higher levels of serum lipids, fasting glucose, IR, leptin, fibrinogen, and hsCRP than obese subjects without sleep apnea. Thus, clinicians should be encouraged to systematically evaluate the presence of metabolic abnormalities in OSAS and vice versa.

Background. The Mounier-Kuhn syndrome (MKS) or tracheobronchomegaly (TBM) is a rare condition of unknown frequency, up to now about 100 cases have been reported. It presents by marked dilatation of the trachea and major bronchi, recurrent respiratory infections and consecutive bronchiectasis and scars in lung parenchyme. Sometimes enlargement of transversal colon may be present. Diagnosis is usually made radiologically. Cases report. We reviewed two patients 77 and 72 years old with typical clinical presentation and enlarged upper airways, in whom diagnosis of MKS was established by chest multislice computed tomography (MSCT). Transversal diameter of trachea was 30 mm in the first patient and 33 mm in the other one. Complications of syndrome (tracheal diverticulosis in the first patient, and pulmonary fibrosis, bulous emphysema and bronchiectasis in both patients) also were seen. Lung function tests showed mixed ventilation disorder, and disturbance of respiratory gases values in arterial blood samples. Conclusion. The Mounier-Kuhn syndrome is rare disorder, although diagnosis is often missed. Clinical presentation is similar to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or bronchiectasis. Computed tomography is gold standard for diagnosis. Therapy is presumely supportive.

Introduction: Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a severe condition that is characterized by recurrent partial or complete breathing interruptions during sleep, leading to insulin resistance, microvascular complications, and cardiovascular complications. It is of great importance to know the impact of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM), which is prevalent in the world and in our country, Turkey, leads to significant mortality and morbidity, significantly affects the quality of life, and requires continuous follow-up, on sleep in patients with OSAS and to raise awareness on this issue. In this study, we aimed to determine the effects of diabetes on sleep duration and sleep architecture in patients with OSAS and to investigate the relationship between OSAS severity and DM control., Methods: Fifty diabetic and 42 non-diabetic patients diagnosed with OSAS at the Sleep Disorders Center of Süreyyapaşa Chest Diseases and Thoracic Surgery Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey, between October 2022 and March 2023 were included in the study. Polysomnographic and biochemical parameters of the two groups were compared. The effect of OSAS severity and sleep architecture on diabetes control was investigated., Results: No significant difference was found between diabetic and non-diabetic patients in terms of total sleep duration, sleep efficiency, and sleep latency, whereas REM (rapid eye movement) latency was prolonged and REM sleep duration and percentage were significantly lower in diabetic patients. The severity of OSAS was found to be greater in diabetic patients and they spent significantly more time below 90% saturation during sleep. No correlation was found between the groups in the glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) parameter, which we examined in terms of diabetes control, sleep architecture, and OSAS severity., Conclusion: The presence of diabetes aggravates the severity of OSAS, prolongs the transition to REM sleep, and leads to a decrease in REM duration. Sleep is essential for both mental and physical well-being. In this regard, it is of utmost importance to examine diabetic patients for OSAS and to perform polysomnography in appropriate patients., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2024, Durak et al.)

Azoles such as nafimidone, denzimol and loreclezole are known for their clinical efficacy against epilepsy, and loreclezole acts by potentiating γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-ergic currents. In the current study, we report a series of azole derivatives in alcohol ester and oxime ester structure showing promising anticonvulsant effects in 6 Hz and maximal electro shock (MES) models with minimal toxicity. The most promising of the series, 5f, was active in both 6 Hz and MES tests with a median effective dose (ED 50 ) of 118.92 mg/kg in 6 Hz test and a median toxic dose (TD 50 ) twice as high in mice. The compounds were predicted druglike and blood-brain barrier (BBB) penetrant in silico. Contrary to what was expected, the compounds showed no in vitro affinity to GABA A receptors (GABA A Rs) in radioligand binding assays; however, they were found structurally similar to peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors alpha (PPAR-α) agonists and predicted to show high affinity and agonist-like binding to PPAR-α in molecular docking studies. As a result, 5f emerged as a safe azole anticonvulsant with a wide therapeutic window and possible action through PPAR-α activation., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the levels of leptin, growth hormone, insulin-like growth factor-1, and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 and their relations with clinical parameters in patients with primary fibromyalgia and healthy controls., Methods: Our study was performed on 30 female patients with primary fibromyalgia and 30 healthy controls. The levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 were measured by a two-site immunoradiometric assay. The serum level of leptin was measured by the ELISA kit., Results: The serum level of leptin was significantly higher, but the serum levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 were significantly lower in patients with fibromyalgia syndrome than healthy controls (p<0.001). The leptin level was positively correlated with the Visual Analog Scale, Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire score, Beck Depression Inventory score, tender point count, age, and duration of disease (p<0.001), but it was negatively correlated with insulin-like growth factor-1 (p<0.001). The insulin-like growth factor-1 level was negatively correlated with age, Visual Analog Scale, Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire and Beck Depression Inventory scores, duration of disease, and tender point count (p<0.001)., Conclusion: Our results indicate that high levels of serum leptin and low levels of serum insulin-like growth factor-1 may play a role in the physiopathogenesis of fibromyalgia and may be related to some symptoms.

Background: Allergic rhinitis can be associated with bronchial hyperreactivity (BHR) and create an increased risk for allergic asthma development. We aimed to investigate the effects of subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) on BHR and asthma development in adult patients with allergic rhinitis., Methods: The retrospective case-control study was carried out between November 2018 and May 2019 in Süreyyapaşa Chest Diseases and Thoracic Surgery Training and Research Hospital. In this study, data was recorded for patients with a mite and/or grasses/cereals pollen allergy who were tested for BHR before planned SCIT, and who had allergic rhinitis, with or without asthma. The SCIT group was selected as those who received SCIT for at least one year. The control group was selected from those who were scheduled to receive SCIT but were waived and still receiving medication. Symptom scores, prick test results, PC20 levels (methacholine challenge that is a provocative concentration causing a 20% fall in FEV1), and the presence of asthma were recorded and compared with data from at least one year after treatment., Results: A total of sixty-eight subjects (22 males, 46 females; mean age 40.54 ± 12.27 years; SCIT: 40, Control: 28) were enrolled.Although the changes in log PC20 levels were not statistically significant in both SCIT and control groups after an average of 30-35 months of treatment, it was found to be significant in favor of the SCIT group when two groups were compared in terms of the change in log PC20 (p = 0.026). The development and improvement of asthma were not significantly different between the SCIT and control group but tended to increase in the control group. The percentage of patients with progressed/BHR was significantly higher in the controls (70.6% vs. 38.1%, p = 0.046)., Discussion: In our real life study we have demonstrated the preventative effect of SCIT on BHR, but not on asthma developmen.

Diabetes mellitus, a chronic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia, is considered a pandemic of modern times. α-Glucosidase inhibitors emerged as a promising class of antidiabetic drugs with better tolerability compared with its alternatives. Azoles, although widely preferred in drug design, have scarcely been investigated for their potential against α-glucosidase. In this study, we evaluated α-glucosidase inhibitory effects 20 azole derivatives selected out of an in-house collection via structure-based virtual screening (VS) with consensus scoring approach. Seven compounds were identified with better IC 50 values than acarbose (IC 50  = 68.18 ± 1.01 µM), a well-known α-glucosidase inhibitor drug, which meant 35% success for our VS methodology. Compound 52, 54, 56, 59, and 81 proved highly potent with IC 50 values in the range of 40-60 µM. According to the enzyme kinetics study, four of them were competitive, 56 was non-competitive inhibitor. Structure-activity relationships, quantum mechanical, and docking analyses showed that azole rings at ionized state may be key to the potency observed for the active compounds and modifications to shift the balance between the neutral and ionized states further to the latter could yield more potent derivatives., (© 2020 John Wiley & Sons A/S.)

Objectives: Obstructive Sleep apne syndrome is a disease with high morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to investigate the conditions affecting the mortality of patients diagnosed with OSAS at six year follow up., Methods: 970 patients who admitted to Sleep laboratory between 2011-2013 were evaluated retrospectively. 74 patients whose mortality data could not be accessed through the system were excluded. The patients who died until April 2019 were compared with the surviving group in terms of demographic, clinical, comorbidities and polysomnographic findings., Results: Total 47 patients who died were older, had higher BMI, AHI and ODI values, lower minimum oxygen saturations compared with the survival group ( p  < .001). In the Cox-hazard regression analysis, BMI (hazard ratio (HR), 1.08; 95% CI, 1.04-1.12), age (1.12, 1.08-1.15), accompanying COPD (2.19, 1.08-4.43), accompanying CAD (2.76, 1.34-5.67) and AHI of >50/h (2.19, 1.19-1.4.05) were reported., Conclusion: This study showed that OSAS increases the risk of death accompanied by CAD and COPD. It has also been shown that patients with higher AHI (AHI > 50/h) values die more. Therefore, it may be useful to classify the AHI> 50/h group as very severe OSAS instead of severe OSAS.

Azole antifungal drugs are commonly used in antifungal chemotherapy. Antibacterial effects of some topical antifungals, such as miconazole and econazole, have lately been revealed, which suggests a promising venue in antimicrobial chemotherapy. In this study, we tested an in-house azole collection with antifungal properties for their antibacterial activity to identify dual-acting hits using the broth microdilution method. The in vitro screen yielded a number of potent derivatives against gram-positive bacteria, Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus aureus. Compound 73's minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value less than 1 μg/ml against S. aureus; however, none of the compounds showed noteworthy activity against methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). All the active compounds were found safe at their MIC values against the healthy fibroblast cells in the in vitro cytotoxicity test. Molecular docking studies of the most active compounds using a set of docking programs with flavohemoglobin (flavoHb) structure, the proposed target of the azole antifungals with antibacterial activity, presented striking similarities regarding the binding modes and interactions between the tested compounds and the antifungal drugs with crystallographic data. In addition to being noncytotoxic, the library was predicted to be drug-like and free of pan-assay interference compounds (PAINS). As a result, the current study revealed several potential azole derivatives with both antifungal and antibacterial activities. Inhibition of bacterial flavoHb was suggested as a possible mechanism of action for the title compounds., (© 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Objective: Apnea-hypopnea index is the number of apnea-hypopnea events observed during polysomnography within an hour. Mean apnea-hypopnea duration is the mean duration of all apneas and hypopneas. In this study, we aimed to investigate the association of mean apnea-hypopnea duration in patients with obstructive sleep apnea with clinical and polysomnographic parameters., Methods: In our hospital, a total of 764 patients were diagnosed with OSA by polysomnography in 2017. Age, body mass index, and the current diseases were recorded. Sleep structures obtained from polysomnography readings, blood oxygen levels, apnea-hypopnea index, and mean average duration were recorded. Patients with mean average duration of 20 s or more were assigned to the long average duration group and those with less than 20 s were assigned to the short average duration group. Groups were compared in terms of clinical and polysomnographic parameters., Results: Snoring, witnessed apnea, morning tiredness, and hypertension were significantly higher in the long average duration group. There was statistically significantly more male patients and higher neck circumference in the MAD group. Total wake duration, percentage of sleep, stage 3, stage 1, and mean oxygen saturation percentage of the long average duration group were significantly reduced., Conclusion: In present study, the patients with obstructive sleep apnea with long average duration were found to have more negative effects of sleep apnea than the patients with short average duration. We think that the use of mean apnea-hypopnea duration as an indicator with apnea-hypopnea index will be beneficial for the follow-up and treatment of the disease.

Introduction: In this study, we aimed to determine the values of anthropometric measurements and rates used in the evaluation of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) in our country., Materials and Methods: Twenty accredited sleep centers in thirteen provinces participated in this multicenter prospective study. OSAS symptoms and polysomnographic examination and apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) ≥ 5 cases OSAS study group; patients with AHI < 5 and STOP-Bang < 2 were included as control group. Demographic characteristics (age, sex, body mass index-BMI) and anthropometric measurements (neck, waist and hip circumference, waist/hip ratio) of the subjects were recorded., Result: The study included 2684 patients (81.3% OSAS) with a mean age of 50.50 ± 0.21 years from 20 centers. The cases were taken from six geographical regions of the country (Mediterranean, Eastern Anatolia, Aegean, Central Anatolia, Black Sea and Marmara Region). Demographic characteristics and anthropometric measurements; age, neck, waist, hip circumference and waist/ hip ratios and BMI characteristics when compared with the control group; when compared according to regions, age, neck, waist, hip circumference and waist/hip ratios were found to be statistically different (p< 0.001, p< 0.001, p< 0.05, respectively). When compared by sex, age, neck and hip circumference, waist/hip ratio, height, weight and BMI characteristics were statistically different (p< 0.001, respectively). Neck circumference and waist/hip ratio were respectively 42.58 ± 0.10 cm, 0.99 ± 0.002, 39.24 ± 0.16 cm, 0.93 ± 0.004 were found in women., Conclusions: The neck circumference was lower than the standard value in men, but higher in women. The waist/hip ratio was above the ideal measurements in both men and women. In this context, the determination of the country values will allow the identification of patients with the possibility of OSAS and referral to sleep centers for polysomnography.

Systemic candidiasis is a rampant bloodstream infection of Candida spp. and C. albicans is the major pathogen isolated from infected humans. Azoles, the most common class of antifungals which suffer from increasing resistance, and especially intrinsically resistant non-albicans Candida (NAC) species, act by inhibiting fungal lanosterol 14α-demethylase (CYP51). In this study we identified a number of azole compounds in 1-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-2-(1H-imidazol-1-yl)ethanol/ethanone oxime ester structure through virtual screening using consensus scoring approach, synthesized and tested them for their antifungal properties. We reached several hits with potent activity against azole-susceptible and azole-resistant Candida spp. as well as biofilms of C. albicans. 5i's minimum inhibitor concentration (MIC) was 0.125 μg/ml against C. albicans, 0.5 μg/ml against C. krusei and 1 μg/ml against azole-resistant C. tropicalis isolate. Considering the MIC values of fluconazole against these fungi (0.5, 32 and 512 μg/ml, respectively), 5i emerged as a highly potent derivative. The minimum biofilm inhibitor concentration (MBIC) of 5c, 5j, and 5p were 0.5 μg/ml (and 5i was 2 μg/ml) against C. albicans biofilms, lower than that of amphotericin B (4 μg/ml), a first-line antifungal with antibiofilm activity. In addition, the active compounds showed neglectable toxicity to human monocytic cell line. We further analyzed the docking poses of the active compounds in C. albicans CYP51 (CACYP51) homology model catalytic site and identified molecular interactions in agreement with those of known azoles with fungal CYP51s and mutagenesis studies of CACYP51. We observed the stability of CACYP51 in complex with 5i in molecular dynamics simulations., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Systemic Candida infections pose a serious public health problem with high morbidity and mortality. C. albicans is the major pathogen identified in candidiasis; however, non-albicans Candida spp. with antifungal resistance are now more prevalent. Azoles are first-choice antifungal drugs for candidiasis; however, they are ineffective for certain infections caused by the resistant strains. Azoles block ergosterol synthesis by inhibiting fungal CYP51, which leads to disruption of fungal membrane permeability. In this study, we screened for antifungal activity of an in-house azole library of 65 compounds to identify hit matter followed by a molecular modeling study for their CYP51 inhibition mechanism. Antifungal susceptibility tests against standard Candida spp. including C. albicans revealed derivatives 12 and 13 as highly active. Furthermore, they showed potent antibiofilm activity as well as neglectable cytotoxicity in a mouse fibroblast assay. According to molecular docking studies, 12 and 13 have the necessary binding characteristics for effective inhibition of CYP51. Finally, molecular dynamics simulations of the C. albicans CYP51 (CACYP51) homology model's catalytic site complexed with 13 were stable demonstrating excellent binding., (© 2019 John Wiley & Sons A/S.)

The reported rate of sex crimes, some of the most severe acts of violence that can be perpetrated against an individual, is increasing across all societies, regardless of gender or age of the victim. Sexual abuse has been defined, in part, as the involvement of a child in sexual activity for which they are incapable of giving consent, that they cannot fully comprehend, or for which they are developmentally immature. Molestation of the anorectal region is frequently encountered when the victim of sexual abuse is a male child. Tenderness around the anus, ecchymosis, and detachment in the anal sphincter and rectum mucosa may be observed in the acute examination of children who have been subjected to aggravated sexual abuse; however, injuries related to the anus or the rectum may also occur as a result of an accident. An 11-year-old male patient was referred from another health center with a report of being at risk of death. The injury that was said to be the result of accidentally sitting on a knife. An examination in the lithotomy position revealed perianal ecchymosis, a superficial laceration at 1 and 6 o'clock, and a deep laceration at 7 o'clock. Based upon a suspicion of sexual abuse, anal and rectal swab specimens were obtained. The pediatric surgery department performed a primary repair of the lacerations. The microscopic examination of the swab specimens revealed cells showing sperm morphology, and therefore the appropriate forensic statements were made and the swab specimens were sent to the judicial authority for genetic analysis. This report emphasizes the importance of the awareness of physicians regarding the prompt collection and submission of potentially evidential biological samples in a case of suspected sexual abuse though it may be presented as an accident.

Introduction: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common entrapment neuropathy of the upper extremity. It is usually associated with the compression of the median nerve in the median groove. Because the main symptoms of CTS pain and numbness worsen at night, sleep disorders in CTS patients and the impact of preferred sleeping position on CTS development have been formerly studied. However, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first study assessing the frequency of CTS in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients. This study aimed to determine the frequency of CTS in OSA patients and evaluate the causative relation between the two diseases., Methods: Records of individuals who were admitted to our sleep laboratory were retrospectively scanned. Eighty patients who were diagnosed with OSA and did not have comorbidities that might cause OSA (e.g., diabetes mellitus, hypothyroiditis, rheumatic diseases, and cervical radiculopathy) were included in the study along with 80 healthy controls who matched for age, sex, and BMI of OSA patients. To maintain observer blindness, patients were not questioned regarding their symptoms or the clinical data that would be used in the study. All participants underwent nerve conduction studies. Those who were diagnosed with CTS were questioned regarding CTS symptoms and the preferred sleeping position. Subsequently, patients were given the Boston CTS questionnaire., Results: CTS frequency in OSA patients was found to be 27.5%. There was no significant relation between preferred sleeping position or being a manual worker and having CTS., Conclusion: CTS frequency in OSA patients is significantly higher than that in healthy individuals. In contrast to previous studies that have been performed in the absence of polysomnographic and electrophysiological data, in our study biomechanical factors were not associated with CTS presence. Therefore, we conclude that intermittent hypoxemia is the main etiological factor for CTS in OSA patients. Inflammation may be a common factor for etiopathogenesis for both diseases, but this hypothesis needs further investigation., Competing Interests: Conflict of Interest: No conflict of interest was declared by the authors.