Knowledge and awareness level of health undergraduate students on child abuse: a cross-sectional study

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to investigate the level of knowledge of symptoms and risks of child abuse among undergraduate health science students according to their socio-demographic characteristics. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study involving 485 student volunteers. The data collection tools used in the study were the Demographic Data Collection Form and the Scale for Diagnosing Symptoms and Risks of Child Abuse and Neglect. RESULTS: It was found that health students' knowledge of the symptoms and risks of child abuse was moderate. It was also found that knowledge of diagnosing the symptoms and risks of child abuse was higher among women than among men, higher among those who had received education on child abuse, and increased with grade level. CONCLUSION: Child abuse is an important public health issue, and there is a need to raise awareness of this issue among health students.

Assessment of micronutrient intakes, anxiety states and risk factors affecting disease development in individuals with hypothyroidism / Avaliação da ingestão de micronutrientes, níveis de ansiedade e fatores de risco que afetam o desenvolvimento de doenças em indivíduos com hipotireoidismo

ABSTRACT Objective This study aimed to assessment the risk factors affecting development of hypothyroidism and to examine the selected dietary micronutrient intakes of primary hypothyroidism, subclinical hypothyroidism and euthyroid individuals comparing the healthy control group, and to evaluate the relationship between dietary micronutrient intakes and serum thyroid hormones. Additionally, this study planned to observe anxiety severities in different hypothyroidism groups. Methods This case-control study was carried out with 120 individuals: 60 in the patient group and 60 in the control group. The patient group was further subdivided into primary hypothyroidism, subclinical hypothyroidism, and euthyroid groups. A questionnaire and the Beck Anxiety Inventory were administered to all participants. 24-hour food consumption records, anthropometric measurements, biochemical parameters were taken. Results When serum vitamin D level increased by one unit (ng/mL), risk of disease decreased by 1%; and when age (year) increased by one unit, risk of disease increased by 5.1%. Dietary micronutrient intakes were similar in all groups. There were negative correlations between serum T4 levels and selenium intake in primary hypothyroidism group, and serum TSH levels and copper intake in subclinical hypothyroidism group, and serum TSH levels and iodine intake in control group. Beck Anxiety Inventory scores of patient groups were higher than control group. There was no statistically difference between primary, subclinical and euthyroid hypothyroidism groups in terms of anxiety scores. Conclusion Serum vitamin D level and age affected the risk of hypothyroidism. Micronutrient intake was associated with thyroid parameters. Anxiety was higher in hypothyroid patients, independent of thyroid hormone levels.

RESUMO Objetivo Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os fatores de risco que afetam o desenvolvimento do hipotireoidismo e examinar os consumo de micronutrientes dietéticos selecionados em indivíduos com hipotireoidismo primário, hipotireoidismo subclínico e eutireoideo, comparando-os com o grupo controle saudável, e avaliar a relação entre os consumo de micronutrientes dietéticos e as hormonas tiroideias séricas. Além disso, este estudo objetivou observar a gravidade da ansiedade em diferentes grupos de hipotireoidismo. Métodos Este estudo de caso-controle foi realizado com 120 indivíduos: 60 no grupo pacientes e 60 no grupo controle. O grupo pacientes foi ainda subdividido em hipotireoidismo primário, hipotireoidismo subclínico, e grupos eutróide. Um questionário e o Inventário de Ansiedade de Beck foram administrados a todos os participantes. Foram recolhidos registos de consumo alimentar diário (i.e., 24 horas por dia), medições antropométricas, e parâmetros bioquímicos. Resultados Quando o nível de vitamina D no soro aumentou uma unidade (ng/mL), o risco de doença diminuiu 1%; e quando a idade (ano) aumentou uma unidade, o risco de doença aumentou 5.1%. A ingestão de micronutrientes na dieta foi semelhante em todos os grupos. Verificaram-se correlações negativas entre os níveis séricos de T4 e a ingestão de selênio no grupo com hipotireoidismo primário, e entre os níveis séricos de TSH e a ingestão de cobre no grupo com hipotireoidismo subclínico, e entre os níveis séricos de TSH e a ingestão de iodo no grupo controle. Pontuação do Inventário de Ansiedade de Beck dos grupos pacientes foram superiores ao grupo controle. Não houve diferença estatística entre os grupos de hipotireoidismo primário, subclínico e eutireoideo em termos de pontuação de ansiedade. Conclusão O nível sérico de vitamina D e a idade afetaram o risco de hipotireoidismo. A ingestão de micronutrientes foi associada aos parâmetros da tireoide. A ansiedade foram maior nos doentes com hipotireoidismo, independentemente dos níveis da hormona tiroideia.

Space-time patterns and drivers of migrant bird communities in coastal Piauí State, Brazil

Introduction: Migration is a natural phenomenon that includes annual movements of many bird species in response to seasonal cycles. With approximately one third of all living bird species, South America has an important avifauna, and many migrants land in Brazil at stopping points and wintering sites. Objective: To identify associations between migrant birds and coastal vegetation, and environmental influence of on migration. Methods: At 10 points along the coast of Piauí State, Brazil, we made visual censuses and mist net captures, between April 2009 and February 2016. Results: We identified 82 migrant bird species (13 orders; 28 families) that represented 41 intracontinental migrating species, 26 northern visiting species, 14 nomad species and one vagrant species. The richness peaks were at the beginning and end of both dry and rainy seasons, matching insolation and atmospheric pressure. There were spatial pattern differences among vegetation complexes. Chrysolampis mosquitus is an indicator of caatinga vegetation, Numenius phaeopus of wetland, Charadrius collaris of non-flooding fields, Rostrhamus sociabilis of forest-grassland transition, and Columbina picui of orchards. Despite differences in number and species composition within vegetation types, the temporal pattern in species richness was similar among flooded fields, non-flooded fields, and transition grassland categories. Conclusions: Migrant birds occupy specific environments during their permanence along the coast of Piauí State, with richness matching insolation and atmospheric pressure.

Introducción: La migración es un fenómeno natural que incluye los movimientos anuales de muchas especies de aves en respuesta a los ciclos estacionales. Con aproximadamente un tercio de todas las especies de aves conocidas, América del Sur tiene una avifauna importante y muchas aves migratorias tienen puntos de parada e invernada en Brasil. Objetivo: Identificar asociaciones entre las aves migratorias y la vegetación costera, y la influencia del medio ambiente en la migración. Métodos: En 10 puntos a lo largo de la costa del Estado de Piauí, Brasil, realizamos censos visuales y capturas con redes de niebla, entre abril 2009 y febrero 2016. Resultados: Identificamos 82 especies de aves migratorias (13 órdenes; 28 familias) que representaron 41 especies migratorias intracontinentales, 26 especies visitantes del norte, 14 especies nómadas y una especie vagante. Los picos de riqueza se dieron al principio y al final de las estaciones seca y lluviosa, coincidiendo con la insolación y la presión atmosférica. Hubo diferencias en el patrón espacial entre los complejos de vegetación. Chrysolampis mosquitus es un indicador de vegetación de caatinga, Numenius phaeopus de humedales, Charadrius collaris de campos que no se inundan, Rostrhamus sociabilis de transición bosque-pastizales y Columbina picui de huertos. A pesar de las diferencias en el número y composición de especies dentro de los tipos de vegetación, el patrón temporal en la riqueza de especies fue similar entre las categorías de campos inundados, campos no inundados y pastizales de transición. Conclusiones: Las aves migratorias ocupan ambientes específicos durante su permanencia a lo largo de la costa del estado de Piauí, con una riqueza acorde con la insolación y la presión atmosférica.

Writing A Research Framework For An Evaluation Of The Effectiveness Of Sustainable Tourism Policy Implementation In Cambodia: A Case Of Angkor World Heritage Area

This article aims at writing a research framework for exploring sustainable cultural heritage tourism policy implementation at Angkor (World Heritage Area). There are six policy initiatives within Angkor's Tourism Management Plan (2012-2020) to guide sustainability of tourism development. The year 2020 was the end of implementing these policy initiatives, but there were not any documents reporting the effectiveness and success of their implementations; therefore, this study will show the framework for investigating the implementation of policy initiatives within this timeframe. There are three main objectives in this framework. First, it is necessary to identify the outcomes of policy implementation judged by stakeholders. Second, it is important to outline and understand the barriers that hinder the successful implementation of the policy. Third, there is a need to create a framework for how to successfully implement sustainable tourism policies in the development of more sustainable tourism in the future.

Predicting response to neoadjuvant therapy with glucose transporter-1 in breast cancer

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: Glucose transporter-1 is a marker involved in energy transport in cancer cells. It has been shown to be a poor prognostic factor in many cancer types, including breast cancer. However, there is no satisfactory parameter predicting treatment in breast cancer patients receiving neoadjuvant therapy. This study investigated the effect of glucose transporter-1 in predicting the treatment response of patients receiving neoadjuvant therapy. METHODS: In this study, glucose transporter-1 immunohistochemistry was applied to tru-cut biopsy of patients who were diagnosed with breast cancer and received neoadjuvant therapy between 2010 and 2021. A built-in scoring system was used to evaluate both the pattern and intensity of glucose transporter-1 immunohistochemistry staining. The relationship between glucose transporter-1 immunohistochemistry staining and other clinicopathological parameters was examined. In addition, the relationship of glucose transporter-1 with response to treatment was investigated. RESULTS: A relationship was found between high glucose transporter-1 expression and other clinicopathological parameters (such as estrogen and progesterone receptor negativity, high Ki-67, triple-negative, and Her2 status). Cases with high glucose transporter-1 expression had either a complete or a partial pathologic response. The result was statistically significant. CONCLUSION: Glucose transporter-1 has the potential to be a biomarker that can be evaluated more objectively as an alternative to Ki-67 labeling index in evaluating the response to treatment in patients receiving neoadjuvant therapy.

The effects of adequate dietary calcium intake in patients with hypoparathyroidism non-adherent to treatment: a prospective randomized controlled trial

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: A significant problem that compels clinicians in the conventional treatment of hypoparathyroidism is patients' non-adherence to treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of adequate Ca intake with dietary recommendations among hypoparathyroidism patients who persistently use Ca supplementation irregularly on plasma Ca and phosphate levels. METHODS: This prospective, randomized, controlled study was conducted on patients diagnosed with chronic hypoparathyroidism who persistently interrupt Ca supplementation therapy and therefore have a hypocalcemic course. Patients with a total daily Ca intake below 800 mg were randomized. All patients were advised to keep the doses of active vitamin D and Ca supplements they were currently using. The patients in the study group (n=32) were advised to consume 1,000-1,200 mg of Ca daily, and the patients in the control group (n=35) were advised to continue their diet according to their daily habits. After 12 weeks of follow-up, the patients' laboratory values were compared between groups to assess treatment goals. RESULTS: The mean of the total Ca level was 8.56±0.36 mg/dL in the study group and was found to be significantly higher than that in the control group, which was 7.67±0.48 mg/dL (p<0.001). The mean serum phosphate and serum Ca-P product levels were significantly higher in the study group (p<0.001) but did not exceed the safe upper limits in any patient. CONCLUSION: A suitable increase in dietary Ca intake could effectively control hypocalcemia in patients with hypoparathyroidism who persistently interrupt the recommended calcium supplementation.

Effects of COVID-19 pandemic lockdown on the metabolic control of type 2 diabetes mellitus in patients

ABSTRACT Objective: The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the control of diabetes mellitus in patients are largely unknown. In this study we aimed to analyze the impact of the pandemic and the ensuing lockdown on the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Subjects and methods: A total of 7,321patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (4,501 from the pre-pandemic period, 2,820 from the post-pandemic period) were studied retrospectively. Results: The admission of patients with diabetes melitus (DM) decreased significantly during the pandemic (4,501 pre-pandemic vs. 2,820 post-pandemic; p < 0.001). The mean age of patients was statistically lower (51.5 ± 14.0 vs. 49.7 ± 14.5 years; p < 0.001), and the mean glycated hemoglobin (A1c) level was significantly higher (7.9% ± 2.4% vs. 7.3% ± 1.7%; p < 0.001) in the post-pandemic period than in the pre-pandemic. The female/male ratio was similar in both periods (59.9%/40.1% for pre-pandemic, 58.6%/41.4% for post-pandemic; p = 0.304). As calculated by month the pre-pandemic rate of women was higher only in January (53.1% vs. 60.6%, p = 0.02). Mean A1c levels were higher in the postpandemic period than in the same month of the previous year, excluding July and October (p = 0.001 for November, p < 0.001 for others). Postpandemic patients admitted to the outpatient clinic were significantly younger than prepandemic visits for July (p = 0.001), August (p < 0.001) and December (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The lockdown had detrimental effects on blood sugar management in patients with DM. Hence, diet and exercise programs should be adapted to home conditions, and social and psychological support should be provided to patients with DM.

Comparison of orlistat and orlistat plus metformin therapy between diabetic and nondiabetic groups

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to examine the effects of orlistat use on metabolic control and weight loss in diabetic and nondiabetic patients. METHODS: A total of 119 patients with body mass index≥40 kg/m2 and receiving orlistat therapy, who applied to the Endocrinology polyclinic between January 2016 and October 2019, were included. The patients' weight changes and biochemical values (i.e., fasting glucose, HbA1c, ALT, creatinine, and lipid parameters) were evaluated at the drug beginning and the last polyclinic control. The patients were divided into groups, whether they had diabetes or used metformin, and compared. RESULTS: The mean age of the 119 patients in the study was 45.3±11.5 years. A total of 94.1% of the patients were females and 5.9% were males. A total of 38.7% of the patients had diabetes and 29.4% had prediabetes. When the patients were compared to whether they had diabetes or used metformin, there was a statistically significant difference between the groups according to weight loss. The mean weight change of patients without diabetes and receiving metformin and orlistat was statistically significantly higher than that of patients with diabetes and receiving metformin and orlistat. DISCUSSION: It was determined that the weight loss effect of orlistat in obesity was seen in all groups, but this effect decreased in the diabetic group.

Expression of cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen 4, CD44, and E-cadherin in the microenvironment of breast carcinomas

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The expression of cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen 4, E-cadherin, and CD44 in the area of tumor budding was investigated in breast carcinomas in our study. METHODS: Tumor budding was counted at the invasive margins in 179 breast carcinomas. To understand the microenvironment of tumor budding, we examined the expression status of the immune checkpoint molecules such as cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen 4, E-cadherin, and CD44. RESULTS: Tumors were separated into low (≤5) and high tumor budding groups (>5) based on the median budding number. Lymphovascular, perineural invasion, and the number of metastatic lymph nodes were significantly higher in high-grade budding tumors (p=0.001, p<0.001, and p=0.019, respectively). Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes were significantly higher in tumors without tumor buddings (p<0.001). When the number of budding increases by one unit, overall survival decreases by 1.07 times (p=0.013). Also, it increases the risk of progression by 1.06 times (p=0.048). In high tumor budding groups, the cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 staining percentage of lymphocytes was significantly higher (p=0.026). With each increase in the number of buds, an increase in the percentage of cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 staining was seen in lymphocytes in the microenvironment of TB (p=0.034). CONCLUSION: Tumor budding could predict poor prognosis in breast carcinomas, and anti-cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 immunotherapies may be beneficial in patients with high tumor budding tumors.

The relationship between lower limb stiffness and running economy in child soccer players / La relación entre la rigidez de los miembros inferiores y la economía de carrera en jugadores de fútbol infantil / A relação entre rigidez dos membros inferiores e economia de corrida em jogadores de futebol infantil

ABSTRACT Introduction Lower limb stiffness has been shown to be associated with running economy (RE) in adults, but this relationship in children remains unclear. Objectives The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between lower limb stiffness, RE, and repeated-sprint ability in child soccer players. Methods Twenty-eight male child soccer players (mean age 11.8 ± 0.9 years) participated in the study. RE was determined by measuring the steady-state oxygen uptake (ml/min/kg) at submaximal running speeds of 8 and 9 km/h. Vertical and leg stiffness were calculated from the flight and contact time data obtained during two submaximal running tests. Additionally, vertical stiffness was measured during the maximal and submaximal hopping tests. All participants performed the repeated sprint test consisting of 10 × 20-m all-out sprints interspersed with 20-s active recovery. Results During both submaximal running tests, vertical (r= -0.505 to -0.472) and leg stiffness (r= -0.484 to -0.459) were significantly correlated with RE (p< 0.05). Maximal (r= -0.450) and submaximal hopping stiffness (r= -0.404) were significantly correlated with RE at 8 km/h (p< 0.05). Maximal hopping stiffness was significantly correlated with the best sprint time (r= -0.439) and mean sprint time (r= -0.496) (p< 0.05). Vertical (r= -0.592 to -0.433) and leg stiffness (r= -0.612 to -0.429) at 8 and 9 km/h and submaximal hopping stiffness (r= -0.394) were significantly correlated with the fatigue index (p< 0.05). Conclusions Current findings indicate that the lower limb stiffness may be an important determinant of both RE and repeated-sprint ability in child soccer players. Level of Evidence II; Diagnostic Studies - Investigating a Diagnostic Test.

RESUMEN Introducción Se ha demostrado que la rigidez de los miembros inferiores está relacionada con la economía de carrera (RE) en los adultos, sin embargo esta relación no es muy clara cuando se trata de niños. Objetivos El objetivo de este estudio fue investigar la relación entre la rigidez de los miembros inferiores, la RE y la capacidad de sprints repetidos en jugadores de fútbol infantil. Métodos Veintiocho jugadores de fútbol infantil de sexo masculino (edad media de 11,8 ± 0,9 años) participaron en el estudio. La determinación de la RE se produjo midiendo el consumo de oxígeno en estado estacionario (ml/min/kg) a velocidades de carrera submáximas de 8 km/h y 9 km/h. El cálculo de la rigidez vertical y de la rigidez de las piernas se basó en los datos de tiempo de vuelo y de contacto obtenidos durante dos tests submáximos de carrera. Además, se midió la rigidez vertical durante los tests submáximos y máximos de salto (hop test). Todos los participantes realizaron el test de sprints repetidos, que consistía en diez repeticiones de sprints a velocidad máxima de 20 m intercalados por una recuperación activa de 20 s. Resultados Durante ambos tests submáximos de carrera, la rigidez vertical (r= -0,505 a -0,472) y la rigidez de las piernas (r= -0,484 a -0,459) se correlacionaron significativamente con la RE (p<0,05). La rigidez de salto máximo (r= -0,450) y la rigidez de salto submáximo (r= -0,404) demostraron una correlación significativa con la RE a 8 km/h (p<0,05). La rigidez de salto máximo se asoció sustancialmente con un mejor tiempo de sprint (r= -0,439) y con el tiempo medio de sprint (r= -0,496) (p< 0,05). La rigidez vertical (r= -0,592 a -0,433), la rigidez de las piernas (r= -0,612 a -0,429) a 8 km/h y 9 km/h y la rigidez de salto submáximo (r= -0,394) se correlacionaron significativamente con el índice de fatiga (p< 0,05). Conclusiones Los hallazgos actuales indican que la rigidez de los miembros inferiores puede ser un determinante clave tanto de RE como de la capacidad de sprints repetidos en jugadores de fútbol infantil. Nivel de evidencia II: Estudios diagnósticos - Investigación de una prueba diagnóstica.

RESUMO Introdução A rigidez dos membros inferiores demonstrou estar associada à economia de corrida (RE) em adultos, porém essa relação não é muito clara quando se trata de crianças. Objetivos O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a relação entre a rigidez dos membros inferiores, a RE e a capacidade de sprints repetidos em jogadores de futebol infantil. Métodos Vinte e oito jogadores do sexo masculino de futebol infantil (idade média de 11,8 ± 0,9 anos) participaram do estudo. A determinação da RE ocorreu por meio da medição do consumo de oxigênio em estado estacionário (ml/min/kg) a velocidades submáximas de corrida de 8 km/h e 9 km/h. O cálculo da rigidez vertical e da rigidez das pernas baseou-se nos dados de tempo de voo e tempo de contato obtidos durante dois testes submáximos de corrida. Além disso, mediu-se a rigidez vertical durante os testes máximo e submáximo de salto ( hop test ). Todos os participantes realizaram o teste de sprints repetidos que consistiu em dez repetições de sprints em velocidade máxima de 20 m intercalados por recuperação ativa de 20 s. Resultados Durante ambos os testes submáximos de corrida, a rigidez vertical (r= -0,505 a -0,472) e a rigidez das pernas (r= -0,484 a -0,459) estavam significativamente correlacionadas à RE (p<0,05). A rigidez de salto máximo (r= -0,450) e a de salto submáximo (r= -0,404) demonstraram uma correlação significativa com RE em 8 km/h (p<0,05). A rigidez de salto máximo estava associada, de forma substancial, ao melhor tempo de sprint (r= -0,439) e ao tempo médio de sprint (r= -0,496) (p< 0,05). A rigidez vertical (r= -0,592 a -0,433), a rigidez das pernas (r= -0,612 a -0,429) em 8 km/h e 9 km/h e a rigidez de salto submáximo (r= -0,394) estavam expressivamente correlacionadas ao índice de fadiga (p< 0,05). Conclusões Os achados atuais indicam que a rigidez dos membros inferiores pode ser um determinante fundamental tanto de RE quanto de capacidade de sprints repetidos em jogadores de futebol infantil. Nível de evidência II: Estudos diagnósticos - Investigando um teste diagnóstico.

Early Mortality Predictors in İnfective Endocarditis Patients: A Single-Center Surgical Experience

ABSTRACT Introduction: Infective endocarditis is a disease that progresses with morbidity and mortality, afecting 3-10 out of 100,000 people per year. We conducted this study to review the early outcomes of surgical treatment of infective endocarditis. Methods: In this retrospective study, 122 patients who underwent cardiac surgery for infective endocarditis in our clinic between November 2009 and December 2020 were evaluated. Patients were divided into two groups according to in-hospital mortality. Demographic, echocardiographic, laboratory, operative, and postoperative data of the groups were compared. Results: Between November 3, 2009, and December 7, 2020, 122 patients were operated for infective endocarditis in our hospital. Emergency surgery was performed in nine (7.3%) patients. In-hospital mortality occurred in 23 (18.9%) patients, and 99 (81.1%) patients were discharged. In-hospital mortality was related with older age, presence of periannular abscess, New York Heart Association class 3 or 4 symptoms, low albumin level, high alanine aminotransferase level, and longer cross-clamping time (P<0.05 for all). Conclusion: The presence of paravalvular abscess was the most important prognostic factor in patients operated for infective endocarditis.

Factors affecting recurrence in subacute granulomatous thyroiditis

ABSTRACT Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the factors affecting recurrence in subacute granulomatous thyroiditis (SAT). Materials and methods: A total of 137 patients with SAT were enrolled in the study; 98 (71.5%) were women and 39 (28.5%) were men. The patients received either steroid or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for eight weeks. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein, serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine, free thyroxine (FT4), anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies and thyroglobulin antibodies, neutrophil, lymphocyte, platelet, neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio, and platelet to lymphocyte ratio levels were evaluated. In addition, recurrence rates were compared between patients who received NSAID treatment and those who received steroid therapy. Results: Treatment modality and pretreatment TSH, FT4, and ESR were significantly different between patients with and without recurrence (p = 0.011, 0.001, 0.004, and 0.026, respectively). Compared with patients without recurrence, those with recurrence had higher pretreatment TSH levels, but lower FT4 and ESR levels. On logistic regression analysis, treatment modality was found to be an independent risk factor for recurrence. The risk of recurrence was higher in those taking steroids than in those taking NSAIDs (p = 0.015). The optimal TSH cutoff value for recurrence was 0.045 μIU/mL, with a sensitivity of 83.3% and specificity of 76% (AUC 0.794, 95% CI 0.639-0.949). Conclusions: The risk of SAT recurrence was higher with steroid therapy than with NSAIDs. Patients who had mild thyrotoxicosis had relatively high recurrence rate and may need a relatively longer duration of treatment.

Possible roles of sestrin2 in multiple sclerosis and its relationships with clinical outcomes / Possíveis papéis da sestrina2 na esclerose múltipla e suas relações com resultados clínicos

ABSTRACT Background: Characterized by demyelination, inflammation and axonal damage, multiple sclerosis (MS) is one of the most common disorders of central nervous system led by the immune system. There is an urgent and obvious need for biomarkers for the diagnosis and follow-up of MS. Objective: To investigate serum levels of sestrin2 (SESN2), a protein that responds to acute stress, in MS patients. Methods: A total of 85 participants, 40 patients diagnosed previously with relapsing-remitting MS and 45 healthy controls, were included. Serum SESN2 parameters were investigated in blood samples drawn from each participant in the patient and control groups. Results: SESN2 levels were significantly lower in MS patients than in controls (z: -3.06; p=0.002). In the ROC analysis of SESN2, the predictive level for MS was 2.36 ng/mL [sensitivity, 72.50%; specificity, 55.56%; p=0.002; area under the curve (AUC)=0.693]. For the cut-off value in both groups, SESN2 was an independent predictor for MS [Exp (B)=3.977, 95% confidence interval (95%CI) 1.507-10.494 and p=0.013]. Conclusions: The decreased expression of SESN2 may play a role in MS pathogenesis, and SESN2 could be used as a biomarker for MS and as immunotherapeutic agent to treat MS.

RESUMO Antecedentes: Caracterizada por desmielinização, inflamação e dano axonal, a esclerose múltipla (EM) é uma das doenças mais comuns do sistema nervoso central liderada pelo sistema imunológico. Há uma necessidade urgente e óbvia de biomarcadores para o diagnóstico e acompanhamento da EM. Objetivo: Investigar os níveis séricos de sestrina2 (SESN2), uma proteína que responde ao estresse agudo, em pacientes com EM. Métodos: Foram incluídos 85 participantes, 40 pacientes com diagnóstico prévio de EM recorrente-remitente e 45 controles saudáveis. Os parâmetros do SESN2 sérico foram investigados em amostras de sangue coletadas de cada participante nos grupos de paciente e controle. Resultados: os níveis de SESN2 foram significativamente mais baixos em pacientes com EM do que em controles (z: -3,06; p=0,002). Na análise ROC do SESN2, o nível preditivo para MS foi 2,36 ng/mL [sensibilidade, 72,50%; especificidade, 55,56%; p=0,002; área sob a curva (AUC)=0,693]. Para o valor de corte em ambos os grupos, SESN2 foi um preditor independente para MS [Exp (B)=3,977, intervalo de confiança de 95% (95%CI) 1,507-10,494; p=0,013]. Conclusões: A expressão diminuída de SESN2 pode desempenhar um papel na patogênese da EM, e SESN2 poderia ser usado como um biomarcador para EM e como agente imunoterapêutico para o tratamento de EM.

Knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions regarding child abuse and neglect among dentists in Turkey

Abstract Limited research attention has been paid to Turkish dentists' perceptions of child abuse and neglect (CA/N). This study aimed to examine Turkish dentists' knowledge about, attitudes toward, and perceptions of CA/N. A total of 229 Turkish dentists responded to the self-administered, valid and reliable questionnaire. It consisted of 34 questions that could be classified into the following conceptual categories: a) sociodemographic data, b) knowledge about legal procedures and the orofacial characteristics and findings that are indicative of CA/N, and c) self-efficacy and attitudes toward CA/N. Multivariate analysis of variance was conducted and partial eta squared coefficients were used statistically. Knowledge about legal obligations was associated with occupational experience, highest CA/N education, frequency of child dental treatment. Prior experience with case of suspected CA/N demonstrated the greatest effects. Knowledge about the orofacial characteristics and findings that are indicative of CA/N was associated with prior experience with at least one case of suspected CA/N. The most frequently provided reasons for failure to report cases of suspected CA/N were fear that the child would be harmed. Turkish dentists demonstrated moderate levels of knowledge about their legal obligations and the orofacial characteristics and findings that are indicative of CA/N. Dentists should receive detailed education on CA/N in their undergraduate and postgraduate education. In addition, it is necessary to increase awareness and knowledge about CA/N by providing in-service trainings at the institutions where they work.

The first newborn patient with SARS-CoV-2 variant B.1.1.7 identified in Viet Nam: treatment and care practices

@#SARS-CoV-2 variant B.1.1.7, first detected in September 2020 in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, has spread quickly to many countries around the world. While some publications have described the clinical features of adult patients with the B.1.1.7 variant, little information is available on newborn patients. We report the clinical characteristics, treatment and care practices for a 21-day-old newborn patient who was confirmed to be infected with SARS-CoV-2 variant B.1.1.7 in Viet Nam during contact tracing after her father was confirmed to be infected with SARS-CoV-2. The patient displayed no symptoms of COVID-19 on admission but 3 days later developed diarrhoea, vomiting, a runny nose and a productive cough. These symptoms lasted for 3 days before becoming milder for 1 day and then stopping until discharge. During treatment, the patient received Vietnamese traditional herbal peppermint extracts for cough and digestive probiotics for diarrhoeal symptoms. A saltwater solution (Sterimar 0.9%) was used to clean the patient’s sinuses. The patient was cared for and fed breastmilk by her mother, who was provided with personal protective equipment, including sterilized infant equipment, medical masks and hand sanitizer, during hospitalization. The patient’s mother tested negative for SARS-CoV-2 throughout hospitalization. In conclusion, we found no severely abnormal clinical symptoms in a newborn infected with SARS-CoV-2 variant B.1.1.7 during treatment. Our case suggests that newborn patients with the B.1.1.7 variant can receive exclusive breastmilk feeding if sufficient preventive measures are provided for both mother and child.

Neutrophil-lymphocyte Ratio: Predictor of High-grade Dysplasia in Colorectal Polyp

ABSTRACT Objective: To determine the value of neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio for predicting high-grade dysplasia among patients with neoplastic colorectal polyp. Method: We evaluated 30 patients with non-neoplastic polyp, 61 patients with neoplastic polyp (32 with high-grade dysplasia/29 without high-grade dysplasia), and 30 patients with normal colonoscopy as control group. Mean platelet volume, red cell distribution width, neutrophil and lymphocyte levels were recorded and neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio was calculated. Results: Mean neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio of patients with neoplastic polyp were higher than patients with non-neoplastic polyp and control group (2.56 ± 1.47, 1.77 ± 0.44, 1.76 ± 0.62, retrospectively) (p = 0.001). Mean platelet volume of patients with neoplastic polyp (8.76 ± 1.06) was lower than patients with non- neoplastic polyp (9.50 ± 1.27) and control group (10.96 ± 0.83) (p < 0.001). Mean neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio of patients with high-grade dysplasia (3.03 ± 1.88) was significantly higher than patients without high-grade dysplasia (2.14 ± 0.77) (p = 0.022). The cut-off value of neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio to predict the presence of high-grade dysplasia was 2.044 (sensitivity: 69%, specificity: 68%). Conclusion: Neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio, which is a simple non-invasive index can predict high-grade dysplasia and neoplastic polyp. Although mean platelet volume and red cell distribution width are not useful for identifying high-grade dysplasia in patients with colorectal polyp, mean platelet volume may be associated with neoplastic polyp.

Milky Stage Versus Dough Stage of Immature Wheat Grain: Effects on Phytic Acid and Fructan Contents, Antioxidant Activity, Textural Parameters, and Sensory Characteristics of Set-Type Yoghurts

HIGHLIGHTS Yoghurts were supplemented with milky and dough stage wheat grain flours. Total antioxidant capacity was improved by wheat grain flour supplementation. Milky stage wheat provided higher fructan content than that of dough stage wheat. Fermentation reduced phytic acid levels in yoghurts containing wheat grain flours.

Abstract Experimental design was performed by using immature wheat grain (IWG) harvested in two different maturation stages for set-type yoghurt production. IWG was harvested at milky (20 days after anthesis) and dough (30 days after anthesis) stages and was milled. Yoghurt samples were supplemented with milky stage grain flour (MSGF) and dough stage grain flour (DSGF) at 1, 2, and 3% concentrations except for control. All treatments were evaluated with respect to physicochemical, antioxidative, microbiological, textural, and sensorial aspects throughout the 28 days of storage. Phytic acid content of all samples diminished depending on increasing pH values over the storage while it was found higher in MSGF fortified yoghurts. The highest fructan content was determined in yoghurt fortified with 3% MSGF. Antioxidant activity and total phenolic content of yoghurts were improved with IWG fortification. MSGF showed higher antioxidant activity as compared to DSGF. On the other hand, DSGF addition presented better water holding capacity in comparison with MSGF. Likewise, DSGF provided higher firmness and consistency values. Firmness was enhanced with IWG supplementation by reducing syneresis except 1% MSGF added samples. The addition of IWG was found to slightly increase the growth of yoghurt bacteria. Both DSGF and MSGF had adverse effect on the sensory characteristics of yoghurts with their increasing concentrations. Based on the results of this study, to obtain better textural properties and higher antioxidant activity, IWG in different ripening stages can be tried with half combinations (total 3%) in yoghurt. Also, sensorial properties can be improved by flavoring agents.

Evaluation of patients undergoing emergency surgery in a COVID-19 pandemic hospital: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic is threatening healthcare systems and hospital operations on a global scale. Treatment algorithms have changed in general surgery clinics, as in other medical disciplines providing emergency services, with greater changes seen especially in pandemic hospitals. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the follow-up of patients undergoing emergency surgery in our hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study conducted in a tertiary-level public hospital. METHODS: The emergency surgeries carried out between March 11 and April 2, 2020, in the general surgery clinic of a tertiary-care hospital that has also taken on the functions of a pandemic hospital, were retrospectively examined. RESULTS: A total of 25 patients were included, among whom 20 were discharged without event, one remained in the surgical intensive care unit, two are under follow-up by the surgery service and two died. Upon developing postoperative fever and shortness of breath, two patients underwent thoracic computed tomography (CT), although no characteristics indicating COVID-19 were found. The discharged patients had no COVID-19 positivity at follow-up. CONCLUSION: The data that we obtained were not surgical results from patients with COVID-19 infection. They were the results from emergency surgeries on patients who were not infected with COVID-19 but were in a hospital largely dealing with the pandemic. Analysis on the cases in this study showed that both the patients with emergency surgery and the patients with COVİD infection were successfully treated, without influencing each other, through appropriate isolation measures, although managed in the same hospital. In addition, these successful results were supported by 14-day follow-up after discharge.

Effects of training load changes on physical performance and exercise-induced muscle damage / Efeitos das mudanças de carga de treinamento sobre o desempenho físico e dano muscular induzido por exercício / Efectos de los cambios de carga de entrenamiento sobre el desempeño físico y daño muscular inducido por ejercicio

ABSTRACT Introduction There is no previous study examining muscle damage responses from training load changes in individuals trained exclusively with repeated sprint exercise. Objectives The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of training load changes on physical performance and exercise-induced muscle damage in male college athletes who were trained using a 30m repeated sprint protocol. Methods Twelve participants completed the 6-week training period (three sessions/week), which consisted of progressively increasing intensity training in the first 5 weeks. On the first day of the training period, all sprints were performed at 70-80% of maximum effort. In the first session of the 5th week (Maximal intensity training; MIT), all sprints (10×30m sprints) were performed at maximal speed. The sets (10 sprints at maximal speed in each set) were repeated until exhaustion (Exhaustive training; ET) in the first training session of the 6th week, followed by two sessions of the normal training. Isometric strength, 30m sprint performance, flexibility, serum creatine kinase (CK) and cortisol were measured periodically during the examination period. Results Isometric strength, 30m sprint performance, and flexibility were significantly decreased following the ET, and did not recover during the following 9-day period, which consisted of two training sessions and 6 days of recovery. Cortisol was significantly elevated immediately after the ET but was not changed after training on first day and during MIT. CK was significantly elevated after training every week, but the increase at 24 hours after ET was significantly higher than after the first day and MIT. Conclusions Dramatically increasing the volume of maximal intensity repeated sprint exercise results in greater relative muscle damage even in trained individuals, which will significantly limit their performance. Further training sessions, even at normal intensity and volume with insufficient time for muscle recovery, may prolong the duration of fatigue. Level of evidence II; Diagnostic Studies - Investigating a diagnostic test.

RESUMO Introdução Não existe nenhum estudo anterior que tenha analisado as respostas às lesões musculares decorrentes das alterações da carga de treinamento em indivíduos treinados exclusivamente com exercícios repetitivos de corrida. Objetivos A proposta deste estudo foi examinar o efeito das alterações da carga de treinamento sobre o desempenho físico e as lesões musculares induzidas pelo exercício em atletas universitários do sexo masculino que foram treinados usando um protocolo de sprint (treinamento de alta intensidade) de 30 metros repetido. Métodos Doze participantes concluíram o período de treinamento de 6 semanas (três sessões/semana), que consistiu em aumentar progressivamente o treinamento de intensidade nas primeiras 5 semanas. No primeiro dia do período de treinamento, todos os sprints foram realizados com 70% a 80% do esforço máximo. Na primeira sessão da 5ª semana (treinamento de intensidade máxima, TIM), todos os sprints (10 × 30 m) foram realizados na velocidade máxima. As séries (10 sprints na velocidade máxima em cada série) foram repetidas até a exaustão (treinamento exaustivo, TE) na primeira sessão de treinamento da 6ª semana, seguidas de duas sessões de treinamento normal. A força isométrica, o desempenho no sprint de 30 metros, a flexibilidade, a creatina quinase sérica (CK) e o cortisol foram medidos periodicamente durante o período de treinamento. Resultados A força isométrica, o desempenho no sprint de 30 metros e a flexibilidade diminuíram significativamente depois do TE e não foram recuperados durante o período de 9 dias seguintes, que consistiu em duas sessões de treinamento e 6 dias de recuperação. O cortisol teve elevação significativa imediatamente após o TE, mas não teve alteração depois do treinamento no primeiro dia e durante o TIM. A CK teve aumento significativo depois do treinamento em cada semana, mas o aumento 24 horas depois de TE foi expressivamente maior do que depois do primeiro dia e do TIM. Conclusões O aumento drástico da intensidade máxima do exercício de sprint repetido resulta em maior dano muscular relativo, mesmo em indivíduos treinados, o que limitará substancialmente seu desempenho. Outras sessões de treinamento, mesmo em intensidade e volume normais, com tempo insuficiente para recuperação muscular, podem prolongar a duração da fadiga. Nível de evidência II; Estudos Diagnósticos - Investigação de exame diagnóstico.

RESUMEN Introducción No existe ningún estudio anterior que haya analizado las respuestas a las lesiones musculares provenientes de las alteraciones de la carga de entrenamiento en individuos entrenados exclusivamente con ejercicios repetitivos de carrera. Objetivos La propuesta de este estudio fue examinar el efecto de las alteraciones de la carga de entrenamiento sobre el desempeño físico y las lesiones musculares inducidas por el ejercicio en atletas universitarios del sexo masculino que fueron entrenados usando un protocolo de sprint (entrenamiento de alta intensidad) de 30 metros repetido. Métodos Doce participantes concluyeron el período de entrenamiento de seis semanas (tres sesiones/semana), que consistió en aumentar progresivamente el entrenamiento de intensidad en las primeras cinco semanas. En el primer día del período de entrenamiento, todos los sprints fueron realizados con 70% a 80% del esfuerzo máximo. En la primera sesión de la 5ª semana (entrenamiento de intensidad máxima, EIM), todos los sprints (10 × 30 m) fueron realizados en la velocidad máxima. Las series (10 sprints en la velocidad máxima en cada serie) fueron repetidas hasta la extenuación (entrenamiento exhaustivo, EE) en la primera sesión de entrenamiento de la 6ª semana, seguidas de dos sesiones de entrenamiento normal. La fuerza isométrica, el desempeño en el sprint de 30 metros, la flexibilidad, la creatina quinasa sérica (CK) y el cortisol fueron medidos periódicamente durante el período de entrenamiento. Resultados La fuerza isométrica, el desempeño en el sprint de 30 metros y la flexibilidad disminuyeron significativamente después del EE y no fueron recuperados durante el período de 9 días siguientes, que consistió en dos sesiones de entrenamiento y seis días de recuperación. El cortisol tuvo elevación significativa inmediatamente después del EE, pero no tuvo alteración después del entrenamiento en el primer día y durante el EIM. La CK tuvo aumento significativo después del entrenamiento en cada semana, pero el aumento 24 horas después de EE fue expresivamente mayor que después del primer día y del EIM. Conclusiones El aumento drástico de la intensidad máxima del ejercicio de sprint repetido resulta en mayor daño muscular relativo, aún en individuos entrenados, lo que limitará sustancialmente su desempeño. Otras sesiones de entrenamiento, aún en intensidad y volumen normales, con tiempo insuficiente para recuperación muscular, pueden prolongar la duración de la fatiga. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudios Diagnósticos - Investigación de examen diagnóstico.

The Effects of Riluzole on Cisplatin-induced Ototoxicity

Abstract Introduction Riluzole (2-amino-6-trifluoromethoxy benzothiazole) is known as a neuroprotective, antioxidant, antiapoptotic agent. It may have beneficial effects on neuronal cell death due to cisplatin-induced ototoxicity. Objective To evaluate the effect of riluzole on cisplatin-induced ototoxicity in guinea pigs. Methods Twenty-four guinea pigs, studied in three groups, underwent auditory brainstem response evaluation using click and 8 kHz tone burst stimuli. Subsequently, 5 mg/kg of cisplatin were administered to all animals for 3 days intraperitoneally (i.p.) to induce ototoxicity. Half an hour prior to cisplatin, groups 1, 2 and 3 received 2 ml of saline i.p., 6 mg/kg of riluzole hydrochloride i.p., and 8 mg/kg of riluzole hydrochloride i.p., respectively, for 3 days. The auditory brainstem responses were repeated 24 hours after the last drug administration. The cochleae were analyzed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Results After drug administiration, for 8,000 Hz stimulus, group 1 had significantly higher threshold shifts when compared with groups 2 (p < 0.05) and 3 (p < 0.05), and there was no significant difference in threshold shifts between groups 2 and 3 (p > 0.05). Transmission electron microscopy findings demonstrated the protective effect of riluzole on the hair cells and the stria vascularis, especially in the group treated with 8 mg/kg of riluzole hydrochloride. Conclusion We can say that riluzolemay have a protective effect on cisplatin- induced ototoxicity. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results and the mechanisms of action of riluzole.