The role of the prognostic nutritional index in predicting mortality in stroke patients

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of the prognostic nutritional index in predicting in-hospital mortality among patients with acute ischemic stroke. METHODS: This retrospective, observational study included patients diagnosed with acute ischemic stroke at the emergency department of the hospital between January 1, 2022, and January 1, 2023. Demographic data, vital parameters, comorbidities, stroke interventions, and laboratory data were collected from electronic medical records. Prognostic nutritional index was calculated using serum albumin levels and a total lymphocyte count. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. RESULTS: The study included 176 patients, divided into survivor (93.2%, n=164) and deceased (6.8%, n=12) groups. No significant differences were observed in age, gender, blood pressure, heart rate, or body temperature between the groups. Atrial fibrillation was significantly more common in the deceased group (50%) compared to the survivor group (18.9%) (p=0.011). The median lymphocyte count was significantly higher in the survivor group (1,353 [interquartile range, IQR 984-1,968]/mm³) compared to the deceased group (660 [IQR 462-1,188]/mm³) (p=0.009). The median albumin level was significantly lower in the deceased group (3.31 [IQR 2.67-3.4] g/dL) compared to the survivor group (3.74 [IQR 3.39-4.21] g/dL) (p<0.001). The median prognostic nutritional index was significantly higher in the survivor group (46.05 [IQR 39.1-51.3]) compared to the deceased group (36.7 [IQR 28.7-40.5]) (p<0.001). The area under the receiver operating characteristic for prognostic nutritional index predicting mortality was 0.791 (95%CI 0.723-0.848) (p=0.0002), with a cut-off value of ≤41.92 providing the highest diagnostic accuracy. CONCLUSIONS: Prognostic nutritional index is a valuable prognostic indicator for in-hospital mortality in acute ischemic stroke patients. Low prognostic nutritional index values are associated with increased mortality risk. Incorporating prognostic nutritional index into clinical practice may aid in the early identification of high-risk patients and the optimization of treatment strategies. Further research is needed to validate these findings and explore the broader clinical applications of prognostic nutritional index.

Are smartphones a tool to cope with the fear of childbirth? The correlation between the fear of loss of connection and the fear of childbirth

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: With the spread of smartphones, they have become an indispensable part of life, and nomophobia (No-Mobile-Phone Phobia) has emerged. METHODS: The present research is a cross-sectional study and was conducted with 3,870 primiparous pregnant women between April and May 2022. The research data were collected using the Personal Information Form, Nomophobia Questionnaire, and Wijma Delivery Expectancy/Experience Questionnaire. RESULTS: The Wijma Delivery Expectancy/Experience Questionnaire score of the pregnant women who participated in the study was 22.3% (n=863) had a clinical fear of childbirth and 19.5% (n=753) had extreme nomophobia. Considering the correlation of the Nomophobia Questionnaire and Wijma Delivery Expectancy/Experience Questionnaire scores with other variables, it was found that the Wijma Delivery Expectancy/Experience Questionnaire scores increased with the increasing Nomophobia Questionnaire total score (p=0.000, r=236) and the Nomophobia Questionnaire total score and fear of childbirth increased with an increase in the daily phone usage time. It was also revealed that women who had smartphone applications related to fetal development had higher nomophobia levels (p=0.0001), while they had a lower fear of childbirth. CONCLUSION: This study found that one in every five pregnant women was extremely nomophobic and had a clinical fear of childbirth and that nomophobia and the fear of childbirth were correlated at the clinical level. In this regard, women should prefer face-to-face communication rather than smartphones throughout the pregnancy period.

Nuevo sistema de calificación diagnóstica para apendicitis pediátrica basado en parámetros hematológicos ajustados por edad y sexo / A novel diagnostic scoring system for pediatric appendicitis based on age and sex-adjusted hematological parameters

Resumen Antecedentes: El diagnóstico de apendicitis aguda representa un reto en pacientes pediátricos. Objetivo: Establecer la importancia del índice neutrófilos-linfocitos (INL), índice plaquetas-linfocitos (IPL) y otros parámetros hematológicos ajustados por edad y sexo en la predicción de apendicitis aguda, así como describir un nuevo sistema de calificación. Material y métodos: Se analizaron retrospectivamente expedientes clínicos de 946 niños hospitalizados por apendicitis aguda. Se desarrolló un sistema de calificación basado en INL, IPL, ILM y proteína C reactiva (PCR) ajustados por edad y sexo. Resultados: Los pacientes se dividieron en grupo I de exploración negativa y grupo II de apendicitis aguda; las medias de edad correspondientes fueron 12.20 ± 2.31 y 11.56 ± 3.11. El recuento leucocitario, porcentaje de neutrófilos, INL, IPL, ILM y PCR fueron superiores en el grupo II. La calificación osciló entre 0 y 8 puntos; se determinó que 4.5 fue el mejor punto de corte para apendicitis aguda con mayor área bajo la curva (0.96), sensibilidad (94 %), especificidad (86 %), valor predictivo positivo (97.5 %), valor predictivo negativo (65 %), precisión (92.6 %) y tasa de clasificación errónea (7.4 %). Conclusión: El sistema de calificación que se propone, calculado por edad y sexo de los pacientes, se puede utilizar para evitar cirugías innecesarias.

Abstract Background: Acute appendicitis diagnosis can sometimes be a real challenge in pediatric patients. Objective: To establish the importance of neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and other hematological parameters adjusted for age and sex in the prediction of acute appendicitis, as well as to describe a new scoring system. Material and methods: Medical records of 946 children hospitalized for acute appendicitis were retrospectively analyzed. A scoring system based on NLR, PLR, lymphocyte/monocyte ratio (LMR), and C-reactive protein (CRP) adjusted for age and sex was developed. Results: Patients were divided into group I, with negative examination, and group II, with acute appendicitis; mean ages were 12.20 ± 2.31 and 11.56 ± 3.11, respectively. Leukocyte count, neutrophil percentage, NLR, PLR, LMR and PCR were higher in group II. The scores ranged from 0 to 8 points; 4.5 was determined to be the best cut-off point for acute appendicitis with the highest area under the curve (0.96), sensitivity (94%), specificity (86%), positive predictive value (97.5%), negative predictive value (65%), accuracy (92.6%) and misclassification rate (7.4%). Conclusion: The proposed scoring system, calculated based on patient age and gender, can be used for unnecessary surgeries to be avoided.

Effect of candesartan treatment on echocardiographic indices of cardiac remodeling in post-myocardial infarction patients

SUMMARY Objective: Myocardial infarction has unfavorable effect on structural and functional properties of the myocardium, referred to as cardiac remodeling. Left ventricular mass, left ventricular mass index, and relative wall thickness are important predictors of cardiac remodeling. In this study, we investigated the effect of candesartan treatment in comparison with zofenopril treatment on echocardiographic indices of cardiac remodeling in post myocardial infarction patients. Material and Methods: In this prospective study, patients who underwent successful percutaneous coronary intervention were randomly assigned to a candesartan or zofenopril treatment. After randomization, echocardiographic indices of cardiac remodeling including left ventricular mass, left ventricular mass index, and relative wall thickness were evaluated before the start of treatment along with 1- and 6-month follow-ups. Results: According to our study, candesartan group showed significant reduction of estimated left ventricular mass and left ventricular mass index at 6-month follow-up visit compared to baseline values (199.53±38.51 g vs. 212.69±40.82 g; 99.05 g/m2 (90.00-116.5) vs. 106.0 g/m2 (96.0∼123.00), p<0.05, respectively). This trend was also observed in zofenopril group during the 6-month period (201.22±40.07 g vs. 207.52±41.61 g; 101.0 g/m2 (92.25-111.75.0) vs. 104.50 g/m2 (95.0∼116.75), p<0.05, respectively). Although both classes of drugs had favorable effects on post-myocardial infarction cardiac remodeling, the absolute benefit was more prominent in candesartan group as compared to zofenopril group (p<0.05). Conclusion: Our results suggest that candesartan treatment following myocardial infarction may potentially be useful in terms of improving post-myocardial infarction cardiac remodeling.

Comparison of clinical characteristics of wild-type SARS-CoV-2 and Omicron

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the effect of mutations by comparing wild-type SARS-CoV-2 and Omicron regarding clinical features in patients with COVID-19. It also aimed to assess whether SARS-CoV-2 cycle threshold value could predict COVID-19 severity. METHODS: A total of 960 wild-type and 411 Omicron variant patients with positive results in SARS-CoV-2 real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction test from oropharyngeal and/or nasopharyngeal samples during their hospital admissions were included in this retrospective study. The reference symptoms of the patients were obtained from the hospital database. The correlation between chest computed tomography findings and the "cycle threshold" of patients with wild-type SARS-CoV-2 was assessed. RESULTS: Cough, fever, shortness of breath, loss of taste and smell, and diarrhea were found to be statistically significantly higher (p=0.001; 0.001; 0.001; 0.001; and 0.006; respectively) in the wild-type cohort, while in the Omicron cohort, sore throat and headache were found to be statistically significantly higher (p=0.001 and 0.003, respectively). An inverse relationship was found between chest computed tomography findings and viral load. CONCLUSION: This study revealed that the Omicron variant tended to infect predominantly the upper respiratory tract and showed decreased lung infectivity, and the disease progressed with a milder clinical course. Therefore, the study showed that the tropism of the virus was changed and the viral phenotype was affected. It was also found that SARS-CoV-2 viral load did not predict COVID-19 severity in patients with wild-type SARS-CoV-2.

Comparison of anesthesia management in transcatheter aortic valve implantation: a retrospective cohort study

Abstract Background and objectives We aimed to investigate the effects of two different anesthetic techniques in our patients who underwent transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Methods In this study, 303 patients who underwent TAVI procedure with a diagnosis of severe aortic stenosis between January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2018 were retrospectively evaluated. The patients were divided according to the type of anesthesia given during each procedure as; general anesthesia (GA), local anesthesia (LA). Results LA was preferred in 245 (80.8%) of 303 patients who underwent TAVI, while GA was preferred in 58 patients (19.1%). Median ages ​​of our patients who received LA and GA were 83 and 84, respectively. The procedure and anesthesia durations of the patients in the GA group were longer than the LA group (p< 0.00001, p< 0.00001, respectively). Demographic and pre-operative clinical data were similar in comparison between two groups (p> 0.05) except for peripheral artery disease. Hypertension was the most common comorbidity in both groups. While the number of inotrope use was significantly higher in patients who received GA (p< 0.00001), no significant differences were found between LA and GA patients in terms of major complications and mortality (p> 0.05). Intensive care and hospital stays were significantly shorter in the LA group (p= 0.001, p= 0.023, respectively). Conclusion The anesthetic technique of TAVI procedure did not have a significant effect on outcomes including; complications, mortality and success of the procedure. LA provides shorter duration of procedure and hospital stay.

Occurrence of Charcoal Rot in Globe Artichoke and Assessment of Inoculation Techniques for Pathogenicity and Management

Abstract Macrophomina phaseolina is a polyphagous fungus causing substantial yield losses in many plant species. In 2017, M. phaseolina was found to be causal agent of wilting and stunting symptoms of globe artichoke (Cynara scolymus) in the Mediterranean region of Turkey. There is no knowledge about M. phaseolina in globe artichoke and applicable management practice in cultivation of the crop. In the present study, the causal agent was characterized in vitro and in vivo studies. Pathogenicity tests were carried out using seedlings of globe artichoke and nine plant species (sunflower, chickpea, soybean, sesame, peanut, wheat, maize, cotton and sorghum) in a greenhouse. In addition, five inoculation techniques were assessed to determine the most suitable method for screening resistance to M. phaseolina in globe artichoke. Significant (P˂0.01) variations were found among the inoculation techniques. Depending on each inoculation technique, death of lateral roots and distinct lesions up to 5.38 cm occurred on primary roots and crowns of globe artichoke. M. phaseolina also caused lesions ranging from 1.43 to 9.63 cm on primary roots including crown and stems of tested plant species. M. phaseolina was pathogenic to globe artichoke and all the tested plant species, confirming its polyphagous nature. This is the first record of M. phaseolina causing root and crown rot in globe artichoke in the world. Moreover, the present study suggested that toothpick inoculation technique could be used for screening resistance to M. phaseolina in globe artichoke.

The effect of favipiravir versus hydroxychloroquine on clinical and laboratory findings in COVID-19 in healthcare workers

Abstract Objectives Comparative data on hydroxychloroquine and favipiravir, commonly used agents in the treatment of Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19), are still limited. In this study, it was aimed to compare treatment outcomes in healthcare workers with COVID-19 who were prospectively followed by the occupational health and safety unit. Methods A total of 237 healthcare-workers, diagnosed as mild or moderate COVID-19 between March 11, 2020 and January 1, 2021, were given hydroxychloroquine (n = 114) or favipiravir (n = 123). Clinical and laboratory findings were evaluated. Results The mean age of the patients was 33.4±11.5 years. The mean time to negative PCR was found to be significantly shorter in patients receiving favipiravir compared to the hydroxychloroquine group (10.9 vs. 13.9 days; p < 0.001). The rate of hospitalization in the hydroxychloroquine group was significantly higher than favipiravir group (15.8% vs. 3.3%). In terms of side effects; the frequency of diarrhea in patients receiving hydroxychloroquine was significantly higher than that in the favipiravir group (31.6% vs. 6.5%; p < 0.001). Conclusions Favipiravir and hydroxychloroquine were similar in terms of improvement of clinical symptoms of healthcare workers with mild or moderate COVID-19 infection, but favipiravir was significantly more effective in reducing viral load and hospitalization rates. Furthermore, favipiravir caused significantly less side-effects than hydroxychloroquine.

The Effects of 2100 MHz Radio Frequency Radiation on Thyroid Tissues

ABSTRACT Objective: To reveal the effect of 2100 MHz radio frequency (RF) radiation on thyroid tissues of rats in the 10 days (group E1) and 40 days (group G1) exposure groups. Methods: In this study, 30 healthy female Wistar albino rats, weighing 200−256 g each, were used. The animals were randomly divided into four groups (E1, E2, G1 and G2). Groups E2 and G2 served as the control groups. The exposure groups were exposed to 2100 MHz RF radiation emitted by a generator, simulating a 3G-mobile phone for 6 hours/day, 5 consecutive days/week, at the same time of the day (between 9 am and 3 pm), for 10 days (group E1) and 40 days (group G1). Results: Catalase and xanthine oxidase enzyme activities were compared between the groups E1 and E2; it was found that the difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Between the groups G1 and G2, the difference was found to be significant with respect to catalase activities. Tissue samples of the early and late groups showed no serious pathological findings in the histopathological examination. Conclusion: We believe that comprehensive, clinical and experimental studies are needed to assess the effect of the RF exposure duration and dosage of exposure on thyroid tissues.

Investigation of the Effects of Glutens on Serum Interleukin-1 Beta and Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha Levels and the Immunohistochemical Distribution of CD3 and CD8 Receptors in the Small Intestine in Male Rats

Abstract While the role of cytokines in celiac disease has been investigated in detail, cytokine release in the event of the exposure of healthy subjects to glutens has only recently been studied. This study was aimed at determining the effects of corn and wheat glutens, incorporated as protein sources into the diet, on serum interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels and the immunohistochemical distribution of CD3 and CD8 receptors in the small intestine in male rats. The study material comprised 24 twenty-day-old male Wistar albino rats, which were randomly assigned in equal numbers to three groups (2 rats/replicate and 4 replicates/group). The feed rations provided to all three groups contained high levels of proteins, which were soybean meal, corn gluten and wheat gluten in the control, corn and wheat groups, respectively. The in Control, Corn and Wheat groups serum IL-1 beta and TNF-alpha levels respectively 55.83 - 46.37; 81.65 - 61.95 and 81.65-61.31 was determined but these differences were statistically insignificant. Furthermore, immunohistochemical examination demonstrated a mathematical increase to have occurred in the distribution of the CD3 and CD8 receptors in the duodenum, jejunum and ileum samples of the corn and wheat groups. In result, based on the findings obtained in this study, we suggest that the long-term feeding of rats on high levels of gluten causes systemic adverse effects.

Tocilizumab for juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a single-center case series

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the commonest chronic rheumatic disease among children. When not treated effectively, JIA can lead to functional disability, due to joint damage, along with long-term morbidities. OBJECTIVES: To describe the use of tocilizumab therapy for 11 patients with polyarticular JIA (pJIA) and systemic JIA (sJIA) who presented inadequate response or were refractory to disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and/or other biological therapies; and to evaluate its benefits, safety and tolerability. DESIGN AND SETTING: Observational retrospective case series at a tertiary-level training and research hospital. METHODS: We reviewed the medical records of 11 consecutive patients with JIA who received tocilizumab (anti-IL-6) therapy in our pediatric nephrology and rheumatology outpatient clinic. We analyzed their demographic data, clinical and laboratory findings, treatment response and adverse reactions. We determined the efficacy of tocilizumab treatment using the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) pediatric (Pedi) response criteria, including ACR Pedi 30, 50, 70 and 90 scores. We used the Wilcoxon test to compare measurements before and after treatment. RESULTS: Tocilizumab was given to seven patients with sJIA and four with pJIA (one of the pJIA patients was rheumatoid factor-positive). In most patients, we observed improvement of symptoms, absence of articular and extra-articular inflammation and continued inactive disease. ACR Pedi 30, 50 and 70 scores were achieved by 90.9% of the patients. Five patients showed minor side effects, possibly due to use of tocilizumab. CONCLUSIONS: Tocilizumab therapy should be considered for treating patients with diagnoses of pJIA or sJIA who are resistant to non-biological DMARDs and/or other biological therapies.

Arterial stiffness in hyperthyroid patients is deteriorated due to thyroid hormones

ABSTRACT Objective The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare arterial stiffness, which is an independent risk indicator for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), between patients with overt hyperthyroidism, subclinical hyperthyroidism, euthyroidism by antithyroid therapy and healthy volunteers with pulse wave analysis (PWA). Subjects and methods A total of 102 volunteers were included in the study (30 in the overt hyperthyroid group, 28 in the subclinical hyperthyroid group and 14 with euthyroidism by antithyroid therapy and 30 healthy). The arterial stiffness measurements of the participants in the study were performed with the Mobil-O-Graph PWA device (I.E.M. GmBH, Stolberg, Germany), which makes cuff based oscillometric measurement from the brachial artery. Results Systolic blood pressure, pulse rate, central systolic blood pressure, cardiac output, heart rate-corrected augmentation index (Aix@75) and pulse wave velocity (PWV) measurements were significantly higher in the hyperthyroid group than in the control group. The heart rate and PWV in the subclinical hyperthyroid group were significantly higher than the control group. In the euthyroid group, systolic blood pressure, central systolic blood pressure, cardiac output, cardiac index and PWV were found significantly higher than the control group. There was also a negative correlation between Aix@75 and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and a positive correlation between Aix@75 and free thyroid hormones. Conclusion In our study, we observed that the arterial stiffness was adversely affected by an overt or subclinical increase in thyroid hormones and this correlated with thyroid hormone levels. We recommend that PWV measurement, which is a simple method for detecting CVD risk, can be used in these patients.

Effects of repeated sprint training on isocapnic buffering phase in volleyball players / Efeitos de treinos de sprint repetidos na faİxa de tamponamento İsocápnİco em jogadores de voleibol / Efectos del entrenamiento de sprint repetido en la fase de tamponamiento isocápnico en jugadores de voleibol

ABSTRACT Introduction: The region between the ventilatory threshold (VT) and respiratory compensation point (RCP) is defined as the isocapnic buffering (ICB) phase and represents a phase of compensation for exercise-induced metabolic acidosis. There is sparse literature examining the effects of physical training on ICB phase in athletes. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a repeated sprint training program on the ICB phase of college volleyball players. Methods: Eighteen male volleyball players were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (n=9) or a control group (n=9) and followed a traditional volleyball training program three times per week for six weeks. The experimental group additionally performed a repeated sprint training protocol immediately before each volleyball training session. Before and after the 6-week training period, all participants performed an incremental treadmill test to determine VT, RCP, and maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max). The ICB phases were calculated as VO2 (ml/kg/min) and sprint speed (km/h). Results: The experimental group showed significant improvements in ICB phase, RCP, VO2max and maximal sprint speed after training (p<0.01). There were no significant changes in VT after training in the experimental group (p>0.05). None of these variables changed significantly in the control group (p>0.05). Conclusions: These findings indicate that repeated sprint training can enhance the ICB phase of volleyball players, which may be attributable to an improvement in buffering capacity leading to a shift in RCP towards higher intensities without any change in VT. The increase in the ICB phase may an important factor in terms of improvement in the high-intensity exercise tolerance of athletes. Level of Evidence II; Therapeutic studies - Investigating the results of treatment.

RESUMO Introdução: a região entre o limiar ventilatório (VT) e o ponto de compensação respiratório (RCP) é definido como faixa de temporamento isocápnico (ICB) e representa a fase de compensação para a acidose metabólica induzida por exercício. Há escassa literatura examinando os efeitos do treinamento físico na fase ICB em atletas. Objetivos: o objetivo desse estudo foi examinar os efeitos do programa de treinamento de Srint repetido na fase ICB em jogadores universitários de voleibol. Métodos: dezoito jogadores homens de voleibol foram aleatoriamente designados para um grupo experimental (n=9) ou um grupo controle (n=9) e completaram um programa tradicional de treinamento de voleibol três vezes por semana, durante seis semanas. O grupo experimental, adicionalmente, realizou um protocolo de treinamento de sprint repetido imediatamente antes de cada sessão de treinamento de voleibol. Antes e após o período de treinamento de 6 semanas, todos os participantes realizaram um teste de esteira experimental para determinar VT, RCP e consumo máximo de oxigênio (VO2max). As fases ICB foram calculadas como VO2 (ml/kg/min) e velocidade de corrida (km/h). Resultados: o grupo experimental mostrou melhorias significativas na fase ICB, RCP, VO2max e velocidade de corrida máxima depois do treino (p < 0.01). Não houve mudanças significativas no VT após o treino no grupo experimental (p > 0.05). Nenhuma das variáveis mudou significativamente no grupo controle (p > 0.05). Conclusões: a partir desses resultados, concluímos que o treinamento de Sprint repetido pode realçar a fase ICB em jogadores de voleibol, que podem ser atribuídos à melhora do efeito tampão, levando ao deslocamento da RCP para intensidades mais altas, sem nenhuma mudança no VT. O aumento na fase ICB pode ser um fator importante em relação à melhora na tolerância ao exercício de alta intensidade em atletas. Nível de evidência II, Estudos terapêuticos - Investigação dos resultados do tratamento.

RESUMEN Introducción: la región comprendida entre el umbral de ventilación (UV) y el punto de compensación respiratoria (PCR) se define como la fase de amortiguación isocapnica (ICB) y representa una fase de compensación de la acidosis metabólica inducida por el ejercicio. Hay poca literatura que examine los efectos del entrenamiento físico en la fase ICB de los atletas. Objetivos: El propósito de este estudio fue examinar los efectos del programa de entrenamiento de sprints repetidos en la fase ICB de los jugadores de voleibol de la universidad. Métodos: Dieciocho jugadores de voleibol masculino fueron asignados aleatoriamente a un grupo experimental (n=9) o un grupo de control (n=9) y completaron un programa tradicional de entrenamiento de voleibol, tres veces por semana durante 6 semanas. El grupo experimental también realizó un protocolo de entrenamiento de sprint repetido inmediatamente antes de cada sesión de entrenamiento de voleibol. Antes y después del período de entrenamiento de 6 semanas, todos los participantes realizaron una prueba incremental en cinta rodante para determinar UV, RCP y consumo máximo de oxígeno (VO2max). Las fases ICB se calcularon como VO2 (ml/kg/min) y velocidad (km/h). Resultados: El grupo experimental mostró mejoras significativas en la fase ICB, RCP, VO2max y velocidad de carrera máxima post entrenamiento (p < 0.01). No hubo cambios significativos en UV después del entrenamiento en el grupo experimental (p > 0.05). Ninguna de estas variables cambió significativamente en el grupo control (p > 0.05). Conclusiones: A partir de estos resultados, concluimos que el entrenamiento de sprints repetidos puede mejorar la fase ICB de los jugadores de voleibol, lo que puede atribuirse a la mejora de la capacidad de amortiguación que lleva al cambio de RCP a intensidades más altas sin ningún cambio en el UV. El aumento en la fase ICB puede ser un factor importante en relación con la mejora en la tolerancia al ejercicio de alta intensidad en atletas. Nivel de Evidencia II; Estudios terapéuticos - Investigando resultados del tratamiento.

An investigation of virulence factors of Legionella pneumophila environmental isolates

ABSTRACT Nine Legionella pneumophila strains isolated from cooling towers and a standard strain (L. pneumophila serogroup 1, ATCC 33152, Philadelphia 1) were analyzed and compared in terms of motility, flagella structure, ability to form biofilms, enzymatic activities (hemolysin, nucleases, protease, phospholipase A, phospholipase C, acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase and lipase), hemagglutination capabilities, and pathogenicity in various host cells (Acanthamoeba castellanii ATCC 30234, mouse peritoneal macrophages and human peripheral monocytes). All the isolates of bacteria appeared to be motile and polar-flagellated and possessed the type-IV fimbria. Upon the evaluation of virulence factors, isolate 4 was found to be the most pathogenic strain, while 6 out of the 9 isolates (the isolates 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 7) were more virulent than the ATCC 33152 strain. The different bacterial strains exhibited differences in properties such as adhesion, penetration and reproduction in the hosts, and preferred host type. To our knowledge, this is the first study to compare the virulence of environmental L. pneumophila strains isolated in Turkey, and it provides important information relevant for understanding the epidemiology of L. pneumophila.

Nutritional value of huitlacoche, maize mushroom caused by Ustilago maydis

Abstract Smutty maize cobs, caused by Ustilago maydis ((DC) Corda.), a fungus belonging to Basidiomycetes, can be seen wherever maize is grown. It is considered as a fungal disease limiting maize yield worldwide. However, in Mesoamerica, it is called as "huitlacoche" and evaluated as an edible mushroom. The present study was conducted to examine nutritional characteristics of this mushroom. In the study, smutty cobs naturally infected by U. maydis were randomly gleaned from plants in maize producing areas in the Mediterranean region of Turkey, in 2015. Huitlacoche was analyzed in terms of proximate composition, fatty acids, mineral elements, total phenolic and flavonoid matters and antioxidant activity. Average protein content was 12%, while fatty acids ranged from 0.44 to 42.49% (dry basis). Of the 11 fatty acids, oleic and linoleic acids had the highest percentages. Phosphorus (342.07 mg/kg) and magnesium (262.69 mg/kg) were found in high quantities. As for total phenolic and flavonoid matters were 113.11 mg GAE/kg and 28.51 mg CE/kg, respectively. The study suggests that huitlacoche has numerous good nutritional features for human diet, thus, it can be evaluated as a valuable food source in international cuisines.

Impact of free thyroxine levels and other clinical factors on bare metal stent restenosis

ABSTRACT Objective Thyroid hormones have both direct and indirect effects on thermogenesis such as modulating vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation. However, the influence of more subtle changes in thyroid hormones on coronary atherosclerosis remains a matter of speculation. Smooth muscle cells play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of in-stent restenosis (ISR). However, the relationship between free thyroxine (fT4) and ISR has not been studied. In the present study, we aimed to assess the role of preprocedural serum fT4 level on the development of ISR in patients undergoing coronary bare metal stent (BMS) implantation. Materials and methods We enrolled and analyzed clinical, biochemical, and angiographic data from 705 consecutive patients without a history of primary thyroid disease [mean age 60.3 ± 9.3 years, 505 (72%) male]; all patients had undergone BMS implantation and further control coronary angiography owing to stable or unstable angina pectoris. Patients were divided into 3 tertiles based on preprocedural serum fT4 levels. Results ISR was observed in 53 (23%) patients in the lowest tertile, 82 (35%) patients in the second tertile, and 107 (46%) patients in the highest fT4 tertile (p < 0.001). Using multiple logistic regression analysis, five characteristics emerged as independent predictors of ISR: diabetes mellitus, smoking, HDL-cholesterol, stent length, and preprocedural serum fT4 level. In receiver operating characteristics curve analysis, fT4 level > 1.23 mg/dL had 70% sensitivity and 73% specificity (AUC: 0.75, p < 0.001) in predicting ISR. Conclusion Higher preprocedural serum fT4 is a powerful and independent predictor of BMS restenosis in patients with stable and unstable angina pectoris.

Airway management in newborn with Klippel-Feil syndrome / Manejo de vias aéreas em recém-nascido com síndrome de Klippel-Feil

Abstract Klippel-Feil syndrome (KFS) has a classical triad that includes short neck, low hair line and restriction in neck motion and is among one of the congenital causes of difficult airway. Herein, we present a 26-day, 3300 g newborn with KFS who was planned to be operated for correction of an intestinal obstruction. She had features of severe KFS. Anesthesia was induced by inhalation of sevoflurane 2-3% in percentage 100 oxygen. Sevoflurane inhalation was stopped after 2 min. Her Cornmack Lehane score was 2 and oral intubation was performed with 3.5 mm ID non-cuffed endotracheal tube in first attempt. Operation lasted for 45 min. Following uneventful surgery, she was not extubated and was transferred to the newborn reanimation unit. On the postoperative third day, the patient died due to hyperdynamic heart failure. This case is the youngest child with Klippel-Feil syndrome in literature and on whom oral intubation was performed. We also think that positioning of this younger age group might be easier than older age groups due to incomplete ossification process.

Resumo A síndrome de Klippel-Feil (SKF) envolve uma tríade clássica que inclui pescoço curto, linha de implantação dos cabelos baixa e restrição do movimento do pescoço e é uma das causas congênitas de via aérea difícil. Apresentamos o caso de uma recém-nascida, de 26 dias, 3.300 g de peso, com SKF, que foi agendada para cirurgia de correção de uma obstrução intestinal. A paciente apresentava características acentuadas da SKF. A anestesia foi induzida com inalação de sevoflurano a 2-3% em 100% de oxigênio. A inalação de sevoflurano foi interrompida após dois minutos. O escore de Cormack-Lehane da paciente era 2 e a intubação orotraqueal foi feita na primeira tentativa, com tubo endotraqueal de 3,5 mm ID sem balão. O tempo de cirurgia foi de 45 minutos. Após a cirurgia sem intercorrências, a paciente foi transferida para a unidade de reanimação neonatal ainda intubada. No terceiro dia de pós-operatório, foi a óbito por causa de uma insuficiência cardíaca hiperdinâmica. Esse caso apresenta a criança mais jovem com síndrome de Klippel-Feil na literatura e na qual a intubação orotraqueal foi feita. Acreditamos também que o posicionamento de pacientes dessa faixa etária mais jovem pode ser mais fácil do que o de pacientes de faixas etárias mais altas, por causa do processo de ossificação incompleto.

Adding 75 mg pregabalin to analgesic regimen reduces pain scores and opioid consumption in adults following percutaneous nephrolithotomy / Adição de 75 mg de pregabalina ao regime analgésico reduz escores de dor e consumo de opiáceos em adultos após nefrolitotomia percutânea / La adición de 75 mg de pregabalina al régimen analgésico reduce puntuaciones de dolor y consumo de opiáceos en adultos después de la nefrolitotomía percutánea

Background and objectives: Adding novel adjunctive drugs like gabapentinoids to multimodal analgesic regimen might be reasonable for lessening postoperative pain scores, total opioid consumption and side effects after percutaneous nephrolithotomy. We aimed to evaluate the effect of pregabalin on postoperative pain scores, analgesic consumption and renal functions expressed by creatinine clearance (CrCl) and blood neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) and cystatin C (Cys C) levels in patients undergoing percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). Methods: 60 patients undergoing elective PCNL were enrolled in the study. Patients were randomized to oral single dose 75 mg pregabalin group and a control group. Visual Analog Scale pain scores (VAS), postoperative intravenous morphine consumption during the first 24 postoperative hours, serum NGAL, Cys C levels and creatinine clearance (CrCl) was measured preoperatively and post-operatively at 2nd and 24th hour. Results: Postoperative VAS scores were significantly decreased in the pregabalin group at the postoperative 30th min, 1st, and 2nd hour (p = 0.002, p = 0.001 and p = 0.027, respectively). Postoperative mean morphine consumption was statistically significantly decreased for all time intervals in the pregabalin group (p = 0.002, p = 0.001, p = 0.001, p = 0.001, p < 0.001, respectively). No statistically significant differences were found between the two groups with regard to CrCl, or Cys C at preoperative and postoperative 2nd and 24th hour. Postoperative 24th hour NGAL levels were significantly decreased in the pregabalin group (p = 0.027). Conclusions: Oral single-dose preemptive 75 mg pregabalin was effective in reducing early postoperative pain scores and total analgesic consumption in patients undergoing PCNL without leading to hemodynamic instability and side effects. .

Justificativa e objetivos: A adição de novos medicamentos adjuvantes, como os gabapentinoides, ao regime analgésico multimodal pode ser razoável para diminuir os escores de dor no pós-operatório, o consumo total de opiáceos e os efeitos colaterais após nefrolitotomia percutânea. Nosso objetivo foi avaliar durante o período pós-operatório o efeito de pregabalina nos escores de dor, consumo de analgésicos e funções renais expressas por clearance de creatinina (ClCr) e níveis séricos de cistatina-C (Cis-C) e lipocalina associada à gelatinase de neutrófilos (LAGN) em pacientes submetidos à nefrolitotomia percutânea (NLPC). Métodos: Sessenta pacientes submetidos à NLPC eletiva foram incluídos no estudo. Os pacientes foram randomizados para receber pregabalina oral em dose única de 75 mg – grupo pregabalina e grupo controle. Os escores de dor medidos pela Escala Visual Analógica (EVA), o consumo de morfina intravenosa nas primeiras 24 horas de pós-operatório, LAGN sérico, níveis de Cis-C e clearance de creatinina (ClCr) foram mensurados no pré-operátorio e na segunda e 24a horas de pós-operatório. Resultados: Os escores EVA no pós-operatório foram significativamente menores no grupo pregabalina nos tempos de 30 min, 1 e 2 horas (p = 0,002, p = 0,001 e p = 0,027, respectivamente). A média do consumo de morfina no pós-operatório foi estatisticamente significante menor em todos os intervalos de tempo no grupo pregabalina (p = 0,002, p = 0,001, p = 0,001, p = 0,001, p < 0,001, respectivamente). Não houve diferença estatisticamente significante entre os dois grupos em relação ao ClCr ou Cis-C no pré-operatório e na segunda e 24a horas de pós-operatório. Os níveis de LAGN na 24a hora de pós-...

Justificación y objetivos: La adición de nuevos medicamentos adyuvantes, como los gabapentinoides, al régimen analgésico multimodal puede ser interesante para poder disminuir las puntuaciones de dolor en el postoperatorio, el consumo total de opiáceos y los efectos colaterales después de la nefrolitotomía percutánea. Nuestro objetivo fue evaluar, durante el período postoperatorio, el efecto de la pregabalina en las puntuaciones de dolor, consumo de analgésicos y funciones renales expresadas por aclaramiento de creatinina y niveles séricos de cistatina-C y lipocalina asociada con la gelatinasa de neutrófilos en pacientes sometidos a la nefrolitotomía percutánea. Métodos: Sesenta pacientes sometidos a nefrolitotomía percutánea electiva fueron incluidos en el estudio. Los pacientes fueron aleatorizados para recibir pregabalina oral en dosis única de 75 mg (grupo pregabalina) y grupo control. Las puntuaciones de dolor medidas por la escala visual analógica, el consumo de morfina intravenosa en las primeras 24 h de postoperatorio, nivel sérico de lipocalina asociada a la gelatinasa de neutrófilos, niveles de cistatina-C y aclaramiento de creatinina fueron medidos en el preoperatorio y en la 2.a y 24.a horas del postoperatorio. Resultados: Las puntuaciones de la escala visual analógica en el postoperatorio fueron significativamente menores en el grupo pregabalina a los 30 min, 1 y 2 h (p = 0,002; p = 0,001; y p = 0,027 respectivamente). El promedio del consumo de morfina en el postoperatorio fue estadísticamente significativo y menor en todos los intervalos de tiempo en el grupo pregabalina (p = 0,002; p = 0,001; p = 0,001; p = 0,001; p < 0,001 respectivamente). No hubo diferencia estadísticamente significativa entre los 2 grupos con relación al aclaramiento de creatinina o cistatina-C en el preoperatorio y en ...

Oxigênio suplementar em cesariana eletiva sob raquianestesia: manejar um punhal com cuidado / Supplemental oxygen in elective cesarean section under spinal anesthesia: handle the sword with care / Oxígeno suplementario en cesárea electiva bajo raquianestesia: manejar el cuchillo de doble fi lo con cuidado

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: Nosso objetivo foi investigar o efeito de 21% e 40% de oxigênio suplementar sobre o estresse oxidativo materno e neonatal em cesariana eletiva (CE) sob raquianestesia. MÉTODOS: Foram incluídas no estudo 80 parturientes com gestação a termo, submetidas à CE sob raquianestesia. As pacientes foram randomicamente alocadas em dois grupos para receberem 21% (grupo Ar) ou 40% (grupo oxigênio) de oxigênio a partir do momento da incisão até o fim da cirurgia. Amostras de sangue das parturientes e da artéria umbilical (AU) foram coletadas antes e depois da cirurgia. A capacidade antioxidante total (CAT), o estado oxidante total (EOT) e o índice de estresse oxidativo (IEO) foram medidos. RESULTADOS: Idade, peso, altura, paridade, semana de gestação, tempo de incisão espinhal, tempo de incisão cirúrgica para extrair o feto, tempo de extração do feto, tempo de cirurgia, escores de Apgar no primeiro e quinto minutos e peso ao nascer foram semelhantes entre os grupos (p > 0,05 em todas as comparações). Não houve diferença entre os grupos em relação aos níveis pré-operatórios de CAT, EOT e IEO (p > 0,05 em todas as comparações). Os níveis maternos pós-operatórios de CAT, EOT e IEO aumentaram significativamente no grupo oxigênio (p = 0,047; < 0,001 e 0,038, respectivamente). Nas artérias umbilicais, os níveis da CAT aumentaram significativamente no grupo oxigênio (p = 0,003) e os de EOT e IEO aumentaram significativamente no grupo Ar (p = 0,02 e < 0,001, respectivamente). CONCLUSÕES: A diferença em relação ao impacto sobre o estresse oxidativo materno e fetal da suplementação de 40% em comparação com a de 21% exige estudos adicionais em ampla escala que investiguem o papel da suplementação de oxigênio durante CE sob raquianestesia.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: We aimed to investigate the effect of 21% and 40% oxygen supplementation on maternal and neonatal oxidative stress in elective cesarean section (CS) under spinal anesthesia. METHODS: Eighty term parturients undergoing elective CS under spinal anesthesia were enrolled in the study. We allocated patients randomly to breathe 21% (air group) or 40% (oxygen group) oxygen from the time of skin incision until the end of the operation. We collected maternal pre- and post-operative and umbilical artery (UA) blood samples. Total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidant status (TOS) and the oxidative stress index (OSI) were measured. RESULTS: Age, weight, height, parity, gestation week, spinal-skin incision time, skin incision-delivery time, delivery time, operation time, 1st and 5th minutes Apgar scores, and birth weight were similar between the groups (p > 0.05 for all comparisons). There were no differences in preoperative TAC, TOS, or OSI levels between the groups (p > 0.05 for all comparisons). Postoperative maternal TAC, TOS and OSI levels significantly increased in the oxygen group (p = 0.047, < 0.001 and 0.038, respectively); umbilical artery TAC levels significantly increased in the oxygen group (p = 0.003); and umbilical artery TOS and OSI levels significantly increased in the air group (p = 0.02 and < 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: The difference in impact on maternal and fetal oxidative stress of supplemental 40% compared to 21% oxygen mandates further large-scale studies that investigate the role of oxygen supplementation during elective CS under spinal anesthesia.

JUSTIFICATIVA Y OBJETIVOS: Nuestro objetivo fue investigar el efecto de 21% y 40% de oxígeno suplementario sobre el estrés oxidativo materno y neonatal en la cesárea electiva (CE), bajo raquianestesia. MÉTODOS: Fueron incluidas en el estudio 80 parturientes con gestación a término sometidas a la CE bajo raquianestesia. Las pacientes fueron aleatoriamente ubicadas en dos grupos para recibir 21% (grupo Aire) y 40% (grupo Oxígeno) de oxígeno a partir del momento de la incisión hasta el final de la cirugía. Las muestras de sangre de las parturientes y de la arteria umbilical (AU) se recolectaron antes y después de la cirugía. La capacidad antioxidante total (CAT), el estado oxidante total (EOT) y el índice de estrés oxidativo (IEO) se midieron. RESULTADOS: La edad, el peso, altura, paridad, semana de gestación, el tiempo de incisión espinal, el tiempo de incisión quirúrgica para extraer el feto, el tiempo de extracción del feto, el tiempo de cirugía, las puntuaciones de Apgar al primero y quinto minutos y el peso al nascer, fueron similares entre los grupos (p > 0,05 en todas las comparaciones). No hubo diferencia entre los grupos con relación a los niveles preoperatorios de CAT, EOT y IEO (p > 0,05 en todas las comparaciones). Los niveles maternos postoperatorios de CAT, EOT y IEO aumentaron significativamente en el grupo oxígeno (p = 0,047 < 0,001 y 0,038, respectivamente). En las arterias umbilicales, los niveles de la CAT aumentaron significativamente en el grupo oxígeno (p = 0,003) y los de EOT y IEO aumentaron significativamente en el grupo aire (p = 0,02 y < 0,001, respectivamente). CONCLUSIONES: La diferencia con relación al impacto sobre el estrés oxidativo materno y fetal de la suplementación de 40% en comparación con la de 21%, exige estudios adicionales en amplia escala que investiguen el rol de la suplementación de oxígeno durante CE bajo raquianestesia.

Sedação e analgesia em colonoscopia eletiva: propofol-fentanil versus propofol-alfentanil / Sedation-analgesia in elective colonoscopy: propofol-fentanyl versus propofol-alfentanil / Sedación y analgesia en colonoscopia electiva: propofol-fentanilo versus propofol-alfentanilo

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVO: Sedação e analgesia são recomendadas em colonoscopia para propiciar conforto, pois são procedimentos invasivos e podem ser dolorosos. Este estudo teve como objetivo comparar as combinações de propofol-alfentanil e propofol-fentanil para sedação e analgesia em pacientes submetidos à colonoscopia eletiva. MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo e randomizado. Participaram do estudo 80 pacientes, ASA I-II, entre 18 e 65 anos. A indução de sedação e a analgesia foram feitas com propofol (1 mg.kg-1) e fentanil (1 µg.kg-1) no grupo propofol-fentanil (PF) e com propofol (1 mg.kg-1) e alfentanil (10 µg.kg-1) no grupo propofol-alfentanil (PA). Para manutenção, doses adicionais de propofol foram administradas em bolus de 0,5 mg.kg-1 para obter escores de 3-4 na Escala de Sedação de Ramsey (ESR). Registrados os dados demográficos, a frequência cardíaca, a pressão arterial média (PAM), a saturação de oxigênio da hemoglobina (SpO2), os valores da ESR, o tempo de colonoscopia, a dose total de propofol, as complicações, o tempo de recuperação e o tempo para alta, bem como os escores de satisfação do colonoscopista e do paciente. RESULTADOS: A PAM aos 15 minutos no Grupo PA foi significativamente maior do que no Grupo PF (p = 0,037). A frequência cardíaca média do grupo PA foi maior no início do que nas mensurações subsequentes (p = 0,012, p = 0,002). A média da dose total de propofol do Grupo PA foi significativamente maior do que a do Grupo PF (p = 0,028). O tempo médio de recuperação do grupo PA foi significativamente maior do que o do grupo PF (p = 0,032). CONCLUSÃO: Fentanil proporciona melhores condições de operação e reduz a necessidade de doses adicionais de propofol. Essas vantagens diminuem o tempo de recuperação. Portanto, propofol-fentanil é superior ao propofol-alfentanil para sedação e analgesia em colonoscopia.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Sedation-analgesia is recommended for comfortable colonoscopy procedures, which are invasive and can be painful. This study aimed to compare the combinations of propofol-alfentanil and propofol-fentanyl for sedation-analgesia in elective colonoscopy patients. METHODS: This prospective and randomized study was planned in ASA I-II groups and included 80 patients between the ages of 18 and 65 years. Sedation-analgesia induction was performed as 1 µg.kg-1 fentanyl, 1 mg.kg-1 propofol in the propofol-fentanyl group (Group PF) and 10 µg.kg-1 alfentanil, 1 mg.kg-1 propofol in the propofol-alfentanil group (Group PA). Patients' scores were limited to 3-4 values on the Ramsey Sedation Scale (RSS) by 0.5 mg.kg-1 bolus additional doses of propofol in sedation-analgesia maintenance. We recorded demographical data, heart rate, mean arterial pressure (MAP), oxygen saturation of hemoglobin (SpO2), RSS value, colonoscopy time, total dose of propofol, complications, recovery time, and discharge time, as well as colonoscopist and patient satisfaction scores. RESULTS: MAP at the 15th minute in Group PA was significantly higher than in Group PF (p = 0.037). Group PA's beginning mean heart rate was higher than the mean heart rate at subsequent readings (p = 0.012, p = 0.002). The mean total propofol dose of Group PA was significantly higher than the total dose of Group PF (p = 0.028). The mean recovery time of Group PA was significantly longer than that of Group PF (p = 0.032). CONCLUSION: Fentanyl provides better operative conditions and reduces the need for additional propofol doses. These advantages cause a shorter recovery time. Therefore, propofol-fentanyl is superior to the propofol-alfentanil for sedation-analgesia in colonoscopy.

JUSTIFICATIVA Y OBJETIVO: La sedación y la analgesia están recomendadas en la colonoscopia para propiciar la comodidad, porque son procedimientos invasivos y pueden ser dolorosos. Este estudio tuvo el objetivo de comparar las combinaciones de propofol-alfentanilo y propofol-fentanilo para la sedación y la analgesia en pacientes sometidos a la colonoscopia electiva. MÉTODOS: Estudio prospectivo y aleatorio. Participaron en el estudio 80 pacientes, ASA I-II, entre 18 y 65 años. La inducción de sedación y la analgesia fue hecha con propofol (1 mg.kg-1) y fentanilo (1 µg.kg-1) en el grupo propofol-fentanilo (PF) y con propofol (1 mg.kg-1) y alfentanilo (10 µg.kg-1) en el grupo propofol-alfentanilo (PA). Para el mantenimiento, dosis adicionales de propofol se administraron en bolos de 0,5 mg.kg-1 para obtener las puntuaciones de 3-4 en la Escala de Sedación de Ramsey (ESR). Se registraron los datos demográficos, la frecuencia cardíaca, la presión arterial promedio (PAP), la saturación de oxígeno de la hemoglobina (SpO2), los valores de la ESR, el tiempo de colonoscopia, la dosis total de propofol, las complicaciones, el tiempo de recuperación y el tiempo para el alta, como también las puntuaciones de satisfacción del colonoscopista y del paciente. RESULTADOS: La PAP a los 15 minutos en el Grupo PA fue significativamente mayor que en el Grupo PF (p = 0,037). La frecuencia cardíaca promedio del grupo PA fue mayor al inicio que en las mensuraciones posteriores (p = 0,012, p = 0,002). El promedio de la dosis total de propofol del Grupo PA fue significativamente mayor que la del Grupo PF (p = 0,028). El tiempo promedio de recuperación del grupo PA fue significativamente mayor que el del grupo PF (p = 0,032). CONCLUSIONES: El Fentanilo proporciona mejores condiciones de operación y reduce la necesidad de dosis adicionales de propofol. Esas ventajas reducen el tiempo de recuperación. Por tanto, el propofol-fentanilo es superior al propofol-alfentanilo para la sedación y la analgesia en la colonoscopia.