Resumen Antecedentes: El diagnóstico temprano del segmento intestinal necrótico resultante de una hernia inguinal incarcerada es crucial para reducir la morbilidad y la mortalidad. Objetivo: Investigar la eficacia del índice de De Ritis (IDR), también conocido como cociente de aspartato aminotransferasa a alanina aminotransferasa, como biomarcador de necrosis intestinal. Método: Estudio retrospectivo que incluyó a 132 pacientes que fueron intervenidos de urgencia por hernia inguinal incarcerada. Los pacientes se dividieron en dos grupos: los que se sometieron a resección intestinal por necrosis (grupo 1) y los que no (grupo 2). Se registraron los datos demográficos y clínicos de los pacientes. Usando los resultados de las pruebas de laboratorio, se calcularon el IDR, el índice neutrófilos-linfocitos (INL), el índice plaquetas-linfocitos (IPL), el índice linfocitos-monocitos (ILM) y el índice linfocitos-proteína C reactiva (ILPCR). Resultados: Las tasas de morbilidad, mortalidad y duración de la estancia para el grupo 1 fueron estadísticamente significativas (p < 0.0001). Los valores de IDR, INL, IPL, ILM, ILPCR del mismo grupo también fueron significativamente diferentes (p < 0.05). Conclusiones: El IDR puede utilizarse como biomarcador para el diagnóstico precoz de necrosis intestinal en pacientes con hernia inguinal incarcerada.

Abstract Purpose: Early diagnosis of necrotic bowel segment resulting from incarcerated inguinal hernia (IIH) is crucial for reducing morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of the De Ritis ratio (DRR), also known as the ratio of aspartate aminotransferase to alanine aminotransferase, as a biomarker for intestinal necrosis. Methods: This retrospective study included 132 patients who underwent emergency surgery for IIH. Patients were divided into two groups: those who underwent bowel resection for necrosis (Group 1) and those who did not (Group 2). Patients' demographic and clinical data were recorded. Using laboratory test results, DRR, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), and lymphocyte-to-CRP ratio (LCR) were calculated. Results: The morbidity and mortality rates and the length of stay for Group 1 were statistically significantly different (p < 0.0001). The DRR, NLR, PLR, LMR, and LCR values of the same group were also significantly different (p < 0.05). Conclusion: DRR can be used as a biomarker for early diagnosis of bowel necrosis in patients with IIH.

Resumen Antecedentes. El objetivo de este estudio fue comparar los efectos de los tubos endotraqueales (ETT) de manguito cilíndrico y cónico inflados con solución salina sobre las presiones del manguito, el dolor de garganta postoperatorio y el consumo de analgésicos postoperatorios en cirugías de más de 120 min de duración. Objetivo. Comparar los efectos de los tubos endotraqueales de manguito cilíndrico y cónico inflados con solución salina sobre las presiones del manguito, el dolor de garganta posoperatorio y el consumo de analgésicos posoperatorios en cirugías de más de 120 minutos de duración. Método. El estudio se realizó en 100 pacientes con edades entre 18 y 65 años, con riesgo ASA I-III, con tubo endotraqueal de manguito cilíndrico (grupo C, n = 50) o manguito cónico (grupo T, n = 50). Resultados. Los valores de presión del manguito en todos los tiempos de medición y el valor máximo de presión del manguito fueron significativamente más bajos en el grupo T que en el grupo C (p < 0.05). En el período de 24 horas del posoperatorio, el dolor de garganta y el consumo total de analgésicos fueron significativamente menores en el grupo T que en el grupo C (p < 0.05). Conclusiones. Los tubos endotraqueales de manguito cónico previenen el aumento de las presiones intraoperatorias del manguito, reducen la incidencia de dolor de garganta posoperatorio y, en consecuencia, disminuyen el consumo de analgésicos posoperatorios en comparación con los de manguito cilíndrico.

Abstract Background. This study aimed at comparing the effects of cylindrical- and conical-cuff endotracheal tubes (ETTs) inflated with saline on cuff pressures, post-operative sore throat, and post-operative analgesic consumption in surgeries taking longer than 120 min. Objective. This study aimed at comparing the effects of cylindrical- and conical-cuff endotracheal tubes (ETTs) inflated with saline on cuff pressures, post-operative sore throat, and post-operative analgesic consumption in surgeries taking longer than 120 min. Methods. The study was performed on a total of 100 patients, aged 18-65 years, in the ASA I-III risk group, with cylindrical cuff (Group C, n = 50) and conical cuff (Group T, n = 50) ETT patients. Cuff pressure values of all patients were recorded. Results. The cuff pressure values at all measurement times and maximum cuff pressure value were significantly lower in Group T than in Group C (p < 0.05). In the post-operative 24-h period, sore throat and total analgesic consumption were significantly lower in Group T than in Group C (p < 0.05). Conclusion. conical cuff ETTs prevent the increase in intraoperative cuff pressures, reduce the incidence of post-operative sore throat, and accordingly reduce post-operative analgesic consumption compared to cylindrical cuff ETTs.

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate the relationship between aortic stiffness and postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Methods: This study included 110 patients undergoing elective isolated CABG. Aortic stiffness was measured using a noninvasive oscillometric sphygmomanometer before surgery. Characteristics of patients with and without POAF were compared. Results: POAF developed in 32 (29.1%) patients. Patients with POAF were older (63.7±8.6 vs. 58.3±8.4; P=0.014). Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was more common in patients with POAF (11.5% vs. 37.5%; P=0.024), whereas the frequency of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, smoking, and previous coronary artery disease did not differ. C-reactive protein and cholesterol levels were similar between patients with and without POAF. Left atrial diameter was greater in patients with POAF (35.9±1.6 vs. 36.7±1.7; P<0.039). Peripheral (p) and central (c) systolic and diastolic blood pressures were also similar between the groups, whereas both p and c pulse pressures (PP) were greater in patients with POAF (pPP: 44.3±11.9 vs. 50.3±11.6; P=0.018, cPP: 31.4±8.1 vs. 36.2±8.9; P=0.008). Pulse wave velocity (PWV) was significantly higher in POAF (8.6+1.3 vs. 9.4+1.3; P=0.006). PWV, pPR and COPD were independent predictors of POAF in multivariate regression analysis. In receiver operating characteristic analysis, PWV and pPP have similar accuracy for predicting POAF (PWV, area under the curve [AUC]: 0.661, 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.547-0.775], P=0.009) (pPP, AUC: 0.656, 95% CI [0.542-0.769], P=0.012). Conclusion: COPD, PWV, and PP are predictors of POAF. PP and PWV, easily measured in office conditions, might be useful for detecting patients with a higher risk of POAF.

RESUMO Em pacientes com fibrilação atrial, a anticoagulação padrão com antagonista da vitamina K mais terapia antiplaquetária dupla (DAPT) com inibidor de P2Y12 e aspirina é o padrão de tratamento após intervenção coronária percutânea (ICP). Enquanto essa terapia reduz o risco de trombose e derrame, aumenta o risco de sangramento. Não está claro se o efeito antiplaquetário da aspirina e do clopidogrel pode piorar a fibrilação atrial (FA). OBJETIVO Analisar a resistência à aspirina plaquetária (AR) e ao clopidogrel (CR) em pacientes coronarianos agudos (SCA) com base no ritmo sinusal (SR) e na FA. MÉTODOS Neste estudo prospectivo, foram incluídos 543 pacientes (idade média: 62±12 anos; intervalo: 26-89 anos) em uso de aspirina e clopidogrel após o diagnóstico de síndrome coronariana aguda. AR e CR foram analisados por um dispositivo Multiplate® MP-0120, utilizando o método de agregometria de sangue total. RESULTADOS Os pacientes com FA apresentaram valores significativamente maiores para idade, volume médio de plaquetas e proteína C reativa de alta sensibilidade (p<0,01 para cada parâmetro). Da mesma forma, a agregação induzida por ácido araquidônico (Aspi) foi maior nos pacientes com FA em comparação com os pacientes com SR (666±218 vs. 187±179, p<0,001). Entre os pacientes com SCA, significativamente mais pacientes do sexo feminino apresentaram FA (p<0,001). A incidência de hipertensão no grupo FA foi maior em comparação com o grupo SR (p<0,001). No entanto, os níveis de difosfato de adenosina não foram expressivamente significativos nos dois grupos. CONCLUSÃO Nossos achados indicam que o efeito inibitório plaquetário da aspirina foi pior em pacientes com FA, sugerindo que a eficácia da aspirina pode ser menor na profilaxia do tromboembolismo, com maior risco de sangramento.

SUMMARY In patients with atrial fibrillation, standard anticoagulation with a vitamin K antagonist plus dual antiplatelet therapy with a P2Y12 inhibitor and aspirin is the standard of care after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). While this therapy reduces the risk of thrombosis and stroke, it increases the risk of bleeding. It is unclear whether the antiplatelet effect of aspirin and clopidogrel may worsen atrial fibrillation (AF). OBJECTIVE Thus we aimed to analyze platelet aspirin resistance (AR) and clopidogrel resistance (CR) in acute coronary (ACS) patients based on sinus rhythm (SR) and AF. METHODS In this prospective trial, we included 543 patients (mean age: 62± 12 years; range: 26 - 89 years) who were on aspirin and clopidogrel therapy after the diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome. AR and CR were analyzed by a Multiplate® MP-0120 device by using the method of whole blood aggregometry. RESULTS AF patients had significantly higher age, mean platelet volume, and High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (p< 0.01 for each parameter). Similarly, Arachidonic-acid induced (ASPI) aggregation was higher in AF patients compared to SR patients (666±218 vs. 187±179, p<0.001). Among the ACS patients, significantly more female patients had AF (p<0.001). The incidence of hypertension in the AF group was higher compared to the SR group (p<0.001). However, adenosine diphosphate levels were not at a significant level in the two groups. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate that the platelet inhibitory effect of Aspirin was worse for patients with AF, suggesting that the effectiveness of aspirin may be less in the prophylaxis of thromboembolism and more a bleeding risk.

RESUMO ANTECEDENTES A doença de coronavírus 2019 é uma doença respiratória inflamatória aguda. Causa muitas alterações nos parâmetros do hemograma. Baixos níveis de albumina estão associados ao risco de mortalidade em pacientes hospitalizados. O objetivo do presente estudo é revelar o local da razão entre contagem de neutrófilos e albumina na predição de mortalidade em pacientes com COVID-19. MÉTODOS Cento e quarenta e quatro pacientes do sexo feminino e 79 do sexo masculino foram incluídos no estudo. Os pacientes foram divididos em dois grupos: Grupo 1 não grave (n: 85), Grupo 2 grave (n: 59). Dados demográficos, contagem de neutrófilos, linfócitos e plaquetas, níveis de albumina e proteína C reativa (PCR) foram registrados. A razão de contagem de neutrófilos para albumina (NAR) foi calculada dividindo-se as contagens absolutas de neutrófilos pelos níveis de albumina. O NAR e os níveis dos dois grupos foram comparados. RESULTADOS Não houve diferenças significativas no sexo e na contagem de plaquetas (201 vs 211 K/mL) entre os grupos (p>0,05). Idade (62,0±14,3 vs 68,6±12,2 anos), albumina (33,1 vs 29,9 gr/L), PCR (33 vs 113 mg/l), contagem de neutrófilos (4 vs 7,24 K/mL), contagem de leucócitos (6,70 vs 8,50 K/mL), valores de NAR (113,5 vs 267,2) e número de óbitos (5 vs 33) foram estatisticamente maiores (p<0,001) no Grupo 2 que no Grupo 1. O valor NAR de 201,5 mostrou mortalidade em todos os pacientes com COVID-19 com sensibilidade de 71,1% e especificidade de 71,7% (AUC: 0,736, IC 95%: 0,641-0,832, p<0,001). CONCLUSÃO O presente estudo mostrou que os níveis de NAR podem ser um marcador barato e simples para predizer mortalidade em pacientes com COVID-19.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND Coronavirus Disease 2019 is an acute inflammatory respiratory disease. It causes many changes in hemogram parameters. Low albumin levels are associated with mortality risk in hospitalized patients. The aim of the present study is to reveal the place of neutrophil count to albumin ratio in predicting mortality in patients with COVID-19. METHODS 144 patients, 65 females and 79 males, were included in the study. Patients were divided into 2 groups. Group 1 was the non-severe group (n:85), and Group 2 was severe (n:59). Demographic data, neutrophil, lymphocyte and platelet counts, albumin and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were recorded. Neutrophil count to albumin ratio (NAR) was calculated by dividing the absolute neutrophil counts by the albumin levels. The NAR and levels of the two groups were then compared. RESULTS There were no significant differences in gender and platelet count (201 vs. 211 K/mL) between the groups (p>0,05). Ages (62.0 ± 14.3 vs 68.6 ± 12.2 years), albumin (33.1 vs 29.9 gr/L), CRP (33 vs 113 mg/l), neutrophil count (4 vs 7.24 K/mL), WBC counts (6.70 vs 8.50 K/mL), NAR values (113.5 vs 267.2) and number of Death (5 vs 33) were found to be statistically higher (p <0.001) in Group 2 than in Group 1. The NAR value of 201.5 showed mortality in all patients with COVID-19 to have 71.1% sensitivity and 71.7% specificity (AUC:0.736, 95% CI: 0.641-0.832, p<0.001) CONCLUSION The present study showed that NAR levels can be a cheap and simple marker for predicting mortality in patients with COVID-19.

Abstract BACKGROUND: Psoriasis is a systemic inflammatory disorder that involves complex pathogenic interactions between the innate and adaptive immune systems. The most accepted mechanism in the etiopathogenesis of psoriasis is the induction of inflammation with keratinocyte hyperproliferation. Granulysin (GNLY) is a cytolytic antimicrobial peptide (AMP) that is secreted together with granzyme and perforin from the granules of human cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) and natural killer (NK) cells. It has been immunohistochemically proven that the expression of granulysin is increased in lesions of psoriasis. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between psoriasis disease and granulysin gene polymorphisms. METHODS: GNLY rs7908 and rs10180391 polymorphisms were studied by PCR-RFLP in 100 psoriasis patients under treatment in the Dermatology Polyclinic of Bulent Ecevit University. In addition, 100 healthy individuals with similar age and sex distribution were used as a control group. RESULTS: In the control group, GNLY rs7908 CC genotype was significantly higher than in psoriasis patients (P= 0.031; OR= 0.305; Cl= 0.305 (0.121 - 0.773). In our study, the genotype distributions in patients and control groups were GNLY rs7908 (SNP) GG (51%, 37%), GC (41%, 44%), CC (8%, 19%); GNLY rs10180391 (SNP) from the CC (41%, 44%), CT (42%, % 41), TT (17%, 15%). STUDY LIMITATIONS: The study only included Turkish patients. CONCLUSION: Our findings showed that GNLY rs7908 CC genotype and C allele had a protective effect against psoriasis and decreased the disease severity (according to PASI score), whereas rs10180391 SNP did not show any effective role in psoriasis pathogenesis.

RESUMO Objetivo: A síndrome do ovário policístico (SOP) é uma doença endócrina caracterizada por anovulação crônica e hiperandrogenismo. As alterações hormonais podem afetar a função cardíaca. Este estudo avalia a função lacrimal e o impacto do hiperandrogenismo sobre ela em pacientes com SOP. Métodos: Cinquenta pacientes com SOP e trinta voluntárias de controle foram examinadas para tempo de ruptura lacrimal, Schirmer-I e osmolaridade lacrimal. Além disso, os níveis séricos de testosterona total, FSH, LH e HAM foram determinados em amostras de sangue venoso na fase folicular precoce.As pacientes com SOP foram divididas em dois grupos por nível de testosterona plasmática total: Grupo A com nível normal (≤0.513 ng/ml; n = 27), Grupo B com nível superior de hormônio (> 0,513 ng/ml; n = 23). Grupo de controle saudável indicado como Grupo C (n = 30). Resultados: Os níveis de LH e testosterona total foram maiores no grupo com SOP do que no grupo controle (p = 0,012; p = 0,025). Os valores médios de tempo de ruptura lacrimal e Schirmer-I foram diferentes entre os grupos, e especialmente os Grupos A e C estavam próximos um do outro, diferente do B (p > 0,05). Os resultados de osmolaridade lacrimal foram maiores no Grupo B, em comparação com A e C (p = 0,049; p = 0,033). Não houve diferença significativa detectada em valor médio de osmolaridade lacrimal nos Grupos A e C (p = 0,107). Os níveis de HAM foram maiores no Grupo B, em comparação com A e C (p = 0,002; p = 0,001). Os níveis de AMH no Grupo A foram superiores aos de C (p = 0,002). Uma correlação positiva entre os níveis de testosterona total e AMH foi detectada em todas as pacientes com SOP (n = 50; Pearson's r = 0,579; p < 0,001). Conclusão: a função lacrimal pode ser afetada em pacientes com SOP com hiperandrogenismo. A osmolaridade lacrimal é o método de avaliação mais sensível e objetivo para alterações da superfície ocular em SOP.

ABSTRACT Purpose: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disease characterized by chronic anovulation and hyperandrogenism. Hormonal changes can affect tear function. This study evaluates tear function and impact of hyperandrogenism on it in PCOS patients. Methods: Fifty patients with PCOS and thirty control volunteers were examined for tear break-up time, Schirmer-I and tear osmolarity. Also, serum levels of total testosterone, FSH, LH and AMH were determined in venous blood samples in the early follicular phase. PCOS patients were divided into two groups by plasma total testosterone level: Group A with normal (≤0.513 ng/ml;n=27), Group B with higher hormone level (>0.513 ng/ml;n=23). Healthy control group indicated as Group C (n=30). Results: LH, total testosterone levels were higher in the PCOS group than in the control group (p=0.012; p=0.025). Mean values of tear break-up time and Schirmer-I were different between groups and especially Group A and C were near to each other differing from B (p>0.05). Tear osmolarity results were higher in Group B, compared to A and C (p=0.049; p=0.033). No significant difference detected in tear osmolarity value means of Group A and C (p=0.107). AMH levels were higher in Group B, compared to A and C (p=0.002; p=0.001). AMH levels in Group A were higher than that of C (p=0.002). Positive correlation between levels of total testosterone and AMH was detected in all PCOS patients (n=50;Pearson's r=0.579; p<0.001). Conclusion: Tear function can be affected in PCOS patients with hyperandrogenism. Tear osmolarity is the most sensitive and objective assessment method for ocular surface changes in PCOS.

Resumo Objetivo O possível papel da procalcitonina (PCT) no diagnóstico de infecções de corrente sanguínea relacionadas a cateter (ICSRCs) ainda não está claro e precisa ser mais pesquisado. O valor diagnóstico da PCT sérica para o diagnóstico de ICSRC em crianças é avaliado neste estudo. Método Este estudo foi feito entre outubro de 2013 e novembro de 2014 e incluiu pacientes com suspeita de ICSRC de um mês a 18 anos que estavam febris, não tinham foco de infecção e tinham cateter venoso central. Foram medidos os níveis de PCT e de outros marcadores séricos, cuja utilidade como marcadores de ICSRC foi avaliada. Adicionalmente, foi testado o desempenho clínico de um novo ensaio quantitativo automatizado e rápido para a detecção de PCT. Resultados Dentre 49 pacientes, 24 foram diagnosticados com ICSRC. Os valores de PCT-Kryptor e PCT-RTA foram significativamente maiores em ICSRCs comprovadas do que em ICSRCs não comprovadas (p = 0,03 e p = 0,03, respectivamente). Não houve diferença na contagem de glóbulos brancos e nos níveis de proteína C reativa (PCR) entre ICSRCs comprovadas e ICSRCs não comprovadas. Dentre os 24 pacientes com ICSRC, a PCR era significativamente maior entre aqueles com infecção bacteriana gram-negativa do que naqueles com infecção bacteriana gram-positiva. O PCT-Kryptor também foi significativamente maior entre pacientes com infecção por bactérias gram-negativas do que naqueles com infecção por bactérias gram-positivas (p = 0,01 e p = 0,02, respectivamente). Conclusões Sugerimos que a PCT pode ser um marcador de diagnóstico rápido útil em crianças com suspeita de ICSRCs.

Abstract Objective The potential role of procalcitonin (PCT) in the diagnosis of catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSIs) is still unclear and requires further research. The diagnostic value of serum PCT for the diagnosis of CRBSI in children is evaluated here. Method This study was conducted between October 2013 and November 2014, and included patients with suspected CRBSI from 1 month to 18 years of age who were febrile, with no focus of infection, and had a central venous catheter. Levels of PCT and other serum markers were measured, and their utility as CRBSI markers was assessed. Additionally, the clinical performance of a new, automated, rapid, and quantitative assay for the detection of PCT was tested. Results Among the 49 patients, 24 were diagnosed with CRBSI. The PCT-Kryptor and PCT-RTA values were significantly higher in proven CRBSI compared to those in unproven CRBSI (p = 0.03 and p = 0.03, respectively). There were no differences in white blood cell count and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels between proven CRBSI and unproven CRBSI. Among the 24 patients with CRBSI, CRP was significantly higher among those with Gram-negative bacterial infection than in those with Gram-positive bacterial infections. PCT-Kryptor was also significantly higher among patients with Gram-negative bacterial infection than in those with Gram-positive bacterial infections (p = 0.01 and p = 0.02, respectively). Conclusions The authors suggest that PCT could be a helpful rapid diagnostic marker in children with suspected CRBSIs.

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-operatório foram significativamente menores no grupo pregabalina (p = 0,027).Conclusões:A dose única de 75 mg de pregabalina oral administrada precocemente foi eficaz na redução dos escores de dor no pós-operatório imediato e o consumo total de analgésicos em pacientes submetidos à NLPC, sem causar instabilidade hemodinâmica e efeitos colaterais.

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.

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 la 2.a y 24.a horas del postoperatorio. Los niveles de lipocalina asociada a la gelatinasa de neutrófilos en la 24.ahora del postoperatorio fueron significativamente menores en el grupo pregabalina (p = 0,027).Conclusiones:La dosis única de 75 mg de pregabalina oral administrada precozmente fue eficaz en la reducción de las puntuaciones de dolor en el postoperatorio inmediato y el consumo total de analgésicos en pacientes sometidos a nefrolitotomía percutánea, sin causar inestabilidad hemodinámica y efectos colaterales.

This study was carried out to investigate the effects of irrigating lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. cv. Funly) with different concentrations of diluted seawater (0%, 2.5%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%) on the fresh yield, marketable yield and quality (DM, total soluble solids, titratable acidity, total sugar, vitamin C, NO3-N, protein, and total oxalate content). The experiments were conducted in a greenhouse in the autumn of 2012. The fresh yield, marketable yield, and DM of lettuce irrigated with 2.5% and 5% seawater were similar to those of control, but these parameters decreased in response to 10% seawater, and the lowest values were obtained in response to 20% seawater. The 2.5% seawater treatment had no effect on the vitamin C and NO3-N content, but both significantly decreased when lettuce was irrigated with seawater concentrations higher than 2.5%. Total soluble solids, total sugar, and protein content significantly increased in response to low salinity (2.5% and 5%) but decreased in response to increasing seawater stress. The titratable acidity values remained unchanged under the various saline conditions. Irrigation with diluted seawater did not affect the total oxalate content up to a concentration of 5%, but increasing the concentration of seawater above 5% increased oxalate content. The results of this study demonstrated that low concentrations of seawater are suitable for lettuce production and lettuce can be grown successfully using diluted seawater at concentrations of 2.5% and 5%.

Estudos recentes demonstram que a formação de miringoesclerose pode ser reduzida pela aplicação de enzimas e elementos antioxidantes. OBJETIVO: Investigar a eficácia da coenzima Q10 na prevenção de miringoesclerose experimentalmente induzida. MÉTODO: Quarenta e oito ratas Wistar albinas saudáveis sofreram miringotomia e foram divididas aleatoriamente em quatro grupos. O Grupo A não recebeu tratamento algum; o Grupo B recebeu coenzima Q10 por via oral; o Grupo C foi tratado com soro fisiológico tópico; e o Grupo D recebeu coenzima Q10 tópica. No 15º dia de tratamento, as membranas timpânicas foram examinadas por otomicroscopia. As lesões miringoescleróticas foram documentadas de forma semiquantitativa por meio de uma escala de quatro pontos. Após a coleta, as membranas timpânicas foram avaliadas por histopatologia. RESULTADOS: No grupo D (coenzima Q10 tópica) foi observada a ocorrência de otite nos primeiros quatro dias do estudo, o que levou à sua exclusão do estudo. O exame de otomicroscopia não revelou diferenças significativas entre grupos em termos de formação de miringoesclerose (p = 0,241). Diferenças estatisticamente significativas foram observada quando os exames histopatológicos do grupo A foram comparados aos dos grupos B e C (p = 0,004; p < 0,001, respectivamente). Não houve diferença significativa entre os grupos B e C (p = 0,160). CONCLUSÃO: A administração oral de coenzima Q10 não reduziu a formação de miringoesclerose nos ratos submetidos à miringotomia.

Recent studies have shown that the formation of myringosclerosis could be reduced by the application of antioxidant enzymes and elements. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of coenzyme Q10 on the prevention of experimentally induced myringosclerosis. METHOD: Forty-eight healthy female wistar albino rats were bilaterally myringotomized and divided into four groups randomly. Group A received no treatment, group B was administered oral coenzyme Q10. Group C was treated with topical saline solution, group D received topically coenzyme Q10. On the 15th day of treatment, tympanic membranes were examined by otomicroscopy. Myringosclerotic lesions were documented semiquantitatively by using 4-point scale. After harvesting tympanic membranes were evaluated histopathologically. RESULTS: In group D (topical coenzyme Q10), we observed otitis within the first four days of the study and this group was excluded from the study. Regarding otomicroscopic examinations, there were no significant differences among groups in myringosclerosis formation (p = 0.241). When group A (non treatment) compared to groups B and C regarding histopathologic examination, the results demonstrated statistical significant differences (p = 0.004; p < 0.001), respectively. There was no statisticaly significant difference between groups B and C (p = 0.160). CONCLUSION: Oral administration of coenzyme Q10 did not reduce myringosclerosis formation in myringotomized rats.

PURPOSE: We evaluated the efficacy of perioperative mitomycin C (MMC) instillation to improve subsequent bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) instillation efficacy in intermediate and high risk patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). MATERIALS AND METHODS: From November 2004 to May 2006, 51 patients with intermediate or high risk NMIBC were enrolled in this prospective randomized trial. In group A, patients were treated with perioperative MMC (40 mg MMC in 40 mL saline was administered within 6 hours of surgery) followed by delayed (at least 15 days from surgery) BCG instillations (once a week for 6 weeks, 5 x 108 colony-forming units in 50 mL saline). Patients in group B were treated with delayed BCG instillations alone. The primary end points were recurrence-free interval and recurrence rate. RESULTS: There were 25 and 26 patients in groups A and B, respectively. Median follow-up was 41.3 months (range 8 to 64) in group A and 40.9 months (range 6 to 68) in group B. Recurrence rate was 36% (9 of 25) and 19.3% (5 of 26) in group A and B, respectively (p = 0.052). Median time to the first recurrence was 8 months in group A and 7 months in group B (p = 0.12). CONCLUSIONS: The present study showed no statistically significant difference in terms of recurrence rate and median time to first recurrence between intermediate or high-risk patients with NMIBC who were treated with early single dose instillation of MMC plus delayed BCG and those who were treated with only BCG.

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) has been widely employed in phylogeographic and phylogenetic studies. In the present study, the genetic identification of the scorpion Androctonus crassicauda (Olivier, 1807) was carried out by using the 16S mitochondrial gene, since this scorpion represents the most important species in Turkey regarding scorpionism and antivenom production. Two genetic groups were found according to the sequence analysis results, while five different loci at the nucleotide level presented genetic variation in the 16S region when compared to a known A. crassicauda sequence data (GenBank, AJ277598). Nucleotide variations found in the current work constitute the first descriptive report for A. crassicauda. Moreover, future studies may enlighten the genetic and venom composition variations for this scorpion species.