Short-term clinical and hormonal effects of a deslorelin implant on late-prepubertal bitches - Based on flare-up signs

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists offer an alternative to surgical sterilization in prepubertal dogs, preserving ovarian and uterine functions. However, the clinical and hormonal effects of GnRH agonist application during the late-prepubertal stage remain insufficiently understood. This study aimed to investigate the clinical effect (flare-up) and hormonal changes, specifically serum progesterone (P4) and estradiol (E2) levels, in bitches treated with 4.7 mg deslorelin acetate (DA) implants (Suprelorin®, Virbac, F) during the late prepubertal period. Sixteen clinically healthy kangal cross-breed bitches, aged 7-8 months, with a mean body weight of 20.5 ± 0.8 kg, were implanted with DA. Estrus signs were monitored daily, and blood and vaginal cytological samples were collected every other day for four weeks. Cytological changes were analyzed for overall and superficial cell index. Six out of sixteen DA-treated bitches (EST group; n = 6) exhibited clinical proestrus 8.6 ± 0.6 days after implant insertion. The mean serum concentrations of P4 and E2 at the onset of estrus were 1.38 ± 0.32 ng/ml and 37.38 ± 10.07 pg/ml, respectively. Notably, all non-estrus (N-EST group; n = 10) bitches demonstrated an increase in superficial cell index, in addition to expected cytological changes observed in the EST group. On the 18th day post-implantation, the EST group exhibited a significantly higher number of superficial cells compared to the N-EST group (p < 0.001). DA implantation resulted in cytological profile alterations accompanied by a slight increase in estrogen concentrations in all dogs. However, the flare-up response exhibited significant variability, differing from that observed in adult dogs. This study highlights the importance of meticulous timing and breed-specific considerations when utilizing DA for puberty manipulation in late-prepubertal bitches. The observed cytological and hormonal changes in response to DA implants provide valuable insights, but the variability in flare-up responses warrants further investigation.

Does intestinal obstruction influence hypo-albuminemia: assessment of the physio-pathogenesis of protein-losing enteropathy with literature review

BACKGROUND

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use may cause diaphragm-like lesions in the bowel. Although NSAID-enteropathy is among the causes of protein-losing enteropathy (PLE), intractable hypoalbuminemia is rare.

CASE REPORT

Here, we discuss a case of NSAID-enteropathy with a diaphragm-like disease that presented with Protein Losing Enteropathy (PLE) rather than obstruction. The hypoalbuminemia recovered immediately after resection of the obstructive segment, despite ongoing annular ulcerations in the early postoperative period. Thus, it was not clear whether obstructive mechanisms influenced resistant hypoalbuminemia besides the ulcers. We also reviewed the English-written literature for "diaphragm-type lesion, NSAID-enteropathy, obstruction, and protein-losing enteropathy". We noted that the role of obstruction in the pathophysiology of PLE was not clear.

CONCLUSIONS

As our case and a couple of cases reported in literature, slow-onset obstructive pathology seems to contribute to well-known factors: inflammatory response, exudation, tight-junction dysfunction, and increase in permeability in the physiopathology of NSAID-induced PLE. Factors such as distention-induced low-flow ischemia and reperfusion, cholecystectomy-related continuous bile flow, bacterial overgrowth-related bile deconjugation and concomitant inflammation are among other potential influencers. The possible role of a slow-onset obstructive pathology in the physiopathology of NSAID-induced and other PLE needs to be further elucidated.

The impact of bariatric surgery on obesity-related infertility

OBJECTIVE

Our study aimed to investigate the effect of morbid obesity surgery on infertility using laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis from a prospectively collected database from May 2014 until December 2019. The mean age of the 23 morbidly obese women included in the study and followed-up for five years was 31.26 ± 5.06 years (minimum 24, maximum 43), mean duration of marriage was 9.3478 ± 4.76 years (minimum 4, maximum 23). Mean body mass index (BMI) values were 45.04 ± 3.43 (minimum 40, maximum 52) pre-LSG and 28.65 ± 3.14 (minimum 24, maximum 36) 12 months post-laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG).

RESULTS

Out of 23 infertile patients studied underwent LSG. Significant correlation was determined between the change in BMI, 12 months after LSG, compared to pre-LSG and having children after surgery (p=0.001). Conception occurred in 21 patients (91.3%) after surgery, but not in the remaining two (8.7%).

CONCLUSIONS

LSG is an important surgical technique used in the treatment of obesity and in preventing obesity-related comorbidities. It can improve pregnancy and live birth rates by contributing to weight loss and hormonal regulation in obese infertile women.

Effects of heat stress on fattening performance, carcass traits, oxidant/antioxidant status, and hepatic heat shock protein 70 levels in different plumage colors of Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica)

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of heat stress on production performance and oxidative stress in different plumage colors of Japanese quail. For this purpose, a total of 100 birds were used in this study. The 25 birds belonged to Wild-type (n=25, grey), Tuxedo (n=25, black), Golden (n=25, yellow) and Recessive white (n=25). The birds were reared for 42 days in an environmentally controlled room at 39°C and relative humidity of 60-65%. The body weight, body weight gain (g/bird/day), and feed conversion ratio were not different between the groups (p>0.05). However, the feed intake (g/bird/day) of the Wild-type had a higher value than the Tuxedo (black) group counterparts between 15 and 21 days different (p⟨0.05). There was no significant effect of heat stress on the carcass traits (p>0.05). Spleen weights were different between the groups (p⟨0.05). The yellow group had the highest spleen weight. The highest MDA level was found in the Recessive White variety, followed by Wild-type (grey), Golden (yellow) and Tuxedo (black), respectively. However, there were no statistical differences amongst the groups (p>0.05). There was also no statistical significance in glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels (p>0.05). The heat shock protein 70 kDa (HSP70) level was significantly different between the groups (p⟨0.001). The highest percentage was observed in the Golden (5.06%) and the lowest in the White (1.43%) variety. There was no superior color variety of Japanese quail regarding fattening performance and carcass traits. It is conceivable that when considering the stress response of the different colors, the Golden group is more sensitive to stress due to the hepatic and cellular level of HSP70.

Photoperiod effects on carcass traits, meat quality, and stress response in heart and lung of broilers

This study evaluated effects of photoperiod treatments on slaughter and carcass traits, meat quality, indicators of oxidative stress, and heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) levels of lung and heart tissues in broilers. Five hundred Ross 308 broiler chicks were used. The treatments consisted of 23 hours of continuous light and one hour of darkness (23L1D), four hours of light followed by two hours of darkness (4L2D), eight hours of light and four hours of darkness (8L4D), and 16 hours of light and eight hours of darkness (16L8D). After 42 days, two birds from each replicate were slaughtered. Birds that had been subjected to 16L8D had lower slaughter, carcass, and breast weights than the other treatments. Significant correlations were observed for slaughter, carcass and breast weights and white stripe. At 10 min post mortem, the pH of the breast was the highest in 23L1D. Breasts from birds subjected to 23L1D and 16L8D had most fat and least protein, while white striping was not different among treatments. The 4L2D treatment resulted in the highest lung glutathione (GSH) concentration. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and GSH concentrations in the heart tissues of broilers from 8L4D and 4L2D were greater than those from 23L1D and 16:8. Glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and superoxide dismutase concentrations were greatest for birds subjected to 16L8D. Heat shock protein 70 was lowest in lung and heart from birds subjected to 8L4D. Thus, shorter and more frequent periods of darkness can be recommended for welfare with little compromise in performance. Keywords: carcass quality, heat shock protein 70, oxidative stress, white stripe

Idiopathic Pulmonary Hypertension After Liver Transplantation

Pulmonary hypertension is one of the problems that can be encountered before liver transplantation. It is not expected in cases with no additional disease in postoperative period. Herein, we report on a 43-year-old woman who developed idiopathic pulmonary hypertension in the early postoperative period. Further investigation both pathologically and clinically is needed in patients undergoing living donor liver transplantation that may help to solve the problems such as pulmonary arterial hypertension before it occurs and manage complex hemodynamic changes successfully in the future.

Atrial Myxoma Presenting with Aphasia Alone: A Case Report

Atrial myxomas are the most common primary heart tumours. Symptoms are produced by mechanical interference with cardiac function or embolization. Neurological symptoms may occur approximately in one third of the patients. We report a patient who was admitted to the emergency department with only a complaint of complete aphasia and without other neurological signs and symptoms. Transthoracic echocardiography demonstrated a large mobile mass sized 4 × 4.5 cm prolapsing into the left ventricle through the mitral valve from the left atrium, suggesting the diagnosis of atrial myxoma. After surgery, aphasia resolved completely. Our objective is to inform clinicians that aphasia alone can be a symptom of atrial myxoma.

Accidental Use of Sodium Hypochlorite Instead of Haemodialysis Solution: A Case Report

Haemodialysis that involves diffusion of solutes across a semi-permeable membrane allows excretion of harmful solutes and excess fluids. All dialysis machines are disinfected by chemical agents (e.g. sodium hypochlorite, formaldehyde, glutaraldehyde, peroxyacetic acid). Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), which is known as household bleach, is a whitening agent and used in medical treatment and disinfection of tap water. Herein, we present a 66-year-old female patient who was inadvertently connected to NaOCl solution infusion in a routine haemodialysis session. By the time the accident was noticed, approximately 200 ml of undiluted NaOCl cleaning solution (concentration 1.21-1.23 g/ml) had been added to the dialysis bath, soaking the membrane fibres. The patient was admitted to the hospital about 30 minutes after the exposure, and her Glasgow Coma Scale score was recorded as 5/15 (E1, V1, M3). In conclusion, more stringent standards should be enforced in the sterilization of haemodialysis machines and related equipments. Accidental contacts with disinfectants should be prevented in dialysis units.

Traumatic Asphyxia

Traumatic asphyxia is a clinical syndrome related to cervicofascial cyanosis, petechiae, subconjunctival haemorrhages and neurological symptoms. This syndrome occurs after a transient, severe and compressive blunt thoracic trauma. Here, we presented two cases of traumatic asphyxia. They both had prominent petechiae on upper parts of their bodies. The prognosis was excellent in the boy. Contrary, second case was dead in emergency department due to subarachnoid haemorrhage and intracerebral petechial haemorrhages. Traumatic asphyxia alone does not predict morbidity and mortality. It is the concomitant cardiovascular, pulmonary and neurologic injuries that affect the outcome.

Cervical Spinal Injury and Hyoid Fracture in a Near-Hanging Victim

Hanging is a kind of strangulation that involves suspension by the neck. A case of near-hanging is reported. The patient was a 56-year-old man with incomplete hanging. His initial Glasgow Coma Scale score was 8. Mild elevation of cardiac biomarkers and hyperglycaemia were found. Hyoid fractures and a slight anterior dislocation of the C6 vertebra were observed. In near-hanging victims, all hypoxia-sensitive organs should be examined carefully. Notwithstanding the different types of hanging (complete vs. incomplete), all victims should be assumed to have cervical injury until proven otherwise.

Subcortical Parenchymal and Right Lentiform Nucleus Haemorrhages in a Lightning Victim

We report a 12-year-old lightning victim with right subcortical parenchymal and right lentiform nucleus haemorrhages documented by computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A linear entry burn with an area of singed hair on the scalp was obvious. Neurological examination did not show any lateralized deficit. Cranial nerves were intact. A laceration on the right external auditory canal, elevated cardiac enzymes and electrocardiographic changes were also recorded. The boy was discharged on the sixth day. Prolonged loss of consciousness in lightning victims may suggest intracranial injury. Although brain CT can demonstrate intracranial haemorrhages, MRI is mandatory to show subcortical parenchymal haemorrhage in lightning victims.

Case Report of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in a Pregnant Patient: Mother Died, Baby Survived

Carbon monoxide poisoning in pregnant women is a relatively rare condition. We report a 32-year-old woman in her 32nd week of pregnancy found unconscious in the bathroom. On arrival, her pulse and blood pressure were undetectable. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation was applied. The mother's carboxyhaemoglobin level was 57%. Due to foetal distress, Caesarean section was performed in the emergency department. The baby was intubated due to the absence of spontaneous respiration. The level of carboxyhaemoglobin in the cord blood was 32%. After staying in the newborn unit for 47 days, the baby was discharged with a sequela of cerebral palsy.

Acute Epidural Haematoma Due to Contrecoup Head Injury: A Case Report

Epidural haematoma (EH) is a traumatic accumulation of blood between the inner table of the skull and the dural membrane. Epidural haematoma that occurs at the opposite side of the site of injury, namely contrecoup EH, is a rare entity. We present a 56-year-old man who sustained head injury. The initial examination showed a laceration at his left frontotemporal region. Computed tomography of brain showed left frontotemporal linear fracture and right temporoparietal contrecoup EH. The EH was operated on and the patient was discharged uneventfully. Acute EH is a neurosurgical emergency, early diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential for optimal outcomes.

Expression of GnRH receptor in the canine corpus luteum, and luteal function following deslorelin acetate-induced puberty delay

The goals of this study were as follows: (Experiment 1) to examine the basic capability of canine corpora lutea (CL) to respond to GnRH by assessing expression of gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor (GnRH-R) in luteal samples collected throughout the luteal lifespan from non-pregnant dogs, and (Experiment 2) to investigate the effects of pre-pubertal application of the GnRH agonist deslorelin acetate on luteal function following the first oestrus. Mature CL were collected during the mid-luteal phase (days 30-45) from treated and control bitches. Transcript levels of several factors were determined: estrogen receptors (ESR1/ERα, ESR2/ERβ), progesterone (P4)-receptor (PGR), prolactin receptor (PRLR), PGE2-synthase (PTGES) and PGE2 receptors (PTGER2/EP2, PTGER4/EP4), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGFA) and VEGF receptors (VEGFR1 and VEGFR2), cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2/PTGS2), steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (STAR) and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3βHSD). Additionally, levels of Kisspeptin 1 (Kiss1) and its receptor (KISS1-R) were evaluated. Although generally low, GnRH-R expression was time dependent and was elevated during early dioestrus, with a significant decrease towards luteal regression. In deslorelin-treated and control dogs, its expression was either low or frequently below the detection limit. EP2 and VEGFR1 were higher in the treated group, which could be caused by a feedback mechanism after long-term suppression of reproductive activity. Despite large individual variations, 3βHSD was higher in the deslorelin-treated group. This, along with unchanged STAR expression, was apparently not mirrored in increased luteal functionality, because similar P4 levels were detected in both groups. Finally, the deslorelin-mediated long-term delay of puberty does not have negative carry-over effects on subsequent ovarian functionality in bitches.

Morphological, histological and molecular investigations on canine uterine tissue after ovariectomy

In the present study, we investigated the course of atrophy in canine uterine tissue and the expression of estrogen receptors (ER) and progesterone receptors (PR) within 6 months after ovariectomy (OE). In nine primipar bitches of different breeds, bilateral OE and removal of one horn was performed. Six months after surgery, the remaining uterine tissue was removed. The tissue was examined for signs of inflammation and proliferation, and for expression of ER, PR and Ki67 by means of immunohistochemistry (IHC); furthermore transcription of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), transforming growth factor-ß (TGF-ß), epithelial growth factor (EGF), platelet activating factor (PAF), tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), and their specific receptors was determined by means of RT-qPCR. Serum concentrations of estrogen and progesterone were measured immediately before the first and second operation. Six month after OE, no inflammation was seen in any uterine tissue, the thickness of the stump was decreased in most bitches. Protein expression of Ki67 revealed high individual differences after the second operation. Concentration of both hormones was not significantly changed, the estrogen concentration always revealed high individual differences. The expression of ER was significantly decreased in stromal and smooth muscle cells of the uterine tissue (p < 0.01), and the expression of PR in stromal cells only (p < 0.05). The gene expression of growth factors did not change significantly between first and second operation. We conclude that complete atrophy did not occur within 6 months after OE, instead, a high percentage of uterine cells still expressed ER and PR, rendering the stump susceptible to hormone treatments.

Kisspeptin-10 and the G protein-coupled receptor 54 are differentially expressed in the canine pregnant uterus and trophoblast cells

Uterine tissue was collected from bitches after ovariohysterectomy at different times after ovulation. Samples were assigned to four groups: metestrous non-pregnant, day 10-12, n = 4; pre-implantation, day 10-12, n = 9; post-implantation, day 18-25, n = 13; mid-gestation, day 30-40, n = 7. RT-qPCR detection was performed for kiss1 and the G protein-coupled receptor 54 (GPR54, specific receptor for kisspeptin). In addition, immunohistochemistry was performed for detection of kisspeptin-10 (KP-10), GPR54, as well as pan-cytokeratin and vimentin. The latter two were included to differentiate the different placental cell types. The percentage of positive stained cells was evaluated, and an immunoreactivity score (IRS) was obtained by multiplying the labelling intensity score (0-3) with the percentage of immunolabelled cells (range: 0-300). In non-pregnant and pre-implantation tissues, gene expression was highly variable for kiss1 and GPR54. Expression of GPR54 was higher before embryo adhesion than during post-implantation and mid-gestation (p < .05), whereas there was no difference found between groups for kiss1. Except during the pre-implantation period, KP-10 expression was higher in the non-pregnant uterus compared to all gestational periods investigated, indicating a pregnancy-related downregulation. In the pre-implantation period, KP-10 was present in larger vessels only, whereas the presence of GPR54 in vessels was found in all samples, with most labelling in the post-implantation period. KP-10 was present in superficial uterine glands, GPR54 in superficial and deep uterine glands of the post-implantation uterus. In myocytes, the highest staining for KP-10 was seen in the non-pregnant uterus, whereas the highest staining for GPR54 was seen in post-implantation and mid-gestation. Syncytiotrophoblast cells stained for both KP-10 and GPR54 in post-implantation and mid-gestation, with maximum intensity for GPR54 in the latter. We conclude that KP-10 and GPR54 are expressed in the canine uterus and trophoblast cells. However, during pregnancy, expression of both proteins seems to be differentially regulated.

A discrete artificial bee colony algorithm for detecting transcription factor binding sites in DNA sequences

The great majority of biological sequences share significant similarity with other sequences as a result of evolutionary processes, and identifying these sequence similarities is one of the most challenging problems in bioinformatics. In this paper, we present a discrete artificial bee colony (ABC) algorithm, which is inspired by the intelligent foraging behavior of real honey bees, for the detection of highly conserved residue patterns or motifs within sequences. Experimental studies on three different data sets showed that the proposed discrete model, by adhering to the fundamental scheme of the ABC algorithm, produced competitive or better results than other metaheuristic motif discovery techniques.

The Effect of Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone on Tumor Size in Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma

We evaluated the correlation between serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and tumor size and other invasiveness parameters of tumor in patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC). Several clinical studies have reported that TSH may also have a role as a regulator of the development and function of the thyroid gland. It is currently not clear whether TSH is involved in the existence of thyroid cancer or progression of thyroid cancer or both. Patients with DTC who underwent thyroid surgery between 2003 and 2008 were included this study. Preoperative serum T3, T4, and TSH levels were compared with the size and invasiveness of cancer, retrospectively. DTC was observed in 110 patients over the 5-year period. Seventy-seven (70 %) of them were euthyroid and classified as the "normal-TSH group" (NTG), and 33 (30 %) have an overt or subclinical hyperthyroidism, classified as the "low-TSH group" (LTG). The mean tumor diameter in the LTG was found to be 8.91 ± 8.03 mm; however, it was found to be 18.19 ± 16.24 mm in the NTG. There were significantly differences among the groups related to the diameter of tumor (p = 0.001). Microcarcinoma was determined in 36 patients (46.8 %) in the NTG and 23 patients (69.7 %) in the LTG (p = 0.027). Although there were no significant differences, tumor capsule invasion (33.8 vs. 18.2 %, p = 0.099) and lymphovascular invasion (16.9 vs. 6.1 %, p = 0.130) rates were higher in the NTG. These findings suggest that TSH has effects on growing and proliferation of not only normal thyroid cells but also cancer cells in DTC. This study revealed that serum TSH level can be explored as an important factor that affects the size and invasiveness of tumor in DTC.

Suppression of fertility in pre-pubertal dogs and cats

Pre-pubertal gonadectomy in dogs and cats is still controversially discussed because some consequences cause health problems. Nevertheless, postponement of puberty, that is, prevention of an increase in sexual hormones and thereby prevention of their manifold effects, is of major importance, not only in controlling overpopulation but also to preserve the genetic base for future breeding stock and pets. Therefore, alternatives for surgical suppression of fertility in pre-pubertal animals were critically reviewed. As a promising alternative, the slow-release GnRH agonist deslorelin and other GnRH analogues have been investigated. In female dogs and cats, puberty could be significantly postponed without initial flare-up effect and without disturbance of body development. First trials to delay puberty in female and male cats by application of a 4.7-mg deslorelin implant 24 h after birth so far are promising. In female dogs, a previous investigation showed that when the implant was inserted at the age of 4 months, the initial flare-up effect was prevented. Body development was normal in the studies reviewed here, and with the 9.4-mg implant, puberty was significantly delayed until the age of 21 months or older. In one study, bitches either received a 4.7- or a 9.4-mg implant at the age of 4 months and the epiphyses were mostly closed before the time of first oestrus. Using a 4.7-mg deslorelin implant in pre-pubertal male dogs significantly postponed puberty, and age at puberty was >2 years when a 9.4-mg implant was used. However, further investigations are required, especially concerning the effect of different GnRH agonist dosages and resorption rates on the duration of postponement of puberty as well as long-term effects in both dogs and cats.

Immunohistochemical distribution of leptin in kidney tissues of melatonin treated diabetic rats

We examined using immunohistochemistry the distribution of leptin in kidney tissues of melatonin treated, streptozotocin (STZ) diabetic rats. The animals were divided into five groups: control, sham, melatonin-treated, diabetic and melatonin-treated diabetic. Kidney sections were prepared and stained with hematoxylin and eosin, and Crossman's triple staining for histological examination. The immunohistochemical localization of leptin in the kidney tissue was determined using the streptavidin-biotin-peroxidase method. We determined that on days 7 and 14, the leptin immunoreactivity of the diabetic and melatonin-treated diabetic groups was weaker than for the other groups. Weak immunoreactivity was found in the proximal and distal tubules of the kidney in the diabetic and melatonin-treated diabetic groups on days 7 and 14, and strong immunoreactivity was found in the control, sham and melatonin groups. Melatonin application had no significant effect on leptin production in the kidney tissues of diabetic rats.

Evaluation of endometrial echotexture and cervical cytology in cows during and after treatment of endometritis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in the endometrium by using echotexture parameters during and after treatment of endometritis with intrauterine administration of an intrauterine antiseptic solution (Lotagen®, 3% metacresolsulphonic acid and formaldehyde) in cows which became pregnant after treatment.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

According to the severity of endometritis 21 cows were divided into three groups: E1 (slight, n = 7), E2 (moderate, n = 8), E3 (severe, n = 6). The control group (C, n = 11) consisted of cows without endometritis that did not receive an intrauterine medication. A software (Bs200 Pro®) was used to evaluate echotexture parameters Contrast (CON), Gradient (GR), Homogeneity (HOM), Mean Gray Level (MGL) of images taken during the examinations at hours (h) 0, 1 and 6 and days (d) 2, 3, 5 and 10.

RESULTS

At 0 h, GR was significantly lower in group E2 than in groups E1 and C (p < 0.05). There was an increase in GR values between 0 h and 10 d in group E2 and E3, but a decrease during the same time interval in group C (p < 0.05). In contrast, CON values of group E2 were lower (p < 0.05) at 0 h compared to other timepoints of examination and lower than in group C. HOM values were lower (p < 0.05) in groups E1, E2 and E3 than in group C on d 5 and d 10. HOM values were higher at 1 h compared to 6 h, d 2 and d 10 in group E3 (p < 0.05). By contrast to GR values, HOM values were higher in group C at 6 h and d 10 than they were in group E3. MGL values of group E2 were higher (p < 0.05) than in group C until d 10 and higher (p < 0.05) in group E3 than in group C at 6 h after treatment. In group E2 an increase of MGL values until d 2 was followed by a decrease (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Echotexture parameters determined by the evaluation of sonographic B-mode images reflect changes in the endometrium and could be used for the evaluation of the recovery period after treatment of endometritis.

Distribution of glutathione peroxidase 1 in liver tissues of healthy and diabetic rats treated with capsaisin

We investigated the immunohistochemical localization of glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPx 1) and the structural changes that occur in the livers of healthy and diabetic rats that were treated with capsaisin (CAP). Fifty female rats were divided into five groups: group 1, sham; group 2, untreated control; group 3, CAP-treated; group 4, streptozotocin (STZ) diabetic; group 5, STZ diabetic + CAP-treated. STZ was administered to groups 4 and 5; after verifying diabetes, CAP was administered daily for 2 weeks to groups 3 and 5. Diffuse, microvesicular and some macrovesicular fatty degeneration were observed in the cytoplasms of hepatocytes in the livers of the diabetic group. In the CAP-treated diabetic group, fat degeneration in the livers decreased slightly by day 7. Irregularity of the external contours of nuclei of the hepatocytes, swelling of the nuclei, and slight anisocytosis and anisokaryosis were observed in the hepatocytes of the diabetic group. In the CAP-treated diabetic groups, the severity of anisocytosis and anisokaryosis decreased slightly by day 7. In all groups, GPx 1 showed similar immunolocalization, but in the diabetic and diabetic + CAP groups, GPx 1 immunoreactivity was less than in the other groups. GPx 1 immunoreactivity in the CAP-treated diabetic group was weaker than in the diabetic group. In all groups, GPx 1 immunoreactivity was diffusely cytoplasmic in some of the hepatocytes, and diffusely cytoplasmic and diffusely nuclear in other hepatocytes. Also, GPx 1 immunoreactivity in the liver was more intense in the hepatocytes around Kiernan's space. We found that CAP caused a decrease in GPx 1.

Prognostic utility of serum vitronectin levels in acute myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

Vitronectin (VN) functions as a regulator of platelet adhesion and aggregation, coagulation, and fibrinolysis. The aim of this study was to assess the prognostic significance of serum VN levels in patients with acute myocardial infarction (MI).

METHODS

In this study 62 patients admitted with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), or non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) were enrolled. Serum VN levels were measured within 6 h after onset of chest pains.

RESULTS

The VN serum levels were higher in MI patients with a mean of 2.257 µg/ml (range 1.541-4.493 µg/ml) in the STEMI group, 1.785 µg/ml (range 1.372-4.113 µg/ml) in the NSTEMI group, and 1.222 µg/ml (range 1.033-1.466 µg/ml) in the controls (p = 0.012). Major adverse cardiovascular events could be predicted at 6 months using VN levels independently of other variables [odds ratio (OR) 9.87, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 2.54-47.37, p = 0.001]. There was a significant positive correlation between VN levels and the Gensini score in NSTEMI patients (r = 0.436, p = 0.013).

CONCLUSION

The VN level may be relevant as a clinical biomarker for adverse cardiovascular outcomes not only in patients with ischemic heart disease undergoing coronary interventions, as previously reported, but also in coronary artery disease patients presenting with acute MI.

Expression of genes involved in the embryo–maternal interaction in the early-pregnant canine uterus

Although there is no acute luteolytic mechanism in the absence of pregnancy in the bitch, a precise and well-timed embryo–maternal interaction seems to be required for the initiation and maintenance of gestation. As only limited information is available about these processes in dogs, in this study, the uterine expression of possible decidualization markers was investigated during the pre-implantation stage (days 10–12) of pregnancy and in the corresponding nonpregnant controls. In addition, the expression of selected genes associated with blastocyst development and/or implantation was investigated in embryos flushed from the uteri of bitches used for this study (unhatched and hatched blastocysts). There was an upregulated expression of prolactin receptor (PRLR) and IGF2 observed pre-implantation. The expression of PRL and of IGF1 was unaffected, and neither was the expression of progesterone- or estrogen receptor β (ESR2). In contrast, (ESR1) levels were elevated during early pregnancy. Prostaglandin (PG)-system revealed upregulated expression of PGE2-synthase and its receptors, PTGER2 and PTGER4, and of the PG-transporter. Elevated levels of AKR1C3 mRNA, but not the protein itself, were noted. Expression of prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2) remained unaffected. Most of the transcripts were predominantly localized to the uterine epithelial cells, myometrium and, to a lesser extent, to the uterine stroma. PGES (PTGES) mRNA was abundantly expressed in both groups of embryos and appeared higher in the hatched ones. The expression level of IGF2 mRNA appeared higher than that of IGF1 mRNA in hatched embryos. In unhatched embryos IGF1, IGF2, and PTGS2 mRNA levels were below the detection limit.

Is apoptosis a regulatory mechanism during early canine pregnancy?

Fas is a membrane-bound protein which upon activation causes programmed cell death. Fas ligand (FasL) binds Fas on target cells. Both these factors are known to regulate apoptosis at implantation in different species and thus might be involved in the regulation of implantation in dogs. The aim of the study was to assess the expression of Fas and FasL in canine uterine tissue throughout pregnancy as well as in pre-implantation embryos using RT-PCR and RT-qPCR. Uterine tissues was collected from of 21 healthy pregnant bitches (group I: days 10-12, n = 5; group II: days 18-25, n = 6; group III: days 28-45, n = 6) and from 4 non-pregnant bitches (controls: days 10-12). Pregnancy stage was determined by days after mating, that is, 2-3 days after ovulation as determined by vaginal cytology and progesterone measurement. After ovariohysterectomy, uteri from group I bitches were flushed with PBS and the embryos washed and stored frozen at -80°. Tissues from the other groups were taken from the implantation and placentation sites, respectively, covered with Tissue Tek(®) and frozen at -80°. Extraction of RNA was performed with Trizol Reagent and RT-qPCR using SYBR green probes. In pre-implantation embryos, only FasL but not Fas could be detected. In all tissues from pregnant and non-pregnant bitches, both parameters were detectable. Before implantation (group I) expression of FasL resembled that of non-pregnant bitches in early dioestrus and decreased significantly during implantation and thereafter (p < 0.05). Expression of Fas did not change significantly until day 45. The relative expression of Fas exceeded that of FasL at each stage investigated, which is comparable to observations of other species; however, high standard deviations indicate high individual differences. These preliminary results point towards a regulatory function of the Fas/FasL system during early canine pregnancy.

Wildflower (Hyoscyamus reticulatus) causes QT prolongation

INTRODUCTION

In the environment, there are hundreds of poisonous and injurious plants with a wide variety of toxicity. Among all plants with anticholinergic effect, Hyoscyamus reticulatus is a species whose clinicopathological effects have been poorly described in literature. The paper is especially aimed at drawing attention to the possibly fatal syndrome of prolonged QT, as well as to clinical and laboratory changes in six members of a single family poisoned with this plant.

CASES

Six female patients aged from 19 to 49 presented to our emergency room with a suspicion of being poisoned after having ingested a plant known as 'the mad axe plant' (Hyoscyamus reticulatus). At least one of anticholinergic symptoms including flushing, mydriasis, dry mouth and tachycardia was present in all of the patients. In addition, different levels of agitation were observed in four of the patients. A euphoric emotional state was present in two patients. The corrected QT distances were found to be prolonged in three of the patients.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Based on economical, social and cultural reasons, it is a very common habit in our country, especially in our region in spring and summer months, to consume some plants growing spontaneously in rural areas as food. Intoxication with Hyoscyamus reticulatus is a plant poisoning that is poorly described in literature. Its classical symptoms are predominantly anticholinergic. Although it is commonly self-limited and can be corrected with close observation and supportive treatments, it should be kept in mind that the prolongation of QT interval can accompany the symptoms of poisoning with this plant (Tab. 1, Fig. 3, Ref. 19).

Serum copper levels in benign and malignant thyroid diseases

OBJECTIVE

To examine the changes in serum copper (Cu) levels in benign and malignant thyroid disease in humans.

BACKGROUND

Thyroid hormones influence the metabolism of trace elements including copper.

METHODS

47 papillary thyroid cancer and 43 benign multinodular goitre patients who underwent total thyroidectomy and 37 healthy control subjects were included into this study. All of the patients and controls were females. Serum Cu levels were detected with atomic absorption spectrophotometer.

RESULTS

In the papillary thyroid cancer group serum level of Cu was 131.61 ± 33.9 μg/dL before surgery and 120.81 ± 30.4 μg/dL after 20 days from surgery. In the benign group serum Cu level was 84.75 ± 12.1 μg/dL and 68.01 ± 9.4 μg/dL postoperatively.These results were compared to healthy control's value of 105.87 ± 10.68 μg/dL. In the papillary thyroid cancer group pre- and postoperative serum Cu level was significantly higher when compared to control group (p<0.05). Postoperative serum Cu level significantly decreased when compared to pre-operative level(p<0.05), in which, it was still higher than the control(p<0.05). In the benign group pre- and postoperative serum Cu level was significantly lower than in the control group (p<0.05).Postoperative serum Cu level significantly decreased when compared to pre-operative level in the benign group (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

This is a pioneer study to examine serum Cu level in benign and malignant thyroid patients compared to controls. In our small groups serum Cu levels increased in malignant thyroid patients and decreased in the benign group (Tab. 1, Ref. 18).

Effects of isolation rooms on the prevalence of hospital acquired pneumonia in a respiratory ICU

BACKGROUND

The incidence of hospital acquired pneumonia (HAP) varies according to the type of intensive care units (ICUs).

AIM

The aims of this study were to determine the frequency of hospital acquired pneumonia (HAP) and the effect of isolation rooms on the frequency of pneumonia in the ICU.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The present investigation was carried out between January 2004 and July 2008. The ICU, which was 4-bed ward-type between January 2004 and February 2006 (1st period), was reconfigured as isolated rooms with only 2 beds each after March 2006 (2nd period). 153 and 379 patients were followed up in the ICU in the 1st and 2nd periods, respectively. Blood, sputum, and deep tracheal aspiration cultures were used for the isolation of the causative agents.

RESULTS

No significant difference was detected between the general characteristics of patients. HAP developed in 101 patients (19%). The prevalence of HAP was 22.9% in the 1st period and 17.4% in the 2nd period. During the 1st and 2nd periods, the HAP infection densities were 22.2 and 16.1/1000 patient-days and the ventilator-associated pneumonia densities were 48.1 and 37.6/1000 ventilator-days, respectively. Eighty-six percent of HAP was ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP).

CONCLUSIONS

Isolation rooms in the ICU may be an effective strategy to control and decrease the rate of pneumonia in the ICU in addition to other preventive strategies.

Effects of desflurane and isoflurane on hepatic and renal functions and coagulation profile during donor hepatectomy

We compared the effect of two inhalation anesthetics desflurane and isoflurane on postoperative hepatic and renal functions as well as coagulation profiles in living donors undergoing right hepatectomy. This study was performed on 80 patients who were randomly allocated to group D (desflurane, n = 40) or group I (isoflurane, n = 40) after Faculty Ethics Committee approval. After induction, isoflurane or desflurane was used with air/oxygen for anesthetic maintenance. The isoflurane or desflurane concentration was set at one minimum alveolar concentration (MAC). Remifentanil was infused for analgesia as well as cisatracurium. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), international normalized ratio (INR), albumin, total bilirubin, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, platelet count, and hemoglobin levels were analyzed preoperatively at end of the operation, and on postoperative days (PODs) 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, and 30. Both AST and ALT differed significantly and continually except on POD 30. AST showed significant elevations from the end of the operation to POD 2 and ALT, from the end of the operation to POD 5 in group I compared with group D. INR was significantly higher from the end of the operation to POD 3 in group I and to POD 2 in group D. At the end of the operation as well as on POD 1 and POD 2, INR was significantly increased in group I compared with group D. Albumin level was significantly lower at the end of the operation in both groups, but it was not different. No patient developed hepatic or renal failure. Our study showed better postoperative hepatic tests and INR using desflurane than isoflurane at equivalent doses of 1 MAC in living donors undergoing right hepatectomy.

Effect of reciprocating sliding speed on the tribological performance of nano SiC(p) reinforced Ni-metal matrix composites produced by electrocodeposition

In the present work, Ni/SiC metal matrix composite (MMC) coatings were prepared from a modified Watt's type electrolyte containing nano-SiC particles by direct current (DC) plating method to increase wear resistance of the electro co-deposited Ni. SiC nano particles with average particle size of 0, 1-1 microm were co-deposited with nickel matrix on the steel substrates. For this purpose, several studies were carried out to optimize deposition parameters for specific applications. The depositions were controlled to obtain the specific thickness (between 175-200 microm) and particle volume fraction in the matrix (between 0.03 and 0.10). The hardness of the resultant coatings was measured and found to be 280-571 HV depending on the particle concentration in the electrolyte and therefore, particle volume in the Ni matrix. The tribological tests were performed by a reciprocating ball-on disk apparatus sliding against M50 steel ball (Ø10 mm). All the friction and wear tests were performed under the unlubricated conditions at room temperature and in the ambient air (relative humidity 55-65%). The wear tests were carried out at different sliding velocities of 50 mm/s, 100 mm/s and 150 mm/s by using a constant dead load of 1.0 N. It was detected that increasing sliding speed resulted to increase wear rate but decreasing friction coefficient due to change in wear mechanism. Increasing sliding speed showed formation of tribo induced oxides up to 20 g/l SiC(p) in the electrolyte and wear mechanism was controlled by temperature induced fatigue wear. Further increase in the SiC(p) in the electrolyte caused an abrasive type of the wear.