Study of High-Transverse-Momentum Higgs Boson Production in Association with a Vector Boson in the qqbb Final State with the ATLAS Detector

This Letter presents the first study of Higgs boson production in association with a vector boson (V=W or Z) in the fully hadronic qqbb final state using data recorded by the ATLAS detector at the LHC in proton-proton collisions at sqrt[s]=13  TeV and corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 137  fb^{-1}. The vector bosons and Higgs bosons are each reconstructed as large-radius jets and tagged using jet substructure techniques. Dedicated tagging algorithms exploiting b-tagging properties are used to identify jets consistent with Higgs bosons decaying into bb[over ¯]. Dominant backgrounds from multijet production are determined directly from the data, and a likelihood fit to the jet mass distribution of Higgs boson candidates is used to extract the number of signal events. The VH production cross section is measured inclusively and differentially in several ranges of Higgs boson transverse momentum: 250-450, 450-650, and greater than 650 GeV. The inclusive signal yield relative to the standard model expectation is observed to be μ=1.4_{-0.9}^{+1.0} and the corresponding cross section is 3.1±1.3(stat)_{-1.4}^{+1.8}(syst)  pb.

Measurement of the Centrality Dependence of the Dijet Yield in p+Pb Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=8.16 TeV with the ATLAS Detector

ATLAS measured the centrality dependence of the dijet yield using 165  nb^{-1} of p+Pb data collected at sqrt[s_{NN}]=8.16  TeV in 2016. The event centrality, which reflects the p+Pb impact parameter, is characterized by the total transverse energy registered in the Pb-going side of the forward calorimeter. The central-to-peripheral ratio of the scaled dijet yields, R_{CP}, is evaluated, and the results are presented as a function of variables that reflect the kinematics of the initial hard parton scattering process. The R_{CP} shows a scaling with the Bjorken x of the parton originating from the proton, x_{p}, while no such trend is observed as a function of x_{Pb}. This analysis provides unique input to understanding the role of small proton spatial configurations in p+Pb collisions by covering parton momentum fractions from the valence region down to x_{p}∼10^{-3} and x_{Pb}∼4×10^{-4}.

Combined Measurement of the Higgs Boson Mass from the H→γγ and H→ZZ^{*}→4ℓ Decay Channels with the ATLAS Detector Using sqrt[s]=7, 8, and 13 TeV pp Collision Data

A measurement of the mass of the Higgs boson combining the H→ZZ^{*}→4ℓ and H→γγ decay channels is presented. The result is based on 140  fb^{-1} of proton-proton collision data collected by the ATLAS detector during LHC run 2 at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV combined with the run 1 ATLAS mass measurement, performed at center-of-mass energies of 7 and 8 TeV, yielding a Higgs boson mass of 125.11±0.09(stat)±0.06(syst)=125.11±0.11  GeV. This corresponds to a 0.09% precision achieved on this fundamental parameter of the Standard Model of particle physics.

Apoptotic effects of thymol, a novel monoterpene phenol, on different types of cancer

BACKGROUND

Cancer is a major public health problem in many areas of the world. Many anticancer drugs in current clinical use have been isolated from plant species or are based on such substances. Thymol (5-methyl-2-isopropylphenol) is an oxygenated aromatic compound from monoterpene group. It is the main constituent of thyme essential oil and shows antioxidant, antiseptic and antiproliferative properties. The aim of this study is to determine the antiproliferative activity and apoptotic effect of thymol on prostate cancer (PC-3, DU145), breast cancer (MDA-MB-231), and lung cancer (KLN205) cell lines.

METHODS

The cancer cells were treated with different concentrations of thymol (100, 200, 400, 600, 800 µM) at 24 h, 48 h and 72 h. The cell viability was investigated by MTT assay and analysis of apoptosis was determined with annexin V assay.

RESULTS

The study showed the dose and time-dependent cytotoxic effect of thymol in PC-3, DU145, MDA-MB-231, and KLN205 cancer cell lines. Thymol significantly induced apoptosis in all groups in a dose-dependent manner. Statistical analysis showed a significant difference between thymol‑treated cell lines compared to the control (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The data in the present study demonstrated that thymol has apoptotic and antiproliferative properties in lung, breast and prostate cancer cell lines. Thymol could serve as a potential therapeutic agent in the future (Fig. 5, Ref. 26).

Restoring Function and Aesthetics in a Class II Division 1 Patient with Amelogenesis Imperfecta: A Clinical Report

Amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) encompasses a complicated group of hereditary conditions that cause developmental alterations in the structure of the enamel in the absence of a systemic disorder. AI primarily affects the quality and/or quantity of dental enamel, and it may affect all or only some of the teeth in the primary and/or permanent dentition. This clinical report describes the oral rehabilitation of a 21-year-old man diagnosed with hypomaturation-type AI. He presented with discolored and mutilated teeth. Cephalometrically, the patient has skeletal class II malocclusion due to mandibular deficiency considered as a result of maxillary constriction. The interdisciplinary approach was followed because of the complex needs of the patient. The aim of treatment was to restore aesthetics, improve malocclusion and masticatory function. Aesthetic and functional expectations were met with metal ceramic restorations. In this report, the interdisciplinary approach for a patient with AI and a malocclusion is described. (Eur J Dent 2011;5:220-228)

Effects of lowered dialysate sodium on left ventricle function and brain natriuretic peptide in maintenance of hemodialysis patients

Introduction:

Impaired diastolic flow is characterized by decreased left ventricular (LV) filling diastole, abnormal LV distensibility, or delayed relaxation. B-Type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is an indicator of various cardiovascular diseases and body volume status. The aim of this study was to determine whether the lowering of dialysate sodium (Na) levels is effective on LV systolic and diastolic parameters and BNP in the maintenance of hemodialysis patients.

Materials and Methods:

The study included 49 chronic hemodialysis patients. Left atrium (LA) diameter and LV ejection fraction, LV systolic and diastolic diameter, deceleration time (DT), pulmonary artery pressure (PAP), inferior vena cava diameter (IVCD), early diastolic transmitral flow ( E) and late diastolic transmitral flow ( A) velocities, E/ A ratio, isovolumic relaxation time, peak early diastolic velocity ( E′), late diastolic velocity ( A′) of tissue Doppler mitral annulus, and flow propagation velocity of mitral inflow ( Vp) were measured before and 6 months after hemodialysis with low Na dialysate.

Results:

Six months after low Na hemodialysis, a decrease was observed in echocardiographic parameters such as PAP and IVCD ( p < 0.05, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001, respectively). However, a significant difference was not observed in LA diameter. In LV diastolic measurement of E and A waves, E/ A ratio, DT, Vp, septal E′ and A′, and lateral E′ and A′ exhibited significant improvement by low Na HD. BNP level was significantly reduced ( p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Lowered dialysate Na concentration improves PAP, IVCD, and LV diastolic properties assessed by mitral inflow filling, tissue Doppler velocity, and mitral inflow velocity propagation.

Two markers in predicting the cardiovascular events in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: increased P-wave and QT dispersion

OBJECTIVE

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent disease with many potential long-term cardiovascular risks. P-wave dispersion (Pdis) and QT dispersion (QTdis) have been shown to be noninvasive electrocardiographic predictors for development of cardiac arrhythmias. In this study we aimed to search Pdis and QTdis parameters in patients with PCOS.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study included 82 patients with PCOS and 74 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Baseline 12-lead electrocardiographic and transthoracic echocardiographic measurements were evaluated. P-wave maximum duration (Pmax), P-wave minimum duration (Pmin), Pdis, QT interval, heart rate-corrected QT dispersion and QTdis were calculated by two cardiologists.

RESULTS

Patients wirh PCOS had significantly higher QT dispersion (49.5 ± 14.1 vs. 37.9 ± 12.6 ms, p < 0.001), and P wave dispersion (54.2 ± 11.4 vs. 45.9 ± 10.1 ms, p < 0.001) than the controls. Serum testosterone and estradiol levels was correlated with the Pdis (r = 0.677, p < 0.001 and r = 0.415, p < 0.001 respectively) and QTdis (r = 0.326, p < 0.001 and r = 0.321, p < 0.001 respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Pdis and QTdis are simple and useful electrocardiographic markers which may be used in the prediction of the risk of adverse cardiovascular events in PCOS patients.

The role of diffusion weighted MR imaging for differentiation between Graves' disease and Hashimoto thyroiditis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DWMRI) for differentation between Graves' disease and Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Fifty patients (27 Graves diseases and 23 Hashimoto thyroiditis) and twenty healthy volunteers were examined using T1, T2 and DWMRI. The patients were diagnosed on the basis of physical findings and the results of thyroid function tests and serological tests. Circular ROIs were positioned on the bilateral thyroid lobes and isthmus. All measurements were repeated three different b values including 100, 600 and 1000 s/mm2 in all cases. ADC (Apparent diffusion coefficient) maps were calculated automatically with the MR system.

RESULTS

Mean ADC values were 2.93 × 10-3, 1.97 × 10-3 and 1.62 × 10-3 mm2/s in the healthy volunteers; 3.47 × 10-3, 2.25 × 10-3 and 1.64 × 10-3 mm2/s in Graves' disease; 2.53 × 10-3, 1.76 × 10-3, 1.28 × 10-3 mm2/s in Hashimoto thyroiditis for b100, b600 and b1000, respectively. The ADC values of the Graves diseases were higher than healty volunteers and Hashimoto thyroiditis. ADC values were statistically significant for differentation between Hashimoto thyroiditis and Graves' disease all b values (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

DWMRI is fast sequence and does not require contrast agent. Quantitative assessment of the lesion is possible using ADC map. So, DWMRI may be useful differentiation of the Hashimoto thyroiditis and Graves' disease.

A reliable method for evaluating upper molar distalization: Superimposition of three-dimensional digital models

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the reliability of measurements obtained after the superimposition of three-dimensional (3D) digital models by comparing them with those obtained from lateral cephalometric radiographs and photocopies of plaster models for the evaluation of upper molar distalization.

Methods

Data were collected from plaster models and lateral cephalometric radiographs of 20 Class II patients whose maxillary first molars were distalized with an intraoral distalizer. The posterior movements of the maxillary first molars were evaluated using lateral cephalometric radiographs (group CP), photocopies of plaster models (group PH), and digitized 3D models (group TD). Additionally, distalization and expansion of the other teeth and the degrees of molar rotation were measured in group PH and group TD and compared between the two groups.

Results

No significant difference was observed regarding the amount of molar distalization among the three groups. A comparison of the aforementioned parameters between group PH and group TD did not reveal any significant difference.

Conclusions

3D digital models are reliable to assess the results of upper molar distalization and can be considered a valid alternative to conventional measurement methods.

Evaluation of salivary total oxidant-antioxidant status and DNA damage of children undergoing fixed orthodontic therapy

OBJECTIVE

To determine the total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS), and the 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) levels and their interrelationship in the saliva of children undergoing fixed orthodontic therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty children were randomly divided into three groups. The attachments were bonded to all of the teeth using three different orthodontic composites: Transbond XT, Kurasper F, and GrenGloo. The salivary levels of TOS, TAS, and 8-OHdG were determined three times, as follows: before treatment (T1) and at 1 month (T2) and 3 months (T3) following appliance placement. All data were statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in TOS, TAS, and 8-OHdG within the same time periods among the three different orthodontic composites (P > .05). TAS in all composite groups decreased over time. These decreases were found to be significant for Kurasper F and GrenGloo at the T1-T3 and T2-T3 time periods (P < .05). In all composite groups 8-OHdG decreased between T1 and T2 (P < .05). However, 8-OHdG in all composite groups increased from T2 to T3. These differences in 8-OHdG were significant in Kurasper F and GrenGloo (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Fixed orthodontic appliances bonded with the tested composites did not increase the cytotoxicity markers in saliva.

Comparison of Bolton analysis and tooth size measurements obtained using conventional and three-dimensional orthodontic models

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy, reproducibility, efficacy and effectiveness of measurements obtained using digital models with those obtained using plaster models.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 20 digital models were produced by the Ortho Three-dimensional Models (O3DM) Laboratory and their software (O3DM version 2) was used to obtain measurements. Identical plaster models were used to obtain measurements of teeth with a vernier caliper. The maximum mesiodistal width of each study model, from first molar to first molar, was measured. All measurements were repeated at least 1 month later by the same operator for both digital and manual methods. The data were analyzed using Cronbach α, Wilcoxon signed rank test and the McNemar test.

Results:

Cronbach α value of the data at T1 and T2 for 6 anterior and 12 overall teeth measured using the two methods was very close to the ideal value of 1, indicating high intra-observer reliability. The Wilcoxon signed rank test showed statistically significant differences between the two methods (P = 0.000, P < 0.001). The measurements obtained using the digital models were lower than those obtained using the plaster models. No statistically significant differences were found between the two methods for anterior Bolton discrepancies (P = 0.375) or overall Bolton discrepancies (P = 0.00). Paired comparisons of repeated measurements for Bolton ratios showed no statistically significant differences for anterior or overall Bolton discrepancies (P = 0.688 and P = 0.375, respectively).

Conclusions:

Use of O3DM software is an acceptable alternative to the traditional vernier caliper method in orthodontic practice.

Evaluation of the genotoxicity and cytotoxicity in the buccal epithelial cells of patients undergoing orthodontic treatment with three light-cured bonding composites by using micronucleus testing

Objective

This study evaluated the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of fixed orthodontic treatment with three different light-cured orthodontic bonding composites by analyzing micronucleus (MN) formation in the buccal mucosa during a 6-month period.

Methods

Thirty healthy volunteers were selected from consecutive patients referred for orthodontic treatment. Equilibrium 2 brackets and molar tubes (Dentaurum) were bonded with three different light-cured orthodontic bonding composites-Transbond XT (3M Unitek), Kurasper F (Kuraray Europe), or GrenGloo (Ormco Corporation)- to all teeth in both arches. Exfoliated buccal epithelial cells were scraped from the middle part of the inner cheeks with sterile cement spatulas before treatment and at 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment. MNs and nuclear alterations, such as karyorrhexis (KR), karyolysis (KL), and binucleated cells (BNs), were scored under a light microscope. Repeated measure ANOVA was used to calculate statistical differences in degenerative nuclear abnormalities.

Results

MN rates did not significantly differ among different time points within the same cell type (p > 0.05). In contrast, the number of BNs in buccal epithelial cells significantly increased in all composite groups (p < 0.01, Transbond XT; p < 0.001, Kurasper F and GrenGloo). KL frequency significantly increased between the beginning and end of the study in the Kurasfer F (0.80 ± 0.79 to 1.90 ± 1.10; p < 0.05) and GrenGloo (1.30 ± 1.06 to 2.40 ± 1.08; p < 0.05) groups.

Conclusions

After 6 months of fixed orthodontic treatment with different light-cured composites, morphological signs of cytotoxicity were observed but genotoxic effects were absent.

Effect of various laser irradiations on the mineral content of dentin

OBJECTIVE

THE AIM OF THIS STUDY WAS TO EVALUATE THE MINERAL CONTENT OF DENTIN IRRADIATION WITH ERBIUM: yttrium-aliminum-garnet (Er:YAG), Neodmiyum:yttrium-aliminum garnet (Nd:YAG) and potassium titanium phosphate (KTP) laser used for in the treatment of dentin hypersensitivity.

METHODS

Six extracted wisdom, unerupted molar teeth were used in this study. The enamel of the teeth was removed with a conventional bur under water cooling to expose the dentin surface. The teeth were mounted in a slow-speed, diamond-saw, sectioning machine. Two dentin slabs were obtained from each tooth and each slab was sectioned so that 4 slabs were made from each teeth. Then dentin slabs were randomly divided into four groups. Group A: Control Group, Group B: Er:YAG laser, Group C: Nd:YAG laser, Group D: KTP laser. The levels of Ca, K, Mg, Na,P and Ca/P mineral ratio in each dentin slab were measured by inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES). Data were analysed by one way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey HSD tests. One sample from each group was prepared for scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between the groups for Ca, K, Mg, Na,P and Ca/P mineral ratio (P>.05). SEM photographs indicated that there were melted areas around the exposed dentin tubules in groups treated with Er:YAG and KTP lasers.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that laser etching with the Er:YAG, Nd:YAG, KTP laser systems did not affect the compositional structure of the dentin surfaces.

The relationship of orthodontic treatment need with periodontal status, dental caries, and sociodemographic factors

The aim of this study was to determine the relationship of orthodontic malocclusion with periodontal status, dental caries, and sociodemographic status. Our study population consisted of a sample of 836 school children (384 male and 452 female, aged 11-14 years). Four experienced orthodontists and two experienced periodontists performed the clinical examinations. The Treatment Priority Index (TPI), Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs (CPITN), decayed, missing, filled teeth (DMFT) scores, and a questionnaire that surveyed socio-demographic status of students were used. Spearman's rank correlation coefficients were used to measure the association between variables. TPI scores showed that 36.4% of the students had normal occlusion, while 41.2% had slight, 15.7% had definite, 4% had severe, and 2.7% had very severe malocclusion. TPI values did not show any significant differences between pupils in different age, gender, socioeconomic status groups, and CPITN scores, whereas there was a significant relationship between TPI and DMFT scores. The orthodontic treatment need was not significantly correlated with CPITN or socio-demographic status; however, the correlation coefficient showed a significant relationship between TPI and DMFT scores.

The antioxidant effects of dry apricot in the various tissues of rats with induced cold restraint stress

α-Tocopherol and β-carotene are the best known and most widely used natural antioxidant substances. Apricot contains β-carotene, tocopherols and flavonoids. This experimental study was designed to investigate the protective effect of Malatya kabashi apricot in stress-induced injury in various tissues of rats. In total, 32 male Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups: control, apricot, stress and apricot-stress groups. Apricot was administrated to rats by gavage for 10 days in the apricot and apricot-stress groups. Then rats were kept at 4°C for 4 h in stress and apricot-stress groups. The rats were killed at the end of the experiment for biochemical and histological examinations. This study shows apricot supplementation decreased oxidative stress injury in both the stomach and intestine.

Restoring Function and Aesthetics in a Class II Division 1 Patient with Amelogenesis Imperfecta: A Clinical Report

Amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) encompasses a complicated group of hereditary conditions that cause developmental alterations in the structure of the enamel in the absence of a systemic disorder. AI primarily affects the quality and/or quantity of dental enamel, and it may affect all or only some of the teeth in the primary and/or permanent dentition. This clinical report describes the oral rehabilitation of a 21-year-old man diagnosed with hypomaturation-type AI. He presented with discolored and mutilated teeth. Cephalometrically, the patient has skeletal class II malocclusion due to mandibular deficiency considered as a result of maxillary constriction. The interdisciplinary approach was followed because of the complex needs of the patient. The aim of treatment was to restore aesthetics, improve malocclusion and masticatory function. Aesthetic and functional expectations were met with metal ceramic restorations. In this report, the interdisciplinary approach for a patient with AI and a malocclusion is described.

VEGFR1 expression is related to lymph node metastasis and serum VEGF may be a marker of progression in the follow-up of patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and VEGF receptor 1 (VEGFR1) are known to be related to thyroid tumorigenesis. The aim of the study was to examine the expressions and serum levels of VEGF, VEGFR1, IGF1, and IGF1 receptor (IGF1R) in patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) compared with patients with nodular goiter (NG).

METHODS

We examined 39 patients with DTC who had a clinical history of at least 2 years and compared them with 25 patients who had a pathological diagnosis of NG after thyroidectomy. Serum VEGF, VEGFR1, and IGF1 levels were measured in both patient groups. The expressions of VEGF, VEGFR1, IGF1, and IGF1R were analyzed by the immunohistochemical method in the paraffin blocks of patients' thyroidectomy samples of the patients.

RESULTS

The immunostainings scores for VEGF, VEGFR1, IGF1, and IGF1R were found to be higher in patients with DTC than in those with NG. Only VEGFR1 expression was related to lymph node metastasis at the time of surgery. None of the expressions were related to the long-term prognosis of the patients. Serum VEGF was found to be higher in patients with progressive DTC than in patients in clinical remission.

CONCLUSION

The expressions of VEGF and VEGFR1 were shown to be correlated with the expression of IGF1 and IGF1R. VEGFR1 expression may be an important index for the presence of lymph node metastasis at the time of thyroidectomy. Increased serum levels of VEGF may reflect disease recurrence in DTC.

Shear Bond Strength of Orthodontic Brackets Cured with Different Light Sources under Thermocycling

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to compare the shear bond strength (SBS) of two different light sources under different thermal cycle frequencies.

METHODS

Ninety human premolar teeth were divided into six groups, in which three groups consisted of halogen groups - Group I was cured with halogen without thermocycle, Group II cured with halogen with 500 thermocycles, and Group III cured with halogen with 10,000 thermocycles. The other three groups consisted of Plasma arc (PAC) group - Group IV was cured with PAC without thermocycle, Group V cured with PAC thermocycled 500 cycles, and Group VI cured with PAC thermocycled 10,000 cycles. Two way ANOVA was used to compare the SBS between the groups, and chi square-test was used to compare the bond failure of ARI scores among the groups.

RESULTS

A significant difference was found for curing lights (P<.001) and thermocycling (P<.01). However, there was no interaction between light curing and thermocycling (P=.177). The halogen groups demonstrated higher mean SBS than the PAC groups. Both groups showed a significant reduction between no cycles and 10,000 cycles (P<.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Both light sources showed favorable SBS performance without the thermocycle procedure. Thermocycling significantly decreased the SBS values of both groups.

Shear Bond Strength of Orthodontic Brackets Cured with Different Light Sources under Thermocycling

Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the shear bond strength (SBS) of two different light sources under different thermal cycle frequencies.

Methods: Ninety human premolar teeth were divided into six groups, in which three groups consisted of halogen groups – Group I was cured with halogen without thermocycle, Group II cured with halogen with 500 thermocycles, and Group III cured with halogen with 10,000 thermocycles. The other three groups consisted of Plasma arc (PAC) group – Group IV was cured with PAC without thermocycle, Group V cured with PAC thermocycled 500 cycles, and Group VI cured with PAC thermocycled 10,000 cycles. Two way ANOVA was used to compare the SBS between the groups, and chi squaretest was used to compare the bond failure of ARI scores among the groups.

Results: A significant difference was found for curing lights (P<.001) and thermocycling (P<.01). However, there was no interaction between light curing and thermocycling (P=.177). The halogen groups demonstrated higher mean SBS than the PAC groups. Both groups showed a significant reduction between no cycles and 10,000 cycles (P<.05).

Conclusions: Both light sources showed favorable SBS performance without the thermocycle procedure. Thermocycling significantly decreased the SBS values of both groups. (Eur J Dent 2010;4:257- 262)

Presumed ocular tuberculosis in an immunocompetent eight-year-old boy

In recent years, tuberculosis has re-emerged as a serious public health problem, raising the possibility that tuberculous eye disease may also have become more prevalent. Ocular tuberculosis usually occurs in apparently healthy individuals. It is rarely observed in patients with active pulmonary disease. An eight-year-old boy was admitted to our department because of chronic granulomatous anterior uveitis on his left eye. His medical history was unremarkable. There were no systemic symptoms of tuberculosis. He had a positive purified protein derivative test reaction. In our case, the diagnosis of ocular tuberculosis was presumptive and depended upon indirect evidence. The patient was started on anti-tuberculosis therapy with three drugs, which were continued for 12 months, with complete healing of the ocular lesions, including a marked improvement in the gait of the patient. Tuberculosis remains one of the most important causes of morbidity and mortality in developing countries.

Risk of active tuberculosis in adult household contacts of smear-positive pulmonary tuberculosis cases

SETTING

Seven public tuberculosis (TB) dispensaries in Istanbul, Turkey.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the risk of active TB among adult household contacts (age > or = 15 years) of newly diagnosed sputum smear-positive pulmonary TB (PTB) cases in Istanbul.

DESIGN

A retrospective analysis of adult household contacts of 1570 pulmonary TB cases registered at seven TB dispensaries in Istanbul between 1997 and 2000.

RESULTS

A total of 6188 household contacts (mean contact/index case: 3.9) were included in the study, of whom 4114 (67%) were aged > or = 15 years (mean contact/index case: 2.6); 3310 (80.5%) of these participated in a contact investigation. The mean duration of follow-up was 2.2 years (range 1-4 years); 222 active TB cases (rate 5.4%, 95%CI 5.2-5.6) were detected, 171 within the first year. The incidence of active TB was 2491/100 000 (3555/100 000 in the 15-34 year age group and 1195/100 000 in the > or = 35 year age group, P < 0.0001). Rates of active TB were highest in the 15-24 year (8.5%) and 25-34 year (6.5%) age groups.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of active TB among adult household contacts of sputum smear-positive PTB cases was high. This high incidence justifies the prescription of chemopropylaxis not only for children but also for all contacts, especially those aged between 15 and 34 years.

Granulomatous mastitis: radiological findings

PURPOSE

To evaluate the radiological, ultrasonographic, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of idiopathic granulomatous mastitis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Between April 2002 and June 2005, the mammography, ultrasound, color Doppler ultrasound, nonenhanced MR, and dynamic MR findings of nine patients with the preliminary clinical diagnosis of malignancy and the final diagnosis of granulomatous mastitis were evaluated.

RESULTS

On mammography, asymmetrical focal densities with no distinct margins, ill-defined masses with spiculated contours, and bilateral multiple ill-defined nodules were seen. On ultrasound, in four patients a discrete, heterogenous hypoechoic mass, in two patients multiple abscesses, in one patient bilateral multiple central hypo peripheral hyperechoic lesions, in two patients heterogeneous hypo- and hyperechoic areas together with parenchymal distortion, and in one patient irregular hypoechoic masses with tubular extensions and abscess cavities were seen. Five of the lesions were vascular on color Doppler ultrasound. On MR mammography, the most frequent finding was focal or diffuse asymmetrical signal intensity changes that were hypointense on T1W images and hyperintense on T2W images, without significant mass effect. Nodular lesions were also seen. On dynamic contrast-enhanced mammography, mass-like enhancement, ring-like enhancement, and nodular enhancement were seen. The time-intensity curves differed from patient to patient and from lesion to lesion.

CONCLUSION

The imaging findings of idiopathic granulomatous mastitis have a wide spectrum, and they are inconclusive for differentiating malignant and benign lesions.

Comparing the effects of travoprost and brinzolamide on intraocular pressure after phacoemulsification

PURPOSE

To evaluate the intraocular pressure (IOP) lowering effect of travoprost and brinzolamide within the first 24 h after phacoemulsification cataract surgery.

METHODS

This prospective, randomized, double-masked, controlled study comprised 90 eyes of 90 consecutive patients with senile cataract who had uneventful phacoemulsification surgery. Eyes in the first group received travoprost 0.0015%, second group received brinzolamide 1%. Eyes in the third group received balanced salt solution and were used as control. One drop was instilled immediately after surgery. IOP was measured 24 h preoperatively, 6 and 24 h postoperatively. Analysis of variance, Student's-t and chi2-tests were used for statistical analyses.

RESULTS

Preoperatively IOP was not significantly different among the three groups (P = 0.653). At 6 and 24 h postoperatively IOP was lower in both travoprost and brinzolamide group when compared to control group (P = 0.018 and 0.015 at 6 h, P = 0.010 and 0.007 at 24 h between travoprost and brinzolamide group was not significant (P = 0.744 at 6 h and P = 0.672 at 24 h).

CONCLUSION

Both travoprost and brinzolamide significantly lowered IOP after small incision phacoemulsification cataract surgery within the first 24 h without any side effect.

Color Doppler ultrasonography findings of bladder tumors: correlation with stage and histopathologic grade

PURPOSE

To describe color Doppler ultrasonography findings of bladder tumors and to investigate the correlation between these findings with stage and histopathological grade.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty-four patients with bladder tumors were assessed with color Doppler ultrasonography for tumor size, presence of vascularity, vascular pattern, and spectral properties. All patients underwent surgery. Stage and histopathological grades of tumors were determined and compared with color Doppler ultrasonography findings.

RESULTS

Presence of vascularity was related to tumor size (P<0.05) and color Doppler signal was detected when tumors reached 24 mm in size. There was no statistically significant relationship between tumor stage and histopathological grade with tumor size, presence and pattern of vascularity, and spectral color Doppler ultrasonography findings (P>0.05).

CONCLUSION

The evaluation of vascularity in bladder tumors by color Doppler ultrasonography is not helpful in predicting tumor stage and histopathological grade before surgery.

Effect of topical dexamethasone and ciprofloxacin on bacterial flora of healthy conjunctiva

PURPOSE

To investigate the effects of topical dexamethasone and ciprofloxacin, alone and in combination, on the colony counts of conjunctival bacterial flora of healthy subjects.

METHODS

A total of 100 healthy subjects were randomly divided into four groups, consisting of 25 subjects each. Group 1 was treated with dexamethasone phosphate 0.1% (Maxidex). Group 2 was treated with ciprofloxacin 0.3% (Ciloxan) and Group 3 with a combination of these drugs. Group 4 received artificial tear solution (Tears Naturale) and served as control. The drops were administered one drop every 1 min. A pretreatment culture and recultures at 30, 90, and 180 min after application of final drops were performed on all subjects. The bacterial growth was evaluated in a quantitative manner. All cultures were performed in a double-masked fashion. ANOVA test was used for statistical analyses.

RESULTS

While there was no significant difference among mean number of pretreatment colonies between the groups (P=0.85); the differences at 30, 90, and 180 min were statistically significant (P<0.001). During the study there was no statistically significant change in colony counts in Groups 1 and 4 (P=0.66 and 0.55, respectively). The colony count numbers decreased significantly at 30 and 90 min in Group 2 (P<0.001 and P=0.004) and at 30 min in Group 3 (P=0.002).

CONCLUSION

Topically applied dexamethasone did not cause a significant change in colony counts of the healthy conjunctiva. Both ciprofloxacin and a combination of ciprofloxacin and dexamethasone were effective in the reduction of bacterial ocular flora.

Seroprevalence of antibodies to legionella pneumophila in hemodialysis patients

Patients with chronic renal failure are at increased risk for infections because of impaired cellular immunity. This study was designed to determine the prevalence of antibodies to Legionella pneumophila serogroups 1 to 6 and to evaluate the possible risk factors for Legionnaires' disease in hemodialysis patients. Serum samples to be screened for antibodies against L pneumophila and risk factor data were collected from 252 hemodialysis patients. The overall prevalence of L pneumophila antibodies in hemodialysis patients was found to be 5.16% There was no statistically significant difference between L pneumophila seropositivity and potential risk factors. Further studies are needed to determine possible risk factors for Legionnaires' disease in hemodialysis patients.

Effects of pentoxifylline in the prevention of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome in a rabbit model

Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) and other cytokines have been implicated in the pathogenesis of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Pentoxifylline, a methylxanthine derivative, was found to inhibit TNF-alpha synthesis. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the use of pentoxifylline would prevent the occurrence of OHSS in a rabbit model. Thirteen rabbits were divided into two groups. The first group (n = 6) were given pentoxifylline 15 mg/kg intravenously and the second group (n = 7) were given physiological serum 15 mg/kg before ovulation induction. Ovarian hyperstimulation was induced in rabbits by 200 IU equine chorionic gonadotropin on day 1 and 100 IU human chorionic gonadotropin on day 3. Blood samples were analyzed for TNF-alpha on days 1, 3 and 5. All animals were autopsied on day 6 to evaluate the ovarian weight, ascites formation and histopathological changes. There was no difference between groups regarding weight gain, ascites formation and plasma TNF-alpha levels (p < 0.05). Ovarian weight and number of ovulations were significantly lower in the pentoxifylline group than the control group (p < 0.05). Pentoxifylline did not prevent ascites formation despite the observed decrease in ovarian weight and number of ovulations in OHSS in a rabbit model.

Effects of chronic ethanol consumption on alpha-adrenergic-induced contractions and endothelium-dependent relaxations in rat thoracic aorta

The effects of chronic oral administration of ethanol (7.2% daily during 24 weeks) on the contractions induced by phenylephrine (Phe) and the endothelium-dependent relaxation responses to acetylcholine (ACh) were studied in rat thoracic aorta. Ethanol pretreatment significantly attenuated the contractile responses to Phe, resulting in parallel shift of the concentration-response curve to the right. EC(50)values of Phe were 64.6+/-11.2 and 95.5+/-8.5 nmol l(-1)in control and ethanol-fed rats, respectively. On the other hand, either calcium-induced contractions or relaxation responses to ACh and sodium nitroprusside were similar in the vessels of the control and ethanol-treated rats. These results suggest that chronic ethanol ingestion significantly attenuates the alpha(1)-adrenergic-induced contractions but does not affect the relaxation responses mediated by nitric oxide in rat aortic rings.

The effect of trimebutine maleate on gastric emptying in patients with non-ulcer dyspepsia

The study was designed to investigate the effect of trimebutine maleate, a drug used in both hyperkinetic and hypokinetic motility disorders, on gastric emptying in patients with non-ulcer dyspepsia having prolonged gastric emptying rates and to compare the parameters used for the determination of the lag period observed during the emptying of solid foods from the stomach. Gastric emptying was measured by the radionuclide technique. Twenty normal volunteers and 43 patients with non-ulcer dyspepsia participated in the study. Radionuclide imaging was performed by using a solid meal labeled with 99mTc-tin colloid. Of the patients with non-ulcer dyspepsia, 20 had prolonged gastric emptying. They were given three weeks of oral treatment with trimebutine maleate and had their radionuclide gastric emptying study repeated. Treatment with trimebutine maleate resulted in reduction in duration of the lag period and less retention of food at 100 minutes (p < 0.0005). After treatment with trimebutine maleate, no significant difference has been observed in the mean symptom score of patients with prolonged gastric emptying. Among the parameters used for the determination of the lag period, lag period determined by a mathematical equation (TLAG) has been found to be longer than the lag period determined by visual inspection of the images (VLAG) and there was correlation between the two parameters when the lag time was short.

Cardiac involvement due to Salmonella typhi infections in children

Sixty-six patients with Salmonella typhi infections were evaluated in terms of cardiological events in the Department of Pediatrics of Ondokuz Mayis University Hospital for a period of 14 years. Cardiac involvement is described in three cases of typhoid fever during that time. One patient had myocarditis only but another two cases had myocarditis and pericarditis. In addition to antibiotic therapy, pericardiocentesis and pericardiectomy were used. We present three cases of myocarditis caused by Salmonella typhi infections.