Determination of SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody levels in hematology-oncology patients after COVID-19 vaccination

OBJECTIVE

Cancer patients are among the high-risk groups where COVID-19 infection tends to be severe and can lead to increased mortality. Therefore, they are included in the priority groups for COVID-19 vaccination. This study aimed to compare the levels of SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies following two different COVID-19 vaccinations between hematology-oncology patients and healthcare personnel and to identify factors associated with these antibody levels.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A prospective study was conducted with 91 hematology-oncology patients (cancer group) and 75 healthcare personnel (control group) from January 2020 to June 2023. The cancer and control groups comprised adults who had received a booster dose, with either a single dose of BNT162b2 or two doses of CoronaVac™ spaced one month apart, following their primary vaccination with two doses of either CoronaVac™ or BNT162b2. Four weeks after the administration of the booster dose, levels of SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies were assessed using an ELISA kit. Antibody levels above 50 AU/mL were accepted as signifying seropositivity.

RESULTS

The median SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody level was lower in the cancer group compared to the control group (4,509 vs. 7,268, p = 0.004), while the rate of seroconversion was similar between the groups (97.8% vs. 100%, p = 0.564). In the cancer group, no association was found between SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody levels and age, sex, comorbidity, type of malignancy, stage and duration, or type of vaccine.

CONCLUSIONS

In cancer patients, the seroconversion positivity rate was about 98%. However, antibody responses were still lower compared to the control group. No difference was detected in antibody levels among cancer patients based on the type of vaccine.

Mother's knowledge for environmental risks and self-awareness for the presence of pollutants in her living area in West and Central Anatolia: a cross-sectional survey

BACKGROUND

Environmental risk awareness is a key concept to raise awareness and plan future programs for environmental protection. A cross-sectional household survey aimed to find out the presence of environmental hazards next to living area and the mother's knowledge levels about environmental risk factors with their related factors according to district development ranking, and Western and Central Anatolian regions with sampling from rural and urban residence.

METHOD

The study was designed with household sampling weighted according to population density in 2008. Data on the demography and health status, dwelling characteristics of the residents are also collected in 2009. In addition, open-ended questions "What does environmental risk/hazard mean?" and "Which environmental risks/hazards are present in your environment?" were asked. The data collected from the survey were analyzed using multivariate binary logistic regression.

RESULTS

The sample included 3489 mothers living either in urban or rural areas. Of the mothers, 19.3% did not know what an environmental risk is and 75.7% stated that there was at least one environmental pollutant in their environment. The most commonly perceived risk factor was air pollution (23.0%), which was reported to be present in their living areas by 12.4%. Regions, residence, settlement features of the house, and health status of family members were associated with the perception of environmental risk at a statistically significant level.

CONCLUSION

The neighborhood conditions and health status of family associated with the mother's awareness for environmental risk factors. Communication and cooperation between local governments, health institutions, non-governmental organizations and other stakeholders should be strengthened to increase risk awareness.

Environmental risk perception of mothers and presence of risk factors in rural and urban areas in Adana, Turkey

This cross-sectional study with an open-ended manner aimed (1) to evaluate the environmental risk perception levels of mothers having at least one child and living in Adana and (2) to determine their awareness of the risk factors in their environment. Of mothers, 30.2% did not know the concept of environmental risk factor. Most frequent perceived risks were violence (17%), air pollution (15.5%) and undefined pollution (15%). The most common mentioned problems in their environment were air pollution (9.9%), violence (7.9%) and municipal service problems (8.4%). Mothers living in the urban area reported more violence, air pollution and undefined pollution as environmental threats than those living in the countryside. The place of residence, the education level of the mother and the number of people in the house significantly were related with the risk perception. There is a need for studies in other regions to determine the environmental literacy of mothers.

Influence of season and lactational stage on aflatoxin M1 and ochratoxin A in human milk in a cohort study from southeastern region of Turkey

The aim was to evaluate the changes in aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) and ochratoxin A (OTA) levels in human breast milk (HBM) during the first five postpartum months according to the sampling season in a cohort study from Şanlıurfa. From 78 healthy lactating mothers, HBM was taken at the 5-14 days postpartum (D5-14) and the 6^th and 18^th weeks postpartum (W6 and W18). Mycotoxin levels were analyzed with competitive ELISA. Generalized Estimating Equations with repeated measures (three-correlation matrix dimension) revealed a significantly higher mean AFM1 level at W6 than that on D5-14. AFM1 and OTA levels in winter and spring were considerably higher than that in summer and autumn. Maternal smoke exposure, body mass index, history of moldy food exposure, birth order, and breastfeeding type did not influence the results. Whilst season had a marked effect on the milk levels of both analytes, lactation stage affected AFM1 more notable than OTA.

Element profiles in blood and teeth samples of children with congenital heart diseases in comparison with healthy ones

BACKGROUND

Some elements were claimed to play a role in the pathogenesis of congenital heart defects (CHD) and influence the general well-being and health of these children.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to assess the levels of some elements simultaneously in the blood and teeth samples of children with cyanotic and acyanotic CHD compared with healthy children.

METHODS

A total of 39 children with CHD (11 with cyanotic and 28 with acyanotic CHD) and 42 age- and sex-adjusted controls were enrolled. Levels of 13 elements, including magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, chromium, manganese, iron, copper, zinc, strontium, cadmium, lead, mercury, and molybdenum, were assessed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

Children with cyanotic and acyanotic CHD had significantly lower teeth calcium and calcium/phosphorus ratio as compared to the controls after adjusting for confounders. The mean blood iron level was found to be significantly higher in the cyanotic CHD group compared to the other groups. In addition, children with acyanotic CHD had significantly higher teeth copper levels, higher blood molybdenum and lower blood magnesium levels compared to the healthy control group. Blood cadmium and mercury levels were found to be significantly elevated in both the cyanotic and acyanotic CHD groups compared to the healthy control group. There were no differences in toxic metal levels of teeth in cases with CHD.

CONCLUSION

Monitoring adequate and balanced gestational micronutrient intake might support not only maternal health but also fetal cardiac development and infant well-being. Supplementation of magnesium should be evaluated in patients having CHD.

Incredible pharmaceutical residues in human milk in a cohort study from Şanlıurfa in Turkey

Maternal milk is essential for optimum growth and development of an infant. The aim was to examine the presence of pharmaceutical residuals in breastmilk. This cohort study enrolled 90 healthy mother-infant pairs at 5-14 days after delivery and a control examination was performed 4-8 weeks later. Milk samples were taken at both visits. RANDOX Infiniplex kit performed residual analysis. More than half of mothers (54.4 %) had anti-inflammatory drug residues in at least one milk sample: those were 52.2 % for tolfenamic acid and 2.2 % for meloxicam and 1.1 % for metamizole. The most frequent residue group included the beta-lactam antibiotic group, which was detected in 93.3 % of mothers' milk. The second one was the quinolone group (81.1 %). One-third of mothers expressed nitroxynil and one-fifth polymyxin in at least one sample. Almost all mothers had some unexpected drug residues in their milk. Additional studies from other countries can display maternal environmental exposures.

Presence of melamine in human milk and the evaluation of the effects on mother–infant pairs in a cohort study

Melamine contamination is a recent public health problem emerging globally. Present study aimed to detect the rate of melamine presence in human milk in a cohort study and to evaluate any possible differences in maternal–infant pair characteristics such as breastfeeding status, crying and sleep problems of infants, maternal postpartum depression, maternal–infant bonding, infant and maternal anthropometry, and maternal complete blood count caused by the melamine exposure. Mothers of infants born in Şanlıurfa were invited to participate in ‘Urfa Child Cohort Survey’. Overall, two breast milk samples were taken between 5 days and 15 days postpartum and between 4 weeks and 10 weeks. Randox Food’s InfiniPlex array was used to analyse the presence of melamine. Melamine was detected in 32.2% and 24.4% of the first and the second milk samples; 16.7% of mothers had two positive samples. z Scores for birth weight and z scores for height for age were detected to be significantly lower in cases with two positive samples compared to cases with negative samples. Mean maternal white blood cells counts were found to be lower in cases with repeated melamine contact. Melamine might have a detrimental effect on birth weight, infant height and maternal blood count. Further studies should be done to detect environmental contamination in different regions and countries.

The Evaluation of Results of Repair using All-Soft Suture Anchor in the Treatment of Chronic Tendinous Mallet Finger Surgery

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY The purpose of this study is to evaluate the results of chronic tendinous mallet finger repair with all soft suture anchors. MATERIAL AND METHODS In this retrospective study we evaluated 14 patients. Data included age, side of surgery, the degree of extensor lag, the ratio of the damaged articular surface, postoperative recovery period and time to return to work. We recorded extensor lag and Crawford scores of all patients at the last follow-up. RESULTS Mean follow-up period was 22.07 months. The preoperative and postoperative extensor lags were 27.2 (15-35) and 3 (0-19), respectively. Crawford scores of patients were moderate in 1 patient, fair in 2 patients and excellent in 10 patients. We observed only one skin complication in the postoperative period. CONCLUSIONS All-soft suture anchors have high patient satisfaction rates and functional results. Thus, they could be used in the treatment of patients with chronic tendinous mallet finger. The low complication rate is a major advantage. Key words: tendinous mallet finger, hand surgery, all-soft anchor. Level of evidence: Level-4, Retrospective case-control study.

Orthopedics and Traumatology Residency - Working Conditions, Training, and Psychological Stress

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY The specialty of orthopedics and traumatology that is completed in the 5 years period in our country is a challenging educational process and our purpose in this study is to demonstrate through a survey training conditions of the orthopedic assistants in our country and the effects of this process on assistants. MATERIAL AND METHODS 524 (70.05%) of 748 assistants who receive specialization training in Turkey were reached. There were 20 multiple choice questions ( 1 mark each) and 3 questions (more than 1 mark each) in the survey consisting of twenty-three questions. Our study group was formed by doctors who have still worked as assistant in our country and have accepted to participate in the study. The doctors who finished assistantship with any reason and did assistantship for time less than 6 months and did not exactly fill the questionnaire form were excluded from the study. RESULTS 524 (71.97%) of 728 assistant who are in 40 (100%) of 40 provinces where assistant training given in Turkey were reached. 474 (90.45%) participants were satisfied to do orthopedic specialization. When considering working hours, it was observed that 337 (64.31%) participants had over 90 hours weekly including night shift and 521 (99.42%) participants had to work after night shift. The majority of participants (361 persons 68.89%) were receiving salaries between TL 4000-6000. When looking at the entire working group, the rate of participants who said that scientific training is weak or there is no scientific training was 427 (81.48%). CONCLUSIONS Our survey study is one of the first statistical study which investigating professional and social problems of orthopedic assistants. Some of important problems as training satisfaction, abuse by patients and/or manager, the average monthly income and psychological status assessment is emphasized. Orthopedics and Traumatology assistantship is a challenging process to cause physical and psychological problems with the hard working conditions in our Turkey. Key words:residency training, orthopedic surgery, life quality, salary.

Is Kinesiotherapy Effective in Relieving Pain and Reducing Swelling after Shoulder Arthroscopy?

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY The purpose of this study is to investigate the acute and long term effectiveness of kinesio taping applied following shoulder arthroscopy in relieving pain and reducing swelling. MATERIAL AND METHODS This study included 50 patients undergone shoulder arthroscopy between June 2016 and December 2017 in our clinic. Patients were randomly assigned into two groups. Group I consisted of patients who had kinesiotherapy; while Group II consisted of control patients whom we applied sham taping with no effect. Pre and postoperative pain and swelling status of patients were recorded and groups were compared. RESULTS Comparing two groups, we found that kinesio taping significantly reduced pain levels in the early post-operative period. However, we didn't detect any significant difference in reduction of shoulder swelling between two groups. CONCLUSIONS Kinesio taping could be an alternative treatment in relieving pain after shoulder arthroscopy. However, we didn't find a significant reduction in swelling in shoulder. Key words:kinesio taping, arthroscopy, shoulder.

Blood boron levels and anthropometric measurements in prepubertal children

This study was conducted to assess the blood boron levels (BBL) in prepubertal children in the West and Central Anatolia regions of Turkey and its relationship with chosen anthropometric measurements. A multistage sampling design that combined multicluster (West Anatolia vs. Central Anatolia regions and rural vs. urban residents) and simple random sampling methods were used for the sample selection. BBL was measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Weight, height, mid-arm circumference, and triceps skinfold thickness were measured. Z-scores for weight-for-age, height-for-age, and body mass index (BMI)-for-age were calculated. Furthermore, arm-muscle area, arm-fat area, and fat percentage were measured. This study enrolled 2126 children, of whom 50.7% were male. The mean age was 8.9 years. The mean concentration of BBL was 15.6 μg/L (interquartile range: 11.7-19.6 μg/L). Children in urban areas had significantly higher BBL than those in rural areas (17.2 ± 5.5 vs. 11.9 ± 4.6 μg/L; p < .001). Children in the West Anatolia region had significantly lower BBL than those in the Central Anatolia region (14.5 ± 5.9 μg/L vs. 17.8 ± 5.0 μg/L; p < .001). BBL was not affected by maternal education, occupation, sex, and anemia. BBL was found to be significantly lower in children with low BMI, low triceps skinfold thickness, low arm fat area, and low-fat percentage. Change in BBL was associated with the region and residence in Turkey. BBL differed between well-nourished and malnourished children. Further studies are needed to evaluate the relationship between anthropometry and BBL.

Kinesiotaping Reduces Knee Diameter but Has No Effect on Differences Pain and Edema Following Knee Artroscopy

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY Investigating the efficacy of kinesiotaping for the reduction of postoperative pain and swelling after invasive knee arthroscopy, which tend to develop in almost every patient undergoing this procedure. MATERIALS AND METHODS Kinesiotaping or sham taping was performed in a total of 42 patients who underwent invasive knee arthroscopy. Pain intensities; mid-thigh, knee, mid-calf, and ankle diameters; and VAS (Visual Analogue Scale) were recorded preoperatively and postoperatively. RESULTS However knee diameter was significantly greater in the control group compared to the group there is no significant differences were observed between the two groups' pain scores at the postoperative period. There were also no significant statistical differences between the two groups with respect to mid-thigh, calf, and ankle diameters. CONCLUSIONS Kinesiotherapy could be used as an effective treatment method to relieve knee effusion after knee arthroscopy. However, both groups did not have significant differences with respect to pain and edema levels. Key words:knee arthroscopy, kinesiotaping, pain control, edema.

Arthroscopic Excision of Tendinous Giant Cell Tumors Causing Locking in the Knee Joint

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY Non-osseous giant cell tumors are locally aggressive tumors arising around joints. They are commonly located around synovial joints such as wrist and knee and occasionally cause mechanical symptoms. MATERIAL AND METHODS This retrospective case series includes 7 patients operated due to intraarticular lesion. The mean age of the patients was 28.7 (range 22-37) years. Mean follow-up period was 12 months. RESULTS All patients underwent arthroscopic debridement. They were followed monthly with clinical examination and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was obtained at third month for all patients. Patients were contacted through phone call and evaluated with the WOMAC score retrospectively. No recurrence was detected in any patient. CONCLUSIONS Arthroscopic debridement is a safe surgical technique that may replace open surgery in the treatment of intraarticular tendinous giant cell tumors. Key words:tendinous giant cell tumor, arthroscopy, knee locking.

Determinants of Exclusive Breast Feeding in sub-Saharan Africa: A Multilevel Approach

BACKGROUND

The study aimed to provide an overall picture of the general pattern of exclusive breast feeding (EBF) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) by examining maternal sociodemographic, antenatal and postnatal factors associated with EBF in the region, as well as explore countries variations in EBF rates.

METHODS

We utilised cross-sectional data from the Demographic Health Surveys in 27 SSA countries. Our study sample included 25 084 infants under 6 months of age. The key outcome variable was EBF in the last 24 h. Due to the hierarchical structure of the data, a multilevel logistic regression model was used to explore factors associated with EBF.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of EBF in SSA was 36.0%, the prevalence was highest in Rwanda and lowest in Gabon. In the multilevel regression model, factors that were associated with increased likelihood of EBF included secondary and above maternal education, mothers within the ages of 25-34 years, rural residence, richer household wealth quantile, 4+ antenatal care visit, delivering in a health facility, singleton births, female infants, early initiation of breast feeding (EIBF), and younger infants. However, countries with higher gross national income per capita had lower EBF rates.

CONCLUSIONS

To achieve a substantial increase in EBF rates in SSA, breast-feeding interventions and policies should target all women but with more emphasis to mothers with younger age, low educational status, urban residence, poor status, multiple births, and male infants. In addition, there is a need to promote antenatal care utilisation, hospital deliveries, and EIBF.

Evaluation of a stress model induced by dietary corticosterone supplementation in broiler breeders: effects on egg yolk corticosterone concentration and biochemical blood parameters

1. This study aimed to evaluate a stress model induced by corticosterone (CORT) supplementation in the diet of broiler breeder hens. 2. A total of 60 Ross broiler breeder hens at 29 weeks of age were randomly divided into 4 groups with 15 hens each. The first group served as the control. The rest of the hens were given 1, 1.5 or 2 mg of CORT/hen/d (CORT1, CORT1.5 and CORT2, respectively) for 7 d. Concentrations of yolk CORT, plasma uric acid, glucose, cholesterol, creatine kinase, heterophil (H):lymphocyte (L) ratio and duration of tonic immobility (TI) were measured at d 3, 5 and 7 of CORT supplementation. The same measurements were repeated at 3, 5 and 7 d after CORT was withdrawn from the diet. 3. There were no significant CORT dose effect on yolk CORT and plasma glucose concentrations. Higher plasma uric acid and H:L ratio was obtained for CORT1.5 and CORT2 than for CORT1. From 3 to 7 d of dietary CORT supplementation, yolk CORT and plasma uric acid concentrations and H:L ratio increased whereas plasma glucose concentration decreased. After CORT was withdrawn from the diet, the H:L ratio remained elevated. The duration of TI and plasma creatine kinase concentration did not change during and after CORT supplementation. 4. Yolk CORT concentration was correlated with plasma uric acid concentration during CORT supplementation. 5. The results suggest that dietary CORT supplementation could be used as a stress model and to evaluate hormone-mediated maternal effects in broiler breeder hens.

Exposure of embryos to cyclically cold incubation temperatures durably affects energy metabolism and antioxidant pathways in broiler chickens

Cyclically cold incubation temperatures have been suggested as a means to improve resistance of broiler chickens to ascites; however, the underlying mechanisms are not known. Nine hundred eggs obtained from 48 wk Ross broiler breeders were randomly assigned to 2 incubation treatments: control I eggs were incubated at 37.6°C throughout, whereas for cold I eggs the incubation temperature was reduced by 1°C for 6 h daily from 10 to 18 d of incubation. Thereafter, chickens were reared at standard temperatures or under cold exposure that was associated or not with a postnatal cold acclimation at d 5 posthatch. At hatch, hepatic catalase activity and malondialdehyde content were measured. Serum thyroid hormone and triglyceride concentrations, and muscle expression of several genes involved in the regulation of energy metabolism and oxidative stress were also measured at hatch and 5 and 25 d posthatch. Cold incubation induced modifications in antioxidant pathways with higher catalase activity, but lower expression of avian uncoupling protein 3 at hatch. However, long-term enhancement in the expression of avian uncoupling protein 3 was observed, probably caused by an increase in the expression of the transcription factor peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α. These effects were not systematically associated with an increase in serum triiodothyronine concentrations that were observed only in chickens exposed to both cold incubation and later acclimation at 5 d with cold rearing. Our results suggest that these conditions of cyclically cold incubation resulted in the long-term in changes in antioxidant pathways and energy metabolism, which could enhance the health of chickens reared under cold conditions.

Anesthetic management in hydatid disease: a review of 435 cases

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Hydatid cyst diseases are still a problem in Turkey, especially in the east and southeast of Anatolian Region, as well as in many other places in the world. In this study a retrospective review was made of the anesthetic management for surgical and interventional treatment of 435 patients with hydatid cysts. The study data were collected between January 1997 and December 2012 at Harran University Hospital, Sanliurfa, Turkey.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients' demographics and localization of the cysts were recorded. Suitable anesthetic and surgical management were performed to the cysts according to their locations. Four hundred thirty-five patients had general anesthesia with a midazolam premedication and one of them was treated by sedation.

RESULTS

Of the 435 patients, 251 were females (57.7%) and 184 males (42.3%) and ages ranged from 1 to 74 years (mean: 36.3 ± 25.4). These include; preoperative using of steroids and antihistamines to prevent the allergy possibility, intraoperative hypotension and tachycardia and administration of colloids, and improvement of postoperative anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis was observed in only two patients who undertook percutaneous aspiration. Also bronchospasm was developed in four patients during the postoperative period and successfully treated with standard bronchodilatators.

CONCLUSIONS

Anaphylactic reaction during operation is a serious complication, but a very rare one. Prophylactic use of antihistamine and steroid drugs were reduced allergy and anaphylaxis.

The impact of metabolic syndrome on carotid intima media thickness

OBJECTIVES

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of metabolic abnormalities involving several cardiovascular risk factors. Carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) is an important early screening tool to assess subclinical manifestation of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. We aimed to investigate the impact of MetS on CIMT in a large scaled community based study.

METHODS

The study was conducted on 2102 participants. Carotid intima media thickness was measured in all of the participants. The study sample was divided into 4 groups; Group 1 subjects with a body mass index (BMI) < 25.0 kg/m2 [n = 499 (MetS- = 488, MetS+ = 11)], Group 2 BMI between 25.0 and 29.9 kg/m2 [n = 693 (MetS- = 559, MetS+ = 134)], Group 3 BMI between ≥ 30 kg/m2 and 39.9 kg/m2 [n = 822 (MetS- = 375, MetS+ = 477)], and Group 4 BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2 [n = 88 (MetS- = 27, MetS+ = 61)].

RESULTS

Carotid intima media thickness was higher in the individuals with MetS compared to their normal counterparts. Furthermore, the subgroup analysis showed that CIMT values in Group 1 (0.55±0.18 vs 0.82±0.70; p < 0.001), Group 2 (0.59±0.20 vs 0.68±0.18; p < 0.001) and Group 3 (0.61±0.15 vs 0.65±0.18; p < 0.001) were significantly higher in subjects with MetS compared to their normal counterparts, whereas the values were similar in Group 4 (0.62±0.13 vs 0.65±0.17; p = 0.363).

CONCLUSIONS

Carotid intima media thickness of overweight, obese and normal weight individuals without MetS were lower than their counterparts with MetS. MetS had no impact on CIMT in morbid obese individuals possibly due to established insulin resistance earlier than MetS.

Effect of manipulation of incubation temperature on fatty acid profiles and antioxidant enzyme activities in meat-type chicken embryos

Eggs (n = 1,800) obtained from Ross broiler breeders at 32 and 48 wk of age were incubated at either a constant temperature of 37.6°C throughout (T1), or the temperature was reduced for 6 h to 36.6°C each day during embryonic age (EA) 10 to 18 (T2). Yolk sac, liver, and brain fatty acid profiles and oxidant and antioxidant status of liver and brain were measured at EA 14, 19, and day of hatch (DOH). Fatty acid profiles of yolk sac, liver, and brain were influenced by age of breeder with significant breeder hen age × incubation temperature interactions. At EA 14, higher levels of 20:4n-6 and 22:6n-3 had been transferred from the yolk sac to T2 embryos from younger than older breeders, whereas for T1 and T2 embryos, yolk sac 20:4n-6 and 22.6n-3 values were similar for older breeders. Accumulation of 20:4n-6 and 22:6n-3 fatty acids in the liver of T1 and T2 embryos from younger breeders was similar; however, T2 embryos from older breeders had higher liver levels of 20:4n-6 and 22:6n-3 than T1 embryos. At EA 19, liver nitric oxide levels were higher for T2 embryos from younger breeders than those from breeders incubated at T1. Brain catalase levels of T2 embryos from younger breeders were higher than those from older breeders at DOH. Thus, changes in fatty acid profiles and catalase and nitric oxide production of brain and liver tissues resulting from 1°C lower incubation temperature from EA 10 to 18 reflect adaptive changes.

Interaction of transport distance and body weight on preslaughter stress and breast meat quality of broilers

1. The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of transport distance on blood metabolites and breast meat quality of broilers slaughtered at different weights. 2. The study was conducted on Ross 308 broilers from 27 different flocks reared under similar conditions. Slaughter weight was classified as <2·0 kg, 2·0-2·4 kg, and >2·4 kg. Transport distance was categorised as short (65 km), medium (115 km) and long (165 km) distance representing 90, 155 and 220 minutes at an average 45 km/h speed, for each slaughter weight. 3. Higher heterophils and heterophil:lymphocyte (H/L) ratios were obtained for broilers transported over a long distance. Long distance transport increased blood albumin, glucose, and triglycerides levels for <2·0 kg broilers, which did not differ from broilers slaughtered at >2·4 kg after long-distance transport. 4. Broilers slaughtered at >2·4 kg after long-distance transport had lower pH(u), and paler and tougher breast meat, than those broilers slaughtered at <2·0 kg after long-distance transport. 5. A negative correlation was obtained between pH(u) and L*, thawing loss and texture. The L* value was negatively correlated with a*; and positively correlated with b*, thawing and cooking losses. 6. It was concluded that the effect of transport distance could not be evaluated independently of slaughter weight. The interaction between transport distance and slaughter weight contributes to preslaughter stress and meat quality.

Effects of hen production cycle and egg weight on egg quality and composition, hatchability, duckling quality, and first-week body weight in Pekin ducks

This study was conducted to determine the effect of hen production cycle (HPC) and the effect of egg weight (EW) at the same egg production level on egg quality, egg composition, hatchability, duckling quality, and first-week BW in Pekin ducks. For HPC, hatching eggs were obtained from different Pekin-duck breeder flocks, aged 31 wk for the first production cycle (HPC1) and 78 wk for the second production cycle (HPC2). For EW, there were 3 categories: heavy (H), medium (M), and light (L). Ten eggs from each HPC and EW group were analyzed for the determination of egg quality, and albumen and yolk compositions. Ninety eggs from each HPC and EW group were incubated for the determination of hatchability, and duckling weight and quality. After quality scoring, 20 ducklings (10 male and 10 female) from each group were weighed, and reared to 1 wk of age in a brooder machine to determine relative growth (RG). The results showed that the albumen index; Haugh unit; shell percentage; yolk moisture, ash, protein, lipids, and triglycerides; albumen moisture, ash, and protein; yolk fatty acid contents; hatching weight; duckling weights at 1 wk of age; and RG were significantly affected by HPC. Egg weight affected shell thickness, yolk and albumen indices, Haugh unit, yolk and albumen percentages, yolk to albumen ratio, shell percentage, yolk fatty acid content, hatching weight, duckling weight at 1 wk of age, and RG.

Association between anthropometric measurements and dental caries in Turkish school children

AIM

To evaluate the association between anthropometric measurements and dental caries in school children.

METHODS

The study was conducted on 245 primary school children (50.2% boys, 49.8% girls,), aged 5 to 9 years. The prevalence and severity of dental caries was measured using the decayed, missing or filled surfaces (dmfs, DMFS) and teeth (dmft, DMFT) indices.

RESULTS

Mean dmft indices in children for boys and girls were 5.5 +/- 3.92 and 5.0 +/- 3.64, respectively. The prevalence of children with dental caries (dmft > or = 1) was 84.9%. The prevalence of children with body mass index (BMI) <-1SD and > or = +1SD was 15.9% and 22.9%, respectively. Dental caries were found in 89.7% of children with low body weight (including underweight and at risk for underweight) and in 66.1% of overweight-obese children (p<0.05). Similarly, high indices were detected significantly more often in children with low body weight (p<0.05). Height, weight, BMI and percent of fat mass were found to be negatively correlated with dmft indices (r:-0.141, p: 0.028; r:-0.171, p: 0.007; r:-0.139, p: 0.030; r:-0.158, p: 0.013, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Children with low body weight have a higher risk of developing dental caries than overweight-obese children. For these reasons, the evaluation of nutritional status in children should be implemented in control programs for dental caries both on the community and individual levels.

Brooding temperatures for chicks acclimated to heat during incubation: effects on post-hatch intestinal development and body weight under heat stress

1. The objective was to evaluate the effects of brooding temperature on intestinal development, oxidative organ damage, and performance of chicks acclimated to high temperature during incubation. The effects of acclimation and brooding temperatures on slaughter weights of broilers under heat stress were also investigated. 2. Eggs were incubated at either 378 degrees C (INC(Cont)) or heat-acclimated at 395 degrees C for 6 h daily from d 10 to d 18 of incubation (INC(H)). Brooding temperatures at floor level were set at 32, 335 and 35 degrees C (Bt(32), Bt(335), Bt(35), respectively) for the first 5 d. The temperature was reduced gradually to 30 degrees C from d 6 to d 10. From 21 to 42 d, broilers from INC(Cont) Bt(32) and INC(H) Bt(32) and Bt(35) were divided into two groups; half from each group was exposed to daily cyclic higher ambient temperatures, while the other half was reared at control temperature. 3. INC(H) chicks had lower jejunum, but greater liver and residual yolk sac weights than INC(Cont) chicks on the day of hatching. Although INC(H) chicks from Bt(335) and Bt(35) had lighter body weights than Bt(32) on d 5, no significant differences were observed in the body weight of broilers among treatments at 10 and 21 d. 4. Similar jejunum protein, alkaline phosphatase, maltase, glutathione, and malondialdehyde contents of chicks from INC(Cont) and INC(H) suggested that heat acclimation during incubation has no effect on jejunum enzyme activity or oxidative status of chicks. 5. Taking into account INC(H) Bt(35) chicks having lower T(3) levels on d 5, lower heterophil/lymphocyte (H/L) ratios and similar weights at 42 d under heat stress compared with control broilers, the results suggested that although higher brooding temperatures had no effect on body weights of INC(H) chicks during the brooding period, those broilers may able to cope better with heat stress.

Effects of supplementary iodine on the performance and egg traits of laying hens

1. This experiment was carried out to determine the effects of dietary iodine supplementation on the performance and egg traits of laying hens. A total of 600 SHSY type brown layers aged 21 weeks of age were chosen at random from a large flock. They were randomly distributed into 30 pens at 20 hens per pen. Each treatment comprised 6 replicates of 20 layers in groups of 5 birds. The diets were supplemented with 0, 3, 6, 12 and 24 mg/kg iodine as calcium iodate. The experimental period lasted 30 weeks. 2. There were no significant differences among the groups in body weight, food consumption, egg production, food consumption per kg eggs, eggshell index, eggshell breaking strength, shell thickness or egg yolk index. 3. Supplementation of the diet with 12 mg/kg iodine increased food consumption per dozen eggs compared to the groups fed on diets supplemented with 0 and 6 mg/kg iodine. 4. Egg weight was less in groups fed on diets supplemented with 12 and 24 mg/kg iodine than in the group receiving no iodine supplementation. 5. Iodine supplementation to provide 12 and 24 mg/kg reduced egg albumen index and egg Haugh units. 6. There were no significant differences among the groups in egg cholesterol and egg yolk cholesterol contents. 7. The iodine concentrations in egg yolk, egg albumen and whole egg increased with increased iodine supplementation. 8. As a result, the 3 and 6 mg/kg iodine supplementation of diet could be used to enrich the eggs with iodine without any adverse effect on performance and egg traits.

Effects of dietary yeast autolysate (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) on performance, egg traits, egg cholesterol content, egg yolk fatty acid composition and humoral immune response of laying hens

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of dietary yeast autolysate on performance, egg traits, egg cholesterol content, egg yolk fatty acid composition, lipid oxidation of egg yolk, some blood parameters and humoral immune response of laying hens during a 16 week period. A total of 225 Hyline Brown laying hens, 22 weeks of age, were allocated equally to one control group and four treatment groups. Yeast autolysate (Saccharomyces cerevisiae, InteWall) was used at levels of 1, 2, 3 and 4 g kg(-1) in the diets of the first, second, third and fourth treatment groups respectively.

RESULTS

Dietary treatments did not significantly affect body weight, feed intake and egg traits. Yeast autolysate supplementation increased egg production (P < 0.001) and egg weight (P < 0.001) and improved feed efficiency (P < 0.05). Yeast autolysate at levels of 2, 3 and 4 g kg(-1) decreased egg yolk cholesterol level as mg g(-1) yolk (P < 0.01) and blood serum levels of cholesterol and triglyceride (P < 0.05) and increased antibody titres to sheep red blood cells (P < 0.01). Total saturated fatty acids and the ratio of saturated/unsaturated fatty acids increased (P < 0.01) and total monounsaturated fatty acids (P < 0.001) decreased with yeast autolysate supplementation.

CONCLUSION

Dietary yeast autolysate at levels of 2, 3 and 4 g kg(-1) had beneficial effects on performance, egg cholesterol content and humoral immune response. It is concluded that 2 g kg(-1) yeast autolysate will be enough to have beneficial effects in laying hens.

Maternal and environmental determinants of breast-milk mercury concentrations

We aimed to evaluate the maternal factors [including dietary habits, dental care, smoking, anemia, levels of breast-milk zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe), and levels of serum selenium (Se), Zn and copper (Cu)] that influence breast-milk mercury (Hg) concentrations and to investigate whether there is any relation between Hg concentrations and infant growth and development during the exclusive breastfeeding period and in the second year of life. Forty-four healthy mother-infant pairs in the 10-20-day postpartum period were enrolled in the study. Maternal history and blood samples for hemoglobin, Fe, Fe binding capacity, ferritin, Se, Zn, and Cu and breast-milk samples for Fe, Zn and Hg were taken. Infant growth and development during the exclusive breastfeeding period and in the second year of life were followed. The mean concentration of breast-milk Hg was 3.42 +/- 1.66 microg/L. Serum Se levels were negatively correlated with milk Hg levels. Multivariate analysis revealed that active/passive smoking and offal intake during pregnancy and presence of maternal anemia had an impact on increased milk Hg concentrations. Preventive strategies for mercury exposure should include management of iron deficiency anemia, cessation of smoking exposure and proper nutrition during the pregnancy period.

Effects of early feed restriction on live performance, carcass characteristics, meat and liver composition, some blood parameters, heterophil-lymphocyte ratio, antibody production and tonic immobility duration

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of early feed restriction on performance, carcass characteristics, meat and liver composition, some blood parameters, H-L ratio, antibody titers against SRBC and tonic immobility duration in broilers. One hundred ninety male chicks (Ross 308) were randomly allocated into two treatment groups each of 95 chicks. Broilers in one treatment fed ad libitum until 42 day of age, however in other treatment, broilers were deprived of feed for 4 h per day from 7 to 21 day. Body weight, feed consumption, feed to gain ratio, carcass characteristics and the percentage of examined organs except heart were not statistically significant in groups. Percentage of heart was higher (p < 0.05) in broilers fed ad libitum. At 41 d of age, H-L ratio (p < 0.05) and TI duration (p = 0.001) were higher, serum glucose (p < 0.05) and triglyceride (p < 0.001) levels were lower in broilers fed ad libitum. Chemical composition of breast and thigh and also fat and ash of liver were not affected by early feed restriction. Moisture of liver (p = 0.001) was lower and protein of liver (p < 0.01) was higher in broilers fed ad libitum.

Acclimation to heat during incubation. 1. Embryonic morphological traits, blood biochemistry, and hatching performance

Eggs obtained from broiler breeders at 32 (young), 42 (middle aged), and 65 wk (old) were used to measure the effects of heat acclimation during incubation on morphological, physiological, and metabolic traits at internal pipping (IP) and at hatch. All eggs were from the same stock, and hatching performance was also evaluated. Eggs from each breeder age were incubated at control (CONT) or 38.5 degrees C for 6 h daily from d 10 to 18 of incubation (HA). On d 10 after heat exposure and on d 14, absolute and proportional weights were significantly lower for HA than CONT embryos. By the time of hatching, HA chicks were heavier than CONT chicks, which suggested accelerated growth. This effect was consistent across ages. Liver and heart weights were lower for HA than CONT chicks. At IP, pH was similar for HA and CONT embryos, whereas pO(2) and Na(+) were significantly higher and pCO(2), HCO(3)-, and K(+) significantly lower for HA than CONT embryos. Blood pH was higher in embryos from older than for younger and mid-aged parents at IP. At hatch there was no effect of heat acclimation for blood HCO(3)-, Na(+), and K(+) levels, whereas plasma triglyceride and T(3) levels were higher and plasma uric acid, glucose, and lipid peroxidation levels were lower for HA than CONT chicks. Embryonic mortality was similar among parental ages for CONT. In contrast for HA, embryonic mortality from older parents was higher than for younger and middle-aged parents. A delay in external pipping and hatching time with high incubation temperature was consistent across the breeder ages. It was concluded that lower blood pCO(2), HCO(3)-, K(+), and higher pO(2) at IP stage, plus increased plasma triglyceride concentrations at hatch, indicate adaptive responses of embryos.

Effects of dietary dried baker's yeast on the performance, egg traits and blood parameters in laying quails

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary dried baker's yeast on laying performance, egg traits and some blood parameters of quails. In the experiment a total of 342 Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) aged ten weeks were equally divided into six groups of 57 (three replicates of 19 quails each). Six levels (0, 4, 8, 12, 16 and 20%) of dried baker's yeast were included in isonitrogenous and isocaloric diets. The experimental period lasted 14 weeks. At the end of the experiment, there were no significant differences among the groups in body weight, feed intake, protein intake, egg production, feed efficiency, egg yolk index and egg haugh unit. Blood serum levels of total protein, triglyceride and cholesterol were not affected by dietary dried baker's yeast. Diets containing 4 and 8% of dried baker's yeast increased the egg weight significantly (p < 0.01). The inclusion of dried baker's yeast at the level of 20% to the diets reduced egg shell thickness and egg albumen height. It is concluded that dried baker's yeast can be used up to 16% in the diets of laying quails without adverse effects on the measured parameters.

Effect of temperature during the incubation period on tibial growth plate chondrocyte differentiation and the incidence of tibial dyschondroplasia

Tibial dyschondroplasia (TD) is one of the most prevalent skeletal abnormalities in avian species, causing enormous economic losses and major animal welfare problems. Irregular cell differentiation of the chondrocytes that populate the growth plate has been hypothesized to be involved in the etiology of the disease. We evaluated the effect of incubation temperature at various stages of embryo development and bone formation on growth plate chondrocyte differentiation and the incidence of TD. Eggs were incubated either at a control temperature of 37.8 degrees C, or at 36.9 or 39 degrees C, each for 6 h/ d, during early (0 to 8 d) or late (10 to 18 d) embryo development. At 14 d of incubation and at hatch, tibias were collected and weighed, and their ash and calcium contents were determined. Growth plate chondrocyte differentiation was evaluated by alkaline phosphatase activity and collagen type II and osteopontin gene expression. In addition, the level of the heat-shock protein 90 (Hsp90) was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. The rest of the chicks were raised to 49 d and the incidence of TD was recorded. The incidence of TD increased only when the temperature was altered at the early stages of embryo development, and it was correlated with an increase in tibia ash but not with tibia weight or calcium content. Moreover, increased TD incidence was correlated with delayed chondrocyte differentiation. Early changes in incubation temperature caused an increase in the level of Hsp90 in articular and differentiated chondrocytes of the hypertrophic zone and in the numbers of distinct undifferentiated chondrocytes arranged in columns in the proliferative zone of the growth plate. In summary, the early stages of embryo development and bone formation are of utmost importantance for appropriate growth plate chondrocyte differentiation, and any temperature deviation will increase the subsequent incidence of TD. The increase in TD incidence is probably the result of delayed Hsp90-driven chondrocyte differentiation, supporting the hypothesis that TD is the result of abnormal chondrocyte differentiation.

Effects of Temperature During Rearing and Crating on Stress Parameters and Meat Quality of Broilers

Two trials were conducted to study the effects of heat stress during rearing (trial 1) and crating (trial 2) on broiler stress parameters and fear, breast meat quality, and nutrient composition. The relationships between stress parameters and meat quality traits were also determined. Trial 1 consisted of 3 temperature treatments from 3 to 7 wk: control (temperature was 22 degrees C); diurnal cyclic temperature (temperature was 28 degrees C from 1000 to 1700 h and 22 degrees C from 1700 to 1000 h); and constant high temperature (34 degrees C; temperature was 34 degrees C). In trial 2, broilers from the control and 34 degrees C groups in trial 1 were used. Broilers in each group were placed in transport cages. The 9 cages from the control group were divided into 3 groups and placed into 3 rooms at 15, 22, or 34 degrees C for 2 h. The 3 cages from the 34 degrees C group were also held in the room at 34 degrees C (34-34 degrees C). Diurnal cyclic temperature had no effect on BW up to 5 wk of age. The effect of 34 degrees C constant temperature on BW of broilers increased with age. Plasma levels of glucose and albumin increased by 34 degrees C, but no dramatic change in levels occurred when those broilers were crated at 34 degrees C. The heterophil:lymphocyte (H:L) was higher for the 34-34 degrees C broilers and the control broilers in the 34 degrees C room than those from the 22 and 15 degrees C room. Breast muscle glycogen level decreased in broilers reared under diurnal cyclic or high temperatures. A lower pH and higher lightness (L*) and redness values and redness:yellowness were found in meat for broilers from both 34 degrees C and 34-34 degrees C groups. Higher H:L was associated with breast muscle pH according to first-order polynomial regression. The H:L had a significant effect on L* values, which were described by a second-order polynomial regression. Blood glucose level was positively correlated with L* and redness values. Duration of tonic immobility was neither influenced by rearing and crating temperatures nor associated with meat quality parameters.

The Impact of Daily Sodium Intake on Posttransplant Hypertension in Kidney Allograft Recipients

INTRODUCTION

Posttransplant hypertension is a well-known risk factor for long-term allograft failure and mortality in kidney recipients. Although dietary sodium restriction is a widely recommended nonpharmacological measure for control of blood pressure (BP), no detailed investigation has been conducted regarding the impact of dietary sodium restriction on this condition.

METHODS

Thirty-two patients on antihypertensive treatment completed the study. They were randomly divided into two groups: controls (group 1) versus strict sodium diet (group 2; 80 to 100 mmol sodium daily). After randomization, 24-hour urine for sodium measurement, BP, and allograft functions were recorded at baseline and after 3 months. BP treatment was reevaluated at each visit throughout the study.

RESULTS

At baseline, there was no significant difference in age, sex, serum creatinine, systolic and diastolic BP, antihypertensive drugs, or 24-hour urinary sodium levels between the groups. After 3 months, daily urinary sodium excretion (from 190+/-75 to 106+/-48 mEq/d, P<.0001), systolic BP (from 146+/-21 to 116+/-11 mm Hg), and diastolic BP (from 89+/-8 to 72+/-10 mm Hg) had significantly decreased in group 2, while no significant changes were observed in group 1.

CONCLUSION

Low sodium intake in combination with antihypertensive treatment appears to efficiently control BP in kidney allograft recipients with hypertension. Twenty-four-hour urinary sodium excretion should be checked regularly in these patients as a useful marker to indicate whether the patient complies with low sodium intake.

Pediatric diffuse lipoblastomatosis of the foot -- a case report and review of the literature

Diffuse lipoblastomatosis is a rare lipomatous tumor of infancy that derives from fetal-embryonal fat. It usually affects infants and children and presents as a superficial mass that extends from the subcutis to the underlying muscle in the upper or lower extremities. In spite of its benign nature, the tumor may behave in a locally aggressive manner and invade the surrounding tissues. A case of isolated diffuse lipoblastomatosis of a 5-year-old boy in the plantar aspect of his right foot that has not been documented in that area before is described. The clinical and radiological presentation and histologic evaluation of diffuse lipoblastomatosis are discussed, in order to make a differential diagnosis between this rare tumor and other soft tissue tumors. In addition, the treatment principles of the tumor are described. This case demonstrates that diffuse lipoblastomatosis can be difficult to diagnose without histologic evaluation and, once diagnosed, should be treated by adequate surgical excision in order to prevent recurrence.

Use of L-carnitine and humate in laying quail diets

This experiment was carried out to determine the effects of using L-carnitine and humate alone or in combination in quail diets on laying performance, egg traits and blood parameters. A total of 280 Japanese quails aged 10 weeks, divided into one control group and three treatment groups, were used. The diets of the first, second and third treatment groups were supplemented with 100 mg L-carnitine/kg, 1.5 g humate (Farmagülatör Dry Plus)/kg and 100 mg L-camitine + 1.5 g humate/kg, respectively. The experimental period lasted 16 weeks. The addition of L-carnitine and sodium humate alone or in combination did not significantly affect body weight, feed consumption, egg production, feed conversion ratio, mortality, egg-shell thickness, egg yolk index and the percentages of egg-shell, albumen and yolk. Egg weight increased (P < 0.001) with L-carnitine supplementation. The values of egg albumen height (P < 0.05), egg albumen index (P < 0.01) and egg Haugh unit (P < 0.05) were increased with humate supplementation. Egg cholesterol content and blood serum parameters were not affected by the supplementation of L-carnitine with or without humate. The results in this study demonstrated that L-carnitine supplementation increased egg weight while humate addition increased egg albumen index and egg Haugh unit of laying quails. However, the combined administration of L-carnitine and humate did not have any significant effects on the parameters measured.

Hand washing and adolescents. A study from seven schools in Konya, Turkey

The aim of the study was to evaluate how and when adolescent students washed their hands and to detect the conditions that affect hand washing in schools. Seven schools were selected in Konya, Turkey. A questionnaire assessing the answers of 'how long', 'when' (frequency of hand-washing in six conditions with a Likert scale; after toilet, before eating, after eating, entering the home, cleaning a room, when sneezed or coughed), 'how' (hand-washing techniques) and 'why' was given to students. According to self report, person who washed his hands more than or equal to 20 sec and had adequate washing techniques (with soap and water) and had washing frequency score more than 20 was defined as having 'proper basic handwash'. Of a total of 1074 students, 1021 responded. According to self reported behaviours and attitudes, soap and water were used in 99.2% of hand washes, and an alcohol preparation was used in 0.2% of cases and wet paper was used in the remaining 0.6% in the schools. The average duration of soap and water washes was 41.8 +/- 39.1 sec. Overall, 42.4% of adolescents had a proper basic handwash. In multivariate analysis female sex, living at home, high knowledge level and urban school were associated with high proper basic handwash. In addition to this, the presence of some complaints about toilets in school affected proper basic hand wash in univariate analysis. Contrary to what had been expected, a factor such as type of school (health trade school) was not found to be associated with high proper basic handwash in both multivariate and univariate analysis. As a result, adolescents have limited knowledge about indications of hand-washing and some problems adversely influenced hand-washing. To increase compliance, problems should be solved and lessons about hand-washing and communicable disease should be given.

Exposure to cold or heat during incubation on developmental stability of broiler embryos

An experiment was conducted to measure the effects of exposure to heat or cold during incubation on the size of skeletal bilateral traits (face, wings, shank, tibia, and femur) and weights of heart and lungs of broiler embryos. Measurements were obtained at 10 and 18 d of incubation and at hatch on d 21. Treatments consisted of eggs incubated at 37.8 degrees C throughout (control; C), cooled to 36.9 degrees C for 6 h daily from d 0 to 8 (C0-8), heated to 39.6 degrees C for 6 h daily from d 0 to 8 (H0-8), cooled to 21.0 degrees C for 24 h on d 14 (C14), cooled to 36.9 degrees C for 6 h daily from d 10 to 18 (C10-18), and heated to 39.6 degrees C for 6 h daily from d 10 to 18 (H10-18). Although cooling and heating of eggs during incubation influenced growth of the skeletal traits on d 10 and 18, compensation generally occurred by the time of hatch. The developmental stability of bilateral traits varied with the specific trait, with those observed earlier in incubation tending to decrease by hatch.