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Biomedical subjects

S Can

Publications and source records attributed to S Can.

13 recordsLinked to original sources

Response to growth hormone with respect to pubertal status on increased dose in idiopathic growth hormone deficiency: an analysis of Turkish children in the KIGS database (Pfizer International Growth Study).

AIM: To compare the growth response to growth hormone (GH) treatment in patients with idiopathic GH deficiency (IGHD) who were prepubertal with the response of those who were pubertal at the onset of GH therapy on an increased GH dose. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Among the Turkish patients enrolled in the Pfizer International Growth Study (KIGS) database with the diagnosis of IGHD, the growth data over 2 years of GH therapy were analyzed longitudinally of 113 (79 M) prepubertal (Group 1) and 44 (33 M) pubertal (Group 2) patients. Pubertal signs were reported to be present initially or to have appeared within 6 months of GH therapy in Group 2. Mean +/- SD age at onset of therapy was 8.7 +/- 3.5 and 13.5 +/- 1.8 years; height SDS -4.2 +/- 1.4 and -3.2 +/- 1.1 (p < 0.05) in Groups 1 and 2, respectively. Mid-parental height (MPH) SDS did not show a significant difference between the two groups (-1.5 +/- 1.1 vs -1.7 +/- 1.1). RESULTS: Delta height SDS over 2 years of therapy was significantly higher in Group 1 (1.1 +/- 1.0) than in Group 2 (0.7 +/- 0.6) (p <0.05) in spite of a significantly lower dose of GH (14.6 +/- 3.3 in Group 1 vs 17.0 +/- 3.1 IU/m2/week in Group 2, p < 0.05). Ht--MPH SDS showed an increase from -2.4 +/- 1.7 to -1.4 +/- 1.5 in Group 1 and from -1.5 +/- 1.5 to -0.8 +/- 1.3 in Group 2. Overall delta height SDS showed negative correlations with age (r = -0.32), height SDS (r = -0.41) and height--MPH SDS (r = -0.40) at onset of therapy (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: These data show that in IGHD the slight increase (15-20%) in the dose of GH during puberty was not adequate to maintain height velocity at the same magnitude as in prepuberty, and thus was not cost effective.

Adolescent↗

Blood lead levels of the battery and exhaust workers and their pulmonary function tests.

In an attempt to understand the impact of inhaled lead on the pulmonary functions, we assessed the blood lead levels and pulmonary functions of the battery and exhaust workers who are potential candidates for lead inhalation. The hospital staff served as control group. The measurements of lead levels were performed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) were performed using a portable spirometer. The blood lead levels of the battery workers, exhaust workers and controls were found to be 36.83, 26.94 and 14.81 microg/dl, respectively. The values of the workers were significantly higher than the controls (p < 0.001). The lead levels of the battery workers were also significantly higher than the exhaust workers (p < 0.001). PFT results (maximum voluntary ventilation, forced expiration flow and first forced expiration volume values of the workers) were significantly worse than the controls, and their pulmonary function test results were consistent with restrictive problems in the airways.

Adult↗

The use of postal reminders to reduce non-attendance at an orthodontic clinic: a randomised controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of issuing a patient reminder plus a confirmation slip on the attendance of orthodontic new patients. SETTING: Department of Orthodontics, University Dental Hospital of Manchester. DESIGN: A randomised controlled trial. METHODS: New patients were randomly allocated to:receive a reminder letter and return a confirmation slip ornot receive a reminder. OUTCOME MEASURES: Patient attendance at the clinic. RESULTS: A total of 232 patients were entered into the study between June 18, 2001 and August 29, 2001. These were randomly allocated to 115 (49.8%) in the reminder group and 116 (50.2%) in the no reminder group. If the patient received a reminder and returned the confirmation they were less likely to fail the appointment than if they did not receive a reminder (OR 0.4, 95% CI 0.2 to 0.96) There was an effect of social deprivation, if the patients lived in an area of high social deprivation they were 2.7 (95% CI 1.1 to 6.5) times more likely to fail to attend an appointment than people who were more affluent. CONCLUSIONS: The use of postal reminders for orthodontic consultation appointments appears to result in a useful increase of appointments that are kept or cancelled in advance.

Appointments and Schedules↗

Sport injuries in right- and left-handers.

The incidences of sport injuries in right- and left-handed subject was investigated. Of 40 left-handed athletes, 33 (83.0%) had sport injuries; of 279 right-handed athletes, 189 (68.0%) had sport injuries. These findings suggest left-handers may be more susceptible to accident-related injuries.

Adolescent↗

The identification of 5 alpha-reductase-2 and 17 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase-3 gene defects in male pseudohermaphrodites from a Turkish kindred.

Male pseudohermaphroditism (MPH) is characterized by incomplete differentiation of male genitalia in the presence of testicular tissue. Enzymatic defects involving androgen synthesis or action are causes of MPH. We studied the molecular genetics of a large isolated inbred Turkish kindred with MPH due to either 5 alpha-reductase-2 (SRD5A2) or 17 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase-3 (17 beta HSD3) gene defects. Using single strand DNA conformational polymorphism analysis and DNA sequencing, a new mutation in exon 5 of SRD5A2 gene was detected in certain male pseudohermaphrodites from this kindred. This single base deletion (adenine) resulted in a frame shift at amino acid position 251 resulting in the addition of 23 amino acids at the carboxyl-terminal of this 254-amino acid isozyme. Transfection expression of the mutant isozyme in CV1 cells showed a complete loss of enzymatic activity in the conversion of [14C]testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, without a change in the messenger ribonucleic acid level compared to that of the wild-type isozyme. Analysis of the 17 beta HSD3 gene in other male pseudohermaphrodites from this kindred revealed a single point mutation (G-->A) at the boundary between intron 8 and exon 9, disrupting the splice acceptor site of exon 9. In this kindred, in addition to the identification of male pseudohermaphrodites with either a homozygous SRD5A2 or 17 beta HSD3 gene defect, other male pseudohermaphrodites were found to be genetically more complex: e.g. homozygous for the SRD5A2 defect and heterozygous for the 17 beta HSD3 defect, or homozygous for the 17 beta HSD3 defect and heterozygous for the SRD5A2 defect. Also, phenotypically normal carriers were identified with either one or both gene defects. Homozygous male pseudohermaphrodites with SRD5A2 or 17 beta HSD3 gene defects were phenotypically distinguishable by the presence of mild gynecomastia in the latter. Hormone data were consistent with the particular homozygous gene defect. In summary, we show 1) the novel existence of two gene defects, SRD5A2 and 17 beta HSD3, each causing MPH within a large isolated Turkish kindred; 2) that the two defects segregate independently and may be inherited from two different progenitors; and 3) analysis of a new mutation in exon 5 of SRD5A2 gene, supporting the functional importance of the carboxyl-terminal of 5 alpha-reductase-2 isozyme.

17-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenases↗

In-vitro study of the adhesive strengths of brackets on metals, ceramic and composite. Part 1: Bonding to precious metals and amalgam.

Adult patients often have fillings, artificial crowns and/or bridges that make fitting of conventional bands difficult or even impossible. In such cases bonding rather than banding would be preferable. The present paper presents the investigation of more than 25 resin/conditioner combinations with respect to their bond strength to different metals as well as to amalgam. For that purpose stainless steel lingual buttons were bonded with the various adhesives and their shear bond strengths and types of bond failure were determined after 24 hours. All specimens were air-abraded with 50 microns Al2O3 for 2 or 4 seconds by means of a Microetcher before bonding. For comparison, buttons were also bonded to bovine enamel after air-abrasion or conventional etching with 37% H3PO4. Results show that, on all metals investigated, several materials yield bond strengths which are similar to or higher than what is achieved with the conventional acid etch technique on enamel. Maximum adhesive strength is not always desirable, however, for bonding brackets. The type of bond failure and the risk of irreversible damage to the bonded material have also to be taken into consideration. Al2O3 abrasion may cause considerable damage to enamel within 4 seconds. Since the bond strength on air-abraded enamel is about the same as on acid etched enamel, conventional etching with H3PO4 is preferable to the sandblasting of enamel.

Acid Etching, Dental↗

In-vitro study of the adhesive strengths of brackets on metals, ceramic and composite. Part 2: Bonding to porcelain and composite resin.

In addition to part 1 of the study, the present paper investigated more than 25 resin/conditioner combinations with respect to their bond strengths to porcelain and composite resin. For that purpose stainless steel lingual buttons were bonded with the various adhesives and their shear bond strengths and types of bond failure were determined after 24 hours. All specimens were air-abraded with 50 microns Al2O3 for 2 or 4 seconds by means of a Microetcher before bonding. Results show that, on the porcelain, and composite under investigation, several materials yield bond strengths which are similar to or higher than what is achieved with the conventional acid etch technique on enamel. Maximum adhesive strength is not always desirable, however, for bonding brackets. The type of bond failure and the risk of irreversible damage to the bonded material have also to be taken into consideration.

Acid Etching, Dental↗

Testicular dysfunction in human immunodeficiency virus-infected men.

This review pertains to gonadal function in men with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, who often exhibit clinical and biochemical evidence of hypogonadism. Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism appears to be the most commonly encountered abnormality, although complete anterior pituitary insufficiency and primary gonadal failure have been reported. Levels of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) are either unchanged or increased. Plasma levels of estrogens, progesterone, androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), and prolactin vary. Pathologically, except for involvement by opportunistic infections, no significant abnormality in the hypothalamic-pituitary area has been described, but evidence of orchitis is commonly present. The cause(s) of these abnormalities remains unclear. The possible factors leading to hypogonadism in HIV-infected men include HIV infection itself, opportunistic infections, chronic debilitating illness, and effects of cytokines on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Further studies are needed to clarify the cause(s) of testicular dysfunction in HIV-infected men and its clinical significance, treatment, relevance to the progression of HIV infection, and influence on the immune system.

HIV Infections↗

Disseminated Strongyloides stercoralis in human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients. Treatment failure and a review of the literature.

We describe a North American human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patient with Strongyloides stercoralis infection of the gastrointestinal tract, who required repeated "standard" courses of thiabendazole. Pulmonary infection with numerous roundworms developed, as suspected by bronchoalveolar lavage, and while he was receiving therapy, dissemination occurred. On autopsy, S stercoralis was recovered in the gastrointestinal tract, liver, lung, and heart. After a literature review, we conclude that HIV-positive patients have a higher risk of dissemination and "standard" treatment failure. This may occur without elevation of IgE or eosinophilia. Those patients may require prolonged courses of thiabendazole or alternatively ivermectin therapy.

Animals↗

The effects of long term use of inhaled corticosteroids on linear growth, adrenal function and bone mineral density in children.

In this study we aimed to investigate the long term effects of inhaled steroids on linear growth, adrenal function and bone mineral density. Thirty children with moderate asthma were randomly divided into two groups. Fifteen children (8 boys, 7 girls mean age; 10.6 +/- 2.1) were treated with budesonide (group 1), and 15 (9 boys, 6 girls, mean age; 9.6 +/- 2.4). with fluticasone propionate (group 2). Control group included 30 children. Anthropometric assessment, symptom and medication scores, pulmonary functions, bone mineral density, serum and urine cortisol levels and ACTH stimulation test were evaluated at the beginning of the study and after one year period. Symptom and medication scores, pulmonary functions improved significantly in both groups (p < 0.05). The mean annual growth was similar in group 1 and 2 and control group. Bone mineral density was comparable with control group at the beginning of the study and after one year. Mean serum cortisol level diminished at the end of the therapy but no significant differences were found between the initial and end values in respect to urine cortisol levels and cortisol/creatinine ratio. Of three groups ACTH stimulation test revealed that there were no significant difference between study and control groups. In conclusion, although we did not observed any side effects of inhaled corticosteroids we suggest that children treated with inhaled corticosteroids for a long time should be followed closely with respect to side effects.

Administration, Inhalation↗

Insulin secretion and insulin resistance determined by euglycemic clamp.

Obesity among children is increasingly recognized and linked to several metabolic problems. In this study, 47 children, aged 5-14 yr, with exogenous obesity were compared to 20 normal (non-obese) children to show alterations in glucose metabolism. All the obese children had body mass index > 95th percentile and weight for age > 120%. Basal and stimulated insulin and C-peptide levels were obtained during oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Seven children from the obese group had impaired OGTT according to WHO criteria. Mean fasting insulin levels were 26.7 +/- 14.6 microIU/ml in obese and 10.99 +/- 4.36 microIU/ml in controls; postprandial insulin levels were 70.4 +/- 56.4 microIU/ml and 22.23 +/- 6.55 microIU/ml, respectively (p < 0.001). The euglycemic glucose clamp technique was applied to 8 normal and 22 obese children. The amount of metabolized glucose (M) during clamp test is measured to identify glucose sensitivity. Mean M values were 3.24 +/- 1.35 mg/kg/min in obese and 6.525 +/- 0.770 mg/kg/min in control children (p < 0.001). As a result of this study, it seems reasonable to consider all obese children and adults as being at risk for hyperinsulinism and insulin resistance.

Administration, Oral↗

Giant-cell granulomatous hypophysitis.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical features of giant-cell granulomatous hypophysitis and to report on the results of corticosteroid treatment. METHODS: A case of giant-cell granulomatous hypophysitis is presented, and the pertinent literature is reviewed. RESULTS: A 41-year-old woman with anterior pituitary dysfunction had a pituitary mass that was 18 by 16 by 13 mm by magnetic resonance imaging. The pituitary stalk was thickened and enhanced after intravenous administration of gadolinium. A biopsy specimen that was obtained at transsphenoidal pituitary exploration revealed that the patient had giant-cell granulomatous hypophysitis, a rare inflammatory pituitary disorder. High-dose corticosteroid therapy failed to reverse her anterior pituitary dysfunction. CONCLUSION: The coincidence of a contrast-enhancing pituitary mass with a thickened pituitary stalk and the awareness of the rare occurrence of endocrine inactive tumors in women of childbearing age should suggest an inflammatory pituitary condition. Such lesions should also be suspected in otherwise healthy young women with hypopituitarism and no evidence of hormone hypersecretion. On the basis of the literature and our experience, corticosteroid treatment does not seem to improve anterior pituitary function.

Journal Article↗