The Influence of Mechanic Factors in Disc Degeneration Disease as a Determinant for Surgical Indication

Gulden Demirci Otluoğlu,Deniz Konya,Zafer Orkun Toktas 대한척추신경외과학회 2020 Neurospine Vol.17 No.1

Objective: Low back pain is the most common reason for physician visit in Western population. It’s one of the factors that affect health-related quality of life. Intervertebral disc degeneration is one of the leading factors for low back pain and disc degeneration needs serious attention. In this article, we try to summarize biomechanical factors on the degenerative process. Methods: Patients with low back pain in Neurosurgery Department between January 2012 and June 2019 are searched for this study. The patients were gathered under 2 groups; surgical intervention and conservative treatment groups. Intervertebral disc degeneration was assessed by Pfirrmann grading system. All spinopelvic parameters were measured by using standardized lateral plain standing lumbar radiographs. Results: There were 165 patients in the surgical group (60 females, 105 males) and 84 patients in the conservative group (57 females, 27 males) after randomization. One hundred fifty patients had microdiscectomy and 15 patients had spinal instrumentation with transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion. There was not a statistically significant difference between surgical intervention and conservative treatment groups when comparing disc degeneration status. There was a statistically significant difference in parameters lumbar lordosis (LL), L4–S1, and pelvic incidence-LL (PI–LL) between the 2 treatment groups. In the surgical group when we further analyze the spinopelvic parameters in between the 2 different surgical techniques; L4–S1, pelvic tilt, and PI–LL showed a statistically significant difference. Conclusion: Degenerative disc disease is related with multiple factors which can be detailed under the mechanic components and the genetic components. Of these factors, spinopelvic parameters seem highly penetrating to patients’ surgery needs with degenerative disc disease independently.

Determining Potential Probiotic Properties of Human Originated Lactobacillus plantarum Strains

Gulden Basyigit Kilic,Hakan Kulea an,V. Funda Sömer,Didem Akp nar 한국생물공학회 2013 Biotechnology and Bioprocess Engineering Vol.18 No.3

In this study, twenty Lactobacillus plantarum strains which were isolated from the fecal samples of humans were investigated in vitro for their characteristics as potential new probiotic strains. The L. plantarum strains were examined for resistance to gastric acidity in simulated gastric juice at pH 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, and 3.5. The growth of test cultures with different pH was monitored after 0, 10, 30,60, 90, and 120 min of incubation using a spectrophotometer at 550 nm. At the same time, samples were serially diluted in sterile PBS, and counts of viable bacteria were determined by plate counts using MRS agar for each pH and time parameter. The strains were also examined for resistance to 0.4% phenol, production of H2O2, adhesion to Caco-2 cell line and antimicrobial activity. It was determined that the artificial gastric juice, even at pH 2.0, did not significantly change the viability of the cultures. Except L. plantarum AA1-2, all strains were detected at 8 ~ 9 log10CFU/g. It was found that all L. plantarum strains showed good resistance to 0.4% phenol, and only one strain (AC18-82) produced H2O2. Good adhesion of L. plantarum strains to Caco-2 cells was observed in this experiment. These selected strains also showed antimicrobial activity.

Improvement of Pulmonary Functions Following Septoplasty: How Are Lower Airways Affected?

Arzu Tuzuner,Gulden Bilgin,Sule Demirci,Gulbahar Darilmaz Yuce,Cemile Acikgoz,Ethem Erdal Samim 대한이비인후과학회 2016 Clinical and Experimental Otorhinolaryngology Vol.9 No.1

Objectives. Nasal septal deviation is a frequent cause of increased nasal airway resistance. A narrow nasal airway would result in a decreased airflow into the lungs. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the alterations of the pulmonary functions following septoplasty using spirometry and 6 minutes walking test (6mWT). And reveal the correlation of symptom score improvement with nasal obstruction symptom score (NOSE) and sino-nasal outcome test (SNOT22) questionnaires following surgery. Methods. Thirty patients with obvious nasal septal deviations were enrolled in the study. All patients had a detailed otorhinolaryngologic examination, filled NOSE/SNOT22 questionnaires, performed spirometry and 6mWT preoperatively. One month after surgery, NOSE/SNOT22 questionnaires filled by subjects and spirometry with 6mWT were performed again, and the results were compared. Results. The mean total walking distance was 702.3±68.2 m preoperatively, and it improved to 753.2±72.6 m postoperatively (P<0.001). Total tour count increased from 11 (range, 10.8 to 12.0) to 12 (range, 11 to 13.3), and the difference was found statistically significant (P<0.001). When the preoperative and postoperative mean 6mWT results were compared, diastolic blood pressure increased from 70 to 80 mmHg (P=0.031), heart rate increased from 83.5±13.2 to 90.1±12.5 bpm (P=0.017), dyspnea rate decreased from 1 to 0 (P=0.002), and fatigue scores reduced from 2 to 1 (P=0.003). Evaluation on spirometry findings revealed that FIF50% (maximum inspiratory flow at 50% of forced vital capacity [FVC]) scores and peak expiratory flow (PEF) values improved significantly after surgery. Septoplasty improves the nasal breathing pattern. While reducing FEF50% (maximum expiratory flow at 50% of FVC)/FIF50%, it increases PEF and FIF50% values. In addition, as shown by 6mWT, exercise capacity improves following surgery. Postoperative NOSE and SNOT22 scores reduced markedly compared to preoperative values (P<0.001). Conclusion. These findings suggest that nasal septal surgery has a positive effect on pulmonary functions, and this can be an important clue for the relationship of lung disorders and nasal obstruction.

Effects of Celecoxib in Young Rats: Histopathological Changes in Tissues and Alterations of Oxidative Stress/Antioxidant Defense System

Sumru Sozer,Ferzan Lermioglu,Gulden Diniz 대한약학회 2011 Archives of Pharmacal Research Vol.34 No.2

Celecoxib is increasingly being used in children with rheumatologic complaints. Although the particular concerns about the safety of the drug, there are only a small number of published studies in children. This study was performed to investigate the effects of celecoxib on oxidative stress and antioxidant enzyme activities as well as celecoxib-induced changes in liver, kidneys and stomach of young rats. Four weeks-old Wistar albino, female rats were used. Celecoxib was given by gavage for 14 days. Control rats received only vehicle. Blood and organs were taken under pentobarbital anesthesia. Plasma malondialdehyde levels were increased by treatment. Catalase activity was increased, while glutathione peroxidase activity was decreased. Superoxide dismutase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activities was not changed by treatment. The reduced glutathione content of kidneys were higher, while there was no significant difference in liver content, as compared with controls. Significant changes were observed in serum parameters of rats treated with celecoxib. Histopathological evaluation of organs was done by an experienced pathologist unaware of the treatment. Results of the present study indicated the alterations of oxidant/antioxidant status and histopathological changes in tissues of young rats treated with celecoxib.

Screening physicochemical, microbiological and bioactive properties of fruit vinegars produced from various raw materials

Ilkin Yucel Sengun,Gulden Kilic,Berna Ozturk 한국식품과학회 2020 Food Science and Biotechnology Vol.29 No.3

In the present study, variety of fruit vinegars were investigated in terms of their physicochemical, microbiological and bioactive properties. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were in the range of 933–1162 mg GAE/L and 66.64–470.86 mg/L in terms of catechin equivalents, respectively. During the evaluation of antioxidant activity via DPPH and ABTS assay, samples showed the activity as in the range of 0.047–0.302 and 0.413–0.885 lg TE/mL, respectively. The counts of AAB, LAB and yeast-mold were found in the range of\ 2–6.32,\1–5.39 and\1–3.97 log CFU/mL, respectively. Antimicrobial activity of vinegars was tested against nine bacteria by broth microdilution assay. Most of the samples were found inhibitive against test cultures at concentrations between 3.12 and 6.25% (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration, v/v), while apple vinegar was inhibitive at higher concentrations. These results indicated the high potential of fruit vinegars as antioxidant and antimicrobial agents that could be used as functional food ingredients.

Multicultural Knowledge and Skills of Singaporean Master Therapists

Len Jennings,Ashley Gulden,Michael Oien,Vilma D’Rozario,Michael Goh,Thomas M. Skovholt 한국상담학회 2012 Journal of Asia Pacific counseling Vol.2 No.2

An international team of researchers from Singapore and the United States conducted a qualitative investigation of the multicultural competencies of Singaporean master therapists (i.e., expert therapists). Six Singaporean master therapists, previously studied and identified through an extensive peer nomination sampling procedure (Jennings et al., 2008), were reinterviewed to explore how these master therapists conceptualize and conduct cross-cultural counseling. Utilizing data analytic procedures from consensual qualitative research (CQR) and grounded theory, eight themes within two categories were identified. The Multicultural Knowledge category contained four themes (Self-Knowledge, Cultural Immersion, Cultural Knowledge, and Knowledge of Systemic/Historic Oppression). Another four themes (Respect, Cultural Misunderstandings Lead to Humility and Growth, Ask, Dontained four th Suspend Judgment and Avoid Imposing Values) were organized under the Multicultural Skills category. Recommendations for future research and implications for clinical practice are discussed.

Preventive Effect of Probiotics and α-Tocopherol on Ethanol-Induced Gastric Mucosal Injury in Rats

Altug Senol,Mehmet Isler,Aynur G. Karahan,Gulden B. Kilic,Hakan Kuleasan,Selcuk Kaya,Muharrem Keskin,Ibrahim Goren,Ulku Saritas,Buket C. Aridogan,Namik Delibas 한국식품영양과학회 2011 Journal of medicinal food Vol.14 No.1

The protective effect of a probiotic mixture of 13 different bacteria and α-tocopherol on 98% ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury was evaluated. Levels of gastric mucosal pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, malondialdehyde, and secretory immunglobulin A were measured. Rats were allocated into four groups: control, ethanol, probiotic, and α-tocopherol. The control and ethanol groups received skim milk for 14 days. Probiotic and α-tocopherol groups were administered probiotic mixture suspended in skim milk and 100mg/kg α-tocopherol, respectively, by daily gavage for 14 days. On Day 15, gastric lesions were induced by administration of ethanol 98% (1mL) to all rats except those in the control group. Probiotic, but not α-tocopherol, seemed to inhibit ethanol-induced gastric mucosal tumor necrosis factor-α, interferon-γ, and interleukin-2 production (P>.05). Ethanol caused the elevation of mucosal interleukin-4 level (compared to the control, P<.05). Probiotic pretreatment significantly suppressed the ethanol-induced increase of gastric mucosal interleukin-4 levels. Pretreatment with either probiotic or α-tocopherol inhibited the ethanol-induced increase of mucosal malondialdehyde concentration (P<.01 and P<.05, respectively). Probiotic pretreatment enhanced the gastric mucosal secretory immunoglobulin A concentration (P<.001). In conclusion, probiotic mixture and α-tocopherol reduced ethanol-induced gastric mucosal lipid peroxidation, suggesting that they may be beneficial for gastric lesions induced by lower ethanol concentration.

Prognostic Impact of the Metastatic Lymph Node Ratio on Survival in Rectal Cancer

Wafi Attaallah,Omer Gunal,Manuk Manukyan,Gulden Ozden,Cumhur Yegen 대한대장항문학회 2013 Annals of Coloproctolgy Vol.29 No.3

Purpose: Lymph-node metastasis is the most important predictor of survival in stage III rectal cancer. The number of metastatic lymph nodes may vary depending on the level of specimen dissection and the total number of lymph nodes harvested. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the lymph node ratio (LNR) is a prognostic parameter for patients with rectal cancer. Methods: A retrospective review of a database of rectal cancer patients was performed to determine the effect of the LNR on the disease-free survival (DFS) and the overall survival. Of the total 228 patients with rectal cancer, 55 patients with stage III cancer were eligible for analysis. Survival curves were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Cox regression analyses, after adjustments for potential confounders, were used to evaluate the relationship between the LNR and survival. Results: According to the cutoff point 0.15 (15%), the 2-year DFS was 95.2% among patients with a LNR < 0.15 compared with 67.6% for those with LNR ≥ 0.15 (P = 0.02). In stratified and multivariate analyses adjusted for age, gender, histology and tumor status, a higher LNR was independently associated with worse DFS. Conclusion: This study showed the prognostic significance of ratio-based staging for rectal cancer and may help in developing better staging systems. LNR 0.15 (15%) was shown to be a cutoff point for determining survival and prognosis in rectal cancer cases.

Utilization of Interesterified Fat in the Production of Turkish White Cheese

Seher Arslan,Ali Topcu,Ilbilge Saldamli,Gulden Koksal 한국식품과학회 2010 Food Science and Biotechnology Vol.19 No.1

The chemical, physicochemical, proteolysis,sensory, and texture characteristics of white cheeses made from interesterified fat were examined throughout ripening for 90 days. The water-soluble nitrogen based ripening indexes of cheeses increased throughout the ripening period. However, there were not large quantitative differences between the peptide profiles of the all cheese samples. Cheeses produced by using fully interesterified fat had higher values for hardness, chewiness, and gumminess than that of control cheese (p<0.05). The polyunsaturated to saturated fatty acid ratios of cheeses were increased due to the presence of interesterified fat. The cholesterol values of cheeses decreased at the rate of between 58.83-89.04%depending on interesterified fat addition. In the sensory analysis, similar scores were obtained for both the control cheese and the other cheeses. The results showed that interesterified fat in cheese production could be used to fully or partially replace the milk fat in cheese.

Biomechanical Properties of the Cranial Dura Mater with Puncture Defects : An In Vitro Study

Aydin, Hasan Emre,Kizmazoglu, Ceren,Kaya, Ismail,Husemoglu, Bugra,Sozer, Gulden,Havitcioglu, Hasan,Arslantas, Ali The Korean Neurosurgical Society 2019 Journal of Korean neurosurgical society Vol.62 No.4

Objective : The primary aim of this investigation was to explore the nature of dura mater biomechanics following the introduction of puncture defect(s). Methods : Twenty-eight dura mater specimens were collected during autopsy from the department of forensic medicine of the authors' institution. Specimens were divided randomly into one of four groups : group I (cranial dura mater; n=7), group II (cranial dura mater with one puncture defect; n=7); group III (cranial dura mater with two puncture defects; n=7), and group IV (cranial dura mater with three puncture defects; n=7). Results : The mean${\pm}$standard deviation tensile strengths of the dura mater were $8.35{\pm}3.16$, $8.22{\pm}3.32$, $7.13{\pm}1.77$, and $6.94{\pm}1.93MPa$ for groups I, II, III, and IV, respectively. There was no statistical difference between all groups. A single, two or more punctures of the dura mater using a 20-gauge Quincke needle did not affect cranial dura tensile strength. Conclusion : This biomechanical study may contribute to the future development of artificial dura mater substitutes and medical needles that have a lower negative impact on the biomechanical properties of dura mater.