Browsing by Author "Bayraktar, Nilufer"

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Alternative tumor markers in the diagnosis of ovarian cancer
(2016) Karakaya, Burcu Kisa; Baser, Eralp; Bildaci, Berk; Comert, Esra Cabuk; Bayraktar, Nilufer; Dursun, Polat; Kuscu, Esra; Ayhan, Ali; 0000-0002-0992-6980; 0000-0002-7886-3688; 27629130; AAI-8792-2021; Y-8758-2018; AAJ-5802-2021
Objective: The aim of the study was to assess the usefulness of various tumor markers (CA125, HE4, bcl2) measured in serum, urine and saliva in the differential diagnosis of adnexal masses. Material and methods: Our study was conducted at the Baskent University Medical School, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara, Turkey, between November 2010 and March 2011. Fifty patients with a suspicion of malignant adnexal mass and 30 controls were included in the study. Serum and urine CA-125, HE4, and bcl2 levels were evaluated for their role in the diagnosis of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). Results: Serum CA-125 and HE4 levels, and urine HE4 levels were significantly higher in malignant cases as compared to controls (p < 0.05). Mean levels of bcl2 in saliva and urine were similar in malignant cases and controls (p > 0.05). Conclusions: We demonstrated that serum CA125, serum HE4 and urine HE4 levels were elevated in patients with ovarian cancer. These findings should be assessed in future studies with larger sample sizes in order to reach more definite conclusions.
AMH Levels at Central Precocious Puberty and Premature Thelarche: Is It A Parameter?
(2015) Sahin, Nursel Muratoglu; Kinik, Sibel Tulgar; Tekindal, Mustafa Agah; Bayraktar, Nilufer; 0000-0002-7886-3688; 0000-0002-4060-7048; 0000-0002-8215-0146; 26226120; Y-8758-2018; U-9270-2018; AAA-1266-2019
Background: The possible difference of antimllrin hormone (AMH) levels at central precocious puberty (CPP) and premature thelarche (PT) has not been properly evaluated. Objective/hypothesis: By evaluating AMH levels in girls with diagnosed CPP and PT, we aim to show the change of AMH levels at the pubertal onset. Subjects: Sixty-five girls who have breast development before the age of 8 years and 25 healthy girls were enrolled in the study. Methods: The subjects were divided into two groups as CPP and PT, according to results of GnRH test. AMH levels were determined in the two groups. Results: The mean AMH levels of the CPP group were significantly lower than those in the PT group (13.57 +/- 9.85 pmol/L and 58.42 +/- 12.78 pmol/L, respectively, p=0.022). Conclusion: These results suggest that the AMH levels decrease in the duration of the hypothalamus-pituitaryovarian axis activation. We thought that AMH might/may be a marker for distinguishing between CPP and PT.
Amifostine enhances the antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of UW and HTK preservation solutions
(2014) Akbulut, Sami; Sevmis, Sinasi; Karayakali, Hamdi; Bayraktar, Nilufer; Unlukaplan, Muge; Oksuz, Ergun; Dagdeviren, Atilla; 25232264
AIM: To investigate whether amifostine contributes to the antioxidant and cytoprotective effects of histidine-tryptophan-ketoglutarate (HTK) and University of Wisconsin (UW) preservation solutions. METHODS: Forty-eight Sprague Dawley male rats were equally divided into six groups: (1) ringer Lactate (RL) group; (2) RL + amifostine (RL + A) group; (3) HTK group; (4) HTK + A group; (5) UW group; and (6) UW + A group. Rats in the RL + A, HTK + A and UW + A groups were administered amifostine intraperitoneally at a dose of 200 mg/kg prior to laparotomy. The RL group was perfused with RL into the portal vein. The RL + A group were perfused with RL into the portal vein after amifostine administration. The HTK group received an HTK perfusion while the HTK + A group received an HTK perfusion after administration of amifostine. The UW group received a perfusion of UW, while the UW + A group received a UW perfusion after amifostine administration. Liver biopsy was performed to investigate histopathological, immunochemical [transferase mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL), inducible nitric oxide syntetase (iNOS)] and ultrastructural alterations. Biochemical alterations were determined by examining levels of alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and nitric oxide in the perfusion fluid. RESULTS: Pathological sinusoidal dilatation and centrilobular hydropic alteration were significantly lower in the groups that received amifostine prior to preservation solution perfusion. Although the best results were obtained in the UW + A group, we did not observe a statistically significant difference between the UW + A and HTK + A groups. iNOS grades were significantly lower in the amifostine groups 12 h after treatment. When the amifostine groups were compared against each other, the iNOS grades obtained from the UW + A and HTK + A groups were similar while the RL + A group had a much poorer score. TUNEL assays demonstrated a lower apoptosis ratio in the amifostine groups than in the non-amifostine groups 12 h after treatment. No statistically significant difference was observed between the UW + A and HTK + A groups for apoptosis. Cellular ultrastructure was best preserved in the UW + A and HTK + A groups. CONCLUSION: Here, we show that preoperative administration of a single dose of amifostine is sufficient to minimize the preservation damage in hepatic cells. (C) 2014 Baishideng Publishing Group Inc. All rights reserved.
Aspirin Resistance in Cerebrovascular Disease and the Role of Glycoprotein IIIa Polymorphism in Turkish Stroke Patients
(2016) Derle, Eda; Ocal, Ruhsen; Kibaroglu, Seda; Celikkol, Ceyda; Bayraktar, Nilufer; Verdi, Hasibe; Atac, Belgin F.; Can, Ufuk; https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3964-268X; https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7886-3688; https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0591-009X; https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6868-2165; https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8689-417X; 26809135; V-3553-2017; AAJ-2956-2021; Y-8758-2018; V-5499-2017; ABG-9966-2020; AAJ-2999-2021
Aspirin resistance occurs in 5-45% of high-risk patients, with various mechanisms proposed for its development. This study aimed to determine the relationships among aspirin resistance, aspirin dosage, type of aspirin and glycoprotein IIIa P1A1/A2 polymorphism in patients with vascular risk factors. Two hundred and eight (75 symptomatic, 133 asymptomatic) patients with vascular risk factors who were using aspirin for primary or secondary prevention were prospectively included. The symptomatic group was further classified into two groups according to aspirin use at the time of stroke. Aspirin resistance was measured by the PFA-100 system (collagen/epinephrine cartridge) and glycoprotein IIIa P1A1/A2 polymorphism was determined by PCR. The overall prevalence of aspirin resistance was 32.2%. The mean age of patients with aspirin resistance was significantly higher than that in those who did not have resistance (P=0.009). The prevalence of aspirin resistance was similar for the symptomatic and asymptomatic under aspirin therapy groups. The resistance rate was found to be highest with 100mg enteric-coated preparation use (39.3%). Increasing the aspirin dosage and/or shifting to uncoated preparations caused a change in aspirin sensitivity of 36-60%. Repeated measurements showed development of aspirin resistance in 14% of patients who were sensitive to aspirin in previous measurements. Glycoprotein IIIaP1A1/A2 polymorphism, aspirin resistance and development of atherothrombotic stroke were not significantly related. The effect of aspirin can change by time, dosage and type of preparation used. There are no relationships among glycoprotein IIIa P1A1/A2 polymorphism, aspirin resistance and development of atherothrombotic stroke. Copyright (C) 2016 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.
Comparison of Carvedilol and Metoprolol for Preventing Contrast-Induced Nephropathy after Coronary Angiography
(2015) Yilmaz, Mustafa; Aydinalp, Alp; Okyay, Kaan; Tekin, Abdullah; Bal, Ugur Abbas; Bayraktar, Nilufer; Yildirir, Aylin; Muderrisoglu, Haldun; 26195972
Aims: Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is one of the most common causes of hospital-acquired acute renal failure. Oxidative stress and vasoconstriction might play key roles in its pathogenesis. In a few experimental models, antioxidant properties of carvedilol have been documented. The aim of this study was to analyze and compare the effects of carvedilol and metoprolol on the development of CIN in patients undergoing coronary angiography. Methods: One hundred patients currently taking metoprolol and 100 patients currently taking carvedilol were enrolled into the study. Venous blood samples were obtained before and 48 h after contrast administration. Cystatin C and malondialdehyde values were examined and compared. CIN was defined as a creatinine increase of at least 25% or 0.5 mg/dl from the baseline value. Results: Seven patients in the carvedilol group (7%) and 22 patients in the metoprolol group (22%) developed CIN (p = 0.003). In the metoprolol group, the median cystatin C concentration increased significantly from 978 to 1,086 ng/ml (p = 0.001) 48 h after radiocontrast administration. In the carvedilol group, the median cystatin C concentration did not change significantly (1,143 vs. 1,068 ng/ml; p = 0.94). In the metoprolol group, the mean malondialdehyde concentration increased significantly from 7.09 +/- 1.48 to 8.38 +/- 2.6 nmol/l (p < 0.001). In the carvedilol group, the mean serum malondialdehyde concentration did not change significantly (7.44 +/- 1.21 vs. 7.56 +/- 1.11 nmol/l; p = 0.59). Conclusion: When compared to metoprolol, carvedilol might decrease oxidative stress and subsequent development of CIN. (C) 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel
Cystatin-C and TGF-beta levels in patients with diabetic nephropathy
(2016) Takir, Mumtaz; Unal, Asli Dogruk; Kostek, Osman; Bayraktar, Nilufer; Demirag, Nilgun Guvener; 0000-0002-7886-3688; 27745866; Y-8758-2018
Objective: To evaluate renal impairment in type 2 diabetic patients with normoalbuminuria or microalbuminuria by detection of serum cystatin C and serum and urinary TGF-beta levels. Methods: Cross-sectional study conducted at the Department of Endocrinology in Baskent University School of Medicine. Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus without known overt diabetic nephropathy were included in the study. Recruited patients were stratified into four groups, matched in terms of age, gender, microalbuminuria level and estimated GFR calculated with MDRD. Results: 78 patients were enrolled. They were categorized into four groups depending on their urinary albumin excretion and estimated glomerular filtration rate. Macrovascular complication was found to be higher in patients with microalbuminuria than in other patients (p < 0.01), but there were no differences in terms of other diabetic complications. Serum cystatin C level was significantly higher in normoalbuminuric group one patients, while serum and urinary TGF-beta 1 levels were higher in microalbuminuric group two patients. The serum level of cystatin C was found to negatively correlate with eGFR in group two patients (r = -0.892, p < 0.001). Finally, there was a negative correlation between eGFR and cystatin C in all the patient groups (r = -0.726, p=0.001). Conclusions: Although urinary albumin excretion is recommended for the detection of type two diabetic nephropathy, there is a group of patients with decreased eGFR but without increased urinary albumin excretion, in which serum cystatin C level was indicated to be used as an early biomarker of diabetic nephropathy. (C) 2016 Published by Elsevier Espana, S.L.U. on behalf of Sociedad Espanola de Nefrologia.
Detection of COVID-19 by Machine Learning Using Routine Laboratory Tests
(2021) Cubukcu, Hikmet Can; Topcu, Deniz Ilhan; Bayraktar, Nilufer; Gulsen, Murat; Sari, Nuran; Arslan, Ayse Hande; 0000-0002-1219-6368; 0000-0002-7886-3688; 34791032; E-3717-2019; Y-8758-2018
Objectives The present study aimed to develop a clinical decision support tool to assist coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) diagnoses with machine learning (ML) models using routine laboratory test results. Methods We developed ML models using laboratory data (n = 1,391) composed of six clinical chemistry (CC) results, 14 CBC parameter results, and results of a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction as a gold standard method. Four ML algorithms, including random forest (RF), gradient boosting (XGBoost), support vector machine (SVM), and logistic regression, were used to build eight ML models using CBC and a combination of CC and CBC parameters. Performance evaluation was conducted on the test data set and external validation data set from Brazil. Results The accuracy values of all models ranged from 74% to 91%. The RF model trained from CC and CBC analytes showed the best performance on the present study's data set (accuracy, 85.3%; sensitivity, 79.6%; specificity, 91.2%). The RF model trained from only CBC parameters detected COVID-19 cases with 82.8% accuracy. The best performance on the external validation data set belonged to the SVM model trained from CC and CBC parameters (accuracy, 91.18%; sensitivity, 100%; specificity, 84.21%). Conclusions ML models presented in this study can be used as clinical decision support tools to contribute to physicians' clinical judgment for COVID-19 diagnoses.
Differences in Antibody Responses Between an Inactivated SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine and the BNT162b2 mRNA Vaccine in Solid-Organ Transplant Recipients
(2021) Erol, Cigdem; Yalcin, Tugba Yanik; Sari, Nuran; Bayraktar, Nilufer; Soy, Ebru Ayvazoglu; Colak, Meric Yavuz; Azap, Ozlem; Arslan, Hande; Haberal, Mehmet; 0000-0002-3462-7632; 0000-0002-2535-2534; 0000-0002-0993-9917; 0000-0002-5708-7915; 0000-0001-5996-8639; 0000-0002-3165-4520; 34951350; AAJ-1219-2021; AAC-5566-2019; AAJ-8097-2021; ABG-7034-2021; AAA-4708-2022
Objectives: Vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 may reduce COVID-19 mortality and complications in solidorgan transplant recipients, and we evaluated the associated antibody responses and adverse effects in this high-risk population. Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study (April-June 2021) included 10 liver and 38 kidney transplant recipients who received 2 vaccine doses (Sinovac, n = 31; or BioNTech, n = 17) and 56 healthy adults (Sinovac), all of whom provided 3 blood samples (prevaccination, 4 weeks after first dose, and 4-6 weeks after second dose) for quantitative tests (Abbott Quant assay for immunoglobulin G antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 spike protein). Type I error was alpha = .05 in all statistical analyses (SPSS, version 25). Results: We analyzed demographic data, antibody responses, and adverse events after 2 doses of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, compared immune responses from solidorgan transplant recipients (median age, 36.5 years) versus healthy patients (median age, 37.5 years), and observed significantly higher seropositivity in healthy versus transplant patients after Sinovac vaccination (100% vs 67.5%; P = .001). However, we observed no significant seropositive differences for Sinovac versus BioNTech second doses in transplant recipients. Median SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin G level after second dose was significantly higher in BioNTech (1388.6 AU/mL) versus Sinovac patients (136.6 AU/mL) (P = .012). The seropositivity difference between the 2 vaccines was significant in participants 24 to 44 years old (P = .040). The rate of at least 1 side effect was 82.4% (n = 14) for BioNTech vaccine and 32.3% (n = 10) for Sinovac vaccine, and the difference was statistically significant. The most common side effect was arm pain (significantly higher in BioNTech group). Conclusions: Solid-organ transplant recipients demonstrated inadequate vaccine responses (higher risk of complications and mortality) versus healthy patients. Furthermore, immune responses may differ between vaccines. Therefore, additional vaccine doses and strict control measures remain crucial.
The effect of adipose stromal vascular fraction on transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap: an experimental study
(2016) Ataman, Murat Gorkem; Uysal, Cagri A.; Ertas, Nilgun Markal; Bayraktar, Nilufer; Terzi, Aysen; Borman, Huseyin; 0000-0002-7886-3688; 0000-0001-6236-0050; 0000-0002-1225-1320; 27010192; Y-8758-2018; AAJ-2949-2021; F-7546-2013
Effect of weight loss diets on biochemical parameters and anthropometric measurements in prolactinoma patients
(2019) Yesil, Esen; Kiziltan, Gul; Anil, Cuneyd; Ok, Mehtap Akcil; Bayraktar, Nilufer; AAZ-8170-2020
Background: The aims of this study were to determine the effect of weight loss on biochemical parameters and anthropometric measurements in prolactinoma patients and to evaluate the effectiveness of weight loss diet along with medical treatment. Methods: Twenty-two patients with prolactinoma were divided into two groups and one of the groups was applied weight loss diet (diet group) while the other group was diet free (control group). Each participant was interviewed using a structured questionnaire. The biochemical parameters (fasting plasma glucose, fasting plasma insulin, prolactin, leptin, TSH, T4, cortisol, HbA1c, AST, ALT and blood lipids) of participants were analyzed and anthropometric measurements were taken. Results: There was a significant change in mean BMI after treatment in diet group (p=0.000). The mean level of serum prolactin decreased from 45.1 +/- 31.63 ng/dL at baseline to 12.6 +/- 8.19 ng/dL after three months in diet group (p=0.006). Despite there being no statistically significant difference between diet and control group in terms of baseline level of prolactin measurement (p=0.800), statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of final level of prolactin measurement (p=0.027) was observed. There was a significant change in mean level of leptin after treatment in diet group (p=0.001). Conclusions: In addition to medical treatment, weight loss diets sped up the healing process for hyperprolactinemia and the reduction in body weight had positive effects on the metabolic profiles of prolactinoma patients.
The Effects of Glucose and Fructose on Body Weight and Some Biochemical Parameters in Rats
(2018) Koseler, Esra; Kiziltan, Gul; Turker, Perim Fatma; Saka, Mendane; Ok, Mehtap Akcil; Bacanli, Didem; Aydos, Tolga Resat; Bayraktar, Nilufer; Ozdemir, Handan; 0000-0002-4254-3711; 0000-0002-1832-9336; 0000-0002-7886-3688; AAZ-8170-2020; AAJ-7279-2020; Y-8758-2018
Objective: Dietary fructose from added sugar as high fructose corn syrup may causes major risks in obesity, hyperlipidemia, cardiovascular diseases, hyperuricemia and fatty liver. The aim of this study was to investigate and compare the effects of high fructose and high glucose intake on body weight and some biochemical parameters in rats. Subject and methods: The study was conducted on adult, 32 Wistar albino male rats (300-350 g weeks) which fed with standard laboratory chow. In each group, 8 rats was selected randomly and which was be composed four groups. The rats in each group, in addition to standard meal, different amount of glucose and fructose containing solutions (10% and 30% glucose-fed group, 10% and 30% fructose-fed group) was given by oral gavage for 6 weeks. At baseline and after 6 weeks total cholesterol, VLDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, uric acid, AST and ALT as biochemical parameters and liver histopathological examination of rats were determined. Body weight of the rats was evaluated every week. Results: The 30% fructose group caused higher AST levels according to 10% glucose group, 30% glucose group and 10% fructose group. At the end of 6 weeks, the mean body weight in the fructose-fed groups was higher than the glucose-fed groups (p>0.05). No statistically significant difference between rat groups' portal inflammation rates were found and the moderate and severe ballooning were observed in 30% fructose rats (p<0.05). Conclusions: As a result, dietary fructose from added sugar as high fructose corn syrup may causes major metabolic disorders.
The Effects of Niacin on Inflammation in Patients with Non-ST Elevated Acute Coronary Syndrome
(2015) Karacaglar, Emir; Atar, Ilyas; Altin, Cihan; Yetis, Begum; Cakmak, Abdulkadir; Bayraktar, Nilufer; Coner, Ali; Ozin, Bulent; Muderrisoglu, Haldun; 0000-0002-2538-1642; 0000-0002-5711-8873; 0000-0003-3821-412X; 0000-0002-7886-3688; 0000-0002-9635-6313; 27122858; ABI-6723-2020; ABD-7321-2021; AAD-9938-2021; Y-8758-2018; AAG-8233-2020
Background: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of niacin on high sensitivity C reactive protein (hs-CRP) and cholesterol levels in non-ST elevated acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS) patients. Methods: In this prospective, open label study, 48 NSTE-ACS were randomized to niacin or control group. Patients continued their optimal medical therapy in the control group. In the niacin group patients were assigned to receive extended-release niacin 500 mg/day. Patients were contacted 1 month later to assess compliance and side effects. Blood samples for hs-CRP were obtained upon admittance to the coronary care unit, in the third day and in the first month of the treatment. Fasting blood samples for cholesterol levels were obtained before and 30 days after the treatment. The primary end point of the study was to evaluate changes in hs-CRP, cholesterol levels, short-term cardiovascular events, and the safety of niacin in NSTE-ACS. Results: Baseline demographic, clinical and laboratory characteristics were similar between the two groups. Logarithmic transformation of baseline and 3rd day hs-CRP levels were similar between the groups; but 1 month later, logarithmic transformation of hs-CRP level was significantly lower in the niacin group (0.43 +/- 0.39 to 0.83 +/- 0.91, p = 0.04). HDL-C level was significantly increased in the niacin group during follow-up. Drug related side effects were seen in 7 patients in the niacin group but no patients discontinued niacin. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that lower dose extended release niacin can be used safely and decreases hs-CRP and lipid parameters successfully in NSTE-ACS patients.
Effects of Pesticides on Testes at Ultrastructural and Hormonal Levels
(2023) Unlukal, Nejat; Karabay, Gulten; Dagdeviren, Attila; Bayraktar, Nilufer; Guvercin, Ayse Canan Yazici; Tekindal, Mustafa Agah; 0000-0002-8107-4882
Aim: Endocrine disruptors damage the functions of hormones in the body by imitating or blocking them. They and their metabolites change hormone levels and functions in the body. Pesticides constitute a significant group of endocrine disruptors. It is known that Profenofos, and 4-chloro-2-methylphenoxyacetic acid (MCPA) have negative effects on male genital system. However, studies about the effect on ultrastructural size are limited. Therefore, it is intended to compare the effect of MCPA and Profenofos on the ultrastructural level of the testes. Material and Methods: There were three groups in the study (control, Profenofos, MCPA), each of which included ten fourteen-week-old male rats. Electron microscopy and biochemical investigation were performed on the excluded tissues of the testes. Results: In histopathologic investigations, spermatogenesis was healthy in the control group. Structural degenerations were observed on spermatogenic cells and Sertoli cells in the profenofos group. The gaps among spermatogenetic cells, cellular degeneration (i.e. structural damage) in the MCPA group was more obvious than in the Profenofos group. Considering the biochemical results, a significant decrease in testosterone level was observed in the animals receiving both profonefos and MCPA. Discussion: Profenofos and MCPA prevent the healthy continuation of spermatogenesis and therefore may cause infertility.
Efficacy of Acupuncture on Pain Mechanisms, Inflammatory Responses, and Wound Healing in the Acute Phase of Major Burns: An Experimental Study on Rats
(2021) Abali, Ayse Ebru; Cabioglu, Tugrul; Bayraktar, Nilufer; Ozdemir, Binnaz Handan; Moray, Gokhan; Haberal, Mehmet; 0000-0002-3462-7632; 0000-0002-1298-7944; 34309681; AAJ-8097-2021; AAE-8704-2021
We investigated acupuncture, a potential contributor for burn care, on physiological and pathological pain mechanisms and systemic and local inflammatory responses in a rat experimental burn model. Forty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into two groups. One-hour groups (five rats/group) were observed for 1 hour and included Sh1 (sham/observation), ShA1 (sham + acupuncture/observation), Brn1 (burn/observation), and BrnA1 (burn + acupuncture/ observation). Seven-day groups (five rats/group) were observed for 7 days and included Sh7 (sham/observation), ShA7 (sham + acupuncture/observation), Brn7 (burn/observation), and BrnA7 (burn + acupuncture/observation). "Pain-distress scores" were noted daily, and acupuncture was repeated within every wound-dressing change on alternate days. After observation periods, blood samples for interleukin 6 and beta-endorphin and skin biopsies for inflammatory changes and immunohistochemical staining of interleukin 6 were collected for analysis(P <.05). In 1-hour groups, interleukin 6 accumulation in burn wounds of BrnA1 was less than Brn1, with Brn1 having the highest mean blood level (P <.05). Mean beta-endorphin levels were higher in ShA1, Brn1, and BrnA1 than in Sh1 (P <.05). In all 7-day groups, the agonizing period was 48 to 72 hours after burn, with Brn7 most affected (P <.05). Microvessels were multiplied in the Brn7 group, with significantly higher numbers in burn wounds of BrnA7 (P<.05). Burn wounds of BrnA7 had less accumulation of interleukin 6 than Brn7 with the Brn7 group having the highest mean blood level and Sh7, ShA7, and BrnA7 having similarly low levels (P>.05). Beta-endorphin levels in ShA7, Brn7, and BrnA7 were lower than in Sh7 (P <.05). Acupuncture contributed to the management of physiological and pathological pain, modulation of inflammatory responses, and associated enhancement of angiogenesis in the acute phase of burn injury in rats.
Endothelial dysfunction and insulin resistance in young women with polycystic ovarian syndrome
(2014) Yavuz Taslipinar, Mine; Kilic, Nedret; Bayraktar, Nilufer; Guler, Ismail; Gulcan Kurt, Yasemin; Goktas, Tayfun; Taner, Mehmet Zeki; Himmetoglu, Mehmet Ozdemir; Yaman, Halil; Taslipinar, Abdullah; 25539546
Background/aim: To evaluate whether there is a correlation between insulin resistance and nitric oxide-related endothelial dysfunction in patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Materials and methods: The study was conducted with 25 young women with PCOS and 25 young healthy women, between 18 and 35 years of age. Plasma asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) levels, serum nitric oxide (NO) levels, and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) rates were measured in both the patient and control groups. Results: Plasma ADMA levels were significantly higher in PCOS patients than in the controls (P = 0.001). Serum NO levels were significantly lower in patients than in the controls (P = 0.008). The HOMA-IR rates, accepted as an insulin resistance parameter, were significantly higher in patients than in the controls (P = 0.001). Conclusion: Results of the present study indicate that, independent of age, body mass index, and blood lipid profile, there is significant insulin resistance in PCOS patients. However, no correlation was found between HOMA-IR as an insulin resistance determinant and altered ADMA and NO levels. This finding may indicate that there are additional mechanisms of cardiovascular risks in PCOS patients other than insulin resistance.
Evaluation of Angiopoietin 1 and 2, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, and Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha Levels in Asthmatic Children
(2014) Koksal, Burcu Tahire; Ozbek, Ozlem Yilmaz; Bayraktar, Nilufer; Yazici, Ayse Canan; https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9580-7656; https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2974-9579; https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7886-3688; https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3132-242X; 25584916; AAF-2109-2021; AAJ-2034-2021; Y-8758-2018; AAS-6810-2021
Asthma is characterized by chronic airway inflammation that is associated with structural changes termed airway remodeling. Recently, cytokines/mediators that augment inflammation have been attracting attention in this field. The aim of this study was to evaluate serum angiopoietin (Ang)-1, Ang-2, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and tumor necrosis. factor (TNF) alpha values, which have important roles in inflammation, angiogenesis, and remodeling in astlunatic children. We also documented correlations between demographic features, duration of asthma, and pulmonary function test (PFT) parameters. Randomly selected 40 children (20 male and 20 female children, aged 6-16 years) with mild or moderate persistent asthma and 32 healthy children (15 male and 17 female children, aged 6-16 years) enrolled in the study. All asthmatic children had been using inhaled corticosteroids at least for the last 3 months. Serum Ang-1 levels were significantly lower in asthmatic children than those in normal controls. The Ang-1/Ang-2 ratio was also significantly lower in asthmatic children compared with those in normal controls (p < 0.01). However, serum Ang-2, VEGF, and TNF-alpha levels were similar in the two groups. A significant positive correlation was found between VEGF and duration of asthma. No correlation between sewn Aug-I, Ang-2, VEGF values, and PFT parameters was obtained. On the other hand, significant negative correlation was detected between serum TNF-alpha and forced expiratory volume in 1 second. We have shown that serum Aug-1 levels and Ang-1/Ang-2 ratio were significantly reduced and balance was toward Ang-2 in asthmatics children. This process may lead to inflammation, destabilization of blood vessels, and trigger remodeling.
Evaluation of Dynapenia and Sarcopenia and Their Associations With Serum Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 Levels in Renal Transplant Recipients
(2022) Yildirim, Saliha; Colak, Turan; Bayraktar, Nilufer; Sezer, Siren; https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2693-1167; https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8372-7840; https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7886-3688; https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7326-8388; 34716090; AAJ-8554-2021; Y-8758-2018
Objectives: Dynapenia and sarcopenia are related to increased morbidity and mortality in the general population. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) causes sarcopenia and dynapenia with different mechanisms. The aim of this study is to compare the muscle parameters in renal transplant recipients to CKD patients and patients without kidney disease and assess their associations with serum insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels. Method: In total, 120 renal transplant recipients (mean age: 40.4 +/- 10.5 years), 60 CKD patients (mean age: 41.9 +/- 11.4 years), and 60 control subjects with normal kidney function (mean age: 38.8 +/- 9.9 years) were enrolled. Body mass index, hand grip strength, bioelectrical impedance analysis, 6-minute walking test, and serum IGF-1 level were measured and compared between groups. Muscle parameters were evaluated according to The Foundation for the National Institutes of Health Biomarkers Consortium Sarcopenia Project criteria. Results: IGF-1 levels were highest in the renal transplantation group and lowest in the control group (P = .029). In total, 12.5% of patients in the renal transplantation group (13.3% overweight, 20% obese), 11.6% in the CKD group, and 1.6% in the control group had dynapenia (P = .015). In addition, 8.3% of patients in the CKD group, 3.3% in the renal transplantation group (50% overweight), and none of the patients in the control group had sarcopenia (P = .054). In multivariate analyses, muscle strength was associated with IGF-1 levels in renal transplant recipients (beta = 2.314, t = 3.456, P = .001). Conclusions: Serum IGF-1 is closely associated with muscle strength in renal transplant recipients. The negative effects of CKD on muscle system cannot be completely resolved with renal transplantation. Sarcopenic obesity and dynapenic obesity need special attention and therefore body mass index cannot be used as the only parameter to evaluate frailty in renal transplant recipients. (C) 2021 by the National Kidney Foundation, Inc. All rights reserved.
Evaluation of High Mobility Group Box 1 Protein As an Inflammation Marker in Patients with Familial Mediterranean Fever
(2018) Ozturk, Betul; Baskin, Esra; Gulleroglu, Kaan; Sahin, Feride; Bayraktar, Nilufer; 0000-0003-4361-8508; 0000-0003-4361-8508; 0000-0003-1434-3824; 0000-0001-7308-9673; 0000-0002-7886-3688; HNQ-4875-2023; B-5785-2018; F-3294-2013; AAC-7232-2020; Y-8758-2018
Evaluation of Serum Leptin and Adiponectin Levels in Obese and Lean Asthmatic Children
(2015) Koksal, Burcu Tahire; Ozbek, Ozlem Yilmaz; Bayraktar, Nilufer; Kinik, Sibel Tulgar; Yazici, Ayse Canan; 0000-0003-2974-9579; 0000-0002-7886-3688; 0000-0002-3132-242X; 0000-0001-9580-7656; AAJ-2034-2021; Y-8758-2018; AAS-6810-2021; HKW-0623-2023; AAF-2109-2021
Background: Adipokines have been claimed for the link between obesity and asthma. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the roles of leptin and adiponectin in children with asthma and/or obesity and their effect on pulmonary functions. Methods: Obese (n=71) and lean asthmatics (n=72), obese non-asthmatics (n=46), and lean healthy children (n=49) were included in the study. Serum leptin and adiponectin levels were compared according to groups and sex. Results: Mean leptin levels of obese asthmatics were higher than those of lean asthmatics (13.19.1 vs. 3.7 +/- 4.4; p<0.001). Serum adiponectin levels of lean asthmatics (16 +/- 7.1) were significantly higher than those of obese asthmatics (12.1 +/- 6.9; p<0.001) and of their lean healthy (13.2 +/- 5.9; p<0.05) counterparts. In obese asthmatics, adiponectin levels were positively correlated with the forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1)/forced vital capacity (FVC) ratio, and serum leptin levels were inversely correlated with forced expiratory flow (FEF25-75). Leptin/adiponectin ratio was inversely correlated with FEV1/FVC ratio in lean and obese asthmatic patients. Conclusions: The present findings suggest that adiponectin may have protective disease modifying effect(s) in asthmatic children. Anti-inflammatory mechanisms regarding adiponectin may work better in girls than in boys.
Inhibition of the Notch Pathway Promotes Flap Survival by Inducing Functional Neoangiogenesis
(2015) Abbas, Ozan Luay; Borman, Huseyin; Terzi, Yunus K.; Terzi, Aysen; Bayraktar, Nilufer; Ozkan, Burak; Yazici, Ayse C.; 0000-0002-7886-3688; 0000-0003-3093-8369; 0000-0002-1225-1320; 0000-0002-3132-242X; 0000-0001-5612-9696; 25180956; Y-8758-2018; AAI-5063-2020; F-7546-2013; AAS-6810-2021; B-4372-2018
Objective The Notch pathway seems to function as an antiangiogenic factor, negatively regulating the sprouting effect of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). This function is well defined in embryonic and tumor vasculature. However, little is known about its function in ischemia-induced angiogenesis. In the first part of this study, we investigated the role of Notch in reparative angiogenesis after ischemia. In the second part, we hypothesized that anti-Notch therapy will result in increased angiogenic sprouting. We analyzed the effect of Notch inhibition in the induction of angiogenic sprouting. Methods In the first part, we investigated the effect of ischemia on the Notch ligand delta-like ligand 4 (DLL4). Twenty rats were divided equally into 2 groups. In the surgery group, dorsal skin flap was used as model of ischemia. In the control group, no surgical procedure was performed. DLL4 and VEGF gene expressions were assessed. Immunohistochemical staining was used for detection of DLL4 in tissue materials. Plasma levels of VEGF and DLL4 were measured. In the second part, we investigated the effect of Notch inhibition using a gamma-secretase inhibitor (GSI) on inducing neoangiogenesis. Twenty rats were assigned to 2 equal groups. In all animals, dorsal skin flap was raised and sutured back into its bed. Animals in the GSI-treated group received GSI intravenously after surgery for 3 days. Saline was administered in the control group. Necrotic area measurements, microangiography, and histologic evaluations were performed to compare groups. Results In the first part, VEGF and DLL expressions increased in ischemic tissues (P < 0.01). Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that DLL4 expression was upregulated in capillary endothelial cells after ischemia. Plasma levels for VEGF and DLL4 were higher in the animals that underwent surgery (P < 0.01). In the second part, GSI treatment resulted in higher flap survival rates (P < 0.05). Microscopic analysis exhibited increase in the number of microvascular structures after GSI treatment (P < 0.05). Microangiographic evaluation showed that neovascularization increased in the GSI-applied flaps. Conclusions We present an evidence for the importance of the Notch pathway in the regulation of ischemia-induced angiogenesis. Notch inhibition promotes flap survival by creating a neovasculature that has an increase in vascular density.