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Amaç: Bu çalışmada Düzce ilinde 30 yaş ve üzeri sigara içenlerde akciğer kanseri semptom taramasının sigara bırakmadaki rolü araştırıldı. Gereç ve Yöntemler: Randomize 700 hane seçilerek 30 yaş üzeri sigara anamnezi olan 500 olgu çalışmaya alındı. Olguların sigara alışkanlıkları ve akciğer kanseri semptomları bir anket formuyla yüz yüze görüşmeyle sorgulandı. Sigaranın akciğer kanseri için önemli bir risk faktörü olduğu vurgulandı. Halen aktif sigara içen 474 olgunun 353'üne 6 ay sonra telefonla sigara alışkanlıkları yeniden sorgulandı. Bulgular: Toplam 353 sigara içen olgunun 32’si (%9,1) kadın, 321’i (%90,9) erkekti. Yaş ortalaması 46±9 olan olguların, ortalama 36±24 paket-yıl sigara anamnezi vardı. 130'u (%36,8) sigarayı bırakmayı düşünüyordu ve 65'i (%18,4) sigarayı bırakmayı denemişti. 6 ay sonraki kontrolde 17 olgu (%4,8) sigarayı bırakmış, 59 olgu (%16) sigarayı azaltmış, 2 olgu (%0,6) ise artırmıştı. Sigarayı bırakanların hiçbiri ilk görüşmede bırakmayı düşündüğünü söyleyenler veya daha önce bırakmayı deneyenlerden değildi. Sigarayı bırakanların yaş ortalaması sigara içmeye devam edenlere göre daha yüksekti (p=0,044) ve sigarayı bırakanların daha uzun süredir sigara içme öyküleri vardı (p=0,001). Hemoptizi ve çomak parmak semptomlarının varlığı sigara bırakma oranlarını anlamlı düzeyde artırmaktaydı (sırasıyla p=0,048, p=0,013). Bu çalışmada akciğer kanseri semptom sorgulamasından 6 ay sonraki sigara bırakma oranı (%4,8), kendiliğinden sigarayı bırakma oranından (%1) anlamlı düzeyde yüksekti (p=0,001). Sonuç: Akciğer kanseri semptom taramasıyla sigara bırakma oranları artırılabilir. Sigara bırakma poliklinikleri yanında bu tip yaklaşımlar sigara mücadelesine katkıda bulunabilir.

Introduction: Fatigue is considered a frequent and characteristic feature of sarcoidosis. This study was designed to determine the prevalence of fatigue in patients with sarcoidosis and to determine its potential clinical correlations in relation to symptom severity. Methods: A total of 56 sarcoidosis patients were included. Data on patient demographics, anthropometrics, disease characteristics, pulmonary function tests, 6-min walking distance (6MWD), blood biochemistry and hemogram findings were retrieved from hospital records. Psychometric instruments involved fatigue assessment scale (FAS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Short Form-36 (SF-36) for health-related QOL (HRQOL). Results: Mean±SD patient age was 50.9±11.9 years. Of 56 patients, 44 were females and 12 were males. When compared to FAS score

Objective To investigate the factors affecting compliance with positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy and establish the relationship between compliance and pulmonary function tests (PFT) in patients with OSA. Material and methods In this prospective study, patients with OSA using PAP devices were questioned about the complaints related to the device. Depression and anxiety scales along with PFT parameters were also assessed. Results Of 98 participants, 63% were men. The mean age was 52.0 +/- 9.6 years. Sixty-seven percent of the patients were compliant with their devices. A significant difference was observed between the proportion of the participants compliant or non-compliant with the device, based on OSA severity (p < 0.05). Beck depression inventory (BDI) and Beck anxiety inventory (BAI) scores of the compliant patients were significantly lower than those of the non-compliant patients (p < 0.001, p = 0.044, respectively). No statistically significant difference was detected between the groups regarding individual pulmonary function tests (p > 0.05). The rates of nasal mask use, not having difficulty in tolerating CPAP, falling asleep, absence of abdominal distension, no facial sores, no air leakage, patients benefiting from the device, reduction in daytime sleepiness, and the belief that they are receiving appropriate therapy in participants compliant with the device were higher than those in non-compliant participants (p < 0.05). The rates of claustrophobia and discomfort due to pressure were significantly lower in patients compliant with the device than in the non-compliant patients (p < 0.05). Conclusion While no relationship was detected between PFT parameters and PAP therapy compliance, significant factors affecting the device compliance were detected. WOS:000679638200001 2-s2.0-85111554942 PubMed: 34328605

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare the workers in the metal and transportation sectors in terms of COVID-19 infection frequency and to examine and establish links between infection frequency and the workplace working conditions. METHODS: A survey was prepared and conducted with a questionnaire prepared on the Google Form platform consisting of questions about the pandemic among the members of the All Transport Workers’ and The United Metalworkers’ Union in Turkey. RESULTS: The number of workers diagnosed with COVID-19 was 5.8% in the transportation sector and 2.8% in the metal sector, with a significant difference (p=0.036). The percentage of workers diagnosed with COVID-19 who worked at a physical proximity less than 2 m in the transportation sector was higher than those who worked in the metal sector (p=0.014). The proportion of those who stated that there were COVID-19 patients among their colleagues and working at a physical proximity less than 2 m at the workplace was 18.2% in the transportation and 10.6% in the metal sector, with a significant difference (p=0.003), those who took time off from work was 74%, but 28.5% successively (p

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to evaluate the perspective of the Turkish Thoracic Society (TTS) members regarding institutional preparedness, in terms of administrative measures and availability of personal protective equipment (PPE), in the first and third months of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in Turkey. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A 22-item online survey was e-mailed between the first and third months to TTS members, and participants’ responses were evaluated. RESULTS: The number of participants was 295 in the first survey and 141 in the second. In the second survey, the percentage of answers implying availability increased in all 18 control measures, 16 of which were statistically significant. However, there were still less than half of the respondents who reported the availability of psychological and behavioral support and some PPE, including respirators, facial protectors, goggles, and gowns. Statistical significance was observed for provision of a waiting area (P = .008), rooms for aerosol-gener-ating procedures (P = .042), and special wards for patients with suspected or definite COVID-19 (P < .001);testing healthcare workers (HCWs) with a history of contact with a COVID-19 case (P < .001);and surveillance of symptomatic HCWs (P = .048), between tertiary vs. primary and secondary healthcare facilities in the first survey, but provision of special wards (P = .002) and supply for aprons (P = .027) in the second survey. CONCLUSION: Our results showed an improvement in control measures in the third month of the pandemic. However, the persistent low availability of psychological and behavioral support and several items of PPE pointed out the need for action. Considering the health and safety of HCWs, the control measures should be actively monitored and deficiencies eliminated. ©Copyright 2021 by Turkish Thoracic Society-Available online at www.turkthoracj.org.

Background The International Labour Organization (ILO) Classification of Radiographs of Pneumoconioses is used as the primary tool to determine compensation for pneumoconiosis in Turkey. Aims We aimed to evaluate how the ILO classification applied, but obtaining chest radiographs in the workplace for screening until the completion of compensation claim files by the referral centres, based on the ILO reading. Methods The study included 320 digital chest radiographs previously taken for screening from eight different ceramic factories and having finalised claim files by referral centres. We used an expert reference panel consisting of five ILO readers to re-evaluate all the radiographs independently using ILO standard films and reached a conclusion based on the agreement among at least three readers. The evaluation primarily included technical quality and silicosis diagnosis with an ILO 1/0 or above small profusion. The results were compared with previous findings. Results Sixty-three (20%) chest radiographs were unacceptable for classification purposes according to the ILO technical quality grades. Among the remaining 257 chest radiographs, we diagnosed 103 with silicosis (40%), while the referral centres diagnosed 182 (71%). A discrepancy was found between our results and previous evaluations. We diagnosed silicosis in 50% and 17% of the previous silicosis and normal evaluations, respectively. Conclusions Our findings suggest that the use of the ILO classification for compensation claims may be problematic due to the way of its implementation in Turkey in addition to its subjectivity., Turkish Thoracic Society (TTS), The study was funded by Turkish Thoracic Society (TTS). The opinions, findings and conclusion expressed in this publication are those of authors and not necessarily those of TTS.

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the data of Turkish health care workers practicing chest medicine on their coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) status and related parameters. METHODS: This descriptive study included online survey data that the Turkish Thoracic Society conducted with its members in two phases starting in June and December 2020. The 33-item survey included demographic data, smoking status, the presence of any chronic diseases, occupation, working status, and non–work-related and work-related COVID-19 exposure characteristics. RESULTS: Of 742 responses, 299 (40.3%) reported that they had contracted COVID-19. The second survey detected a higher frequency of health care workers who had contracted COVID-19 (12.1% versus 57.4%, p

As the chest diseases clinic of DüzceMedical School, we were one of the departments that took an active role in the COVID-19 pandemic. Chest diseases department; It was one of the main branches in the differential diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of COVID-19 cases. In this process, our assistants, who were our hands and arms, were our fighters who were at the forefront of the pandemic process. During the pandemic process, we worked every day with an order consisting of a faculty member and two assistants. We continued our scientific meetingand assistant trainings online so that our training activities are not interrupted. On the one hand, we continued our scientific activities by participating in the studies, planning new research, and writing projects. As a result, when we look back, we have completed this difficult process by further enhancing our sense of solidarity that exists as a department in the pandemic process we experienced for the first time in our lives., Düzce Tıp Fakültesi göğüs hastalıkları kliniği olarak COVID-19 pandemisinde aktif rol alan bölümlerden biriydik. Göğüs hastalıkları bölümü; COVID-19 olgularının ayırıcı tanı, tedavi ve takibinde yer alan ana branşlardandı. Bu süreçte elimiz, kolumuz olan asistanlarımız pandemi sürecinin en ön cephesinde yer alan savaşçılarımızdı. Pandemi sürecinde her gün bir öğretim üyesi ve iki asistandan oluşan bir düzenle çalıştık. Eğitim faaliyetlerimizin de aksamaması adına bilimsel toplantı ve asistan eğitimlerimize online olarak devam ettik. Bir taraftan da bilimsel aktivitelerimize merkeze çalışmalara katılarak, yeni araştırmalar planlayarak, projeler yazarak devam ettik. Sonuç olarak geriye dönüp baktığımızda hayatımızda ilk defa deneyimlediğimiz pandemi sürecinde bölüm olarak var olan dayanışma duygumuzu daha da perçinleyerek bu zor süreci tamamladık.

WOS: 000518179400017 PubMed: 32158320 Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between bacteriological case definitions and indoor and outdoor air quality parameters in tuberculosis (TB). Materials and Methods: A total of 200 patients with TB diagnosed and treated in our hospital during 2012-2018 were included to this study. The air monitoring measurement parameters of the National Air Quality Network [particulate matter 10 (PM10), sulfur dioxide (SO2), air temperature, air pressure, and relative humidity] for the same time period were obtained from the web page http://laboratory.cevre.gov.tr/Default. ltr.aspx. Results: Of the 200 patients, 62.5% (125) were males and 37.5% (75) were females. The rate of diagnosis based on culture and smear positivity was 48.4% (31), which was significantly higher than that in the clinic [10.9% (7)] among patients who used stove for warming. The rate of diagnosis based on culture and smear positivity [52.1% (25)] was significantly higher than that in the clinic [8.3% (4)] among patients who were exposed to biomass. The univariate analysis revealed no significant independent effect of warming and biomass use on case definition. According to the case definitions, the mean values of PM10, SO2, and temperature in the diagnosed month showed no statistically significant difference. The humidity level in the month was significantly higher, during which cases diagnosed using smear and culture positivity were compared with cases diagnosed using only culture positivity (p=0.023). Conclusion: This study indicates that biomass used as a cooking fuel is a risk factor for pulmonary TB, implying that TB occurrence can be reduced significantly by lowering or preventing the exposure to cooking smoke emitted from biomass fuel.

Background: There are few studies showing that the increase in particulate matters less than 10 mu m (PM10) values increases the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI). We aimed to investigate relationship between air quality parameters and the seasons with the AHI. Methods: This was a retrospective study that included 500 adults. Polysomnography (PSG) was performed on all patients. Oxygen saturation, air temperature, relative humidity, and PM10 values were recorded in Duzce for every year. The parameters of the national air quality network and sleep parameters of 500 individuals hospitalized between 2015 and 2017 were checked. Results: A total of 500 patients were included in the study, of whom 316 (63.2%) were male and 184 (36.8%) were female. While the AHI value of patients who presented during 2016 was 27.5, it had significantly declined to 20.2 in 2017 (p = .024). A significant decline was observed in AHI values of OSA patients from 2016 to 2017 (p = .043). A significant positive correlation was observed between REM-related AHI and relative humidity (r = 0.183, p = .002). Conclusions: This study showed a clear relationship between AHI and PM10 during winter when air pollution parameters are high in the region. PM10 emerged as a parameter that substantially increases the relative risk for OSA. WOS:000483191800001 2-s2.0-85071006139 PubMed: 31441672

Amaç: Hastane enfeksiyonları tıp dünyasının çözüm bulmaya çalıştığı öncelikli sorunlar arasında yeralmaya devam etmektedir. Yatan hastalarda nozokomiyal pnömoniye sebep olabilecek kaynaklardanbiri de oksijen tedavisi sırasında kullanılan nemlendirme cihazlarıdır. Bu çalışmada Düzce Üniversitesi Araştırma ve Uygulama Hastanesi’nin çeşitli servislerinde bulunan oksijen tedavisi nemlendiricilerinimikrobiyolojik açıdan incelemek amaçlanmıştır.Gereç ve Yöntemler: 16.9.2016—20.3.2017 döneminde toplam 102 adet oksijen tedavisi nemlendiricisinden steril kaplara su örnekleri alınarak %5 koyun kanlı agar, eosin methylene blue agar, Sabourauddextrose agar ve Löwenstein–Jensen besiyerine ekim yapıldı. Üreyen koloniler konvansiyonel ve otomatize yöntemler kullanılarak tanımlandı.Bulgular: Yüz iki örneğin 69’unda (%68) toplam 98 adet mikroorganizma üremiştir. Bu organizmaların75’i (%77) bakteri, 23’ü (%23) mantar idi. Bakterilerin 56’sı (%75) nonfermentatif Gram-negatif bakteri(Chryseobacterium indologenes, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter lwoffii, Acinetobacter baumannii, Acinetobacter ursingii, Acinetobacter haemolyticus, Sphingomonas paucimobilis, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, Delftia acidovorans, Brevundimonas diminuta); 13’ü (%18) Corynebacterium spp.;2’si (%3) Rhizobium radiobacter; 1’i (%1) Bacillus spp.; 1’i (%1) Neisseria spp.; 1’i (%1) Staphylococcusepidermidis; 1’i ise (%1) Mycobacterium gordonae idi. Mantarların ise 21’i (%91) küf mantarı (Fusariumspp., Aspergillus spp., Penicillium spp., Exophiala spp., Cladosporium spp., Acremonium spp., Cladophialophora spp., Alternaria spp.); 2’si (%9) maya mantarı (Candida krusei, Candida albicans) idi.Tartışma ve Sonuç: Servislerde bulunan oksijen tedavisi nemlendiricilerinin kullanımı ve dezenfeksiyonuile ilgili kurallara yeterince uyulmadığı görülmüştür. Sağlık çalışanlarının bu kurallara riayet konusundaeğitilmesi ve denetlenmesi gerektiği düşünülmüştür. Aim: Hospital infections continue to be a primary problem for which the medical world seeks a solution. One potential cause of nosocomial pneumonia in hospitalized patients is the humidification devices used in oxygen therapy. In this study, we aimed to microbiologically examine the oxygen therapy humidifiers in use in various departments of the Düzce University Research and Training Hospital, Turkey. Materials and Methods: Between 16.9.2016 and 20.3.2017, water samples from a total of 102 oxygen therapy humidifiers were collected into sterile containers for culturing in 5% sheep blood agar, eosin methylene blue agar, Sabouraud dextrose agar, and the Löwenstein–Jensen medium. The colonies grown were identified using conventional and automated methods. Results: A total of 98 microorganisms were grown in 69 (68%) of the 102 samples obtained. Of these organisms, 75 (77%) were bacteria and 23 (23%) fungi. Of the bacteria, 56 (75%) were nonfermentative gram-negative bacteria (Chryseobacterium indologenes, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter lwoffii, Acinetobacter baumannii, Acinetobacter ursingii, Acinetobacter haemolyticus, Sphingomonas paucimobilis, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, Delftia acidovorans, Brevundimonas diminuta), 13 (18%) Corynebacterium spp., 2 (3%) Rhizobium radiobacter, 1 (1%) Bacillus spp., 1 (1%) Neisseria spp. 1 (1%) Staphylococcus epidermidis, and 1 (1%) Mycobacterium gordonae. Of the fungi, 21 (91%) were molds (Fusarium spp., Aspergillus spp., Penicillium spp., Exophiala spp., Cladosporium spp., Acremonium spp., Cladophialophora spp., Alternaria spp.) and 2 (9%) yeasts (Candida krusei, Candida albicans). Discussion and Conclusion: It was seen that the regulations for use and disinfection of oxygen therapy humidifiers were not adequately observed in the hospital departments. It was concluded that health professionals should be trained and supervised for compliance with the regulations.

Background. In recent years, many studies have evaluated the increasing incidence of asthma and chronic respiratory diseases among children living close to rural areas with pesticide application. Pesticide exposure in 266 children (126 girls and 140 boys) in Sanliurfa, a cotton-producing province in Turkey, was explored in this work. Four different villages spread over 40 km(2) were included. Methods. Measurements of peak expiratory flow (PEF) in 266 children were conducted in late June, before intensive pesticide applications in the cotton-producing fields. The measurements were repeated for 72 of 266 children after pesticide application in late August. PEF, particulate matter with diameter less than 2.5 mu m (PM2.5), particulate matter with diameter less than 10 mu m (PM10), temperature, humidity, and wind speed were measured. Results. After pesticide application, mean PM2.5 and PM10 values were significantly increased compared to before pesticide application (p < 0.001 for both parameters). After pesticide exposure, nasal discharge, sneezing, burning and itching in the eyes, cough, sputum production, wheezing, shortness of breath and chest tightness were significantly increased (p < 0.001). The mean PEF value was demonstrated to decrease significantly after pesticide application (p < 0.001). Moreover, significant negative correlations were noted between PEF and PM10 and between PEF and PM2.5 (p < 0.001). Conclusions. Intensive pesticide application causes respiratory dysfunction and increased respiratory complaints in children living near the affected agricultural areas, and impacts quality of life adversely. The results of this work can be used to develop an early warning system and methods to prevent respiratory disorders in children residing in the study area., Turkish Thoracic Society, The authors wish to express their thanks to the Turkish Thoracic Society for providing financial support for this work.

European-Respiratory-Society (ERS) International Congress -- SEP 28-OCT 02, 2019 -- Madrid, SPAIN WOS: 000507372407393 … European Respiratory Soc

PubMed ID: 32144590 Objective: This study aimed to determine the association between the severity of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and serum Clara cell protein (CC16) levels in non-smoking patients with OSA. Methods: This prospective study included non-smoking patients who presented with sleep-related disturbances and underwent polysomnography (PSG). The serum CC16 level was measured and its relationship to PSG parameters was investigated. Results: The study included 128 patients (83 men) with a mean age of 48.4 ± 11.9. OSA was detected in 66 men (70%) and 29 women (30%) (p = 0.051). The severity of OSA was mild in 32 (25%), moderate in 28 (22%), and severe in 35 (27%) of the patients. There was no significant difference in CC16 levels between the OSA group (1746 ± 1006) and the OSA negative group (1721 ± 1201, p = 0.91) levels. There was no significant difference between the CC16 levels of the each four groups. Mean serum CC16 levels were significantly lower in OSA negative men than OSA positive men (777 vs 1462, p = 0.005). No significant difference was observed in CC16 values according to OSA severity in women. Conclusion: The serum CC16 level does not differ between non-smoking OSA patients and OSA negative patients. © 2020, Springer Nature Switzerland AG.

FIRAT, ibrahim Hikmet/0000-0003-2594-4887 WOS: 000463467200004 PubMed: 30958982 OBJECTIVES: The most common chemical substances used as mass control agents are chloroacetophenone, chlorobenzylidene malononitrile, and oleoresin capsicum. These agents not only have local and rapid effects but also have systemic and long-term effects. The aim of the present study was to discuss the patterns of tear gas exposure and to investigate its effects on respiratory functions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A face-to-face survey was conducted in 86 individuals who had been exposed to tear gas indoor and outdoor during the public protests in June 2013. RESULTS: The most frequently reported respiratory complaints included cough, dyspnea, phlegm, and chest pain. Spirometry measurements including forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) were also performed. Indoor exposers have lower mean % predicted FVC and FEV1 values than outdoor exposers. All complaints and signs were more common in indoor exposure to tear gas than in outdoor exposure. CONCLUSION: Safety of the chemicals used as mass control agents during protests is doubtful as these agents are associated with several health risks.

Akgun, Metin/0000-0003-3404-4274 WOS: 000506838600006 PubMed: 31584386 OBJECTIVES: It is considered that occupational exposure accounts for up to 25% of all cases of adult asthma. We need detailed individual-level data regarding the relationship between asthma, occupation, and work-related symptoms in Turkey to inform policies on workplace safety. This study aimed to investigate the association between asthma symptoms, occupation type, and workplace exposure in patients with asthma. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional multicenter study, adult patients with asthma were investigated by a questionnaire in terms of relationship between asthma symptoms and workplace exposure. The study population was adult patients who had been diagnosed with asthma for at least six months prior to study and who were under follow-up in Ankara, Istanbul, Erzurum, Duzce, Trabzon, Denizli, and Diyarbakir. RESULTS: The mean age of the 345 cases (188 females) was 41 +/- 13 years. The majority of the patients (36.8%) were "housewives"; other common occupations were office workers (6.7%), textile workers (4%), students (3.8%), hospital staff (3.5%), and cleaners (2.9%). Thirty-five percent of patients described worsening of asthma during working periods. Among patients with a history of increased symptoms in workplace, 100 (83%) developed asthma after starting work, while 20 patients (17%) had pre-existing asthma. Half of the patients described workplace exposure to dust, fume, and gases. Exposure to cleaning supplies at home was present in 43% of the subjects. Of all housewives, 12% (n=15) described an increase in their asthma symptoms during housework. The frequency of bleach or hydrochloric acid use alone among housewives was 60% and 34%, which was significantly higher than other occupations. The FEV1/FVC ratio of housewives who frequently used hydrochloric acid (FEV1/FVC=71.5) was lower than that of non-users (FEV1/FVC=74.9) (p=0.024). CONCLUSION: Patients with asthma experience significant workplace exposures that exacerbate their symptoms. Housewives experience significant exposure that triggers allergic and asthma symptoms. It is important to raise awareness about the prevalence and risks of occupational (including in-home) exposures in asthmatics patients and physicians to minimize asthma triggers and exacerbations.

OBJECTIVES: It is considered that occupational exposure accounts for up to 25% of all cases of adult asthma. We need detailed individual-level data regarding the relationship between asthma, occupation, and work-related symptoms in Turkey to inform policies onworkplace safety. This study aimed to investigate the association between asthma symptoms, occupation type, and workplace exposurein patients with asthma.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional multicenter study, adult patients with asthma were investigated by a questionnairein terms of relationship between asthma symptoms and workplace exposure. The study population was adult patients who had been diagnosed with asthma for at least six months prior to study and who were under follow-up in Ankara, İstanbul, Erzurum, Düzce, Trabzon,Denizli, and Diyarbakır.RESULTS: The mean age of the 345 cases (188 females) was 41±13 years. The majority of the patients (36.8%) were "housewives”; othercommon occupations were office workers (6.7%), textile workers (4%), students (3.8%), hospital staff (3.5%), and cleaners (2.9%). Thirtyfive percent of patients described worsening of asthma during working periods. Among patients with a history of increased symptomsin workplace, 100 (83%) developed asthma after starting work, while 20 patients (17%) had pre-existing asthma. Half of the patientsdescribed workplace exposure to dust, fume, and gases. Exposure to cleaning supplies at home was present in 43% of the subjects. Ofall housewives, 12% (n=15) described an increase in their asthma symptoms during housework. The frequency of bleach or hydrochloricacid use alone among housewives was 60% and 34%, which was significantly higher than other occupations. The FEV1/FVC ratio ofhousewives who frequently used hydrochloric acid (FEV1/FVC=71.5) was lower than that of non-users (FEV1/FVC=74.9) (p=0.024).CONCLUSION: Patients with asthma experience significant workplace exposures that exacerbate their symptoms. Housewives experience significant exposure that triggers allergic and asthma symptoms. It is important to raise awareness about the prevalence and risksof occupational (including in-home) exposures in asthmatics patients and physicians to minimize asthma triggers and exacerbations.

Introduction: Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and blood checks are performed by mobile scanning devices during workplace periodic checks. It should be applied with appropriate technique and quality to evaluate the PFT. There is no data in our country about the periodical PFT being made with proper technique and quality. From this point, in this study we aimed to evaluate the technical competence of the PFTS. Methods: The periodic PFTs which were performed with service procurement in different workplaces between 2016-2017 were evaluated with a cross-sectional study.PFTs were evaluated according to the American Association of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (ACOEM) criteria; Can current volume curve be accepted? Is there an incomplete inspiration maneuver in the current volume curve? Did the person make expiration in the test? The commentary in the PRTs report and interpretation of 4 different pulmonologists participating in the study was recorded. Results: A total of 346 PFTs report of 336 (97%) male with a mean age of 34 ± 7 were evaluated. The current volume curve could be accepted in 39%, incomplete inspiratory maneuver in 61%, complete expiration maneuver in 18%, early cut of expiration in 55% ere recorded. The interpretation on the PFTs report was normal in 61% and restrictive in 33%. On the other hand, the comment of the 4 researchers: normal PFTs in 21%and 71% PFTs was determined to be repeated Discussion: During the periodic workplace screenings an importance should be given to the PFTs. The PFTs should be repeated with appropriate technique if necessary. The periodic training of the testers is also important.

WOS: 000435396300006 PubMed: 30020040 Introduction: Welding produces miscellaneous gases and particles that has various impact on respiratory system and long term exposure may result "welders'lung". The aim of this study is to describe the radiological findings of welders' and make an awereness for welders radilogical findings. Materials and Methods: The clinical and radiological findings of welders' who had hospital applications with respiratory symptoms between January 2010-January 2017 were evaluated retrospectively. Results: A total of 16 male welders with mean age 37 +/- 8 years had the mean duration of welding occupation 12 +/- 7 years. The most common symptoms were coughing (87%), sputum production (63%) and dyspnoea (63%). Thirteen welders were working in shipyards and 3 in construction business and other workplaces. Three (19%) patients had rhonchi on physical examination and these patients had decreased FEV1/FVC values below 70% on spirometry. Poorly-defined centrilobular micronodules that were not clearly visible on chest radiographs observed on thorax high resolution computed tomography. Bronchoscopy was performed to 7 patients. Iron-positive pigment granules and ferruginous bodies were revealed in 3 patients' bronchoalveolar lavage. Conclusion: Welders' chest X-ray deserve a closer look. In pulmonary radiology, there may be radiographical findings ranging from small ill defined nodules to groundglass opacites. Physcians should look more careful to welders' chest X-ray and incase of suspicious findings best can be detected on high HRCT. An awareness for the radiological findings will also reduce interventional procedures in these patients hereby, occupational history must be included in daily practice of physicians.

Amaç: Bu çalışmada, AVAPS (Average Volume Assured Pressure Support) modu ile Noninvazif Mekanik Ventilasyon (NMV) uygulanan hastalarda hasta uyumu ve klinik başarıoranlarının araştırılması amaçlanmıştır. Bu çalışma Düzce Üniversitesi Bilimsel AraştırmaProjesidir (Proje No: 2015.04.03.312).Yöntem:Hiperkapnik Solunum YetmezliğiGelişen 22 Kronik Obstrüktif Akciğer Hastalığı (KOAH) hastalarına AVAPS modu uygulandı.Başlangıç parametreleri olarak; AVAPS ModundaIPAP Max 20 cmH2O, IPAP Min 12 cmH2O, Hedef Tidal volüm= İdealkilo x 6 ml/kg, EPAP 5 cmH2O ayarları ile başlanıp hastanın tolere ettiği ölçüde arttırılacakve SaO2 ≥ %90 olacak şekilde verildi. Hastaya verilen basınçdesteğinin 6 ml/kg TV’ü oluşturacak şekilde olmasına dikkat edildi. Hastaların NIVbağlandıktan sonra 1, 2, 8 ve 24. saatlerdearter kan gazı kontrolleri, nabız, solunum sayısı, Borg dispne skalasıölçümleri yapıldı.Bulgular:Çalışmaya dahil edilen yaş ortalaması 70±10 olan 22 hastanın %72,7 (n:16)’sierkekti. Geliş APACHE Skor ortalaması 16,50±4,24’tü. Geliş nabız ve solunumsayısı ortamaları sırasıyla 96±13 ve24±4 idi. Borg dispne skalasıortancası 6 (min:2, max:8) idi. Hastaların %59 (n:13)’unda 24saat içerisinde PH değerleri normal aralığına ulaştı. Hastaların NMV öncesi PH, PCO2, PaO2/FiO2ve Borg dispne skalası değerler ile NMV uygulamasının 1, 2, 8, 24 saat PH, PCO2,PaO2/FiO2 ve Borg dispne skalası değerlerikarşılaştırıldığında istatistiksel anlamlı olarak PH (p, Objective: In this study, weaimed to investigate patient compliance and clinical success rates in patientsundergoing NIV with AVAPS (Average Volume Assured Pressure Support) mode. Thisstudy is Düzce University Scientific Research Project (Project No: 2015.04.03.312).Method: As initialparameters; IPAP Max 20 cm H2O, IPAP Min 12 cm H2O, Target Tidal volume = Idealweight 6 ml / kg EPAP in AVAPS mode, starting with 5 cm H2O settings andincreasing to the extent that the patient is tossed and SaO2 ≥ 90% . Care was takento ensure that the pressure support supplied to the patient was 6 ml / kg TV.Arterial blood gas controls, pulse rate, respiratory rate and Borg dyspnea weremeasured at 1, 2, 8 and 24 hours after NMV adherence of the patients.Results: 72.7% (n: 16) of 22patients included in the study had a mean age of 70 ± 10. The arrival APACHEScore averaged 16,50 ± 4,24. The number of arriving pulses and respiration were96 ± 13 and 24 ± 4, respectively. Borg dyspnea scale mean was 6 (min: 2, max:8). 59% (n: 13) of the patients had undetectable pH values ​​within 24 hours.When PH, PCO2, PaO2 / FiO2 and Borg dyspnea scores of patients before NIV and NIVapplication values ​​of 1,2,8,24 hours PH, PCO2, PaO2 / FiO2 and Borg dyspneascores of patients were compared statistically, PH (p

The analysis of the effects of the fumes generated during the cooking process in the kebab establishments on the respiratory health. PM10 and PM2.5 measurements were performed in the indoor environment of 3 kebab restaurant in the center of Urfa province. Questionnaire involving respiratory complaints and past medical history and respiratory function tests were performed on workers (57 male kebab workers). Average age of kebab workers were 33 years and their cigarette consumption was 9.5 p / yr and average work year was 13 years. The incidence of complaints were calculated(cough % 71.4, sputum % 71.4, dispnea %71.4 , eye burning sensation % 81, tightness in chest %83.3, burning sensation in nose and throat %92.9, sneeze %83.5, wheezing %95, headache %95, fatique %100, tiredness %95. Average forced vital capacity (FVC) was % 93 and the forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) was % 95. Average peak expiratory flow rates of the kebab workers were % 79 and the maximal mid expiratory flow rate were % 93. Mean levels of PM10 and PM2.5 (PM10: 1900 μg / m3 and PM2.5: 570 μg / m3) were measured in the kebab restaurants. At the same timet outdoor environment PM10 (300 μgr / m3) and PM2.5 (130 μgr / m3) levels are significantly lower than PM levels of kebab restaurants. Maximum PM values were high in Kebab restaurants(PM10: 5695 µgr/m3 ile PM2.5: 956 µgr/m3). High levels of PM10 and PM2.5 pollution were observed in indoor kebab restaurants. Respiratory complaints of Kebap workers increased and respiratory functions were effected. It is important to ensure proper indoor ventilation and respiratory protection in the kebab manufacturing business, which produces high levels of PM pollution

Birsen Ocakli,1 Ipek Ozmen,1 Eylem Acartürk Tunçay,1 Sinem Gungor,1 Hilal Altinoz,1 Nalan Adiguzel,1 Zafer Ali Sak,2 Gokay Gungor,1 Zuhal Karakurt,1 Peri Arbak3 1University of Health Sciences, Sureyyapasa Chest Diseases and Thoracic Surgery Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey; 2Department of Chest Diseases, Harran University, Faculty of Medicine, Sanliurfa, Turkey; 3Department of Chest Diseases, Duzce University, Faculty of Medicine, Duzce, Turkey Purpose: This study was designed to evaluate errors in inhaler technique in COPD vs asthma patients and to investigate the association of poor inhaler technique with patient demographics and clinical variables. Patients and methods: A total of 509 adult patients with COPD (n=328) or asthma (n=181) who were currently using an inhaler device were included in this study. Data on patient demographics, duration of disease, type and duration of inhaler therapy, and assessment of inhaler technique were recorded. Results: Metered dose inhaler (MDI) was the most common type of inhaler used by a similarly high percentage of patients in both COPD (83.2%) and asthma (77.3%) groups. Failure to exhale before inhaling through device (75.8% and 68.5% for MDIs; 73.2% and 71.8% for Aerolizer®/Handihaler®; 53.1% and 66.7% for Turbuhaler®) was the most common error in inhaler technique, in both COPD and asthma groups. Device-specific errors in inhaler techniques were more common in asthma patients as compared with COPD patients, particularly for MDIs (P-values ranged from 0.046 to 0.0005), as associated with female gender (failure to press the buttons on both sides of Aerolizer®/Handihaler®, P=0.006), shorter duration of disease (failure to hold MDI or head in a vertical position, P

Introduction: The effects of pesticide application on the health of the individuals living in the same environment should be considered as a public health problem.Objective: We aimed to compare respiratory complaints and respiratory functions of people living in agricultural areas, before and after pesticide application which cause air pollution. Materials and Methods: Two hundred and fifty two individuals (144 women, 108 men) living in Sanliurfa Province in Turkey (widespread cotton farming area) were asked about respiratory and systemic complaints, lung function tests were applied. After administration of pesticide, 66 individuals were examined. PM2.5 (μgr / m3) and PM10 (μgr / m3) were measured. Results: The mean values of PM2.5 (7.9 μg / m3 and 13.0 μg / m3, p Conclusion: Pesticide administration leads to decrease in respiratory function and increase in respiratory complaints of adults living in the area.

Introduction: It has been well known that occupational exposure to aluminium leads to smelter asthma and pneumoconiosis. Epidemiological studies are needed to search the exposure conditions and duration. Scope: It is aimed to investigate the type of respiratory involvement. Materials and Methods: Male aluminium foundry workers living in Adapazari district (42 male, mean age: 32.2 ± 6.9 years) compared with 33 male controls without exposure (mean age: 30.0 ± 7.9 years). Mean urine aluminium levels of workers (10.7 ± 8.8 mcg/lt) were significantly higher than those of controls (2.2 ± 0.8, p Conclusion: Mean occupational aluminium exposure of 5 years leads a significant deterioration of workers respiratory health, pulmonary funcions and radiology. Preventive measures should be taken in aluminium foundry sector.

Balbay, Ege Gulec/0000-0002-1557-7019 WOS: 000390329600037 PubMed: 28083054 Objective: To determine whether the workers' periodic chest x-ray screening techniques in accordance with the quality standards is the responsibility of physicians. Evaluation of differences of interpretations by physicians in different levels of education and the importance of standardization of interpretation. Methods: Previously taken chest radiographs of 400 workers who are working in a factory producing the glass run channels were evaluated according to technical and quality standards by three observers (pulmonologist, radiologist, pulmonologist assistant). There was a perfect concordance between radiologist and pulmonologist for the underpenetrated films. Whereas there was perfect concordance between pulmonologist and pulmonologist assistant for over penetrated films. Results: Pulmonologist (52%) has interpreted the dose of the films as regular more than other observers (radiologist; 44.3%, pulmonologist assistant; 30.4%). The frequency of interpretation of the films as taken in inspiratory phase by the pulmonologist (81.7%) was less than other observers (radiologist; 92.1%, pulmonologist assistant; 92.6%). The rate of the pulmonologist (53.5%) was higher than the other observers (radiologist; 44.6%, pulmonologist assistant; 41.8%) for the assessment of the positioning of the patients as symmetrical. Pulmonologist assistant (15.3%) was the one who most commonly reported the parenchymal findings (radiologist; 2.2%, pulmonologist; 12.9%). Conclusion: It is necessary to reorganize the technical standards and exposure procedures for improving the quality of the chest radiographs. The reappraisal of all interpreters and continuous training of technicians is required.

In this study, we aimed to investigate the respiratory symptoms of miners who were survivors from Soma mine disaster at 2014. 90 survivors from Soma mine disaster that caused 302 death were invited to include the study by telephone. 39 miners were accepted to include study. Chest radiography, pulmonary function test, and ATS-DLD 78 respiraory questionnaire including socialdemographic findings were applied to all 39 miners. Chest radiography of miners were evaluated in accordance with ILO standards by 3 certificated readers. All miners were male and mean age was 35,3±6,2 years. Mean FEV1 % and FVC % were 89,2% (54%-124%) and 88,4% (45%-124%) respectively. Cough, sputum, wheezing, and dyspnea were seen in 17 (43,6%), 16 (41%), 13 (33,3%), and 18 (46,6%) miners respectively. 5 miners had COPD and 4 miners had asthma diagnosis. 23 (59%) miners were exposed severe dust more than 1 years. 32 (82,1%) miners also had smoking history and 23 of them were current smoker. There was no relation with duration of work and presence of symptoms (p>0,05). Also there was relation with duration of work and pulmonary function tests (p>0,05). After chest radiography evaluation, 12 (30,8%) of miners were considered to have pneumoconiosis by all 3 experienced readers. There was no relation with presence of pneumoconiosis findings and duration of work and presence of symptoms (p>0,05). In conclusion, half of the patients had respiratory symptoms and one third of them has pneumoconiosis findings at chest radiography.

There are many studies about clinical and laboratory results of carbon monoxide poisoning.Time duration from poisoning to admisson to hospital is also important. In this study we analyzed systemic,respiratory,and cardiovascular effects of carbon monoxide poisoning at Soma mine disaster retrospectively. The data of 90 male patients who were survivor from Soma Mine Disaster that caused 302 death as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning were invastigated retrospectively. Percentage of admission to hospital after mine disaster in first four hours, between four and eight hours, and after eight hours were 15,6%, 40%, and 44,4% respectively. General symptoms were headache (93,3%), dizziness (73,3%), nausea (50%), syncope (24,4%), vomiting (5,6%), visual disturbances (5,6%), confusion (3,3%). Respiratory symptoms were dyspnea (40%), cough (63,3%), and sputum (18,9%). Cardiac symptoms were chest pain (22,2%) and tachycardia (40%). There were pathological findings in 45,6% of patients. Level of leukocyte, urea, liver enzymes (SGOT, SGPT), and CK-MB were found higher in patients admitted to hospital after 8 hours than patients who admitted to hospital at first four hour (p In conclusion, transfer time to hospital in carbon monoxide poisoning is important. To reduce the effect of carbon monoxide poisoning emergency support systems must be improved.

Immunomodulatory drugs and TNF-alpha inhibitors paradoxically can lead to interstitial lung abnormalities in some cases. 40 consecutive patients were questioned and changes in chest X-ray taken in the last 4 years have been evaluated. 40 of the patients were male. The mean age was 49.5±11.7 years. The rate of patients with ankylosing spondylitis, rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis was 50%, 35% and 15%, respectively. Average years of disease were 11.4 ± 8.9 years. The rate of infliximab, etanercept, adalimumab and golimumab presciribed to patients was 47.5%, 32.5%, 12.5%, 32.5% and 12.5% and 7.5%, respectively. According to the order of frequency of past treatment of patients, the rate with sulfasalazine, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, methotrexate, steroids, hydroxychloroquine, azathioprine, and colchicine was 2.5%. 75%, 57.5%, 30%, 27.5%, 15%, 2.5%, respectively. The use of methotrexate in combination with inhibitors of TNF-alpha was 25%. There were parenchymal abnormalities in 44.8% of patients used sulfasalazine in their first X-ray (10% of those using abnormal, p = 0.50). There was significantly more abnormal parenchymal findings in patients using methotrexate in their third radiography (85.79y% to 30.8%, p = 0.041). The mediastinal pathology detected in the first radiographic examination of patients with hydroxychloroquine and non-hydroxychloroquine users was 50% (3/6) and 9.1% (3/33), respectively (p = 0.036). Similarly, it was 20% (2/10) and 0% in methotrexate (p = 0.045). The possible chest X-ray abnormalities may develop in patients treated with immunomodulatory and underlying disease must be carefully examined.

WOS: 000264777200009, PubMed ID: 19367045, Diesel exhaust (DE) has been accused for various health outcomes including exacerbation of asthma, chronic bronchitis. Exposure to DE has long-term effects on lung development in children and reductions in lung function have been reported. The aim of the study was to evaluate the annual changes in forced expiratory flows among toll collectors in Duzce city from 2002 to 2005. Annual FVC, FEV1 and MMF changes in smoker and nonsmoker 58 toll collectors and 37 controls selected among men who worked in the same company as officer have been followed up. No significant changes were seen in expiratory flows among smoker-nonsmoker toll collectors and controls (p>0.05). Annual FVC, FEV1 and MMF changes were not significantly different between smoker and nonsmoker toll collectors. Twelve toll collectors (20.7%) in the study group and 4 (10.8%) controls were found to have FEV1 and FVC below longitudinal lower limit of normal. The difference between groups did not reach statistically significance (p>0.05). Toll collectors (18/58) and controls (15/37) with spirometric measurements for three times showed no difference according to the rate of annual difference in either FEV1 (-21.3 +/- 133.1 ml/yr vs -44.3 +/- 166.6 (ml/yr) or FVC (13.2 +/- 202.9 ml/yr vs. -16.1 +/- 204.2 ml/yr). Further investigations including large groups with long term follow up are needed to observe annual FVC, FEV1 and MMF changes among toll collectors.

Yavuz, Özlem (Balikesir Author), Objective: There are few studies on the diesel exhaust particulates (DEP) / eosinophilic cationic protein (ECP) level relationship. This study aimed to detect ECP levels in a highly DE exposed group, named as toll collectors. Methods: In a cross-sectional study, levels of serum ECP, rates of respiratory symptoms, mean levels of respiratory functions, smoking status, and variations in peak expiratory flow (PEF) during weekends and working days were compared for 68 toll collectors (TC) (range of age, 24-48 years) and 28 controls (range of age, 25-61 years). All subjects in the study group were men. Results: No significant difference was observed in terms of symptoms and smoking rates between the toll collectors and control group. The number of toll collectors [12/68 (17.7%) vs 1/28 (3.5%)] with diurnal PEF variability in the working period was higher than that of controls (p=0.058). Mean ECP level of toll collectors was higher than that of controls (32.8 vs 21.4 ng/L), but the difference was not significant. Mean ECP levels were higher in subjects experiencing diurnal PEF variability during work and off-work periods (34.9 vs 28.3 ng/L, p=0.410). Conclusions: Serial PEF measurements combined with serum ECP measurements did not add a new tool to detect the sensitivity of workers dealing with DE. Much more diesel exhaust exposed workers should be included to search for cheap and available methods when evaluating airway.

Free radical-mediated injury to lung and pulmonary vasculature is an important mechanism in hypoxia-induced lung damage. In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential protective effects of erdosteine as an antioxidant agent on hypobaric hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension. Adult male rats were assigned randomly to three groups. The first group of rats was exposed to hypobaric-hypoxia and the second group was treated with erdosteine (20mg/kg, daily) for 2 weeks, during which time they were in a hypoxic chamber. These groups were compared with normoxic controls. All rats were sacrificed after 2 weeks. The hypoxia-induced increase in right ventricle to left ventricle plus septum weight ratio (from 0.20+/-0.01 to 0.26+/-0.01) was reduced significantly in the erdosteine-treated group (0.23+/-0.01). Malondialdehyde levels were elevated (from 0.33+/-0.11 to 0.59+/-0.02) and total antioxidant status was not changed significantly (from 1.77+/-0.42 to 2.61+/-0.23) by hypoxia. In contrast to the hypoxia-exposed group, malondialdehyde levels were significantly decreased in the erdosteine-treated group (0.37+/-0.02). Total antioxidant status (4.03+/-0.22) was significantly higher in erdosteine-treated rats when compared to non-treated rats. Histopathological examination demonstrated that erdosteine prevented inflammation and protected lung parenchyma and pulmonary endothelium of hypoxia-exposed rats.