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Abstract Progressive lung fibrosis is associated with poorly understood aging-related endothelial cell dysfunction. To gain insight into endothelial cell alterations in lung fibrosis we performed single cell RNA-sequencing of bleomycin-injured lungs from young and aged mice. Analysis reveals activated cell states enriched for hypoxia, glycolysis and YAP/TAZ activity in ACKR1+ venous and TrkB+ capillary endothelial cells. Endothelial cell activation is prevalent in lungs of aged mice and can also be detected in human fibrotic lungs. Longitudinal single cell RNA-sequencing combined with lineage tracing demonstrate that endothelial activation resolves in young mouse lungs but persists in aged ones, indicating a failure of the aged vasculature to return to quiescence. Genes associated with activated lung endothelial cells states in vivo can be induced in vitro by activating YAP/TAZ. YAP/TAZ also cooperate with BDNF, a TrkB ligand that is reduced in fibrotic lungs, to promote capillary morphogenesis. These findings offer insights into aging-related lung endothelial cell dysfunction that may contribute to defective lung injury repair and persistent fibrosis.

Bu çalışma, ülkeler arası sürdürülebilir hisse senedi endeksleri arasındaki zamana bağlı değişen koşullu korelasyonları ve volatiliteyi incelemeyi amaçlamakta; aynı zamanda enerji piyasaları ile sürdürülebilir hisse senedi performansları arasındaki ilişki dinamiklerini ortaya koymayı hedeflemektedir. İlk olarak, ABD ve Türkiye piyasaları için sürdürülebilir hisse senedi endeksleri arasındaki etkileşim, zamana bağlı değişen korelasyonu ve volatiliteyi dikkate alan DCC-GARCH modeli ile incelenmektedir. Ardından, petrol fiyatlarının, elde edilen dinamik koşullu korelasyonlar üzerindeki etkileri Granger nedensellik analizi kullanılarak ortaya konmaktadır. Araştırmanın sonuçları, ABD ve Türkiye sürdürülebilir hisse senedi endeksleri arasındaki dinamik koşullu korelasyon modelinin stabil olduğunu göstermektedir. Model parametreleri, gecikmeli şokun mevcut dinamik koşullu korelasyonlar üzerindeki etkisinin ve gecikmeli dinamik koşullu korelasyonların mevcut dinamik koşullu korelasyonlar üzerindeki etkisinin anlamlı olduğunu göstermekte; böylelikle ABD ve Türkiye sürdürülebilirlik endeksleri arasında dinamik koşullu korelasyonun varlığı ortaya konmaktadır. Bunun yanı sıra, petrol fiyatlarının, ABD ve Türkiye sürdürülebilir hisse senedi endeksleri arasındaki dinamik koşullu korelasyonlar üzerinde anlamlı bir nedensel etkisi olduğu bulunmaktadır. Son olarak, Etki-Tepki analizi sonucu, petrol fiyatlarında meydana gelen bir şoka karşılık, piyasalar arasındaki dinamik korelasyonun şok ile ters yönde bir tepki verdiği görülmekte; bu da ABD ve Türkiye hisse senedi piyasalarının sürdürülebilirlik endeksleri bakımından ayrıştığına işaret etmektedir.

Abstract Seizure semiology and electroencephalograph (EEG) are very important for determining seizure type, hemisphere lateralization, or localization. Clinical symptoms of focal seizures, as well as findings at the onset or end of a focal to bilateral tonic–clonic seizure (FBTCS), are highly informative for lateralization. This study aimed to investigate the relationship of asymmetric last clonic jerk in patients with temporal or extratemporal lobe epilepsy with pathologies, localization, lateralization, or other semiological findings detected in neuroimaging or neuro psychometric tests and its positive predictive value for the detection of hemisphere lateralization based on seizure onset ictal EEG activation. 44 patients with asymmetric last clonic jerks (aLCJ) who were followed up in our VEM unit were randomized 1:1 with epilepsy patients without. In patients with ipsilateral automatism and contralateral posture or gustatory and olfactory hallucinations aLCJ was less or absent. In patients with unilateral tonic activity, aLCJ was more common. The positive predictive value of aLCJ for ictal EEG activation lateralization was 86.36%. In conclusion, asymmetric last clonic beat is valuable for lateralization of FBTCS and should be considered. Its presence strongly and reliably lateralizes to the side of seizure onset.

The Effect of Brochure Based Training on Anxiety, Pain, and Life Findings for Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Abstract Radiation-induced renal fibrosis (RIRF) is a progressive, irreversible condition causing chronic kidney disease. Pentoxifylline (PTX) and vitamin E may mitigate radiation-induced damage and fibrosis. This study assesses their effectiveness. We used four groups, each with six rats: radiation therapy alone (RT-only), radiation therapy plus drug treatment (RT + drug), drug treatment alone (drug-only), and a control group. Rats were monitored for three months, with weight measurements every four weeks. Afterward, rats were analyzed biochemically and histologically, with blood and tissue samples taken for statistical comparison. No significant differences in serum creatinine levels and body weight were observed. RT-only group had more severe kidney tubule effects. Histomorphological, immunohistochemical, and TUNEL analyses showed significant RIRF mitigation in the RT + drug group. Our study highlighted molecular pathways (SMAD, TGF-beta, VEGF) and histological markers (collagens, a-SMA, fibronectin, metalloproteinases) associated with RIRF. PTX and vitamin E reduced ionizing radiation's impact on renal cells and mitigated radiation-induced kidney fibrosis. Further human studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Chronic subdural hematoma (c-SDH) is a frequent and serious neurological disease. It develops due to hemorrhage to the subdural space, mainly caused by head trauma. The middle meningeal artery (MMA) plays a critical role in the supply of blood to c-SDH. The decision on the type of treatment for c-SDH depends mainly on clinical and imaging evaluation. In cases in which patients are critically ill, the hematoma must be evacuated immediately. For this purpose, surgery is generally accepted as the mainstay of treatment. Among surgical techniques, twist-drill craniotomy, burr-hole craniotomy, and craniotomy are the three most used. The recurrence rate of c-SDH after surgery is an important problem with a rate of up to 30%. The technical success classification embolization of MMA (EMMA) has emerged as an effective and safe option for the treatment of c-SDH, especially those that recur. EMMA is commonly used as an adjunct to surgery or less frequently alone. The technical success of EMMA has been a promising minimal invasive strategy as an alternative or adjunctive therapy to surgical methods. Polyvinyl alcohol is the most widely used among various embolizing agents, including n-butyl cyanoacrylate, coil, and gelatin sponge. EMMA has been shown to prevent the formation or recurrence of c-SDH by eliminating blood flow to the subdural space. Complication rates are low. The large-scale comparative prospective will ensure efficacy and safety. This article aims to highlight the current information about EMMA in patients with c-SDH.

Environmental peacebuilding broadly refers to how sustainable management of natural resources can support prevention, mitigation, and resolution of conflict, as well as recovery after conflict. Shared natural resources constitute a common environmental challenge around which cooperation may be fostered. Environmentally damaging fires in conflict areas have received little attention from the peacebuilding field, especially compared to conflict related to water and oil, despite research that suggests fires may be caused or worsened by armed conflicts. The purpose of our study was twofold: (1) to investigate co-occurrences of armed conflict and fire in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI), which has seen substantial increases in both fire events and armed conflict in the past decade, and (2) to consider how the environmental peacebuilding framework could apply in this context, potentially offering a shift from conflict to cooperation around mutual environmental issues. Using data for 2016–2022, we analyzed the spatial patterns of fire/burned areas and armed conflict, considering potential connections between the two. Our findings indicated that one-fourth of the conflict hotspot areas coincided with fire hotspots. Two areas stood out as hotspots of both conflict and fire: the Amedi area in the north, dominated by the conflict between Turkey and the Kurdistan Workers’ Party, and the Makhmur area in the south, dominated by the conflict with the Islamic State. Though fires should be seen as a transboundary issue, few peacebuilding initiatives around fire and land resources are found in this conflict-ridden region, indicating a need for a long-term peace ecology approach to overcome the consequences of structural inequalities, conflict, and environmental destruction.

Background: Risk factors of candidemia are well-described in intensive care units (ICUs) before the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The increased rates of admission to ICUs have appeared during the pandemic. Methods: Patient characteristics and laboratory data of 80 candidemia with COVID-19, 101 candidemia without COVID-19, and 100 non-candidemia with COVID-19 patients were evaluated, in this study. Results: Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) ≥ 2, solid malignancy, total parenteral nutrition (TPN), central venous catheterization (CVC), hypotension, fever, urea, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), D-dimer, procalcitonin, ferritin, and delta neutrophil index (DNI) was found to be associated with candidemia in COVID-19 patients. TPN, hypotension, and fever were identified as independent predictors of candidemia in COVID-19, and candidemia in COVID-19 is characterized by significantly high mortality rates. Urea, lactate, and procalcitonin were defined as independent predictors of hospital mortality in candidemia patients with COVID-19. Conclusion: The presence of candidemia increases mortality in COVID-19. TPN, fever, and hypotension werefound to be the most powerful predictors of candidemia in COVID-19. Overall, these data show that candidemia in COVID-19 is characterized by significantly high mortality rates. Determination of distinctive features can prevent candidemia and mortality.

Aim: This descriptive study was conducted to analyze the existing situation and nurses' perspectives on work schedules. Method: The study sample consisted of 207 nurses who worked at 23 state hospitals. The data were collected with a 40-item questionnaire developed by the researchers. Descriptive statistics, Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney U, chi-square, and Spearman's correlation tests were used for data analysis. Results: The mean numbers of beds, nurses, daily hospitalized patients, and patients in the unit on the last shift were 24.23 (SD=15.01), 14.79 (SD=10.48), 9.16 (SD=8.2), and 12.10 (SD=10.28), respectively. Of the nurses, 49% had a rotating shift, 54.8% were dissatisfied with the shift system, and nurse scheduling was mostly prepared on paper by the clinic's responsible nurses and then loaded onto a computer. Conclusion: Fair and objective criteria and software should be used to prepare schedules with mostly fixed shifts and convenient work hours, without wasting time on manual scheduling. These results indicate factors that need to be taken into consideration in the preparation of nurses' work schedules and workforce planning.

The degree of monomer conversion (DC) values of three different dental composites were examined using three different methods: surface microhardness (ratio of bottom/top), Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Two of the dental composites included in the study were nanohybrid (Dentsply Neo Spectra ST HV and Omnichroma), and one was a microhybrid-labeled newly marketed composite containing nanoparticles (Dentac Myra). Composite discs were prepared according to the methodology for all methods and analyzed (2 mm thickness × 5 mm diameter). Surface microhardness values were measured in Vickers Hardness Number (VHN), while FT-IR and DSC values were obtained in percentage (%). Significant differences were observed in both bottom/top surface microhardness values and DC values obtained from FT-IR. However, there was no statistical difference in the ratio of bottom/top microhardness values. Neo Spectra ST HV exhibited superior performance in both microhardness and monomer conversion compared to the other two composites. Newly marketed Myra showed values close to Omnichroma. It was found that the values obtained by the DSC method were parallel to those obtained by FT-IR. In conclusion, the structure of dental composites leads to different mechanical properties. Additionally, DSC measurements and FTIR spectra were found to be complementary techniques for characterizing monomer conversion values.

The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of knowledge creation and affective commitment on organizational performance. The study also explores the mediating role of affective commitment in this relationship. The results based on the sample of 825 academics and members of the administrative staff at universities from Central and Eastern European countries support the proposed hypotheses of this research. Exploratory and Confirmatory factor analyses were performed to assess the reliability of scales, while structural equation modeling was used to evaluate the hypotheses. This study demonstrates that knowledge creation and affective commitment are predictors of organizational performance. It also shows that affective commitment, which is influenced by knowledge creation, is an important mediating factor that affects organizational performance at public and private universities in Central and Eastern European countries.

BACKGROUND: Non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) applied to limit the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic also affect the circulation and seasonal characteristics of other respiratory viruses. OBJECTIVES: Assess the impact of NPIs on the spread and seasonal characteristics of non-SARS-CoV-2 respiratory viruses and examine viral respiratory co-infections. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort SETTING: Single center in Turkey. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Syndromic multiplex viral polymerase chain reaction (mPCR) panel results of patients admitted to the Ankara Bilkent City Hospital with symptoms of acute respiratory tract infection between April 1, 2020 and October 30, 2022 were evaluated. Two study periods before and after 1 July 2021, when the restrictions were discontinued, were statistically analyzed and compared to determine the effect of NPIs on circulating respiratory viruses. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Prevalence of respiratory viruses as determined by syndromic mPCR panel. SAMPLE SIZE: 11300 patient samples were evaluated. RESULTS: At least one respiratory tract virus was detected in 6250 (55.3%) patients. Of these, at least one respiratory virus was detected in 5% in the first period (between April 1, 2020 and June 30, 2021, when NPIs were applied), and in 95% in the second period (between July 1, 2021 and October 30, 2022, when NPIs were relaxed). After the removal of NPIs, there was a statistically significant increase in hRV/EV, RSV-A/B, Flu A/H3, hBoV, hMPV, PIV-1, PIV-4, hCoV-OC43, PIV-2 and hCoV-NL63 (P

This study investigates whether cognitive styles have an effect on the interpretation of implications hidden in speech and examines the Event-Related Potential (ERP) pattern of this effect. In the first study (104 participants), a Cognitive Style Analysis (CSA) test, an interpretation task (meaning), Indirectness Scale, Cultural Communication Scale-Turkish (CCS-TUR), and information collection forms were used as data collection tools. In the second study (29 participants), an interpretation task (implicitness) and the EEG-ERP system were used. In the meaning interpretation task, the analyses revealed that individuals with an Analytic CS tendency preferred interpretations containing implications less than individuals with Holistic CS. In addition, it has been observed that individuals with an Analytic CS tendency focus their attention more when asking questions for the texts in the implicitness interpretation task according to the ERP patterns. This may be an indication that brain function is physically different in all individuals when interacting with each other.

Abstract Introduction Local anesthesia with prilocaine has become a routine part of ambulatory circumcision procedures. Methemoglobinemia is a rare but potentially lethal complication of local anesthetics. Case presentation We report the case of a 40-day-old Turkish boy who presented with cyanosis after receiving local anesthesia with prilocaine. His methemoglobin level revealed severe methemoglobinemia (methemoglobin = 44%). His cyanosis resolved after intravenous administration of methylene blue. Conclusion Although the association between prilocaine use and methemoglobinemia has generally restricted the use of prilocaine in babies, it is still widely used in ambulatory procedures, especially during circumcision in the neonatal period. Prilocaine should not be used in babies who are less than 3 months old because of the risk of methemoglobinemia; other local anesthetics may be used for this age group. Furthermore, general anesthesia by mask ventilation may be favored for babies less than 3 months of age instead of local anesthetics.

The aim of our study is to determine whether the first trimester systemic immune inflammation index (SII) and other hematological markers can be useful as new markers of isolated oligohydramnios that may develop later. Two main groups were formed in this retrospective study. In the first group, 57 pregnant women with isolated oligohydramnios in their third trimester (between 28-40 weeks) were included. The control group consisted of 137 healthy pregnant women with a normal amniotic index (AFI) in the third trimester. First trimester and delivery hemogram values and newborn results of all pregnant women in both groups included in the study were noted for statistical comparison. Platelet (261.895+8.04), which is the hematological marker that best predicts IO in the first trimester, was found to be higher than the healthy group (244.390±4.79) (p=0.03). PLR was the best predictor of oligohydramnios in the third trimester. The PLR level was determined as 113,288, and the cut-off value was 64.91%, the upper limit was 95% CI, the specificity was 51.09%, the positive predictive value was 35.58%, and the negative predictive value was 77.78%. The platelet count in the first trimester and the progressive increase in the number of PLR in the third trimester are significantly related in the prediction of oligohydromnus. SII, NLR and PLR measured in the first trimester are useless in predicting isolated oligohydramnios that may develop in the future. [Med-Science 2023; 12(1.000): 149-54]

Objective: It is important to determine the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in the vaginal fluid samples of reproductive-aged women with severe disease during the acute stage of the disease and to determine the risks of transmission by sexual or vertical transmission. Material and methods: Adult women with confirmed severe COVID-19 who were admitted to Ankara City Hospital intensive care unit (ICU) between December 1st, 2020, and January 1st, 2021, were enrolled in the study. Vaginal swab samples were collected within 48 h in the ICU using Dacron or rayon swabs and tested for SARS-CoV-2 using reverse transcription real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT PCR). Results: Thirty women of reproductive age were included in the study, five (16.7%) of whom were pregnant. The mean age was 44.9 (±10.5) years. The most common symptoms were headache (100%), muscle soreness (86.7%), cough (76.7%), fever (60%), and nausea and vomiting (20%). Nineteen (63.3%) patients had underlying medical conditions. The time interval from obtaining vaginal swab samples to admission to the ICU was 48 h. The time between vaginal sampling and PCR positivity ranged from 2 to 18 days. SARS-CoV-2 was not detected in any vaginal samples. Conclusion: Our study showed that women with severe COVID-19 did not have SARS-CoV-2 in their vaginal fluids. Investigation of the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in vaginal secretions may help in determining the risks of sexual transmission and vertical transmission from mother to baby. Information on this subject is still limited. Larger studies on comprehensive biological samples are needed.

Objective: In women, agents used in chemotherapy treatment have side effects such as accelerating follicular depletion and early menopause. Thus, cytotoxic treatments may cause various effects ranging from partial damage to the ovary to premature ovarian failure (POI) and infertility.This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of carvacrol on cisplatin (CIS)-induced reproductive toxicity in female rats. Materials and methods: The animals were divided to four groups; a healthy group (HG), administered only cisplatin 2.5 mg/kg (CIS); cisplatin 2.5 mg/kg + carvacrol mg/kg (CC-50), and cisplatin 2.5 mg/kg + carvacrol 100 mg/kg (CC-100). In this study, the CC-50 and CC-100 groups were injected with carvacrol at 50 and 100 mg/kg intraperitoneally (IP). The CIS and HG groupswere administered normal saline as a solvent in the same way. One hour afterwardthe CC-50 and CC-100 groups were injected with cisplatin at 2.5 mg/kg IP. This procedure was continued once a day for 14 days. At the end of this period, six rats from each group were euthanized with high-dose anaesthesia. Biochemical (oxidant-antioxidant and proinflammatory cytokines) and histopathological examinations were performed on the right ovarian tissue removed from the dead rats. The remaining (n = 6 in each group) animals were kept in the laboratory with mature male rats for two months for breeding. Rats that didn't give birth within two months were considered infertile. A one-way ANOVA test was used for the biochemical analysis, the a Kruskal Wallis test was used for the histopathological analysis. Results: It has been observed that cisplatine causes oxidative stress and inflammatory damage in the ovarian tissue of animals and ultimately causes infertility due to this oxidative stress. While carvacrol significantly suppressed cisplatin-related oxidative stress in ovarian tissue at the 50 and 100 mg/kg doses, it could suppress proinflammatory cytokine increase only at thecytokine increase only at the 100 mg/kg dose. In addition, carvacrol significantly reduced the development of cisplatin-related infertility (from 0 to 83.3%) at a dose of 100 mg/kg. Conclusion: These findings suggest that carvacrol at high doses can reduce the harmful effects of cisplatin on the ovary and improve ovarian reserve in rats.

While comprising only 2% of all ischemic strokes, cerebellar strokes are responsible for substantial morbidity and mortality due to their subtle initial presentation and the morbidity of posterior fossa swelling. Furthermore, low temporal muscle thickness (TMT) has recently been identified as a prognostic imaging parameter to assess patient frailty and outcome. We analyzed radiological and clinical data sets of 282 patients with cerebellar ischemic stroke. Our analysis showed a significant association between low TMT, reduced NIHSS and mRS at discharge (p = 0.035, p = 0.004), and reduced mRS at 12 months (p = 0.001). TMT may be used as a prognostic imaging marker and objective tool to assess outcomes in patients with cerebellar ischemic stroke.

This study aimed to investigate the phytochemical composition and biological activity of Salsola tetragona Delile. (Amaranthaceae), a medicinal plant. The study evaluated the antioxidant potential of the crude extract and five fractions of S. tetragona using DPPH•, ABTS•+, CUPRAC, and metal chelating assays. The anti-inflammatory activity was determined using a protein denaturation assay, and the antibacterial activity was determined by the Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for the growth of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus strains. The MTT test and an in vitro scratch assay evaluated the effects on cell viability and cell migration. The potential anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity was assessed by analyzing the effects on the interaction between ACE2 and Spike protein. The bioactive compounds present in the plant were identified using LC-HR/MS analysis. The crude hydromethanolic extract (STM) and five fractions of S. tetragona, n-hexane (STH), dichloromethane (STD), ethyl acetate (STE), n-butanol (STB), and aqueous (STW) showed significant antioxidant activity in four different tests. In the anti-inflammatory assay, the ethyl acetate fraction exhibited significantly higher activity than Aspirin® (IC50 = 13 ± 5 µg/mL). The crude extract and its fractions showed positive antibacterial activity with similar MICs. In the cytotoxicity assay against the breast cancer cell line MCF7, the dichloromethane fractions (STD) were very effective and demonstrated superiority over the other fractions (IC50 = 98 µg/mL). Moreover, the potential of the extract and fractions as anti-SARS-CoV-2, the ethyl acetate, and dichloromethane fractions demonstrated important activity in this test. LC-HR/MS analysis identified 16 different phenolic compounds, Eleven of which had not been previously reported in the genus Salsola. The results suggest that the extracts of S. tetragona have the potential to become new sources for developing plant-based therapies for managing a range of diseases.

The prospect of massive parallelism of optics enabling fast and low energy cost operations is attracting interest for novel photonic circuits where 3-dimensional (3D) implementations have a high potential for scalability. Since the technology for data input–output channels is 2-dimensional (2D), there is an unavoidable need to take 2D-nD transformations into account. Similarly, the 3D-2D and its reverse transformations are also tackled in a variety of fields such as optical tomography, additive manufacturing, and 3D optical memories. Here, we review how these 3D-2D transformations are tackled using iterative techniques and neural networks. This high-level comparison across different, yet related fields could yield a useful perspective for 3D optical design.

Abstract In Parkinson’s disease and other synucleinopathies, the elevation of α-synuclein phosphorylated at Serine129 (pS129) is a widely cited marker of pathology. However, the physiological role for pS129 has remained undefined. Here we use multiple approaches to show for the first time that pS129 functions as a physiological regulator of neuronal activity. Neuronal activity triggers a sustained increase of pS129 in cultured neurons (200% within 4 h). In accord, brain pS129 is elevated in environmentally enriched mice exhibiting enhanced long-term potentiation. Activity-dependent α-synuclein phosphorylation is S129-specific, reversible, confers no cytotoxicity, and accumulates at synapsin-containing presynaptic boutons. Mechanistically, our findings are consistent with a model in which neuronal stimulation enhances Plk2 kinase activity via a calcium/calcineurin pathway to counteract PP2A phosphatase activity for efficient phosphorylation of membrane-bound α-synuclein. Patch clamping of rat SNCA −/− neurons expressing exogenous wild-type or phospho-incompetent (S129A) α-synuclein suggests that pS129 fine-tunes the balance between excitatory and inhibitory neuronal currents. Consistently, our novel S129A knock-in (S129AKI) mice exhibit impaired hippocampal plasticity. The discovery of a key physiological function for pS129 has implications for understanding the role of α-synuclein in neurotransmission and adds nuance to the interpretation of pS129 as a synucleinopathy biomarker.

In this study, we sought to demonstrate the benefit of postpartum hemorrhage prophylaxis treatment and the superiority of methylergonovine-oxytocin combination over oxytocin in terms of hemodynamic stability and amount of bleeding during cesarean section. In this retrospective study, 400 patients who had a cesarean section in the same clinic were divided into two groups and included in this study. The first group consisted of nulliparous patients (n=141) who gave birth by cesarean for the first time and the second group consisted of multipar patients (n=259) who gave birth by cesarean section before. Then both main groups; women who received only oxytocin infusion in the intraoperative and postoperative periods were divided into (monotherapy group), women who received methylergonovine and oxytocin therapy in the intraoperative and postoperative periods were divided into 2 more subgroups (combined group). For comparison, samples for preoperative and postoperative complete blood counts were obtained from all patients in each group. When the postoperative Hb levels of nulliparous pregnant women were compared, it was seen that the decrease in Hb levels was less in the group that received methylergonovine in addition to oxytocin (p=0.031). Similarly, Hb decrease was observed less in the group given methylergonovine in addition to oxytocin in multiparous pregnant women (p=0.045). The group that received methylergonovine in addition to oxytocin provided more hemodynamic stability in both the nulliparous and multiparous cesarean section groups, which we divided according to the number of cesarean sections, compared to the group that received oxytocin; significantly reduced the level of bleeding. We think that this form of treatment will also reduce the risk of uterine atony; therefore (if there is no coronary disease) we recommend it to be used under spinal anaesthesia. [Med-Science 2022; 11(4.000): 1608-12]

Background: Non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation (nVNS) using a hand-held stimulator placed on the neck is an FDA-approved treatment for primary headache disorders. The safety of nVNS is unknown in stroke patients. Objective: To assess the safety and feasibility of nVNS for the acute treatment of stroke. Methods: TR-VENUS (clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT03733431) was a randomized, sham-controlled, open-label, multicenter trial conducted in patients with acute ischemic stroke (IS) or intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Patients were randomly assigned to standard-dose nVNS, high-dose nVNS, or sham stimulation. The primary endpoint was a composite safety outcome defined as bradycardia or reduction in mean arterial blood pressure during treatment or progression of neurological or death within 24 h of treatment. The feasibility endpoints were the proportion of eligible subjects receiving nVNS within 6 h of symptom onset and the proportion completing all pre-specified treatment doses. Efficacy assessments included infarct growth from baseline to 24 h after treatment. Results: Sixty-nine patients (61 IS, 8 ICH) completed the study. The composite safety outcome was achieved in 32.0% in sham and 47.7% in nVNS group (p = 0.203). Treatment was initiated in all but two randomized patients. All dosed subjects received 100% of prespecified stimulations. A non-significant reduction in infarct growth was observed in the high-dose nVNS group (184.2% in sham vs. 63.3% in high-dose nVNS; p = 0.109). Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that nVNS may be safe and feasible in the setting of acute stroke. These findings support further development of nVNS as a potential treatment for acute ischemic stroke.

As the popularity of electric vehicle (EV) technology continues to develop rapidly, so does the demand for charging stations, which are expected to be the main source of energy for electric vehicles in smart cities. An ideal charging network of stations would facilitate easy access to charging stations for drivers by ensuring that there is always a station nearby, and do that with the minimum number of stations to reduce infrastructure costs. Motivated by striking a balance between these two, we propose a novel multi-objective model for the EV charging station placement problem under a renewed constraint of a network that aims to make it easy for drivers to reach a station from anywhere in a city within a reasonable distance. We apply the model to Eskisehir in Turkey and then solved it with the weighted sum scalarisation method. We demonstrate and discuss the results which show practicality of the model.

BackgroundAutoimmunity may play a major role in the pathogenesis of idiopathic granulomatous mastitis (IGM). The therapeutic potential of ozone therapy has recently been shown in rheumatological diseases, and this study aimed to assess the clinical efficacy of ozone therapy (OT) in refractory IGM.MethodsPatients with biopsy-verified IGM and incomplete response after steroid therapy (n = 47) between 2018 and 2021 were enrolled. Of these, 23 cases in cohort A had standard treatment with further steroid therapy (ST), and 24 were treated with systemic OT via autohemotherapy (AHT) in addition to steroid therapy (cohort B).ResultsThe median age was 33 years (range, 24–45). Patients in cohort B had a higher complete response rate after completion of a four-month ozone therapy than those in the ST-group (OT-group, 37.5% vs. ST-group, 0%; p = 0.002). At a median follow-up of 12 months (range, 12–35), the patients treated with OT had a lower one-year recurrence in the affected breast than cases in cohort A treated with ST (OT-group, 21% vs. ST-group, 70%; p = 0.001). No significant side effects were observed in patients in cohort B related to AHT. Furthermore, OT significantly decreased the total steroid treatment duration (median week of steroid use; 26 weeks in cohort A vs. 12 weeks in cohort B; p = 0.001).ConclusionSystemic OT increases the complete response rate and decreases the duration of steroid treatment in patients with refractory IGM. Therefore, ozone therapy is an effective, well-tolerated, and safe novel complementary therapeutic modality.

Farmland abandonment is often associated with biophysical, political, or socio-economic changes, like droughts, economic reforms, rural-urban migration, or armed conflicts. Syria has seen several such changes in the period between 2000–2011, however, few assessments of how these factors have interacted with land abandonment have been carried out. In this study we investigate land abandonment patterns in northeast Syria, using a land use classification based on satellite data to indicate agricultural drought impacts and land abandonment. We combine these data with information on land use and migration patterns collected through a unique fieldwork, including surveys and interviews with Syrian farmers who had migrated to Turkey. Our analysis shows that drought coincided with a strong drop in cultivated croplands in 2008 and 2009. We also found a comparatively high cropland abandonment between 2001 and 2013, however no strong increases during or after drought years. Local insights indicate that migration took place during both normal years and drought years, and that most migrants had abandoned their lands after leaving Syria. We suggest that long-term mismanagement of water resources along with changes in the political economy, drove land abandonment in northeast Syria between 2001 and 2010. After 2011, armed conflict likely drove abandonment, but rates remained similar to the pre-conflict period. We discuss the potential of land abandonment as an indicator of rural migration in areas where migration data is sparse and conclude that more research is needed to understand the migration-land abandonment nexus, particularly in the Middle East.

The present study aims to determine the social anxiety levels of prospective teachers in e-learning environments. The research adopts the cross-sectional survey model. The study group consists of 506 pre-service teachers through a convenience sampling technique from a state university in northern Turkey during the fall semester of the 2021-2022 academic year. The data are collected online through the “Social Anxiety Scale for E-Learning Environments” in the spring semester of the 2021-2022 academic year. The study found that teacher candidates have a moderate level of social anxiety in e-learning environments which unfavorably affects academic achievement. Moreover, it is concluded that gender is not directly affecting social anxiety in e-learning environments, but the grade level is influential on social anxiety. There is a positive correlation between prospective teachers’ self-efficacy in using computers and their social anxiety levels in e-learning environments. This study has revealed new empirical results on the reflections of social anxiety in e-learning environments. The results are discussed in line with the relevant literature and some recommendations are made.

This paper establishes a physical limit on the ability of the ubiquitous twisted pairs to support high speed internet. This limit due to radiation from the wire is theoretically explained as well as numerically simulated and experimentally measured.

Background: Ralstonia pickettii is an opportunistic waterborne microbe which can survive in many kinds of solutions. Contamination of these solutions may result as outbreaks, which can be mortal for immuncompromised patients. Herein we report an outbreak of R. pickettii related to contaminated saline infusion in our center. Methods: This study was conducted in Ankara Pediatric City Hospital. An outbreak occured in Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Unit between August 28, 2019 and September 13, 2019. When the outbreak occured, infection control team began an investigation. Environmental samples were collected in order to find the source of the outbreak. Results: A total of 11 patients with catheter related blood stream infection caused by R. pickettii who were diagnosed with leukemia were affected. None of the patients infected with R. pickettii died during the outbreak. A total of seventy environmental samples were cultured with the purpose of finding the source of outbreak. R. pickettii grew in normal saline solution culture and all isolates had the same clone of R. pickettii. The outbreak lasted two weeks and was controlled by stopping the usage and sending back the saline solutions belonging to the same manufacturing batch. Conclusions: We reported an outbreak of R. pickettii BSIs in highly immunocompromised patients due to contaminated intravascular solution, which was rapidly controlled by infection control measures. Vigilant surveillance by hospital infection control teams and prompt investigation to identify the source of nosocomial infections are crucial to stop an outbreak.

In this study, the effect of inlet air cooling on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and engine performance for a land-based gas turbine engine was investigated under varying ambient temperatures (15–55 °C). The study aimed to reduce GHG emissions while improving output power and fuel efficiency during hot weather operating conditions. For illustrative purposes, a representative gas turbine engine model, approximating the 250 MW class General Electric (GE) engine, was analyzed in a simple cycle. A refrigeration process was integrated with a turboshaft gas turbine engine to chill the incoming air, and the power required for cooling was extracted from the gas turbine’s output power. This mechanical chiller was assumed to provide a 15 °C inlet air temperature. Without inlet air cooling, at 55 °C ambient temperature, the engine’s power output was calculated to decrease by 15.06%, while power-specific fuel consumption and GHG emissions increased by 6.09% and 5.84%, respectively. However, activating the refrigeration or cooling system in the inlet made it possible to mitigate most of the adverse effects of hot weather on the engine’s performance and GHG emissions. Therefore, with inlet air cooling, the power output loss reduces to 3.28%, indicating an 11.78% recovery compared to the 15.06% loss without cooling. Similarly, the rise in power-specific fuel consumption caused by high ambient temperature decreases from 6.09% to 3.43%, reflecting a 2.66% improvement. An important finding of the study is that with inlet air cooling, the increase in GHG emissions reduces from 5.84% to 3.41%, signifying a 2.43% improvement on a hot day with a temperature of 55 °C.

The recent advancement of large language models presents numerous opportunities for teaching and learning. Despite widespread public debate regarding the use of large language models, empirical research on their opportunities and risks in education remains limited. In this work, we demonstrate the qualities and shortcomings of using ChatGPT 3.5 for physics task development by prospective teachers. In a randomized controlled trial, 26 prospective physics teacher students were divided into two groups: the first group used ChatGPT 3.5 to develop text-based physics tasks for four different concepts in the field of kinematics for 10th-grade high school students, while the second group used a classical textbook to create tasks for the same concepts and target group. The results indicate no difference in task correctness, but students using the textbook achieved a higher clarity and more frequently embedded their questions in a meaningful context. Both groups adapted the level of task difficulty easily to the target group but struggled strongly with sufficient task specificity, i.e., relevant information to solve the tasks was missing. Students using ChatGPT for problem posing rated high system usability but experienced difficulties with output quality. These results provide insights into the opportunities and pitfalls of using large language models in education.

A total of 100 Kangal sheep were divided into four groups with the aim of investigating the effectiveness of resynchronization during anestrus for the first time in the literature. The groups were then divided into two further subgroups, namely the resynchronization subgroup group (hCG+resynch) and group (resynch)) and the no resynchronization subgroup (Group (hCG) and group (control)). All the groups started with progesterone-containing sponge insertion on Day 7. The sponge was removed after 7 days (on Day 0), and 600 IU eCG + 131.5 µg PGF2α was injected. The animals in group (hCG+resynch) and group (hCG) received hCG injection at the time of sponge administration. Accordingly, four different groups were established, i.e., resynchronization + hCG administration group (hCG+resynch); n:25), no resynchronization + hCG administration (group (hCG); n:25), resynchronization + no hCG administration (group (resynch); n:25), and no resynchronization + no hCG administration (Group (control); n:25). Estrus rates at the first application in group (hCG+resynch), group (hCG), group (resynch), and group (control) groups were 76%, 88%, 96%, and 76%, respectively, and pregnancy rates were 52%, 64%, 72%, and 60%, respectively; there were no intergroup statistical differences in the two parameters above. It was concluded that resynchronization performed with two consecutive stimulations during anestrus could help save time and provide a pregnancy rate at a level that can provide economic returns.

Leishmaniasis, including the cutaneous form, poses an important public health threat around the world, while no vaccine is currently available against any form of leishmaniasis. The drugs used in the first line treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) are commonly pentavalent antimonials despite their toxicities, long-term treatment duration and increasing resistance rates. Other alternatives are amphotericin B, pentamidine, miltefosine and paromomycine. Movement of the population, especially in endemic regions, increases the spread of the parasite and affectes the distribution of causative species, which requires re-evaluation the treatment regimen. Extensive researches are carried out on the treatment of leishmaniasis. The immunotherapeutic and targeted therapeutic approaches, formulations of carrier-loaded active drugs, local thermotherapeutic applications, the combination of antileishmanial drugs/compounds, the use of new synthetic and natural products are promising therapeutic options in the future. Herein, the author reviews the potential treatment modalities of CL with a brief overview of current treatments in the light of ongoing studies around the world.

Abstract Background Unhealthy lifestyle constitutes a cause of increased morbidity and mortality in people with severe mental illness. The aim of this mixed-method pilot study was to investigate the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of an intervention to promote a health-conscious lifestyle in comparison to care as usual among people with severe mental illness receiving accommodational support in community settings. Methods This was a prospective, quasi-experimental, controlled study over four six-month assessment points (t0, + 6 months, + 12 months, + 18 months) with 70 persons with severe mental illness receiving community based accommodational support. Mental health staff members of the housing facilities were trained in Motivational Interviewing and conducted a six-week health course with the intervention group participants in addition to care as usual. Next to the primary outcome - self-rated physical well-being (FEW 16) - anthropometric parameters and unhealthy behaviours (diet, physical activity, alcohol and tobacco consumption, and oral hygiene) were examined. Effectiveness analysis was conducted using mixed-effects regression models with propensity score adjustment to control for selection bias. One year after the end of the intervention, semi-standardized expert interviews were conducted with 12 of these employees and evaluated by content analysis. Results The qualitative interviews with mental health staff underline the intervention’s feasibility in people with severe mental illness in sheltered housing, and the acceptability of and satisfaction with the intervention among mental health workers. But in this pilot study no superiority of the HELPS intervention compared to routine care could be demonstrated in terms of the investigated outcomes. Conclusions The findings of this pilot study underscore the feasibility and acceptability of health promotion programmes based on Motivational Interviewing and highlight the need to further develop multi-modal programs according to the needs of the target group. Long-term and sustainable support for healthy lifestyles of people with severe mental illness receiving community mental health care requires multi-modal concepts and organisational change. Trial registration DRKS00011659 , date of registration was 2017/02/15; retrospectively registered as date of first enrolment was 2017/01/24.

IntroductionSARS-CoV-2 infection can lead to a life-threatening acute metabolic decompensation in children with inborn errors of metabolism (IEM), so vaccination is mandatory. However, IEMs can also impair innate or adaptive immunity, and the impact of these immune system alterations on immunogenicity and vaccine efficacy is still unknown. Here, we investigated humoral immune responses to the BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine and clinical outcomes in pediatric IEM patients.MethodsFifteen patients between 12-18 years of age with a confirmed diagnosis of IEM, and received BNT162b2 were enrolled to the study. Patients with an anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG concentration >50 AU/mL before vaccination were defined as “COVID-19 recovered” whereas patients with undetectable anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG concentration were defined as “COVID-19 naïve”. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Immunoglobulin G (IgG) and SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibody (nAb) titers were measured to assess humoral immune response.ResultsAnti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG titers and nAb IH% increased significantly after the first dose. The increase in antibody titers after first and second vaccination remained significant in COVID-19 naïve patients. Complete anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG seropositivity and nAb IH% positivity was observed in all patients after the second dose. Vaccination appears to be clinically effective in IEM patients, as none of the patients had COVID-19 infection within six months of the last vaccination.DiscussionHumoral immune response after two doses of BNT162b2 in pediatric IEM patients was adequate and the immune response was not different from that of healthy individuals.

Background: Silicone oil, which is one of the most commonly used endotamponades in vitreoretinal surgery, is removed after a certain period of time in most cases. In this study, we present our results with a unique cannula that provides effective and safe silicone oil removal. Aims and Objectives: To assess the aids and success of silicone oil removal with a novel 23-gauge cannula for the patients who underwent pars plana vitrectomy and silicone oil injection before. Materials and Methods: 72 eyes of 64 patients who operated by the same surgeon (FA) between May 2017 and May 2019 were involved in the study. The primary indications were proliferative diabetic retinopathy in 46 (63.9%) eyes and retinal detachment in 26 (36.1%) eyes. Phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation (23 eyes), membrane peeling (23 eyes), internal limiting membrane peeling (5 eyes), and argon laser endo-photocoagulation (37 eyes) performed in the same session. Furthermore, perfluorocarbon remnants aspirated in 9 eyes and 17 eyes needed suturing. Descriptive statistical analyses achieved by SPSS 10.5 statistical software. Results: The mean follow-up time was 11.7 + 2.5 months (between 3 and 23 months), and the mean age was 61.4 + 8.52 years (between 44 and 69 years). 1000 centistokes (cSt) silicone oil was removed from 61 (84.7%) eyes, and 5000 cSt silicone oil was removed from 11 (15.3%) eyes. The mean removal time was 2.04 + 0.1 min for 1000 cSt silicone oil and 5.11 + 0.3 min for 5000 cSt silicone oil. 4 re-detachment and 3 vitreous hemorrhage observed in follow-up period. Post-operative silicone oil remnants were not detected in any patient. Conclusion: The unique 23-gauge cannula provides silicone oil removal without any conjunctival cut-down and sclerotomy enlargement. Thus, it reduces the duration of surgery and post-operative recovery period.

Unmanned air vehicle (UAV) became an alternative airborne remote sensing technique, due to providing very high resolution and low cost spatial data and short processing time. Particularly, optical UAVs are frequently utilized in various applications such as mapping, agriculture, and forestry. Especially for precise agriculture purposes, the UAVs were equipped with multispectral cameras which enables to classify land cover easily. In this study, the land cover classification potential of DJI Phantom IV Multispectral, one of the most preferred agricultural UAVs in the world, was investigated using spectral angle mapper, minimum distance and maximum likelihood pixel-based classification techniques and object-based classification. In the investigation, a part of Gebze Technical University (GTU) Northern Campus, includes a large variety of land cover classes, was selected as the study area. The UAV aerial photos were achieved from 70 m flight altitude and processed using structure from motion (SfM)-based image matching software Agisoft Metashape. The pixel-based and object-based land cover classification processes were completed with ENVI and eCognition software respectively. 16 independent land cover classes were classified and the results demonstrated that the accuracies are 73.46% in spectral angle mapper, 75.27% in minimum distance and 93.56% in maximum likelihood pixel-based classification techniques and 90.09% in nearest neighbour object-based classification.

Objective: Oligohydramnios is defined as amniotic fluid index in ultrasonographic measurement is less than 5 percentile according to gestational age, the amniotic fluid volume is ≤ 5 cm, or if the single deepest dial is

Context: Breast cancer is the most common cancer and the most common cause of death from cancer among women. Leptin is thought to play role in cell proliferation. Objective: In this study, we evaluated the expression of leptin and leptin receptor in breast cancer and normal breast tissue, analyzed the relationship between expression of leptin, leptin receptor and clinicopathological features in breast cancers. Materials and Methods: The expression of leptin and leptin receptor were investigated by immunohistochemistry in 205 breast cancer and 30 normal breast tissue. Results: Breast cancers showed higher expression of leptin (p = 0,003) and leptin receptor (p

Abstract Bio-inspired molecular communications (MC), where molecules are used to transfer information, is the most promising technique to realise the Internet of Nano Things (IoNT), thanks to its inherent biocompatibility, energy-efficiency, and reliability in physiologically-relevant environments. Despite a substantial body of theoretical work concerning MC, the lack of practical micro/nanoscale MC devices and MC testbeds has led researchers to make overly simplifying assumptions about the implications of the channel conditions and the physical architectures of the practical transceivers in developing theoretical models and devising communication methods for MC. On the other hand, MC imposes unique challenges resulting from the highly complex, nonlinear, time-varying channel properties that cannot be always tackled by conventional information and communication tools and technologies (ICT). As a result, the reliability of the existing MC methods, which are mostly adopted from electromagnetic communications and not validated with practical testbeds, is highly questionable. As the first step to remove this discrepancy, in this study, we report on the fabrication of a nanoscale MC receiver based on graphene field-effect transistor biosensors. We perform its ICT characterisation in a custom-designed microfluidic MC system with the information encoded into the concentration of single-stranded DNA molecules. This experimental platform is the first practical implementation of a micro/nanoscale MC system with nanoscale MC receivers, and can serve as a testbed for developing realistic MC methods and IoNT applications.

Abstract Background Early identification of severe COVID-19 patients who will need intensive care unit (ICU) follow-up and providing rapid, aggressive supportive care may reduce mortality and provide optimal use of medical resources. We aimed to develop and validate a nomogram to predict severe COVID-19 cases that would need ICU follow-up based on available and accessible patient values. Methods Patients hospitalized with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 between March 15, 2020, and June 15, 2020, were enrolled in this retrospective study with 35 variables obtained upon admission considered. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression models were constructed to select potential predictive parameters using 1000 bootstrap samples. Afterward, a nomogram was developed with 5 variables selected from multivariable analysis. The nomogram model was evaluated by Area Under the Curve (AUC) and bias-corrected Harrell's C-index with 95% confidence interval, Hosmer–Lemeshow Goodness-of-fit test, and calibration curve analysis. Results Out of a total of 1022 patients, 686 cases without missing data were used to construct the nomogram. Of the 686, 104 needed ICU follow-up. The final model includes oxygen saturation, CRP, PCT, LDH, troponin as independent factors for the prediction of need for ICU admission. The model has good predictive power with an AUC of 0.93 (0.902–0.950) and a bias-corrected Harrell's C-index of 0.91 (0.899–0.947). Hosmer–Lemeshow test p-value was 0.826 and the model is well-calibrated (p = 0.1703). Conclusion We developed a simple, accessible, easy-to-use nomogram with good distinctive power for severe illness requiring ICU follow-up. Clinicians can easily predict the course of COVID-19 and decide the procedure and facility of further follow-up by using clinical and laboratory values of patients available upon admission.

Soccer has been a very popular sports industry all over the world. Since soccer clubs generate a huge income from a variety of sources, the stakeholders of the soccer industry have come to recognize that this business should be managed professionally, and this would entail all of the functions of management, including performance management. This study provides a comprehensive framework for the strategic performance management of soccer clubs. In order to be strategy-focused, to better serve their mission, and to improve their performance, the performance management systems of soccer clubs should be linked to their missions and visions. Therefore, this study elucidates the application of a strategic performance management tool, the balanced scorecard (BSC), to the different levels of soccer clubs such as giant, middle-level, and lower-level. The study also provides a quantitative BSC model as a case study.

Background and objectives: An important Non-Communicable Disease risk factor, hypertension (HT), is highly prevalent and controlled HT rates are not sufficient which increases the risk of developing premature deaths. The purpose of the study is to evaluate differences in all-cause and cardiovascular-related mortality according to HT status by using national data from Chronic Diseases and Risk Factors Survey in Turkey (2011–2017). Materials and Methods: Cox regression models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) for predicting the all-cause and cardiovascular system-related mortalities. Median follow-up period was 6.2 years. Results: Among individuals with HT, 41.8% was untreated, 30.1% received treatment and had controlled blood pressure, and 28.1% were under treatment but had uncontrolled BP levels. The hazard for mortality among treated & uncontrolled hypertensive participants was significantly higher for all-cause (HR = 1.32, 95% CI = 1.06–1.65), cardiovascular (HR = 2.11, 95% CI = 1.46–3.06), heart disease (HR = 2.24, 95% CI = 1.46–3.43), and Coronary Heart Disease mortality (HR = 2.66, 95% CI = 1.56–4.53) compared to normotensive participants. Conclusions: Individuals with HT who were treated but do not have controlled blood pressure in Turkey had a significantly increased risk of Cardiovascular Disease and all-cause mortality. Along with studies investigating the causes of uncontrolled blood pressure despite initiation of treatment, support should be provided to patients in cases of non-adherence to antihypertensive medication or life change recommendations.

Introduction Obesity and aging negatively affect the immune system and host defense mechanisms, increasing vulnerability to, worsening prognosis of infectious diseases and leading to vaccine failure. Our aim is to investigate the antibody response against Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spike antigens, and the risk factors affecting antibody levels in elderly people living with obesity (PwO) after inactive SARS-CoV-2 vaccine (CoronaVac) administration. Methods One hundred twenty-three consecutive elderly patients with obesity (age>65 years, Body Mass Index (BMI)>30kg/m2) and 47 adults with obesity (age 18-64 years, BMI>30kg/m2) admitted between August and November 2021 were enrolled. Seventy five non-obese elderly people (age >65 years, BMI 18.5-29.9 kg/m2) and 105 non-obese adults (age 18-64 years, BMI 18.5-29.9 kg/m2) were recruited from subjects who visited Vaccination Unit. SARS-CoV-2 spike-protein antibody titers were measured in patients with obesity and non-obese controls who received two doses of CoronaVac. Results SARS-CoV-2 levels of patients with obesity were found to be significantly lower than those of non-obese elderly individuals who had non-prior infection.There was no difference in SARS-CoV-2 levels between patients with obesity and non-obese individuals with prior infection. Age and SARS-CoV-2 level were found to be highly correlated in the correlation analysis in the group of elderly individuals (r:-0.184). In multivariate regression analysis, when SARS-CoV-2 IgG was regressed on age, sex, BMI, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and Hypertension (HT), HT was found to be an independant factor on SARS-CoV-2 level (β:-2730). Conclusion In non-prior infection group, elderly patients with obesity generated significantly reduced antibody titers against SARS-CoV-2 spike antigen after CoronaVac vaccine compared to non-obese people. It is anticipated that the results obtained will provide invaluable information about SARS-CoV-2 vaccination strategies in this vulnerable population. Antibody titers may be measured and booster doses should be delivered accordingly in elderly PwO for optimal protection.

Abstract Purpose Etiology could not be determined in approximately 50% of recurrent pregnancy loss cases, and it was named unexpected recurrent pregnancy loss(URPL). A body shape index(ABSI), body roundness index(BRI), and waist‐to‐hip ratio(WtHR) are new indexes that are superior to BMI in showing body fat distribution. We aimed to investigate the potency of ABSI, BRI, and WtHR in URPL, their superiority to BMI, and their suitability for clinical use. Methods One hundred and thirty‐eight patients between the ages of 20‐40 who applied to our hospital for URPL between January 2016 and December 31, 2020 were included in our study. Weight, height, waist circumference, and hip circumference were measured, and indexes were calculated. Differences between the URPL and control groups were calculated using the IBM SPSS program. Results There was a significant difference between the two groups for BRI, ABSI, and WtHR values, while there was no significant difference in BMI. BRI(4.4 ± 1.7vs3.9 ± 1.5), ABSI(0.08 ± 0.005 vs 0.078 ± 0.004), and WtHR(0.84 ± 0.06vs0.82 ± 0.05) values were higher in the URPL group. ROC analysis showed us that BRI, ABSI, and WtHR have a diagnostic value for URPL(P

Background: Ligneous cervicitis is a rarely reported disease in the literature, and it is commonly misdiagnosed as genital cancer. Patients with ligneous cervicitis can have multiple systemic problems. The lesions resemble malignancies. Multiple biopsies are essential for the diagnosis. Herein, we present 2 cases of ligneous cervicitis, both of which had plasminogen deficiency. Our aim in this report was to discuss these cases with guidance of the literature. Conclusion: Ligneous cervicitis commonly mimics female genital cancers. Hence, it is very important to utilize a multidisciplinary approach in making a differential diagnosis.

Aims The frontal QRS-T (fQRST) angle is associated with worse cardiovascular outcome. The study aimed to assess the effect of reverse dipping pattern on f(QRST) angle in newly diagnosed masked hypertensive (MH) patients. Materials and methods Newly diagnosed 244 consecutive MH patients were included. According to dipping pattern, patients were grouped into three: dipper (n = 114), non-dipper (n = 106), and reverse dipper (n = 24) patterns. The f(QRST) angle, QT and corrected QT interval, and QT dispersion were measured from the 12-lead surface electrocardiogram and compared between groups. Results Of all, 51.2% (n = 125) were male. No gender difference was observed. Reverse dipper MH group had a significantly higher f(QRST) angle than the non-dipper and dipper MH groups (77.9 ± 8.6 vs. 32.4 ± 18.8 and 26.0 ± 18.5, respectively, p

Abstract Aim of this study is to investigate whether the risk of miscarriage increases in pregnant women who had COVID-19 in first trimester. Our study included 52 patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection detected by RT-PCR and 53 patients with negative RT-PCR test in samples taken with nasopharyngeal swab in the first trimester between March 1 and December 31, 2020. Complete abortion, incomplete abortion, blighted ovum, intrauterine exitus, biochemical pregnancies were accepted as in the miscarriage group (MG). Pregnant women with COVID-19 and control group were compared in terms of demographic data, miscarriage rate and laboratory results. Patients were divided into MG and ongoing pregnancy groups (OPG) and compared in terms of the diagnosed weeks, clinical findings, laboratory results, treatments, and hospitalization. While miscarriage was observed in 15 (28.8%) of pregnant women infected with SARS-CoV-2 in the first trimester, this number was 7 (13.2%) in the control group. While the common symptoms in the MG were cough (60%), fever (53.3%), shortness of breath (53.3%), and fatigue (46.7%) (p