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Introduction: Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is the standard treatment for achalasia. Functional luminal imaging probe (FLIP) technology enables objective measurement of lower esophageal sphincter (LES) geometry, with literature linking specific values to improved post-POEM outcomes. Our study assesses FLIP's intraoperative use in evaluating myotomy extent in real-time. Methods: Retrospective data from all patients undergoing POEM with intraoperative FLIP measurements were extracted from June 2020 to January 2023. The primary endpoint was intraoperative FLIP measurements, management changes, and symptom improvement (Eckardt score). Results: Fourteen patients (age 56 ± 14 years, BMI 28 ± 7 kg/m2) were identified. Most patients were female (64%). Predominantly, patients presented with type II achalasia (50%). FLIP measurements were taken before and after myotomy, demonstrating increases in mean distensibility index (DI) 1.6 ± 1. 4 to 5.4 ± 2.1 mm2/mmHg (p < 0.05) and mean diameter (Dmin) 6 ± 1.8 to 10.9 ± 2.3 mm (p < 0.05) at 50 ml balloon fill. Additional myotomy was performed in one patient when an inadequate increase in FLIP values were noted. Mean operative time was 98 ± 28 min, and there were no intraoperative complications. At the 30-day follow-up, median Eckardt score decreased from mean a preoperative score of 7 ± 2 to a post-operative mean of 2 ± 3, with 10 patients (78%) having a score ≤ 2. In total, four patients experienced symptom recurrence, with repeat FLIP values revealing a significant decrease in DI from 7 ± 2.2 post-POEM to 2.5 ± 1.5 at recurrence. FLIP technology identified LES pathology in 3 out of 4 (75%) patients, facilitating referral to LES-directed therapy. Conclusion: Our study adds to the literature supporting the use of FLIP technology during the POEM procedure, with most patients achieving ideal values after a standard-length myotomy. This suggests the potential benefits of shorter myotomies guided by FLIP to achieve comparable outcomes and reduce postoperative GERD risk. Collaborative standardization of study designs and outcome measures is crucial for facilitating prospective trials and cross-setting outcome comparisons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aim of this study was to determine the sociodemographic characteristics of psychiatric emergencies presenting to emergency departments (ED), the provisional diagnoses and reasons for consultation by emergency physicians, and to determine the rate of suicide attempts among patients presenting to emergency departments for psychiatric emergencies. Methods: The records of all patients aged 18 years and older admitted to the emergency department of the Department of Emergency Medicine, a tertiary hospital, with either a pre-existing psychiatric diagnosis or a new psychiatric provisional diagnosis made by emergency physicians between January 2020 and December 2023 were reviewed. Results: According to the data obtained in the study, it was determined that the most common provisional diagnoses made by emergency physicians in psychiatric emergencies were suicide attempts (41.88%), agitation (21.94%), schizophrenia (8.44%), psychosis (7.91%) and manic attack (6.54%). It was found that 49.3% of psychiatric emergencies resulted in discharge and 25.5% resulted in hospitalisation. Among the provisional diagnoses, depression, mutism and sleep disorders were most commonly associated with refusal of treatment, while depression and suicide were the most common reasons for hospitalisation. Among psychiatric emergency patients who attempted suicide, medication, sharp objects and chemicals were the most common substances ingested. Discussion: In this study, it was determined that a great portion of the emergency psychiatric cases admitted to the emergency department consisted of patients who attempted suicide. However, due to the crowdedness and fast pace of emergency departments, it is understood that in psychiatric emergencies, epidemiological profile data are missing in the files of the cases and detailed medical history cannot be obtained from the patients We think that recording better data of patient who admitted a psychiatric condition to the emergency department will provide better information about the patients in future visits and improve the care to be provided. Psychiatrists and psychiatric nurses recommend the implementation of emergency department-based rehabilitation programs for these patients. Highlights: Psychiatric emergencies presenting to emergency departments should not be overlooked in terms of suicide risk. Psychiatric emergencies who have attempted suicide should be closely followed at frequent intervals. Emergency department staff should be educated about psychiatric emergencies and suicide risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The introduction of the functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP) has provided objective, real-time feedback on the geometric variations with each component of a hiatal hernia repair (HHR). The utility of this technology in altering intraoperative decision-making has been scarcely reported. Herein, we report a single-center series of intraoperative FLIP during HHR. Methods: A retrospective review of electronic medical records between 2020 and 2022 was conducted and all patients undergoing non-recurrent HHR with FLIP were queried. Patient and hernia characteristics, intraoperative FLIP values and changes in decision-making, as well as early post-operative outcomes were reported. Both diameter and distensibility index (DI) were measured at 40 ml and 50 ml balloon inflation after hiatal dissection, after hiatal closure, and after fundoplication when indicated. Results: Thirty-three patients met inclusion criteria. Mean age was 62 ± 14 years and mean BMI was 28 ± 6 kg/m2. The majority (53%) were type I hiatal hernias. The largest drop in DI occurred after hiatal closure, with minimal change seen after fundoplication (mean DI of 4.3 ± 2. after completion of HH dissection, vs 2.7 ± 1.2 after hiatal closure and 2.3 ± 1 after fundoplication when performed). In 13 (39%) of cases, FLIP values directly impacted intraoperative decision-making. Fundoplication was deferred in 4/13 (31%) patients, the wrap was loosened in 2/13 (15%); the type of fundoplication was altered to achieve adequate anti-reflux values in 2/13 (15%) patients, and in 1/13 (3%) the wrap was tightened. Conclusion: FLIP measurements can be used intraoperatively to guide decision-making and alter management plan based on objective values. Long-term outcomes and further prospective studies are required to better delineate the value of this technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, photocatalysis technology was used to reduce water pollution. Decolorization of Reactive Black 5 using nano-TiO2 (NT) as a photocatalyst was investigated by adsorption and degradation experiments. Effects of NT particle size and utilization ratio on the time-dependent flow performance, compressive-flexural strength, and Bohme abrasion resistance of cementitious systems were investigated. In addition to the NT-free control mixture, a total of six photocatalytic self-cleaning mortar mixtures (PSCM) were prepared using NT in two different particle sizes (28 and 38 nm) and three different ratios (0.5%, 1%, and 1.5%). The PSCM sample containing 38 nm NT exhibited superior performance in terms of photocatalytic properties compared to the 28 nm state. It was observed that the flow performance of PSCM mixtures with NT substitution is adversely affected regardless of the NT type. Mixtures containing NT with a lower particle size (28 nm) had higher compressive and flexural strengths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Automatic modulation classification (AMC) algorithms are crucial for various military and commercial applications. There have been numerous AMC algorithms reported in the literature, most of which focus on synthetic signals with a limited number of modulation types having distinctive constellations. The efficient classification of high-order modulation schemes under real propagation effects using models with low complexity still remains difficult. In this paper, employing quadratic SVM, a feature-based hierarchical classification method is proposed to accurately classify especially higher-order modulation schemes and its performance is investigated using over the air (OTA) collected data. Statistical features, higher-order moments, and higher-order cumulants are utilized as features. Then, the performances of some well-known classifiers are evaluated, and the classifier presenting the best performance is employed in the proposed hierarchical classification model. An OTA dataset containing 17 analog and digital modulation schemes is used to assess the performance of the proposed classification model. With the proposed hierarchical classification algorithm, a significant improvement has been achieved, especially in higher-order modulation schemes. The overall accuracy with the proposed hierarchical structure is 96% after 5 dB signal-to-noise ratio value, approximately a 10% increase is achieved compared to the traditional classification algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adsorption and photocatalytic decolorization methods were used to remove Reactive Orange 16 dye from textile wastewater by using ethyleneglycoldimethacrylate and 1-vinyl-1,2,4-triazole, m-poly(EGDMA-VTA)-TiO2 polymer composite particles with magnetic synthesized by suspension polymerization. The characterization of the synthesized m-poly(EGDMA-VTA)-TiO2 particules were carried out by using XRD, FTIR, SEM–EDS-elemental mapping, ESR, and BET analyses. Both adsorption and photocatalytic decolorization processes of RO16 dye were applied to the polymer particles. The effects of solution pH, amount of adsorbent, initial dye concentration, temperature, and time on the adsorption capacity were investigated. The removal of R016 dye reached a maximum at pH 3. Dye substance removal decreased due to increasing temperature and adsorbent amount. As a result of experimental studies, the adsorption of RO16 dye was explained by the Langmuir isotherm, while its kinetics was stated by a pseudo-second-order mechanism. Additionally, thermodynamic functions (ΔHo, ΔGo, and ΔSo) have been determined. At the end of adsorption, the decolorization kinetics were elucidated by examining the adsorbent amount, time, and dye concentration parameters for the photocatalytic decolorization of non-adsorbed dyes. It was determined that the photocatalytic activity was highest at low dye concentration and high photocatalyst content. Additionally, it was determined that decolorization kinetics studies were compatible with the Langmuir–Hinshelwood model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this research is to determine whether the Net Promoter Score (NPS) is relevant in higher educational institutions. The likelihood to recommend (LTR) of a business degree was examined in relation to the conceptualized antecedent factors of students' university experience using NPS to identify different groups of students. To measure the conceptualized constructs, data is collected from students enrolled in a state university using an online survey. ANOVA is used to test the differences among NPS groups identified and the path analysis is used to test the relationships between antecedent factors and their LTR. All hypothesized relationships between antecedent variables, satisfaction, and LTR are confirmed. Results indicate a substantial divergence between the NPS of the business program and the NPS of university. In-depth qualitative interviews provided intriguing justifications for the variations in scores. Although the methodology used does not support generalization, we identify key challenges faced by the university students when recommending a business program to their friends and relatives. We make recommendations for how college administrators might use NPS data to their advantage while working to enhance the college experience for students. NPS is a simple, useful metric that offers valuable information about students' experiences. Regardless of the nature of the higher education environment, higher education institutions can readily adopt and use it on a regular basis in addition to the current student satisfaction measurements employed at various touch points. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The use of bioabsorbable mesh at the hiatus is controversial. Long-term data are scant. We evaluated the world literature and performed a meta-analysis to determine if these meshes were effective in reducing recurrence. Methods: A literature search was performed using PubMed, MEDLINE, and ClinicalKey. We evaluated articles reporting on both Bio-A™ (polyglycolic acid:trimethylene carbonate—PGA:TMC) and Phasix™ (poly-4-hydroxybutyrate—P4HB) used at the hiatus. The DerSimonian–Laird random effects model was used to estimate the overall pooled treatment effect along with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Similar analysis was conducted to compare the clinical outcomes, i.e., recurrence rate, mean surgical time, mean hospital stays and mean follow-up duration between non-Mesh and Mesh group. The I2 statistic was computed to assess the heterogeneity in effect sizes across the studies. Results: A total of 21 studies (12 mesh studies with 963 subjects and 9 non-mesh studies with 617 subjects) were included to conduct the meta-analysis. There was one article reporting outcomes on P4HB mesh (73 subjects) and 11 on PGA:TMC mesh (890 subjects). The bioabsorbable mesh group had a significantly lower recurrence rate compared to the non-mesh group (8% vs. 18%; 95%CI 0.08−0.17), pooled p-value < 0.0001. Surgery time was shorter in the mesh group compared to the non-mesh group (136.4 min vs. 150 min) but not statistically significant (p = 0.54). There tended to be a more extended follow-up period after surgery in the non-mesh group compared to the mesh group (27 vs. 25.8 months, range 10.8–54 months); but not statistically significant (ES: 27.4; 95%CI 21.6−33.3; p = 0.92). Conclusions: Hiatal hernia repair with bioabsorbable mesh is more effective at reducing hernia recurrence rate in the mid-term than simple suture cruroplasty. Further studies investigating the long-term outcomes and P4HB mesh are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recognition of modulation schemes in military and civilian applications is a major task for intelligent receiving systems. Various Automatic Modulation Classification (AMC) algorithms have been developed for this purpose in the literature. However, classification with low computational complexity as well as reasonable processing time is still a challenge. In this paper, a feature-based approach along with various classifiers is employed based on statistical features as well as higher-order moments and cumulants. An over-the-air (OTA) recorded dataset consisting of four analog and ten digital modulation schemes are used for testing the proposed method at 0–20 dB SNR. The overall accuracy for quadratic Support Vector Machine (SVM) is found to be as high as 98% at 10 dB. The comparison of the results with other AMC papers published in the literature indicates that the proposed method present higher accuracy, especially for realistic channel induced OTA dataset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a chronic liver disease that emerged in industrialized countries, can further progress into liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. In the next decade, NASH is predicted to become the leading cause of liver transplantation, the only current interventional therapeutic option. Hepatocyte death, triggered by different death ligands, plays key role in its progression. Previously, we showed that the receptor-interacting protein kinase-1 (RIPK1) in hepatocytes exhibits a protective role in ligand-induced death. Now, to decipher the role of RIPK1 in NASH, Ripk1LPC−KO mice, deficient for RIPK1 only in liver parenchymal cells, and their wild-type littermates (Ripk1fl/fl) were fed for 3, 5, or 12 weeks with high-fat high-cholesterol diet (HFHCD). The main clinical signs of NASH were analyzed to compare the pathophysiological state established in mice. Most of the symptoms evolved similarly whatever the genotype, whether it was the increase in liver to body weight ratio, the steatosis grade or the worsening of liver damage revealed by serum transaminase levels. In parallel, inflammation markers followed the same kinetics with significant equivalent inductions of cytokines (hepatic mRNA levels and blood cytokine concentrations) and a main peak of hepatic infiltration of immune cells at 3 weeks of HFHCD. Despite this identical inflammatory response, more hepatic fibrosis was significantly evidenced at week 12 in Ripk1LPC−KO mice. This coincided with over-induced rates of transcripts of genes implied in fibrosis development (Tgfb1, Tgfbi, Timp1, and Timp2) in Ripk1LPC−KO animals. In conclusion, our results show that RIPK1 in hepatocyte limits the progression of liver fibrosis during NASH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A good glycemic regulation should be provided to reduce mortality and morbidity in patients with end-stage renal failure due to diabetes mellitus. However, the use of insulin therapies in patients with renal failure is troublesome due to the increased rate of side effects. In our study, we investigated the frequency of hypoglycemia and its symptoms in patient groups receiving intensive and mixed insulin therapies. Materials and methods: This prospective study included 89 hemodialysis patients with DM-related stage 5 chronic kidney disease who were followed up in a nephrology clinic of a university hospital between January 2013 and August 2015. Our study group was divided into two groups as those receiving intensive insulin therapy and mixed insulin therapy. Group 1 and group 2 consisted of 46 patients and 43 patients, respectively. Hypoglycemia (glucose < 70 mg/dl) was investigated in patients with HbA1c levels that decreased below 7% after treatment, and the symptoms were evaluated according to the hypoglycemic scale. The results between the groups were evaluated using chi-square and Student's t test Results: A total of 89 patients were included in the study. HbA1c was 6.83% in the group receiving intensive insulin therapy and 6.95% in the group receiving mixed insulin therapy (p > 0.05). Hypoglycemia was detected in 27 patients (58.7%) in the intensive insulin therapy group and 14 patients (32.6%) in the mixed insulin therapy group. There was a significant level of hypoglycemia in the group receiving intensive insulin therapy (p < 0.05). In our study, the group receiving intensive insulin therapy had higher frequency and severity of common hypoglycemia symptoms such as confusion, sweating, weakness, dysphasia, palpitations, blurred vision, and feeling hungry. Conclusion: There was a higher frequency of hypoglycemia under intensive insulin therapy in patients undergoing dialysis due to chronic kidney failure, which suggests that mixed insulin therapy is the ideal treatment to avoid hypoglycemia in this group of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobial stewardship is of major importance in patients with febrile neutropenia (FN). In this study, we aimed to investigate the trends in resistance and the relationship with mortality rates in patients with FN. The single-center surveillance data of inpatients with FN and diagnosed as microbiologically confirmed bloodstream infections (BSIs) between 2006 and 2016 were reviewed retrospectively. A total of 950 episodes in 552 patients with BSIs were analyzed. Of whom, 55.9% were male, the median age was 43 years, and 35.6% had acute myeloid leukemia. In total, 1016 microorganisms were isolated from blood cultures. Gram-negatives accounted for 42.4% (n = 403) of the episodes. Among Gram-negatives, Enterobacteriaceae accounted for 346 (86%) (E. coli, n = 197; 34% extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBL) producers, and Klebsiella spp., n = 120; 48.3% ESBL producers). Also, 24 (20.0%) of Klebsiella spp. had carbapenemase activity. There were 6 (5.0%) colistin-resistant Klebsiella spp. Thirteen (26.5%) of Pseudomonas spp. and 17 (60.7%) of Acinetobacter spp. had carbapenemase activity. There were 2 (5.6%) colistin-resistant Acinetobacter spp. The 30-day mortality rates were 12.0%, 21.5%, 34.6%, and 29.0% in BSIs due to Gram-positive, Gram-negative bacterial, fungal, and polymicrobial etiology respectively (p = 0.001). BSIs with ESBL-producing (p = 0.001) isolates, carbapenem (p < 0.001), and colistin-resistant isolates (p < 0.001) were associated with increased mortality risk. The tremendous rise in resistance rates among Gram-negatives is dreadfully related to increasing mortality and leads to sharp shifts toward extreme restrictions of unnecessary antibiotic uses. Antimicrobial stewardship in patients with FN requires vigilance and tailoring of treatment upon local surveillance data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radio frequency fingerprinting (RFF) could provide an efficient solution to address the security issues in wireless networks. The data acquisition system constitutes an important part of RFF. In this context, this paper presents an implementation of a modular RF front end system to be used in data acquisition for RFF. Modularity of the system provides flexible implementation options to suit diverse frequency bands with different applications. Moreover, the system is able to collect data by means of any digitizer, and enable to record the data at lower frequencies. Therefore, proposed RF front end system becomes a low-cost alternative to existing devices used in data acquisition. In its implementation, Bluetooth (BT) signals were used. Initially, transients of BT signals were detected by utilizing a large number of BT devices (smartphones). From the detected transients, distinctive signal features were extracted. Then, support vector machine (SVM) and neural networks (NN) classifiers were implemented to the extracted features for evaluating the feasibility of proposed system in RFF. As a result, 96.9% and 96.5% classification accuracies on BT devices have been demonstrated for SVM and NN classifiers respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We explored the joint effect of synchronization window and offset/drift mode selection on the time synchronization of linear wireless sensor networks (LWSNs). Recent advances in the field along with the availability of capable hardware led to adoption of LWSNs in diverse areas like monitoring of roads, pipelines, and tunnels. The linear topology applications are susceptible to single point of failure; therefore, energy efficient operation of LWSNs is even more important than the traditional WSNs. To address the challenge, we investigate the time synchronization mode selection for the optimum operation of a multi-hop and low-overhead LWSN. We investigate two modes of synchronization: synchronization by using only offset and synchronization by using offset in addition to the clock drift. Furthermore, we investigate the effects of synchronization window size. Our experimental results reveal that computation of offset alone for smaller window sizes and resynchronization periods is sufficient in achieving acceptable degree of synchronization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fengycin antibiotic displays a strong antifungal activity and inhibits the growth of a wide range of plant pathogens especially filamentous fungi. The main objective of the present study is to characterize fengycin variants produced by B. amyloliquefaciens strain (ET). LC–MS analysis of fengycin extracts has shown several molecular ion peaks corresponding to conventional fengycin homologues (MH + : m/z 1463.9; 1491.9; 1506) and some new ones (MH + : m/z 1433; 1447; 1461; and 1477). Further characterization of these precursor ions was carried out by LC–MS.MS analysis. Reporter fragment ions were observed (named A and B), they correspond to the cleavage of Orn2-Tyr3 (A), Glu1-Orn2 (B), and used for identifying fengycin variants. The reporter fragment couple ions [A/B] at [m/z 966.5/1080.5] and [m/z 994.4 /1108.5] represent fengycin A and B, respectively. The diagnostic ions at ([m/z 980/1094]) may correspond to fengycin C3, D, S or B2. Interestingly, unknown diagnostic product ions at [m/z 951/1065] and [m/z 979/1093] were detected for the first time in this study which prove that they correspond to new fengycin variants, named fengycin X and fengycin Y, respectively. The fengycin X results from a substitution of the glutamine amino acid (Q), at position 8 of the fengycin A peptide part, by an isoleucine (I) or a leucine (L) residue. This mutation should be the same in fengycin Y but compared to fengycin B. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two global epidemics, diabetes mellitus (DM) and tuberculosis (TB), have converged making their control even more challenging. We herein have reviewed metformin's (MTF) effect on patients with active and latent TB, as well as discussed its newly discovered biological mechanisms in mycobacteria. Mounting evidence suggests that MTF provides better outcomes in TB patients, especially those with DM. The mechanisms by which MTF produces its benefits are multiple. Though metformin's potential has been proven in patients with DM, larger and more thorough clinical trials, in DM and non-DM-TB patients, need to be conducted. MTF could be added to the arsenal of anti-TB drugs, aiding in the goal of TB eradication worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between vitamin D and novel inflammatory markers in hemodialysis patients. Methods: In total, 129 eligible maintenance hemodialysis patients were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Patients were divided into two groups according to their serum vitamin D levels. A serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) level < 20 ng/ml was identified as vitamin D deficiency and a serum level ≥ 20 ng/ml was identified as normal. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) were calculated from the complete blood cell count. Spearman correlation analysis and both logistic and linear regression analyses were used to define the relationships between the study parameters. Results: The two groups showed statistically significant differences for gender and for C-reactive protein (CRP) and NLR values (p = 0.017, p = 0.010, and p = 0.013). Age and gender were independently associated with vitamin D deficiency (p = 0.003 and p = 0.030). Serum 25(OH)D levels showed significant but weak inverse correlations with CRP (r = − 0.205, p = 0.020) and with NLR (r = − 0.219, p = 0.013). Serum 25(OH)D levels also showed a significant but very weak correlation with PLR (r = − 0.182, p = 0.039). Serum 25(OH)D levels showed no correlation with mean platelet volume (p = 0.660). Gender was the only variable significantly associated with serum vitamin D levels, as determined by linear regression analysis (p = 0.003). Conclusion: CRP levels and NLR values were significantly higher in the vitamin D deficiency group. A significant inverse correlation was found between serum vitamin D levels and CRP levels, and NLR and PLR values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton fabrics were pre-treated with 4-vinylpyridine before dyeing to increase dye uptake. Various treatments for the application of monomers to fabrics were tried in different combinations and after dyeing the best result was obtained with alkali impregnation and monomer exhaustion. After decisions had been made on the processes to be applied before dyeing, different amounts of monomer, dyestuff and salt were used in reactive dyeing baths at different pHs. The results were evaluated in terms of color coordinates, color strength, FT-IR and fastness to washing, rubbing and perspiration. The best results were obtained with 3 ml of 4-vinylpyridine dissolved in 10 ml of alcohol, in the presence of 25 g L−1 of salt and in neutral medium at 5% dyestuff concentration. Color strength from this dyeing process was higher than from the conventional dyeing at the same dyestuff concentration. FT-IR analysis demonstrated the presence of monomer on the surface of the fabric. Fastness values showed that this method could be used as an alternative to the conventional method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study reports some novel information on both production and characterization for the poly [DVB/Fe3O4] composite film deposited by free radical polymerization method. The composite film consists of a combination of organic phase and magnetite nanoparticles. The magnetization behavior of the poly [DVB/Fe3O4] composite film was analyzed with both vibrating sample magnetometers (VSM) and a technique of electron spin resonance (ESR). It was found that the ESR study performed at room temperature showed the poly [DVB/Fe3O4] composite film had strong transition of geff ∼2.5 (254 mT) due to the Fe3+ S-state ions. This geff value indicated that the composite film behavior was near superparamagnetism. The VSM results also supported the ESR results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polyethylene glycol-polylactic acid (PEG-PLA) have an organic structure and no negative effect on human health. The present study compares the antimicrobial effectiveness of PEG and PEG-PLA on microbial growth. The following pathogens and fungi were examined: seven bacteria strains and 10 fungi (four yeasts and six molds). PEG, a non-modified polymer, exhibited no inhibition effect on all test microorganisms. However, the antimicrobial effect increased with the concentration of PEG-PLA. Bacteria showed more sensitivity to PEG-PLA compared with the other microorganisms used in this study. Enterobacter ATCC 19434 was found to be the most resistant bacteria. Molds and yeasts were more resistant than bacteria against PEG-PLA. MIC and MFC could not be determined on the tested fungi owing to the level of concentrations used, with the exception of the yeast Candida albicans and the molds Penicillium expansum and Aspergillus parasiticus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Business ethics has become a very important concern in global business and understanding the effects of various factors on ethical judgments continues to attract research and practitioner attention. Using the Multidimensional Ethics Scale (MES, Reidenbach and Robin 1988) with its five generally accepted philosophical constructs, and vignettes developed by Cohen et al. (1996), current study investigates the relationship between cultural values, personality, religiosity and the ethical sensitivity of business students. We focus on a rapidly emerging country, Turkey, whose economic environment is similar to that of the most Western nations but with a significantly different background and cultural values. Data ( n = 184) for the study is collected from a major university in the southeastern Turkey. Although some significant relationships are identified between ethical sensitivity and cultural values and personality, our study findings confirm that MES dimensions had the highest influence on ethical sensitivity levels of business students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, magnetic poly(ethylene glycol dimethacrylate- N-methacryloyl- l-tryptophan methyl ester) [m-poly(EGDMA-MATrp)] beads (average diameter = 53-103 μm) were synthesized by copolymerizing of N-methacryloyl- l-tryptophan methyl ester with ethylene glycol dimethacrylate in the presence of magnetite (FeO) and used for removal of bisphenol-A (BPA). The m-poly(EGDMA-MATrp) beads were characterized by N adsorption/desorption isotherms (BET), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, thermal gravimetric analysis, electron spin resonance analysis and swelling studies. To evaluate the efficiency of m-poly(EGDMA-MATrp) beads for adsorption of BPA from aqueous medium, the effects of pH, initial concentration, contact time and temperature were analyzed. The maximum BPA adsorption capacity of the m-poly(EGDMA-MATrp) beads was determined as 139.6 mg/g at pH 5.0, 25 °C. All the isotherm data can be fitted with the Langmuir, Freundlich and Dubinin-Radushkevich isotherm models. The adsorption process obeyed pseudo-second-order kinetic model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This report is to our knowledge the first to study plant growth promotion and biocontrol characteristics of Bacillus isolates from extreme environments of Eastern Algeria. Seven isolates of 14 (50 %) were screened for their ability to inhibit growth of some phytopathogenic fungi on PDA and some roots exudates. The bacteria identification based on 16S r-RNA and gyrase-A gene sequence analysis showed that 71 % of the screened isolates belonged to Bacillus amyloliquefaciens and the rest were closely related to B. atrophaeus and B. mojavensis. Most of them had high spore yields (22 × 10-27 × 10 spores/ml). They produced protease and cellulase cell wall-degrading enzymes while the chitinase activity was only observed in the B. atrophaeus (6SEL). A wide variety of lipopeptides homologous was detected by liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry analysis. Interestingly, some additional peaks with new masses were characterized, which may correspond to new fengycin classes. The isolates produced siderophores and indole-3- acetic acid phytohormone. The greenhouse experiment using a naturally infested soil with Sclerotonia sclerotiorum showed that the B. atrophaeus (6SEL) significantly increased the size of the chickpea plants and reduced the stem rot disease ( P < 0.05). These results suggest that these isolates may be used further as bio-inoculants to improve crop systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Designing an immobilised metal ion affinity process on large-scale demands that a thorough understanding be developed regarding the adsorption behaviour of proteins on metal-loaded gels and the characteristic adsorption parameters to be evaluated. In view of this requirement, interaction of α-amylase as a model protein with newly synthesised magnetic-poly(divinylbenzene-1-vinylimidazole) [m-poly(DVB-VIM)] microbeads (average diameter, 53-212 μm) was investigated. The m-poly(DVB-VIM) microbeads were prepared by copolymerising of divinylbenzene (DVB) with 1-vinylimidazole (VIM). The m-poly(DVB-VIM) microbeads were characterised by N adsorption/desorption isotherms, electron spin resonance, elemental analysis, scanning electron microscope and swelling studies. Cu ions were chelated on the m-poly(DVB-VIM) beads and used in adsorption of α-amylase in a batch system. The maximum α-amylase adsorption capacity of the m-poly(DVB-VIM)-Cu beads was determined as 10.84 mg/g at pH 6.0, 25 °C. The adsorption data were analyzed using three isotherm models, which are the Langmuir, Freundlich and Dubinin-Radushkevich isotherm models. The pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, modified Ritchie's-second-order and intraparticle diffusion models were used to test dynamic experimental data. The study of temperature effect was quantified by calculating various thermodynamic parameters such as Gibbs free energy, enthalpy and entropy changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The magnetic-poly(divinylbenzene-1-vinylimidazole) [m-poly(DVB-VIM)] microbeads (average diameter 53-212 μm) were synthesized and characterized; their use as adsorbent in removal of Cr(VI) ions from aqueous solutions was investigated. The m-poly(DVB-VIM) microbeads were prepared by copolymerizing of divinylbenzene (DVB) with 1-vinylimidazole (VIM). The m-poly(DVB-VIM) microbeads were characterized by N adsorption/desorption isotherms, ESR, elemental analysis, scanning electron microscope (SEM) and swelling studies. At fixed solid/solution ratio the various factors affecting adsorption of Cr(VI) ions from aqueous solutions such as pH, initial concentration, contact time and temperature were analyzed. Langmuir, Freundlich and Dubinin-Radushkvich isotherms were used as the model adsorption equilibrium data. Langmuir isotherm model was the most adequate. The pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, Ritch-second-order and intraparticle diffusion models were used to describe the adsorption kinetics. The apparent activation energy was found to be 5.024 kJ mol, which is characteristic of a chemically controlled reaction. The experimental data fitted to pseudo-second-order kinetic. The study of temperature effect was quantified by calculating various thermodynamic parameters such as Gibbs free energy, enthalpy and entropy changes. The thermodynamic parameters obtained indicated the endothermic nature of adsorption of Cr(VI) ions. Morever, after the use in adsorption, the m-poly(DVB-VIM) microbeads with paramagnetic property were separeted via the applied magnetic force. The magnetic beads could be desorbed up to about 97% by treating with 1.0 M NaOH. These features make the m-poly(DVB-VIM) microbeads a potential candidate for support of Cr(VI) ions removal under magnetic field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has been limited research on entrepreneurship in Turkey. Given the fact that globalization has rapidly been increasing, that foreign direct investment is spreading throughout the world, and that more and more foreign investors are seeking partners in emergent markets such as Turkey. One important reason for the interest in Turkish entrepreneurs is because they have many characteristics that are similar to entrepreneurs in Western markets. Even if there are many differences between Western entrepreneurs and Turkish entrepreneurs, it would be valuable to compare the characteristics of Turkish entrepreneurs with others. Moreover, a few cross-cultural studies have examined the similarities among entrepreneurs in various nations. Ireland and Turkey have many striking similarities despite varying cultural backgrounds. Hence, this empirical research was undertaken to investigate the characteristics and attributes of Turkish entrepreneurs and compare them to Irish entrepreneurs. The research design in this study focused on 161 Turkish entrepreneurs who were randomly selected from a list (obtained from local Chamber of Commerce) and interviewed using a structured questionnaire. The questions assessed relevant areas, such as demographic and business information, motivations, entrepreneurial characteristics, business problems, personality characteristics, and management skills. Information on the Irish entrepreneurs was incorporated from a published study. Overall, in terms of entrepreneurial characteristics, Turkish entrepreneurs displayed surprisingly similar characteristics to the Irish. The implications of this study are discussed along with some recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive disease characterized by a widespread accumulation of myofibroblasts and extracellular matrix components. Growing evidences support that cysteine cathepsins, embracing cathepsin B (CatB) that affects TGF-β1-driven Smad pathway, along with their extracellular inhibitor cystatin C, participate in myofibrogenesis. Here we established that curcumin, a potent antifibrotic drug used in traditional Asian medicine, impaired the expression of both α-smooth muscle actin and mature TGF-β1 and inhibited the differentiation of human lung fibroblasts (CCD-19Lu cells). Curcumin induced a compelling upregulation of CatB and CatL. Conversely cystatin C was downregulated, which allowed the recovery of the peptidase activity of secreted cathepsins and the restoration of the proteolytic balance. Consistently, the amount of both insoluble and soluble type I collagen decreased, reaching levels similar to those observed for undifferentiated fibroblasts. The signaling pathways activated by curcumin were further examined. Curcumin triggered the expression of nuclear peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ). Contrariwise PPARγ inhibition, either by an antagonist (2-chloro-5-nitro-N-4-pyridinyl-benzamide) or by RNA silencing, restored TGF-β1-driven differentiation of curcumin-treated CCD-19Lu cells. PPARγ response element (PPRE)-like sequences were identified in the promoter regions of both CatB and CatL. Finally, we established that the transcriptional induction of CatB and CatL depends on the binding of PPARγ to PPRE sequences as a PPARγ/Retinoid X Receptor-α heterodimer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]