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Since the beginning of the civil war in Syria, Türkiye has been receiving millions of Syrian refugees. Based on the reports of the Ministry of National Education (MONE) of Türkiye, more than one million refugees in Türkiye are of school age. Children are one of the most affected groups from the refugee flow. The literature indicated that lack of communication and language skills, limited support by parents, and economic and cultural differences were educational challenges that typically developing Syrian refugee children in Türkiye have been experiencing. However, very few studies have explored the educational issues that Syrian refugee children with disabilities have been experiencing. This study was conducted to contribute to the literature by exploring the educational challenges that Syrian refugee children with disabilities have been experiencing. Structured and semistructured interviews were conducted with eight parents of refugee children with disabilities and eight teachers of the students. Findings of the present study indicated that most of the educational issues that children with disabilities have been experiencing were the same as those experienced by typically developing Syrian refugee children. These common issues included language and communication barriers, cultural differences, and economic issues. The present study added that limited cooperation between parents and teachers, lack of educational materials designed for bilingual children with disabilities, and lack of expectations of parents from their children with disabilities were the issues that Syrian refugee children with disabilities have been experiencing. This study provides implications for practice and suggestions for future research.

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of English language teachers' perfectionism and self-efficacy perceptions on their professional motivation levels. The research was a relational survey model and causal comparison research. The study consisted of 450 English teachers working in official primary and secondary schools affiliated to the Ministry of National Education (MoNE) in Zonguldak province and its districts in the 2021-2022 academic year. "Personal Information Form", "Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale", "Teacher Self-Efficacy Scale" and "Teacher Professional Motivation Scale" were used as data collection tools. Frequency, percentage, arithmetic mean, t-test for independent groups, one-way analysis of variance, correlation analysis and regression analysis were used to analyse the data. As a result of the study, it was found that English language teachers' perfectionism varied in favour of teachers with 0-5 years of professional seniority according to professional seniority; it did not vary according to gender and institution of employment. It was seen that self-efficacy perceptions changed in favour of female teachers according to gender, in favour of teachers with 0-5 years of professional seniority according to professional seniority, and in favour of teachers working in primary schools according to the institution of employment. It was seen that professional motivation levels changed in favour of teachers with 0-5 years of professional seniority according to professional seniority, in favour of teachers working in primary schools according to the institution of employment; it did not change according to gender. There was no significant relationship between English teachers' professional motivation levels and their perfectionism, but there was a significant relationship between English teachers' professional motivation levels and their self-efficacy perceptions. A positive, significant and low level relationship was found between perfectionism and self-efficacy perception general scores. The variables "order", "parental criticism", "parental expectations" and "effectiveness for classroom management" were found to be predictors of English teachers' professional motivation levels.

As a result of the impact of the COVID 19 epidemic, the use of alternative mass media has become mandatory in the field of education, as in many areas, and this has led to the search for a new approach to education. In this context, communication problems may occur during rhythm practice in distance piano lessons that are conducted synchronously. Because of these potential problems, the aim of this study is to determine the effect of using midi with melodic nuclei practice for distance piano education on works with aksak rhythms. In this study, which was designed as a post-test control group design, experiment and control groups consisting of 4 people with equal piano education were formed from the 2nd grade of the Çankiri Karatekin University, Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture, Department of Music. During the lesson, a routine study was carried out with the control group for a piano piece with aksak rhythm. A treatment was given to the experimental group using midi recording, which included the melodic nuclei and rhythmic structure of this work. At the end of the lesson, student performances were measured and the data obtained was used using a t-test. No significant difference was found between the performance scores of the experimental and control groups. In this context, it is possible to say that midi supported melodic nuclei exercises has no effect the aksak rhythm practices.

This case study, based on qualitative research, aims to examine the doctoral dissertation abstracts written between 2010-2017. Therefore, in education, 3463 doctoral dissertations abstracts were accessed through Turkey's National Thesis Center website. The researchers developed an abstract review form. Each dissertation abstract was examined independently by two experts. Abstracts were examined by using the document analysis method. While almost all abstracts included aims and findings, most of them did not mention sample and data collection tools. However, a number of abstracts included data collection and sampling methods, and few abbreviations and references were used. The number of doctoral dissertations did not differ significantly regarding gender over the years. In conclusion, it is observed that there is insufficient information regarding dissertation abstracts, especially in method. The differences in dissertation abstracts, not only between university programs but also within universities, make it difficult to obtain an idea of the dissertations. In institutes' dissertation writing guides, the abstracts should be expressed in a new standard national template by considering the required qualifications.

Once the COVID-19 was announced as a pandemic by the World Health Organization at the beginning of 2020, almost all countries around the world shifted from traditional face to face education to distance education to prevent the spread of the virus. Türkiye implemented distance education practices through a web-based platform named education information network (EBA) and EBA TV channels. However, the rapid shift from traditional face to face education to distance education was challenging especially for students with disabilities, their parents and teachers because these students needed individualised education and some services which were impossible to implement remotely. The purpose of this study was to explore (a) the challenges that teachers and students faced during distance education; (b) the implications of distance education on students with disabilities. Further, this study explored opinions of special education teachers regarding how to make distance education more effective for students with disabilities. A semi-structured interview was conducted with 12 special education teachers. Findings demonstrated that distance education through EBA was neither sufficient nor convenient for most students with disabilities. Limitations of this study and suggestions for future research were discussed.

This study aims to determine the knowledge levels in the Nature and History of Science course of the prospective teachers studying in the science education program and their views following the course. Six interview questions were asked to the pre-service teachers in the science education program about the Nature and History of Science course. Seventy-nine pre-service teachers studying at a state university's Faculty of Education Department of Science Education who took the Nature and History of Science course in the 2018-2019 academic year participated in this study voluntarily. Case study, one of the qualitative research designs, was used in this study. Case study is a research method that identifies an event or phenomenon within the framework of natural real life, and examines situations in a multifaceted, systematic and detailed manner (Yildirim & Simsek, 2013). The characteristics of qualitative research are based on the main emphasis, process, understanding and meaning. The researcher is the main determinant in data collection and analysis, the process is inductive, and the product should be detailed and extensive (Merriam, 2013). Data were collected through interview questions developed by the researchers on the Nature and History of Science course. According to data analysis and the views of the prospective teachers, the highest 3 frequencies for the first question are as follows: 'Scientific information does not change. Hypotheses are developed into theories and theories are developed into laws. There is only one scientific method that is universally accepted in science.' In the second question, the pre-service teachers named the first 5 scientists with whom they were most impressed were as Aziz Sancar, Albert Einstein, Tesla, Avicenna and Newton. As for the third question, the view mostly emphasized by the pre-service teachers on the inclusion of the Nature and History of Science course among the secondary school courses was that scientific information is not easy to reach and how to reach it should be taught. Another view was that the importance of science should be taught at an early age. The fourth question was asked to the participants to reveal the techniques/methods they will use to teach the nature of science when they actively start to work as teachers. The responses were inquiry-based teaching and constructivist learning approach along with teaching through demonstration and brainstorming. In the fifth question, while explaining the relationship between the history of science and nature of nature for science-literate individuals, pre-service teachers expressed an opinion that it is easier to understand the nature of science if it is based on the history of science, that the nature of science contains the history of science, and that the history of science and the nature of science nurture and support each other. The sixth question aimed to reveal additional views of the teacher candidates on the nature and history of science course. The responses were as follows: 'I consider it adequate', 'It may be more intriguing and interesting', and 'The importance of science should be taught at an early age.'

The aim of this research is to investigate the relationship between parental attitudes perceived by the students, self-compassion and compassionate love levels, and differences occur in parental attitudes, self-compassion and compassionate love levels according to various variables. The research was conducted with 326 university students studying in different departments of Sakarya University Faculty of Education. Parental Attitude Scale (PAS), Self-Compassion Scale (SCS), the Compassionate Love Scale (CLS) and Information Collection Form were applied in the study. The research data were analyzed by correlation, T-test and One Way (ANOVA). The results of the research revealed that the self-compassion level of the students who perceived the parents' attitudes as democratic was high, whereas the self-compassion level of the students who perceived the parental attitudes as authoritarian and protective-demanding was low. It was also found out that the students who perceived their parents' attitudes as authoritarian and protective-demanding had high compassionate love levels. The present study demonstrated the authoritarian and protective-demanding parental attitudes perceived by university students differed according to sex, the democratic parental attitude differed in terms of the number of siblings, and the compassionate love differed in terms of gender. It was revealed that there was a negative relationship between self-compassion and compassionate love.

The aim of the study is to investigate whether the activity based posters have an effect of on the ninth class students' academic achievements and the retention levels in their learning. The research was carried out with 60 students at one of the state schools in The Central Anatolia Region of Turkey in 2015-2016 academic year. Study--"Celebrities" unit teaching--took 6 weeks in both experimental group and control group. This study was conducted according to the "pre-test-post-test control group model" which is from quantitative research methods. The unit of "Celebrities" Achievement Test was developed by the researcher. These data collection tools were implemented at the beginning and the end of the study. Academic Achievement Test was re-implemented 21 days later after study in order to determine the retention levels in their learning. At the end of the research, it is detected that implementation of the activity based posters in English classes makes statistically significant difference for the benefit of experimental groups on the level of academic success.

The purpose of this study is to identify the usage status of self-regulation strategies at Science and Art Centers (BILSEMs) that provide the gifted students with education in Turkey. This research was designed within qualitative study and survey model was used. It was conducted with 24 teachers at Science and Art Centers each in the Western Black Sea, Marmara and Aegean regions in Turkey. The teacher interview form designed by the researchers was used as the data collection instrument. Descriptive analysis and content analysis methods were used for analyzing the data. It was concluded in the research that the teachers do not find themselves competent about self-regulation strategies. The most observed self-regulation deficiencies among BILSEM students are deficiencies of motivation and meta-cognitive strategies. The teachers think that BILSEM curricula do not aim to bring self-regulation skills to students. It was determined that the activities performed by teachers in BILSEM curricula (Adaptation, Supportive Education, Realizing Individual Abilities, Improving Special Skills, and Project) are rather for actualizing motivation, meta-cognitive and cognitive strategies.

Recently, there has been a growing interest in alternative protein sources. This study aimed to determine the textural and sensory properties of vegan burger patties produced with plant-based (soy and pea) protein sources instead of meat protein. For this purpose, 14 different vegan burger patties produced with soy and pea-based protein alternatives were obtained from different brands in the İstanbul market. Burger patties were analysed in terms of moisture content, cooking properties, instrumental colour, texture profile, and sensory properties. According to the results, peabased burger patties have a higher moisture content and cooking loss and a lower cooking yield than soy-based patties. The L* and a* values of the pea-based patties tended to be higher than those of the soy-based patties, while the b* values were generally higher. In addition, the texture profile analysis of soy and pea-based burger patties shows differences in texture attributes that may affect consumer preference and overall eating experience. In the sensory evaluation, a significant difference between soy and pea-based burger patties was observed only for juiciness and spicy taste characteristics. The research findings shed light on alternative proteins' textural and sensorial properties and their role in the food industry, particularly in developing vegan burger patties. These differences in sensory attributes and colour and texture analysis between soy and pea-based burger patties highlight the importance of ingredient selection and formulation in developing plant-based protein products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the summer of 2021, Türkiye experienced unprecedented forest fire events. Throughout that fire season, a total of 291 fire incidents, covering an area of 202,361 hectares, dominated the public agenda. This study aimed to document and analyze the 30 large fires (affecting over 100 hectares) of 2021 using remote sensing and GIS techniques. A comprehensive fire database was established, encompassing information on burned areas, fire severity, and fuel types, determined from forest-stand types and topographical properties including slope, elevation, and aspect (in eight directions). Sentinel-2 satellite images were utilized to calculate dNBR values for assessing fire severity, analyzed in the Google Earth Engine platform. Three GIS-integrated Python scripts were developed to construct the fire database. In total, 164,658 hectares were affected by these large fires, occurring solely in three regions of Türkiye: the Mediterranean, Aegean, and Eastern Anatolian. The majority of the burned area was situated in the Mediterranean region (59%), with only 3% in Eastern Anatolia. The burned areas ranged from a minimum of 150 hectares to a maximum of 58,798 hectares. Additionally, 679 hectares of residential areas and 22,601 hectares of agricultural land were impacted by the fire events. For each fire, 21 fuel types and their distribution were determined. The most prevalent fire-prone class, "Pure Turkish pine species (Pr-Çz)," accounted for 59.56% of the total affected area (99,516 hectares). Another significant fire-prone pine species, the "Pure Black pine species (Pr-Çk)," covered 7.67% (12,811 hectares) of the affected area. Fuel types were evaluated by considering both forest-stand development stages and canopy closure. Regarding forest-stand development stages, the largest area percentage burned belonged to the "Mature" class (26.48%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted to assess prostate cancer screening behaviors and health beliefs related to prostate cancer screening among individuals aged 50 and over. Material and Methods: The study sample consisted of 72 men aged 50 and over receiving treatment at the orthopedics and traumatology clinic of a university hospital. Data were collected between December 20, 2022, and March 20, 2023, using a "Personal Information Form" and the "Prostate Cancer Screening Health Belief Model Scale". Data analysis involved the use of frequency distributions, means, standard deviations, Chi-square analyses, the Mann-Whitney U test, and the Kruskal-Wallis test. Results: The mean age of the participants in the study was 61.59±8.51 years. It was found that 22.2% of the participants had undergone Prostate-Specific Antigen testing, 73.6% had no knowledge about prostate cancer, and 75% had no knowledge about early detection tests for prostate cancer. Furthermore, participants who had knowledge about prostate cancer and early detection, had a family history of prostate cancer, and considered undergoing prostate examination had a higher rate of undergoing Prostate-Specific Antigen testing. Those who had never undergone a prostate examination, had no knowledge about prostate cancer and early detection tests, and did not plan to undergo prostate examination within the next six months had higher scores on the barrier perception scale, while those who had undergone Prostate-Specific Antigen testing and planned to undergo prostate examination within the next six months had higher scores on the health motivation perception scale. Conclusion: The study revealed a low rate of Prostate-Specific Antigen testing for early detection of prostate cancer, and participants' knowledge and health beliefs and perceptions related to prostate cancer and early detection tests were identified as key factors influencing prostate cancer screening behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to compare the units related to democracy concept of Social Studies Curriculums applied in Federal Republic of Germany and Republic of Turkey. The goals of the study indicated in Democracy related unit in Social Studies Curriculum in Turkey is examined comparatively with North Rhine-Westphalia State of Germany based on the learning strategies depending on Zimmerman (1998) and Pintrich (2000)'s learning model built on self-regulation. Firstly, literature review of the descriptive research method was used and then, documents were categorized, classified and sorted out using document analysis technique. The derived data of the both countries were compared by the appropriateness to self-regulation strategies. As a result of the study, the democracy related units applied by the curriculums of both countries are found appropriate to students' gaining self-regulation strategies and also at the end of the study; some suggestions are stated to be able to use the educational environment more effectively in terms of self-regulation strategies.

A destructive landslide occurred in Himmetoğlu village in Göynük District (Bolu, NW Turkey) caused by open-pit coal mining activities. Field observations after the landslide failure and interviews with villagers motivated us to question the possibility of using satellite SAR data to detect precursory signs of failure with regard to deformation velocity. In this study, first, landslide deformations were mapped by applying the digital elevation model (DEM) of Difference (DoD) method using DEMs from aerial photography and UAV data. However, the primary aim was to track deformation velocity as a sign of landslide failure with persistent scatterers interferometry (PSI) and small baseline subset (SBAS) methods from Sentinel-1A data. For the SBAS, the deformation velocity for ascending and descending orbits varied between − 12 and 39 mm year−1 and between − 24 and 6 mm year−1, respectively. For the PSI, the deformation velocity for ascending and descending orbits varied between − 16 and 31 mm year−1 and between − 18 and 20 mm year−1, respectively. PSI and SBAS resulted in sharply changing line-of-sight displacement rates, which were interpreted as slope failure signs, from three months prior to the landslide. In addition, higher deformation velocities were observed in locations closer to landslide crack as expected. Based on our findings, we concluded that SAR interferometric time-series analysis have the makings of being used as a suitable approach in early discerning and avoiding potential slope failures in open-pit mining areas, when it is made carefully by observing the progress in mining activities by considering the other factors such as rainfall and earthquakes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: We aimed to outline the demographic data, clinical spectrum, and treatment approach of sarcoidosis in a large group of patients and sought to figure out the variations of early-onset (EOS) and late-onset paediatric sarcoidosis (LOS). Methods: The study followed a retrospective-descriptive design, with the analysis of medical records of cases diagnosed as paediatric sarcoidosis. Results: Fifty-two patients were included in the study. The median age at disease onset and follow-up duration were 83 (28.2–119) and 24 (6–48) months, respectively. Ten (19.2%) cases had EOS (before 5th birthday) and 42 (80.7%) cases had LOS. The most common clinical findings at the time of the disease onset were ocular symptoms (40.4%) followed by joint manifestation (25%), dermatological symptoms (13.5%), and features related to multi-organ involvement (11.5%). Anterior uveitis was the most common (55%) one among ocular manifestations. Patients with EOS displayed joint, eye, and dermatological findings more commonly than patients with LOS. The recurrence rate of disease in patients with EOS (5.7%) and LOS (21.1%) were not statistically different (P = .7). Conclusions: Patients with EOS and LOS may present with variable clinical features and studies addressing paediatric sarcoidosis cases in collaboration between disciplines will enhance the awareness of this rare disease among physicians and assist early diagnosis with lesser complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This research was conducted as a descriptive study to determine the mental adjustment status of refugee children aged 6 to 14 in Duzce. Method: The sample of the study consisted of 163 refugee children. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews with primary caregivers of children using the Hacettepe Mental Adjustment Scale. The collected data were analyzed in the SPSS 22.0 database using percentages, Mann Whitney U, Kruskal–Wallis H, and chi-square tests. Results: Adjustment problems were detected in 25.8% of the children participating and behavioral problems were detected in over half (52.4%). Discussion: In line with the findings obtained from the research, it has been suggested to form a team of mental health experts, including psychiatric nurses, who have adopted the principles of transcultural care to make early diagnosis and effective treatment of psychiatric diseases of refugee children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to define potentially toxic element (PTE) concentrations, their pollution levels, their ecological risks, and the human health risks of Çoruh River sediments in Bayburt (NE Turkey). The sediment samples were analyzed through inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS). The concentrations (mg/kg) of Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Pb, Cr, and Hg varied within 243.6–1134.3, 23.7–178.6, 33.0–52.0, 8.5–38.8, 4.0–7.7, 1.27–7.17, and 0.02–0.10 in the sediments, respectively. According to various geochemical indices, such as the geo-accumulation index, pollution index, pollution load index, and enrichment factor, the sediments were unpolluted by Cr, Zn, Pb, and Hg, and these elements were not enriched in the sediments. By contrast, the sediments were generally moderately polluted—very strongly polluted by Cu, As, and Ni, and these elements were moderately enriched—extremely enriched in the sediments. The results of the ecological risk factor for Ni, As, Cu, and Hg ranged from a low to a high potential ecological risk (RI). The RI values revealed that the investigated area was in a high-risk condition because the corresponding RI value was greater than 150. The outcomes of the modified hazardous quotients demonstrated that Ni, As, and Cu would pose an important health risk if humans were exposed to the sediments and could be hazardous to aquatic animals in Çoruh River. The hazard quotient for ingestion and the hazard index of As for children more than a year old in the high-intensity residential area indicated that As would pose an important health risk if children were exposed to the sediments. Pearson's correlation matrix and principal component analyses showed that the accumulation of PTEs in Çoruh River's sediments was related to anthropogenic and geological sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social wellbeing is critical in assessing the social status of the youth and revealing both their opportunities and problems. The ‘2017 Global Youth Wellbeing Index’ (GYWI) is an international index explaining the social wellbeing status of the youth of different countries in terms of ‘civil participation’, ‘economic opportunities’, ‘education’, ‘health’, ‘information and communication technologies’, ‘safety and security’, and ‘gender equality’. In the current study, the social wellbeing of the youth in Turkey was analyzed on the basis of the data related to the specified domains of this index. Aiming to reveal a view of the social wellbeing of the youth in Turkey, the social wellbeing of young people was compared using the ‘2017 GYWI,’ and the data in the current national statistics database in Turkey (Turkish Statistical Institute [TurkStat], 2020, 2021). This comparison places a sociological emphasis on the urgent need for a general social wellbeing indexing of the youth. The indexing on the social wellbeing of young people reveals in which areas young people do not sufficiently benefit from the opportunities and resources of the society they live in. In this respect, the results of this study will guide social policies in related fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study describes a set of real-time interactive experiments that address system identification and model reference adaptive control (MRAC) techniques. In constructing laboratory experiments that contribute to efficient teaching, experimental design and instructional strategy are crucial, but a process for doing this has yet to be defined. This paper is an attempt towards filling this gap. Its contributions are: (1) to describe a sample set of experiments for both senior undergraduate- and graduate-level students, to strengthen their understanding of system identification and control; (2) to help instructors wishing to set up a laboratory with an interactive learning strategy; and (3) to propose a set of assessment criteria for engineering accreditation in system identification and control laboratories. A benefit of this paper for engineering educators is that it provides a roadmap for transferring complex theory problems into prototypes in the laboratory. Furthermore, the instructional strategies proposed can easily be adapted to other engineering courses.

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) can travel in ambient air for long distances and exchange between different environments. Soil and ambient air samples were simultaneously gathered during the winter and summer months in 7 regions in Bursa, Turkey, to study spatio-temporal fluctuations and soil-air exchange of PCBs. Σ25 PCB concentrations for the winter and summer seasons were 0.007–0.04 ng/m3 and 0.03–0.24 ng/m3 in air, also 4.09–10.00 ng/g DM and 1.65–10.01 ng/g DM in soil, respectively. PCB concentrations showed spatial variations in air and soil samples. The lowest total PCB levels were measured both in air and soil samples in the R (rural) site. The highest Σ25 PCB concentrations were measured in the SR3 site in soil samples, while the I1 site was the most polluted in air samples. Ambient air concentrations of PCBs in the summer months were greater than those in winter. In SR1, SR2, SR3, and I1 sites, soil PCB levels in the summer were higher than in the winter. The opposite was observed in the other sites (R, U, I2). Net flux values and fugacity fraction (ff) values for all regions indicated that PCBs represented a transfer from soil to air. The air-soil net gas phase flux values changed between 0.04 - 1.01 ng/m2-day and 0.02–0.83 ng/m2-day in the summer and winter, respectively. The PCB homologous distributions of mean flux values differed depending on the regions and seasons. PCBs with 4- and 5-CBs were dominant in both seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magmatic activity in the Sakarya Zone, an important segment of the Alpine orogenic belt, continues intermittently from the middle Carboniferous to Miocene. In this study, we provide geochronological and geochemical data from the Dağdibi Pluton in the eastern Sakarya Zone to present some inferences on the source region and petrogenesis of the middle Eocene magmatism. U–Pb zircon geochronology from two granodiorite samples gives middle Eocene ages of 44.75 ± 0.92 and 45.01 ± 0.59 Ma. The pluton is mainly composed of K-feldspar, plagioclase, quartz, Mg-hornblende/actinolite, Fe–Ti oxides and small amounts of biotite, and secondary chlorite and epidote. Parental magma of the intrusive rocks has a high-K calc-alkaline affinity with metaluminous character. The oxygen fugacity values vary between −18 and −17. The rocks show slightly radiogenic 87Sr/86Sr(i) (0.704845–0.705726) ratios and ϵNdi values between −0.96 and +0.52. Pb–Pb isotope ratios are typical for those of the lower continental crust. ϵHf(i) values of the zircons range from 0.14 to 10.26. The geochemical and isotopic features of the pluton point to a parental magma derived from a depleted mantle that was metasomatized by fluids during previous subduction events. The volumetric abundances of the rock types are decreased as the silica content increase, implying that the fractional crystallization is the most important process during the formation of the present compositional range of the pluton. Amphibole, plagioclase and Fe–Ti oxides are the fractionated phases while K-feldspar is largely accumulated. In the light of the data presented above, slab breakoff is regarded as the geodynamic process responsible for the formation of the Dağdibi Pluton in the middle Eocene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Introduction: In this study, the effect of Vitamin D replacement on interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) cytokine and biochemical parameters has been investigated in metabolic syndrome (MetS) patients. Methods: The research was planned as a prospective study and included 44 outpatient cases that were selected as MetS according to the IDF-2005 diagnostic criteria without overt diabetes mellitus (DM) or any inflammatory disease. The patients' Vitamin D level was <30 ng/mL, and their height, waist circumference, weight, and body mass index (BMI) measurements and biochemical parameters were recorded twice before and after 50000 IU Vitamin D replacement for 6 weeks. The IFN-γ levels were measured using the ELISA method and biochemical parameters by enzymatic colorimetric methods according to the manufacturer's instructions. The data analysis and statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics 22 (IBM SPSS, Türkiye) software. Results: A statistically significant decrease was noted in the IFN-γ levels of the patients (p<0.001). Furthermore, statistically significant changes were noted in Vitamin D, glucose, calcium, and albumin levels, body weight, and BMI after Vitamin D replacement. Discussion and Conclusion: The present study reveals that Vitamin D replacement leads to an anti-inflammatory effect on MetS patients as indicated by lower levels of IFN-γ and also a positive effect on hyperglycemia and BMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paratesticular masses constitute 2-3% of the scrotal masses. Epididymal masses constitute only 5% of prescrotal masses, and the most common type of tumor is adenotoid tumor, which is benign. Malignancies of the epididymis are rare. Epididymal adenocarcinoma is much less common. It can be primer and metastatic, and there are fewer than 40 cases in the literature in both groups. Primary epididymal adenocarcinoma is extremely rare, with only 23 cases reported. The disease diagnostic process, findings, and treatment are still unknown. In this article, we aimed to present a case of epidimal adenocarcinoma with primary origin from the epididymis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fritillaria umitkaplanii Eker & Tekşen sp. nov. (Liliaceae) is described as a new species from Turkey. It is morphologically similar to F. armena, F. pinardii and F. assyriaca, but differs from F. armena mainly by its canaliculate and broader leaves, perigone colour and shape, thin filament and anther colour; from F. pinardii by its canaliculate leaves, perigone colour, nectary characteristics, unbranched style and thin filament; and from F. assyriaca by its median leaves and bract longer than inflorescence, shape of median leaves, perigone colour, thin filament and style. Diagnostic characters, description, detailed illustration, geographical distribution, conservation assessment, identification key, observations and taxonomic comments regarding the new species are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allium mehmetyaschari Eker sp. nova (Amaryllidaceae) is described as a new species from the Province of Adana, southern Anatolia, Turkey. It is morphologically similar to A. sintenisii and A. erzincanicum in having bearded outer tepals. However, it clearly differs from A. sintenisii by having e.g., smaller bulb, stem and leaves; fewer bulblets; different sheath indumentum; different shape and size of umbel; shorter pedicels; smaller flowers and reproductive organs; different perigone colour; different indumentum structure on outer tepals; smooth inner tepals; and smaller capsule and seeds. It differs from A. erzincanicum mainly in tunic type; leaf structure; densely scabrid sheaths; umbel shape; indumentum shape on outer tepals; smooth inner tepals; ratio of central cup to lateral cups; anther colour; and in having bulblets. Herein, the morphological features, a comprehensive description, habitat and ecological characteristics, detailed images, conservation assessment and micromorphological characteristics of the seeds of A. mehmetyaschari are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fritillaria ecerii Balos & Eker sp. nova (Liliaceae) is described from the province of Mardin, SE Anatolia, Turkey. It is morphologically similar to F. melananthera in having a striped perigone, to F. caucasica and F. baskilensis in having a long style, and to F. assyriaca in having the same number of leaves. However, it clearly differs from F. melananthera and F. assyriaca mainly by its smooth style, longer filaments and more numerous bracts, and from F. caucasica and F. baskilensis mainly by its striped perigone and more numerous bracts. Diagnostic characteristics, a description, images, and a conservation assessment are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of chronotypes and other variables as predictors of resilience in university students. Method: The study was conducted with 1040 students studying at Ege University in Turkey. Results: The mean total Adult Resilience Scale (ARS) score of the students was found to be 120.23 ± 17.54 and the mean total score of the Morningness‐Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ) was 47.56 ± 8.95 and 63.0% of the students had intermediate type chronotype. It was determined that the variables explaining 21.9% of the ARS were the students' gender, school, income status, health assessment, and MEQ subtypes. Conclusion: It was concluded that the students' resilience was above the average, that more than half of them had the intermediate type chronotype, and that the independent variables determined in the study partially explained their psychological resilience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The present study investigates the effect of 25-OH vitamin D replacement on blood pressure, as well as biochemical and IL-12 parameters in patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS), and whether a threshold for vitamin D exists in such effect. Methods: This prospective study included 44 metabolic syndrome patients who presented to the Internal Medicine Clinic of Haydarpaşa Numune Training and Research Hospital. The patients had a mean age of 44.68±11.49 years; 65.9% (n=29) were female and 34.1% (n=15) were male. Biochemical tests were made for 25-OH vitamin D, glucose, HbA1c, triglycerides, HDL-K, LDL-K, BUN, creatinine, uric acid, calcium, albumin, leukocytes, neutrophils, lymphocytes, hemoglobin, C-reactive protein, and spot urine albumin/creatinine ratio, and blood pressure measurements were made before and after vitamin D replacement. In addition, IL-12 levels were measured twice using the ELISA method. A statistical analysis of the data was made using IBM the SPSS Statistics 22 (IBM SPSS, Turkiye) software package. Results: A statistically significant decrease was noted in systolic and diastolic blood pressure and IL-12 levels after vitamin D replacement when compared to the pre-replacement levels (p<0.001, p=0.008, p<0.001). When the patients were divided into two groups based on 25-OH vitamin D levels (Group-1, 25-OH vitamin D ≥32 ng/mL; Group-2, 25-OH vitamin D <32 ng/mL) after vitamin D replacement, the mean IL-12 level was found to be significantly lower in the Group-1 patients than in the Group-2 patients (p<0.033). In addition, a positive correlation was identified between vitamin D replacement and serum levels of magnesium. Discussion and Conclusion: These findings suggested that vitamin D replacement had blood pressure-lowering and anti-inflammatory effects in MetS patients. The threshold for the anti-inflammatory effect was found to be ≥32 ng/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common malignancy in children with distinctive features across its different subtypes. Although the etiology of ALL has not been fully elucidated, it has been shown that the onset of ALL is partly due to genetic factors. Genes related to drug transport, metabolism, detoxification and DNA repair could influence the cytotoxic effects associated with chemotherapy, including those involved in the transport (e.g., ABCB1, ABCC2, MTHFR and SLCO1B3), and transporter of folate (SLC19A1) of MTX and 6-MP. Likewise, genes involved in DNA-binding transcription factor activity and RNA polymerase II cis-regulatory region sequence-specific DNA binding (NR3C1) and DNA repair (TYMS) have previously been linked with cytotoxicity of 6-MP and/or MTX. Methods: In the current study, we therefore aimed to assess prior associations for 17 selected genetic variants in 5 genes, in a large cohort of 41 ALL patients treated with mercaptopurine (6-MP) and methotrexate (MTX) combination therapy or mono-therapy of whom detailed clinical toxicity datas were available. Results: Among the 17 variants in 5 genes evaluated according to the results of our study, the polymorphisms in rs2893881 (G/A) in ARID5B were closely related to therapy toxicity. To our knowledge, the effect of ARID5B variants on childhood ALL has not been studied in Turkey. Several genome-wide and candidate gene association studies have reported strong associations between ARID5B SNPs and risk of ALL and toxicity to therapeutic drugs in different populations. Conclusion: Finally, one of the most significant findings from this study is that ARID5B germline SNPs related to ALL treatment toxicity. To our knowledge, this is the first report to describe the relationship between ARID5B and ALL treatment response in the context of a preliminary ALL clinical trial. Further investigation of ARID5B variation in line with different ALL treatment regimens is required to improve its value as a prognostic marker. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports the presentation and management of an older female patient who was diagnosed with Coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) and discharged from an intensive care unit (ICU) after prolonged hospitalization. The patient's COVID‐19 test was negative; therefore, she was monitored in the COVID‐19 general clinic with normal levels of oxygen saturation (SpO2). The patient had been taking Plaquenil for rheumatoid arthritis for a long time. Azithromycin was administered first, and then, the treatment continued with favipiravir according to the national treatment protocol in Turkey. On the third day in the COVID‐19 general clinic, she was transferred to the ICU because of decreased saturation levels. Owing to worsening respiratory status and SpO2 <70%, the patient was intubated on the sixth day in the ICU, and every day, she was nursed in a prone position for >16 hours. We believe that the treatment and care activities under qualified and effective nursing care, such as providing appropriate respiratory support at the right time, early initiation and maintenance of anticoagulant therapy, long‐term prone positioning, maintaining sufficient fluid resuscitation, and early commencement of balanced enteral nutrition, contributed to the successful discharge of the patient from the ICU. The patient was finally extubated on the 23rd day. Respiratory support was continued with oxygen administered at 2 lt/min through a nasal canula with SpO2 at 94%. We believe that by combining all these factors, the patient's results improved. She was discharged from the ICU after 25 days without any organ dysfunction. During the 25 days of care in the ICU, infectious disease protection and isolation rules were strictly adhered to, and personal protective equipment was worn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, it was aimed to determine the spatial and temporal variations of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) levels in olive lands (0–5 cm) and to identify dominant PCB homologous groups and cancer risk values. In this context, surface soil samples were taken from seven olive lands in Bursa-Turkey for 9 months. Sampling points were categorized as rural, semi-rural, residential, and industrial areas. Regional-temporal trends of 43 PCB compounds were reported. The total average (∑43) PCB concentrations ranged between 8.3 ± 3.31 ng/g DM and 15.4 ± 3.3 ng/g DM. The lowest ∑43 PCB concentration was measured at the rural area (Mudanya Yörükali-MY) and the highest value was measured at Orhangazi Asilzade (OA), which is an industrial area. The dominant homologous group in all seasons was found to be 5-CBs (31%) followed by 4-CBs (16%) and 6-CBs (15%). Cancer risks were calculated and risk trend was determined as ingestion > dermal > inhalation. The values ranged between 5.26 × 10−6 and 1.28x10−5, 2.62 × 10−5 and 1.08x10−5, 1.68 × 10−1 and 6.9 × 10−12 for dermal, ingestion and inhalation, respectively. Also, the correlation between the levels of certain soil characteristics (dry matter, pH, and temperature) was also investigated. Statistical results showed that for PCB#89/101, PCB#135/144, PCB#126, PCB#156/171/202, PCB#172 PCB#170/190 it was determined that there was a significant relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, ambient air samples, olive tree branches (1- and 2-year-old) and their leaves (particulate and dissolved phase) were collected simultaneously between January and December months at a suburban site of Bursa-Turkey. Total polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) concentrations, sampled by employing passive air samplers, ranged from 0.03 to 0.08 ng/m3 in the atmosphere. The average annual total PCB concentrations belonging to the tree components were 1.14 ± 0.32 ng/g DM in dissolved phase in leaves, 0.71 ± 0.32 ng/g DM in particle phase on leaves, 1.06 ± 0.25 ng/g DM in 1-year-old branches, and 0.93 ± 0.23 ng/g DM in 2-year-old branches. It was determined that the correlation between PCB concentrations in olive tree components and the air was low. This result indicated that besides the tree-air exchange, other possible factors (such as soil-to-tree transitions, wind effect, etc.) affect the levels of PCB concentrations in the tree components. Total PCB concentrations decreased from summer to winter in all samples. The percentage ratio of PCB in the dissolved phase in the leaves was generally higher than other tree components in seasons. PCB homologous distributions indicated 5-CBs were dominant in the tree components and 3-CBs were dominant in the air samples. Highly chlorinated PCB congeners (8-CBs and 9-CBs) were found at low concentrations in both air and tree components samples. The samples indicated that the ratio of PCBs in tree components to the total (tree component+ambient air) PCBs slightly increased with increasing the chlorine number. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Atrial septal defect is a congenital heart disease usually diagnosed in childhood. This study aimed to evaluate the mid-term follow-up results of patients who underwent transcatheter closure of atrial septal defect by comparing the devices and methods used in the procedure and investigating the complications of this procedure in children. Materials and Methods: This study evaluated 232 patient files retrospectively. Of the 232 patients, 24 were excluded from the study due to missing files or data. Also, patients with multi-fenestrated atrial septal defect and aneurismatic septal tissue were excluded from the study. The following data were evaluated: follow-up time, patient complaints, symptoms, transthoracic echocardiography, and transesophageal echocardiography findings (if performed), the size of the defect as measured by balloon-sizing, the size of the device used in the procedure, and major and minor complications. Results: The study included 208 children who were diagnosed with atrial septal defect. The mean age of the patients was 88.0 ± 56.5 months. Of the patients, 170 (81.7%) had no complaints. The success rate of the procedure was found to be 95.7%. While device embolization was the most common major complication, arrhythmia was the most common minor complication. The complication rate was statistically different according to the device type used in the procedure. Conclusion: Transcatheter closure of atrial septal defect is a safe method for atrial septal defect closure in pediatric patients. The study found that defect diameters measured by different methods were not correlated with each other. The procedure complication rates differed according to device type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Advancement in genetic technology has led to the identification of an increasing number of genes in epilepsy. This will provide a lot of information in clinical practice and improve the diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy. Aim: To show the importance of genes in the next‐generation sequencing (NGS) panel during the evaluation of epilepsy and to emphasise the importance of genetic studies in different populations for the evaluation of genes that cause disease. Methods: This was a single‐centre retrospective cohort study of 80 patients who underwent NGS testing with a customised epilepsy panel. Results: In a total of 54 (67.5%) out of 80 patients, pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants and variants of uncertain significance (VOUS) were identified according to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics criteria. Pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants (n = 35) were identified in 29 (36.25%) out of 80 individuals. VOUS (n = 34) were identified in 28 (35%) out of 80 patients. Pathogenic, likely pathogenic and VOUS were most frequently identified in TSC2 (n = 11), SCN1A (n = 6) and TSC1 (n = 5) genes. Other common genes were KCNQ2 (n = 3), AMT (n = 3), CACNA1H (n = 3), CLCN2 (n = 3), MECP2 (n = 2), ASAH1 (n = 2) and SLC2A1 (n = 2). Conclusions: NGS‐based testing panels contribute to the diagnosis of epilepsy and might change the clinical management by preventing unnecessary and potentially harmful diagnostic procedures and management in patients. Thus, our results highlight the benefit of genetic testing in children suffering with epilepsy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the impact of seed size, roasting process, growing region and their interactions on chemical composition of NC‐7 peanut cultivar from Turkey. Peanut seeds obtained from Osmaniye, and Adana regions of Turkey were sized into two market grades as 7 and 11 mm and roasted until a uniform skin color was obtained. It was found that the moisture, stachyose, raffinose, sucrose and amino acid values of small sized samples were generally significantly higher than the larger ones. Larger seeds especially in Osmaniye region had higher oleic/linoleic (O/L) acid ratio. In Osmaniye region, raw samples showed higher concentration for detected sugars thauikn Adana region. It was determined that roasting process generally caused a decrease in the amount of amino acids. It was elucidated that seed size, growing regions and roasting process were crucial factors for the chemical compositions of peanut seed samples. Novelty impact statement: As far as we know, this study is the first detailed approach to elucidate the sugar and amino acid contents of two different size types and growing regions (Adana and Osmaniye)‐in which one has a Geographical Indication Patent owing to its kernel quality and unique flavor in roasted seeds. Based on these results, peanut seeds should be handled in chemical composition regarding its specific market grades by consumers and peanut industry. In view of the complexity of peanut seed composition depend on seed size and growing location, the changes in the raw material that occur during roasting process can give a clue for different food materials also. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The metallogenic belt containing numerous skarn mineralized systems starting from Eastern Europe continues through Turkey and Iran. The study area in the Eastern Pontides is within this metallogenic belt. The 44.39 ± 0.53 Ma Karadağ Intrusion sourced skarn mineralization is located along the granitoid-to-limestone contact. The Karadağ Intrusion is an arc-like pluton with medium–high K calc-alkaline and peraluminous–metaluminous affinity. The Karadağ Fe–Cu skarn mineralization (Gümüşhane, Turkey), an exoskarn, is hosted by Late Cretaceous limestone and consists of early garnet, clinopyroxene, and orthoclase with late epidote and chlorite. Primary ore minerals are magnetite and haematite, accompanied by minor amounts of chalcopyrite and pyrite. Pyroxene comprises mostly diopside and less hedenbergitic diopside and johannsenite. Wollastonite is very rare. Garnet is andradite and grossular–andradite. Thus, all these results imply that the Karadağ Fe–Cu skarn mineralization formed under relatively oxidized and Fe-rich conditions. The homogenization temperatures of the fluid inclusions vary from 189°C to 405°C for quartz and 186°C to 430°C for calcite. The salinity contents in the fluid inclusions are within 0.2–9 wt% NaCl equivalent for quartz and 0.4–14.8 wt% NaCl equivalent for calcite. First melting temperatures between −36.5 and −47.4°C were attained with the presence of NaCl–FeCl2± CaCl2 in the initial phase of fluid inclusions. The first melting in the later stage of fluid inclusions is between −3.8 and −17.2°C, thereby, supporting the existence of NaHCO3-Na2CO3-KCl-type salt composition. The δ18O values of minerals are 1.7–10.3‰ for garnet, 11.1–14.6‰ for quartz, 6.4 to 6.8‰ for epidote, and 2.8–3.8‰ for magnetite in the Karadağ skarn mineralization. The δ18O value of epidote indicates magmatic fluid, whereas those of garnet, magnetite, and quartz suggest magmatic fluids together with less meteoric effect. The δ18O values in limestone (18.7 to 22.3‰), marble (8.7‰), and calcite (10.5 to 12.2‰) were depleted relative to typical δ18O contents of marine carbonates (20 to 30‰). Moreover, the C isotope values of calcite (−5.4 to −1.4‰), marble (−2.1‰), and limestone (1.0 to 1.2‰) reflect those of metamorphic rocks and skarns (−4.0 to 3‰ and −18 to 2‰). Mineral paragenesis, fluid inclusion, and stable isotopic signatures are consistent with ore mineralization caused by the interaction of magmatic fluids with carbonate host rocks. Karadağ Fe-Cu skarn mineralization, associated with Karadağ postcollisional magmatism, is an example of skarn mineralized system in the Eastern Pontides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although not validated fully, recommendations are present for diagnosis, screening and treatment modalities of patients with familial Mediterranean fever (FMF). Objective: To review the current practices of clinicians regarding FMF and reveal their adherence to consensus guidelines. Methods: Fifteen key points selected regarding the diagnosis and management of FMF were assessed by 14 paediatric rheumatologists with a three-round modified Delphi panel. Results: Consensus was reached on the following aspects: genetic analysis should be ordered to all patients when clinical findings support FMF, but its result is not decisive alone. In the absence of clinical features, colchicine should be commenced when two pathogenic alleles and family history of amyloidosis are present. Serum amyloid A testing at each visit is recommended in patients resistant to colchicine, with subclinical inflammation and family history of amyloidosis. Consensus was reached on both the definition of colchicine resistance and starting biologic in resistant cases. Cost, efficiency, ease of use, treatment adherence, accessibility and emergence of adverse events are the factors affecting the choice of biologic agents. In patients without any attack and evidence of subclinical inflammation within the last 6 months following initiation of biologics, treatment dose intervals can be prolonged. Conclusion: A consensus was achieved regarding the routine diagnosis and screening and treatment of FMF patients. The definition of colchicine resistance was made and a protocol was created for prolongation of treatment intervals of biologic agents. We anticipate that the results of the study reveal real-life data on the approach to patients in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban trees and forests are essential components of the urban environment. They can provide numerous ecosystem services and goods, including but not limited to recreational opportunities and aesthetic values, removal of air pollutants, improving air and water quality, providing shade and cooling effect, reducing energy use, and storage of atmospheric CO2. However, urban trees and forests have been in danger of being lost by dense housing resulting from population growth in the cities since the 1950s, leading to increased local temperature, pollution level, and flooding risk. Thus, determining the status of urban trees and forests is necessary for comprehensive understanding and quantifying the ecosystem services and goods. Tree canopy cover is a relatively quick, easy to obtain, and cost-effective urban forestry metric broadly used to estimate ecosystem services and goods of the urban forest. This study aimed to determine urban forest canopy cover areas and monitor the changes between 1984–2015 for the Great Plain Conservation area (GPCA) that has been declared as a conservation Area (GPCA) in 2017, located on the border of Düzce City (Western Black Sea Region of Turkey). Although GPCA is a conservation area for agricultural purposes, it consists of the city center with 250,000 population and most settlement areas. A random point sampling approach, the most common sampling approach, was applied to estimate urban tree canopy cover and their changes over time from historical aerial imageries. Tree canopy cover ranged from 16.0% to 27.4% within the study period. The changes in urban canopy cover between 1984–1999 and 1999–2015 were statistically significant, while there was no statistical difference compared to the changes in tree canopy cover between 1984–2015. The result of the study suggested that an accurate estimate of urban tree canopy cover and monitoring long-term canopy cover changes are essential to determine the current situation and the trends for the future. It will help city planners and policymakers in decision-making processes for the future of urban areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although restless legs syndrome (RLS) is one of the most frequent movement disorders, it is often misdiagnosed or even unrecognized. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of RLS among adult population (individuals who are older than 18 years old) in the city center of Canakkale, from northwest of Turkey. Method: This community-based study was performed as a cross-sectional, door-to-door field study.The adult population of the city center of Canakkale had an estimated population of 126,893 according to 2018 data. The sample size of the study assuming RLS prevalence, in Epi Info Statcalc program was determined to be 476 subjects using the sample calculation formula. We reached 622 adults. The International RLS Study Group (IRLSSG) diagnostic criteria were applied and the IRLSSG rating scale (IRLS) was used to assess the severity of symptoms. Results: The RLS prevalence was determined as 12.1%. The prevalence reached peak point (15.3%) in the 50–65-year-old group. The IRLSSG severity scale score correlated with age (r = 0.356, p < 0.01). We observed particularly a higher RLS prevalence for patients with two or more medical comorbidities, although this trend did not reach significance (p > 0.05). Conclusion: We found high prevalence of RLS among adult individuals. Despite this increasing prevalence, very few patients seek professional help and treatment. We see that the prevalence of RLS has increased with recent prevalence studies over the years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The existing literature has recognized the role and importance of social capital in natural resource management. Several studies provide empirical evidence that higher levels of social capital may positively affect individuals' behavior towards natural resources management. This study is therefore an attempt to investigate the environmental quality impacts of social capital and central government expenditures on environmental protection, taking spatial dimension into account from 2009 to 2017 for Turkey. A general-to-specific approach has been adopted where spatial variations in the relationships have been examined with a dynamic spatial Durbin model, using the panel data at NUTS3 level. The empirical results do not support the validity of an environmental Kuznets curve, rather a U-shaped environmental Kuznets curve is validated, which exhibits spatial dependence. Estimation results show that industrial production has detrimental effects on the environment, while social capital improves it. The central government expenditures on environmental protection are effective in the abatement of pollution, and its effectiveness is enhanced when social capital is controlled. In addition to spatial spillover effects, our results show the presence of strong path dependency; that is, there is certain pollution inertia. Moreover, environmental protection policies would be more effective if social capital levels are improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morphological data from light microscopy (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of pollen and seeds are used to explore phylogenetic relationships between four taxa of cultivated and wild Pisum including P. sativum subsp. sativum var. sativum and var. arvense, P. sativum subsp. elatius and P. fulvum. Characteristics investigated include pollen shapes and ornamentation, polar axis (P) and equatorial diameter (E), P/E ratio, exine thickness (Ex) and intine thickness (In), lumina diameter (L), muri thickness (M) and seed coat ornamentations in three accessions each of the four taxa. Pollen of Pisum is subprolate, reticulate and tricolporate. Ratios of P/E of the cultivated peas are higher than those of the wild species while diameter of lumina in the cultivated peas is smaller than that of the wild species. The cultivated pea has a smooth seed coat, in contrast to the rough surface of the wild species. The results of SEM micrographs reveal that seed coat ornamentation in each four-taxon set is typical papillose with thicker ribs than in the wild specimens. Differences in corolla colour, even among the five petals, are also noted for the taxa studied. The results suggest that pollen shapes and ornamentation are of limited taxonomic significance, while the seed coat ornamentation may be important for distinguishing taxa of Pisum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the molecular basis of maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) by targeted-gene sequencing of 20 genes related to monogenic diabetes, estimate the frequency and describe the clinical characteristics of monogenic diabetes and MODY in the Trakya Region of Turkey. Methods: A panel of 20 monogenic diabetes related genes were screened in 61 cases. Illumina NextSeq550 system was used for sequencing. Pathogenicity of the variants were assessed by bioinformatics prediction software programs and segregation analyses. Results: In 29 (47.5%) cases, 31 pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants in the GCK, ABCC8, KCNJ11, HNF1A, HNF4A genes and in 11 (18%) cases, 14 variants of uncertain significance (VUS) in the GCK, RFX6, CEL, PDX1, KCNJ11, HNF1A, G6PC2, GLIS3 and KLF11 genes were identified. There were six different pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants and six different VUS which were novel. Conclusion: This is the first study including molecular studies of twenty monogenic diabetes genes in Turkish cases in the Trakya Region. The results showed that pathogenic variants in the GCK gene are the leading cause of MODY in our population. A high frequency of novel variants (32.4%-12/37) in the current study, suggests that multiple gene analysis provides accurate genetic diagnosis in MODY. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Büyük Menderes River, the one of the most important rivers in the Aegean side of Turkey serves as a resource for various water uses. Therefore, environmental quality of the Büyük Menderes River basin is a critic issue due to great pressure from a diverse range of humans and their activities. Heavy metals are one of the most known priority or special pollutants in aquatic ecosystem. The free metal ion is the most toxic form to aquatic life. Thus, determining the total concentration of a heavy metal in a water sample provides relative information about its toxicity. The European Union (EU) declared that metals as one of the most significant pollutants to be controlled and monitored in water bodies based on Water Framework Directive (WFD) that focuses on providing sustainable management of river, lake, transition, ground and coastal waters. The main objective of WFD is to achieve “good ecological and chemical status” to protect human health, water supply, natural ecosystems, and biodiversity. In this work, the detected heavy metal concentrations of 19 metals at 15 lakes, 2 transition, 4 coastal and 26 river-sampling stations of Büyük Menderes River Basin (BMRB) were monitored for a year according to EQS values. Monthly and annual average concentrations of heavy metals were evaluated, and the results were presented with environmental quality standards namely Annual Allowable Concentration (AA-EQS) and Maximum Allowable Concentration (MAC-EQS). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: The differential diagnosis of Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) is still a major clinical challenge despite the advances in diagnostic procedures. In this multicentre study, we aimed to reveal FUO aetiology and factors influencing the final diagnosis of FUO in Turkey.Methods: A total of 214 patients with FUO between the years 2015 and 2019 from 13 tertiary training and research hospitals were retrospectively evaluated.Results: The etiologic distribution of FUO was infections (44.9%), malignancies (15.42%), autoimmune/inflammatory (11.68%) diseases, miscellaneous diseases (8.41%) and undiagnosed cases (19.62%). Brucellosis (10.25%), extrapulmonary tuberculosis (6.54%) and infective endocarditis (6.54%) were the most frequent three infective causes. Solid malignancies (7.1%) and lymphoma (5.6%), adult-onset still's disease (6.07%) and thyroiditis (5.14%) were other frequent diseases. The aetiological spectrum did not differ in elderly people (P < .05). Infections were less frequent in Western (34.62%) compared with Eastern regions of Turkey (60.71%) (P < .001, OR: 0.31, 95% Cl: 0.19 to 0.60). The ratio of undiagnosed aetiology was significantly higher in elderly people (p: 0.046, OR: 2.34, 95% Cl: 1.00 to 5.48) and significantly lower in Western Turkey (P: .004, OR: 3.07, 95% Cl: 1.39 to 6.71).Conclusions: Brucellosis, extrapulmonary tuberculosis and infective endocarditis remain to be the most frequent infective causes of FUO in Turkey. Solid tumours and lymphomas, AOSD and thyroiditis are the other common diseases. The aetiological spectrum did not differ in elderly people, on the other hand, infections were more common in Eastern Turkey. A considerable amount of aetiology remained undiagnosed despite the state-of-the-art technology in healthcare services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the removal of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from soils around a cement factory in Bursa-Turkey. UVA and UVA-H2O2 applications were carried out with the particular apparatus. The evaporated PAHs were collected with the polyurethane foam (PUF) column in this apparatus. UVA applications were carried out simultaneously at two temperatures (18°C and 35°C) to determine the effect of temperature on PAHs' removal. Evaporated PAH amounts and PAH removal efficiencies were calculated. In UVA applications (without using H2O2), ∑12 PAH removal efficiency was calculated as 90%, and this value increased to 95% with the use of H2O2. The highest PAH removal ratio (95%) was obtained with UVA-H2O2 (1% H2O2) application. An increase in temperature did not contribute significantly to the removal of PAHs (except for 20% H2O2). During the experiments, the amount of evaporated PAHs from soil to air increased depending on the temperature. It was observed that 80% of evaporated PAHs were formed 3 ring compounds (Phe, Ant) at 35°C. It was concluded that only low H2O2 dose (1%) was effective on the removal of PAHs from soils at 18°C and 35°C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic resources of the genus Cicer L. are not only limited when compared to other important food legumes and major cereal crops but also, they include several endemic species with endangered status based on the criteria of the International Union for Conservation of Nature. The chief threats to endemic and endangered Cicer species are over-grazing and habitat change in their natural environments driven by climate changes. During a collection mission in east and south-east Anatolia (Turkey), a new Cicer species was discovered, proposed here as C. turcicum Toker, Berger & Gokturk. Here, we describe the morphological characteristics, images, and ecology of the species, and present preliminary evidence of its potential utility for chickpea improvement. C. turcicum is an annual species, endemic to southeast Anatolia and to date has only been located in a single population distant from any other known annual Cicer species. It belongs to section Cicer M. Pop. of the subgenus Pseudononis M. Pop. of the genus Cicer L. (Fabaceae) and on the basis of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequence similarity appears to be a sister species of C. reticulatum Ladiz. and C. echinospermum P.H. Davis, both of which are inter-fertile with domestic chickpea (C. arietinum L.). With the addition of C. turcicum , the genus Cicer now comprises 10 annual and 36 perennial species. As a preliminary evaluation of its potential for chickpea improvement two accessions of C. turcicum were field screened for reproductive heat tolerance and seeds were tested for bruchid resistance alongside a representative group of wild and domestic annual Cicer species. C. turcicum expressed the highest heat tolerance and similar bruchid resistance as C. judaicum Boiss. and C. pinnatifidum Juab. & Spach, neither of which are in the primary genepool of domestic chickpea. Given that C. arietinum and C. reticulatum returned the lowest and the second lowest tolerance and resistance scores, C. turcicum may hold much potential for chickpea improvement if its close relatedness supports interspecific hybridization with the cultigen. Crossing experiments are currently underway to explore this question. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: According to the World Health Organization, approximately 17% of all infectious diseases are vector-borne diseases. Turkey has convinient climate and vegetation conditions for ticks, therefore Turkey is a risky country for diseases transmitted by ticks. The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence of tick bite and the factors affecting of tick bite in those living in Mahmudiye and Pınarbaşı villages in the rural area of Ezine district of Çanakkale. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out in 2018 in the villages of Mahmudiye and Pınarbaşı of the Ezine district of Çanakkale. Before the study, permissions were obtained from the Clinical Research Ethics Committee of Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University. The sample size was calculated as 329 people, by the formula of sample size used to estimate the population rate. A total of 420 people were contacted, including 292 from Mahmudiye and 128 from Pinarbasi. The nonprobability sampling method was used to reach the number of samples determined in the villages. The data of the study was obtained by a questionnaire which was applied by face to face interview technique. The questionnaire consisted of 23 questions questioning the demographic characteristics of participants, their knowledge and attitude about tick bite and tick-borne diseases. Logistic regression analysis was performed to analyze the risk factors associated with a tick bite. After the data collection phase of the research, education about prevention from tick bites was given to women and men in both villages to prevent tick bites. Results: The prevalence of tick bite was 20%. The risk of tick bite was 3.4 times higher for males than females; 3.0 times higher for the people whom level of education below high school than high school and above; 3.4 times higher for occupations of farming, animal husbandry, agricultural technician, butchery than the other occupations. Conclusion: There are protective measures to prevent tick bite and the basis of preventive health services is health education. It is thought that training to be made for raising awareness about tick bites for individuals who live in rural areas, especially those who are engaged in agriculture and animal hunsbandry will be beneficial. In addition, we recommend screening for health problems that may be caused by tick bite in this rural area where one of five people was bitten by a tick. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]