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This study aims to provide a comprehensive and in-depth investigation of the debugging process in programming teaching in terms of cognitive and metacognitive aspects, based on programming students who demonstrate low, medium, and high programming performance and to propose instructional strategies for scaffolding novice learners in an effective way. Data were collected from 41 novice programming students from C++ and Python programming language courses of the same instructor in the scope of case study methodology, and data instruments included paper-based programming questions. The questions were framed under three categories as questions' difficulty levels (low, moderate and high), error types (syntax and logic), and question types (if-else and while). As having three categories, a total of 12 different data (3x2x2) were taken from each student, which means 492 data rows were evaluated in the study. Chi-square test results revealed that while error detection and correction are significantly high in low difficulty level questions, error detection and error correction attempts for logic errors were substantially higher compared to syntax errors. Further analysis conducted for paper-based markings that were used by students throughout their error detection, correction, and completion attempts. Chi-square test results revealed significant relationships between marking availability and error types, as well as difficulty levels. Results were discussed for both traditional learning and e-learning environments in terms of what kind of educational implications and strategies can be outlined by data for increasing the effectiveness of programming education for novice learners.

The purpose of this study was to establish a community of practice (CoP) called an academic research and writing group (ARWG), to improve the research and writing skills of graduate students, and to increase their levels of interaction while conducting their academic research. In the current study, formative research was implemented to improve the quality of academic output from the ARWG group. The study's findings showed that specific features added through the ARWG provided both a positive impression toward the ARWG and encouraged novice researchers to work collaboratively.

The Draw-A-Science-Teacher-Test Checklist (DASTT-C) is an useful instrument to show how our science teaching environment and science teacher behaviors have been going on. This study is a cross cultural and comparative study to contribute to literature of problems of science teacher behaviors and of science learning environment. The purpose of this study is to investigate Turkish, Scottish, Dutch and German elementary students' images of science teachers and science teaching environment and to compare Turkish science teaching environment with other three countries. 128 elementary students from four different countries have joined this study in order to collect data. The results from the study have showed that Turkish elementary students' perspectives of science teaching style is 4.5% student-centered, 36.4% between student- teacher-centered, and 59.1% teacher-centered. The Scottish elementary students' perspectives of science teaching style is 38.6% student-centered, 52.3% between student- teacher-centered, and 9.1% teacher-centered. The Dutch elementary students' perspectives of science teaching style is 25% student-centered, 50% between student- teacher-centered, and 25% teacher-centered. The German elementary students' perspectives of science teaching style is 24% student-centered, 55% between student- teacher-centered, and 21% teacher-centered.

The purpose of this research was to examine the relationship between free time satisfaction and stress levels of elite level student wrestlers according to some demographic factors. The sample of the study consisted of 119 (85 male and 34 female) elite level student wrestlers who participated in the Wrestling National Team camp in 2018. As data collection tools, "Personal Information Form", "Stress Scale in Working Life: SSWL", and "Free Time Satisfaction Scale: FTSS" were used. In the analysis of the derived data, t-test, Mann-Whitney U, and Kruskal-Wallis were used, and Pearson Correlation test was applied to examine relations between study variables. There was no significant difference in the t-test results according to the "gender" variable (p > 0.05). There was a meaningful, low-level negative correlation between the "age" variable and social, aesthetic, sub-dimensions of stress scale. As a result, this study found that participants' free time satisfaction levels were related to age; and stress levels were related to age, sport year, national team year, and income level.

The purpose of the present study was to determine the relationship between healthy lifestyle behaviors, physical fitness, and coronary risk factors in university students. 320 male and female (nm: 171; nf: 149, respectively) students from a university participated in this study voluntarily. For the determination of body composition and Body Mass Indexes (BMI), subjects' height, body weight, and skinfold thickness were taken and body fat percentage (% fat) was determined. Healthy lifestyle behaviors were determined using the healthy lifestyle behaviors questionnaire. Indicators of physical fitness included flexibility (sit-up) (F), muscle strength and endurance (isometric knee (KS), back strength (BS) and a total of shuttle (TS), sprint performance, BMI, and body fat percentage (% fat). Coronary heart disease risk factors included mean arterial blood pressure (systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP)), fasting blood levels of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), hematocrit (HCT), and hemoglobin (HGB). Results indicated subjects have normal body mass index, body fat percentage, SBP, DBP, TG, TCF, BS, and KS. The results of the Pearson Product Moment Correlation Analysis, indicated that SBP, DBP, TG, TCF, BS, and KS for male and female was significantly correlated with flexibility (sit-up) (F), muscle strength and endurance (isometric knee (KS), back strength (BS) and total of shuttle (TS)), sprint performance. (p < 0.01; p < 0.05), In conclusion, the findings of the present study indicated that physical fitness and healthy lifestyle behaviors play a determinant role in coronary heart disease risk factors for male and female students from a university.

Immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy (IgAN) treatment consists of maximal supportive care and, for high-risk individuals, immunosuppressive treatment (IST). There are conflicting results regarding IST. Therefore, we aimed to investigate IST results among IgAN patients in Turkiye. The data of 1656 IgAN patients in the Primary Glomerular Diseases Study of the Turkish Society of Nephrology Glomerular Diseases Study Group were analyzed. A total of 408 primary IgAN patients treated with IST (65.4% male, mean age 38.4 ± 12.5 years, follow-up 30 (3–218) months) were included and divided into two groups according to treatment protocols (isolated corticosteroid [CS] 70.6% and combined IST 29.4%). Treatment responses, associated factors were analyzed. Remission (66.7% partial, 33.7% complete) was achieved in 74.7% of patients. Baseline systolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, and proteinuria levels were lower in responsives. Remission was achieved at significantly higher rates in the CS group (78% vs. 66.7%, p = 0.016). Partial remission was the prominent remission type. The remission rate was significantly higher among patients with segmental sclerosis compared to those without (60.4% vs. 49%, p = 0.047). In the multivariate analysis, MEST-C S1 (HR 1.43, 95% CI 1.08–1.89, p = 0.013), MEST-C T1 (HR 0.68, 95% CI 0.51–0.91, p = 0.008) and combined IST (HR 0.66, 95% CI 0.49–0.91, p = 0.009) were found to be significant regarding remission. CS can significantly improve remission in high-risk Turkish IgAN patients, despite the reliance on non-quantitative endpoints for favorable renal outcomes. Key predictors of remission include baseline proteinuria and specific histological markers. It is crucial to carefully weigh the risks and benefits of immunosuppressive therapy for these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In today's world, in order to obtain the information in education, various approaches, methods and devices have been developed. Like many developing countries, e-learning and distance learning (internet based learning) are used today in many areas of education in Turkey. This research aims to contribute to education systems and develop a "Cihat Askin and Little Friends" e-learning model in order to improve the project. "Cihat Askin and Little Friends" is an education system project by worldwide by Turkish violin virtuoso Cihat Askin. The aim of this system is to encourage people to play violin and disseminate playing violin as an instrument. In this project, individuals are accepted into the "Cihat Askin and Little Friends" program regardless of their age and talent. In 2001, Cihat Askin's project has started in Bursa and today it proceeds in twelve different cities of Turkey. Thanks to this education system of "Cihat Askin and Little Friends", hundreds of children without musical foreknowledge have started to play violin in Turkey. This paper aims to evaluate teachers' thoughts and opinions about e-learning technology use for "Cihat Askin and Little Friends" Project. Survey method was used and educators' attitude towards "Cihat Askin and Little Friends" e-learning model was analyzed. The results reveal that teachers in the project have positive feelings and opinions about the e-learning model. It is believed that by teachers of the project, e-learning technology use will improve in violin education thanks to the project to a great extent.

In this study, the effect of using Jigsaw II and Jigsaw IV techniques on the subject of "Atoms-The Basic Unit of Matter" in science course of 6th grade on academic achievement was examined. Pre-test post-test control group research was used in the study. Study population is all secondary schools in Turgutlu district of Manisa province and the sample group was determined from "Samiye Nuri Sevil Secondary School" among 20 secondary schools in Turgutlu district through cluster sampling method. The experiment and control groups of the research were constituted from two branches based on the results of pre-test and there are 48 persons in total of which 24 are in experiment and 24 are in control group. In the study, the subject of "Atoms--the Basic Unit of Matter" was taught to the experiment group by using Jigsaw IV technique and it was taught to the control group by using Jigsaw II technique. In this research, Science achievement test consisting of 12 multiple-choice items which were developed by the researcher was used. T-test was used for the analysis of data obtained as a result of achievement test. In paired samples t-test (dependent group) conducted for achievement pre-tests and post-tests of the control and experiment group a significant difference was found, while no significant difference in terms of statistics in favor of the experiment group was found in independent samples t-test (independent group) conducted for post-tests of the control and experiment groups. At the end of the research, although the effect of Jigsaw II and Jigsaw IV techniques on the achievement in Science course was found to be positive on students learning, no statistical differences were found in these two techniques.

The purpose of this study is to reveal Turkish elementary teachers' and science teachers' attitudes toward science and science teaching. The sample of the study, 138 in-service elementary level science teachers from a province of Turkey, was selected by a clustered sampling method. The Science Teaching Attitude Scale-II was employed to measure the attitudes of the teachers. It was found that in-service elementary level and science teachers had positive attitudes toward science and science teaching. They accept scientific theories as uncertain changeable truths while scientific laws are perceived as unchangeable certain truths. They also have problems in understanding the acquisition of scientific knowledge either from observations and experiments or from authorities. For science teaching, they agree on the use of a student-centered approach for teaching science courses. On the other hand, they strongly support a teacher-centered approach at the same time. The means of the sub-scales of STAS-II in this study showed very strong similarities to the previous studies that used STAS-II in Turkish context.

The purpose of this study was to investigate fourth-grade students image of current science teaching by using a Draw-A-Science-Teacher-Test Checklist (DASTT-C), and give a glance whether the new restructured science education reform in Turkey is implemented successfully or not. Fifty-five (34 girls and 21 boys) fourth-grade students from three different primary schools participated in this study. The results of study showed that 18.2% of Turkish fourth-grade students view their science classrooms as student-centered, 56.4% as neither student-centered nor teacher-centered, and 25.4% as teacher-centered. These results indicate that Turkey is in the process of a big positive change, and that traditional education perspective started switching over to constructivist perspective, while attempts for implementing the reform put emphasis on elementary teachers and their professional development. (Contains 5 figures.)

The purpose of this study was to determine the knowledge levels of popular biotechnological issues of Turkish science and elementary teacher candidates. A questionnaire was administered during 2006-2007 school term to 336 students pursuing their education in the departments of science and elementary education in two Turkish universities. The questionnaire covers six biotechnological issues such as biotechnology, agrobiotechnology, human health and pharmacy, environment and biotechnology, and food production with biotechnology. Results revealed that whereas science and elementary teacher candidates had an approximate consistent knowledge of describing biotechnology and human health/pharmacy that almost all students had an inadequate knowledge about other biotechnological issues. The mean of the knowledge levels of science teacher candidates was significantly higher than that of elementary teacher candidates at the popular biotechnological issues. On the other hand, there was no significant mean difference between female and male science and elementary teacher candidates' knowledge levels related to biotechnology. In the result, the elementary and science education programs should be regulated to put extra effort to increase teacher candidates' awareness of biotechnological topics and issues in Turkey since one of the important future technologies seems to be biotechnology. (Contains 7 tables and 1 footnote.)

The last one thousand years or more of Turkish science educational development have numerous historical similarities to other parts of the world. While documentation of historical educational developments are important to those whose ancestors are being described, the true value of this regional- and country-specific evolutionary historical journey has even greater value when compared and contrasted with similar investigations from around the world. Only then do we see the critical events clearly and isolate the influences of our past intellectual growth as a society. The past is the key to our future. This paper highlights several major periods of science education change and the influences that led to those reforms. Until the middle of the 18th century, science education was limited and almost always tied to Islamic religious philosophy. By the 1830's, western influence, with France providing the greatest impact, resulted in curricular changes in both the kinds of science courses taught and expanded positivist approaches. The collapse of the Ottoman Empire and the emergence of the Republic of Turkey in 1923 led to society-wide reforms, especially in education. John Dewey's visit to Turkey in the 1930's created another science education curricular shift as elements of experimentalism and pragmatism were added to Turkish science curriculum. The next major science education development occurred after the Second World War, when Turkey became a full member of NATO and expanded its connections with western countries, especially the USA. This influence helped to create what was called modern science curriculum, especially in the area of biology, but the traditional positivist approach remained imbedded. And lastly the paper reflects on the current courting with the European Union and the shift to include more of a foundation to science curriculum by including the nature of science.

• Lamiaceae species are rich in EOs, aromatic compounds and active phytochemicals. • Phytochemical profile, antioxidant and anticancer activities of the EOs were determined in this work. • A total of thirty-seven different phytochemicals were identified by GC/MS analysis. • Anticancer activities of the EOs against NCI-N87, HepG2, MCF-7, and LNCaP cells were analyzed for the first time. • Some Lamiaceae species are potentially candidates for therapeutic purposes. The present study was aimed to determine phytochemical characterization, anticancer and antioxidant activities of essential oils obtained from 11 Lamiaceae species, including Clinopodium serpyllifolium subsp. barbatum (P.H.Davis) Bräuchler, Lavandula angustifolia Miller, Mentha × piperita L., Mentha pulegium L. , Ocimum basilicum L., Rosmarinus officinalis L., Salvia aramiensis Rech.f., Salvia fruticosa Miller, Salvia officinalis L., Satureja thymbra L., and Thymbra spicata L. taxa from Türkiye. The chemical composition of the essential oils (EOs) was identified using GC–MS, and antioxidant activity was determined using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′- azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) free radical scavenging methods. Furthermore, the anticancer potential of the EOs was evaluated using MTT method against human cell lines, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2), gastric carcinoma (NCI-N87), breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7), human prostate carcinoma (LNCaP clone FGC-Luc2) cancer cells, and non-cancerous human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The antioxidant activities of the extracts varied from 31.96 to 74.96%. Consistent with antioxidant activities, the anticancer activities of the EOs of S. officinalis, L. angustifolia , and R. officinalis were significantly higher than others. However, almost all EOs were found to inhibit cell viability and induce apoptosis of cancer cells, while the EOs at different concentrations exhibited the highest anticancer activity against NCI-N87, followed by HepG2, MCF-7, and LNCaP cancer cells, with the IC 50 value ranging from 10.98 ± 0.12 to 78.08 ± 1.21 µg/mL, respectively. Variability in phytochemical components, free radical scavenging and anticancer activities of EOs was revealed by principal component analysis (PCA) and agglomerative hierarchical clustering (AHC). The major components of the EOs distilled from Lamiaceae species were found as eucalyptol, thujone, linalool, linalyl acetate, pulegone, carvone and carvacrol at different concentrations in the EOs. Overall, it can be clearly concluded that the EO samples distilled from some medicinal plants belonging to the Lamiaceae family contain valuable phytochemical compounds and accordingly exhibit remarkable biological activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the characteristics of pediatric rhupus patients including all the related series in the literature. Methods: Thirty pediatric patients with rhupus syndrome from 12 different centers in Turkey were included in this study. The literature was also reviewed for pediatric patients with rhupus syndrome. Results: The most prominent phenotype of these 30 patients was juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) (60%) at the disease onset and SLE (73.3%) at the last visit. Major SLE-related organ involvements were skin (80%), hematological system (53.3%), and kidney (23.3%). Arthritis was polyarticular (73.3%), asymmetric (66.7%), and erosive (53.3%) in most patients. Hydroxychloroquine (100%), glucocorticoids (86.7%), and mycophenolate mofetil (46.7%) were mostly used for SLE, while glucocorticoids (76.6%), methotrexate (73.3%), and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (57.6%) were mainly preferred for JIA. Our literature search revealed 20 pediatric patients with rhupus syndrome (75% were RF positive). The most prominent phenotype was JIA (91.7%) at the disease onset and SLE (63.6%) at the last visit. Major SLE-related organ involvements were skin (66.7%), hematological system (58.3%), and kidney (58.3%). Arthritis was polyarticular (77.8%), asymmetric (63.6%), and erosive (83.3%) in most patients. Glucocorticoid (100%), hydroxychloroquine (76.9%), and azathioprine (46.2%) were mostly used for SLE, while methotrexate (76.9%) and NSAIDs (46.2%) were mainly preferred for the JIA phenotype. Conclusion: Our study is the largest cohort in the literature evaluating pediatric rhupus cases. Most of the pediatric patients had polyarticular, asymmetric, and erosive arthritis, as well as organ involvements associated with SLE, including the skin, hematological system, and kidney. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the study was to determine the relationship of physical activity (PA) level and healthy life-style behaviors in academic staff in Bartin University, Turkey. The short form of International Physical Activity Questionnaire was administered for the determination of physical activity level of academic staff. Their PA levels were categorised as inactive, minimally active, and physically active by using MET method. For the determination of healthy life-style behaviors, Health-promoting Life-style Profile Questionnaire was used with self-actualization (SA), health responsibility (HR), exercise (E), nutrition (N), interpersonal support (IS), and stress management (SM) subscales. Results of Pearson's Product Moment Correlation analyses indicated significant positive correlations between total physical activity level and exercise (r = 0.52; p<0.01) and healthy life-style behaviors (r = 0.47; p<0.01) among the study subjects. There was no significant correlation between healthy life-style behaviors and sport index of physical activity questionnaire (p>0.05). The findings of the study indicated that healthy life-style behaviors were not indicators of physical activity level of academic staff.

Background: The relationship between vitamin D and cognitive status remains controversial. We aimed to evaluate the effect of vitamin D replacement on cognitive functions in healthy and cognitively intact vitamin D deficient older females. Methods: This study was designed as a prospective interventional study. A total of 30 female adults aged ≥60 with a serum 25 (OH) vitamin D level of <10 ng/ml were included. Participants were administered 50 000 IU vitamin D3 weekly for 8 weeks followed by a maintenance therapy of 1000 U/day. Detailed neuropsychological assessment was performed prior to vitamin D replacement and repeated at 6 months by the same psychologist. Results: Mean age was 63 ± 6.7 years and baseline vitamin D level was 7.8 ± 2.0 (range: 3.5–10.3) ng/ml. At 6 months, vitamin D level was 32.5 ± 3.4 (32.2–55) ng/ml. The Judgement of Line Orientation Test (P = 0.04), inaccurate word memorizing of the Verbal Memory Processes Test (P = 0.02), perseveration scores of the Verbal Memory Processes Test (P = 0.005), topographical accuracy of the Warrington Recognition Memory Test (P = 0.002), and the spontaneous self‐correction of an error in the Boston Naming Test (P = 0.003) scores increased significantly, while the delayed recall score in the Verbal Memory Processes Test (P = 0.03), incorrect naming of words in the Boston Naming Test (P = 0.04), interference time of the Stroop Test (P = 0.05), and spontaneous corrections of the Stroop Test (P = 0.02) scores decreased significantly from baseline. Conclusion: Vitamin D replacement has a positive effect on cognitive domains related to visuospatial, executive, and memory processing functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The impact of SARS-CoV-2 is intergenerational, and although it affects everyone differently, its effects on young people have been systematic, violent, and disproportionate compared to many social groups. This study aims to understand the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on Turkish youth and their attitude toward future prospects. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was carried out between March 15 and May 20, 2022, with young people aged 18-29 living in Turkey. The data was collected using an online survey tool. In descriptive statistical analyses, categorical variables were presented as frequency and percentage, and continuous variables as mean (M) and standard deviation (SD). The independent samples t-test and the one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used to test between-group differences in continuous variables. Results: In total, 696 participants responded to the online survey. For the majority of Turkish young people, SARS-CoV-2 has not impacted their physical health (55.7%) and mental health (57.8 %). In contrast, youth believe that the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic will negatively or strongly affect their future in terms of educational opportunities (58.7%), job prospects (58.6%), physical (58.1%), or mental health well-being (56.9%), economic stability (65.1%), financial stability (65.1%), and their overall future (58.2%). Conclusions: Our findings pointed to adverse effects that would last longer than the pandemic. Priority should be given to strategies that reduce the long-term impact of the pandemic on young people and provide them with a sense of optimism that the future they desire is still achievable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of study was to examine the disposition of in-service teachers at the primary level. 412 science teachers from 72 primary schools, participated by filling out the "Teacher Disposition Index" questionnaire. After factor analyzing the data, Turkish in-service teachers did not fail, but they had doubts in some disposition skills. They were not sure how to maintain and develop their professional skills. They were not seeking out professional growth opportunities, especially in regard to keeping up with current research on teaching practices. Moreover, they had ethical and communication problems with students and parents and their colleagues. Finally they had difficulties selecting proper (relevant and interesting for students) materials for lessons. The most probable reason for these problems is that in-service teachers do not know students both formally (pedagogically) and informally. (Contains 8 tables.)

The purpose of this study was to investigate what affect a technology based inquiry approach (TBIA) had on 5th grade primary students' understanding of earth, sun, and moon concept in a science and technology course and how this changed their academic achievements. This study was carried out in a 5th grade elementary science and technology course with two groups of (a total of 97) students. Four hour a week course was conducted over a 3 week period of instruction. As a result of the analysis of data, there were statistically significant differences between experimental and control groups (P less than 0.05). According to results, the achievement level of the experimental group with TBIA was significantly higher than the control group with a traditional teaching method. TBIA is more effective and successful than traditional teaching methods in elementary science courses. (Contains 9 tables.)

Students' views of science and scientists have been widely studied. The purpose of this study is to analyze image of scientist from drawn picture of scientists using The Draw-a-Scientist Test (DAST) by 5th grade students and to analyze where this image comes from students minds in changing Turkish educational perspective. Two hundred eighty seven students from sixteen different primary schools, located in the same city, participated in this study. Like previous studies, the findings generally showed that scientists are male, Caucasians, elderly-aged, working indoors with chemistry. On the contrary, the image of scientists, having glasses and facial hair and/or crazy hair, wearing lab coats, and doing dangerous and secrecy things decreased but smiling scientists and indicator of technology increased in young Turkish students drawings. Eventually, stereotypical images of the scientist are a slightly lesser than revealed in previous studies. The impact of science teachers and textbooks has shaped what a scientist is and what a scientist does to young students minds. Notwithstanding, the influence of media (movies, magazines, television, etc.) has been pointed to as not significant source of information by students. (Contains 3 tables and 3 figures.)

The purpose of this study is to investigate elementary pre-service teachers' image of science teaching, analyze the gender differences in image of science teaching, and evaluate restructured 2004 education reform by using a Draw-A-Science-Teacher-Test Checklist (DASTT-C). Two hundred thirteen (213) pre-service elementary teachers from three different western universities participated in the data collection for this study. The results of study showed that Turkish elementary pre-service teachers' perspective of science teaching style is 20% student-centered, 41% teacher-centered, and 39% between student-centered and teacher-centered. These results give some vital concerns regarding the preparation of future elementary teachers and the in-service development of teaching practice. (Contains 2 tables and 5 figures.)

Helping prospective teachers become more knowledgeable and skilled in the use of technology in education is an important goal of today's teacher preparation programs. This article reports the results of a survey, "Pre-service Teacher Technology Survey: technology usage and needs of science educators", that determined pre-service science education teachers' perceptions of their preparation vis-a-vis technology and the pre-service teachers' knowledge and desired knowledge of technology. More specifically, the focus was to address the understandings of Turkish pre-service teachers regarding their current and desired knowledge of educational technology. The findings of this study show that Turkish pre-service science education teachers are relatively unfamiliar with the advantages of educational technology and do not maximize its use. However, they have a desire to know more about the advantages of educational technology and its use in the education of Turkish children. (Contains 6 tables.)

The purpose of this study was to determine the knowledge level of popular biotechnological issues of prospective Turkish science teachers. A questionnaire was administered during 2005-2006 academic year to 194 students in the Department of Science Education of a university in Turkey. The questionnaire covered six biotechnological issues such as biotechnology, agrobiotechnology, human health and pharmacy, environment and biotechnology, and food production with biotechnology. Results showed that whereas department of science education students had an approximate consistent knowledge of describing biotechnology and human health/pharmacy that almost all students had an inadequate knowledge about other biotechnological issues. Finally, the results were compared with other studies in the world. (Contains 6 tables.)

Focuses on the general history, educational developments after 1923 and after 1960, primary science education developments, and a summary of the developments and changes in science education in Turkey. (DDR)

As in many countries, there is neither a surveillance system nor a study to reveal the hemodialysis (HD) related infection rates in Turkey. We aimed to investigate the infection rate among HD outpatients and implement CDC's surveillance system. A multicenter prospective surveillance study is performed to investigate the infection rate among HD patients. CDC National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) dialysis event (DE) protocol is adopted for definitions and reporting. During April 2016–April 2018, 9 centers reported data. A total of 199 DEs reported in 10,035 patient-months, and the overall DE rate was 1.98 per 100 patient-months. Risk of blood culture positivity is found to be 17.6 times higher when hemodialysis was through a tunneled catheter than through an arteriovenous fistula. DE rate was significantly lower in patients educated about the care of their vascular access site. Staphylococcus aureus was the most causative microorganism among mortal patients. Outcomes of DEs were hospitalization (73%), loss of vascular access (18.2%), and death (7.7%). This first surveillance study revealed the baseline status of HD related infections in Turkey and showed that CDC National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) DE surveillance system can be easily implemented even in a high workload dialysis unit and be adopted as a nationwide DE surveillance program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forensic veterinary toxicology has become a popular branch of toxicology, dealing with animal cruelty (e.g. malicious poisoning), regulatory issues (e.g. contamination of the feed supply chain), insurance litigation or wildlife poisoning. The current study highlights the importance of the toxicological aspects of animal health-related disagreements in a pet custody case following a divorce. In this study, the custody case of three dogs and a cat was concluded with the aid of toxicological test results that were obtained from the pets' blood samples for the first time in Turkey. The results confirmed the presence of benzoylecgonine in one of the blood samples, as alleged by one of the owners. The study also aims to raise the veterinarians', as well as the judicial system members', awareness of drug abuse in pets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to determine antiproliferative, antimicrobial, antioxidant activities and also phytochemical composition of different nine Adonis L. species from Turkey. Leaves extracts of the plant samples were used to evaluate antimicrobial activity against 7 bacteria and 2 yeast strains using MICs and disc-diffusion methods. The antioxidant activity of plant samples was determined by using DPPH radical scavenging activity method. MTT assay was used for evaluation antiproliferative activities of the extracts against HL-60, HCA-7 and HUVEC human cells. Chemical composition of plant extracts were determined by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry. The antimicrobial analyses results showed Gram-negative bacteria more sensitive than Gram-positive against the extracts, and the values were varied from 3.1 to 13.4 μg/mL. The leaf extract of different Adonis species exhibited remarkable antiproliferative activities towards tested human cancer cells in a dose and time dependently, and they were found to possess more antiproliferative activity against HL-60 cells than that of the HCA-7 cells. As for the chemical composition of Adonis species, they were found to contain many components with antimicrobial and beneficial effects, such as ethyl palmitate, ethyl linoleate. Overall, it was concluded that leaves extracts of Adonis species could have a great potential for use in medicinal drug sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Kidney transplant recipients have an increased risk of complications from COVID-19. However, data on the risk of allograft damage or death in kidney transplant recipients recovering from COVID-19 is limited. In addition, the first and second waves of the pandemic occurred at different times all over the world. In Turkey, the Health Minister confirmed the first case in March 2020; after that, the first wave occurred between March and August 2020; afterward, the second wave began in September 2020. This study aims to demonstrate the clinical presentations of kidney transplant recipients in the first two waves of the pandemic in Turkey and explore the impact of COVID-19 on clinical outcomes after the initial episode.Methods: Patients with COVID-19 from seven centers were included in this retrospective cohort study. Initially, four hundred and eighty-eight kidney transplant recipients diagnosed with COVID-19 between 1 March 2020 to 28 February 2021 were enrolled. The endpoints were the occurrence of all-cause mortality, acute kidney injury, cytokine storm, and acute respiratory distress syndrome. In addition, longer-term outcomes such as mortality, need for dialysis, and allograft function of the surviving patients was analyzed.Results: Four hundred seventy-five patients were followed up for a median of 132 days after COVID-19. Forty-seven patients (9.9%) died after a median length of hospitalization of 15 days. Although the mortality rate (10.1% vs. 9.8%) and intensive care unit admission (14.5% vs. 14.5%) were similar in the first two waves, hospitalization (68.8% vs. 29.7%; p < 0.001), acute kidney injury (44.2% vs. 31.8%; p = 0.009), acute respiratory distress syndrome (18.8% vs. 16%; p = 0.456), and cytokine storm rate (15.9% vs. 10.1%; p = 0.072) were higher in first wave compared to the second wave. These 47 patients died within the first month of COVID-19. Six (1.4%) of the surviving patients lost allografts during treatment. There was no difference in the median serum creatinine clearance of the surviving patients at baseline (52 mL/min [IQR, 47-66]), first- (56 mL/min [IQR, 51-68]), third- (51 mL/min [IQR,48-67]) and sixth-months (52 mL/min [IQR, 48-81]). Development of cytokine storm and posttransplant diabetes mellitus were independent predictors for mortality.Conclusions: Mortality remains a problem in COVID-19. All the deaths occur in the first month of COVID-19. Also, acute kidney injury is common in hospitalized patients, and some of the patients suffer from graft loss after the initial episode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: The alpha-actinin (ACTN) genes are important structural components of the sarcomere. Sarcopenia is a common geriatric syndrome characterized by morbidity and mortality. Our study aimed to examine the relationship between the ACTN3 R577X gene and sarcopenia in community-dwelling Turkish adults. Methods: We designed a cross-sectional study among the patients aged ≥ 65 years admitted to the geriatric outpatient clinic. We recorded the general characteristics of the patients. We used the Jamar hand dynamometer to evaluate handgrip strength. Body composition was estimated using bioimpedance analysis. Sarcopenia was diagnosed according to the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People2 criteria with population-specific cutoffs. We performed analyses of low muscle mass (LMM) with skeletal muscle mass index adjusted for body mass index [SMMI(BMI)]. We further categorized the SMMI(BMI) cutoffs into tenths. The analyzes were performed according to the 90th percentile SMMI(BMI) cutoffs. Peripheral blood samples were collected to determine the ACTN3 genotypes. Results: 197 participants were included [mean age: 76.3 ± 6.1 years, 151 (76.6%) women]. The proportions of the ACTN3 genotypes were as follows: RX (45.1%) > RR (31%) > XX (23.9%). The significant difference between genotypes was found only for low SMMI(BMI) according to the 90th percentile (p = 0.025). In multivariate analysis, only gender (female) was independently associated with LMM. Conclusion: We did not find any association between ACTN3 R577X gene polymorphism and probable sarcopenia, confirmed sarcopenia and LMM. Besides, much more research is needed to reveal how ethnicity affects the muscles of older adults with ACTN3 R577X gene polymorphism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pigeon aviadenovirus A and Pigeon circovirus are both DNA viruses, infect and cause severe clinical diseases in pigeons. These viruses are associated with an immunosuppression syndrome similar to 'Young Pigeon Disease Syndrome' (YPDS). This study reports the identification of a natural co‐infection, with severe clinical signs (crop vomiting, watery diarrhoea, anorexia and sudden death) of Pigeon aviadenovirus A and Pigeon circovirus in a breeding pigeon flock in Central Anatolia, Turkey. Both viruses were isolated from pigeons pooled internal organs using primary chicken embryo kidney cell cultures (CEKC) and specific pathogen‐free (SPF) embryonated chicken eggs. Also, both viruses were identified by PCR amplification followed by Sanger sequencing whereas histopathological examination showed degenerated hepatocytes with basophilic intranuclear viral inclusions. As known, both viruses typically have similar transmission characteristics and common clinical manifestations; however, co‐infection may exacerbate the disease with devastating outcomes. This is the first report of its kind in Turkey for those viruses and is essential for the protection against these kinds of infections in pigeons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To analyse the glass elevator in nursing, evaluating this concept within the conceptual context of nurse managers' perceptions of gender. Background: Glass elevator is defined as the rapid promotion of men to upper positions in certain professions in which women comprise the majority, such as nursing. Methods: Data were collected from 134 nurse managers. Participants selected one of four resumes belonging to four virtual candidates for an open management position. They, then completed the Perception of Gender Scale. Results: Nurse managers mostly selected men among the four candidates submitted to them for promotion to upper positions. None of the nurse managers' characteristics caused a statistically significant difference regarding the gender of the candidate they selected. No statistically significant difference was found between the perception of gender scores of those who selected female or male candidates. Conclusions: Men are two times more likely to be selected than women when selecting candidates for promotion with the same qualifications. This was not caused by the decision‐makers' or nurse managers' personal and professional characteristics nor their perceptions on gender. Implications for Nursing Management: The psychological mechanisms that operate the 'glass elevator' in favour of men should be analysed in greater depth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Objective This study aims to determine the attitude of operating room nurses to radiation exposure. Methods This descriptive study was conducted with 70 nurses working in the operating room of two university hospitals belonging to a university in Istanbul. Descriptive statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS 23. The protocol of the study was registered in clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04703933). Results There was a significant relationship between radiation protection training and the use of protective equipment (p<0.05). Conclusions It was found that the nurses working in the operating room had insufficient radiation protection training and there was a positive relationship between radiation protection training and protection behaviour. Seminars should be organised to increase the level of knowledge of nurses about radiation protection practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In our study, diagnostic and demographic characteristics of patients diagnosed with RPGN by biopsy, clinical and laboratory findings in our country were investigated. Methods: Data were obtained from the Turkish Society of Nephrology Glomerular Diseases (TSN-GOLD) Working Group database. Demographic characteristics, indications for biopsy, diagnosis of the glomerular diseases, comorbidities, laboratory and biopsy findings of all patients were recorded. According to their types, RPGN patients were classified as type 1 (anti-GBM related), type 2 (immuncomplex related) and type 3 (pauci-immune). Results: Of 3875 patients, 200 patients with RPGN (mean age 47.9 ± 16.7 years) were included in the study which constitutes 5.2% of the total glomerulonephritis database. Renal biopsy was performed in 147 (73.5%) patients due to nephritic syndrome. ANCA positivity was found in 121 (60.5%) patients. Type 1 RPGN was detected in 11 (5.5%), type 2 RPGN in 42 (21%) and type 3 RPGN in 147 (73.5%) patients. Median serum creatinine was 3.4 (1.9–5.7) mg/dl, glomerular filtration rate was 18 (10–37) ml/min/1.73m2 and proteinuria 2100 (1229–3526) mg/day. The number of crescentic glomeruli ratio was ratio 52.7%. It was observed that urea and creatinine increased and calcium and hemoglobin decreased with increasing crescentic glomerular ratio. Conclusions: Our data are generally compatible with the literature. Advanced chronic histopathological findings were prominent in the biopsy of 21 patients. Early biopsy should be performed to confirm the diagnosis of RPGN and to avoid unnecessary intensive immunosuppressive therapy. In addition to the treatments applied, detailed data, including patient and renal survival, are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The largest data on the epidemiology of primary glomerular diseases (PGDs) are obtained from the databases of countries or centers. Here, we present the extended results of the Primary Glomerular Diseases Study of the Turkish Society of Nephrology Glomerular Diseases (TSN-GOLD) Working Group.Methods: Data of patients who underwent renal biopsy and received the diagnosis of PGD were recorded in the database prepared for the study. A total of 4399 patients from 47 centers were evaluated between May 2009 and May 2019. The data obtained at the time of kidney biopsy were analyzed. After the exclusion of patients without light microscopy and immunofluorescence microscopy findings, a total of 3875 patients were included in the study.Results: The mean age was 41.5 ± 14.9 years. 1690 patients were female (43.6%) and 2185 (56.3%) were male. Nephrotic syndrome was the most common biopsy indication (51.7%). This was followed by asymptomatic urinary abnormalities (18.3%) and nephritic syndrome (17.8%). The most common PGD was IgA nephropathy (25.7%) followed by membranous nephropathy (25.6%) and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (21.9%). The mean total number of glomeruli per biopsy was 17 ± 10. The mean baseline systolic blood pressure was 130 ± 20 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure was 81 ± 12 mmHg. The median proteinuria, serum creatinine, estimated GFR, and mean albumin values were 3300 (IQR: 1467-6307) mg/day, 1.0 (IQR: 0.7-1.6) mg/dL, 82.9 (IQR: 47.0-113.0) mL/min and 3.2 ± 0.9 g/dL, respectively.Conclusions: The distribution of PGDs in Turkey has become similar to that in other European countries. IgA nephropathy diagnosed via renal biopsy has become more prevalent compared to membranous nephropathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Teledermatology is an alternative medical science that allows evaluation of patient's clinical information over a distance without requiring face‐to‐face examination. Due to COVID‐19, social distancing has become important these days, and teledermatology can help physicians and patients in overcoming the barriers of accessing health care. Aim: In this study, we aim to evaluate how dermatologists in our country have viewed and experienced teledermatology during the pandemic through surveys. Patients/Methods: The study was carried out by using an online survey for evaluating the teledermatology experiences of dermatologists in Turkey and how they have viewed teledermatology during the 2‐month pandemic period and the 2‐month prepandemic period. Results: The number of patients evaluated with teledermatology methods was found to be significantly higher in the pandemic period when compared with the prepandemic period. The rates of using video calls with mobile phone and online video calls were found to be significantly higher in the pandemic period when compared with the prepandemic period. Conclusion: Our study results show that the teledermatology method had a higher rate of usage compared to before the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we aim to determine the median lethal dose (LD50) of glyphosate isopropylamine salt (GI), which is commonly used in the world and especially in Turkey against to weeds, in male and female rats by using the probit or logit analysis method. A total of 140 Wistar rats were used, including 70 females and 70 males. To determine LD50, the male and female rats were randomized into 7 groups made up of 10 animals in each group. At doses of 6000, 6500, 7000, 7500, 8000, 8500, and 9000 mg / kg, GI was administered to the male and female rats by oral gavage. After dosing, the animals were periodically monitored for 14 days. No deaths were observed after 48 h of herbicide application. In this study, only logit analysis was used for the LD50 value to be calculated in the male rats within 24 h, while other analyses were carried out with the probit method. In the female and male rats, the LD50 levels of GI between 24 and 48 h were determined as 7444.26–7878.50 mg/kg and 7203.58–7397.25 mg/kg, respectively. According to these results, it was concluded that female rats are more sensitive to GI than male rats. We believe that the findings that were obtained will guide researchers, clinicians, and toxicologists through preventive and curative studies against acute poisoning that may occur with GI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aim: Polypharmacy and inappropriate medication use in older adults is a major public health problem associated with morbidity and mortality. Aging is associated with metabolic changes and decreased drug clearance, increased drug–drug interactions, prescribing cascades, and potentially inappropriate medication (PIM) use. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between a common geriatric syndromes and PIM use among older adults. Methods: Study participants were recruited among patients admitted to Istanbul Medical School Geriatrics outpatient clinic between June 2000 and June 2014 and were evaluated retrospectively by a geriatrician using the patients' records according to Beers 2012 criteria. Results: Among the 667 enrolled patients, 421 (63.1%) were women and 246 (36.9%) were men. The use of PIM was not associated with age or sex. Polypharmacy (OR 4.86, 95% CI 3.25–7.27, p < 0.001), malnutrition (OR 2.69, 95% CI 1.52–4.76, p = 0.001), depression (OR 2.61, 95% CI 1.7–3.95, p < 0.001), presence of fall in the previous year (OR 2.24, 95% CI 1.51–3.32, p < 0.001), and dementia (OR 1.69, 95% CI 1.08–2.65, p = 0.021) were independently associated with the use of PIM. Discussion/conclusions: The results of our study suggest that PIM use is independently associated with presence of polypharmacy, malnutrition, depression, falls and dementia in older outpatients. Identifying the association of inappropriate medication use with common geriatric syndromes in older people can help to prevent, delay, and reduce PIM use and related adverse health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports the determination of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) by HPTLC in fruit-based baby food products and compares the other techniques. The performance of QuEChERS method was evaluated for the measurement of 5-HMF. The mean recovery and RSD% at the two-fortification level of 25 and 250 ng/spot were 83.65% and 2.0%, and 96.02% and 3.0%, respectively. LOD and LOQ levels for 5-HMF were found 1.54 ng/spot and 4.67 ng/spot in fruit-based baby foods, respectively. Fifty eight commercial products on the Istanbul market were evaluated by developed and validated HPTLC method and, 5-HMF were determined in 48 (82.76%) in the range of 13.12-28.90 mg/kg. Although the concentration of 82.76% of the 5-HMF detected products was found to be below the legal limit, the results revealed that a new regulation should be made in fruit-based food considering the baby exposure limit. The analytical performance of this method verifies its potential applicability with particularly low cost and simple sample pretreatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is rather difficult to determine simultaneously more than one drug from different biological samples and to interpret the clinical picture in the case of multiple drug abuse. All mentioned drugs are life-threatening solely and the risk is becoming higher when they are used together. In this study, a gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method was developed and validated for the simultaneous detection and quantification of amphetamine (AMP), 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and cocaine in serum sample. The analytes were extracted by solid-phase extraction (SPE) cartridges, derivated with heptafluorobutyric anhydride at 60°C for 30 min and analyzed by GC-MS. Correlation coefficient values were found satisfactory. Linearity ranged from 1 to 20 µg/mL for all three substances. After acceptable results were obtained from calibration solutions, the study was conducted to observe matrix-match calibration and linearity parameters. Extraction efficiency of the method was observed in two concentrations spiked to serum matrix (5 and 10 µg/mL) and found over 80% for three illicit drugs. Precision, accuracy, stability evaluation were appropriate as well. The validated analytical method was applied to an authentic sample which obtained from a patient administered to emergency room. The patient was suspected in regard to multi-drug use of stimulants and serum sample was analyzed by the presented method and AMP, MDMA and cocaine use was determined with concentrations of 0.45, 1.03 and 1.98 mg/mL in blood respectively. The developed method proved capable of quantifying simultaneous AMP, MDMA and cocaine use proposed in this study. Multidrug abuse is not a novel phenomenon but has to be determined as soon as possible by forensic toxicology laboratories because of potential severe health risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: First-level nurse managers play a key role in providing high quality and safe healthcare services; however, they are challenged by rapidly changing conditions. The development of nurse manager skills and competency requires attention to determine their educational needs. Purpose: This study evaluated the contribution of the specially developed "Nurse Manager Development Program" to the managerial and leadership competencies of first-level nurse managers. Methods: This quasi-experimental research utilized a pre- and post-test design with 18 first-level nurse managers who attended the education program. Most of the participants were women and had a Bachelor's degree. Data were collected using the Managerial Competency Self-Assessment Scale. Results: Significant differences were discovered between nurses' pre- and post-test scores and managerial competency levels. Conclusion: The program made a key contribution towards enhancing nurses' professional skills and their managerial competencies; however, how nurse managers will apply their acquired skills and competencies over the long term still needs to be evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the definitions of pain by pre-school age children and factors that affect these definitions. The study was conducted on children aged between four and six years (N=146) in the city of Karaman in Turkey. Qualitative and quantitative research design were used together in this study. This study's qualitative tradition method was phenomenologic research. The data were assessed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The children's definitions of pain were found to be affected by their hospital and daily life experiences. The preschool age children generally defined pain in similar ways, and everything that made children feel pain made them think about it. Sometimes their family members, hospital equipment, and health staff lead them to think about pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To clinically and radiologically compare third-generation intramedullary nails used in the treatment of trochanteric hip fractures and to determine their efficacy.Materials and Methods: Seventy-five of 88 patients admitted to our hospital with trochanteric fractures were enrolled in the study; 43 were treated with PFNA devices and 32 with Intertan nails. The amount of compression applied during the procedure, duration of the procedure, amount of subsequent shortening in the proximal femoral area, subsequent backup of proximal screws, and changes in the tip-apex and tip-cortex distances were compared between groups. The postoperative change in the varus angle of the proximal femur and times to mobilization, full weight bearing, and fracture union were also evaluated.Results: On early postoperative radiographs, the tip-apex distance was ≤25 mm in 86 % of patients in the PFNA group and 96.9 % of those in the Intertan group. Twelve months postoperatively, the tip-apex distance did not differ between groups. No cut-out of the screws into the coxofemoral joint was observed. Fracture healing was achieved in all patients. At 12 months postoperatively, the rates of proximal screw backup, proximal femoral shortening, and decrease in the varus angle of the proximal femur were significantly higher in the PFNA group than in the Intertan group.Conclusions: Trochanteric fractures may be treated effectively with PFNA devices or Intertan nails. During the healing period, the rates of reverse displacement of the proximal screw, shortening of the proximal femur, and decrease in the varus angle of the proximal femur were significantly higher in the PFNA group than in the Intertan group. Surgical technique, implant positioning, and the choice of implant play roles in the successful treatment of trochanteric fractures.Level Of Evidence: Level 1, prospective, prognostic study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Atrial electromechanical delay (AEMD) times were considered independent predictors of cardiovascular morbidity among the general population. We aimed at evaluating AEMD times and other risk factors associated with 2-year combined cardiovascular (CV) events in HD patients.Material and Methods: Sixty hemodialysis (HD) and 44 healthy individuals were enrolled in this prospective study. Echocardiography was performed before the mid-week dialysis session for HD patients. Data were expressed as mean ± SD. Spearman test was used to assess linear associations. Survival was examined with the Kaplan-Meier method. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was used to determine the predictors of combined CV events in this cohort.Results: At the beginning of the study, left intra-atrial-AEMD times were significantly longer in HD patients compared to the left intra-atrial-AEMD times in healthy individuals. After 24 months, 41 patients were still on HD treatment and 19 (31.6%) had died. Serum triglyceride, total cholesterol and albumin were found to be higher and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, left intra-atrial EMD time (LIAT) and interatrial EMD times were found to be lower in survived HD patients. With the cut-off median values of 3.5 g/dl for albumin, 0.87 mg/dl for CRP, 157 mg/dl for total cholesterol and 151 mg/dl for triglyceride, the Kaplan-Meier curves demonstrated significant differences in terms of all-cause mortality. We also demonstrated the Kaplan-Meier survival curves of HD patients according to tertile values of LIAT. Cox regression analysis revealed that increased CRP and higher LIAT were found to be independent predictors of combined CV events.Conclusions: Increased LIAT and inflammation were found to be closely associated with 2 years combined CV events and all-cause mortality in HD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim: We aimed to analyze serum hepcidin level in children with chronic liver disease (CLD) and its relationship with serum cytokines level, liver function tests, hepatic iron content, and liver fibrosis. Patients and Methods: The study included 34 children with CLD, and 15 age‑ and gender‑matched healthy children. Serum hepcidin, ferritin, iron level, interleukin‑6 (IL‑6), transforming growth factor‑β (TGF‑β), total oxidant status (TOS), and antioxidant status (TAS) were studied in all patients and in the control group. Liver iron content (LIC) was measured from the liver biopsy specimen. Results: Serum ferritin levels were higher in patients with CLD than control group (100.1 ± 98.2 ng/mL vs 50.5 ± 32.2 ng/mL, P = 0.016). No significant difference was found in hepcidin levels. Hepcidin levels in children with CLD was positively correlated with ferritin (r = 0.75, P = 0.001), pediatric end‑stage liver disease (PELD) score (r = 0.56, P = 0.001), TAS (r = 0.42, P = 0.02), but negatively correlated with albumin level (r = −0.45, P = 0.008). Transferrin saturation and hepcidin:ferritin ratio were significantly low in patients with severe fibrosis compared with patients with mild/without fibrosis (15.5 ± 5.5 vs 34.3 ± 30.1, P = 0.017 and 1 ± 0.5 vs 1.9 ± 1.4, P = 0.04, respectively). Conclusion: Serum hepcidin levels in children with CLD reflect both liver functions and TAS, and severe fibrosis is associated with low hepcidin:ferritin ratio in children with CLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Transesophageal echocardiography ( TEE) has a pivotal role in invasive cardiology practice in terms of guiding a variety of procedures. It is challenging to perform TEE examination with sedated patients due to difficulties in cooperation and positioning the patient properly, therefore the risk of complications is escalated. We aimed to assess the impact of pediatric TEE probe utilization on procedural success and complication rates; in comparison with conventional adult TEE probe. Methods Fifty-eight patients undergoing atrial fibrillation ( AF) ablation with TEE guidance were enrolled and patients were grouped based on probe size: Group 1 (n = 35) included patients undergoing the procedure with adult TEE probe guidance and Group 2 (n = 23) included patients with pediatric TEE probe guidance. Procedural success, postprocedural odynophagia and periprocedural intra-oral bleeding frequency, number of intubation attempts, TEE imaging time, and midazolam doses for both groups were compared. Results Odynophagia frequency was significantly higher in Group 1 (25.7% [n = 9] vs. 0%, P = 0.008) besides oral mucosal bleeding was also higher in Group 1, although the difference did not reach statistical significance (5.7% [n = 2] vs. 0%, P = 0.513). Number of repeated attempts was lower in Group 2 (median, 1; range [3-1] vs. 1, [1-1], P = 0.038). Image resolutions and septal puncture success rates were similar for both groups. Total imaging time with TEE was significantly shorter in Group 2 (6.4 ± 1.8 min vs. 3.6 ± 0.9 min, P < 0.001). Midazolam dose was lower in Group 2 (7.0 ± 1.7 vs. 6.2 ± 1.7, P = 0.065). Conclusion Using TEE probes with smaller size for guiding invasive percutaneous procedures performed in cardiac catheterization laboratory decreased TEE-associated complication rates and enhanced patient comfort without any negative effect on procedural success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]