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A freshwater bivalve plays a crucial function in aquatic habitats as the filtered water and burrowing mussels mix the sediment, thus increasing oxygen content and making the ecosystem healthier. The aim of the study is to see how chlorpyrifos affects biochemical markers in freshwater mussel Unio tigridis. About 180 individuals per taxon and water samples were collected from the Qandil water resource on the Greater Zab River, Erbil Province, Iraq. Once arrived at the lab, the individuals were kept in aquaria with river water and an air-conditioned room Temperature: 25±2 and Light: 12h/12h and acclimatized to laboratory conditions for seven days in aged tap water. The mussel's identification molecularly and the DNA sequence of the mussel includes U. tigridis supplied gene bank accession number ON872361, ON872362, ON872363, and ON872364 nucleotide sequencing. The 96-h toxicity of chlorpyrifos pesticide in the freshwater mussel U. tigridis was investigated using various nominal concentrations, including 50, 100, 200, 300 and 400 ppm. The water quality of the river and aquaria was tested for physicochemical parameters including water temperature, the potential of hydrogen ion pH, electrical conductivity EC, and total dissolved solids TDS, dissolved oxygen, total alkalinity, total hardness, calcium ion, magnesium ion. Water quality results of aquaria revealed that most tested variables were favorable for the breeding of mussels. The mortality of the mussels was observed daily and the 96 h LC50 value for mussels was 157.99 ppm. Within the tissue of the gills, Acetylcholinesterase (AChE), Glutathione S-transferase (GST), Catalase (CAT), and Malondialdehyde (MDA) were determined. The chlorpyrifos exposures caused significant increases in GST, CAT, and MDA. The elevation of oxidative stress biomarkers was inversely related to the AChE inhibition in the examined species. In conclusion water pollution by chlorpyrifos lead to unsafe condition for aquatic taxa.

The prefrontal cortex is a crucial regulator of alcohol drinking, and dependence, and other behavioral phenotypes associated with AUD. Comprehensive identification of cell-type specific transcriptomic changes in alcohol dependence will improve our understanding of mechanisms underlying the excessive alcohol use associated with alcohol dependence and will refine targets for therapeutic development. We performed single nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq) and Visium spatial gene expression profiling on the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) obtained from C57BL/6 J mice exposed to the two-bottle choice-chronic intermittent ethanol (CIE) vapor exposure (2BC-CIE, defined as dependent group) paradigm which models phenotypes of alcohol dependence including escalation of alcohol drinking. Gene co-expression network analysis and differential expression analysis identified highly dysregulated co-expression networks in multiple cell types. Dysregulated modules and their hub genes suggest novel understudied targets for studying molecular mechanisms contributing to the alcohol dependence state. A subtype of inhibitory neurons was the most alcohol-sensitive cell type and contained a downregulated gene co-expression module; the hub gene for this module is Cpa6, a gene previously identified by GWAS to be associated with excessive alcohol consumption. We identified an astrocytic Gpc5 module significantly upregulated in the alcohol-dependent group. To our knowledge, there are no studies linking Cpa6 and Gpc5 to the alcohol-dependent phenotype. We also identified neuroinflammation related gene expression changes in multiple cell types, specifically enriched in microglia, further implicating neuroinflammation in the escalation of alcohol drinking. Here, we present a comprehensive atlas of cell-type specific alcohol dependence mediated gene expression changes in the mPFC and identify novel cell type-specific targets implicated in alcohol dependence.

Background: Pulmonary embolism severity index and simplified pulmonary embolism severity index have been utilized in initial risk evaluation in patients with acute pulmonary embolism. However, these models do not include any imaging measure of right ventricle function. In this study, we proposed a novel index and aimed to evaluate the clinical impact. Methods: Our study population comprised retrospectively evaluated 502 patients with acute pulmonary embolism managed with different treatment modalities. Echocardiographic and computed tomographic pulmonary angiography evaluations were performed at admission to the emergency room within maximally 30 minutes. The formula of our index was as follows: (right ventricle diameter × systolic pulmonary arterial pressure-echo)/(right ventricle free-wall diameter × tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion). Results: This index value showed significant correlations to clinical and hemodynamic severity measures. Only pulmonary embolism severity index, but not our index value, independently predicted in-hospital mortality. However, an index value higher than 17.8 predicted the long-term mortality with a sensitivity of 70% and specificity of 40% (areas under the curve = 0.652, 95% CI, 0.557-0.747, P =.001). According to the adjusted variable plot, the risk of long-term mortality increased until an index level of 30 but remained unchanged thereafter. The cumulative hazard curve also showed a higher mortality with high-index value versus low-index value. Conclusions: Our index composed from measures of computed tomographic pulmonary angiography and transthoracic echocardiography may provide important insights regarding the adaptation status of right ventricle against pressure/wall stress in acute pulmonary embolism, and a higher value seems to be associated with severity of the clinical and hemodynamic status and long-term mortality but not with in-hospital mortality. However, the pulmonary embolism severity index remained as the only independent predictor for in-hospital mortality.

Abstract Background: With blood glucose self-monitoring, patients may assess how well their glucose level is controlled, and change their treatment plan as advised by their physicians. The development and increasing availability of different devices that are readily accessible plays a significant role in glycemic control and prevention of complications through early recognition with proper practice. Methods: This observational cross-sectional study includes patients with diabetes attending Khartoum North Diabetes and Endocrinology Hospital and was carried out in April–July 2021 using convenient sampling via questionnaires obtained and filled by data collectors through interviews. Data analysis was done using SPSS software. Results: Out of 125 total patients, 82 had prior basic knowledge about glucose self-monitoring devices. Twenty-four patients were using it regularly, and only seven were using it daily. Fifty-one patients had never used any device before. Fifty-five patients owned a device, and the rest borrowed or used devices available at healthcare centers or clinics, pharmacies, relatives' or neighbors' devices. Factors hindering the use of devices included financial difficulties and lack of education. Most frequent users had a stable occupation. Just below half of the patients using devices had good practice techniques with significant association with higher level of education. The rest had poor practice technique that was associated with lower level of education. Conclusion: Utilization of glucose self-monitoring devices is prevalent among patients with diabetes. However, many challenges require attention to facilitate ongoing self-use with proper practice inline with education and access.

Abstract Background Infection due to the SARS-CoV-2 virus can have a wide range of presentations from asymptomatic/mildly symptomatic to severe disease with multiorgan failure. Fever is a common symptom. But hyperpyrexia defined as temperature > 41.5 °C is not usual in COVID-19. Case presentation A 24-year-old previously well Sri Lankan female in the 24th week of gestation of her first pregnancy presented with fever and shortness of breath. She was confirmed to have coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). History was suggestive of late presentation on approximately the eighth day of the illness. She had rapidly deteriorating hypoxia due to COVID pneumonia requiring mechanical ventilation two days after the admission. There was evidence of cytokine storm without any secondary bacterial infection. She received glucocorticoids, tocilizumab, and intravenous antibiotics. Although she initially showed mild improvements, she subsequently developed high-grade fever with the axillary temperature rising to 41.7 °C starting from the seventh day of admission. There were no causative medicines or risk factors to explain hyperpyrexia. She died on the ninth day of admission. Conclusions There are no reports of patients developing this complication during pregnancy. The pathophysiology of this rare life-threatening complication remains elusive. Detailed reporting and in-depth analysis of such patients will facilitate the understanding of the associations and successful management of these patients.

Abstract Untethered magnetic miniature soft robots capable of accessing hard-to-reach regions can enable safe, disruptive, and minimally invasive medical procedures. However, the soft body limits the integration of non-magnetic external stimuli sources on the robot, thereby restricting the functionalities of such robots. One such functionality is localised heat generation, which requires solid metallic materials for increased efficiency. Yet, using these materials compromises the compliance and safety of using soft robots. To overcome these competing requirements, we propose a pangolin-inspired bi-layered soft robot design. We show that the reported design achieves heating > 70 °C at large distances > 5 cm within a short period of time

Amaç: Dudak damak yarıkları (DDY) kraniyofasiyal bölgede en sık görülen malformasyonlardır. Nazopalatin kanal (NPK) genellikle maksiller orta hatta ve insizör dişlerin posteriorunda bulunur. Kanal oral kaviteye insiziv foramen (IF) aracılığı ile açılır; nazal septumun her iki tarafında Stensen foramen (SF) ile nazal kavitede sonlanır. DDY'li hastalarda oluşan çeşitli anatomik ve dental değişikliklere bağlı olarak maksillar ön bölgede estetik ve fonksiyonel bozulmalar söz konusudur. Bu bölgenin rehabilite edilebilmesi amacıyla implant tedavilerine sıklıkla başvurulur. İmplant cerrahisi sonrası olası post-operatif komplikasyonlardan kaçınılması amacıyla bölge anatomisinin Konik Işınlı Bilgisayarlı Tomografi (KIBT) ile değerlendirilmesi önemlidir. Bu çalışmanın amacı, KIBT görüntülerinde, DDY'li bireyler ile sağlıklı kontrollerde NPK morfolojisini ve lineer ölçümlerini karşılaştırmaktır. Gereç ve Yöntemler: Çalışma retrospektif olarak yürütülmüştür. Çalışmaya 22'si unilateral DDY hastası, 25'i kontrol grubu hastası olmak üzere 47 birey dahil edilmiştir. NPK'nın morfolojik, boyutsal özellikleri ayrıca Stenson foramen ve insiziv foramen çapları KIBT görüntüleri üzerinde değerlendirilmiştir. Bulgular: Çalışma grubu ve kontrol grubu arasında yaş ve cinsiyet açısından anlamlı fark yoktu. NPK morfolojisi, NPK uzunluğu, NPK sayısı, SF sayısı, SF çapı, IF çapı açısından iki grup arasında istatistiksel olarak anlamlı fark bulundu. DDY’li grupta huni şeklinde NPK daha fazla izlenirken, kontrol grubunda silindirik NPK daha fazlaydı. Çalışma grubunda daha geniş NF çapı ve SF çapı bulunmasına rağmen NPK uzunluğunun daha kısa olduğu saptandı. IF sayısı ise iki grup arasında istatistiksel anlamlı fark göstermedi. Sonuç: Bu çalışma, DDY'li hastalarda NPK'nin anatomik değişkenlik gösterdiğini doğrulamaktadır. Bu nedenle, DDY hastalarında maksillar ön bölgeye yönelik cerrahi girişimler öncesinde bölgenin KIBT ile ayrıntılı anatomik değerlendirilmesinin yapılması önem arz etmektedir.

Aim: One of the foundations of a healthy life, the quality of the house and its arrangement accord-ing to the user is important for the older adult who are at risk for home accidents. In this study, it was aimed to examine the security situation of the interior space in the residence for the elderly and to present a table containing the interior space criteria necessary for home safety. Method: 287 older adults with a mean age of 71.80±6.28 years participated in the study. Demographic and descriptive information of the participants were recorded. Home security level was evaluated with the Elderly Home Safety Checklist in Residential Interiors prepared by the researchers. At the end of the study, the participants were trained by interior architects and physiotherapists for interior arrangements and prevention of falls. Results: The majority of the older adults have sufficient natural and artificial lighting (% 90.2), the lighting switches are accessible (% 94.8), the furniture is of appropriate size (% 88.9), and the layout in the interior of their dwellings allows them to move comfortably and safely (% 94.1) reported. However, 54.4% of the partici-pants stated that the furniture was not fixed, 52.3% stated that precautions were not taken on the sharp corners of the furniture and surfaces to prevent injury, 76% stated that there were slippery floors in the interior of the house and 72.8% stated that there were thresholds. Con-clusion: It is thought that home accidents and injuries can be prevented to a large extent by evaluating the homes of the older adults by professionals, taking the necessary regulations and precautions, and spreading information about home accidents, home safety and falls.

Abstract The present study analyses the wormhole solution both in the dRGT-f(R, T) massive gravity and Einstein massive gravity. In both the models, the anisotropic pressure solution in ultrastatic wormhole geometry gives rise to the shape function that involves massive gravity parameters $$ \gamma $$ γ and $$ \Lambda $$ Λ . However, the terms consisting of $$ \gamma $$ γ and $$ \Lambda $$ Λ acts in such a way that the spacetime loses asymptotic flatness. Similar to the black hole solution in massive gravity, this inconsistency arises due to the repulsive effect of gravity which can be represented by the photon deflection angle that goes negative after a certain radial distance. It is investigated that the repulsive effect induced in the massive gravitons push the spacetime geometry so strongly that the asymptotic flatness is effected. On the other hand, in this model, one can have a wormhole with ordinary matter at the throat that satisfies all the energy conditions while the negative energy density is sourced by massive gravitons. Finally, using the TOV equation, it is found that the model is stable under the hydrostatic equilibrium condition.

Background: Although an adopted echocardiography algorithm based on tricuspid regurgitation jet peak velocity and suggestive findings for pulmonary hypertension has been utilized in the non-invasive prediction of pulmonary hypertension probability, the reliability of this approach for the updated hemodynamic definition of pulmonary hypertension remains to be determined. In this study, for the first time, we aimed to evaluate the tricuspid regurgitation jet peak velocity and suggestive findings in predicting the probability of pulmonary hypertension as defined by mean pulmonary arterial pressure > 20 mm Hg and > 25 mm Hg, respectively. Methods: Our study group was comprised of the retrospectively evaluated 1300 patients (age 53.1 +- 18.8 years, female 62.1%) who underwent right heart catheterization with different indications between 2006 and 2018. All echocardiographic and right heart catheterization assessments were performed in accordance with the European Society of Cardiology/European Respiratory Society 2015 Pulmonary Hypertension Guidelines. Results: Although tricuspid regurgitation jet peak velocity showed a significant relation with mean pulmonary arterial pressure in both definitions, suggestive findings offered a significant contribution only in predicting mean pulmonary arterial pressure ≥ 25 mm Hg but not for mean pulmonary arterial pressure > 20 mm Hg. In predicting the mean pulmonary arterial pressure > 20 mm Hg, tricuspid regurgitation jet peak velocity and suggestive findings showed an odds ratio of 2.57 (1.59-4.14, P 2.8 m/s and tricuspid regurgitation jet peak velocity > 3.4 m/s were associated with 70% and 84% probability of mean pulmonary arterial pressure > 20 mm Hg and 60% and 76% probability of mean pulmonary arterial pressure ≥ 25 mm Hg, respectively. Conclusions: In contrast to those in predicting the mean pulmonary arterial pressure ≥ 25 mm Hg, suggestive findings did not provide a significant contribution to the probability of mean pulmonary arterial pressure > 20 mm Hg predicted by tricuspid regurgitation jet peak velocity solely. The impact of the novel mean pulmonary arterial pressure threshold on the echocardiographic prediction of pulmonary hypertension remains to be clarified by future studies.

Abstract THz radiation detection using FET devices has attracted increasing attention lately. In this paper, we further study a simulated model of FET rectification detection in short channel length. To achieve this, both physics-based analytic model and a detailed TCAD simulation were contacted and compared. The analytical model provided detailed dependence of the response on the channel length below the extension length of the radiation. However, the simulation results were validated by comparison with the experimental data to confirm the validity of the theoretical model. These results present a new model of rectification for short channel lengths and its dependence on the extinction of AC signal through the channel.

In this study, random ordinary differential equations obtained by randomly choosing the coefficients or initial conditions of the ordinary differential equations will be analyzed by the Residual Power Series Method. The initial conditions or coefficients of the equations will be converted to random variables with Normal, Gamma and exponential distribution. Probability characteristics such as expected value, variance and confidence interval of the obtained random ordinary differential equations will be calculated. Obtained results will be drawn with the help of MATLAB (2013a) package program and random results will be interpreted.

Sosyal ağ siteleri (SAS), bireylerin hem çevrimdışı hayatta hem de çevrimiçi ortamda tanıdıklarının bir araya geldiği yerlerdir. Kullanıcı olarak bireyler SAS’ta yer alan profilleri üzerinden çeşitli paylaşımlar yapmaktadır. Instagram, hem dünyada hem de Türkiye’de popüler olan bir SAS’tır. Instagram, 2018 yılından bu yana hikâye paylaşımlarına ‘yakın arkadaş’ özelliğini getirmiştir. Bu özellik kullanıcıların yayınladıkları hikâyelerin sadece belirli bir grup tarafından görüntülenmesini sağlamaktadır. Bu çalışmanın amacı, Instagram’da ‘yakın arkadaş’ özelliği kullanımının nedenlerini ve bu özelliğin kullanımının nasıl algılandığını anlamaktır. Araştırmada nitel yöntem uygulamalarından fenomenolojik desen kullanılmıştır ve amaçlı örneklem tercih edilmiştir. Veriler iki aşamalı olarak toplanmıştır. Birinci aşamada 200 kişiye ulaşılmış ve Google Formlar’da oluşturulan bir soru formu ile nitel veriler toplanmıştır. İkinci aşamada ise birinci aşamaya katılan 15 kişi ile derinlemesine görüşme yapılmıştır. Araştırma sonucunda elde edilen verilerin bazılarını şöyle ifade etmek mümkündür: ‘Yakın arkadaş’ özelliğini kullanan katılımcıların Instagram’da ‘yakın arkadaş’ listesinde yer alan kişiler sadece çevrimdışı hayatta yakın arkadaşı olan kişiler değildir. Katılımcılar ‘yakın arkadaş’ listelerini belirlerken kapsamaya ya da dışarıda bırakmaya odaklanmaktadır. Kapsama için öne çıkan temalar şöyledir: İdeolojik yakınlık, benzer hayat tarzı, yargılanmama. Dışarıda bırakma nedenleri ise aile / akrabalar, iş ilişkileridir. Katılımcılar başkalarının ‘yakın arkadaş’ belirlemelerine ilişkin gözlemlerinde ise hayat tarzı ve bununla bağlantılı olarak alkol kullanımını belirtmişlerdir. Katılımcılar, genellikle başkalarının ‘yakın arkadaş’ listesinde olmaktan rahatsız olmadıklarını ifade etmiş ve ‘yakın arkadaş’ listesini güvenli alan olarak tanımlamıştır. ‘Yakın arkadaş’ özelliğini kullanmayan katılımcılar ise başkasının listesinde bulunmaktan memnun olmadıklarını ya da nötr olduklarını söylemiştir.

İş dünyasında yoğun bir şekilde sosyal ilişkiler barındıran adalet, işletme disiplini için de tartışma konusu olmuş ve çalışanların adalet algıları ve adaletsiz uygulamalara tepkileri yaygınlıkla incelenmiştir. Adalet kavramına yönelik tartışmaların odağında iş yaşamında adaleti sağlamak olmasına rağmen, örgütsel adaletin, çoğunlukla, adaletten etkilenen taraf olarak çalışan merkezli biçimde incelendiği ve adaletin kaynağı olarak yöneticiler ile adaletin gözlemcisi olarak müşterilerin öneminin ihmal edildiği gözlemlenmiştir. Hâlbuki yöneticilerin uygulamalarındaki adaleti yorumlayabilmek ve aynı zamanda, bu uygulamaların hangi şekilde açığa çıktığını anlamak da işletme disiplini açısından önem arz etmektedir. Öte yandan, günümüz müşterileri yalnızca satın alacakları ürün özellikleri ile ilgilenmemekte, aynı zamanda işletmelerin uygulamalarını sosyal açıdan da değerlendirmekte ve burada, işletmeleri değerlendirirken adalet arayışında da bulunabilmektedirler. Buradan yola çıkarak bu çalışmada, çoğunlukla çalışan merkezli incelenen örgütsel adalet kavramını, yönetici ve müşteri bakış açılarını kapsayacak şekilde genişleten bir literatür özeti sunulması amaçlanmıştır. Bu amacı gerçekleştirmek üzere, çalışmaya adalet kavramının gelişimini ve işletme disiplinine kadar geliş sürecinin incelenmesiyle başlamış olup örgütsel adaletin tanımı ve kapsamı açıklanmıştır. Ardından, örgütsel adalet; çalışan, yönetici ve müşteri bakış açılarıyla irdelenmiş ve adaletin tesis edilmesinde tarafların birbiriyle etkileşiminin rolü olduğu tespit edilmiştir. Literatür incelemesi sonucunda elde edilen bilgiler; insan kaynakları, yönetim ve pazarlama disiplinleri açısından değerlendirilmiş olup değerlendirmelerin örgütsel adalet yazınına ve uygulamaya yönelik katkıları tartışılmıştır.

Aim: This research is a risk analysis study aimed at retrospectively evaluating occupational accidents that occurred and were recorded by healthcare professionals, and determining possible risks and hazards. Method: The sample of the study consists of 300 occupational accidents that occurred in and were recorded by healthcare professionals between 2015 and 2020 in a tertiary health institution. The research data were collected using the archive scanning technique and the "Identification Form". Descriptive statistical methods were used to analyze the data on accidents and victims. Risk analysis was performed using the Finne-Kinney method. Results: It was found that 51% of the victims were male, 82.3% were nurses and 41% had less than one year of work experience. When the characteristics of the accidents were examined, 20.7% of the accidents occurred in 2016, 43.3% in the morning hours, 42.7% in the first four hours of the shifts, 40% in the intensive care units, and 80.3% occurred in the form of sharp/penetrating object injuries on hand/finger. A total of five risk factors and 77 hazard-related risks were identified. When the risk score average was examined according to the factors, the risk score average was 428.25 for physical factors, 466 for chemical factors, 327.27 for biological factors, 234 for ergonomic factors, 350 for psychosocial factors, and 386.80 for all risks. The risk scores were decreased from 720-126 to 200-42 by corrective and preventive actions. Conclusion: In conclusion, occupational accidents occurred mostly among nurses, the highest risk factors were physical and chemical factors, and corrective and preventive actions could reduce the risk of accidents significantly.

Aim: The aim of this study was to reveal nursing students' opinions, experiences, and attitudes toward medical errors. Method: This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted among 465 third and fourth-year nursing students in Turkey. Data were collected between March-June 2017 using a demographic information form and the Medical Error Attitude Scale. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics of mean, standard deviation, number, and percentage and the Mann-Whitney U test. Results: The majority of students stated that they did not make any medical errors in clinical practice (76.8%) and if they made any medical error, they said they would report it to the charge nurse (72.7%). Only 5.8% of the students stated that they reported the medical error they made. While the students' total Scale of Attitudes toward Medical Errors mean score was 3.78 (SD=0.47), the subscale mean scores were determined to be 2.79 (SD=0.71) in the medical error perception, 3.94 (SD=0.60) in the approach to medical errors, and 3.90 (SD=0.59) in the causes of medical errors subscale. There were statistically significant differences between gender, age group, and class year of students and the Scale of Attitudes toward Medical Errors total and subscale mean scores (p

Background: Pulmonary embolism severity index, its simplified version, and shock index have been used for risk stratification in acute pulmonary embolism. In this study, we proposed a modification in severity index and evaluated the correlates and prognostic value of modification in severity index in this setting. Methods: The study group comprised retrospectively evaluated 181 patients with acute pulmonary embolism. Systematic workup including pulmonary embolism severity index, its simplified version, shock index, biomarkers, and echocardiographic and multidetector computed tomography assessments was performed in all patients. Moreover, we calculated modification in severity index by multiplying original shock index (heart rate/systolic blood pressure ratio) and a third component, 1/pulse oxymetric saturation (pSat O2%) ratio. The primary endpoint was defined as all-cause mortality and hemodynamic collapse during the hospital stay. Results: On the basis of initial risk stratification, ultrasound-assisted thrombolysis, systemic tissue-type plasminogen activator, and unfractionated heparin therapies were utilized in 83 (45.9%), 37 (20.4%), and 61 (33.7%) patients, respectively. The primary end-point occurred in 13 (7.2%) patients. Receiver-operating curve analysis revealed that modification in severity index had the highest area under the curve of 0.739 (0.588-0.890, P =.002) compared with shock index, pulmonary embolism severity index, or its simplified version. The modification in severity index > 0.989 predicted primary endpoint with 73% sensitivity and 54% specificity. Conclusions: The modification in severity index seems to be a simple, quick, and compre-hensive risk assessment tool for bedside evaluation at initial stratification, in monitoring the clinical benefit from therapies, and decision-making for escalation to other reperfusion strategies in patients with acute pulmonary embolism. However, the prognostic value of modification in severity index needs to be validated with further studies.

Abstract Background Prenatal alcohol (ethanol) exposure (PAE) results in brain growth restriction, in part, by reprogramming self-renewal and maturation of fetal neural stem cells (NSCs) during neurogenesis. We recently showed that ethanol resulted in enrichment of both proteins and pro-maturation microRNAs in sub-200-nm-sized extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted by fetal NSCs. Moreover, EVs secreted by ethanol-exposed NSCs exhibited diminished efficacy in controlling NSC metabolism and maturation. Here we tested the hypothesis that ethanol may also influence the packaging of RNAs into EVs from cell-of-origin NSCs. Methods Sex-specified fetal murine iso-cortical neuroepithelia from three separate pregnancies were maintained ex vivo, as neurosphere cultures to model the early neurogenic niche. EVs were isolated by ultracentrifugation from NSCs exposed to a dose range of ethanol. RNA from paired EV and cell-of-origin NSC samples was processed for ribosomal RNA-depleted RNA sequencing. Differential expression analysis and exploratory weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) identified candidate genes and gene networks that were drivers of alterations to the transcriptome of EVs relative to cells. Results The RNA content of EVs differed significantly from cell-of-origin NSCs. Biological sex contributed to unique transcriptome variance in EV samples, where > 75% of the most variant transcripts were also sex-variant in EVs but not in cell-of-origin NSCs. WGCNA analysis also identified sex-dependent enrichment of pathways, including dopamine receptor binding and ectoderm formation in female EVs and cell-substrate adhesion in male EVs, with the top significant DEGs from differential analysis of overall individual gene expressions, i.e., Arhgap15, enriched in female EVs, and Cenpa, enriched in male EVs, also serving as WCGNA hub genes of sex-biased EV WGCNA clusters. In addition to the baseline RNA content differences, ethanol exposure resulted in a significant dose-dependent change in transcript expression in both EVs and cell-of-origin NSCs that predominantly altered sex-invariant RNAs. Moreover, at the highest dose, ~ 73% of significantly altered RNAs were enriched in EVs, but depleted in NSCs. Conclusions The EV transcriptome is distinctly different from, and more sex-variant than, the transcriptome of cell-of-origin NSCs. Ethanol, a common teratogen, results in dose-dependent sorting of RNA transcripts from NSCs to EVs which may reprogram the EV-mediated endocrine environment during neurogenesis.

In this paper, we prove a common fixed-point theorem for four self-mappings with a function family on $ S_{b} $-metric spaces. In addition, we investigate some geometric properties of the fixed-point set of a given self-mapping. In this context, we obtain a fixed-disc (resp. fixed-circle), fixed-ellipse, fixed-hyperbola, fixed-Cassini curve and fixed-Apollonious circle theorems on $ S_{b} $-metric spaces.

Abstract Background Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease characterized by having varying clinical presentation, severity, unpredictable course as well as outcomes. Recent disease-modifying conventional and biologic agents have enhanced rates of attaining both short- and long-term management goals, including minimization of glucocorticoid dose and use. This study was carried out to develop an up-to-date evidence-based, consensus on clinical practice guidelines for treat-to-target management of systemic lupus erythematosus in adults. Results The response rate to the online questionnaires, sent to the expert panel who participated in the three rounds, was 95.5%. At the end of round 3, a total of 14 recommendation sections were proposed for the T2T management of patients with SLE. Agreement with the recommendations (rank 7–9) ranged from 90.9–100%. Consensus was reached (i.e., ≥ 80% of respondents strongly agreed or agreed) on the proposed statements. Conclusion These recommendations provide a consensus on the treat-to-target management of patients with SLE. They provide strategies to reach optimal outcomes in common clinical scenarios, based on a combination of evidence and expert opinion.

In this paper, we investigate new solutions to the Rhoades' discontinuity problem on the existence of a self-mapping which has a fixed point but is not continuous at the fixed point on metric spaces. To do this, we use the number defined as n(x,y)=[d(x,y)]β[d(x,Ty)]α[d(x,Ty)]γ[(d(x,Ty)+d(x,Ty))/2]1−α−β−γ, where α , β , γ ∈ ( 0,1 ) with α + β + γ < 1 and some interpolative type contractive conditions. Also, we investigate some geometric properties of Fix(T) under some interpolative type contractions and prove some fixed-disc (resp. fixed-circle) results. Finally, we present a new application to the discontinuous activation functions.

According to Todani's classification, a choledochocele is a cystic dilatation of the distal section of the common bile duct that protrudes into the duodenal lumen. It is also known as a type III choledochal cyst. There are not many cases, and the cause is still unknown. Typically, it is misdiagnosed as a peptic ulcer, as was the case with the patient in this case study. For choledochocele diagnosis, multislice spiral computed tomography and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography may be equivalent to endoscopic retrograde cholangiography. Both endoscopic therapy and open surgical care are risk-free possibilities, and the cyst's size influences which strategy should be used. A 35-year-old woman admitted to the hospital with upper abdominal pain caused by a large choledochocele was successfully treated by open surgical management. In this case study, we outline the specifics of her situation and talk about the most recent research on similar cases and how to treat them therapeutically. There is ongoing debate regarding the best course of action. However, to achieve a successful outcome, open surgical care for choledochocele of large size (ie, > 3 cm in diameter) is advised.

The complex structure, chemical composition, and biomechanical properties of craniofacial cartilaginous structures make them challenging to reconstruct. Autologous grafts have limited tissue availability and can cause significant donor-site morbidity, homologous grafts often require immunosuppression, and alloplastic grafts may have high rates of infection or displacement. Furthermore, all these grafting techniques require a high level of surgical skill to ensure that the reconstruction matches the original structure. Current research indicates that additive manufacturing shows promise in overcoming these limitations. Autologous stem cells have been developed into cartilage when exposed to the appropriate growth factors and culture conditions, such as mechanical stress and oxygen deprivation. Additive manufacturing allows for increased precision when engineering scaffolds for stem cell cultures. Fine control over the porosity and structure of a material ensures adequate cell adhesion and fit between the graft and the defect. Several recent tissue engineering studies have focused on the trachea, nose, and ear, as these structures are often damaged by congenital conditions, trauma, and malignancy. This article reviews the limitations of current reconstructive techniques and the new developments in additive manufacturing for tracheal, nasal, and auricular cartilages.

Addressing the global challenge of sustainable waste management, this research investigates the influence of social dynamics and digital connectivity on rural residents’ willingness to adopt waste classification practices, essential for sustainable environmental management. Through a comprehensive analysis of 5413 rural participants surveyed in the China Labor-force Dynamic Survey (CLDS), this study employs a novel mixed-methods approach. It integrates quantitative analysis with the Manski social interaction framework and a Recursive Bivariate Probit model to explore the intricate interplay between community interactions, internet access, and environmental behaviors. Our methodology stands out for its unique combination of social theory and econometric modeling to address a pressing environmental issue. Results highlight a significant effect of mobile internet use and social interactions within communities on enhancing willingness towards waste classification. Notably, digital connectivity emerges as a key facilitator of environmental engagement, mediating social influences, and fostering a collective approach to waste management. Considering these insights, we propose targeted policy interventions that blend digital strategies with traditional community engagement efforts. Recommendations include crafting digital literacy programs and leveraging social media to bolster community-centric environmental governance. By harnessing the synergistic potential of digital tools and social dynamics, these strategies aim to elevate the effectiveness of waste classification initiatives in rural China, offering a scalable model for environmental sustainability.

Open water swimming is a sport and recreational activity in which individuals swim in natural bodies of water. When the body is under stress, stress hormones, and reactive oxygen metabolite production may increase. The study aims to evaluate the effect of swimming stress on oxidation formation, antioxidant response, and cortisol levels in whole saliva samples of long-distance open-water swimmers taken before and after swimming. Lipid peroxidation (LPO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), and sialic acid (SA) were determined in the whole saliva of the 12 swimmers before and after swimming. Also, cortisol levels were measured from whole saliva collected in 10 laps, before and after each swim. The salivary LPO level of the swimmers significantly increased, and SOD and CAT activities and SA levels decreased significantly after swimming compared to the baseline. After swimming, the salivary cortisol levels of the swimmers significantly increased in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd laps of the swim compared to each one’s baseline levels. It was also observed that swimming activity caused an increase in total cortisol levels in all laps compared to baseline swimming. Swimming in open water can cause stress on the organism, leading to metabolic adaptations for prevention.

Abstract Introduction Sleep is an important neurophysiological condition that is intricately linked to general health, laying the basis for both physiological and psychological well‐being. A thorough examination of sleep disorders and cardiovascular health demonstrates their deep relationship, emphasizing the numerous diagnostic tools and treatment techniques available. Aim This study aims to examine the impact, mechanisms, diagnostic techniques, treatment strategies, implications, and healthcare interventions of the sleep‐cardiovascular connection, to better understand the relationship between sleep disorders and cardiovascular health. Methods The paper reviews key studies conducted from 2015‐till date, investigating the impact of sleep disorders on the cardiovascular system. It looked into data relating to cardiovascular outcomes based on the degree of sleep disorders, considered potential confounding factors, and addressed current research constraints. Results The findings highlight a strong link between sleep problems and poor cardiovascular outcomes. Emerging diagnostic tools, such as enhanced sleep‐related technology and biomarkers, open up new avenues for determining the impact of sleep disturbances on cardiovascular health. In addition, the research discusses several treatment options, ranging from cognitive behavioral therapy to pharmaceutical therapies, and their potential benefits in addressing sleep‐related cardiovascular risks. Conclusion The complex association between sleep disturbances and cardiovascular health emphasizes the need to recognize sleep as a critical component of overall well‐being. Thus collaboration among medical disciplines, as well as individualized therapies, are critical to improving patient care. Moreover, Understanding and managing the consequences of sleep problems on cardiovascular health can lead to more effective interventions, better outcomes, and improved public health as research advances.

Background: Magnesium (Mg) deficiency is closely linked with proteinuria. Objectives: To assess the impact of oral Mg citrate supplementation on the clinical outcome of diabetic nephropathy (DN) patients. Design: This was a prospective, randomized, controlled, open-label study. Methods: Sixty DN patients were recruited from Nephrology and Endocrinology departments, Ain Shams University Hospitals, Cairo, Egypt. Patients were assigned by stratified randomization based on their Mg status, to either Mg citrate group, ( n = 30), who received the standard regimen + oral Mg citrate 2.25 g/day or Control group, ( n = 30), who received the standard regimen only. The primary endpoint was a change in urinary albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR) after 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes were insulin resistance, glycemic control, lipid profile, serum osteocalcin, quality of life (QoL) and Mg tolerability. Results: Out of a total of 60 patients enrolled, only 54 patients (26 in Mg citrate group and 28 in the control group) completed the study. Groups were comparable at baseline. The UACR median percent reduction was significantly higher in the Mg citrate group (−6.87%) versus (−0.9%) in the Control group, p = 0.001. After 12 weeks, the estimated glomerular filtration rate significantly improved in the Mg citrate group versus Control group ( p = 0.001). Comparable change was observed in glycemic indices. Lipid profile significantly improved in the Mg citrate group versus Control group ( p = 0.001). Serum osteocalcin levels significantly declined in the Mg citrate group ( p = 0.001) versus control group. Regarding QoL, the total score and all domains significantly improved in the Mg citrate group compared to control. The Mg supplement was tolerable with only mild reported side effects that required no intervention. Conclusion: Oral Mg citrate supplementation improved microalbuminuria in DN patients. It also had favorable effects on serum osteocalcin, lipid profile and QoL with no reported major side effects. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03824379.

ε‐poly‐l‐lysine (ε‐PLL) is a natural polypeptide/polycation originating from bacteria. Thanks to its antifungal and antibacterial properties, it is the subject of extensive research in the food and medical industries. ε‐PLL is also used to develop biomaterials in a broad range of applications, such as drug delivery, wound healing, or antimicrobial coatings. Indeed, loading ε‐PLL inside nanoparticles, functionalizing implant surfaces with ε‐PLL, or developing hydrogels based on reactions between ε‐PLL and other polymers can improve the materials properties, leading to biocompatible, antibacterial, and antifungal systems. These characteristics are necessary not only for the development of biomaterials, for their integrity in a biological environment, but also for improving the performances of medical devices. Moreover, ε‐PLL can be used as an alternative to antibiotics as its mechanism of action reduces the bacterial resistance risk compared with antibiotics. Finally, “smart” systems using ε‐PLL may be developed, with controllable material degradation or drug delivery via pH or temperature variations. This review sought to gather the latest research on the development of antimicrobial biomaterials based on the ε‐PLL polypeptide.

The aim of the study is to compare the perinatal outcomes of twin pregnancies resulting from assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment in which granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) was used with those in which it was not. In this retrospective study, the clinical data of 122 dichorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies were reviewed. Pregnancies were divided into two groups, G-CSF-treated and non-G-CSF treated. Maternal age, gestational week at birth, oligohydramnios, gestational hypertension, pre-eclampsia, preterm birth, first-trimester bleeding, gestational diabetes, rupture of membrane, foetal congenital anomalies, admission to the neonatal intensive care unit, birth weight (BW), small for gestational age, BW discordance, Apgar score and placental weight were compared between the groups.IMPACT STATEMENT What is already known on this subject? Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) administrations increase pregnancy outcomes and do not have a negative effect on perinatal outcomes in singleton pregnancies. What the results of this study add? This study showed that the perinatal outcome of dichorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies conceived after assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment was similar in the GSF administrated and non-GSF administrated groups. What the implications are of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? Using G-CSF to increase the success of ART does not seem to have an adverse outcome in the dichorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies.

India has been a part of 5 major wars since its independence in 1947 and hosts over 212,413 refugees from Sri Lanka, Tibet and Bangladesh. So, a wide spectrum of trauma survivors, both civilian and military, live in this country and require mental healthcare. We discuss the psychological impact of armed conflict and how the country and culture tint it uniquely. We not only explore the current scene but the resources available and what can be done to make such vulnerable parts of the Indian population feel safer.

AbstractAtorvastatin calcium (ATV) is a well-known anti-hyperlipidemic drug currently being recognized for possessing an anti-inflammatory effect. Introducing it as a novel remedy for periodontitis treatment necessitates developing a syringeable modified delivery system capable of targeting inflammation within the periodontal pockets. Thus, a 33 Box-Behnken design was used to generate eugenol enriched PEGylated cubosomes. Based on the desirability function, the optimized formulation (OEEPC) was selected exhibiting a solubilization efficiency (SE%) of 97.71 ± 0.49%, particle size (PS) of 135.20 ± 1.11 nm, polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.09 ± 0.006, zeta potential (ZP) of −28.30 ± 1.84 mV and showing a sustained drug release over 12 h. It displayed a cubic structure under the transmission electron microscope, furthermore, it was stable upon storage for up to 30 days. Hence, it was loaded into an optimum syringeable in-situ gel (ISG) which displayed the desired periodontal gelation temperature (34 ± 0.70 °C) and an adequate gelation time (46 ± 2.82 sec), it also released approximately 75% of the drug within 72 h. Clinical evaluation of the ISG showed a promising percentage reduction of about 58.33% in probing depth, 90% in the bleeding index, 81.81% in the plaque index, and 70.21% in gingival levels of transforming growth factor–β1. This proved that the formulated syringeable intra-pocket delivery system of ATV is an efficient candidate for diminishing inflammation in periodontitis.

Abstract Compressor stations maintain pressure along natural gas pipelines to sustain gas flow. Unfortunately, they present human health concerns as they release chemical pollutants into the air, sometimes at levels higher than national air quality standards. Further, compressor stations are often placed in rural areas with higher levels of poverty and/or minority populations, contributing to environmental justice concerns. In this paper we investigate what chemical pollutants are emitted by compressor stations, the impacts of emitted pollutants on human health, and local community impacts. Based on the information gained from these examinations, we provide the following policy recommendations with the goal of minimizing harm to those affected by natural gas compressor stations: the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and relevant state agencies must increase air quality monitoring and data transparency; the EPA should direct more resources to monitoring programs specifically at compressor stations; the EPA should provide free indoor air quality monitoring to homes near compressor stations; the EPA needs to adjust its National Ambient Air Quality Standards to better protect communities and assess cumulative impacts; and decision‐makers at all levels must pursue meaningful involvement from potentially affected communities. We find there is substantial evidence of negative impacts to strongly support these recommendations.

The COVID-19 pandemic caused millions of infections and deaths globally requiring effective solutions to fight the pandemic. The Internet of Things (IoT) provides data transmission without human intervention and thus mitigates infection chances. A road map is discussed in this study regarding the role of IoT applications to combat COVID-19. In addition, a real-time solution is provided to identify and monitor COVID-19 patients. The proposed framework comprises data collection using IoT-based devices, a health or quarantine center, a data warehouse for artificial intelligence (AI)-based analysis, and healthcare professionals to provide treatment. The efficacy of several machine learning models is also analyzed for the prediction of the severity level of COVID-19 patients using real-time IoT data and a dataset named ‘COVID Symptoms Checker’. The proposed ensemble model combines random forest and extra tree classifiers using a soft voting criterion and achieves superior results with a 0.922 accuracy score. The use of IoT applications is found to support medical professionals in investigating the features of the contagious disease and support managing the COVID pandemic more efficiently.

Natural disasters, characterized by their escalating frequency and intensification, fueled relentlessly by the inexorable forces of climate change, unambiguously underscore the urgent need to reassess our built environments and meticulously revise infrastructure design to withstand the unforgiving onslaught of these extreme events, thereby demanding concerted attention and unwavering dedication from policymakers and academic researchers to navigate this formidable predicament. The current study delves into the exploration of how natural disaster impact the course of energy technology evolution. To achieve this, This investigation uses panel data from 1990–2020 and sophisticated econometric analyses to model the effect of calamities on energy technology advancement across BRICS countries. Rigorous empirical methodologies lend credibility regarding the observed detrimental impact of disasters on innovation. The preliminary findings of the investigation suggest that natural disasters potentially exert a markedly detrimental effect on energy technology innovation. This influence is not merely confined to the year of the disaster occurrence but persistently lingers for the subsequent 4-year period. Moreover, the adverse impacts of such environmental upheavals on energy evolution seem to be mitigated by various factors. These include robust economic growth, government stability, interpersonal globalization, financial openness, trade openness, and the expansion of social globalisation. Adding further dimension to this research is the understanding that epidemics have the most pronounced negative implications on energy innovation. Concluding on a nuanced note, the study underscores a significant inverse relationship between natural disasters and low-carbon energy innovation. Interestingly, however, there is no discernible correlation when it comes to non-low carbon energy innovation. In a nutshell, this research presents a potential reference guide for policymakers, illuminating pathways to enhance the degree of energy innovation while tackling natural disasters and ensuring environmental sustainability.

Aim: Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a prevalent condition that significantly impacts quality of life and that can lead to limb amputation and thromboembolic events. Treatment options for PAD include endovascular and open surgical interventions, with the choice depending on the Trans-Atlantic inter-society consensus II (TASC II) classification. Recent evidence suggests that endovascular therapy may be feasible for complex PAD lesions, but further research is needed. Material and Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 50 patients with TASC II class C and D lesions. The procedures were conducted using a state-of-the-art angiography system, and patients received appropriate antiplatelet therapy and heparin during the intervention. Data collection was performed following ethical considerations and standardization protocols. Results: This study involved 50 patients with peripheral arterial disease, characterized by an average age of 65.0 years and a prevalence of comorbidities such as coronary artery disease, hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and tobacco use. The majority of patients presented with claudication and had lesions primarily in the femoropopliteal region. The procedures performed, primarily using drug-coated balloons, resulted in high technical success rates and favorable outcomes at 30 days, with a slight decline in primary patency rates at 6 months. Some patients required readmission due to cardiac reasons, and a small portion necessitated open surgical revascularization. Conclusion: Our findings support the use of endovascular revascularization as a safe and effective option for patients with complex lesions. Further research is needed to address challenges related to dissection and optimize outcomes in this patient population. This study contributes to the growing understanding of treatment approaches for peripheral artery disease and highlights the potential benefits of endovascular therapy. [Turk J Vasc Surg 2023; 32(3.000): 121-6]

Abstract Objective Chronic obstructive airway disease (COPD) is characterized by airflow limitation due to airway and/or alveolar abnormalities with significant extra‐pulmonary manifestations. Bone health impairment is an extra‐pulmonary complication of COPD which is less well studied in India. Moreover, it can contribute to significant morbidity and mortality. Hence, we aim to estimate the prevalence of osteoporosis and metabolic parameters of adverse bone health in patients with COPD. Methods In this case control study, male subjects aged 40–70 years with COPD attending the respiratory outpatient clinic in a tertiary care hospital were recruited over a period of 2 years and the control population were derived from the historical cohort who were apparently healthy with no obvious diseases. Metabolic parameters of bone health measured from fasting blood samples were calcium, albumin, alkaline phosphatase, phosphorous, parathormone, creatinine, 25‐hydroxy vitamin D, and testosterone. Bone mineral density (BMD) was estimated using DXA scan and the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria was used to categorize into osteoporosis, osteopenia, and normal BMD based on the T‐score at femoral neck, lumbar spine and distal forearm. Pulmonary function tests and 6 minute walk test were performed if they had not been done in the previous 3 months. The associations of COPD with osteoporosis were analyzed using linear regression analysis and effect size are presented as beta with 95% confidence interval. Results Of the 67 participants with COPD enrolled in the study, osteoporosis was present in 61% (41/67) and osteopenia in an additional 33% (22/67) of the cases, which was higher when compared to the control population (osteoporosis 20% [50/252] and osteopenia 58% [146/252]). In regression modeling, there was a trend toward adverse bone health with advanced age, low body mass index, low forced expiratory volume in 1 second and testosterone deficiency in COPD. Conclusion Individuals with COPD have a substantially higher prevalence of osteoporosis and osteopenia, up to almost twice that of the general population, with a significant number demonstrating at least one parameter of adverse metabolic bone health on assessment. Hence, bone health assessment should be a part of comprehensive COPD care to prevent adverse consequences due to poor bone health.

Objective:The influence of pulp status on orthodontically induced root resorption has attracted attention. The purpose of this study was to compare orthodontically induced root resorption in endodontically treated teeth and their contralateral vital teeth in a split-mouth design.Methods:The sample included 173 patients who had at least one endodontically treated tooth, and their vital contralateral teeth served as the control group before the completion of orthodontic treatment. Apical root resorption measurements were performed by the comparison of digital panoramic X-ray images obtained at the beginning and at the end of the orthodontic treatment. Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney U, and Wilcoxon tests were used for statistical analysis.Results:There was no statistically significant difference in apical root resorption between the endodontically treated teeth and the contralateral teeth (p>0.05). Sex and tooth type had no effect on apical root resorption both in the endodontically treated teeth and the contralateral vital teeth (p>0.05). Orthodontic treatment with extraction caused more apical root resorption in the vital teeth than in the endodontically treated teeth (p0.05).Conclusion:Endodontic treatment does not produce greater apical root resorption compared with the vital teeth.

Introduction: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of XP-endo Finisher (XPF), self-adjusting files (SAF), and Canal Brush (CB) systems in removing calcium hydroxide (CH) from an artificial standardized groove (ASG) created in the apical root area. Methods: Fifty-five mandibular premolar teeth were prepared to size Reciproc R40 and were split longitudinally. An ASG was prepared in the apical third of the root and filled with CH. The root halves were reassembled, and the samples were divided into two control groups [positive control and negative control (n=5)] and three experimental groups [XPF, SAF, and CB, (n=15)]. The results were evaluated according to a four-grade scoring system to assess the remained CH in ASGs. The statistical difference between the groups was analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the experimental groups in the ability to remove CH from the apical root thirds (P>0.05). Conclusion: None of the finishing techniques could completely clean CH. The SAF, XPF, and CB systems showed comparable efficacy in removing CH from the roots. (J Dent Mater Tech 2023;12(1): 28-34)

Objective: Several supra-annular self-expanding transcatheter systems are commercially available for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Comparative data in large-scale multicenter studies are scant. Methods: This study included a total of 5175 patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing TAVI with the ACURATE neo (n = 1095), Evolut R (n = 3365), or Evolut PRO (n = 715) by a transfemoral approach at five high-volume centers. Propensity score matching resulted in 654 triplets. Outcomes are reported according to the Valve Academic Research Consortium-3 (VARC-3) consensus. Results: Moderate or severe paravalvular regurgitation (PVR) occurred significantly more often in the ACURATE neo group (5.2%) than in the Evolut R (1.8%) and Evolut PRO (3.3%) groups (p = 0.003). The rates of major vascular-/access-related complications (4.6%, 3.8%, and 5.0%; p = 0.56), type 3 or 4 bleeding (3.2%, 2.1%, and 4.1%; p = 0.12), and 30-day mortality (2.4%, 2.6%, and 3.7%; p = 0.40) were comparable. The rate of new permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) was significantly lower in the ACURATE neo group (9.5%, 17.6%, and 16.8%; p

Abstract Aim To compare the effects of three different maxillary expansion appliances with five different types of expansion modalities on stress distribution and displacement on the maxilla and its adjacent craniofacial structures using the finite element method (FEM). Materials and methods Cone-beam computed tomography data of a patient with maxillary transverse deficiency were rendered into a three-dimensional model of craniomaxillary structures. The expansion appliances included tooth-borne, hybrid, and bone-borne expanders. Five different expansion modalities were applied to each expander [conventional Rapid Maxillary Expansion (RME) (type 1), midpalatal suture cortico-puncture-assisted RME (type 2), LeFort l cortico-puncture-assisted RME (type 3), surgically assisted RME (SARME) without pterygomaxillary junction (PMJ) separation (type 4), and SARME with bilateral PMJ separation (type 5)]. The numerical and visual data were analyzed. Results The highest amount of stress accumulation on teeth was found in the tooth-borne and hybrid groups. On the other hand, more stress concentration on the maxilla was observed in the bone-borne group. SARME cuts with PMJ separation increased total movement by reducing the stress on the midpalatal suture in all groups. While types 1, 2, and 3 were similar in terms of the amounts of displacement, types 4 and 5 increased the total amount of displacement in all groups. The total amounts of displacements from the highest value to the lowest value for the anterior and posterior maxilla were in the bone-borne, tooth-borne, and hybrid groups. Conclusions SARME cuts were effective in reducing stress on the teeth, but the cortico-puncture application affected neither the stress values on the teeth nor the transverse displacement in the tooth-borne expanders. Surgical procedures such as SARME and corticotomy should be used with bone-borne devices to improve the outcomes of maxillary expansion procedures.

The main purpose of this study is to analyze the relationship of halal product awareness and purchasing intention by using the health consciousness, subjective norms and halal certificate information of Muslim consumers as predictors. In this study where the Theory of Planned Behavior was taken as a basis, a quantitative research design was followed. In this context, the popula- tion of the study included Muslim consumers in Turkey at and over the age of 18 who have purchasing capacity. The drop-collect and online questionnaire technique was utilized in the study to collect the data. The data of a total of 2289 participants were included in the analysis. In testing the research model, the Structural Equation Modeling method which is a multivariate and sophisticated type of analysis was employed. The results showed that halal product awareness had a positive effect on the purchasing intentions of the participants for halal products. Additionally, it was determined that the three variables taken as the predictors of halal product awareness had statistically significant effects on halal product awareness. The variable with the highest effect among these variables was halal cer- tificate information.

Objective: There are different criteria to diagnose polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) such as Rotterdam Consensus, Androgen Excess Society (AES), and National Institutes of Health (NIH). We aimed to investigate the biochemical and insulin resistance-related markers of PCOS patients according to different diagnostic criteria. Material and methods: 1299 patients admitted to our clinic retrospectively analyzed. Following the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 200 patients with Rotterdam (Group 1), 182 patients with AES (Group 2), and 180 patients with NIH (Group 3) criteria were included in the study. Results: Waist/hip ratio among all groups (p1 = 0.002; p2 = 0.0001; p3 = 0.0001), LH/FSH ratio between Group 1 and 3 (p2=0.017), AST between Group 2 and 3 (p3 =0.012), DHEA-S and modified Ferriman–Gallwey score between Group 1 and 2 (p1 = 0.041; p1 = 0.013, respectively) and Group 1 and 3 (p2= 0.003; p2 = 0.04, respectively) were significantly different. A significant difference was detected between Group 1 and 3 in body mass index ≥ 25 (kg/m2) (p = 0.006). A significant difference was detected among all groups in waist circumference ≥ 88 cm (p1 = 0.0001, p2 = 0.0012, p3 = 0.004). Conclusion: The rate of metabolic syndrome was found to be higher in patients diagnosed with Rotterdam criteria, the rate of insulin resistance with NIH criteria, and the rate of dyslipidemia with AES criteria. However, these differences were not statistically significant.

In this study we evaluated the anesthetic effects of ketamine-diazepam (K-D), tiletamine zolazepam (T-Z), and propofol (P) infusion for one h in rabbits, and also the impact of these anesthetics on physiological and biochemical parameters, and the tissue structure of the liver, kidney, and lungs. 18 New Zealand white rabbits were allocated to three administration groups. All groups were premedicated with xylazine. For induction, ketamine and diazepam were administered intravenously in group K-D, tiletamine-zolazepam combination was administered in group T-Z, and propofol was administered in group P. After induction, infusion anesthesia was continued for one h by intravenously ketamine and diazepam in group K-D, tiletamine-zolazepam combination in group T-Z, and propofol in group P. The respiratory rate significantly decreased in the P group at 30, 45, and 60 min compared to the initial values (P

In recent years, intensive legal regulations aimed at the production of urban areas in Türkiye, the phenomenon of migration, the spread of higher education, abnormal cost increases in agricultural activities have accelerated urbanization. Parallel to the increase in the urban population, the food supply remains insufficient. The inability to increase the production of food products brings with it problems such as malnutrition, inflation, foreign trade deficit, food security. The natural areas harbored by rural and urban areas are shrinking and being destroyed by the pressure of rapid urbanization. In addition to the abandonment of rural areas, the food crisis that has arisen as a result of the intervention of the urbanization process in agricultural areas has increased the responsibility of the central government and municipalities. In order to meet the food needs of the population and implement sustainable agricultural policies, municipalities are taking different and innovative approaches. Municipalities are making direct and indirect attempts to provide people with cheap and reliable food. In this study, the activities carried out by the municipalities in Türkiye to support sustainable agriculture and their economic and social effects were examined.

Introduction:To evaluate the effect of submucosal platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy on intraoperative bleeding and early postoperative pain and crusting in patients undergoing inferior turbinate radiofrequency.Methods:A total of 70 adult patients with isolated inferior turbinate hypertrophy were included in this prospective study and randomized to the PRP or control groups. PRP was prepared for all patients. After applying submucosal radiofrequency to the inferior turbinates under local anesthesia, submucosal PRP was injected into the study group, and submucosal saline was injected into the control group. Patient controls were performed by another specialist. The patients and the specialist who performed the controls were blinded to which group they were in. All patients were evaluated endoscopically 1, 7, and 21 days after the operation.Results:The mean age of the patients was 33.37±11.92 years (range: 18 to 54). The two groups had no significant differences in intraoperative bleeding and mucociliary clearance values (p>0.05). The amount of crusting and the visual analog scale pain values were significantly lower in the submucosal PRP -injected group (p

Objective: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative condition that is characterized by bradykinesia, rigidity, and gait instability. Inherent to this condition is an increased predisposition to falls and fractures. Bone health in Parkinson's disease in India has not been studied thus far. This study aimed to assess the bone mineral density (BMD), trabecular bone score (TBS), and hip structural analysis (HSA) in Indian men with PD and compare them with matched controls. Methodology: A case-control study done at a tertiary care center from southern India. Bone biochemistry, BMD, TBS, and HSA were assessed. Results: Among 40 cases and 40 age, gender, and body mass index (BMI)-matched controls, there was no significant difference in BMD between both groups. The mean (SD) TBS at the lumbar spine [1.349 (0.090)] was significantly (P = 0.019) lower in men with PD as compared to matched controls [1.401 (0.089)]. Among the parameters of HSA, the buckling ratios were significantly higher at the femoral neck [11.8 (2.2) vs 9.4 (2.2); P = 0.001] and inter-trochanteric region [9.4 (2.1) vs 7.8 (1.4); P = 0.002] among cases as compared to matched controls. Vitamin D deficiency was significantly higher in this cohort of patients as was bone turnover marker indicating bone loss and a high bone turnover state. Conclusion: A comprehensive bone health assessment comprising BMD, TBS, and HSA may be required to capture all aspects of bone strength in Indian men with PD as BMD assessment as a stand-alone tool may not suffice to obtain all information pertaining to fracture risk in these individuals.

Background Maturation of bones in the hand–wrist region varies among individuals of the same age and among world groups. Although some studies from Africa report differences to other ethnic groups, the lack of detailed bone-specific maturity data prevents meaningful comparisons. Aim The aim of this study was to describe bone-specific maturity for developing hand–wrist bones in individuals in Khartoum, Sudan. Subjects and methods The sample was selected from healthy patients attending a dental hospital in Khartoum with known age and ancestry (males = 280, females = 330; aged between 3 and 25 years). Bones were assessed from radiographs of the left hand and wrist after the Greulich and Pyle Atlas (1959). Median ages of attainment for bone stages were calculated using probit analysis for each stage in males and females separately. Results Maturity data for stages of the phalanges, metacarpals, carpals and radius and ulna in males and females are presented. Median ages in females were earlier compared to males for all stages. These results are largely earlier than previously published findings or where these could be calculated. Conclusion These results of individual maturity stages of phalanges, metacarpals, carpals and the distal epiphyses of the radius and ulna are useful to assess maturity in growing individuals from Sudan.

In this paper, as a geometric approach to the fixed-point theory, we prove new fixed-figure results using the notion of k-ellipse on a metric space. For this purpose, we are inspired by the Caristi type mapping, Kannan type contraction, Chatterjea type contraction and Ćirić type contraction. After that, we give some existence and uniqueness theorems of a fixed k-ellipse. We also support our obtained results with illustrative examples. Finally, we present a new application to the S-Shaped Rectified Linear Activation Unit (SReLU) to show the importance of our theoretical results.

Abstract Introduction Nutrition literacy is crucial because it gives people information and drives them to take responsibility for their eating habits. Prior research on three categories of nutrition literacy among Palestinians was lacking: functional literacy (FNL), interactive literacy (INL), and critical literacy (CNL). Aims (1) Describe three types of nutrition literacy—FNL, INL, and CNL—among a group of Palestinians was one of the study’s primary objectives. (2) To investigate the connections between various nutrition literacy levels, eating habits, and the habit of seeking out nutrition-related information. Methods 149 Palestinians were chosen at random to take part in the study in the fall of 2020. Data on sociodemographic variables were gathered through an online survey that was disseminated across social and educational internet sites. Nutrition literacy data was gathered using a translated questionnaire, while diet behavior data was gathered using the Short Format of the Diet Health and Knowledge Survey (SFDHKS). The data were examined using SPSS 21. Results This study included young people (20.4 ± 4.9 years old), 78% of whom were female. The majorities of participants had bachelor’s degrees or were already enrolled in school to obtain them. FNL had a mean of 2.8 ± 0.5, INL of 3.3 ± 0.5, and CNL of 3.6 ± 0.5. The connection between CNL and INL was significant (p 0.05). Significant correlations were found between many aspects of diet behavior, the usage of food labels, and nutrition literacy. Conclusion Participants from the Palestinian community are willing to learn about and comprehend nutrition facts and how it relates to diet behavior in 2021.