Search

Approximately 95% of cervical squamous cell carcinomas are associated with high-risk HPV, with a small number of HPV-independent tumors. However, low-risk HPV types have also been detected in rare cervical squamous cell carcinomas. Low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion-related changes are a rare morphologic finding in cervical squamous cell carcinoma. We present the case of a 30-yr-old woman who presented with pelvic pain and foul-smelling vaginal discharge showing an exophytic lesion protruding from the cervix. Repeated superficial biopsies showed a low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) characterized by binucleation and koilocytosis. Chromogenic in-situ hybridization revealed the presence of HPV6/11. The absence of high-risk HPV was confirmed by PCR. After following the patient for nine months without intervention, type III hysterectomy and bilateral pelvic paraaortic lymphadenectomy were performed. Microscopic examination showed well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma with solid epithelial islands and extensive eosinophilic cytoplasm without pleomorphism. HPV 6 and 11 were also detected with chromogenic in-situ hybridization. Neoplasm invaded the full-thickness of the cervical wall and infiltrated the vagina, parametrium, the proximal ureter and bladder. The patient who received chemoradiotherapy is disease-free at 36 months follow-up. Low-risk HPV-related well-differentiated invasive squamous lesions exist, and such lesions could be a diagnostic pitfall for gynecologists and pathologists; in these cases, radiologic-pathologic correlation and radiologic guided biopsy are mandatory.

PurposeThe measurement of T-cell receptor excision circle (TREC) is used for newborn screening (NBS) in dried blood spot (DBS) samples from Guthrie card for severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID). Here, we report the results of first newborn screening pilot program for SCID conducted in Türkiye.MethodsThe study was carried out together with Ankara University School of Medicine and The Ministry of Health, Public Health General Directorate, Pediatric and Adolescent Health Department. TREC measurements were performed in randomly selected Guthrie card samples obtained from 20253 babies born between October 2018 and October 2020. The TREC analyses were performed together with beta Actin (β-Actin) via RT-PCR (Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction).ResultsTRECs found to be normal (≥15 copies/µl) in 98,6% of the newborns (n: 19975) but low (

Climate refers to the average of meteorological events and weather conditions observed over a long period of time for a region. Many scientists have made different climate classifications. The main goal in these classifications is to determine the similarities of the investigated environments by identifying climate types. Determining climate characteristics and understanding climate boundaries contribute to the sustainability of resources in the region and aid in the preparation of land use plans. It is clear that assessment the boundaries of various climate types to ensure sustainability of regional resources and land use plans. In this study, it was aimed to determine climate boundaries in order to prevent climate-related problems. For this purpose, in this study, the creation of the climate boundary maps of Bartın province (Amasra, Kurucaşile, Merkez District and Ulus) was taken as a basis, based on the need to form a basis for planning. For this reason, the water balance of each district station was calculated using measurement data from four meteorological stations located in the districts of Bartın province for the last thirty years, utilizing the Thornthwaite climate classification method. Additionally, climate types were determined using the Thornthwaite, Trewartha, Erinç, De Martonne, Köppen, and Trewartha climate classification methods. Then, Geographic Information System (GIS)-based climate boundary maps were produced by applying the Kriging interpolation method to the data associated with the location.

This study investigated the material characterization with the fuzzy theory of particleboards bonded by urea formaldehyde with nanofillers including nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC) and titanium dioxide (TiO2). The density, water absorption, thickness swelling, and mechanical tests (which included flexure and internal bonding strength tests) were considered. The fuzzy sets theory addressed the ambiguity and subjectivity of language using triangular fuzzy numbers to assess the interests of decision maker’s (DMs). The addition of nanofillers slightly decreased water absorption values due to possible good interactions between nanofillers and urea formaldehyde. Thickness swelling ranged from 0.4 to 17.5%, and water absorption ranged from 0.4 to 10.7% compared to the control sample. The physical properties of the samples were generally improved by urea formaldehyde with NFC/TiO2, and the densities of the test panels were found to be similar. The modulus of rupture of the panels with urea formaldehyde with nanofillers were under the EN 312 standard’s requirements, and the highest flexural strength and flexural modulus of elasticity were 11.1 and 1.3 GPa, respectively. Internal bond values were between 0.55 and 0.89 MPa. According to EDAS method rankings, 2C2T-8 was the best material, followed by 2C1T-8 and 2C-8. The samples coded with Control-4 and Control-8 were the lowest-performing materials.

Abstract The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in neural development and progression of neural disorders like Parkinson’s disease (PD). Probiotics have been suggested to impact neurodegenerative diseases via gut-brain axis. This study aims to investigate the therapeutic potential of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus E9, a high exopolysaccharide producer, on 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine(MPTP)-induced mouse model of PD. C57BL/6 mice subjected to MPTP were fed L. rhamnosus E9 for fifteen days and sacrificed after the last administration. Motor functions were determined by open-field, catalepsy, and wire-hanging tests. The ileum and the brain tissues were collected for ELISA, qPCR, and immunohistochemistry analyses. The cecum content was obtained for microbiota analysis. E9 supplementation alleviated MPTP-induced motor dysfunctions accompanied by decreased levels of striatal TH and dopamine. E9 also reduced the level of ROS in the striatum and decreased the DAT expression while increasing the DR1. Furthermore, E9 improved intestinal integrity by enhancing ZO-1 and Occludin levels and reversed the dysbiosis of the gut microbiota induced by MPTP. In conclusion, E9 supplementation improved the MPTP-induced motor deficits and neural damage as well as intestinal barrier by modulating the gut microbiota in PD mice. These findings suggest that E9 supplementation holds therapeutic potential in managing PD through the gut-brain axis.

Abstract Introduction Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are life-threatening acute mucocutaneous disorders usually triggered by drugs. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the factors affecting mortality in patients with SJS-TEN. Methods Our study is a retrospective cohort study, analyzing data collected from a total of 12 tertiary care centers between April 2012 and April 2022. Results The study included 59 males and 107 females, a total of 166 patients, with an average age of 50.91 ± 21.25 years. Disease classification was TEN in 50% of cases, SJS in 33.1%, and SJS-TEN overlap in 16.9%. The average SCORTEN within the first 24 h was 2.44 ± 1.42. Supportive care was provided to 99.4% of patients. The most commonly used systemic immunomodulatory treatments were systemic steroids (84.3%), IVIG (intravenous immunoglobulin) (49.3%), and cyclosporine (38.6%). Plasmapheresis was administered to five patients. While 66.3% of patients were discharged, 24.1% resulted in exitus. Our comparative analysis of survivors and deceased patients found no effect of systemic steroids, IVIG, and cyclosporine treatments on mortality. Univariate analysis revealed that the SCORTEN scores on days 1 and 3 as well as the rates of detachment at the onset and during follow-up were significantly higher in deceased patients compared to survivors. The rates of fever, positive blood cultures, and systemic antibiotic use were higher in deceased patients compared to survivors. The presence of comorbidities, diabetes, and malignancy were significantly more common in deceased patients. Multivariate regression analysis indicated that over SCORTEN 2, the mortality risk exponentially rose with each SCORTEN increment, culminating in an 84-fold increase in mortality at SCORTEN 5–6 (odds ratio [95% confidence interval]: 13.902–507.537, p

Objective: Nasal glioma, also known as nasal glial heterotopia, is a rare tumor-like lesion that often affects newborns or infants with no hereditary predisposition. Case Report: A 4-year-old child with a growth on the nasal dorsum since birth was diagnosed with nasal glial heterotopia/nasal glioma. The lesion showed a sclerotic fibroma/collagenoma-like storiform pattern with entrapped glial tissue that was S100 and GFAP positive. Conclusion: When a biopsy of the nasal dorsum demonstrates sclerotic microscopic findings with a storiform pattern, nasal glioma should be considered before making a diagnosis in the collagen-rich tissue spectrum (collagenoma or Gardner's fibroma), and an immunohistochemical panel should be requested to demonstrate the presence of an unrecognized light microscopically visible glial component.

PURPOSE: We aim to examine the long-term outcomes of patients who underwent multiparametric prostate magnetic resonance imaging (mp-MRI) for suspected prostate cancer (PCa), specifically based on their initial Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) categories and various clinical factors. Our secondary aim is to evaluate the prognostic value of the PI-RADS through the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) risk group distribution. METHODS: This research was conducted as a single-center retrospective cohort study in a tertiary care hospital. A total of 1,359 cases having at least one histopathological examination after the initial mp-MRI and/or adequate clinical/radiological follow-up data were included in the clinically significant PCa (cs-PCa) diagnosis-free survival analysis. Initial mp-MRI dates were accepted as the start of follow-up for the time-to-event analysis. The event was defined as cs-PCa diagnosis (International Society of Urological Pathology ≥2). Patients who were not diagnosed with cs-PCa during follow-up were censored according to predefined literature-based criteria at the end of the maximum follow-up duration with no reasonable suspicion of PCa and no biopsy indication. The impact of various factors on survival was assessed using a log-rank test and multivariable Cox regression. Subsequently, 394 cases diagnosed with PCa during follow-up were evaluated, based on initial PI-RADS categories and NCCN risk groups. RESULTS: Three main risk factors for cs-PCa diagnosis during follow-up were an initial PI-RADS 5 category, initial PI-RADS 4 category, and high MRI-defined PSA density (mPSAD), with average hazard ratios of 29.52, 14.46, and 3.12, respectively. The PI-RADS 3 category, advanced age group, and biopsy-naïve status were identified as additional risk factors (hazard ratios: 2.03, 1.54–1.98, and 1.79, respectively). In the PI-RADS 1–2 cohort, 1, 3, and 5-year cs-PCa diagnosis-free survival rates were 99.1%, 96.5%, and 93.8%, respectively. For the PI-RADS 3 cohort, 1, 3, and 5-year cs-PCa diagnosis-free survival rates were 94.9%, 90.9%, and 89.1%, respectively. For the PI-RADS 4 cohort, 1, 3, and 5-year cs-PCa diagnosis-free survival rates were 56.6%, 55.1%, and 55.1%, respectively. These rates were found to all be 24.2% in the PI-RADS 5 cohort. Considering the 394 cases diagnosed with PCa during follow-up, PI-RADS ≥4 cases were more likely to harbor unfavorable PCa compared to PI-RADS ≤3 cases (P < 0.001). In the PI-RADS 3 subgroup analysis, a low mPSAD (

Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a devastating disease of wheat, causing yield losses, reduced grain quality, and mycotoxin contamination. Breeding can mitigate the severity of FHB epidemics, especially with genomics-assisted methods. The mechanisms underlying resistance to FHB in wheat have been extensively studied, including phenological traits and genome-wide markers associated with FHB severity. Here, we aimed to improve genomic prediction for FHB resistance across breeding programs by incorporating FHB-correlated traits and FHB-associated loci as model covariates. We combined phenotypic data on FHB severity, anthesis date, and plant height with genome-wide marker data from five Central European winter wheat breeding programs for genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and genomic prediction. Within all populations, FHB was correlated with anthesis date and/or plant height, and a marker linked to the semi-dwarfing locus Rht-D1 was detected with GWAS for FHB. Including the Rht-D1 marker, anthesis date, and/or plant height as covariates in genomic prediction modeling improved prediction accuracy not only within populations but also in cross-population scenarios.

Vibration waves caused by construction or mining operations may cause damage to nearby structures or sensitive machinery and equipment. Some measures are implemented to eliminate or reduce this negative environmental effect of vibration. The barrier trench, one of these methods, aims to reduce the vibration by creating a suitable barrier between the structure and the vibration source on the ground. In this study, the effect of trench depth and distance from the source on vibration waves was simulated with a designed laboratory-scale test set-up to determine the effective parameters in barrier trench use. In addition, the effects of the superimposition of the source vibration wave with the reflected and refracted vibration waves from the trench, which has not been previously discussed in the literature, were also investigated. A laboratory scale gypsum-plaster block with dimensions of 200 cm × 90 cm x 70 cm was prepared and a Schmidt hammer was used as the impact energy source to generate vibration throughout the gypsum block. A trench barrier was opened at different depths on the test block and 588 vibration recordings were taken by the vibration monitor in different locations of the designed set-up. Statistical analyses were performed using vibration measurement results, trench source distance, and trench depths. As a result, vibration estimation equations depending on trench depth and the distance between the vibration source point and the trench were developed and how the presence of trench affects vibration propagation is revealed. It was found that vibrations increase due to the superposition of the source and reflected waves in front of the barrier trench. As the barrier depth increases, it is understood that the vibrations emanating from the near-surface vibration energy source are better blocked by the barrier. Thus, this study provides fundamental information on designing barrier trenches to avoid adverse effects of vibrations.

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the characteristics of adult patients followed up for hydatid cysts disease. Method: Patients over the age of 18 years who were diagnosed with hydatid disease, between January 2015 and September 2021 were included in the study. The clinical, laboratory and radiologic characteristics of the patients were evaluated retrospectively. Results: The study included 66 patients. 59.1% of the patients were female and the mean age was 40.9±15.60 years. The most common presenting symptom was abdominal pain (42.4%). The most common sites of involvement were the liver (78.8%) and lung (18.2%). The majority of patients had solitary cysts (84.8%). The most common finding in laboratory tests was elevated total IgE (74.1%). The indirect hemagglutination (IHA) test was positive in 77.4% of the patients tested. Conclusion: In our study, it was concluded that hydatid cysts are most commonly seen in the liver, often with single organ involvement, and that elevated total IgE in laboratory diagnosis may be helpful in the diagnosis of hydatid cyst disease, although it does not make a definitive diagnosis.

Land snails, including some economically important species, are commonly found in forests and mountainous regions of Türkiye. Türkiye"s large geomorphological region and four surrounding seas, which offer a variety of malacofauna, help Türkiye achieve an endemism grade of over 65%. Despite extensive research over the past few decades, we still lack a sufficient understanding of the species identification of land snails in Türkiye, particularly in areas like forested mountain regions, and it is assumed that there are more than 1000 taxa in total. This review emphasizes the existence of invasive non-native snail species in Türkiye, such as Arion ater (Linnaeus, 1758) and Arion vulgaris Moquin- Tandon, 1855, which have a negative impact on agricultural and horticultural output. In addition to these species, Theba pisana, Cornu aspersum, Xeropicta derbentina, Xeropicta krynickii, Cernuella virgata and Eobania vermiculata are also found in Türkiye as nonnative land snail species. Moreover, it also places a strong emphasis on the necessity of managing invasive species to reduce their detrimental effects on natural ecosystems by giving examples from the world and covers the predictions about the possible threats that the presence of non-native invasive land snail species in Türkiye may pose in the future.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of preoperative and postoperative complications in patients undergoing orthognathic surgery. Methods: The clinical records and radiographs of 112 patients who undergone orthognathic surgery between 2014 and 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients’ demographics, follow-up period, type of malocclusion and operation were recorded. All surgical complications were evaluated into two groups as intraoperative or postoperative complications. Results: The mean age of 112 patients (69 female, 43 male) was 24.4 ± 5.5 (ranging from 16 to 47). The most frequent intraoperative complication was the bad split (5 cases, 4.5%), followed by severe hemorrhage due to rupture of facial artery (1 case, 0.9%), dissection of inferior alveolar nerve (1 case, 0.9%), and dental damage (1 case, 0.9%). The most common postoperative complication was the neurosensorial deficit (29 cases, 25.9%), followed by infection (6 cases, 5.4%), extraoral scar formation (5 cases, 4.5%), fracture of fixation material (2 cases, 1.8%), maxillary non-union (2 cases, 1.8%), postoperative nasal hemorrhage (1 case, 0.9%), and failure of fixation material (1 case, 0.9%). There were no fatal complications. Conclusion: Although the wide range of complications related to orthognathic surgery is reported both in our study and the literature, the frequency of these appears to be uncommon. However, in order to manage the complications of the operation properly, through knowledge and experience are essential. Keywords: Complication, Le Fort I osteotomy, Orthognathic surgery, Sagittal split osteotomy Ortognatik Cerrahi Operasyonu Sırasında ve Sonrasında Gelişen Komplikasyonların Değerlendirilmesi ÖZ Amaç: Bu çalışmanın amacı, ortognatik cerrahi uygulanan hastalarda operasyon sırasında ve sonrasında ortaya çıkan komplikasyonların insidansını değerlendirmektir. Yöntemler: 2014-2021 yılları arasında ortognatik cerrahi operasyonu uygulanan 112 hastanın klinik kayıtları ve radyografileri retrospektif olarak incelendi. Hastaların demografik verileri, takip süresi, maloklüzyon ve operasyon tipi kaydedildi. Tüm cerrahi komplikasyonlar, operasyon sırasında ve sonrasında olmak üzere iki grupta incelenerek değerlendirildi. Bulgular: 112 hastanın (69 kadın, 43 erkek) ortalama yaşı 24,4 ± 5,5 (16-47 arasında) idi. Operasyon sırasında en sık görülen komplikasyon kötü kırık oluşumuydu (5 vaka, %4,5) ve bunu fasiyal arter rüptürüne bağlı olarak görülen şiddetli kanama (1 vaka, %0,9), inferior alveolar sinir diseksiyonu (1 vaka, %0,9) ve dental hasar (1 vaka, %0,9) takip etti. Operasyon sonrasında en sık karşılaşılan komplikasyon ise nörosensoriyel bozukluktu (29 vaka, %25,9) ve bunu enfeksiyon gelişimi (6 vaka, %5,4), ekstraoral skar oluşumu (5 vaka, %4,5), fiksasyon materyalinin fraktürü (2 vaka, %1,8), maksillada osteotomi hattının kemikleşmemesi (2 vaka, %1,8), postoperatif nazal hemoraji (1 vaka, %0,9) ve fiksasyon materyalinin kaybı (1 vaka, %0,9) izledi. Hiçbir hastada hayatı tehdit edici bir komplikasyon ile karşılaşılmadı. Sonuç: Bu çalışmada ve literatürde ortognatik cerrahi ile ilişkili olarak çeşitli komplikasyonlar bildirilse de, bu komplikasyonların görülme sıklığı azdır. Ancak, operasyonda ortaya çıkabilecek komplikasyonların uygun bir şekilde yönetilebilmesi için yeterli bilgi ve deneyime sahip olmak büyük önem taşımaktadır. Anahtar Kelimeler : Le Fort I osteotomisi, Komplikasyon, Ortognatik cerrahi, Sagittal split osteotomy

ABSTRACT Much effort has been made to uncover the cellular heterogeneities of human hearts by single-nucleus RNA sequencing. However, the cardiac transcriptional regulation networks have not been systematically described because of the limitations in detecting transcription factors. In this study, we optimized a pipeline for isolating nuclei and conducting single-nucleus RNA sequencing targeted to detect a higher number of cell signal genes and an optimal number of transcription factors. With this unbiased protocol, we characterized the cellular composition of healthy human hearts and investigated the transcriptional regulation networks involved in determining the cellular identities and functions of the main cardiac cell subtypes. Particularly in fibroblasts, a novel regulator, PKNOX2, was identified as being associated with physiological fibroblast activation in healthy hearts. To validate the roles of these transcription factors in maintaining homeostasis, we used single-nucleus RNA-sequencing analysis of transplanted failing hearts focusing on fibroblast remodelling. The trajectory analysis suggested that PKNOX2 was abnormally decreased from fibroblast activation to pathological myofibroblast formation. Both gain- and loss-of-function in vitro experiments demonstrated the inhibitory role of PKNOX2 in pathological fibrosis remodelling. Moreover, fibroblast-specific overexpression and knockout of PKNOX2 in a heart failure mouse model induced by transverse aortic constriction surgery significantly improved and aggravated myocardial fibrosis, respectively. In summary, this study established a high-quality pipeline for single-nucleus RNA-sequencing analysis of heart muscle. With this optimized protocol, we described the transcriptional regulation networks of the main cardiac cell subtypes and identified PKNOX2 as a novel regulator in suppressing fibrosis and a potential therapeutic target for future translational studies.

Digital image correlation (DIC) was used to examine the strain distribution of heat-treated beech and Uludag fir woods in mechanical testing. It also evaluated the effects of the heat treatment process on the properties of the wood samples. The physical (mass/density loss, dimensional stability, color change, and surface roughness), mechanical (flexure test and compressive strength), morphological, thermal, and structural properties of the heat-treated wood were examined. It was determined that the heat treatment parameters can be optimized using the DIC method. The test results showed that although heat treatment can provide improved physical and thermal properties, it caused micro-crack formations and collapses in the wood cells. As a consequence, the mechanical properties of the heat-treated wood materials decreased with the heat treatment process. There were slight differences in the curves of the samples according to Fourier infrared and X-ray diffraction analyses. Morphological characterization showed that the heat treatment triggered large cracks in the cell wall and lumens and the morphological structure of heat-treated wood was affected at large percentages.

Effects of adding microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) were evaluated relative to the mechanical, thermal, morphological, and structural properties of rigid polyurethanes (rPUs). The composites were prepared with the blending of polyols/isocyanates and the cellulosic fillers at 0.25%, 0.5%, and 1% loadings. Scanning electron microscopic images showed that the samples had micro-scaled porosity, with cell sizes ranging from 250 to 800 nm. The fillers improved the mechanical strengths and modulus of neat rPUs due to the presence of the nano-sized cells in rPUs matrix. The addition of both fillers generally did not provide a positive effect on the thermal properties, and the weight loss generally increased while the loading rate of the fillers was increased from 0.25% to 1%. The samples had two small crystalline peaks at 18° and 19° according to the X-ray diffraction analysis. From the results, it can be said that the presence of both fillers generally improved all properties of the neat rPUs, and the effects of CNC on the properties were higher than MCC due to both lower particle size and the higher crystallinity of CNC.

This article examines Block A, the first block-style building in Heybeliada Sanatorium in Istanbul. The purpose of this research is to understand its architectural and spatial development and discuss how in fact it was a “prototype” of Turkish sanatoria. Approached with a three-step methodology (documentation/evaluation/results) this research conducts architectural and spatial analysis on Block A. Primary sources like architectural documentation and restitution drawings, the writings of the institution's head doctor Tevfik İsmail Gökçe, periodicals on tuberculosis (TB), as well as pertinent literature are utilized. The findings demonstrate that Block A's development (1924–1945) was the result of knowledge transfer that introduced the universal sanatorium design principles, spatial experiments, adaptation to sociocultural norms, and trial-and-error processes. Not only it had a major impact on shaping of the second block-type building in the complex, the “model” Block B, but it also became exemplary of the subsequent Turkish sanatoria. The originality of this article is its exploration of the changing and evolving Block A in its resonation with the cultural tensions of Turkey's modernization process. This was established via the assessment of budgetary issues, medical developments and climatic experiments, the social issue of scarcity of TB beds in the country, spatial practices to separate the sexes as reflections of local traditions and culture in the shaping of spaces.

Background: Rabies in Turkey is maintained by dogs, but following a sustained spill-over, red fox mediated rabies had spread from the Aegean region to the central part of Türkiye. During the past four years from 2019 to 2023 large scale efforts used oral rabies vaccination (ORV) to control rabies in red foxes. Here, we present the results of the largest ORV campaign on the Asian continent. Methods: ORV campaigns were carried out twice a year in spring and autumn with a targeted bait density of 20–23 baits/km2. Monitoring of ORV campaigns included the GIS-based analyses of bait distribution, the assessment of bait uptake through biomarker detection and the determination of seroconversion (sero-positivity in ELISA) in the target species collected within the vaccination area. For determination of fox rabies incidence in vaccination areas as the main indicator of the performance of the ORV campaigns, epidemiological data was obtained from the national passive surveillance program. Results: Aerial bait distribution was highly accurate, with >99 % of baits being recorded from targeted zones, thus meeting the desired bait densities. Although the overall bait uptake (28.1 %; 95 %CI: 23.2–32.8) and seroprevalance (36.3 %; 95 %CI: 30.0–43.2) were low, rabies incidence drastically decreased in ORV areas and rabies was eliminated from western and central parts of Turkey, with no reported cases in foxes from ORV areas in 2022 and 2023. Conclusions: A large-scale ORV campaign against fox rabies using high quality vaccine baits and the GIS-aided and monitored bait distribution was able to control fox mediated rabies in the western and central parts of Türkiye. Rabies control both in dogs and foxes should be expanded to cover also the eastern parts of Türkiye, to become eventually rabies free.

Background: In this study it was aimed to evaluate the efficacy and timing with technique of the source control for the subgroup of septic shock (SS) patients with intraabdominal infections (IAI) in a tertiary-care educational hospital. Methods: Patients who had SS with IAI and consulted by Infectious Diseases consultants between December 2013 and October 2022 in our centre were analyzed retrospectively. Results: A total number of 390 patients were included. Overall day-30 mortality (OMM) was 42.5% on day 3 while day 14 and 30 mortality rates were 63.3% and 71.3%, respectively. Source control by surgical or percutaneous operation was performed in 123 of 390 cases (31.5%) and mortality rate was significantly lower in cases that were performed source control at anytime during SS (65/123-52.8% vs 213/267-79.8%, p3 mg/dl (p

Road traffic pollution and industrial plant-induced pollution affect negatively the development of forest trees. How forest trees are affected by their growing environment is important for sustainable environment. The study aimed to investigate the physical, mechanical, chemical, and morphological properties of the Pinus nigra (black pine) tree which grows under different conditions. Tree samples were chosen from three different lands where were inside the forest (O), near the roadside (Y), and near the factory (F). It was studied whether there were any significant differences among the “O”, “Y” and “F” in terms of their wood properties such as physical, mechanical, chemical, and morphological. As a result, the “O” samples demonstrated more regular annual ring structure. On the other hand, it was observed that the “Y” samples had longer and wider tracheid cells. In addition, “Y” samples had better mechanical strength than “O” and “F”. Environmental pollution caused the presence of some different elements (chlorine and iron) in “Y” and “F”. As a result, it was determined that the trees growing near the roadside or near industrial plants have significant differences from forest trees which are far away from pollutions. It is possible to say that Pinus nigra (black pine) is resistant to environmental stress. For this reason, it can be recommended to use it as a barrier to reduce air pollution on the roadsides.

Wood has many uses as raw material and after being processed. Since the use of wood as raw material is limited, the interaction of physical and chemical processes with technological developments has led to new products and new areas of use. Transparent wood production, for example, has emerged to provide maximum efficiency from heat and light. In this study, sodium chlorite and deep eutectic solvents (DES) obtained from choline chloride and lactic acid were used. In the production of transparent wood, 1- and 2-mm thick beech wood veneers (Fagus orientalis L.) and two-component transparent epoxy resin were used as filler. As a result of delignification processes, the highest delignification rate was obtained with 59 % in wood samples treated with NaClO2. Transparent wood production was obtained from the samples where the most delignification took place. The adhesion of the epoxy used in the production of transparent wood in the wood cells was determined by SEM analysis. The tensile strength of the transparent wood samples increased by 31 % compared with the control samples. The study results contribute to the literature on the efficiency of different delignification methods.

Objective: The gold-standard method for assessment of autoimmune bullous disease is direct/indirect immunofluorescence (IF) examination applied to fresh frozen tissue. Since the sensitivity of IF is greatly reduced in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues, IF cannot be relied upon in these samples. However, immunohistochemistry with the C4d antibody is a promising marker used as a surrogate for immune complex deposition, in nephropathology practice, and the paraffin IF method is also used as a `salvage` technique when fresh frozen tissue is not available or lacks glomeruli. We aimed to investigate whether it is possible to obtain immunofluorescence data from FFPE tissues diagnosed with bullous pemphigoid (BP) and pemphigus vulgaris (PV) and its relationship with inflammatory parameters in the skin. Material and Methods: Eighty-nine in-house cases with both IgG and C3 positivity by routine immunofluorescence examination were included in the study. Inflammation parameters were evaluated in hematoxylin-eosin sections. Immunofluorescence study with IgG protease digestion and C4d immunohistochemistry were performed. Results: Results of 83 biopsies were obtained by paraffin immunofluorescence with IgG. There were positive reactions in 28 (34%) of these 83 biopsies. Five of the 28 positive results belonged to BP (18%), and 23 were PV (82%). Ten positive results were on lesional skin (36%), and 18 (64%) were on non-lesional skin. In the immunohistochemical study with C4d, 84 biopsy results were obtained. There were positive reactions in 34 (40.4%) of 84 biopsies. Of the 34 positive results, 12 belonged to BP (35.3%) and 22 to PV (64.7%). Again, 22 (64.7%) of 34 positive results belonged to lesional skin, and 12 (35.3%) belonged to non-lesional skin. When both techniques were used together, 44 (54%) of 81 biopsies yielded positive results for at least one of the two studies, while in 37 (46%), both tests showed negative results. Conclusion: The sensitivity of both IgG and C4d was less than in the literature, especially in BP-diagnosed biopsies. Positive samples were mostly PV. In conclusion, obtaining immunofluorescence data in FFPE samples is possible and is independent of the related skin being lesional or not, however, negative results should not be relied upon.

Abstract Background Being digitally literate allows health-based science students to access reliable, up-to-date information efficiently and expands the capacity for continuous learning. Digital literacy facilitates effective communication and collaboration among other healthcare providers. It helps to navigate the ethical implications of using digital technologies and aids the use of digital tools in managing healthcare processes. Our aim in this study is to determine the digital literacy level and awareness of our students receiving health-based education in our university and to pave the way for supporting the current curriculum with courses on digital literacy when necessary. Method Students from Acibadem University who were registered undergraduate education for at least four years of health-based education, School of Medicine, Nutrition and Dietetics, Nursing, Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Psychology, Biomedical Engineering, Molecular Biology, and Genetics were included. The questionnaire consisted of 24 queries evaluating digital literacy in 7 fields: software and multimedia, hardware and technical problem solving, network and communication/collaboration, ethics, security, artificial intelligence (A.I.), and interest/knowledge. Two student groups representing all departments were invited for interviews according to the Delphi method. Results The survey was completed by 476 students. Female students had less computer knowledge and previous coding education. Spearman correlation test showed that there were weak positive correlations between the years and the “software and multimedia,” “ethics,” “interest and knowledge” domains, and the average score. The students from Nursing scored lowest in the query after those from the Nutrition and Dietetics department. The highest scores were obtained by Biomedical Engineering students, followed by the School of Medicine. Participants scored the highest in “network” and “A.I.” and lowest in “interest-knowledge” domains. Conclusion It is necessary to define the level of computer skills who start health-based education and shape the curriculum by determining which domains are weak. Creating an educational environment that fosters females’ digital knowledge is recommended. Elective courses across faculties may be offered to enable students to progress and discuss various digital literacy topics. The extent to which students benefit from the digital literacy-supported curriculum may be evaluated. Thus, health-based university students are encouraged to acquire the computer skills required by today’s clinical settings. Registration This study was approved by Acıbadem University and Acıbadem Healthcare Institutions Medical Research Ethics Committee (ATADEK) (11 November 2022, ATADEK registration: 2022-17-138) All methods were carried out in accordance with relevant guidelines and regulations. Informed consent was obtained from the participants.

An examination of gender-related differential item functioning was conducted on the verbal subtests of the Anadolu-Sak Intelligence Scale. Analyses were conducted using the scale standardization data (N = 4641). A Mantel-Haenszel statistic was used to detect differential item functioning (DIF). A total of 58 verbal analogical reasoning items, 20 verbal short-term memory items, and 70 vocabulary items were analyzed. Initially, items displaying DIF in different age groups were determined, and then experts were consulted to determine whether these items were biased. There were three items with item effects on the Verbal Analogical Reasoning subtest and five items on the Vocabulary subtest. Short-term Memory subtests did not reveal any bias. Several implications regarding cognitive development, gender perceptions, and cultural factors were discussed.

Öz Vergiler kamu harcamalarının devamlılığı için önemli olmakla birlikte bireylerin ve grupların ekonomik tercihlerini etkileyici fonksiyonuna sahiptir. Mali ve sosyal açıdan etkileri değerlendirildiğinde belirli amaçlar doğrultusunda vergiler maliye politikası aracı olarak kullanılabilmektedir. Bu doğrultuda çalışmamızın konusunu oluşturan vergi harcamalarına baktığımızda bu kavram 1960’lı yılların Federal Almanya Hükümetinde ortaya çıkmaktadır. 63 yıllık bir tarihe sahip olan bu kavram zaman içerisinde literatürde ve bütçede yerini alarak ekonomik tercihleri etkileme amacıyla maliye politikası aracı olarak kullanılmaktadır. Vergi harcamaları, devletin alacağı vergilerin bir kısmı veya tamamından gönüllü vazgeçiş ile mükelleflerin vergi yükünü kısa vadede hafifletmektedir. Küresel anlamda vergi harcamaları; maliye politikası aracı olarak her ülkede sosyal ve ekonomik yapılarına göre farklı uygulanabilmektedir. Vergi harcamalarının kısa vadede ekonomik tercihleri etkilemesi, gelişmiş ve gelişmekte olan ülkeler açısından farklı eğilimlere sebep olabilmektedir. Örneğin gelişmiş ülkelerde yatırım ve refah artışı odaklı yapılan uygulama, gelişmekte olan ülkelerde gelir adaletsizliğine çözüm olarak uygulanabilmektedir. Dünya ülkeleri ekonomik yapıları ve piyasa büyüklüklerine göre sınıflandırılmaktadır. Çalışma da baz alınan MSCI Küresel Pazar Endeksi’ne göre YPE kavramı için 1988 yılında ilk sınıflandırma yapılmıştır. 1960-1970’li yıllarda dışa kapalı ekonomilerin küreselleşme sonucu hızlı yükselen riskli dışa açık ekonomileri sonucunda bu gruplandırma oluşturulmuştur. Çalışmada Yükselen Piyasa Ekonomisi içerisinde ülkemizle benzer ekonomik büyüme oranlarına sahip Latin Amerika ülkelerini seçilerek ülkemizle karşılaştırması incelenmektedir. Vergi harcamaları, bütçe azaltıcı ancak bireyler üzerindeki vergi yükünü hafifletici etkisi sonucu sosyal ve ekonomik çeşitli amaçlarla uygulanmaktadır. Türkiye ve seçili ülkelerde genellikle kalkınmaya teşvik, sosyal ve ekonomik açıdan dezavantajlı kişi veya gruplara yardım niteliğinde uygulanmaktadır. Çalışma “Vergi Harcamalarının Gelişimi ve Yükselen Piyasalar: Türkiye ve Latin Amerika Karşılaştırması” adlı yüksek lisans tez çalışmamdan oluşturulmuştur. Anahtar kelimeler: Vergi Harcaması, Vergi, Yükselen Piyasa Ekonomileri. Abstract Although taxes are important for the continuity of public expenditures, they have the function of influencing the economic preferences of individuals and groups. When its financial and social effects are evaluated, taxes can be used as a fiscal policy tool for certain purposes. In this direction, when we look at the tax expenditures that constitute the subject of our study, this concept emerges in the Federal German Government of the 1960s. This concept, which has a history of 63 years, has been used as a fiscal policy tool in order to influence economic preferences by taking its place in the literature and budget over time. Tax expenditures alleviate the tax burden of taxpayers in the short term by voluntarily waiving some or all of the taxes to be collected by the state. Global tax expenditures; As a fiscal policy instrument, it can be applied differently in each country according to their social and economic structures. The effect of tax expenditures on economic preferences in the short term may cause different trends for developed and developing countries. For example, the practice focused on investment and welfare increase in developed countries can be applied as a solution to income inequality in developing countries. World countries are classified according to their economic structures and market sizes. According to the MSCI Global Market Index, which is based on the study, the first classification was made for the concept of YPE in 1988. In the 1960-1970s, this grouping was created as a result of the rapidly rising risky open economies of closed economies as a result of globalization. In the study, Latin American countries with similar economic growth rates as our country are selected in the Emerging Market Economy and their comparison with our country is examined. Tax expenditures are implemented for various social and economic purposes as a result of reducing the budget but easing the tax burden on individuals. In Turkey and selected countries, it is generally implemented as an incentive to development and helping socially and economically disadvantaged individuals or groups. The study was created from my master's thesis titled "The Development of Tax Expenditures and Emerging Markets: Comparison of Turkey and Latin America". Keywords: Tax Expenditure, Tax, Emerging Market Economies.

Rabies can be transmitted through biting, contact of infected saliva with damaged skin, and high levels of aerosol exposure. Dog and fox-mediated rabies are endemic in Turkey. In this study, the N gene and the G-L intergenic region sequences were obtained from rabies-positive brain samples from Eastrern and Southeastern Anatolia (2016-2021). These sequences were analyzed with sequences available in GenBank. They were used to create phylogenetic trees, demonstrating that all sequences from this study belong to the three different subclades (ME1a, ME2 and, CA2) of Cosmopolitan clade. This study provides a better understanding of the molecular epidemiology of rabies virus in the mentioned regions will have benefits for continuing comprehensive rabies surveillance, prevention and control in Türkiye.

Abstract Background Anomalous coronary arteries are rare congenital variations with cases ranging from asymptomatic to life-threatening. Given the wide variability of coronary anomalies, it is challenging to predict their clinical consequences. Here, we present the ‘malignant’ variant – interarterial course of the left coronary artery between the aorta and pulmonary trunk – given the highest risk of sudden cardiac death among the various coronary anomalies. Case presentation Our case presents a 22-year-old male presenting to the emergency department after a syncopal episode that occurred while the patient was driving a motor vehicle. Initial Computed Tomography (CT) of the chest performed as part of the trauma work-up revealed a rare case of an anomalous origin of the left main coronary artery (LMCA) originating from a common ostium with the right coronary artery (RCA). The LMCA was found to have a malignant course, as it was positioned between the aorta and pulmonary artery. Given the high risk of sudden cardiac arrest with this congenital variant, the patient underwent coronary artery bypass grafting. Conclusion Anomalous coronary arteries remain the second leading cause of sudden cardiac death in young adult patients. The risk of sudden cardiac death depends on the congenital variant of the anomalous coronary artery as well as the course these vessels take. This case highlights a rare congenital variant featuring both the LMCA and RCA originating from a common ostium, with the LMCA having a malignant course, a variant with the highest risk of sudden cardiac death.

(1) Background and aim: The effects of functional therapies on dentoalveolar and skeletal structures have been investigated in orthodontics for many years. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the changes caused by fixed and removable functional therapy in the mandibular anterior trabecular structures using fractal dimension (FD) analysis. (2) Methods: A total of 60 patients with skeletal and dental class II malocclusion were included in the study and three groups were formed: the untreated control group (CG), the Forsus fatigue-resistant device group (FFRDG), and the Monoblock group (MBG). Bone areas of interest determined in the buccoapical of the mandibular incisors and the symphysis in the lateral cephalometric radiographs taken before (T0) and after (T1) functional therapy were evaluated using FD analysis. The relationship between the FD and IMPA (Incisor Mandibular Plane Angle) angles was evaluated. Parametric and nonparametric tests were used in statistical analysis according to normality distribution. The statistical significance level was determined as p < 0.05. (3) Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the FD values of all groups at T0 (p > 0.05). At T1, buccoapical FD values were significantly lower in FFRDG and MBG compared to the control group (p < 0.05), while symphyseal FD values were not found to be significant (p > 0.05). The IMPA angle was significantly lower in the FFRDG and MBG than in the control group at T0, while it was higher at T1 (p < 0.05). While a significant negative correlation was observed between the IMPA angle and buccoapical FD values in both FFRDG and MBG (p < 0.05), it was not observed with the symphysis FD values (p > 0.05). (4) Conclusions: Trabecular changes caused by functional therapy in the mandibular anterior bone can be evaluated on lateral cephalometric radiographs with FD analysis. It was concluded that orthodontists should ensure controlled changes in the IMPA angle during functional therapy, especially for the decreases in FDs seen in the buccoapical alveolar region due to the forward movement of the mandibular incisors.

The milling of thin-wall geometries has been a challenge due to inherent chatter vibrations and workpiece deflections. Moreover, tool path generation strategies in CAD-CAM systems are not able to fully address all such concerns. The objective of this study is to demonstrate potential 5-axis milling tool path strategies, which do not exist in the conventional tool path generation. The demonstration is performed for increased efficiency in milling of thin-wall features considering the main limitation of chatter. The effects of varying workpiece dynamics on milling stability are shown in case studies through simulations and cutting experiments. Based on the simulation results, tool path strategies are developed. The effect of tool path generation and the relation to parameter selection are highlighted. Most of the discussion relies on previously reported experimental results. The results showed that by tailoring the tool path considering the concerns and limitations associated with thin-wall part structure and geometry, it is possible to increase productivity by at least two folds.

Objective: The prevalence of obesity has increased over the past three decades. Proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus (ARC) play a vital role in induction of satiety. Chronic consumption of high-fat diet is known to reduce hypothalamic neuronal sensitivity to hormones like leptin, thus contributing to the development and persistence of obesity. The functional and morphological effects of a high-calorie diet on POMC neurons and how these effects contribute to the development and maintenance of the obese phenotype are not fully understood. For this purpose, POMC-Cre transgenic mice model was exposed to high-fat diet (HFD) and at the end of a 3- and 6-month period, electrophysiological and morphological changes, and the role of POMC neurons in homeostatic nutrition and their response to leptin were thoroughly investigated. Methods: Effects of HFD on POMC-satiety neurons in transgenic mice models exposed to chronic high-fat diet were investigated using electrophysiological (patch-clamp), chemogenetic and Cre recombinase advanced technological methods. Leptin, glucose and lipid profiles were determined and analyzed. Results: In mice exposed to a high-fat diet for 6 months, no significant changes in POMC dendritic spine number or projection density from POMC neurons to the paraventricular hypothalamus (PVN), lateral hypothalamus (LH), and bed nucleus stria terminalis (BNST) were observed. It was revealed that leptin hormone did not change the electrophysiological activities of POMC neurons in mice fed with HFD for 6 months. In addition, chemogenetic stimulation of POMC neurons increased HFD consumption. In the 3-month HFD-fed group, POMC activation induced an orexigenic response in mice, whereas switching to a standard diet was found to abolish orexigenic behavior in POMC mice. Conclusions: Chronic high fat consumption disrupts the regulation of POMC neuron activation by leptin. Altered POMC neuron activation abolished the neuron's characteristic behavioral anorexigenic response. Change in nutritional content contributes to the reorganization of developing maladaptations.

This study addresses the gap in understanding the prognostic relevance of hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1 alpha) expression in metastatic cervical squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) patients undergoing anti-vascular endothelial growth factor-based therapy. A retrospective multicenter study (n = 34) explored HIF-1 alpha expression via immunohistochemistry in patients treated with platinum chemotherapy and bevacizumab. Median progression-free survival (PFS) was significantly lower in the HIF-1 alpha low score group compared to the high score group (4.9 vs 12.9 months, P = 0.014). Similarly, the median overall survival (OS) was significantly reduced in the HIF-1 alpha low score group (8.3 vs 20.4 months, P = 0.006). This study, the first of its kind, highlights the prognostic significance of HIF-1 alpha expression in metastatic cervical SCC patients treated with bevacizumab-based therapy.

Introduction With increasing life expectancy of older adult population, maintaining independence and well-being in later years is of paramount importance. This study aims to investigate the impact of three distinct interventions: cognitive training, resistance training and a combination of both, compared with an inactive control group, on cognitive performance, mobility and quality of life in adults aged ≥65 years.Methods and analysis This trial will investigate healthy older adults aged ≥65 years living independently without cognitive impairments. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of four groups: (1) cognitive training, (2) resistance training, (3) combined cognitive and resistance training, and (4) control group (n=136 participants with 34 participants per group). The interventions will be conducted over 12 weeks. The cognitive training group will receive group-based activities for 45–60 min two times a week. The resistance training group exercises will target six muscle groups and the combined group will integrate cognitive tasks into the resistance training sessions. Primary outcomes are: Short Physical Performance Battery, Sit-to-Stand Test, Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Trail Making Test and Stroop Test combined with gait on a treadmill (dual task). Life satisfaction will be measured by the Satisfaction With Life Scale. Secondary outcomes encompass hand grip strength and the Functional Independence Measure.Ethics and dissemination Ethical approval was provided by the local Ethics Committee at the University of Hamburg (no. 2023_009). Informed consent will be obtained from all study participants. The results of the study will be distributed for review and discussion in academic journals and conferences.Trial registration number DRKS00032587.

Objective: To determine the distrust and hesitancy about COVID-19 vaccines among academic staff in Turkey. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at different universities in Turkey from April to June 2021. Turkish-speaking academics working as academic staff in Turkey were included. The outcomes were staff distrust of COVID-19 vaccines and vaccine hesitancy score levels. Scale of Vaccine Hesitancy in Turkish Language-Short Form was used to measure vaccine hesitancy score levels. The scale scored between 12 and 60; the risk of vaccine hesitancy increases as the score increases. Results: Total 932 academic staff, distrust of COVID-19 vaccines rate was observed in 560 (60.1%). Females were 0.32 times significantly less likely to distrust COVID-19 vaccines (aOR 0.68, 95% CI 0.51 to 0.92, p-value 0.014). Those with a history of influenza vaccination were 0.75 times significantly less likely to distrust COVID-19 vaccines (aOR 0.25, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.36, p-value

Abstract: It is crucial for the sustainability of research that the varieties obtained due to the various development activities carried out with public financing are put on the market correctly. This study it is aim to analyze the factors affecting consumer preferences and willingness to pay for lemons and newly developed seedless lemons throughout Turkey. The ordered probit model was estimated using online questionnaires from 566 consumers. There is a positive relationship between the monthly income, occupation, place of residence, age, and the dependent variable. It was determined that the variables of education and the number of family members were not statistically significant. It has been determined that 54.9% of consumers will not pay extra for seedless lemons, and 33.9% are willing to pay up to 10% more. In addition, it has been determined that subjects such as “juiciness” and “freshness” are more critical among consumers’ lemon purchasing criteria, while the number of seeds is less critical. It has been concluded that most consumers will prefer seedless lemons in the consumption of table lemons, but they will not be willing to pay more.

Abstract Heterochely is an important phenomenon in decapod crustaceans. Nevertheless, it was rarely examined in freshwater crayfish. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate cheliped loss and abnormalities of the narrow-clawed crayfish, Pontastacus leptodactylus. The crayfish samples were captured using 17 mm mesh-sized fyke-nets from Atikhisar Reservoir in Çanakkale, Turkey between July 2020 and June 2021. The cheliped loss was classified and compared between sexes and length groups. The cheliped surface was calculated for each specimen for both the right and left cheliped. Results of the study indicate that the percentages of the sampled individuals were 5.46% for the right cheliped missing group, 5.23% for the left cheliped missing group, 10.37% for both chelipeds missing group, and 78.94% for both chelipeds present group. There was a statistical difference between cheliped loss and size groups (p < 0.05). Although cheliped loss is almost non-existent in low-size groups (10.0-29.9 mm), it reaches high values in the 40.0-69.9 mm size groups. The most intense loss occurs in the 40.0-49.9 and 50.0-59.9 mm size groups. It was determined that 10.69% of the sampled individuals examined had a single cheliped (10.03% female, 11.14% male). A statistically significant difference was found between cheliped loss and sex (p < 0.05). The percentage of female and male individuals with no chelipeds is 9.83% for females and 10.73% for males, and with both chelipeds it is 80.14% for females and 78.14% for males. While the number of abnormalities observed in chelipeds was higher in males, abnormalities in both chelipeds were higher in females. Moreover, it was found that cheliped loss significantly differed according to the months of collection (p < 0.05). Cheliped losses increased in July, August, and September when feeding was comparatively intense. In conclusion, the fact that the individuals were obtained alive, was an indication that the abnormalities detected did not significantly affect their vital activities directly. However, morphological abnormalities in the appendages, especially in the chelipeds, may impair their functional use compared to a healthy cheliped. This abnormal condition is assumed to share the disadvantageous limitations experienced by the absence of a cheliped.

In human body, which is exposed to number of chemicals and physical agents in daily life, malfunctions may occur from time to time in detoxification mechanisms that will prevent the harmful effects of genotoxic agents, whose negative effects cannot be eliminated. In this study, the genoprotective effects of bitter melon (Momordica charantia L.) seed and fruit extracts against the genotoxic potential of the antineoplastic agent cisplatin and the antiepileptic drug valproic acid in 72±4 hours old transheterozygous larvae of the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster Meigen were determined by the Somatic Mutation and Recombination Test (SMART). The results showed that the mutation frequencies approached the negative control values by inhibiting the formation of chemical agent-induced mutant clones in all doses in the experimental groups in which plant extracts were applied at doses of 1.25, 2.5 ve 5 mg/mL, while the mutation frequency increased only in the groups that applied cisplatin and valproic acid. These results show that co-administration of cisplatin and valproic acid reduces the genotoxic effect of M. charantia.

Criteria are needed to classify cities. The criteria are variable and its purpose is to understand the differentiation in the land use of cities.The criteria used to define cities today are administrative borders, population and economic activities. In the study, the identity of Eskişehir, which has three state universities, as a "university city", which has been mentioned for years, questioned. To define university city function; As a result of literature review, collected data and field studies, two main criteria established as “human factors and spatial indicators”. Human elements; student population registered at the university, transportation features, access to goods and services, accommodation, support of local governments, employment, sociocultural opportunities. Spatial indicators; The businesses on University Street in city evaluated. In Eskişehir, three main shopping areas determine in the urban space: students, local people, common areas. During Covid-19, universities' transition to distance education and its effects in the city discussed.

Abstract Norepinephrine (NE) is a well-known appetite regulator, and the nor/adrenergic system is targeted by several anti-obesity drugs. To better understand the circuitry underlying adrenergic appetite control, here we investigated the paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus (PVN), a key brain region that integrates energy signals and receives dense nor/adrenergic input, using a mouse model. We found that PVN NE level increases with signals of energy deficit and decreases with food access. This pattern is recapitulated by the innervating catecholaminergic axon terminals originating from NTSTH-neurons. Optogenetic activation of rostral-NTSTH → PVN projection elicited strong motivation to eat comparable to overnight fasting whereas its inhibition attenuated both fasting-induced & hypoglycemic feeding. We found that NTSTH-axons functionally targeted PVNMC4R-neurons by predominantly inhibiting them, in part, through α1-AR mediated potentiation of GABA release from ARCAgRP presynaptic terminals. Furthermore, glucoprivation suppressed PVNMC4R activity, which was required for hypoglycemic feeding response. These results define an ascending nor/adrenergic circuit, NTSTH → PVNMC4R, that conveys peripheral hunger signals to melanocortin pathway.

Abstract Background Herein, we analyzed the efficacy of main antibiotic therapy regimens in the treatment of healthcare-associated meningitis (HCAM). Materials/methods This retrospective cohort study was conducted in 18 tertiary-care academic hospitals Turkey, India, Egypt and Romania. We extracted data and outcomes of all patients with post-neurosurgical meningitis cases fulfilling the study inclusion criteria and treated with empirical therapy between December 2006-September 2018. Results Twenty patients in the cefepime + vancomycin-(CV) group, 31 patients in the ceftazidime + vancomycin-(CFV) group, and 119 patients in the meropenem + vancomycin-(MV) group met the inclusion criteria. The MV subgroup had a significantly higher mean Glasgow Coma Score, a higher rate of admission to the intensive care unit within the previous month, and a higher rate of antibiot herapy within the previous month before the meningitis episode (p 0.05) among the three cohorts. No regimen was effective against carbapenem-resistant bacteria, and vancomycin resulted in an EOT clinical success rate of 60.6% in the methicillin-resistant staphylococci or ampicillin-resistant enterococci subgroup (n = 34). Conclusions Our study showed no significant difference in terms of clinical success and mortality among the three treatment options. All regimens were ineffective against carbapenem-resistant bacteria. Vancomycin was unsuccessful in approximately 40% of cases involving methicillin-resistant staphylococci or ampicillin-resistant enterococci.

Oxidative stress and inflammation are implicated in depression. While selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like escitalopram are commonly prescribed as first-line treatments, their inconsistent efficacy and delayed onset of action necessitates the exploration of adjunctive therapies. Isorhamnetin, a flavonol, has shown antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that makes exploring its antidepressant effect attractive. This study aims to investigate the adjuvant potential of isorhamnetin in combination with escitalopram to enhance its antidepressant efficacy in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced depression model using Swiss albino mice. Behavioral paradigms, such as the forced swim test and open field test, were employed to assess depressive symptoms, locomotion, and sedation. Additionally, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were utilized to measure Nrf2, BDNF, HO-1, NO, and IL-6 levels in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. The results demonstrate that isorhamnetin significantly improves the antidepressant response of escitalopram, as evidenced by reduced floating time in the forced swim test. Moreover, isorhamnetin enhanced antidepressant effects of escitalopram and effectively restored depleted levels of Nrf2, BDNF, and HO-1 in the cortex caused by LPS-induced depression. Isorhamnetin shows promise in enhancing the efficacy of conventional antidepressant therapy through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Abstract Background An evaluation of preoperative and postoperative 12th month Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) and Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) changes in patients operated for the diagnosis of isolated anterior compartment defect (ACD) or Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI). Method Patients who were diagnosed with isolated ACD or SUI were retrospectively analyzed at urogynecology unit of our tertiary referral center. All pelvic examinations were performed by the same experienced urogynecologist. Pre-operative and post-operative 12th month POP-Q scores and the responses to a detailed LUTS questionnaire in the unit were assessed. Results Of the 90 patients with isolated ACD or SUI, midurethral sling with mini-sling and retropubic transobturator tape methods was applied in 24, iliococcygeal fixation in 28, trapezoid repair in 9 patients, anterior bridge operation in 14, and plication of pubocervicovaginal fascia to the cervical ring in 15. We compared the POP-Q score and pre and post-operative 12th month LUTS. Between pre and post-operative 12th month, there was a statistically significant difference at Aa and Ba points (p

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) following endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is the preferred treatment for cholelithiasis with common bile duct stones. However, the optimal timing of LC after ERCP remains controversial. This study aimed to identify the ideal time interval between ERCP and LC. Data from patients who underwent LC after ERCP between November 2016 and August 2022 were retrieved from the electronic medical information system. The patients were categorized into early cholecystectomy (within 72 h of ERCP) and delayed cholecystectomy (after 72 h). The impact of the time interval between ERCP and LC on perioperative outcomes was analyzed. A total of 197 patients were included in the study, with 45 undergoing early cholecystectomy and 152 undergoing delayed cholecystectomy. No significant differences in the preoperative characteristics or operative morbidity were observed between the groups (p = 0.286). However, a significant correlation was found between the time interval from ERCP to LC and the total length of stay (r = −350, p < 0.001). The findings suggest that early cholecystectomy after ERCP is feasible and safe, and performing LC within the first 72 h does not adversely affect postoperative outcomes.

Abstract Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of a self-adapting deep network, trained on large-scale bi-parametric MRI data, in detecting clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa) in external multi-center data from men of diverse demographics; to investigate the advantages of transfer learning. Methods We used two samples: (i) Publicly available multi-center and multi-vendor Prostate Imaging: Cancer AI (PI-CAI) training data, consisting of 1500 bi-parametric MRI scans, along with its unseen validation and testing samples; (ii) In-house multi-center testing and transfer learning data, comprising 1036 and 200 bi-parametric MRI scans. We trained a self-adapting 3D nnU-Net model using probabilistic prostate masks on the PI-CAI data and evaluated its performance on the hidden validation and testing samples and the in-house data with and without transfer learning. We used the area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve to evaluate patient-level performance in detecting csPCa. Results The PI-CAI training data had 425 scans with csPCa, while the in-house testing and fine-tuning data had 288 and 50 scans with csPCa, respectively. The nnU-Net model achieved an AUROC of 0.888 and 0.889 on the hidden validation and testing data. The model performed with an AUROC of 0.886 on the in-house testing data, with a slight decrease in performance to 0.870 using transfer learning. Conclusions The state-of-the-art deep learning method using prostate masks trained on large-scale bi-parametric MRI data provides high performance in detecting csPCa in internal and external testing data with different characteristics, demonstrating the robustness and generalizability of deep learning within and across datasets. Clinical relevance statement A self-adapting deep network, utilizing prostate masks and trained on large-scale bi-parametric MRI data, is effective in accurately detecting clinically significant prostate cancer across diverse datasets, highlighting the potential of deep learning methods for improving prostate cancer detection in clinical practice. Graphical Abstract

Bu çalışmada, agrega gradasyonunun bitümlü sıcak karışımların fiziksel özellikleri üzerindeki etkilerinin araştırılması amaçlanmıştır. Bu doğrultuda, 2013 yılı Karayolu Teknik Şartnamesinde binder tabakası için tanımlanan gradasyon zarfı esas alınmıştır. Gradasyon zarfına ait ortalama, alt limit, üst limit değerleri ile birlikte alt ve üst limitlerin % 7 oranında ötelenmesiyle elde edilen beş farklı agrega gradasyonu oluşturulmuş ve her biri için ayrı ayrı Marshall tasarımları yapılmıştır. Gradasyon zarfının dışındaki değerler, çalışma esnasında oluşabilecek gradasyon hatalarının bitümlü karışımda meydana getirebileceği performans değişimlerinin öngörülebilmesi amacıyla çalışmaya dahil edilmiştir. Elde edilen test verilerine göre agrega gradasyonunun bitümlü sıcak karışımların stabilite, akma, birim ağırlık (Dp), hava boşluğu oranı (Vh), bitümle dolu boşluk oranı (Vf), agregalar arasındaki boşluk oranı (VMA) ve Marshall katsayısı üzerindeki etkileri değerlendirilmiştir. Agrega dane boyutunun ortalama gradasyona kıyasla artmasının veya azalmasının Dp ve Vf değerlerinde azalma, VMA ve Vh değerlerinde artış meydana getirdiği belirlenmiştir. Bununla birlikte, gradasyon zarfının üst limitine doğru stabilite değerlerinin arttığı görülmüştür.

Abstract Background Genomic selection involves choosing as parents those elite individuals with the higher genomic estimated breeding values (GEBV) to accelerate the speed of genetic improvement in domestic animals. But after multi-generation selection, the rate of inbreeding and the occurrence of homozygous harmful alleles might increase, which would reduce performance and genetic diversity. To mitigate the above problems, we can utilize genomic mating (GM) based upon optimal mate allocation to construct the best genotypic combinations in the next generation. In this study, we used stochastic simulation to investigate the impact of various factors on the efficiencies of GM to optimize pairing combinations after genomic selection of candidates in a pig population. These factors included: the algorithm used to derive inbreeding coefficients; the trait heritability (0.1, 0.3 or 0.5); the kind of GM scheme (focused average GEBV or inbreeding); the approach for computing the genomic relationship matrix (by SNP or runs of homozygosity (ROH)). The outcomes were compared to three traditional mating schemes (random, positive assortative or negative assortative matings). In addition, the performance of the GM approach was tested on real datasets obtained from a Large White pig breeding population. Results Genomic mating outperforms other approaches in limiting the inbreeding accumulation for the same expected genetic gain. The use of ROH-based genealogical relatedness in GM achieved faster genetic gains than using relatedness based on individual SNPs. The GROH-based GM schemes with the maximum genetic gain resulted in 0.9%–2.6% higher rates of genetic gain ΔG, and 13%–83.3% lower ΔF than positive assortative mating regardless of heritability. The rates of inbreeding were always the fastest with positive assortative mating. Results from a purebred Large White pig population, confirmed that GM with ROH-based GRM was more efficient than traditional mating schemes. Conclusion Compared with traditional mating schemes, genomic mating can not only achieve sustainable genetic progress but also effectively control the rates of inbreeding accumulation in the population. Our findings demonstrated that breeders should consider using genomic mating for genetic improvement of pigs.

Probiyotik mikroorganizmalar sıcaklık, pH, oksijen ve su aktivitesi gibi faktörler ile birlikte ürün matriksi ve gıda işlem proseslerinden büyük ölçüde etkilenmektedir. Isıl işleme alternatif teknolojiler, artan probiyotik canlılığı, prebiyotik stabilite ve daha yüksek biyoaktif bileşik konsantrasyonuna sahip yenilikçi gıda ürünlerini tasarlamak için son yıllarda giderek önem kazanmaktadır. Gelişen bu alternatif teknolojilerin probiyotik ürünlere uygulanması, bakteri canlılığını arttırmakla birlikte, probiyotik fermantasyonu ile kolesterolün bağlanması, Caco-2 hücrelerine yapışma, anjiyotensin dönüştürücü enzim (ACE) inhibitörünü artırma, antioksidan, antimikrobiyal aktivite ve sistolik kan basıncını düşürme gibi biyolojik etkileri iyileştirmektedir. Ayrıca, bu teknolojiler ile fermantasyon kinetikleri optimize edilmekte, bakteri faaliyetleri sonucunda bakteriosin, oligosakkarit, peptit, fenolik bileşik, flavonoidler gibi bileşikler üretilmekte, fermente edilmekte, korunmakta, biyoaktif (vitamin ve mineral biyoyararlılığı) ve duyusal özellikler iyileştirilmektedir. Son yıllarda artan sağlık etkilerine sahip postbiyotikler elde etmek için de gelişen bu teknolojiler uygulanmaktadır. Çalışmalar, alternatif işleme teknolojilerinin gıdalardaki probiyotik, prebiyotik ve postbiyotiklerin terapötik etkisini artırdığını göstermektedir. Bu derlemede, ısıl işleme alternatif teknolojilerin probiyotik fermantasyonu üzerindeki etkisi incelenmektedir.