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In the Alevi-Bektashi faith, which is characterized as a mystical interpretation of Islam, cem rituals, which are adorned with cem music accompanied by saz and semahs, are the sum of representative activities carried out by ‘human beings’ who make sense of the relationship between the sacred and the spoken by associating it with rationality, otherness and acculturation. The basic philosophy of cem rituals, which are performed by men and women together, is to transfer the common feelings and acceptances that ensure social unity to future generations. This study aims to conduct a cultural analysis of the sample of “Samsun Canlar Association”, a non-governmental organization that functions in the recognition of music practices in Cem rituals, one of the basic dynamics of Alevi-Bektashi belief and culture, with its structural characteristics, historical origins, contribution to social solidarity and philosophical dimension. Information was collected through semi-structured interviews with a working group of nineteen people, consisting of five dede, four zâkir and ten talip, and several cem rituals were observed. According to the findings of the research, it was determined that the basic principles of AleviBektashi belief are based on the ‘Four Doors and Forty Makams’ teaching of Hacı Bektaş Veli. Participants stated that Alevism follows lineage and the leader of the faith is the dede, while in Bektashism there is no such rule and the leader of the faith is the father. It was stated that Alevism is built on the love of humanity, that classics such as Buyruk and Makâlât are read, and that the belief includes the love of Ehlibeyt and the motto of having hands, hands and tongue. It is understood that Cem rituals include concepts such as three sunnahs, seven obligations, seventeen erkân, consent and musahiplik. Different fasts are observed in Alevi-Bektashi belief. The musical practices performed in Cem are deyiş, duaz and mersiye; the musical practices included in the twelve services are miraçlama, semah, çerağ and sacrifice prayers and mersiye. It was stated that twelve services are performed in the cem and that there are types of cem with and without ikrar. In order to keep the music practices of Alevi-Bektashi culture alive, it was suggested that zâkirlik courses should be opened and the music practices of different continuities should be examined in this regard.

Objective: We present data of patients with relapsed/ refractory T cell lymphomas treated with brentuximab vedotin (BV) in real-world practice. Material and Method: This study is an observational, multi-center, retrospective study. The data of patients (n=17) treated with BV alone from January 2014 until July 2020 in thirteen centers from Turkey were collected. Results: Bv was given as salvage chemotherapy to 17 patients with median age of 53. Nine (52.9%) patients had diagnosis of peripheral T cell lymphoma, not otherwise specified; 8 (47.1%) patients had anaplastic large T cell lymphoma. The median follow-up of the cohort was 20 months. Nine (52.9%) patients had complete response, 5 (29.5%) had partial response, 3 (17.6%) had progressive disease. The safety results aligned with the established profile of BV, included 2 pneumonia and 1 thrombocytopenia with grade 4. The median progression free survival of the cohort was 10 months. BV cycle and response to BV therapy were found to have an effect on the univariate analysis. Conclusion: In patients with relapsed/ refractory T cell lymphomas, BV seems to have convincing antitumor activity with favorable safety profile.

The creators of the folk music culture of Kırşehir province and its region in the Central Anatolia region of Turkey are the nomadic Turkmen-Abdal, whose historical background dates back to the 14th century and whose roots are thought to be in the Caucasus. For the Turkmen-Abdals, music is not merely a form of entertainment or artistic expression, but rather a way of existence and a means of identity. It is an integral component of their lifestyle and cultural tradition, serving as a powerful tool for the transmission of their values, beliefs, and experiences from one generation to the next. In addition, the quality of music performance and interpretation plays an important role in the development and preservation of the region's musical traditions, while enabling a deeper understanding and appreciation of the historical roots of Turkish music maqams. In this article, it is aimed to determine and analyse the maqam characteristics of the folk songs of Çekiç Ali (1932-1973), a folk minstrel from Kırşehir, who represents the Abdallık tradition and is accepted as one of the important interpreters of the music genre specific to this tradition. The research employs the documentary scanning method, and the research area is limited to seven folk songs recorded in the TRT-THM repertoire and attributed to Abdal Çekiç Ali. The focus of the analysis is on the technical elements that determine the melodic and maqam structure of the selected works, such as the main pitches, decision voice, roaming, scale, equipment, seven sound, expansion, and phrases within the melody. The findings revealed that Abdal Çekiç Ali's folk songs have melodic and makam scales such as 'Kürdi', 'Segâh', 'Hüseyni', 'Acemkürdi', 'Uşşak' and 'Karcığar'. The research contributes to the establishment of the historical connection of the maqamality of Turkish music and the conscious understanding of its importance in terms of cultural memory.

Objective: Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibition in cardiac tissue causes inhibition of the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway, which is responsible for protecting cardiac tissue during stress. Therefore, there is an increase in the risk of arrhythmia. This study explores the prediction of that risk with the Age-Creatinine-Ejection Fraction (ACEF) score as a simple scoring system based on the components of age, creatinine, and ejection fraction. Materials and Methods: Patients diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and receiving ibrutinib treatment for at least 1 year were evaluated with echocardiography and Holter electrocardiography and the results were compared with a control group of CLL patients who had not received treatment. ACEF score was calculated with the formula age/left ventricular ejection fraction+1 (if creatinine >2.0 mg/dL). Results: When the arrhythmia development of the patients was evaluated, no statistically significant difference was found between the control and ibrutinib groups in terms of types of arrhythmias other than paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF). PAF was found to occur at rates of 8% versus 22% (p=0.042) among ibrutinib non-users versus users. For patients using ibrutinib, an ACEF score of >1.21 predicted the development of PAF with 77% sensitivity and 75% specificity (area under the curve: 0.830, 95% confidence interval: 0.698-0.962, p

Babesiosis, caused by Babesia ovis, is a major seasonal issue in sheep, particularly in countries like Türkiye with high Rhipicephalus bursa tick populations. Previous studies employing various methods such as microscopy, serology, or molecular techniques have reported different epidemiological data concerning ovine babesiosis. Addressing this knowledge gap, our study employed a combined nested PCR (nPCR)/indirect ELISA (iELISA) approach, analyzing blood samples collected from 414 sheep between April and July 2023 using both techniques. nPCR amplified the 18S ribosomal RNA gene of B. ovis and determined a molecular prevalence of 1.9%. Conversely, serological testing using iELISA targeted the BoSA1 antigen and revealed a significantly higher positivity rate of 59.9% for anti-B. ovis antibodies. The temporary presence of Babesia after recovery reduces nPCR sensitivity, resulting in lower molecular prevalence. However, even if Babesia is not present in the host, anti-B. ovis antibodies remain in the serum for a long time and can be detected serologically. Our study underscores the necessity of concurrently employing molecular and serological methods for an accurate assessment of B. ovis prevalence. It highlights the importance of comprehensive epidemiological approaches for effective disease management in sheep populations.

IntroductionThe employment of laparoscopic surgical techniques has reignited the debate on managing Meckel's Diverticulum (MD) due to its low complication rates. Nevertheless, concerns have been raised regarding completely removing any potential heterotopic mucosa. Our study aimed to compare surgical approaches in MD and assess the effectiveness of simple diverticulectomy.MethodsBetween 2003 and 2022, 139 patients with MD were retrospectively analysed. The study examined the morphometric measurements of the diverticulum and the location of the heterotopic mucosa in the diverticulum regarding growth and symptoms.ResultsSimple diverticulectomy achieved the lowest postoperative complication rate among excision techniques (p = 0.03). MD's length, diameter, and distance to the ileocecal valve increase linearly with growth in the first three years of life (p = 0.00, p = 0.01, p = 0.00) but not in subsequent years (p = 0.81, p = 0.43, p = 0.21). As the length of the MD increases, the heterotopic mucosa (HM) is displaced distally (p = 0.01). Patients in whom HM reaches the base of the diverticulum always present with bleeding (p = 0.02).DiscussionSimple diverticulectomy is a safe technique for Meckel's diverticulum resection. Meckel's diverticulum continues to grow until the age of 3. With this growth, the heterotopic mucosa is displaced distally and moves away from the base of the diverticulum. Bleeding is the main symptom in patients with HM reaching the base of the diverticulum. In patients with bleeding or younger than three years of age, simple diverticulectomy may not be considered safe.Level of Evidence: III

The main aim of the study was to investigate the relationship between ground reaction force (GRF) derived postural sway and 180° turn performance in soccer players on the axis of dominant and non-dominant legs. Twenty-seven male soccer players (mean age 22.45 ± 2.7 years) from the same league level agreed to participate in the study. The participants underwent GRF-derived postural sway and 180⁰ turn tests using a force plate in separate sessions, with at least 24-hour intervals between sessions. Postural sway was assessed in anteroposterior and mediolateral directions during a single-leg stance, while the 180° turn performance was evaluated through GRF-derived turn time and turn sway. The correlation, multiple regression, and group differences were computed to test study hypotheses. Positive correlations were observed between postural sway measures and 180⁰ turn time for dominant and non-dominant legs (r-range from 0.384 to 0.550). No measure of postural sway was significantly related to the 180⁰ turn sway (p> 0.05). Multiple stepwise regression analysis indicated that mediolateral sway velocity explained 30% and 17% of the variance of 180⁰ turn time for dominant and non-dominant legs, respectively. No statistical inter-limb differences were noted for 180⁰ turn and postural sway parameters. The results suggest that improving single-leg postural performance may enhance male soccer players' 180° turn performance. Therefore, unilateral stability in the mediolateral direction should be considered a potential indicator of change of direction-based performances.

Babesia ovis, transmitted by Rhipicephalus bursa ticks, is the causative agent of ovine babesiosis, a disease characterized by fever, anemia, hemoglobinuria, and high mortality in sheep. This study investigates whether sheep that survived babesiosis without treatment can serve as a source of infection for B. ovis-free host-seeking R. bursa larvae in a later season. Three donor sheep were experimentally infected with B. ovis, and after six months, persistence of B. ovis was assessed through blood and tick transmission experiments. Blood from donor sheep was intravenously injected into three recipient sheep, while donor sheep were also infested with B. ovis-free R. bursa larvae. Engorged nymphs molted to adults, and new recipient sheep were infested with these ticks. All recipient sheep were monitored for B. ovis for 100 days using microscopic, serological, and molecular approaches. The presence of B. ovis was confirmed in the recipient sheep that received blood, leading to clinical infection in two. However, no B. ovis was detected in recipient sheep infested with ticks. These results suggest that sheep recovering from B. ovis infection do not serve as a source of infection for R. bursa larvae in subsequent seasons.

Today, the world is on the brink of a crisis that has plunged it into the darkness of the Middle Ages. The crisis of modernity raises serious questions about the sustainability of existing social, economic and political systems. In this context, the basic principles for the construction of a new civilisation are being determined and a global intellectual struggle is taking place. The crisis of modernity points not only to a material but also to a spiritual impasse. Societies are facing various problems and struggling with difficulties arising from existing paradigms. Therefore, to create a new vision of civilisation is to lay the foundations for a sustainable, just and human-oriented future. In this struggle, it is important to treat diversity not as a threat, but as an asset. Diverse cultures, worldviews and ways of life should be recognised as the cornerstones of a new civilisation. Not only economic growth, but also universal values such as human rights, environmental protection, equality and justice should be central to discussions on a new civilisation. This will enable the adoption of a human-centred approach and sustainable solutions to global and local problems. In conclusion, an intellectual effort is required to deal with the crisis of modernity and to build a new civilisation. This effort should include bringing together different perspectives, seeing diversity as richness and cooperating for a common future. Keywords: Modernity, Crisis, Civilisation, Local Government

Abstract Background Approximately 32 million pregnant women are at risk of malaria with up to 10,000 maternal deaths and 200,000 neonates at risk annually. Intermittent Preventive Treatment (IPT) with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) to reduce disease in pregnancy and adverse maternal and newborn outcomes. At least three doses of SP should be taken by pregnant women during antenatal consultation (ANC) beginning from the thirteenth week of pregnancy till parturition. The aim of this study was to assess uptake of IPT during pregnancy and risk factors for maternal anaemia and infant birth weight in Dschang, West region of Cameroon. Methods A total of 380 consenting pregnant women at delivery were recruited in a cross- sectional prospective survey between January to December 2021. Data on ANC attendance, total dose of IPT and history of malaria were abstracted from hospital ANC records while socio-demographic characteristics, bed net use and obstetrics history of each participant were also recorded through an interview. Further, blood samples were collected from the intervillous space for assessment of maternal anaemia and microscopic parasitology. Nested PCR based on amplification of the Plasmodium 18S sRNA was carried out to detect submicroscopic infection. IPTp coverage was calculated per WHO recommendation and the prevalence of anaemia and low birth weight were estimated as proportions in the total sample of pregnant women and live births, respectively. Crude and adjusted odds ratios and their 95% confidence intervals were used to estimate associations between pregnancy outcomes considered and risk factors in specific and general models. A p

Pseudotumor cerebri syndrome (PTCS) is characterized by the presence of elevated intracranial pressure in the environment of intact brain parenchyma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). PTCS can occur in pediatric populations and cause permanent vision loss if left untreated. It is known that evere acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection predisposes patients to adverse arterial and venous thromboembolic events. Several reports from the literature suggest that cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) may be a direct complication of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Herein, we have aimed to report a case of PTCS secondary to superior sagittal sinus thrombosis associated with the first episode of pediatric SARS-CoV-2 infection. A previously healthy 13-year-old boy presented to the emergency department in February 2022 with complaints of headache, tinnitus and double vision persisting for four days. His mental status and cranial nerve examination results were normal as revealed during neurological examination performed at admission, but bilateral papilledema was detected in fundoscopic examination. SARS-CoV-2 polymerase chain reaction was negative, while anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody test was positive. There was no variant study in the case. Contrast-enhanced brain magnetic resonance imaging showed signs of intracranial hypertension and magnetic resonance venography demonstrated the presence of superior sagittal sinus thrombosis. CSF opening pressure was elevated (73 cm H2O). As measured during lumbar puncture Our patient was accepted as a case of PTCS secondary to CVST associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. PTCS secondary to CVST associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection was diagnosed and the child was treated with oral topiramate and low-molecular weight heparin. After the treatment, his headache and visual functions improved and then the child was included in our follow-up protocol. Clinicians should consider the risk of acute CVST in SARS-CoV-2 positive patients, especially if neurological symptoms develop. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent vision loss.

Our survey in the Mediterranean region of Türkiye revealed high prevalence of Babesia aktasi in goats, while no molecular evidence of the parasite was found in sheep grazing in the same pasture. We hypothesized that the parasite may not be infectious to sheep. To test this hypothesis, the present study was designed to evaluate the susceptibility of Akkaraman sheep breed to B. aktasi infection. Fifteen mL of fresh blood infected with B. aktasi was injected into immune-suppressed lambs (n = 5). The recipient lambs were monitored daily for clinical signs of babesiosis over 30 days, and blood was collected for microscopic and molecular diagnostic evaluation. The lambs did not display clinical and parasitological signs of babesiosis. Two out of five recipient lambs were nested PCR-negative for B. aktasi over 30 days post infection. Out of the remaining three lambs, two were PCR positive on the first day, and one recipient was positive until the fourth day post infection. DNA sequencing confirmed that the PCR positivity in the recipient lambs originated from the inoculum. These findings revealed that immune-suppressed sheep do not appear to be susceptible to infection with B. aktasi that is lethal to immune-suppressed indigenous goats.

IntroductionTick-borne pathogens (TBP) are an important group of organisms that can affect animals and humans all over the world. Equine piroplasmosis (EP), caused by Theileria equi and Babesia caballi, is considered one of the most important tick-borne diseases and can cause significant clinical symptoms and mortality in horses. Moreover, EP plays a restrictive role in international horse traditions and transportation. Although these species can cause similar symptoms, there are different 18S rRNA genotypes of T. equi (five genotypes) and B. caballi (three genotypes). Besides piroplasma species, Anaplasma and hemotropic mycoplasmas (HM) are known as other important tick-borne pathogens reported in horses.MethodsIn this study, we investigated the presence, prevalence, genetic diversity, and phylogenetic analyses of TBPs using PCRs and DNA sequencing in grazing horses in Kyrgyzstan. For these purposes, a total of 311 blood samples were collected from Chuy, Issyk-Kul, Naryn, Osh, Talas, and Jalal-Abad.ResultsDNA amplification of TBP revealed that 23 (7.40%) out of 311 samples were found to be positive for T. equi. However, B. caballi, HM, A. phagocytophilum, and A. capra were not detected in this study. The infection rate of T. equi was higher in males (8.11%) than in females (6.35%) (p=0.2880) and in those older than 5 years (9.02%) than in the 1-4 age group (6.35%) (p=0.1950). Phylogenetic analysis of 18S rRNA revealed that A and E genotypes of T. equi have circulated in grazing horses in Kyrgyzstan.DiscussionInformation about the genetic diversity of T. equi is important for understanding the population dynamics of the species and developing effective control strategies against this pathogen. This is the first molecular investigation of A. capra in horses in Kyrgyzstan. Although this pathogen has been detected in different hosts in Kyrgyzstan, it was not detected in this study. However, considering the wide host spectrum of A. capra, it is thought that more large-scale studies are needed to understand the effect of horses on the epidemiology of this pathogen.

Plastics are one of the most widely used materials, and, in most cases, they are designed to have long life spans. Since plastic and packaging waste pollute the environment for many years, their disposal is of great importance for the environment and human health. In this paper, a system was developed to store liquid fuel from plastic and organic waste mixes without solidification, which then can be used as fuel in motor vehicles and construction machinery. For this purpose, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and organic wastes and clay, zeolite, and MCS23-code materials (50% magnetite- %25 calcium oxide- %25 sodium chloride) were heated in a closed medium at temperatures ranging from 300 to400 oC and subsequently re-condensed. The study conducted twenty tests, involving various types and rates of plastic and organic materials, as well as different rates of catalysts. Among these tests, the highest liquid fuel yield (67.47%) was achieved in Test 9, where 50% PVC-50% PET waste, 75 g of clinoptilolite, and 500 g of MCS23 waste were collectively used. Notably, Test 12 exhibited the highest density value (79.8 kg/m3), while the best viscosity value (2.794 mm2/s) was observed in Test 2. Across all samples, flash point values were found to be below 40oC. The most favorable yield point value was recorded in Test 2 (-6oC). The samples displayed ash content within the range of 0 to0.01% (m/m)] and combustion heat values of 35.000> J/g which fall within the standard range. The incorporation of MCS23 with clinoptilolite additives is believed to have a significant impact on obtaining high-yield products with improved fuel properties.

Abstract Branching morphogenesis is a ubiquitous process that gives rise to high exchange surfaces in the vasculature and epithelial organs. Lymphatic capillaries form branched networks, which play a key role in the circulation of tissue fluid and immune cells. Although mouse models and correlative patient data indicate that the lymphatic capillary density directly correlates with functional output, i.e., tissue fluid drainage and trafficking efficiency of dendritic cells, the mechanisms ensuring efficient tissue coverage remain poorly understood. Here, we use the mouse ear pinna lymphatic vessel network as a model system and combine lineage-tracing, genetic perturbations, whole-organ reconstructions and theoretical modeling to show that the dermal lymphatic capillaries tile space in an optimal, space-filling manner. This coverage is achieved by two complementary mechanisms: initial tissue invasion provides a non-optimal global scaffold via self-organized branching morphogenesis, while VEGF-C dependent side-branching from existing capillaries rapidly optimizes local coverage by directionally targeting low-density regions. With these two ingredients, we show that a minimal biophysical model can reproduce quantitatively whole-network reconstructions, across development and perturbations. Our results show that lymphatic capillary networks can exploit local self-organizing mechanisms to achieve tissue-scale optimization.

INTRODUCTION: Our study aims to investigate how the pandemic has affected the emergency department (ED) visits and to assess whether COVID-19 pandemic changed the presentations of diagnoses /chief complaints of the patients across three years. METHODS: This is a retrospective study. The study population was described as all patients who applied to our Pediatric Psychiatry ED from March to May of 2019, 2020 and 2021. RESULTS: The overall number of child and adolescent psychiatric emergency department visits declined by 49.5% in 2020 during pandemic period with implementation of COVID-19 related measures. From the corresponding period of 2021, the total number of ED visits have increased to a higher level than the same period of 2020 and even 2019. In 2020 and 2021, compared to 2019 (26.1%); there was a decrease of patients being admitted to the inpatient unit. We also found that the ratio of patients who were diagnosed with autism spectrum, mental retardation, depression, trauma and related, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders got increased. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The immediate drop in visits to ED after the first pandemic restrictions may reflect people being more hesitant to hospitals at the beginning. But one year later, in the mid-pandemic period, the rise in visits to ED could have been because people got used to the pandemic or the need for acute psychiatric care cannot further be postponed. The decrease of admissions to the inpatient psychiatric unit may be a result of COVID-19 related measures as total number of beds got reduced due to restrictions.

A recent molecular survey revealed a high prevalence of Babesia aktasi in indigenous goats from the Mediterranean region of Türkiye, coinciding with heavy Rhipicephalus bursa infestations. This geographical overlap has raised the possibility that R. bursa may serve as a vector for the parasite. To evaluate the potential of R. bursa to serve as a vector for the parasite, an experimental study was conducted in indigenous goats. An immune-suppressed donor goat was intravenously injected with 15 mL of the cryopreserved B. aktasi stabilate, resulting in severe clinical babesiosis and parasitemia. Subsequently, R. bursa larvae and adults derived from Babesia-free laboratory colonies were allowed to feed on the infected donor goat. After oviposition, engorged female carcasses, representative engorged nymphs, unfed larvae, and adult pools were used for DNA extraction and PCR analysis. No PCR positivity was detected in any of the DNA samples, except for those with engorged female carcasses and nymphs. Three immune-suppressed recipient goats were infested with the unfed immature and mature ticks consuming the blood of a donor infected with B. aktasi. No clinical or parasitological findings were encountered in the recipient for 40 days post-infestation. These findings indicated that R. bursa was not a competent vector for B. aktasi.

Babesiosis is an acute and persistent tick-borne disease caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Babesia. These hemoparasites affect vertebrates globally, resulting in symptoms such as high fever, anemia, jaundice, and even death. Advancements in molecular parasitology revealed new Babesia species/genotypes affecting sheep and goats, including Babesia aktasi n. sp., which is highly prevalent in goats from Turkiye’s Mediterranean region. The objective of this study was to investigate the pathogenesis of B. aktasi infection in immunosuppressed (n=7) and non-immunosuppressed (n=6) goats. These animals were experimentally infected with fresh B. aktasi infected blood, and their clinical signs, hematological and serum biochemical parameters were monitored throughout the infection. The presence of parasites in the blood of immunosuppressed goats was detected by microscopic examination between 4 and 6 days after infection, accompanied by fever and increasing parasitemia. Goats that succumbed acute disease exhibited severe clinical signs, such as anemia, hemoglobinuria, and loss of appetite. However, the goats that survived showed milder clinical signs. In the non-immunosuppressed group, piroplasm forms of B. aktasi were observed in the blood within 2-5 days after inoculation, but with low (0.01-0.2%) parasitemia. Although these goats showed loss of appetite, typical signs of babesiosis were absent except for increased body temperature. Hematological analysis revealed significant decreases in the levels of red blood cells, leukocytes and platelet values post-infection in immunosuppressed goats, while no significant hematological changes were observed in non-immunosuppressed goats. In addition, serum biochemical analysis showed elevated transaminase liver enzymes levels, decreased glucose, and lower total protein values in the immunosuppressed group post-infection. Babesia aktasi, caused mild disease with minor clinical symptoms in non-immunosuppressed goats. However, in immunosuppressed goats, it exhibited remarkable pathogenicity, leading to severe clinical infections and death. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the pathogenicity of the parasite and will serve as a foundation for future research aimed at developing effective prevention and control strategies against babesiosis in small ruminants. Further research is required to investigate the pathogenicity of B. aktasi in various goat breeds, other potential hosts, the vector ticks involved, and its presence in natural reservoirs.

Abstract Recombinant protein-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccines are needed to fill the vaccine equity gap. Because protein-subunit based vaccines are easier and cheaper to produce and do not require special storage/transportation conditions, they are suitable for low-/middle-income countries. Here, we report our vaccine development studies with the receptor binding domain of the SARS-CoV-2 Delta Plus strain (RBD-DP) which caused increased hospitalizations compared to other variants. First, we expressed RBD-DP in the Pichia pastoris yeast system and upscaled it to a 5-L fermenter for production. After three-step purification, we obtained RBD-DP with > 95% purity from a protein yield of > 1 g/L of supernatant. Several biophysical and biochemical characterizations were performed to confirm its identity, stability, and functionality. Then, it was formulated in different contents with Alum and CpG for mice immunization. After three doses of immunization, IgG titers from sera reached to > 106 and most importantly it showed high T-cell responses which are required for an effective vaccine to prevent severe COVID-19 disease. A live neutralization test was performed with both the Wuhan strain (B.1.1.7) and Delta strain (B.1.617.2) and it showed high neutralization antibody content for both strains. A challenge study with SARS-CoV-2 infected K18-hACE2 transgenic mice showed good immunoprotective activity with no viruses in the lungs and no lung inflammation for all immunized mice.

The aim of this study was to carry out the morphological characterization of the Tabby cat’s hard palate by light and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), in addition to gross and morphometric analysis. A total of 20 Tabby cat heads used. The materials was provided from the Balıkesir Metropolitan Municipality Street Animals Temporary Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center, Balıkesir, Turkey. Adult, regardless of gender difference, died from variety of reasons and 20 Tabby cat cadavers which weigh approximately 3–4 kg were brought to the laboratory in accordance with the procedure. Hard palates were subjected to gross examination, morphometric analysis, light and SEM.The Tabby cats hard palate was split up rostral and caudal parts and incisive papilla (papilla incisive), rugae palatine and with a gutter between them, the presence of palatine raphe and secondary rugae palatine were observed. The rostral and caudal parts of the hard palate were determined to have a smooth appearance with SEM 540X magnification and the presence of epithelial desquamations was found out. It was determined that the rostral and caudal part of the Tabby cat’s hard palate had a honeycomb appearance of the microplicae of the 3000X magnification hard palate epithelium with SEM. Round islets were detected with the SEM at the magnification of 600X of the incisive papilla, the 270X of the rostral–caudal parts and the 44X of the gutter between the palatine rugae. These adaptations of the Tabby cat’s hard palate might increase its efficiency during ingestion and mastication of hard food and in directing the food backward. The study shows the detailed anatomical description of the hard palate of the Tabby cat with light and SEM.

Background: This study assessed the potential cost-effectiveness of high (80–100%) vs low (21–35%) fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) at preventing surgical site infections (SSIs) after abdominal surgery in Nigeria, India, and South Africa. Methods: Decision-analytic models were constructed using best available evidence sourced from unbundled data of an ongoing pilot trial assessing the effectiveness of high FiO2, published literature, and a cost survey in Nigeria, India, and South Africa. Effectiveness was measured as percentage of SSIs at 30 days after surgery, a healthcare perspective was adopted, and costs were reported in US dollars ($). Results: High FiO2 may be cost-effective (cheaper and effective). In Nigeria, the average cost for high FiO2 was $216 compared with $222 for low FiO2 leading to a −$6 (95% confidence interval [CI]: −$13 to −$1) difference in costs. In India, the average cost for high FiO2 was $184 compared with $195 for low FiO2 leading to a −$11 (95% CI: −$15 to −$6) difference in costs. In South Africa, the average cost for high FiO2 was $1164 compared with $1257 for low FiO2 leading to a −$93 (95% CI: −$132 to −$65) difference in costs. The high FiO2 arm had few SSIs, 7.33% compared with 8.38% for low FiO2, leading to a −1.05 (95% CI: −1.14 to −0.90) percentage point reduction in SSIs. Conclusion: High FiO2 could be cost-effective at preventing SSIs in the three countries but further data from large clinical trials are required to confirm this.

Ovine babesiosis caused by Babesia ovis is an economically significant disease. Recently, a few B. ovis-specific proteins, including recombinant B. ovis secreted antigen-1 (rBoSA1), have been identified. Immunological analyses revealed that rBoSA1 resides within the cytoplasm of infected erythrocytes and exhibits robust antigenic properties for detecting anti-B. ovis antibodies. This protein is released into the bloodstream during the parasite’s development. It would be possible to diagnose active infections by detecting this secretory protein. For this purpose, a rBoSA1-specific polyclonal antibody-based sandwich ELISA was optimized in this study. Blood samples taken from the naturally (n: 100) and experimentally (n: 15) infected sheep were analyzed for the presence of native BoSA1. The results showed that native BoSA1 was detectable in 98% of naturally infected animals. There was a positive correlation between parasitemia level in microscopy and protein density in sandwich ELISA. Experimentally infected animals showed positive reactions from the first or second day of inoculations. However, experimental infections carried out by Rhipicephalus bursa ticks revealed the native BoSA1 was detectable from the 7th day of tick attachment when the parasite began to be seen microscopically. Sandwich ELISA was sensitive enough to detect rBoSA1 protein at a 1.52 ng/ml concentration. Additionally, no serological cross-reactivity was observed between animals infected with various piroplasm species, including Babesia bovis, B. bigemina, B. caballi, B. canis, B. gibsoni, Theileria equi, and T. annulata. Taken collectively, the findings show that the rBoSA1-specific polyclonal antibody-based sandwich ELISA can be successfully used to diagnose clinical B. ovis infections in sheep at the early stage.

Ameloblastoma is a benign but locally aggressive tumor that can invade the brain. A 75-yearold male patient admitted with massive exophthalmos and a tumor protruding from his nose. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a giant mass lesion occupying the entire ventral skull base. The tumor was removed with endoscopic endonasal surgery. The patient was stable in the postoperative period, and there was no recurrence during the 5-year follow-up. Ameloblastoma may reach a huge size despite its benign character. Surgical treatment can prevent serious complications, and an endoscopic approach can be considered a treatment option.

To develop a more reactive pozzolan for supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), the co-calcination of kaolinite and limestone was investigated for its contribution to hydration of blended cement. Kaolinite (with ~50 wt% quartz impurity) was calcined at 700 °C, and a mixture of kaolinite and limestone was calcined at 800 °C. These activated SCMs were added to ordinary Portland cement (OPC), replacing ca. 30 wt% of the OPC. The compressive strength of these blended cement paste samples was measured after 28 and 90 days, while the hydration products and microstructural development in these blended cement pastes were analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results revealed that adding free lime to OPC, together with metakaolin, led to enhanced compressive strength. The compressive strength of this new blended cement paste reached 113% and 112% of the compressed strength of pure OPC paste after 28 and 90 days of hydration, respectively. Furthermore, this study showed that the improvement was due to the increased consumption of Portlandite (CH), the formation of calcium aluminosilicate hydrate (CASH), and the reduction of porosity in the sample containing free lime and metakaolin.

Objective: The primary goal in the treatment of corrosive esophagitis (CE) is to control inflammation and scar reactions. L-glutamine (Gln) is beneficial for the integrity of the intestinal mucosal epithelium and is an amino acid that promotes mature collagen growth. This study was designed to demonstrate the positive results of Gln on injury in corrosive esophagitis. Method: Thirty Sprague-Dawley rats were used in the study. They were divided into 3 groups. CE was formed by dripping 20% sodium hydroxide into the distal esophagus in both groups except the control group (n=10). First group (n=9) was left untreated, while the other group (n=9) was fed orally with the addition of 1 g/kg Gln once a day for 21 days. All rats were sacrificed after 3 weeks. Esophagus of treated and other group rats were examined under light microscope to evaluate collagen deposition, histological damage score and stenosis index. Results: Excess submucosal collagen, muscularis mucosal damage, inflammation and ulceration, which are among the histological damage score parameters, were significantly higher in the untreated group than in the Gln group (p=0.005, p=0.015, p=0.001, respectively). The stenosis index was significantly different (p=0.013). The group treated with Gln had inflammation but no ulceration and necrosis. Conclusion: Our experimental animal study suggests that Gln in nutrition reduces damage in the esophageal mucosa, slows down or partially stops the cellular destruction process that causes stenosis.

In this study, the traditional full/deficit irrigation and partial root drying (F-PRD) techniques with the four different amounts of irrigation (100%, 80%, 60% and 40%) were examined on Rubygem Strawberry species under controlled greenhouse conditions, in terms of yield, yield parameters, WUE, IWUE, yield response factor (ky), etc. and their possible reactions have been investigated. In the study in which fresh seedlings were used, planted on the rows in a triangular form at intervals of 20×20 cm in double rows. Irrigation applications were carried out by drip irrigation method and the amount of irrigation water in the control treatment (I100) was calculated using measurements taken from an A-Class evaporation pan. Eight irrigation treatments including four traditional irrigation (I100, I80, I60, I40) and four fixed-partial root drying (F-PRD100, F-PRD80, F-PRD60, F-PRD40) were examined within the scope of the study. In traditional irrigation (I100, I80, I60, I40) applications, both sides of the plant root zone were irrigated. However, during the entire growing season in the fixed-partial root drying (F-PRD100, F-PRD80, F-PRD60, F-PRD40) technique, one-half of the plant root zone was kept wet, and the other half was left relatively dry. The yield values were ranked as, from high to low, F-PRD100>I100>F-PRD80>I80>F-PRD60>I60>I40>F-PRD40. In irrigation treatments, the yield values obtained from I80 and F-PRD80 treatments were statistically similar (Duncan 5%) to the yield values of I100 and F-PRD100 treatments. However, it could be stated that the F-PRD80 is more advantageous. It was found that different amounts of irrigation water (100%, 80%, 60% and 40%) affects the yield and yield-related parameters obtained from the strawberry plants. In general, as the water deficit increased (in the I40 and F-PRD40 treatments), the level of negative impact also increased. As a result of the research, F-PRD80 was proposed for the cultivation of strawberries, particularly, in arid and semi-arid regions, depending on the availability of water.

Wireless networks in agricultural environments are unique in many ways. Recent measurements reveal that the dynamics of crop growth impact wireless propagation channels with a long-term seasonal pattern. Additionally, short-term environmental factors, such as strong wind, result in variations in channel statistics. Next-generation agricultural fields, populated by autonomous tractors, drones, and high-throughput sensing systems, require high-throughput connectivity infrastructure, resulting in the future deployment of high-frequency networks, where they have not been deployed before. More specifically, when millimeter-wave (mmWave) communication systems, a viable candidate for 5G and 6G high-throughput solutions, are deployed for higher throughput, these issues become more prominent due to the relatively small wavelength at this frequency band. To improve coverage in the mmWave spectrum in agricultural settings, reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RISs) are a promising solution with low energy consumption and high cost efficiency when compared to half-duplex active relays with multiple antennas. To ensure link resiliency under dynamic channel behavior, an adaptive RIS for broadband wireless agricultural networks (AgRIS) at mmWave band is designed in this work. AgRIS relies on output from a time-series model that forecasts the short-term wind speed based on measured wind data, which is readily available in most farms. The temporal correlation between link reliability and wind speed is demonstrated through extensive field experiments. Our simulation results demonstrate that AgRIS with a small footprint of 11 × 11 elements can help mitigate the adversarial effects of wind-induced signal level drop by up to 8 dB and provides high energy efficiency of 1 Gbits/joule.

The current study aims to evaluate the existing literature on the characteristics and the usage of video games within the framework of Self-Determination Theory (SDT). In the first part of the article, the essential characteristics of SDT and video games were presented. In the second part, video games were examined based on basic psychological needs and motivational processes. Research shows that the content and mechanics of video games play a significant role in the satisfaction of basic psychological needs. Moreover, video games affect psychological well-being, quality of life, and intrinsic motivation via the satisfaction of basic psychological needs. The options and feedback provided in a game promote autonomy; success achieved in the face of difficulties promotes competence; and playing video games with other people in pairs or groups satisfies the need for relatedness. This satisfaction increases motivation and psychological well-being. On the contrary, the frustration of psychological needs in video games can harm these areas. IIt is emphasized that video games can be used within various intervention programs, and they are successful in acquiring and changing behavior and can support treatment process, especially in the fields of health and education.

Although relatively rare among transfusion reactions, transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI) is a life-threatening condition, making its prevention, recognition, and early intervention extremely important. Although many etiological factors have been identified, the most common reasons are anti-human leukocyte antigen (anti-HLA) and anti-human neutrophil antigen antibodies that pass from the donor to the recipient during transfusion. TRALI was shown with transfusion of all kinds of blood products, however, it is rarely seen after stem cell infusion. Despite an adult case who developed TRALI after stem cell infusion, there is no pediatric case of TRALI associated with hematopoietic stem cell infusion in the previous literature. Here, we report a pediatric case with TRALI after infusion of the hematopoietic stem cell product from his female donor who has recently given birth 6 months ago. A 9-year-old patient with acquired aplastic anemia was admitted for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) from an ABO and 10/10 HLA compatible 21-year-old sister donor the unmanipulated stem cell product was planned to be infused in 4 h. At the last hour of infusion, the patient had acute hypoxemia, tachycardia, and bilateral pulmonary edema. He was diagnosed with TRALI and completely recovered with supportive therapy in 48 h. The anti-HLA antibody analysis of the donor showed positivity of anti-HLA-DPB1 antibodies. We wanted to emphasize the need for examination of anti-HLA antibodies of the donor and plasma depletion of the product to avoid TRALI in HSCTs from multiparous female donors.

A history of previous open abdominal surgery adversely affects the number of retrieved lymph nodes and increases the length of hospital stay after subsequent laparoscopic surgery. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical significance of the previous open gastric surgery (POGS) for laparoscopic gastric cancer surgery (LGCS).We retrospectively examined the medical records of 150 gastric cancer patients who had adenocarcinoma and were operated laparoscopically. Patients were divided into two groups according to the history of POGS as POGS group (n=5) and none-POGS group (n=145). The laboratory parameters, clinical and operative data were assessed between the groups. The preoperative data were very much alike in both groups, except for tumor location. The length of hospital stay was longer, the number of excised and positive lymph nodes were lower in the POGS group (p=0.023, p=0.016, and p=0.045, respectively). The operation time was longer in the POGS group, although this difference was not significant [300 min (120-720 min) to 390 min (360-430 min), p=0.057]. LGCS in patients with POGS can be performed safely with similar perioperative outcomes compared to the patients with none-POGS. LGCS may prolong the hospital stay. In addition, the number of excised lymph nodes may be lower. Nevertheless, POGS should not be regarded as a contraindication for LGCS. [Med-Science 2022; 11(1.000): 31-5]

Background Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a common cause of morbidity and mortality in intensive care unit (ICU), and among the several preventative strategies described to reduce the incidence of VAP, the most important is the endotracheal tube cuff (ETC) pressure. The present study was conducted on 60 patients who required mechanical ventilation (MV) in the ICU with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Methods The patients were randomized into two groups of 30, in which ETC pressure was regulated using a smart cuff manager (SCM) (Group II), or manual measurement approach (MMA) (Group I). Demographic data, MV duration, length of ICU stay and mortality rates were recorded. The clinical pulmonary infection scores (CPISs), C-reactive protein (CRP) values, and the fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) and positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) values of the groups were compared at baseline, and at hours 48, 72 and 96. Results In Group I, CPIS values significantly higher than Group II in 48th, 72nd and 96th hours (p

The scope of this investigation is to compare the coefficient of consolidation (cv) values defined by the Taylor’s Square Root of Time Fitting Method, which is obtained from the conventional oedometer tests, with the cv values calculated by Terzaghi’s One Dimensional (1D) Consolidation Theory, which is obtained from the permeability-consolidation tests performed with a combined apparatus specifically designed for this study. In addition, an empirical relation is developed to determine cv using the coefficient of permeability (k) and index properties of the soils. The cv values obtained from the permeability-consolidation tests using the combined apparatus were found to be larger than the cv values defined by the Taylor’s method, which is one of the oedometer tests. The findings showed that the difference was more prominent in the soil samples with a high plasticity. It was also found that the cv calculated by the Taylor’s method exhibited a distribution in a wide range with the increased load depending on the degree of plasticity of the soil. The cv obtained from the combined apparatus it decreased with low load values and increased with higher load levels. The cv obtained by the proposed empirical relationship showed good agreement with the cv defined by permeability-consolidation relationships.

Many organs and cells have complex tree-like morphologies, but how these patterns emerge during development from global guidance cues and local self-organization remains unclear. Here, the authors develop a theory for the influence of both factors and test it on neuronal branching data.

Background. The results of the effects of the physiological and psychological effects of the Covid-19 Pandemic on volleyball players at elite level are needed. Therefore, such a study was planned. Methods. A total of 144 female volleyball players, whose average age is 28.5 ± 5.1 years and who play in the Turkish Volleyball Women’s Super League teams, voluntarily participated in the study. The data in the study were obtained by applying the Healthy Living Behavior scale and the Health Anxiety scale by filling in an online questionnaire. Data were evaluated in SPSS. Results. As a result of the analysis; The mean scores of the sub-dimensions of the Healthy Life Behavior Scale of the participants were respectively: Health responsibility average 21.2±3.6; Physical activity average 21.2±4.4; Nutrition average 24.4±5.6; Spiritual Development average 26.5±4.4; Interpersonal Relations average 25.6±. The mean of Stress Management was found to be 4.4 and 20.8±3.5. In the Health Anxiety Scale, the mean total anxiety score was found to be 32.3±6.4. It was determined that the sub-dimensions of the Healthy Living Behavior Scale differed significantly among the participants according to monthly income and education level, while the Health Anxiety Scale did not create a significant difference in both variables. Conclusions. According to the study findings, since the findings of the scale are positive, it may be possible to leave more reliable information for future studies if similar study findings are increased and compared. Keywords: volleyball, Covid-19, health, anxiety.

The effect of increased body mass index (BMI) on the short- and long-term outcomes of laparoscopic distal gastrectomy (LDG) is controversial. We aimed to evaluate the influence of BMI on intraoperative and early postoperative outcomes in patients with LDG for gastric cancer (GC). Eighty-six patients who underwent LDG for GC were included in this study retrospectively. The patients were divided into two groups as normal weighted (BMI=18.5-24.9 kg/m2, n=29) and overweighted-obese (BMI≥25 kg/m2, n=57). Preoperative and intraoperative data, postoperative outcomes were retrospectively analyzed and compared between the two groups. The preoperative data were similar between the groups. The rate of the history of previous abdominal surgery (19.3% to 3.4%, p=0.05) and the median preoperative carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels (1.7 ng/ml to 1 ng/ml, p=0.06) were higher in the overweighted-obese group but the differences were not significant. There were no significant differences in intraoperative data and early postoperative outcomes between the groups but the rate of postoperative serious complications (12.3% to 6.9%, p=0.71), the reoperation rate (10.5% to 6.9%, p=0.71), and 90-day-mortality rate (5.3% to 0%, p=0.5) were higher in the overweighted-obese group. Although the rates of postoperative serious complications, reoperation, and mortality were higher in the overweighted-obese patients, BMI had no significant effect on intraoperative and early postoperative outcomes in patients who underwent LDG for GC. LDG for GC is a feasible and safe approach for overweighted-obese patients. [Med-Science 2021; 10(3.000): 877-80]

Piroplasms infections are tick-borne diseases caused by haemoparasite of the genus Theileria or Babesia. They have a great impact on livestock production, especially cattle in sub-Saharan countries. However, data on the prevalence of bovine piroplasms and their genetic diversity are scanty in Cameroon. This study was aimed at highlight the species composition and determine the prevalence of piroplasms infecting cattle in the Western Highlands of Cameroon. To achieve this aim, blood samples from a total of 162 cattle were collected and examined using Reverse Line Blot hybridization (RLB) assay. The amplified hypervariable V4 region of the 18S rRNA gene of bovine piroplasms species, including Theileria parva, T. annulata, T mutans, T. velifera, T. buffeli/T. orientalis, T. taurotragi, Theileria sp (buffalo), Babesia bovis, B. bigemina, B. divergens, B. major and B. occultans was hybridized against species-specific probes. RLB hybridization assay revealed the presence of four piroplasms species with the overall prevalence of infection of 82.1%. Theileria velifera (71.6%) was the most prevalent species followed by Theileria mutans (43.21%), Theileria buffeli/T. orientalis (5.55%) and Babesia bigemina (3.7%). However, the study provided the first molecular evidence for the presence of T. buffeli/T. orientalis group species in cattle in Cameroon. Higher overall prevalence of infection of tick-borne pathogens was observed in this study area as well as the increase in prevalence and widespread of T. velifera and the observance of a new species of piroplasms. These results are an indication that special attention should be given to epizootiological investigations alongside well-adopted control programs.

Objective: Primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an acquired autoimmune disease characterized by isolated thrombocytopenia. While first-line treatments focus on inhibiting autoantibodies and platelet destruction, second- and third-line treatments include splenectomy and thrombopoietin receptor agonists. In this study, we aimed to compare the efficiency and toxicities of splenectomy and eltrombopag as second-line treatments in ITP. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed patients who were diagnosed with ITP and followed between 2015 and 2020. Patients who underwent splenectomy or received eltrombopag treatment as second-line or further therapy were included. For subgroup analyses, patients were further stratified according to whether they received eltrombopag in the second or third line of treatment. Results: There were 38 patients in the splenectomy group and 47 patients in the eltrombopag group. The mean age of patients in the splenectomy and eltrombopag groups was 43.2 and 50.5 years, respectively. Time to response was significantly shorter in the splenectomy arm (p=0.001). However, response rates at the 3rd, 6th, 12th, and 24th months did not exhibit a statistically significant difference between groups; nor did total duration of response and adverse events. Response rates at the 1st, 3rd, 6th, 12th, and 24th months and the total duration of response did not exhibit a statistically significant difference between eltrombopag subgroups. Eltrombopag treatment was ceased for 20 patients after a median of 54.1 months (range: 1-151). Among them, 12 patients (60%) did not experience a loss of response. Conclusion: Comparing the splenectomy and eltrombopag arms, even though time to achieve response was in favor of the splenectomy group, this advantage disappeared when overall response rates and response rate at the 2nd year were considered. Using eltrombopag in the second or third line of therapy does not yield any difference in terms of time to achieving response.

İş Sağlığı ve Güvenliği terimlerinin risk faktörü ölçümleri ile tanımlanması şirketler için daha önemli hale gelmektedir. İş kazaları ve meslek hastalıkları ile ilgili verilerinin toplanması, bazı sektörlerdeki koşulları değerlendirmek için ilk adımdır. 6331 sayılı İş Sağlığı ve Güvenliği Kanunu’na göre iş güvenliği açısından işverenin risk değerlendirmesi yapma zorunluluğu bulunmaktadır. Bu kapsamda özellikle fiziksel ve kimyasal risk etmenlerinin ölçümü yapılmadan riskin değerlendirilmesini yapmak mümkün değildir. Dolayısı ile bir firmada öncelikli olarak ortam ölçüm çalışmaları yapılması gerekmektedir. Bu çalışmada tekstil sektörleri seçilmiştir. Fiziksel risk etmenlerinin ölçümleri İstanbul’da bulunan iki adet tekstil firmasında yapılmıştır. Bu ölçümlerin sonuçları şirket bazında karşılaştırılmıştır. Sonuçlara dayanarak, şirketlere işyeri ortamı için iyileştirme önerileri sunulmuştur. İki tekstil firmasında toplam 14 aydınlatma ölçümü, 6 termal konfor ölçümü ve 6 kişisel gürültü ölçümü gerçekleştirilmiştir. Tekstil şirketlerindeki ölçümler, bu firmaların çalışma ortamlarının yönetmeliklere ve standartlara uygun olduğunu göstermiştir. Fakat bazı değerler standartlarda istenen değerlere çok yakın çıkmıştır. Bu nedenle, bu sorunların giderilmesine yönelik önlemler ile ilgili öneriler sorumlu taraflara belirtilmiştir.

Granulomatous skin disorders are a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by granuloma formation on histopathology. They may be triggered by various stimuli, including infectious and non-infectious stimuli (foreign bodies, malignancy, metabolites, and chemicals), of different etiological origins. Although pathophysiological mechanisms are still poorly understood, infectious granuloma formation may occur if the patient’s immune system could not eliminate an agent. Clinically, localized or disseminated infectious granuloma formation can be related to the infectious agent’s pathogenicity or the patient’s immunity. Typical infectious agents causing infectious granulomatous reactions are mycobacteria, fungal infections, or parasites, such as leishmaniasis. This review aims to summarize granulomatous skin diseases encountered more frequently in our clinical experience because of infectious causes.

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by skin and joint involvement. The disease may present with various joint pattern involvement, which sometimes may lead to joint destruction and deformity. Early diagnosis and treatment with disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs may prevent joint deformity. Recently there are many new treatment options including biologic drugs. Ustekinumab, an interleukin 12/23 inhibitor, has proven efficacy in the treatment of psoriatic arthritis. Like other biologic drugs (anti-TNF-), there are contradictory data about the safety of ustekinumab and possible relationship with cancer development. Herein we report the development of chronic lymphocytic leukemia in a patient with PsA treated with ustekinumab.

Anaplasma ovis is a tick-borne obligated intraerythrocytic bacterium that infects domestic sheep, goats, and wild ruminants. Recently, several studies have been carried out using 16S rRNA and msp4 genes to identify the genetic diversity of A. ovis. Instead of these genes, which are known to be highly stable among heterologous strains, Msp1a, which is accepted as a stable molecular marker to classify A. marginale strains, was used in A. ovis genetic diversity studies. The genetic diversity of A. ovis strains according to the Msp1a gene has not been extensively reported. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the genetic diversity of A. ovis in goats specifically using analysis of the Msp1a gene. Blood samples were taken from the vena jugularis to the EDTA tubes from 293 randomly selected goats (apparently healthy) in the Antalya and Mersin provinces of Mediterranean region of Türkiye. The Msp1a gene of A. ovis was amplified in all DNA samples through the use of PCR, using a specific set of primers named AoMsp1aF and AoMsp1aR. Among the amplified products, well-defined bands with different band sizes were subjected to sequence analysis. The obtained sequence data were converted into amino acid sequences using an online bioinformatics program and the tandem regions were examined. The Msp1a gene of A. ovis was amplified in 46.1% (135 out of 293) of the goats. Through tandem analysis, five distinct tandems (Ao8, Ao18, Tr15-16-17) were identified, and it was found that three of these tandems (Tr15-16-17) were previously unknown and were therefore defined as new tandems. The study also involved examination of ticks from goats. It was observed that the goats in the area were infested with several tick species, including Rhipicephalus bursa (888/1091, 81.4%), R. turanicus (96/1091, 8.8%), Dermacentor raskemensis (92/1091, 8.4%), Hyalomma marginatum (9/1091, 0.8%), and R. sanguineus s.l. (6/1091, 0.5%). This study provides important data for understanding the genetic diversity and evolution of A. ovis based on tandem repeats in the Msp1a protein.

Small ruminant piroplasmosis is the hemoparasitic infection of sheep and goats caused by Babesia and Theileria species responsible for clinical infections with high mortality outcomes. The disease is transmitted by ixodid ticks and prevalent in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world, including Türkiye. A prevalence survey, using molecular methods, is conducted in this study to determine the frequency of newly defined Babesia aktasi n. sp. and other tick-borne piroplasm species in small ruminants in Turkiye. A total of 640 blood samples from sheep (n = 137) and goats (n = 503) were analyzed by nested PCR-based reverse line blot (RLB) hybridization. The results show that 32.3% (207/640) of apparently healthy, small ruminants are infected with three Theileria and two Babesia species. Babesia aktasi n. sp. was the most prevalent species in goats, with 22.5% of samples being positive, followed by B. ovis (4%), T. ovis (2.8%), T. annulata (2.6%), and Theileria sp. (0.6%). None of the sheep samples were positive for Babesia aktasi n. sp.; however, 51.8% were infected with T. ovis. In conclusion, the findings reveal that B. aktasi n. sp. is highly prevalent in goats, but absent in sheep. In future studies, experimental infections will determine whether B. aktasi n. sp. is infectious to sheep, as well as its pathogenicity in small ruminants.

This study aims to determine the differences in the attention levels of the deprivation status of the participants who are smoking and deprived by the researcher. In this research, there are 45 university students between the ages of 20-25 (53.3% female, 46.7% male) who were chosen by purposive sampling and continuing their undergraduate education at Aydın Adnan Menderes University. Fagerström Nicotine Dependence Test, Nicotine Stroop Task, d2 Attention Test and N-Back Task were used in the study. The participants of the study consisted of 2 groups who were changed by nicotine deprivation by the researcher. Participants were shown two lists of words, individually related to smoking and not related to smoking. Then, to determine selective and sustainable attention, the d2 attention test was measured. Finally, the n-Back Task was assigned to the participants to determine the level of divided attention. In the n-Back task, the participant was expected to pay attention to visual and auditory stimuli at the same time and press the keys determined by the researcher when he/she detected the same stimulus consecutively. Independent samples t-test was used to evaluate the data using the Last Factor Repeated ANOVA. In the findings of the research; it was found that the deprived participants had lower sustained attention performance than the smokers (p

With silage technology, roughages can be stored fresh for a long time, so the need for quality roughages of animals can be met all year round. The aim of the current study was to determine the silage quality of sole, binary (50%+50%) and ternary mixtures (40%+30%+30%) of chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) “C” with perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) "PR", orchard grass (Dactylis glomerata L.) “OG”, white clover (Trifolium repens L) “WC”, red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) "RC", alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) "A", and birdsfood trefoil (Lotus corniculatus L.) "BT". After the plants were harvested, they were cut into 2 cm in size and filled in vacuum bags, and stored at 25 ± 2 oC for 45 days. In the study, at the end of the 45th day, the dry matter ratio, pH, crude protein (CP) ratio, crude ash ratio, acid detergent insoluble fiber (ADF), neutral detergent insoluble fiber (NDF), lactic acid (LA), acetic acid, butyric acid, lactic acid/acetic acid ratio, and potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, sodium, iron, manganese, zinc, copper and molybdenum contents were determined and the Flieg score (FS) was calculated. The highest FS were determined in 50C%+50WC% (97.72), sole white clover (92.95), 50C%+50BT% (91.15), sole chicory (91.09), sole birdsfood trefoil (90.28), and in 40C%+30PR%+30WC% (90.20). The crude protein, ADF, and NDF ratio ranged between 11.82 -19.22%, 19.27-34.15%, and 25.29-57.64%, respectively. The highest lactic acid was determined in 40C%+30PR%+30WC% (2.952%), sole white clover (2.694%), and in 50C%+50WC% (2.548%). Chicory and white clover mixtures showed superior performance in terms of mineral contents. According to the quality properties and mineral contents, it was determined that the sole chicory and sole white clover with 50C%+50WC%, 50C%+50BT%, and 40C%+30PR%+30WC% mixtures were better than other silage.