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The synthesis of fatty acids plays a critical role in shaping milk production characteristics in dairy cattle. Thus, identifying effective haplotypes within the fatty acid metabolism pathway will provide novel and robust insights into the genetics of dairy cattle. This study aimed to comprehensively examine the individual and combined impacts of fundamental genes within the fatty acid metabolic process pathway in Jersey cows. A comprehensive phenotypic dataset was compiled, considering milk production traits, to summarize a cow’s productivity across three lactations. Genotyping was conducted through PCR-RFLP and Sanger sequencing, while the association between genotype and phenotype was quantified using linear mixed models. Moderate biodiversity and abundant variation suitable for haplotype analysis were observed across all examined markers. The individual effects of the FABP3, LTF and ANXA9 genes significantly influenced both milk yield and milk fat production. Additionally, this study reveals novel two-way interactions between genes in the fatty acid metabolism pathway that directly affect milk fat properties. Notably, we identified that the GGAAGG haplotype in FABP3×LTF×ANXA9 interaction may be a robust genetic marker concerning both milk fat yield and percentage. Consequently, the genotype combinations highlighted in this study serve as novel and efficient markers for assessing the fat content in cow’s milk.

Background and Objectives: Obesity is a major health issue linked to conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. Infectobesity suggests that certain microorganisms may contribute to obesity. Human adenovirus serotypes, particularly Human adenovirus type-36 (HAdV-36), Human adenovirus type-5 (HAdV-5), and Human adenovirus type-37 (HAdV-37), are thought to influence body fat regulation. This study investigates the relationship between Immunoglobulin G (IgG) positivity for HAdV-5 and HAdV-37 and obesity, aiming to provide data on the infectious etiology of obesity. Materials and Methods: Blood samples separated into serums from obese (BMI ≥30) and non-obese (BMI 18.5-25) individuals were tested for HAdV-5 and HAdV-37 seropositivity using ELISA kits and seropositivity rates between the groups were compared. Results: HAdV-37 antibody positivity was significantly higher in obese patients (39/48) compared to the control group (24/42) (p=0.011). For HAdV-5, antibody positivity was similar in both groups (26 individuals each) with no significant difference (p=0.461). No significant gender-related differences were found for either serotype. Conclusion: The study suggests HAdV-37 may be associated with obesity, while no such relationship was found for HAdV-5. There was no gender association for either serotype. These results align with existing literature on HAdV-37, but further research is needed to confirm the link between adenoviruses and obesity and explore potential treatment options.

Abstract Background Fowl adenovirus-4 is a causative agent of hydropericardium hepatitis syndrome (HHS) in chickens and has been frequently reported from many countries. Fowl adenoviruses cause severe disease and mortality in broiler and layer breeders in Azerbaijan. Therefore, in this study, pathological lesions and the dissemination of fowl adenovirus-4 into the visceral organs of infected birds were investigated as well as molecular characterisation of detected strains. For this, liver, heart and spleen from 20 necropsied chickens originated from a broiler breeder flock and a layer breeder flock were embeded on the FTA cards and the samples were analysed for adenovirus-DNA by PCR and sequencing. Results The findings of necropsy in both broiler and layer breeder chickens were similar, and the liver was severely effected showing hepatitis, and the heart with hydropericardium lesions. The kidneys were swollen with haemorrhages and small white foci on the surface of the spleens were noted. Intestinal congestion and ecchymotic hemorrhages were also observed in some birds. Fowl adenovirus-4-DNA was detected by PCR in all collected organs of 20 birds. The sequence analysis revealed that fowl adenovirus-4 present in Azerbaijan and close similarity of the hexon genes of the adenoviruses existing in the Middle East, North America, far east and Indian subcontinent were determined by phylogenetic analysis. However, sequence diversity was detected from the adenovirus strains circulating in Europe, North and South America. Conclusions This study indicates the impact of fowl adenovirus-4 on the poultry health and production, and improved disease control and prevention strategies are necessary to reduce the HHS disease in chickens in Azerbaijan.

BackgroundA major public health hazard is youth e-cigarette use. Although new, e-cigarette health hazards are becoming well-known in the literature. E-cigarette sale restrictions and laws differ globally. In this cross-sectional study, we studied medical university students’ tobacco and e-cigarette use and characteristics in a country where sales and import of e-cigarettes are banned. The primary objective is to determine the prevalence of electronic cigarette use and understand consumption patterns among medical faculty students in this setting.Materials and methodsThe questionnaire was sent using a web-based student information system. Sociodemographic features, tobacco and e-cigarette use, consumption patterns, and e-cigarette risk perceptions were covered in 54 questions.ResultsThe study comprised 1,054 students (48.7% male) aged 21.5 ± 2.6 years who completed the questionnaire. 37.7%, 20.9% and 23.6% have smoked cigarettes, e-cigarettes, or water pipes. Current cigarette smokers were 17.0%, e-cigarette users 4.0%, and water pipe smokers 4.5%. E-cigarette users were 52.3% dual smokers. The most common symptoms reported by e-cigarette users were cough (58.4%) and dyspnea (54.2%). Multivariable models showed that the male sex, greater monthly income, and a current smoker friend were independent risk factors for e-cigarette ever use, while the male sex, paternal current smoking, and close friends’ current smoking status were risk factors for dual use among medical trainees. Many medical students who used electronic cigarettes underestimated nicotine’s health hazards and harmful chemicals in e-cigarettes. Despite e-cigarette sales being prohibited in our country, 56.4% and 25.4% of e-cigarette users provided e-cigarettes from tobacco shops and through online sales, respectively.ConclusionMedical university students use tobacco most often by smoking cigarettes. Despite medical university students being aware of the health hazards of e-cigarettes, the current use of electronic cigarettes is 4.0%. Male sex, greater monthly income, and having current smoker friends are independent risk factors for e-cigarette use, while paternal smoking is a risk factor for dual use among medical trainees. Although in the country, sales of e-cigarettes are banned, ever-use rates for e-cigarettes were remarkably high at 20.9%, and the ease of accessing e-cigarettes was striking.

Abstract Suspicious architectural distortion is an elusive finding in breast cancer diagnosis. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the Kaiser score for suspicious architectural distortions observed on mammography and compare it with the BI-RADS score of the lesion. Mammograms performed between January 2013 and March 2023 were retrospectively analyzed for the presence of suspicious architectural distortion. Forty-one patients, who had at least 1 year of radiological follow-up or pathology results, and underwent breast MRI, were included in the study. Mammography findings and the BI-RADS category of the lesion were assessed. MRI findings were evaluated and Kaiser scoring was performed according to the tree flowchart. Ninety-one percent of the enhanced lesions had a Kaiser score of 5 and above. In the diagnosis of malignancy, the Kaiser score yielded an accuracy of 75.61% (AUC 0.833). A statistically significant correlation was observed indicating that a malignant diagnosis was more prevalent in patients with a Kaiser score of 5 and above (p

The present study focused on evaluating the effects of beef marination on quality traits and consumer acceptability. In this context, m. longissimus thoracis et lumborum and m. semimembranosus samples (n = 192) were obtained from Aberdeen Angus, Hereford, Charolais, and Limousine bulls and were marinated with milk (pasteurized, 100%), garlic and olive oil (2.35 g/500 mL), and lemon (citrus) juice (31% orange juice, 31% lemon juice, 38% distilled water) for 12, 24, and 72 h. Marinade components were selected based on traditional culinary practices and their scientifically proven effects on meat quality. Beef samples on day 0 and non-marinated samples were used as control groups. Beef color, water holding capacity, pH, cooking loss, and Warner–Bratzler shear force were measured three times for each sample. A taste panel assessment was performed to determine the sensory characteristics. Statistical analysis was performed using general linear model (GLM) procedures followed by Tukey’s post-hoc comparison. Results revealed that marination time, as well as its two- and three-way interactions, significantly influenced beef quality parameters. These results indicate that the cattle breed is an important factor in evaluating the effectiveness of beef marination applications. The olive oil−garlic marinade was the most preferred by the panel across both types of muscle, as indicated by sensory evaluation results. The findings will not only enrich the scientific literature but also have practical implications for the beef industry.

Objective:Tumour regression is defined as continuity of changes leading to the elimination of a neoplastic population and is reflected as periductal fibrosis and intraductal tumour attenuation. The aim of this study was to describe the radiological and clinicopathological characteristics of high-grade breast ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) with regressive changes (RC).Materials and Methods:Thirty-two cases of high-grade DCIS with RC on biopsy specimens followed by excision were included. The mammographic, ultrasonographic (US), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of cases were retrospectively reviewed according to the breast imaging reporting and data system (BI-RADS) lexicon. Clinical and histopathological findings [comedonecrosis, estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) status and Ki-67 proliferation index] were recorded. The rate of upgrade to invasive cancer after surgical excision and lymph node involvement were evaluated.Results:The most common mammographic finding was microcalcifications alone (68.8%). The most frequently seen findings on US were microcalcifications only (21.9%), followed by microcalcifications and hypoechoic area (18.7%). On MRI, most lesions presented as clumped non-mass enhancement with segmental distribution. ER/PR negativity (53.1%, 65.6%), HER2 positivity (56.3%) and high Ki-67 (62.5%), which are known to be associated with more aggressive behavior, were found to be proportionally higher. The rate of upgrade to invasive cancer was 21.8%.Conclusion:DCIS with RC lesions present most often as microcalcifications alone on both mammography and US. MRI features are not distinguishable from those of other DCIS lesions. DCIS with RC lesions show biomarker status reflecting more aggressive behavior and high upgrade rate to invasive cancer.

Bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) is one of the most important respiratory pathogens of cattle. In this study, frequency of infection, analysis of variants, and the immune status of vaccinated and non-vaccinated cattle were studied. Blood (n = 162) and nasal/oropharyngeal (n = 277) swabs were collected from 62 cattle herds in Turkey. Lung samples (n = 37) were also taken from dead animals and abattoirs. Antibodies to BRSV were detected in 76 (46%) out of 162 sera. The antibody levels in the vaccinated and non-vaccinated groups were statistically significant. Among 277 nasal/oropharyngeal swabs and 37 lungs, ten nasal/oropharyngeal and four lung samples were positive for BRSV-RNA. BRSV-G gene sequences of 5 out of 14 RT-PCR positive samples showed that all viruses clustered as Group-III in phylogenetic analysis with 88–100% homology. Similarity with previous Turkish BRSVs was 89–98%, and that with BRSVs detected in the USA and Czechia was 89.47–93.12%. BRSV continues to circulate in Turkish cattle, and vaccination seems beneficial in preventing BRSV. The diversity of the BRSVs found in this study needs be considered in vaccination strategies.

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.

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

In this study, three cooking methods (baking, boiling, sous vide (SV)) were applied to Turkish sweet potatoes with three flesh colors (white, orange, purple) to examine the effects of the product color and cooking methods on the total phenolics, antioxidant activity, sugars, phenolic acids, and anthocyanins. LC-MS-MS was employed in the characterization of these compounds. It was observed that the product color and cooking method significantly affected the concentrations of bioactive compounds like polyphenols. Both the highest total phenolic content (11.36 mg/g) and antioxidant activity (DPPH (50.3 μM TE/g) and ABTS (63.53 μM TE/g)) were determined in the purple sweet potato cooked with the SV method. 10 phenolic acids were quantified in all samples which were in the highest amounts in the orange colored samples followed by the purple samples. Baking resulted in the highest total phenolic acids in all samples. 13 anthocyanins were detected in the purple-colored samples, while the SV cooking best preserved the anthocyanins. In sum, purple sweet potatoes cooked by SV are recommended for higher phenolic contents, antioxidant capacity and anthocyanins.

Introduction: Numerous studies suggest that alterations in blood parameters, such as changes in platelet, lymphocyte, hemoglobin, eosinophil, and basophil counts; increased neutrophil counts; and elevated neutrophil/lymphocyte and platelet/lymphocyte ratios, signal COVID-19 infection and predict worse outcomes. Leveraging these insights, our study seeks to create a predictive mortality model by assessing age and crucial laboratory markers. Materials and Methods: Patients were categorized into two groups based on their hospital outcomes: 130 survivors who recovered from their Intensive Care Unit (ICU) stay (Group 1) and 74 who died (Group 2). We then developed a predictive mortality model using patients’ age, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), procalcitonin levels, and ferritin lactate (FL) index results. Results: A total of 204 patients were included. Patients in Group 2 had a notably higher mean age compared to those in Group 1 (76 ± 11 vs. 66 ± 15 years) (p < 0.001). Using specific cut-off values, our analysis revealed varying effectiveness in predicting COVID-19 mortality: Those aged over 73 years showed 74% sensitivity and 60% specificity, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.701. Procalcitonin levels above 0.35 ng/mL balanced true-positive and -negative identifications well, achieving an AUC of 0.752. The FL index, with a threshold of 1228 mg/dL, had 68% sensitivity and 65% specificity with an AUC of 0.707. A PLR higher than 212 resulted in 48% sensitivity and 69% specificity, with an AUC of 0.582. An NLR higher than 5.8 resulted in 55% sensitivity and 63% specificity, with an AUC of 0.640, showcasing diverse predictive accuracies across parameters. The statistical analysis evaluated the effects of age (>73), procalcitonin levels (>0.35), FL > 1228, PLR > 212, and NLR > 5.8 on mortality variables using logistic regression. Ages over 73 significantly increased event odds by 2.1 times (p = 0.05), procalcitonin levels above 0.35 nearly quintupled the odds (OR = 5.6, p < 0.001), high FL index levels more than tripled the odds (OR = 3.5, p = 0.003), a PLR > 212 significantly increased event odds by 3.5 (p = 0.030), and an NLR > 5.8 significantly increased event odds by 1.6 (p = 0.043). Conclusions: Our study highlights significant predictors of mortality in COVID-19 ICU patients, including advanced age, elevated procalcitonin, FL index levels, the PLR, and the NLR.

In the original publication [...]

Guayusa tea is derived from the leaves of the Ilex guayusa Loes. plant, which is native to the Amazon rainforest. Beyond its pleasant sensory properties, Guayusa tea is rich in antioxidants, phenolics, and minerals. In this study, the effects of infusion time, temperature, and solvent conditions on the color, antioxidant capacity, total phenolic content, phenolic profile, and antimicrobial activity of Guayusa (Ilex guayusa Loes.) tea were investigated. Guayusa tea samples were prepared using two different solvents, ethanol and water, with 4, 6, and 8-h infusions at 60 and 70 °C. Liquid chromatography, diode array detection, and electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS) were used to determine a comprehensive profile of phenolic compounds and to detect differences due to infusion conditions. Moreover, after the Guayusa tea infusion with the highest bioactive properties was determined, the effects of in vitro gastrointestinal digestion on the total phenolic content, antioxidant capacity, and phenolic compounds of the Guayusa tea infusion were measured. Phenolic profile analysis identified 29 compounds, among which chlorogenic acid and its derivatives were predominant. The increase in infusion time was correlated with an elevation in total phenolic content. Significant differences were observed between water and ethanol infusions of Guayusa in terms of phenolics and antioxidants. The total amount of phenolic compounds in the samples prepared with both solvents was found to increase after oral intake, depending on the digestion stage; meanwhile, the amounts of flavonoid compounds and di-O-caffeoylquinic acid derivatives decreased during digestion.

Introduction: More than half of all worldwide deaths and disabilities were caused by stroke. Large artery atherosclerosis is identified as a high etiological risk factor because it accounts for 20% of ischemic stroke. Objectives: To identify the significance of TRAIL and adropin release and the relative changes related to S100B levels, as well as the relationship between these biomarkers and the final infarct core, the clinical outcome, and the presence of large artery atherosclerosis in acute stroke patients. Materials and methods: Over a one-year period, demographic, clinical, and neuroimaging findings of 90 consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke were evaluated. Results: The mean age of participants was 69.28 ± 10 and 39 patients were female. The increased level of S100B and the decreased levels of sTRAIL with adropin were significantly associated with moderate to severe neurologic presentation (p=0.0001, p=0.002, p=0.002, respectively). On the control CT, a large infarct core was significantly associated with decreased serum levels of sTRAIL and adropin (p=0.001 and p=0.000, respectively); however, the levels of S100B were not significantly associated with good ASPECTS score (p=0.684). Disability and an unfavorable outcome were significantly related to the decreased level of sTRAIL and adropin (p=0.001 and p=0.000 for THRIVE score>5, respectively). Decreased sTRAIL and adropin levels and an increased S100B level were correlated with the presence of large artery atherosclerotic etiologic factors (p=0.000, p=0.000, p=0.036, respectively). Conclusion: TRAIL and adropin serum levels were associated with poor clinical outcomes and greater infarcted area in acute ischemic stroke patients.

Bu çalışmada, eş merkezli iç içe borulu ısı değiştiricisinde zıt ve paralel yönlü akışlarda sıcak akışkanın kütlesel debisi sabit olup, soğuk akışkanın kütlesel debisinin artmasının ısı transferine olan etkisi ve iç borunun iç yüzeyine yerleştirilen dairesel engellerin ısı transferine olan etkileri incelenmiştir. Reynolds sayısı 808-1935 aralığında değişmektedir. Enerji denklemleri Simple algoritması kullanılarak çözülmüş ve yapılan sayısal çalışmalarda ANSYS Fluent programı kullanılmıştır. İç içe borulu ısı değiştiricisinde zıt ve paralel yönlü akışlarda analizi yapılan sınır şartları için etkenlik değerinin yaklaşık 0,41 ila 0,48 arasında değiştiği gözlemlenmiştir. İçteki boruda dairesel engel kullanımı ile ısı transferinin %44,17 oranında iyileştirilebileceği gözlemlenmiştir.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to provide the dosimetric evaluation of the compound therapeutic concept of hippocampal avoidance for the whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT) with a simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) in patients with multiple brain metastases more than 3. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ten patients with multiple brain metastases previously treated with conventional WBRT followed by SIB on Radixact Tomotherapy Unit were selected. The whole-brain (WB) clinical target volume was generated by contouring the WB and excluding the hippocampal avoidance structure for the sake of WBRT while plan optimization of both approaches was performed with the aim of delivering 95% of the WB and receiving the prescription dose of 30 Gy; in addition, planning target volumes (PTVs) were given 45 Gy using SIB technique in 10 fractions. Dmax ≤16 Gy and D100% ≤9 Gy for hippocampi and V37 Gy for the WB-PTVs were evaluated in this study as well. RESULTS: The D95% was 44.8 ± 0.15 Gy in helical tomotherapy (HT) which was calculated as 44.9 ± 0.11 Gy in volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) plan. The volume receiving 37 Gy for brain-PTV was 3% ± 0.55% in HT and 10% ± 1.55% in the VMAT plan. The D2% and D100% values of hippocampi were calculated

Ocrelizumab, a novel member of disease-modifying therapies for multiple sclerosis (MS), is a humanised monoclonal antibody against the CD20 molecule on the surface of B cells. Reports on possible effects of this molecule in MS therapy have attracted a lot attention since its approval in 2017. The authors present a 31-year-old female patient who was diagnosed with MS in 2008, with a concomitant disease of Type 1 diabetes (T1D). The patient’s MS treatment included interferon-β1a and fingolimod prior to ocrelizumab initiation in 2019. In regard to the patient’s T1D course, they had poor glycaemic control despite regular follow-ups and strict treatment plans. Subsequent to the commencement of ocrelizumab therapy, a significant improvement was observed in their glycaemic control. The authors’ case study aims to raise motivation for further investigation and studies to evaluate this unexpected potential impact of ocrelizumab on T1D control.

The purpose of this research is to examine the relationship between primary school students' school happiness and digital game addictions. The study group of this research, which was designed in the relational survey model, consists of 204 fourth-grade primary school students studying in the Pendik district of Istanbul. In the research, the "School Happiness Scale for Primary School Children" developed by Ozdemir et al. (2021) and "The Digital Game Addiction Scale" which was developed by Lemmens, Valkenburg & Peter (2009) and adapted into Turkish by Yalçin-Irmak & Erdogan (2015), and later whose validity and reliability analyzes were made for primary school children by Oral and Arabacioglu (2019) were used. According to the research findings, it was found that the students' school happiness was at a moderate level and their digital game addiction was at a high level. Students' school happiness levels and digital game addiction levels do not show significant differences according to their genders. Similarly, the digital game addiction levels of students do not differ statistically according to the gender of their teachers, but the school happiness levels of students with female teachers are statistically significantly higher than those with male teachers. On the other hand, while the digital game addiction levels of the students do not differ significantly according to the school success of the students, the school happiness levels of the students with medium school success are significantly higher than the students with low or very high school success. According to another finding obtained from the research, there is a negative, low, and significant relationship between students' school happiness levels and digital game addiction levels. As a result of the regression analysis, it was seen that school happiness was a significant predictor of digital game addiction. School happiness explains 3% of digital game addiction.

Abstract Background Newcastle disease viruses (NDVs) can spread across continents via migratory birds. Hence, we investigated the frequency of NDV in both non-migratory and birds migrating on the Black Sea-Mediterranean flyway, in Istanbul, Turkey. Birds were trapped using nets placed around the Kucukcekmece lake Avcilar, Istanbul, in spring seasons of 2016 and 2018. In total, 297 birds belonging to 42 different species were trapped, categorized according to species and sex, and flocked oropharyngeal swabs were collected. In addition, flocked swabs were also collected from 115 mallards caught by hunters around Edirne and from 207 birds which had been treated in the Veterinary Faculty of Istanbul university-Cerrahpasa. Tissue samples were taken from dead wild birds brought by public to Veterinary Faculty. A total of 619 flocked oropharyngeal swabs were pooled into 206 samples. RNA was extracted from swabs and tissue samples. Real-time RT-PCR prob. assay was used to detect NDV-RNA in samples. Results There was no amplification in real time RT-PCR in samples taken from wild birds caught by traps. However, amplification of NDV-F gene was observed in oropharyngeal swabs taken from 2 waterfowls (Common Moorhen and Mallard), and in tissue samples taken from 2 little owls and 1 common kestrel. Sequencing and phylogenetic analyses of these 5 samples for NDV-F gene showed great similarity with NDV subgenotype VII.2 viruses. Analysis also showed that there is a high similarity with the F gene sequences previously reported from Turkey in 2012 and as well as the sequences from neighbouring countries Bulgaria and Georgia and geographically close country such as Pakistan. Although the strains found in this study are closely related, there is a relatively small degree of molecular divergence within 543 bp of F gene of the Turkish NDV isolate and strains detected in Israel, Pakistan, Iran, United Arab Emirates and Belgium. Conclusions Our findings revealed the presence of subgenotype VII.2 of NDVs in wild birds in north west of Turkey and demonstrated some degree of molecular evolution when compared to the earlier NDV-VII.2 isolate in Turkey.

The development of chemoresistance is a major hurdle in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). Here, the authors show that lysyl oxidase (LOX) is overexpressed in chemoresistant TNBCs, and when inhibited reduces collagen cross-linking, fibronectin fibril assembly, and downstream integrin signalling, overcoming resistance.

Malicious software threats and their detection have been gaining importance as a subdomain of information security due to the expansion of ICT applications in daily settings. A major challenge in designing and developing anti-malware systems is the coverage of the detection, particularly the development of dynamic analysis methods that can detect polymorphic and metamorphic malware efficiently. In the present study, we propose a methodological framework for detecting malicious code by analyzing run trace outputs by Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM). We developed models of run traces of malicious and benign Portable Executable (PE) files. We created our dataset from run trace outputs obtained from dynamic analysis of PE files. The obtained dataset was in the instruction format as a sequence and was called Instruction as a Sequence Model (ISM). By splitting the first dataset into basic blocks, we obtained the second one called Basic Block as a Sequence Model (BSM). The experiments showed that the ISM achieved an accuracy of 87.51% and a false positive rate of 18.34%, while BSM achieved an accuracy of 99.26% and a false positive rate of 2.62%.

IntroductionIntravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) has been widely used to treat the hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN). Although it has been shown that IVIG treatment reduces the duration of phototherapy and hospitalization, the use of IVIG in hemolytic disease due to ABO incompatibility has been controversial in recent years. This study aimed to investigate the role of IVIG in the prevention of exchange transfusion in infants with ABO HDN who presented with bilirubin levels at or above the level of exchange transfusion.Materials and MethodsThis study evaluated the data of infants with ABO HDN in the Turkish Neonatal Jaundice Online Registry. The infants with ABO HDN who met the total serum bilirubin level inclusion criteria (within 2–3 mg/dL of exchange transfusion or even above exchange transfusion level) were included in the study according to the guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Turkish Neonatal Society. All patients were managed according to the unit protocols recommended by these guidelines and received light-emitting diode (LED) phototherapy. Infants who only received LED phototherapy, and who received one dose of IVIG with LED phototherapy were compared.ResultsDuring the study period, 531 term infants were included in the study according to inclusion criteria. There were 408 cases in the phototherapy-only group, and 123 cases in the IVIG group. The demographic findings and the mean bilirubin and reticulocyte levels at admission were similar between the groups (p > 0.05), whereas the mean hemoglobin level was slightly lower in the IVIG group (p = 0.037). The mean age at admission was earlier, the need for exchange transfusion was higher, and the duration of phototherapy was longer in the IVIG group (p < 0.001, p = 0.001, and p < 0.001, respectively). The rate of re-hospitalization and acute bilirubin encephalopathy (ABE) was higher in the IVIG group (p < 0.001 and p = 0.01, respectively).ConclusionIn this study, we determined that one dose of IVIG did not prevent an exchange transfusion nor decrease the duration of phototherapy in infants, who had bilirubin levels near or at exchange transfusion level, with hemolytic disease due to ABO incompatibility.

OBJECTIVE: Pemphigus vulgaris is an autoimmune blistering disease affecting the mucosal surfaces as well as the skin. Twenty-eight retrospective studies about the epidemiologic data of pemphigus vulgaris patients have been performed previously in the literature. METHODS: In this retrospective study, we evaluated 320 pemphigus vulgaris patients who applied to the bullous diseases clinic of Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Department of Dermatology, between the years 1999–2019. Epidemiologic data, diagnostic modalities, comorbidities and treatment modalities were noted. RESULTS: The female to male ratio was 1.39. The mean age of diagnosis was 50.4+-13.7 years, 50.8+-12.5 years for males and 50.0+-14.5 years for females. The average disease duration was 99.0+-74.4 months; it was 91.6+-67.2 months for males and 104.5+-79.0 months for females. At the time of diagnosis, 88.7% of our patients had mucosal lesions and 68.4% of our patients had cutaneous lesions. The most common side effects were hypertension, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis and hyperlipidemia. Adjuvant therapy was initiated 332 times. Azathioprine was used in 260 patients,Mycophenolate sodium was used in 30 patients, Mycophenolate mofetil was used in 42 patients, IVIG was used in 52 patients, Rituximab was used in 51 patients. CONCLUSION: Pemphigus vulgaris is a disease that is more commonly seen in female patients. It has a peak incidence in the fifth decade and there is not a statistically significant difference between the age of diagnosis between the genders. It is a chronic disease with a long follow-up period; again, there no statistically significant difference between the two genders. The most commonly encountered comorbidities are hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus and osteoporosis, which are due to the use of corticosteroids.

Background: Hepatitis B is an important public health problem as one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to compare the theoretical and practical knowledge levels of dental assistant students about Hepatitis B Virus.Methods: The 1st and 2nd grade students of the Oral and Dental Health program were invited to participate in the survey. Out of the 68 invited students, 61 completed the questionnaire. The average ages of the male and female students surveyed were 20.27±1.45 and 19.56±1.16, respectively. A total of 34 questions were asked, of which 15 measured basic theoretical knowledge and 19 assessed basic practical knowledge.Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the students’ knowledge for each question according to their sex and grade. When the questionnaire was grouped into basic theoretical and basic practical knowledge levels, both were observed to be high. While the lowest correct answer rate was 35.00% for the questions about practical applications, it was 31.14% for the questions measuring the level of theoretical knowledge. There was no statistically significant difference when the levels of knowledge of 1st and 2nd grade students were compared. Students answered the majority of the questions correctly, and ranged between 71% and 100%.Conclusion: Students’ high level of basic theoretical knowledge can be a result of their in-class education on the fundamentals. However, their knowledge about the correct approaches in practical applications indicates the beneficial role of having well-defined criteria and prevention protocols that are required in hospitals and the effectiveness of their environmental orientations.

Objectives: Parkinson's disease (PD) often presents with movement disorder. However, besides motor complaints, there are many complaints such as anxiety, depression, urinary complaints and constipation. The aim of this study was to investigate whether neurogenic lower urinary dysfunction (NLUD), which is frequently seen in PD, has an effect on the development of anxiety and depression in these patients. Materials and methods: The study included 32 males (66.6%) and 16 females (33.3%); in total 48 subjects were registered. For the diagnosis and severity of PD, the UK Parkinson's Disease Society Brain Bank Criteria, Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) and the Hoehn-Yahr scale were used. Urological evaluation was performed using history, physical examination, laboratory tests and standard forms such as IPSS and OAB-V8. Results: There was no difference between the genders in terms of duration, severity and NLUD (p > 0.05). The incidence of anxiety and depression in PD patients was 62.8% and 72.1%, respectively. The prevalence of NLUD was 67.4% and depression and anxiety was found to increase (1.06 and 1.28 times, respectively) in relation to NLUD. In particular, there was a relationship between storage lower urinary tract symptoms and anxiety and depression development (p < 0.05). Conclusions: As expected, it was found that the incidence of NLUD, anxiety and depression was increased in PD. In addition, NLUD was found to be a risk factor for the development of anxiety and depression. Therefore, it is concluded that NLUD, which can potentially cause important complications, as well as motor complaints, should be closely monitored and treated in PD patients.

(1) Background: The aim of this study was to produce in-house ELISAs which can be used to determine SARS-CoV-2-specific antibody levels directed against the spike protein (S), the S1 subunit of S and the receptor binding domain (RBD) of S in SARS-CoV-2 vaccinated and infected humans. (2) Methods: Three in-house ELISAs were developed by using recombinant proteins of SARS-CoV-2, namely the S, S1 and RBD proteins. Specificity and sensitivity evaluations of these tests were performed using sera from SARS-CoV-2-infected (n = 70) and SARS-CoV-2-vaccinated (n = 222; CoronaVac vaccine) humans in Istanbul, Turkey. The analyses for the presence of SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies were performed using the in-house ELISAs, a commercial ELISA (Abbott) and a commercial surrogate virus neutralization test (sVNT). We also analyzed archival human sera (n = 50) collected before the emergence of COVID-19 cases in Turkey. (3) Results: The sensitivity of the in-house S, S1 and RBD ELISAs was found to be 88.44, 90.17 and 95.38%, while the specificity was 72.27, 89.08 and 89.92%, respectively, when compared to the commercial SARS-CoV-2 antibody test kit. The area under curve (AUC) values were 0.777 for the in-house S ELISA, 0.926 for the S1 ELISA, and 0.959 for the RBD ELISA. The kappa values were 0.62, 0.79 and 0.86 for the S, S1 and RBD ELISAs, respectively. (4) Conclusions: The in-house S1 and RBD ELISAs developed in this study have acceptable performance characteristics in terms of sensitivity, specificity, AUC and kappa values. In particular, the RBD ELISA seems viable to determine SARS-CoV-2-specific antibody levels, both in infected and vaccinated people, and help mitigate SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks and spread.

Background: Approximately 25% of congenital heart diseases (CHD) are estimated to be critical and require an intervention. In this study, we aimed to investigate the additional value of peripheral perfusion index (PPI) measurements to pulse oximetry screening for critical CHD (CCHD). Methods: Infants born at Ege University Hospital between May 2013 and September 2015 were prospectively included in the study. In addition to physical examination, pre- and postductal oxygen saturations and PPI values were measured with a new generation pulse oximeter before discharge from the hospital. Results: A total of 3175 newborns (33 with an antenatal diagnosis of CCHD) were included in the study. With the combination of physical examination, pulse oximetry screening and peripheral perfusion index (PPI) measurements, all newborns with CCHD were detected in our study including three infants without an antenatal diagnosis in whom pulse oximetry screening was negative. Conclusion: PPI measurements may be valuable for early detection of obstructive left heart lesions where pulse oximetry screening has limitations in diagnosis. Key Words: congenital heart disease, perfusion index, pulse oximetry, screening

Introduction: In this study, we aimed to characterize the effect of methylation on clinical diversity and gene expression levels in familial Mediterranean fever. Materials and Methods: Forty children, who were diagnosed with FMF according to the Tel-Hashomer criteria, were included in the study. The control group consisted of 32 healthy children. Demographic data, results of molecular studies, physical examination findings, number of attacks, response to treatment were recorded. To test the possibility that methylation is responsible for different phenotypic reflections of mutations, we classified FMF patients with respect to MEFV mutations and studied the differences of MEFV mRNA, pyrin and methylation levels between different subgroups. Results: MEFV mRNA expression levels were significantly lower in FMF patients, compared to control subjects (P = 0.049). Consistent with this observation, pyrin levels were significantly lower in FMF patients (P = 0.037). In addition, we found that MEFV methylation level was higher in FMF patients compared to control subjects (P = 0.376). Conclusions: There was no evidence that differences in methylation levels could be responsible for variable effects of different mutations and variable clinics in the MEFV gene. Further studies on larger patient groups are necessary to identify the effects of different factors.

Worldwide, more than 50 million people live with dementia, and due to the rapidly aging population, dementia cases are expected to increase at least five times in 2050. 30%–40% of dementia cases are diagnosed as non-Alzheimer’s dementia. Common subtypes of non-Alzheimer’s dementia are known as vascular, Lewy body, and frontotemporal dementia. Despite advances in modern medicine, the mechanism of dementia is still not fully understood. The term “omics” is a general term and is used to comprehensively characterize molecules by functional and biological similarities, focusing on the basic biological processes of a living organism and these techniques have enabled us to examine the unknown areas of biology, such as the genome, transcriptome, proteome, microbiome, and metabolome. This review highlights the progress that has been made in omics research while noting the gaps in our knowledge.