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Objective: To evaluate the influence of air‐abrasion of enamel with three different desensitizing powders on the whitening effect of a bleaching gel containing 40% H2O2, which was used for in‐office tooth bleaching. Materials and Methods: Forty human incisors, extracted and prepared, were acquired for this study and subsequently randomized into four groups (n = 10). The control group specimens underwent no pretreatment prior to the bleaching procedure, whereas the remaining three groups underwent air abrasion using distinct desensitizing powders; (a) Sylc, which contains bioglass 45S5; (b) BioMinF, which contains calcium phospho‐fluoro‐silicate glass; and (c) MI Pearls, which contains nano‐hydroxyapatite, 1 h preceding the Opalescence Boost PF 40% bleaching procedure. Color measurements were conducted using a double‐beam UV–Vis spectrophotometer at four distinct time points (prior to bleaching, 24 h, 15 days, and 30 days post‐bleaching). Results: Tooth color change outcomes revealed that there were no statistically significant results with respect to the interaction of the two criteria (treatments and time) (p = 0.990). Additionally, there were no statistically significant results with respect to the main effects of treatments (p = 0.385), while there were statistically significant effects with respect to the time criterion (p = 0.013). Conclusions: The use of the tested desensitizing powders prior the bleaching procedure did not affect the tooth color change induced by the tested bleaching agent. Clinical Significance: Tooth color change and whiteness are not affected by air‐abrasion desensitizing treatments when applied prior to in‐office bleaching procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Rothmund-Thomson syndrome (RTS) or congenital poikiloderma is a rare autosomal recessive genodermatosis with involvement of many systems. The risk of mesenchymal malignancy is high in this disease which is accompanied by skin findings such as skin atrophy, hypo-hyperpigmentation, short stature, growth retardation, hypogonadism, nail and tooth dysplasia, limb abnormalities, and gastrointestinal system symptoms such as chronic diarrhoea and vomiting. Case report. A syndromic patient with thumb aplasia in bilateral fingers, hypopigmented and hyperpigmented macular lesions on the skin, and hypogonadism was referred to the Pediatric Genetics Department and diagnosed with RTS. Conclusion. In this rare disease, early diagnosis, awareness of possible malignancies, and a multidisciplinary treatment approach plan are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Sarcopenia may develop in patients with hairy cell leukemia (HCL). There is no study in the literature showing the prognostic importance of sarcopenia in patients with HCL. In this study, the effect of pretreatment sarcopenia on clinical outcomes in patients with HCL was investigated. Methods: This study included 34 patients with pre-treatment abdominal computed tomography (CT) images who received cladribine (purine nucleoside analog) treatment between April 2006 and April 2022 at Ondokuz Mayis University Hospital. To ensure measurement standardization, measurements were performed using abdominal CT sections showing the L3 vertebra. The optimal cut-off value for the skeletal mass index to be used for the prediction of sarcopenia was determined by receiver operating characteristic analysis. Patients were divided into two groups according to whether they were sarcopenic or not, and their clinical results were compared. Results: Overall survival (OS) tended to be shorter in the sarcopenic group than in the non-sarcopenic group (p=0.046). Progressionfree survival was significantly better in the non-sarcopenic group than in the sarcopenic group (p=0.009). In the multivariate analysis, sarcopenia (hazard ratio=0.154, p=0.043) was an effective variable for OS. Conclusion: Sarcopenia is a prognostic factor for prognosis and treatment parameters in patients with HCL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: It remains controversial whether intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (IV tPA) increases complications in patients undergoing mechanical thrombolysis. In this study, we aimed to show the effect of IV tPA administration on complications. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the records of patients who were followed up at the stroke center and underwent mechanical thrombectomy (MT) between 2022 and 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic data, cerebral angiography data, neuroimaging time, medical history, and medication use; neurologic examination findings at baseline, 24th hour, and 3rd month were obtained from the patient files. Patients were divided into two groups according to whether intracranial tPA was administered before MT and two groups according to the presence of intracranial hemorrhage at 24 hours. Results: A total of 172 patients [94 women (54.7%) and 78 men (45.3%)] were included in the study. Mean age was 67.6±14.7 years. At 24 h, the rate of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) was significantly (p=0.004) higher in the thrombectomy group than in the tPA plus thrombectomy group. The admission (p=0.033) and 24-hour National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (p=0.001) scores were significantly higher in the sICH group than in the non-sICH group. Third-month modified Rankin scale score (p=0.003), diastolic embolism rate (p=0.009), and Tan score (p=0.007) were significantly higher in the sICH group than in the non-sICH group. Conclusion: Intravenous tissue plasminogen activator did not increase sICH or distal embolism in patients undergoing MT, and there was no difference in terms of favorable clinical outcomes. Symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage was associated with increased mortality and poor clinical outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values in predicting pathologic subtypes and grade in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Materials and Methods: From January 2018 to March 2020, 48 surgically diagnosed NSCLC cases were included in this study. To obtain ADC values, ADC maps were constructed, and a region of interest was put on the tumor. The values were measured three times from different places of the lesion, and the mean value of these measurements was recorded. All MRI scans were evaluated by two radiologists in consensus. Results: A total of 14 cases were squamous cell cancer, 32 cases were adenocarcinoma, and 2 cases were large cell carcinoma. The mean ADC values of adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell cancer were 1.51 ± 0.19 × 10−3 mm2/s, 1.32 ± 0.15 × 10−3 mm2/s, and 1.39 ± 0.25 × 10−3 mm2/s, respectively. There were 11 grade 1, 27 grade 2, and 10 grade 3 NSCLC cases. The mean ADC value was 1.44 ± 0.14 × 10−3 mm2/s in grade 1 tumors, 1.25 ± 0.10 × 10−3 mm2/s in grade 2 tumors, and 1.07 ± 0.15 × 10−3 mm2/s in grade 3 tumors. The cut-off value to discriminate grade 2 from grade 1 tumors was 1.31 ± 0.11 × 10−3 mm2/s (85% sensitivity, 75% specificity). The cut-off value to discriminate grade 3 from grade 2 tumors was 1.11 ± 0.15 × 10−3 mm2/s (87% sensitivity, 69% specificity). Conclusions: ADC values can accurately predict NSCLC histopathologic subtypes and tumor grade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiac lipomas are primary benign tumors of the heart, consisting mainly of fat cells and the capsule surrounding them. They are rare, usually detected incidentally, and are mostly asymptomatic or may cause symptoms depending on their location. In this case, we planned to present a 13-year-old male patient who was diagnosed with cardiac lipoma, had echocardiography follow-up at regular intervals, and was treated symptomatically. Although cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and histopathological diagnosis are required to confirm the diagnosis of cardiac lipoma, resection may not be necessary due to the location of the mass and the fact that it does not cause any life-threatening symptoms, as in our patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to optimize drying conditions during ultrasonic-assisted osmotic dehydration and subsequent microwave drying of red beetroot using the Box-Behnken design. For this purpose, ultrasonic-assisted osmotic dehydration was performed at different ultrasonic powers (50, 75, and 100 W), sonication times (20, 40, and 60 min), and salt concentrations (0%, 15%, and 30%). The subsequent drying procedures were conducted with 231, 518, and 805 W microwave power. The best condition was selected as 5.15% salt concentration, 20 min sonication time, 50 W ultrasonic power, and 716.45 W microwave power. The responses obtained under optimum conditions were determined as 68.06%, 9.54 mg GAE/g dm, 28.23, 42.66, and 3.08 for DPPH• % inhibition, total phenolic content, L *, a *, and b * values, respectively. While favorable impacts on color were detected for the applied pretreatments, the DPPH• scavenging activities of the dried beetroot were determined to be more significant after ultrasonic-assisted osmotic dehydration. Furthermore, the drying kinetics of beetroot were evaluated according to the Midilli et al. model. When the fit to the model was investigated, it was compatible at R 2 > 0.90 level. As a result, the ultrasonic-assisted osmotic dehydration pretreatment performed before the microwave drying method preserved the quality characteristics of beetroot samples and was successfully applied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Clinical Message: Dental fusion should be included in differential diagnosis when panoramic radiograph reveals changes in tooth shape or size. The use of specialized dental photographic techniques can augment the dentists' knowledge and awareness of such conditions. Dental fusion of impacted teeth may show up as a change in tooth shape and size on the first radiographic examination. This report presents an impacted maxillary third molar fused with a peg‐like distomolar in a 20‐year‐old male. The patient presented with symptoms of localized periodontitis distal to the second molar, and radiographic examination revealed abnormal dental structure of the third molar. Surgical extraction of the impacted molar was the treatment of choice. The final diagnosis of fusion was based on data from ex vivo CBCT, photographs of the extracted tooth, and extracted tooth's sections using polarizing filters. Two‐dimensional radiographs may conceal special dental anatomies. Visualization of such cases using CBCT and dental photography serves to educate dentists and reduce postoperative complications. Knowledge and awareness of possible dental abnormalities are of utmost importance for successful treatment planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context.-- The nature and associations of gallbladder (GB) "adenomyoma" (AM) remain controversial. Some studies have attributed up to 26% of GB carcinoma to AMs. Objective.-- To examine the true frequency, clinicopathologic characteristics, and neoplastic changes in GB AM. Design.-- Cholecystectomy cohorts analyzed were 1953 consecutive cases, prospectively with specific attention to AM; 2347 consecutive archival cases; 203 totally embedded GBs; 207 GBs with carcinoma; and archival search of institutions for all cases diagnosed as AM. Results.-- Frequency of AM was 9.3% (19 of 203) in totally submitted cases but 3.3% (77 of 2347) in routinely sampled archival tissue. A total of 283 AMs were identified, with a female to male ratio = 1.9 (177:94) and mean size = 1.3 cm (range, 0.3-5.9). Most (96%, 203 of 210) were fundic, with formed nodular trabeculated submucosal thickening, and were difficult to appreciate from the mucosal surface. Four of 257 were multifocal (1.6%), and 3 of 257 (1.2%) were extensive ("adenomyomatosis"). Dilated glands (up to 14 mm), often radially converging to a point in the mucosa, were typical. Muscle was often minimal, confined to the upper segment. Nine of 225 (4%) revealed features of a duplication. No specific associations with inflammation, cholesterolosis, intestinal metaplasia, or thickening of the uninvolved GB wall were identified. Neoplastic change arising in AM was seen in 9.9% (28 of 283). Sixteen of 283 (5.6%) had mural intracholecystic neoplasm; 7 of 283 (2.5%) had flat-type high-grade dysplasia/carcinoma in situ. Thirteen of 283 cases had both AM and invasive carcinoma (4.6%), but in only 5 of 283 (1.8%), carcinoma arose from AM (invasion was confined to AM, and dysplasia was predominantly in AM). Conclusions.-- AMs have all the features of a malformative developmental lesion, and may not show a significant muscle component (ie, the name "adeno-myoma" is partly a misnomer). While most are innocuous, some pathologies may arise in AMs, including intracholecystic neoplasms, flat-type high-grade dysplasia or carcinoma in situ, and invasive carcinoma (1.8%, 5 of 283). It is recommended that gross examination of GBs include serial slicing of the fundus for AM detection and total submission if one is found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"Eosinophilic cholecystitis" has been an elusive concept. Around 1050 consecutive cholecystectomies with chronic (CC, n = 895), subacute (SAC, n = 100), and acute cholecystitis (AC, n = 55) were reviewed for eosinophilic infiltration. Eosinophilic hot spots (>40 eosinophils/HPF) were seen in 63% of SAC and 35% of AC (vs. 6% of CC, p < 0.001). Eosinophils were mostly encountered in areas of wall thickening, revealing edema with early collagenization and young tissue-culture-type fibroblasts. However, in ten chronic cholecystitis patients (<1%), prominent eosinophilia with eosinophil-rich foci (>100 eosinophils/HPF) was noted. These ten cases, classified as "eosinophilic cholecystitis", were analyzed further: The patients were relatively young (mean age = 43 years), with a 9:1 female:male ratio. None had blood eosinophilia/eosinophilia syndromes. Although one had ulcerative colitis, others did not have any autoimmune diseases. The mean gallbladder wall thickness was 3.5 mm (vs. 4.2 mm in ordinary CC). In conclusion, eosinophils are a part of especially subacute injuries in the gallbladder. They are typically condensed in the areas of healing and appear to signify a distinctive state of injury in which there are erosions leading to slow/sustained exposure of the mural tissues to the bile contents that induce chemical injury/recruit eosinophils. Eosinophilic cholecystitis is a very uncommon occurrence and appears to be an exaggerated response in allergic patients who are prone to recruit eosinophils in reaction to injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic's alterations to daily life have been especially challenging for families with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), worsening the core features of ASD and overall mental health. With the increased need for effective coping, the current retrospective study used data from a survey regarding parent reports of how often their child with ASD used certain coping strategies (frequency), as well as the extent to which they felt their child benefitted from their use (efficacy) in mitigating stress during the pandemic. This retrospective study Repeated measures ANOVAs were conducted to evaluate whether there were significant differences in both frequency and efficacy ratings for each coping strategy, for the entire sample as well as for three children's age groups. Using Spearman's rank-order correlations, correlation coefficients between the frequency and efficacy of each coping strategy were explored. Results revealed that maladaptive strategies were used more frequently than adaptive strategies, while parent routine as the most frequently used and efficacious for all age groups. Additionally, for adaptive strategies, humor and focusing on the positive had the strongest correlations between frequency and efficacy ratings amongst all age groups. Of the maladaptive strategies, repetitive behaviors, rumination, and isolation had the strongest correlations for the youngest, middle, and oldest age groups, respectively. Further, for each age group, the adaptive coping strategies had stronger correlations between frequency and efficacy than the maladaptive ones. It is our hope that the results of this study will lay the foundation for developing adaptive coping strategies to alleviate stress in children with ASD. Further investigations using a larger cohort are warranted to determine effective coping strategies for individuals with ASD across a range of situations, including acute stressors (such as future public health emergencies and natural disasters), as well as common daily stressors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. No clear guidelines exist for performing preventive surgery for ascending aortic (AA) aneurysm in elderly patients. This study aims to provide insights by: (1) evaluating patient and procedural characteristics and (2) comparing early outcomes and long-term mortality after surgery between elderly and non-elderly patients. Methods. A multicenter retrospective observational cohort-study was performed. Data was collected on patients who underwent elective AA surgery in three institutions (2006–2017). Clinical presentation, outcomes, and mortality were compared between elderly (≥70 years) and non-elderly patients. Results. In total, 724 non-elderly and 231 elderly patients were operated upon. Elderly patients had larger aortic diameters (57.0 mm (IQR 53–63) vs. 53.0 mm (IQR 49–58), p < 0.001) and more cardiovascular risk factors at the time of surgery than non-elderly patients. Elderly females had significantly larger aortic diameters than elderly males (59.5 mm (55–65) vs. 56.0 mm (51–60), p < 0.001). Short-term mortality was comparable between elderly and non-elderly patients (3.0% vs. 1.5%, p = 0.16). Five-year survival was 93.9% in non-elderly patients and 81.4% in elderly patients (p < 0.001), which are both lower than that of the age-matched general Dutch population. Conclusion. This study showed that in elderly patients, a higher threshold exists to undergo surgery, especially in elderly females. Despite these differences, short-term outcomes were comparable between 'relatively healthy' elderly and non-elderly patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiotoxicity is an important side effect of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors therapy used in the treatment of various malignancies, leading to increased morbidity and mortality. Arterial hypertension, cardiac ischemia with the acceleration of atherosclerosis, arrhythmias, myocardial dysfunction and thromboembolic disease are the most feared cardiovascular adverse reactions due to VEGF inhibitors. Susceptibility for the occurrence of VEGF inhibitors-induced cardiotoxicity has multifactorial determinants, with a significant inter-individual variation. Baseline cardiovascular risk assessment of the patient, type and stage of cancer, dose and duration of VEGF inhibitors treatment and adjuvant chemotherapy or radiotherapy are the main predictors for cardiotoxicity. The role of the cardio-oncology team becomes essential for achieving maximum therapeutic anti-angiogenic effects with minimum cardiovascular side effects. This review will summarize the incidence, risk factors, mechanisms, management and treatment of VEGF inhibitors-induced cardiovascular toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to determine the cultural practices of society regarding death and mourning. The sample of this qualitative study consisted of 31 adults who presented to a Family Health Center located in two different provincial centers in the Central Anatolia Region of Turkey. The main themes of "optimistic thinking", "pessimistic thinking" and "acceptance" emerged from the statements of the participants regarding death. It was determined that participants took part in cultural practices such as preparing for a burial and providing comfort to individuals who were about to die. This study sheds light on the cultural and religious practices of Muslim participants in Turkey regarding death and mourning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in communication, and social skills, as well as repetitive and/or restrictive interests and behaviors. The severity of ASD varies from mild to severe, drastically interfering with the quality of life of affected individuals. The current occurrence of ASD in the United States is about 1 in 44 children. The precise pathophysiology of ASD is still unknown, but it is believed that ASD is heterogeneous and can arise due to genetic etiology. Although various genes have been implicated in predisposition to ASD, metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) is one of the most common downstream targets, which may be involved in autism. mGluR5 signaling has been shown to play a crucial role in neurodevelopment and neural transmission making it a very attractive target for understanding the pathogenesis of ASD. In the present study, we determined the effect of genetic ablation of mGluR5 (Grm5) on an ASD-like phenotype using a rat model to better understand the role of mGluR5 signaling in behavior patterns and clinical manifestations of ASD. We observed that mGluR5 Ko rats exhibited exaggerated self-grooming and increased marble burying, as well as deficits in social novelty. Our results suggest that mGluR5 Ko rats demonstrate an ASD-like phenotype, specifically impaired social interaction as well as repetitive and anxiety-like behavior, which are correlates of behavior symptoms observed in individuals with ASD. The mGluR5 Ko rat model characterized in this study may be explored to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying ASD and for developing effective therapeutic modalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of torrefaction, alkaline pretreatment, and their combination on enzymatic hydrolysis was explored in terms of their effect on glucose yield from wheat straw. Samples were ground and torrefied at varying degrees of process severity, subjected to enzymatic hydrolysis, and analyzed for glucose yield. While glucose yield from raw biomass averaged 190.1 mg per g of dry raw biomass, the yield from torrefied samples was lower, ranging from 0.0 to 63.8 mg g-1, depending on the duration and temperature of the torrefaction process. Alkaline pretreatment increased the glucose yield of raw biomass to an average of 354.9 mg g-1. The highest glucose yield of 359.1 mg glucose g-1 was achieved for samples that were pretreated with a 1% NaOH solution. Alkaline pretreatment after torrefaction but prior to hydrolysis results in glucose yields ranging from 1.2 to 318.2 mg g-1, which are higher than the yields from torrefied-only samples but lower than those of raw, alkaline pretreated samples. When measured on a “per torrefied g” basis, yields of torrefied, alkaline pretreated samples approach those of raw biomass. These results indicate that there may be potential to use torrefaction and hydrolysis together when combined with an alkaline solution pretreatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increased intraabdominal pressure (IAP) has deleterious effects on intracranial pressure. In this study, we intended to investigate the effects of intraabdominal pressure values on intracranial pressure (ICP) measured by ultrasound-assisted optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) measurement in patients who underwent major surgery. Observational study. All patients' age, gender, weight, types of surgeries, comorbidities, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) score, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score, operation time, and amount of fluid administered during the operation were all recorded. Intraabdominal pressure and optic nerve sheath diameter measurements were measured. The patients were separated into 3 groups: group I, intraabdominal pressure 0–11 mmHg; group II, intraabdominal pressure 12–19 mmHg; and group III, intraabdominal pressure 20 mmHg and above. Intensive care unit (ICU) stay and prognosis were all recorded. Intraabdominal pressure, left optic nerve sheath diameter, right optic nerve sheath diameter, and heart rate (HR) measurements were meaningfully higher in group II and group III compared to group I (p < 0.001 for each), and group III was significantly higher compared to group I (p < 0.001). In patients with high intraabdominal pressure, optic nerve sheath diameter follow-up with ultrasonography gains great importance. We recommend that attention should be paid to this situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Its angular representation on the retina does not solely determine the perceived size of an object. Instead, contextual information is interpreted. We investigated the levels of processing at which this interpretation occurs. Combining three experimental paradigms, we explored whether masked and more implicitly coded objects are already size-rescaled. We induced object size rescaling using a modified variant of the Ebbinghaus illusion. In this variant, six dots altered the size of a central stimulus and served as inducers generating Object-Substitution Masking (OSM). Participants reported the average size of multiple circles using the size-averaging paradigm, allowing us to test the contribution of masked and non-masked central target circles. Our Ebbinghaus illusion variant altered perceived stimulus size and showed robust masking via OSM. Furthermore, size-averaging was sensitive enough to detect perceived size changes in the magnitude of the ones induced by the Ebbinghaus illusion. Finally, combining all three paradigms, we observed that masked and non-masked stimuli contributed to size averaging in a size-rescaled manner. In a control experiment testing the general effects of Ebbinghaus inducers, we observed a contrast-like effect on size averaging. Large inducers decreased the perceived average size, while small inducers increased it. In summary, our experiments indicate that context integration, induced by the Ebbinghaus illusion, alters size representations at an early stage. These modified size representations are independent of whether a target is recognisable. Moreover, perceived average size appears to be coded relative to surrounding perceptual groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to examine the polymorphic structures of Pit-1 and CSN3 genes of Holstein calves bred in Gümüşhane province of Türkiye, to determine the distribution of genotype and allele gene frequencies, as well as examine the effects of determined polymorphisms on birth weight of calves. HinfI polymorphisms of Pit-1 and CSN3 genes were identified in DNA isolated from blood samples of 100 Holstein calves used in the study, using the PCR-RFLP method. According to the Hardy–Weinberg genetic equilibrium test, it was observed that the distribution of genotype frequencies of HinfI polymorphisms of Pit-1 genes in the studied population was in equilibrium, but not in equilibrium in terms of CSN3 gene location. The AA, AB, and BB genotype frequencies of the Pit-1 gene in the population were 13.4 %, 40.2 %, and 46.3 %, respectively; the frequency of the A allele was 0.34, while for B allele it was 0.66. The AA, AB, and BB genotype frequencies of the CSN3 gene were found to be 24.5 %, 36.7 %, and 38.8 %, respectively; the frequency of the A allele was 0.43 and the frequency of the B allele was 0.57. According to the Hardy–Weinberg genetic equilibrium test, the distribution of genotype frequencies was in equilibrium in the Pit-1/HinfI polymorphism, but not in the CSN3/HinfI polymorphism. A statistically significant relationship was not found between the genotypes of both polymorphic regions and calf birth weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Drug-drug interactions cause many complex drug events, especially adverse drug effects. It is known that drug interactions occur when meropenem and valproic acid are used together. It was aimed to back up existing research on the interaction of valproic acid. Methods: After an interaction had been suspected by the ward pharmacists, all of the patient's drugs were assessed via Up-ToDate® and Micromedex® databases and the interaction management was shared with the physician in charge. Results: The patient's serum valproic acid through level was in therapeutic range before meropenem administration. After the administration of meropenem, the patient's number of seizures increased and the serum trough level of valproic acid decreased to 4.3 μg/ml. The valproic acid levels turned back to normal range after switching to a carbapenem antibiotic. Conclusion: Drug interactions are often encountered in paediatric patients and it is of critical importance in terms of seizure control. Because of the drug interaction between valproic acid and meropenem, one should avoid using these medications concomitantly. If that is impossible, daily serum valproic acid levels should be monitored with caution. Clinical pharmacists could increase the clinicians' awareness about drug-drug interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The causes underlying suicidal behaviour in patients with obsessive-compulsive (OCD) are not fully understood. Aim: In this study, we examined whether lifetime suicide attempt (SA), and suicide ideation (SI) was associated with affective temperaments, impulsivity, childhood traumatic events or separation anxiety. Methods: We compared OCD patients with lifetime SA (Group 1; n=25), lifetime suicide ideation (SI) (Group 2; n=62), and without lifetime SI and SA (Group 3; n=73) through Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation (BSSI), Childhood Trauma Questionnaire Questionnaire (CTQ-SF), Separation Anxiety Symptom Inventory (SASI), Baratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS- 11), Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, Paris and San Diego (TEMPS-A), and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Results: Post hoc tests showed that educational level was significantly lower in Group 1 than in both Group 2 and 3. Childhood abuse were significantly higher in attempters than ideators, and non-suicidal patients. The depressive, cyclothymic, and anxious temperaments were significantly higher in attempters and ideators compared to control subjects. The aggressive obsessions (p=0.002), childhood abuse history (p=0.009), lifetime major depression (p=0.017), and lower educational levels (p=0.006) strongly predicted the increased risk of lifetime SA, compared to non-suicidal patients. Childhood abuse (p=0.022) was the most significant predictor of lifetime SA in OCD. Conclusion: We suggested that childhood abuse history emerged as the most significant variable that distinguished lifetime attempters from only ideators in OCD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by three core symptoms, specifically impaired social behavior, stereotypic/repetitive behaviors, and sensory/communication deficits. Although the exact pathophysiology of ASD is still unknown, host genetics, oxidative stress, and compromised blood brain barrier (BBB) have been implicated in predisposition to ASD. With regards to genetics, mutations in the genes such as CNTNAP2 have been associated with increased susceptibility of developing ASD. Although some studies observed conflicting results suggesting no association of CNTNAP2 with ASD, other investigations correlated this gene with autism. In addition, CNTNAP2 mediated signaling is generally considered to play a role in neurological disorders due to its critical role in neurodevelopment, neurotransmission, and synaptic plasticity. In this investigation, we studied BBB integrity and oxidative stress in Cntnap2−/− rats. We observed that the BBB permeability was significantly increased in Cntnap2−/− rats compared to littermate wild-type (WT) animals as determined by FITC-dextran and Evans blue assay. High levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and lower amounts of reduced glutathione were observed in brain homogenates of Cntnap2−/− rats, suggesting oxidative stress. Brain sections from Cntnap2−/− rats showed intense inducible nitric oxide synthase immunostaining, which was undetectable in WT animals. Quantification of nitric oxide in brain homogenates revealed significantly high levels in Cntnap2−/− rats compared to the control group. As increased permeability of the BBB and oxidative stress have been observed in ASD individuals, our results suggest that Cntnap2−/− rats have a high construct and face validity and can be explored to develop effective therapeutic modalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Our main hypothesis in this study was that patients with social anxiety disorder (SAD) and comorbid attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) had lower empathy levels than those without ADHD. Also, after controlling for the severity of SAD and depression, we hypothesized that ADHD symptoms contributed to lower levels of empathy in SAD patients. Methods: 72 patients (46 females, 32 males) with SAD between the ages of 18–65 years were divided into two groups as those with (n = 32) and those without ADHD (n = 40). Participants were evaluated using the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS), Turgay's Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Empathy Quotient. In this study, Mann Whitney-U test, Spearman correlation test, logistic and multiple regression analysis were used. Results: Education level (U = 371.5, p =.002) and empathy scores (U = 259.5, p <.0001) of SAD patients with ADHD were significantly lower than those without ADHD. BDI (U = 206.5, p <.0001), LSAS total (U = 454.5, p =.036), fear (U = 457.0, p =.038), and avoidance scores (U = 453.0, p =.034) were higher in SAD patients with ADHD than those without ADHD. Low levels of empathy (B = - 0.119, Exp(B) = 0.895, p =.014) and high severity of current depression (B = 0.119, Exp(B) = 1.127, p =.001) were significantly associated with comorbidity between SAD and ADHD. ADHD-inattention (β = −0.369, Exp(B) = −0.541, p =.004), and depression (β = −0.262, Exp(B) = −0.212, p =.036) negatively predicted empathy levels. Conclusions: Our findings may provide some evidence for the contribution of ADHD-inattention and depression to poor empathy in SAD patients. Therefore, it is recommended that symptoms of ADHD-inattention and depression should be carefully evaluated in SAD patients with low empathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) is a low-grade B-cell clonal disorder with lymphoplasmacytic bone marrow involvement and monoclonal immunoglobulin M (IgM) with poor prognosis. Clinical features include anemia, thrombocytopenia, hepatosplenomegaly, lymphadenopathy and hyperviscosity. We report the case of a 42-year-old male who presented with unexplained weight loss. The diagnosis of WM was established after morphological and immunohistochemical examination of the patient's bone marrow along with an elevated serum IgM level. He started chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide, bortezomib, dexamethasone and, four months later, rituximab was added. Five months later the patient presented with relapse of the hematological disease, hyperviscosity syndrome and acute right heart failure. Echocardiography showed a dilated right ventricle with decreased global systolic function and severe systolic pulmonary artery pressure, with normal left cardiac function and volumes. Despite maximal medical therapy, the patient died in day six of hospitalization. This case is distinguished by the rapidly evolving rare haematological cancer despite optimal chemotherapy and a multidisciplinary approach associated with chemotherapy-related late right heart dysfunction in a young man, without any cardiovascular risk factors or previous myocardial disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hematology patients are extremely vulnerable to COVID-19 infection due to the immunosuppression arising from the direct effect of the disease and the medicines administered. Our purpose is to analyze the results of the patients that both have a hematological disease and receive treatment for COVID-19 infection in our hospital. Four hundred COVID-19 positive patients that received inpatient treatment between March 12, 2020 and October 1, 2020 in our center and got a diagnosis by using real -time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test were scanned retrospectively. Eighty one patients were included in the study. Nineteen patients had a hematological disease; 62 had a chronic disease but didn't have a hematological disease. We found that the group with hematological disease had a high level of ferritin (p= 0.0001). While the use of steroids in COVID-19 treatments is more frequent in the group with hematological disease (p= 0.01), the use of LMWH (low molecular weight heparin) is more frequent in the group with no hematological diseases (p= 0.02). Intensive care treatment and mechanical ventilatory support were required more for the patients with hematological disease than the others (p= 0.03. p= 0.008). While the mortality rate is 42.1% in the patients with hematological disease, it is 9.7% in the patients with chronic disease (p= 0.003). In cox regression analysis, the study found that hematological diseases (HR: 4.02, 95% CI: 1.7-1844.5, p= 0.02), cardiac diseases (HR: 2.28, 95% CI: 1.2-77.9, p= 0.03), and intensive care treatment (HR: 4.60, 95% CI: 3.1-3115.0, p= 0.009) are significant risk factors. Hematological patients infected with COVID-19 have a more severe and mortal clinical manifestation than the patients with other chronical disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2), exhibits a wide spectrum of manifestations, from asymptomatic presentations to acute respiratory failure, myocardial injury, arterial or venous thrombosis, multiorgan failure, and death. Although COVID-19 mainly disrupts the respiratory syndrome, it has been shown to have detrimental impact on cardiac morphology and function, resulting in a broad range of cardiovascular complications and poor outcome, increasing morbidity and mortality of these patients. This review will summarize the knowledge on characterization of myocardial injury in COVID 19, by using cardiac biomarkers, electrocardiographic, and cardiac multi-modality imaging findings for an early and accurate diagnosis, proper management, correct treatment, and follow-up of COVID-19 patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to test various vigour tests to correlate them with seedling emergence in two field sowing dates and two different sowing depths in controlled room emergence of ten dill seed lots. Mean germination time, accelerated aging; for 24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours, electrical conductivity readings at 16 hours and 24 hours, and EC readings after AA test were used as vigour tests, and results were correlated with seedling emergence percentages. Seedling emergence was tested in two sowing dates in the field and two different sowing depths in controlled room conditions. Controlled room seedling emergence values (80-95% in 2 cm, 76-92% in 4 cm) were higher than those of field emergence values (67-85% in the first sowing and 60-80% in the second sowing). Most of the vigour tests were significantly correlated with emergence potential. The highest correlation values were observed in EC16h and EC24h tests, significance between emergence and these two vigour tests were at P<0.001 three out of four sowings. The results indicated that EC16h can be a fast, practical and easy method of seed vigour discrimination in dill seed lots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context.: Follicular cholecystitis (FC) is a poorly characterized entity. Objective.: To determine its frequency/clinicopathologic associations. Design.: A total of 2550 cholecystectomy specimens were examined. Two hundred three of these were consecutive routine cholecystectomies submitted entirely for microscopic examination to determine the relative frequency of incidental pathologies in gallbladders (GBs). The remainder had representative sampling. Underlying conditions were nonobstructive pathologies (1270 nonspecific cholecystitis), obstructive (62 distal biliary tract tumors, 35 primary sclerosing cholangitis, and 31 autoimmune pancreatitis), and neoplastic (n = 949). FC was defined as 3 distinct lymphoid follicles (LFs)/centimeter. Results.: In the GBs totally submitted for microscopic examination, the true frequency of FC was found to be 2.5% (5/203), and in the representatively sampled group, it was 1.9%, with similar frequencies in nonobstructive, obstructive, and neoplastic cases (2.3%, 3.1%, and 1.3%, respectively, P =.77). When the 39 FC in nonneoplastic GBs contrasted with ordinary chronic cholecystitis, they were associated with older age (68 vs 49 years, P <.0001), similar gallstone frequency (68 vs 81%), female/male ratio (2.7 vs 2.6), and wall thickness (4 mm for both). None had lymphoma/parasites/ Salmonella infection. Of 17 cases who had undergone gastric biopsy, 5 had chronic gastritis (2 with Helicobacter pylori). Microscopically, the LFs were the main inflammatory process often with minimal intervening inflammation. IgG4-positive plasma cell density was low (<10/high-power field) in 21/24(87.5%) cases. Conclusions.: Follicular cholecystitis is seen in 2% of cholecystectomies, typically in significantly older patients, suggesting a deranged immune response. A third of the patients reveal biopsy-proven gastritis. FC does not seem to be associated with autoimmunity, lymphoma, or obstructive pathologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study investigated interobserver agreement in lung ultrasonography (LUS) in pregnant women performed by obstetricians with different levels of expertise, with confirmation by an expert radiologist. Methods: This prospective study was conducted at a tertiary "Coronavirus Pandemic Hospital" in April 2020. Pregnant women suspected to have coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) were included. Two blinded experienced obstetricians performed LUS on pregnant women separately and noted their scores for 14 lung zones. Following a theoretical and hands-on practical course, one experienced obstetrician, two novice obstetric residents, and an experienced radiologist blindly evaluated anonymized and randomized still images and videoclips retrospectively. Weighted Cohen's kappa and Krippendorff's alpha tests were used to assess the interobserver agreement. Results: Fifty-two pregnant women were included, with confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis rate of 82.7%. In total, 336 eligible still images and 115 videoclips were included in the final analysis. The overall weighted Cohen's kappa values ranged from 0.706 to 0.912 for the 14 lung zones. There were only seven instances of major disagreement (>1 point) in the evaluation of 14 lung zones of 52 patients (n=728). The overall agreement between the radiologist and obstetricians for the still images (Krippendorff's a=0.856, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.797 to 0.915) and videoclips (Krippendorff's a=0.785; 95% CI, 0.709 to 0.861) was good. Conclusion: The interobserver agreement between obstetricians with different levels of experience on still images and videoclips of LUS was good. Following a brief theoretical course, obstetricians' performance of LUS in pregnant women and interpretation of pre-acquired LUS images can be considered consistent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The work was carried out to test the seed vigour test to correlate seedling emergence potential of rocket seed lots in the field conditions. Standard laboratory germination percentages of the 12 seed lots were ranged between 87 and 93%. Radicle emergence (2 mm) percentages after 18 (RE18h), 24 (RE24h), 36 (RE36h) and 48 (RE48h) during standard germination test, accelerated ageing test (AA, 45 °C, 100% RH, 24h, 48h), electrical conductivity (20 °C, 40 ml, 50 seeds) of 8h, 16h and 24h readings were used as vigour tests. Seeds were sown in two occasions in the field and vigour test results were correlated with seedling emergence percentages. Even though all seed vigour tests were significantly correlated with emergence at various levels EC24h and RE24h showed the highest correlation (p<0.001) with seedling emergence percentages in both sowing times. Correlation values were 0.824 and 0.844 in EC24h, 0.860 and 0.874 in RE24h.The lowest correlations were seen in standard laboratory germination test as 0.640 and 0.654 (p<0.05). Results indicated that EC24h and RE24h are practical and fast vigour tests that can be related to seedling emergence potential in rocket seed lots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A pneumoperitoneum during laparoscopic procedures has deleterious effects on cerebral perfusion and oxygenation. Our aim was to assess the effects of different insufflation pressures on cerebral oxygen saturation (rSO2) using a noninvasive INVOS Cerebral Oximeter (Somanetics Corporation, USA) system. One hundred patients scheduled for laparoscopic cholecystectomy were included and divided into two groups: a 10 mmHg pneumoperitoneum group (group I) and a 14 mmHg pneumoperitoneum group (group II). The rSO2 measurements were obtained preinsufflation, after insufflation, every 15 min after insufflation, and 10 min after desufflation. Hemodynamic variables and anesthesia and surgery times were recorded. Between the two groups, there were no statistically significant differences in terms of age, sex, weight, anesthesia times, or surgery times (p > 0.05). The hemodynamic variables were similar in the two groups (p > 0.05). The rSO2 value changed over time, with a statistically significant between-group difference (p = 0.001). The preinsufflation rSO2 value was 70.07 ± 7.73 in group I and 72.21 ± 6.58 in group II, with no significant between-group difference (p > 0.05). After insufflation, the rSO2 value decreased to 69.60 ± 7.74 in group I and 64.41 ± 6.48 in group II, and the distinction was statistically significant (p < 0.001). A high-pressure pneumoperitoneum was associated with a greater decrease in rSO2 as compared to a low-pressure pneumoperitoneum. Thus, we suggest the use of a low-pressure pneumoperitoneum in patients with central nervous system pathologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate endothelial dysfunction and subclinical atherosclerosis in Behcet's disease (BD) by measuring the common carotid artery (CCA) wall stiffness and carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT).Materials and Methods: We prospectively evaluated CIMT and the CCA wall stiffness of 34 BD patients and 28 age/sex-matched controls. CIMT measurements were performed from the posterior wall of the carotid artery approximately 10 mm proximal to the initiation of the carotid bulb using B-mode ultrasound. The stiffness of the CCA was measured from the superficial wall of the CCA using shear wave elastography (SWE). SWE measurements were recorded as shear wave velocity (SWV) using m/s as a unit.Results: The mean right (0.5±0.11 mm) and left (0.5±0.14 mm) CIMT of the patients were significantly higher compared to the mean right (0.41±0.07 mm) and left (0.41±0.11 mm) CIMT of the healthy controls (p=0.001 and p= 0.003 respectively). The mean right (3.72±0.94 m/s) and left (3.57±0.72 m/s) CCA wall stiffness of the patients were significantly higher compared to the mean right (2.42±0.49 m/s) and left (2.56±0.49 m/s) CCA wall stiffness of the controls (p<0.001 for both).Conclusions: SWE seems to be a promising modality to evaluate endothelial dysfunction in BD by interpreting the arterial stiffness, and SWE might be an important adjunct to clinical and laboratory findings, and imaging modalities to assess cardiovascular risk in BD. Moreover, SWE evaluation of the arterial stiffness might assist us to understand pathophysiological aspects of BD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current meta-analysis was employed to combine the results of multiple studies into a single estimate related to B-LG, CSN3, DGAT1, PRL, GH, and PIT1 gene polymorphisms and their effects on milk production traits. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to investigate associations between B-LG, CSN3, DGAT1, GH, PIT1, and PRLgene polymorphisms with milk production traits in Holstein dairy cows. An extensive search was done from 2002 to 2022 year. Statistical analyses were performed by using Stata 11.2 software. Genetic models viz codominant (AA vs. AB, AA vs. BB, and AB vs. BB), dominant (AA + AB vs. BB), recessive (AA vs. AB + BB), and completely over-dominant (AA + BB vs. AB) were applied. The results of meta-analysis of association between B-LG genotypes with milk yield where found a significant (P < 0.05) and with fat and protein contents (P < 0.01). In CSN3 polymorphisms of A/A and A/B genotypes had a significant effect on fat yield (P < 0.05) and protein content (P < 0.01). DGAT1 polymorphisms had a significant effect on milk yield, fat yield, protein yield (P < 0.05), with fat and protein contents showed high effect (P < 0.01). No significant association was detected between GH and milk traits (P > 0.05). PIT1 genotype polymorphisms had a significant effect on milk yield (P < 0.05) and protein content (P < 0.01). PRL genotype polymorphisms were significantly associated with milk yield (P < 0.05), fat content and protein yield (P < 0.01). The B-LG, DGAT1,CSN3 and PRL gene polymorphisms could be utilized as good markers to improve milk production traits in the Holstein cattle breed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficacy of VAMMFT compared to "Bogota bag" in achieving sheath closure following temporary abdominal closure at index laparotomy for trauma. Temporary abdominal closure (TAC) techniques are used in cases where primary closure of the abdominal wall is not possible or advisable. [Extracted from the article]

To assess the ability of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in predicting the overall survival in patients who underwent Yttrium 90 radioembolization (90Y-RE) for colorectal liver metastases (CLM) with other well-established clinical and imaging parameters by comparing the pre- and post-treatment apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values of the lesions. A total of 81 metastatic lesions of 27 consecutive patients who underwent DWI before and after the 90Y-RE session were enrolled in the study. ADC values were calculated from the entire (ADC e) and peripheral (ADC p) tumor on pre- and post-treatment DWI, and any relative increase in ADC >0% accepted as a functional imaging response. The impact of functional imaging response in addition to other well-known parameters including Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST), hepatic tumor burden, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG–PS) and the presence of extrahepatic metastases in predicting overall survival (OS) was assessed using Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox-regression analyses. The median OS of the patients was 10 months (range, 6–20 months) while the median OS of the responders being significantly longer than the non-responders for ADC e and ADC p (median 11 vs 7 months, P = 0.003; median 12 vs. 7 months, P < 0.0001, respectively). The RECIST score was also significantly affected the OS (progressive or stable disease median 8 months vs. partial response 15 indent months, P = 0.019). The other parameters including hepatic tumor burden, gender, ECOG score, the involvement of the liver lobes, and the presence of extrahepatic metastases were not associated with the OS. In multivariate analysis, only ADC p remained as an independent predictor of OS (P = 0.003, HR = 19.878). Any increase in relative ADC p or ADC e values after Y90-RE treatment was associated with longer OS in CLM patients, and DWI seems to be valuable imaging biomarker in predicting OS in CLM patients during the early post-interventional period after 90Y-RE. • increase in ADC p or ADC e values after Y90-RE associated with longer OS in CLM patients. • ADC p remained as an independent predictor of OS in multivariate analysis. • DWI seems to be a valuable biomarker in predicting OS in CLM patients who underwent Y90-RE. • DWI might aid clinicians to individually tailor the best treatment options for the patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context.--Literature on factors impacting bile duct brushings (BDBs) performance characteristics remain limited. Objective.--To capture the current state of daily practice with BDB sign-out. Design.--Two hundred fifty-three of 444 BDBs signed out by more than 7 cytopathologists, with histopathologic and/or clinical follow-up of at least 18 months, were examined. Results.--One hundred thirty-five of 253 BDBs (53%) had histologically confirmed malignancies, 22 (9%) had cancer-related deaths, and 96 (38%) were benign. Cytologic diagnoses in the 444 BDBs were nondiagnostic (11 [2.5%]), negative (284 [64%]), atypical (62 [13.9%]), suspicious (34 [7.7%]), and malignant (53 [11.9%]). Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and accuracy of malignancy detection were 35%, 100%, 100%, 58%, and 66%, respectively. When atypical, suspicious, and malignant (ASM) categories were combined, sensitivity increased (58%), specificity and PPV dropped (97%), and accuracy increased (73%). Carcinoma type (bile-duct versus pan creatic-ductal) had no effect on accuracy (P = .60) or diagnostic class (P = .84), nor did time of performance (first 7.5 versus latter 7.5 years, P = .13). Interestingly, ThinPrep + cell block (n = 41) had higher sensitivity (61%) and lower specificity (80%) than ThinPrep only (versus 51% and 100%, respectively). Sensitivity and specificity were higher (47% and 100%) in nonstented than stented specimens (59% and 97%). Relative risk of malignancy for "suspicious" (2.30) and "atypical" (2.28) categories was lower but not very different from that of "malignant" category (2.41). Conclusions.--Bile duct brushings had fairly low sensitivity but high specificity and PPV with no false positives. Sensitivity almost doubled and specificity dipped minimally when ASM categories were combined, highlighting the need for better classification criteria for atypical/suspicious cases. Higher specificity, PPV, NPV, and accuracy but lower sensitivity in stented BDBs suggest that they be called malignant only when evidence is overwhelmingly convincing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many researchers who have studied the relationships between milk protein polymorphisms and some yield traits in dairy cattle have reported incompatible results. In this study, in order to examine the overall relationships between milk protein genes known as major genes (CSN1S1, CSN2, CSN3, and BLG) and some yield traits (daily milk yield, lactation milk yield, fat yield, fat content, protein yield, and protein content), a meta-analysis was performed using some genetic models reported in the results of previous studies on cattle. The results suggest that the relationships of major milk protein genes with other factors should be studied using the codominant genetic model in general. Relationships among some CSN3 genotypes and fat yield, fat content, and protein content, and relationships between some BLG genotypes and daily milk yield, fat content, protein yield, and protein content were significant (P<0:05). No significant (P>0:05) relationships were found between these genotypes and other milk production traits. In addition, no significant (P>0:05) relationships between the CSN1S1 and CSN2 genotypes with the milk production traits examined were observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Progress in genetic selection in livestock can be increased by marker asisted selection. The identification of favorable genetic markers is one of the most important stages in marker-asisted selection. In this study, it was aimed to determine the effects of the bGH/AluI and Pit-1/HinfI polymorphisms on the production traits of organic reared cows. Genotyping was performed on total 245 Holstein cows, n=181 for Pit-1 gene and n=186 for bGH gene. Milk yields and some reproduction traits analyzed by analysis of variance using the general linear model procedure, and 703 production records from cows were used to. The results showed that neither the Pit-1/Hinf I nor bGH/Alu I polymorphisms affect the tested milk traits (p>0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to determine various morphological characteristics from birth to the age of 150th day of Boer x Hair goat F1 crossbred (BH) kids and pure Hair goat (HG) kids raised in semi-intensive conditions and reveal factors such as the effects of genotype, dam age, dam's live weight, year, birth type and sex on this parameter. This study was applied between the years 2011-2012 in Çatak in the Van region and between the years 2013-2014 at the Yuzuncu Yil University Research and Practice Farm. Various body measurements; wither height, back height, rump height, sacrum height, body length, chest length, chest depth, chest circumference, circumference of leg, cannon bone circumference, chest width, front-rump width, mid-rump width were determined 29.8, 28.4, 28.7, 26.2, 28.7, 17.0, 13.3, 30.4, 26.9, 5.2, 5.9, 6.0, and 8.7 cm at birth, respectively; 43.8, 43.8, 44.6, 40.6, 43.6, 22.2, 19.3, 51.7, 41.4, 6.6, 9.2, 9.3, and 11.3 cm at 60th day, respectively; 56.1, 53.4, 54.4, 47.5, 53.3, 27.3, 24.1, 61.4, 49.6, 7.3, 10.6, 11.1, and 13.2 cm at 150th day, respectively for BH kids; 27.3, 25.9, 29.3, 25.3, 27.1, 15.9, 12.3, 29.0, 21.3, 5.1, 5.0, 5.6, and 7.4 cm at birth, respectively; 40.4, 40.1, 42.9, 37.6, 40.5, 22.3, 18.4, 48.1, 36.4, 6.0, 7.9, 9.1, and 10.8 cm at 60th day, respectively; 50.3, 49.2, 51.0, 45.7, 50.4, 27.5, 22.9, 57.3, 43.4, 6.5, 9.5, 10.7, and 11.9 cm at 150th day, respectively for HG kids. When all of the data was considered, it was concluded that the BH kids are much better than the HG kids for both morphological and zoometric values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of genotype and non-genetic factors on the growth traits and survival rates of Turkish indigenous Hair goats (n=63) and their first crosses with Boer bucks (n=91), reared under a semi-intensive management system in the Van province of Turkey. The live weights of the kids at birth and on days 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, and 180 were determined to be 3.64, 8.89, 13.99, 18.97, 23.62, 27.22 and 30.44 kg, respectively. The average daily gains in the pre-weaning, post-weaning and overall periods were 171.09, 136.43 and 148.34 g, respectively. The multiple-birth kids had lower survival rates than the single-birth kids (P<0.01). As a result, it may be recommended to Hair goat breeders in the region to use Boer bucks in cross-breeding in order to ensure a better growth performance from the kids; to apply a sustainable selection program; and to improve management conditions. In addition, the data obtained from this study may be used as a model for designing policies on Hair goat breeding in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Our primary aim was to assess the relationship between self-esteem and pain and suicidal thoughts in a sample of patients with various kinds of cancer. Method: A total of 117 adult cancer patients were assessed with respect to several sociodemographic variables, the severity of pain, depression, and anxiety, current suicidal thoughts, hopelessness and self-esteem. Turkish versions of Visual Analog Scale, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Beck Hopelessness Scale, Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale were used in this study. Results: The severity of depression, anxiety, hopelessness, and current suicidal thoughts were significantly higher in patients with pain compared to patients without pain. Self-esteem was significantly reduced in subjects with pain. Previous history of psychiatric disorder and pain significantly predicted current suicidal thoughts status. Reduced self-esteem was significantly correlated with depression, anxiety, hopelessness, pain, and current suicidal thoughts. Conclusions: Reduced self-esteem among cancer patients was particularly associated with a more severe pain, higher levels of depression, stronger feelings of hopelessness and current suicidal thoughts. Our findings might indicate that pain in cancer patients might have a negative influence on self-esteem leading to suicidal thoughts along with depression, anxiety, and hopelessness. Therefore, reduced self-esteem in cancer patients might be associated with suicidal ideations through pain, depression, anxiety, and hopelessness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Essential oils and many components from medicinal plant extracts have been long known for their antimicrobial activity. Essential oils are natural products that are synthesized by the plant and stored in their cells. Essential oils or many of their constituents are in fact effective against a large variety of organisms they can be very well used as alternatives to synthetic chemicals.Kitaibelia balansaeBoiss is the only Turkish representative of the genusKitaibeliathat is regularly used as cataplasm herb in traditionally Turkish medicine. In this work the essential oil of the flowers, stems and leaves ofK.balansaespecies, collected from Konya (Turkey) were extracted both by hydro-distillation and Soxhlet and were investigated for their anti-microbial activity. The results showed good activity on the pathogenic microorganisms used. All extracts were analyzed by GC-MS. The antibacterial activities of all the extracts were examined against five Gram-negative, one Gram-positive bacteria and one pathogenic yeast by using disc diffusion method. The results showed the presence of manool, 8, 13-epoxy, 15, 16-dinorlab-12-ene, 8a; 13, 13; 17 depoxy-14, 15-bisnorlabdane and tetrahydroactinidiolide, labda-7,13,14-triene,cisandtrans-methyldihydrojasmonate as well as other compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The article provides methods on teaching lessons on body mass index (BMI) to students. Mentioned is the use of an interactive simulation for conducting explorations, generating instant feedback and linking ideas with real-world phenomena. The calculation of BMI values is discussed, along with an examination of students' weight status.

This work considers the performance of the downlink channel of MIMO cellular networks serving multiple users with different statistical QoS requirements. The paper proposes resource allocation algorithms that aim to optimize the system performance over the sum of the optimal user utility functions by employing the effective capacity theory. Proportionally fair resource allocation among the users is performed via two different approaches and solutions, namely, the Frame Allocation Algorithm (FAA), which involves dynamic time allocation for transmit beamforming, and the Power Allocation Algorithm (PAA), which provides optimal power control for space division multiple access. In FAA, each user is assigned a distinct slot of optimal length, based on the instantaneous channel conditions of the active users in each frame; while in PAA, resource allocation is performed via power assignment by taking into account the long-term averages of the channel conditions across all users. The efficacy of the proposed algorithms are demonstrated via numerical experiments considering realistic channel models and various QoS settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of transoral or transnasal endoscopic-guided adenoidectomy compared with endoscopic nasopharyngeal inspection at the end of curettage adenoidectomy. A prospective case series of patients who had adenoidectomy. A total of 27 girls and 34 boys (age range 2.5-18 years) in whom adenoidectomy with or without tonsillectomy procedure was planned were included in the study. The cases were divided into three groups. Group 1 Transoral endoscopic-guided adenoidectomy performed patients. Group 2 Transnasal endoscopic-guided adenoidectomy performed patients. Group 3 Transnasal endoscopic nasopharyngeal exploration performed at the end of the conventional curettage adenoidectomy. The study was completed on 61 children. Mean age and sex frequency were not significant different between the groups. Mean operative time were 11.6 ± 2.9, 15.6 ± 4.4 and 9.7 ± 2 min, respectively ( p > 0.05). On the other hand, significant differences were observed in operative time between group 1 and group 2 ( p < 0.05), and between group 2 and group 3 ( p < 0.05). Transnasal endoscopic examination at the end of curettage adenoidectomy is an appropriate method to assess the residual adenoid tissue after conventional curettage adenoidectomy. Also, operative time of this method is shorter than transoral or transnasal endoscopic-guided adenoidectomy. We recommend transnasal endoscopic inspection in all patients after conventional curettage adenoidectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper examines the price volatility spillovers among the crude oil, soybeans, corn, wheat, and sugar futures markets over the period 1/1/2006-11/29/2013. We separately investigate the periods of the pre-crisis, the crisis, and the post-crisis in financial markets. We use the Yang-Zhang estimators for the historical volatility and find that there is a volatility sprawl from the crude oil to corn markets. There is also bi-directional causality between the corn and soybeans markets. In addition, we observe significant volatility spillovers from both the soybeans and the corn markets to the wheat markets. The results are also valid in a different sub-period analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a case study of a patient with a duplicated gallbladder and acute cholecystitis. The article highlights the challenges in diagnosing and treating such anomalies, as they can lead to complications during surgery. The surgical team successfully removed both gallbladders and the patient recovered without any issues. The article emphasizes the importance of accurately identifying and evaluating anatomical structures to guide surgical planning. It also discusses the need for refined classifications to improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes. The choice between laparoscopic and open cholecystectomy depends on various factors, including anatomical complexities and patient presentation. [Extracted from the article]

Compared to other countries, caviar production in Turkey has a short history, which began principally in the early 1950s, peaked during the 1960s, and began to decline towards the end of the 1970s. Sturgeon fishery was practiced in the estuaries of the rivers Kızılırmak, Yeşilırmak, Sakarya and Çoruh. Thus, processed caviar originated from the districts of Carsamba, Bafra (Samsun City) and Karasu (Sakarya City) and appeared mainly in the markets of Istanbul. Techniques used to capture mature fish were nets set at sea and with hooks ('karmak' in Turkish) at the mouth of a river. Two processing techniques were commonly used: (i) malossol/mongol caviar (lightly/highly salted) and (ii) pressed caviar. Landings were mainly recorded in the Istanbul Kumkapı fish hall, reaching 300 tonnes per year in the late 1960s; however, catches declined drastically in the 1970s to only about 30 tonnes. In 1962, caviar production from Acipenser sturio was between 1200 and 1300 kg in the Yeşilırmak River; 1000 to 1200 kg in the Kızılırmak River; and 50 to 80 kg in the Sakarya River. For A. nudiventris, the respective data were 300-400 kg from Yeşilırmak River; 500-600 kg from Kızılırmak River; and 200-250 kg from Sakarya River. The rapid decline in Black Sea sturgeon stocks led to catch restrictions in Turkish coastal areas beginning in 1971. Following the construction of several hydrodams on the main sturgeon rivers in the 1970s, the few sturgeon spawning grounds that remained were drastically affected. Further deterioration of riverine environments was caused by increased pollution in the 1970s-1990s. Sturgeon catches dropped rapidly to less than 10 tonnes after 1975, whereby the fishery collapsed with only a few fish recorded sporadically after 2000. Over the past five years, aquaculture farms began to rear sturgeons for caviar production, with anticipation of initial marketing in 2014-2015. The forecast for 2020 is on the order of 6-8 tonnes of caviar per year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article describes an activity program for elementary education which teaches concepts about the use of mathematics to make environmental decisions.

Highlights: [•] We revealed the mechanisms of non-homogeneous distribution of fibre strains in a fibrous network. [•] We presented parametric studies to investigate the effect of model parameters. [•] We compared the contributions of material behaviour. [•] Arrangement of bond points is very important in the distribution. [•] Viscous material property results in a more homogeneous distribution of stresses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]