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In this study, the performance and potential applicability of polyamide‐12 (PA12) as an alternative to polyamide‐11 (PA11), which is currently used in the coating processes of sliding tools present in cardan shafts, was investigated. The advantages of PA12 powder instead of PA11 in cardan shafts' coating include ease of supply and cost‐effectiveness, while still achieving similar performance. Therefore, PA12 is a more economical choice for coating applications. The PA11 and PA12 neat polymers were characterized via differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). Based on the analyses, PA12 demonstrated substantial advantages over PA11. It showed a 16°C improvement in decomposition temperature and a 50% increase in crystallinity, enhancing stability under operational conditions, whereas PA11 exhibited approximately 6–7% higher values in crystallization and melting temperatures. The wettability behavior of the steel substrates coated with those polyamides was measured via contact angle analysis. Wear properties and morphologies of coatings were examined using a ball‐on disc test and scanning electron microscopy, respectively and comparatively. Furthermore, PA12 typically displays 30% lower wear rates and similar deformation patterns in tests, thereby presenting itself as a cost‐effective and widely accessible option for coating applications in comparison to PA11. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Arachnoid cysts are extra parenchymal, intra-arachnoid fluid collections of unknown origin, similar in content to cerebrospinal fluid. Suprasellar arachnoid cysts are a rarer localization resulting from abnormalities of the Liliequist membrane or cystic dilatation of the interpeduncular cisterna. We aimed to contribute to the literature by presenting a series of suprasellar arachnoid cyst cases with endoscopic intervention and long-term results. Methods: This study analyzed radiographic data, clinical symptoms, surgical records, and videos of giant arachnoid cysts that underwent endoscopic surgery between 2013 and 2023. Cyst volumes and Evan's indexes were calculated both preoperatively and postoperatively. Results: The patient population consisted of 3 males (21.4%, 3/14 patients) and 11 females (78.5%, 11/14 patients). Their age at the time of surgery ranged from 1 year to 56 years (mean: 14.4 years). Of the total 14 patients, 4 (28.5%, 4/14 patients) were adults (age ≥ 18 years), and 10 (71.4%, 10/14 patients) were pediatric (age < 18 years). The most common presenting complaints were gait disturbance (21.4%, 3/14 patients), headache (21.4%, 3/14 patients), increased head circumference (14.2%, 2/14 patients), hormonal disorders (14.2%, 2/14 patients), seizures (14.2%, 2/14 patients), and forgetfulness (7.1%, 1/14 patients). Ventriculocystocisternostomy was performed in all patients. The most common perioperative complication was bleeding controlled by irrigation (28.5%, 4/14 patients). The mean follow-up period was 63.8 months (min:12 months-max:125 months). In the postoperative long-term follow-up, the preoperative neurologic examinations of the patients showed complete recovery, and hormonal problems returned to normal. Conclusions: Endoscopic options for the surgery of rare giant suprasellar arachnoid cysts, especially ventriculocisternostomy, are safe, less invasive, and successful, with fewer recurrences and the need for a second operation in the long-term results of patients who underwent ventriculocisternostomy according to our experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Assessing student satisfaction is essential in evaluating the quality of education. The number of valid and reliable tools that measure students' satisfaction with online education is limited. This methodological study aimed to assess the psychometric properties of the online education student satisfaction scale. Methods: Eleven academicians from the nursing field provided expert opinions on content validity. Separate 25 students evaluated the language clarity of the draft scale. The study sample included 525 third- and fourth-year nursing students. Finally, a group of 30 nursing students different from the sample participated in the test–retest. The study created an item pool based on the recent literature. The researchers calculated the items' content validity rates and the scale's content validity index by taking the experts' opinions. In addition, item–total score correlation analysis, exploratory factor analysis, discrimination analysis, stability test, and internal consistency analysis were performed. Results: An item with a low-correlation value was excluded from the scale. The correlation coefficients of the remaining items were between.536 and.811. In the second round of exploratory factor analysis, a five-factor structure emerged that explained 72.1% of the total variance. In addition, item discrimination, stability, and internal consistency test results ensured that the scale was valid and reliable. Conclusions: The online education student satisfaction scale with five subdimensions containing 28 items is a valid and reliable tool. Researchers, educators, and managers may use it to evaluate students' satisfaction with online education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Hands execute intricate tasks vital for everyday life and professions such as cooking, tailoring, and craftsmanship. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to establish reference data for hand grip and palmar pinch force sense in young adults, accounting for gender differences, and to determine the correlation between these data and school-entry ages. METHODS: The cross-sectional observational study comprised 284 participants (156 females and 128 males). Demographic details, including age, gender, weight, and height, were recorded. Participant ages ranged from 18 to 29, representing the youth workforce population as defined by the International Labour Organization. Factors like hand dominance and school-entry age were ascertained based on participants' self-reports. Hand grip and palmar pinch force senses were separately assessed in the dominant and non-dominant hands of 130 randomly chosen participants to evaluate test-retest reliability. RESULTS: Hand grip (dominant: p < 0.001, non-dominant: p = 0.002) and palmar pinch force sense errors were significantly lower in male participants compared to females. Palmar pinch force sense error for the dominant hand was reduced in males (p = 0.002), but no significant disparity existed between genders for the non-dominant hand (p = 0.222). Healthy adults who began school at age five or earlier exhibited a decreased force sense error rate (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Force sense error reference values vary based on gender and school-entry age. This reference data will aid rehabilitation specialists working with young adults in physiotherapy and occupational therapy fields in identifying potential impairments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this study was to make the Turkish cultural adaptation of the the Stroke Activity Scale (SAS). Method: This study was designed as a methodological research. The psychometric properties of the SAS scale were evaluated by validity and reliability analyses. Results: The average age of 84 stroke patients (mean ± SD) was 59.52 ± 14.03 years. Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (0.816) and Bartlett's Test of Sphericity (χ2 = 288.968, df = 10, p < 0.001) showed that the data set can be factored. A one-factor structure was obtained with Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The factor loads of the items obtained with PCA and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) were found to be statistically significant. The obtained chi-square statistics (χ2 = 2.227, p = 0.694), normalized chi-square/freedom (χ2/sd) value (0 ≤ 0.557 ≤ 2) and other goodness of fit indices showed good compliance. The positive highly significant correlation (r = 0.846, p < 0.001) between the SAS and Rivermead Mobility Index (RMI) scales confirmed the Concurrent validity. Cronbach's alpha (0.864) value showed high reliability and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) value (0.983, p < 0.001) showed excellent agreement. Conclusions: In this study, which was conducted for the Turkish adaptation of the SAS scale, the 5-item and 1-factor structure was evaluated as a valid and reliable scale for evaluating the balance abilities of stroke patients living in Turkey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing the mold service life via improving the surface properties of AISI P20 + Ni steel, which is frequently used in the production of plastic injection molds, through the boronizing process may have significant implications for the industrial sector in terms of enhancing production efficiency. In this study, AISI P20 + Ni mold steel was borided at various temperatures (850, 900, and 950 °C) and durations (3, 6, and 9 h) employing a non-commercial boriding admixture containing H3BO3 via powder-pack boronizing method. The layer's morphology and thickness were assessed using optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Boride layers exhibiting a saw-tooth morphology, uniformly distributed across the substrate surface, were identified. X-ray diffraction and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis were employed to analyze the phase constituents and chemical composition of the boride layer. As a result of these analyses, the presence of a single-phase (Fe2B) boride layer was detected. Microhardness tests indicated that the boronized sample surface had an average hardness of around 1900 HV. Wear tests were conducted utilizing the ball-on-disk method at ambient (room) temperature under dry sliding conditions, revealing an approximately 23-fold increase in the wear resistance of boronized materials. Contact angle analysis was employed to evaluate the wettability behavior of the substrate and borided samples. Corrosion tests were conducted using the linear polarization resistance method in a 3.5 wt% NaCl solution, and it was observed that the corrosion rate of the sample boronized at 900 °C for 6 h was approximately six times lower than that of the substrate material. Indentation fracture (IF) toughness tests of the boride layers were performed using a Vickers microindentation. The IF toughness value of boride layers decreased with increasing process duration and temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Comparatively assess the fluorescence and color adjustment potentials of paste-type and flowable resin composites performed in cervical restorations. Materials and methods: Five paste-type resin composites and 5 highly-filled flowable composites were investigated (n=5 for each). Class V cavities on 50 extracted A2 shade human central incisors were restored. Cross-polarization (CP) and fluorescence illumination (FI) images were recorded for each restoration. L*a*b* values were analyzed using the Photoshop software and color adjustment (ΔECP) and fluorescence adjustment (ΔEFI) levels were quantitatively assessed. Kruskal Wallis Test, Independent Samples t Test, One Way Anova-Welch test, and Pearson Correlation were used for the statistical analyses. The deemed significance was set at p<.050. Results: Paste-type composites presented significantly lower ΔEFI and ΔECP values than the flowable composites (p=.006 and p<.001 respectively). ΔEFI and ΔECP values were positively correlated (r=0.584; p<.001). Paste-type Gaenial A’chord presented the lowest ΔEFI value [7.67 (5.35 - 10.99)b], while Estelite Asteria presented significantly the highest [19.94 (17.08 - 22.17)c]. Charisma Diamond One Flow presented the highest ΔECP value [3.25 (3.13 - 3.39)a] and Gaenial A’chord presented the lowest [0.79 (0.48 - 0.87)e] which was the only imperceptible score (<0.8). The only clinically acceptable color adjustment was found for Geanial Universal Injectable [1.06 (0.73 - 1.62)e] among the flowable composites. ΔEFI and b* values were positively correlated (r=0.493; p<.001). Conclusions: Color adjustment level and fluorescence adjustment level were considered coherent for particular composite brands. At the same time, both were better for the paste-type composites than the flowable composites on A2 base shade class V restorations. Fluorescence adjustment potential as well as the color adjustment potential varied among different composite brands regarding paste-type and flowable composites. Clinical significance: Understanding both the color and fluorescence adjustment potentials of paste-type and flowable resin-based composite materials is clinically vital to achieve the high-end esthetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary role of the parathyroid glands is to maintain calcium homeostasis through the secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH). The limited proliferative capacity and differentiation of parathyroid cells hinder the generation of cell therapy options. In this study, parathyroid organoids are successfully generated from human‐induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). At the end of the 20 days of differentiation, the parathyroid organoids exhibited distinct parathyroid morphology. Stereomicroscope, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis demonstrated the 3D arrangement of the cell layers in which intracellular structures of parathyroid cells resemble human parathyroid cellular morphology. Comprehensive molecular analyses, including RNA sequencing (RNA‐Seq) and liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS), confirmed the expression of key parathyroid‐related markers. Protein expression of CasR, CxCr4, Gcm2, and PTH are observed in parathyroid organoids. Parathyroid organoids secrete PTH, demonstrate active intercellular calcium signaling, and induce osteogenic differentiation via their secretome. The tissue integration potential of parathyroid organoids is determined by transplantation into parathyroidectomized rats. The organoid transplanted animals showed significant elevations in PTH‐related markers (CasR, CxCr4, Foxn1, Gcm2, and PTH). PTH secretion is detected in organoid‐transplanted animals. The findings represent a significant advancement in parathyroid organoid culture and may offer a cellular therapy for treating PTH‐related diseases, including hypoparathyroidism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Considering the low rate of qualitative studies on athletes with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), aiming to access in-depth data, we thought that the utilization of the qualitative method would allow us to collect the appropriate and sufficient data to yield novel findings and achieve sound conclusions. The study's aim was to investigate anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury experience processes in athletes who had undergone isolated ACLR, reveal the clinically related milestones, and highlight the necessary gaps. Methods: Semi-structured interview techniques, in-depth follow-up questions, and thematic analysis were used to explore the experiences of participants with isolated ACL injuries 1–3 years after surgical treatment. The study was conducted in the Orthopaedics and Traumatology outpatient clinic of the Adana City Training and Research Hospital and included 14 male athletes who had undergone isolated primary ACLR. The study group's demographic and qualitative data were collected in the first week of September 2023. The member checking process was completed in the third following week. A thematic analysis checklist was used to ensure the reliability of the thematic analysis. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting of Qualitative Research (COREQ) guidelines were followed. Results: The experiences of 14 patients (22.78 ± 3.76 years, all males) were summarized into four themes that emerged from the data analysis process: 'The Distinctions in the Participants' Experiences Regarding the Moment of Injury,' 'Gathering Information about the ACL Injury,' 'Factors That Facilitate The Treatment Process and Reinforce Positive Experiences,' and 'Desperate Plight: Main Points of Patients' Negative Experiences.' Based on the main themes, there were 14 subthemes. Conclusions: Our study revealed that varying perceptions of ACL injury presented by the participants, which were caused by all stakeholders, including themselves, the professional environment, family members, social network, and the healthcare staff, showed that the physical and psychological impacts of the injury were observed in different severity levels at each stage of the process. We believe that an extensive guide for athletes with ACL injuries that includes all components of well-being and displays the required details for the sports club/coach, family/companion, and physician. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growing teratoma syndrome (GTS) is characterized by a reduction in serum tumor markers despite the growth of a benign mature teratomatous mass following chemotherapy for germ cell tumors. Gliomatosis peritonei (GP) typically accompanies ovarian teratomas, marked by the dissemination of mature glial tissue across the peritoneum. The concurrent presence of GTS and GP after treatment for ovarian immature teratoma (IMT) is notably rare, with approximately 20 reported cases. This case involves a 25-year-old patient who underwent surgical removal of an adnexal mass, which was later diagnosed as stage IIIA grade 3 ovarian IMT with parametrial involvement. Following two cycles of bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin chemotherapy, imaging identified new lesions adjacent to the liver and on the pelvic peritoneum. A second fertility-sparing surgery was performed, and paraffin pathology confirmed a mature teratoma within the excised specimen. Additionally, the resected pelvic peritoneum revealed nodules of mature glial tissue consistent with GP. The coexistence of GP with GTS post-IMT surgery presents a diagnostic challenge in distinguishing between malignant and benign components, which is critical to avoid unnecessarily aggressive surgical and chemotherapeutic treatments. Recognizing such cases may enable fertility-sparing surgery for these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study investigated the problem-solving strategies used in solving problems in the learning domain of numbers and operations in mathematics textbooks for Turkish middle schools. Design/methodology/approach: To this end, four middle school mathematics textbooks published by the Ministry of National Education of Turkey (MEB in Turkish), one from each grade level (Grades 5–8), were examined. The data in this document analysis study were analyzed using semantic content analysis. Findings: The findings revealed that mathematics textbooks' most used problem-solving strategies for each level were drawing a figure (diagram), writing equality and inequality, making a table and making a systematic list. Drawing a diagram (figure) strategy was the most used strategy at each grade level, while working backwards was the least used one. Another finding was that finding a pattern and solving a simpler analogous problem strategies were rarely used at each grade level. Research limitations/implications: This study points out how problem-solving strategies used Grades 5-8 mathematics textbooks in a different culture like Türkiye. So, it may also give some important clues for applying problem-solving strategies in mathematics classrooms in a different culture. Practical implications: This study may draw the attention of educational stakeholders and textbook authors who want to understand and implement problem-solving strategies in mathematics classrooms by considering a different cultural perspective. Social implications: This study may point to the importance of using problem-solving strategies in mathematics and daily and social learning environments due to the nature of mathematical problem-solving and problem-solving strategies. Originality/value: This document review study examined the problem-solving strategies used in Turkish middle school mathematics textbooks, and the data were analyzed using semantic content analysis. The findings revealed that mathematics textbooks' most used problem solving strategies for each level were drawing a figure (diagram), writing equality and inequality, making a table and making a systematic list. Drawing a diagram (figure) strategy was the most used strategy at each grade level, while working backwards was the least used one. Another finding was that finding a pattern and solving a simpler analogous problem strategies were rarely used at each grade level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: A lack of confidence in vaccination is a threat to public health and undermines vaccine uptake at national and global levels. Unfortunately, COVID-19 vaccine confidence among Turkish young adults is poorly known. This study aims to understand COVID-19 vaccine confidence among Turkish young adults aged 18– 29 and the barriers to and facilitators of vaccine uptake. Methods: The present research is a cross-sectional study. Survey data were collected in May and June 2022 (n = 1066) during the COVID-19 vaccination campaign. Results were expressed in frequencies and percentages for dichotomous variables and mean with standard deviation for continuous variables. To assess COVID-19 vaccine confidence based on selected sociodemographic characteristics, a one-way ANOVA analysis and an independent-sample t-test were used. Results: Almost half of the sample (43.9%) underestimated the risk of contracting COVID-19 disease. 65.9% of participants believed that getting vaccinated against COVID-19 was important, while 47.8% thought the vaccine was safe and not dangerous or harmful. Concerns about vaccine effectiveness (58.3%) were the primary reported reason for vaccination. The percentage of participants who reported barriers to vaccine access was generally low (8.7%). Importantly, 63.9% believed getting vaccinated is their responsibility to their community. 33.8% of participants reported encountering inaccurate, misleading, and unfavorable information about COVID-19 vaccines, while 22.9% said they were unsure. Conclusion: Addressing concerns about COVID-19 vaccine safety and efficacy, emphasizing the role of vaccination in societal benefits, ensuring easy access to vaccines, and providing access to up-to-date and accurate information from reliable sources might help increase coverage among young adults. Perhaps the most crucial advice is to instill the correct comprehension of vaccination and make lifelong vaccination a reality before individuals develop false beliefs that are challenging to rectify. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the immediate and long-term effects of breathing exercises on simple and choice reaction time. Materials and Methods: A total of 31 participants were included in the study. The participants were randomly divided into two groups. The intervention group (IG; n:16) received 12 sessions of breathing exercises for four weeks (three days a week), while the control group (CG; n:15) received no intervention. Both groups underwent the same assessments at the same times: at baseline, after the first exercise session, and after four weeks/after 12 exercise sessions. Reaction time was assessed using three conditions: choice reaction time (CRT) of the upper limb, auditory reaction time (ART), and visual reaction time (VRT) tests. The first assessment was applied at baseline. The second assessment measured the short-term effect of the breathing exercises after the study group received their first breathing exercise session. The third assessment, to determine the long-term effect, was repeated four weeks after the baseline (A4W) assessment after completing 12 breathing exercises. Results: There was no significant difference between the groups at baseline, immediately, and A4W (p < 0.05) for the VRT, ART, and CRT results with the dominant hand (DH), whereas a group-by-time interaction was found only for the visual reaction time results with the non-dominant hand (nDH) (p > 0.05). Conclusions: The results of this study, which included the evaluation of the immediate and long-term effects of breathing exercises on reaction time, showed an improvement in visual reaction time between the groups over time. In further studies, it is recommended to evaluate the changes and responses in the central nervous system with objective methods to reveal the effect of breathing exercises on reaction time more clearly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is one of the widely known wild edible plants. It has been used as a nutrient in traditional cuisines and ethnomedicine throughout history. The aim of the study is to evaluate the functional properties of the Dandelion plant, its effects on health and its use in traditional cuisines around the world, based on the literature. Numerous studies have revealed that dandelion has numerous health benefits, including protection against cancer as well as liver and cardiovascular disease. In traditional cuisine, its fresh leaves, flowers and roots are used in the preparation of various products. Its leaves are used in salads, soups, pastries, raw and cooked dishes, while its flowers and roots are used in desserts, beverages and food additives. Given the functional effects and traditional use of dandelion, its use in commercial kitchens can make an impressive difference and awareness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Agriculture & Nature / Kahramanmaraş Sütçü İmam Üniversitesi Tarım & Doğa Dergisi is the property of Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam Universitesi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study is motivated by the recently published papers on normal injective and normal projective hypermodules. We provide a new characterization of the normal injective and normal projective hypermodules by using the splitting of the short exact sequences of hypermodules. After presenting some of their fundamental properties, we show that if a hypermodule is normal projective, then every exact sequence ending with it is splitting. Moreover, if a hypermodule is normal injective, then every exact sequence starting with it is splitting as well. Finally, we investigate the relationships between semisimple, simple, normal injective, and normal projective hypermodules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on the cytotoxic effect properties of 4‐aryl‐functionalized benzo[d,e]benzo[4,5]imidazo[2,1‐a]isoquinolin‐7‐one (4‐X−Ar−BBI). The electron‐withdrawing and electron‐donating substituents located at the para position of the phenyl ring attached to the heterocyclic structure have altered the pi electron density within the structure. This change in electron density has influenced the intercalation ability of the heterocyclic structure and has impacted the intensity of its interaction with DNA. The 4‐aryl‐benzo[d,e]benzo[4,5]imidazo[2,1‐a]isoquinolin‐7‐one derivatives (4‐X−Ar−BBI) were prepared via the Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling reaction. The optimum reaction conditions were determined to be 70 °C for 5 hours using catalyst 1 and K2CO3, resulting in a yield of 96 % of 4‐H−Ar−BBI. Characterization of all compounds (4‐X−Ar−BBI) was performed using Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and 1H‐ and 19F‐NMR spectroscopies. The cytotoxic activities of the compounds (4‐X−Ar−BBI) were investigated against cancer cell lines, specifically HeLa (human cervix adenocarcinoma epithelial), PC3 (human prostate), and MCF‐7 (human breast). The stability of 4‐CN−Ar−BBI and the binding modes between 4‐CN−Ar−BBI and DNA were investigated via 1H‐NMR spectroscopy and UV‐Vis spectroscopy, respectively. 4‐CH3−3‐NO2−Ar−BBI exhibited the most potent cytotoxic activity against MCF‐7, and 4‐F−Ar−BBI showed the highest activity against HeLa, with IC50 values of 3.675 and 7.370 μM, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We call a Krasner right S‐hypermodule A regular if each cyclic subhypermodule of A is a direct summand of A, and we also call A semiregular if every finitely generated subhypermodule of A lies above a direct summand of A. In this study, some properties of such hypermodules are achieved. This paper consists of concentrating over the radical, as well as their connections with (semi)regularity of hypermodules. Finally, the relationship between f‐supplement submodule and semiregularity is given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study elucidates the cross-cultural adaptation, reliability, and validity of the Turkish version of the Smart Tools Proneness Questionnaire (STP-Q), designed to probe into individuals' engagement with smart tools within the Turkish cultural milieu. Undertaking a rigorous adaptation process, this investigation aimed to ensure the questionnaire's relevance and intelligibility, subsequently, assessing its psychometric properties within a cohort of 387 participants. The exploratory factor analysis revealed a tripartite structure that reflects the original instrument, covering utilitarian use, hedonic and social use, and the inclination to delegate tasks. This congruity underscores the STP-Q's adeptness in capturing the complex dimensions of smart tool interaction across various contexts. Demonstrated by a Cronbach's alpha of 0.954 and a test-retest reliability index of 0.851, the results affirm the questionnaire's exceptional internal consistency and significant temporal stability. Further, the execution of convergent validity assessments alongside the E-Learning Readiness Scale and the Nomophobia Questionnaire augmented the STP-Q's validity, unveiling correlations that delineate the intricate interrelations among smart tool proneness, e-learning readiness, and nomophobia. Conclusively, the STP-Q distinguishes itself as a reliable and valid instrument for gauging tendencies towards smart tool use among the Turkish populace, providing profound insights into digital behavior across different cultural backgrounds. Its confirmed three-factor structure and robust psychometric attributes render it an indispensable resource for both individual assessments and expansive digital behavior investigations, enabling cross-cultural comparisons and enhancing our understanding of technology engagement dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Volleyball demands high levels of anaerobic strength, flexibility, agility, and mental focus. Adequate sleep has been shown to enhance athletic performance and cognitive function. This study investigates the impact of post-lunch naps of varying durations (25 and 45 min) on the physiological performance and cognitive focus of elite volleyball players. Materials and Methods: Sixteen elite volleyball players (8 male, 8 female) with at least 7 years of competitive experience participated in a randomized crossover study. They underwent three experimental conditions: no nap (No-Nap), a 25-min nap (N25), and a 45-min nap (N45). Physical performance was measured through counter-movement jumps (CMJ) and volleyball agility tests, while cognitive function was assessed using the D2 attention test. Statistical analysis included repeated measures ANOVA to examine the differences between nap conditions and gender-specific responses. Results: Significant improvements in both physical performance and cognitive focus were observed in the N25 and N45 conditions compared to the No-Nap condition (indicating the effectiveness of short naps in enhancing both physical and mental performance). Males outperformed females in most physical metrics, while females scored higher on the D2 attention test (suggesting possible gender-specific responses to napping). The 25-min nap showed slightly better results in terms of sleep quality and subsequent performance (confirming that shorter naps may be more beneficial). Conclusions: Post-lunch naps, especially of 25 or 45 min, enhance both physiological and cognitive performance in elite volleyball players. These findings suggest that integrating short naps into athletes' training regimens can improve performance and focus, with potential gender-specific benefits. Further research is needed to explore long-term effects and variations across other sports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Archives of the Turkish Society of Cardiology / Türk Kardiyoloji Derneği Arşivi is the property of KARE Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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Copyright of Duzce University Journal of Science & Technology is the property of Duzce University Journal of Science & Technology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Turkiye Klinikleri Journal of Health Sciences / Türkiye Klinikleri Sağlık Bilimleri Dergisi is the property of Turkiye Klinikleri and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Administrative Sciences / Yonetim Bilimleri Dergisi is the property of Canakkale Onsekiz Mart Universitesi, Terzioglu Kampusu and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Rize Theology Journal / Rize Ilahiyat Dergisi is the property of Rize Theology Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study aimed to examine the relationship between earthquake-related trauma severity and smoking status in individuals affected by earthquakes. The study sample consisted of 488 earthquake survivors (57.1% women) older than 18 years old who were placed in dormitories in an earthquake-safe area after the Kahramanmaraş-centered earthquakes in 2023. The study data were collected two months after the earthquakes using an information form and the Scale that Determines the Level of the Trauma after the Earthquake (SDLTAE). The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and independent sample t tests, one-way ANOVA, and binary logistic regression at the significance level (p <.05). The findings showed that 75.2% of the individuals experienced severe trauma. According to the results of the present study, gender, the need for psychological support, earthquake-related losses, and smoking related to trauma. Being a woman, seeking psychological support, experiencing earthquake-related health problems, facing earthquake-caused material losses, and increased smoking after the earthquake were significant predictors of earthquake-related trauma. This study, conducted two months after the earthquake, aimed to measure the early effects of the earthquakes. Studies are also needed to analyze the long-term impact of earthquakes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Cesarean section (CS) is a delivery method, which is used to avoid the complications of vaginal delivery, maternal and neonatal morbidity, and mortality. It has become the most applied surgical procedure both in Türkiye, and globally. In 2013, Robson et al. created the "Robson 10-Group Classification System" (TGCS) in Ireland to evaluate and standardize CS indications more easily. Materials and Methods: The data for this retrospective study were collected from the records of women, who gave birth between January 1, 2019 and July 31, 2022 at Muğla University Education and Research Hospital. These data were classified according to the TGCS. Results: There were 4889 deliveries in our clinic between the specified dates. 3177 (64.98%) of these births were CS. When the CS ratio was evaluated as a percentage, the groups with the highest ratio were, respectively, Robson groups 9, 5, 7, and 8 (100%, 99.34%, 97.56%, and 96.92%). When the CS ratio was evaluated as a percentage, the group with the lowest ratio was Robson group 3 (21.5%). When numerically evaluated in terms of the effect on the CS number, the ranking was Robson groups 5, 1, and 2, respectively (1,053, 893, and 568). Conclusion: The CS ratio of our clinic is above the mean for that of Türkiye, and the highest acceptable CS ratio according to the WHO. Since our clinic is the only university hospital in the city, all complicated pregnancies are referred to our clinic, with births also taking place there. In addition, behavior change would be appropriate both with respect to active birth management and the action required to reduce the CS ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates the 5-year clinical performance of Class II restorations performed with different bulk-fill restorative materials. In the study, Class II restorations performed with Tetric Bulk-Fill (TBF), Filtek Bulk-Fill (FBF), and Equia Forte Fil (EF) were evaluated. One hundred-nineteen restorations were included in the study. Restorations were assessed during the 6th month, 1st, 2nd, and 5th year. Cochran Q, Pearson chi-square, and Fisher-Freeman-Halton tests were used for statistical analysis. In the 5th year, significant differences were observed in terms of retention, color match, marginal adaptation, marginal discoloration, surface texture, and anatomical form in all materials. There was a significant difference between EF and bulk-fill composites only in terms of retention and anatomical form. EF was significantly less successful than bulk-fill composites with regard to retention and anatomical form, but bulk-fill composites have shown similar clinical performance. EF cannot be an alternative to bulk-fill composites for Class II restorations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is becoming more widespread globally. Thanks to renal replacement therapy (RRT) methods, the life expectancy of CKD patients is gradually increasing. Today, the notion of quality of life has come to the forefront in evaluating treatment efficacy with increasing life expectancy. Among the RRT methods, kidney transplantation is the one that improves the quality of life the most. Polypharmacy is a concept that has been on the agenda recently and is known to have adverse effects on quality of life. Kidney transplant patients are frequently exposed to polypharmacy due to immunosuppressive drugs and comorbidities, particularly during the initial stages of transplantation. In our study, the KDQOL-SF questionnaire was administered to 128 kidney transplant recipients who visited the Nephrology outpatient clinic between October 2023 and November 2023. Those taking ≥6 medications were defined as the group exposed to polypharmacy. Polypharmacy was considered present in 74 of the patients involved in the study. The mean age of the patients was 51.8 ±11.5 years in the polypharmacy group and 42.4 ±12.5 years in the non-polypharmacy group. In renal transplant patients, the quality of life was notably reduced in the polypharmacy group. The presence of polypharmacy showed a statistically significant correlation with age, comorbidity, multimorbidity, marital status, and primary disease. The group with polypharmacy had notably lower scores in all sub-parameters of the KDQOL-SF. In conclusion, our study determined that the presence of polypharmacy had a negative impact on the quality of life of renal transplant patients. Polypharmacy was found to be associated with age, comorbidity and multimorbidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globalization has been a transformative force in the world, shaping the way countries interact with one another and impacting a wide range of economic, political, and social factors (Akcaoğlu & Arsal, 2022). In this context, promoting understanding of diversity and inclusion among students is essential which can be effectively cultivated through learning materials. Raising students' awareness of the diverse range of cultures, perspectives, and experiences that exist within the world should be a concern for teachers. Therefore, this study explores the representation of race in four EFL coursebooks prepared for secondary school grades (5- 8) published by the Turkish Ministry of National Education. In a qualitative descriptive research design, document analysis was used to analyze the images and written texts. The results revealed that in all four books the target language countries, European nationalities, and white race were predominantly referred to and portrayed. The most diverse coursebook was the 5th grade one in terms of racial representation whereas the 6th grade coursebook was found to include references to only Türkiye. The study suggests revising the coursebooks to promote diversity and inclusivity can be an effective way to cultivate intercultural competence, foster greater empathy and understanding among students, and create more equitable and inclusive learning environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In Turkey and other collectivist cultures, child-rearing is a communal effort provided by multiple family members, especially female relatives such as mothers-in-law, aunts, and sisters. Environments with excessively controlling social factors can adversely affect their maternal roles. This study was conducted to develop a measurement tool for determining postpartum excessive social support. Methods: This is a scale development and psychometric evaluation study. In the study, a draft of the Postpartum Excessive Social Support Scale (PESSS) was created, subsequently submitted to expert opinion, and administered to mothers in the postpartum period of 1 to 6 weeks online between March and December 2023 (n = 440). A factor analysis (including explanatory factor analysis [EFA] and confirmatory factor analysis) was conducted to determine the construct validity of the scale, while Cronbach's alpha was examined to establish its reliability. Response bias (Hotelling T 2) and additivity (Tukey's test of additivity) of the scale were also determined in the study. Results: For the content validity of the scale, 10 experts from the field of midwifery were consulted (content validity index [CVI] = 0.80). As a result of the EFA, Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin value was found as 0.916. Through factor analysis using the direct oblimin rotation technique, a four-factor structure was identified for the scale, explaining 64.197% of the total variance (social pressure, effect of environmental factors on paternal role, effect of environmental factors on maternal role, and barriers in mother–infant interaction). The internal reliability coefficient of the scale was highly reliable (Cronbach's alpha = 0.936). There was no response bias in the scale (Hotelling's T 2 = 433.558, p <.001) and it was additive (Tukey's Non-additivity = 0.000, p <.001). Discussion: The PESSS is a 20-item scale measuring excessive social support between 1 and 6 weeks postpartum. The PESSS serves as a guiding tool for health care professionals to identify excessive environmental pressure hindering mothers' maternal role and to provide care accordingly. In this context, health care professionals can readily utilize the PESSS in routine postpartum assessments for mothers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Previous studies have established a connection between adverse childhood experiences (ACE) and alcohol use disorder (AUD), both of which are associated with alterations in grey matter volume (GMV) and cortical thickness (CT). The current study aimed to assess the neurobiological impact of ACE specifically in the context of AUD, as well as the role of maltreatment type (i.e., abuse or neglect) and timing. Methods: Structural MRI data were collected from 35 adults with AUD (mean age: 40; 31% female) and 28 healthy controls (mean age: 36; 61% female). ACE were assessed retrospectively using the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, and the Maltreatment and Abuse Chronology interview. Global and regional GMV and CT were estimated using voxel‐ and surface‐based morphometry. Results: Relative to the healthy controls, the AUD group had significantly reduced CT in the left inferior frontal gyrus, left circular sulcus of the insula and subcentral gyrus and sulci (cluster C1), and in the central sulcus and precentral gyrus (cluster C2). Within the AUD group, a reduction of CT in cluster C1 was significantly associated with higher severity of ACE and AUD. Type and timing analyses revealed a significant association between higher levels of abuse at ages 13 to 15 and reduced CT in cluster C1 within the AUD group. Conclusions: In adults with AUD, abuse experienced during early adolescence is associated with reduced CT in regions involved in inhibitory control, indicating the potential relevance of cognitive pathways in the association between ACE and AUD. Longitudinal studies are needed to confirm and expand upon current findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE To investigate the safety and efficacy of the imaging-guided percutaneous nephrostomy (PCN) procedure in infants. METHODS A total of 75 (50 boys; 66.7%) patients with a mean age of 121 days (range, 1-351 days) who underwent PCN over a period of 20 years were included in this retrospective study. For each patient, PCN indications, catheter size, the mean duration of catheterization, complications, and the procedure performed following nephrostomy were recorded. Technical success was determined based on the successful placement of the nephrostomy catheter within the pelvicalyceal system. Clinical success was defined as the complete resolution of hydronephrosis and improvement in renal function tests during follow-up. In patients with urinary leakage, technical and clinical success was determined based on the resolution of leakage. RESULTS The technical success rate was 100%, and no procedure-related mortality was observed. In 11 patients (14.7%), bilateral PCN was performed. The most frequent indication of PCN was ureteropelvic junction obstruction (n = 41, 54.7%). Procedure-related major complications were encountered in two patients (methemoglobinemia and respiratory arrest caused by the local anesthetic agent in one patient and the development of urinoma caused by urinary leakage from the puncture site in the other). Mild urinary leakage was the only minor complication that occurred and only in one patient. Catheter-related complications were managed through replacement or revision surgery in 16 patients (21.3%). CONCLUSION Imaging-guided PCN is a feasible and effective procedure with high technical success and low major complication rates, and it is useful for protecting kidney function in infants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to characterize childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in two large cohorts from Turkey and the United States. Methods: Patients diagnosed with childhood-onset SLE who fulfilled the 1997 American College of Rheumatology classification criteria for SLE from four reference centers in Turkey and the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine in the United States were included in this study. A comparative analysis was conducted to evaluate the similarities and differences in clinical and laboratory features, damage accrual, and treatment experiences between the two populations. Results: A total of 174 patients with childhood-onset SLE were included in this study (108 patients from Turkey and 66 patients from the United States). The female-to-male ratio was similar between the two cohorts (∼3:1, p =.73). The median age at diagnosis was 11.67 years (2.19-17.93) in the Turkish cohort and 13.68 years (2.74-17.93) in the U.S. cohort (p <.001). Photosensitivity (45.4% and 21.2%; p =.007) and renal involvement (41.7% and 36.4%; p =.045) were higher in the Turkish cohort. Anti-Ro/SSA (34.8% and 15.7%; p <.001), anti-Sm (59.1% and 19.4%; p <.001), and anti-RNP (47.0% and 14.8%; p <.001) positivity was more frequent in the U.S. cohort. Current use of rituximab (37.9% and 1.9%; p <.001) and belimumab (19.7% and 0%; p <.001) was more prevalent in the U.S. cohort, while the use of cyclophosphamide (often according to the low dose Euro-Lupus protocol) throughout the disease course (24.1% and 4.5%; p <.001) was more frequent in the Turkish cohort. SLICC/ACR Damage Index scores were not different between the two cohorts. Conclusion: This study provides detailed clinical and laboratory features of childhood-onset SLE in two independent and geographically divergent cohorts. Our findings suggest an earlier age of disease onset and a higher prevalence of kidney involvement in Turkish patients. Differences in treatment approaches were also noted. However, damage accrual related to SLE does not appear to be different between the two patient populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Coarctation of the aorta (CoA) accounts for 3.5% of all congenital heart diseases in children. The clinical manifestations range from heart failure to asymptomatic hypertension. Treatment options include surgical repair, balloon angioplasty, and stenting. We aimed to investigate the long-term results of surgery and balloon angioplasty to identify the possible risk factors for recoarctation and predictors associated with early success in treatment modalities. Materials and Methods: The data of 138 children who underwent examinations at a tertiary center between 2015 and 2020 with the diagnosis of CoA were evaluated. The basic demographic characteristics, clinical and echocardiographic findings, results, and treatment methods of the patients were evaluated retrospectively. Results: The mean follow-up period was 75.1 months (range of 1-223). As initial treatment, 75 patients (60.5%) underwent balloon angioplasty, 44 (35.5%) underwent surgery, and 5 (4%) underwent stenting. The early success rate of balloon angioplasty and surgery was 72.5% and 79.5%, respectively. Recoarctation occurred in 47.6% of patients following the first therapy. The median reintervention-free survival time was 138 months for all patients and was significantly higher in the surgery group (P = .025). The recoarctation rate was slightly lower in the surgery group than in those who underwent balloon angioplasty, but it was not statistically significant. None of the clinical and echocardiographic findings were found to be associated with recoarctation or early success. Conclusion: The rate of recoarctation is still high in long-term follow-up after aortic coarctation treatment, and clinical and echocardiographic findings are insufficient to predict the chance of early success and the risk of recoarctation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of anti-interleukin (IL)-1/-6 biologics on systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA)-associated macrophage activation syndrome (MAS). Methods Demographic, clinical and laboratory data of patients followed up with a diagnosis of sJIA-associated MAS assessed from sixteen paediatric rheumatology centres across the country. The clinical and laboratory features of MAS developing while on biological drugs were compared with those without this treatment. Results One hundred and sixty-two patients were included in the study. Forty-five of the MAS events were detected under the effect of anti-IL-1/-6 biologics, while the patients experiencing the remaining 155 events have not received biological treatment in the last three months. Platelet count [128 (72–232) vs 199 (130–371) 109/l], ferritin level on admission [1107 (676–2050) vs 2863 (1193–9562) ng/ml], C-reactive protein level [15.4 (2.9–56) vs 90 (32–160) mg/l], erythrocyte sedimentation rate [13 (3–36) vs 43.5 (13–77) mm/h] and fever duration [5 (4–7.5) vs 10 (7–14.3) days] were found lower in the group under the impact of anti-IL-1/-6 biologics. Among patients treated with biologics, 26.6% did not meet the published 2016 MAS classification criteria at presentation. The rates of hepatomegaly and splenomegaly were relatively lower in the canakinumab-treated group when compared with those receiving other biologicals or to patients, not on biologicals. Conclusion Anti-IL-1/-6 therapies can mask the clinical and laboratory features of MAS, and proposed guidelines for MAS classification criteria may not be met. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Robogami structures are employed for many purposes, including miniature parallel manipulators. Parallel manipulators require accurate joint position feedback, underlining the open problem in robogami structures for providing sophisticated feedback with 2D, fully embeddable, down-scalable, flexible sensors. Existing studies include only on-off control applications, excluding any parallel mechanism implementations and continuous proportional control signals. We implement silver inkjet printed angle sensors for the first time into a robogami structure and use this class of sensors for control. For the first time, a parallel manipulator is controlled with a 2D sensor, and printed sensors are tested for continuous control. Performances are analyzed with set-point and tracking control tasks using a paper Delta mechanism, compared with on-off control and encoder feedback control cases for better evaluation. A detailed comparison with the existing studies both for robogami parallel mechanisms and other sensor-embedded flexible hinges is provided. Encoder-like control performances are achieved in a wide range of the joint space and down to ~1 mm. RMS task space accuracy is recorded. Sources and potential improvements for the less accurate regions are stated. We conclude that printed sensors are promising for parallel mechanisms and continuous signal control applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we introduce notions of RLA-local modules and locally artinian supplemented modules which are proper generalizations as notions of strongly local modules and ss-supplemented modules, respectively and we study some properties of these modules. In particular, we give a characterization of semiperfect rings and left perfect rings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP), which is effectively used in the diagnosis and treatment of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), can be performed under general and local anesthesia. The aim of this study is to retrospectively examine whether the chosen anesthesia method affects the surgical margin and the factors affecting the surgical margin. Materials and Methods: Data of 122 patients who met the inclusion criteria and underwent LEEP between 2016 and 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Demographic data (age, body mass index, alcohol and smoking); gynecological anamnesis: Gravida, parity, number of living children, number of abortions, menopausal status, type of contraceptive method and presence of additional metabolic diseases (hypertension, diabetes, coronary artery disease) were recorded from the patients’ files and epicrisis. LEEP indications and pre-LEEP HPV information were recorded. LEEP procedure data: Anesthesia method used; general or local anesthesia, positive surgical margin rate (for example, the presence of CIN II/III at the ectocervical and/or endocervical resection margins was considered positive), size of the removed piece (anteroposterior length, transverse length and height, volume), pathology results were recorded and factors affecting margin positivity were examined. Results: It was determined that the type of anesthesia administered (general or local), patient age older than 40 years, patient being in menopause, and the size and volume of the sample taken during LEEP had no effect on margin positivity, whereas high-grade cervical cytology before LEEP, the presence of endocervical gland involvement, and the number of multiple passes in the excision were shown to increase the risk for margin positivity. Conclusion: We found that high-grade cervical cytology before LEEP, the presence of endocervical gland involvement, and multiple passes in excision were risk factors predicting a positive surgical margin; however, the type of anesthesia did not affect the surgical margin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we provide the basic properties of (semi)simple hypermodules. We show that if a hypermodule M is simple, then (E n d (M) , ·) is a group, where E n d (M) is the set of all normal endomorphisms of M. We prove that every simple hypermodule is normal projective with a zero singular subhypermodule. We also show that the class of semisimple hypermodules is closed under internal direct sums, factor hypermodules, and subhypermodules. In particular, we give a characterization of internal direct sums of subhypermodules of a hypermodule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]