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The article discusses the importance of extended vascular screening in asymptomatic Behçet's disease patients with previously diagnosed vascular involvement or unexplained inflammatory response. It highlights the various manifestations of Behçet's disease, such as mucocutaneous symptoms, ocular, vascular, gastrointestinal, and neurological manifestations. The text emphasizes the need for early detection and monitoring of vascular disease in Behçet's patients, especially in high-risk populations, to prevent severe complications like Budd–Chiari syndrome and arterial thrombosis/aneurysms. The authors recommend close follow-up and screening for suspected symptoms in young male patients with a severe mucocutaneous course, as well as screening for other vascular regions in patients with a history of vascular involvement. [Extracted from the article]

In the developing field of nanotechnology, ZnO (zinc oxide) based semiconductor samples have emerged as the foremost choice due to their immense potential for advancing the development of cutting‐edge nanodevices. Due to its excellent chemical stability, low cost, and non‐toxicity to biological systems, it is also utilized in various investigations. In this study, the successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) method was used to generate FTO (fluorine‐doped tin oxide)/ZnO, and tin (Sn)–copper (Cu)‐doped ZnO thin films at varying concentrations on FTO substrates. After being stacked 40 times in varying concentrations on the FTO substrate, FTO/ZnO thin films and Sn–Cu‐doped thin films were annealed at 300°C. Using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy‐(EDS), the agar diffusion test, and the viability cell counting method, the minimum inhibitory concentration, structural properties, surface morphology, antibacterial properties, bacterial adhesion, and survival organism count of FTO/ZnO thin films and Sn–Cu‐doped thin films were investigated. Both doped and FTO/ZnO films with varying Sn–Cu concentrations expanded harmonically on the FTO substrate, according to the SEM‐EDS investigation. The doping concentration affected their morphological properties, causing changes depending on the doping level. Antibacterial activity was observed in the powder metals, but no antibacterial activity was found in the thin film form. The highest adhesion rate of bacterial organisms on the produced samples was observed when the FTO/ZnO/Sn–Cu doping rate was 1%. In addition, the lowest adhesion rate was observed when the FTO/ZnO/Sn–Cu additive ratio was 3%. Research Highlights: ZnO based semiconductors highlight significant potential in advancing nanodevice technology due to their chemical stability, cost‐effectiveness, and biocompatibility.Employing the SILAR method, the study innovatively fabricates FTO/ZnO and Sn–Cu‐doped ZnO thin films on FTO substrates, exploring a novel approach in semiconductor manufacturing.Post annealing at 300°C, the research examines the structural and surface morphological changes in the films, contributing to the understanding of semiconductor behavior under varying conditions.The study delves into the antibacterial properties of ZnO thin films, offering insights into the potential biomedical applications of these materials.SEM‐EDS analysis reveals that doping concentrations crucially influence the morphological properties of ZnO thin films, shedding light on the optimization of semiconductor performance.Findings indicate a specific doping rate (1% Sn–Cu) enhances bacterial adhesion, while a 3% additive ratio minimizes it, suggesting implications for biomedical device engineering and antibacterial surface design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: The preservation of avulsed teeth is critical in dental trauma management, necessitating effective storage media to ensure viable tooth reimplantation. The urgent need for accurate information has led both professional and non‐professional individuals to increasingly seek guidance from video‐sharing platforms such as YouTube™ and TikTok™. These platforms have become key resources for advice on such dental emergencies, but the reliability and accuracy of this information have not yet been systematically evaluated. This study aimed to assess the quality, accuracy, and reliability YouTube™ and TikTok™ of videos regarding storage solutions for avulsion injuries. Material and Methods: A search was conducted on YouTube™ and TikTok™ on February 4th, 2023, using terms related to traumatic dental injuries, and 53 videos were included. Video demographics such as platform, duration, type, upload date, likes, and comments were recorded. Video content quality, reliability, and accuracy were measured using the Global Quality Scale (GQS), Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmarks, and Video Information and Quality Index (VIQI). Research data were analyzed using SPSS IBM 24.0 at a 95% confidence interval. Result s : In total, 53 videos were examined. The average scores were JAMA: 1.70/4.00, modified DISCERN: 54.3/80.00, GQS: 3.88/5.00, and VIQI: 13.8/20.00. According to the modified DISCERN index, there were no "very poor" or "poor" quality videos, 49.05% were "moderate," 22.6% were "good," and 28.3% were "very good." No difference was found between YouTube™ and TikTok™ videos in terms of the modified DISCERN index, JAMA scores, GQS, and VIQI scoring (p >.05). Conclusions: Traumatic dental injuries are a common problem among children, and evaluating the reliability of available contents is becoming crucial for appropriate intervention. The study reveals that despite being sourced mainly from dental professionals, the overall quality of videos on avulsed tooth management was mediocre, underscoring the risks associated with misleading or incomplete information in such critical situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aims to compile recent clinical and genetic data from Turkish patients with inherited retinal disorders and evaluate the effectiveness of targeted Next‐generation sequencing panels. The study included Turkish individuals with hereditary retinal diseases who visited the Medical Genetic Department of Erciyes University between 2019 and 2022. One proband per family was selected based on eligibility. We used Hereditary Disorder Solution (HDS) by Sophia Genetics and performed next‐generation sequencing (NGS) with Illumina NextSeq‐500. Bioinformatics analysis using Sophia DDM® SaaS algorithms and ACMG guidelines classified genomic changes. The study involved 354 probands. Disease‐causing variants were found in 58.1% of patients, with ABCA4, USH2A, RDH12, and EYS being the most frequently implicated genes. Forty‐eight novel variants were detected. This study enhances the knowledge of clinical diagnoses, symptom onset, inheritance patterns, and genetic details for Turkish individuals with hereditary retinal disease. It contributes to broader health strategies by enabling comparisons with other studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) have potential as diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive biomarkers in solid tumors. Despite Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of CTC devices in various cancers, the rarity and heterogeneity of CTCs in lung cancer make them technically challenging to isolate and analyze, hindering their clinical integration. Establishing a consensus through comparative analysis of different CTC systems is warranted. This study aimed to evaluate seven different CTC enrichment methods across five technologies using a standardized spike‐in protocol: the CellMag™ (EpCAM‐dependent enrichment), EasySep™ and RosetteSep™ (blood cell depletion), and the Parsortix® PR1 and the new design Parsortix® Prototype (PP) (size‐ and deformability‐based enrichment). The Parsortix® systems were also evaluated for any differences in recovery rates between cell harvest versus in‐cassette staining. Healthy donor blood (5 mL) was spiked with 100 fluorescently labeled EpCAMhigh H1975 cells, processed through each system, and the isolation efficiency was calculated. The CellMag™ had the highest recovery rate (70 ± 14%), followed by Parsortix® PR1 in‐cassette staining, while the EasySep™ had the lowest recovery (18 ± 8%). Additional spike‐in experiments were performed with EpCAMmoderate A549 and EpCAMlow H1299 cells using the CellMag™ and Parsortix® PR1 in‐cassette staining. The recovery rate of CellMag™ significantly reduced to 35 ± 14% with A549 cells and 1 ± 1% with H1299 cells. However, the Parsortix® PR1 in‐cassette staining showed cell phenotype‐independent and consistent recovery rates among all lung cancer cell lines: H1975 (49 ± 2%), A549 (47 ± 10%), and H1299 (52 ± 10%). Furthermore, we demonstrated that the Parsortix® PR1 in‐cassette staining method is capable of isolating heterogeneous single CTCs and cell clusters from patient samples. The Parsortix® PR1 in‐cassette staining, capable of isolating different phenotypes of CTCs as either single cells or cell clusters with consistent recovery rates, is considered optimal for CTC enrichment for lung cancer, albeit needing further optimization and validation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We describe the demographics, clinical features, disease course, and survival of polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) through an international collaboration (GLOBAL‐PAN). Methods: Patients with PAN were recruited between 1990 and 2020 from observational cohorts of nine countries across Europe, Japan, and North America. Eligibility was retrospectively defined using the European Medicines Agency classification algorithm. Patients with PAN related to hepatitis B virus (n = 12) and two monogenic diseases mimicking PAN, deficiency of adenosine deaminase 2 enzyme (n = 16) or familial Mediterranean fever (n = 11), were excluded. Data regarding organ involvement, relapse, disease‐related damage, and survival were analyzed. Results: Three hundred fifty‐eight patients (female:male ratio 174:184), including those with systemic PAN (sPAN, n = 282) and cutaneous PAN (n = 76), were included. Twenty‐five were pediatric onset. Mean ± SD age at diagnosis was 44.3 ± 18.1 years. Constitutional symptoms (71.5%), cutaneous involvement (70.5%), musculoskeletal findings (69.1%), and neurologic features (48.0%) were common manifestations. Among patients with sPAN, gastrointestinal involvement and proteinuria over 400 mg/day were reported in 52.2% and 11.2%, respectively. During a median (interquartile range) 59.6 (99.5) months of follow‐up, relapse occurred in 48.5% of patients. One, 5‐ and 10‐year survival rates for sPAN were 97.1%, 94.0%, and 89.0%, respectively. Predictors of death for sPAN included age ≥65 years at diagnosis, serum creatinine at diagnosis >140 μmol/L, gastrointestinal manifestations, and central nervous system (CNS) involvement. Conclusion: The spectrum of PAN remains a complex, multifaceted disease. Relapse is common. Age ≥65 years and serum creatinine >140 μmol/L at diagnosis, as well as gastrointestinal and CNS involvement, are independent predictors of death in sPAN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Accurate clinical assessment of disease activity in Takayasu arteritis (TAK) can be challenging. 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose–positron emission tomography (FDG‐PET) can directly measure vascular inflammation. This study details the development of a new type of disease activity index called the Takayasu's Arteritis Integrated Disease Activity Index (TAIDAI). Methods: Clinical symptoms for TAIDAI were identified from a literature review. Each symptom was paired with FDG‐PET findings in corresponding arterial territories. Constitutional symptoms were paired with acute phase reactant levels. One point was given for each clinical symptom paired with supporting FDG‐PET or laboratory abnormalities and summed into the TAIDAI score. A TAIDAI of ≥1 defined active disease. To assess performance of TAIDAI, face validity, content validity, and sensitivity to change were evaluated within a prospective observational cohort study of patients with TAK. Results: Seventeen clinical symptoms were paired with imaging or laboratory abnormalities. In a cohort of 96 patients contributing 204 study visits, TAIDAI showed excellent sensitivity (96.3%) and good specificity (79.2%) compared to physician's clinical assessment. TAIDAI significantly correlated with physician global assessment, PET Vascular Activity Score, patient global assessment, and acute phase reactant levels. In patients treated with either tumor necrosis factor inhibitors or tocilizumab, a TAIDAI of 0 was achieved in 21 (91%) of 23 patients who met a predefined definition of clinical response. Conclusion: TAIDAI is new type of disease activity index in TAK in which clinical symptoms are integrated with specific laboratory and imaging findings. TAIDAI should be validated in future randomized controlled trials in TAK. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer is still a global health problem. Among cancer types, breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed one, and it causes a high mortality rate if not diagnosed in the early stages. In our study, imatinib encapsulated, nanosized, neutral/cationic liposome formulations were prepared as theranostic agents for breast cancer. After the characterization studies in which all liposomes exhibited proper profile owing to their particle size between 133 and 250 nm, polydispersity index values lower than 0.4, neutral and cationic zeta potential values, and high drug encapsulation efficiency, controlled drug release behaviors with zero‐order kinetic were obtained. The higher than 90% radiolabeling efficiency values were obtained thanks to the determination of optimum radiolabeling condition (80°C temperature, 5 mCi radioactivity, and 10 min incubation period). According to the resazurin assay evaluating the cytotoxic profile of liposomes on MCF7 cells, neutral empty liposome was found as biocompatible, while both cationic liposomes (empty and drug‐loaded ones) exhibited high nonspecific cytotoxicity at even low drug concentration due to the existence of stearyl amine in the formulations. However, dose‐dependent cytotoxic effect and the highest cellular binding capacity were obtained by imatinib loaded neutral liposomes. In conclusion, 68Ga‐radiolabeled, imatinib‐loaded, neutral, nanosized liposome formulation is the most promising one as a theranostic agent among all formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study is set to determine the main topics of the nursing field and to show the changing perspectives over time by analysing the abstracts of several major nursing research journals using text mining methodology. Design: Text mining and network analysis. Methods: Text analysis combines automatic and manual operations to identify patterns in unstructured data. Detailed searches covering 1998–2021 were conducted in PubMed archives to collect articles from six nursing journals: Journal of Advanced Nursing, International Journal of Nursing Studies, Western Journal of Nursing Research, Nursing Research, Journal of Nursing Scholarship and Research in Nursing and Health. This study uses a four‐phase text mining and network approach, gathering text data and cleaning, preprocessing, text analysis and advanced analyses. Analyses and data visualization were performed using Endnote, JMP, Microsoft Excel, Tableau and VOSviewer versions. From six journals, 17,581 references in PubMed were combined into one EndNote file. Due to missing abstract information, 2496 references were excluded from the study. The remaining references (n = 15,085) were used for the text mining analyses. Results: Eighteen subjects were determined into two main groups; research method topics and nursing research topics. The most striking topics are qualitative research, concept analysis, advanced practice in the downtrend, and literature search, statistical analysis, randomized control trials, quantitative research, nurse practice environment, risk assessment and nursing science. According to the network analysis results, nursing satisfaction and burnout and nursing practice environment are highly correlated and represent 10% of the total corpus. This study contributes in various ways to the field of nursing research enhanced by text mining. The study findings shed light on researchers becoming more aware of the latest research status, sub‐fields and trends over the years, identifying gaps and planning future research agendas. No patient or public contribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper considers the continuous and discontinuous contact problems of a functionally graded (FG) layer under the effect of gravity. A finite distributed load is applied to the beam from the top and the beam is placed to the top of a rigid foundation. It is assumed that the shear modulus and mass density of the beam vary exponentially whereas Poisson's ratio remains constant. The problem is solved for both continuous and discontinuous cases. In each case, the governing equations and boundary conditions of the problem are reduced to an integral equation by the help of Fourier integral transform. In the continuous contact, the integral equation solved analytically and critical load that causes initial separation between the layer and the rigid foundation, separation distance and contact pressures are investigated for various non‐homogeneity parameters that presents the change in the shear modulus and density and loadings. The singular integral equation in case of discontinuous contact is numerically solved by using corresponding Gauss–Chebyshev quadrature and an iterative scheme. The effect of non‐homogeneity parameters and loading on the separation distance between the layer and the foundation and contact pressures are analyzed. All the results are shown in tables and figures. It is seen that increasing stiffness and decreasing density at the top of the layer reduce maximum pressures but increase separation distances. This study aims to fill the deficiency in the mechanical behavior of the coatings under gravity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The objective of this study was to asses brain perfusion parameters and ischemic changes following treatment of aneurysm with flow diverters with two different perfusion MRI technique (Arterial spin labeling and DSC MRI), and to compare the results and effectiveness of these two methods. Methods: The prospective data was collected from patients with aneurysm who treated with flow diverters. MR examinations, including diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI), ASL, and DSC perfusion MRI, were conducted before and after treatment within the first week and at 6 months. Perfusion parameters of territory area and contralateral side were measured and analyzed by statistically. The relationships between ASL and DSC parameters were analyzed by using Sperman's correlation analysis. Results: A total of 14 cases of aneurysms in 11 patients treated successfully with endovascular flow diverter stent placement. Pretreatment and post treatment (within first week and 6 months) MRI images were evaluated. Asymptomatic randomly distributed millimetric restricted diffusion foci were observed in 8 of all patients. There was no statistically difference between pre and post treatment perfusion parameters (p > 0.05). A statistically significant correlation was found between variable ASL CBF, and the variables of DSC CBF and TTP. Conclusions: Notwithstanding the fact that flow diverters change flow dynamics in aneurysm sac, there is no any perfusion abnormality in the territory area. Asymptomatic randomly distributed diffusion restricted foci in the both cerebral hemisphere can be observed. ASL and DSC MRI are effective for evaluation of brain perfusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Oestrogen receptor positive (ER+)/HER‐2 negative breast cancer (BC) is considered to be an immunologically cold tumour compared to triple negative breast cancer. Therefore, the tumour microenvironment (TME) of ER+/HER‐2 negative BC is understudied. The aim of this project is to investigate the TME and the immune response during neoadjuvant endocrine therapy (NET) and to correlate this with the treatment response in a real life setting. Methods: Expression of immune checkpoint receptors and immune cells was examined immunohistochemically, pre‐ and post‐NET in a cohort of 56 ER+/HER‐2 negative BC patients. They were treated with tamoxifen (n = 16), an aromatase inhibitor (n = 40) or a combination of an aromatase inhibitor with a PI3K inhibitor (n = 11) for a median duration of 6 months (range 1–32 months). Immunohistochemical staining with monoclonal antibodies for PDL‐1, PD‐1, TIM‐3, LAG‐3, CTLA‐4, CD4, CD68 and FOXP3 were performed. All staining procedures were done according to validated protocols, and scoring was done by a pathologist specialized in breast cancer. Positivity was defined as staining >1% on TILs. Response to NET was evaluated according to tumour size change on imaging and Ki‐67 change. Results: The median age was 61.02 (37–90) years. Diameter of tumour size decreased with a mean of 8.1 mm (−16 mm to 45 mm) (p < 0.001) during NET and the value of Ki‐67 value decreased with a median of 9 after NET (p < 0.001). An increase in PD‐L1 expression after NET showed a trend towards significant (p = 0.088) and CD‐4+ T cells significantly increased after NET (p = 0.03). A good response to NET defined as a decrease in tumour size and/or decrease of Ki‐67 was found to be associated with a longer duration of NET, a change of CD4+ T‐cells and a higher number of CD68+ tumour‐associated macrophages before the start of NET. Conclusion: The immune microenvironment plays an important role in ER+/HER‐2 negative BC. NET influences the composition and functional state of the infiltrating immune cells. Furthermore, changes in the immune microenvironment are also associated with treatment response. The immune microenvironment also plays an important role in ER+/HER‐2 negative BC. A good response to NET defined as a decrease in tumour size and/or decrease of Ki‐67 was found to be associated with a longer duration of NET, a change of CD4+ T‐cells, and a higher number of CD68+ tumour‐associated macrophages before the start of NET. RCB is not effective in confirming long‐term prognosis for patients with HR (+) disease neither after NAC, nor after NET. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cancer and hemodialysis (HD) patients are at high risk for COVID‐19. In our study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of pandemic on anxiety in these patients. Methods: One hundred and six oncology and 97 HD patients participated in the study. Anxiety levels were assessed by using the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). At the end of 8‐month follow‐up, these questionnaires were re‐administered. Results: During this period, 38 patients (38/203; 18.7%) had COVID‐19 infection. Twenty‐three patients (23/203; 11.3%) died due to COVID‐19 and/or other causes. One hundred and thirteen of the remaining patients were participated in the second questionnaire. Having COVID‐19 was not the independent factor for changes in STAI, and BAI scores in any regression models. Conclusion: Having COVID‐19 does not affect the increased anxiety levels in HD and oncology patients. The effect of the pandemic may have remained in the background, as these patients have more concerns about their own diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coronavirus Disease‐19 (COVID‐19) is an infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome‐coronaviruses‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), a highly pathogenic and transmissible coronavirus. Most cases of COVID‐19 have mild to moderate symptoms, including cough, fever, myalgias, and headache. On the other hand, this coronavirus can lead to severe complications and death in some cases. Therefore, vaccination is the most effective tool to prevent and eradicate COVID‐19 disease. Also, rapid and effective diagnostic tests are critical in identifying cases of COVID‐19. The COVID‐19 pandemic has a dynamic structure on the agenda and contains up‐to‐date developments. This article has comprehensively discussed the most up‐to‐date pandemic situation since it first appeared. For the first time, not only the structure, replication mechanism, and variants of SARS‐CoV‐2 (Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Omicron, Delta, Epsilon, Kappa, Mu, Eta, Zeta, Theta, lota, Lambda) but also all the details of the pandemic, such as how it came out, how it spread, current cases, what precautions should be taken, prevention strategies, the vaccines produced, the tests developed, and the drugs used are reviewed in every aspect. Herein, the comparison of diagnostic tests for SARS‐CoV‐2 in terms of procedure, accuracy, cost, and time has been presented. The mechanism, safety, efficacy, and effectiveness of COVID‐19 vaccines against SARS‐CoV‐2 variants have been evaluated. Drug studies, therapeutic targets, various immunomodulators, and antiviral molecules applied to patients with COVID‐19 have been reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterogeneity in symptoms associated with COVID‐19 in infected patients remains unclear. ACE2 and TMPRSS2 gene variants are considered possible risk factors for COVID‐19. In this study, a retrospective comparative genome analysis of the ACE2 and TMPRSS2 variants from 946 whole‐exome sequencing data was conducted. Allele frequencies of all variants were calculated and filtered to remove variants with allele frequencies lower than 0.003 and to prioritize functional coding variants. The majority of detected variants were intronic, only two ACE2 and three TMPRSS2 nonsynonymous variants were detected in the analyzed cohort. The main ACE2 variants that putatively have a protective or susceptibility effect on SARS‐CoV‐2 have not yet been determined in the Turkish population. The Turkish genetic makeup likely lacks any ACE2 variant that increases susceptibility to SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. TMPRSS2 rs75603675 and rs12329760 variants that were previously defined as common variants that have different allele frequencies among populations and may have a role in SARS‐CoV‐2 attachment to host cells were determined in the population. Overall, these data will contribute to the formation of a national variation database and may also contribute to further studies of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in the Turkish population and differences in SARS‐CoV‐2 infection among other populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the validity and reliability of the Turkish version of the Stress of Conscience Questionnaire (SCQ) and to determine its relationship to burnout among Turkish nurses. Design and Methods: The sample of this study with a cross‐sectional design comprised 375 nurses. The data were collected using the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) and SCQ. Findings: The mean score of the nurses obtained from the overall SCQ was 85.36 ± 39.3 (min: 0; max: 225). The highest scored item by the nurses was related to "lack of energy to devote themselves to their families." There was a significant positive correlation between the Emotional Exhaustion‐MBI scores and SCQ scores (r = 0.414, p < 0.001). Practice Implications: The Turkish version of SCQ is a valid and reliable tool among Turkish nurses and is associated with emotional exhaustion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To provide a systematic review of the literature from 1997 to 2017 on nursing‐sensitive indicators. Design: A qualitative design with a deductive approach was used. Data sources: Original and Grey Literature references from Cochrane Library, Medline/PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL, Google Scholar Original and Grey Literature. Review methods: Quality assessment was performed using the NIH Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross‐Sectional Studies. Results: A total of 3,633 articles were identified, and thirty‐nine studies met the inclusion criteria. The quantitative assessment of investigated relationships in these studies suggests that nursing staffing, mortality, and nosocomial infections were the most frequently reported nursing‐sensitive indicators. Conclusion: This review provides a comprehensive list of nursing‐sensitive indicators, their frequency of use, and the associations between these indicators and various outcome variables. Stakeholders of nursing research may use the findings to streamline the indicator development efforts and standardization of nursing‐sensitive indicators. Impact: This review provides evidence‐based results that health organizations can benefit from nursing care quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Imidazolium‐based ionic liquids (ILs) with allyl and ether side chains were synthesized and characterized. Comprehensive structural and photoelectrochemical characterizations were performed, transport properties of ILs were also examined as electrolyte components in dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The properties of synthesized materials and DSSC performances were compared with 1‐propyl‐3‐methyl imidazolium iodide (PMII) and 1‐allyl‐3‐ethyl imidazolium iodide (AEII) as reference ILs. Ionic conductivities, diffusion coefficients and charge transfer resistances of synthesized ionic liquids were investigated on DSSCs by Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). The diffusion coefficient values of triiodide ions in different ionic liquid‐based electrolytes were measured by the means of diffusion limited current density method and found to be 1.75×10−7 cm2 s−1 and 2.05×10−7 cm2 s−1 with corresponding photocurrent densities of 10.38 mAcm−2 and 12.13 mAcm−2 for the reference AEII and PMII based electrolytes, respectively. However, for the electrolytes of 1‐(2‐methoxyethyl)‐3‐allyl imidazolium iodide and 1‐allyl‐3‐methyl imidazolium iodide ionic liquids, these values were found to be 0.86×10−7 cm2 s−1 and 0.57×10−7 cm2 s−1 with photocurrent densities of 9.53 mAcm−2 and 8.98 mAcm−2, respectively. Allyl and ether substituted imidazolium ILs exhibited promising results as potential alternative electrolyte materials for DSSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the effects of Caspase‐3 (CASP3) gene expression and serum levels on preventing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection. A total of 41 individuals (male: 21; female: 20) with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection were included in the current study. Hemograms were examined from patient blood samples, and CASP3 gene expression levels were detected. Also, human CASP3 levels were determined from the serum samples of patients. The mean age of patients was 56.220 ± 18.937 years. Significant differences were detected among all groups for CASP3 2−ΔΔCt (p = 0.014) and CASP3 concentration (p = 0.024). The relationship between CASP3 2−ΔΔCt levels and hemoglobin (p = 0.023), between CASP3 2−ΔΔCt levels and C‐reactive protein (CRP) (p = 0.001), between CASP3 2−ΔΔCt levels and ferritin (p = 0.003), between CASP3 2−ΔΔCtlevels and lactate dehydrogenase (p = 0.001), and between CASP3 2−ΔΔCt levels and SpO2 (p = 0.006) were statistically significant. Also, the relationship between CASP3 concentration levels and SpO2 was statistically significant (p < 0.046). The CASP3 gene and/or its products have an important function to prevent injury caused by SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. They play crucial roles in maintaining cellular homeostasis and viability. Perhaps CASP3 levels may provide information about the severity of the disease. Highlights: Newly developed methods for pathogenesis; will guide the control of the epidemic in the future.The CASP3 gene and/or its products have an important function to prevent injury caused by SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.CASP3 gene can be a prognostic marker for the severity of COVID‐19 disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Machine learning (ML) studies are becoming increasingly popular in orthopedics but lack a critically appraisal of their adherence to peer‐reviewed guidelines. The objective of this review was to (1) evaluate quality and transparent reporting of ML prediction models in orthopedic surgery based on the transparent reporting of multivariable prediction models for individual prognosis or diagnosis (TRIPOD), and (2) assess risk of bias with the Prediction model Risk Of Bias ASsessment Tool. A systematic review was performed to identify all ML prediction studies published in orthopedic surgery through June 18th, 2020. After screening 7138 studies, 59 studies met the study criteria and were included. Two reviewers independently extracted data and discrepancies were resolved by discussion with at least two additional reviewers present. Across all studies, the overall median completeness for the TRIPOD checklist was 53% (interquartile range 47%–60%). The overall risk of bias was low in 44% (n = 26), high in 41% (n = 24), and unclear in 15% (n = 9). High overall risk of bias was driven by incomplete reporting of performance measures, inadequate handling of missing data, and use of small datasets with inadequate outcome numbers. Although the number of ML studies in orthopedic surgery is increasing rapidly, over 40% of the existing models are at high risk of bias. Furthermore, over half incompletely reported their methods and/or performance measures. Until these issues are adequately addressed to give patients and providers trust in ML models, a considerable gap remains between the development of ML prediction models and their implementation in orthopedic practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Genetic deficiencies of immune system, referred to as inborn errors of immunity (IEI), serve as a valuable model to study human immune responses. In a multicenter prospective cohort, we evaluated the outcome of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection among IEI subjects and analyzed genetic and immune characteristics that determine adverse COVID‐19 outcomes. Methods: We studied 34 IEI patients (19M/15F, 12 [min: 0.6‐max: 43] years) from six centers. We diagnosed COVID‐19 infection by finding a positive SARS‐CoV‐2 PCR test (n = 25) and/or a lung tomography scoring (CORADS) ≥4 (n = 9). We recorded clinical and laboratory findings prospectively, fitted survival curves, and calculated fatality rates for the entire group and each IEI subclass. Results: Nineteen patients had combined immune deficiency (CID), six with predominantly antibody deficiency (PAD), six immune dysregulation (ID), two innate immune defects, and one in the autoinflammatory class. Overall, 23.5% of cases died, with disproportionate fatality rates among different IEI categories. PAD group had a relatively favorable outcome at any age, but CIDs and IDs were particularly vulnerable. At admission, presence of dyspnea was an independent risk for COVID‐related death (OR: 2.630, 95% CI; 1.198–5.776, p <.001). Concerning predictive roles of laboratory markers at admission, deceased subjects compared to survived had significantly higher CRP, procalcitonin, Troponin‐T, ferritin, and total‐lung‐score (p =.020, p =.003, p =.014, p =.013, p =.020; respectively), and lower absolute lymphocyte count, albumin, and trough IgG (p =.012, p =.022, p =.011; respectively). Conclusion: Our data disclose a highly vulnerable IEI subgroup particularly disadvantaged for COVID‐19 despite their youth. Future studies should address this vulnerability and consider giving priority to these subjects in SARS‐Cov‐2 therapy trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: We aimed to investigate the effect of short‐term pirfenidone treatment on prolonged COVID‐19 pneumonia. Method: Hospital files of patients hospitalised with a diagnosis of critical COVID‐19 pneumonia from November 2020 to March 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Chest computed tomography images taken both before treatment and 2 months after treatment, demographic characteristics and laboratory parameters of patients receiving pirfenidone + methylprednisolone (n = 13) and only methylprednisolones (n = 9) were recorded. Pulmonary function tests were performed after the second month of the treatment. CT involvement rates were determined by machine learning. Results: A total of 22 patients, 13 of whom (59.1%) were using methylprednisolone + pirfenidone and 9 of whom (40.9%) were using only methylprednisolone were included. When the blood gas parameters and pulmonary function tests of the patients were compared at the end of the second month, it was found that the FEV1, FEV1%, FVC and FVC% values were statistically significantly higher in the methylprednisolone + pirfenidone group compared with the methylprednisolone group (P =.025, P =.012, P =.026 and P =.017, respectively). When the rates of change in CT scans at diagnosis and second month of treatment were examined, it was found that the involvement rates in the methylprednisolone + pirfenidone group were statistically significantly decreased (P <.001). Conclusion: Antifibrotic agents can reduce fibrosis that may develop in the future. These can also help dose reduction and/or non‐use strategy for methylprednisolone therapy, which has many side effects. Further large series and randomised controlled studies are needed on this subject. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maintenance of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation capacity and other mitochondrial functions are essential for the prevention of mitochondrial dysfunction-related diseases such as neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, and liver diseases. To date, no well-known treatment modality has been developed to prevent or reduce mitochondrial dysfunction. However, a novel approach that transplants fully functional mitochondria directly into defective cells has recently caught the attention of scientists. In this review, we provide an overview of the cell/tissue source of the mitochondria to prompt cell regeneration or tissue repair in vitro and in vivo applications. The animal and human models entail that effective procedures should be used in the isolation and confirmation of mitochondrial membrane potential and function. We believe that these procedures for mitochondrial transplantation for tissue or cell culture will confirm intact, viable, and free from contamination isolated mitochondria from the appropriate sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reveals themes and trends in accounting research over the past 20 years by utilizing natural language processing and text‐mining techniques. We generated a corpus consisting of over 40,000 articles through multiple searches in EBSCOhost Business Source Premier, Scopus, and ScienceDirect to gather data from 30 highly ranked (A* and A) journals that were listed and categorized by the Australian Business Deans Council (ABDC) as the top accounting journals. Based upon predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria, we eliminated 24,474 non‐empirical articles and those with no abstracts, resulting in 16,449 abstracts. The text‐mining analyses reveal 15 distinct clusters, with five clusters showing downward trends, six trending upward, and four maintaining stability. The downward trending clusters are: (1) capital markets; (2) financial reporting; (3) accounting education, careers, and diversity; (4) earnings/markets; and (5) accounting history and capitalism. Trending upward are: (1) critical accounting; (2) auditing; (3) corporate governance; (4) corporate social responsibility; (5) debt financing; and (6) financial markets and forecasting. Stable clusters are: (1) managerial accounting; (2) international accounting standards; (3) taxation; and (4) governmental accounting. This study introduces an innovative method for discerning themes and trends in accounting research and offers a guide to neophyte accounting faculty for determining publishing outlets for research. In utilizing our findings to drill down and provide more detailed knowledge, it also serves as a reference point for future text‐mining studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the risk factors for erectile dysfunction (ED). We aimed to predict the risk of ED in patients with NAFLD. The study included 146 male patients complaining impotence admitted to the urology outpatient clinic aged 24–80 years without a history of alcohol use who underwent abdominal ultrasonography between February 2018 and January 2019. 106 patients with NAFLD and 40 men without NAFLD were included in the study. Clinical and laboratory parameters, ED status according to International Index of Erectile Function‐5 were compared between patients with and without NAFLD. The mean age of patients was 51.47 ± 10.34 years. NAFLD was detected in 72.6% of the patients. No statistically significant difference was found regarding mean age, BMI, IIEF‐5 scores, DM status, serum glucose levels (p >.05). Fasting insulin levels, hypertension (HT), insulin resistance (IR) and ED status of the patients with NAFLD were significantly higher than patients without NAFLD (p <.05). NAFLD was found to be a significantly independent associated with ED. We also found that patients with NAFLD have risk of ED 2.92 times higher than without NAFLD (OR: 2.92). For the patients presenting with erectile dysfunction, hepatic steatosis should also be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) has a role in the destruction of lamina propria (LP) of the bladder wall and SMAD-2 promotes cell-to-cell adhesion. This study aimed to investigate the association between LP invasion and serum protein and mRNA expression levels of MMP-9 and SMAD-2 in bladder cancer (BC) patients.Methods: Serum samples were taken from 57 patients with suspicious BC before TUR-BT (Group 1) and 20 patients with benign diseases as control (Group 2). The mRNA expression and serum protein levels of MMP-9 and SMAD-2 were analyzed using Real-Time PCR and ELISA methods, respectively. The comparison of protein and mRNA expression levels of MMP-9 and SMAD-2 were done statistically between Group 1 and 2, as well as for different T stages of BC.Results: The protein levels of MMP-9 (2448 vs 637.5 pg/mL, P = .0001) and SMAD-2 (6.85 vs 1.61 P = .0001) were significantly higher in Group 1 compared to Group 2. The mRNA expression levels of MMP-9 (P = .89) and SMAD-2 (P = .99) did not significantly differ between the groups. The protein levels of MMP-9 in T1 patients were significantly higher from both of pTa patients (P = .018) and pT2 (P = .02). The protein levels of SMAD-2 were not statistically different between T stages. Similarly, the mRNA expression levels of MMP-9 and SMAD-2 were not different between T stages.Conclusions: The protein levels of MMP-9 and SMAD-2 were increased in BC patients while mRNA expressions were not different. Furthermore, the increased protein level of MMP-9 in T1 patients was more pronounced which may be related to LP invasion of the tumor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Behçet's disease is a complex systemic inflammatory vasculitis of incompletely understood etiology. This study was undertaken to investigate genetic associations with Behçet's disease in a diverse multiethnic population. Methods: A total of 9,444 patients and controls from 7 different populations were included in this study. Genotyping was performed using an Infinium ImmunoArray‐24 v.1.0 or v.2.0 BeadChip. Analysis of expression data from stimulated monocytes, and epigenetic and chromatin interaction analyses were performed. Results: We identified 2 novel genetic susceptibility loci for Behçet's disease, including a risk locus in IFNGR1 (rs4896243) (odds ratio [OR] 1.25; P = 2.42 × 10−9) and within the intergenic region LNCAROD/DKK1 (rs1660760) (OR 0.78; P = 2.75 × 10−8). The risk variants in IFNGR1 significantly increased IFNGR1 messenger RNA expression in lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated monocytes. In addition, our results replicated the association (P < 5 × 10−8) of 6 previously identified susceptibility loci in Behçet's disease: IL10, IL23R, IL12A‐AS1, CCR3, ADO, and LACC1, reinforcing the notion that these loci are strong genetic factors in Behçet's disease shared across ancestries. We also identified >30 genetic susceptibility loci with a suggestive level of association (P < 5 × 10−5), which will require replication. Finally, functional annotation of genetic susceptibility loci in Behçet's disease revealed their possible regulatory roles and suggested potential causal genes and molecular mechanisms that could be further investigated. Conclusion: We performed the largest genetic association study in Behçet's disease to date. Our findings reveal novel putative functional variants associated with the disease and replicate and extend the genetic associations in other loci across multiple ancestries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Cardiovascular iron load is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in beta‐thalassemia major (β‐TM). However, many patients remain asymptomatic until the late stage. In this cross‐sectional study, we investigated the role of three‐dimensional (3D) echocardiography and endothelial dysfunction parameters in asymptomatic β‐TM patients, and the relationship between these parameters and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) T2* value. Methods: A total of 51 asymptomatic β‐TM patients receiving regular blood transfusions were divided into two groups based on cardiac MRI‐T2* values (MRI‐T2*<20 ms and ≥20 ms), which MRI‐T2*<20 ms determines myocardial iron load and evaluated by two‐dimensional (2D) and 3D‐echocardiography including endothelial dysfunction parameters. The relationships between ferritin levels, 2D and 3D‐echocardiography measurements, endothelial dysfunction parameters, and cardiac MRI‐T2* values were investigated. Results: All left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF) obtained by 2D‐echocardiography were normal (≥50%). LVEF‐3D (53.25 ± 2.33 vs. 58.81 + 1.02), SDI12 (6.53 ± 0.56 vs. 2.85 + 0.48), and SDI16 (7.65 ± 0.75 vs. 3.26 + 0.49) were significantly different and negatively correlated between groups with MRI‐T2*<20 ms and ≥20 ms, respectively. Flow‐mediated dilatation (FMD) (6.08% ± 0.34% vs. 14.46% ± 1.12), aortic strain (7.79% ± 2.19% vs. 12.76% ± 4.19), ferritin levels were significantly different and negatively correlated between groups with MRI‐T2*<20 ms and ≥20 ms, respectively. Higher ferritin, SDI12/16 were significant independent predictors of MR‐T2* < 20 ms. SDI16 > 5.5, SDI12 > 4.3 predicted MRI‐T2*<20ms with a sensitivity of 92%, specificity of 81% (AUC 0.85, P <.001), and sensitivity of 92%, specificity of 78% (AUC 0.83, P <.001), respectively. Conclusion: SDI12/16 calculated by 3D‐echocardiography may be a promising predictors of cardiovascular iron load and, decreased LVEF‐3D, FMD, and aortic strain might be good indicators of subclinical cardiovascular involvement of β‐TM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This paper presents a novel axial flux machine with multi‐flux‐path poles to utilize the flux generated by the end‐winding. The proposed topology consists of conventional axial flux machine albeit of a new set of either stator and/or rotor radial poles located at either the inner and/or outer radius of the machine. These new set of poles utilize the end‐winding of the machine, hence, making the topology with reduced end‐winding, that is, higher utilization of the winding material. The paper explores different configurations with the radial poles in the stator and rotor at either the inner, outer or both radii of the machine. Using 3D‐FEA, electromagnetic and mechanical analyses have been conducted to understand the torque, torque density and mechanical performance of the different proposed configurations. From studying these different configurations, it is found that the radial poles can increase the torque and maintain mechanical safety when they are (1) stator poles located at the inner radius of the stator or (2) rotor poles located at the outer radius of the rotor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The syndromes of myocardial infarction/myocardial ischemia with No Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease (MINOCA/INOCA) are seen more and more often. Endothelial dysfunction (ED) leading to ischemic events has been reported in many of these patients. We aimed to compare patients with MINOCA and INOCA regarding brachial artery flow‐mediated endothelium‐dependent vasodilation (flow‐mediated dilation [FMD]) and plasma concentration of cardiotrophin‐1 (CT‐1). Methods: We included 42 patients with MINOCA and 38 patients with INOCA. Endothelial function was assessed by measuring FMD% and nitroglycerin‐mediated dilatation (NMD%) in the brachial artery. The plasma level of CT‐1 was determined by solid‐phase enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Results: FMD% was significantly lower in MINOCA than in INOCA patients (6.45 ± 2.65 vs 8.94 ± 3.32, P <.001), without significant difference in NMD% (10.69 ± 3.19 vs 12.16 ± 3.69, P =.06). Plasma CT‐1 levels were not significantly different: 40.1 pg/mL (22.5‐102.1) vs 37.2 pg/mL (23.5‐67.2), P =.53. Conclusion: Our results suggest worse ED in MINOCA than in INOCA patients, but demonstrated no difference in CT‐1 levels between patients with stable and unstable ischemic heart disease and normal coronary arteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Recurrent hemarthroses disturbing force/movement control are likely to impair postural balance. Aim: To investigate the possible changes in static postural balance parameters in children with haemophilia (CwH) and to reveal its relationship with Haemophilia Joint Health Score (HJHS). Methods: Twenty‐one CwH aged 6–18 who had haemophilic arthropathy in at least one lower limb joint and 21 healthy peers were evaluated by using a force platform. Centre of pressure (CoP) signals were displayed as a map in both anteroposterior direction (APD) and mediolateral direction (MLD) by statokinesigram. Accordingly, the amplitude, velocity and standard deviation of CoP displacements along with the perimeter and ellipse area were measured. Assessments were made under eyes opened and eyes closed in bipedal stance for 60 s. Joint health and muscle strength were evaluated with HJHS and digital dynamometer, respectively. Results: Velocity and amplitude of CoP displacements in MLD were increased in CwH (p˂0.05). It was also found that these parameters were moderate correlated with the clinical score of the lower limb joints (p˂0.05). In CwH, standard deviation of CoP displacements in the APD was significantly higher in eyes closed, while standard deviation in MLD was significantly higher in eyes opened (p˂0.05). Conclusion: Disturbances during bipedal stance reveal the need for balance evaluation in CwH. Increased mediolateral oscillations may be an early sign of disorders of the musculoskeletal system in CwH. In addition to improving joint health, postural balance exercises that increase MLD stability have to be included in the rehabilitation programme of CwH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circadian disruption influences metabolic health. Metabolism modulates circadian function. However, the mechanisms coupling circadian rhythms and metabolism remain poorly understood. Here, we report that cystathionine β‐synthase (CBS), a central enzyme in one‐carbon metabolism, functionally interacts with the core circadian protein cryptochrome 1 (CRY1). In cells, CBS augments CRY1‐mediated repression of the CLOCK/BMAL1 complex and shortens circadian period. Notably, we find that mutant CBS‐I278T protein, the most common cause of homocystinuria, does not bind CRY1 or regulate its repressor activity. Transgenic CbsZn/Zn mice, while maintaining circadian locomotor activity period, exhibit reduced circadian power and increased expression of E‐BOX outputs. CBS function is reciprocally influenced by CRY1 binding. CRY1 modulates enzymatic activity of the CBS. Liver extracts from Cry1−/− mice show reduced CBS activity that normalizes after the addition of exogenous wild‐type (WT) CRY1. Metabolomic analysis of WT, CbsZn/Zn, Cry1−/−, and Cry2−/− samples highlights the metabolic importance of endogenous CRY1. We observed temporal variation in one‐carbon and transsulfuration pathways attributable to CRY1‐induced CBS activation. CBS‐CRY1 binding provides a post‐translational switch to modulate cellular circadian physiology and metabolic control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of dysfunctional mitochondria in several cell pathologies has been reported in renal diseases, including diabetic nephropathy and acute kidney injury. Previous studies have reported that mitochondrial transplantation provided surprising results in myocardial and liver ischemia, as well as in Parkinson's disease. We aimed to investigate the beneficial effects of isolated mitochondria transplantation from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in vivo, to mitigate renal damage that arises from doxorubicin‐mediated nephrotoxicity and its action mechanism. In this study, a kidney model of doxorubicin‐mediated nephrotoxicity was used and isolated mitochondria from MSCs were transferred to the renal cortex of rats. The findings showed that the rate of isolated mitochondria from MSCs maintains sufficient membrane integrity, and was associated with a beneficial renal therapeutic effect. Following doxorubicin‐mediated renal injury, isolated mitochondria or vehicle infused into the renal cortex and rats were monitored for five days. This study found that mitochondrial transplantation decreased cellular oxidative stress and promoted regeneration of tubular cells after renal injury (P <.001, P =.009). Moreover, mitochondrial transplantation reduced protein accumulation of tubular cells and reversed renal deficits (P =.01, P <.001). Mitochondrial transplantation increased Bcl‐2 levels, and caspase‐3 levels decreased in injured renal cells (P <.015, P <.001). Our results provide a direct link between mitochondria dysfunction and doxorubicin‐mediated nephrotoxicity and suggest a therapeutic effect of transferring isolated mitochondria obtained from MSCs against renal injury. To our knowledge, this study is the first study in the literature that showed good therapeutic effects of mitochondrial transplantation in a nephrotoxicity model, which is under‐researched. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is often associated with endocrine metabolic diseases such as metabolic syndrome (MetS) and diabetes mellitus (DM), in which insulin resistance (IR) plays a decisive role in pathology. Triglyceride‐glucose index (TyG), a simple, inexpensive and easily accessible IR marker, is calculated by fasting serum glucose and triglyceride values. Objectives: We aimed to reveal the relationship between TyG index and ED. Materials and methods: Of 152 male patients, aged between 24‐80 years, admitted to the urology outpatient clinic with complaining erectile insufficiency were evaluated. Liver function tests, complete blood count, fasting serum triglyceride, serum testosterone, fasting glucose, fasting insulin, and hemoglobinA1c (HbA1c) were analyzed. TyG index was calculated. All patients were requested to fill in the validated Turkish version of the 5‐item International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF‐5) survey. Results: A total of 142 patients were included the study. ED was detected in 91 (64.1%) of the patients. BMI, fasting insulin level, fasting glucose level, IR, GGT, HDL, HbA1c, Triglyceride, TyG, DM, HT, and MetS status of the patients in ED group were statistically significantly higher compared to non‐ED group (all P <.05). It was found that the cutoff value of TyG index for ED was 8.88 (AUC = 0.739, sensitivity 67%, specificity = 68.6%). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, age (OR = 1.07, 95% CI = 1026‐1115, P =.002) and TyG index above 8.88 (OR = 3.865, 95% CI = 1686‐8859, P =.001) were found as independent predictors of ED after accounting for BMI, serum total T and IR. Conclusion: TyG index might be useful in the diagnosis and follow‐up of ED. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We identified factors influencing outcomes in patients with medically inoperable early stage lung cancer (MIESLC) treated with stereotactic ablative radiation therapy (SABR) at 14 centers in Turkey. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 431 patients with stage I‐II MIESLC treated with SABR from 2009 through 2017. Age; sex; performance score; imaging technique; tumor histology and size; disease stage radiation dose, fraction and biologically effective dose with an α/β ratio of 10 (BED10); tumor location and treatment center were evaluated for associations with overall survival (OS), local control (LC) and toxicity. Results: Median follow‐up time was 27 months (range 1‐115); median SABR dose was 54 Gy (range 30‐70) given in a median three fractions (range 1‐10); median BED10 was 151 Gy (range 48‐180). Tumors were peripheral in 285 patients (66.1%), central in 69 (16%) and <1 cm from mediastinal structures in 77 (17.9%). Response was evaluated with PET/CT in most cases at a median 3 months after SABR. Response rates were: 48% complete, 36.7% partial, 7.9% stable and 7.4% progression. LC rates were 97.1% at 1 year, 92.6% at 2 years and 91.2% at 3 years; corresponding OS rates were 92.6%, 80.6% and 72.7%. On multivariate analysis, BED10 > 100 Gy (P =.011), adenocarcinoma (P =.025) and complete response on first evaluation (P =.007) predicted favorable LC. BED10 > 120 Gy (hazard ratio [HR] 1.9, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1‐3.2, P =.019) and tumor size (<2 cm HR 1.9, 95% CI 1.3‐3, P =.003) predicted favorable OS. No grade 4‐5 acute side effects were observed; late effects were grade ≤3 pneumonitis (18 [4.2%]), chest wall pain (11 [2.5%]) and rib fracture (1 [0.2%]). Conclusion: SABR produced encouraging results, with satisfactory LC and OS and minimal toxicity. BED10 > 120 Gy was needed for better LC and OS for large, non‐adenocarcinoma tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of high-pressure processing (HPP) or thermosonication (TS) in combination with nisin on the microbial inactivation of green juice (celery stalk, apple, cucumber, parsley) and changes in its quality was investigated. Microbial inactivation with HPP at 600 MPa resulted ≥7 log reduction of Escherichia coli, whereas 5 and 7 log reduction of Listeria innocua were attained after combining with 100 and 200 mg/L of nisin, respectively. With TS at 60°C, 7.42 log reduction of E. coli was achieved after 6 min; meanwhile, combining with 100 mg/L of nisin, 7 log reduction of L. innocua was detected after 3 min. Neither HPP nor TS did not alter pH and total soluble solids; however, significant changes were observed in color. Green juice predominantly followed Newtonian flow behavior and the viscosity did not change significantly after using both technologies. Results indicated that HPP or TS in combination with nisin is a viable option for green juice pasteurization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conservation of paper-based materials, namely, manuscripts, includes repair of tears, gap filling, consolidation, and fixation, which requires the use of adhesives. The adhesive in use for these purposes should be compatible with the chemical and physical properties of paper and should present good aging characteristics. In this study, we conducted a set of experiments with paper samples on which fructan-based biopolymer Halomonas levan (Hlevan) was applied for the first time and compared with glucan-based adhesive starch. Adhesive-applied samples were initially prepared by the application of different historical recipes of sizing and ink. Then, they underwent accelerated thermal aging. Chemical and physical changes of paper samples (crystallinity, pH, and color) were analyzed. Finally, Principal Component Analysis was performed to identify dominating factors affecting sample behavior with applied adhesives. This study demonstrates the aging characteristics of Hlevan on cellulose-based materials. The results showed that there is a color shift from blue to yellow for all samples after aging, but it is more pronounced for some samples with Hlevan. In addition, Hlevan is slightly less acidic than starch in all cases and acted as a plasticizer for a specific kind of sizing material. The methodology of this research is also efficacious in terms of understanding the interaction of paper media with the adhesives and their effects on aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Turkey is the country hosting the largest number of refugees from Syria, with currently 3 571 175 million persons. The general health needs of the refugees are being addressed; however, people with intellectual disabilities (IDs), particularly children, are relatively missed. The aim of this study was to identify medical, psychological and social needs of children with ID and their families, among the Syrian refugee population in Turkey, and to define psychosocial and cultural needs for planning of future services. Methods: One hundred forty‐two children (67.6% men; mean age 90.5 months) diagnosed with intellectual disorders were included in the study. Family Needs Survey, with additional open‐ended and close‐ended questions, was used to evaluate family needs. Items from Developmental Disabilities Profile‐2 were used to evaluate and screen cognitive, motor and language development as well as medical concerns and behavioural problems. Data on sociodemographic characteristics were also collected. Results: The highest needs were identified in information and financial needs domains. Other indicated needs were on child care and community services domains. The least indicated items were on family and social support and explaining to others domains. An average of 63.5% of the respondents definitely agreed with the Family Needs Survey items. The overall level of identification of need items was higher than that in some previous studies, indicating the level of unmet needs of the studied population. Family income, parents' employment and parents' education were not significantly associated with unmet family needs. Special education services were unreachable for most of the families in the study. Conclusions: Families reported the highest needs in information and financial needs domains. The overall level of identification of needs was higher than that in some previous studies, indicating the level of unmet needs of the studied population. The majority of the parents reported that they had sufficient family and social support, which might be a protective factor for parental mental health. Parents' Turkish fluency was very significantly associated with every domain of unmet needs. Language barriers and translation problems had significant negative effects on families, as confirmed by the answers to open‐ended questions. Another important factor identified was access to service professionals. Special education services, sorely needed for most of the families, could not always be reached. Although the progress of children who had received special education was not very encouraging, it was better than those who did not receive it. The first implication of the study is that increasing Turkish proficiency or providing high‐quality and consistent translation services is vital for this category of children with ID. The second implication is that information and financial needs must be met with priority. Information must be tailored for each child's needs and developmental level. Special education and physical therapy must be more accessible and at higher quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unusual composition of an exopolymer (EP) from an obligate halophilic bacterium Chromohalobacter canadensis 28 has triggered an interest in development of an effective bioreactor process for its production. Its synthesis was investigated in 2‐L bioreactor at agitation speeds at interval 600‐1000 rpm, at a constant air flow rate of 0.5 vvm; aeration rates of 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 vvm were tested at constant agitation rate of 900 rpm. EP production was affected by both, agitation and aeration. As a result twofold increase of EP yield was observed and additionally increased up to 3.08 mg/mL in a presence of surfactants. For effective scale‐up of bioreactors mass transfer parameters were estimated and lowest values of KLa obtained for the highest productivity fermentation was established. Emulsification activity of EP exceeded that of trade hydrocolloids xanthan, guar gum, and cellulose. A good synergism between EP and commercial cellulose proved its potential exploration as an enhancer of emulsifying properties of trade emulsions. A pronounced lipophilic effect of EP was established toward olive oil and liquid paraffin. Cultivation of human keratinocyte cells (HaCaT) with crude EP and purified γ‐polyglutamic acid (PGA) showed higher viability than control group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, the complex role of immune therapy has been the target of increased attention in breast cancer, particularly in triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC). Although TNBC is sensitive to chemotherapy, the recurrence and mortality rates are worse compared with the other breast cancer types. In addition, TNBC still lacks targeted treatment options. With the improved understanding of the immune system in TNBC, it is expected that new predictive and prognostic markers will be identified, and innovative treatment modalities will be developed. The aim of this review was to provide an overview of the effector cells in the TNBC's microenvironment and to highlight a novel approach to treat this kind of cancer. A computer‐based literature research was carried out using PubMed, American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting (ASCO) and San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium (SABCS). To date, studies have shown that tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) play a very important role in the TNBC's microenvironment. Tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes can even be considered as biomarkers to predict chemotherapy response in TNBC. Furthermore, TNBC was shown to have immune active subtypes, and therefore, the use of immunotherapy may be an attractive treatment approach. In this respect, several randomized studies have been designed or are currently ongoing to explore the combination of chemotherapy with immunotherapy in TNBC. Combination of chemo‐ and immunotherapy is likely to be beneficial in a subgroup of patients with TNBC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Fatigue is a common symptom of chronic inflammatory diseases. The objective of this study was to investigate fatigue in patients with Behçet's syndrome (BS) and to examine the relationship between fatigue and disease activity, quality of life, anxiety and depression. Methods: This is a cross‐sectional study of 123 BS patients and 71 healthy controls in Turkey. All subjects completed the Multidimensional Assessment of Fatigue (MAF) questionnaire, Short form‐36 (SF‐36), Hospital Anxiety and Depression (HADS) scale and Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ). Disease activity among BS patients was assessed using the Behçet Syndrome Activity Scale (BSAS) and the physician's global assessment (PGA). Results: BS patients had significantly higher MAF, HADS‐depression (HADS‐D) and HADS‐anxiety (HADS‐A) scores than the healthy controls (P < 0.001). Both the physical and mental components of the SF‐36 scale were impaired in BS patients (P = 0.0001). BS patients with active disease, depression and anxiety had significantly higher MAF scores compared to BS patients without active disease, depression and anxiety (P = 0.0001). MAF scores showed positive correlations with HADS‐A, HADS‐D, HAQ scores and negative correlations with SF‐36 mental and physical components. In regression analyses, depression, anxiety and physical dysfunction were significantly associated with fatigue, after adjusting for age, sex, SF‐36 physical and mental scores, HAQ, HADS‐A, HADS‐D and BSAS scores (P < 0.05). Decreases in SF‐36 physical and mental scores were significant predictive factors for high MAF score in healthy controls (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Fatigue is common in clinically active BS patients compared with healthy controls and inactive BS patients. Depression, anxiety and physical dysfunction were significantly associated with fatigue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Vascular involvement is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality in Behçet's disease (BD) patients. Immunosuppressive (IS) agents are the mainstay of vascular BD (VBD) treatment; however, up to one‐third of patients relapse under conventional ISs. In this case series, we present the results of tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNFα) inhibitor use for the treatment of VBD patients who were refractory to conventional ISs and corticosteroids. Methods: This retrospective multicenter study included 27 refractory VBD patients treated with TNFα inhibitor agents. All data were acquired from patient charts. Results: Complete clinical remission was achieved in 22 (80%) patients within 3 months of the initiation of TNFα inhibitors. Infliximab was the first choice of TNFα inhibitor in 24 and adalimumab in three patients. The median daily dose of corticosteroids significantly decreased at 3 months. A trend toward a higher rate of complete remission was observed with concomitant IS use compared to monotherapy of TNFα inhibitors (93% vs 67%, P =.09). Serious side effects were observed in two patients (one pneumonia and one tuberculosis). Conclusion: Tumor necrosis factor‐alpha inhibitors seem a highly effective option for remission‐induction of refractory VBD with an acceptable safety data. Concomitant IS use may achieve higher complete remission rates as compared to TNFα inhibitor monotherapy. Comparative efficacy and safety of biological agents for VBD require further prospective, randomized controlled studies with a longer duration of follow‐up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is not fully reversible disease that is characterized by progressive restricting airflow. Non‐invasive mechanical ventilation (NIMV) treatment can be used in COPD patients who had type 2 respiratory failure. This study aimed to determine the effect of BPAP S/T and AVAPS modes on intraocular pressure (IOP), central corneal thickness (CCT) in 40 type 2 respiratory failure patients with COPD. Methods: Forty patients with type 2 respiratory failure who were hospitalized between June and December 2018 with the diagnosis of COPD exacerbations were included to the study. Patients followed up without NIMV for 12 hours after the end of exacerbations treatments end. After IOP, visual acuity and CCT were measured in all patients at the same time (11.00 am), same NIMV treatment was applied to the patients for 4 hours (AVAPS‐BPAP S/T). Then the measurements were repeated. The effects of these NIMV modes on IOP were evaluated. Results: After NIMV treatment, it was observed that the mean IOP increased statistically significantly (13.3 vs 12.3 mm Hg; P = 0.001). After treatment with NIMV, there was a decrease for CCT close to statistical significance (P = 0.057) Conclusion: As a result; increased IOP and thinning of CCT after NIMV treatment has been shown. The type of NIMV and the level of inspiratory pressure needed in hypercapnic respiratory failure seem to affect IOP and it should be cautiously used to increase IOP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The literature on corporate governance (CG) has been expanding at an unprecedented rate since major corporate scandals surfaced, such as Enron, WorldCom, and HealthSouth. Corresponding with accounting's important role in CG, accounting scholars increasingly have investigated CG in recent years, so the body of literature is growing. Although previous attempts have been made to summarize extant literature on CG via reviews, none of these attempts has utilized recent developments in text analyses and natural language processing. This study uses latent semantic and topic analyses to address this research gap by analysing abstracts from 1,399 articles in all accounting journals that the Australian Business Deans Council (ABDC) has rated A and A*. The ABDC journal list is widely recognized as a journal‐quality indicator across many universities worldwide. The analyses revealed 10 distinct research topics on CG in the ABDC's top accounting journals. The results presented include the five most representative articles for each topic, as distinguished by topic scores. This study carries important practice and policy implications, as it reveals major research streams and exhibits how researchers respond to various CG problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]