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In this study, the effect of internet-based applications on the academic achievement, motivation, and awareness of Web 2.0 tools of 6th grade middle school students on "Matter and Heat" was examined. The study group consisted of 73 (experimental: 50, control: 23) 6th grade students from a public school in Istanbul, Turkey. The study was conducted with an experimental design with pretest-posttest control group among quantitative research models. In the experimental group, science lessons were taught with the support of web 2.0 tools such as Nearpod, Canva and Quizizz, while in the control group, no additional application was made and the lessons were taught as specified in the curriculum. The data of the study were collected with the "Motivation Scale in Science Education", "Matter and Heat Achievement Test" and "Awareness Scale for Web 2.0 Tools". T-test and one-way factor analysis (ANCOVA) test were used to analyze the data. The results of this study showed that the academic achievement test scores of the experimental group students were higher than the control group and there was a significant difference between the academic achievement test scores of the experimental and control groups. The results showed that the science motivation scores showed a significant difference in favor of the experimental group and the science motivation scores of the experimental group students who were supported with web-based applications were higher than the control group. In addition, according to the results of the one-way analysis of covariance regarding the awareness of web 2.0 tools, there was a significant difference between the experimental group and the control group in favor of the experimental group in the post-test scores. In this study, the importance of planning and implementing science lessons supported by internet-based applications at the secondary school level was revealed.

Objective: This study aimed to identify the expression profile and prognostic significance of inflammation-associated lncRNAs in chronic viral hepatitis (CVH) and CVH-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (CVH-HCC). Material and Methods: In the first step, lncRNA expression analysis was performed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) using an array panel of 84 inflammation-associated lncRNAs in 48 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue samples (12 CVH-HCC, 12 peritumoral cirrhotic parenchyma, 12 nontumoral cirrhotic CVH parenchyma, 12 normal liver samples). In the second step, 7 lncRNAs (DLEU2, HOTAIR, LINC00635, LINC00662, RP11-549J18.1, SNHG16 and XIST) were chosen for RT-PCR assay testing in 72 samples (24 CVH-HCC, 24 peritumoral cirrhotic parenchyma, 24 nontumoral cirrhotic CVH parenchyma samples). Results: Fifty-six inflammation-associated lncRNAs were significantly up-regulated in the peritumoral cirrhotic parenchyma compared to the normal liver. Expression of 71 lncRNAs was significantly higher in peritumoral cirrhotic parenchyma compared to cirrhotic CVH parenchyma. DLEU2 and SNHG16 were up-regulated both in the tumor and peritumoral cirrhotic parenchyma compared to cirrhotic CVH parenchyma. Expression of LINC00662 was significantly higher in CVH-HCC than in cirrhotic CVH parenchyma. Expression of XIST was also increased in both tumor and peritumoral parenchyma samples, albeit without statistical significance. No significant association was found between lncRNA expressions and survival. Conclusion: Inflammation-associated lncRNAs DLEU2, SNHG16, LINC00662, and XIST are candidate diagnostic biomarkers in CVH-HCC. More evidence is needed to prove their utility as prognostic markers.

The present study aims to examine the effect of the life skills training guide on the development of pre-service science teachers' professional knowledge of entrepreneurial skills. The study included 82 pre-service science teachers studying in the third year of a public university in Turkey during the 2019-2020 academic year. The data of the study, which was conducted with a one-group pre-test-post-test experimental design, were collected using the entrepreneurship skills professional knowledge test. The data were analyzed using the professional knowledge assessment rubric and entrepreneurship skill indicators. The results of the study revealed that there was a significant difference between the pre-and post-test scores of the pre-service teachers in favor of the post-test scores. Following the experimental process, their professional knowledge about entrepreneurship increased. However, the number of pre-service teachers who were able to improve their professional knowledge scores to a high level was limited. Furthermore, following the experimental process, there was an increase in the number of pre-service teachers who were able to develop appropriate activities for students to gain entrepreneurial skills and to prepare tools for measuring and evaluating students' entrepreneurial skills in a way to include stressed indicators. Consequently, the present study provides science teacher educators with educational activities that they can model within the scope of teaching professional knowledge of entrepreneurship skills to pre-service science teachers.

This study aims to examine pre-service science teachers' (PSTs') model-based (MB) content knowledge (CK) and knowledge of students' understanding (KSU) of chemical bonds. The participants of the study consist of 229 senior pre service science teachers. The study is a case study from qualitative research designs. The data of the study were collected by using the "Chemical Bonds Model Knowledge Test (CBMKT)". The obtained data were analyzed using the "Model Based-Content Knowledge Rubric (MB-CK Rubric)" and "Model Based-Knowledge of Students' Understanding Rubric (MB-KSU Rubric)". The findings showed that PSTs mostly have an understanding of wrong modeling and not being able to make any modeling in terms of MB-CK on chemical bonds. In addition, it has been determined that the majority of pre-service teachers have an invalid and weak level in terms of MB-KSU. These findings indicate that PSTs' professional knowledge of chemical bonds in their undergraduate education should be supported by model-based teaching.

Artificial intelligence (AI) introduces new tools to the educational environment with the potential to transform conventional teaching and learning processes. This study offers a comprehensive overview of AI technologies, their potential applications in education, and the difficulties involved. Chatbots and related algorithms that can simulate human interactions and generate human-like text based on input from natural language are discussed. In addition to the advantages of cutting-edge chatbots like ChatGPT, their use in education raises important ethical and practical challenges. The authors aim to provide insightful information on how AI may be successfully incorporated into the educational setting to benefit teachers and students, while promoting responsible and ethical use.

School leadership is a concept being discussed in recent studies regarding educational administration. This study examines the relationship between school leadership and teacher professionalism, focusing on the mediating effects of trust in the administrator on the relationship between school leadership and teacher professionalism. The study has adopted a cross-sectional survey design. The sample consists of 269 (Türkiye) and 134 (Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus) teachers. The structural equation model was used to test the direct and indirect effects of the variables. Considering the findings of the study, school leadership is positively related to teacher professionalism as mediated by trust in the school administrator. In conclusion, the researchers recommend that school leaders implement practices that encourage powerful trust among teachers in their administrators.

For K-12 teachers to improve effective teaching skills, cognitive presence (CP) integration into teaching and learning process is of utmost value. CP strategy training can serve as a facilitating component in supporting K-12 teachers' instructional capacity. This study presents findings of a teacher professional development training aiming CP strategy implementation at K-12 level. Following a mixed-method methodology, the present research was carried out with 53 teachers from four different campuses and grade levels, who were guided to implement CP strategies in their teaching context. The data sources were CP-integrated lesson plans, trainers' feedback on these lesson plans, teacher responses on a questionnaire. The data collection methods were utilizing an end-of-the-training questionnaire directed to teachers, lesson plan evaluation through a CP rubric, content analysis of trainer feedback on lesson plans and revised lesson plans. Results unveiled that this professional development training designed and implemented for K-12 teachers led to significantly positive changes in teachers' CP strategy integration into lesson plans regardless of levels, subjects or topics. This study could also provide important contributions to designing teacher professional development training for researchers, practitioners and teacher trainers, particularly in CP dimension.

Exploring science teachers' classroom assessment behaviors is a way to understand the professional knowledge competencies underlying effective teaching practices. One of the most important components of in-class assessments is teacher questions. However, studies examining teacher questions that provide support to accurately determine student learning and manage the lesson effectively are quite limited. This research presents a case study of a science teacher in Turkey regarding the question types and questioning proficiency in the teaching of 5th grade "Measurement of Force and Friction" and "Matter and Change". The data have been collected through course observations. The study used an observation evaluation protocol to analyze the video recordings taken from the science teacher's lectures. The results of this study showed that about half of the questions that the science teacher has asked in his class remain at a partially appropriate and inappropriate level, and that the teacher mostly prefers questions that aim to evaluate real information and summarize what is important in his courses. These results point to the need for professional development on a teacher's questioning practices. Therefore, it can be said that those who plan professional development programs for science teachers should consider efforts to improve teacher questioning practices.

The purpose of this research is to examine how working individually and as a team in solving pedagogical scenarios for teaching science subjects is reflected in the teaching preferences of preservice science teachers. This interpretive case study was conducted with 69 preservice science teachers studying at a university in eastern Turkey. The data of the study were collected using the teaching pedagogy preference form. The data analysis included descriptive analysis based on four instructional pedagogies: direct instruction, direct active, guided inquiry, and open inquiry. The research results revealed that preservice teachers did not sufficiently turn to inquiry-based teaching pedagogy for solving problem scenarios in both individual and teamwork. In addition, the results indicated that preservice science teachers' professional knowledge of teaching various science subjects is largely based on traditional teaching pedagogy. Based on these results, it is recommended that science educators use problem scenarios to reveal preservice teachers' inquiry-based teaching preferences.

The purpose of the present study was to determine teachers' views on the communication skills of school administrators through a mixed methods design. Although quantitative or qualitative studies deal with the communication skills of school principals according to teacher perceptions, the number of studies conducted in mixed design is quite low. The study's quantitative data were obtained from 368, and the qualitative data were obtained from 20 teachers working in primary, secondary, and high schools in Acipayam and Tavas districts of Denizli province in Turkey. The data were collected via the "Interpersonal Communication Skills Scale of Primary School Administrators" developed by Sahin (2007) and through an interview form developed by the researchers. For the quantitative data analysis, arithmetic mean, standard deviation, t-test and one-way analysis of variance were applied as a content analysis were carried out in the qualitative data analysis. When the results were examined, it was observed that the communication skills of the school administrators were at a high level, and it was revealed that their communication skills were at the highest level in the dimension of "giving confidence", while it was at the lowest level in the dimension of "giving feedback". There are significant differences in school administrators' communication skill levels considering the branch's variables, teachers' tenure at school, school type, and the number of teachers. It has been seen that the quantitative and qualitative data of the research support each other.

In this research, we study the relationship of science teachers' job satisfaction with the teacher selfefficacy, the teaching self-efficacy, the anxiety toward teaching and school culture. The sample of the study consists of 185 science teachers working in public schools. We obtain the data by using "The Teacher Self Efficacy Scale", "The School Culture Scale", "Science Teaching Self-Efficacy Scale", "The Anxiety toward Science Teaching Scale" and "Job Satisfaction Scale". The results of the current research showed that science teachers' job satisfaction was directly positively correlated with their self-efficacy, science teaching self-efficacy and school culture. However, teachers' science teaching anxiety no had a direct significant relationship with their job satisfaction. In addition, the results of the structural model indicated that school culture was a strong predictor of science teachers' job satisfaction. The result of multiple regression analysis showed that these independent variables explain 40% of the variance of teachers' job satisfaction. These results shown that a positive school culture, teacher self-efficacy and teaching self-efficacy play an important role in order to provide the affective support necessary for the science teachers' job satisfaction.

Aktivizm çalışmaları gelişen teknolojinin ve sosyal medya araçlarının da sürece dahil olmasıyla birlikte dijital aktivizm çalışmalarına dönüşmüştür. Sosyal medya araçlarında kullanıcılar olaya yönelik paylaşım yaparak, yorum yazarak, paylaşılan görsel veya yazıları beğenerek, tekrar paylaşarak dijital aktivizmi gerçekleştirmektedir. Dijital aktivizmin farklı türleri bulunmaktadır. Bunlardan biri de “Marka Aktivizmi” ve bu aktivizm türünün sebep olabileceği “Marka Karşıtı Aktivizmdir”. Bu çalışmada marka karşıtı kişilerin yaptıkları paylaşımların ve markanın karşı karşıya kaldığı aktivizm davranışlarının marka karşıtı aktivizm noktasında incelenmesi ve sosyal medyanın farkındalık oluşturmaya yönelik kullanımının ortaya çıkarılması amaçlanmıştır. Bu amaç çerçevesinde Zara markası, marka karşıtı aktivizm hareketleri noktasında ele alınmış ve içerik analizi tekniği kullanılarak Instagram ve X (Twitter)’te #Zaraboykot etiketiyle yapılan 100 paylaşım incelenmiştir. İncelemeler sonucunda aktivistlerin sosyal medyada paylaştıkları görsel tasarımların çoğunluğu kullanıcıları vicdanen ya da toplumsal açıdan rahatsız etmekte ve markaya karşı olumsuz bir duygu oluşturmaktadır. Paylaşımlarda yer alan yazı/ yorumlarda ise en çok nefret söylemleri, boykot çağrıları, markanın tutumunu eleştirme ifadeleri ön plandadır. Marka karşıtı aktivizme yönelik sosyal medya uygulamalarının kullanım amaçlarına bakıldığında ise markaya karşıt olma, soruna dikkat çekme, duygusal rahatsızlık verme, eyleme destek isteme gibi amaçları gerçekleştirmek için kullanılmaktadır.

Objective: Despite significant advances in understanding hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in recent years, there is a need to improve risk stratification for patients at high risk of adverse outcomes. The relationship between inflammation and disease severity in HCM patients is known. Recently, a new inflammation parameter called the pan-immune inflammation value (PIV) has been introduced. However, the relationship between PIV and HCM has not yet been examined. Hence, we aim to investigate the effect of PIV on prognosis in a large series of HCM patients. Methods: The study included 389 consecutive patients with HCM admitted to a tertiary care hospital between 2004 to 2021. The PIV for patients was calculated as: Neutrophil count x platelet count x monocyte count / lymphocyte count. The cohort was categorized into three groups according to PIV, and the association between these groups and long-term mortality was evaluated. Results: Over an average follow-up period of 55.5+-12.7 months, long-term mortality occurred in 47 out of 389 patients. Long-term mortality was recorded in 7 patients in tertile 1, 12 patients in tertile 2, and 28 patients in tertile 3. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that long-term all-cause mortality was 3.5 times higher in tertile 3 compared to tertile 1. The receiver-operating characteristic curve based on the PIV had 62% sensitivity and 65% specificity for long-term mortality. Conclusions: High PIV levels may serve as a predictor of long-term mortality in patients with HCM. PIV could be a useful screening tool for identifying HCM patients at increased risk of adverse outcomes.

Aim: This study aimed to examine the self-concept and related psychological factors in children and adolescents with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1).Material and Methods: A total of 71 participants (35 patients and 36 controls) were included in this study. As measurement tools the Piers-Harris children’s self-concept scale (PHSCS), family assessment device (FAD), Turgay DSM-IV-based screening and rating scale for disruptive behavior disorders (T-DSM-IV-S), children's depression inventory (CDI), Beck depression inventory (BDI), state-trait anxiety inventory (STAI), children’s sleep habits questionnaire (CSHQ), and autism spectrum quotient-adolescent (AQ-adolescent) were used.Results: NF1 patients had lower intellectual functioning/academic achievement (p=0.002) and popularity/social appreciation (p

Objective: Although women comprise nearly half of medical school graduates globally, female orthopedic surgeons in many countries, including Turkey, represent less than 10% of all orthopedists. However, the number of female orthopedic residents is increasing in Turkey. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to assess and compare the experiences of female orthopedic surgeons in Turkey with their male counterparts, focusing on workplace challenges and surgical inclinations.Methods: A survey was conducted among 110 age-matched orthopedic surgeons (54 females, 56 males). Of the 81 female orthopedic surgeons in Turkey, 54 participated in the study. The demographic data, career satisfaction, experiences of mobbing, surgical interests, and dynamics with colleagues were examined. Ethical approval was obtained.Results: The study included residents and specialists with a mean age of 35.08±8.94 years. The largest pre-residency prejudice for women was mobbing, while for men, it was long working hours (P =.001). The most significant challenge for both genders halfway through residency was long working hours (P =.453). Women reported higher career satisfaction (67.4%) compared to men (58.9%). No significant difference was found between the genders in respect of the incidence of experiencing mobbing at least once in their professional lives (P = .714) Conclusion: Mobbing is a significant issue, particularly for women in surgery, although long working hours affect both genders the most. However, the female surgeons reported experiencing more prejudice from colleagues than was reported by men, highlighting the importance of gender equity in the workplace.

Health sector workers continuously provide services globally, regardless of their professional challenges. Such as the struggle against discrimination and racism. In this study, the existence of discrimination/racism against healthcare professionals was examined using the examples of Romania and Serbia. In the study, the MetaHuman Artificial Intelligence Program was used. As a result, it has been observed that there is no racism, however discrimination against atheist doctors in every country exists regarding religious beliefs. A further discovery is that survey participants from all countries favored the macho or the most beautiful doctor. Countries' decision-makers in education should ensure that extra information on this subject is added to education programs to prevent discrimination and/or racism. This research will extend to search discrimination view differences in the health sector between the Turkish minority in Germany and Turks living in Türkiye.

This case report discusses a case of granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) initially presenting with lacrimal gland involvement and subsequently developing additional features. GPA is a disease known for inflammation in the respiratory tract and kidneys. A 63-year-old male patient presented with a mass, swelling, and ptosis in the right upper eyelid. The patient was referred to us when his symptoms had persisted and worsened despite topical and oral antibiotic therapy administered at another center. Based on clinical and laboratory findings from evaluation and consultations, GPA was diagnosed and confirmed by biopsy. The patient initially presented with necrotizing scleritis and later developed peripheral ulcerative keratitis and anterior uveitis, which regressed under cyclophosphamide treatment but progressed to exudative retinal detachment due to orbital involvement. Clinical remission was achieved after adding rituximab therapy. Presentation with lacrimal gland involvement may serve as an initial manifestation of locally aggressive orbital and adnexal GPA, which can exhibit variable clinical features. Rapid diagnosis and aggressive treatment are critical for preserving vision and preventing complications in patients with GPA.

Success in project management remains a relevant and evolving topic, with numerous academic publications offering insights from various perspectives. A comprehensive understanding of these perspectives is crucial for grasping both the development of the literature and potential future trends. This study aims to bridge a significant gap by analyzing forty years of articles on project management success indexed in major databases. Through a bibliometric analysis, we highlight key trends and patterns that shape the field, providing valuable insights for both scholars and practitioners. The analysis sheds light on critical success factors, including time, cost, scope, stakeholder satisfaction, and long-term impacts, illustrating the multifaceted nature of project success. Additionally, the findings underscore the importance of efficient risk management, communication, and the evolving criteria for measuring project outcomes. Based on the results, this study offers recommendations for future research, particularly the need for interdisciplinary approaches and in-depth examinations of project management across various sectors. Ultimately, this research contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of how project management practices can be enhanced to meet the growing demands of complex, modern projects.

Multisutural synostosis, characterized by the fusion of multiple cranial sutures without a clear underlying syndrome, represents a rare subtype of craniosynostosis. Particularly uncommon is the simultaneous fusion of the sagittal, metopic, and bilateral coronal sutures. This report details the case of a 50-month-old boy, who had an abnormal head shape due to the simultaneous fusion of four sutures. The closure of the sagittal, metopic, and bilateral coronal sutures has led to a distinct head shape marked by flattening of the forehead and anterior skull, contrasting with the typical Mercedes-Benz pattern observed in craniosynostosis cases. Surgical intervention involved osteotomy with symmetrical barrel staves in the parietal and frontal regions, resulting in improved forehead contour.

Bu çalışma, yiyecek içecek işletmelerinde çalışan şeflerin mesleki bilgi ve deneyimlerini meslektaşlarıyla paylaşma durumlarını planlı davranış ve sosyal değişim teorileri perspektifinden incelemeyi amaçlamaktadır. Bilgi paylaşma davranışını etkilediği düşünülen faktörler olarak kişisel çıktı beklentisi, bilgi kaybı beklentisi, karşılıklılık beklentisi ve bilgi paylaşımına yönelik tutum arasındaki ilişkiler araştırılmıştır. Ayrıca, tutumun bu faktörler üzerindeki aracılık etkisi de test edilmiştir. Rastgele ve kartopu yöntemleriyle seçilen 267 şefin katıldığı çalışmada, bilgi paylaşımı tutumunu ölçmek için çeşitli ölçekler kullanılmış ve veriler anket aracılığıyla toplanmıştır. Sonuçlar, kişisel çıktı beklentisi ve karşılıklılık beklentisinin bilgi paylaşımına yönelik tutumu pozitif ve anlamlı şekilde etkilediğini, ancak bilgi kaybı beklentisinin bu tutumu negatif ve zayıf düzeyde etkilediğini göstermiştir. Bilgi paylaşımına yönelik tutumun bilgi paylaşma davranışını güçlü bir şekilde pozitif etkilediği tespit edilmiştir. Aracılık testleri, bilgi paylaşımına yönelik tutumun kişisel çıktı beklentisi ile bilgi paylaşma davranışı arasında kısmi tamamlayıcı bir aracılık rolü oynadığını, bilgi kaybı beklentisi ile bilgi paylaşma davranışı arasında rekabetçi (kısmi aracılık) rolü oynadığını ve karşılıklılık beklentisi ile bilgi paylaşma davranışı arasında kısmi tamamlayıcı bir aracılık rolü oynadığını ortaya koymuştur. Araştırma bulguları, şeflerin bilgi paylaşma davranışlarını tahmin etmede Planlı Davranış Teorisi ve Sosyal Değişim Teorisinin açıklayıcı etkisini doğrulamış ve bu konuda stratejik öneriler sunmuştur.

Yildiray Topcu,1 Robbert JJ Gobbens,2– 5 Tjeerd van der Ploeg,2 Fatih Tufan6 1Prof. Dr. Cemil Taşcıoğlu Şehir Hastanesi, Istanbul, Turkiye; 2Faculty of Health, Sports and Social Work, Inholland University of Applied Sciences, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; 3Zonnehuisgroep Amstelland, Amstelveen, the Netherlands; 4Department Family Medicine and Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; 5Tranzo, Tilburg University, Tilburg, the Netherlands; 6Istanbul Esenler Avicenna Hospital, Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Istanbul, TurkiyeCorrespondence: Fatih Tufan, Assoc. Prof. of Geriatrics, Istanbul Esenler Avicenna Hospital, Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Istanbul, Turkiye, Tel +90 5331683458, Email fatihtufan@gmail.comPurpose: To our knowledge, there have been no comparative studies evaluating the associations of frailty defined using the Tilburg Frailty Indicator (TFI), frailty phenotype by Fried et al, and FRAIL scale with all-cause mortality in Turkiye. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the ability of these instruments in predicting all-cause mortality in outpatients admitted to the outpatient geriatrics clinic of a university hospital.Patients and Methods: This historical prospective study was performed in the geriatrics outpatient clinic of a university hospital in Istanbul, Turkiye. Consecutive older adults (aged ≥ 70 years) who provided written informed consent were enrolled in the study. The survival status of participants was checked electronically using the official death registry system. Univariate analyses and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to determine the independent predictors of mortality.Results: A total of 198 participants with a median age of 77 years were enrolled. During the median follow-up period of 2236 days, 54 (27.3%) patients died. In univariate analyses, male sex, history of falls in the previous year, dependency in instrumental activities of daily living, malnutrition, and frailty with respect to the phenotype by Fried et al, FRAIL scale, and TFI were associated with mortality. In multivariate Cox regression analyses, frailty according to each of the three frailty instruments, male sex, older age, history of falls, and malnutrition or malnutrition risk were independently associated with mortality. The Fried scale was the best frailty tool among the three frailty instruments used to predict all-cause mortality.Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that frailty, determined using each of the three instruments used in the present study, is independently associated with all-cause mortality in patients admitted to the outpatient geriatrics clinic of a university hospital in Turkiye. The Fried scale appears to be the best for predicting all-cause mortality.Keywords: Turkiye, frailty, mortality, malnutrition, falls, dependency

Background and objective: With advancement in technology, it has been possible to use minimally invasive surgical approaches for performing pyeloplasty for the treatment of ureteral strictures. This study aims to investigate the current trends of pyeloplasty and reconstructive ureteral procedures. Methods: We analyzed the nationwide German hospital billing database (Destatis) from 2006 to 2022. Linear regression models were utilized for the identification of trends over time. Key findings and limitations: A total of 34 975 pyeloplasties and 37 470 cases with ureteral reconstruction procedures were analyzed. The total number of pyeloplasties increased from 1990 procedures in 2006 to 2251 in 2019, before declining again down to 1916 procedures in 2022 (p = 0.783). Open pyeloplasty cases decreased from 79.5% in 2006 to 17.6% in 2022, while those using the robotic approach increased from 0.3% in 2006 to 35.9% in 2022 (p

Abstract Background Single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) analysis relies on qualitative visual assessment or semi-quantitative measures like total perfusion deficit that play a critical role in the non-invasive diagnosis of coronary artery disease by assessing regional blood flow abnormalities. Recently, machine learning (ML) -based analysis of SPECT images for coronary artery disease diagnosis has shown promise, with its utility in predicting long-term patient outcomes (prognosis) remaining an active area of investigation. In this review, we comprehensively examine the current landscape of ML-based analysis of SPECT imaging with an emphasis on prognostication of coronary artery disease. Main body Our systematic search yielded twelve retrospective studies, investigating SPECT-based ML models for prognostic prediction in coronary artery disease patients, with a total sample size of 73,023 individuals. Several of these studies demonstrate the superior prognostic capabilities of ML models over traditional logistic regression (LR) models and total perfusion deficit, especially when incorporating demographic data alongside SPECT imaging. Meta-analysis of 6 studies revealed promising performance of the included ML models, with sensitivity and specificity exceeding 65% for major adverse cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality. Notably, the integration of demographic information with SPECT imaging in ML frameworks shows statistically significant improvements in prognostic performance. Conclusion Our review suggests that ML models either independently or in combination with demographic data enhance prognostic prediction in coronary artery disease.

Background Thyroid hormones (THs) have important effects on many organ systems, including the hippocampus, by modulating gene transcription. Therefore, deviations from the normal reference range of this hormone cause vital changes. However, it is not well understood how these hormones affect the expression of genes involved in the Akt1/Gsk3ß signaling pathway in hippocampus tissue. The study investigated the changes in gene expression in eight genes related to neurodegeneration in the hippocampus tissue of rats with TH disorder (Gsk3ß-mRNA, Cdk5-mRNA, Akt1-mRNA, Mapt-mRNA P35 [Anxa]-mRNA, Capn1-mRNA, Bace1-mRNA, and Psen2-mRNA). Methods Twenty-two male rats were split into three groups as control, hypothyroidism, and hyperthyroidism. Propylthiouracil was given in drinking water for 21 days to induce hypothyroidism. L-thyroxine was administered for 21 days to induce hyperthyroidism. The levels of genes in the hippocampus were measured with the reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction method. Results While free thyroxine (fT4) levels in blood plasma were found to be lower in the hypothyroidism group than in the control group, fT4 levels in blood plasma were found to be higher in the hyperthyroidism group. The mRNA expression levels of Cdk5, Mapt, P35, Akt1, Psen2, and Bace1 genes evaluated in hippocampus tissue showed significant differences between the groups. Conclusion THs are essential for the expression of certain genes, and these genes need to be expressed within a certain range for the body to function properly. Changes in hormone levels can partially change the expression of Akt1/Gsk3ß-mRNA, which is also associated with learning and memory.

Objective: To determine the demographic and clinical characteristics of children followed up with the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) at a tertiary center in Southeeast Turkey. Methods: Children followed up with the diagnosis of ASD at a university hospital child psychiatry clinic between June 2016 and June 2021 were evaluated retrospectively for comorbidities, intellectual functioning and age at diagnosis. Results: In the preschool group, females displayed significantly more frequent cognitive developmental delay. Median age at diagnosis was 36 months (IQR= 22) regardless of gender. Approximately three-fourth (73.7%) of the cases had at least one psychiatric comorbid disorder while 22.8% had at least one medical diagnosis. Psychiatric comorbidity was found to be associated with later diagnosis. Conclusion: Although the age at first diagnosis in this study is relatively earlier than the studies in the literature, most of the children with ASD are still diagnosed very late. Psychiatric comorbidities may lead to later diagnosis due to overshadowing. Training of educational and primary healthcare workers on symptoms of ASD may enable earlier diagnosis.

In light of the transformative influence of technologies and innovative methodologies associated with the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the paradigm of project management is undergoing a profound shift, prompting a re-examination of Project Management Education and Training (PMET). The escalating demand for project management expertise, juxtaposed with a scarcity of suitably qualified professionals, has yielded an increase in instances of faltering or challenging projects, thereby underscoring the amplified significance of PMET. A comprehensive assessment of the ongoing evolution of project management education and training is vital to shaping the trajectory of future educational strategies. In this context, bibliometric analysis has emerged as a pivotal tool, offering structured means to systematically present the expansive literature on PMET. This approach provides a panoramic view of the domain's development, facilitating a more informed understanding of its current contours which is paramount for crafting effective educational strategies. Employing bibliometric analysis as its methodological backbone, this study endeavors to discern the existing landscape of project management education and training. For this purpose, a comprehensive analysis was conducted on a dataset comprising 435 documents related to PMET, spanning the years 1985 to August 2023. The results of this analysis indicate that PMET publications are predominantly situated within the context of engineering education. A prominent theme that emerges from the literature is the discernible requirement for novel and forward-thinking strategies in PMET development, with a pronounced emphasis on the cultivation of soft skills and the integration of contemporary training methodologies, including gamification and simulation.

Aims:: To present the body of evidence about the practice of objective assessment of lower urinary tract (LUT) function and dysfunction of female patients with stress urinary incontinence symptoms It serves as a scientific background review and evidence base for a presentation made available on the International Continence Society (ICS) website. Methods:: This narrative review has been prepared by a working group instituted by the ICS Urodynamics Committee. The method to develop the educational module used included narrative literature review, consensus formation by the members of the Working Group, and review by members of the ICS Urodynamics Committee core panel. Results:: On the basis of the available guidelines and articles, we addressed the following topics: Indications for comprehensive urodynamic study (UDS); the best way to inform and prepare the patient; the urodynamic study protocol in women with SUI; the practice of the different tests (cystometry with pressure flow study, leak point pressure and urethral pressure profile). Conclusions:: This ICS teaching module includes an expert-based profile of patients with signs and symptoms of SUI that can be considered complicated and includes specific recommendations for the practice of testing. UDS helps diagnosing the dysfunction that leads to the symptoms. Most of the testing for women with stress urinary incontinence can be performed in the already standardized manner; some adaptions of practice and evaluation are mentioned.

BackgroundVEXAS syndrome, a recently identified systemic autoinflammatory disorder, poses new diagnostic and management challenges. Based on experience with other autoinflammatory diseases, anti-interleukin (IL)-1, anti-IL-6, anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) biotechnological agents, and Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKis) have been widely employed in VEXAS patients. The aim of this study is to evaluate the global effectiveness and safety of biotechnological agents and JAKis using data from the real-world context.MethodsClinical, laboratory, and therapeutic data from VEXAS patients were obtained from the international AIDA Network VEXAS registry.ResultsIn total, 69 VEXAS patients were enrolled in the study. Among them, 12 patients (13 treatment courses) received IL-1 inhibitors, 12 patients (13 treatment courses) were administered anti-IL-6 agents, 8 patients (9 treatment courses) were treated with anti-TNF agents, and 16 patients (17 treatment courses) were treated with JAKis. A complete response was observed in 3 patients (23%) treated with anti-IL-1 agents, 2 patients (15%) receiving IL-6 inhibitors, 1 patient (11%) receiving TNF inhibitors, and 4 patients (23.5%) treated with JAKis. The mean prednisone (or equivalent) dosage significantly decreased during anti-IL-1 treatment (p = 0.01), while glucocorticoids changed during anti-IL-6, anti-TNF, and JAKi treatment in a non-significant fashion. A total of 21 patients experienced adverse events, 3 of which led to death (gut perforation, Legionnaires’ disease, and infectious pneumonia) while on JAKis; treatment withdrawal was required for 8 out of 21 patients.ConclusionIL-1 and IL-6 inhibitors, along with JAKis, represent promising therapeutic options for VEXAS patients, albeit careful monitoring is mandatory to control disease activity and ensure safety.

During the last decade, spondyloarthritis (SpA) has increasingly been considered a disease at the crossroads between autoimmunity and autoinflammation. Some patients may even present with autoinflammatory-related manifestations, including fever, hidradenitis suppurativa, other neutrophilic dermatoses, and an unusually high increase in inflammatory markers. Therefore, a subgroup of SpA patients may be identified, and specific details about this cluster need to be investigated. In this regard, the AutoInflammatory Disease Alliance (AIDA) Network has developed a registry primarily aimed at better understanding the autoinflammatory aspects of SpA. The development of this Registry favors the systematic assessment of SpA through the lens of autoinflammation, giving a voice to patients with atypical presentations, and favoring a personalized treatment approach. By supporting research and facilitating the transfer of new evidence to clinical practice, this specific registry has the potential to significantly advance the field of rheumatology and enhance the lives of patients suffering from this complex and multifaceted disease.

ABSTRACT Purpose Genetic studies on the transgender and gender diverse (TGD) community have started to appear in the literature. However, there are limited studies on how genetic data will impact attitudes and perspectives toward TGD individuals. In this study, we investigated the impact of genetic alterations on physicians' attitudes toward TGD individuals and on physicians' decisions concerning gender confirmation surgery (GCS). In this context, we intended to highlight a number of strategies to reduce the inequalities that the TGD community is exposed to in accessing health‐care services. Method An online survey including the Turkish version of the Attitudes Toward Transgendered Individuals Scale (ATTIS) was completed by 224 physicians from relevant specialties. Scheffé and least significant difference (LSD) post hoc analysis methods were used to determine physicians' perspectives on whether genetic findings would cause TGD individuals to feel validated/invalidated. Multivariate multinomial logistic regression analysis was employed to assess their responses concerning the decision to perform GCS when genetic alterations had been identified. Results More than half of the physicians expressed the view that genetic analyses for TGD individuals would confer benefits (67.1%). Those who thought that the presence of gender–diversity‐related genetic alterations would have a “positive impact” on their GCS‐related decision to operate were found to have less positive attitudes toward TGD individuals (Bonferroni corrected p < 0.001). Multivariate multinomial logistic regression analysis revealed that age, presenting the odds ratio as the strongest factor, distinguished the “no impact” group from the reference “positive impact” group, particularly among those aged ≤ 35 years (3.299, 95% CI: 1.355–8.033; p = 0.009). Conclusion Although genetic analysis of TGD individuals is predicted to have a positive effect on physicians' attitudes toward them and on the GCS decision‐making process, it should be emphasized that the benefits for TGD individuals must outweigh the potential harm. The results showed that physicians need “early and continuing education” to develop a comprehensive perspective on gender identity. The most appropriate approach for genetic testing would be to include the TGD community in decision‐making processes and to develop guidelines for the interpretation of genetic data.