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This study aimed to elicit middle school preservice mathematics teachers' self-reported web of knowledge recalled in generating mathematically rich and contextually realistic problems. We designed this study as multi-tier design research incorporated into two teacher education courses in which 40 preservice teachers enrolled in total. Preservice teachers worked in small groups and recorded the characteristics of mathematically rich and contextually realistic problems. They were also asked to produce webs of knowledge recalled in this process. Preservice teachers' individual reflection papers, audio records of their group discussions and interviews were analyzed to understand how different types of knowledge in their web of knowledge function in relation to the mathematical richness and contextual realness aspects of the problems. The findings indicated that preservice teachers could identify various characteristics for mathematical richness and contextual realistic aspects of the problems. In relation to those characteristics, the preservice teachers' self-reported web of knowledge produced three core knowledge types for ensuring mathematical richness (i.e., knowledge of content, curriculum, and pedagogy) and two aspects of realistic contexts (i.e., real life knowledge and interdisciplinary knowledge). Furthermore, although they included common knowledge types, the webs of knowledge were in different shapes and indicated various relationships (i.e., hierarchical, categorical, influential, and holistic.). Considering the various relations indicated by the webs of knowledge, we claimed that teachers needed an interconnected knowledge base for mathematically rich and contextually realistic problems, the implications of which we discussed for mathematics teacher education.

The Turkish students who study at Russian universities continue learning Russian at the main departments. The main difficulty which foreign students face while learning Russian is scientific style. Those who teach Russian as a foreign language admit that foreign students are often unprepared to learn specific vocabulary. The article covers a completely different approach for presentation of specific vocabulary, developed by the authors of "Training for professional activity in Russian of 'Public Relations' specialty foreign students" (L.V. Adonina, S.V. Lazarev, S.V. Smirnova, O.S. Fisenko).

In this study, a flipped classroom was compared with blended learning and face-to-face learning environments and the aim was to identify the effect of these learning environments on students' achievements, academic engagement and satisfaction levels. Based on this aim, one control and two experimental groups were formed. The students in Experiment-I learned the theoretical aspect of the course through the materials in the online learning environment which were prepared prior to the class study time in context with the "flipped classroom". The students in Experiment-II learned the theoretical aspect of the course in the classroom in accordance with the blended learning model and fulfilled active learning activities out of class study time. The students in the control group learned the theoretical aspect of the course in the classroom according to the current curriculum and conducted active learning activities at their homes. It was found that the scores for the students in the experimental groups with regard to academic achievement and engagement were higher than the scores for those in the control group and the differences between the groups were statistically significant. It was revealed that the students were also generally satisfied with the flipped classroom.

The aim of this study was to determine whether mental toughness levels of athletes engaged in the elite-level team and individual sports in Ankara and Erzurum were predictors of moral disengagement in sports. The sample of the study consisted of randomly-selected 515 athletes who were actively engaged in sports in their clubs in 2017. The "Moral Disengagement in Sport Scale-Short" (MDSS) developed by Boardley and Kavussanu (2008) and adapted to Turkish by Gülpinar (2015), and the "Sports Mental Toughness Questionnaire" (SMTQ) developed by Sheard et al. (2009) and adapted to Turkish by Pehlivan (2014) were used as data collection tools. In the analysis of the data, frequency, percentage, Pearson Product-Moment Correlation Coefficient and linear regression analysis were utilized. As a result of the analyzes, no significant difference was found between confidence, one of the sub-scales of the SMTQ, and moral disengagement, but there was a weak positive significant relationship between the constancy and control sub-scales. As a result of the linear regression analysis, it was found that moral disengagement predicted the constancy and control sub-scales significantly and explained 4% and 3% of the variance, respectively, but it was found that the confidence sub-scale was not predicted significantly.

This study investigated the role of the bar model method, a significant aspect of the Singapore mathematics curriculum, in the remediation of seventh-grade students' errors on algebra word problems. To accomplish this purpose, we first assessed students' errors on a written test involving algebra problems and identified ten students based on the errors they demonstrated. These students were then offered instruction on how to use the bar model method. Following the instruction, we did clinical interviews and observed that the Singapore bar model method helped students understand the problem and transform words into mathematical expressions. Hence, the bar model served as an assistive tool for the remediation of students' errors in algebra word problems by facilitating students' comprehension and transformation.

For research areas to advance, researchers are required to carry out studies that are in line with the inadequacies in the field and to have a grasp of the studies in the field. One of the most important means of identifying inadequacies in a field is to review studies between certain years. In this sense, it is important to analyze the publications of significant journals in physics education. The purpose of this study is to conduct a thematic review of the literature related to physics education studies in certain journals published within the scope of Social Sciences Citation Index in 2013-2015. The articles obtained from the literature were analyzed using a generated matrix. The matrix consists of general specifications (type of journal, years and demographic properties) and content sections (aims, research methods, variables, samples, physics subjects and results). According to the findings, in terms of physics concepts, the studies were conducted mostly on the concept of energy and included mostly undergraduate student participants. Regarding the results, it is suggested, both in physics and science education studies, that materials that are to be used with approaches, such as context-based learning, inquiry-based leaning, and argumentation-based learning, need to be enhanced and that additional studies that investigate the effects of these approaches on learning environments are needed.

The present study is a descriptive research in the scanning model. In the present study is research conducted to determine five to six-year-old children's knowledge of science content, study group constitutes of 360 children attending preschool educational institutions in Burdur city center and their parents and teachers. In the study, Science Content Standards Scale (SCSS) Trial Form developed by Tastepe (2012) was used. SCSS consists of a total 31 items and three subscales including Life Science, Physical Sciences, Earth and Space Sciences processing areas. SCSS-Trial Form was filled at the end of May 2015 by group teachers giving children training throughout the whole academic year. Group score differences were analyzed with one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) technique. Difference among groups is tested using Scheffe and Tamhane techniques. While statistically significant differences are observed among children's scores obtained from SCSS total and sub-dimensions according to age and duration of preschool education, and all sub-dimensions as per number of siblings, there are not any statistically significant differences among children's scores total and sub-dimension according to gender and mothers' and fathers' age. While difference among children's scores obtained from physical sciences, earth and space sciences is observed in favor of firstborn, no differences in life sciences and total score are not determined. There is a statistically significant difference between children's scores in physical and life sciences sub-dimensions as per mothers' and fathers' status of education, and physical sciences sub-dimensions as per mothers' occupational group but there are not any significant differences determined in as per fathers' occupational group.

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Background: Cats are hosts and reservoirs for many haemopathogens such as piroplasms, Rickettsia, hemotropic Mycoplasma, Bartonella, Ehrlichia, and Anaplasma, which are transmitted by various vector arthropods and some of which have a zoonotic concern. Although it is noteworthy that the rate of ownership of companion animals has increased in Türkiye in recent years and that cats account for a large proportion of these animals, there is limited research on the vector-borne infectious agents carried by them. The present study aimed to provide a comprehensive molecular epidemiological data and molecular characterization of feline vector-borne haemopathogens (FVBHs), including piroplasms, anaplasmataceae, rickettsias, haemoplasmas, and Bartonella species in Türkiye. In total, 250 feline blood samples were collected from client-owned cats (n = 203) and shelter cats (n = 47) brought to the Small Animal Hospital of Selcuk University, Veterinary Faculty. Results: Overall, 40 (16%) cats were found to be infected with at least one of the investigated haemopathogens and piroplasm, Mycoplasma spp. and Bartonella spp. prevalence was 1.6%, 11.2%, and 4.8%, respectively. No Anaplasma/Ehrlichia spp. and Rickettsia spp. DNA was detected in the investigated feline samples. Sequence analysis revealed that all four piroplasms belonged to Babesia ovis with a 97.93–99.82% nucleotide sequence identity to 18S rRNA gene sequences from Spain and Türkiye, while some sequenced hemoplasmas were Mycoplasma haemofelis (Mhf), Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum (CMhm) and Mycoplasma wenyonii, and Bartonella spp. were Bartonella henselae and Bartonella koehlerae species. Co-infections with Mycoplasma spp. and Bartonella spp. were also detected in 4 cats (1.6%) in this study, where single infections were predominant. Conclusion: This study provides valuable information on zoonotically important feline vector-borne hemopathogens in Türkiye, some of which have received attention under the One Health perspective, and is the first molecular epidemiological study to demonstrate the presence of Babesia ovis, the causative agent of ovine babesiosis, and Mycoplasma wenyonii DNA, the causative agent of bovine haemotropic mycoplasmosis, in cats. Further studies on the roles of such pathogens detected in unspecific hosts and the host specificity of the vectors that transmit them will contribute to the elucidation of this situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toxoplasma (T.) gondii and Neospora (N.) caninum are two significant abortifacient apicomplexan protozoa causing severe economic losses in livestock farming. This study was designed to investigate the serological status of T. gondii and N. caninum in sheep and goats across the Southeastern Anatolia Region of Türkiye, including some provinces bordering Syria and Iraq. Totally, 906 serum samples collected from female sheep (n=510) and goats (n=396) were investigated for specific antibodies against these protozoa by recombinant TgSAG2 and NcSAG1 protein-based indirect ELISA (iELISA). The individual seroprevalence of T. gondii and N. caninum in sheep was determined as 32.6 and 3.1%, respectively, while the seroprevalence of infection with both species was 33.1%. On the other hand, T. gondii and N. caninum seroprevalence in goats were 32.1 and 20.2%, respectively, while the total seroprevalence of infection with both species was 39.4%. The highest seroprevalence values for T. gondii (P<0.05) and N. caninum (P>0.05) were determined in sheep from Diyarbakır and Mardin provinces, respectively, while in goats, higher seroprevalence values for both protozoa were determined in Diyarbakır province compared to other provinces (P<0.05). Statistical analyses revealed that seroprevalence values varying between provinces were significant (P<0.05), except for ovine neosporosis (P>0.05) and when seroprevalence values between animal species were compared, caprine neosporosis was statistically significantly higher (P<0.05). The fact that 35.9% of the small ruminants enrolled in the study had been exposed to abortive apicomplexan protozoa during their lives is a serious concern, given the zoonotic aspects of these protozoa and the economic damage they can cause. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Babesiosis, caused by Babesia ovis, is a major seasonal issue in sheep, particularly in countries like Türkiye with high Rhipicephalus bursa tick populations. Previous studies employing various methods such as microscopy, serology, or molecular techniques have reported different epidemiological data concerning ovine babesiosis. Addressing this knowledge gap, our study employed a combined nested PCR (nPCR)/indirect ELISA (iELISA) approach, analyzing blood samples collected from 414 sheep between April and July 2023 using both techniques. nPCR amplified the 18S ribosomal RNA gene of B. ovis and determined a molecular prevalence of 1.9%. Conversely, serological testing using iELISA targeted the BoSA1 antigen and revealed a significantly higher positivity rate of 59.9% for anti-B. ovis antibodies. The temporary presence of Babesia after recovery reduces nPCR sensitivity, resulting in lower molecular prevalence. However, even if Babesia is not present in the host, anti-B. ovis antibodies remain in the serum for a long time and can be detected serologically. Our study underscores the necessity of concurrently employing molecular and serological methods for an accurate assessment of B. ovis prevalence. It highlights the importance of comprehensive epidemiological approaches for effective disease management in sheep populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the effect of nurse-based breastfeeding support during the immediate postpartum period on mothers' breastfeeding self-efficacy levels. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted with 256 mothers in the immediate postpartum period (128 in the intervention group who received nurse-based breastfeeding support and routine care and 128 in the control group who received routine care) during February–June 2018. Data were collected using the Mother-Infant Data Sheet, the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale-Short Form (BSES-SF), and the Nurse-Parent Support Tool (NPST). Results: BSES-SF and NPST mean scores of mothers in the intervention group were higher than those of mothers in the control group (p < 0.01). While the association between breastfeeding self-efficacy and nurse support was low in the control group (0.271), it was rather high in the intervention group (0.693) (p < 0.05). It was found that nurse support explained 48% of the variance in breastfeeding self-efficacy in the intervention group, but only 7.3% of the variance in breastfeeding self-efficacy in the control group. Conclusions for Practice: The results of the study indicate that nurse support for mothers in the immediate postpartum period based on breastfeeding training has a positive impact on breastfeeding self-efficacy. Significance: Breastfeeding education of mothers in the early postpartum period significantly affects breastfeeding self-efficacy. It also significantly improves nurse support in the early postpartum period. It is very important that mothers continue to receive care after discharge from the hospital, that their breastfeeding status be assessed, and that nurse support continue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tornadoes are the most violent and destructive of all the severe weather phenomena that localized convective storms produce. There is a requirement in operational meteorology increasing nowadays that an indicator index which allows to reduce the uncertainty of severe convective storms and tornadoes in the scope of climate change adaptation strategies. The main intention is not to replace or substitute mesoscale modeling approaches, or composite indexes, but to warn operationally to draw attention to the Eastern Mediterranean and Türkiye in particular a few days in advance. The development of some indicators using atmospheric variables can undertake a crucial role by enabling such numerical models to be run only at certain time intervals, thus enduring lower computational costs. In this study, Eastern Mediterranean oscillation index (EMEDOi) has been developed in order to be able to detect the presence of ULLs (upper-level low) and frontogenesis approach is employed for selected tornadic storm events in Türkiye. EMEDOi has 7 different its variations (members) which these members have been developed to detect differences depending on the entry directions of cyclones and storms influencing Türkiye from the west of the country. In line with the GDAS data analysis, values of geopotential height are derived for the requirement of EMEDOi in a limited area. A few of the results from the study are as in the following: 86% of the trained tornado events revealed that the EMEDO-Oper index was in negative phase at the time a tornado was reported, regardless of whether the events featured a supercell mesoscale convective storm or a frontal movement. The hourly period until the local minimum is obtained can be described and characterized as the process by which the EMEDO-Oper index value decreases continuously. The time required to reach the local minimum varies based on the tornado occurrence. Based on the tornadic storm scenario in the test cluster in 2022 and the train cluster, this timeframe is predicted to be roughly 33.2 h on average. In western Türkiye, there is a 79% chance of a tornado occurring between six and forty-two hours after the EMEDO-Oper index reaches its local minimum. In particular, the projected chance for this period is 63% between 12 and 30 h after the local minimum is obtained. Besides, the majority of the tornado incidents with EMEDO-Oper values below − 0.75 were evaluated. After an EMEDO-Oper index value falls below that threshold, it is likely to forecast the risk period of a tornado in Türkiye with a probability of 79% and the local minimum point must be identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of fear of falling and associated factors in older adults with heart failure. Methods: A prospective, cross‐sectional study. The study included 100 geriatric patients who were hospitalised and treated in the cardiology department of our hospital with ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) lower than 50% for at least 1 year. A series of geriatric assessments were performed by face‐to‐face interview on the day of admission. Electrocardiography (ECG) and transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) were also performed on the day of admission. Results: The median age of the patients was 72 years, and 72.0% were men. Falls Efficacy Scale scores indicated a fear of falling in 46 (46.0%) of the patients. Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) was significantly higher in patients with fear of falling (P < 0.001). Severe depression, severe clinical insomnia, daytime sleepiness, and malnutrition were significantly more frequent among patients with fear of falling. Fear of falling was associated with significantly lower LVEF (P = 0.001). The presence of severe depression increased the risk of fear of falling by 13.97 times (95% CI: 3.064–63.707; P = 0.001), and the presence of daytime sleepiness increased the risk by 3.49 times (95% CI: 1.012–12.037; P = 0.048). A one‐unit increase in CCI increased the risk of fear of falling by 1.56 times (95% CI: 1.093–2.238; P = 0.014). Conclusions: Heart failure patients with concomitant depression, sleep disorders, and high comorbidities have greater fear of falling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Patients receiving palliative care are more prone to dermatological disease. The aim of our study was to determine the frequency of dermatological diseases and associated factors in patients receiving palliative care support. Methods: This prospective observational study included inpatients in the palliative care unit of our university hospital in Erzurum/TURKEY. The patients were evaluated by the same dermatologist within the first 48 h of admission and 3 days a week during follow-up. Demographic data, reasons for admission to the palliative care unit, and skin lesions at the time of admission and during follow-up were recorded. Results: The median age of the 259 patients included in the study was 77.0 years (min- max, 19-108) and 54.4% were women. Dermatological disease was detected in 246 patients (96.1%) at admission to the palliative care unit and in 185 patients (71.4%) patients during follow-up. The most common dermatological disease at admission was dry skin (n = 175, 67.6%), which was also the most common cause of pruritis (n = 29, 11.2%). The most common skin infection was dermatophytosis (n = 57, 22.0%) and the most common type of dermatitis was contact dermatitis (n = 17, 6.6%). Nearly all tumors were benign (n = 32, 12.4%) and most chronic wounds were pressure ulcers (n = 96, 37.1%). During hospital follow-up, the most frequent dermatitis was contact dermatitis (n = 44, 17.0%), the most frequent skin infection was candidiasis (n = 25, 9.7%), the most common chronic wound was pressure ulcers (n = 25, 9.7%), the most common dermatological disease was urticaria (n = 14, 5.4%), and all cases of pruritus were associated with dry skin (n = 8, 3.1%). Conclusions: The frequency of dermatological findings is high among patients receiving palliative care. Therefore, dermatologists should be included in multidisciplinary palliative care teams and evaluate palliative care patients early and regularly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rooted in science education and science communication studies, this study examines 4th and 5th grade students' perceptions of science information sources (SIS) and their use in communicating science to students. It combines situated learning theory with uses and gratifications theory in a qualitative phenomenological analysis. Data were gathered through classroom observations and interviews in four Turkish elementary schools. Focus group interviews with 47 students and individual interviews with 17 teachers and 10 parents were conducted. Participants identified a wide range of SIS, including TV, magazines, newspapers, internet, peers, teachers, families, science centers/museums, science exhibitions, textbooks, science books, and science camps. Students reported using various SIS in school-based and non-school contexts to satisfy their cognitive, affective, personal, and social integrative needs. SIS were used for science courses, homework/project assignments, examination/test preparations, and individual science-related research. Students assessed SIS in terms of the perceived accessibility of the sources, the quality of the content, and the content presentation. In particular, some sources such as teachers, families, TV, science magazines, textbooks, and science centers/museums ("directive sources") predictably led students to other sources such as teachers, families, internet, and science books ("directed sources"). A small number of sources crossed context boundaries, being useful in both school and out. Results shed light on the connection between science education and science communication in terms of promoting science learning.

The purpose of this study is to investigate the factors affecting academic achievement of the master's students who are enrolling in the executive engineering management master's programs in Turkey. These factors include admission requirements (entrance examination, undergraduate grade point average, English proficiency) and demographic attributes (gender, concurrent employment while studying). The sample for this study consisted of 105 students who graduated from the executive engineering management master's program at Istanbul Technical University between 2011 and 2014. A stepwise logistic regression method (Forward LR) was used for the analysis. The overall graduate grade point average score was modelled as a binary decision variable. The probability of excellent academic standing in graduate education was modelled as a function of Entrance Examination for Academic Personnel and Graduate Education (ALES) score, English proficiency exam score, undergraduate grade point average, gender, and concurrent employment while studying. The variables predicting probability of excellent academic standing in graduate education are ALES score (positively related), English proficiency exam score (positively related), undergraduate grade point average (positively related), and concurrent employment while studying (negatively related).

The demand for distance education has been increasing at a rapid pace all around the world. This, in turn, places a special importance on the need for the development of more distance education systems. However, there is an alarming rise in the number of distance education students that drop out of the system without asking for any help. The present study focuses on forming three fuzzy-based models through K-Means, C-Means and subtractive clustering. The models are designed to predict students' year-end academic performance based on the 8-week data kept in the learning management system (LMS). Next, the models are evaluated in terms of their accuracy in order to determine the most suitable one. Then, the data was analyzed through various statistical methods and the results were compared. The model provides invaluable information regarding the students' year-end success or failure by analyzing the data on Basic Computer Skills, a course included in the curriculum for sophomores at a local university. Thanks to such information, those who are likely to drop out can be determined and accordingly, the institution can start to take measures to encourage students not to drop out early in the semester, which, in turn, can increase the extent to which distance education can be successful. The present study will hopefully decrease the number of students that drop out of distance education systems.

This descriptive correlational study aimed relationship of death anxiety with loneliness and psychological well-being in the elderly living in a nursing home. The study was conducted on the elderly living in a nursing home in Istanbul, Turkey, between November 2021-February 2022. The study sample included 165 nursing home residents. The Sociodemographic Characteristics Form, Death Anxiety Scale (DAS), Loneliness Scale for the Elderly (LSE) and Psychological Well-Being Scale were used as data collection tools. The elderly participants obtained a mean score of 6.10 ± 3.50 from DAS, a mean score of 9.01 ± 4.08 from LSE, and a mean score of 38.97 ± 10.05 from Psychological Well-Being Scale. When death anxiety scale mean score of the elderly was compared with their mean scores of loneliness scale and psychological well-being scale, a weak and negative correlation was determined between psychological well-being and loneliness (p < 0.001). As the mean score of psychological well-being scale increases, loneliness scale mean score decreases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ovine babesiosis, caused by Babesia ovis, is an acute, lethal, and endemic disease worldwide and causes a huge economic loss to animal industry. Pathogen genome sequences can be utilized for selecting diagnostic markers, drug targets, and antigens for vaccine development; however, those for B. ovis have not been available so far. In this study, we obtained a draft genome sequence for B. ovis isolated from an infected sheep in Turkey. The genome size was 7.81 Mbp with 3,419 protein-coding genes. It consisted of 41 contigs, and the N50 was 526 Kbp. There were 259 orthologs identified among eight Babesia spp., Plasmodium falciparum, and Toxoplasma gondii. A phylogeny was estimated on the basis of the orthologs, which showed B. ovis to be closest to B. bovis. There were 43 ves genes identified using hmm model as well. They formed a discriminating cluster to other ves multigene family of Babesia spp. but showed certain similarities to those of B. bovis, B. caballi, and Babesia sp. Xinjiang, which is consistent with the phylogeny. Comparative genomics among B. ovis and B. bovis elucidated uniquely evolved genes in these species, which may account for the adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fossil mollusc shells are used for dating geological materials because they are well preserved throughout geological time. In this study, the radicals in the structure of fossil mollusc shells (Dreissena iconica, Valvata piscinalis, Bithynia tentaculate, Unio pictorum) collected from the Eastern Part of Old Konya Lake in Türkiye were investigated by EPR technique. For all fossil shells, microwave and temperature dependence of the signals were examined, and the signals suitable for dating are discussed. Characteristic features of intrinsic and impurity-related radicals were identified and the importance of paleontological evaluation of molluscs to get a reliable equivalent dose in EPR dating studies was emphasised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ticks play a pivotal role in propagating a diverse spectrum of infectious agents that detrimentally affect the health of both humans and animals. In the present study, a molecular survey was executed of piroplasmids in ticks collected from small ruminants in four districts within Konya province, Turkey. Microscopic examination identified 1281 adult ticks, which were categorized into 357 pools based on their species, sexes, host animals, and collection site before DNA extraction. The infection rates were calculated by using a maximum likelihood estimate (MLE) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Hyalomma detritum, H. excavatum, Rhipicephalus bursa, R. sanguineus, and R. turanicus were identified in this study. Among the five tick species identified here, R. turanicus exhibited the highest infestation rate in both goats and sheep. The presence of Babesia ovis and Theileria ovis based on 18S rRNA was confirmed using molecular assay. The overall MLE of infection rates for B. ovis and T. ovis was 2.49% (CI 1.72–3.46) and 1.46% (CI 0.87–2.23), respectively. The MLE of B. ovis and T. ovis infection rates in R. bursa was 10.80% (CI 7.43–14.90) and 0.33% (CI 0.02–1.42), respectively, while that in R. turanicus was 0.12% (CI 0.01–0.51) and 2.08% (CI 1.25–3.22). This study further confirms that R. turanicus and R. sanguineus can act as vectors for B. ovis, thus advancing our comprehension of tick-borne piroplasmids epidemiology and providing valuable insights for the development of effective control strategies for ticks and tick-borne diseases in Turkey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ovine babesiosis, caused by Babesia ovis, is an acute, lethal, and endemic disease worldwide and causes a huge economic loss to animal industry. Pathogen genome sequences can be utilized for selecting diagnostic markers, drug targets, and antigens for vaccine development; however, those for B. ovis have not been available so far. In this study, we obtained a draft genome sequence for B. ovis isolated from an infected sheep in Turkey. The genome size was 7.81 Mbp with 3,419 protein-coding genes. It consisted of 41 contigs, and the N50 was 526 Kbp. There were 259 orthologs identified among eight Babesia spp., Plasmodium falciparum, and Toxoplasma gondii. A phylogeny was estimated on the basis of the orthologs, which showed B. ovis to be closest to B. bovis. There were 43 ves genes identified using hmm model as well. They formed a discriminating cluster to other ves multigene family of Babesia spp. but showed certain similarities to those of B. bovis, B. caballi, and Babesia sp. Xinjiang, which is consistent with the phylogeny. Comparative genomics among B. ovis and B. bovis elucidated uniquely evolved genes in these species, which may account for the adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although Hepatozoon spp. remains the most prevalent intracellular protozoa infecting snakes, it was reported only in a few snake species of the Colubridae family in Türkiye. Moreover, studies on these hemoparasites are not available in venomous nose-horned vipers from Türkiye. In this study, we investigated Hepatozoon spp. in three individual Vipera ammodytes using morphological and molecular methods. Our results were positive for intraerythrocytic Hepatozoon spp. gamonts in all three snakes, exhibiting low parasitemia. The microscopic findings were further confirmed through molecular data. A genus-specific PCR assay targeting the 18S rRNA gene region of Hepatozoon spp., was performed using HemoF/HemoR and Hep300/Hep900 primers. The obtained sequences were concatenated and used in phylogenetic analyses in comparison with different Hepatozoon species. Although our (OP377741) isolate was separated into a different branch, it was clustered with the isolates of H. massardi (KC342526), H. cevapii (KC342525), and H. annulatum (ON262426) from Brazilian snakes. Moreover, gene similarity and pair-wise distance between our isolate and other Hepatozoon species infecting snakes were found to be 89.30–98.63% and 0.009–0.077, respectively. Hence, we reported a new species of Hepatozoon, namely Hepatozoon viperoi sp. nov. infecting V. ammodytes. Since the literature does not indicate the existence of such a Hepatozoon species in V. ammodytes in different countries, our data may contribute to the expanding knowledge of Hepatozoon species in snakes, providing new insights into the biodiversity of the haemogregarine protozoan parasite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This randomized controlled trial study aims to examine the flipped classroom model's effects on the knowledge and health beliefs of testicular cancer and testicular self-examination. The study was conducted on 66 students in Northern Cyprus. A descriptive information form, Champion's Health Belief Model Scale, visual analogue scale of satisfaction with the learning method, the knowledge questionnaire on testicular cancer and the testicular self-examination itself were used for data collection. The mean posttest knowledge score of the intervention group (14.44) was higher than the mean posttest knowledge score of the control group (12.65). The difference between groups was statistically significant (P  < 0.05). The mean posttest scores obtained by the intervention group from the barriers and the severity subscales of the Champion's Health Belief Model Scale were lower than for the control group (P  < 0.05). The percentages of participants performing the testicular self-examination after receiving training were 82.4% and 59.4% for the intervention group and control group, respectively. The complete trial protocol can be accessed at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04851197). Since the flipped classroom model increased the rate of students performing testicular self-exams and the levels of knowledge and satisfaction of the students, the use of this model in different courses may be promoted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, an instrument, Using Mathematics in Science Self-efficacy Scale (UMSSS), was developed in order to determine preservice science teachers' self-efficacy toward the use of mathematics in their lessons. Data gathered from 250 preservice science teachers were used for Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). The factor analysis revealed 3 factors: Self Perception of Mathematics (SPM), Utilization of Mathematics (UM), and Mathematical Skills (MS). The cronbach alpha coefficient for the overall instrument was computed 0.88. The analyses resulted in the development of a three-factor scale of 18 items that was shown to be valid and reliable. At the same time, this instrument is also the first original instrument developed for determining the preservice science teachers' self-efficacies toward the use of mathematics in their lessons. (Contains 7 tables and 3 figures.)

The Turkish Republic was born out of the ruins of the Ottoman Empire (1270-1920), which extended into three continents and ruled people of various ethnic denominations having different languages, religions, and culture. Elementary education for the masses was left to the people themselves, with little input from the imperial administration. This article discusses the cultural and educational history of Turkey and the development of modern primary education policy.

The idea underlying this study is that the prospective teachers develop their Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills throughout the learning process supported by the Problem Based Learning (PBL), a method that produces independent learners who can, then, continue to learn on their own in their chosen careers. The major goal of the study, conducted in two phases during two academic years, is to investigate the differential effects of PBL and conventional teacher-centred instruction on cognitive and a group of affective variables which have been coined "technophobia". Phase I of the study, entirely qualitative in character, covered a case study in which a total of 111 students from three departments of the Faculty of Education took part. Phase II of the study was quasi-experimental in nature with 79 students taking part. Most of the outcomes from Phase II were based on statistical measurements. At the end of the instruction process, the findings indicated that, while there was no significant difference in the anxiety levels of the two groups, the number of successful students had registered a considerable increase. Furthermore, the students, actively involved in the learning process, solving real problems, viewed the PBL as an effective learning tool rich in motivation. Within this framework, the motivating role of ICT as a method of learning is automatically recognised. (Contains 4 tables.)

Canine parvovirus (CPV) is a significant pathogenic virus with up to 100% morbidity and 91% mortality rates, especially in unvaccinated puppies. The emergence of new strains, interspecies transmission, and vaccine effectiveness can be enabled by just a few base changes in the CPV genome. Therefore, to cope with CPV disease, it is important to identify the viral agent and regularly monitor vaccine effectiveness against new strains. The present study has investigated CPV's genetic profile in Turkey by collecting 80 samples from dogs in Turkey between 2020 and 2022. These samples and all sequences previously studied for CPV in Turkey were analyzed for whole-genome sequences, nationwide strain distribution over the two years, and the central Turkey prevalence rate. Next-generation sequencing was used for the genome study, Sanger sequencing for strain detection, and PCR for the prevalence analyses. The CPV-2 variants circulating in Turkey form their own cluster while being closely related to Egypt variants. Substantial amino acid changes were detected in antigenically important regions of the VP2 gene. Moreover, CPV-2b has become the most frequent genotype in this region, while the incidence of CPV-2c is predicted to increase gradually over the coming years. The prevalence of CPV in central Turkey was 86.27%. This study thus provides powerful insights to further our understanding of CPV's genetic profile in Turkey and suggests that up-to-date vaccination efficacy studies are urgently needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Low Anterior Resection Syndrome negatively affects patients' quality of life after surgery for rectal cancer. Temporary loop leostomy is preferred to avoid anastomosis leakage related problems. Aim of this study is to evaluate Patients' quality of life before and after ileostomy reversal. Material and Methods: Patients with laparoscopic low anterior resection with protective loop ileostomy were included in the study. Before and after the reversal of the ileostomy quality of life assessment was done by EORTC QLQ-C30 scale. Results: Sixty two patients with temporary loop ileostomy after laparoscopic low anterior resection for rectal cancer were included in the study. Our study population showed better results in General health scale and social function scale after ileostomy reversal. However; there is no significant difference in general function and general symptom scale. Conclusion: Temporary ileostomy can negatively affect patients' quality of life and patients have higher quality of life scores after ileostomy reversal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diseases caused by tick-transmitted pathogens including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa are of veterinary and medical importance, especially in tropical and subtropical regions including Turkey. Hence, molecular surveillance of tick-borne diseases will improve the understanding of their distribution towards effective control. This study aimed to investigate the presence and perform molecular characterization of Babesia sp., Theileria sp., Anaplasma sp., Ehrlichia sp., and Rickettsia sp. in tick species collected from cattle in five provinces of Turkey. A total of 277 adult ticks (males and females) were collected. After microscopic identification, tick pools were generated according to tick species, host animal, and sampling sites prior to DNA extraction. Molecular identification of the tick species was conducted through PCR assays. Out of 90 DNA pools, 57.8% (52/90) were detected to harbor at least 1 pathogen. The most frequently-detected pathogens were Babesia bovis, with a minimum detection rate of 7.9%, followed by Ehrlichia sp. (7.2%), Theileria annulata (5.8%), Coxiella sp. (3.3%), Anaplasma marginale (2.5%), Rickettsia sp. (2.5%), and B. occultans (0.7%). Rickettsia sp. identified in this study include Candidatus Rickettsia barbariae, R. aeschlimannii, and Rickettsia sp. Chad. All sequences obtained from this study showed 99.05–100% nucleotide identity with those deposited in GenBank (query cover range: 89–100%). This is the first molecular detection of Rickettsia sp. Chad, a variant of Astrakhan fever rickettsia, in Turkey. Results from this survey provide a reference for the distribution of ticks and tick-borne pathogens in cattle and expand the knowledge of tick-borne diseases in Turkey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The role of health professionals working in primary care in providing services to all segments of society and in protecting and improving the health of all individuals is extremely important. The aim of this study is to determine the healthy lifestyle behaviors of primary health care workers in Karabük city center and to examine some factors that may affect the choice of a healthy lifestyle. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between October-December 2019 with the participation of 334 healthcare professionals in Karabük. The questionnaire with 27 questions and the Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors Scale II (HLBS-II) were administered. Results: The median age of the health care workers participating in the study was 38.2 ± 10.6. Of the participants 53.8% were women and approximately three-quarters of the participants (70.8%) were married. In terms of occupational groups, 10.9% of the participants were physicians, 25.0% were nurses and midwives, 16.7% were health officers/technicians and 47.4% were composed of other employees. The HLBS-II total score was found to be 126.8±21.3. The HLBS-II total score were higher in women, those who defined their health status as good, university graduates those who did not smoke, had good nutrition, exercised, and were satisfied with their body appearance. CONCLUSION: In our study, it was found that the healthy life behavior scores of health workers were at a good level. Especially men, smokers, high school graduates, obese, those who do not pay attention to their nutrition and physical activity should be informed and be supported by healthy living behavior programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the etiologies, comorbidities, and outcomes of acute kidney injury (AKI) in Turkey and determine any potential differences among different geographical parts of the country.Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted by the Acute Kidney Injury Working Group of the Turkish Society of Nephrology. Demographical and clinical data of patients with AKI at the time of diagnosis and at the 1st week and 1st, 3rd, and 6th months of diagnosis were evaluated to determine patient and renal survival and factors associated with patient prognosis.Results: A total of 776 patients were included (54.7% male, median age: 67 years). Prerenal etiologies, including dehydration, heart failure, and sepsis, were more frequent than other etiologies. 58.9% of the patients had at least one renal etiology, with nephrotoxic agent exposure as the most common etiology. The etiologic factors were mostly similar throughout the country. 33.6% of the patients needed kidney replacement therapy. At the 6th month of diagnosis, 29.5% of the patients had complete recovery; 34.1% had partial recovery; 9.5% developed end-stage kidney disease; and 24.1% died. The mortality rate was higher in the patients from the Eastern Anatolian region; those admitted to the intensive care unit; those with prerenal, renal, and postrenal etiologies together, stage 3 AKI, sepsis, cirrhosis, heart failure, and malignancy; those who need kidney replacement therapy; and those without chronic kidney disease than in the other patients.Conclusion: Physicians managing patients with AKI should be alert against dehydration, heart failure, sepsis, and nephrotoxic agent exposure. Understanding the characteristics and outcomes of patients with AKI in their countries would help prevent AKI and improve treatment strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Objective: We aimed to evaluate correct facemask usage prevalence among the general public in marketplaces in Denizli, Turkey and also aimed to determine the effects of the announcement of asymptomatic coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases and curfew decisions on compliance rates of appropriate mask use. Materials and Methods: In this population-based study, a total of 6749 observations were made in the 8 different marketplaces between 22 November -- 3 December 2020. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to assess the effect of age, gender, observation time, and intervention type (announcement of asymptomatic COVID-19 case numbers and, announcement of nationwide curfew decisions) on correct facemask use prevalence. Results: Correct facemask usage prevalence in customers and sellers was 84.3% and 46.3%, respectively. The announcement of the number of asymptomatic COVID-19 cases had no statistically significant effect on correct facemask usage prevalence both among customers and sellers (p>0.05). After the announcement of the curfew decisions, correct facemask usage prevalence increased among customers (OR:1.24 (1.02-1.52)) and sellers (OR:1.64 (1.32-2.03)). Conclusion: The correct use of facemasks is not sufficient, especially among sellers. The announcement of curfew decisions has increased the correct use of masks although, the announcement of asymptomatic COVID-19 case numbers has no effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aviation has the most intense impact on air quality during the landing and takeoff cycles (LTO) of aircraft operations, which are defined as being equivalent by aircraft manufacturers, airport managers and regulators. In this study, an environmental impact assessment and cost analysis study was conducted, taking into consideration airline traffic data from 2018 of Turkey's biggest commercial airline company. Calculations are based on the LTO cycle. Emissions evaluated in the study are CO, CO2, HC and NOx. In order to assess the emissions, the aircraft types in which the airline forms the fleet, tail numbers, engine types, number of seats, passenger-carrying capacity, emission indices at different power settings of the engines and annual passenger traffic of the aircraft have been employed. In addition, two approaches are employed to explain the meaning of emissions: the amount of environmental impact and the environmental damage cost. In the light of data generated by calculating the annual environmental costs of the fleets, fleet renewal or employment of new engine technologies can be caused to low-emission tariffs that achieve more efficient combustion. As a result, changing the engine combinations of aircraft in the Turkish Airlines fleet will result in fewer emissions and therefore less cost. The important thing is the optimization of the ratio of the cost of environmental impact on the cost of changes in the combination of aircraft engines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study was conducted to determine the relationship between the purpose of social media use, social support, loneliness and depression at university students. Method: This descriptive study was carried with the 541 first year university student in a university at Turkey. Sociodemographic Data Collection Form, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, UCLA Loneliness Scale and Beck Depression Inventory were used to collect the data. The institutional permission, ethic approval and written consent were obtained. The descriptive statistical analyses and correlation analysis were used to assess the data. Results: More than half of the students were female. It was determined that almost all of the students had a social media account and they used the social media for about 4 hours daily. Most of the students used the social media to chat with their friends. A weak, negative, significant relationship was found between social support and social media usage purposes except for sharing photo and chatting (p<0.05). There was a statistically weak, positive, significant relationship between social media use for entertainment, chatting, spending time, information source and loneliness. A weak, positive, significant relationship was determined between depression and social media usage purposes for entertainment and following others (p<0.05). Conclusions: Significant and weak relationships were found between social media usage purposes, social support, loneliness and depression. It is recommended that the university counseling services can organize extracurricular social activities to reduce use of social media and support them in terms of social support, depression and loneliness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The use of evidence-based information as a prevention package and the quality of nursing care are effective in reducing infection rates to prevent ventilator-associated event (VAE) infections. Aim: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of ventilator-associated event (VAE) prevention bundle practices in the intensive care unit (ICU). Methodology: This interventional study was conducted between January 1 and March 31, 2019. Data were collected using the Introductory Characteristics Form Regarding the Nurse Group, Training Evaluation Form for Ventilator-Associated Event Prevention Bundle Practice, and Follow-up Form for Ventilator-Associated Event Prevention Bundle. Prior to study, ethics committee approval and nurses' consent was obtained. The study was carried out with the intensive care unit nurses, and the period of the study included a total of 354 ventilator-days, 38 patients. Number, Percentage and Wilcoxon Test were used in the study. Results: Bundle general compliance in the intensive care unit reached a compliance percentage of 85%. In the study, it was observed that the rates of infection reduced in pre-, during, and post-intervention periods. Besides, the fact that the number of patients increased but ventilator days decreased within post-intervention period was remarkable. Conclusion: As a result, VAE prevention bundle practices, prepared in light of evidence-based guidelines, were found to reduce the rates of infection. The use of bundle practices in the intensive care units is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the effect of antidumping policy on the payment methods in trade transactions. Using three‐dimensional (country–HS6 product‐year) data on payment methods in imports and detailed data on antidumping activity from Turkey, we show that antidumping duties lead to more exporter‐financed transactions for the targeted country‐product pairs compared to a control group of nontargeted ones. Our findings suggest that exporters offer better financing options when they face competitive pressure in their export destinations because of discriminatory trade policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate the delayed chest closure (DCC) results in patients who underwent lung transplantation. Methods: Sixty patients were evaluated retrospectively. Only bilateral lung transplantations and DCC for oversized lung allograft (OLA) were included in the study. Six patients who underwent single lung transplantation, four patients who underwent lobar transplantation, two patients who underwent retransplantation, and four patients who underwent DCC due to bleeding risk were excluded from the study. Forty-four patients were divided into groups as primary chest closure (PCC) (n=28) and DCC (n=16). Demographics, donor characteristics, and operative features and outcomes of the patients were compared. Results: The mean age was 44.5 years. There was no significant difference between the demographics of the groups (P>0.05). The donor/recipient predicted total lung capacity ratio was significantly higher in the DCC group than in the PCC group (1.06 vs. 0.96, P=0.008). Extubation time (4.3 vs. 3.1 days, P=0.002) and intensive care unit length of stay (7.6 vs. 5.2 days, P=0.016) were significantly higher in the DCC group than in the PCC group. In the DCC group, postoperative wound infection was significantly higher than in the PCC group (18.6% vs. 0%, P=0.19). Median survival was 14 months in all patients and there was no significant difference in survival between the groups (16 vs. 13 months, P=0.300). Conclusion: DCC is a safe and effective method for the management of OLA in lung transplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Cytokines have been the mainstay of treatment in metastatic renal cell cancer (mRCC) for decades before the introduction of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), which dramatically changed the therapeutic landscape in these patients. This observational study was designed to evaluate use of TKIs in the treatment of cytokine-intolerant mRCC patients. Methods: A total of 151 cytokine-intolerant mRCC patients who were treated with TKIs (sunitinib, pazopanib and sorafenib) were enrolled in this prospective, non-interventional, multi-center observational study at 16 oncology centers across Turkey. Mean (SD) age was 61.3 (11.1) years and 74.8% were males. Data on duration of TKI treatment was the primary outcome measure. Additionally, overall response rate (ORR), progression free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS) and safety data were recorded. Results: Median duration of treatment was 8.2 months at a median follow up of 17.9 months. ORR and disease control rate were 12.5% and 70.8%, respectively. Median PFS and OS were 7.5 months (95%CI: 6.4–10.4) and 27.3 months (95%CI: 17.6–27.3) with no significant difference among three TKI agents in terms of treatment duration, ORR, PFS and OS. The most common adverse events excluding progression-which was the protocol requirement were diarrhea (13.6%), asthenia (13.6%) and hand-foot syndrome (12.6%). Dose modifications were required in 30.5% of the patients and 15% discontinued TKIs because of toxicity. Conclusions: Our findings confirm the efficacy and safety profile of TKIs in the first-line treatment of mRCC patients intolerant to cytokine treatment. There was no significant difference among three TKI agents in terms of treatment duration, ORR, PFS and OS. Trial registration: TURCOS ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01585974. Registered April 25, 2012. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bovine coronavirus (BCoV) can be spread by animal activity. Although cattle farming is widespread in Turkey, there are few studies of BCoV. The aim of this study was to evaluate the current situation regarding BCoV in Turkey. This is the first study reporting the full-length nucleotide sequences of BCoV spike (S) genes in Turkey. Samples were collected from 119 cattle with clinical signs of respiratory (n = 78) or digestive tract (n = 41) infection on different farms located across widely separated provinces in Turkey. The samples were screened for BCoV using RT-nested PCR targeting the N gene, which identified BCoV in 35 samples (9 faeces and 26 nasal discharge). RT-PCR analysis of the S gene produced partial/full-length S gene sequences from 11 samples (8 faeces and 3 nasal discharge samples). A phylogenetic tree of the S gene sequences was made to analyze the genetic relationships among BCoVs from Turkey and other countries. The results showed that the local strains present in faeces and nasal discharge samples had many different amino acid changes. Some of these changes were shown in previous studies to be critical for tropism. This study provides new data on BCoV in Turkey that will be valuable in designing effective vaccine approaches and control strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Lung transplantation is the only therapeutic option that can improve survival and quality of life for idiopathic pulmonary fbrosis (IPF) despite recent advances in medical treatment. This study aimed to analyze mortality during the waiting list in IPF patients listed for lung transplantation since the implementation of the lung transplant program. Materials and Methods: Patients with IPF listed for lung transplantation were retrospectively analyzed between December 2016 and December 2018. Moreover, patients were excluded if they have been referred for lung transplantation and were not suitable after evaluation. Results: A total of 28 patients with IPF were listed for lung transplantation. The waiting list mortality rate was 39.3% (11/28). The median days on the waiting list were 71.2 days (range, 3-206) in patients who underwent lung transplantation and 110 days (range, 14-303) in patients who died on the waiting list. No differences in the demographic and clinical data were observed between both groups. Arterial blood gas saturation was statistically signifcantly lower in patients who died on the waiting list (74.2% vs. 82.9%, p = 0.046). Two single and 15 bilateral lung transplants were performed. Hospital mortality rate was 23.5% (4/17). The 1- and 3-year survival rates were 70.6%. Conclusion: Lung transplantation is the only treatment option for patients with IPF who are not responsive to medicinal treatment. The late referral may lead to mortality on the waiting list. Thus, patients newly diagnosed with IPF should be promptly referred to a transplant center for evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In our study, diagnostic and demographic characteristics of patients diagnosed with RPGN by biopsy, clinical and laboratory findings in our country were investigated. Methods: Data were obtained from the Turkish Society of Nephrology Glomerular Diseases (TSN-GOLD) Working Group database. Demographic characteristics, indications for biopsy, diagnosis of the glomerular diseases, comorbidities, laboratory and biopsy findings of all patients were recorded. According to their types, RPGN patients were classified as type 1 (anti-GBM related), type 2 (immuncomplex related) and type 3 (pauci-immune). Results: Of 3875 patients, 200 patients with RPGN (mean age 47.9 ± 16.7 years) were included in the study which constitutes 5.2% of the total glomerulonephritis database. Renal biopsy was performed in 147 (73.5%) patients due to nephritic syndrome. ANCA positivity was found in 121 (60.5%) patients. Type 1 RPGN was detected in 11 (5.5%), type 2 RPGN in 42 (21%) and type 3 RPGN in 147 (73.5%) patients. Median serum creatinine was 3.4 (1.9–5.7) mg/dl, glomerular filtration rate was 18 (10–37) ml/min/1.73m2 and proteinuria 2100 (1229–3526) mg/day. The number of crescentic glomeruli ratio was ratio 52.7%. It was observed that urea and creatinine increased and calcium and hemoglobin decreased with increasing crescentic glomerular ratio. Conclusions: Our data are generally compatible with the literature. Advanced chronic histopathological findings were prominent in the biopsy of 21 patients. Early biopsy should be performed to confirm the diagnosis of RPGN and to avoid unnecessary intensive immunosuppressive therapy. In addition to the treatments applied, detailed data, including patient and renal survival, are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study has been conducted for the purpose of determining the pain problem of elderly residents of nursing homes and factors that have an impact on pain. Methods: A total of 75 elderly persons residing at 3 nursing homes affiliated to the Social Services and Child Protection Agency and Municipalities and an elderly person protection home within the boundaries of the province of Antalya have been approached. Study data were obtained through the "Standardized Mini Mental Test", "Visual Analogue Scale", "McGill Pain Questionnaire" and "Questionnaire Form". Results: The total pain score average of the individuals is 30.20±22.92. The total pain score average has been determined to be high in females, those who have resided for a long period of time in the nursing home, regular analgesic users, those who do not use non-pharmacological interventions. Mobilization, stress, anger, and sadness are the top ranking factors that initiate and increase pain and among factors decreasing pain the top ranking one is rest, the second is mobilization, and third is hot application. Conclusion: As a result of this study, pain exists as a problem in elderly people, in terms of succesful pain control is needed that health professionals instruct their practices considering factors that initiating, increasing and decreasing older people's pains, pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions status in holistic perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pain is a complex and difficult condition that is the most commonly reported symptom in the emergency department worldwide. To provide more effective pain management, it is very important to know the localization of the patients' pain visiting the emergency department and to define the health problems leading to the pain. Aims: To determine the localization of pain in the emergency department. Methodology: This study was examined the hospital records of 24994 patients who are admitted to a university hospital emergency department with pain between January 2018-January 2019 in Istanbul/Turkey, retrospectively. Results: 46.8% (11700) of patients were male; 53.2% (13294) of patients were female. 10.8% (2704) of patients were 18 years old and under, and 89.2% (22290) of patients were over 18 years old. The most common localization of pain to admit to the emergency department was musculoskeletal pain with 31% due to jointmuscle- bone pain, trauma, rheumatoid arthritis, and myalgia. Conclusion: Pain frequently occupies the healthcare professionals in the emergency departments. In this study, it is understood the importance of increasing individual precautions and teaching symptomatic treatments to individuals in traumatic or non-traumatic musculoskeletal damage and diseases. In order to improve pain management, effective protocols are needed for the prevention and management of pain, which is a frequent cause of admission to emergency departments, especially musculoskeletal pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tick-borne diseases mainly, theileriosis, babesiosis and anaplasmosis cause significant economic losses in livestock globally, including Turkey. The tick-borne pathogens of small ruminants in Turkey have been studied widely but information on molecular characterization and disease occurrence is still limited. Methods: In this study, both microscopy and molecular detection and characterization for Theileria spp. Babesia ovis, Anaplasma ovis and Anaplasma phagocytophilum was conducted. A total of 133 blood samples of tick-infested small ruminants (105 sheep and 28 goats) were collected from Turkey: half of the animals had clinical signs of tick-borne disease infections. Results: Using PCR assays and microscopy, 90.2% and 45.1% of the samples were positive for at least one pathogen, respectively. Overall, the infection rates of A. phagocytophilum, B. ovis, A. ovis, Theileria spp. were 66.7%, 62.4%, 46.6% and 7.0%, respectively. Fifty-nine of the 133 (44.4%) samples were co-infected with two or more pathogens. Sex, season and B. ovis positivity were significant risk factors for occurrence of clinical disease. Sequence and phylogenetic analysis based on B. ovis 18S small subunit rRNA, A. ovis major surface protein 4, Theileria spp. 18S rRNA and A. phagocytophilum 16S rRNA genes showed that the isolates in this study clustered together in well-supported clades with those previously collected from Turkey and other countries. Conclusions: The study shows B. ovis as the most significant pathogen associated with clinical and fatal cases in small ruminants from Turkey. Female sex and summer season are associated with increased risk of the disease. This study shows high infection rates with the pathogens among small ruminants including A. phagocytophilum which has veterinary and public health importance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Postterm and late-term pregnancies still remain a serious health problem, and underlying exact mechanisms are not fully elucidated. These mechanisms are influenced by many factors.Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between plasma oxytocin and oxytocin receptor levels and oxytocin receptor polymorphisms in term and late-term pregnant women.Methods: Sixty-eight singleton pregnant women with late-term pregnancy and 83 singleton pregnant women with term parturition were included in this study. A comparison was performed between pregnancies and neonates born at term (37 0/7 and 41 6/7 weeks' gestation). Plasma oxytocin, oxytocin receptor, estradiol, and progesterone levels were measured by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. TaqMan® SNP Genotyping Assays and qPCR ProbesMaster were used to investigate the polymorphisms of rs237911, rs2228485, rs53576, and rs2254298.Results: There was not any difference in gene distributions of 4 common single-nucleotide polymorphisms of oxytocin receptor of rs237911, rs2228485, rs53576, and rs2254298 between subjects in late-term and term pregnancy groups. With rs53576 of the GG genotype, serum oxytocin levels were 21.50 ± 10.69 (ng/L) in the late-term group and 62.71 ± 18.01 (ng/L) in the term group (p = 0.049). Oxytocin receptor levels in the late-term and term pregnancy groups of the GG genotype were 17.92 ± 8.15 (pg/mL) and 45.77 ± 11.66 (pg/mL), respectively (p = 0.046).Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the rs53576 oxytocin receptor single-nucleotide polymorphism is associated with late-term pregnancy through acting by direct modulation of oxytocin and oxytocin receptor levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]