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Background/aim: In this study, we investigated the blink reflex (BR) after simultaneous and asynchronous stimulation of two trigeminal nerve branches. The objective was to characterize the physiology of trigeminal and facial circuits. Materials and methods: We performed three sets of experiments: recording BR response i. after supraorbital nerve stimulation (SON), after mental nerve stimulation (MN), and after simultaneous SON and MN stimulation (SON+MN) in 18 healthy individuals; ii. after MN (at an intensity eliciting BR response) preceding SON at various interstimulus intervals (ISIs) in seven healthy subjects; iii after MN (at sensory threshold) preceding SON at various ISIs. We compared the magnitudes of early and late responses. Results: The R1 amplitude after simultaneous SON+MN stimulation was greater than responses after single stimulation of the same branches. After simultaneous stimulations, the R2 and R2c areas under the curve (AUC) were smaller than the arithmetic sums of R2 and R2c AUC obtained after single stimulations. The second experiment provided a recovery excitability curve. In the third step, we obtained facilitation of R1 and inhibition of late responses. Conclusion: The SON+MN stimulation caused an increased R1 circuit excitability compared to the arithmetic sum of the single stimulations; however, magnitudes of late responses did not potentiate. Thus, we have provided evidence for R1 circuit enhancement by simultaneous stimulation in humans, whereas modulation of late responses exhibited a recovery curve similar to that shown for paired SON stimulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we begin by deriving a new identity with the help of twice‐differentiable convex functions for the proportional Caputo‐hybrid operator. Then, using this newly uncovered identity, we obtain various integral inequalities associated with the Simpson's integral inequality for proportional Caputo‐hybrid operator. Moreover, we indicate that the acquired results improve and refine certain existing discoveries in the realm of integral inequalities. Finally, for a better understanding of the newly obtained inequalities, we establish illustrative examples and visualize them through their corresponding graphs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Menopause, a biological milestone, marks a pivotal phase in women's lives characterized by ovarian function cessation and age-related changes. Our objective was to investigate menopausal symptoms and knowledge among women aged 40-60 years. Methods: This cross-sectional epidemiological study was conducted between June 1 and September 30, 2005, in the Nilufer Public Health Education and Research Area (NPHERA) region, aimed to assess menopausal symptoms and their correlates among 1013 women aged 40-60. The individuals included in the study were selected through a systematic sampling method, stratified by neighborhood weights and age groups based on the NPHERA 2004 Work Report and regional data, as well as information from the Health Centers Information System (HCIS), where the Electronic Health Records (EHR) are registered. Results: The mean age of natural menopause was found to be 46.7 ± 4.8 years, showcasing sociodemographic factors' influence. Postmenopausal women experienced higher rates of symptoms, with physical and mental exhaustion (82.8%), irritability (78.4%), and depressive mood (76.4%) prevailing. Logistic regression revealed that employment status significantly influenced menopausal status. Moreover, the age at menopause correlated positively with the age of the woman's mother. Conclusion: This study contributes insights into menopausal experiences in developing countries, emphasizing the need for tailored healthcare approaches. Longitudinal investigations are warranted to comprehensively understand these associations and enhance women's quality of life during menopause. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aimed to determine the antioxidant capacity of Tribulus terrestris extracts made using various solvents and their effects on some metabolic enzymes. Five different antioxidant methods were used to assess the antioxidant capacities of the water, ethanol, acetone, chloroform, and hexane extracts of T. terrestris. The inhibitory effects of the extracts on acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), α-glycosidase enzymes and human carbonic anhydrase isoenzymes (hCA-I and hCA-II) were investigated. The study showed that acetone extract had the strongest inhibition effects in DPPH (IC 50 :25.86 ± 0.010 µg/mL) and ABTS (IC 50 :10.13 ± 0.023 µg/mL) radical scavenging activities. In CUPRAC/Fe3+-Fe2+/FRAP reduction tests, ethanol extract showed the highest reducing power. The ethanol extract exhibited the highest level of inhibition for the AChE/BChE and α -glycosidase enzymes (IC 50 :12.13 ± 0.37 µg/mL, IC 50 :22.33 ± 0.27 µg/mL and IC 50 :25.98 ± 0.75 µg/mL), respectively. Chloroform extract showed the strongest inhibition effect on hCA-I/hCA-II isoenzymes (IC 50 :21.82 ± 0.55 µg/mL, IC 50 :20.97 ± 0.63 µg/mL), respectively. [Display omitted] • The antioxidant capacity of different solvent extracts of T. terrestris was determined by five different methods. The extracts demonstrated significant antioxidant properties. • All the extracts inhibited acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), human carbonic anhydrase isoenzymes (hCA-I/hCA-II), and α-glycosidase enzymes. • For these reasons, natural inhibitors and antioxidants in T. terrestris extracts may help improve the treatment of Diabetes Mellitus, Alzheimer's disease and Glaucoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Although the health effects of olive phenolics, hydroxytyrosol (HX), are well known, their utilisation is not at the forefront of the phenolics market. Besides, 99% of olive phenolics are lost during olive oil production (2.2 million tons year−1). This study aims to develop a functional hydrogel for functional foods using commercial olive powder derived from olive mill wastewater and methylcellulose (MC). The final hydrogel recipe, a multi‐hydrocolloid recipe (MC and gelatine with low gelling temperature) based on minimum HX loss and acceptable sensory properties, was created by examining interactions of HX with salt, sugar, and citric acid in MC by a modified UPLC‐UV method and expert sensory panellists. Finally, two dairy bases were created for the hydrogel with the best aroma match, and consumer‐accepted dessert (72%) and appetiser (58%) providing the health claims of European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) (2 mg day−1 of HX) were produced. Moreover, a sample methodology has been developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kombucha is a fermented, acidic beverage that dates back thousands of years as a remedy for various health problems in East Asia. Due to its health benefits, kombucha has gained popularity and attracted the attention of both consumers and researchers. The health benefits of kombucha are predominantly attributed to its bioactive compounds that have antioxidant, antimicrobial, probiotic, and other positive effects owing to fermentation. Many factors such as the type of the substrate used, the symbiotic culture of the bacterial yeast composition, and fermentation conditions influence the extent of these properties. This review focuses on recent developments regarding the bioactive constituents of kombucha and its potential health benefits (antimicrobial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective effects) as well as its impact on multiple sclerosis, nephrotoxicity, gastric ulceration and gut microbiota. Additionally, the composition of kombucha, alternative uses of its biofilm, and potential toxicity are also discussed. Kombucha is a healthy and safe beverage with multiple health benefits that are primarily related to the presence of bacteria, yeasts, and other bioactive constituents. Moreover, kombucha has been suggested as a potential source of probiotics and eco-friendly materials (kombucha-derived bacterial cellulose) for several industries including food and textile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing efficient catalysts for hydrogen (H 2) evolution from ammonia-borane (AB, NH 3 BH 3) is crucial for fuel cell applications. Photocatalytic hydrolysis of AB by heterogeneous catalysts under light irradiation has attracted attention as an effective technique for H 2 evolution. Here, we report an impregnation-reduction method to prepare the tungsten(VI) oxide-supported nickel/silver nanoparticles (denoted as NiAg/WO 3) and their characterization by advanced tools such as ICP-OES, PXRD, SEM, TEM, and XPS. The initial turnover frequency (TOF), activation energy (E a#), activation enthalpy (ΔH#), and activation entropy (ΔS#) values of NiAg/WO 3 nanoparticles in H 2 evolution from AB under visible light irradiation are calculated as 56.6 molH 2 ⋅ molNi 0.27 Ag 0.73 −1 ⋅ min−1, 52.14 kJ ⋅ mol−1, 47.78 kJ ⋅ mol−1, and −91.62 J ⋅ mol−1 ⋅ K−1, respectively. These findings are especially significant for a feasible application of AB in H 2 fuel cells. [Display omitted] • Ni 0.27 Ag 0.73 /WO 3 catalyst was prepared according to the impregnation-reduction method. • Characterization of the Ni 0.27 Ag 0.73 /WO 3 catalyst was performed using advanced analytical methods. • The Ni 0.27 Ag 0.73 /WO 3 catalyst provided an TOF value of 56.6 min−1 in the hydrolysis of AB under visible light irradiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tendency toward natural herbal products has increased due to the antibiotic resistance developed by microorganisms and the severe side effects of antibiotics commonly used in infectious diseases worldwide. Although antimicrobial studies have been conducted with several species of the Iris genus, this study is the first in the literature to be performed with Iris persica L. subsp. persica aqueous and methanol extracts. In this study, the phenolic content of I. persica was determined by LC–MS/MS analysis, the in vitro antimicrobial activity of I. persica aqueous and methanol extracts was examined, and this study was supported by in silico analysis. Consequently, methanol and aqueous extracts were observed to have inhibitory effects against all tested microorganisms except Candida krusei. Although the MIC values of aqueous extract and methanol extract against Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae are the same (22.5 and 11.25 mg/mL, respectively), the inhibitory effect of aqueous extract is generally more potent (MIC value is 11.25 mg/mL for Candida parapsilosis and other bacterial species, and 90 mg/mL for Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis) than that of methanol extract. In silico results showed that hydroxybenzaldeyde, vanillin, resveratrol, isoquercitrin, kaempferol‐3‐glucoside, fisetin, and luteolin were more prone to antifungal activity. Hence, shikimic, gallic, protocatechuic, vanillic, caffeic, o‐coumaric, trans‐ferulic, sinapic acids, and hesperidin were more prone to antibacterial activity. In vitro and in silico results show that the antibacterial activity of our extracts may be higher than the antifungal activity. This preliminary study indicates the anti‐infective potential of I. persica extracts and their usability in medicine and pharmacology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we present the re‐synthesis of a series of twelve bis‐ureido‐substituted benzenesulfonamides, focusing on their potential as antibacterial, anticholinesterase, and cytotoxic agents. First, the antibacterial assessment of these compounds indicated varying activity levels across different bacterial strains, with S. aureus displaying resistance to all compounds, while compounds 9 and 11 exhibited promise against E. faecalis with a MIC value of 31.25 μg/mL. Additionally, P. aeruginosa showed resistance to compounds containing 4‐aminobenzene sulfonamides, whereas derivatives such as (8–11) and compound 19 displayed notable activity against E. coli, comparable to Ampicillin. Second, their anticholinesterase activities were examined, with a focus on their potential role in addressing neurological disorders, particularly Alzheimer′s disease. The findings indicated that all synthesized compounds showed a significant inhibitory effect on both AChE and BChE enzymes. Compound 11 demonstrated the most effective inhibition on the AChE enzyme with an IC50 value of 0.2160±0.09 nM, while compound 18 exhibited the most potent inhibition on the BChE enzyme with an IC50 value of 0.2257±0.06 nM. Finally, cytotoxicity studies were conducted across various cell lines, including breast, lung, and prostate cancer cells and normal cells. The results revealed that compound 12 emerged as the most potent tested compound against breast cancer cells with no cytotoxic effect on CRL‐4010 normal breast epithelial cells. The research presented here not only highlights the multifaceted pharmacological potential of bis‐ureido‐substituted benzenesulfonamides, but also indicates their potential as versatile compounds for antibacterial, anticholinesterase, and cytotoxicity applications, opening up new avenues for drug discovery and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sarcopenia and frailty may develop at varying rates depending on the metabolic, structural, and functional changes in the muscle structure after stroke. To evaluate the prevalence of sarcopenia and frailty in patients with stroke and affecting clinical parameters. This was a cross-sectional and analytical study. Twenty-six (49.1%) women and 27 men (50.9%) with stroke with an average age of 60.2 ± 10.3 (median = 62) years were included in the study. To evaluate physical performance, balance, and mobility, we used the 4-meter walk test (4-MWT), timed up and go test, chair sit and stand test, and the Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Sarcopenia was diagnosed according to the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019 criteria. The SARC-F scale was used for sarcopenia. The average stroke duration was 21.6 ± 18.2 months. Prefrailty was present in 14 (26.4%) patients, frailty was present in 34 (64.2%) patients, and two (3.8%) patients were normal. Sarcopenia was detected in 28 (52.8%) patients. According to handgrip strength, the prevalence of low muscle strength was 17% (n= 9). In the sarcopenic group, female sex (p= 0.005) was more frequent, 4-MWT was longer (p= 0.003), chair stand test results were lower (p< 0.001), the clinical frailty scale (CFS) was higher (p< 0.001), fall risk was higher compared with the BBS (p< 0.001), there was lower HG strength (p= 0.009), lower malnutrition scores (PNI, prognostic nutritional index, p< 0.001), and lower lymphocyte counts (p= 0.037). EAT-10 scores and dysphagia presence (p= 0.026), the presence of malnutrition (p< 0.021) and Nottingham Health Profile score (p< 0.001) were higher in the sarcopenic group. Sarcopenia and frailty frequently develop in patients with chronic stroke, with low lymphocyte counts, physical performance, muscle strength, and mobility and balance scores, and it is associated with poor prognostic factors including high disease severity, dysphagia, malnutrition, risk of falling, and poor quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In this study, we aimed to compare the effectiveness of various chelating agents, ethilenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), citric acid (CA), and etidronic acid (HEDP) mixed in two different forms, in removing the smear layer and promoting the penetration of an endodontic sealer into the dentinal tubules of extracted single-rooted teeth. Methods: The study used 75 teeth divided into five groups: 17% EDTA, 10% CA, 9% HEDP + NaOCl, 9% HEDP + distilled water (DW), and a control (DW) group. Scanning electron microscopy was used to assess smear layer removal and confocal laser microscopy was used to evaluate tubular sealer penetration at different depths from the apical tip. Results: Sealer penetration was highest with 17% EDTA and 10% CA as compared with the other agents (p<0.001). At the cervical third, the sealer penetration for EDTA, HEDP + NaOCl, and HEDP + DW groups were significantly different than those in DW (p= 0.020). For the middle third, EDTA, CA, and HEDP + NaOCl groups were significantly higher than those of the DW group (p<0.001). Cervical-level values were significantly higher than apical-level values for HEDP + NaOCl, HEDP + DW, and DW (p<0.001). Smear layer removal was lower with 9% HEDP + DW than with 17% EDTA and 10% CA at all depths (p<0.001). A significancy in smear layer removal was observed between 10% CA and control (p = 0.015) in middle depth. Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, highest values were seen in EDTA and CA in terms of sealer penetration and smear layer removal. In the light of these findings, the use of strong chelating agents highlights better clinical efficiency than dual-rinse or single HEDP irrigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights Using biological/renewable resources as filler or modifier in both thermoplastics and rubbers has been of a great interest in order to reduce negative effects of traditional petroleum/natural gas based fillers. In this study, the main goal was the use of spent (waste) coffee grounds as a natural alternative filler to carbon black in acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) based compounds. Carbon black (CB) was partially replaced with fresh as well as spent coffee grounds (SCG) in NBR compound formulation. Stabilization effect of fresh coffee grounds was also investigated. Cure characteristics, physico‐mechanical, thermal, morphological, and dielectric properties of the bio‐based composites were tested and compared with the control (reference) compounds. Processability has been affected positively in the case of using coffee grounds thanks to the presence of triacyl groups in coffee. Up to 20% higher elongation at break values were measured when coffee is partially replaced with CB. Abrasion loss and oil resistance could be retained for coffee containing compounds. In conclusion, SCG were found to be a good natural alternative filler for bio‐based NBR composites without a significant change in material properties. Spent coffee grounds ‐ a sustainable filler in bio‐based NBR composites Both fresh and spent coffee grounds are successful stabilizers Physico‐mechanical, thermal, and dielectric properties are comparable [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, five different fuel blends were prepared by mixing biodiesel obtained from olive oil wastes using transesterification method, waste transformer oil, and Euro diesel in different ratios. The important physicochemical properties of the prepared fuel blends and produced biodiesel were determined by gas chromatography, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis/differential scanning calorimetry analyses, and their characterizations were carried out. Then, the effects of the prepared fuel blends on engine performance and emission characteristics were investigated in a compression ignition engine. The experiments were performed with five different fuel blends (TD30, TD30B10, TD30B20, TD30B30, and D100) at 1000, 1500, 2000, and 2500 rpm. At all speeds, each fuel blend produced an average torque value that was highest for D100 fuel and lowest for TD30 fuel The average BP value produced by each fuel at all engine speeds was highest in D100 fuel and lowest in TD30 fuel. The results of the experiments showed that there was a 23.98% decrease in the average NOx emissions of TD30 fuel blend compared to the average NOx emissions of D100 fuel at all engine speeds. It was observed that all important fuel properties such as density, kinematic viscosity, and pour and cloud points of all fuel blends met the fuel standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extensive use of single-atom catalysts (SACs) has appeared as a significant area of investigation in contemporary study. The single-atom catalyst, characterized by its maximum atomic proficiency and great discernment of the transition-metal center, has a unique combination of benefits from both heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysts. Consequently, it effectively bridges the gap between these two types of catalysts, leveraging their distinctive features. The utilization of SACs immobilized on graphene substrates has garnered considerable interest, primarily because of their capacity to facilitate selective and efficient photocatalytic processes. This review aims to comprehensively summarize the progress and potential uses of SACs made from graphene in photocatalytic carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction and hydrogen (H2) generation. The focus is on their contribution to converting solar energy into chemical energy. The present study represents the various preparation methods and characterization approaches of graphene-based single-atom photocatalyst This review investigates the detailed mechanisms underlying these photocatalytic processes and discusses recent studies that have demonstrated remarkable H2 production rates through various graphene-based single-atom photocatalysts. Additionally, the pivotal roleof theoretical simulations, likedensity functional theory (DFT), to understand the structural functional relationships of these SACs are discussed. The potential of graphene-based SACs to revolutionize solar-to-chemical energy conversion through photocatalytic CO2 reduction and H2 production is underscored, along with addressing challenges and outlining future directions for this developing area of study. By shedding light on the progress and potential of these catalysts, this review contributes to the collective pursuit of sustainable and efficient energy conversion strategies to mitigate the global climate crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Charity sport activities provide a sense of contributing to the lives of others and offer participants an extra source of motivation. SL has been used in a variety of sports and recreational contexts to research dedication to leisure activities. However, no study has investigated SL in charity sports events. In this regard, a model integrating key variables from the studies of serious leisure, charity sport event participation motivation, experience value, and behavioral intentions was proposed and tested on the participants of charity sport events. It is anticipated that the findings of this study will help to understand the multidimensional aspects of charity sports event participation, which may increase the effectiveness of the organization of charity sports events. Besides, this research adds to the literature by providing empirical data analysis regarding charity sports events from an unexplored country (Turkey). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: In this study, we investigated whether scoring systems determine coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) severity. Materials and Methods: COVID-19 patients hospitalized between 01.09.2020 and 31.04.2021 were retrospectively assessed. The national early warning score (NEWS), modified early warning score, rapid emergency medicine score, quick sequential organ failure assessment score (q-SOFA), CURB-65, MuLBSTA, and ISARIC-4C scores on admission day were calculated. Scoring systems' ability to predict mechanical ventilation (MV) need, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and 30-day mortality were assessed. Results: A total of 292 patients were included; 137 (46.9%) were female, and the mean age was 62.5±15.4 years. 69 (23.6%) patients required ICU admission, 45 (15.4%) needed MV, and 49 (16.8%) died within 30 days. No relationship was found between q-SOFA and MV need (p=0.167), but a statistically significant relationship was found between other scoring systems and MV need, ICU admission, and 30-day mortality (p<0.05). ISARIC-4C (optimal cut-off >5.5) and NEWS (optimal cut-off >3.5) had the highest area under the curve in receiver operating characteristic curve analyses, whereas q-SOFA had the lowest. Conclusion: The severity of COVID-19 could be estimated by using these scoring systems, especially ISARIC-4C and NEWS, at the first admission. Thus, mortality and morbidity would be reduced by making the necessary interventions earlier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Individuals above the age of 65 are the first to be vaccinated. In this study, it was aimed to determine the health perceptions and vaccine complications of individuals over 65 years of age who recieved the covid-19 vaccine. Methods: The research is a descriptive and cross-sectional study. The sample consists of 151 adults over 65 who have received the Covid-19 vaccination. Individuals over the age of 65 who come to three different pharmacies in three distinct districts to buy medicine are considered participants. Results: The age of the participants was 72.42 ± 6,838, and their health perception score was 40,987 ± 5,878. The majority of them are male (51%), have had Sinovac (88.1%), are a primary school graduate (82.1%), live with their spouse (68.9%), are non-smokers (83.4%), have a chronic disease (96,0%), regularly take medication (96.7%), do not regularly get seasonal flu vaccine (78.8%), do not regularly use vitamins (92.7%), do not have joint pain (71.6%), and sleep for 7–9 h daily (50.4%). Scale scores were found as follows; control center 11.02 ± 2.66, precision 8.97 ± 2.41, importance of health 11.74 ± 2.64, self awareness 9.26 ± 2.03 health perception 40.99 ± 5.88. Conclusion: Those who received Sinovac, those with chronic disease, those who received routine influenza vaccination, those who took vitamin supplements, those who did not have joint pain, and those who had cough problems had higher health perception scores, and the difference was significant (p0.05). It will be critical to educate those over 65 about the vaccine's importance and adverse effects, as well as to boost their awareness in the appropriate manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study draws attention to arsenic (V) (As(V)), chromium (III) (Cr(III)), and chromium (VI) (Cr(VI)) heavy metal pollutants, which have negative effects on aquatic ecosystems and indirectly pose a serious threat to the health of living things in the environment. Homopolymer and copolymer hydrogels were synthesized by the UV polymerization technique using 2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propansulfonic acid sodium salt (AMPS) and 3-acrlylamidopropil-trimethyl ammonium chloride monomers, and a crosslinker aimed to improve the swelling properties and metal sorption of the prepared hydrogels. The swelling balance values of hydrogels were determined by the gravimetric method in deionized water and different pH values, and their structural characterizations were carried out by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) techniques. Sorption efficiencies and sorption capacities of the synthesized hydrogels were determined using aqueous solutions containing As(V), Cr(III), and Cr(VI) heavy metal ions at 25 °C. It was determined that there was a significant increase in p(AMPS) (AM1)-based hydrogel's balance swelling value in deionized water compared to p(AP1) and p(AMPS-co-APTMACl) (AMAP1)-based hydrogels. The lowest equilibrium swelling value was reached in the AMAP1 hydrogel, and the main reason for this result was thought to be due to the closure of the active functional groups of the increased cross-links between AMPS and APTMACl monomer. When sorption results were examined, it was observed that the highest heavy metal ion removal for AM1, AP1, and AMAP1 was in As(V) metal. The highest metal ion holding capacity of AM1, AP1, and AMAP1 was found to be 494 mg/g, 2336 mg/g, and 1439 mg/g for As(V), 323 mg/g, 111 mg/g, and 276 mg/g for Cr(III), and 303 mg/g, 723 mg/g, and 554 mg/g for Cr(VI), respectively. Considering the swelling and sorption results, it is thought that the synthesized hydrogels will provide a significant advantage in the removal of heavy metal ions, which have negative effects on environmental pollution and live health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Van Lake region is situated within the boundary of the collision zone between the Arabian and Eurasian plates, which has resulted in the formation of a variety of geological structures, including faults, volcanoes, and uplifted mountain ranges. A comprehensive understanding of these structures can yield significant information pertaining to the region's tectonic history, as well as potential tectonic hazards. In the present study, several structural mapping techniques, including lineament detection techniques [Horizontal Gradient Magnitude (HGM), Analytic Signal (AS), and Tilt Angle] and curvature analysis attributes (Differential, Gaussian, Mean, and Shape Index), were analyzed and compared the results obtained using both Earth Gravity Model 2008 (EGM2008) Bouguer gravity and seismological data, with the goal of determining the most effective (suitable) edge detection method in order to gain a better understanding of high-stress regions and areas of potential seismic hazard in the vicinity of Van Lake. It is of great importance to investigate the behavior of faults and the curvatures of structural features within the crust, as they play a significant role in determining the distribution of stress, and subsequently, its impact on surface structures. The results show that HGM and AS are effective in defining fault strikes and trends, while Gaussian curvature attributes can detect lineaments and structural edges. Differential curvature attributes were found to be best suited for complex tectonic regions. The study also reveals a coherent relationship between fold orientation and fault strikes with the regional principal stress direction. The current study has focused on a region characterized by a significant negative anomaly, which appears to be a valley-like fold structure with a highly inclined interlimb angle. This area, referred to as the "silent" zone, is seismically quiet with regard to earthquakes and faults. However, focal mechanism results support the orientation of the interlimb angle fold in the vicinity of this region. The existence of a strong negative anomaly in the eastern part of the study area highlights the requirement for additional geological field observations and seismic surveys to evaluate the potential earthquake hazards. In the course of comparing various structural mapping techniques, it was concluded that the application of second-order vertical derivative of gravity potential is a suggested approach for identifying the edges of causative structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gallic acid is a widely recognized bioactive compound that falls under the category of secondary polyphenolic metabolites and is fairly found in mango fruit waste, specifically in mango seed kernel (MSK). This study aimed to adopt a green extraction approach to extract this valuable compound via ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE) without using organic solvents but only water to obtain hazard‐free extracts, and the cost of extraction can be minimal. pH (2–8), solvent ratio (20–60 mL/g), temperature (30–60°C) and time (30–60 min) of extraction were the independent variables used for extraction optimization. Single‐factor experiments to obtain working ranges for selected extraction variables were carried out. A central composite design using response surface methodology was used to determine the optimum condition to obtain the maximum yield of gallic acid from MSK. The optimized extraction conditions were 3.9 pH, 36.25 mL/g solvent ratio, and 39.4°C of extraction temperature for 21.3 min. As a result, the optimized yield was 5.76 ± 0.41 mg/g, which was comparably equal to and/or better than the other solvent extraction systems. The results showed that gallic acid could efficiently be extracted via UAE under these optimal conditions. It is safer than extraction systems involving hazardous solvents that can be feasibly used for its nutraceutical and therapeutic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThis study scrutinizes Automated Speech Recognition (ASR) software, a powerful instrument to expedite the translation process, and their unintended bias against Arabic speakers, particularly refugees. We propose that pre-existing biases in ASR training data reflect societal prejudices, leading to orientalist and Islamophobic misrepresentations. We used four ASR tools to transcribe interviews with Arabic-speaking refugee women, employing ideological textual analysis to detect biases. Our findings indicate that ASR algorithms may inadvertently associate Arabic speakers with conflict, war, religion, and narrow down Arab identities to Islam-centric representations. Acknowledging these biases is essential for fostering a more equitable and culturally sensitive technological environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On October 30, 2020, an Mw = 7.0 earthquake hit Izmir, Turkey, causing the loss of 118 lives and injuries of over a thousand people while producing a high monetary loss in the region. In this study, field observations in the earthquake-struck area have demonstrated that the damages were localized on reinforced concrete (RC) structures, related to low quality of materials, improper workmanship, not fulfilling the design and seismic code requirements, and lack of inspection and the characteristics of the site displayed a significant impact. The critical problem in the region is the lack of proper inspection by authority during the construction stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate lipid oxidation/degradation kinetics of lactic butter manufactured from heat‐treated and cultured cream, supplemented with Myrtus communis essential oils and stored at 4°C. Lipid oxidation followed zero‐order, while vitamin degradation followed first‐order reaction kinetics in fresh lactic butter. Optimising heat treatments of the cream at 70°C and 80°C for 30 s and using M. communis EOs reduced lipid oxidation and α‐tocopherol degradation (P ≤ 0.05) of lactic butter samples. It was concluded that M. communis EOs is effective as antioxidant as compared to synthetic ascorbyl palmitate for improving stability of lactic butter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, it is very important to produce new-generation drugs with antimicrobial properties that will target biofilm-induced infections. The first target for combating these microorganisms, which are the source itself. Antimicrobial peptides, which are more effective than antibiotics due to their ability to kill microorganisms and use a different metabolic pathway, are among the new options today. The aim of this study is to develop new-generation antibiotics that inhibit both biofilm-producing bacteria and the biofilm itself. For this purpose, we designed four different peptides by combining two amino acid forms (D- and L-) with the same sequence having alpha helix structures. It was found that the combined use of these two forms can increase antimicrobial efficacy more than 30-fold. These results are supported by molecular modeling and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), at the same time cytotoxicity (IC50) and hemotoxicity (HC50) values remained within the safe range. Furthermore, antibiofilm activities of these peptides were investigated. Since the existing biofilm inhibition methods in the literature do not technically simulate the exact situation, in this study, we have developed a real-time observable biofilm model and a new detection method based on it, which we call the CoMIC method. Findings have shown that the NET1 peptide with D-leucine amino acid in its structure and the NET3 peptide with D-arginine amino acid in its structure are effective in inhibiting biofilm. As a conclusion, our peptides can be considered as potential next-generation broad-spectrum antibiotic molecule/drug candidates that might be used in biofilm and clinical important bacteria. Key points: • Antimicrobial peptides were developed to inhibit both biofilms producing bacteria and the biofilm itself. • CoMIC will fill a very crucial gap in understanding biofilms and conducting the necessary quantitative studies. • Molecular modelling studies, NET1 peptide molecules tends to move towards and adhere to the membrane within nanoseconds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, the angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity, antioxidant capacity, total polyphenol contents (TPC), and phytochemical profiles of polar and non-polar extracts of dried Ziziphus jujuba fruits were investigated, along with the statistical determination of the main components responsible for ACE inhibitory activity. The non-polar extract expressed the strongest ACE inhibitory activity (99.81%) among the extracts. The non-polar extract also exhibited the highest DPPH scavenging activity (IC50 of 30.63), linoleic acid/β-carotene bleaching capacity (89.31%), and TPC (59.47 mg GAE/g). The phenolic profiles of the extracts were identified by LC-MS/MS, and the presence of seven triterpenoid species in the extracts was examined using GC-MS techniques. The principal constituents included 19 phenolics, 2 organic acids, and 4 triterpenoids. A Pearson correlation and principal component analysis were conducted to find the correlation between individual phenolic compounds and ACE inhibitory activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Walnuts are considered a functional food and play a significant role worldwide in people's regular diets. The cultivation and trade of walnut rootstocks and saplings are crucial agricultural activities globally and in Türkiye. Rootstocks are used for grafting and propagating different walnut varieties, and they are essential for tree development, fruit yield, product quantity, and most importantly, their ability to adapt to various ecological conditions and resist diseases and pests. Fruit growing and production of fruit rootstocks of deep-rooted plants in horticulture is given high importance in many countries. However, poor rooting and slow-growing sapling prevent establishing high-yield clonal production. Especially walnut sapling propagation is more complicated and timeconsuming than other woody plants. Our research aims to grow high-quality saplings by using biotechnological techniques. This study used modifications to the current in vitro basal medium and evaluated the effects on in vitro rooting and micrografting of walnut species. The optimal medium for shoots induction (2.93±0.90) of the plant was determined as 4 number medium (Murashige and Skoog (MS) nutrient medium with 5.4 µM NAA + 6.9 µM TDZ + 0.6 µM GA3 and solidified with 0.7% agar). In trials to develop sapling, the 10.33 and 6 rooted (2.5cm root length) shoots were obtained from MS nutrient medium with 14.7 and 19.6 µM of IBA and 348.42 µM of FeSO4.7H2O, and two micrografted plants in MS medium with 19.6 µM of IBA and 348.42 µM of FeSO4.7H2O survived. After three months in the growth chamber, six saplings were ready for transfer to the field. Our findings suggested that FeSO4.7H2O and high dose IBA treatment in MS medium is efficient for in vitro rooting and obtaining in vitro micrografted saplings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) screening is strongly recommended in the pre-transplant evaluation of solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients, although it remains inadequate in many transplant centers. We decided to investigate pre-transplant TB risk assessment, LTBI treatment, and registry rates in Türkiye. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Adult SOT recipients who underwent tuberculin skin test (TST) and/or interferon-gamma release test (IGRA) from 14 centers between 2015 and 2019 were included in the study. An induration of ≥5 mm on TST and/or probable/positive IGRA (QuantiFERON-TB) was considered positive for LTBI. Demographic features, LTBI screening and treatment, and pre-/post-transplant TB history were recorded from the electronic database of transplantation units across the country and pooled at a single center for a unified database. RESULTS: TST and/or IGRA were performed in 766 (33.8%) of 2266 screened patients most of whom were kidney transplant recipients (n = 485, 63.4%). LTBI screening test was positive in 359 (46.9%) patients, and isoniazid was given to 203 (56.5%) patients. Of the patients treated for LTBI, 112 (55.2%) were registered in the national registry, and 82 (73.2%) completed the treatment. Tuberculosis developed in 6 (1.06%) of 563 patients who were not offered LTBI treatment. CONCLUSION: We determined that overall, only one-third of SOT recipients in our country were evaluated in terms of TB risk, only 1 of the 2 SOT recipients with LTBI received treatment, and half were registered. Therefore, we want to emphasize the critical importance of pretransplant TB risk stratification and registration, guided by revised national guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oddball task-related EEG delta and theta responses are associated with frontal executive functions, which are significantly impaired in patients with dementia due to Parkinson's disease (PDD) and Lewy bodies (DLB). The present study investigated the oddball task-related EEG delta and theta responses in patients with PDD, DLB, and Alzheimer's disease dementia (ADD). During visual and auditory oddball paradigms, EEG activity was recorded in 20 ADD, 17 DLB, 20 PDD, and 20 healthy (HC) older adults. Event-related EEG power spectrum and phase-locking analysis were performed at the delta (1–4 Hz) and theta (4–7 Hz) frequency bands for target and nontarget stimuli. Compared to the HC persons, dementia groups showed lower frontal and central delta and theta power and phase-locking associated with task performance and neuropsychological test scores. Notably, this effect was more significant in the PDD and DLB than in the ADD. In conclusion, oddball task-related frontal and central EEG delta and theta responses may reflect frontal supramodal executive dysfunctions in PDD and DLB patients. • Reduced delta-theta event-related oscillations (EROs) in ADD, PDD, and DLB. • Lower delta and theta EROs in PDD and DLB than ADD. • Reduced frontal supramodal cognitive information processing in PDD and DLB. • Frontal delta-theta EROs reflecting memory and executive functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to analyze cytokine levels, including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-10, and IL-36γ, to investigate the link between pro- and anti-inflammatory responses in periodontal conditions and assess their potential as diagnostic biomarkers for distinguishing between different types of periodontal conditions. 80 systemically healthy non-smokers (25 periodontally healthy, 25 with gingivitis, 30 with periodontitis) were included. Clinical periodontal parameters were recorded, and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) samples were obtained. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was applied to determine the diagnostic value of cytokines. IL-36γ had the highest sensitivity for diagnosing periodontitis, although its specificity for identifying those without periodontitis was relatively low. The combination of IL-1β and IL-36γ was the most effective in differentiating periodontitis from periodontal health. IL-10 was found to be an acceptable discriminator for distinguishing gingivitis from healthy conditions. However, its sensitivity and specificity for identifying gingivitis were lower. The combination of the three cytokines showed the highest ability to distinguish between periodontitis and gingivitis. The levels of IL-1β, IL-10, and IL-36γ in GCF may provide insights into periodontal health and disease status. Further studies are needed to validate these results and explore the potential of these cytokines in periodontal disease management. All three of these cytokines exhibit exceptional diagnostic accuracy, particularly in distinguishing between chronic periodontitis and periodontal health. Moreover, the combination of IL-1β and IL-36γ stands out as the most accurate diagnostic indicator for periodontitis. This combination could serve as a robust biomarker panel for the early detection and monitoring of periodontal disease, potentially allowing for timely interventions to prevent disease progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, PMMA/Bentonite and PMMA/HNT nanocomposites were synthesized by in-situ and solution blending methods by using polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) obtained from methyl methacrylate by emulsion polymerization method and bentonite and halloysite (HNT) at different ratios (5 wt.% and 10 wt.%). Biodegradable PMMA/PLA, PMMA/PLA/Bentonite, and PMMA/PLA/HNT were obtained by mixing the synthesized PMMA and PMMA/clay nanocomposites with a polylactic acid (PLA) with PMMA:PLA weight ratio of 50:50. Characterization studies of synthesized nanocomposites; Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) analyzes, and Shore-D hardness test was performed. In addition, to observe the effects of clay additives and production methods on biodegradability, the synthesized samples were buried in two different soils, humus soil and cactus soil, and monitored for six months. When the obtained nanocomposites were compared with the pure polymer, it was determined that the hardness values of the nanocomposites were much higher than the pure polymer, and their thermal stability increased with HNT and bentonite additives. When nanocomposites synthesized by the in-situ production method and solution blending production method are compared, it was determined that nanocomposites produced by the solution blending method degrade faster in the soil and show better distribution in the structure. In addition, it was observed that cactus soil created a better degradation environment than humus soil, and bentonite accelerated degradation more than HNT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of drug delivery systems stems from the need to enhance the therapeutic effectiveness of drugs while minimizing their side effects. With the advent of nanotechnology, a wide range of molecular structures, including carbon nanotubes and polymeric materials, have been developed, leading to significant advancements in the field. However, despite these promising outcomes, it is imperative to note that drug delivery systems do not provide a universal solution to all challenges in pharmaceutical technology; as each system possesses certain advantages and limitations. As a result, researchers turned their attention to the creation of new hybrid structures by combining different materials. Among these, lipid–polymer hybrid particles gained considerable attention in the academic community; these particles exhibit a core–shell structure, wherein a polymer core is enveloped by a layer of phospholipids. This manuscript serves as an overview of the fundamental aspects of these molecular architectures, starting with a comprehensive description of lipid–polymer hybrid particles. Subsequently, both conventional and unconventional production methods for fabricating these structures are discussed. The characterization of the physical properties of these particles and their influence on pharmaceutical activity are explored in a subsequent section. Finally, notable examples from the literature are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During pregnancy, many pregnant women experience lumbopelvic pain due to mechanical, systemic, and hormonal reasons and this pain and fear of movement (kinesiophobia) causes daily life limitations. To examine low back pain (LBP), kinesiophobia, disability, and related conditions that develop together during pregnancy. The was a cross-sectional and analytical study. The presence, severity, and duration of pain in the lumbopelvic region were questioned. Postpartum LBP was evaluated using a self-administered questionnaire, disability using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), pain intensity using a visual analog scale (VAS), physical activity levels using the physical activity level during pregnancy questionnaire and the international physical activity questionnaire short form, and kinesiophobia was evaluated using the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia. The study comprised 120 pregnant women with a mean age of 27.4 ± 6.1 years. It was observed that 42.3% of the pregnant had LBP (n= 69). The mean body mass index (BMI) was 73.6 ± 16.2 kg/m2, and the mean VAS score was 5.5 ± 2 cm. When we divided the group according to the presence of LBP, age (p= 0.49), gestational week (p= 0.75), and gravida (p= 0.81) were similar. BMI (p= 0.038) and ODI scores (p< 0.001) were higher in the group with LBP. LBP in pregnant women has a higher frequency than in the normal population, regardless of age, gestational week, and gravida. Obesity appears to be a risk factor for LBP and increases disability. Kinesiophobia in pregnant women is significantly associated with obesity and disability. Unless there are contraindications, a physically active pregnancy process and regular exercise should be recommend. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hamsilos Bay, which is located within the first--degree natural protection area, is one of the most important regions on the southern Black Sea coast. Moreover, many fish species utilize this area for breeding and rearing activities. Small copepod Oithona davisae has been encountered in the Black Sea for two decades and spread rapidly the overall Black Sea, and become an important component in the pelagic ecosystem of the Black Sea. In this respect, the present study aims to characterize the distribution and abundance of Oithona davisae in Hamsilos Bay about environmental variables. Zooplankton samples were collected monthly from seven stations from July 2015 to June 2016 by using a plankton net with a mesh size of 112 μm and a diameter mouth opening of 50 cm. O. davisae was observed during the whole sampling period and was the dominant species from July 2015 to December 2015. The highest mean abundance of this species was recorded in September 2015 (3533.33 ind. m-3). However, the lowest mean abundance was observed between January 2016 (170.68 ind. m-3) and May 2016 (0.24 ind. m-3). Copepodites 5--4 were predominant in the O. davisae population in all months and all stations. Adult copepods and their copepodites 5--4 were more abundant between July 2015 and December 2015, whereas the abundance of copepodites 3--1 was maximum between September 2015 and December 2015. The abundance of O. davisae was highly correlated with chlorophyll-α and physiochemical variables (temperature, dissolved oxygen, and salinity). In conclusion, this species, which is known to be distributed only in the autumn conditions in close areas, extended its temporal distribution and prevailed in the copepod communities during warmer periods. This could be attributed to the acclimatization success of this species in Hamsilos Bay ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE This study was conducted to evaluate the supportive care needs and coping attitudes of breast cancer patients according to their neuropathic pain status. METHODS This case-control study design was conducted with 212 patients who were being treated in the daily chemotherapy unit of a hospital in İstanbul, who agreed to participate in the study and met the inclusion criteria. The S-LANSS pain scale was used to determine the neuropathic pain status of the patients. A Descriptive Information Form, Supportive Care Needs Scale, and Coping Attitudes Scale were used to collect the data. RESULTS The study sample consisted of case group patients with neuropathic pain (n=100) and control group patients without neuropathic pain (n=112). The mean age of the participants was 50 (45-54) in the case group and 49 (45-57) in the control group. In the case group, 24.5% used paclitaxel chemotherapy, and 40.6% had no knowledge about neuropathic pain. In the control group, 21.7% used paclitaxel chemotherapy, and 46.2% had no knowledge about neuropathic pain. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of total scores and sub-dimensions of the Supportive Care Needs Scale and total scores and sub-dimensions of the Coping Orientations to Problems Experienced scale. CONCLUSION Coping attitudes and supportive care needs of patients do not change according to the presence of neuropathic pain. Nearly half of the patients receiving neurotoxic chemotherapy, which frequently causes neuropathic pain, have no knowledge about neuropathic pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tympanic membrane (TM) perforations, primarily induced by middle ear infections, the introduction of foreign objects into the ear, and acoustic trauma, lead to hearing abnormalities and ear infections. We describe the design and fabrication of a novel composite patch containing photocrosslinkable gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) and keratin methacryloyl (KerMA) hydrogels. GelMA-KerMA patches containing conical microneedles in their design were developed using the digital light processing (DLP) 3D printing approach. Following this, the patches were biofunctionalized by applying a coaxial coating with PVA nanoparticles loaded with gentamicin (GEN) and fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2) with the Electrohydrodynamic Atomization (EHDA) method. The developed nanoparticle-coated 3D-printed patches were evaluated in terms of their chemical, morphological, mechanical, swelling, and degradation behavior. In addition, the GEN and FGF-2 release profiles, antimicrobial properties, and biocompatibility of the patches were examined in vitro. The morphological assessment verified the successful fabrication and nanoparticle coating of the 3D-printed GelMA-KerMA patches. The outcomes of antibacterial tests demonstrated that GEN@PVA/GelMA-KerMA patches exhibited substantial antibacterial efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli. Furthermore, cell culture studies revealed that GelMA-KerMA patches were biocompatible with human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hADMSC) and supported cell attachment and proliferation without any cytotoxicity. These findings indicated that biofunctional 3D-printed GelMA-KerMA patches have the potential to be a promising therapeutic approach for addressing TM perforations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Economic growth is one of the most important determinants of economic welfare. Foreign trade plays a critical role among the factors affecting economic growth. The importance of foreign trade has been emphasized since the pre-classical economics period. When exports increase, it affects the country's economy from a wide perspective, from the increase in factor productivity in the economy to the increase in gains from economies of scale and positive externalities, from the mitigating of foreign exchange shortages to the facilitation of imports of intermediate and investment goods, from the reduction in production costs in export sectors to the provision of new technologies. Countries' specialization in critical export commodities and diversification of export commodity groups is one of the issues that researchers have recently focused on. The relationship between exports and economic growth is one of the main issues discussed in the theoretical and applied literature from past to present. This study analyses the debate between exports and economic growth and tries to determine the contribution of sectoral exports to economic growth. In this framework, VAR and Johansen Co-integration Analysis are used in this study to determine the contribution of agricultural and industrial export products to the growth of Türkiye economy. In the study, GDP Per Capita was used as the dependent variable and Gross Capital Formation, Labour Force Participation Rate, R&D Expenditure/GDP and Agriculture and Manufacturing Industry Export data were used as independent variables. These data were obtained from World Bank and TÜİK databases. As a result of the study, it is determined that exports of agricultural and manufacturing industry products positively affect economic growth, but the contribution of exports of industrial products to economic growth is higher. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigated crystal violet removal by modifying the chestnut shell with a chemical activation method. For this purpose, H2SO4 and NaOH pretreatments were applied to the chestnut shell and the pretreatment method that gave the best performance under the same conditions was determined. The best adsorption efficiency was achieved with the NaOH pretreatment (99.06%) and the crystal violet adsorption reached equilibrium within 60 min. After selecting the best chemical activation method, the modified chestnut shell was characterized before and after adsorption (FTIR and SEM). Furthermore, the effects of parameters such as pH, initial crystal violet concentration, adsorbent dosage, temperature, and contact time were observed. Moreover, isotherm, kinetics and thermodynamics of the adsorption process were researched in detail. The best results were obtained with the Langmuir isotherm model (R2=0.99) and the pseudo-second-order kinetic model (R2=0.99). Thermodynamic parameters showed that the adsorption process is spontaneous, endothermic and feasible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Differences in individual muscle/fat volumes may change the effectiveness of chemotherapy. In this study, the relationship between trunkal muscle and fat volume and body mass index (BMI) obtained before receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NCT) in patients with breast cancer and complete pathological response (pCR) was investigated. Materials and Methods: The volumes of psoas, abdominal and paraspinal muscles, and trunkal subcutaneous and visceral fat were calculated using CoreSlicer AI 2.0 opensource program from the F-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (CT) and CT images before NCT and postoperative pCR rates to NCT were recorded. Muscle/fat volumes and BMI prior to NCT were compared in terms of pathological pCR rates. Patients were followed up regularly for recurrence and survival. Results: Ninety-three patients were included with median (range) values for age, BMI, and body weights of 48 (28-72) years, 27 (16.8-51.6) kg/m2, and 71.94 (43-137) kg, respectively. The median follow-up time was 18.6 (6.7-59.6) months. No significant correlation was found between total muscle or fat volumes of patients with and without pCR. BMI [26.2 (16.8-51.6) kg/m2 vs. 24.6 (20.3-34.3) kg/m2, p = 0.03] and pCR rates in patients with low rightpsoas muscle volume [11.74 (7.03-18.51) vs. 10.2 (6.71-13.36), p = 0.025] were significantly greater. A significant relationship was found between right psoas muscle volume and disease-free survival (DFS) (11.74 cm3 (7.03-18.51) vs. 10.2 cm3 (6.71-13.36), p = 0.025). However, no significant relationship was detected between total muscle-fat volume, BMI and overall survival and DFS (p>0.05). Conclusion: This is the first published study investigating the relationship between the pCR ratio and body muscle and fat volume measured by CoreSlicer AI 2.0 in patients with breast cancer who received NCT. No correlation was found between the pCR ratio and total muscle plus fat volume. However, these results need to be validated with larger patient series. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: This study was conducted to investigate the quality and shelf life of shrimps (Parapenaeus longirostris, Lucas 1846) glazed with biodegradable gelatin solutions combined with grape (Vitis vinifera L.) seed oil (GSO). Therefore, shrimps were divided into five groups and were glazed with distilled water (control), G (gelatin), G + 5% GSO (gelatin with 5% GSO), G + 10% GSO (gelatin with 10% GSO) and G + 15% GSO (gelatin with 15% GSO). Glazed shrimps were vacuum packaged and stored at −18 °C for 12 months. Proximate composition of the shrimps was determined, and the microbial (total viable counts, psychrotrophic bacteria count and Enterobacteriaceae), sensorial, chemical (residual sulfite, pH, total volatile basic nitrogen, trimethylamine nitrogen, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) analysis, colour measurement, and melanosis formation were evaluated throughout the storage period. RESULTS: According to the analysis results, edible G + GSO coatings improved the meat quality and the brightness of the shrimps. The combined treatment reduced the quality loss of the shrimps which was caused by lipid content and prevented the total psychotropic bacteria growth throughout the storage. Moreover, glazing with G + GSO retarded the melanosis formation of the frozen shrimps. CONCLUSION: The study results revealed that GSO may be a recommended alternatively to sodium metabisulfite, which is a hazardous chemical substance commonly used against melanosis of shrimps. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In mathematics and the applied sciences, as a very useful tool, fractional calculus is a basic concept. Furthermore, in many areas of mathematics, it is better to use a new hybrid fractional operator, which combines the proportional and Caputo operators. So we concentrate on the proportional Caputo-hybrid operator because of its numerous applications. In this research, we introduce a novel extension of the Hermite–Hadamard-type inequalities for proportional Caputo-hybrid operator and establish an identity. Then, taking into account this novel generalized identity, we develop some integral inequalities associated with the left-side of Hermite–Hadamard-type inequalities for proportional Caputo-hybrid operator. Moreover, to illustrate the newly established inequalities, we give some examples with the help of graphs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a fast antenna phase optimization scheme to enable microwave power focusing for breast cancer hyperthermia. The power focusing is achieved through the maximization of the deposited electric field on the target malignant tumor tissue. To do so, a malignant breast tumor, the surrounding breast medium, and the skin of the breast are modeled as a cylindrical structure composed of eccentric cylinders, and electric field distribution is computed analytically in terms of cylindrical harmonics. This approach minimized the computational cost and simplified the breast medium model. To ensure applicability across various breast types, the dielectric properties (DPs) of the main cylinder, symbolizing healthy breast tissue, are averaged from pixel DPs of digital breast phantoms. The hyperthermia problem is posed as maximizing the total electric field at the central point of the tumor which is simply represented as a vector sum of complex quantities in terms of antenna phases. That is, one antenna phase is selected as a reference and the remaining ones are adjusted accordingly. The approach is validated using a circular applicator with eight TMz polarized line sources surrounding realistic digital breast phantoms. Testing involved eight scenarios using two distinct breast media. In the optimal scenario, the peak temperature is achieved 1.3 mm away from the focus point. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Isorhamnetin (3'-methylquercetin) is an important flavonoid produced as a secondary metabolite from medicinal and aromatic plants due to its pharmacological and therapeutic properties. Thus far, the anticancer, antiallergic, antiinflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties of isorhamnetin have been evaluated in indirect studies conducted with isorhamnetin found in plant extracts or essential oils or direct studies performed with pure isorhamnetin. However, this is the first study in the literature on the antifungal activity of 97% pure isorhamnetin against C. tropicalis, C. albicans, C. krusei, and C. parapsilosis using two assays including agar dilution and broth microdilution methods. This study showed that isorhamnetin has a significant inhibitory effect against all Candida species used. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of isorhamnetin against C. tropicalis, C. albicans, C. krusei, and C. parapsilosis was 1.875 mg/mL, the same for all yeast strains. These results have opened a new horizon regarding the usability of isorhamnetin as a pharmacological therapeutic antifungal agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to merge continuous and discrete analyses, a number of dynamic derivative equations have been put out in the process of developing a time-scale calculus. The investigations that incorporated combined dynamic derivatives have led to the proposal of improved approximation expressions for computational application. One such expression is the diamond alpha ( ⋄ α ) derivative, which is defined as a linear combination of delta and nabla derivatives. Several dynamic equations and inequalities, as well as hybrid dynamic behavior—which does not occur in the real line or on discrete time scales—are analyzed using this combined concept. In this study, we consider a ⋄ α Dirac system under boundary conditions on a uniform time scale. We examined some basic spectral properties of the problem we are considering, such as the simplicity, the reality of eigenvalues, orthogonality of eigenfunctions, and self adjointness of the operator. Finally, we construct an expression for the eigenfunction of the ⋄ α Dirac boundary value problem (BVP) on a uniform time scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Taxifolin (dihydroquercetin) is a natural bioactive flavonoid with antifungal, antiviral, antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, and is a valuable compound in the medical, pharmaceutical, and food industries. This study aims to determine the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of pure taxifolin (99.25%) against pathogenic and opportunistic microorganisms. Materials and Methods: The antibacterial and antifungal activities of taxifolin against two Gram-positive (E. aerogenes, S. aureus), three Gram-negative (P. aeruginosa, K. pneumonia and E. coli), and four yeast strains (C. krusei, C. glabrata, C. tropicalis and C. albicans) was determined using agar and broth microdilution methods. Results: The MIC value for tested Gram-positive bacteria is 1 mg/mL, which is 2 mg/ml for Gram-negative bacteria. At the same time, the MIC value was 8 mg/mL for all Candida species tested except C. glabrata (MIC: 4 mg/mL). Conclusion: In conclusion, it was determined that the antibacterial property of taxifolin was more pronounced than its antifungal properties. Taxifolin is a natural compound with high medical and pharmacological value. This study proved the effectiveness of pure taxifolin as a pharmacotherapeutic agent on pathogenic and opportunistic microorganisms. The preliminary data collected in this study should be further supported, and in vivo and bioavailability studies should be detailed in future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioprinting using algae cells has many potential applications including tissue engineering, environmental engineering, contaminant removal from water, and establishing space habitats. In extrusion-based bioprinting, bioink needs to be crosslinked after being extruded from the nozzle for printed constructs to first achieve and then maintain adequate shape fidelity. Crosslinking methods used in reported studies on algae-contained bioinks include both photo-crosslinking and ionic crosslinking. This paper reports a preliminary study where the coaxial nozzle-based in situ ionic crosslinking method was used in bioprinting of algae cells without additional crosslinking of printed samples for the first time. In comparison with photo-crosslinking, in situ ionic crosslinking can minimize bioink preparation time and complexity, eliminate cells' exposure to ultraviolet radiation, and reduce the number of post-printing steps. In this preliminary study, the bioink was an alginate solution containing algae (Chlorella vulgaris) cells, and the crosslinking solution was a calcium chloride solution. The coaxial nozzle had two nozzles: inner and outer nozzles. In printing, the bioink was delivered through the outer nozzle while the crosslinking solution was delivered through the inner nozzle. The shape of the printed samples was a square block with dimensions of 30 × 30 × 10 mm. It was observed that, 9 days after printing, the algae cells grew within the printed samples, and the samples could keep their shapes relatively well. Many knowledge gaps exist regarding the effects of input variables in bioprinting of algae cells using this method. This paper discusses future research directions to fill these knowledge gaps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The trend of internationalisation of education has resulted in the wider implementation of English Medium Instruction (EMI) programmes in education, especially at the tertiary level. While some of these programmes adopted strict English-dominant policies, others embraced flexible bilingual or multilingual policies to ensure students’ learning and wellbeing. This study explored international graduate students’ learning and languaging experiences in an EMI graduate classroom with flexible multilingual policies in a Korean university. Data included field notes, students’ work and language samples, and focus group interviews with students. Using thematic analysis of qualitative data, the authors reported that students’ experiences with multilingualism as a resource approach were mostly productive since it created third spaces for the participants to deploy their multilingual resources to construct, promote and demonstrate learning in their class reports. Participants also reported increased compassion for each other through collaborative learning and enhanced understanding of both home and new languages during their studies in the graduate programme that was mediated through multiple languages. This study offered implications for EMI practitioners, higher education institutions, and policymakers regarding language planning, language policy, and language support in EMI contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this retrospective study was to investigate the effects of Botulinum Toxin‐A (BTX‐A) injection into the mentalis muscle on the free gingival graft (FGG). Materials and Methods: Forty patients with keratinized gingiva insufficiency and Cairo's RT 2 gingival recession (formerly classified as Miller class III) in their mandibular central incisors were randomly divided into two groups: FGG and FGG + BTX. Plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing pocket depth (PPD), keratinized gingiva width (KGW), attached gingiva width (AGW), clinical attachment level (CAL), gingival thickness (GT), gingival recession amount (GRA), gingival recession width (GRW), and root closure percentage (RCP%) parameters were measured at baseline and at first, third, and sixth months after the operation. Results: There was no difference in PI, GI, and PPD levels in both groups (p > 0.05). While the change in GT and RCP% levels were found to be statistically significantly higher at FGG + BTX group than FGG group, the change in GRW and CAL levels were statistically significantly lower (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that BTX‐A injection applied to the mentalis muscle after FGG operation may have positive effects in terms of KGW, AGW, GT, RCP%, GRW, and CAL parameters. Clinical Significance: As a result of the fact that BTX‐A injection into the mentalis muscle contributed to the nutrition and immobility of FGG, positive developments were obtained in terms of clinical periodontal parameters. BTX‐A injection into the mentalis muscle may be an alternative method that increases the success rate of Cairo's RT 2 gingival recession. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate and rapid diagnosis is a significant factor in reducing incidence rate; especially when the number of people inflicted with a disease is considerably high. In the healthcare sector, the decision-making process might be a complex and error-prone one due to excessive workload, negligence, time restrictions, incorrect or incomplete evaluation of medical reports and analyses, and lack of experience as well as insufficient knowledge and skills. Clinical decision support systems (CDSSs) are those developed to improve effectiveness of decisions by supporting physicians' decision-making process regarding their patients. In this study, a new artificial intelligence-based CDSS and a user-friendly interface for this system were developed to ensure rapid and accurate detection of pandemic diseases. The proposed CDSS, which is called panCdss, uses hybrid models consisting of the Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) model and Machine Learning (ML) methods in order to detect covid-19 from lung computed tomography (CT) images. Transfer Learning (TL) models were used to detect monkeypox from skin lesion images and covid-19 from chest X-Ray images. The results obtained from these models were evaluated according to accuracy, precision, recall and F1-score performance metrics. Of these models, the ones with the highest classification performance were used in the panCdss. The highest classification values obtained for each dataset were as follows: % 91.71 accuracy, % 92.07 precision, % 90.29 recall and % 91.71 F1-score for covid-19 CT dataset by using CNN+RF hybrid model; % 99.56 accuracy, % 100 precision, % 99.12 recall and % 99.55 F1-score for covid-19 X-ray dataset by using VGG16 model; and % 90.38 accuracy, % 93.32 precision, % 88.11 recall and % 90.64 F1-score for monkeypox dataset by using MobileNetV2. It is believed that panCdss can be successfully employed for rapid and accurate classification of pandemic diseases and can help reduce physicians' workload. Furthermore, the study showed that the proposed CDSS is an adaptable, flexible and dynamic system that can be practiced not only for the detection of pandemic diseases but also for other diseases. To the authors' knowledge, this proposed CDSS is the first CDSS developed for pandemic disease detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Early systolic lengthening is a echocardiographic strain parameter previously used to determine the lesion severity in patients with stable coronary artery disease. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between early systolic lengthening and anatomic SYNTAX score in troponin (-) and (+) groups among patients with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Methods: A total of 95 patients diagnosed with non-ST-elevation ACS were included in the prospective, non-randomized, single-center study. The patients were categorized into 2 groups as troponin (+) and troponin (-). The patients were evaluated in terms of echocardiographic, clinical, and angiographic parameters. Results: The baseline characteristics, including age (58 ± 13 vs. 60 ± 10 respectively, P = .340), a history of hypertension (67.1% vs. 64%, respectively, P = .479), diabetes (28.6% vs. 32%, respectively, P = .467), global longitudinal strain (-14.37 ± 5.11 vs. -16.42 ± 3.93, respectively, P = .095), left ventricular ejection fraction (58.71 ± 8.73 vs. 57.20 ± 8.70, respectively, P = .263), and E/e' (8.44 ± 2.13 vs. 8.33 ± 1.99, respectively, P = .785), were similar between troponin (+) and troponin (-) groups. Left ventricle end-systolic diameter (3.2 ± 0.78; 3.50 ± 0.74 vs. 3.2 ± 0.78, respectively, P = .031), left ventricle end-systolic volume (55.57 ± 32.17 vs. 38.28 ± 13.63, respectively, P = .013), left ventricle end-diastolic volume (115.31 ± 49.54 vs. 91.23 ± 20.57, respectively, P = .042), the rate of early systolic lengthening (65.7% vs. 28%, respectively, P = .001), the duration of early systolic lengthening (24.02 ± 31 ms vs. 15.56 ± 30.19 ms, respectively, P = .009), and the SYNTAX score (16 ± 11 vs. 10 ± 10, respectively, P = .023) were higher in the troponin (+) group. Furthermore, a significant correlation was found between early systolic lengthening and SYNTAX score (r = 0.43, P < .001). Conclusion: The rate and duration of early systolic lengthening were higher in patients in the troponin (+) group. Early systolic lengthening is related to SYNTAX score in patients with non-ST-elevation ACS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of fermented oligosaccharide, disaccharide, monosaccharide and polyols (FODMAP) diet therapy and probiotics on irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms, quality of life and depression in women diagnosed with IBS. Methods: For the study, 52 female IBS patients between the ages of 20 and 55 were enrolled. Individuals were monitored for 6 weeks in two groups. A low‐FODMAP diet was given to the first group and a low‐FODMAP diet plus a probiotic supplement was given to the second group (Lactobacillus rhamnosus). Three‐day food intake records were kept at the start of the study and continued up to its conclusion, with a weekly check‐in in between. At the start and end of the trial, participants completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, IBS Quality of Life Scale (IBS‐QOL) and IBS Symptom Severity Score (IBS‐SSS). The Bristol Stool Scale was also used by the subjects to record their daily stool densities. Results: At the end of the study, it was determined that the daily intake of FODMAP (lactose [g] + oligosaccharides [g] + mannitol [g] + sorbitol [g]) decreased significantly in both groups (p < 0.05). At the end of the study, it was determined that the IBS‐SSS, anxiety and depression scores of the individuals in both groups decreased significantly and their IBS‐QOL scores increased significantly (p < 0.05). However, the difference between these values between the groups was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Conclusions: A low‐FODMAP diet has been demonstrated to benefit people by lessening the severity of their IBS symptoms and enhancing their quality of life. No evidence was found, however, to indicate that the FODMAP diet would be more beneficial on these metrics if additional probiotics were used. It should be emphasised that the reaction of probiotic strains may vary depending on the IBS subtype. Highlights: A low fermented oligosaccharide, disaccharide, monosaccharide and polyols (FODMAP) diet may be recommended to apply for 2–8 weeks when symptoms become severe, gradually transitioning the individual to the normal nutrition process when symptoms subside.It is necessary to follow up the energy and nutrient intakes according to individual characteristics during the diet under the guidance of a dietitian to prevent nutrient deficiencies in the long term.Patients should be given dietary advice on choosing high‐fibre, low‐FODMAP‐sourced fruits, vegetables and grains to balance their daily fibre intake.FODMAP restriction reduces the intake of prebiotics, which affects the gastrointestinal microbiota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]