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Comparison of effectiveness of visual examination, loupe, near- UV light emitting device and operating microscope in caries detection: an in vitro study
No full textÇürük Tespitinde Görsel Muayene, Loupe, Yakın UV Işın Yayan Cihaz ve OperasyonMikroskobunun Etkinliğinin Karşılaştırılması: In-Vitro ÇalışmaÖzetBu çalışmanın amacı; günümüzde çürük tespitinde kullanılmakta olan görsel muayene, loupe,operasyon mikroskobu ve yakın UV ışın yayan D-Light Pro cihazının (GC, Japonya)etkinliğini karşılaştırmaktır. Bu doğrultuda, çürüksüz veya erken safhada oklüzal çürükleribulunan çekilmiş dişler toplandı. Bu dişler rastgele gruplandırılarak silikon ölçü maddesiiçerisine gömüldü. Dişler üzerinde bulunan çürükler ICDAS II çürük sınıflandırma sistemi iledört teşhis yönteminin (görsel muayene, loupe, operasyon mikroskobu ve yakın UV ışınyayan çürük tespit cihazı) her birini kullanan, eşit klinik tecrübeye sahip üç restoratif diştedavisi uzmanlık öğrencisi tarafından incelendi. İncelemeler tamamlandığında dişler %1 asitkırmızısı ile boyandı. Dişler şerit testere kullanılarak mesial-distal doğrultuda fissür paterniboyunca yarı kesitlere ayrıldı. Kesitler mikroskop altında x10 büyütmede histolojik olarakincelendi. Çürükler ‘‘ERK Histolojik Skorlama Sistemi’’ kullanılarak değerlendirildi. ICDASII skorları, histolojik skorlar ile karşılaştırıldı. İstatistiksel analizde; tutarlılığı test etmekamacıyla gözlemciler tarafından ölçümler bir hafta arayla yeniden yapıldı, Sınıf İçiKorelasyon Katsayısı (ICC) değeri hesaplandı. Gözlemci içi uyumu, gözlemciler arası uyumuve metodlar arasındaki ilişkiyi değerlendirmek amacıyla istatistiksel analizler yapıldı. Çalışmasonucunda, loupe destekli muayene tüm gözlemcilerde en yüksek ve en tutarlı güvenirliğigösterdi (ICC=0,87–0,95). Görsel muayene iyi-mükemmel düzeyde güvenirlik sağlarken(ICC=0,64–0,86), yakın UV ışın yayan D-Light Pro cihazı orta-iyi düzeyde tekrarlanabilirlikgösterdi (ICC=0,45–0,69). Operasyon mikroskobunun ise gözlemciye bağlı olarak değişkensonuçlar ürettiği tespit edildi. Sonuç olarak, oklüzal çürük tespitinde gözlemci içi güvenirliğinkullanılan yönteme güçlü biçimde bağlı olduğu, büyütmenin güvenirliği her zaman doğrusalolarak artırmadığı belirlenmiştir. Gözlemci içi güvenirliğin yalnızca büyütme düzeyine değil,kullanılan yöntemin klinik uygulanabilirliğine ve gözlemci adaptasyonuna da bağlı olduğuortaya konmuştur.Anahtar Kelimeler: Çürük tespiti, Görsel muayene, Loupe, Operasyon mikroskobu,Histoloji.Comparison of the Effectiveness of Visual Examination, Loupe, Near-UV Light-Emitting Device, and Operating Microscope in Caries Detection: An In Vitro StudyAbstractThe aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of visual examination, loupe,operating microscope, and a near-UV light-emitting caries detection device (D-Light Pro; GC,Japan) in the detection of dental caries. For this purpose, extracted teeth presenting eithersound occlusal surfaces or early-stage occlusal caries were collected. The teeth wererandomly allocated into groups and embedded in silicone impression material. Carious lesionswere examined using the ICDAS II caries classification system by three restorative dentistrypostgraduate students with equal clinical experience, each applying the four diagnosticmethods (visual examination, loupe, operating microscope, and near-UV light-emitting cariesdetection device).Following the examinations, the teeth were stained with 1% acid red dye and sectionedmesiodistally along the fissure pattern using a precision saw. The sections were histologicallyexamined under ×10 magnification, and caries lesions were scored according to theEkstrand–Ricketts–Kidd (ERK) histological scoring system. ICDAS II scores were thencompared with histological findings. To assess reliability, all observers repeated theirevaluations after a one-week interval, and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) werecalculated. Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate intra-observer reliability, inter-observer reliability, and the relationships between diagnostic methods.The results demonstrated that loupe-assisted examination exhibited the highest and mostconsistent intra-observer reliability across all observers (ICC = 0.87–0.95). Conventionalvisual examination showed good to excellent reliability (ICC = 0.64–0.86), whereas the near-UV light-emitting D-Light Pro device demonstrated moderate to good reproducibility (ICC =0.45–0.69). Reliability associated with the operating microscope varied depending on theobserver. In conclusion, intra-observer reliability in occlusal caries detection is stronglyinfluenced by the diagnostic method used, and increased magnification does not necessarilyresult in a proportional improvement in reliability. Furthermore, intra-observer reliability wasfound to depend not only on the level of magnification but also on the clinical applicability ofthe method and observer adaptation.Keywords: Caries detection, Visual examination, Loupe, Operating microscope, Histology</p
Wearable sensor-based gait parameters in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: associations with clinical and physical outcomes
No full textBackground: Gait parameters provided by wearable inertial sensors remain significant gaps in understanding their clinical and physical implication in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Objectives: To analyse gait parameters using a wearable inertial sensor and to assess the relationships between clinical and physical outcomes in patients with HFrEF. Methods: This cross-sectional study recruited 70 HFrEF patients and 32 apparently healthy individuals. Gait parameters were evaluated using a wearable gait analysis system during an 8-meter walk and a 6-minute walk test (6MWT). Functional class, dyspnea, and frailty were evaluated using the New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification, the Modified Medical Research Council Scale (mMRCS), and the Fried Frailty Phenotype. Pulmonary function, respiratory muscle strength and quadriceps muscle strength, functional capacity, physical activity, and dynamic balance were assessed. Results: Age, gender, and body mass index were similar between patients with HFrEF and apparently healthy controls (p>0.05). Gait speed, cadence, and stride length obtained from both the 8-meter walk and 6MWT were significantly different between the groups (p<0.05). Gait speed and stride length obtained from both the 8-meter walk and the 6MWT were moderately to strongly correlated with NYHA functional class, mMRCS, frailty, and six-minute walk distance (6MWD) (p<0.05). Cadence obtained from both the 8-meter walk and 6MWT was moderately to strongly correlated with six-minute walk distance (p<0.05). Conclusions: This study indicates that gait parameters are affected in patients with HFrEF. Altered gait parameters are associated with worsened clinical and physical outcomes in patients with HFrEF
The role of ımmune cells in the placenta of gestational diabetes patients: does ıt offer hope for targeted treatment?
No full textBackground: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a prevalent metabolic complication that arises during pregnancy, posing significant health risks for both mother and fetus. The placenta is not only affected by GDM but also actively contributes to its pathogenesis and maternal–fetal outcomes. This complex interaction makes it difficult to fully understand the etiology of GDM and its effects on the placenta. In this study, we aimed to clarify the pathogenesis of GDM by evaluating the role of inflammation and describing the macroscopic and histopathological changes in placentas affected by GDM. Methods: This study compared 50 singleton pregnancies complicated by GDM with 50 normoglycemic pregnancies. All deliveries occurred at term. Placentas were examined both macroscopically and microscopically. Immunohistochemical staining was performed for the following markers: CD4, CD8, CD68, CD80, CD86, and CD206. Results: Placental weight and diameter were significantly higher in the GDM group compared to the control group (p < 0.001). GDM placentas showed a significantly higher frequency of chorangiosis, villous edema, villous immaturity, and ischemic changes (p < 0.001). Immunohistochemical analysis revealed increased expression of CD4, CD8, CD68, CD80, and CD86, while CD206 expression was significantly reduced in the GDM group (p < 0.001). Discussion: These findings support the central role of placental inflammation and macrophage polarization shifts in the pathogenesis of GDM. They also highlight potential targets for developing new diagnostic biomarkers and anti-inflammatory or immunomodulatory therapeutic strategies
Satellite-derived ocean climatology around Santo Antão Island: 20 years of surface and near-surface observations
No full textUnderstanding the implications of climate change is especially critical for the Cape Verde Islands, which are acutely vulnerable to climate variability and its associated impacts. This study characterised the temporal variability of surface and near-surface biophysical properties around Santo Antão using 20 years of MODIS-Aqua Level-2 imagery at 1 km resolution for Ocean Colour and Thermal Infrared parameters. The results of this study show that the waters around this island exhibited stable Sea Surface Temperature conditions with a pronounced seasonal cycle and no long-term warming over two decades, contrasting with global trends. Bio-optical parameters (Chlorophyll a, Diffuse Attenuation Coefficient and Particulate Organic Carbon) reflected the oligotrophic nature of the waters, with slight positive trends hinting at increasing concentrations of primary productivity. Consistently high levels of Photosynthetically Available Radiation affirmed light is not a limiting factor, with nutrient dynamics likely playing a dominant role. Particulate Inorganic Carbon displayed distinct variability, with no significant trends, underscoring the need for further research into its unique drivers. Based on ocean surface temperature cycles, the newly proposed seasonal classification successfully captured the dynamics of key parameters and demonstrated the value of satellite-derived data for long-term ecosystem monitoring. These findings enhanced the understanding of Santo Antão's oceanographic dynamics and highlight the importance of regionally specific studies to complement global assessments. The results also provide a valuable baseline to support future research and inform conservation strategies and sustainable marine resource management in the Cape Verde region
Artificial Intelligence Chatbots in Peritoneal Dialysis Education: A Cross-Sectional Comparative Study of Quality, Readability, and Reliability
No full textUnveiling the nexus: Computational thinking and mathematical modelling in K-12 education-a teacher-centric exploration
No full textThis study explores how Computational Thinking (CT) components overlap with the phases of mathematical modelling within the context of a Teacher Development Course (TDC). The course was designed, developed, implemented, and assessed to enhance teachers' cognitive actions in integrating CT with mathematical modelling. This research study was conducted with three mathematics teachers and one computer science teacher. Data were collected through CT component worksheets and video recordings, and analysed based on Borromeo-Ferri's (2006) modelling cycle and the study's CT framework. The study's findings indicate that modelling processes enhanced teachers' CT skills, while CT components made the modelling process more structured and reflective, revealing a reciprocal relationship between modelling and CT. The study proposes an original interdisciplinary framework linking teachers' cognitive actions to CT integration, offering both theoretical and practical contributions
Intranasally delivered colostrum-derived small extracellular vesicles mitigate acute neuroinflammation in periventricular leukomalacia
No full textBackground: Periventricular leukomalacia (PVL) is a predominant white matter injury in preterm infants, leading to lifelong neurodevelopmental disability, and yet disease-modifying therapies are lacking. Breast milk, especially colostrum, contains bioactive components with potential neuroprotective properties, among which extracellular vesicles (EVs) have recently attracted increasing attention. This study aimed to evaluate the neurorestorative efficacy of intranasally administered colostrum-derived small EVs (sEVs) in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced PVL model. Methods: sEVs were isolated from Sprague-Dawley rats' colostrum and characterized by Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA) and Western blot (WB). To assess brain delivery following intranasal administration, sEVs were labeled with PKH67. Neonatal pups were randomly assigned to three groups: control, systemic LPS, and LPS + sEVs. A PVL-like model was induced (LPS) injection at postnatal day 5 (P5), and intranasal sEVs were administered thereafter. Brains were analyzed at P11. Results: Labeled sEVs were detectable in the hippocampus and corpus callosum (CC) within 3 h of intranasal delivery. LPS increased microglial and astroglial markers (Iba1, GFAP) and reduced neuronal/Oligodendroglial markers (NeuN, Olig2), whereas sEVs treatment partially normalized these indices in both regions. Conclusions: Colostrum-derived sEVs reach the neonatal brain via the intranasal route and mitigate LPS-induced neuroinflammatory changes. These findings support intranasal sEVs as a non-invasive candidate approach for neonatal white-matter injury. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration that intranasally delivered colostrum-derived sEVs can penetrate the neonatal brain and ameliorate histological indices of PVL-like injury, suggesting that this approach could be a novel and promising treatment strategy for neonatal brain injury
Göç Sonucu İzmir’e Kazandırılan Ata İçkisi Kımızın Sürdürülebilirliği: Kemalpaşa Alaş Kımız Çiftliği Örneği
No full textInvestigation of a thermally coupled fuel cell and metal hydride hydrogen storage tank system for vehicular application
No full textHydrogen is a promising clean energy carrier, offering significant potential in fuel cell (FC) applications and various storage systems, such as compressed gas, liquid hydrogen, and metal hydrides (MHs). Effective thermal management, using passive methods like fins or phase change materials and active methods like heat transfer fluids or exhaust gases, is critical for optimizing MH-based hydrogen storage systems during absorption and desorption processes. With the growing push for sustainable energy solutions, making hydrogen storage and use more efficient is now a big focus for developing vehicular applications. This study investigates a hydrogen storage system incorporating an FC with MH tanks for lightweight hybrid vehicles. A comprehensive one-dimensional axisymmetric mathematical model of the metal hydride tank was developed in MATLAB/Simulink, along with a detailed system model to analyze hydrogen desorption, temperature dynamics, and thermal coupling effects between the FC and MH tanks. Redirecting waste heat from the FC to the MH tanks significantly improved hydrogen release rates, efficiency, and driving range, with a 272 % range increase in cases based on using a hydrogen flow controller. Thermal coupling boosted the heat transfer coefficient of the exhaust air from 5 to 20 W/m2K, enhancing desorption rates and maintaining steady tank performance. When examining Scenario-1 (thermally de-coupled), Scenario-2 (thermally coupled), Scenario-3 (thermally de-coupled with H2 flow controller), and Scenario-4 (thermally coupled with H2 flow controller), the system efficiency in scenarios was approximately 31.47 %, 31.56 %, 30.73 %, and 31 %, respectively. The system efficiency remained at approximately 30 % across all scenarios. However, from Sc-1 to Sc-4 (w/o heater), an increase in hydrogen consumption and range was observed. This finding indicates that the total hydrogen consumption and driving range increase as a result of longer operation, while the overall energy conversion efficiency remains nearly constant. The study highlights the importance of active thermal and flow management strategies in optimizing hydrogen usage. While temperature controllers consumed excess energy, hydrogen flow controllers emerged as more efficient, ensuring stable operation and maximizing hydrogen utilization. These findings underscore the potential of integrating advanced thermal management techniques, such as FC waste heat utilization and controlled hydrogen flow, to improve the performance and sustainability of hydrogen-powered hybrid vehicles. This research offers a promising pathway for developing energy-efficient and environmentally friendly transportation systems
