PubMed İndeksli Yayınlar Koleksiyonu

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  • Article
    1,2,4-Triazole Conjugates as HEGFR Inhibitors: Synthesis, Anticancer Evaluation, and in Silico Studies
    (John Wiley and Sons Inc, 2026) Bülbül, B.; Kulabas, N.; Gurboga, M.; Bingol Ozakpinar, O.B.; Cakmak, Ü.; Oz-Tuncay, F.Ö.; Küçükgüzel, İ.
    A series of novel 1,2,4-triazole-acetamide derivatives was synthesized and evaluated for anticancer and hEGFR inhibitory activity. The compounds were obtained via multistep synthesis and characterized by spectroscopic methods. Cytotoxicity was tested against PC-3, MCF-7, A549, and K562 cell lines. Compounds 18, 19, and especially 24 showed notable antiproliferative effects, with compound 24 exhibiting higher selectivity and potency than gefitinib. It also induced apoptosis and inhibited migration in A549 and PC-3 cells, while selectively promoting invasion in PC-3, suggesting EMT-related behavior. In vitro kinase assays revealed compound 20 as the most potent hEGFR inhibitor (IC50 = 43.8 ± 1.3 nM). Molecular docking and 200 ns molecular dynamics simulations confirmed its stable interaction with EGFR, particularly involving Cys797. These findings highlight compounds 20 and 24 as promising candidates for further development as EGFR-targeted anticancer agents. © 2026 Wiley-VHCA AG.
  • Article
    In Vivo Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Myrtus Communis Against Ionizing Radiation-Induced Gastrointestinal Injury: Trod-Grog Study
    (Kare Publishing, 2025) Kilic, Melisa Bagci; Varan, Melike Pekyurek; Atasoy, Ozum; Ozyilmaz, Nagehan; Pazarbasi, Seren Ede; Ertas, Busra; Atasoy, Beste Melek
    OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the in vivo radioprotective effects of Myrtus communis (MC) on the gastrointestinal system. METHODS: A total of 30 female rats were divided into four groups: i) Control; ii) irradiation (IR) only; iii) MC-pretreated; and iv) MC-treated. The rats received oral MC extract (100 mg/kg/day) for 4 days before exposure to 10 Gy IR or continued until sacrifice. On the fourth day of IR exposure, the rats were sacrificed, and histopathological and biochemical analyses were performed on the ileum, pancreas, and liver tissues. RESULTS: Malondialdehyde and myeloperoxidase levels decreased in both MC-treated groups, while glutathione levels and Na+-K+-ATPase activity increased (p<0.01), with significant histopathological improvements compared to the IR-only group. CONCLUSION: The results of this study demonstrate that MC significantly decreases ionizing radiation-induced oxidative and inflammatory damage in the gastrointestinal systems of rats. Therefore, it may be regarded as a new candidate with radioprotective potential for future clinical application.
  • Article
    Effect of Inspiratory Muscle Training on Diaphragm Function and Activity Performance in Subacute Ischemic Stroke Patients: A Single-Blind Randomized-Controlled Trial
    (Sage Publications Inc, 2026) Akcay, Sumeyye; Akyol, Dudu Kubra; Erkut, Umit; Coskunsu, Dilber Karagozoglu; Kunduracilar, Zuhal; Bajrami, Arsida; Yavas, Arzu Dinc
    Background: Respiratory dysfunction is common after stroke and may negatively affect functional recovery. Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) has been proposed to enhance diaphragmatic function and activity performance in this population. Objective: To investigate the effects of IMT on diaphragm function and activity performance in patients with subacute ischemic stroke. Methods: In this randomized controlled, single-blind trial, 26 patients with subacute ischemic stroke (>1 month post-onset) were randomly allocated to an intervention group (IG, n = 13) or control group (CG, n = 13). Both groups received standard neurorehabilitation, aerobic training, and the Active Cycle of Breathing Technique (ACBT). The IG additionally underwent IMT, 5 days per week for 6 weeks (30 sessions). Assessments included maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures (MIP, MEP), diaphragmatic thickness (Ti, Te) and excursion via ultrasonography, 6-minute walk test (6MWT), and Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM). Results: Twenty-two participants completed the study (IG = 11; CG = 11). Significant within-group improvements were observed in both groups for MIP, MEP, Ti, TF, excursion, 6MWT, and COPM scores (P < .05). Between-group analyses showed significantly greater improvements in the IG for Delta MIP (P < .001), Delta MEP (P = .003), affected-side Delta Ti (P = .007), Delta TF (P = .008), and Delta excursion (P = .005). No significant differences were found for 6MWT and COPM (P > .05). Conclusions: IMT effectively improves respiratory muscle strength, diaphragmatic thickness, and excursion in subacute ischemic stroke and may be a valuable addition to post-stroke rehabilitation programs.
  • Article
    The Relationship Between Spiritual Well-Being, Resilience, and Adherence Among Patients Receiving Hemodialysis Treatment in Türkiye
    (Springer, 2026) Bulbul, Elif; Sukut, Ozge; Dikec, Gul
    This study examined the relationship between spiritual well-being, resilience, and adherence of hemodialysis patients and the factors affecting them. The data were collected from 182 hemodialysis patients receiving treatment in a dialysis center who met the inclusion criteria by purposive sampling method in Istanbul. The data were collected with the patient description questionnaire, which measures patient sociodemographic characteristics and characteristics related to the medical diagnosis, the Spiritual Well-Being Scale, the Brief Resilience Scale, and the End-Stage Renal Failure-Adherence Questionnaire. Gender, educational status, employment status, and mean age of patients were found to be correlated with psychological resilience. Marital status, employment status, cohabitants, and mean age of patients were found to be correlated with spiritual well-being. Gender, number of weekly dialysis sessions, and dialysis competencies were found to be correlated with hemodialysis patients' adherence to their treatment. Hemodialysis patients' adherence was positively correlated with both the faith subscale of spiritual well-being and psychological resilience. According to regression analysis, gender and resilience explained 12.8% of the total variance of adherence. This study determined that resilience is an essential factor in increasing the adherence of hemodialysis patients.
  • Article
    Early Detection of Lower Adherence to Long-Term E-Diary Recording: A Checkpoint to Target Early Educational Intervention in Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis
    (Wiley, 2026) Dramburg, S.; Hernandez Toro, C. J.; Grittner, U.; Tripodi, S.; Arasi, S.; Acar Sahin, A.; Matricardi, P. M.
    Background: Digital symptom monitoring via e-Diary apps can support the diagnosis and management of chronic diseases with trigger-induced exacerbations such as pollen allergies. Attrition is a major challenge for continuous e-Diary usage with an unsupervised approach. Objective: To investigate adherence to e-Diary reporting, its early determinants and predictors in a blended care setting among pollen allergic patients with heterogeneous cultural backgrounds. Methods: The @IT.2020 observational multicenter study recruited patients with diagnosed seasonal allergic rhinitis from seven Southern European/Mediterranean countries. Baseline characteristics were investigated through questionnaires, skin prick tests and serum specific IgE measurements. The study doctors asked patients to record their allergy symptoms via e-Diary (AllergyMonitor, TPS) daily during the clinically relevant season of pollination and increased mould concentrations. Results: Among 815 patients (467 adults, 348 children), the average prescribed e-Diary recording period was 106 (SD 47.1) days, with an average completion rate of 75.2% (SD 21.2%). Children (>= 10 years) filled 73.8% (95% CI 68.1-79.4) of prescribed days without parental support. We identified a stable 'higher' and a more variable 'lower' adherence cluster. Adherence was weakly associated with disease severity, but not with age, gender, country, education or digital literacy. Short-term (first 3 weeks) adherence was strongly associated with long-term adherence (partial R-2 = 0.387, p < 0.001), with 87.6% of lower adherent patients remaining poorly adherent beyond 3 weeks. Conclusion: In a blended care setting, adherence to e-Diary compilation among pollen allergic patients is high, irrespective of age and cultural background. Early identification of lower adherence is possible and might inform early interventions to improve patient adherence.
  • Correction
    Diagnostic Utility of Smartphone-Integrated Gait Analysis in the Assessment of BPPV (Vol 16 , 1728659 , 2025)
    (Frontiers Media S.A., 2026) Durmus, Kasim; Bora, Adem; Sapci, Baris; Al-Hazzar, Marwan Khaled; Akti, Kerem; Sapci, Melek Kekul; Altuntas, Emine Elif
  • Article
    Advances and Strategies in Biosensor-Based Diagnostics for Parasitic Infections: A Comprehensive Scoping Review
    (Springer, 2026) Aminizadeh, Selva; Alizadeh, Gita; Alizadeh, Zahra; Khalilzadeh, Balal; Abidin, Zurina Zainal; Marzi, Mahdi; Rafiei-Sefiddashti, Raheleh
    Parasitic diseases are among the most widespread infections worldwide, causing millions of deaths and illnesses each year. So rapid and accurate diagnosis is essential, requiring highly sensitive and specific tests. Biosensors can provide significant advantages over traditional diagnostic methods because of their specificity, sensitivity, speed, simplicity, ease of use, repeatability, and capacity for early-stage disease detection. Recent advances in modern diagnostic tools for detecting parasitic infections use nanomaterials such as gold nanoparticles, carbon nanofibers, and carbon nanotubes. These developments have significantly lowered detection limits to the picogram and femtogram levels. This review will cover recent advancements in biosensor-based diagnostic techniques in parasitology.
  • Article
    Metformin Attenuates PTZ-Induced Seizures and Cognitive Impairment and Is Associated with Altered NOS/NO Signaling: Combined in Vivo and in Silico Evidence
    (Taylor & Francis Ltd, 2026) Ciltas, Arzuhan Cetindag; Sahin, Bilal; Hacisuleyman, Levent
    Background: Epilepsy remains a major neurological disorder with high rates of drug resistance and cognitive decline. Repurposing neuroprotective drugs offers a promising approach. Metformin, a widely used antidiabetic agent, has shown anticonvulsant effects, yet its impact on nitric oxide synthase (NOS) isoforms in distinct brain regions remains unclear. Methods: Adult male Wistar rats were allocated into control, pentylenetetrazole (PTZ), or metformin+PTZ groups. Metformin (200 mg/kg, i.p.) was administered for 7 days before induction of acute PTZ seizures (45 mg/kg, i.p.). Seizure severity and latency were assessed using Racine's scale, and cognition was evaluated by the passive avoidance test (PAT). Nitric oxide (NO) and the expression of its synthesizing enzymes, inducible (iNOS), neuronal (nNOS), and endothelial (eNOS), were quantified in the cortex and hippocampus via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In silico analyses included target prediction and molecular docking to assess metformin - NOS interactions. Results: Metformin significantly reduced seizure severity, prolonged latency to the first myoclonic jerk, and prevented PTZ-induced memory impairment (all p < 0.001). These behavioral effects were accompanied by reductions in cortical and hippocampal nNOS and iNOS expression, decreased cortical eNOS levels, and lower NO accumulation. TargetNet predicted NOS isoforms among potential metformin targets, and docking indicated moderate binding affinity (-5.2 to -5.9 kcal/mol). Conclusion: Metformin exerted seizure-suppressing and cognition-preserving effects in an acute PTZ model, associated with reductions in NOS isoform expression and NO levels, suggesting altered NOS/NO signaling and supporting its potential as an adjunctive candidate for mitigating seizure-related neuronal dysfunction.
  • Article
    Investigation of the Susceptibility Rates to Ceftazidime-Avibactam and Colistin, Clonal Relationships, and Clinical Data of Patients with Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella Pneumoniae Isolates Detected in the ICUs of a Hospital in İstanbul
    (K Faisal Special Hospital Research Centre, 2026) Akkaya, Yuksel; Aydin, Irfan; Harmankaya, Sebile; Karakul, Mehmet; Aydin, Mehtap; Erdin, Begum Nalca; Kilic, Ibrahim Halil
    BACKGROUND: The increase in carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae (CR-Kp) in intensive care units (ICUs) causes treatment difficulties and increases risk in mortality. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate the susceptibility rates of CR-Kp isolates obtained from ICUs to ceftazidime-avibactam (CAZ-AVI) and colistin, carbapenem resistance genes, clonal relationships and clinical characteristics of the patients. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort SETTING: Single-center, University of Health Sciences, & Uuml;mraniye Training and Research Hospital MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was conducted between June 2023 and December 2024. Isolates were identified using VITEK MS v.3.2, and antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using the VITEK 2 Compact system. CAZ-AVI susceptibility was determined using disk diffusion, and colistin susceptibility was determined using broth microdilution to determine minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values. Carbapenem resistance genes were determined using multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and clonal relationship arbitrarily primed-polymerase chain reaction (AP-PCR). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Resistance genes of CR-Kp isolates, clonal relationships, CAZ-AVI and colistin resistance, and clinical characteristics of patients SAMPLE SIZE: Ninety-seven isolates from 76 patients RESULTS: Among patients with CR-Kp isolates, central venous catheter use was detected in 59 cases (78%), ventilator-associated pneumonia in 44 cases (58%), and bacteremia in 39 cases (51%), respectively. It was determined that 53 of the patients (70%) died. Using the AP-PCR method, 60 different genotypes were identified among 97 isolates, and clustering was determined in 42 of the isolates (46%). It was determined that 36 (37%) of the isolates were resistant to colistin and 42 (45%) were resistant to CAZ-AVI. NDM+OXA-48, OXA-48, KPC, KPC+NDM, and NDM genes were detected in 40 (43%), 32 (35%), 10 (11%), 2 (2%), and 3 (3%) isolates, respectively. It was determined that 30 (75%) of the isolates with NDM+OXA-48 and only 4 (12%) of the isolates with OXA-48 were resistant to CAZ-AVI. CONCLUSION: In addition to OXA-48, an increase in the frequency of CR-Kp isolates containing the NDM, NDM+OXA-48, KPC+NDM, and OXA-48+KPC genes were also detected. It was also determined that resistance to colistin and CAZ-AVI is increasing. The AP-PCR method can also be used to investigate infections. LIMITATIONS: Single center,Pulsed Field Gel Electrophoresis (PFGE) could not be performed together with AP-PCR
  • Article
    Evaluation of Octenidine Dihydrochloride-Induced Cytotoxicity, Apoptosis, and Inflammatory Responses in Human Ocular Epithelial and Retinal Cells
    (MDPI, 2025) Ciftci, Ihsan Hakki; Deveci Ozkan, Asuman; Erman, Gulay; Kilbas, Imdat; Aydemir, Ozlem
    Background/Objectives: Octenidine dihydrochloride (OCT-D) is a broad-spectrum antiseptic with high chemical stability, low toxicity, and no reported microbial resistance, making it a strong candidate for use on mucosal surfaces. Despite increasing interest in its potential ophthalmic applications, limited data exist regarding its cellular effects on ocular tissues. This study aimed to investigate the cytotoxic, apoptotic, inflammatory, and transcriptional responses induced by OCT-D in human conjunctival (IOBA-NHC) and retinal pigment epithelial (ARPE-19) cells. Methods: Cells were exposed to varying concentrations of OCT-D, and viability was assessed using the WST-1 assay to determine IC50 and IC50/2 values. These concentrations were subsequently used in molecular assays. Pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1 beta, TNF-alpha, IFN-gamma) were quantified by ELISA. Apoptotic activation was evaluated through caspase-3/7 activity assays. Gene expression analysis of apoptotic (Bax, Bcl-2), DNA damage-related (ATM, Rad51), and inflammatory markers was performed using RT-qPCR. Results: OCT-D induced a marked, dose-dependent reduction in cell viability in both cell lines, with ARPE-19 showing greater sensitivity. Caspase-3/7 activity increased significantly at IC50 and IC50/2, confirming intrinsic apoptotic activation. OCT-D markedly suppressed the release of key inflammatory cytokines and downregulated transcription of inflammatory genes. RT-qPCR revealed upregulation of pro-apoptotic and DNA damage-associated genes, demonstrating coordinated activation of apoptotic and genomic stress pathways. Conclusion: OCT-D triggers integrated cytotoxic, apoptotic, and immunomodulatory responses in conjunctival and retinal epithelial cells. While these findings provide important mechanistic insights into OCT-D's cellular effects, further studies using primary cells, advanced 3D ocular models, and disease-relevant systems are required to support its potential translational use in ophthalmology.
  • Article
    Does Localization Change Management in Complicated Right and Left-Sided Diverticulitis
    (Baishideng Publishing Group Inc, 2025) Acar, Turan; Sur, Yunus; Acar, Nihan; Tekindal, Mustafa Agah; Dilek, Osman Nuri
    BACKGROUND Distribution of the colonic diverticula differs in different populations, and right-sided colon diverticulitis (RCD) and left-sided colon diverticulitis (LCD) manifest distinct clinical features. Complicated diverticulitis (CD) mostly requires hospitalization and can be treated within a spectrum from observation to surgery. Treatment choice is formed depending on the patient's general condition, the presence of diffuse peritonitis, the localization of diverticulitis, Hinchey stage, and responsiveness to the prior treatment. Clinical disparities regarding right and LCD also led to the differences in the incidences of both emergency surgery and future elective surgery. AIM To evaluate the clinical features of CD, display the differences according to colonic localizations, and present treatment approaches. METHODS This was a retrospective study from a single centre analysing data from a prospective database. The 253 patients with history of hospitalization for CD were included and divided into two groups: RCD and LCD. To compare the differences between the two groups, the Student's t-test was used when the parametric test prerequisites were fulfilled, and the Mann-Whitney U test was used when such requirements were not fulfilled. RESULTS The 208 (82.2%) patients were found to have LCD, and 45 (17.8%) had RCD. The majority of the patients had Hinchey 1A diverticulitis (49.8%). Male gender was significantly more common in patients who underwent surgery for LCD. While persistent abdominal pain was the main prior finding in the conservative treatment of both localizations, surgery was most performed due to abscess in RCD and perforation in LCD. The presence of an accompanying malignancy during colonoscopy was significantly more common in LCD cases who underwent surgery. Hartmann's procedure was the most performed technique in emergency settings (56.3%), while laparoscopic colectomy with anastomosis was in elective settings (53.9%). In addition, surgery was found to prolong the mean length of hospital stay in LCD patients. CONCLUSION Although diverticulitis is a benign condition, the need for an individualized and evidence-based approach makes management challenging. Localization of the disease has an important role in determining the appropriate treatment.
  • Article
    Montelukast Attenuates Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm in Rats: Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects
    (Elsevier, 2026) Tekin, Gozde; Cevik, Ozge; Cetinel, Sule; Sener, Goksel; Kizilay, Mehmet
    Objective: Oxidative stress and inflammation are widely recognized as central mechanisms in the pathogenesis of abdominal aortic aneurysm. This study sought to examine the potential protective properties of montelukast in a rat model of aortic aneurysm. Methods: Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly allocated into three experimental groups. Abdominal aortic aneurysm was induced using the calcium chloride (CaCl2) model, in which gauze soaked in 0.5 M CaCl2 was placed directly onto the adventitial surface of the infrarenal abdominal aorta for 15 minutes. After induction, the treatment group received daily intraperitoneal injections of montelukast (10 mg/kg) for 4 consecutive weeks. At the study end point, animals were euthanized, and infrarenal aortic tissues were harvested for biochemical and histological evaluations. Measured parameters included matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 expression, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, and 8-hydroxy-2 '-deoxyguanosine levels. Antioxidant capacity was assessed through superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity assays. Histopathological examinations were performed, and statistical analysis was conducted using GraphPad Prism v.5. Results: Exposure to CaCl2 triggered pronounced oxidative injury and inflammation, as evidenced by elevated 8-hydroxy-2 '-deoxyguanosine levels, increased MPO activity, reduced SOD activity, and upregulated MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression. Montelukast administration markedly attenuated these changes, normalizing oxidative and inflammatory markers while improving histopathological architecture. Conclusions: Montelukast effectively counteracted CaCl2-induced aortic damage. The protective effects of montelukast appear to be mediated through suppression of MMP activity, restoration of SOD levels, and reduction of MPO-driven oxidative injury. By mitigating both inflammatory and oxidative mechanisms, montelukast contributes to the preservation of aortic wall structure. Clinical Relevance: Abdominal aortic aneurysm remains a major vascular disorder without an effective pharmacological therapy to slow its progression. In this experimental study, montelukast, a leukotriene receptor antagonist widely used in asthma, attenuated abdominal aortic aneurysm formation in rats and was associated with increased superoxide dismutase activity, reduced myeloperoxidase levels, and suppressed matrix metalloproteinase activation. These combined antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and matrix-stabilizing effects preserved aortic wall integrity. Given montelukast's established safety and clinical availability, these findings support its potential for future clinical investigation as a pharmacological approach to limit aneurysm progression. (JVS-Vascular Science 2026;7:100405.)
  • Article
    Low Dose Ionising Radiation Elicits MPTP Comparable Alterations in Locomotor Function, Oxidative Balance and Mitochondrial Homeostasis in Zebrafish Embryos
    (Nature Portfolio, 2025) Cahide, Ezgi; Bayramov, Aydas; Beler, Merih; Cansiz, Derya; Unal, Ismail; Egilmezer, Gizem; Yalcinkaya, Sebnem Ercalik
    Prenatal exposure to environmental factors including low-dose ionising radiation and neurotoxins may disrupt the oxidant-antioxidant balance. Our aim was to assess the effects of exposure to low-dose ionising radiation (LDIR) and 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP), which is a neurotoxin used to model Parkinson's disease (PD), on developing zebrafish embryos, focusing on the oxidant-antioxidant system and markers of mitochondrial damage associated with PD. Zebrafish embryos were divided into four groups: control, LDIR, MPTP, and LDIR combined with MPTP (LDIR + MPTP). A dental x-ray unit (60 kVp, 7 mA) was used for the exposures. The 0.08 s LDIR exposure was measured as 0.065 mGy using optically stimulated dosimeters. At the end of 72 h after fertilization, locomotor activities, acetylcholine esterase (AChE) activity, oxidative stress and antioxidant status were assessed. Expressions of genes associated with in PD as markers of mitochondrial damage (pink1, parkin, dj1 and lrrk2) were determined by RT-PCR. Developmental toxicity was observed in all exposure groups as evidenced by pericardial edema, yolk sac edema and spinal curvature. LDIR exposure in zebrafish embryos affected oxidative and mitochondrial stress markers, as well as locomotor activity and AChE as a marker of cognitive function at levels comparable to the MPTP exposure. Our study is the first to determine the effects of LDIR from a dental x-ray unit on the response to MPTP, and we aim to further elucidate the mechanism of these changes observed particularly in the LDIR + MPTP group.
  • Article
    The Effect of Sportive Latin American Ballroom Dance on Foot and Ankle Posture
    (Amer Podiatric Med Assoc, 2025) Kayiskiran, Onurcan; Coskunsu, Dilber Karagozoglu; Isiklar, Cagdas
    Background: Correct use of the feet, step techniques, and positions constitute significant factors in the success of a dancer. Moreover, the type of dance has crucial effects on the posture of the foot and ankle. Therefore, the primary aim of our study was to determine whether there was a relationship between dancesport, dance experience (years), shoe-wearing time (hours), and shoe heel height (centimeters) in dance athletes performing Sportive Latin American Ballroom (SLAB) dance. Second, we aimed to compare the foot posture of SLAB dancers and nondancers with similar demographic characteristics. Methods: Twenty-six professional SLAB dancers and 26 nondancers who had similar demographic characteristics and did not use high-heeled shoes volunteered to take part in this study. Foot posture (using the Foot Posture Index [FPI]), foot pronation (using the navicular drop test [NDT]), tibiocalcaneal angle, hallux valgus angle (HVA) (using a goniometer), and ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (ROM) (using the weightbearing lunge test) were evaluated. Results: There was a positive moderate correlation between FPI score and shoe-wearing time on the dominant (P = .041; r = 0.40) and nondominant (P = .026; r = 0.43) sides. A positive very good correlation was found between shoe heel height and HVA (P < .001; r = 0.75). A negative good correlation was observed between years of dancing and nondominant ankle dorsiflexion ROM (P = .027; r =-0.43). When dancers and nondancers were compared, a statistically significant difference was found between FPI and NDT scores (P < .001). The FPI and NDT scores, tibiocalcaneal angle, HVA, and ankle dorsiflexion ROM were significantly greater in the dancer group compared with the nondancer group (P < .001) in all measurements of the dominant and nondominant sides. Conclusions: Revealing the relationship between dance experience and shoe-wearing time and the difference between the foot posture and deformities of athletes who perform SLAB dance and those of nondancers constitutes a pivotal endeavor that will increase awareness and knowledge among dancers and clinicians. (J Am Podiatr Med Assoc 115(6), 2025; doi:10.7547/24-030)
  • Article
    Development and Psychometric Properties of the Self-Efficacy Scale for Symptom Management and Self-Care in Patients with Cardiac Surgery
    (Springer Publishing Co, 2025) Aksut, Rabia Saglam; Capik, Canturk; Elmas, Tugce Bozkurt
    Background and Purpose: Evaluating self-efficacy for symptom management and self-care is crucial for ensuring follow-up care after cardiac surgery. As there is not yet a validated measurement tool for this evaluation, the aim of this study was to develop the Self-Efficacy Scale for Symptom Management and Self-Care (SESMSC: Cardiac Surgery) in patients with cardiac surgery and to examine its psychometric properties. Methods: The Symptom Management Theory and Bandura's Self-Efficacy Theory were used as the theoretical background for scale development. A multiphase design was utilized. The initial development phase consisted of item generation and expert panel review. The second phase comprised a three-step validation process: (a) face and content analysis (CFA) for construct validity, and (c) Cronbach's alpha, test-retest, and item- total correlation analysis to assess internal consistency reliability. The sample (n = 401) was randomly divided into two subsamples for EFA and CFA (EFA group: n = 201; CFA group: n = 200). Results: EFA suggested a 20-item, two-factor structure with factor loadings of .342-.782. The two subscales of the scale were labeled symptom management self-efficacy and self-efficacy for ch's alpha, test-retest, and item-total correlation results demonstrated acceptable internal consistency reliability. Implications for Practice: The SESMSC: Cardiac Surgery may be a useful tool to evaluate self-efficacy for symptom management and self-care after cardiac surgery. Further evaluation in independent samples is needed to investigate its psychometric properties and usefulness in clinical practice.
  • Article
    Effects of Left and Bilateral Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation on Pain, Mood, and Autonomic Nervous System in Female Patients With Fibromyalgia: a Randomized Controlled Trial
    (Taylor & Francis Inc, 2025) Akkurt, Mustafa Ferit; Ozden, Ali Veysel; Akkurt, Halil Ekrem; Akkurt, Burcu; Bildik, Celaleddin
    Introduction: Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) is a complex disease characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, emotional disturbances, and autonomic dysfunction. Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation (taVNS) has emerged as a potential noninvasive approach to modulate FMS-related symptoms. Purpose: To compare the effects of left and bilateral taVNS on pain, mood, functionality, and autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity in individuals with FMS. Methods: Forty female individuals with FMS were assigned to either a left (n = 20) or a bilateral (n = 20) taVNS group. Both received 11 sessions of taVNS targeting the tragus and concha regions (30 minutes each, 25 Hz, 300 mu s) over nonconsecutive days, excluding weekends and menstrual periods. Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) were assessed. ANS activity was evaluated via heart rate variability (HRV). After 11 sessions of taVNS, a 2-week follow-up was performed. Results: No significant differences were observed between groups except for FIQ and BAI on day 28 (p = .002-0.008). Both groups showed significant within-group improvements in VAS (r = 0.87-0.94; p < .001), BDI (r = 0.46-0.71; p < .001), FIQ (r = 0.95-0.99; p < .001), and BAI (r = 0.69-0.94; p < .001) scores. Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS) (p = .365-0.776) and Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS) (p = .598-0.880) indices, which are the subparameters of HRV, showed no significant between-group differences, with small effect sizes (r < 0.15). Conclusion: Both stimulation protocols effectively reduced pain and improved mood and functionality in fibromyalgia, indicating a safe, noninvasive adjunctive treatment option. Clinicaltrials.gov: (Identifier: NCT06871306).
  • Article
    Safety and Efficacy of Depatuxizumab Mafodotin Monotherapy or in Combination With Temozolomide in Patients With/Without EGFR-Amplified Recurrent Glioblastoma: A Systematic Review
    (Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2025) Moghib, Khaled; Hassan, Malak A.; Eljadid, Ghaith Y.; Salomon, Izere; Algazar, Mansour A.; Abu Arafeh, Muhannad Wael; Ibrahim, Ismail A.
    This study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of depatuxizumab mafodotin as a monotherapy or in combination with temozolomide in patients with recurrent epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-amplified glioblastoma multiforme, focusing on overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus databases up to August 2024. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies were included, comparing depatuxizumab mafodotin alone or with temozolomide in patients with and without EGFR amplification. Data extraction encompassed participant demographics, treatment regimens, and clinical outcomes. Of 102 screened publications, 10 RCTs and cohort studies involving 1431 patients met the inclusion criteria. The included studies examined depatuxizumab mafodotin as a standalone therapy and in combination with other agents, revealing OS ranging from 5 to 14 months and considerable variability in PFS. While depatuxizumab mafodotin shows the potential to improve survival outcomes, the heterogeneity in results highlights the need for further research. Future studies should refine patient selection criteria and explore alternative therapeutic combinations, such as depatuxizumab mafodotin with gemcitabine or cisplatin, to optimize treatment strategies.
  • Article
    Ultrasound Measurements of Pelvic Floor and Diaphragm Muscles in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients With Urinary Incontinence
    (Springer London Ltd, 2025) Balaban, Mehtap; Dusgun, Elif Sena; Nur, Hifziye Pervin; Lalecan, Nida; Sertcelik, Umran Ozden; Celenay, Seyda Toprak
    BackgroundThe precise manner in which morphological properties of pelvic floor muscles (PFMs) and diaphragm muscle in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients with Urinary Incontinence (UI) are affected remains unclear.AimThis study aimed to compare the ultrasound measurements of PFMs and diaphragm muscle in COPD patients with and without UI.MethodsThirty COPD patients with UI [UI group, age: 61.00 (42.00-70.00) years, body mass index: 27.86 (20.20-54.69) kg/m2] and thirty COPD patients without UI [N-UI group, age: 64.00 (47.00-70.00) years, body mass index: 27.11 (20.30-35.94) kg/m2] were included. The PFMs contaction assessment and diaphragm muscle morphological properties were evaluated using the Logiq S7/Expert ultrasound device. The percentage of change in thickness of diaphragm muscle, known as the diaphragm thickening fraction index (DTFI), was also calculated.ResultsIt was found that the PFMs contraction (p = 0.018) and DTFI (p = 0.016) values were significantly lower in the UI group compared to the N-UI group. No significant differences were observed in the diaphragm thickness score during the inspiration (p = 0.973) and expiration (p = 0.233) between the groups.ConclusionsPatients with COPD and UI exhibited diminished the PFMs contaction severity and DTFI compared to those with COPD but no UI. It should be considered that UI comorbidity in COPD may negatively affect PFMs contaction severity and diaphragm muscle morphological properties.
  • Article
    Burn Rehabilitation: Evaluation of Physiotherapists' Knowledge and Awareness Levels
    (Elsevier Sci Ltd, 2025) Seyyah, Mine; Akkurt, Mustafa Ferit; Yilmaz, Nergis
    Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of knowledge and awareness of physiotherapists working in Turkey about burn rehabilitation. Method: This was a cross-sectional study conducted between March and June 2025 and data were collected using Google Form. A total of 324 people were included in the study. The level of knowledge and awareness of the participants about burn rehabilitation was evaluated with 28 questions created by taking expert opinion. Results: While 25.6 % of participants had experience in burn rehabilitation, only 1.2 % frequently encountered burn patients. Although 60.5 % had taken courses on burn rehabilitation, only 15.1 % considered their knowledge sufficient. Correct response rates to key knowledge questions were 78.7 % for exercise applicability, 79.6 % for timing, 54.6 % for the most common burn type in Turkey, 35.8 % for edema management, and 13 % for pressure garment duration, revealing gaps in clinical knowledge. Additionally, 92.9 % believed early physiotherapy improves recovery, and 98.4 % reported positive effects on quality of life. Discussion: Our results indicate that although most physiotherapists had taken courses on burn rehabilitation, their knowledge remains insufficient, whereas their awareness is high, underscoring the need for targeted training and certification programs.
  • Article
    Effectiveness of Vibration in Reducing Pain and Improving Satisfaction During Subcutaneous Injections: A Randomized Crossover Clinical Trial
    (Taylor & Francis Ltd, 2025) Yildirim, Dilek; Kugu, Emre
    AimThe pain experienced during and after the injection may cause discomfort and lead individuals to develop a negative perception toward future injections. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of vibration stimulation on pain induced by subcutaneous injections and patient satisfaction.MethodsThis was a prospective, randomized, single-blind, crossover study design. Data were collected from 85 patients. Vibration and non-vibration subcutaneous anticoagulant injections were administered randomly by the same investigator following a standardized procedure. Pain and satisfaction were evaluated by a study-blind investigator using the Visual Analogue Scale immediately after the injection. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the Student's t-test, paired sample test, and a generalized linear mixed model.ResultsA total of 175 injections were analyzed. It was found that the pain level of patients was lower when vibration was applied (4.06 +/- 1.68 vs. 5.32 +/- 2.19, p = 0.004). Additionally, patient satisfaction was higher when vibration was used (7.17 +/- 1.71vs. 5.97 +/- 2.46, p = 0.011).ConclusionThe results of this study demonstrated that vibration was effective in reducing the pain associated with subcutaneous anticoagulant injections and in increasing patient satisfaction. Vibration can be used as a method to alleviate pain from subcutaneous anticoagulant injections and enhance patient satisfaction. Clinically, this suggests that incorporating vibration during subcutaneous injections can be a simple, non-pharmacological strategy to improve patient comfort and adherence to therapy.