Layer‐Specific Strain Analysis for Detecting Subclinical Cardiac Dysfunction in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

ABSTRACT Background Cardiac involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is often subclinical and underdiagnosed. Although impaired global longitudinal strain (GLS) is well documented in SLE, data on layer‐specific myocardial deformation are scarce. This study aimed to assess left and right ventricular function in SLE patients using speckle tracking echocardiography (STE), focusing on layer‐specific LV strain and its association with disease activity. Methods We included 43 SLE patients and 40 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls in a cross‐sectional design. All subjects underwent conventional transthoracic echocardiography and STE. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) of the left ventricle (LV) was measured separately for endocardial, mid‐myocardial, and epicardial layers. Right ventricular (RV) free wall strain was also assessed. Correlation between strain parameters and SLEDAI‐2K score was analyzed. Results While conventional echocardiographic parameters, including LV ejection fraction, were similar between groups, STE revealed significant myocardial impairment in SLE patients. LV endocardial and mid‐myocardial GLS were significantly reduced in SLE patients compared to controls (–15.7% vs. –20.3% and –18.1% vs. –20.1%, respectively; p  < 0.001). Epicardial strain showed a nonsignificant reduction ( p   =  0.081). RV free wall strain was also lower in SLE patients (–26.1% vs. –29.8%, p   =  0.001). LV endocardial strain strongly correlated with SLEDAI‐2K ( ρ = 0.716, p < 0.001), while RV strain did not. Conclusion STE detects early biventricular myocardial involvement in SLE, with evidence of systolic dysfunction predominantly at the LV endocardial level.

Preschool Teachers' Artificial Intelligence Awareness: An Experimental Study

ABSTRACT The application of artificial intelligence (AI) in early childhood education has been increasingly used to support preschool children's development. However, research indicates that preschool teachers often have limited awareness and literacy regarding AI, and studies focusing on improving their AI‐related knowledge remain insufficient. Therefore, enhancing preschool teachers' understanding of AI and supporting its effective integration into educational practices is critically important. This study aimed to examine the impact of an artificial intelligence education programme on preschool teachers' AI awareness. The study was conducted using a quasi‐experimental pre‐test–post‐test control group design and included a total of 48 preschool teachers, with 24 assigned to the experimental group and 24 to the control group. Teachers in the experimental group participated in artificial intelligence education applications, while no such interventions were implemented in the control group. Data were collected using measurement tools administered before and after the intervention. The findings revealed a statistically significant increase in artificial intelligence literacy among teachers in the experimental group compared to those in the control group. These results suggest that artificial intelligence–based educational interventions are effective in improving preschool teachers' awareness and understanding of AI, and they highlight the importance of incorporating AI education into professional development programmes for early childhood educators.

Enhancing the sociocultural adaptation of Syrian migrant women: The effects of family support program

ABSTRACT Objective This study examined the effects of a family support program on the sociocultural adaptation processes of Syrian migrant women living under temporary protection in Türkiye. Background Migration presents significant challenges, particularly for women balancing family responsibilities while adapting to new cultural contexts. Family support programs effectively enhance migrant integration by addressing challenges related to communication, social participation, and access to local resources. Limited research has examined how such programs affect the sociocultural adaptation of migrants, however. Method This study used a convergent mixed‐methods design. Quantitative data were gathered using the Sociocultural Adaptation Scale, and qualitative data were obtained through interviews, including 15 focus group interviews and five individual interviews. The sample consisted of 117 women, with 59 assigned to the experimental group and 58 to the control group. The experimental group participated in a 10‐week family support program, while the control group did not receive any intervention. Results The program significantly improved participants' sociocultural adaptation, with notable progress in interpersonal communication, personal interests, and ecological adaptation. Quantitative results showed no significant improvements in academic/work performance or language proficiency, however. Qualitative data highlighted enhanced family and social communication, increased self‐confidence and autonomy, improved daily life management, and a greater sense of social acceptance. Conclusion The program played a crucial role in improving women's sociocultural adaptation by fostering communication, personal growth, and better access to community services. Challenges related to language and employment remained, however, indicating a need for targeted interventions in these areas. Implications Family support programs enhance migrant women's sociocultural adaptation. Expanded programs focusing on language and employment could improve outcomes further.

The Association of Periodontitis With Risk of Prevalent and Incident Metabolic Syndrome

ABSTRACT Aim To investigate whether periodontitis is associated with prevalent and incident metabolic syndrome (MetS). Materials and Methods The baseline study included 4183 individuals from a population‐based survey (DILGOM) in 2007 and follow‐up of 1047 participants with clinical re‐examination in 2014. The risk of periodontitis was assessed with saliva biomarkers using a validated, three‐group cumulative risk score for periodontitis (CRS I, II and III). Results In fully adjusted models, CRS III was associated with prevalent MetS (OR: 1.35, 95% CI [1.11–1.65]), high waist circumference (1.55 95% CI [1.26–1.91]), high blood pressure (1.29 95% CI [1.05–1.59]) and the number of MetS components (β: 0.18, 95% CI [0.06–0.30]). Among participants without MetS at baseline ( n  = 618), 128 (20.7%) developed MetS during follow‐up. In the fully adjusted model, CRS III trended positively with incident MetS (RR: 1.55, 95% CI [ 0.96–2.51]) in the whole population and had a significant positive association in women (2.06, 95% CI [1.08–3.94]), and in non‐smokers (1.78, 95% CI [1.01–3.14]). The risk between CRS and incident MetS was mediated via systemic inflammation. Conclusion Periodontitis is associated with an increased risk of having metabolic syndrome and, in particular, clearly with the number of MetS components: abdominal obesity, hyperglycaemia and hypertension. Systemic inflammation may elucidate the observed higher risk of incident MetS.

Dyggve–Melchior–Clausen syndrome in three siblings: a unique case series with dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and Hirschsprung disease

Understanding of Clinical Trials Among Patients With Cancer and Their Relatives

Modern Strategies in Wound Healing: The Rise of Bacterial Cellulose Dressings

Abstract Advancements in wound care have necessitated the development of innovative dressings that address the limitations of traditional options while enhancing the healing process. Bacterial cellulose (BC) stands out due to its exceptional properties, including high water retention, biocompatibility, mechanical strength, and modification adaptability. This review critically compares BC‐based wound dressings with traditional and next‐generation alternatives, highlighting their unique advantages and potential as ideal wound coverings. BC's ability to maintain a moist environment, promote tissue regeneration, and minimize secondary injuries during dressing changes positions it as a superior option in wound care. BC's nanoporous structure also supports its functionalization with bioactive agents, antimicrobial compounds, and advanced fabrication techniques such as 3D printing and electrospinning. These modifications allow for tailored solutions that meet specific wound care requirements. Despite high production costs and the absence of intrinsic antimicrobial properties, BC surpasses many traditional dressings by addressing key areas such as moisture retention, biocompatibility, and ease of use. This study emphasizes BC's potential to transform wound care by combining its inherent properties with innovative modifications. BC‐based dressings offer promising avenues for developing more effective, tailored, and sustainable wound management strategies by bridging the gap between traditional and next‐generation solutions.

Investigation of Alzheimer's Disease‐Associated effect of SPOCK1 Protein on Apoptosis in Nerve Cells

Abstract Background SPOCK1, a member of the SPARC family, is highly expressed in breast, lung, prostate, and liver cancer. Various studies have demonstrated that SPARC family proteins play a crucial role in the development and diseases of the central nervous system (CNS). However, the role of SPOCK1, a member of the SPARC family, in CNS diseases—particularly Alzheimer's disease—remains unknown. Previously, we have reported an association between SPOCK1 variants and LOAD in a genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) meta‐analysis. Based on our observation and the recent literature on SPOCK1, we explored the role of SPOCK1 in different neuronal cells to understand its possible function in Alzheimer's pathogenesis. Methods Human astroglia (SVGp12), microglial (HMC3), and neuroblastoma (SH‐SY5Y) cell lines expressing fluorescently tagged SPOCK1 and un‐tagged SPOCK1 were used to investigate the expression and localization of SPOCK1 via immunocytochemistry (ICC) and confocal image analysis. It is well known that Alzheimer's disease is associated with death mechanisms in nerve cells. To investigate the molecular basis of Alzheimer's disease based on the possible unpredicted interactions and roles of SPOCK1 protein in mitochondrial cell death, SPOCK1 gene silencing and over‐expression effects on apoptosis were detected via TUNEL assay in human astroglia (SVGp12), microglial (HMC3), and neuroblastoma (SH‐SY5Y) cell lines. Results Our results based on immunocytochemistry (ICC) and confocal image analysis with various organelle markers showed for the first time that SPOCK1 is localized at the mitochondria of all the microglial, neuroblastoma, and astroglia cells. Moreover, apoptosis was detected in SPOCK1 over‐expressed astrocyte cells. However in SPOCK1 over‐expressing neuroblastoma cells, proliferaiton is observed, and when SPOCK1 was silenced, apoptotic cells were decreased. In microglial cells, no significant change was observed when SPOCK1 was over‐expressed or silenced. Conclusions For the first time we have shown localization of SPOCK1 in mitochondria in astroglia, microglial, and neuroblastoma cell lines, and studied SPOCK1's effect on cell death in these cell lines. The SPOCK1 overexpression in astrocytes increased apoptosis, highlighting its potential role in cell death. Overall our findings suggest a potantial role for SPOCK1 in Alzheimer's etiology and introducing it as a novel molecule in neurodegenerative diseases.

Revealing Parallel Inter‐ and Intra‐Ligand Charge Transfer Dynamics in [Ru(L) 2 (dppz)] 2+ Molecular Lightswitch with N K‐Edge X‐Ray Absorption Spectroscopy

Abstract In photoactive metal complexes the localization of photoexcited charges dictates the site of chemical reactivity, but few studies measure the charge redistribution in these systems with spatial precision. Herein, we track the inter‐ and intra‐ligand charge transfer processes that underpin light‐driven charge separation in the well‐studied “molecular lightswitch” [Ru(bpy) 2 dppz] 2+ (aqueous [Ruthenium II (2,2′‐bipyridine)2(dipyrido[3,2‐a:2′,3′‐c]phenazine)] 2+ [Cl − ] 2 ) by probing the electronic structure of ligand nitrogen atoms in real‐time using ultrafast X‐ray absorption spectroscopy and first principles calculations. We confirm the localization of excited electron density on the phenazine N atoms of dppz and we newly identify two parallel electron transfer pathways to populate this state. Sub‐70 fs electron transfer to the phenazine portion of dppz is observed and attributed to intra‐ligand electron transfer following Ru‐to‐dppz metal‐to‐ligand charge transfer (MLCT) excitation. This fast charge transfer was not reported in prior ultrafast studies. The slower (ca. 2 ps) charge transfer reported extensively in time‐resolved optical absorption and emission studies is reassigned here to inter‐ligand electron “hopping” between nearly isoenergetic ligand moieties following Ru‐to‐bpy MLCT excitation. The results demonstrate much faster charge separation than previously identified in this well‐studied system, highlighting how extended azaacene ligand motifs promote the competitive charge transfer processes needed to drive light‐driven electron transfer chemistry.

Revealing Parallel Inter‐ and Intra‐Ligand Charge Transfer Dynamics in [Ru(L) 2 (dppz)] 2+ Molecular Lightswitch with N K‐Edge X‐Ray Absorption Spectroscopy

Abstract In photoactive metal complexes the localization of photoexcited charges dictates the site of chemical reactivity, but few studies measure the charge redistribution in these systems with spatial precision. Herein, we track the inter‐ and intra‐ligand charge transfer processes that underpin light‐driven charge separation in the well‐studied “molecular lightswitch” [Ru(bpy) 2 dppz] 2+ (aqueous [Ruthenium II (2,2′‐bipyridine)2(dipyrido[3,2‐a:2′,3′‐c]phenazine)] 2+ [Cl − ] 2 ) by probing the electronic structure of ligand nitrogen atoms in real‐time using ultrafast X‐ray absorption spectroscopy and first principles calculations. We confirm the localization of excited electron density on the phenazine N atoms of dppz and we newly identify two parallel electron transfer pathways to populate this state. Sub‐70 fs electron transfer to the phenazine portion of dppz is observed and attributed to intra‐ligand electron transfer following Ru‐to‐dppz metal‐to‐ligand charge transfer (MLCT) excitation. This fast charge transfer was not reported in prior ultrafast studies. The slower (ca. 2 ps) charge transfer reported extensively in time‐resolved optical absorption and emission studies is reassigned here to inter‐ligand electron “hopping” between nearly isoenergetic ligand moieties following Ru‐to‐bpy MLCT excitation. The results demonstrate much faster charge separation than previously identified in this well‐studied system, highlighting how extended azaacene ligand motifs promote the competitive charge transfer processes needed to drive light‐driven electron transfer chemistry.