Sürdürülebilir Kalkınma Amaçları

• 21
• 1
• 1

• MakaleAçık Erişim2026/r/kostu/10863
  Longitudinal Magnetic Resonance Imaging Evaluation of Craniofacial Muscle Changes Following Radiotherapy in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

  Medişoğlu, M.Sabri; Öçbe, Melisa

  Aim: Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a radiosensitive head and neck malignancy typically arising in the Rosenmüller fossa. Radiotherapy (RT), while effective, is associated with adverse effects such as dysphagia and muscle atrophy. While pharyngeal constrictors have been extensively studied, the impact of RT on masticatory and suprahyoid muscles remains underexplored. This study aimed to quantitatively assess MRI-based changes in the thickness of masticatory and suprahyoid muscles in NPC patients before and 18–24 months after RT and to compare these findings with healthy controls. Material and Methods: MRI data from 31 NPC patients and 50 healthy controls were retrospectively analyzed. Muscle thickness was measured bilaterally on standardized T1- and T2-weighted sequences for the masseter, medial/lateral pterygoid, temporalis, geniohyoid, mylohyoid, digastric (anterior belly), and genioglossus muscles. Statistical analyses included paired and independent t-tests, ANOVA, and Chi-square tests (Python v3.11; p < 0.05). Results: Pre-RT patients showed significantly reduced left masseter thickness compared to controls (p = 0.0022). Post-RT, the masseter and medial pterygoid muscles demonstrated up to 30.61% atrophy (p < 0.00001). Minor, non-significant increases were seen in the lateral pterygoid and digastric muscles. Right-sided tumors showed higher ipsilateral muscle thickness. Genioglossus hypertrophy was observed in bilateral cases. Males had thicker muscles than females, and muscle thickness declined with age. Conclusion: RT leads to significant atrophy in key masticatory muscles in NPC patients. Muscle asymmetry may precede treatment and reflect tumor laterality. MRI-based assessment offers valuable insights.

  • 
  İncele
• MakaleAçık Erişim2026/r/kostu/10833
  Magnetic resonance imaging of Rosenmüller Fossa morphology in nasopharyngeal carcinoma

  Medişoğlu, M.Sabri; Öçbe, Melisa

  The Rosenmüller Fossa (RF) is the most common site of origin for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC); however, its morphometric characteristics remain underinvestigated in clinical imaging studies. This study aimed to evaluate the morphological and dimensional differences in the RF between patients with NPC and healthy controls using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A retrospective analysis of MRI data from 41 patients with NPC and 49 age- and sex-matched controls without nasopharyngeal pathology was performed. Measurements included RF height, width, inter-fossa distance, and nasopharyngeal depth on axial and sagittal MR images. RF morphology was classified as Type A (shallow), Type B (deep and narrow), or Type C (deep and wide). The mean age of patients with NPC was 51.22 ± 13.81 years, and 68.29% were men. Tumor laterality was bilateral in 56.10% of the cases, and RF involvement was observed in 70.73% of the cases. No significant differences were found in right RF dimensions or R-L distance (p>0.05); however, left RF height was significantly reduced in patients with NPC (3.49 vs. 5.42 mm; p=0.013). Nasopharyngeal depth was also shorter in patients with NPC (17.40 mm vs. 19.03 mm; p=0.006). The RF morphology distribution did not differ significantly (p=0.381), although Type C fossae were more common in patients with NPC (26.83% vs. 14.29%). MRI revealed significant reductions in the left RF height and nasopharyngeal depth in patients with NPC, suggesting asymmetrical nasopharyngeal involvement. Detailed RF assessment using MRI may contribute to the early detection and improved staging of NPC.

  • 
  İncele
• MakaleAçık Erişim2026/r/kostu/10830
  Quantitative assessment of uvula dimensions, airway space, and pharyngeal bursa in children with and without adenoid hypertrophy

  Öçbe, Melisa; Gözüyukarı, Hilal; Akçay, Hülya

  This study aimed to investigate the association between adenoid hypertrophy (AH) and upper airway morphology in pediatric patients, with a specific focus on uvula dimensions, pharyngeal bursa characteristics, and nasopharyngeal airway space using sagittal and axial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In this retrospective cross-sectional study, MRI scans of 104 pediatric patients aged 1–18 years were analyzed. Uvula height and width, pharyngeal bursa height and width, and the nasopharyngeal airway distance (from the posterior nasal spine to the posterior pharyngeal wall) were measured using calibrated DICOM software. Patients were grouped based on the presence of AH, and anatomical measurements were compared accordingly. Correlations with age and sex were also assessed. Statistical analysis included t-tests, ANOVA, chi-square tests, and Pearson correlation. Children with AH had significantly reduced nasopharyngeal airway space compared to those without AH (mean: 12.05 mm vs. 16.71 mm, p<0.001). No significant differences were observed in uvula or bursa dimensions across groups. A strong correlation was found between uvula height and width (r=0.66), and both increased significantly with age. Males showed greater pharyngeal bursa height than females (p=0.001), while bursa width did not differ significantly by sex. MRI is a valuable non-invasive tool for evaluating pediatric airway anatomy. While AH is associated with airway narrowing, it does not appear to affect uvula or bursa characteristics. Pediatric dentists should consider comprehensive airway assessments, as early detection of obstruction can impact craniofacial development and treatment planning.

  • 
  İncele
• MakaleYayıncıda açık erişim2026Scopus SJRQ2/r/kostu/10747
  Evaluation of the pterygoid process pneumatization and sclerosis with Vidian canal morphology using computed tomography: a comparative study in nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients and healthy controls

  Medişoğlu, Mahmut Sabri; Öçbe, Melisa

  BACKGROUND: To evaluate the morphological characteristics of the pterygoid process - including pneumatization and sclerosis - alongside vidian canal (VC) type and length in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) compared to healthy controls using computed tomography (CT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective study included 200 subjects, comprising 38 patients with histopathologically confirmed NPC and 162 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. All CT scans were acquired using a standardized protocol with thin-slice axial images and multiplanar reconstructions. Evaluated features included pterygoid process pneumatization and sclerosis, VC type (classified as Type 1-3), and VC length bilaterally. RESULTS: Pterygoid process pneumatization showed no statistically significant difference between the NPC and control groups (right: 21.1% vs 24.7%, p = 0.794; left: 21.1% vs 18.5%, p = 0.898). In contrast, right-sided pterygoid plate sclerosis was significantly more frequent in NPC patients (68.4%) than in controls (4.9%) (p < 0.005). Significant differences in VC types were found between groups. Type 3 canals were more common in NPC patients (right: 39.5%, left: 39.5%) than in controls (right: 21.0%, left: 23.5%), while Type 2 was reduced in the NPC group (right and left: 15.8%) vs controls (right: 33.3%, left: 34.6%); significant for both sides (right: p = 0.024; left: p = 0.038). VC length was also significantly greater in the NPC group (right: 14.18 mm; left: 13.08 mm) compared to controls (right: 12.25 mm; left: 12.35 mm). The VC length positively correlated with age (right: r = 0.267; left: r = 0.339). CONCLUSIONS: Sclerosis of the right pterygoid plate and an increased prevalence of Type 3 VCs were significantly associated with NPC. Anatomical variations in VC type and length may have diagnostic implications in radiological interpretation and radiotherapy planning in NPC patients.

  • 
  AtıfScopus1·WoS1

  İncele
• MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1/r/kostu/10641
  Multidimensional Evaluation of AI-Generated Patient Information on Cone Beam–Computed Tomography

  Öçbe, Melisa; Akçay, Hülya Çerçi; Sır, Eda; Taş, Çağan; Erbalta, Rana

  This study aimed to conduct a multidimensional evaluation of artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot–generated patient information regarding cone beam–computed tomography (CBCT) in dentistry, with specific focus on readability, informational quality, reliability, and patient-centered suitability. Twenty frequently asked, patient-oriented questions related to CBCT were systematically identified from a public online forum. Each question was submitted to four large language model–based chatbots (ChatGPT-4o, Gemini Advanced, Claude Sonnet 4, and Microsoft Copilot) under standardized conditions. Generated responses were evaluated using validated instruments, including the DISCERN tool and Global Quality Scale (GQS) for information quality and reliability, as well as Flesch Reading Ease, Flesch–Kincaid Grade Level, and Gunning Fog Index for readability. Patient-centeredness was further assessed using PEMAT-Understandability and PEMAT-Actionability scores. Comparative analyses were performed using linear mixed-effects models. Significant differences were observed among chatbots across all evaluated domains (p < 0.05). While advanced models demonstrated higher informational quality and reliability, their responses frequently exceeded recommended health literacy thresholds. Readability, transparency, and actionability varied substantially between platforms. No chatbot consistently met all criteria for optimal patient-directed communication. AI chatbots can provide generally accurate information on CBCT; however, variability in readability, reliability, and educational suitability limits their standalone use for patient education. Careful integration with professional oversight is essential to ensure safe and accessible AI-supported communication in dentomaxillofacial radiology. This study provides the first multidimensional, comparative evaluation of leading AI chatbots in delivering patient-oriented information about cone beam–computed tomography. It shows critical gaps between informational accuracy and health literacy suitability. This study reveals the need for professional oversight when using AI for patient education in dentomaxillofacial radiology.

  • 
  İncele
• MakaleYayıncıda açık erişim2026Scopus SJRQ3/r/kostu/10625
  Florid Cemento-Osseous Dysplasia of the Mandible: A Case Report with Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings and Conservative Management; [Displasia cemento-ósea florida de la nandíbula: Reporte de un caso con hallazgos en imagen por resonancia magnética y manejo conservador]

  Samur, Mustafa Kaan; Öçbe, Melisa

  Florid cemento-osseous dysplasia (FCOD) is a benign fibro-osseous lesion that often affects multiple regions of the mandible and maxilla and is usually detected incidentally. Although it is frequently asymptomatic clinically, complications such as pain and infection may develop in some cases. This case report presents in detail a case of FCOD identified in a 51-year-old female patient who presented with pain in the left mandibular region. Panoramic radiographs taken at different times and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings were used in the diagnostic process, and a definitive diagnosis was made based on clinical and radiological data. The patient was managed conservatively without the need for any invasive intervention. This case highlights the role of comprehensive imaging modalities in the differential diagnosis of florid cemento-osseous dysplasia and underscores the importance of conservative management strategies.

  • 
  İncele
• MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ2/r/kostu/10573
  Morphologic variations of the sigmoid sinus on computed tomography: a classification-based study

  Medişoğlu, Mahmut Sabri; Öçbe, Melisa

  Purpose: The sigmoid sinus is a vital dural venous structure whose anatomical variability has direct implications for lateral skull base and otologic surgeries. Understanding the sinus’s positional variations is considered important for minimizing surgical risks. This study aimed to evaluate the morphological classification of the sigmoid sinus using a surgical reference-based system and to assess its relationship with demographic variables. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on high-resolution temporal bone CT scans of 241 patients (114 females [47.30%], 127 males [52.70%]) with an age range of 18–92 years (mean age: 47.95 ± 17.84). The morphology of the sigmoid sinus was classified into four types based on the system defined by Dong-Il Sun et al., using three anatomical reference lines. The width and depth of the sigmoid sinus were measured bilaterally and analyzed in relation to age and gender. Statistical analysis included paired tests for bilateral measurements, chi-square tests and ordinal logistic regression for associations with age and sex, and reliability assessment using Cohen’s kappa and intraclass correlation coefficients. Results: A total of 241 patients were included. Mean sigmoid sinus depth and width were 6.57 ± 1.73 mm and 14.55 ± 4.06 mm on the right, and 6.33 ± 1.52 mm and 15.18 ± 4.93 mm on the left, respectively. Left-sided width was significantly greater than the right (p < 0.05), whereas depth did not differ. Type 3 and Type 4 configurations predominated bilaterally; Type 1 was not observed. Age was significantly associated with left-sided sigmoid sinus type (p = 0.0048), with more medial configurations in older individuals. Ordinal regression showed decreasing odds of higher-type anatomy with increasing age (OR = 0.84 per decade). Gender was associated with left-sided type distribution but not independently predictive after adjustment. Inter- and intraobserver reliability was excellent. Conclusion: The positional morphology of the sigmoid sinus varies significantly with age and gender. The absence of Type 1 and predominance of high-risk configurations in younger individuals suggests the potential relevance of individualized preoperative assessment. This classification system may provide additional anatomical insight for radiologic evaluation; however, its direct impact on surgical decision-making requires further validation.

  • 
  İncele
• MakaleYalnız künye2026Scopus SJRQ2/r/kostu/10521
  Evaluating YouTube videos on oral potentially malignant disorders and oral cancer

  Akçay, Hülya Çerçi; Kargu, Erdal Cem; Öçbe, Melisa

  Background Oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) are abnormalities with an elevated risk of transforming into oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Despite the visibility of early lesions, OSCC is frequently diagnosed at advanced stages due to low public awareness. YouTube offers potential for oral health education, but the reliability of OPMD-related content remains uncertain. Methods This study systematically assessed the content, reliability, and educational value of 100 English-language YouTube videos on OPMDs and oral cancer. Two independent evaluators analyzed videos using a 6-domain content rubric, JAMA benchmarks, DISCERN, and the Global Quality Scale (GQS). Inter-observer agreement was calculated. Results Of the 100 videos screened, 36 met inclusion criteria. The mean view count was 6,741.9 ± 14,315.5, with limited engagement (interaction index = 1.9 ± 2.3). The highest content scores were observed for Definition and Classification (4.47 ± 0.63) and Diagnostic Approaches (4.07 ± 1.05), while Patient Education ranked lowest (2.57 ± 1.09). Overall video quality was moderate (GQS = 2.94 ± 0.75; DISCERN = 47.29 ± 15.55; JAMA = 2.16 ± 0.67; VIQI = 14.13 ± 2.13). Strong correlations existed among quality indices (ρ = 0.70–0.75, P < .001), but engagement did not correlate with quality. Conclusions OPMD-related YouTube content frequently lacks comprehensive patient education, and credible sources are not always the most viewed. Developing accurate, accessible, and engaging educational videos remains essential.

  • 
  AtıfScopus2·WoS3·OpenAlex2

  İncele
• MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1/r/kostu/10499
  Cognitive-level analysis of dentomaxillofacial radiology questions in the Turkish dentistry specialization examination: a Bloom’s revised taxonomy analysis

  Ocbe, Melisa; Akcay, Hulya Cerci; Gumru, Birsay; Yalcinkaya, Sebnem Ercalik

  Background: Bloom’s revised taxonomy is widely used to evaluate the cognitive level of examination questions. With the growing use of large language models (LLMs), interest has increased in their potential to support cognitive classification. However, evidence comparing LLM-based classification with expert consensus in dental specialty examinations remains limited. This study aimed to analyze the cognitive levels of dentomaxillofacial radiology (DMFR) questions in the Turkish Dentistry Specialization Examination (DUS) and to evaluate the agreement between expert consensus and ChatGPT v5.2. Methods: A total of 130 text-based DMFR questions from the DUS were classified according to Bloom’s revised taxonomy using expert consensus and ChatGPT v5.2. Agreement between classifications was assessed using exact agreement and quadratic-weighted Cohen’s kappa. Results: “Analyze” was the most frequent cognitive level in both expert consensus (41.5%) and ChatGPT classification (44.6%), followed by “Remember.” Exact agreement between ChatGPT and expert consensus was 80.0%, with almost perfect ordinal agreement (κw = 0.851; 95% bootstrap CI: 0.769–0.923). Conclusions: ChatGPT v5.2 showed high agreement with expert consensus for Bloom-level classification in this dataset. These findings suggest that LLM-based classification may support Bloom-level mapping as an assistive tool; however, they should be interpreted as preliminary evidence of feasibility rather than practical validation. Expert oversight remains necessary, and further research is needed to assess performance across different models, settings, and educational contexts.

  İncele
• MakaleYalnız künye2026Scopus SJRQ4/r/kostu/10365
  Radiologic-anatomical correlation of sphenoid sinus and sella turcica variations

  Medişoğlu, Mahmut S.; Öçbe, Melisa; Genç, Mediha Gülden

  The sphenoid sinus displays variable pneumatization patterns and complex morphology, situated near vital vascular and neural structures. Understanding its anatomical variations is essential for accurate radiological diagnosis and safe surgical planning in otolaryngology and neurosurgery. Different pneumatization types may influence surgical outcomes and complication risks. This retrospective study analyzed 408 CT scans from patients aged ≥18 years to assess sphenoid sinus pneumatization and morphometry. Pneumatization types were classified as conchal, presellar, incomplete sellar, and complete sellar. Morphometric parameters (width, height, and angle) were measured on sagittal CT images. Intraobserver reliability showed excellent agreement. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, ANOVA, t-tests, Pearson correlation, and Chi-square tests. Incomplete (41.42%) and complete sellar (40.44%) were the most frequent pneumatization types. Males had greater posterior wall width (p = 0.0008), and age positively correlated with width (p = 0.0125), height (p < 0.0001), and angle (p = 0.0068). Pneumatization types differed significantly by gender (p = 0.0439). Posterior wall height varied significantly across sphenoid sinus pathologies (p = 0.0024), with higher values in cases of polypoid tissue and cysts. Significant correlations existed between width and height (p = 0.0251), and width and angle (p = 0.0053). Incomplete sellar pneumatization was most common, with notable gender differences in type prevalence. While sellar morphometry correlated with age and gender, it was not associated with pneumatization types. Variations in posterior wall height across sinus pathologies may reflect anatomical variability, showing the importance of detailed imaging evaluation.

  • 
  İncele