Targeted fetal cell-free DNA screening for aneuploidies in 4,594 pregnancies: Single center study

Background Next-generation sequencing (NGS) and discovery of fetal cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in the maternal circulation render possible prenatal screening for trisomy 21 (Down syndrome), trisomy 18, trisomy 13, and sex chromosome aneuploidies. The approach is called "fetal cfDNA screening" and in contrast to noninvasive conventional serum screening, it provides the identification of 98%-99% of fetuses with Down syndrome. Methods Retrospective analysis of targeted noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) (Clarigo Test) pregnancies with moderate risk, which we have reported between 2016 and 2018 years is presented. Two separate laboratory workflows and NGS platforms are used for the same targeted NIPT analysis. Results In total, 4,594 pregnant women were investigated. Initial 3,594 cases are studied by MiSeq platform, the last 1,000 cases by NextSeq. Failure rate for MiSeq platform is 10.9% and for NextSeq is 8.7%. Automatically reported cases constitute 75% of the MiSeq group and 87% of the NextSeq group. Conclusions Targeted NIPT results suggest that MiSeq platform could be used for NIPT which would be an essential option particularly for laboratories with low sample flow. And, the NextSeq platform has easier wet lab process and also increased success rate in automatic reporting which is suitable for centers with high number of NIPT cases

Non-suicidal self-harm behavior within the previous year among 10th-grade adolescents in Istanbul and related variables

Background: Non-suicidal self-harm behavior (SHB), which is a pervasive and dangerous problem, is frequent among adolescents and it is important to evaluate the associated psychological and social factors to better understand its nature and to plan treatment programs. Aims: Aim of the present study is to determine the prevalence of SHB and the associated variables such as substance use, psychological, behavioral and social factors among 10th-grade students in Istanbul/Turkey. Methods: Cross-sectional online self-report survey conducted in 45 schools from the 15 districts in Istanbul/Turkey. A representative sample of 4957 10th-grade students was studied between October 2012 and December 2012. Results: SHB within the previous year were reported by 14.4% of the students (n = 713). Lifetime suicidal thoughts or behavior, tobacco, alcohol and/or drug use, symptoms of depression, anxiety and impulsive, delinquent and aggressive behaviors were also associated with SHB in Turkish 10th-grade students. Conclusions: The findings of the present study may be relevant in prevention and management of SHB as well as important problems among students, such as substance use, impulsive, delinquent, aggressive and suicidal behavior