Sürdürülebilir Kalkınma Amaçları

Yazarlar

  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    Production and quality assessment of functional crackers based on fruit seed oils

    Barut, Yeliz Tekgul; Koç, Gulsah Caliskan; Akdogan, Arda; Erdogan, Selma Lubabe; Ergün, Ahsen Rayman; Altay, Kadriye; Rustagi, Sarvesh; Ramniwas, Seema; Pandiselvam, Ravi

    Crackers are popular bakery products known for their crunchy texture and long shelf life. Typically made from leavened or unleavened dough with wheat flour, oil, water, and additives, crackers have undergone recipe enhancements to improve sensory and nutritional profiles. While many studies explore cracker and biscuit formulations, fruit seed oils remain underexplored. Fruit seeds, often discarded as waste, are rich in essential fatty acids, amino acids, and micronutrients. Oils from seeds such as grape, pomegranate, rosehip, and apricot have gained attention for their health benefits, which presents an opportunity for innovation in bakery products. This study evaluated the potential of incorporating various fruit seed oils (pomegranate, apricot kernel, grape, fig, and rosehip) into cracker formulations. Crackers were assessed for physicochemical properties, antioxidant activity, mineral content, texture, and sensory attributes, with sunflower oil as the control. Results showed that the addition of fruit seed oils significantly influenced cracker properties. Crackers with apricot kernel oil had the highest ash content (2.29 +/- 0.13%) and exhibited a more acidic character, as did those with grape seed oil. Moisture content decreased significantly when rosehip seed oil was used (P < 0.05). Grape seed oil yielded the highest water-holding capacity, while sunflower oil provided the highest oil-holding capacity. Crackers made with rosehip and apricot kernel oils demonstrated improved antioxidant properties. Using fruit seed oils not only enhances nutritional value (e.g. vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and dietary fiber) but also reduces material waste, contributing to sustainability and better resource utilization.

    • SDG 2 · Açlığa Son
    • SDG 12 · Sorumlu Üretim ve Tüketim
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    A hybrid decision support system for transport policy selection: A case study on Russia's Northern Sea route in Artic region

    Yalçin, Galip Cihan; Limon, Elif Gurdal; Kara, Karahan; Limon, Onur; Gürol, Pinar; Deveci, Muhammet; Demirayak, Ozgur; Tomáková, Hana

    The selection of transport policies by countries is critical both for international relations and for the implementation of effective and sustainable transport practices. Countries consider numerous parameters when deciding on transport policies. This study aims to develop a Decision Support System (DSS) to assist countries in selecting transport policies and to demonstrate its applicability. The primary motivation of the research is to identify transport policies for Russia's Arctic region and to determine the best alternative policy based on expert evaluations. For this purpose, the IF-SIWEC-ARLON (Intuitionistic Fuzzy Sets - Simple Weight Calculation - Alternative Ranking Using Two-Step Logarithmic Normalization) hybrid method was developed as a DSS in this study. To implement this hybrid method, a decision model incorporating experts, criteria, and transport policies was first established. The contribution levels of experts to the decision-making process were calculated using IF sets. Next, the criteria weights were determined using the IF-SIWEC approach. Finally, the ranking of transport policies was carried out using the IF-ARLON method. An algorithm representing the application of this hybrid method was developed and applied to a case study focusing on Russia's transport policy selection process of Northern Sea Route (NSR) in the Arctic region. The results supported the successful application of the IF-SIWEC-ARLON hybrid method. Its robustness was tested through sensitivity analysis scenarios, while the consistency of the findings was verified via comparative analyses. The study concluded that the best transport policy for Russia's Arctic region is Improved regulatory control with strategic international partnerships, with the most influential criterion in the decision process identified as State interests, security, and sovereignty..

    • SDG 9 · Sanayi, Yenilikçilik ve Altyapı
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    Inspiratory muscle training in natural bodybuilders: adaptations in diaphragm muscle thickness and maximal strength

    Güler, Iskender; Yilmaz, Coskun; Soylu, Hakan Hueseyin; Birinci, Muersit Ceyhun; Arslan, Ayla; Ocak, Hakan; Çayir, Huseyin; Kavuran, Korhan; Saç, Ajlan; Uçar, Mine Akkus

    Background: The effect of inspiratory muscle training on diaphragm muscle thickness (DT) and one repetition maximal (1RM) in professional natural bodybuilders is still unclear. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of inspiratory muscle training on diaphragm muscle thickness and 1RM in professional natural bodybuilders. Methods: The study comprised a total of 22 athletes who participated in bodybuilding competitions. Each athlete had undergone a minimum of 5 years of training, with a minimum weekly commitment of 5 hours. Participants were randomly divided into two groups: inspiratory muscle training (IMT) and control (CON). The CON continued their normal training regime, while the IMT group also performed inspiratory muscle training with a 10% weekly increase by setting the resistance setting of the PowerBreathe (R) Classic device to 40% of the participant's maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP). Prior to and during the 4-week training period, 1RM bench press measurements and diaphragm muscle thickness measurements were obtained. Results: In the comparison of 1RM power values before and after training, it was determined that the IMT group (%: 11.20) had 6.3% more post-activation performance enhancement compared to the CON group (%: 4.9) (p < 0.001). In the study, it was determined that a higher level of significant post-activation performance enhancement was obtained in the IMT group compared to the CON group in the diaphragm muscle thickness inspiratory phase (DT ins) and ekspiratory phase (DT eks) parameters at 20.36% and 19.46%, respectively. Conclusion: In conclusion, we determined that the addition of progressive loading inspiratory muscle training to preparation programmes in natural bodybuilders will improve diaphragm muscle thickness, 1RM physical performance. In particular, it shows that the diaphragm muscle should be considered not only as a muscle that supports respiration, but also as a muscle that contributes to power generation by optimising intra-abdominal pressure.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    Judo exercises increase emotional expression, self-control, and psychological resilience

    Köroglu, Mihrac; Yilmaz, Coskun; Tan, Cetin; Çelikel, Baha Engin; Budak, Cemalettin; Kavuran, Korhan; Susuz, Yunus Emre; Barut, Yasar; Ceylan, Tulay; Soyer, Fikret

    Background: The extant research on judo sports has principally concentrated on the physiological effects of training. Conversely, there has been limited attention paid to studies on psychological resilience, self-control, and emotional expression levels. The present study examined the effects of Judo exercises on psychological resilience, self-control, and emotional expression levels in healthy male subjects. Methods: The present study comprised 50 healthy, sedentary male subjects. The subjects were randomly divided into two groups: one group participated in judo training (JT) and the other group served as the control group (CON). The sample sizes for the JT and CON groups were both 25. The JT group underwent judo training, while the CON group maintained their usual lifestyle. The Brief Psychological Resilience Scale, the Multidimensional Brief Self-Control Scale, and the Berkeley Emotion Expression Scale were administered prior to and following the 6-week training period. Results: The study demonstrated that a 6-week judo training regimen exerted a significant effect on the psychological resilience score (e.s. = 1.047, p < 0.001), while no such effect was observed in the Control group (e.s. = 0.0091, p = 0.751). In the context of self-control levels, an effect was observed on the Initiation sub-dimension (e.s. = 1, 739, p < 0.001), yet no effect was found on the Inhibition dimension (e.s. = 0.052, p = 0.892). In the control group, a significant decrease was identified in the Initiation sub-dimension (e.s. = 0, 785, p = 0.001) and Inhibition sub-dimension (e.s. = 1, 861, p < 0.001). The findings indicate that impulse power (e.s. = 0.395) and concealment (e.s. = 0.428) exerted a negligible influence on the emotional expression sub-dimensions. Conversely, psychological resilience (e.s. = 0.886) demonstrated a substantial impact. Conclusions: The judo exercises demonstrated a favorable impact on psychological resilience, self-control, and emotional expression levels in healthy male subjects. The findings of this study may offer significant insights into the impact of judo exercises on psychological resilience, self-control, and emotion expression levels. These findings could serve as a guide for the development of future interventions and program design in the domain of sport psychology.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    Investigation of the relationship between apelin hormone response and some physiological parameters in enzootic bovine leukosis virus infected cattle

    Sait, A.; Bayraktar, B.; Korkmaz, S.; Genç, M.; Bayraktar, S.; Kotan, G. C.; Aydemir, S.; Takma, C.; Bülbül, A. S.; Aksakal, V

    Apelin is a hormone with lymphangiogenesis potential, associated with tumor growth and lymph node metastasis, and is reported to stimulate tumor vascularization. This study aimed to investigate the response of the apelin hormone in cattle with and without Enzootic Bovine Leukosis (EBL) infection, based on physiological parameters such as breed, age, and body condition score (BCS). A total of 120 Simmental and Montafon cattle of varying ages (<2, 2-8, and >8) and BCS categories (<2, 3-3.5, and >= 4) were included in the study. Serum apelin hormone levels were measured using the ELISA technique in blood samples collected from the neck vein ( Vena jugularis) of the animals. The analysis of mean serum apelin (ng/mL) values revealed that, among EBL-positive cattle, the highest value was 2.77 ng/mL in Simmental cattle aged 2-8 years with a BCS of 3-3.5, while a value of 2.69 ng/mL was observed in Montafon cattle aged >8 years with a BCS of 3-3.5. For EBL-negative cattle, the highest mean serum apelin value was 2.24 ng/mL, recorded in Simmental cattle aged 2-8 years with a BCS of 3-3.5, whereas it was 1.45 ng/mL in Montafon cattle aged >8 years with the same BCS. In conclusion, this study demonstrated for the first time the effect of apelin hormone levels in cattle with or without EBL, depending on physiological parameters such as age, breed, and BCS. It is suggested that the apelin hormone, which is involved in neoplastic lymphocyte cell infiltration in the lymphoreticular tissues of cattle, and plays a role in regulating tumor growth in EBL, a malignant tumor disease, may contribute to eradication programs. Moreover, the evaluated parameters may prove valuable for disease prevention and control strategies.

    • SDG 2 · Açlığa Son
    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    ACTN3, IL-6 AND PPARA GENE POLYMORPHISMS AND ANAEROBIC PERFORMANCE IN VOLLEYBALL PLAYERS

    Ön, Sadi; Can, Ibrahim; Bayrakdaroglu, Serdar; Sever, Mehmet Onur; Diker, Gurkan; Özkamçi, Huseyin; Zileli, Raif; Söyler, Mehmet; Yilmaz, Ozlem Ozge; Polat, Tolga

    The aim of this study is to determine the relationship between ACTN3 rs1815739, IL-6 rs1800795, and PPARA rs4253778 gene polymorphisms and anaerobic test parameters among volleyball players. A total of 22 volleyball players voluntarily participated in the study. DNA isolation from buccal epithelial cell samples were performed using a PureLink DNA isolation kit, following the manufacturer's instructions. The genotyping of ACTN3 rs1815739, IL-6 rs1800795, and PPARA rs4253778 gene polymorphisms were determined using the real-time polymerase chain reaction technique. Statistical analysis of the test results was performed using the SPSS 23 software package. Homogeneity of variance was assessed with the Levene test, and normal distribution was evaluated using the Shapiro-Wilk test. The One-Way ANOVA test was applied for the analysis of all parameters, and significance was set at p < 0.05. When the data were evaluated, no statistically significant differences were observed between PPARA rs4253778 and ACTN3 rs1815739 gene polymorphisms and anaerobic performance parameters (p>0.05). Statistically significant differences were observed between the IL-6 rs1800795 gene polymorphism and anaerobic performance parameters of back strength (p> 0.05). In conclusion, in volleyball, PPARA rs4253778 andACTN3 rs1815739 gene polymorphisms did not cause differentiation in anaerobic performance parameters. However, IL-6 gene polymorphism caused differentiation only in the back strength parameter. Additionally, the good performance of athletes with different prevalent level of genotypes in the studied performance criteria does not fully reveal which performance outcomes are influenced by the gene or genotype distributions. It is understood that further studies are needed to better determine the gene-performance relationship.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    Exploring how cognitive-behavioral physical activity links ruminative thinking and mental wellbeing in sports high school adolescents

    Derelioglu, Mehmet; Vural, Mustafa; Çimen, Erkan; Saki, Unal; Yagiz Saracoglu, Yusuf; Karatas, Baykal; Saç, Ajlan; Yamaner, Emre; Halmatov, Medera; Yilmaz, Coskun

    Introduction: This study examined the associations among ruminative thinking style (RTS), subjective wellbeing (SWB), and cognitive-behavioral physical activity (CBPA) in a sample of 1,326 adolescents (aged 14-18) from sports high schools. Method: Using validated self-report measures, data were analyzed through bootstrapped mediation models. Results: RTS was negatively associated with SWB (beta = -0.1792, p < 0.001), while CBPA showed a partial mediating effect in this relationship (indirect beta = 0.0779, p < 0.001). Discussion: These results suggest that cognitive-behavioral orientations toward physical activity may buffer the negative impact of rumination on wellbeing. Consistent with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) principles, CBPA could provide adolescents with self-regulatory strategies that support mental health. However, the cross-sectional and self-report design, as well as the focus on sports high school students, limit causal inference and generalizability. Future longitudinal and cross-cultural studies are needed to confirm these findings. Overall, the study provides preliminary evidence that CBPA-informed approaches may hold promise for promoting adolescents' mental wellbeing.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    Greening the OECD: Unravelling the Complex Relationship Between Natural Resource Efficiency, Technological Innovation and Population Density on Ecological Footprint

    Çabas, Meral; Beser, Nazife Ozge; Ayaydin, Hasan; Barut, Abdulkadir; Magazzino, Cosimo

    This paper aims to investigate the relationship among green environmental technologies, resource efficiency, population density and ecological footprint in 38 OECD member countries between 2000 and 2019. The Method of Moments Quantile Regression (MMQREG) and Augmented Mean Group (AMG) estimators are used to analyse this relationship. Based on the results, strong evidence of a negative relationship between green environmental technologies, resource efficiency, population density and ecological footprint emerges, suggesting that these factors contribute to environmental improvement in OECD economies. Overall, the findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics among these variables and provide valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders striving for sustainable environmental management and policy formulation. In this context, countries should develop standard guidelines and best practices on green technologies and resource efficiency, making it easier for sectors to adapt in these areas.

    • SDG 12 · Sorumlu Üretim ve Tüketim
    • SDG 13 · İklim Eylemi
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    The effects of sub-components of economic freedom on load capacity factor: Empirical analysis for MENA countries

    Senturk, Nazli Keyifli; Bayraktar, Yuksel; Recepoglu, Mursit; Ozyilmaz, Ayfer; Balsalobre-Lorente, Daniel

    This study investigates the effects of economic freedom sub-components on load capacity factor (LCF) in 12 MENA countries for 2017-2022. The 12 sub-components of the economic freedom index were used as independent variables, and the load capacity factor was used as the dependent variable. In the study, four-panel data models were created using the subcomponents of the economic freedom index, and a two-stage System-GMM was used. According to the study, while property rights reduce the load capacity factor, Judicial Effectiveness increases it. The effect of Government Integrity on the load capacity factor is statistically insignificant. While Government spending negatively affects the load capacity factor, Tax Burden and Fiscal Health are statistically insignificant. Business freedom affects the load capacity factor positively, but monetary freedom affects it negatively. Labour freedom is statistically insignificant. On the other hand, trade freedom and investment freedom have a positive impact on the load capacity factor, while financial freedom has a negative effect.

    • SDG 8 · İnsana Yakışır İş ve Ekonomik Büyüme
    • SDG 9 · Sanayi, Yenilikçilik ve Altyapı
    • SDG 16 · Barış, Adalet ve Güçlü Kurumlar
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    Sulfonamide-Bearing Pyrazolone Derivatives as Multitarget Therapeutic Agents: Design, Synthesis, Characterization, Biological Evaluation, In Silico ADME/T Profiling and Molecular Docking Study

    Lolak, Nebih; Akocak, Suleyman; Topal, Meryem; Koçyigit, Umit Muhammet; Isik, Mesut; Türkes, Cuneyt; Topal, Fevzi; Durgun, Mustafa; Beydemir, Sukru

    The research and design of new inhibitors for the treatment of diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and glaucoma through inhibition of cholinesterases (ChEs; acetylcholinesterase, AChE and butyrylcholinesterase, BChE) and carbonic anhydrase enzymes are among the important targets. Here, a series of novel sulfonamide-bearing pyrazolone derivatives (1a-f and 2a-f) were successfully synthesized and characterized by using spectroscopic and analytical methods. The inhibitory activities of these newly synthesized compounds were evaluated both in vitro and in silico for their effect on carbonic anhydrases (hCA I and hCA II isoenzymes) and ChEs. The in vitro studies showed that these novel compounds demonstrated potential inhibitory activity, with K-I values covering the following ranges: 18.03 +/- 2.86-75.54 +/- 4.91 nM for hCA I, 24.84 +/- 1.57-85.42 +/- 6.60 nM for hCA II, 7.45 +/- 0.98-16.04 +/- 1.60 nM for AChE, and 34.78 +/- 5.88-135.70 +/- 17.39 nM for BChE. Additionally, many of these compounds showed promising inhibitory activity, and some showed higher potency than reference compounds. While the in silico studies have also identified the potential binding positions of these compounds, using the crystal structures of hCA I, II, AChE and BChE receptors. The varying affinities demonstrated by these designed compounds for ChEs and hCA isoenzymes show that these compounds could hold promise as potential alternative agents for selectively inhibiting ChEs and hCAs in the treatment of diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and glaucoma.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    Multiple Mantle Melting and Metasomatism during the Initial Stages of Subduction: Multi-Geochemical and Os-Isotope Evidence from Well-Preserved Kızıldağ Ophiolite, southern Türkiye

    Uysal, Ibrahim; Sen, Ahmet D.; Su, Ben-Xun; Ersoy, Yalcin; Demir, Yilmaz; Pan, Qi-Qi; Hu, Wen-Jun; Bagci, Utku; Godard, Marguerite

    The processes governing ophiolite formation and evolution remain incompletely understood. The K & imath;z & imath;lda & gbreve; ophiolite, a well-preserved remnant of the Neo-Tethyan oceanic lithosphere in the Anatolian region, southern T & uuml;rkiye, offers critical insights into subduction-related processes and geodynamics. This study presents new element data for mineral and whole-rock samples, combined with Re-Os isotopic compositions of mantle peridotites and associated crustal rocks and extrusives. Petrographic observations identify two distinct groups of peridotites: (1) those with very low modal clinopyroxene, interpreted as highly depleted harzburgites and preserving primary mineral assemblages, and (2) depleted harzburgites containing secondary clinopyroxene with elevated trace element contents, inferred to have crystallized from percolating melts and thus reflecting metasomatic modification. Spinel and orthopyroxene compositions indicate 17-25% degrees of partial melting, with evidence for melting in both garnet and spinel stability fields. However, mineral and whole-rock compositions also record subsequent cryptic and modal metasomatism. Crustal rocks and extrusives exhibit geochemical signatures transitional between fore-arc basalts and boninites, consistent with subduction initiation settings. Variations in Os isotope ratios (187Os/188Os) in crustal rocks further reveal melt-rock interactions and the incorporation of radiogenic Os from subducted oceanic crust. The integration of petrographic, geochemical, and isotopic data supports a four-stage tectonic model for subduction initiation and mantle wedge evolution, consistent with global models proposed for supra-subduction zone (SSZ) ophiolites, particularly those of the Tethyan domain. These findings provide new constraints on mantle melting, metasomatism, and subduction initiation processes and contribute to a broader understanding of SSZ mantle evolution in both regional and global contexts.

  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    Maximizing performance in child footballers: chronotype and time of day study

    Kaba, Ilknur; Engin Celikel, Baha; Adanur, Oguzhan; Yilmaz, Coskun; Yonca Sezer, Sureyya; Tan, Cetin; Durhan, Tebessum Ayyildiz; Özer, Ugur; Ceylan, Tulay

    Background A limited number of studies have investigated the effects of circadian rhythm-based running exercise interventions on physical fitness in child athletes. This study aimed to investigate the effects of an eight-week morning and evening running program on lower extremity strength, agility and respiratory function in 10-12-year-old male footballers.Methods Participants visited the laboratory three times, with one-day intervals before and after the training program. The assessments included maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), maximal expiratory pressure (MEP), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), and the FEV1/FVC ratio. Additionally, agility and functional performance tests (FPTs) were conducted for both the dominant and non-dominant legs.Results The findings indicated that morning running was more effective than evening running in enhancing respiratory function. Morning running also showed superior results in lower extremity strength tests, particularly in the single-leg (SL) and triple-leg (THD) crossover hop for distance tests (CHDs) and the 6-m timed-hop test (6 m THT). Furthermore, the agility performance of the morning running group was significantly better than that of the evening and control groups.Conclusion Consequently, morning running interventions had a positive impact on key physical fitness parameters, including respiratory muscle strength, respiratory function, agility, and lower extremity strength in child footballers.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleYalnız künye2025
    Dense Seismic Recordings of the 2023 KahramanmaraşEarthquake Sequence in Southeastern Türkiye

    Zor, Ekrem; Peng, Zhigang; Ergin, Mehmet; Sandvol, Eric; Sevim, Fatih; Rdamaz, Mustafa Cengiz Tap i; Mach, Phuc; Yalvac, Ouzhan; Tarancioglu, Adil; Adeboboye, Oluwaseyifunmi

    The devastating 6 February 2023 Kahramanmara & scedil;earthquake sequence in southeastern T & uuml;rkiye started with a moment magnitude (Mw) 7.8 earthquake, for which the initial rupture broke the Sak4ag & ouml;z segment near Nurda & gbreve;& imath; and then jumped into a bilateral rupture along multiple segments of the Eastern Anatolian fault zone (EAFZ). This complicated rupture was followed nine hours later by an Mw 7.6 event near Ekin & ouml;z & uuml;. To better understand the spatiotemporal evolution of aftershocks, site amplification, and the structural and tectonic framework of the EAFZ in this diffuse triple junction, we deployed a dense seismometer array covering both aftershock zones for nearly four months. The main Eastern Anatolian Seismic Temporary (EAST) array includes 125 nodal, 10 broadband, and 6 strong-motion seismic stations distributed around the rupture zone. An additional linear array of 73 nodal stations was also installed across the Pazarc & imath;k segment of the EAFZ and the Sak4ag & ouml;z segment near the Mw 7.8 epicenter to record fault-zone waves for similar to 30 days. This article shows example recordings and the EAST array geometry, preliminary research results, and the metadata related to all of the stations in this array. A deep-learning-based phase picking for one month of continuous recording yielded millions of seismic phase readings and tens of thousands of aftershock locations after phase associations. We also give examples of both local and teleseismic waveforms recorded by the nodal arrays, which can be used for subsequent high-resolution earthquake relocation, imaging of crustal structures, and fault-zone imaging.

  • MakaleYayıncıda açık erişim2025
    Could Different Doses of Dexmedetomidine Be as Effective as Amifostine Against Radiotherapy-Induced Liver Injury in Rats? Evidence from Mitotic, Apoptotic, Oxidative, and Neurogenic Insights

    Beyazal Polat, Hatice; Yilmaz, Hamit; Demir, Kasim; Kilinc, Kagan; Gülhan, Belemir; Rakici, Sema Yilmaz; Tumkaya, Levent

    Background/Objectives: Radiotherapy (RT) induces oxidative stress and structural damage in solid tissues, including the liver. This study aimed to investigate the histological and immunohistochemical effects of dexmedetomidine (DEX) and amifostine on their potential protective and regenerative properties against liver injury induced by radiation therapy. Methods: This study consisted of five randomized groups: control, RT, RT-D100, RT-D200, and RT-A (Amifostine). A total of 100 mu g/kg DEX, 200 mu g/kg DEX, and 200 mu g/kg amifostine were administered before radiotherapy as per the experimental design. After RT, liver specimens were analyzed for histological alterations, including periportal and perisinusoidal fibrosis, vacuolization, and pyknotic nuclei. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry investigations were conducted to evaluate apoptosis, mitosis, oxidative stress, and neural regeneration in non-neuronal liver tissue following radiotherapy and subsequent treatment. Results: The control group's liver tissue exhibited standard histological architecture, whereas the RT group displayed severe cellular degeneration, periportal and perisinusoidal fibrosis, cytoplasmic vacuolization, and an increase in pyknotic nuclei. The apoptotic index was markedly reduced in the RT-D100 and RT-D200 groups relative to the RT group. Furthermore, caspase-3 immunoactivity was negligible in the control group, while a significant increase was observed in the RT group. The administration of amifostine significantly increased GAP-43 levels. Conclusions: DEX mitigates RT-induced hepatic injury chiefly through antioxidant and anti-apoptotic pathways, whereas amifostine promotes hepatic regeneration by modulating GAP-43.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    Effect of Inspiratory Muscle Training on Diaphragm and Abdominal Wall Muscle Thickness with Fatty Liver Density in Elderly Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial

    Gökçelik, Eda; Yilmaz, Coskun; Budak, Cemallettin; Soylu, Hakan Huseyin; Bayrakdaroglu, Serdar; Ceylan, Halil Ibrahim; Muntean, Raul Ioan; Küçük, Hamza; Ceylan, Levent

    Background and Objectives: Post-menopausal estrogen decline is considered a contributing factor to sarcopenia, and inspiratory muscle training (IMT) may provide benefits in this demographic. This study examined the impact of a four-week IMT program on diaphragm thickness, abdominal wall muscle thickness (AWMT; transversus abdominis, internal oblique, and external oblique), and liver fat percentage in healthy elderly women. Materials and Methods: Twenty-six women aged 60-80 years were randomly assigned to an IMT group (n = 13) or a control group (n = 13). The IMT group used the PowerBreathe (R) Classic device at 40% of maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), with weekly increments of 10%. Training was performed twice daily, five days per week, with 30 breathing cycles per session (60 per day). The control group maintained their usual routines. AWMT, diaphragm thickness (DT), and fatty liver density (FLD) were measured by a radiologist before and after the intervention. Results: After four weeks, the IMT group showed significant improvements in all parameters compared to controls. Mid-diaphragm thickness (MDT) increased by 11.44% (effect size (ES) = 0.358, p < 0.001) versus 0.76% in controls (p = 0.271). Posterior diaphragm thickness (PDT) improved by 7.48% (ES = 0.282, p < 0.001) versus 0.38% (p = 0.564). Right AWMT increased by 12.7% (ES = 0.492, p < 0.001) compared to 0.10% (p = 0.872), and left AWMT increased by 9.93% (ES = 0.395, p < 0.001) versus 2.64% (p = 0.014). FLD improved by 11.79% (ES = 0.959, p < 0.001) in the IMT group, while the control group showed no meaningful change (-0.13%, p = 0.847). Conclusions: A short-term IMT protocol significantly enhanced diaphragm and AWMT and reduced liver fat in elderly women. These findings support the use of IMT as a simple, non-invasive intervention to preserve musculoskeletal and metabolic health in aging populations.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    Taekwondo exercises for women improve quality of life, physical self-defence skills, and psychological resilience

    Yikilmaz, Ahmet; Yilmaz, Coskun; Çiçekli, Atif; Eryilmaz, Onder; Budak, Cemalettin; Uyar, Musa; Ceylan, Tulay; Güler, Ozkan; Sahin, Fatma Nese

    Background: The extant research on Taekwondo has focused primarily on the physiological effects of training, with limited interest in psychological resilience, self-defence and quality of life levels. The present study examined the effects of Taekwondo exercises on psychological resilience, self-defence and quality of life levels in healthy female subjects. Methods: The present study comprised 30 healthy, sedentary female subjects. The subjects were randomly divided into two groups: one group participated in Taekwondo training (TG), while the other group served as the control group (CG). The sample sizes for both the TG and CG groups were 15. The TT group underwent conventional Taekwondo instruction, while the CG group maintained their habitual routine and refrained from sporting pursuits. The Brief Psychological Resilience Scale, the Physical Self-Defence Scale for Women, and the SF-12 Quality of Life Scale were administered before and after the six-week training period. Results: The 6-week Taekwondo training programme led to significant improvements in both physical health (PH) (p = 0.049) and mental health (MH) (p < 0.01) scores in female participants. It did not produce a significant change in psychological resilience (PR) scores (p > 0.05). It produced significant improvements in self-defence against simple physical attacks (SP) (p = 0.004) and self-defence against dangerous physical attacks (DP) (p = 0.041) scores. Conclusion: The positive effects of Taekwondo training on psychological resilience, physical self-defence and quality of life levels have been demonstrated in healthy female subjects. This study provides valuable insights into the impact of Taekwondo exercises on psychological resilience, physical self-defence and quality of life levels. The findings of this study can guide future intervention and programme design in the context of sports psychology.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    Short-term resistance training enhances functional and physiological markers in older women: implications for biomechanical and health interventions in aging

    Uçar, Mine Akkus; Yilmaz, Coskun; Soylu, Hakan Huseyin; Sariakçali, Baris; Budak, Cemalettin; Kavuran, Korhan; Durmusoglu, Mehmet Vakif; Ceylan, Levent

    Background: The impact of resistance training extends beyond the enhancement of muscle strength, encompassing improvements in physical performance, postural stability, and overall functional capacity. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a 4-week resistance training program on functional capacity, respiratory muscle strength, diaphragm thickness, and liver density in healthy older women. Methods: The study included 30 healthy women aged 60-80 years and was designed as a randomized controlled experimental trial. Participants were randomly assigned to a resistance training (RT) group or a control (CON) group. Each participant attended the laboratory on three occasions: during the initial visit, the study procedures were explained; the second visit involved baseline assessments (6MWT, diaphragm thickness and liver fat via ultrasound, and respiratory muscle strength); and final measurements were conducted after the 4-week training programme during the third visit. Results: When pre- and post-training measurements were compared, the resistance training (RT) group demonstrated a significantly greater improvement (8.02%) in the Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) distance compared to the control group (p < 0.001). In terms of diaphragm thickness (DT), the RT group showed a 16.66% increase, whereas the control group exhibited a 1.13% decrease (p < 0.001). Maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) increased by 12.30% in the RT group, while it decreased by 7.25% in the control group, indicating a 19.55% greater improvement in the RT group (p < 0.001). Regarding maximal expiratory pressure (MEP), a significant improvement of 21.48% was observed in the RT group, whereas a 0.75% decrease was recorded in the control group, resulting in a 22.23% greater enhancement in the RT group (p < 0.001). Finally, liver density (LD) increased by 12.30% in the RT group, while it decreased by 7.25% in the control group (p < 0.001). Conclusion: As a result of resistance training, greater improvement was observed in functional capacity, respiratory muscle strength, diaphragm thickness and liver density in the training group compared to the control group.

  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    Determination of Mineral, Fatty Acid, and Soluble Carbohydrate Profiles of Green Algae Ulva rigida, Chaetomorpha linum, Codium fragile, Caulerpa prolifera and Caulerpa racemosa f. requienii Collected from Turkiye Coasts

    Yucetepe, Aysun; Altuntas, Umit; Sensu, Eda; Izci, Yunus; Ozcelik, Beraat; Okudan, Emine Sukran

    The nutritional properties of five different green macroalgae including Ulva rigida, Chaetomorpha linum, Codium fragile, Caulerpa prolifera and Caulerpa racemosa f. requienii from Turkey were investigated. The chemical composition of green macroalgae was varied, with ash, crude fiber, protein, lipid and carbohydrate ranging from 40.71 to 52.82%, 12.02-17.56%, 4.40-26.19%, 0.57-3.85% and 4.58-42.28% in dry weight, respectively. The fatty acid contents of the algae were quite variable and palmitic acid (C16) was found to be the primary fatty acid for all the samples with a value of more than 49.61%. Palmitic acid was followed by oleic acid, which is a monounsaturated fatty acid. This study revealed that green algae are rich in important soluble carbohydrates such as myo-inositol and glucose, health promoting unsaturated fatty acids (mainly oleic acid) and essential macroelements such as potassium, magnesium and microelements such as iron, zinc and selenium. The results of the current study contribute to a better understanding of macroalgae and encourage their use in food-related applications.

    • SDG 2 · Açlığa Son
  • MakaleYayıncıda açık erişim2025
    Serum neopterin and kynurenine as predictive and prognostic biomarkers in prostate cancer: the role of dietary inflammatory index and biomarker interactions

    Icer, Mehmet Arif; Koçak, Tevfik; Acar-Tek, Nilufer; Yesil, Suleyman; Icer, Yusuf

    Background It has been shown that neopterin levels in various body fluids can help predict the diagnosis of different malignancies. Although many studies have investigated the roles of serum neopterin concentrations, tryptophan metabolism, and the dietary inflammation index (DII) in various cancers, the connection between these factors and prostate cancer (PC) remains uncertain. The aim of this study was to investigate the predictive and prognostic roles of serum neopterin, and kynurenine levels, along with the kynurenine-to-tryptophan ratio (KTR) and DII in prostate cancer. Methods This study was conducted with 57 newly diagnosed prostate cancer patients, 55 benign prostate hyperplasia patients, and 56 healthy male individuals in the control group, all aged 40 years and older. Participants had specific anthropometric measurements taken, and three-day food records were kept. DII was calculated based on data for thirty-four available nutrients by using food records. Serum levels of neopterin, kynurenine, tryptophan, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. Results Serum neopterin (11.79 +/- 6.09), kynurenine (1655.48 +/- 1122.04), TNF-alpha (221.59 +/- 232.06) and IFN-gamma (137.68 +/- 107.11) levels were higher in the malignant group than in both the control (2.72 +/- 0.76, 352.40 +/- 69.33, 223.94 +/- 226.67, and 23.03 +/- 7.28, respectively) and benign groups (3.17 +/- 0.74, 377.94 +/- 109.05, 179.61 +/- 224.36, and 25.63 +/- 7.50, respectively) (p < 0.05). Another result of our study is that in the malignant group, serum neopterin levels exhibited significant positive correlations with serum kynurenine (r = 0.80, p < 0.0001), IFN-gamma (r = 0.86, p < 0.0001) and TNF-alpha levels (r = -0.27, p = 0.0453) and DII (r = 0.30, p = 0.0229), while they exhibited weak correlations with serum PSA, and other diet parameters. Additionally, kynurenine was the only parameter showing significant differences in mean values concerning surgical margins (p < 0.05). Conclusions The findings of this study support the hypothesis that serum neopterin and specific tryptophan catabolites (e.g., kynurenine), could serve as predictive and prognostic biomarkers for prostate cancer diagnosis. However, our results do not support the hypothesis that DII and certain dietary factors play a direct role in the development or diagnosis of prostate cancer.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    A comprehensive and realistic performance evaluation of post-quantum security for consumer IoT devices

    Hanna, Yacoub; Bozhko, Jessica; Tonyali, Samet; Harrilal-Parchment, Ricardo; Cebe, Mumin; Akkaya, Kemal

    The computational capacity envisaged for quantum computers poses a significant threat to today's traditional cryptographic algorithms. Although they are not yet large enough to compromise current cryptographic protocols, one can practice retrospective decryption since data packets traveling through the Internet can be easily sniffed. This threat extends to wireless communication security within consumer IoT devices that use lightweight cryptography due to limited computational power. Thus, countermeasures against potential quantum attacks should be preemptively adopted. NIST is leading efforts to standardize several algorithms as quantum-resistant Key Exchange Mechanisms (KEMs) and Digital Signatures. In this paper, we investigate the viability of these Post-Quantum algorithms in the Transport Layer Security (TLS) of power-constrained IoT devices. Specifically, it focuses on two widely used IoT network protocol stacks, i.e., Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and Wi-Fi. To this end, we build a realistic IoT testbed running IP over BLE. Our evaluation considers the impact of several realistic factors for the first time, such as using a chain of certificates on the server side and incorporating certificate validation methods such as Online Certificate Status Protocol (OCSP) and Certificate Revocation Lists (CRL). We also evaluate the impact of mutual authentication between the server and the client. Utilizing the outcomes of this evaluation, we then propose a novel approach for IoT devices to dynamically choose the most efficient KEM algorithm for TLS based on the device's physical network interface. The performance results provide valuable insights with respect to the TLS latency and energy consumption of consumer IoT devices.

    • SDG 9 · Sanayi, Yenilikçilik ve Altyapı