Sürdürülebilir Kalkınma Amaçları

Yazarlar

  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026
    The association between perceived bullying in physical education classes and school satisfaction among middle school students: the mediating roles of physical activity enjoyment and physical education class happiness

    Güllü, M; Akarsu, M; Tan, H; Karakaş, E; Günata, GP; Akçınar, S

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
    • SDG 4 · Nitelikli Eğitim
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026
    The relationship between sport competition rumination and sport-specific achievement motivation levels among professional athletes in Turkey

    Bulut, M; Yildiz, M; Kizilkoca, M; Tokgöz, G; Can, B

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleYalnız künye2026Scopus SJRQ2
    From assistance to dependence: The nexus between AI dependence and workplace cognitive engagement

    Uyan, Umut; Ibin, Adil

    Background The increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) tools into workplace practices has reshaped how employees process information and perform cognitive tasks. While these systems are often associated with superior efficiency, their excessive use may entail significant cognitive costs. Objective Grounded in automation complacency perspective and the growing literature on technology addiction, this study investigates how dependence on artificial intelligence is associated with cognitive engagement in the workplace, with particular attention to the mediating role of cognitive fatigue. Methods Adopting quantitative research design, data were collected from 246 academic and administrative staff who actively use AI tools in their daily work routines. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to test the theoretical model proposed. Results The findings indicate that dependence on AI was positively associated with cognitive fatigue (beta = 0.569; t = 13.468; p = 0.000) and negatively with cognitive engagement (beta = -0.174; t = 2.503; p = 0.012). In addition, the relationship between cognitive fatigue and cognitive engagement was found to be negative and statistically significant (beta = -0.207; t = 2.773; p = 0.006). Mediation analysis further revealed that cognitive fatigue partially mediates the relationship between dependence on AI and cognitive engagement (indirect effect beta = -0.118, t = 2.724, p < .01; VAF = 40.5%). Conclusion These results suggest that higher levels of dependence on AI correspond to higher employee cognitive fatigue, which in turn relates to lower cognitive engagement at work. By empirically demonstrating the cognitive costs of AI reliance, this study contributes to the emerging literature on workplace AI and technology addiction.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
    • SDG 8 · İnsana Yakışır İş ve Ekonomik Büyüme
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1
    Ellagic Acid Mitigates Lead (Pb)-Induced Toxicity in Cyprinus carpio: A Multi-Biomarker Assessment of Hematological, Immunological, and Oxidative Stress Responses Supported by Molecular Docking

    Eroglu, Mucahit; Cakmak, Mehmet Nuri; Pala, Aysegul; Uslu, Harun; Yonar, Serpil Mise; Ispir, Unal; Orhan, Cemal; Yonar, Muhammet Enis

    Lead (Pb) is a widespread environmental pollutant that induces systemic toxicity in aquatic organisms primarily through oxidative stress, hematological disruption, and immune dysfunction. This study investigated the protective effects of ellagic acid (EA) against Pb-induced toxicity in common carp (Cyprinus carpio) using a multi-biomarker approach and molecular docking. Fish were assigned to six experimental groups: control, EA-treated, Pb-I, Pb-I + EA, Pb-II, and Pb-II + EA. Fish in the Pb-I and Pb-II groups were exposed to 2.5 and 5 mg/L Pb, respectively, while EA was administered via diet at 100 mg/kg for 14 days. At the end of the exposure period, hematological indices, innate immune parameters, and oxidative stress biomarkers were assessed in blood, liver, kidney, and gill tissues. Pb exposure caused marked hematological impairment, suppressed immune responses, increased malondialdehyde levels, and disrupted antioxidant defense by reducing SOD, CAT, GSH-Px, and GSH levels while increasing GST activity. In contrast, dietary EA supplementation significantly mitigated Pb-induced alterations, improved hematological and immunological responses, reduced lipid peroxidation, restored antioxidant capacity, and normalized GST activity to control levels. Molecular docking analyses further showed that EA interacts with hemoglobin and immunoglobulin M, supporting its potential role in preserving oxygen transport and immune functions under Pb-induced stress. Overall, the findings demonstrate that Pb-induced toxicity involves coordinated disruption of redox homeostasis and immune function, whereas EA exerts a multi-target protective effect through biochemical and molecular mechanisms. This study provides mechanistic insight into chemical-biological interactions and supports the potential application of natural bioactive compounds in mitigating heavy metal-induced toxicity.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1
    A multi-evidence computational and experimental strategy for Silene nerimaniae: combining phytochemical characterization, bioactivity assessment, and ADEFRank-HCT-116-based metabolite prioritization

    Erharman, Ahmet; Yagi, Sakina; Uba, Abdullahi Ibrahim; Nikolić, Filip; Gašić, Uroš; Acar, Mikail; Dogan, Nurettin; Koyuncu, Ismail; Yapıcı, Ismail; Gulcin, Ilhami

    This study presents the first comprehensive evaluation of the phytochemical composition, antioxidant properties, enzyme inhibitory effects, and cytotoxic potential of Silene nerimaniae G.E.Genç, Kandemir & İ.Genç (family Caryophyllaceae). Ethyl acetate, acetone, 70% acetone, and aqueous extracts were obtained from the aerial parts of the plant through maceration. Among the tested extracts, the acetone extract contained the highest total phenolic (24.37 mg GAE per g) and flavonoid (24.64 mg RE per g) contents. LC–MS analysis identified 52 bioactive constituents, including sugars, organic acids, phenolic acids, flavonoids, and fatty acids. The aqueous extract demonstrated the strongest radical scavenging activity against DPPH (23.02 mg TE per g) and ABTS (55.76 mg TE per g), as well as the highest Fe3+ reducing power (37.53 mg TE per g). In combination with the acetone extract, it also exhibited notable Cu2+ reducing activity (47.78 mg TE per g). Regarding enzyme inhibition, the ethyl acetate, acetone, and hydroacetone extracts displayed the strongest inhibitory activities against acetylcholinesterase (1.87 mg GALA per g), butyrylcholinesterase (2.92 mg GALA per g), and tyrosinase (60.44 mg KAE per g), respectively. All three extracts also inhibited α-amylase activity within the range of 0.73–0.77 mmol ACAE per g (p ≥ 0.05). In addition, the hydroacetone extract showed considerable inhibition of human carbonic anhydrase isoenzymes I (IC50 = 38.78 μg mL−1) and II (IC50 = 19.59 μg mL−1). The ethyl acetate extract exhibited the strongest cytotoxic effect against the colorectal cancer cell line HCT-116, with an IC50 value of 0.639 μg mL−1 and a selectivity index of 1.7. To contextualize this HCT-116-associated activity at the metabolite level, an ADEFRank-HCT116 (abundance–domain–evidence fusion ranking) workflow was applied by integrating EtOAc abundance, HCT-116-oriented QSAR evidence, applicability-domain confidence, and structure-assignment reliability. This analysis prioritized diosmetin, luteolin, eriodyctiol, acacetin, and isorhamnetin as core candidates for structure-based follow-up. Molecular docking screening predicted favorable docking profiles for the prioritized candidates, while 100 ns molecular dynamics simulations were used to assess the dynamic stability of the representative luteolin–PI3Kα, diosmetin–AKT1, and isorhamnetin–GSK-3β complexes. Taken together, these results indicate that S. nerimaniae may represent a valuable source of active compounds for various functional nutraceutical, cosmetic and pharmaceutical uses. This journal is

  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ2
    Which implant for Pauwels type 2 femoral neck fractures: a biomechanical study

    Aydın, Oğuz; Kazez, Muhammed; Say, Yakup; Belhan, Oktay

    Objective: Femoral neck fractures (FNF) in young patients are relatively rare but can lead to severe complications if not treated appro-priately. Pauwels type 2 fractures, characterized by moderate inclination, require surgical stabilization. However, no consensus exists regarding the optimal implant that provides superior biomechanical stability. This study aims to compare the biomechanical properties of 3 different fixation systems for the surgical treatment of Pauwels type 2 FNF. Methods: A total of 21 bovine femurs of similar age and size were selected and divided into 3 fixation groups: dynamic hip screw (DHS), cannulated screws (CS), and major plate (MP). Each specimen underwent axial compression testing to assess the maximum load-bearing capacity, shear force resistance, and deformation characteristics of the fixation methods. Results: The results showed that the CS group exhibited the highest shear stress resistance, followed by the DHS group, while the MP group showed significantly lower mechanical strength and elongation (P <.05). Although DHS provided substantial stability, CS demon-strated superior overall mechanical performance. In contrast, the MP system showed significantly lower resistance compared to the other 2 fixation methods. Conclusion: This biomechanical study highlights the importance of implant selection in the management of Pauwels type 2 FNF. Although previous investigations have questioned the adequacy of CS fixation in highly unstable Pauwels type 3 fractures, the results suggest that CS may be a reliable and effective option for the relatively more stable Pauwels type 2 pattern. Because the tests were performed on bovine femur models, which do not fully reflect the structural characteristics of human bone, these findings should be interpreted with caution. Further biomechanical studies using human cadaveric specimens are required to confirm the applicability of these results to clinical practice.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1
    Effects of Melatonin Formulations on Caffeine-Evoked Cortical Activity and Pentobarbital-Induced Sleep in Mice

    Sahin, Nurhan; Yabas, Mehmet; Er, Besir; Erten, Fusun; Kursun, Oznur Ece Durmaz; Cikim, Ismail Gurkan; Kaplan, Berkan; Erek, Gozde; Ozmen, Busra; Orhan, Cemal

    Melatonin has chronobiotic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuromodulatory properties, and its oral effects may vary according to formulation. This study compared conventional melatonin with a lipid-multiparticulate (LMP) formulation in two acute pharmacological mouse paradigms. Eighty-four male BALB/c mice were assigned to caffeine-evoked cortical activity or pentobarbital-induced sedative-hypnotic experiments. Mice received caffeine (7.5 mg/kg, i.p.) alone or with standard or LMP-melatonin (10 or 20 mg/kg, oral). ECoG recorded cortical electrical activity under urethane anaesthesia. In a separate cohort, latency to and duration of pentobarbital-induced loss of the righting reflex were measured. Circulating neurochemical and redox markers, as well as neurotransmitter- and inflammation-related gene and protein expression, were evaluated. Caffeine increased spike frequency and altered ECoG amplitude, together with unfavorable changes in circulating neurochemical and redox markers and in neurotransmitter receptor- and inflammation-related outcomes. Both melatonin formulations attenuated several of these changes in a dose-dependent manner, with the strongest effects generally observed in the high-dose LMP-melatonin group. Compared with conventional melatonin, LMP-melatonin produced greater modulation of ECoG activity, circulating biochemical markers, neurotransmitter-receptor expression, and IL-6 and TNF-α-related outcomes. LMP-melatonin also produced a greater reduction in the latency to and a greater prolongation of the duration of pentobarbital-induced loss of the righting reflex. LMP-melatonin produced greater formulation-dependent effects than conventional melatonin on caffeine-evoked cortical electrical activity, pentobarbital-induced sedative-hypnotic responses, and selected biochemical and molecular outcomes. However, pharmacokinetic exposure, physiological sleep stages, sleep architecture, sleep quality, and direct measures of neuronal injury were not assessed. Therefore, the findings do not directly establish enhanced bioavailability, physiological sleep promotion, or neuroprotection.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ2
    Synergistic Effects of Caffeine and Paclitaxel in Breast Cancer Cells: Mechanistic Insights Into NF-κB and Nrf2 Signaling

    Gencoglu, Hasan; Delioglu, Saime; Nergiz, Mehmet Akif; Metin, Rumeysa; Erten, Fusun; Tokmak, Muhammed; Orhan, Cemal; Sahin, Kazim

    Breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent malignancies among women. Recent studies have explored the potential of phytochemicals such as caffeine as chemosensitizing agents in enhancing the efficacy of standard chemotherapeutics like paclitaxel. This study aimed to investigate the cytotoxic, apoptotic, inflammatory, and oxidative stress-related effects of caffeine alone and in combination with paclitaxel in MCF-7 cells. Cells were treated with various concentrations of caffeine (1–100 mM), paclitaxel (0–350 µg/mL), and their combinations for 24, 48, and 72 h. Cell viability was assessed using the MTS assay, and IC₅₀ values were calculated. The expression levels of Bax, Bcl-2, NF-κB, and Nrf2 proteins were analyzed by Western blotting. Both caffeine and paclitaxel induced time- and dose-dependent reductions in MCF-7 cell viability. The combination treatment showed synergistic cytotoxicity, with significantly lower IC₅₀ values compared to single-agent treatments. Western blot analysis showed that both treatments boosted pro-apoptotic Bax and decreased anti-apoptotic Bcl-2, with slightly less effect in the combination group. NF-κB levels increased considerably in caffeine and paclitaxel groups, but were lower in the combination group compared to paclitaxel alone, suggesting a possible reduction in inflammatory signaling. Nrf2 expression increased significantly with caffeine, suggesting oxidative stress responses. In MCF-7 cells, caffeine enhanced paclitaxel's pro-apoptotic and cytotoxic actions and modified inflammation and oxidative stress pathways in a complicated, dose-dependent manner. Cytotoxicity was synergistic; however, apoptotic and stress indicators may be antagonistic. In clinical circumstances, caffeine may be an adjuvant in breast cancer treatment, however mechanistic and in vivo investigations are needed.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
    AtıfScopus2WoS2OpenAlex1
    ScopusWeb of SciencePubMedİncele
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1
    Effects of putrescine and MAP on quality, phenolics, and organic acids in strawberry tree fruits

    Gundogdu, Muttalip; Yücel, Gül; Çolak, Ayşen Melda; Aglar, Erdal

    Background: Strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo L.) fruits are rich in bioactive compounds but are highly perishable due to their high respiration rate and soft tissue structure, leading to rapid post-harvest quality losses. Therefore, developing sustainable strategies to maintain quality and extend shelf life is of great importance. Methods: In this study, the individual and combined effects of putrescine (1 mM) and modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) on the post-harvest quality and biochemical properties of strawberry tree fruits were investigated. Fruits harvested at full maturity were stored at 4 ± 1 °C and 90 ± 5% relative humidity for 15 days, and key quality parameters including weight loss, decay rate, respiration rate, soluble solids content, titratable acidity, vitamin C, organic acids, and phenolic compounds were periodically analyzed. Additionally, correlation analysis and principal component analysis (PCA) were performed to evaluate the relationships among variables. Results: Storage duration significantly increased weight loss and decay rate, while decreasing organic acids, vitamin C, and phenolic compounds (p ≤ 0.001). At the end of storage, weight loss reached 2.97% in control fruits, whereas it decreased to 1.14% in the Put + MAP treatment, representing a reduction of approximately 61.6%. Similarly, decay rate decreased from 6.55% (control) to 3.34% (Put + MAP). Respiration rate was also significantly suppressed, with the lowest values observed in the combined treatment. Furthermore, malic acid (1.38 vs. 0.80 g/100 g) and vitamin C (36.90 vs. 28.37 mg/100 g) were better preserved in Put + MAP-treated fruits compared to control at day 15. PCA results confirmed that Put + MAP treatment maintained the most balanced profile between quality attributes and biochemical stability. Conclusion: The combined application of putrescine and MAP exhibited a strong synergistic effect by simultaneously reducing respiration, limiting water loss and decay, and preserving bioactive compounds. This study demonstrates that integrating a natural bioregulator (putrescine) with an environmentally friendly packaging system (MAP) represents an innovative and practical approach for extending the shelf life and maintaining the nutritional quality of strawberry tree fruits. This strategy also has high potential for application in other highly perishable soft fruits.

    • SDG 2 · Açlığa Son
    • SDG 12 · Sorumlu Üretim ve Tüketim
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1
    Physical education and sports teacher candidates’ perspectives on meaning in life and smartphone addiction: a mixed-method study

    Şahin, Aykut; Öner, Burak

    Objective – This study aims to examine the relationship between physical education and sports (PES) teacher candidates’ levels of meaning in life and smartphone addiction, and to explore in depth how this relationship occurs through qualitative data. Methods – The study was conducted using the explanatory sequential design, one of the mixed-method designs. The quantitative part of the study included 392 PES teacher candidates studying at four universities in Turkey. Quantitative data were collected using the Meaning in Life Questionnaire and the Smartphone Addiction Scale—Short Form. Results – The findings showed a low-level, negative, and significant relationship between the presence of meaning and smartphone addiction, whereas no significant relationship was found between the search for meaning and smartphone addiction. Additionally, a low-level, positive, and significant relationship was determined between the presence of meaning and the search for meaning. In the qualitative phase of the research, semi-structured interviews were conducted to support the quantitative findings. Participants’ views indicated that sports provide individuals with meaning in life and partially balance smartphone use. Conclusion – As a result, it was determined that the concept of the search for meaning is influenced by the sports context and the sample’s characteristics, and is not a direct risk factor for smartphone addiction; rather, the search for meaning may be an indicator of adaptation or personal development, not merely a lack of a meaningful life. In contrast, it was concluded that experiencing a high level of meaningful life among PES teacher candidates has a protective effect against the risk of smartphone addiction.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
    • SDG 4 · Nitelikli Eğitim
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1
    Regulation of Quality and Phenolic Metabolism in Apricot Fruit by Postharvest Salicylic Acid and Putrescine Applications

    Sakaldaş, Mustafa; Şen, Fatih; Gundogdu, Muttalip; Aglar, Erdal

    Apricots are a highly sensitive product that suffers rapid quality losses due to physiological and biochemical processes such as increased respiration, ethylene production, cell wall breakdown, and changes in phenolic compounds that occur in the post-harvest period, and this significantly shortens their shelf life. This study evaluated the effects of salicylic acid (SA) and putrescine (Put) applications on post-harvest quality characteristics, organic acid metabolism, and phenolic compound stability in apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) fruits. Fruits harvested at commercial maturity were treated with four different applications: control, SA (1 mM), Put (1 mM), and a combination of SA and Put. In this study, the physiological quality parameters such as weight loss, decay rate, soluble solids content (SSC), titratable acidity (TA), pH, and respiration rate were measured, and biochemical analyses of organic acids and individual phenolic compounds were performed. With increasing storage time, weight loss, decay rate, and pH values increased in all treatment groups, whereas significant decreases occurred in organic acids, ascorbic acid, and total phenolic compounds. However, it was determined that SA and Put applications significantly slowed down these negative changes. In particular, the SA + Put combination improved storage stability by providing the lowest weight loss and decay rate thanks to the preservation of cell membrane stability and the limitation of transpiration. Phenolic compound analyses showed that phenolic degradation is the natural process during storage, but SA and Put applications significantly slowed this process. In particular, it was determined that the combination application contributed to the preservation of antioxidant phenols by supporting phenylpropanoid metabolism, and that the highest level of phenolic stability was achieved in this group. PCA results revealed that quality degradation parameters were positively correlated with respiration rate and weight loss, whereas phenolic compounds, organic acids, and ascorbic acid showed strong positive correlations with quality preservation. Correlation analysis also supported these findings, confirming that antioxidant compounds play a decisive role in storage performance. In conclusion, it was determined that the combined application of SA and Put reduces oxidative stress, regulates metabolic activity, stabilizes phenolic metabolism, and significantly delays post-harvest quality losses in apricot fruit. This approach was found to offer an effective, feasible, and sustainable post-harvest strategy for extending shelf life and preserving nutritional quality components.

    • SDG 2 · Açlığa Son
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1
    The impact of narcissistic personality traits on social media interaction and body image: individual and team athletes

    Kiliç, Kübra; Sezer, Burcu Sıla; Aydinli, İbrahim; Tutar, Ömer Faruk; Kiliç, Yakup

    Introduction – The aim of this study is to examine the effect of narcissistic personality traits on body image through social media interaction and to comparatively evaluate these relationships in the context of athletes engaged in individual and team sports. Methods – The research group consisted of a total of 389 athletes, namely 158 female (age = 21.53 ± 3.16; years of sports experiences = 5.56 ± 4.17) and 231 male (age = 23.00 ± 5.09; years of sports experience = 8.28 ± 5.44) athletes, all residing in the Eastern Anatolia region and having a sports background. A personal information form, the “Narcissism on Social Media Scale, ” and the “Body Image Scale” were used as data collection tools. Analysis of the obtained data revealed a normal distribution; therefore, t-tests were used to compare two groups, ANOVA for comparisons of two variables, Pearson Correlation to evaluate relationships between parameters, and regression analysis to determine the effect. Results – As a result of the analyses, no significant difference was observed in terms of the type of sport variable. The study found that, among athletes engaged in individual sports, body image levels were higher in males compared to females and, in individual athletes, the narcissistic rivalry dimension was more prevalent in athletes who used social media for 5 h or more compared to those using it for less than 1 h. Multiple correlation analysis revealed no significant relationship between scale dimensions and years of sports experience. Regression analysis showed that body image level had a low but significant effect on narcissistic admiration and narcissistic rivalry. Conclusion – In conclusion, it was determined that athletes in individual sports are sensitive to demographic variables, and that the duration of social media use, in particular, is a factor that increases narcissistic competitive tendencies. The fact that years of sports experience and type of sport did not make a difference suggests that the dimensions used are shaped more by current psychosocial interactions. Indeed, the regression analysis also shows that the relationship between body image and narcissistic admiration and competition points to a weak but significant psychological interaction network.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1
    Positive body image is a pathway between nature contact and life satisfaction across 58 nations

    Swami, Viren; Voracek, Martin; Stieger, Stefan; Aavik, Toivo; Ranjbar, Hamed Abdollahpour; Adebayo, Sulaiman Olanrewaju; Afhami, Reza; Ahmed, Oli; Aimé, Annie; Akel, Marwan

    Time spent in nature benefits human mental and physical well-being. However, much of the variance in outcomes of nature contact remains unexplained, suggesting that new mechanistic pathways need to be considered. Here, we tested a novel conceptual model linking nature contact with life satisfaction via pathways involving positive experiences of living in and experiencing the world through the physical self. Using data from the Body Image in Nature Survey (BINS; N = 50,363), representing respondents from 58 nations and speaking 36 different languages, we find that nature contact is associated with greater self-compassion and greater perceived restoration in nature, which in turn are associated with more positive body image. In addition, more positive body image is associated with greater life satisfaction. These associations were robust to sensitivity tests, generalised to all gender identities and age groups, and held individually in almost all national groups and languages. Although replications are needed, we propose that the materialities of natural environments help to link bodily experiences to the production and experience of well-being, a process that is largely stable across national groups.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
    AtıfScopus4OpenAlex3
    ScopusWeb of SciencePubMedİncele
  • MakaleYalnız künye2026Scopus SJRQ3
    The relationship between muscle strength and oxygenation and activities of daily living in adolescents and young adults with pulmonary arterial hypertension

    Dik, Jan; Topcuoglu, Ceyhun; Vardar-Yagli, Naciye; Goksuluk, Merve Basol; Aypar, Ebru; Alehan, Dursun; Saglam, Melda

    Pulmonary arterial hypertension leads to dyspnoea, fatigue, and oxygen desaturation, limiting activities of daily living and functional capacity. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of pulmonary arterial hypertension on activities of daily living performance, functional capacity, peripheral muscle strength, oxygen dynamics, and energy expenditure. Eighteen adolescents and young adults with pulmonary arterial hypertension (10 females, 8 males; age 9–30 years) and 15 healthy controls (10 males, 5 females; age 9–30 years) were included. Peripheral muscle strength was assessed using a handheld dynamometer, functional capacity via the 6-minute walk test, and muscle oxygenation through near-infrared spectroscopy. Lower-limb endurance was evaluated with the 1-minute sit-to-stand test and activities of daily living performance with the Glittre Activities of Daily Living test. Compared to controls, the pulmonary arterial hypertension group had significantly lower 6-minute walk test distance (441.9 m versus 636.9 m; p < 0.001), reduced sit-to-stand repetitions (28 versus 42.1; p < 0.001), weaker peripheral strength, and lower minimum muscle oxygen saturation (24.9% versus 51.8%; p < 0.001). Glittre Activities of Daily Living test duration was longer (143 s versus 105 s; p < 0.001), with greater oxygen desaturation (−13% versus −1%; p < 0.001), higher dyspnoea scores using modified Borg scale (5 versus 1; p < 0.001), and blunted heart rate response (ΔHR [change in heart rate]: 32 versus 64; p = 0.011). These findings demonstrate that pulmonary arterial hypertension significantly impairs both cardiopulmonary and peripheral muscle function. Protecting muscle health and improving functional capacity should be prioritised to enhance quality of life in this population.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleYalnız künye2026Scopus SJRQ2
    Phytoremediation of elements in municipal wastewater treatment plant effluent by Lemna gibba L.: a full-scale study

    Topal, Murat; Öbek, Erdal; Çelik, Erdal; Arslan Topal, E. Işıl

    In this study, capacity of naturally growing Lemna gibba L. in removing elements (B, As, Al, Ca, Ba, Co, Fe, Cu, K, Cr, Li, Mo, Ni, Mn, Na, Mg, Sb, P, Si, Pb, Se, Ti, Zn, V, and Sr) from the effluent of secondary clarifier of a municipal wastewater treatment plant (MWWTP) was determined week by week (W1, W2, W3, and W4) and analyzed as a whole using statistical models. To determine the removal contribution of Lemna gibba L. to the MWWTP effluent, secondary clarifier without Lemna gibba L. was used as a control. The aim here is to determine the contribution of Lemna gibba L. to MWWTP’s removal efficiency. Trace elemental quantification was conducted via validated ICP-MS following microwave-assisted acid digestion. In this context, according to the analysis results, the removal efficiency of Lemna gibba L. for Al was highest at 89.66% over the weeks. Furthermore, treatment efficiencies above 50% were achieved for Co (57.86–60.61%), Sb (64.25–67.35%), and Ti (63.27–66.21%). Based on statistical analyses, PCA (principal component analysis)) and HCA (hierarchical cluster analysis) models explained 85% of the total variance. As a result, this study demonstrated that Lemna gibba L. removes elements from MWWTP effluent, contributing to the removal efficiency of the secondary clarifier and clearly showing its potential use in phytoremediation.

  • MakaleYalnız künye2026Scopus SJRQ2
    Optimization of native plant selection for phytomining of strategic/critical raw materials using Artificial Bee Colony algorithm

    Arslan Topal, E. Işıl; Topal, Murat; Çelik, Erdal; Öbek, Erdal

    This study investigates the potential of native plant species (NPs) as secondary sources for strategic/critical raw materials (SCRMs) through phytomining, aiming to identify the most efficient accumulator for sustainable element recovery. To achieve high-precision results, the Artificial Bee Colony (ABC) algorithm, a robust meta-heuristic optimization technique inspired by the foraging behavior of honeybees, was utilized to minimize the error between experimental data and predicted models to optimize the accumulation of key elements including cobalt (Co), strontium (Sr), antimony (Sb), vanadium (V), phosphorus (P), lanthanum (La), magnesium (Mg), titanium (Ti), aluminum (Al), and scandium (Sc). The research focused on three NP species—Musk thistle (MT), curly dock (CD), and Juncus (JS)—collected from a geothermal hot spring area. Methodological validation was performed through comparative statistical analysis and the calculation of bioconcentration factor (BCF) and translocation factor (TF) to assess phytoremediation efficiency. The ABC optimization results revealed that MT exhibited the most significant accumulation capacity, particularly for Mg, reaching a peak concentration of 3,910 mg/kgdw in the leaves. The concentration range (lowest to highest value) was between 0.01 (for La) and 3,910 mg/kgdw for the studied plants. Principal component analysis (PCA) corroborated these findings, explaining cumulative variances of 80.4% (MT), 89.4% (CD), and 76.4% (JS). The innovation of this study lies in the application of the ABC algorithm to the field of phytomining, which offers a more dynamic and flexible alternative to traditional regression-based models. The primary advantage of this proposed method is its superior global search capability and ability to handle multi-elemental interactions with high predictive accuracy. However, a potential disadvantage remains the computational complexity and the requirement for fine-tuning control parameters to ensure consistent convergence. Overall, MT is identified as a highly promising candidate for the phytomining of SCRMs, with Mg emerging as the most effectively accumulated element under the optimized ABC model.

    • SDG 2 · Açlığa Son
    • SDG 12 · Sorumlu Üretim ve Tüketim
    • SDG 15 · Karasal Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1
    Biochemical effects and theoretical study of a metformin in the carp (Cyprinus carpio) fry

    İSPİR, Ünal; Tüzün, Burak; KIRICI, Muammer; Poustforoosh, Alireza; YONAR, Muhammet Enis; YONAR, Serpil MİŞE; ŞEKER, Engin

    Pharmaceutical chemicals are frequently detected in wastewater, and metformin, an oral hypoglycemic agent, is among the most common. In this study, the effects of metformin on biochemical (total protein, glycogen, lipid) and antioxidant (malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), glutathione S-transferase (GST), catalase (CAT)) parameters were investigated in carp ( Cyprinus carpio ) fry. Fish were exposed to 40 and 80 µg/L metformin for 96 h, 14 and 21 days. No mortalities occurred in any group. At 80 µg/L for 21 days, total protein activity and lipid levels significantly decreased. Glycogen activity showed no significant differences compared to controls. Antioxidant parameters measured spectrophotometrically revealed that MDA levels, CAT and GST activities decreased with time but increased with dose, while GSH levels rose with time yet decreased with dose. Overall, significant time- and dose-dependent effects ( p < 0.05) were observed. In silico analyses were also performed. The activity of metformin against antioxidant proteins was evaluated, and molecular dynamics simulations confirmed strong interactions with the most active protein. ADME/T analysis provided pharmacokinetic insights, and Gaussian-based quantum chemical calculations (EHOMO, ELUMO, ΔE, dipole, etc.) characterized electronic and structural properties. These combined results indicate that metformin alters key biochemical pathways in carp fry and has significant reactivity toward antioxidant proteins. Findings suggest potential ecotoxicological risks in aquatic systems and relevance to pharmacological profiling.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
    AtıfScopus1OpenAlex1
    ScopusWeb of SciencePubMedİncele
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1
    The mediating role of problem solving in the relationship between emotional intelligence and mental well-being

    Erdoğan, Ramazan; Özcan, Büşra; Kızar, Oktay; Kızılkoca, Mustafa; Çalışır, İrem Kaptangil; Bozkurt, Eyüp; Uğurlu, Fatih Mehmet; Tan, Suriye; Koçal, Meryem

    Background: This study aims to examine the relationship between emotional intelligence and mental well-being among university students and to reveal the mediating role of problem-solving skills in this relationship. Methods: Of these students, 707 participated, and the Emotional Intelligence Trait Scale, the Warwick-Edinburgh Psychological Well-being Scale, and the Problem-Solving Inventory were used as data collection tools. The SPSS software was used for data analysis. Results: Emotional intelligence appears to have a significant effect on mental well-being, and emotional intelligence directly significantly predicts problem-solving skills, but mental well-being does not have a significant effect on problem-solving skills. Emotional intelligence appears to have a direct effect on problem-solving, and mental well-being mediates this effect. The explanatory power of the model is moderate in terms of the role of emotional intelligence in predicting mental well-being and more limited in terms of its role in predicting problem-solving skills. Conclusion: In conclusion, emotional intelligence strengthens individuals’ mental well-being and directly positively impacts their problem-solving skills. However, mental well-being does not play a mediating role in the problem-solving process. This suggests that the direct effect of emotional intelligence is primary in improving problem-solving skills, and mental well-being does not serve as a decisive mediating factor in this process. Therefore, interventions aimed at strengthening emotional intelligence can be effective both in enhancing individuals’ mental well-being and in directly supporting problem-solving skills.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleYalnız künye2026Scopus SJRQ3
    A new lectin from Amanita vaginata mushroom with potent anti-inflammatory activity

    Seliman, Thoiba Mogahid Hussein; Ozsoy, Nurten; Altiparmak-Ulbegi, Gulsum; Alp-Kavlo, Hevidar; Arcan, Gulsah Gamze; Akev, Nuriye; Can, Ayse; Aksoy-Sagirli, Pinar

    This study used 80% ammonium sulphate fractional precipitation, followed by affinity chromatography to purify a new lectin (AVL) from the crude extract of the Amanita vaginata mushroom. The purification procedure achieved a 20% yield, a specific activity of 5120 HU/mg protein, and a 16-fold increase in purity. SDS-PAGE analysis showed a single band of 45 kDa. We assessed AVL's anti-inflammatory effect by measuring levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), in RAW 264.7 macrophages. Western blot analysis showed that iNOS and COX-2 protein levels were barely detectable in the control groups, but markedly elevated in the LPS-treated groups. However, AVL treatment significantly inhibited the expression of both iNOS and COX-2 in LPS-stimulated cells. This effect was dose-dependent. These findings suggest that AVL's anti-inflammatory effects are mediated through the suppression of iNOS and COX-2 expression.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
    AtıfScopus2WoS1OpenAlex2
    ScopusWeb of SciencePubMedİncele
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1
    Deep learning-based detection of bowel sound events in continuous recordings

    Çelik, Yusuf

    Accurate identification of bowel sound events is essential for the long-term and non-invasive monitoring of gastrointestinal activity. In this study, we present a band-aware multi-band deep learning approach that explicitly accounts for the distinct acoustic characteristics of bowel sounds across different frequency ranges by jointly analyzing low- and high-frequency components. The proposed method operates on time–frequency representations extracted from continuous recordings to produce frame-level bowel sound probabilities, which are subsequently integrated into recording-level decisions through a unified decision-making strategy. Despite the pronounced class imbalance in the dataset, the proposed system achieved accuracy levels exceeding 98% at the frame level and 99% at the recording level, yielding stable and consistent outcomes through probability aggregation and temporal smoothing steps. These results indicate that the proposed approach provides a reliable and well-structured framework for bowel sound event detection and establishes a solid methodological basis for the analysis of long-duration recordings.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
    AtıfScopus2WoS2OpenAlex2
    ScopusWeb of SciencePubMedİncele