Scopus İndeksli Yayınlar

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12597/3197

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Does agricultural biomass matter for environmental sustainability? Enhanced adsorption capacity of BTEX mixture using powdered activated carbon by agricultural biomass
(Springer Science and Business Media Deutschland GmbH, 2025) Isinkaralar, K.; Nurmakova, S.M.
The poor indoor air quality can be associated with the released volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from different sources. The extent of the concern may increase depending on the presence of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX) and exposure to them in the indoor air. Adsorption with activated carbon, which is a very effective method, is preferred to eliminate highly volatile gaseous pollutants and reduce the extend of their negative impact. In this work, the removal efficiency of a novel activated carbons (MSRACs), prepared from stems of Corylus colurna (CCBW) by chemical processes using H2SO4, H3PO4, and HCl, was scrutinized towards BTEX pollutants. The adsorbents acquired from this lignin-based waste were investigated from porosity and surface chemistry aspects. The highest surface area of 1424 m2/g and micropore volume of 0.46 cm3/g were attained after activation of MSRAC11 adsorbent sample by H2SO4-70wt%. The performances of the fabricated adsorbent samples were evaluated and the order of MSRAC11>MSRAC24>MSRAC36 was obtained in the multiple concentrations of BTEX. This study introduces an easy method for producing efficient adsorbents from lignin-based waste for filtering indoor air and designing BTEX-capturing systems for various applications
The Association of Sarcopenia and Body Composition With Benign Positional Paroxysmal Vertigo in Older Adults
(John Wiley and Sons Inc, 2025) Demircan, S.K.; Öner, F.
Objectives: One-third of older adults suffer from dizziness and vertigo. Benign positional paroxysmal vertigo (BPPV), which occurs due to otoconia moving into the semicircular canal, is the most common vestibular disorder. We evaluated the connection between BPPV and geriatric symptoms. Methods: A comprehensive geriatric evaluation included daily living activities, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and Geriatric Depression Scale tests for all patients. Patients' nutritional status was assessed using the Mini-Nutritional Assessment. Body weight and fat free mass were determined from the bioimpedance analyzer. Hand grip strength was measured using an electronic hand dynamometer to determine muscle strength. Sarcopenia was assessed using the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People-2 recommendations. The patients were divided into three groups as BPPV-positive, BPPV-negative, and healthy (control). Results: Obesity, low muscle mass, dynapenia, gait speed, low gait speed, and history of falling statistically significantly differed between the three groups, but age, gender, smoking, alcohol consumption, body mass index, MMSE, depression, number of falls, and comorbid diseases did not differ. The BPPV-positive group had greater rates of obesity, low muscle mass, dynapenia, and sarcopenia than the control group (p = 0.008, 0.007, 0.01, 0.03). In the unadjusted univariate analysis, low muscle mass, sarcopenia, and obesity were risk factors for “BPPV” (Odds Ratio [OR]: 3.43, Confidence Interval [Cl]: 1.25–9.37, p = 0.016; OR: 3.47, Cl: 1.32–9.13, p = 0.011; OR: 2.71, Cl: 1.09–6.70, p = 0.031). Conclusions: Obesity, sarcopenia, and low muscle mass are risk factors for BPPV, and we urge the older population to adopt healthy diet and exercise regimens to reduce BPPV-related falls. Level of Evidence: Level 3 Laryngoscope, 2025.
High-Sensitive Cardiac Troponin I and Th1/Th2 Polarization in Queens With Pyometra
(John Wiley and Sons Inc, 2025) Safak, T.; Saat, N.; Yilmaz-Koc, O.; Turanli, M.; Ayalp-Erkan, A.; Risvanli, A.
Objectives: To determine T helper (Th)1 and Th2 cytokine polarization, as well as high-sensitive cardiac troponin I (hs-cTnI) levels, in cats with pyometra. Methods: We used 40 queens in the study. A total of 20 out of these 40 queens were diagnosed with the pyometra group (PYO) and the other 20 made up the healthy group (control; CTR). We measured concentrations of hs-cTnI, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), creatine kinase (CK) and l-lactate in queens from both groups. Additionally, we measured cytokine concentrations in all queens. Results: The hs-cTnI concentration in the PYO group (26.95 ± 5.08 ng/L) was significantly higher than that of the CTR group (7.00 ± 0.82 ng/L) (p < 0.000). Furthermore, the PYO group had a higher CK concentration (344.50 ± 39.63 U/L) than the CTR group (191.00 ± 15.44 U/L) (p = 0.002). The PYO group also demonstrated higher concentrations of TNF-α (9.77 ± 0.81 ng/mL), IFN-γ (25.37 ± 2.09 ng/mL), IL-2 (4.37 ± 0.39 ng/mL), IL-4 (245.64 ± 15.83 pg/mL), IL-5 (63.13 ± 1.65 pg/mL) and IL-10 (123.58 ± 4.30 ng/mL) compared to the CTR group (p < 0.000). Conclusions: Overall, it is suggested that changes in cytokine concentrations increase in queens with pyometra, potentially causing harm to the heart muscle. It is crucial to consider that the heart muscle may also be affected in queens with pyometra during the treatment process.
A glimpse on influences of ginger and its derivatives as a feed additive in finfish farming: A mini-review
(Elsevier Ltd, 2025) Wei, L.S.; Tahiluddin, A.B.; Wee, W.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) has emerged as a promising feed additive in aquaculture due to its reported benefits for fish health and growth. Possessing a range of bioactive compounds, ginger exhibits antimicrobial, anti-parasite, immunostimulatory, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and growth-promoting properties. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent research on dietary ginger and its derivatives for fish. It explores the various forms, bioactive compounds, biological activities, and preparation methods of these feed additives. The discussion focuses on the impacts of dietary ginger and its derivatives on growth performance, flesh quality, hematology profile, antioxidative responses, immune system, and disease resistance stimulation in fish. Additionally, the review examines the mechanisms of action of these additives and explores the optimal supplementation levels for inclusion in fish diets. Previous studies reported the optimal doses of dietary ginger and its derivatives were ranged from 0.0002 to 4 % of diet whereas 0.0004 % for bathing treatment. Bioactive compounds such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, zingerone, gingerols, shogaols, and paradols were responsible to the ginger and its derivatives beneficial effects. Overall, the findings suggest that dietary ginger and its derivatives hold significant promise for enhancing growth and health in fish farming.
Albumin-based nanocarriers loaded with novel Zn(II)-thiosemicarbazone compounds chart a new path for precision breast cancer therapy
(2025) Danişman-Kalindemirtaş, F.; Özerkan, D.; Kariper, İ.A.; Erdemir Cilasun, G.; Ülküseven, B.; Erdem-Kuruca, S.
This study explores the therapeutic potential of albumin-bound Zn(II)-thiosemicarbazone compounds (Alb-ZnTcA, Alb-ZnTcB) against breast cancer cells. Previous research indicates that these compounds hinder cancer cell proliferation by blocking DNA synthesis, promoting oxidative stress to induce apoptosis, and disrupting the cell cycle to inhibit cellular division. This study focuses on the loading and characterization of these potentially chemically unstable compounds on bovine serum albumin-based nanocarriers. Accordingly, unlike previous studies using albumin nanoparticles, in this study, ultraviolet light was used to precisely bind the therapeutic agent to albumin during the integration of thiosemicarbazones, achieving controlled nanoparticle size to control nanoparticle size. The mean diameter of Alb-ZnTcA nanoparticles was 32 nm, while Alb-ZnTcB exhibited an average diameter of 43 nm. Notably, Alb-ZnTcA displayed the highest cytotoxicity toward breast cancer cells, suggesting an optimal size for cellular uptake. Additionally, albumin-bound compounds showed enhanced cytotoxicity at lower concentrations, potentially minimizing adverse side effects. Apoptosis analysis indicated that both Alb-ZnTcA and Alb-ZnTcB induce cell death predominantly through apoptosis, effectively preventing the uncontrolled proliferation of cancer cells. These findings demonstrate the potential of Zn(II)-thiosemicarbazone compounds loaded on albumin-based nanocarriers for breast cancer treatment. The increased potency of Alb-ZnTcA and Alb-ZnTcB compared to free compounds, along with their ability to activate apoptotic signaling pathways in MCF-7 breast cancer cells, highlights a promising approach for future cancer therapies. This study suggests that albumin-bound Zn(II)-thiosemicarbazone compounds could offer a targeted and effective strategy in breast cancer treatment, leveraging the advantages of nanocarrier-based delivery systems.
Increasing microplastics pollution: An emerging vector for potentially pathogenic bacteria in the environment
(Elsevier Ltd, 2025) Tavşanoğlu, Ü.N.; Akca, G.; Pekmez, T.; Başaran Kankılıç, G.; Çırak, T.; Çağan, A.S.; Özkan Kotiloğlu, S.; Grossart, H.P.
Microplastics (MP), plastic particles <5 mm, are of global concern due to their worldwide distribution and potential repercussions on ecosystems and human well-being. In this study, MP were collected from the urbanized Susurluk basin in Türkiye to evaluate their vector function for bacterial biofilms, both in the wet and dry seasons. Bacterial biofilms were predominantly found on polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polystyrene (PS), which constitute the most common MP types in the region. Specific potentially pathogenic bacterial genera, including Pseudomonas sp., Comamonas sp., Salmonella spp., and Shigella spp., were prevalent on MP surfaces. Notably, PE and PP harboured numerous genera of potential human and/or animal origin such as Staphylococcus, Proteus, Escherichia, Enterococcus, and Enterobacter. Water quality played a pivotal role in bacterial biofilm formation on MP. Higher salinity in estuarine areas reduced bacterial abundance on MP, while the more polluted freshwater Nilüfer Stream harboured a higher abundance of total bacteria, particularly of potentially pathogenic strains. Seasonal variations, ambient water conditions, and polymer type are all factors that could influence bacterial colonization on MPs. This catchment-wide evaluation, which includes various habitat types (lentic and lotic systems), the enrichment of cultivable viable bacteria on microplastics (MPs) - a key factor in the spread of pathogens - has significant implications for both environmental and public health. Unlike controlled laboratory experiments or in-situ studies with various particles, this study emphasized the dynamic and complex nature of bacterial strains on MPs, which varied depending on seasonal dynamics and antropogenic impacts in open systems. Further research is needed to thoroughly investigate to fully explore the complex interactions among MPs, microbial communities, and their ecological roles, especially in the context of changing environmental factors across entire river catchments.
Exploring in vitro efficacy of rCHAPk with antibiotic combinations, and promising findings of its therapeutic potential for clinical-originated MRSA wound infection
(Elsevier B.V., 2025) Tasdurmazli, S.; Cinar, I.; Karamese, M.; Aksak Karamese, S.; Cadirci, E.; Melo, L.D.R.; Ozbek, T.
The increasing threat of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, particularly Staphylococcus aureus, which rapidly develops multidrug resistance and commonly colonizes wound surfaces, demands innovative strategies. Phage-encoded endolysins offer a dual-purpose approach as topical therapies for infectious skin wounds and synergistic agents to reduce high-dose antibiotic dependence. This study explores recombinant CHAPk (rCHAPk), efficiently synthesized within 3 h, displaying broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against 10 Gram-positive strains, including resistant variants, with rapid bactericidal kinetics. Application of 10 μg of rCHAPk reduced OD600 by 0.4 within 5 min against a clinical methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strain. Combining rCHAPk (1.875 μg/mL) with oxacillin/vancomycin lowered their minimum bactericidal concentrations to 1 μg/mL from initial values over 64 μg/mL and 32 μg/mL, respectively, with a fractional inhibitory concentration index below 0.1. rCHAPk retained efficacy after one year of refrigerated storage. In in vivo experiments, rCHAPk outperformed commercial fucidin therapy in MRSA-induced murine wound models over two weeks, enhancing wound healing by modulating pro-inflammatory cytokine responses and the proliferative phase. This study, for the first time, investigates rCHAPk's in vitro combination with antibiotics and wound healing parameters, highlighting its potential as a potent antibacterial agent synergizing with antibiotics to address antibiotic-resistant bacterial wound infections
Psychometric Properties of the California Brief Multicultural Competence Scale (CBMCS) in a Turkish Counselor Sample
(Routledge, 2025) Kılıç, C.; Arıcı-Şahin, F.
The practice and measurement of multicultural counseling competencies have become key issues in the counseling field in recent years. The present study examines the psychometric properties of the California Brief Multicultural Competence Scale (CBMCS) with Turkish counselors and counselor candidates based on the participation of 284 individuals (Mage = 26.10, SD = 6.92, 76.4% female). Confirmatory factor analyses were performed to test the structural validity of the CBMCS. The four-factor structure of the CBMCS was confirmed in the Turkish context (RMSEA =.039, CFI =.979, TLI =.976). The instrument can be used for various purposes such as the measurement of multicultural competencies, the influence of education and training, and cross-cultural research.
Morphological Features of the Pecten Oculi in the Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus)
(John Wiley and Sons Inc, 2025) Kilinç, B.; Toprak, B.; Yüksel, S.; Kandir, E.H.; Koçak, G.
This study aimed to investigate the macroscopic, light microscopic (LM) and scanning electron microscopic (SEM) characteristics of the pecten oculi in common kestrels (Falco tinnunculus). A total of six eyeballs from three common kestrels were used as the study material. The examination revealed that the bulbus oculi was spherical in shape and its diameter exceeded the axial-global length. In the equatorial section of the eyeball, the pecten oculi were observed to be situated on the retina layer where the optic nerve enters the eyeball, showing a posterior-to-anterior distribution. The pecten oculi appeared dark brown, with a convoluted structure, comprising approximately 15–17 vascular folds. Scanning electron microscopic examination revealed dense capillary vascular folds on the surface of the pecten oculi. Within these capillary vessels, a few hyalocytes were noted, and melanocytes were found at the edges of the folds. Light microscopic examination detected numerous large, medium and small diameter vessels within the folds of the pecten oculi, especially at the periphery of the folds and the apical parts of the pecten oculi. The findings of this study were compared with the morphological characteristics of the pecten oculi in other bird species, revealing both similarities and differences.
Monitoring the operational changes in surface reflectances after logging, based on popular indices over Sentinel-2, Landsat-8, and ASTER imageries
(2025) Genç, Ç.Ö.; Altunel, A.O.
Revealing the status of forests is important for sustainable forest management. The basis of the concept lies in meeting the needs of future generations and today's generations in the management of forests. The use of remote-sensing (RS) technologies and geographic information systems (GIS) techniques in revealing the current forest structure and in long-term planning of forest areas with multipurpose planning techniques is increasing day by day. Significant technological advances are in allowing programmers to modernize how they manage data. Sentinel-2, which is a relatively new addition to Earth observing satellites, is a new-generation satellite that has enabled classification and monitoring of land cover change with high precision at ease. Visible R, G, B, and near-infrared (NIR) bands have offered exceptional 10-m spatial reasolution, making them suitable for vegetation monitoring along with the additional 20-m bands to spare especially in chlorophyll content analyses. On the contrary, Landsat-8 and ASTER which have been longer lasting in Earth observation were rougher results especially in forestry studies. In this study, Landsat-8 and ASTER satellite images were compared against the Sentinel-2 images as a reference in conjunction with GIS techniques to monitor and assess the impact of various logging procedures, including selective logging and regeneration silviculture. The investigation employed a range of plant vegetation indices, including NDVI, GNDVI, and SAVI, to evaluate the efficacy of image resolution in detecting forest cover changes in the Kastamonu region, where the timber production is the hightest in Turkey. For selective and regeneration activities, satellite images were taken pre-harvesting and immediately post-harvesting, and index maps were produced. NDVI, GNDVI, and SAVI indices were the most accurate indicators of green vegetation change in the Sentinel-2A imagery. Similarly, for the Landsat-8 imagery, the SAVI, NDVI, and GNDVI indices were found to be satisfactory indicators. As for ASTER imagery, the success sequance was like SAVI, GNDVI, and NDVI. Based on the findings of this study, it has been noted that the ASTER imagery closeness to Sentinel-2A was more remarkable in detecting changes in green vegetation in forested areas. The data derived from ASTER imageries demonstrated superior efficacy compared to Landsat-8 in generating forest cover maps, owing to their proximity to those produced by Sentinel-2. The findings also indicated that ASTER imagery, with suitable spatial and spectral resolution, could still be utilized as efficienly as Landsats to generate forest cover density maps and monitor long-term forest conservation practices, particularly in professionally managed forests. Thus, this methodology demonstrated the capacity for efficient worldwide forest management.
Effect of middle-age plasma therapy on ileum morphology, immune defense (IgA) and cell proliferation (Ki-67) of female aged rats
(Springer Science and Business Media Deutschland GmbH, 2025) Asmaz, E.D.; Teker, H.T.; Sertkaya, Z.T.; Ceylani, T.; Genç, A.İ.
Blood plasma therapy, a new treatment method to eliminate the damage and deterioration caused by aging in many organ systems, has attracted increasing attention. The digestive tract, which cooperates with many different systems, has strong effects on our health. In the present study, the effects of plasma therapy on the ileum of elderly rats were investigated. Wistar rats (n = 7; 12–15 months old) were given pooled plasma collected from middle-age rats (6 months, n =28) (for 30 days, 0.3 ml daily, intravenously into the tail vein). At the end of the experiment, villus height, crypt depth, total mucosal thickness and surface absorption area were evaluated. In addition, the effects of IgA, which plays a role in the digestive system's defense against microorganisms, were examined. Both the cell proliferation intensity and proliferation index were evaluated in crypt cells. An increase was determined in all morphological parameters in the experimental group. Similarly, plasma application decreased IgA expression and numbers in the experimental groups. Contrarily, cell proliferation parameters showed a significant increase in the experimental groups' crypt cells. Therefore, we found that the treatment supports the digestive system in terms of both nutrient utilization and absorption-related parameters and has a protective effect on intestinal immune system parameters.
The effects of a home visit-supported nursing education program on certain parameters in older adults living alone at home
(John Wiley and Sons Inc, 2025) Arabacı, Z.; Kaçan, H.
Background: The rapid aging of the world population is emerging as a global public health issue, and the likelihood of living alone increases with age. Aim: This study aims to develop healthy lifestyle behaviors, reduce loneliness levels, and increase social support capacity among older adults living alone at home. Research model: The present study was designed as a quasi-experimental study. Method: This study included 49 older adults aged 65 and above who agreed to participate, with 26 in the experimental group and 23 in the control group. The data collection tools used were the Introductory Information Form, the healthy lifestyle behavior scale II, the UCLA loneliness scale Short Form-6, and the multidimensional scale of Perceived Social Support. The experimental group received individualized nursing education programs through weekly 60-min home visits for 8 weeks. The study followed the CONSORT flow diagram. Results: The results indicate a statistically significant difference between the pretest and posttest scores of the experimental group in the “Friend” dimension of the Perceived Social Support Scale. However, no difference was found in the healthy lifestyle behavior scores and the loneliness scale scores. Conclusion: It is difficult to achieve significant improvements in short periods among older adult groups. Substantial changes may not have occurred because this study included pretest and posttest measures over an 8-week period. Therefore, future studies should consider longer durations and include follow-up processes to observe more significant effects. Implications for nursing practice: It is anticipated that there will be a successful aging process in studies supported by long-term home visits by nurses.
Assessment of 40-year Al Deposition in some Exotic Conifer Species in the Urban Air of Düzce, Türkiye
(Springer Nature, 2025) Koç, İ.; Canturk, U.; Cobanoglu, H.; Kulac, S.; Key, K.; Sevik, H.
Heavy metal (HM) pollution in urban air, a global dilemma, has increased drastically in the last century. Aluminum (Al) is one of the HMs and a neurotoxic element that can be absorbed into human tissues through digestion, breathing, and skin. Al accumulation in humans can cause diseases and even cause death. Due to the risks it poses to human and environmental health, it is vital to track the Al contamination shifts in the airborne and decrease them. In this study, 40-year Al concentration differences in Pseudotsuga menziesii, Cedrus atlantica, Picea orientalis, Cupressus arizonica, and Pinus pinaster grown in Düzce, Türkiye, the fifth most polluted European town, in terms of direction, tree species, and tissue type were assessed. As a result, Al accumulation in the tissues generally varies as outer bark > inner bark > wood. Whole species can accumulate Al significantly, and Al transfer between adjacent cells in the wood part is limited. In conclusion, all species can be used as biomonitors to track temporal Al pollution changes. However, the highest concentrations, especially in the wood part, were observed in Cedrus atlantica, Picea orientalis, and Cupressus arizonica, and these species were chosen to be the most suitable species to be used in phytoremediation studies.
Evaluation of Eustachian tube function in Behçet᾿s disease: A case-control study
(Turkish League Against Rheumatism (TLAR), 2024) Yaşar, M.; Atalay, F.; Kahveci, A.; Yavuz, Z.
Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate Eustachian tube function in patients with Behçet’s disease (BD). Patients and methods: Forty-six patients (22 males, 24 females; mean age: 42.1±11.3 years; range, 19 to 64 years) with BD and 46 (21 males, 25 females; mean age: 38.5±14.8 years; range, 19 to 63 years) age-and sex-matched audiologically healthy individuals were enrolled in this cross-sectional, case-control study between June 2023 and August 2023. Demographic and clinical characteristics of participants were recorded from electronic health records. All participants completed the Eustachian tube function test and the Eustachian tube dysfunction questionnaire 7 (ETDQ-7). Binary logistic regression analysis was employed to identify the factors that predict Eustachian tube dysfunction in patients with BD. Additionally, the association between disease duration and ETDQ-7 scores was evaluated using Spearman’s rank correlation. Results: The median ETDQ-7 scores were significantly higher in patients with BD than in controls (10 (7-32) vs. 7 (7-9); p<0.001). The number of ears with Eustachian tube dysfunction was also significantly higher in the BD group than in the controls (n=22, 47.8% vs. n=7, 15.2%; p=0.007). Regression analysis did not reveal statistically significant factors that predicted Eustachian tube dysfunction. Moreover, no statistically significant correlation was observed between Eustachian tube dysfunction and disease duration (R=–0.067; p=0.525). Conclusion: This study showed that Eustachian tube dysfunction is more prevalent in patients with BD than in the healthy controls. However, clinical and demographic variables were not found to be associated with Eustachian tube dysfunction
Optimal vegetable selection in urban and rural areas using artificial bee colony algorithm: Heavy metal assessment and health risk
(Academic Press Inc., 2025) Gültekin, Y.; Bayraktar, M.K.; Sevik, H.; Cetin, M.; Bayraktar, T.
Industrial and traffic activities have raised heavy metal (HM) pollution, increasing health risks from contaminated vegetables. The study aims to analyze HM concentrations of lead (Pb), iron (Fe), and aluminum (Al) in Solanum lycopersicum L. (tomato), Capsicum annuum L. (pepper), Phaseolus vulgaris L. (bean), and Zea mays L. (corn) plants grown in urban and rural areas of Ordu province, Türkiye. Variations in the HMs were evaluated based on species, organ, growing area, and washing status. The goal is to use the Artificial Bee Colony (ABC) algorithm to identify the best vegetable combination based on health risk assessment. Tomato and corn had the lowest HM levels, while pepper had the highest. Urban vegetables had high Pb levels, with urban-grown corn showing notably high Fe and Al levels. Pb levels (341.4–13,240.4 μg/kg) exceeded permissible limits in all vegetables, Al (898.9–210,706.2 μg/kg) in most, while Fe (11.2–298.4 μg/kg) stayed within safe limits. Health risk assessments (hazard quotient and hazard indices <1) show no risk of non-carcinogenic diseases. The recommended upper limits for HM concentrations constrain vegetable choices to minimize health risks, with the ABC algorithm advising washed pepper, tomato, and bean from urban areas and unwashed corn from rural areas.
Opportunities and Challenges of Chatbots in Ophthalmology: A Narrative Review
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2024) Sabaner, M.C.; Anguita, R.; Antaki, F.; Balas, M.; Boberg-Ans, L.C.; Ferro Desideri, L.; Grauslund, J.; Hansen, M.S.; Klefter, O.N.; Potapenko, I.; Rasmussen, M.L.R.; Subhi, Y.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly influential in ophthalmology, particularly through advancements in machine learning, deep learning, robotics, neural networks, and natural language processing (NLP). Among these, NLP-based chatbots are the most readily accessible and are driven by AI-based large language models (LLMs). These chatbots have facilitated new research avenues and have gained traction in both clinical and surgical applications in ophthalmology. They are also increasingly being utilized in studies on ophthalmology-related exams, particularly those containing multiple-choice questions (MCQs). This narrative review evaluates both the opportunities and the challenges of integrating chatbots into ophthalmology research, with separate assessments of studies involving open- and close-ended questions. While chatbots have demonstrated sufficient accuracy in handling MCQ-based studies, supporting their use in education, additional exam security measures are necessary. The research on open-ended question responses suggests that AI-based LLM chatbots could be applied across nearly all areas of ophthalmology. They have shown promise for addressing patient inquiries, offering medical advice, patient education, supporting triage, facilitating diagnosis and differential diagnosis, and aiding in surgical planning. However, the ethical implications, confidentiality concerns, physician liability, and issues surrounding patient privacy remain pressing challenges. Although AI has demonstrated significant promise in clinical patient care, it is currently most effective as a supportive tool rather than as a replacement for human physicians.
Structural and Mechanical Dynamics of Y-358 Superconductors Influenced by Tb/Y and Zn/Cu Substitutions
(Springer, 2025) Ozturk, O.; Guducu, G.; Kurnaz, S.; Seydioglu, T.; Safran, S.
The search for superconductors with superior mechanical properties has driven research into homovalent replacements. In this work, we have systematically incorporated Tb/Y and Zn/Cu dopants into Y3-x(Tb)xBa5Cu8O18-δ and Y3Ba5Cu8-x(Zn)xO18-δ based bulk superconductors using the sol-gel technique. Our goal was to explore the fundamental mechanisms linking dopant concentration (0–15%), substitution, processing, and mechanical performance. Understanding these mechanisms can help in designing robust and high-performance superconducting materials for various technological applications. The samples were extensively investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Vickers hardness measurements and related calculations. The hardness data were further evaluated using Meyer’s law, the proportional sample resistance (PSR) model, the elastic/plastic deformation (EPD) model, the Hays-Kendall (HK) approach, and the indentation-induced cracking (IIC) model. This study reveals the fundamental changes in the properties of Y-358 superconductors due to Tb/Y and Zn/Cu substitutions. The interpretation of the XRD study results leads to the conclusion that all samples have an orthorhombic crystal structure. XRD results confirmed that all samples maintained an orthorhombic crystal structure. However, significant XRD peaks indicated that Tb doping above 10% introduced impurities. Additionally, micromechanical studies demonstrated that hardness values in the plateau region consistently decreased as Tb and Zn doping ratios increased. A decrease in hardness values with increasing applied load, known as the indentation size effect (ISE), was also observed. Among the modeling techniques applied, the IIC model provided the best fit for the hardness test results.
Examination of The Functionality of The ‘Guitar Education and Accompaniment’ Course Delivered in A Virtual Classroom Environment for Instrument Performance
(Editorial Salud, Ciencia y Tecnologia, 2025) Ömer Tokatli, M.; Can, A.; Yungul, O.
Objective: this study aimed to determine the technical and musical levels of the students’ instrument performances. In this direction, the functionality of this course was evaluated by determining the technical, musical and general performance levels of the students. Method: in this study, where action research was adopted, two action studies were implemented within the scope of this study. The Performance Observation Form developed by Şenoğlu Özdemir (2019) as two dimensions, technical and musical, was used as the data collection tool. The study was carried out within the scope of the virtual classroom and Zoom application was used. Also, the Musescore, a native Turkish notation writing program, was used to explain musical information and studies. Within the scope of the study, Results: the data obtained from the video recordings of the lessons conducted within the scope of the action research contributed to the management of the process for students’ better understanding of subjects they had difficulty with for the next lesson. It was determined that the fact that each of the students in the study group played a different major instrument affected their performance. Discussion: suggestions were made to improve the instrument performance in the ‘Guitar Education and Accompaniment’ lesson delivered in the virtual classroom environment.
Magnetic Biochar Production from Agricultural Waste and Reactive Blue 19 Removal by Peroxymonosulfate Activation
(Korean Fiber Society, 2025) Kader, N.; Değermenci, G.D.
The conversion of agricultural biomass waste into value-added biochar (BC)-based catalysts is of great interest. Magnetic biochar is an excellent material that facilitates both solid–liquid separation and peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation. In this study, magnetic biochar was produced from pea pod, an agricultural waste, by pyrolysis, hydrothermal methods, and precipitation. The structure, morphology, and magnetic separation properties of magnetic biochar produced from pea pod (MPPBC) were comprehensively analyzed by different characterization methods. Reactive blue 19 (RB19) was selected as a model pollutant to evaluate the performance of the MPPBC/PMS system. The effect of initial solution pH, MPPBC dosage, PMS concentration, initial RB19 concentration, reusability, and concentrations of anions and natural organic matter concentrations on the removal of RB19 in the MPPBC/PMS system was investigated. The results showed that MPPBC could effectively activate PMS, and RB19 removal reached 85% at an initial solution pH of 3, an MPPBC dosage of 0.20 g/L, a PMS concentration of 0.50 mM, an initial RB19 concentration of 25 mg/L, and an oxidation time of 60 min. The reusability of MPPBC showed an 8% decrease in the removal efficiency of RB19 after four uses. Anions and natural organic matter added to the solution were found to decrease the removal of RB19. The kinetics of RB19 removal in MPPBC/PMS system was determined using first order, second order, and Behnajady-Modirshahla-Ghanbery (BMG) models. As a result of kinetic calculations, the BMG kinetic model was found to be more effective for describing the removal efficiency of RB19
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Dynamics in the Energy Sector: Strategic Approaches for Sustainable Development
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2024) Yucel, M.; Yucel, S.
ESG metrics have become increasingly important in evaluating corporate sustainability and meeting regulatory expectations. Thus, it is essential to explore these elements for a clearer understanding. This study examined the environmental (E), social (S), and governance (G) scores across various sub-sectors of the energy industry. Using systems thinking and creating shared value (CSV) approaches, the research investigated whether ESG performance varies significantly among the sub-sectors and how changes in one pillar might influence the others. Data from 576 companies in the Thomson Reuters EIKON database were analyzed using ANOVA, correlation, and multiple regression. The results revealed distinct differences in the ESG scores among sub-sectors, with environmental and social practices often reinforcing each other. However, governance showed a weaker influence, highlighting the need for further research on governance frameworks to clarify the underlying reasons and to integrate better with other ESG pillars. The research has specific implications for strategic management and provided recommendations for further studies.

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