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- Suleyman, Halis(167)
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- Huyut, Mehmet Tahir(46)
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- Kuzucu, Mehmet(40)
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- Onk, Didem(29)
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Yayınlar
- ArticleAçık Erişim2026Performance of Serum-Based Non-Invasive Fibrosis Scores Compared with Liver Biopsy in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B
Binay, Umut Devrim; Karakeçili, Faruk; Barkay, Orçun; Kuru, Betül
Background and Objectives: Accurate assessment of liver fibrosis is essential for treatment decisions in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). Although liver biopsy is considered the reference standard, its invasive nature limits routine use. Serum-based non-invasive fibrosis scores have been proposed as alternatives; however, their diagnostic performance in CHB remains variable. This study aimed to compare multiple serum-based non-invasive fibrosis scores with liver biopsy findings and to evaluate their association with histological activity. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study included 219 adult patients with CHB who underwent liver biopsy with simultaneous laboratory evaluation. Patients with viral co-infections (HIV, HCV, or HDV), metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus, hepatic steatosis, or incomplete data were excluded. Non-invasive fibrosis scores—including APRI, FIB-4, AST/ALT ratio (AAR), age–platelet index (API), GGT-to-platelet ratio (GPR), Lok index, modified Forns index, Albumin–Bilirubin (ALBI) score, and red cell distribution width (RDW)-based indices—were calculated using routine laboratory parameters. Histopathological fibrosis staging served as the reference standard. Diagnostic performance was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, and areas under the curve (AUC) were compared using the DeLong test. Associations with histological activity index (HAI) were assessed using Spearman correlation. Results: For the prediction of significant fibrosis (≥F2), FIB-4 demonstrated the highest AUC, followed by ALBI and APRI. For advanced fibrosis (≥F3), FIB-4 again showed the highest AUC, followed by APRI and GPR. For significant fibrosis (≥F2), DeLong analysis revealed no statistically significant differences between FIB-4 and the other serum-based scores (p > 0.05). APRI (r = 0.556, p < 0.001) and FIB-4 (r = 0.463, p < 0.001) showed the strongest correlations with HAI. In ROC analysis for moderate-to-severe histological activity (HAI ≥ 4), APRI demonstrated the highest diagnostic accuracy (AUC = 0.677). Conclusions: Serum-based non-invasive fibrosis scores demonstrate comparable but overall modest diagnostic performance for biopsy-confirmed fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis B. Indices such as FIB-4 and APRI demonstrated relatively better discrimination and may be considered as screening or rule-out tools in selected clinical contexts. APRI and FIB-4 also show associations with histological activity; however, their clinical application should be interpreted with caution, given their moderate discriminatory capacity.
- ArticleYalnız künye2026A study of the synthesis, characterization, cytotoxicity assessment, and molecular docking of Cu(II), Ni(II), and Co(II) ions with Schiff base and 1,10-phenanthroline
Sarıoğlu, Ahmet Oral; Törer, Hakan; Taşdemir, Demet; Türkmenoğlu, Burçin; Alyamaç, İbrahim Tahsin; Sönmez, Mehmet
This work covers the synthesis, cytotoxicity evaluation, and molecular docking study of new metal complexes formed by the coupling of 2-(((2-hydroxyphenyl)imino)methyl)-4-nitrophenol (L1) and 1,10-phenanthroline (L2) ligands. The ligand (L1) and its mixed ligand complexes with Cu(II), Co(II), and Ni(II) salts were analyzed using elemental analysis, FT-IR, TGA, UV-Vis, LC-MS/MS, NMR (just for the ligand L1), and magnetic susceptibility assessments. To our knowledge, this is the first report evaluating the cytotoxic and apoptotic effects of these complexes on A549 lung carcinoma and SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. Among all synthesized compounds, copper complexes ([Cu(L1)(L2)H₂O] and [Cu(L1)2(H₂O)2]) exhibited significant cytotoxicity with IC50 values of 14.18 µM and 5.17 µM in A549 cells, and 37.96 µM and 23.35 µM in SH-SY5Y cells, respectively. Annexin V/PI apoptosis assays confirmed that the copper complexes induced both early and late apoptosis more effectively than cisplatin in A549 cells. Molecular docking studies further validated these findings, revealing strong interactions of copper complexes with B-DNA, EGFR, VEGFR-2, and ERK2, consistent with the observed anticancer activities. These results suggest that Cu(II)–Schiff base complexes represent promising lead compounds for future anticancer drug development.
- ArticleYalnız künye2026Phenolic Composition, Chemometric Analysis, and Multifunctional Biological Activities of Organ-Specific Extracts From Endemic Hedysarum erythroleucum
Elveren, Müjgan; Varol, Tuğçe; Şimşek, Samed; Aydın, Ali; Yılmaz, Mustafa Abdullah; Altın, Sevgi; Osma, Etem
Hedysarum erythroleucum is a plant species native to Türkiye and represents a potential source of bioactive compounds. This study investigated the phytochemical composition and biological activities of methanolic extracts prepared from the leaves, stems, and roots. LC-MS/MS analysis identified 53 phenolic compounds and revealed clear differences in metabolite distribution among plant organs. Quinic acid was the predominant phenolic acid, particularly in the leaf extract. Flavonoid glycosides such as isoquercitrin, astragalin, and rutin were also abundant in the aerial parts of the plant. The antioxidant potential of the extracts was evaluated using DPPH, FRAP, total phenolic content, and total flavonoid content assays. Among the tested plant parts, the leaf extract exhibited the strongest antioxidant activity, with the lowest DPPH IC50 value, the highest reducing power, and the highest total phenolic and flavonoid contents. These findings indicate that the leaves contain high levels of antioxidant compounds. Enzyme inhibition assays showed that the leaf extract exhibited the highest inhibitory activity against acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase, and α-glycosidase. Its activity was comparable to that of the reference inhibitors under the experimental conditions. Antiproliferative activity was assessed against lung and breast cancer cell lines. All extracts inhibited cancer cell growth, with the highest sensitivity observed in H1650 and MDA-MB-231 cells. Tumor selectivity indices suggested moderate selectivity, especially for root extracts. LDH cytotoxicity analysis indicated limited membrane damage, suggesting that the extracts primarily exert cytostatic effects by suppressing cell proliferation rather than inducing extensive cell death. Multivariate analyses revealed organ-specific metabolite patterns and associations between phenolic composition and the measured biological activities. Overall, the findings indicate that H. erythroleucum, particularly the leaf extract, contains a high content of phenolic compounds and exhibits promising in vitro antioxidant, enzyme inhibitory, and antiproliferative activities. These findings provide a basis for future phytochemical investigations, mechanistic studies, compound isolation, and in vivo validation.
- ArticleAçık Erişim2026Macroscopic growth patterns and their molecular implications in gastric carcinoma: toward risk stratification via borrmann classification
Issin, Gizem; Demir, Fatih; Cagatay, Diren Vuslat; Bakkaloglu, Irem Guvendir; Gamsizkan, Mehmet; Yildiz, Zeliha; Yilmaz, Ismail; Ozmen, Sevilay; Zemheri, Itir Ebru; Demiriz, Murat
Abstract: Gastric carcinoma (GC) is a heterogeneous disease with diverse histopathological and molecular features. The Borrmann classification, which reflects the macroscopic growth pattern, has potential value in correlating with molecular characteristics and predicting disease extent and prognosis. However, its relationship with GC molecular subtypes remains incompletely defined. In the present study, we attempted to assess the relationship between Borrmann classification and clinical, pathological, and molecular findings in GC, as well as its impact on overall survival. Material and methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 255 patients who underwent surgery for GC between January 2012 and 2021. Cases were classified into types I, II, III, and IV, according to the Borrmann classification. Clinical data, tumor characteristics, molecular marker expression status, and survival data were analyzed in relation to the Borrmann classification. Result: The most common macroscopic growth pattern was Borrmann type III (38.8%). Type IV tumors were associated with younger patients, larger size, epithelial-mesenchymal transition–related molecular subtype, diffuse histology, and a higher incidence of peritoneal dissemination. In contrast, type I tumors were more frequently diagnosed at earlier stages and demonstrated well-differentiated morphology, frequent HER2 positivity, and p53 mutant expression. Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated clear survival differences among Borrmann types, with type I tumors showing the most favorable outcomes (median 82.2 months) and type IV tumors the poorest (median 34.6 months; log-rank p < 0.001). When adjusted for covariates in the multivariate Cox model, only age, Borrmann type III (compared to type I) and advanced nodal status (pN0 compared to pN2–3) were found to be independent prognostic indicators. Advanced age was consistently associated with reduced survival time, type III tumors resulted in more than a twofold increase in mortality risk, and higher nodal stages were strongly linked to poor outcomes. Conclusion: The Borrmann classification showed associations with molecular and pathological features of GC, and survival varied among types, suggesting potential utility for prognostic assessment prior to surgery.
- ArticleAçık Erişim2026Serum Biomarkers of Neuroaxonal and Astroglial Damage in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Relationship With Symptom Severity, Behavioural Dimensions and Age
Dedeoğlu, Zeynep Nur; Uzun, Necati; Kılınç, İbrahim; Kılıç, Ahmet Osman
Purpose: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and the presence of restrictive, repetitive patterns of behaviour. Although its exact aetiology remains multifaceted and partially understood, recent clinical interest has shifted towards neurobiological substrates, specifically neuroaxonal and astroglial integrity. This study aims to compare serum levels of Neurofilament Light Chain (NfL), Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP), Tau and S100B between children with ASD and healthy controls, while investigating the influence of these biochemical variables on autism severity and behavioural manifestations. Methods: The study cohort consisted of 44 children (aged 24–72 months) diagnosed with ASD according to DSM-5-TR criteria and 40 age-matched healthy controls. Clinical assessments were conducted using the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), the Aberrant Behaviour Checklist (ABC) and the Autism Behaviour Checklist. Serum concentrations of the targeted biomarkers were measured using the ELISA method from venous blood samples. Results: Serum NfL, Tau, GFAP and S100B concentrations did not differ significantly between children with ASD and healthy controls. Exploratory analyses suggested possible associations between selected biomarkers and clinical characteristics; however, these associations did not remain statistically significant after age adjustment and correction for multiple comparisons. Further studies using larger cohorts and ultrasensitive analytical platforms are needed to validate these preliminary findings. Conclusion: These findings indicate that serum NfL, Tau, GFAP and S100B did not differentiate children with ASD from healthy controls. Exploratory biomarker–clinical associations did not remain statistically significant after age adjustment and correction for multiple comparisons. Larger longitudinal studies using ultrasensitive analytical platforms are warranted.
- ArticleYalnız künye2026Diagnostic Performance of 68Ga DOTA-Pentixafor PET/CT in Benign Functional Adrenal Cortical Lesions
Şahin, Ömer F.; Tosunoğlu, Zehranur; Şahin, Rahime; Şahin, Dilruba; Alçin, Göksel; Arslan, Esra; Çermik, Tevfik F.
Objective: – This prospective study evaluated the diagnostic performance of 68Ga DOTA-Pentixafor PET/CT in characterizing the functional properties and lateralization of aldosterone-producing and cortisol-producing adrenal cortical lesions. The contribution of Pentixafor PET/CT to diagnosis and treatment planning was assessed in comparison with CT, MRI, and 18F-FDG PET/CT. Patients and Methods: – Twenty-five patients with suspected benign functional adrenal cortical masses were included. All patients underwent whole-body imaging at 1 hour and delayed abdominal imaging at 2 hours following intravenous administration of 18F-FDG and 68Ga DOTA-Pentixafor. Lesion SUVmax, LCRSUVmax, and LLRSUVmax values were analyzed and correlated with laboratory parameters, other imaging modalities, and postoperative clinical and pathologic outcomes. Results: – 68Ga DOTA-Pentixafor PET/CT demonstrated distinct focal uptake relative to the contralateral adrenal gland and liver parenchyma in 6/6 (100%) patients with suspected PA, 5/18 (27.7%) with suspected CS, and 1/1 (100%) with suspected EAS. Among patients with focal uptake who underwent surgery, all PA (5/5) and all CS (5/5) cases were confirmed as adrenocortical adenomas, resulting in no false-positive findings (PPV 100%). However, due to 2 false-negative CS cases, pentixafor PET/CT demonstrated an overall sensitivity of 83.3%, specificity of 100%, and accuracy of 85.7%. Thresholds of SUVmax >15.11, LCRSUVmax >1.74, and LLRSUVmax >4.36 yielded sensitivities of 33.3%, 41.7%, and 41.7%, respectively, while maintaining 100% specificity. Clinical and biochemical improvement was observed in 100% (5/5) of operated PA patients and 100% (5/5) of operated CS patients. Follow-up of nonoperated patients is ongoing. Conclusion: – 68Ga DOTA-Pentixafor PET/CT is a valuable diagnostic and potentially therapeutic tool for benign functional adrenal cortical disorders such as PA, CS, and EAS, with the potential to establish a new standard in minimally invasive patient management.
- ArticleAçık Erişim2026Living with Retinitis Pigmentosa in Türkiye: Diagnosis, Independence, and Access to Care
Gürsoy, Nurcan; Gürsoy, Ersan
Background: Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a progressive inherited retinal dystrophy that affects daily functioning, psychological well-being, and social participation. Although quantitative research describes disease burden, less is known about how individuals experience progressive vision loss in everyday life and within healthcare and social contexts. Methods: This qualitative study used semi-structured face-to-face interviews with adults diagnosed with RP. Purposive sampling was applied to ensure variation in demographic and clinical characteristics. Interviews were conducted in a tertiary ophthalmology clinic in Erzincan, Türkiye, between June and October 2025. Audio recordings were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s reflexive thematic analysis. Reporting followed the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist. Results: Sixteen participants (P1–P16) were included. Five themes were identified: (1) making sense of the illness and the diagnostic journey; (2) functional loss and the negotiation of independence; (3) psychological adaptation and identity reconstruction; (4) social relationships and social encounters; and (5) interaction with systems and the environment—accessibility and healthcare. Participants described early symptom normalization, delayed diagnostic pathways, and uncertainty persisting after diagnosis. Independence was shaped by safety concerns, environmental barriers, and reliance on support. Psychological adjustment fluctuated between fear of progression and efforts to sustain resilience. Social participation was influenced by support networks, concerns about being a burden, and stigma linked to invisible disability. Conclusions: Living with RP extends beyond visual impairment; building on prior qualitative work, our findings contextualize these experiences in Türkiye, highlighting how accessibility gaps, bureaucratic encounters in public institutions, and cost barriers within healthcare and public services can shape uncertainty, independence, and social participation.
- ArticleAçık Erişim2026Water Soluble-Nitrogenous Secondary Metabolites From Talaromyces annesophieae MD2 Exhibit Anti-Bacterial, Anti-Cancer, Anti-Oxidant, and Cytoprotective Activities
Doymus-Yilmaz, Meryem; Aksit, Huseyin; Taskin, Mesut
This study focused on biological activities and chemical characterization of secondary metabolites from the fungus Talaromyces annesophieae MD2 (GenBank: PQ252671). The dichloromethane extract (DCM-E) of its culture supernatant was fractionated using chromatographic techniques. Initially, three main fractions were first prepared from DCM-E. Subsequently, the selected active fraction 2 was subfractionated into six subfractions. The subfraction 3 demonstrated high water solubility and strong antibacterial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria (MIC values of 105.41, 82.76, 71.92, and 70.38 µg/mL against B. cereus, S. aureus, E. coli, and K. pneumoniae, respectively). It exhibited selective anticancer activity through regulation of autophagy- and apoptosis-related pathways without affecting healthy cells (IC50 values of 7.65, 3.76, 10.76 µg/mL against HT-29, DU-145 and SH-SY5Y, respectively). Furthermore, it exhibited DPPH and ABTS radical-scavenging activities (48.3% and 44.1% at the concentration of 100 μg/mL, respectively) and protected dermal fibroblasts against H2O2–induced toxicity. Structural analyses elucidated that the subfraction 3 contained four nitrogenous polar compounds. Three compounds (C5H3O4N8, C15H25O4N4, and C23H21N4) were suggested to be alkaloid-like or nitrogen-rich heterocyclic secondary metabolites, while the remaining compound (C9H9O4N) was probably an aminobenzoic acid-type or heteroaromatic carboxylic acid derivative. This is the first report on bioactive metabolites of T. annesophieae. Due to multifunctional biological activities, its metabolites can find application in dermocosmetics and pharmacology.
- ArticleAçık Erişim2026Facile Synthesis and Characterization of Copper Hybrid Nanoflowers Using β-hydroxyamide–based Compounds: Investigation of their Anticancer Activity and Molecular Docking Analysis
Arslan, Nevin; Yılmaz, Burcu Somtürk; Özkan, Ahmet İsmail; Gültekin, Deniz Canbolat; Işık, Uğur; Azizoğlu, Murat; Türkmenoğlu, Burçin; Turgut, Yılmaz
Flower-like structures known as organic–inorganic hybrid nanoflowers (hNFs) are nanostructures that can be produced by combining organic and inorganic components. In this study, β-hydroxyamide–based compounds were used to synthesize copper hybrid nanoflowers (CuhNFs), and their in vitro cytotoxic activities were evaluated. The synthesized CuhNFs were characterized using SEM, EDX, elemental mapping, FT-IR, and XRD analyses to determine their morphological and structural properties. Cytotoxic effects were assessed on A549 lung cancer cells using the MTT assay. Among the tested samples, NM3-CuhNFs and NM5-CuhNFs exhibited the highest cytotoxicity at 125 μg/mL, with 24% and 32.5% inhibition, respectively. Overall, copper hybrid nanoflowers demonstrated greater cytotoxic activity than the parent β-hydroxyamide compounds. Cell viability decreased in a concentration-dependent manner. Based on these findings, NM3 and NM5 were further analyzed through molecular docking studies against EGFR, caspase-8, and PI3Kα. Both compounds showed favorable interactions with the selected targets, and their binding modes were elucidated in silico. These results indicate that β-hydroxyamide–derived copper hybrid nanoflowers may serve as promising candidates for the development of novel therapeutic strategies against lung cancer. This study represents the first report on the fabrication and biological evaluation of hybrid nanoflowers derived from β-hydroxyamide-based compounds. Future more comprehensive in vitro and in vivo studies are required to confirm the therapeutic efficacy and safety profile.
- ArticleAçık Erişim2026Malus floribunda Siebold ex Van Houtte Fruit Extract Mitigates Fructose/Streptozotocin Induced Type 2 Diabetes in Rats
Yayla, Muhammed; Binnetoglu, Damla; Toktay, Erdem; Gul, Huseyin Fatih; Akgun, Sakir; Gozcu, Sefa; Ermis, Ugur; Ozdemir Sarikaya, Bengul; Uyanik, Merve Dolunay
We aimed to investigate the potential antidiabetic effects of an ethanol extract derived from the fruit of Malus floribunda (MF) on insulin resistance, oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis associated with diabetes. In our study, diabetes was induced through the administration of a 10% fructose solution and 40 mg/kg Streptozotocin (STZ). Once diabetes had been induced, metformin (Met) 300 mg/kg and the MF extract (250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg) were administered orally once daily for 30 days. At the end of the experiment, markers of insulin resistance, oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis were evaluated in the serum, muscle and liver tissues of the different groups. The MF extract significantly improved the levels of HOMA-IR, insulin receptor (InR), insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1) and glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4)—key components of peripheral insulin resistance associated with type 2 diabetes. Fructose/streptozotocin induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis were mitigated by increasing Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) expression, which restored antioxidant levels (Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Glutathione (GSH)), significantly improved cytokine levels (Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β)), and downregulated apoptotic proteins (caspase-3 and caspase-9). We demonstrated the antidiabetic effect of MF extract using a fructose/streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetes model. MF extract shows promise for future use in herbal medicine.
- ArticleAçık Erişim2026Functional Smoothie Development with Fisetin, Avocado Seed Flour, and Kiwifruit Essential Oil Obtained Using Solvent-Free Microwave Extraction (SFME)
Yilmaz, Nazife; Yangılar, Filiz
The aim of this study was to investigate the physicochemical, antioxidant, and sensory properties of fisetin-enriched fruit smoothies and to explore their potential as functional and health-promoting beverages. The dry matter content of the samples ranged from 12.52% to 13.03%, while the °Brix values ranged from 17.97% to 18.60%. Specifically, statistically significant increases (p < 0.05) were observed in smoothies enriched with fisetin. Sample S5, containing 4.5% fisetin, had the highest ash content (0.39%). The water activity values of the smoothies (0.30–0.38) remained below the microbial growth threshold (0.60), confirming product safety. pH values ranged from 3.46 to 3.98, and titratable acidity ranged from 0.25% to 0.43%, with sample S5 exhibiting the most acidic profile. Sample S5 had the highest viscosity and pectin values at 3057 cP and 0.85%, respectively. Sugar content was balanced with the addition of stevia and ranged from 7.55 to 11.42 g/100 g. Total phenolic content was significantly higher in sample S5 (316.52 mg GAE/L). Antioxidant capacities were highest in sample S5 with the following values: CUPRAC (8.73 mMoL Fe2⁺/100 g fw), FRAP (2.84 mMoL Trolox/100 g fw), ORAC (6.12 mMoL Trolox/100 g fw), DPPH (1.94 mMoL Trolox/100 g fw), and ABTS•+ (3.13 mMoL Trolox/100 g fw). Furthermore, sample S5 contained the highest levels of ascorbic acid (0.94 mg/100 g) and anthocyanins (18.2 mg/100 g) compared to sample S1 that served as the control group without fisetin. In contrast, sample S3, containing 1.5% fisetin, had the highest carotenoid content (62.5 µg/100 g), while sample S2, containing 1% fisetin, and sample S4, containing 3% fisetin, were superior in terms of flavonoid content compared to the other samples. Sensory evaluation revealed that sample S3 received the highest scores in terms of color and overall acceptability, while samples S4 and S5 were superior in terms of flavor and fruit taste. The research findings highlight that smoothies enriched with fisetin, particularly sample S5, could be a promising functional beverage.
- ArticleYalnız künye2026Astaxanthin-Loaded Silver Nanoparticles Mitigate 6-OHDA-Induced Parkinson’s via ER Stress and PI3K/Akt/mTOR Signaling
Kara, Hulya; Tekiner, Deniz; Üstündağ, Hilal; Bayram, Cemil; Şebin, Saime Özbek; Özkanlar, Seçkin; Kara, Adem
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is characterized by progressive dopaminergic neuronal loss, with oxidative stress and neuroinflammation as critical pathological mechanisms. The blood–brain barrier presents a significant challenge for therapeutic delivery, while current treatments provide only symptomatic relief without halting disease progression. This study investigated the neuroprotective effects of astaxanthin-loaded citrate-coated silver nanoparticles (AST-AgNPs), leveraging their potent antioxidant properties, anti-inflammatory capacity, and enhanced blood–brain barrier penetration. In vitro cytotoxicity analyses were performed using 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-induced SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells, while in vivo experiments utilized a unilateral 6-OHDA-induced rat model. Following 14 days of treatment, comprehensive evaluations included behavioral assessments, biochemical analyses (MDA, GSH, SOD, TNF-α, IL-1β, IFN-γ), histopathology, immunohistochemistry (BrdU, tyrosine hydroxylase), and molecular analyses. Western blot measured CHOP, IRE1, ATF6, p-AKT, total AKT, caspase-3, and cleaved caspase-3, while RT-PCR quantified caspase-3, Bcl-2, Bax, PI3K, mTOR, Akt, CREB, and NF-κB-p65 expression. AST-AgNP treatment significantly ameliorated motor dysfunction, reduced neuroinflammation (TNF-α, IL-1β), improved oxidative stress parameters (MDA, GSH, SOD), and preserved dopaminergic neurons (all p < 0.05). Western blot revealed significant downregulation of ER stress markers (CHOP, IRE1, ATF6) and cleaved caspase-3, while restoring p-AKT and total AKT levels (p < 0.05). RT-PCR demonstrated decreased pro-apoptotic gene expression (caspase-3, NF-κB-p65) and increased anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 expression (p < 0.05). These findings demonstrate that AST-AgNPs provide neuroprotection through simultaneous modulation of ER stress and PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathways, representing a novel dual-pathway therapeutic strategy for PD addressing multiple pathological mechanisms through enhanced nanoparticle-mediated delivery.
- ArticleYalnız künye2026The effect of nurses’ organizational learning level on perceived career opportunity: the parallel mediating role of colleague support and psychological comfort perception
Baş, Murat; Aydın Kahraman, Handan; Tosun, Nurperihan
Purpose – This study aims to examine the effect of nurses’ organizational learning levels on perceived career opportunities, while exploring the parallel mediating roles of colleague support and psychological comfort perception. Design/methodology/approach – A cross-sectional survey design was employed with a sample of 462 nurses working in public hospitals in Nevsehir, Turkey. Data were collected using validated measurement scales and analyzed using SPSS, AMOS and PROCESS Macro (Model 4) for mediation analysis. Findings – The results revealed that organizational learning positively and significantly predicted perceived career opportunity. Colleague support and psychological comfort each served as significant mediators in this relationship. Specifically, organizational learning enhanced colleague support (ß = 0.623) and psychological comfort (ß = 0.282), both of which positively influenced perceived career opportunity (ß = 0.303 and β = 0.345, respectively). The parallel mediation analysis confirmed that both variables had significant indirect effects, with a total indirect effect of β = 0.272. These findings underscore the need for health organizations to foster learning-oriented cultures and psychologically supportive environments. Strengthening organizational learning and peer support mechanisms can improve nurses’ perceptions of career growth and enhance workforce retention. Originality/value – This study contributes to the literature by integrating organizational learning theory with social cognitive career theory, offering empirical evidence for the dual mediating roles of psychological comfort and colleague support in healthcare career development.
- ArticleYalnız künye2026A Comparison of the Functional Efficacy of the Spreader Graft and Spreader Flap Techniques Used in Open Rhinoplasty Based on Nasal Obstruction Symptoms Evaluation (NOSE) Scores
Aksakal, Ceyhun; Kars, Ayhan; Altiparmak, Serkan
The aim of this study was to measure postoperative functional satisfaction in patients who underwent spreader graft or spreader flap procedures using the standardized Nasal Obstruction Symptoms Evaluation Score (NOSE) and to compare the 2 methods. Preoperative and early (1–3 mo), middle (4–6 mo), and late (≥9 mo) postoperative NOSE scores were compared in patients who underwent open rhinoplasty with the spreader graft (group 1) or spreader flap (group 2) techniques at our hospital. The patients’ demographic and surgical data were also analyzed. The study involved 63 patients who met the inclusion criteria. The spreader flap technique was used in 34 cases (29% female, mean age: 27.0±4.7 y) and the spreader graft in 29 (31% female, mean age: 26.2±5.4 y). The mean NOSE scores improved significantly in both groups at postoperative early evaluations (21.4±9.5 in the spreader flap and 18.7±14.9 in the spreader graft groups) compared with preoperative values (77.6±13.7 in the spreader flap and 76.9±15.4 in the spreader graft groups) (P<0.001). However, there were no significant differences in evaluations among the early, middle, and late postoperative periods. The study results revealed no significant difference between spreader graft and flap use in terms of improvement in functional outcomes. Both techniques are therefore functionally effective in rhinoplasty.
- ArticleAçık Erişim2026Motivational dynamics of healthy living: a qualitative study based on self-determination theory
Özer Kenan, Elif; Yılmaz, Necla
Background: Healthy living behaviours play a central role in preventing chronic disease and improving population health; therefore, understanding the quality of motivation behind these behaviours is essential. This study aimed to explore the motivational factors that shape the adoption and maintenance of healthy living behaviours within the framework of Self-Determination Theory. Methods: A qualitative phenomenological design was employed. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 adults living in different regions of Türkiye who had experience with healthy living. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Motivation for healthy living was found to be multidimensional and emerged from the interplay of intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Participants reported that concerns related to aging and health, physical and psychological well-being, social desirability, family and social support, illness experiences, and cultural and spiritual values influenced their motivation. Some factors reflected intrinsic motivation, whereas several external influences were internalised over time and became more autonomous. Satisfaction of autonomy, competence, and relatedness needs played a central role in the sustained practice of healthy living behaviours. Conclusions: Motivation for healthy living is shaped not only by individual benefits but also by social, cultural, and spiritual contexts. The findings offer new insight into the process of motivational internalization and may guide public health strategies aimed at strengthening individuals’ motivational resources. Trial registration: Not applicable. This study was not a clinical trial.
- ArticleAçık Erişim2026Antifungal susceptibility and in vitro virulence characteristics of clinical Magnusiomyces/Saprochaete isolates: a multicenter study from Türkiye
Ozturk, Ali; Aydin, Merve; Sahin, Elif Ayca; Gulmez, Dolunay; Tanrıverdi, Elif Seren; Otlu, Baris; Arikan-Akdagli, Sevtap; Ibrahim, Bashar; Ozhak, Betil; Ozyurt, Ozlem Koyuncu
Invasive infections due to Magnusiomyces/Saprochaete species are an emerging problem in immunocompromised patients and are often underrecognized because of misidentification and intrinsic resistance to some antifungals. This multicenter study investigated the species distribution, antifungal susceptibility patterns, and key virulence traits of clinical isolates from Türkiye. A total of 133 clinical isolates collected between 2010 and 2024 from 18 hospitals in 10 cities were identified by MALDI-TOF MS and ITS/LSU sequencing. MICs of amphotericin B, fluconazole, voriconazole, itraconazole, posaconazole, and flucytosine were determined using the EUCAST broth microdilution method. Biofilm formation and esterase, caseinase, secreted aspartyl proteinase, phospholipase, and hemolysin activities were assessed phenotypically. Sequencing identified 107 isolates (80.4%) as Magnusiomyces capitatus and 26 (19.6%) as Magnusiomyces clavatus, MALDI-TOF MS identified 106 (79.7%) as M. capitatus and 27 isolates (20.3%) as M. clavatus. There was 99.2% agreement between MALDI-TOF MS and sequencing results. Voriconazole, amphotericin B, and posaconazole showed the lowest MICs, whereas fluconazole displayed wide MIC ranges and limited activity. Overall, 97.7% of isolates were strong biofilm producers, with significantly higher biofilm production in M. capitatus. In contrast, M. clavatus showed higher caseinase and esterase activity. This study provides the most extensive multicenter dataset on Magnusiomyces/Saprochaete in Türkiye and underscores their considerable pathogenic potential through strong biofilm formation and tissue-degrading enzyme activities. Accurate species-level identification using MALDI-TOF MS supported by molecular methods is essential, and limited fluconazole activity suggests that voriconazole and amphotericin B should be prioritized in species-guided treatment strategies.
- ArticleAçık Erişim2026Deep Learning-based Differentiation of Idiopathic Granulomatous Mastitis from Malignant Non-mass Enhancement Using Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Tasci, Filiz; Kaba, Esat; Ekersular, Mahmut Nedim; Alkan, Ahmet; Er, Huseyin; Hursoy, Nur
Aim: Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis (IGM) is a benign, chronic inflammatory disease of the breast, and its imaging findings may overlap with those of malignant non-mass enhancement (NME). This study aimed to investigate the performance of deep learning and machine learning models in differentiating IGM from malignant NME based on dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI). Methods: In this retrospective study conducted between January 2019 and March 2023, DCE-MRI findings of 30 patients with histopathologically confirmed IGM and of 33 patients with breast cancer presenting as NME were analyzed. The second dynamic phase of DCE-MRI (Dataset 1, 475 images) and the corresponding subtracted images (Dataset 2, 402 images) were used in this study. Datasets were sequentially split into 80% training and 20% testing sets to ensure a patient-level split. Image features were extracted using SqueezeNet and classified with a narrow neural network. Results: The mean age was significantly lower in the IGM group than in the NME group (41.3±11.3 vs. 52.2±11.4 years, p<0.001). For Dataset 1, the area under the curve was 0.997 in training and 0.870 in testing; for Dataset 2, the area under the curve was 0.998 in training and 0.807 in testing. Training accuracy was 0.984 (Dataset 1) and 0.978 (Dataset 2), whereas test accuracy was 0.811 (Dataset 1) and 0.704 (Dataset 2). Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that deep learning shows significant promise for non-invasive differentiation of IGM from malignant NME on DCE-MRI, particularly in cases that are clinically indistinguishable.
- ArticleAçık Erişim2026Stability-Bound Binary Rule Search: A General Workflow for Explainable Prediction on Binarized Clinical Data
Huyut, Mehmet Tahir; Velichko, Andrei
Explainable prediction is increasingly required in clinical decision support, especially when models must generalize across institutions. We present a stability-bound binary rule search workflow that operates on fully binarized clinical data and expresses decisions as sparse, human-readable rules. Clinical variables are converted into 0/1 indicators using clinically meaningful thresholds, so that each rule corresponds to a binary mask over a small set of interpretable features. A Binary Rule Search (BRS) engine explores conjunctions of up to four predictors (k=1–4), and candidate rules are evaluated by the Matthews-correlation-coefficient (MCC) on development and validation splits. Robustness is summarized by the Stability-Bound-Rule-Score (SBRS), a geometric-style combination of the lower 95% confidence bounds of MCC in both splits. The workflow was applied to two open-access datasets: a heart attack dataset (303 patients) and a hepatitis C dataset (615 patients). In the heart attack data, a four-feature rule combining age 55–64 years, typical chest pain, absence of angiographically stenosed vessels (CA = 0) and a reversible thallium perfusion defect achieved MCC 0.71 and 0.73 in the development and validation sets, with SBRS = 1.59. In the hepatitis C data, rules built from elevated aspartate aminotransferase together with intermediate or high alkaline phosphatase and increased bilirubin reached MCC 0.75 and 0.84, with SBRS = 1.67. Because all predictors are binarized, the final rules can be displayed as compact binary mask plots or implemented as short checklists and look-up tables. Overall, this stability-bound binary rule search workflow yields sparse, stable and clinically interpretable rule sets for cardiovascular risk stratification and chronic liver disease screening.
- ArticleYalnız künye2026Development of pyridazinone derivatives linked ethyl-bridged-1,2,4-triazole for potential cancer therapy
Bozbey Merde, İrem; Aykaç, Okan; Hepokur, Ceylan; Yaşa, Yaren Zişa; Taşkor Önel, Gülce; Türkmenoğlu, Burçin
A series of novel pyridazinone derivatives linked ethyl-bridged-1,2,4-triazole were synthesized starting from p-chloroacetophenone. The chemical structures of the compounds 5(a-f) were identified by 1HNMR, 13CNMR and LC-QTOF-MS analysis. In this study, the DDPH method was used to evaluate the antioxidant properties of the compounds. The anticancer activity of the compounds was investigated by MTT method in MCF-7, MDA-MB-231 and L929 cell lines. Gene expression levels of Bcl2, Bax and Casp9 genes were compared, and stages of cell death were determined with high accuracy by flow cytometry. Since compound 5a showed promising cytotoxic effects, molecular docking study was performed to support these results and binding values against Bcl2 anti-apoptotic (PDB ID: 6QGG), Bcl-2 (PDB ID: 4IEH) and tubulin regulation (PDB ID: 1SA0) targets were calculated.
- ArticleAçık Erişim2026The association between social media addiction and psychological well-being in adolescents with sequential mediation by physical activity and loneliness
Mallı, Ahmet Yavuz; Düğenci, Abdullah; Ayhan, Cihan; Seçer, Emrah; Kaçay, Zülbiye; Şahinler, Yunus; Işık, Özkan
Social media addiction is a phenomenon that may adversely affect adolescent mental health and is increasingly recognized as a public health concern by international authorities such as the World Health Organization. Understanding the potential mechanisms underlying the association between social media addiction and psychological well-being is important for informing effective intervention strategies. This study aimed to examine the sequential mediating role of physical activity and loneliness in the association between social media addiction and adolescents’ psychological well-being. This cross-sectional study included 290 high school students (mean age = 15.73; 59% female, 41% male) enrolled in high schools in Türkiye. Data were collected using the Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, the UCLA Loneliness Scale (Short Form), and the Psychological Well-Being Scale. Data were analyzed using SPSS. Normality assumptions were first examined, followed by descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation analyses to assess the relationships among the study variables. Subsequently, Hayes’ PROCESS Macro Model 6, a bootstrap-based sequential mediation analysis, was employed to examine the hypothesized indirect associations. Social media addiction was significantly and negatively associated with psychological well-being. The sequential mediation analysis indicated that social media addiction is associated with lower levels of physical activity, which in turn is associated with higher levels of loneliness, and that the proposed sequential indirect association with psychological well-being was statistically significant (indirect effect = -0.0259, 95% CI [-0.0488, -0.0072]). Conclusion The results indicate that physical activity and loneliness may represent an important sequential pathway in the association between social media addiction and adolescents’ psychological well-being. Accordingly, public health interventions targeting adolescent mental health may benefit from addressing social media use while also promoting physical activity as a potential component of strategies to support psychological well-being.
