Yazarlar

  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    In Silico and In Vitro Antifungal Investigations of Verbascoside Isolated From Verbascum Ozturkii

    Şimşek, Samed; Akşit, Hüseyin; Bayar, Yusuf; Karakurt, Tuncay

    This study investigates the antifungal properties of verbascoside isolated from Verbascum ozturkii. The primary objective is to evaluate its efficacy against two agriculturally significant plant pathogens, Phytophthora infestans and Verticillium dahliae. Verbascoside was isolated using preparative high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and its structure was elucidated via nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. In vitro antifungal assays demonstrated moderate inhibitory effects with verbascoside (2 mg/mL) reducing mycelial growth by 23.49% for P. infestans and 19.42% for V. dahliae. To elucidate the antifungal mechanism, quantum chemical calculations and molecular docking studies were conducted. Analyses of frontier molecular orbitals (HOMO-LUMO) and molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) identified critical interaction sites. Molecular docking demonstrated that verbascoside binds favorably to the protein structures of V. dahliae (PDB: 5xmz) and P. infestans (PDB: 6jyg). Molecular dynamics simulations confirmed the stability of these interactions with molecular mechanics Poisson-Boltzmann surface area (MM/PBSA) calculations indicating more favorable binding free energy for the verbascoside-6jyg complex. This research underscores the potential of verbascoside as a natural antifungal agent highlighting the significance of protein-specific interactions. The findings contribute to the development of alternative antifungal strategies and emphasize the novelty of verbascoside activity against these plant pathogens.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    Development of Benzoxazole Derivatives Targeting mTOR: A Promising Approach for Breast Cancer Therapy

    Alagoz, Mehmet Abdullah; Resitoglu, Meryem Temiz; Kuzu, Burak; Sabrie, Zainab; Yetkin, Derya; Zobi, Cengiz; Tiftik, Rukiye Nalan; Firat, Seyhan Sahan; Gursoy, Sule; Hepokur, Ceylan

    Clinical use of mTOR inhibitors in cancer treatment is well established due to the critical role of mTOR signaling in tumor progression. In this study, we report the structure-based design and biological evaluation of a series of benzoxazole derivatives as potential mTOR inhibitors. Cytotoxicity studies using MTT assays showed that compounds B4, B11, B12, and B20 exhibited significant antiproliferative effects against breast cancer cell lines with IC₅₀ values between 4.96 and 9.82 µM. Colorimetric enzymatic assays further revealed that among these, only B12 and B20 effectively inhibited mTOR phosphorylation at Ser2448 in MCF-7 cells. Additionally, both compounds modulated the expression of key apoptotic proteins, including Bax, caspase-3, p53, and Bcl2. Molecular docking studies against the 4JT5 protein demonstrated binding affinities with docking scores ranging from −7.084 to −7.426 kcal/mol, comparable to the reference compound P2X (−7.309 kcal/mol). Molecular dynamics simulations over 150 ns confirmed the stability of B12 and B20 in the active site, with an average RMSD of 2.8 Å and 3.0 Å, respectively. The absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) properties of the synthesized compounds were evaluated in silico. Among them, B4, B11, B12, and B20 exhibited drug-like characteristics and showed no undesirable toxic effects. These findings highlight the potential of B12 and B20 as lead compounds for the development of novel mTOR inhibitors in breast cancer therapy.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    Bilateral Conjugating Carotid Body Tumor and Associated Jugular Vein Aneurysm

    Taydas, Onur; Guclu, Derya; Unlu, Elif Nisa; Ogul, Hayri; Kantarci, Mecit

    Carotid body tumors (CBTs) originate from the paraganglionic tissue in the bifurcation of the common carotid artery. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is a commonly used diagnostic method in the preoperative diagnosis of these tumors. In this study, we demonstrated an isthmus between the right and left carotid body tumors in a patient with bilateral CBT. The left CBT also was associated with a saccular aneurysm of left external jugular vein. © The Author(s) 2023. This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/) which permits non-commercial use, reproduction and distribution of the work without further permission provided the original work is attributed as specified on the SAGE and Open Access pages (https://us.sagepub.com/en-us/nam/open-access-at-sage).

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleYalnız künye2025
    Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity of Hesperis isatidea (Boiss.) D.A.German & Al-Shehbaz Essential Oil

    Gözcü, Sefa; Akşit, Zeynep; Şimşek, Samed; Akşit, Hüseyin

    The essential oils of aerial parts of Hesperis isatidea were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry for the first time in the present study. The major components were determined as benzyl salicylate (13.40%), phytol (9.66%), benzyl benzoate (8.57%), undecanal (8.45%), and linalool (5.71%). The essential oil exhibited notable antibacterial activity against Clostridium perfringens, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 125 µg/mL, and Escherichia coli, with an MIC of 62.5 µg/mL. However, it showed limited effectiveness against Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes, both with an MIC of 250 µg/mL, and no antibacterial activity against Enterococcus faecalis and Bacillus cereus. The results demonstrate that the essential oil possesses selective antibacterial properties, especially against specific Gram-negative bacteria, indicating its potential as a valuable complementary antimicrobial agent.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    Screening of Chemical Profile by LC–MS/MS and Assessment of Biological Properties of Achillea sintenisii Hub. Mor. From Turkey

    Köksal, Ekrem; Altay, Ahmet; Altın, Sevgi; Alp, Cemalettin; Ulutaş, Yakup; Şimşek, Samed; Karakuş, Sinem; Akyüz, Sümeyye; Aygül, İmdat; Akşit, Hüseyin

    The aim of this study was to determine the secondary metabolites of the n-hexane, ethyl acetate, methanol, and water extracts of Achillea sintenisii Hub. Mor. and to ascertain their divergent biological properties. LC–MS/MS analysis was performed to identify the bioactive compounds. The anticancer properties of the samples were tested against human breast (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-453) and colon (HT-29) cancer cell lines by XTT assay. The anti-Alzheimer's studies were performed using Ellman's assay. The antimicrobial studies were carried out by Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method. The antioxidative potential of the samples was evaluated on the basis of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging and ferric reducing antioxidant power assays, LC–MS/MS analysis revealed 27 phytochemicals, including high concentrations of quinic acid, gentisic acid, chlorogenic acid, luteolin, cynaroside, and caffeic acid. Ethyl acetate extract exhibited the most potent cytoxicity against MDA-MB-453 cells, with an IC50 value of 83.05 µg/mL. All extracts showed stronger inhibitory activity against acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase compared to tacrine. The n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol extracts exhibited considerable antimicrobial activity against Enterococcus faecalis, approaching the level of vancomycin. Methanol extract possessed the highest DPPH scavenging and ferric reducing antioxidant power. These findings render A, sintenisii a promising source for the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    The effects of dexmedetomidine and ketamine infusions on the inflammatory response in liver resection: A randomized double-blind placebo study

    Ates, Irem; Laloglu, Esra; Kara, Salih; Yaman, Tuba; Isik, Bahar

    Background: This study compared the effects of ketamine and dexmedetomidine (Dex) on inflammation and pain in liver resection surgery. Methods: Forty-five American Society of Anesthesiologists class III patients aged 18 to 65 scheduled for liver resection surgery were randomized into 3 equal groups. The ketamine group received an intravenous ketamine bolus (0.5 mg/kg) during anesthesia induction and continuous low-dose infusion at 0.25 mg/kg/hour. In the Dex group, intravenous infusion was initiated at a 1 µg/kg bolus for the first 10 minutes, and at 0.5 µg/kg/hour after intubation. The control group patients were infused crystalloid solution at 8 mL/kg/hour from induction. Venous blood was collected at postoperative hours 1 and 12 for pentraxin 3, serum amyloid A, hepcidin, and inflammatory marker analysis. Visual analogue scale (VAS) values were recorded. Results: Pentraxin 3, serum amyloid A, and hepcidin continued to rise at 12 hours in the control group, but began declining in the Dex and ketamine infusion groups (P<.05). VAS levels and fentanyl consumption decreased in the ketamine and Dex groups compared to the control group (P<.05). The decreases in inflammatory parameters, VAS scores, and fentanyl consumption were similar between the ketamine and Dex groups (P>.05). A positive correlation was observed between inflammation levels and pain severity (P<.001). There was no difference in liver function tests between any of the groups (P<.05). Conclusion: Ketamine and Dex infusions were both effective in reducing inflammation and pain following liver resection, with no obvious superiority of one over the other.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    Effects of Short- and Long-Term Vortioxetine Administration on Reproductive Function in Female Rats

    Bingul, Eda; Hizal, Elif; Keles, Ozgecan; Yucel, Nurinisa; Suleyman, Zeynep; Gunay, Murat; Yasar, Hasan; Suleyman, Halis

    Background/Objectives: Vortioxetine is a multimodal antidepressant that modulates serotonergic, noradrenergic, and dopaminergic systems, yet its effects on female reproductive physiology remain incompletely defined. This study investigated how short- and long-term vortioxetine exposure influences reproductive function in female rats, integrating measurements of oxidative-stress biomarkers, catecholamines, and endocrine endpoints (prolactin and corticosterone). Methods: Forty-two female Wistar albino rats were randomized into seven groups (n = 6): healthy control; short-term vortioxetine; long-term vortioxetine; and the same two regimens each combined with metyrosine or metyrapone. Metyrosine and metyrapone (50 mg/kg, oral gavage) were given 1 h before vortioxetine (10 mg/kg). Treatments lasted one week (short-term) or four weeks (long-term). Serum MDA, tGSH, SOD, CAT, adrenaline, noradrenaline, dopamine, serotonin, prolactin, and corticosterone were measured. Fertility outcomes were assessed by co-housing females with males for one month. Results: Vortioxetine increased MDA, catecholamines, and serotonin and decreased antioxidant markers and prolactin versus controls (p < 0.001). Long-term vortioxetine produced a marked rise in corticosterone that coincided with infertility and delayed parturition. Metyrosine lowered oxidative stress and catecholamines but did not reverse infertility. In contrast, metyrapone blunted corticosterone elevation and preserved reproductive capacity. Conclusions: Long-term vortioxetine induced infertility in female rats, likely mediated by corticosterone elevation consistent with hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis dysregulation. These findings suggest the need to monitor reproductive risk when considering vortioxetine in women of reproductive age and warrant further mechanistic and translational studies.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleYalnız künye2025
    Low-dose Bee Venom as a Potential Therapeutic Agent Against Human Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia Cells

    Halici, Hamza; Un, Harun; Celik, Saffet; Karakoy, Zeynep; Bayraktutan, Zafer; Ozlu, Can; Cadirci, Elif; Halici, Zekai; Atila, Alptug; Mercantepe, Filiz

    Bee venom is secreted by a gland in the abdominal cavity of bees. The venom, especially that of honeybees, contains certain enzymes and peptides that, when administered in high doses, are effective against various diseases. Peptides such as melittin and phospholipase A2 can target various cancer cells. In this study, we investigated the antiproliferative effects of administering low-dose bee venom in K-562 chronic myeloid leukaemia cells. Our proteomic study revealed regional variation of the content of bee venom and high levels of melittin, apamin and secapin, as well as phospholipase A2 and hyaluronidase. In addition, eight new, previously unidentified proteins were identified. The effects of bee venom on cell viability and drug–cell interaction were investigated at 24, 48 and 72 h. According to the MTT (3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide) results, the bee venom decreased K-562 cell viability dose-dependently at all time points. Cell viability decreased 48 and 72 h after bee venom administration but increased in the control group left untreated for 72 h. The inhibition percentages for the highest bee venom concentration (0.4 µM) at 24, 48 and 72 h were 55%, 80% and 92%, respectively. The cell–drug interactions indicated that the cell surfaces, which were smooth and clear before drug application, gradually deteriorated and started to shrink after the application. In conclusion, at increasing doses, bee venom was found to have a strong antiproliferative effect in K-562 chronic myeloid leukaemia cell lines.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    Effect of serum magnesium level on carotid intima media thickness in hemodialysis patients

    Kara, Ali Veysel; Ozdemir, Ridvan; Inan, Hamza; Ozdemir, Beyza Ozerten; Hayme, Serhat; Cosgun, Muharrem Said

    Background: We aimed to examine whether serum magnesium level is related to cardiovascular events in hemodialysis patients by investigating the relationship between serum magnesium (Mg) level and carotid intima media thickness (CIMT). Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we evaluated 88 hemodialysis patients. The mean CIMT of these patients was measured and recorded by doppler ultrasonography. Patients were divided into two groups according to their serum magnesium level. Correlation analysis and linear regression analysis were used to define the relationship between study parameters. We divided our patients into 2 groups according to Mg value as group 1 (Mg ≥ 2.3 mg/dl) and group 2 (Mg < 2.3 mg/dl). Results: The mean CIMT of patients with group 1 and group 2 were respectively 0.93 ± 0.22 mm and 1.03 ± 0.22 mm. There was statistically significant difference between two groups in terms of the mean CIMT value (p = 0.045). We found negative, low-level, statistically significant correlations between Mg and mean CIMT ​​(r=-0.272; p = 0.010), calcium and mean CIMT (r: -0.221, p: 0.039) and hemoglobin and mean CIMT (r: -0.215, p: 0.044). According to regression analysis, serum magnesium level and age were found independent risk factors for mean CIMT value (p: 0.004 and p: 0.045). Conclusions: We found a significant relationship between serum Mg level and CIMT, which indicates carotid atherosclerosis.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • DüzeltmeAçık Erişim2025
    Corrigendum to “LogNNet model as a fast, simple and economical AI instrument in the diagnosis and prognosis of COVID-19” [MethodsX 10 (2023) 102194] (MethodsX (2023) 10, (S2215016123001942), (10.1016/j.mex.2023.102194))

    Huyut, Mehmet Tahir; Velichko, Andrei

    The authors regret that they forgot to write the ethical approval number of the article. This study was approved by Erzincan Binali Yıldırım University Non-Interventional Clinical Research Ethics Committee (Reference No: 27.05.2022, 11-14) The authors would like to apologize for any inconvenience caused.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleYalnız künye2025
    Improvement of two-body wear behavior and biocompatibility of Ti15Mo alloys in dental applications by TiN, TiCN coatings

    Çomaklı, Onur; Meletlioğlu, Emrah; Sadeler, Furkan; Çakır, Mevra Aslan

    This study investigates the tribological performance, antimicrobial properties, and cytotoxicity of Ti15Mo alloys coated with TiN and TiCN via physical vapor deposition (PVD). The alloys were subjected to a two-body wear test in distilled water, simulating 2 years of clinical use in a chewing simulator. The wear testing demonstrated a significant reduction in wear volume loss for both TiN and TiCN coatings compared to the uncoated Ti15Mo substrate. TiCN exhibited superior wear resistance, as evidenced by lower friction coefficients and minimal wear damage. X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy validated the achieved coating of compact, homogeneous coatings. Scanning electron microscopy images revealed columnar microstructures with an approximate thickness of 2.5 µm. Antibacterial assays indicated a notable reduction in bacterial adherence and growth on the coated surfaces, with TiCN displaying the most significant antibacterial performance against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Cytotoxicity was assessed through MTT assays, showing that TiN and TiCN coatings exhibited high biocompatibility, with cell viability above 70%. These findings demonstrate that TiN and TiCN coatings significantly enhance the wear resistance, antibacterial performance, and biocompatibility of Ti15Mo alloys, positioning them as viable candidates for advanced biomedical applications.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    Protective Effect of HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitor Rosuvastatin on Doxorubicin-Induced Cognitive Impairment, Oxidative Stress and Neuroinflammation: Possible Role of CREB, ERK1/2, and BDNF

    Yeni, Yesim; Cicek, Betul; Hacimuftuoglu, Ahmet; Ozkaraca, Mustafa; Lacin, Burak Batuhan

    During or after chemotherapy, cognitive impairments characterized by forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and depressive and anxiety-like symptoms are observed. There is limited research examining the effects of rosuvastatin (RVS), an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, in the context of neuroinflammation-related cognitive disruption. Here, we aimed to investigate the neuroprotective potential of RVS against doxorubicin (DOX)-induced cognitive impairments. Experimental groups were planned as control (normal saline, intraperitoneal), DOX (total cumulative dose 10 mg/kg, intraperitoneal), RVS (10 mg/kg, oral, 20 days), and RVS + DOX. Efficacy was monitored by applying a battery of behavioral assessments, as well as biochemical, genetic, histopathological, and immunohistochemical examinations. Results from Morris water maze (MWM), passive avoidance, locomotion activity, and elevated plus maze (EPM) tests showed that DOX administration caused behavioral disorders. Moreover, DOX increased the levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), while decreasing the levels of interleukin-10 (IL-10), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase, catalase (SOD), endothelial nitric oxide (eNOS), and catalase (CAT). Co-treatment with RSV significantly attenuated DOX-induced behavioral changes and oxidative stress markers. In addition, similar to the immunohistochemical results, we determined that it increased the expression levels of extracellular signal-related kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2), cyclic adenosine monophosphate response element binding protein (CREB), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and restored the histopathological structure of the brain. Therefore, these results indicated that RSV has a neuroprotective effect against DOX-induced cognitive impairment by reducing neurobehavioral impairments, exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, and modulating brain growth factors.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleYalnız künye2025
    Examining Online Behaviors of Young Adults During the Covid-19 Pandemic Social Isolation Period with Regard to Life Satisfaction, Loneliness, and Hostility

    Yildirim, Taskın; Caner-Yildirim, Sonay

    The Covid-19 pandemic exposed individuals to intense restrictions and social isolation, as well as the possibility of deterioration of physical health. In the pandemic period, the Internet has become the principal avenue for social interaction, leisure related activities, and school-work pursuits for most people and consequently problematic Internet use (PIU) has increased dramatically in this period. Modeling of PIU among university students - considered one of the most negatively affected groups at this time - along with PIU subconstructs as well as indicators of psychological well-being - life satisfaction, loneliness, and hostility - will be valuable in directing future studies. This study examined the effects of the psychological well-being indicators of life satisfaction, loneliness, and hostility on PIU constructs; the preference for online social interaction, Internet use for mood regulation, and deficient self-regulation of Internet use during the Covid-19 pandemic social isolation period. Participants were 418 undergraduate students from a public university (130 male and 288 female). Results revealed that young adults with low life satisfaction have been more likely to problematically use the Internet to regulate their mood during the Covid-19 pandemic. Hostility and loneliness between which there is a moderately strong direct relationship, were similarly related to deficiently self-regulated Internet use. Moreover, individuals experiencing feelings of loneliness are more likely to use the Internet problematically for online social interaction purposes, while those experiencing feelings of hostility are more likely to use it problematically for mood regulation purposes. Given the significant relationships between indicators of psychological well-being and PIU, higher education institutions should take measures to prevent PIU behaviors in their students in case they face potential periods of social isolation.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2025
    A direct association between suicide and reduced amygdala volume: A retrospective study

    Emre, Elif; Yildiz, Sevler; Rumeysa Yaman Baran, Ayse; Kilicarslan, Gulhan; Aydin, Suna; Agirbas, Esra Piril; Emir, Burcu Sirlier; Sahin, İbrahim; Aydin, Suleyman

    Objective: The neurological causes of suicide remain poorly understood. This study sought to ascertain whether there is a correlation between amygdala volume and suicidal behavior. Methods: This case–control retrospective study included 193 participants—108 healthy controls and 85 individuals with a history of suicide attempts. Sagittal magnetic resonance imaging was conducted for each participant, and cross-sectional areas of the left and right amygdala were determined independently using freehand tracing. The total volume of the amygdala was determined by multiplying the thickness of the slices by the sum of the regions. Results: Patients with a history of suicide attempts had significantly decreased amygdala volumes on both the right (p = 0.018) and left (p = 0.036) sides compared with controls. Receiver operating characteristic analysis determined a cutoff value of 1825 mm³ for both hemispheres. The cutoff sensitivity and specificity for the right amygdala were 30.6% and 88%, whereas the values for the left amygdala were 31.8% and 84.3%, respectively. Conclusions: This is the first study to show that individuals who had attempted suicide had considerably decreased left and right amygdala volumes, with receiver operating characteristic analysis indicating good specificity (84.3%–88%). According to these findings, a reduced amygdala volume might be a useful biomarker for identifying those who are at risk of attempting suicide. © The Author(s) 2025. Creative Commons Non Commercial CC BY-NC: This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/) which permits non-commercial use, reproduction and distribution of the work without further permission provided the original work is attributed as specified on the SAGE and Open Access pages (https://us.sagepub.com/en-us/nam/open-access-at-sage).

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleYalnız künye2025
    Design, Synthesis, and In Silico Analyses of Nitroimidazole Derivatives Targeting Cholinesterases

    Biyik, Busra; Tarıkogulları, Ayse H.; Alagoz, Mehmet Abdullah; Demir, Yeliz; Gulcin, Ilhami; Burmaoglu, Serdar; Algul, Oztekin

    The increasing incidence of diseases and the constraints of current treatments require expedited drug development. Drug repositioning presents an effective approach for discovering new therapeutic applications for drugs already in clinical use. This study examines the efficacy of metronidazole and secnidazole, which are presently utilized as antiprotozoal agents, in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease via ester modifications. The secondary alcohol group in nitroimidazole structures underwent esterification with acetyl, pivaloyl, cyclopropyl, and cyclohexyl carbonyl chlorides. The compounds exhibited significant inhibitory activity against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), with Ki values between 52.40 ± 6.99 nM and 240.80 ± 45.56 nM for AChE and 77.82 ± 18.01 nM and 323.70 ± 56.21 nM for BChE. Molecular docking studies demonstrated significant interactions of the most active compounds (MNZ 8 and MNZ 4) with essential residues, including Trp84 and Phe330 in AChE, as well as Trp82 and active-site water molecules in BChE. These findings corroborate their inhibitory potential, notwithstanding initial positional alterations observed during simulations. The synthesized compounds' absorption, distribution, metabolism, elimination, and toxicity (ADMET) properties were also assessed in silico. All compounds demonstrated drug-like properties and did not exhibit undesirable toxic effects. The findings indicate that repositioned derivatives of metronidazole and secnidazole may serve as promising lead compounds for the development of cholinesterase inhibitors aimed at treating Alzheimer's disease.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleYalnız künye2025
    Comparative study of the protective effects of coenzyme Q10 and cinnamon extract on possible kidney damage and dysfunction of amiodarone in rats

    Ekici, Ozgur; Gul, Abdullah; Keskin, Ercument; Bulut, Seval; Suleyman, Bahadir; Mammadov, Renad; Cicek, Betul; Demir, Ozlem; Gunay, Murat; Suleyman, Halis

    Background: An increase in free oxygen radicals and proinflammatory cytokines and decrease in intracellular adenosine triphosphate account for the nephrotoxic effect of amiodarone. This study investigated the protective effects of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), cinnamon extract (CE) and the combination of the two (CoCE) on possible amiodarone-induced renal injury in rats. Methods: Thirty male albino Wistar rats were cetegorized into healthy (HG), amiodarone (ADG), CoQ10 + amiodarone (CoQA), CE + amiodarone (CEA), and CoCE + amiodarone (CoCEA) groups. First, CoQ10 (10 mg/kg) and CE (100 mg/kg) were orally given. After 1 h, 50 mg/kg amiodarone was orally given to all groups except for HG. Amiodarone, CoQ10, and CE administration was continued orally at the indicated doses once daily for 10 days.Then, blood samples were collected from all groups to determine creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and kidney injury molecule (KIM-1) levels, followed by euthanasia and removal of kidney tissues. Oxidative stress and inflammatory parameters were analysed in the tissue samples. Histopathological examination was also performed on the tissues. Results: Amiodarone increased malondialdehyde levels and decreased total glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase levels (p < 0.001). Amiodarone increased the expression and tissue levels of tissue nuclear factor kappa B, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-1β and interleukin-6, and led to increases in serum creatinine and BUN and KIM-1 levels (p < 0.001). Amiodarone also caused histopathological damage (p < 0.001).CoQ10, CE and especially CoCE inhibited biochemical changes and tissue damage (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Although CoQ10, CE, and CoCE effectively prevent amiodarone-induced oxidative and inflammatory nephrotoxicity, CoCE appears to be superior.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleYalnız künye2025
    Biochemical and histopathological changes in ovary, uterus and testicular tissues after acrylamide exposure

    Uslu, Hamit; Atila Uslu, Gözde; Çoban, Taha Abdulkadir; Mendil, Ali Sefa; Toraman, Emine; Şahin, Mahmut; Özkaraca, Mustafa

    Acrylamide (ACR) is a popular substance to which our exposure increases with the changes in our lifestyle and brings with it various health problems. In order to determine appropriate therapeutics against ACR damage, it is important to investigate the multiple mechanisms that may be effective in its pathophysiology. This study investigated the effects of ACR exposure on ovarian, uterine, and testicular tissues by considering different pathophysiological pathways. Male-control (MC), male-acrylamide (MACR), female-control (FC), and female-acrylamide (FACR) groups were formed. ACR was administered at a dose of 60 mg/kg for 5 days. ACR exposure decreased CAT and TrxR-specific activities, GSH levels, and Bcl-2 expression, while significantly increasing MDA, IL-6, and NFĸB p65 levels, caspase 3, and Bax expression in ovarian, uterine, and testicular tissues. Based on these results, it was determined that acrylamide induced damage in ovarian, uterine and testicular tissues through various pathways such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. Consequently, when selecting a therapeutic target, the substance whose efficacy is being investigated should be effective in these pathways. Furthermore, this study is the first to demonstrate the occurrence of bladder retention in both sexes following acrylamide exposure and will be an important step for future research.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleYalnız künye2025
    Single-Phase Blood Flow in a Stenosed Coronary Artery: A Clinical Model-Based Experimental and Numerical Study

    Yildirim, Orhan; Karagoz, Sendogan; Sonmez, Fatin; Firat, Ilker

    This study aims to develop an experimental platform that emulates the human cardiovascular system to investigate the effects of varying pulse rates and fluid properties on pressure drop, peristaltic pump output pressure, and power consumption. To support the experimental findings, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations were conducted to analyze single-phase blood flow dynamics. Idealized arterial geometries representing healthy (0% stenosis) and diseased (65% stenosis) conditions were reconstructed from computed tomography (CT) images. A non-Newtonian blood-mimicking fluid (XSCN) was formulated to better replicate the rheological behavior of blood, while distilled water was used as the Newtonian reference fluid. Experiments were conducted at six different pulse rates: 72, 84, 96, 114, 132, and 156 beats per minute (bpm). The experimental setup was replicated in a virtual environment using ANSYS Fluent to simulate flow behavior under identical boundary conditions. The results demonstrate that increasing pulse rate leads to an increase in pressure drop (ΔP), pump output pressure, and power consumption for both arterial models. These effects were more pronounced in the stenosed artery due to flow constriction. Elevated turbulence intensity was observed at higher pulse rates, with notable differences between Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids, particularly in terms of flow resistance and shear-dependent viscosity. Power consumption was found to be directly correlated with fluid viscosity, which varied with shear rate in the non-Newtonian fluid. The 65% stenosed model consistently exhibited higher pressure drops and flow irregularities. Fractional flow reserve (FFR) analysis confirmed that a 65% luminal narrowing poses significant hemodynamic risk. The highest wall shear stress (WSS) values were localized in the stenotic region, contributing to disturbed flow patterns and increased turbulence downstream. The non-Newtonian fluid model revealed that WSS was more sensitive to flow alterations, emphasizing the role of shear-dependent viscosity in vascular hemodynamics. These findings underscore the critical influence of hemodynamic parameters—such as pulse rate, viscosity, and arterial geometry—on cardiovascular performance. The study further highlights the detrimental impact of arterial stenosis on blood flow behavior and energy expenditure, with implications for clinical diagnosis and treatment planning in cardiovascular diseases.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleYalnız künye2025
    Exploring the interplay of emotional labor, organizational identification and citizenship behavior: The moderating influence of Type A and B personalities among healthcare workers

    Şirin, Sabri M.; Yücel, İlhami

    Purpose – The primary objective of this research is to examine the mediating role of emotional labor in the relationship between organizational identification and organizational citizenship behavior (OCB). Additionally, the study explores how personality traits – specifically Type A and Type B personalities – moderate the mediated relationship. The research aims to provide a deeper understanding of how emotional and psychological factors interact to influence employee behavior in healthcare settings, offering practical implications for improving organizational efficiency and employee engagement. Design/methodology/approach – This study was conducted using a quantitative research methodology. Data were collected through structured surveys from 433 healthcare professionals employed in hospitals and healthcare institutions. The scales used for data collection were validated and widely recognized in previous studies. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS, AMOS and SMART PLS software. Analytical techniques included confirmatory factor analysis, reliability testing, correlation analysis, mediation analysis and moderated mediation analysis. Furthermore, the PROCESS macro with bootstrap sampling was employed to analyze the moderation effects. This comprehensive approach ensured the robustness and validity of the findings. Findings – Organizational identification has a significant and positive impact on both organizational citizenship behavior and emotional labor. Emotional labor acts as a mediator between organizational identification and organizational citizenship behavior, demonstrating that the psychological effort to align emotional displays with organizational expectations strengthens employees’ citizenship behaviors. Individuals with Type A personalities, characterized by competitiveness and high achievement orientation, exhibit stronger engagement in emotional labor and higher citizenship behavior. Type B personality traits, associated with a more relaxed and less competitive demeanor, display a weaker mediation effect. These findings emphasize the dynamic interplay between organizational, emotional and individual factors in shaping employee behaviors. Originality/value – This study contributes novel insights to organizational behavior literature by integrating emotional labor and personality traits as key variables in understanding the relationship between organizational identification and citizenship behavior. Unlike prior studies, this research highlights the moderating influence of Type A and Type B personality traits in this mediated relationship. The findings provide actionable insights for organizations, particularly in the healthcare sector, to develop strategies for enhancing employee engagement, fostering emotional resilience and promoting organizational citizenship behaviors. This unique focus on personality traits as moderators offers practical applications for tailoring management interventions based on individual differences.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
    • SDG 8 · İnsana Yakışır İş ve Ekonomik Büyüme
  • MakaleYalnız künye2025
    Chemical Composition and Bioactivities of Ferulago setifolia K. Koch. Essential Oil: Antifungal, Insecticidal and Antiproliferative Potential

    Akşit, Hüseyin; Şimşek, Samed; Aydın, Ali; Bayar, Yusuf; Alkan, Mustafa

    The essential oil extracted from the aerial parts of Ferulago setifolia K. Koch was analysed using GC/MS, revealing 33 compounds, with 2,3,4-trimethyl benzaldehyde (41.24%), α-pinene (21.58%) and sabinene (10.46%) as major constituents. The biological activity profile of essential oils, including antifungal, insecticidal and antiproliferative activities, was documented for the first time. The oil demonstrated significant antifungal activity, completely inhibiting the growth of Verticillium dahliae at higher doses and showing dose-dependent inhibition against Alternaria solani. It also exhibited moderate insecticidal activity against Rhyzopertha dominica and Tribolium confusum, achieving a mortality rate of up to 49.3% after 48 h at a 5% concentration. Furthermore, the essential oil showed potent antiproliferative effects against a wide range of cancer cell lines, including lung (Calu1), breast (MCF7), colon (HT29) and gynaecological (HeLa) cancers, while maintaining low cytotoxicity on normal cell lines (MRC5, FL). The IC50 values ranged from 8.13 μg/mL (A2780) to 92.88 μg/mL (HT29), with notable results such as 22.84 μg/mL for Calu1 and 58.26 μg/mL for MCF7. Compared to the standard anticancer drug 5-fluorouracil, the essential oil exhibited superior or comparable activity against certain cancer cell lines. The results showed that essential oils have specificity against cancer cell lines. These findings suggest that the essential oil of F. setifolia holds potential as a natural source for antifungal, insecticidal and antiproliferative agents. The results contribute significantly to the pharmacological and agricultural potential of this species.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam