Sürdürülebilir Kalkınma Amaçları
Yazarlar
- Cakir, Mehmet(5)
- Ceylan, Halil İbrahim(4)
- Dhahbi, Wissem(4)
- Engin, Mustafa Alptekin(4)
- Yayla, İbrahim Erdoğan(4)
- Ceylan, Nagihan Burçak(3)
- Dertli, Enes(3)
- Dombak, Kübra(3)
- Kaban, Güzin(3)
- Kaya, Mükerrem(3)
- Kul, Murat(3)
- Muntean, Raul Ioan(3)
- Çelik, Eyüp(3)
- İspirli, Hümeyra(3)
- Akyol Özcan, Kübra(2)
- Ay, Mustafa Ertan(2)
- Aydogan, Beytullah(2)
- Boz, Emre(2)
- Chou, Kevin(2)
- Dayi, Faruk(2)
- Erdal, Mehmet Emin(2)
- Erdogdu, Aylin(2)
- Esmer, Yusuf(2)
- Ganji, Farshad(2)
- Karakaş, Ümit(2)
- Kırkbir, Fatih(2)
- Makas, Samet(2)
- Sayın, Bilge(2)
- Souissi, Nizar(2)
- Tombak, Anıl(2)
- Yildiz, Ferah(2)
- Yılmaz, Özlem(2)
- Çevik, Kenan(2)
- Ada Yildiz, Kübra(1)
- Adatepe, Eda(1)
- Adhadhi, Nessrine(1)
- Akeren, İhsan(1)
- Aksungur, Nurhak(1)
- Akçay, Enes(1)
- Alaya, Wiem Ben(1)
Yayınlar
- MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1Self-Regulation and Mathematics Anxiety: The Conditional Mediating Role of Mathematical Language Self-Efficacy and Implications for Inclusive Education
Öztürk, Mesut; Ada Yildiz, Kübra; Charitaki, Garyfalia
In this quantitative study, we investigated the conditional mediating role of students’ mathematical language self-efficacy in the relationship between self-regulation and mathematics anxiety. The study employed a relational research design and included survey data from 706 middle school students attending public schools in Turkey. Findings indicated that both self-regulation and perceived self-efficacy in mathematical language use were significantly associated with mathematics anxiety. Moreover, the effect of self-regulation on mathematics anxiety was significantly mediated by students’ perceptions of their ability to understand and use mathematical language self-efficacy. The indirect effect was negative while the direct effect was positive, indicating a suppression (competitive mediation) effect, whereby self-regulation exerts both anxiety-reducing and potentially anxiety-inducing influences through different pathways. Conditional mediation analysis further revealed that this mediating effect varied as a function of students’ perceived academic support, with the indirect effect being non-significant for students who did not receive support. Measurement invariance across gender and grade level was examined to ensure that the constructs were measured equivalently across groups. These findings highlight the importance of fostering both self-regulation skills and mathematical language proficiency, particularly in contexts where students may lack sufficient support. These findings provide a theoretically grounded and practically relevant framework for understanding mathematics anxiety within inclusive mathematics education contexts.
- Derleme MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1Functional and Technological Roles of Limosilactobacillus reuteri and Its Critical Metabolites in Food Systems
Yildirim, Sema Nur; İspirli, Hümeyra; Dertli, Enes
Limosilactobacillus reuteri is a lactic acid bacteria (LAB) recognized for its significant technological and functional properties. This species produces diverse metabolites, including reuterin, exopolysaccharides (EPSs), B-group vitamins, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and bioactive peptides, which benefit food systems and host health. However, high strain-specificity and metabolite complexity present challenges in elucidating precise mechanisms of action of these metabolites for their functional and technological roles. This review provides a comprehensive perspective on the latest applications of Lmb. reuteri and its metabolites in food technology by focusing on its utilization in diverse matrices, including dairy, plant-based products, supplements, and edible packaging systems, where it serves to extend shelf life, enhance nutritional profiles, and improve sensory attributes. The strain-specific nature of Lmb. reuteri allows for tailored applications to meet technological requirements. As consumer demand for clean-label and health-promoting foods increases, Lmb. reuteri stands out as a critical LAB species, for the development of next-generation functional foods and preservation strategies. Understanding the potential roles of this species in human and animal health and food safety will help us to build a roadmap for future research and industrial implementation.
AtıfScopus1WoS1OpenAlex2
İncele - MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1A Hybrid Deep Learning–Fuzzy–Genetic Framework for Climate-Resilient Agricultural Investment and Resource Allocation Under Carbon Market Uncertainty
Erdogdu, Aylin; Dayi, Faruk; Yildiz, Ferah; Esmer, Yusuf; Ganji, Farshad
Climate variability, environmental uncertainty, and carbon-market dynamics increasingly challenge agricultural investment and resource allocation decisions worldwide. This study proposes an integrated hybrid decision-support framework combining Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) deep learning, Interval Type-2 Fuzzy Logic Systems, and Genetic Algorithms to support climate-resilient agricultural investment analysis under uncertainty. The framework integrates predictive modeling, uncertainty representation, and multi-objective optimization within a unified computational architecture. The empirical analysis was conducted using agricultural, climate, and carbon-market datasets covering Europe, Asia, and Africa over the 2010–2025 period. Agricultural productivity indicators, commodity price variables, climate-risk parameters, and carbon-market data were integrated into the modeling process. LSTM models were employed to analyze temporal agricultural and climate-related dynamics, while Interval Type-2 fuzzy systems were used to represent ambiguity associated with environmental and market uncertainty. Genetic Algorithms were subsequently applied to optimize investment allocation under conflicting objectives related to profitability, sustainability, and risk. The findings suggest that the proposed hybrid framework may improve adaptive investment evaluation and optimization performance under uncertain climate conditions relative to standalone computational approaches within the scope of the analyzed datasets. The results further highlight the importance of integrating predictive analytics, uncertainty modeling, and sustainability-oriented optimization within agricultural decision-support systems. However, the framework should be interpreted as a climate-resilient decision-support architecture rather than a universally deterministic forecasting mechanism. Overall, the study contributes to the emerging literature on agricultural sustainability and climate-resilient investment by presenting a transparent and uncertainty-aware computational framework under evolving environmental and carbon-market conditions.
AtıfScopus1WoS1OpenAlex2İncele - MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1Exergy and DFT-Based Thermodynamic Analysis of a Rankine–VCR Marine Waste Heat Recovery System
Keven, Arzu; Akçay, Enes; Gümüş, Hacer
This study investigates the performance of a diesel engine exhaust gas-driven Rankine Cycle-supported vapor compression refrigeration system using quantum chemical approaches beyond conventional thermodynamic analyses. The study focuses on R448A and its components, namely R32, R125, R134a, R1234yf, and R1234ze(E), evaluated at both the system level and the molecular level. At the system level, the Rankine–VCR system was analyzed using a Fortran-based macroscopic thermodynamic model, in which the thermophysical properties of the working fluids were obtained from the NIST Chemistry WebBook. At the molecular level, Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations were performed to determine molecular structure parameters, including entropy, heat capacity, chemical hardness, and thermal enthalpy correction. The main objective is to investigate the possible relationships between these molecular descriptors and system-level performance indicators, while considering that mass flow rate is primarily governed by cycle thermodynamic properties. The results show that molecular stability and structural order are strongly associated with system performance. Among the R448A components, R32, with the highest chemical hardness (8.19 eV) and lowest molecular entropy (58.9 cal/mol K), exhibits the most favorable exergetic behavior and achieves the highest plant exergy efficiency of 44.92%. In contrast, R1234ze(E), chemically softer (η = 4.42 Ev) and higher in entropy, exhibits the lowest performance. Additionally, R32’s lower thermal enthalpy correction is associated with higher latent heat of vaporization under the selected operating conditions, reducing the required mass flow by approximately 60–70% compared to the other components. This study demonstrates that, in refrigerant selection, not only the global warming potential (GWP) but also quantum parameters such as chemical hardness, molecular entropy, heat capacity, and thermal enthalpy correction can serve as important complementary performance indicators when interpreted together with macroscopic thermodynamic and exergetic results.
- MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1Enhanced Absorption-Dominant EMI Shielding Performance of Pyramidal Cementitious Composites Incorporating Recycled Plastics and Magnetite Minerals for 5G Applications
Cakir, Mehmet; Engin, Mustafa Alptekin; Camuzcuoglu, Murat
In this study, waste polypropylene (PP) and magnetite (Fe3O4) mineral-reinforced cement-based pyramidal composite structures were designed, manufactured, and experimentally characterized to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) problems in the 3.3–4.9 GHz frequency band for 5G communication systems. Unlike traditional planar concrete surfaces, the aim was to minimize surface reflections and obtain an absorption-dominant shielding mechanism by providing gradient impedance matching through the pyramidal geometry. Although the use of carbon-based nanomaterials is common in the current literature, their high cost and corrosion risks limit their large-scale applications. This study involves the evaluation of waste polypropylene disposal and self-enriching magnetite mineral together. Theoretical analyses were supported by the Lichtenecker Logarithmic Mixing Rule and the Maxwell–Garnett model, and seven different mixing scenarios (S1–S7) were measured using the free-space method with a Libre vector network analyzer. Experimental results showed that the pure concrete sample exhibited predominantly reflective behaviour, with shielding performance improving significantly as the filler ratio increased. The S4 sample, containing 15% PP and 10% magnetite, offered broadband and balanced absorption performance, while the S7 sample, containing 25% PP and 25% magnetite, provided the highest shielding effectiveness with reflection below −10 dB across the entire band and transmission loss reaching −65 dB.
- MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1Microwave-Assisted Extraction of Pectin from Pickled Cabbage Waste: Process Optimisation, Characterisation and Application in Low-Sugar Jam
Cebeci Aydın, Fatma; Erten, Tayyibe
This study optimised pectin extraction from pickled cabbage waste using microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), characterised the extracted pectin, and explored its potential for low-sugar jam production. The Box–Behnken design concluded that the optimal conditions are 539 W (microwave power), 116 s (time), and pH 1.5, yielding a pectin yield of 22.53 ± 2.63%. The physicochemical analysis revealed that the microwave-extracted pectin (MEP) was low methoxyl and had a high molecular weight (1.20 ± 0.004 MDa). It was composed of galacturonic acid, arabinose, rhamnose, xylose and glucose. FTIR, 1H NMR and SEM results also confirmed structural characteristics of MEP. MEP was confirmed to have remarkable technological properties, including an emulsion activity of 53.43 ± 2.19% and good stability over 30 days at 4 °C and 24 °C. Moreover, it has an oil-holding capacity of 1.18 ± 0.51 g oil/g pectin and an elevated water-holding capacity (9.36 ± 3.25 g water/g pectin). The application of MEP as a stabiliser in low-sugar jam enhanced viscoelastic characteristics of jam, like apple pectin, and G′ > G″ confirmed the improved shelf-life stability at 25 °C. This study emphasised that microwave-assisted extraction can be a sustainable, time- and energy-saving method for the valorisation of pickled cabbage waste, and highlighted the effect of MEP on the characteristics of low-sugar jam.
- MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1Sport Participation and Happiness Among Veteran Footballers: The Mediating Role of Social Capital
Adatepe, Eda; Kul, Murat; Özkan, Ali; Kırkbir, Fatih; Öz, Ümit; Ünlü, Yılmaz; Seleciler, Cansu; Boz, Emre
Aim: As the global population is aging rapidly, promoting physical activity in later life is increasingly seen as a good strategy to enhance and sustain the social and psychological well-being of older adults from a positive aging perspective. This study explored how social capital influences the relationship between playing football and happiness in veteran footballers. Specifically, it aimed to understand if social capital acts as a mediator between these two factors. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on a convenience sample of 423 veteran footballers aged from 38 to 59 years who completed a survey at 35th Sakarya Veterans Football Tournament in Sakarya in north-west Turkey. Football participation was assessed using the Serious Leisure Inventory. Social capital was assessed in both cognitive and structural aspects. A single-item scale assessed general happiness. Data were analyzed with Pearson correlation coefficients and were calculated using SPSS (version 24) to assess the direction and strength of the links between the investigated variables. Path coefficients were calculated through regression analyses. For testing mediation effects, the study utilized Hayes’ bootstrapping method, executed with the Version 4.2 Beta of the PROCESS macro. Results: According to the research findings, the direct effect of football participation on happiness was determined to be 0.43 (p < 0.01). While community involvement played a significant mediating role with a coefficient of 0.11 (95% CI [0.05, 0.15]), the social trust and neighborhood dimensions of social capital did not yield statistically significant effects. Collectively, the model explains 24% of the variance in happiness (R2 = 0.24), with a total effect of football participation calculated at 0.57 (p = 0.000). Conclusions: it is believed that social environments that include participation in sport can contribute to successful and comfortable aging by greatly enhancing the overall well-being and happiness of older athletes/adults.
- MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1Optimizing Budget Allocation for Digital Health Investments Using Metaheuristic Algorithms: A Cost–Impact Analysis for Public Health Systems
Dayi, Faruk; Erdogdu, Aylin; Esmer, Yusuf; Yildiz, Ferah; Ganji, Farshad
Background: In the era of digital transformation, public health systems increasingly rely on digital technologies to improve accessibility, efficiency, and patient outcomes. However, policymakers face significant challenges in allocating limited resources across competing digital health investments characterized by uncertainty and dynamic impacts. Methods: This study introduces the Adaptive Impact–Cost Optimization Theory (AICOT), a hybrid framework integrating fuzzy logic and genetic algorithms to optimize digital health investment portfolios. The model defines the Investment Priority Score (IPS) as a function of cost, expected impact, and implementation feasibility, enabling structured evaluation under uncertainty. A fuzzy inference system with centroid-based defuzzification is used to convert qualitative assessments into quantitative scores, while optimization techniques identify optimal portfolios across different fiscal scenarios. The empirical analysis covers 15 OECD countries (2018–2024) using publicly available datasets. Sensitivity analyses assess robustness under inflation, cost shocks, and changing system priorities. Results: The findings show that blended investment strategies combining routine digital health tools with pandemic-oriented infrastructures yield the highest resilience-adjusted efficiency. Results remain stable across sensitivity scenarios, with pandemic surveillance consistently ranking as a top priority even under increased cost conditions. The model effectively captures cross-country heterogeneity, demonstrating adaptability to different levels of digital maturity. Conclusions: AICOT provides a transparent and policy-relevant decision-support framework that improves resource allocation efficiency and reduces unnecessary expenditures. These contributions support long-term financial sustainability and align with global health objectives, including Universal Health Coverage and Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being).
AtıfScopus1WoS1OpenAlex1
İncele - MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ2Machine Learning-Based Material Thickness and Type Classification via Scattering Parameters
Engin, Mustafa Alptekin; Cakir, Mehmet
The precise determination of material type and thickness is of major significance in non-destructive testing, quality assurance, and materials science, as it influences the functionality, reliability, and performance of materials in engineering applications. This study proposes a methodology for the classification of material thickness and type through the analysis of scattering parameters within the 8–12 GHz frequency range. A database was created, encompassing real, imaginary, and dB values of reflection and transmission parameters for nine real-world materials with thicknesses ranging from 1 to 10 mm. This study addressed two main classification tasks, namely material thickness and material type. A variety of training–testing splits were employed in conjunction with 10-fold cross-validation to facilitate a comparison of classifier performance. In the material type classification, incorporating multiple thickness levels of each material enabled the model to distinguish materials with similar reflection characteristics more accurately, thereby enhancing discrimination performance. The results showed that Fine KNN consistently achieved 100% accuracy in thickness classification, while Quadratic SVM achieved 100% accuracy in material type classification, even when utilising only three thickness levels. Furthermore, the 90% training–10% testing split yielded the highest performance in thickness classification, whereas the optimal data split for material type classification differed across classifiers. Overall, this study demonstrates that the combination of scattering parameters and machine learning serves as a reliable and efficient approach for non-destructive material characterization.
AtıfScopus1WoS1OpenAlex1İncele - MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1Non-Destructive Intelligent Microwave Sensing of Water Content in Sand–Water Mixtures Using S-Parameter Features and PLS Regression
Çakır, Mehmet
The accurate and rapid estimation of water content in granular materials is important for geotechnical engineering, construction-material evaluation, agricultural monitoring, and non-destructive material assessment. This study presents a controlled laboratory feasibility framework for estimating water content in sand–water mixtures using microwave S-parameter measurements and physically interpretable features. Sixty measurements were acquired from six nominal mixture levels containing 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25% water by mass using a WR-229 waveguide-based fixture over 3.30–4.90 GHz. Descriptors were extracted from the raw and empty-reference-normalized S11 and S21 responses, including extrema, slopes, area-based indicators, band-averaged values, selected-frequency responses, and phase statistics. Ridge regression, partial least squares regression, support vector regression, Gaussian process regression, random forest, and gradient boosting regression were evaluated. The selected PLS model achieved RMSE = 3.56%, MAE = 2.92%, and R2 = 0.826 under leave-one-mixture-level-out group-wise cross-validation, which was used as the primary indicator of generalization to an unseen mixture level. The substantially lower error obtained under repeated-measurement leave-one-out cross-validation primarily reflects within-level repeatability under controlled conditions and should not be interpreted as evidence of universal calibration performance. The results demonstrate that magnitude- and phase-derived microwave descriptors, particularly transmission-based features, provide an interpretable and repeatable framework for water-content estimation under the specific sand type, sample geometry, water source, and laboratory conditions investigated. Further validation using independent preparation batches, different granular materials, measured water conductivity, temperature variation, and field-like conditions is required before practical deployment.
- MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1The Relational Online Learner: Self-Directed Learning, University Belonging, and Student Engagement in Online Higher Education from a Self-Determination Theory Perspective
Kayalı, Bünyami; Yavuz, Mehmet; Üstün, Ayşin Gaye; Uçar, Hasan; Erdoğdu, Erdem; Aydemir, Mesut; Bozkurt, Aras
We examined the relationships between self-directed learning skills, university belonging, and student engagement in open online and distance learning environments within the framework of Self-Determination Theory. The research was conducted using a correlational survey model. Data were collected from 696 university students enrolled at a large-scale open, online and distance learning institution in Türkiye. We used three instruments measuring self-directed learning skills, university belonging, and student engagement. The data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling. The findings indicate that university belonging significantly and positively predicts all dimensions of student engagement. While self-control skills, learning skills, and sustaining the desire to learn significantly explain university belonging, metacognitive awareness and ability to identify sources were found to have no significant effect. Furthermore, it was found that university belonging acts as a significant mechanism in the relationships between self-control skills, learning skills, and sustaining the desire to learn, and student engagement. In this open and distance learning context, student engagement was not explained by individual learning skills alone. University belonging may therefore be one mechanism that partly accounts for the association between self-directed learning and academic participation. The study contributes by testing self-directed learning at the level of its dimensions, by identifying university belonging as a mechanism that partly accounts for its association with engagement, and by situating this model in a large-scale open and distance learning setting.
- MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1Effects of Halotherapy as an Adjunct to Preseason Training on Respiratory and Aerobic Outcomes in Elite Female Football Players: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Sarışık, Derya Çetin; Aydın, Ahmet Serhat; Söyler, Mehmet; Zileli, Raif; Özkurt, Ali; Yılmaz, Coskun; Küçük, Hamza; Karataş, Mevlüt
Background: Aerobic capacity and respiratory efficiency are critical determinants of performance in elite female football, characterized by repeated high-intensity efforts and rapid recovery demands. Halotherapy, involving the inhalation of dry salt aerosol, has been shown to improve pulmonary health; however, its effects on exercise-related outcomes in athletic populations remain insufficiently investigated. This study aimed to examine the effects of a 12-week post-training halotherapy intervention on respiratory muscle strength, pulmonary function, and aerobic performance in elite female football players. Methods: Twenty-eight elite female football players competing in the Turkish Women’s First League were randomly assigned to a halotherapy group (HG, n = 14) or a control group (CG, n = 14). Both groups completed an identical preseason training program, while the HG additionally performed 45 min halotherapy sessions three times per week in a controlled halochamber. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures (MIP, MEP), spirometric parameters (FVC, FEV1, PEF, MVV), and maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) estimated using the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (Yo-Yo IRT1), along with total distance covered. A 2 × 2 mixed-model ANOVA was used to assess time and group × time interaction effects. Results: Significant group × time interactions were observed for MIP, MEP, VO2max, FEV1, PEF, MVV, and Yo-Yo IRT1 performance (p < 0.05), with large effect sizes (ηp2 = 0.269–0.924), favoring the halotherapy group. Forced vital capacity (FVC) increased over time in both groups (p = 0.141), with no significant interaction effect. Changes in the control group were comparatively smaller across most outcomes. Conclusion: Post-training halotherapy was associated with improvements in respiratory muscle strength, ventilatory function, aerobic capacity, and intermittent running performance in elite female football players. These findings suggest that halotherapy may be considered as a complementary, non-invasive strategy to support respiratory and aerobic adaptations. Further research is required to confirm these findings and to clarify the underlying physiological mechanisms. Trial registration: NCT07406386; 6 February 2026.
- MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ2Eccentric Isokinetic Rehabilitation for Chronic Lateral Epicondylitis in Female Swimmers: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Bilateral Neuromuscular Adaptations and Functional Performance
Dhahbi, Wissem; Ghouili, Hatem; Ceylan, Halil İbrahim; Adhadhi, Nessrine; Bchini, Souhail; Bessifi, Manel; Ceylan, Nagihan Burçak; Stefanica, Valentina; Ouerghi, Nejmeddine; Hammami, Nadhir
Background and Objectives: This study investigated the efficacy of eccentric isokinetic muscle strengthening versus passive motion protocols on neuromuscular function and performance capacity in female swimmers with chronic lateral epicondylitis. Materials and Methods: Twenty-five swimmers (age 46.1 ± 3.1 years) with lateral epicondylitis exceeding three months’ duration completed a randomized controlled trial comparing eccentric training in Controlled Active Motion mode (experimental group (EG), n = 13) against passive motion in Continuous Passive Motion mode (control group (CG), n = 12). Both groups performed 18 supervised sessions over six weeks (60°/s angular velocity, progressive loading 1–12 sets × 5 repetitions). Bilateral concentric peak torque of elbow extensors and flexors constituted the primary outcomes. Secondary measures included push-up performance, explosive power assessed by the Seated Medicine Ball Chest Push Test, and goniometric range of motion. Linear mixed-effects models and analysis of covariance with baseline adjustment were employed. Results: Eccentric training produced side-specific strength adaptations in elbow flexors (confirmed interaction: F1,23 = 8.56, p = 0.008, ηp2 = 0.271), with the experimental group demonstrating balanced bilateral gains, whereas the control group exhibited asymmetric responses favoring the non-dominant limb. EG demonstrated superior functional gains: push-up repetitions increased 4.15 ± 1.77 versus 2.17 ± 1.27 in CG (adjusted difference = 3.21 repetitions, 95% CI [1.52, 4.90], p = 0.001, d = 1.31), while explosive power improved 0.32 ± 0.09 m versus 0.10 ± 0.06 m (adjusted difference = 0.35 m, 95% CI [0.25, 0.45], p < 0.001, d = 1.20). Range of motion remained unchanged across groups (all p > 0.65). Conclusions: Eccentric isokinetic strengthening confers substantial advantages over passive motion protocols for restoring upper-body muscular endurance and ballistic force production in swimmers with lateral epicondylitis, supporting its integration into rehabilitation frameworks for the management of tendinopathy.
AtıfScopus2WoS1OpenAlex4İncele - MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1Characterization of Highly Branched Dextran VB113 Produced by Leuconostoc mesenteroides VB113 as Traditional Pickle Isolate
İspirli, Hümeyra; Kavak, Akif Emre; Dertli, Enes
Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) from traditional fermented foods serve as a promising source of novel exopolysaccharides (EPSs) with desirable techno-functional properties. In this study, the EPS production ability of LAB strains from traditional pickles was tested and a strong slimy isolate grown in a sucrose-rich environment was further selected. The isolate was identified as Leuconostoc mesenteroides VB113 and its EPS production characteristics were determined. HPLC analysis revealed that glucose was the only monomer in the EPS repeating structure, whereas 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy analysis demonstrated a branched dextran structure with 20% (1 → 3)-linked α-D-glucose units. Dextran VB113 showed a molecular weight of 2.4 × 106 Da tested by GPC analysis. The functional groups within dextran VB113 were determined by FTIR analysis, and XRD analysis demonstrated its amorphous physical status. TGA and DSC analysis were applied for thermal characterization and a degradation temperature of 272.25 °C was observed for dextran VB113, suggesting its high thermal resistance. The micro-structural features of dextran VB113 were tested by SEM and AFM analysis that revealed spherical and fibrillary properties, respectively. These findings revealed the importance of testing different niches to obtain novel EPS-producing LAB strains that can be further evaluated to enhance the techno-functional properties of food systems. The branched nature of dextran VB113, together with its molecular weight and thermal characteristics, offers practical advantages for its potential usage as a thermal-stable thickening agent, emulsion stabilizer, and fat replacer in high-temperature food processing applications, such as bakery products, processed dairy, and plant-based meat analogs.
AtıfScopus1WoS1OpenAlex1İncele - MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1Differential Time-of-Day Effects of Caffeine Capsule and Mouth Rinse on Physical Performance and Volleyball-Specific Skills in Adolescent Male Volleyball Players
Amor, Salma Belhaj; Dhahbi, Wissem; Souaifi, Marouen; Ceylan, Halil İbrahim; Padulo, Johnny; Vando, Stefano; Ceylan, Nagihan Burçak; Muntean, Raul Ioan; Souissi, Nizar
Objective: This study compared the acute effects of caffeine capsule ingestion and caffeine mouth rinsing on physical performance and volleyball-specific skills at different times of day in trained adolescent male volleyball players. Methods: Twenty-four well-trained male volleyball players (age: 16.9 ± 0.7 years) completed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study involving three supplementation conditions, caffeine capsule (CAFcap, 3 mg·kg−1), caffeine mouth rinse (CAFrinse, 3 mg·kg−1), and placebo (PLA), administered via a double-dummy procedure (nine sessions per participant: 3 conditions × 3 times of day) at 08:00, 12:00, and 18:00. Participants completed squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), block jump, attack jump, 10 × 10 m t-test, spike accuracy, and serve accuracy assessments. Data were analyzed using two-way repeated-measures ANOVA. Results: Significant main effects of condition and time of day were observed for all outcomes. Significant condition × time-of-day interactions were found for SJ, CMJ, attack jump, and change-of-direction speed, indicating that caffeine-related ergogenic effects were most evident in the morning and at midday, whereas these benefits were attenuated in the evening when baseline performance was highest. At 08:00 and 12:00, both CAFcap and CAFrinse improved jump performance and agility compared with PLA, with capsule ingestion showing a small-to-moderate advantage over mouth rinsing for selected lower-limb power outcomes at midday (mean difference range: 0.51–0.57 cm; dz = 0.57–0.65). For block jump, spike accuracy, and serve accuracy, both caffeine conditions improved performance relative to placebo, while a progressive improvement across the day was observed under all conditions, including placebo, confirming a diurnal rhythm effect independent of supplementation. Overall, the data indicate that caffeine partially reduced the amplitude of diurnal variation in several physical performance measures. Conclusions: Both caffeine capsule ingestion and caffeine mouth rinsing enhanced physical and volleyball-specific performance in trained adolescent male volleyball players. The ergogenic effects were more pronounced earlier in the day, suggesting that caffeine may be particularly useful for attenuating morning and midday performance decrements, while mouth rinsing represents a practical non-ingestive alternative with meaningful efficacy.
AtıfScopus2WoS2OpenAlex2İncele - MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1Effects of Moringa oleifera Oil on Adipokine Responses, Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, Bacterial Burden, and Early Survival in CLP-Induced Septic Rats
Ülker, Ufuk; Bayraktar, Bülent; Alr, Mehmet Eray; Kızıl, Sibel; Karan, Tünay; Kotan, Gökşad Cemil; Yeni, Mustafa
Moringa oleifera has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, but its effects in polymicrobial sepsis are incompletely defined. We evaluated M. oleifera oil (MOO) in female Wistar rats subjected to cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Forty rats were randomized to Control, Sham, CLP, CLP + MOO 100 mg/kg, or CLP + MOO 200 mg/kg (n = 8/group). At 24 h, survival, clinical scores, serum apelin, omentin-1, interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), malondialdehyde (MDA), recoverable bacterial burden, and histopathology were assessed. CLP decreased omentin-1 and increased IL-6, TNF-α, MDA, recoverable Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, clinical severity, and multi-organ injury. At 200 mg/kg, apelin and omentin-1 were 1.15 ± 0.12 and 28.4 ± 3.1 ng/mL, while IL-6, TNF-α, and MDA decreased to 18.4 ± 1.8 pg/mL, 24.1 ± 2.8 pg/mL, and 2.5 ± 0.3 nmol/mL, respectively. Neither organism was recovered above the detection limit. Survival was 62.5% in CLP, 87.5% with 100 mg/kg, and 100% with 200 mg/kg MOO. Within this 24 h model, a single post-CLP oral dose of MOO was associated with lower inflammatory cytokine concentrations and MDA, reduced recoverable bacterial burden, improved clinical and histopathological findings, and higher descriptive survival. Because MDA was the sole oxidative endpoint and no non-septic MOO-only group or molecular redox assays were included, these findings support the attenuation of sepsis-associated lipid peroxidation but do not establish a direct antioxidant mechanism.
- MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1A Single-Source Pilot Study of Machine Learning-Assisted Microwave S-Parameter Screening for Glucose Syrup and Water Adulteration in Grape Molasses
Engin, Mustafa Alptekin; Cakir, Mehmet; Cakil, Turan
Grape molasses, known as pekmez in Turkish, is a traditional concentrated fruit product that may be adulterated with cheaper sweeteners or water. This study evaluated broadband microwave S-parameter measurements as a rapid, non-destructive screening approach for detecting glucose syrup substitution and water dilution in grape molasses. Nine physical mixture groups were prepared, including pure grape molasses, glucose syrup–substituted mixtures at 5–30%, pure glucose syrup as an endpoint reference, and water-diluted mixtures at 10–30%. For each group, five consecutive technical measurements were recorded using a Libre vector network analyzer connected to a WR-229 waveguide-based two-port setup over 3.30–4.90 GHz. All mixtures were prepared from a single commercial grape molasses source and a single glucose syrup source; the results should therefore be interpreted as pilot-scale, single-source evidence rather than a generalizable screening method. Glucose syrup substitution produced a systematic upward shift in S11 resonance frequency. In the practical 0–30% range, S11 resonance frequency showed a strong linear relationship with glucose syrup content on the calibration data (R2 = 0.9955; inverse prediction error = 0.72 percentage points), though this reflects calibration fit rather than independently validated prediction accuracy. Water dilution produced stronger S21 attenuation. The detection principle is based on the complementary use of S11 resonance behavior for glucose syrup substitution and S21 transmission loss for water dilution. In group-blocked point-wise classification, the Ensemble Bagged Trees classifier achieved 88.79% accuracy and a macro-F1 score of 0.874. These results indicate that S11 and S21 provide complementary proof-of-concept indicators for controlled-mixture screening of grape molasses adulteration.
- MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ2Experimental Electromagnetic Shielding Analysis of a Square-Resonator-Integrated Double-Concrete Structure Using Explainable Machine Learning
Cakir, Mehmet
Electromagnetic shielding has become a practical concern in buildings and structures exposed to persistent interference. This paper reports experimental measurements of the frequency-dependent shielding properties of a square-resonator-integrated double-concrete structure, using a free-space S-parameter setup built around WR229 waveguide adaptors and horn antennas. Three variables were tested: concrete thickness D, relative permittivity εr, and relative magnetic permeability μr. Both εr and μr were characterized experimentally from carbon-fibre- and copper-slag-modified concrete rather than taken from standard tables. The novelty of the study lies in combining experimentally characterized concrete electromagnetic properties, an embedded square-resonator geometry, and explainability-driven machine learning analysis within a single experimental framework for cement-based EMI shielding design. A total of 96 parameter combinations were evaluated using calibrated S11 and reference-corrected S21 responses across 3.3–4.9 GHz. Thickness and electromagnetic material properties interacted—neither governed shielding performance on its own. The strongest transmission attenuation occurred at D = 5, εr = 7, and μr = 1.2, where minimum S21 reached approximately −62.98 dB at 3.6392 GHz. S11 varied considerably less than S21 across the tested combinations, suggesting transmission suppression is the dominant mechanism rather than reflection enhancement. A machine learning analysis confirmed that nonlinear ensemble models outperformed the linear baseline and identified thickness as the most influential predictor of minimum S21.
- MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ1Seismic Performance Assessment of a Historical Masonry Mosque Minaret Under Pulse-like and Non-Pulse-like Near-Fault Ground Motions
Gürbüz, Ali; Demirtaş, Betül; Tonyali, Zeliha
Historical masonry minarets are highly vulnerable to seismic actions due to their slender geometry, limited tensile capacity, and material heterogeneity. However, their response to near-fault ground motions characterized by velocity pulses remains insufficiently explored. This study investigates the seismic response of the historical Tavanlı Mosque Minaret (1894, Trabzon, Türkiye) subjected to pulse-like (PL) and non-pulse-like (NPL) near-fault ground motions. A three-dimensional finite element model (FEM) was developed in ANSYS Workbench and systematically calibrated using empirical formulations to represent the current dynamic condition of the structure. Seismic performance was evaluated through linear dynamic analyses in terms of displacement demands, principal stress distribution, and drift-ratio-based performance levels. The results indicate that model calibration significantly modifies the dynamic characteristics, increasing the fundamental frequency from 0.734 Hz to 1.126 Hz and reducing displacement demands by approximately 35–76% across the considered records. Despite this improvement, PL ground motions consistently generate more critical deformation demands than NPL motions, frequently exceeding Collapse Prevention (CP) limits even when Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA) values are relatively low. A key finding is that seismic demand cannot be reliably predicted by peak intensity measures or pulse-period ratios ((Formula presented.)) alone; rather, velocity-related parameters and pulse coherence govern the structural response. These results demonstrate that integrating empirical model calibration with pulse-sensitive seismic analysis is essential for reliable seismic assessment and conservation planning of slender historical masonry structures located in near-fault regions. The study offers a systematic framework that integrates model calibration and pulse-sensitive seismic analysis for evaluating the drift-controlled response of slender historical masonry minarets in near-fault regions.
AtıfScopus5WoS4OpenAlex4İncele - MakaleAçık Erişim2026Scopus SJRQ2Diagnostic and Prognostic Significance of miR-155, miR-181, miR-221, miR-222, and miR-223 Expression in Myelodysplastic Syndromes and Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Ardıç, Cemile; Ay, Mustafa Ertan; Çevik, Kenan; Tombak, Anıl; İzci Ay, Özlem; Karakaş, Ümit; Doğru Özdemir, Gurbet; Bilgiç, Abdulkadir; Erdal, Mehmet Emin
Background: Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDSs) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are clonal hematological disorders that share molecular origins but present with distinct clinical features. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key post-transcriptional regulators, and their altered expression may reflect biological shifts contributing to disease progression. Methods: Expression levels of miR-155, miR-181, miR-221, miR-222, and miR-223 were analyzed by RT-qPCR in bone marrow samples from 37 MDS patients, 20 AML patients, and 7 controls. Group comparisons were performed using ANOVA (with Benjamini–Hochberg correction) and Tukey post hoc testing. Diagnostic performance and network behavior were evaluated using ROC analysis, Pearson correlation matrices, and principal component analysis (PCA). Results: miR-155, miR-181, and miR-223 were upregulated in AML, whereas miR-221 and miR-222 were downregulated. miR-222 showed the highest diagnostic accuracy (AUC ~0.87 for both AML vs. control and MDS vs. control). Its expression was significantly higher in high IPSS-R MDS cases (p = 0.046), with a similar upward tendency for miR-221 (p = 0.054). Progressive loss of coordinated miRNA expression was observed from controls to MDS and AML. PCA supported these findings by showing separation mainly driven by miR-222 and miR-155. Conclusions: Combined miRNA profiling highlights miR-222 and, to a lesser extent miR-155, as consistent indicators of myeloid disease transformation. While further validation in larger and genetically stratified cohorts is warranted, these findings support the potential contribution of miRNA signatures to diagnostic evaluation and risk stratification in MDS and AML, in line with precision hematology approaches.
AtıfScopus1WoS1OpenAlex1İncele