Journals
2026 EN
Koca Esra · Oskaybaş Emlek Betül · Kahraman Kevser
+2 more
ABSTRACT In this study, it was aimed to develop an edible film from an amylose‐lipid complex with better mechanical properties and water vapor barrier. For this purpose, the buckwheat starch (BS) is modified with myristic acid (MA) and the edible film production process was optimized by using central composite design with 4 center points where film forming solution's glycerol concentration, pH, and the temperature of as dependent variable and tensile strength (TS), elongation at break (EAB) value and Young's modulus (YM) as response. The models were significant for TS and YM, and the glycerol concentration and temperature had a significant effect on the TS of the films. The edible film produced in validated optimized conditions had better EAB (149%) and TS (1.064 MPa), and lower water solubility (44.7%) and water vapor permeability (0.39 g × mm/m 2 × h × kPa) than control film ( p < 0.05). There was no significant change in color values, but an increase in opacity (2.14). With the formation of the BS‐MA complex, increased surface roughness and more hydrophilic (contact angle = 92.4°) films were obtained. These findings demonstrate that the BS‐MA complex film has significant potential for practical applications as an edible film.
Journals
2026 EN
Yüce G. · Fu C. C. · D’Alessandro W.
+14 more
Abstract This study presents a soil gas geochemical survey in the Kırcaoğlu and Reyhanlı regions of Hatay Province, southeastern Türkiye, following the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquake doublet. The aim was to identify concealed faults and assess seismic hazard through analysis of soil CO 2 flux, CO 2 and 222 Rn concentrations, and carbon and helium isotopic compositions. A total of 98 sites were surveyed, and graphical statistical methods were used to establish geochemical anomaly thresholds. In Kırcaoğlu, two prominent gas anomaly zones were delineated with dominant NW‐SE and NE‐SW trends, likely representing buried faults linked to the Yesemek Segment, including one beneath the Reyhanlı Dam. In Reyhanlı, an east‐west gas anomaly suggests a possible westward extension of the Reyhanlı Fault. These findings refine the region's structural framework and highlight seismic risks from buried faults. Isotopic analyses show CO 2 derives from biogenic and deep crustal reservoirs, with 4 He/ 20 Ne and 3 He/ 4 He ratios confirming up to 7.1% crustal helium and <1% mantle helium. Heavier δ 13 C values and elevated crustal helium in Kırcaoğlu support deep gas migration along fault zones. Natural CO 2 emissions are estimated at 66 t/d in Kırcaoğlu and 60 t/d in Reyhanlı. Regionally, emissions from the Amik Basin (∼15,586 t/d) comprise ∼1.5% of Türkiye's daily anthropogenic CO 2 . The overlap between gas anomalies and surface ruptures and liquefaction zones from the 2023 earthquakes confirms the effectiveness of soil gas surveys for buried fault detection. These results highlight the utility of soil gas geochemistry as a non‐invasive tool for fault detection and seismic hazard assessment.
Journals
2026 EN
Afşar Muharrem · Polat Onur · Afşar Aslı
+1 more
This study examines the dynamic interplay between oil price fluctuations and stock markets across 11 emerging economies, encompassing both oil-exporting and oil-importing states. Leveraging quantile-on-quantile (QQ) connectedness and regression frameworks, we focus on the asymmetric spillover effects of oil price shocks on stock returns from 16 February 2006, to 14 June 2024, revealing nuanced insights into risk transmission across varying market conditions. Our findings demonstrate that oil-exporting countries, such as Saudi Arabia and Russia, display heightened sensitivity to oil price changes, while more diversified economies like China show comparatively subdued reactions. We further explore the implications of significant global events – such as the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions related to the Russia-Ukraine conflict – on the interconnectedness of oil prices and stock markets. The results underscore the importance of strategic investment diversification for emerging markets to buffer against the adverse effects of oil price volatility. This research contributes to the existing literature on financial interconnectedness, providing valuable implications for policymakers and investors seeking to navigate the complexities of global oil market dynamics and enhance market resilience in the face of external shocks.
Resource
2026 EN
Dewi Yelsi Listiana · Handayani Ulvi Fitri · Makmur Malik
+11 more
Aflatoxin contamination in broiler feed remains a significant threat to animal health and food security, prompting the search for sustainable mitigation strategies. This meta-analysis examines the effectiveness of phytobiotics in reducing the impact of aflatoxins on broilers. A comprehensive literature search, adhering to the PRISMA guidelines, identified eligible studies published up to October 2024. Standardised mean differences were calculated for critical parameters, including performance, serum biochemistry, serum antioxidant and liver antioxidant profile, and intestinal morphology. Results showed that aflatoxin contamination harms broiler growth, liver function, and oxidative balance. Aflatoxin significantly ( p <0.001) reduced feed intake, body weight gain (BWG), final body weight, and carcass yield, while increasing feed conversion ratio, mortality, and relative liver weight. The phytobiotic on aflatoxin-contaminated feed partially mitigated some adverse effects but also resulted in reduced feed intake, BWG, carcass yield, and elevated mortality and liver weight. In terms of serum biochemistry, aflatoxin significantly decreased cholesterol ( p < 0.002), total protein, albumin, globulin, and phosphorus ( p < 0.001), while increasing uric acid, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase levels ( p < 0.001). Phytobiotic on aflatoxin-contaminated feed reduced low-density lipoprotein and cholesterol levels ( p < 0.001), but it also lowered calcium levels. Aflatoxin induced oxidative stress by increasing malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and decreasing antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, glutathione) ( p < 0.001). Although phytobiotics on aflatoxin-contaminated feed significantly improved the total antioxidant capacity and SOD levels in the liver, their effect on MDA levels and other antioxidants was limited. No significant changes were observed in intestinal villus height or villus height to crypt depth ratio, although phytobiotics increased crypt depth. Although phytobiotics on aflatoxin-contaminated feed show promise in alleviating some of these impacts, particularly in enhancing antioxidant capacity and maintaining performance, their protective effect on feed intake, mortality, and carcass yield remains limited. Further optimisations of phytobiotic formulations may increase their efficacy in aflatoxin detoxification strategies.
Journals
2026 EN
Günaydın Hüseyin · Uğurlu Beyza · Kahraman Ümit
+1 more
The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the injury incidences, types, locations, mechanisms, and results after injuries during the Türkiye Open 2025 Taekwondo Tournament and to identify differences between competition categories. The tournament occurred in Antalya from February 8–16, 2025. A total of 2068 athletes from 60 countries participated in para taekwondo (PT), seniors (SC), juniors (JC), and cadets (CC) categories, with 1919 matches held. Injuries encountered by athletes were recorded by two sports medicine physicians using the International Olympic Committee (IOC) ‘Daily Medical Report on Injuries and Illnesses’ form. We defined an injury as an injury that occurs when the referee stops play and calls the medical team to the field. Injury incidence rates (IRs) were calculated per 1000 matches, per 1000 athlete-exposures (AEs), per 100 athletes (clinical incidence). Injury incidence rate ratios (IRRs) with 95% confidence intervals were calculated and compared regarding categories. A total of 147 injuries occurred during the matches: 18 in PT Kyorugi (K44), 39 in SC, 47 in JC, and 43 in CC. The IRs were as follows: PT K44: 211.7/1,000 matches, 19.14/100 athletes, 105,88/1000 AEs; SC: 84.4/1,000 matches, 8.2/100 athletes, 42,57/1000 AEs; JC: 63.8/1,000 matches, 6.21/100 athletes, 31,92/1000 AEs; CC: 67.6/1,000 matches, 6.28/100 athletes, 30,28/1000 AEs. PT had a significantly higher IRs compared to other categories. There were statistically significant differences between the genders of the injured athletes when the four categories were compared. Contusion was the most common type of injury across all categories, and the most frequent injury mechanism was contact with another athlete. In all categories, athletes continued to compete in the majority of injuries. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the injury epidemiology observed in international PT and taekwondo matches. Notably, the IRs was highest in the PT compared to other categories. These results may contribute to the enhancement of protective equipment design and the development of targeted injury prevention strategies aimed at reducing injury rates across all competitive levels especially in para taekwondo athletes.
Journals
2026 EN
Çelik Osman T. · Candemir Burcu · Sağlam Mehmet
+3 more
This study explored the integration of digital technology in early childhood education from the perspectives of 11 preschool teachers using qualitative methods. Through content analysis, four key themes were identified: objectives, multidimensional effects in education, obstacles, and needs/expectations. Teachers employ digital tools to adapt to changes and enhance learning, despite concerns about potential harm. Barriers include administrative support, teacher beliefs, and competencies, as well as educational policies and parent-teacher cooperation. The study recommends the need for in-service and pre-service training for teachers and comprehensive policy development for effective technology integration.
Journals
2026 EN
Çekok Fatma Kübra · Altınkaya Pınar Müge · Gökşen Ayşenur
+2 more
The aim of this study was to examine the associations between age, chronic pain, cognitive function, and pain sensitivity by comparing older and younger adults. The study included 30 older adults with chronic pain, 31 older adults without pain, 26 young adults with chronic pain, and 31 young adults without pain. Cognitive functions were assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination, Stroop Test, and Clock Drawing Test. Pressure pain thresholds (PPT) were measured in the trapezius, deltoid, and tibialis anterior regions using an algometer. Significant differences were observed in most cognitive functions and PPTs between the groups, particularly between older adults with and without chronic pain, and young adults with and without chronic pain. Generally, moderate to strong negative correlations were found between pain sensitivity and cognitive performance in older adults with chronic pain. In contrast, young adults with chronic pain showed weaker and fewer correlations between pain sensitivity and cognitive function. Chronic pain has a more significant negative impact on cognitive function in older adults, who also exhibit stronger associations between pain sensitivity and cognitive decline. In contrast, younger adults with chronic pain demonstrate weaker correlations, potentially due to adaptive coping mechanisms. These findings highlight the need for age-specific interventions targeting both pain and cognitive decline in older populations.
Journals
2026 EN
Gumus Omer Onur · Pamukcu Umut · Akay Gulsun
+1 more
To determine the Fractal Dimension (FD) and Mean Gray Value (MGV) changes caused by TMJ-OA on Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) images. Ninety patients were divided into three groups: Control group (bilateral unaffected joints), Unilateral group (one affected joint), and Bilateral group (bilaterally affected joints). Histogram Analysis (HA) and Fractal Analysis (FA) were performed on coronal slices of the condyles. p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups, and also total affected and total unaffected condyles in terms of both MGV and FD (p>0.05). There was a statistically significant difference between MGV and FD of the unaffected condyles in the Control and Unilateral groups (p<0.05). Both MGV and FD of the unaffected condyles in the Unilateral group were significantly different from those in the Control group indicates that these patients may be potentially at risk for TMJ-OA in the advanced stage.
Journals
2026 EN
Mohamad Hamido Hani · Gürsoy Emrehan · Gürdal Mehmet
+1 more
This study investigates the effects of a variable magnetic field on thermodynamic performance during the development of thermal and hydrodynamic flow conditions in a circular tube. The focus is on energy utilization and heat transfer enhancement. The study investigated the effect of magnetic field intensity in the range of 0.01T–0.1T, with Reynolds number between 500–2000, on the thermo-hydraulic performance. In numerical analyses, the single-phase method was considered for ferrofluids whose volume concentration varied between 0.5% to 2.0%, and it was accepted as incompressible, Newtonian, and electrical conducting. The numerical simulations revealed that the highest heat transfer enhancement is achieved at x/ D = 60 location and magnetic field intensity of 0.1T. The Darcy friction factor exhibits dependence on the Reynolds number and volume concentration, with negligible magnetic field effect. Optimal heat transfer efficiency is observed without a magnetic field and at a volume concentration of 2.0%. The presence of a magnetic field induces alterations in velocity and temperature profiles, leading to changes in thermo-hydraulic performance. Furthermore, the Performance Evaluation Criteria demonstrated that a decrease occurs in efficiency by increasing magnetic field intensity. As a result, it is concluded that the presence of the magnetic field at various locations does not have a systematic and regular effect on the Performance Evaluation Criteria under developing flux conditions.
Journals
2026 EN
Yalcin Muhammed Ulvi · Gurses Kadri Murat · Tuncez Abdullah
+7 more
Abnormal circadian blood pressure variation, particularly a non-dipper pattern, is associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Naples Prognostic Score (NPS) is a laboratory-based score that reflects the immune-inflammatory and nutritional status. Nevertheless, data regarding the relationship between NPS, circadian blood pressure patterns, and arterial stiffness in patients with newly diagnosed hypertension are limited. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between blood pressure dipping status, the NPS, and arterial stiffness assessed by pulse wave velocity (PWV). This retrospective study included 297 newly diagnosed, untreated hypertensive patients who underwent 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring. Patients were classified as dipper ( n = 145) or non-dipper ( n = 152) according to nocturnal blood pressure decline. Laboratory parameters were recorded, NPS was calculated, and PWV was measured using a validated oscillometric device. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors independently associated with non-dipper hypertension. Non-dipper patients had significantly higher median NPS values compared with dippers [2 (0–4) vs. 1 (0–4), p < 0.001] and a higher prevalence of high NPS (score 3–4: 42.8% vs. 13.8%, p < 0.001). Median PWV was also significantly higher in the non-dipper group [7.70m/s (4.70–12.90) vs. 7.00m/s (4.40–11.20), p = 0.005]. After adjustment for clinically relevant covariates, both NPS (OR 1.71, 95% CI 1.19–2.47; p = 0.004) and PWV (OR 1.37, 95% CI 1.12–1.68; p = 0.002) were independently associated with non-dipper hypertension. In patients with newly diagnosed hypertension, a non-dipper blood pressure pattern is independently associated with higher systemic inflammatory burden and increased arterial stiffness. The NPS may serve as a simple and clinically applicable marker for early cardiovascular risk stratification in this population.