PubMed İndeksli Yayınlar Koleksiyonu

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Effect of Carvacrol on Diabetes-Induced Oxidative Stress, Fibrosis and Apoptosis in Testicular Tissues of Adult Rats
(Acad Sciences Czech Republic, inst Physiology, 2025) Gultekin, Burcu; Cetinkaya Karabekir, Seda; Cinar Ayan, Ilknur; Savas, Hasan Basri; Cuce, Gokhan; Kalkan, Sabiha Serpil
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic and widespread disease that negatively affects the male reproductive system. Carvacrol (CAR), a naturally occurring flavonoid in plants, exhibits various biological and pharmacological activities, including antiinflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. This study aimed to investigate the potential effects of CAR on testicular tissue damage induced by diabetes, which was modeled by Streptozotocin (STZ) administration. Thirty-two male Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups: Group 1: Control (n=8), Group 2: DM (n=8), Group 3: DM+DMSO (0.1 % dimethyl sulfoxide) (n=8), and Group 4: DM+CAR (20 mg/kg) (n=8). Diabetes was induced by a single intraperitoneal STZ injection (50 mg/kg). Histological changes were assessed using Hematoxylin-Eosin (H&E) staining and the Johnsen scoring system. Apoptosis was evaluated through immunohistochemical staining for the mitochondrial apoptosis markers Bax and Bcl-2, as well as RT-qPCR analysis of their gene expression levels. Fibrosis assessment involved Masson-Trichrome staining and RT-qPCR analysis of mRNA levels for the COL1A1 and COL3A1 genes. Additionally, Total Oxidant Status (TOS), Total Antioxidant Status (TAS), Oxidative Stress Index (OSI), and C-Reactive Protein (CRP) levels were measured in testicular tissue. CAR treatment significantly improved histological alterations associated with diabetes-induced testicular damage. DM was found to increase Bax levels while reducing Bcl-2 levels, whereas CAR reduced Bax levels and increased Bcl-2 gene and protein expression. TOS and OSI levels were elevated in the DM group, whereas TAS levels increased in the DM+CAR group. No significant differences in CRP levels were observed between the groups. These findings suggest that CAR may be effective in mitigating diabetes-induced testicular damage.
Causes of Diagnostic and Treatment Delays in Locally Advanced Breast Cancer: a Nationwide Multicenter Survey and Electronic Health Records Analysis in Turkiye
(Oxford Univ Press, 2025) Karadeniz Cakmak, Guldeniz; Tali, Ufuk; Balbaloglu, Hakan; Tasdoven, Ilhan; Ozkurt, Enver; Karanlik, Hasan; Ozmen, Vahit
Delays in breast cancer (BC) diagnosis and treatment negatively impact survival outcomes. Understanding patient- and provider-related factors behind these delays is crucial. This study aimed to identify nationwide reasons for delayed diagnosis and treatment of locally advanced BC in Turkiye. A prospective, multicenter hospital-based survey was conducted across 35 institutions between 2023 and 2024. Patient- and provider-related delays were assessed via a structured 61-item face-to-face survey, supplemented by clinical data from electronic health records. Delays exceeding 3 months were clinically categorized as significant. A total of 1322 women participated from seven regions across Turkiye. Factors contributing to diagnostic delays on a national level included economic reasons (5.5%), lack of family support (3.3%), lack of knowledge (12.4%), lack of time due to household work (3.8%), difficulty in finding an appointment (6.7%), pregnancy-related reasons (1.1%), fear of losing the breast (8.9%), fear of death (9.8%), and transportation difficulties (5.1%). Provider-related delays were infrequent. About 89.3% of the patients had the initial doctor appointment and 89.6% had the first specialist consultation within one month. Treatment planning was predominantly based on a multidisciplinary team decision in 88.3% of patients. Regarding treatment initiation, 93.2% started required treatment within 1 month of decision. Patient-related factors are the major causes of diagnostic delay in Turkiye. On the other hand, from the provider's perspective, the presence of multidisciplinary teams, including dedicated breast surgeons, represents a key factor in ensuring the timely implementation of diagnostic procedures and treatment strategies.
Control Strategy Evaluation for Reactive Power Management in Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Systems Under Varying Solar Conditions
(Nature Portfolio, 2025) Adak, Suleyman
Solar energy is environmentally friendly and one of the most significant renewable energy sources. This energy is a leading renewable energy source, contributing significantly to sustainable development goals. In grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) systems, reactive power management is essential for maintaining voltage stability and ensuring reliable operation. However, the influence of fluctuating solar irradiation (G) on reactive power (Q) behavior is often underrepresented in conventional inverter control strategies. This research addresses this gap by modeling the dependence of reactive power on solar irradiance using a data-driven curve-fitting approach. The methodology involves the acquisition of real-world operational data, preprocessing, selection of an appropriate analytical model, and validation of its performance. The findings indicate that reactive power increases under low irradiance conditions, primarily due to inverter behavior and grid voltage support requirements. The resulting analytical expression offers a practical framework for integrating irradiance-dependent reactive power control into inverter firmware or grid management software. The model performed with high accuracy with an R2 of 0.9955. This contribution enhances the ability of PV systems to respond dynamically to environmental changes, improving grid compatibility, operational efficiency, and voltage regulation in modern distributed energy networks.
Isokinetic Knee Strength as a Predictor of Performance in Elite Ski Mountaineering Sprint Athletes
(MDPI, 2025) Kural, Burak; Caglar, Esin Cagla; Akkus Ucar, Mine; Ozer, Ugur; Yenturk, Burcu; Cayir, Huseyin; Ceylan, Levent
Background and Objectives: This study aims to investigate the relationship between isokinetic knee strength and competition performance in elite male ski mountaineering sprint athletes and to identify strength parameters that predict performance and contribute to injury prevention. Materials and Methods: Thirteen male athletes participating in the Ski Mountaineering Turkey Cup final stage were included. Isokinetic knee flexion (FLX) and extension (EXT) strength of dominant (DM) and non-dominant (NDM) legs were measured at angular velocities of 60 degrees/s and 180 degrees/s using the DIERS-Myolin Isometric Muscle Strength Analysis System. Competition performance was evaluated using the ISMF scoring system. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0 with Pearson correlation and multiple regression analyses after normality, linearity, and homoscedasticity checks. Results: Strong positive correlations were found between hamstring strength at high angular velocities (180 degrees/s) and performance (DM FLX: r = 0.809; NDM FLX: r = 0.880). Extension strength showed moderate correlations at low velocities (60 degrees/s) (DM EXT: r = 0.677; NDM EXT: r = 0.699). Regression analysis revealed that DM FLX at 180 degrees/s and DM EXT at 60 degrees/s explained 49% of performance variance (Adj. R2 = 0.498). For NDM legs, only 180 degrees/s FLX was a significant predictor (beta = 1.468). Conclusions: High-velocity hamstring strength plays a critical role in ski mountaineering sprint performance, particularly during sudden directional changes and dynamic balance. Quadriceps strength at low velocities contributes to prolonged climbing phases. Moreover, identifying and addressing bilateral strength asymmetries may support injury prevention strategies in elite ski mountaineering athletes. These findings provide scientific support for designing training programs targeting explosive hamstring strength, bilateral symmetry, and injury risk reduction, essential for optimizing performance in the 2026 Winter Olympics sprint discipline.
Determination of the Protective Effect of Curcumin Against Tartrazine-Induced DNA Damage and HSP 70 in the Rat Brain
(Springer, 2025) Yavas, Mehmet Cihan; Tan, Fazile Canturk; Tur, Kardelen; Keskin, Cumali; Basmaci, Guldidar
Tartrazine is a widely used food dye, and children often consume large amounts of food products containing this additive due to their appealing appearance. Curcumin, on the other hand, is known for its antioxidant properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effects of curcumin on brain tissue and biochemical parameters in rats exposed to short-term tartrazine administration. Male Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into five equal groups. Group 1 served as the control; Group 2 received tartrazine (10 mg/kg); Group 3 received tartrazine (100 mg/kg); Group 4 received tartrazine (10 mg/kg) along with curcumin (20 mg/kg); and Group 5 received tartrazine (100 mg/kg) along with curcumin (20 mg/kg). All substances were administered via oral gavage. The study lasted for 21 days. Serum samples were analyzed for heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) levels using the ELISA method. Brain tissues were subjected to histopathological examination and DNA damage assessment using the comet assay. Although HSP70 levels increased in the tartrazine groups, the differences were not statistically significant (p = 0.065). Partial damage was observed in the histopathological analysis. Comet assay results indicated a dose-dependent increase in DNA tail percentage with tartrazine, which was reduced following curcumin administration. These findings suggest that curcumin may alleviate tartrazine-induced damage in brain tissue and may have a regulatory effect on serum HSP70 levels in rats.
Bioactive Profile, Anticarcinogenic, Antimicrobial, Antidiabetic Effects, and in Silico Pharmacokinetic Properties of Astragalus Elatus
(Academic Press inc Elsevier Science, 2025) Ercan, Leyla; Akan, Hasan; Caliskan, Cemile Gunbegi
Because of the numerous useful components they contain, plants are significant resources that are being explored for their varied purposes in industry, food, and medicine. Recently, particularly endemic species have gained attention with the identification of their different ingredients and characteristics and the exploration of their precious features. This research assessed the endemic species Astragalus elatus's bioactive components utilizing UHPLC-Orbitrap (R)-HRMS, its antibacterial qualities utilizing the disc diffusion method, its cytotoxic impact on cervical cancer utilizing the MTT method, and its apoptosis effect by annexin V methods. Additionally, Astragalus elatus's antidiabetic activity was revealed by in silico and in vitro examinations of its inhibitory effect on the enzymes alpha-Amylase and alpha-Glucosidase. Consequently, it was discovered that A. elatus can be utilized in the treatment of cervical cancer and has effective cytotoxic and apoptotic effects on HeLa cells. Additionally, it was detected that A. elatus possesses antibacterial and anti-diabetic properties. Compared to gram-negative bacteria, A. elatus had a greater inhibitory effect on gram-positive bacteria. The pharmacokinetically significant characteristics and their tendency for chemical reactions of this plant's primary phenolic compounds were identified by utilizing DFT, molecular docking, and ADME/T.
Evaluation of Transcutaneous Bilirubin Levels in Healthy and Preeclamptic Pregnancies: a Pilot Study
(BMC, 2025) Onat, Miray; Kavak, Ebru Celik; Akcabay, Cigdem; Malkan, Zubeyde; Kaya, Tugba; Batmaz, Ibrahim; Kavak, Salih Burcin
Background Preeclampsia is a complex, multisystem obstetric disorder characterized by heterogeneous clinical manifestations, often requiring enhanced strategies for early detection, management, and risk stratification. This study aimed to evaluate potential alterations in non-invasive transcutaneous bilirubin levels measured at various maternal body sites in pregnant women diagnosed with preeclampsia. Methods A total of 86 pregnant women who delivered at our institution were enrolled and classified into three groups: healthy pregnant women (Group 1, n = 30), women with preeclampsia (Group 2, n = 30), and women with pre-eclampsia with severe features (Group 3, n = 26). In addition to routine pre-delivery laboratory assessments, transcutaneous bilirubin levels were measured at two anatomical sites-the forehead and the abdominal skin overlying the uterine fundus-using a standard bilirubinometer. Each site was measured three times, and the mean of the three readings was recorded for analysis. Complete Blood Count and biochemical blood parameters of the women were evaluated. Relevant obstetric and demographic data were also collected and recorded. Results There were no statistically significant differences among the three groups in terms of maternal age, gravidity, parity, or body mass index (p > 0.05). Similarly, total serum bilirubin levels were comparable across the groups (Group 1: 0.45 mg/dL; Group 2: 0.39 mg/dL; Group 3: 0.44 mg/dL; p > 0.05). In contrast, transcutaneous bilirubin levels were significantly elevated in Group 3 compared to Groups 1 and 2. The mean transcutaneous bilirubin values for the forehead, uterine fundus, and overall (combined sites) were as follows: Group 1-3.07 +/- 0.85, 2.35 +/- 0.97, and 2.71 +/- 0.76; Group 2-6.09 +/- 1.94, 4.94 +/- 1.64, and 5.52 +/- 1.59; Group 3-7.12 +/- 1.81, 6.12 +/- 2.25, and 6.63 +/- 1.69, respectively. All pairwise comparisons demonstrated statistically significant differences (p < 0.05). Conclusions Transcutaneous bilirubin levels were significantly elevated in women with preeclampsia, particularly among those with severe disease. As a non-invasive, rapid, and cost-effective approach, TcB measurement may function as an adjunctive tool for the initial clinical assessment and risk stratification of preeclamptic patients.
Prognostic Value of Hemoglobin, Albumin, Lymphocyte, Platelet (HALP) Scores in Patients With Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation: Insights From the After-2 Study
(BMC, 2025) Soner, Serdar; Guzel, Tuncay; Aktan, Adem; Kilic, Raif; Soner, Hulya Tosun; Demir, Muhammed; Ertas, Faruk
Objectives: The relationship between hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, platelet (HALP) score, and various cancers and cardiovascular diseases has been tested previously. However, the relationship between HALP score and non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) has not been adequately tested. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the relationship between HALP score and mortality in patients with NVAF. Methods: This study included 2,592 NVAF patients from 35 centers in Turkey. Patients were divided into two groups: those with HALP scores <= 58.96 (low HALP score group, 1,296 patients) and > 58.96 (high HALP score group, 1,296 patients). The primary outcome measured was all-cause mortality. Results: The mean HALP score was 66 +/- 33. Patients in the low HALP score group had higher 1- and 5-year all-cause mortality rates (1-year: 12.9% vs. 5.4%, p < 0.001; 5-year: 38.5% vs. 20.2%, p < 0.001). Cox regression analysis identified the HALP score as an independent predictor of mortality (1-year: HR = 0.987, 95% CI = 0.981-0.992, p < 0.001; 5-year: HR = 0.990, 95% CI = 0.987-0.993, p < 0.001). ROC analysis determined a HALP score 52.3 predicted 1-year mortality with 62.9% sensitivity and 62% specificity (AUC = 0.680); a score of 55 predicted 5-year mortality with 60.3% sensitivity and 62.2% specificity (AUC = 0.657). Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed increasing mortality over time in the low HALP score group (log-rank tests, 1-year = 44.86, p < 0.001; 5-year = 108.54, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The HALP score is a simple, accessible measure, and our findings suggest that lower HALP scores are associated with increased 1-year and 5-year mortality in NVAF patients. This provides a reference for clinicians assessing risk in this vulnerable population.
ModelS4Apnea: Leveraging Structured State Space Models for Efficient Sleep Apnea Detection From ECG Signals
(IOP Publishing Ltd, 2025) Zan, Hasan
Objective. Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder associated with severe health risks, necessitating accurate and efficient detection methods. Approach. This study proposes ModelS4Apnea, a deep learning framework for sleep apnea detection from electrocardiogram (ECG) spectrograms, integrating structured state space models (S4) for temporal modeling. The framework consists of a convolutional neural network module for local feature extraction, an S4 module for capturing long-range dependencies, and a classification module for final predictions. Main results. The model was trained and evaluated on the Apnea-ECG dataset, achieving an accuracy of 0.933, an F1-score of 0.912, a sensitivity of 0.916, and a specificity of 0.944, outperforming most prior studies while maintaining computational efficiency. Significance. Compared to existing methods, ModelS4Apnea provides high classification performance with significantly fewer trainable parameters than long short-term memory-based models, reducing training time and memory consumption. The model's ability to aggregate segment-level predictions enabled perfect per-recording classification, demonstrating its robustness in diagnosing sleep apnea across entire recordings. Moreover, its low memory footprint and fast inference speed make it well-suited for wearable devices, home-based monitoring, and clinical applications, offering a scalable and efficient solution for automated sleep apnea detection. Future work may explore multi-modal data integration, real-world deployment, and further optimizations to enhance its clinical applicability and reliability.
Synthesis and Characterization of Fe3O4/MethylCellulose@Pb as a Heterogeneous Fenton-Like Catalyst for Photodegradation of Different Dyes
(Elsevier, 2025) Umaz, Adil; Ece, Mehmet Sakir
With the development of industry, serious pollution has emerged in water resources. This poses serious problems for the health of living things and the environment. To deliver a sustainable future, producing effective, low-cost, and reusable photocatalysts in wastewater treatment is important. In this study, Fe3O4/MetCel@Pb photo-catalysts were synthesized for the first time. The properties of Fe3O4/MetCel@Pb photocatalysts were characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), Ultraviolet-Visible Spectrophotometry (UV-Vis), Vibrating Sample Magnetometry (VSM), Electron Spin Resonance (ESR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM), and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS). The average particle size, surface area, band gap energy, saturation magnetization, resonance magnetic field, and g-factor values of the Fe3O4/MetCel@Pb photocatalysts measured as 63.88 nm, 40.59 m2 g-1, 5.71 eV, 24.80 emu g-1, 390.15 mT, and 1.731, respectively. XPS analysis showed signals confirming strong C-O bonds, Fe-O bonds, Fe2+, and Fe3+ at binding energies of 286.04, 528.00, 711.39, and 723.84 eV, respectively. Also, Fe3O4/MetCel@Pb photocatalysts were used for the first time in the dye degradation. The degradation of methylene blue (MB), methyl orange (MO), phenol red (PR), alizarin yellow (AY), and bromthymol blue (BTB) dyes under ultraviolet-visible light for 30 min was determined as 100 %, 96.76 %, 94.51 %, 80.81 %, and 71.93 %, respectively. In the reusability study, Fe3O4/MetCel@Pb photo-catalysts showed a reduction rate of 1.70 % compared to the first cycle even after the fourth cycle. The stability and repeated reusability of Fe3O4/MetCel@Pb photocatalysts without deformation were realized. Application of Fe3O4/MetCel@Pb photocatalysts in real dyed water samples (even in mixed matrix samples) showed over 90 % dye degradation efficiency. This confirms that the photocatalyst is an effective catalyst in dye degradation. Fe3O4/MetCel@Pb photocatalysts, which are economical, easy to prepare, and stable, will be an effective option for the removal of industrial waste paints (cationic and anionic dye) from aqueous systems. In addition, using these photocatalysts will provide ease of process, as well as time and cost savings.
Effects of Trimetazidine on Oxidant-Antioxidant Balance and Angiogenesis; an in Vivo Experimental Study
(BMC, 2025) Kayan, Fethullah; Savas, Hasan Basri
Background We evaluated the effects of trimetazidine (TMZ) on the oxidative-antioxidative balance and angiogenesis in an in vivo experimental model. This study aims to evaluate the effects of trimetazidine on angiogenesis through histological analysis and to assess its impact on oxidative-antioxidative balance through biochemical measurements. Methods In this study, Ross 308 breed chicken eggs (n = 40) were used, and embryos were divided into four distinct groups. On the eighth day of incubation, the vascular density of the embryos was examined. Following the assessment of vascular development, 4-5 mL of albumin was collected via syringe to measure oxidative stress markers. Each group consisted of 10 embryos, with a total of 40 embryos used in the study. The groups were organized as follows: Control Group (CG), Bevacizumab Group (BC), Trimetazidine 10(-)(4) Group, and Trimetazidine 10(-)(5) Group. Results When the total oxidative capacity (TOC) levels were compared among the groups, the bevacizumab group exhibited significantly higher values than the control group (p < 0.05). In oxidative stress index (OSI) measurements, the bevacizumab group also showed significantly higher values compared to the control group (p < 0.05). In contrast, when the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels were compared, both the Trimetazidine 10(-)(4) and Trimetazidine 10(-)(5) groups demonstrated significantly higher values than the control group (p < 0.05). Regarding angiogenesis scoring, the bevacizumab group exhibited a significant anti-angiogenic effect compared to the control group. However, no statistically significant difference was observed between the Trimetazidine 10(-)(4) and Trimetazidine 10(-)(5) groups and the control group (p > 0.05). Conclusion Trimetazidine demonstrated significant antioxidant activity in an in vivo Chorioallantoic Membrane (CAM) model at both 10(-)(4) M and 10(-)(5) M concentrations. However, no positive or negative effects on angiogenesis were detected. We believe that the real-time observation of angiogenesis in our study provided significant value to our research.
The Impact of the Cough Trick, Spirometer Blowing, and Stress Ball Methods on Older Adults' Pain, Anxiety, and Comfort During Peripheral Intravenous Catheter Practice: A Randomized Controlled Study
(Mosby-Elsevier, 2025) Ozbay, Hediye; Turan, Mensure; Oner, Ugur
This study was conducted to determine the impact of the cough trick, spirometer blowing, and stress ball methods on older adults' pain, anxiety, and comfort levels during peripheral intravenous catheter practice in an emergency department. The research sample consisted of three intervention groups-cough trick, spirometer blowing, and stress ball-and a control group. Each group consisted of 31 patients, resulting in a total of 124 patients. The intervention groups showed a significant decrease in pain (p < 0.001) and anxiety (p < 0.001) levels and a significant increase in comfort (p < 0.001) levels over time, compared to the control group. Thus, the cough trick, spirometer blowing, and stress ball techniques were found to be effective in reducing pain and anxiety levels and elevating comfort levels among older adults during peripheral intravenous catheterization. (c) 2025 Elsevier Inc. All rights are reserved, including those for text and data mining, AI training, and similar technologies.
Citation - Scopus: 2
Efficient Removal of Ciprofloxacin From Water Using High-Surface Activated Carbon Derived From Rice Husks: Adsorption Isotherms, Kinetics, and Thermodynamic Evaluation
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2025) Demirdağ, E.; Demirel, M.F.; Benek, V.; Doğru, E.; Önal, Y.; Alkan, M.H.; Alacabey, İ.
Activated carbon is widely recognized as an effective material for removing pollutants, especially pharmaceutical residues, from water. In this study, high-surface-area activated carbon derived from rice husks (RHAC) was synthesized via KOH activation and used for the adsorption of ciprofloxacin, a widely used fluoroquinolone antibiotic. Its adsorption behavior was systematically investigated through batch experiments varying the pH, adsorbent dosage, contact time, initial concentration, and temperature. The RHAC exhibited a high surface area of 1539.7 m2/g and achieved a maximum adsorption capacity of 398.4 mg·g−1. The Freundlich isotherm best describes its adsorption equilibrium, suggesting multilayer adsorption on a heterogeneous surface. Kinetic modeling revealed that the adsorption process followed a pseudo second-order model (R2 = 0.9981), indicating chemisorption as the rate-limiting mechanism. Thermodynamic parameters (ΔH° = 6.61 kJ/mol, ΔG° < 0) confirmed that the process was endothermic and spontaneous. These findings demonstrate that RHAC is a highly efficient, low-cost, and sustainable adsorbent for removing ciprofloxacin from aqueous environments. © 2025 by the authors.
Characterising Acute and Chronic Care Needs: Insights From the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019
(Nature Research, 2025) Zuniga, Y.M.H.; Zumla, A.; Zuhlke, L.J.; Zoladl, M.; Ziaeian, B.; Zhong, C.; Gallus, S.
Chronic care manages long-term, progressive conditions, while acute care addresses short-term conditions. Chronic conditions increasingly strain health systems, which are often unprepared for these demands. This study examines the burden of conditions requiring acute versus chronic care, including sequelae. Conditions and sequelae from the Global Burden of Diseases Study 2019 were classified into acute or chronic care categories. Data were analysed by age, sex, and socio-demographic index, presenting total numbers and contributions to burden metrics such as Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs), Years Lived with Disability (YLD), and Years of Life Lost (YLL). Approximately 68% of DALYs were attributed to chronic care, while 27% were due to acute care. Chronic care needs increased with age, representing 86% of YLDs and 71% of YLLs, and accounting for 93% of YLDs from sequelae. These findings highlight that chronic care needs far exceed acute care needs globally, necessitating health systems to adapt accordingly. © The Author(s) 2025.
Muscular Strength and Endurance Adaptations To Functional Resistance Training in Young Elite Field Hockey Players
(Frontiers Media Sa, 2025) Gurkan, Alper Cenk; Eraslan, Meric; Aydin, Serhat; Altug, Tolga; Turkmen, Mustafa; Soyler, Mehmet; Kucuk, Hamza
Background: Functional strength training (FST) has gained considerable attention due to its potential in enhancing muscle strength, endurance, and body composition, especially among athletes. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of a 12-week FST program on performance outcomes such as muscle strength, muscular endurance, and body composition in elite male field hockey players. Methods: The study involved 28 male athletes from the T & uuml;rkiye Hockey Federation Super League, with a mean age of 27.54 +/- 1.34 years and an average athletic experience of 7.62 +/- 0.48 years. The mean height of participants was 180.28 +/- 4.54 cm, and their mean weight was 75.59 +/- 3.08 kg. Participants were randomly divided into two groups: the experimental group (n = 14) and the control group (n = 14). Pre-intervention assessments were conducted to evaluate muscle strength (Leg Extension, Leg Curl, Bench Press, Pushdown), muscular endurance (30-s Sit-up and Push-up tests), and body composition [Body Mass Index (BMI) and Body Fat Percentage (BFP)]. The experimental group participated in the FST program three times per week for 12 weeks, while the control group maintained their usual training regimen. Post-test evaluations were performed using the same testing protocols. Statistical Analysis: Data were analyzed using two-way repeated measures ANOVA to assess the interaction effects of group and time (pre-test vs post-test). Partial eta squared (eta(2)) values were used to report effect sizes, and statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS 22.0 software. Normality was assessed through the Shapiro-Wilk test, and data distribution was further examined through skewness-kurtosis values, histograms, box plots, and Q-Q plots. Paired sample t-tests were performed for pairwise comparisons, with Cohen's d used to determine the effect sizes. The classification for effect sizes followed Hopkins' (2002) guidelines: small (>= 0.01), moderate (>= 0.06), and large (>= 0.14). Results: Significant group x time interaction effects were found for all measured variables (p < 0.05). The experimental group showed greater improvements in body composition, muscle strength, and muscular endurance compared to the control group. Specifically, the experimental group experienced a significant reduction in BMI (pre-test: 21.17 +/- 0.64 kg/m(2), post-test: 19.84 +/- 0.85 kg/m(2), p < 0.001) and BFP (pre-test: 15.36% +/- 0.62%, post-test: 12.13% +/- 0.47%, p < 0.001), while the control group showed minimal changes in these variables. Muscle strength improvements in the experimental group were significant for Leg Extension (pre-test: 83.93 +/- 4.87 kg, post-test: 66.07 +/- 4.01 kg, p = 0.003), Leg Curl (pre-test: 99.29 +/- 7.81 kg, post-test: 118.21 +/- 5.04 kg, p < 0.001), and Bench Press (pre-test: 66.43 +/- 6.91 kg, post-test: 87.14 +/- 4.69 kg, p < 0.001). In contrast, the control group did not show significant improvements in these tests. Muscular endurance was also superior in the experimental group for both the 30-s Sit-up (pre-test: 19.21 +/- 0.97, post-test: 23.36 +/- 1.28, p < 0.001) and Push-up (pre-test: 24.66 +/- 2.53, post-test: 27.04 +/- 0.81, p < 0.001) tests. Effect sizes (Cohen's d) indicated moderate to large effects for all measured variables, with d values ranging from 0.46 to 1.14 for strength and endurance improvements. Conclusion: The findings of this study demonstrate that a 12-week FST program significantly improves muscle strength, endurance, and body composition in elite male field hockey players. These results suggest that incorporating FST into athletic training regimens may optimize performance and enhance overall physical fitness in athletes.
Cardiac Autonomic Control Reflects Sympathovagal Changes Associated With Withholding Urination
(Wiley, 2025) Alabdo, Ahmad; Oflazoglu, Basak; Kus, Mehmet Mustafa; Cakan, Pinar; Ugras, Seda; Yildiz, Sedat
IntroductionIncreased volume of the urinary bladder causes urge to urinate and constricts the sphincter by increasing the tonus of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS). Activity of the autonomic nervous system (or sympatho-vagal balance) can be assessed by heart rate variability (HRV). Current study aimed to test in healthy young male participants whether HRV technique reflects increased sympathovagal balance during bladder distention as revealed by strong urge to urinate.Materials and MethodsA total of young and apparently healthy 11 males agreed to participate to the current study. They were asked to provide 5-min continuous electrocardiogram (ECG) recordings in supine position for determination of HRV on two occasions, i.e. before and approximately for 3 1/2 hours after withholding urination. HRV parameters included heart rate (HR, per min), total power (TP, ms2), and standard deviation of RR intervals (SDNN, ms); percentage of successive RR intervals that were different >= 50 ms (pNN50), low frequency (LF) and high frequency (HF) bands and their normalized units (LFnu and HFnu, respectively) and their ratios (LF/HF). Half of the students provided samples on both occasions and those data were compared by paired t-test following log10 transformation.ResultsWithholding urination did not change HR (from 80.0 +/- 4.1 to 84.5 +/- 3.1 per min, p = 0.135) but decreased total power (from 2692 +/- 802 to 1605 +/- 357 ms2, p = 0.008), SDNN (from 50.4 +/- 5.8 to 38.7 +/- 3.8 ms, p = 0.007) and pNN50 (from 15.6 +/- 3.3 to 5.9 +/- 2.6%, p = 0.016) and increased LFnu (from 57.3 +/- 5.3 to 65.1 +/- 4.5, p = 0.029) and LF/HF ratio (from 1.77 +/- 0. 73 to 2.42 +/- 0.47, p = 0.047).ConclusionsIncreased LF/HF together with decreased SDNN and pNN50 suggest that HRV successfully reflects increased sympathetic tonus over the parasympathetic to help accommodate the urine in the bladder. Moreover, it seems that HRV can be used to assess sympathovagal changes non-invasively during voiding. Additionally, it appears that in all HRV measurements, participants should not have postponed their urination during recording.
Antidepressant-Like Effects of Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) on Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress-Induced Depression in Adolescent Rats
(Springer, 2025) Gökdemir, Gül Şahika; Şeker, Uğur; Gökdemir, Mehmet Tahir; Baylan, Mukadder; Demirtas, Berjan; Gokdemir, Mehmet Tahir; Department of Internal Medical Sciences / Dahili Tıp Bilimleri Bölümü; Department of Basic Medical Sciences / Temel Tıp Bilimleri Bölümü; 10. Faculty of Medicine / Tıp Fakültesi; 01. Mardin Artuklu University / Mardin Artuklu Üniversitesi
RationaleAdolescent depression is often linked to biological changes associated with stress. However, new approaches and treatment strategies for early intervention and prevention of depression in children and adolescents are still limited. Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb widely used in the management of anxiety and stress. However, there is no information in the current literature on its potential effect on adolescent depression.ObjectivesThis study aimed to investigate the effects of depression on proapoptotic proteins and neuroinflammation and the antidepressant effect of Ashwagandha on depression-like symptoms in adolescent rats exposed to the Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress (CUMS) model.MethodsIn the study, CUMS model was used to induce depression in adolescent rats. Rats were treated with Ashwagandha or Sertraline. To evaluate the antidepressant effects, behavioral tests as well as biochemical and histological analyses were performed. Forced Swim Test (FST), Sucrose Test and Elevated Plus Maze Test were performed as behavioral tests. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) were measured by the ELISA method in the fronto-parietal cortex. Proapoptotic proteins (Bax and Caspase-3) and inflammatory markers (TNF-alpha and IL-1 beta), as well as glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), were evaluated immunohistochemically in the fronto-parietal cortex.ResultsProapoptotic proteins (Bax and Caspase-3) and inflammatory markers (TNF-alpha and IL-1 beta) were increased in the CUMS group. BDNF and GFAP levels were decreased. Ashwagandha treatment was more effective than Sertraline in reducing the levels of these proteins and markers. Additionally, Ashwagandha prevented weight loss.ConclusionsAshwagandha showed antidepressant-like effects in adolescent rats, reducing apoptosis, inflammation, and neuroinflammation, suggesting potential for treating adolescent depression.
Supplementation of Silicon Oxide Nanoparticles Mitigates the Damaging Effects of Arsenic Stress on Photosynthesis, Antioxidant Mechanism and Nitrogen Metabolism in Brassica Juncea
(Nature Portfolio, 2025) Karadeniz, Erdal; Ozcinar, Aynur Bilmez; Karadeniz, Erdal; Faizan, Mohammad; Sultan, Haider; Alatar, Abdulrahman A.; 16.01. Department of Organic Agriculture / Organik Tarım Bölümü; 16. School of Vocational Higher School of Kızıltepe/ Kızıltepe Meslek Yüksekokulu; 01. Mardin Artuklu University / Mardin Artuklu Üniversitesi
Nanoparticles (NPs) represent one of the most promising platforms for addressing challenges in drug delivery, biosensing, and the development of advanced biotechnological tools. These innovative materials are revolutionizing modern agriculture by enabling precision farming practices that optimize resource utilization and enhance crop productivity. This study investigates the role of silicon oxide nanoparticles (SiO2 NPs, 200 ppm) in mitigating arsenic (As, 50 mu M) toxicity in Brassica juncea. The results demonstrate that As stress significantly impaired morphological and physiological parameters, as well as the accumulation of key metabolites, including flavonoids, phenolics, proteins, soluble sugars, and free amino acids. However, foliar application of SiO2 NPs effectively alleviated As-induced toxicity by enhancing antioxidant enzyme activities and maintaining nutrient homeostasis. The application of SiO2 NPs also positively influenced growth parameters, net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, and soluble sugar content. Notably, SiO2 NPs improved the transpiration rate by 52%, leaf nitrogen content by 33%, and phenolic content by 42%. Furthermore, there was a significant reduction in oxidative stress markers, with hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde levels decreasing by 41% and 39%, respectively, indicating reduced oxidative damage and lipid peroxidation. These findings underscore the promising potential of SiO2 NPs in mitigating As stress and offer valuable insights for promoting sustainable crop production under environmental stress conditions.
Neuroprotection Unveiled: Melatonin Mitigates Apoptotic Pathways in Traumatic Brain Injury
(Frontiers Media Sa, 2025) Şeker, Uğur; Akgun, Mehmet Yigit; Seker, Ugur; Ucar, Ege Anil; Ates, Ozkan; Basar, Ibrahim; Department of Basic Medical Sciences / Temel Tıp Bilimleri Bölümü; 10. Faculty of Medicine / Tıp Fakültesi; 01. Mardin Artuklu University / Mardin Artuklu Üniversitesi
Objective This study investigated the neuroprotective effects of melatonin in mice subjected to traumatic brain injury (TBI), focusing on caspase-dependent apoptotic signaling pathways.Materials and methods A total of 21 mice were divided into three groups: control, trauma (TBI), and trauma + melatonin (TBI + M). TBI was induced in the TBI and TBI + M groups via a free-fall impact on the frontal lobes. A single dose of 10 mg/kg of melatonin was intraperitoneally administered to the TBI + M group. Brain tissues were collected for histological evaluation and immunohistochemical analysis of apoptotic proteins.Results The control group showed normal brain morphology, while the trauma group exhibited significant tissue loss and demyelination. The TBI + M group demonstrated reduced demyelination compared to the trauma group. An immunohistochemical analysis revealed increased expression of Bax and decreased expression of Bcl-2 in the trauma group, both of which were mitigated by melatonin treatment. The expression levels of caspase-3 and caspase-9 were elevated in the trauma group, whereas the TBI + M group showed expression levels comparable to the control group.Conclusion TBI increased apoptotic protein expression, indicating neurodegeneration. The administration of melatonin at 10 mg/kg attenuated TBI-induced apoptosis and demyelination while promoting anti-apoptotic protein expression in the experimental model. These findings suggest a potential therapeutic role for melatonin in the management of TBI.
Ultrasound-Guided Regional Anesthesia in Permanent Pacemaker Implantation: an Observational Study
(MDPI, 2025) Akelma, Hakan; Aktan, Adem; Ipek, Yusuf; Turgut, Mehmet Ali; Tanircan, Muhammed Rasit; Aktan, Adem; Karahan, Mehmet Zulkuf; Department of Surgical Medical Sciences / Cerrahi Tıp Bilimleri Bölümü; Department of Internal Medical Sciences / Dahili Tıp Bilimleri Bölümü; 10. Faculty of Medicine / Tıp Fakültesi; 01. Mardin Artuklu University / Mardin Artuklu Üniversitesi
Background and Objectives: When pacemakers were first introduced, their indications and implantation techniques were quite limited. Over 400,000 permanent pacemakers are implanted annually worldwide, mostly under local anesthesia (LA), which is preferred for its hemodynamic stability. However, inadequate LA often leads to excessive use of local anesthetics or analgesics. This study evaluates the efficacy of combining interscalene brachial plexus block (ISB) and superficial cervical plexus block (SCPB) as regional anesthesia (RA) techniques during permanent pacemaker implantation compared to LA. Materials and Methods: A total of 42 patients were divided into RA and LA groups. The RA group underwent ISB and SCPB under ultrasound guidance, while the LA group received traditional local anesthetic methods. Results: The RA group exhibited superior pain control, reduced analgesic requirements, and higher satisfaction rates compared to the LA group. Ultrasound guidance enhanced block success rates and minimized complications. Conclusions: ISB and SCPB offer a superior alternative to LA for pacemaker implantation, especially in patients with anxiety or insufficient LA response.

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