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Combination of bilateral rectus sheath and modified BRILMA blocks for postoperative analgesia in pediatric liver transplantation: A tailored approach
(Edizioni Minerva Medica, 2026) Alver, Selçuk; Çiftçi, Bahadır; Büget, Mehmet İlke; Emek, Ertan; Erbiş, Halil; Öztürk, Nadi Nazım; Umutoğlu, Tarık
Combination of bilateral rectus sheath and modified BRILMA blocks for postoperative analgesia in pediatric liver transplantation: A tailored approach
Suboptimal LDL-cholesterol control under the 2019 ESC/EAS dyslipidemia guidelines: Results from the nationwide TEMD-2 study in type 2 diabetes
(Wiley, 2026) Telci Çaklılı, Özge; Haymana, Cem; Demirci, İbrahim; Kebapçı, Medine Nur; Sarıakçalı, Barış; Evren, Bahri; Dizdar, Oğuzhan Sıtkı; Salman, Serpil; Ersoy, Canan; Satman, İlhan; Bayram, Fahri; Sönmez, Alper
Background: Lowering LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) decreases cardiovascular risk substantially in type 2 diabetes. Despite stricter LDL-cholesterol targets in the 2019 ESC/EAS dyslipidemia guidelines, target achievement in clinical practice remains insuffi cient. TEMD-2 is designed to evaluate LDL-cholesterol target attainment in Turkish patients with type 2 diabetes in the context of the updated 2019 ESC/EAS guidelines. Methods: This multicenter cross-sectional study included adults with type 2 diabetes followed in 70 tertiary endocrine clinics across 36 cities between October 2022 and January 2023. Sociodemographic characteristics, comorbidities, lifestyle factors, com plications, laboratory measurements, and lipid-lowering therapies were assessed using standardized questionnaires and clinical evaluations. LDL-C target was assigned according to cardiovascular risk categories. Independent predictors of goal attainment were identified using multivariable logistic regression. Results: Among 4956 adults with type 2 diabetes, 99.5% required statin therapy, whereas 37.1% were on treatment. Overall, 8.3% of the cohort achieved LDL-cholesterol targets, with attainment lowest in those at very high risk (5.8%). Target achievement among statin users was 57.7% in moderate-risk, 18.1% in high-risk, and 9.4% in very-high-risk patients. Individuals on target had lower body mass index, haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), triglycerides, and a lower prevalence of microvascular complications. Statin therapy was the strongest positive predictor of success (odds ratio 2.39), while smoking, presence of neuropathy, nephropathy, female sex, older age, and higher HbA1c were associated with lower likelihood of achieving LDL-cholesterol goals. Therapeutic inertia was present in 87.2% of patients, defined as no intensification of lipid-lowering therapy despite LDL-cholesterol levels above target.
Cognitive alignment and assessment validity in a high-stakes dental specialty examination: A Bloom’s taxonomy-based analysis
(BioMed Central, 2026) Çerçi Akçay, Hülya; Üstün, Nilüfer
Background: In high-stakes postgraduate examinations, the cognitive complexity of assessment items is central to evaluating advanced clinical reasoning and decision-making competencies. Alignment between examination content, cognitive demand, and competency based educational frameworks is essential for assessment validity. This study evaluated the cognitive structure of pediatric dentistry questions in the Turkish Dental Specialty Examination (DUS) using Bloom’s revised taxonomy and examined their alignment with curricular expectations. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional analysis was conducted on 127 officially released pediatric dentistry questions administered between 2012 and 2021. Each item was independently classified according to Bloom’s revised cognitive levels. Curriculum relevance and scientific accuracy were rated using a 5-point Likert scale. Inter rater reliability was assessed using weighted Cohen’s kappa. Associations between cognitive level and curriculum relevance were analyzed, and temporal trends across examination years were explored. Results: Questions were predominantly concentrated at the Understand and Apply levels, with fewer items categorized at the Analyze level. No questions were classified at the Evaluate or Create levels. Although lower- and higher-order cognitive skills appeared proportionally balanced when dichotomized, higher-order items largely reflected procedural application rather than advanced analytical or evaluative reasoning. No significant temporal progression toward greater cognitive complexity was observed. Curriculum relevance ratings were high overall but showed no significant association with cognitive level. Conclusions: This high-stakes specialty examination predominantly assesses lower- and intermediate-level cognitive processes, with limited representation of advanced higher-order thinking. The findings indicate potential blueprint misalignment with postgraduate competency expectations and underscore the need for deliberate integration of higher cognitive-level items to strengthen assessment validity.
Artificial intelligence applications across the spectrum of malnutrition: From undernutrition to obesity
(Elsevier, 2026) Günalan, Elif; Tartıcı, Gülser; Aladağ, Esra; Çonak, Özge
Background: Malnutrition is a significant global public health challenge, with rising prevalence and vital consequences. Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) have transformed approaches to understanding, monitoring, and managing these conditions. In this context, a multidimensional approach, integrating digital anthropometry and precision nutrition with image processing and AI-based mobile applications, has progressed in the field. Objectives: This study provides a comprehensive bibliometric and critical analysis of AI applications in malnutrition, including undernutrition and obesity. Methods: Using RStudio software (version 4.1.3) and the bibliometrix R package, 716 publications were identified in the Scopus database, of which 191 original research articles were analyzed. This context focuses on subfields such as digital anthropometry, precision nutrition, image processing technologies, and AI-supported mobile applications. Results: The findings highlight AI as a rapidly growing and interdisciplinary field of research. Engineering journals frequently publish cutting-edge studies, with the United States, China, Spain, and Korea leading in productivity and citations. Although diet, nutrition, and diabetes themes dominate the literature, undernutrition and obesity remain underrepresented. Conclusions: This study emphasizes the importance of transitioning the current fragmented research landscape into a standardized and ethically governed framework for the sustainable development of AI in nutrition. By bridging identified thematic imbalances and prioritizing scalable digital tools, AI can be repositioned as a strategic pillar of public health, rather than just a clinical instrument. Such a shift is essential for effectively addressing the global double burden of malnutrition and ensuring long-term, sustainable progress in the field.
Multi-target neuroprotective compound exhibits EAAT2-modulating and alzheimer’s pathology–attenuating effects in in vitro and in vivo models
(American Chemical Society, 2026) Hacımüftüoğlu, Ahmet; Saraçoğlu, Nurullah; Saffour, Sana; Abad, Nadeem; Kesgun, Yunus; Zegheb, Nadjiba; Gündeğer, Ersin; Yeşilyurt, Fatma; Ataş, Merve Nur; Türkez, Hasan
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a debilitating neuro degenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline and memory loss. Current treatments offer limited efficacy, necessitat ing the development of innovative multitarget therapeutic strategies. Here, we present N3 ,N5 -bis(2-(5-methoxy-1H-indol-3- yl)ethyl)-2,6-dimethyl-4-(2-nitrophenyl)pyridine-3,5-dicarboxa mide (HCM-01), a novel compound developed to target multiple neurodegenerative pathways implicated in AD. In vitro assays included MTT-based cell viability analyses performed in two complementary experimental settings: primary neuronal cultures and astrocyte-based in vitro cell culture models exposed to glutamate. In primary hippocampal neuronal cultures, glutamate exposure induced a statistically significant reduction in cell viability compared with vehicle-treated controls, consistent with glutamate-induced excitotoxicity. Under these conditions, HCM-01 treatment resulted in a statistically significant improvement in neuronal viability, showing a greater protective effect compared with donepezil and memantine. In contrast, in astrocyte-based in vitro cultures, the applied glutamate concentration did not induce overt cytotoxicity, in line with the intrinsic neuroprotective and glutamate-buffering role of astrocytes. Accordingly, astrocytic experiments were designed to assess functional modulation of glutamate-handling mechanisms rather than cell survival. Western blot analysis in C8-D1A astrocytic cells demonstrated increased expression of excitatory amino acid transporter 2 (EAAT2) following HCM-01 treatment compared with control and reference drug-treated groups, suggesting modulation of astrocyte-mediated glutamate homeostasis. In parallel, redox analyses revealed that HCM-01 improved oxidative/antioxidative balance, as evidenced by increased total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and reduced total oxidant status (TOS), supporting an indirect antioxidant contribution to its functional effects. In vivo behavioral assessment of HCM-01 in a streptozotocin (STZ)-induced Alzheimer’s model in female Sprague−Dawley rats demonstrated that administration of HCM-01 at doses of 50 mg/kg orally (oral, P.O. and intraperitoneal, I.P.) and 100 mg/kg (P.O.), significantly improved cognitive and memory functions in the passive avoidance (PA), Morris water maze (MWM), and locomotor activity tests. Moreover, histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses of different hippocampal regions revealed reduced neuronal damage, attenuation of tau pathology, antiamyloidogenic effect, and restoration of cholinergic function. Complementary in silico studies, including molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations (MDS), and free energy calculations, suggested potential interactions of HCM-01 with the allosteric site of EAAT2. Taken together, these findings suggest that HCM-01 exerts neuroprotective effects against glutamate-induced excitotoxicity in primary hippocampal neurons while additionally modulating glutamatergic homeostasis and redox balance through functional mechanisms in astrocyte-based models, supporting its relevance as a multitarget preclinical candidate for early stage AD mechanisms.
Real-world comparison of short-term adverse events, treatment persistence, and efficacy of semaglutide and tirzepatide: A nationwide multicenter study
(Karger, 2026) Hepşen, Sema; Haymana, Cem; Ertepe Küçükgöde, Gizem; Özcan, Büşra; Özbaş, Burak; Or Koca, Arzu; Aydoğan, Berna İmge; Tura Bahadır, Çiğdem; Salman, Serpil; Sönmez, Alper
Introduction: Real-world data directly comparing the safety, tolerability, and effectiveness of semaglutide and tirzepatide in patients with obesity remain limited. This nationwide multicenter observational study compared short-term adverse events, treatment discontinuation, body weight loss (BWL), and metabolic outcomes between the two treatments. Methods: This study included 2,549 patients with obesity treated with semaglutide (n=1,434) or tirzepatide (n=1,115). Adverse events, including time to onset, dose at occurrence, and related discontinuation, were evaluated. Changes in BWL and metabolic parameters up to 6 months were assessed. Subgroup analyses were performed in patients with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Results: At least one adverse event occurred in 50.9% in the semaglutide group and 51.0% in the tirzepatide group (p=0.524), with gastrointestinal events the most frequently reported. Overall adverse event rates were comparable between groups; however, musculoskeletal and allergic reactions were more common in the tirzepatide group. The onset of gastrointestinal, neuropsychiatric, musculoskeletal symptoms, and hypoglycemia occurred earlier in the tirzepatide group. Discontinuation due to adverse events was similar between groups, except for pancreatic events, which were more frequent in the semaglutide group (p=0.006). Tirzepatide was associated with greater early BWL at all time points. At 6 months, median percentage BWL was 12.6% with semaglutide and 14.4% with tirzepatide. HbA1c reductions were comparable between groups in patients with T2DM. Conclusion: In real-world clinical practice, semaglutide and tirzepatide show similar short-term tolerability and treatment persistence, although tirzepatide is associated with a higher incidence of musculoskeletal and allergic reactions and greater early BWL.
Comparative evaluation of a new-generation HBsAg assay versus a conventional method in occult HBV infection and low-level HBsAg positivity
(Ankara Microbiology Society, 2026) Daşdemir, Ferhat Osman; Dinç, Harika Öykü; Sirekbasan, Serhat; Hamzeli, Nur; Alaçam, Sema; Karabulut, Nuran; Türk, Süreyya; Dereli, Nida; Akçin, Rüveyda; Kocazeybek, Bekir
This study aimed to comparatively evaluate the conventional hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) assay and the next-generation HBsAg NEXT (HBsAgNx) assay in samples with low-level HBsAg positivity and in cases of occult hepatitis B infection (OBI). A total of 497 individuals were included in the study, comprising 300 individuals with low-level HBsAg positivity, 100 OBI cases (64 seropositive and 36 seronegative) and 97 healthy controls. Serum samples were analyzed using the Abbott ARCHITECT HBsAg Qualitative II assay (Abbott Diagnostics, Wiesbaden, Germany) and the Abbott Alinity i HBsAg NEXT assay (Abbott Diagnostics, Wiesbaden, Germany). The presence of HBV DNA was confirmed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (Rt-PCR) using the COBAS AmpliPrep/COBAS TaqMan HBV test v2.0 (Roche Diagnostics, Mannheim, Germany). HBV DNA (Rt-PCR) was accepted as the gold standard reference for diagnostic performance evaluation. To minimize potential bias arising from sample selection, individuals with low level HBsAg positivity and OBI cases were analyzed separately. In the low-level HBsAg-positive group, semi-quantitative S/CO values of the assays were compared, whereas in the OBI group, only the detection rates of HBV DNA–positive cases were evaluated. A total of 17 OBI cases (17%) were identified that were tested negative by the conventional assay but positive by the HBsAgNx assay. Differences between the assays were evaluated using the McNemar test and p< 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Median values obtained with the HBsAgNx assay were significantly higher than those obtained with the conventional assay (p< 0.001). The HBsAgNx assay provides clinically significant contributions particularly in the OBI group, by detecting cases that cannot be identified by conventional assays. These findings indicate that the integration of high-sensitivity HBsAg assays into current HBV diagnostic algorithms would increase case detection and contribute to both transfusion safety and the clinical management of OBI.
Ibuprofen and nimesulide derivatives selectively induce apoptosis in HER2-positive breast cancer via inhibition of the PLA₂–COX-2–NF-κB pathway
(Springer Nature Link, 2026) Çakırlı, Egemen; Bedir, İpek; Biliz, Yağmur; Yılmaz, Özgür; Küçükgüzel, Şükriye Güniz; Telci, Dilek
Background Chronic inflammation contributes to breast cancer development through the phospholipase A₂ (PLA₂)–cyclo oxygenase-2 (COX-2)–nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) cascade, which regulates prostaglandin synthesis, oxidative stress, and transcription of pro-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic genes. This pathway is particularly active in HER2-positive breast can cer, promoting proliferation, invasion, and resistance to apoptosis. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and nimesulide target COX enzymes and have shown potential in suppressing inflammation-driven tumorigenesis. In this study, we evaluated the anticancer and anti-inflammatory activity of newly synthesized, structurally modified ibuprofen and nimesulide derivatives designed to modulate PLA₂–COX-2–NF-κB axis. Methods and Results Cytotoxicity was assessed in HER2-positive breast cancer cells (AU565 and SKBR3) and compared with normal dermal fibroblasts (HDF) and breast epithelial cells (MCF-12A), using WST-1 assays. Apoptosis, cell cycle distribution, caspase-3/7 activation, and ROS generation were analyzed by imaging-based assays, flow cytometry, and fluo rescence methods. Gene expression of PLA2G2A and PTGS2 was quantified by qRT-PCR, and NF-κB translocation was analyzed by immunocytochemistry. Two ibuprofen triazole derivative (D1) and ibuprofen thioether derivative (D7) and one nimesulide derivative (D8) significantly reduced cell viability in a dose-dependent manner without affecting normal cells. These derivatives induced G₀/G₁ arrest, caspase-3/7 activation, ROS reduction, and increased late apoptosis. Downregula tion of PLA2G2A and PTGS2 expression and inhibition of NF-κB translocation confirmed disruption of the PLA₂–COX-2– NF-κB cascade. Conclusion These findings demonstrate that structurally optimized ibuprofen and nimesulide derivatives exert dual anti inflammatory and anticancer effects in HER2-positive breast cancer by suppressing PLA₂–COX-2–NF-κB pathway and promoting apoptotic cell death.
Synthesis, characterization, biological evaluation, and molecular modeling of novel nimesulide urea derivatives as potential MetAP2 inhibitors
(Nature Research, 2026) Yılmaz, Özgür; Biliz, Yağmur; Kuloğlu, Elif; Arancı, Kübra; Erdoğan, Ömer; Çevik, Özge; Karahasanoğlu, Müfide; Mert Şahin, Naz Mina; Çakır, Ayşe Buse; Tuzcu, Bilge; Yelekçi, Kemal; Küçükgüzel, Şükriye Güniz
A series of nimesulide-derived ureas were synthesized in high yields (69- 91%) via a novel synthetic method under organotin catalysis. The structural characterization of the synthesized compounds was determined using a variety of spectroscopic methods, including ¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR, FTIR, and HRMS. Following initial screening, selected compounds were further evaluated using specific biological assays, including cytotoxicity analysis, apoptosis assessment by Annexin V/PI staining, analysis of Bax and Bcl-2 protein expression, and detection of DNA fragmentation using AO/EB staining. These evaluations were carried out in a variety of cell lines, including MDA-MB-231 (human triple-negative breast cancer cells), HeLa (human cervical cancer cells), PC-3 (androgen-independent human prostate cancer cells), MKN-45 (human gastric cancer cells), U87 (human glioblastoma cancer cells), and HUVEC (human umbilical vein endothelial cells). Three of the compounds demonstrated efficacy in MDA-MB-231 cells, resulting in increased AO/EB staining and annexin-V-PI binding levels, and increased Bax/Bcl-2 ratios. Numerous studies implicate MetAP2 in angiogenesis. MetAP2 stimulates cancer cell proliferation when it is upregulated and appears to play an essential role in tumor progression. In connection with the cell lines studied in this study, a crucial MetAP2 enzyme target was selected for in silico studies to support the experimental outcomes. The three promising compounds have been demonstrated to accelerate cell apoptosis and inhibit cell division by targeting MetAP2. The compounds synthesized in this study potential to overcome the challenges of targeted therapies in triple-negative breast cancer. Alongside these findings, the antioxidant potential of the synthesized compounds was evaluated using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay. One of the compounds exhibited a radical scavenging activity comparable to the reference standard. In-silico molecular modeling studies were conducted in the final phase to evaluate the newly designed inhibitors as potential anticancer and antioxidant drug candidates. The most likely conformations of the MetAP2-ligand complex were sorted according to the free energy of binding score (kcal/mol) and agree with the experimental inhibition values. The computational results suggest that the newly synthesized compounds may be potential anticancer drug candidates.
Scientific accuracy of large language models in tilted implant dentistry: A guideline-based comparative evaluation
(Wolters Kluwer, 2026) Yıldız, Mehmet S.; Alkap, Melek; Özdal, Umut; Özdal Zincir, Özge
Tilted dental implant systems are widely used in the rehabilitation of anatomically compromised jaws and are supported by international consensus guidelines. Concurrently, large language models (LLMs) are increasingly accessed as informational tools in implant dentistry; however, their scien tific accuracy and adherence to guideline-based principles in advanced implant concepts remain insufficiently explored. This study evaluated the scientific accuracy, guideline conformity, and clinical consistency of responses generated by 4 LLMs regarding tilted dental implant systems. A total of 120 guide line-based questions covering 8 predefined domains (definition, indications, contraindications, advantages, surgical procedure content, prosthetic procedure content, complications, and prognosis/survival) were developed in accordance with ITI, EAO, and AAOMS consensus reports. Each question was in dependently submitted to ChatGPT-5.2, Copilot, DeepSeek, and Gemini, and all responses were anonymized and evaluated by a multidisciplinary expert panel using a structured ordinal scoring system. Overall, scientific accuracy scores were high across all models, with near-ceiling performance observed in domains related to indications, advantages, procedural con tent, and prognosis. Statistically significant between-model differences were identified in the definition (P = 0.003), con traindications (P = 0.006), and complications (P < 0.001) do mains, with DeepSeek and Gemini demonstrating consistently higher scores in complication-related content compared with ChatGPT and Copilot. Within-model analyses further revealed significant domain-dependent variability across all LLMs. Al-though LLMs demonstrate a strong capacity to reproduce es tablished, guideline-based knowledge regarding tilted implant systems, limitations remain in safety-critical domains requiring nuanced clinical judgment. Accordingly, LLMs should be re garded as adjunctive educational tools rather than substitutes for expert decision-making in craniofacial implantology.
Impression precision after hydrogen peroxide sterilization of scanner sleeves
(Springer Nature Link, 2026) Yılmaz, Berza; Arslan, Meriç; Kayasaroğlu, Damla Nur; Arslan, Elif Dilara; Sunal Aktürk, Ezgi
Introduction The iTero Element (Align Technologies, San Jose, CA, USA) is a widely used intraoral scanning device, and its protective sleeves for the scanning head are provided for single use. This condition puts the clinical management budget under financial strain and creates a disadvantage for managing environmental waste. The objective of our research was to assess how repeated sterilization of disposable scan head covers with hydrogen peroxide affected the precision of digital impressions. Methods Intraoral scans were carried out using the iTero Element 5D scanner on 26 patients. Hydrogen peroxide was used to sterilize the sleeves for 45min at 45 °C. The sterilization procedure was repeated between the second, third, and fourth intraoral scans. Each tooth was given a score based on the color change between the first and fourth scans, which were superimposed using the iTero TimeLapse technology. The OrthoCAD® software (Align Technologies) was also used to measure the intercanine, interpremolar, and intermolar distances, as well as the mesiodistal dimensions of all the teeth between the first molars. Results No statistically significant difference was found between the mesiodistal dimensions of the teeth and the interca nine, interpremolar, and intermolar distances between the 1st and 4th scans. There was no correlation between the mean differences of the mesiodistal dimensions of the teeth obtained with the 1st and 4th scans and TimeLapse scores. Conclusion After sterilization with hydrogen peroxide, the repeatability of digital measurements of the protective sleeves of the intraoral scanner was not adversely affected, and their clinical performance was maintained.
Ketamine induces apoptosis and inhibits proliferation in HT-29 colorectal cancer cells
(MDPI Publishing, 2026) Korkmaz, Irmak Fatoş; Elgün, Tuğba; Aktaş, Çiğdem; Gündeğer, Ersin; Gök Yurttaş, Asiye
Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent malignancies worldwide and remains a major health concern due to its high recurrence and mortality rates. Recent studies suggest that anesthetic agents, including ketamine, may have direct effects on cancer cell viability and apoptosis. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the in vitro effects of ketamine on the HT-29 human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line, focusing on its cytotoxic and pro-apoptotic potential. Material and Methods: HT-29 cells were treated with ketamine for 24 h. Cell viability was evaluated using the MTT assay. Apoptosis rates were determined by flow cytometry with Annexin V-FITC/7-AAD staining. Furthermore, quantitative PCR (qPCR) was performed to assess the expression levels of key genes associated with proliferation and apoptosis. GeneQuery™ Human Basal Cell Carcinoma qPCR Array Kit (GQH-BCC-GK015-C) was used for qPCR analysıs. Molecular docking simulations were performed to investigate the potential molecular interactions between ketamine and three target proteins: the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and casein kinase 1 delta (CSNK1D). To ensure robustness of predictions, two independent docking methods were employed. Results: Ketamine significantly reduced cell viability in a dose-dependent manner, with an IC50 value of approximately 1.05 µM. Flow cytometry analysis demonstrated a marked increase in early apoptosis (23.9%) in treated cells. These findings suggest that ketamine exhibits potential anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects on HT-29 colorectal cancer cells. Conclusions: These findings suggest that ketamine exhibits potential anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects on HT-29 colorectal cancer cells in vitro. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms and potential clinical implications.
Sustainable synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles from melon (cucumis melo l.) by-products: RSM optimization, structural characterization, antioxidant activity, and photocatalytic performance
(Wiley, 2026) Bozkurt, Rabia Nur; Kaba, İbrahim; Kahraman, Yusuf Sezai; Altınkeser, Tuğçe
This study explores the eco-friendly synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) using polyphenol-rich extracts from melon (Cucumis melo L.) peel and seeds as naturalreducing and stabilizing agents. Optimization via response surface methodology (RSM) determined the ideal synthesis conditions at a 0.078 mol/L metal concentration, 14.73 mL extract, and pH 10.77. Characterization through XRD confirmed a hexagonal wurtzite crystal structure with an average size of 21.7 nm, while SEM and TEM imaging revealed predominantly spherical morphologies. UV–visible DRS analysis showed a 368 nm absorption edge with a calculated band gap of 3.21 eV. DLS measurements indicated a hydrodynamic diameter of 135.6 nm with a PDI of 0.206 and a zeta potential of −20.5 mV, confirming good colloidal stability. The resulting NPs exhibited strong antioxidant activity (IC50 = 40.7 µg/mL) and acted as effective heterogeneous photocatalysts for the degradation of organic dyes. Specifically, ZnO-NPs enabled the photodegradation of methyl orange (MO) and methylene blue (MB), achieving 63.56% degradation for 5 mg L−1 MO. These findings demonstrate that melon-waste-derived ZnO-NPs are sustainable and promising candidates for wastewater treatment and environmental remediation.
The impact of home-based telerehabilitation pranayama on sleep quality and wellbeing in mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. A randomized controlled trial
(BioMed Central, 2026) Kaçar Akkoç, Zeynep; Demir, Rengin; Mustafaoğlu, Rüstem; Önder, Ömer Önder; Naci, Baha; Atahan, Ersan
Background Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a common disorder that causes repeated airway obstruction, disrupted breathing, and fragmented sleep. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Pranayama on sleep quality, daytime sleepiness, quality of life, fatigue, depression, and anxiety in patients with OSAS. Methods This study was designed as an open-label, prospective, randomized controlled trial. OSAS patients meeting the inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to either an Intervention group or a Control group. Pranayama training was applied to the Intervention group for 8 weeks, 7 days a week, and 3 times a day for 15 min. In addition, a single 15-minute session, 3 days a week, was conducted online under the supervision of a physiotherapist. The control group did not receive any intervention. Primary outcome was sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, PSQI). Secondary outcomes included daytime sleepiness (Epworth Sleepiness Scale, ESS), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire (FOSQ), Nottingham Health Profile (NHP), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). All outcome measures were assessed at baseline and reassessed after the 8-week intervention period. Results Thirty-eight OSAS patients meeting the inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to either an Intervention group (n = 19) or a Control group (n = 19). Four participants (two in each group) were lost to follow-up, leaving the data of 34 participants (17 per group) available for inclusion in the final analysis. In the intervention group, PSQI scores decreased from 9.12 ± 4.71 to 6.88 ± 4.45 (p < 0.001), whereas no improvement was observed in the control group. Regarding the primary outcome, the reduction in PSQI scores was significantly greater in the intervention group than in the control group (p < 0.001). The ESS scores also decreased significantly in the intervention group, from 9.41 ± 6.15 to 7.41 ± 6.18 (p = 0.006, with a significant between-group difference (p < 0.001). Fatigue severity decreased in the intervention group (FSS change: 0.53 ± 0.70; p = 0.006), with a significant between-group difference (p = 0.037). The FOSQ score improved markedly, with significant gains in FOSQ total score (− 0.38 ± 0.25 vs. 0.14 ± 0.22 in controls; p < 0.001) and in activity level and vigilance subdomains (both p < 0.001). The HADS-anxiety scores decreased by 1.94 ± 3.94 (p = 0.059) and depression scores by 3.06 ± 2.05 (p < 0.001) in the intervention group, with significant between-group differences for both anxiety (p = 0.008) and depression (p < 0.001). Conclusion Pranayama was an effective adjunct therapy for these OSAS patients, and incorporating it into treatment strategies may enhance patient outcomes. Clinical trial registration number/date NCT04632147/22.10.2020.
Sun-macerated hypericum perforatum oleates in fixed oils: Analytical characterization and comparative wound-healing activity
(The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye (TÜBİTAK), 2026) Çapar, Cihan; Küpeli, Esra; Yaba, Aylin; Parmaksız, Ayhan; Sümer, Engin; Yeşilada, Erdem
Background/aim: Hypericum perforatum L. oleates prepared in fixed oils have long been used for wound management due to their antiinflammatory, antibacterial, and tissue-regenerative properties. The bioactivity of these oleates is mainly attributed to hypericin, hyperforin, and pseudohypericin. In the present study, the wound-healing potential of H. perforatum oleates prepared in different fixed oils, including Olea europaea L. (olive), Sesamum indicum L. (sesame), Helianthus annuus L. (sunflower), and Nigella sativa L. (black seed), is compared. Materials and methods: Fixed oils were characterized by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, while oleuropein (olive oil) and thymoquinone (black seed oil) were quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography, and sesamin and sesamol (sesame oil) by spectrophotometry. Oleates were prepared using the traditional sun maceration method. Hypericin, hyperforin, and pseudohypericin were quantified by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry and ultraviolet spectrophotometry. In vitro and in vivo assays were performed to assess the wound-healing activities of both the fixed oils and their respective oleates. Results: All oleates exhibited significantly greater wound-healing activity than the corresponding fixed oils. The most pronounced synergistic effects were observed with the olive oil and sesame oil oleates. Conclusion: Maceration of H. perforatum in fixed oils enhances the intrinsic therapeutic properties of oils and contributes to improvements in multiple wound-healing parameters. The findings of the present study support the traditional use of H. perforatum oleates and provide a scientific basis for their pharmacological development.
Protective roles of gallic acid and lycopene against 4-nonylphenol induced testicular damage in SD rats
(SAGE Publications, 2026) Güleş, Özay; Kum, Şadiye; Naseer, Zahid; Boyacıoğlu, Murat; Özel Armutoğlu, Emine; Yıldız, Mustafa; Kırıkkulak, Murat; Doğan, Göksel; Bilici, Esra; Türkmen, Aybike; Tuna, Bilginer; Eren, Ülker
4-Nonylphenol (4-NP), an endocrine disruptor, is known to induce mutagenic, toxic, or carcinogenic effects, including testicular toxicity via inducing oxidative stress and apoptosis. The objective of this work was to determine the capacity of lycopene (LC) and gallic acid (GA) to protect testicular histological structure, biochemical responses, and semen parameters in rats exposed to 4-NP. In this 28-day dietary trial, six groups (n= 6 per group) received treatment via oral gavage: a control (corn oil, 2 mL/kg/day), LC (10 mg/kg body weight (BW)/day), GA (50 mg/kg BW/day), 4-NP (125 mg/kg BW/day), LC + 4-NP (LC followed by 4-NP), and GA + 4-NP (GA followed by 4-NP) groups. The results indicated that 4-NP administration adversely affects the final body weight, testicular histology, seminiferous epithelium heights (SEHs) (4-NP: 57.95 ± 0.49, p: 0.000), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) level, testis antioxidant capacity, testis malondialdehyde (MDA) level, and sperm viability and morphology. LC and GA supplementation significantly improved SEHs, activities of testis superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH), and sperm viability compared to the 4-NP group. Moreover, LC and GA exposures decreased histopathological lesions, including germinal epithelial degeneration, vacuolization, immature germ cells in the tubular lumen, and congestion in the interstitial area. Furthermore, they lowered TUNEL-positive cell counts and tubule percentages, testicular MDA levels, and abnormal sperm percentages. To our knowledge, this study provides one of the first systematic comparisons of lycopene and gallic acid in protecting against 4-NP-induced testicular toxicity under identical experimental conditions. The findings suggest that both compounds preserve testicular structure and function through their antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties.
Efficacy-oriented approach for medium-sized follicles: A perspective on stimulation, expectation, and triggering strategy in IVF cycles
(Wiley, 2026) Aydın, Gerçek; Ergin, Elif; Araç, Merve; Bülbül, Mehmet; Çalışkan, Eray; Hatırnaz, Şafak; Dahan, Michael; Malvasi, Antonio; Tinelli, Andrea
Objective: To assess the therapeutic significance of routinely aspirating mid-sized fol licles (14.0–16.9 mm) during oocyte pick-up (OPU) by looking at procedural efficiency and embryo usage in cycles with varied follicular cohorts. Methods: In vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles with follicles classified as large (≥17 mm) or mid-sized (14.0–16.9 mm) at the time of OPU were included in this prospective cohort. Each group's oocytes were extracted and treated independently while main taining rigorous traceability. Analysis was performed on embryologic results, opera tive time factors, and embryo transfer utilization across successive transfer attempts. Pregnancy outcomes and the length of the operation were investigated. Laboratory results pertaining to trigger strategies were assessed descriptively. Results: When measured per mature oocyte, oocytes from mid-sized follicles showed comparable fertilization and blastocyst development rates. However, only a small percentage of embryo transfers included embryos from mid-sized follicles, especially in the initial two transfer attempts. Large follicles had a longer total OPU duration, and cycles that resulted in miscarriage had significantly longer operative times among large-follicle-derived embryo transfers. For mid-sized follicles, there were no differ ences in the length of the procedure based on the pregnancy outcome. Conclusion: The contribution of mid-sized follicle-derived oocytes to embryo trans fer selection seems to be restricted in everyday practice, despite their reassuring laboratory competence. Procedural efficiency is a potentially significant factor in customized IVF care, as evidenced by the correlation between longer operating times and worse clinical outcomes. In certain clinical situations, a focused stimula tion and aspiration approach might be suitable without obviously jeopardizing cu mulative results.
Tannic acid and copper-modified ZIF-8 metal organic framework as a cefotaxime delivery system for antimicrobial activity
(Galenos Publishing House, 2026) Pirinççi Tok, Yağmur; Özsoy, Münteha; Damar Çelik, Damla
Objectives: Antibiotic resistance has become a global public health threat. Cefotaxime (CTX), a third-generation cephalosporin, is approved for use in infants, children, and adults with various microbial infections, particularly those affecting the central nervous system. This study aimed to synthesize and characterize zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF)-8-based drug delivery systems (DDSs) to enhance antimicrobial activity and control CTX release. Materials and Methods: ZIF-8 was synthesized via the coordination network of Zn ions and 2-methylimidazole and subsequently modified with tannic acid (TA) and copper ions (Cu2+). ZIF-8 MOF and its derivatives were characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared, zeta potential, in vitro dissolution rate, and in vitro antimicrobial activity. Results: The drug loading capacity and encapsulation efficiency were found to be 39.50 ± 1.19% and 98.75 ± 2.96%, respectively, for ZIF-8@TA@CTX, and 40.75 ± 1.22% and 97.75 ± 2.93%, respectively, for ZIF-8@TA@Cu@CTX. Following 48 hours, the drug released from ZIF-8@TA@Cu@CTX was detected at 62.83 ± 1.89% at pH 5.0 and 83.19 ± 2.50% at pH 7.4 after 48 h, with dissolution profiles best fitting the Korsmeyer–Peppas model. The synthesized DDSs demonstrated a higher antibacterial activity against gram-positive bacteria than against gram-negative bacteria. Conclusion: ZIF-8 MOF DDs may serve as an alternative for delivering drugs to infected areas due to their controlled release under low pH conditions.
A dual-drug nanocarrier strategy for ocular fungal infections: Micelles embedded in electrospun nanofibers
(MDPI Publishing, 2026) Uzel, Egemen; Durgun, Meltem Ezgi; Aydilek, Neriman; Hacıoğlu, Mayram; Güngör, Sevgi; Özsoy, Yıldız
Ocular fungal diseases are associated with severe infection and pain and, in advanced stages, can lead to vision loss. Current treatment options are limited to the topical ap plication of conventional drugs, and the bioavailability of these drugs is quite limited due to ocular barriers. In this study, a dual-drug nanodelivery system was developed to improve intraocular drug delivery by combining antifungal and anti-inflammatory therapies. Posaconazole (PSC), a broad-spectrum triazole antifungal agent, and dexke toprofen trometamol (DKP), a rapidly acting nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, were co-loaded onto polymeric micelles and then incorporated into electrospun poly(vinyl alco hol)/poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (PVA/PVP) nanofiber intraocular implants. DSC, XRD, FTIR, and FESEM analyses showed that both APIs were successfully converted into nanofiber form without disrupting the micelle structure. Comparative studies with DKP solution and PSC commercial oral suspension (Noxafil® 40 mg/mL) showed that the produced micelle loaded nanofibers provided sustained release and significantly increased ex vivo ocular permeation and penetration. In vitro antifungal activity tests demonstrated efficacy against Candida albicans, and HET-CAM toxicity tests showed that the micelle-loaded nanofibers were non-irritating and suitable for ocular application. Overall, the micelle-loaded electro spun nanofiber ocular inserts developed in this study represent a promising platform for combined antifungal and anti-inflammatory ocular therapy.
Three-dimensional automatic segmentation of root canals with focus on the second mesiobuccal canal using nnU-Netv2 on CBCT images: Deep learning approach
(BioMed Central, 2026) Güllü, Deniz Meltem; Orhan, Kaan; Kartal, Nevin
Background Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to reduce interpretation errors and save time during the evaluation of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. This study aimed to assess the performance of AI in identifying and segmenting the second mesiobuccal canal (MB2), with concurrent segmentation of the main root canals, in the maxillary first molar prior to endodontic treatment. Methods In this study, 202 CBCT images that met the inclusion criteria were obtained from an anonymized database provided by Craniocatch (Eskişehir, Türkiye), with no associated personal data. The nnU-Netv2 model implemented with the PyTorch library was used for the detection and three-dimensional (3D) automatic segmentation of root canals. Owing to the narrow structure of the MB2 canal, labels were preprocessed via binary dilation with SciPy (v1.10.1), and training was conducted in two stages by applying different dilation levels. The performance of the artificial intelligence model was evaluated via the confusion matrix and further assessed with additional metrics, including the Dice score (DC), Jaccard index (JI), 95% Hausdorff distance (HD), and area under the curve (AUC). Results In this study, the nnU-Netv2 model achieved a sensitivity of 0.538, a precision of 0.719, a DC of 0.616, a JI of 0.445, a 95% HD of 0.874, and an AUC of 0.8 for 3D automatic segmentation of MB2. Conclusions This study is the first to apply the nnU-Netv2 model for 3D automatic segmentation of the MB2 canal in untreated teeth and highlights its potential utility in endodontic imaging. Further refinements in these systems may enable rapid and reliable 3D automatic segmentation of MB2 and enhance endodontic treatment quality and patient outcomes.

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