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Valorization black carrot colorant process liquid waste by clarification and Decolorization: A novel sugar alternative for gummies
Full text linkThe aim of this study was to develop a recycling process for black carrot colorant liquid waste (BCLW) and to investigate the potential use of BCLW as a sugar source for glucose syrup substitution in gummy candy production. Clarification and decolorization were performed using ion exchange and adsorbent resins at three flow rates, followed by evaporation. The highest clarity (88.7 %) was achieved with modified styrene-divinylbenzene resin at 1.0 BV/h. Subsequently, BCLW was incorporated into gummy formulations as a glucose syrup substitute. Higher hardness values were recorded in formulations with over 75 % of BCLW incorporated, compared to the gummy samples produced with 100 % glucose syrup. The brightness remained considerably high when the glucose syrup was replaced with BCLW up to 50 %. Accelerated shelf-life tests showed changes in color and hardness. BCLW presents a sustainable alternative for the confectionery industry, offering a practical solution for waste reduction while contributing to resource efficiency. © 2024Türkiye Bilimsel ve Teknolojik Araştırma Kurumu, TÜBİTAK, (123O211)Türkiye Bilimsel ve Teknolojik Araştırma Kurumu, TÜBİTA
Recent advances of structure, function, and engineering of carboxylesterases for the pharmaceutical industry: A minireview
No full textCarboxylesterases have a wide range of applications due to their catalytic efficiency, robust structure, and broad substrate specificity. These enzymes, which can hydrolyze carboxylic acid esters, amides, and thioesters, stand out with their regio- and enantioselective properties. They play a crucial role in synthesizing pharmaceutical intermediates, including secondary and tertiary alcohols, alpha-hydroxy acids, and various bioactive compounds. However, in some cases, the enantioselectivity of carboxylesterases may be insufficient to achieve conversions with the purity required by the pharmaceutical industry. This review summarizes the crucial role of carboxylesterases, particularly in the pharmaceutical field, focusing on the classification, structure, and engineering approaches. After introducing the main families of carboxylesterases, the structural studies are presented to give a comprehensive insight into the active site architecture and related key determinants for enantioselectivity. The protein engineering studies to improve the enantioselectivity of carboxylesterases are discussed along with solvent engineering and immobilization applications
Factors affecting iron and manganese dissolution in groundwater: treatments with simultaneous oxidation and precipitation methods
No full textThis study explores variations in groundwater (GW) pH, conductivity, ammonium, iron, and manganese parameters to reveal prospective interactions having an impact on the dissolved metal concentrations. To this end, bivariate and partial correlation procedures were applied to the data to obtain incisive evaluation. Besides characterisation efforts, photocatalytic iron and manganese removal experiments were also carried out with Ni-doped TiO2 nano-composite thin films (TFs) on real GW samples. UV-A (365 nm) An LED array was used as the illumination source. The experimental setup was based on three treatment routes including photocatalytic oxidation (PCO), NaOH-aided precipitation and PCO with simultaneous precipitation (SPCO-P). The main statistical analysis and treatment efforts have been performed on data and samples of a single well, respectively (N = 15). However, extended statistical analysis has also been performed on larger data groups (N = 1366) obtained from different GW sources as well. Analytical results have revealed that about 90% of iron and manganese were in oxidised forms which do not precipitate by simple pH regulation. Statistical analysis has also revealed significant interactions between metal concentrations and observed parameters depending on the level of pH and conductivity. Furthermore, the SPCO-P strategy has provided a four-fold increase in reaction rate (pseudo-first-order, kobs: 0.04 min-1). Removal efficiencies of iron and manganese also increased from 10% to 96% - 85%, respectively.Tekirdag Metropolitan Municipality, Water and Sewerage Administration (TESKIdot;)This project was partially funded by Tekirdag Metropolitan Municipality, Water and Sewerage Administration (TESK & Idot;). The authors would like to thank TESK & Idot; and Water Laboratory Per- sonnel for their valuable support
Determination of insecticides in honey samples collected from Gümüşhane-Turkiye; Box-Behnken design evaluation of experimental parameters
No full textThis study deals with the investigation of cyfluthrin, cypermethrin, deltamethrin, and malathion residues in local honey samples from Gümüşhane, Turkey. The determination was performed with GC/MS-MS method with HP-5MS column under certain conditions: 120 ℃ oven temperature, 250 ℃ injection temperature, 121.9 kPa pressure and 1.2-1.8 mL/min flow rates. The samples were picked from eighteen stations of Gümüşhane. Standard addition method was employed in chromatographic determination. No pesticide detected in samples of fifteen stations, nevertheless, subjected pesticides were determined in samples collected from other three stations. The residue levels varied from 0.18 mg/kg to 9.50 mg/kg at 1.5 mL/min flow rate. The results were also evaluated with Box-Behnken Design (BBD) optimization. Multivariate experimental design (flow rate and station, pesticide type) was employed for constructing quadratic models. Regression analysis showed that the experimental results and the predictive values yielded by model are quite close to each other with determination coefficient (R2) of 0.985.This study deals with the investigation of cyfluthrin, cypermethrin, deltamethrin, and malathion residues in local honey samples from Gümüşhane, Turkey. The determination was performed with GC/MS-MS method with HP-5MS column under certain conditions: 120 ℃ oven temperature, 250 ℃ injection temperature, 121.9 kPa pressure and 1.2-1.8 mL/min flow rates. The samples were picked from eighteen stations of Gümüşhane. Standard addition method was employed in chromatographic determination. No pesticide detected in samples of fifteen stations, nevertheless, subjected pesticides were determined in samples collected from other three stations. The residue levels varied from 0.18 mg/kg to 9.50 mg/kg at 1.5 mL/min flow rate. The results were also evaluated with Box-Behnken Design (BBD) optimization. Multivariate experimental design (flow rate and station, pesticide type) was employed for constructing quadratic models. Regression analysis showed that the experimental results and the predictive values yielded by model are quite close to each other with determination coefficient (R2) of 0.985
Can Salivary Cortisol be Used in Diagnosing Adrenal Insufficiency During the Acute and Subacute Phases of Traumatic Brain Injury?
No full textIntroduction The diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency (AI) related to traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains a challenge. We investigated the basal and low-dose adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-stimulated serum cortisol and salivary cortisol (SaC) levels and the diagnostic utility of SaC levels during 28 days following TBI. Materials and Methods Blood samples were collected for basal levels [sequentially from day 1 (D1) to D7 and on D28)] and for peak serum cortisol and SaC responses to the low-dose ACTH stimulation test (on D1, D7, and D28). After the patient enrollment period was completed, patients were retrospectively categorized as AI or AS (adrenal sufficiency) for each day separately, based on a basal serum cortisol cut-off level of 11 mu g/dL, and data analysis was performed between the groups. Results Thirty-seven patients and 40 healthy controls were included. Median basal serum cortisol levels were higher in patients on D1 but were similar on other days. Median basal SaC levels were higher in patients on D1 and D2 but were similar on other days. Median peak serum cortisol and SaC levels were similar on D1 but were lower in patients on D7 and D28. Median basal SaC levels were higher in the AS group than in the AI group on all days. Discussion and Conclusions When evaluating AI during the course of TBI, the cut-off for basal SaC levels is 0.5-0.6 mu g/dL throughout the first week, except for 1.38 mu g/dL on D2. SaC levels may serve as a surrogate marker for accurately reflecting circulating glucocorticoid activity.Erciyes University Council of Scientific Investigations [TSA-10-2909]Erciyes University Council of Scientific Investigations | project code: TSA-10-290
Yükseköğretimde Yapay Zekâ: Öğrenci Tutumları ve Akademisyen Görüşleri
Full text linkThis research aims to examine student attitudes and academic perspectives regarding the use of artificial intelligence in higher education through a mixed-method approach. Data was collected from 400 undergraduate students through surveys and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 academics. Quantitative findings revealed positive student attitudes toward AI, with students reporting moderate competency in using AI tools, primarily for creative writing, image generation, and language learning. Students highlighted advantages such as personalized learning opportunities and easier understanding of complex topics, while expressing concerns about educational inequalities and misinformation risks. Qualitative findings showed academics maintaining both positive and cautious stances toward AI technologies. Academics recognized AI's potential in research, data analysis, and educational support, while expressing concerns about the weakening of basic skills and data security. They anticipate a comprehensive transformation in higher education and emphasize the need for a thorough approach to AI's effective and ethical use. The research concludes that while AI integration in higher education is inevitable, institutional policies and regulations are essential for its effective and ethical implementation.Bu araştırma, yükseköğretimde yapay zekâ kullanımına ilişkin öğrenci tutumlarını ve akademisyen görüşlerini karma yöntem yaklaşımıyla incelemeyi amaçlamaktadır. Veriler, 400 lisans öğrencisinden anket yoluyla ve 10 akademisyenle gerçekleştirilen yarı yapılandırılmış görüşmelerle toplanmıştır. Nicel bulgular, öğrencilerin yapay zekâya yönelik olumlu tutum sergilediğini göstermiş, öğrenciler yapay zekâ araçlarını kullanmada orta düzeyde yetkinlik bildirmiş ve bunları öncelikle yaratıcı yazım, görsel oluşturma ve dil öğrenme amacıyla kullandıklarını belirtmişlerdir. Öğrenciler, kişiselleştirilmiş öğrenme fırsatları ve karmaşık konuları daha kolay anlama gibi avantajları vurgularken, eğitimde eşitsizlikler ve yanlış bilgi riskleri konusunda endişelerini dile getirmişlerdir. Nitel bulgular, akademisyenlerin yapay zekâ teknolojilerine karşı hem olumlu hem de temkinli bir duruş sergilediğini göstermiştir. Akademisyenler, yapay zekânın araştırma, veri analizi ve eğitim desteğindeki potansiyelini kabul ederken, temel becerilerin zayıflaması ve veri güvenliği konularında endişe duymaktadır. Yükseköğretimde kapsamlı bir dönüşüm öngören akademisyenler, yapay zekânın etkili ve etik kullanımı için detaylı bir yaklaşımın gerekliliğini vurgulamaktadır. Araştırma, yükseköğretimde yapay zekâ entegrasyonunun kaçınılmaz olduğu, ancak etkili ve etik uygulama için kurumsal politika ve düzenlemelerin gerekli olduğu sonucuna varmaktadır
Predicting extra-musculoskeletal and peripheral manifestations and their role on biologic treatment in patients with axial spondyloarthritis: TReasure experience
No full textObjectives: This study aimed to examine the frequency and associated factors of extra-musculoskeletal manifestations (EMMs) and peripheral manifestations in an axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) cohort and their impact on the choice of first biologic treatment. Patients and methods: A total of 1,687 patients with axSpA (978 males, 709 females; mean age: 38.5±11 years) who started their first biologic disease modifying antirheumatic drug (bDMARD) were included from a national prospective database of TReasure between its inception and 2018-2021. Demographic and clinical characteristics, disease-related features, and treatment patterns were compared between patients with and without EMMs or peripheral involvement. Results: Of the patients, 1,283 had radiographic axSpA (r-axSpA), while 404 had nonradiographic axSpA (nr-axSpA). Acute anterior uveitis (AAU) was the most common (11.4%) EMM, and older age, female sex, human leukocyte antigen B27 (HLA-B27) positivity, and a lower Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI) score were associated with AAU. Female sex, methotrexate use, dactylitis, and higher Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score (ASDAS)-serum C-reactive protein (CRP) scores were related to psoriasis (PsO). Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and PsO were negatively associated with HLA-B27 positivity. Enthesitis was the most frequent (28.2%) peripheral manifestations, and peripheral arthritis, dactylitis, and enthesitis were independent predictor of each other. In addition, dactylitis and peripheral arthritis were related to more frequent use of conventional disease modifying antirheumatic drugs. In addition, IBD history was associated with less frequent use of etanercept. Older age, less use of sulfasalazine, the absence of enthesitis, and lower Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Disease Index (BASFI) scores were associated with secukinumab use. Conclusion: Acute anterior uveitis was associated with HLA-B27 positivity, while PsO or IBD were negatively associated with HLA-B27 in patients with axSpA. Peripheral manifestations appeared to be related to each other. Among EMMs, we found that only IBD had an effect on the bDMARD preference. © 2025, Turkish League Against Rheumatism (TLAR). All rights reserved
Predictive Modeling Is a Reliable Indicator in Determining Excessive Renal Mobility Single-Center Randomized Study
No full textPurpose: Excessive kidney mobility is an underestimating challenge for surgeons during retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) and extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESL). There is no technique approved as a gold standard procedure for reducing excessive kidney mobility. The study aimed to uncover predictive factors for determining excessive renal mobility by utilizing clinicodemographic characteristics and noncontrast computed tomography (NCCT) data. Materials and Methods: The patients were categorized into two groups based on the presence of excessive renal mobility. Patients were scanned with a 16-channel, multislice NCCT, and images were captured utilizing a 16 x 1.25 mm collimation, 5 mm slice thickness. Many parameters including the origin angle of the renal artery, renal artery, vein length, diameter, the area and length of the psoas muscle, and perirenal and pararenal fatty tissue were measured on the images and analyzed. The data were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression, and the receiver operating characteristic curve model and we used predictive modeling based on three significant parameters. Results: Between May 2023 and May 2024, a total of 140 patients with and without excessive renal mobility enrolled into study. After multivariate analysis, increasing renal vein length and renal artery origin angle results in higher renal motility (odds ratio [OR]: 0.982; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.966-0.998; p = 0.030 and OR: 0.973; 95% CI: 0.948-0.999; p = 0.044; respectively). It also observed that an increase in tidal volume led to a reduction in renal mobility (OR: 1.015; 95% CI: 1.007-1.024; p = 0.001). Predictive modeling was designed based on these outcomes. This predictive modeling accurately estimates the presence of excessive renal mobility with improved 59% specificity and 65% sensitivity (p < 0.001, area under the curve 0.757; CI: 0.671-0.843). Conclusion: Physicians may predict the presence of excessive renal mobility via the predictive modeling mentioned in the current article. They may perform manipulations to reduce kidney mobility prior to ESL and RIRS
In Silico and In Vitro Verification of the Effects of Chemotherapeutic Doxorubicin and 5-Fluorouracil in Combination With Curcumin and Vitamin C on MCF-7 Cells
No full textBreast cancer ranks among the most prevalent cancers. Enhancing the effectiveness of chemotherapy and patient survival is the objective of many studies. In the literature, no study has investigated the combined effect of vitamin c and curcumin with chemotherapy drugs on cell viability in the MCF-7 cell line, nor the mechanism of inflammation induced by cancer drugs, both in vitro and in silico. Thus, the purpose of this study was to assess the synergistic effect of curcumin and vitamin c in combination with the chemotherapy drugs 5-fluorouracil and doxorubicin. The cytokine hub genes of the Toll-like receptor pathway for the administered drugs were identified using the Cytoscape program, and docking studies were conducted via the Cb Dock2 website. In silico analyses indicated that doxorubicin and curcumin displayed comparable characteristics, achieving the highest interaction scores (-10) with marker proteins, whereas 5-fluorouracil and vitamin c showed lower interaction scores. Cell viability was evaluated through MTT analysis and AO/PI staining, while the expression of inflammation-related markers IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-alpha proteins determined using the ELISA method. After 24 h, the cell viability of the chemotherapeutic drugs administered in combination with curcumin decreased by up to 28%. Subsequently, applications at 48 and 72 h were performed. These results indicate that the effect of curcumin on cell viability is significant when combined with chemotherapy drugs. In the ELISA test, a 52% expression of IL-6 was noted in MCF-7 cells treated with curcumin, whereas the IL-6 level decreased to 15% in the other experimental groups. An increase was observed in the TNF-alpha expression with 5-fluorouracil and doxorubicin compared to the control, while a notable decrease was recorded in the applications with vitamin c and curcumin (p < 0.05). This study demonstrates that vitamin c and curcumin exhibit a synergistic effect with chemotherapeutic agents in the inflammatory system
Green transition in the restaurant industry: New trends in green restaurants
No full textThe Green economy approach, which originated with the concept of sustainability, has prompted policymakers to adopt new strategies. Aligned with the goal of Sustainable Development, both developed and developing countries are working towards achieving a green transition in economic, environmental, and social domains. While the field of food has a long history of literature on security and sustainability, it has recently garnered increased attention in the context of the green transition. In essence, various disciplines related to food products and the food industry has evolved into a new area of research, exploring alternative strategies and applications within sustainability and food security. This chapter aims to review new trends in food industry through examining recent global indicators and implications. As it is purposed, it is planned to give a brief framework for food waste management, food packaging, food production and food security issues. © 2025 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved