IEU GCRIS Database (İzmir Ekonomi Üniversitesi)
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Novice Designers in Museums: a Constructively Aligned Framework Bridging Formal and Informal Learning Through Artefact Analysis
No full textWe investigate how an artefact analysis framework, grounded in constructive alignment principles, can bridge formal design education with informal museum environments. Through three-phased qualitative research; fieldwork with 26 students, focus group with seven, and subsequent toolkit development, we tested and iteratively refined this framework. Our analysis of 78 student-submitted artefact boards revealed significant patterns in how novices engage with design principles: while students excelled at identifying explicit functions, they struggled with symbolic interpretation and complex spatial relationships. Focus group discussions diagnosed the causes of these challenges, revealing a need for critical pedagogical interventions such as enhanced conceptual scaffolding and multimodal learning supports. This paper details the iterative design process of using these findings to create a refined pedagogical toolkit. The resulting toolkit addresses the identified challenges through terminology clarification, progressive scaffolding, and hands-on visual aids, providing a practical model for enhancing learning transfer between museum and studio environments
Experimental Study of Evolution of Breach Resulting From Piping at Upper Part of Earth-Fill Dam
No full textPiping and overtopping are the most important causes of earth-fill dam failure. Such dams may erode under seepage, causing a reduction in the structural strength. The aim of this study was to investigate the temporal evolution of the breach and flow rate from the breach resulting from the piping in earth-fill dams. The experiments were carried out at Hydraulics Laboratory of Civil Engineering Department of İzmir University of Economics. The dam was constructed by using a mixture consisting of 85 % sand and 15 % fine (low plasticity clay). In the first scenario a circular tunnel with a diameter of 2 cm was created along the centreline at 6 cm below the dam crest whereas in the second one it was located at the upper edge. Six cameras at different locations recorded the evolution of the progress of the breach formation. The pump flow rate was measured by magnetic flow meter, and the continuity equation was used to calculate the flow rate values from the breach. The time-varied values of the total breach areas were determined using the Gauss Area formula. The image processing method was also applied in the determination of the breach areas. The time-dependent changes of water depth in the channel were also recorded. The obtained experimental findings are presented and commented, together with the universal dimensionless curves. The failure of the dams occurred mainly because of the head cut erosion developed from downstream to upstream. When breaching started, the orifice flow was converted to open channel flow where breach bottom behaved like a broad crested weir. In the second scenario, the rigid lateral side considerably influenced the flow rate and the development of the breach. The peak flow rate corresponding to the first scenario was found approximately 2.3 times greater than that of the second one. The maximum values of all the breach parameters were reached earlier in the case of the seepage along the centerline. The ratios between the values corresponding to the first and the second scenarios were found as 3.25 and 1.75 for maximum breach areas at downstream and at upstream sides, respectively. These ratios were 2.44 and 1.37 for the average breach widths at downstream and upstream sides, respectively. A very good agreement was found between the area values obtained from Gauss area method and image processing technique, in both scenarios. This fact demonstrated that either of these two approaches can be used to determine the time-dependent breach areas. These experimental findings provide the opportunities for the calibration and validation of the numerical models used in the relevant numerical investigations. This study also offers guidance for the strategies concerning emergency action plans related to the failure of homogeneous earth-fill dams when the piping starts at upper part of the homogeneous earth-fill dams
Digital Voices, Discursive Power: the Siege of Turkey's Digital News Media by Interpretive Journalism
No full textThis study applies interpretative journalism, framing theory, and hybrid media theory to examine how independent Turkish journalists strategically use YouTube commentary to navigate restrictive political environments. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach—combining quantitative content analysis of 810 YouTube video titles and qualitative critical discourse analysis of 30 video transcripts from Turkish Journalists Fatih Altaylı, Ruşen Çakır, and Murat Yetkin's YouTube channels—the research identifies distinct stylistic strategies including provocative populism, deliberative analysis, and contextual critique. Findings reveal that negative sentiment and crisis framing dominate headlines, serving both algorithmic visibility and public engagement, yet raising ethical concerns regarding sensationalism and polarization. Ultimately, the study underscores digital commentary journalism's complex role in sustaining democratic discourse under authoritarian pressures, highlighting both adaptive innovation and potential compromises in journalistic integrity. © The Author(s) 2025
Thermochemical Processing of Organic Wastes for Sustainable Valorisation and Energy Recovery: a Review of Recent Contributions To the Field
No full textThis paper reviews the current knowledge on the thermochemical processing of organic waste for sustainable valorisation and presents its impacts on energy recovery. We focused on novel, low-cost, and highly efficient thermochemical methods for converting organic waste into energy. Thermochemical processes for waste management are reported as sustainable alternatives for energy recovery, while generating other by-products for various applications. Thermochemical methods include hydrothermal processes, pyrolysis, and gasification. Additionally, torrefaction has been extensively studied in recent years for the pre-treatment of feedstock. Combustion and incineration are not discussed in this review, as conversion of carbon-rich feedstock into energy and valuable chemicals through gasification has several advantages over them. Recent contributions in this field have focused on enhancing the specificity of thermochemical processes for the sustainable valorisation of organic waste into high-value products. Waste valorisation fulfils the concept of biorefineries and the use of renewable energy, which helps attain the Sustainable Development Goals. Since thermochemical processing offers excellent opportunities to transform waste into valuable resources, this review paper will also highlight these crucial aspects within the concept of circular bioeconomy.The authors acknowledge the CA20133-"Cross Border Transfer and Development of Sustainable Resource Recovery Strategies Towards Zero Waste" (FULLRECO4US) , supported by COST (European Cooperation in Science and Technology, www.cost.eu) , for enabling the collaboration among the authors of the paper. Dr. Anna Trubetskaya acknowledges Biorender for the support with the figure preparation. Ana Ramos thanks FCT - Fundacao para a Ciencia e a Tecnologia, I.P. for funding this work with national funds and, when eligible, by COMPETE 2020 FEDER funds, under the Scientific Employment Stimulus-Individual Call (CEEC Individual) -2021.03036.CEECIND/CP1680/CT0003 (https://doi.org/10.54499/2021.03036.CEECIND/CP1680/CT0003) .COST (European Cooperation in Science and Technology) [FULLRECO4US]; FCT - Fundacao para a Ciencia e a Tecnologia; COMPETE 2020 FEDER funds, [2021.03036.CEECIND/CP1680/CT0003
Evaluating the Prognostic Role of Glucose-To Ratio in Patients With Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma Treated With Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors in First Line: a Study by the Turkish Oncology Group Kidney Cancer Consortium (TKCC)
No full textPurpose: Identifying prognostic indicators for risk stratification in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) is crucial for optimizing treatment strategies and follow-up plans. This study aims to investigate the prognostic role of the glucose-to-lymphocyte ratio (GLR) in patients with mRCC receiving tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) as first-line therapy. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from the Turkish Oncology Group Kidney Cancer Consortium Database. GLR was calculated by dividing the fasting glucose (mmol/L) by the lymphocyte count (×109/L). We categorized patients into two categories based on their median GLR level. Results: The analysis included a total of 598 patients. We found that progression-free survival (PFS) was significantly longer in the GLR-low group, with a median PFS of 15.05 months (95% CI 12.7–17.4) compared to 7.79 months (95% CI 6.6–9.0) in the GLR-high group (p 0.001). Multivariate analysis identified GLR as an independent risk factor for poor PFS (HR 1.39, 95% CI 1.12–1.72; p = 0.003). Overall survival (OS) was also significantly longer in the GLR-low group, with a median OS of 38.47 months (95% CI, 30.9–46.0) compared to 24.15 months (95% CI 18.0–30.2) in the GLR-high group (p = 0.001). GLR was an independent predictor for OS in multivariate analysis (HR 1.45, 95% CI 1.12–1.86; p = 0.004). Conclusion: The GLR can be a valuable prognostic marker for glucose metabolism and systemic inflammatory status in this patient population. Our research highlights the potential prognostic value of GLR in patients with mRCC receiving TKIs, indicating its potential as a useful tool for clinical decision-making. © The Author(s) 2025
Elastic and Inelastic Input Energy Demands on Structures Under Pulse-Like Ground Motions
No full textIt is well established that pulse-like ground motions typically exhibit distinct characteristics that can substantially influence the seismic demands on structures. During the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquake, numerous pulse-like ground motion records were collected from various seismic stations. In this study, the elastic input energy spectra are computed for 5% damping considering the selected pulse-like ground motion records of the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquake. Subsequently, the inelastic input energy spectra of these records are computed for the same damping, considering the specific hysteretic model used in the analysis. A comparison of the inelastic input energy demands on single-degree-of-freedom (SDOF) systems subjected to the selected pulse-like ground motions is presented for various ductility ratios. The ratios of inelastic energy spectral ordinates to elastic energy spectral ordinates are then compared graphically. It is observed that as the ductility ratio increases, the ratio of inelastic to elastic input energies begins to decrease, because inelastic input energy tends to diminish with higher ductility ratios. The results are presented graphically for the selected pulse-like ground motions from the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquake, revealing fluctuations around the ratio of 1.0 across different periods. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2025
Relationship Between Blastocystis Infection and Clinical Outcomes: a Scoping Review Protocol
No full textBlastocystis, a common protist in the human gastrointestinal tract, exhibits substantial genetic diversity and has been linked to varying clinical outcomes. However, its role in human health remains debated, with studies suggesting both commensal and pathogenic interactions. This scoping review aims to systematically map the existing evidence on the association between Blastocystis presence and human clinical outcomes. Herein, we present our proposed protocol, where, using systematic search methods, studies will be identified from multiple databases, focusing on diagnostic procedures, clinical outcomes, and treatment options. Findings will provide a comprehensive evidence map, highlighting knowledge gaps and guiding future research. The resulting data is intended to inform clinical and public health perspectives on Blastocystis and its potential implications for human health. Copyright: © 2025 Tunali V et al.European Cooperation in Science and Technology, COST, (CA21105); European Cooperation in Science and Technology, COS
Asymptotic Constancy for Solutions of Abstract Non-Linear Fractional Equations With Delay and Generalized Hilfer (i> A,/I>i> B,/I>i> A/I> )- Derivatives
No full textIn this paper, we investigate the asymptotic constancy for solutions of abstract non-linear fractional differential (difference) equations with delay and generalized Hilfer ( a, b, a )- derivatives. Our results are applicable to the abstract fractional functional equations with the usually considered Riemann-Liouville, Caputo, Hilfer and Prabhakar derivatives.B>Acknowledgments/B> The authors would like to thank the anonymous reviewers for their valuable comments which substantially improved the paper. The first named author is partially supported by grant 451-03-68/2020/14/200156 of Ministry of Science and Technological Devel-opment, Republic of Serbia.Ministry of Science and Technological Devel-opment, Republic of Serbia [451-03-68/2020/14/200156
Reliability and Construct Validity of Three Self-Report Questionnaires Assessing Dual-Task Difficulties in People With Multiple Sclerosis: an International Study
No full textKalron, Prof. Alon/0000-0001-7999-0868; Meza Murillo, Edwin Roger/0000-0001-6065-3546; Kos, Daphne/0000-0003-3566-2269; Abasiyanik, Zuhal/0000-0003-3086-8102Objective: To evaluate the reliability and validity of the dual-tasking questionnaire (DTQ), dual-task screening list (DTSL), and dual-task impact on daily life activities questionnaire (DIDA-Q). Design: Multicenter, cross-sectional study Setting: Persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) were recruited from 7 multiple sclerosis centers across 6 countries (Belgium, Chile, Italy, Israel, Spain, and Turkey). Participants: A total of 356 pwMS (mean age 47.5 +/- 11.5y, expanded disability status scale, 3.79 +/- 1.83) were enrolled. Interventions: Not applicable Main Outcome Measures: The reliability (internal consistency, test-retest, and measurement error) and construct validity (structural and convergent) were assessed. Results: The DTQ, DTSL, and DIDA-Q demonstrated excellent test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficients [95% CI], 0.84 [0.80-0.87] to 0.90 [0.87-0.92]) and internal consistency (Cronbach a: 0.86-0.96). As hypothesized, the 3 questionnaires showed a strong correlation with each other, moderate-to-strong correlations with other self-report questionnaires (perceived walking difficulties, fatigue, and fear of falling), and low- to-moderate correlations with cognitive information processing speed, manual dexterity, and dual-task walking performance (walking with word list generation task), showing convergent validity. The DIDA-Q exhibited systematically superior properties. These results were also verified in subsets from 6 different countries. In the structural validity analysis, all questionnaires displayed 2 main factors, allocated as "motor-driven" and "cognitive-driven" subscales. Conclusions: The DTQ, DTSL, and DIDA-Q have good-to-excellent measurement properties, with the highest properties observed in DIDA-Q. The use of these self-reported questionnaires can be used in research and clinical practice to assess the effect of dual-task difficulties on the daily life of ambulatory pwMS. (c) 2024 by the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine.RIMS; European Network for Best Practice and Research in MS RehabilitationThis study was funded by a grant (RiGra) provided by RIMS, European Network for Best Practice and Research in MS Rehabilitation (www.eurims.org
Polylactic Acid/Microalgal Biopolymer Synthesis: a Complete Process Including the Optimization of Microalgae and Biopolymer Characterization
No full textGungormusler, Mine/0000-0002-0207-405XThis study aims to investigate and enhance PLA/microalgal biopolymer properties and minimize microalgal production costs using a statistical design of experiments optimization methodology. The Box-Behnken design, which is a response surface-based methodology, was used for media optimization, resulting in a lower cost of microalgal cultivation and a lower yield compared with BG-11 with an average biomass weight and cell count of 226 mg l-1 and 1.704 cells ml-1 compared with 451 mg l-1 and 4 x 106 cells ml-1 obtained with BG-11, costing only US$ 0.017 l-1 for the utilized media. Furthermore, this cheap media composition demonstrated high substrate uptake up to 1200 mg l-1 for the first time for Chlorella vulgaris. Following the successful growth of microalgae, the biomass was harvested by centrifugation use of synthesized magnetic particles with a harvesting efficiency of 92.9% for further biopolymer production in which the polylactic acid was used in the solvent-casting method. This methodology was applied for the first time with a two-step annealing process at 105 degrees C with a comparative approach including a no-annealing process. The process results demonstrated improved tensile strength with a maximum value of 15.646 MPa, and to our knowledge, this is the highest obtained by utilizing Chlorella vulgaris with PLA in the solvent casting method. Finally, the biodegradation profiles in seawater were briefly examined, showing a weight reduction of up to 0.9-3.5 mg after 20 days