Fen Edebiyat Fakültesi / Faculty of Letters and Science

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A Partial Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Signature For Highly Aggressive Colorectal Cancer Cells That Survive Under Nutrient Restriction
(JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY, 2024-01-24) Pastorino, Gil A.; Sheraj, Ilir; Oral, Goksu; Gulec Taskiran, Aliye Ezgi; Palmisano, Ralph; Schneider-Stock, Regine
Partial epithelial-mesenchymal transition (p-EMT) has recently been identified as a hybrid state consisting of cells with both epithelial and mesenchymal characteristics and is associated with the migration, metastasis, and chemoresistance of cancer cells. Here, we describe the induction of p-EMT in starved colorectal cancer (CRC) cells and identify a p-EMT gene signature that can predict prognosis. Functional characterisation of starvation-induced p-EMT in HCT116, DLD1, and HT29 cells showed changes in proliferation, morphology, and drug sensitivity, supported by in vivo studies using the chorioallantoic membrane model. An EMT-specific quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) array was used to screen for deregulated genes, leading to the establishment of an in silico gene signature that was correlated with poor disease-free survival in CRC patients along with the CRC consensus molecular subtype CMS4. Among the significantly deregulated p-EMT genes, a triple-gene signature consisting of SERPINE1, SOX10, and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) was identified. Starvation-induced p-EMT was characterised by increased migratory potential and chemoresistance, as well as E-cadherin processing and internalisation. Both gene signature and E-cadherin alterations could be reversed by the proteasomal inhibitor MG132. Spatially resolving EGFR expression with high-resolution immunofluorescence imaging identified a proliferation stop in starved CRC cells caused by EGFR internalisation. In conclusion, we have gained insight into a previously undiscovered EMT mechanism that may become relevant when tumour cells are under nutrient stress, as seen in early stages of metastasis. Targeting this process of tumour cell dissemination might help to prevent EMT and overcome drug resistance. (c) 2024 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Abnormal subcortical activity in congenital mirror movement disorder with RAD51 mutation
(2018) Demirayak, Pinar; Onat, Onur Emre; Gevrekci, Aslıhan Ors; Gulsuner, Suleyman; Uysal, Hilmi; Bilgen, Rengin; Doerschner, Katja; Ozcelik, Tayfun; Boyaci, Hueseyin; 30406765
PURPOSE Congenital mirror movement disorder (CMMD) is characterized by unintended, nonsuppressible, homologous mirroring activity contralateral to the movement on the intended side of the body. healthy controls, unilateral movements are accompanied with predominantly contralateral cortical activity, whereas in CMMD, in line with the abnormal behavior, bilateral cortical activity is observed for unilateral motor tasks. However, task-related activities in subcortical structures, which are known to play critical roles in motor actions, have not been investigated in CMMD previously. METHODS We investigated the functional activation patterns of the motor components in CMMD patients. By using linkage analysis and exome sequencing, common mutations were revealed in seven affected individuals from the same family. Next, using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRl) we investigated cortical and subcortical activity during manual motor actions in two right-handed affected brothers and sex, age, education, and socioeconomically matched healthy individuals. RESULTS Genetic analyses revealed heterozygous RAD51 c.401C>T mutation which cosegregated with the phenotype in two affected members of the family. Consistent with previous literature, our fMRI results on these two affected individuals showed that mirror movements were closely related to abnormal cortical activity in M1 and SMA during unimanual movements. Furthermore, we have found previously unknown abnormal task-related activity in subcortical structures. Specifically, we have found increased and bilateral activity during unimanual movements in thalamus, striatum, and globus pallidus in CMMD patients. CONCLUSION These findings reveal further neural correlates of CMMD, and may guide our understanding of the critical roles of subcortical structures for unimanual movements in healthy individuals.
An Abstract Mind is a Principled One: Abstract Mindset Increases Consistency in Responses to Political Attitude Scales
(2018) Alper, Sinan; 0000-0002-9051-0690; ABG-6854-2020
Past literature suggested that not everyone is politically sophisticated. In the current research, it is proposed that an experimental manipulation of abstract mindset would decrease variation in responses to political attitude scales and render individuals more internally consistent in their political attitudes. Three hypotheses are proposed: (1) Abstract mindset would lower within-subject standard deviations (SDs) and increase Cronbach's alphas in responses to political attitude scales; (2) decrease in SDs could not be attributed to a response bias; and (3) abstract mindset would lower SDs even after controlling for differences in mean scores on those scales. In seven experiments, five different paradigms were used to manipulate abstractness and four different political scales were used as dependent measures on samples from two distinct cultures (US and Turkey). Analyses of individual studies and an aggregate analysis of combined data supported all hypotheses and showed that abstract mindset decreases SDs and increases Cronbach's alpha scores in self-reported political attitudes. Results suggest that abstract mindset enhances apparent political sophistication by highlighting core political beliefs behind different attitudinal statements. Implications for construal level theory and political sophistication research are discussed.
Advancements in QTL Mapping and GWAS Application in Plant Improvement
(TURKISH JOURNAL OF BOTANY, 2024) Altaf, Muhammad Tanveer; Tatar, Muhammed; Ali, Amjad; Liaqat, Waqas; Mortazvi, Parnaz; Kayihan, Ceyhun; Olmez, Fatih; Nadeem, Muhammad Azhar; Javed, Jazib; Gou, Jin-Ying; Wang, Meng-Lu; Umar, Ummad Ud Din; Dasgan, Hayriye Yildiz; Kurt, Cemal; Yildiz, Mehtap; Mansoor, Sheikh; Dababat, Abdelfattah A.; Celiktas, Nafiz; Baloch, Faheem Shehzad
In modern plant breeding, molecular markers have become indispensable tools, allowing the precise identification of genetic loci linked to key agronomic traits. These markers provide critical insight into the genetic architecture of crops, accelerating the selection of desirable traits for sustainable agriculture. This review focuses on the advancements in quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping and genome-wide association studies (GWASs), highlighting their effective roles in identifying complex traits such as stress tolerance, yield, disease resistance, and nutrient efficiency. QTL mapping identifies the significant genetic regions linked to desired traits, while GWASs enhance precision using larger populations. The integration of high-throughput phenotyping has further improved the efficiency and accuracyof QTL research and GWASs, enabling precise trait analysis across diverse conditions. Additionally, next-generation sequencing, clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) technology, and transcriptomics have transformed these methods, offering profound insights into gene function and regulation. Single-cell RNA sequencing further enhances our understanding of plant responses at the cellular level, especially under environmental stress. Despite this progress, however, challenges persist in optimizing methods, refining training populations, and integrating these tools into breeding programs. Future studies must aim to enhance genetic prediction models, incorporate advanced molecular technologies, and refine functional markers to tackle the challenges of sustainable agriculture.
Comparative Genomics Of Four Lactic Acid Bacteria Identified With Vitek Ms (Maldi-Tof) And Whole-Genome Sequencing
(MOLECULAR GENETICS AND GENOMICS, 2024-11) Kahraman-Ilikkan, Ozge
Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) can be used as a probiotic or starter culture in dairy, meat, and vegetable fermentation. Therefore, their isolation and identification are essential. Recent advances in omics technologies and high-throughput sequencing have made the identification and characterization of bacteria. This study firstly aimed to demonstrate the sensitivity of the Vitek MS (MALDI-TOF) system in the identification of lactic acid bacteria and, secondly, to characterize bacteria using various bioinformatics approaches. Probiotic potency-related genes and secondary metabolite biosynthesis gene clusters were examined. The Vitek MS (MALDI-TOF) system was able to identify all of the bacteria at the genus level. According to whole genome sequencing, the bacteria were confirmed to be Lentilactobacillus buchneri, Levilactobacillus brevis, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Levilactobacillus namurensis. Bacteria had most of the probiotic potency-related genes, and different toxin-antitoxin systems such as PemIK/MazEF, Hig A/B, YdcE/YdcD, YefM/YoeB. Also, some of the secondary metabolite biosynthesis gene clusters, some toxic metabolite-related genes, and antibiotic resistance-related genes were detected. In addition, Lentilactobacillus buchneri Egmn17 had a type II-A CRISPR/Cas system. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Gmze16 had a bacteriocin, plantaricin E/F.
Comprehensive Analysis Of The Crispr-Cas Systems In Streptococcus Thermophilus Strains Isolated From Traditional Yogurts
(ANTONIE VAN LEEUWENHOEK INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GENERAL AND MOLECULAR MICROBIOLOGY, 2024-12) Ozcan, Ali; Yibar, Artun; Kiraz, Deniz; Ilikkan, Ozge Kahraman
Phage resistance is crucial for lactic acid bacteria in the dairy industry. However, identifying all phages affecting these bacteria is challenging. CRISPR-Cas systems offer a resistance mechanism developed by bacteria and archaea against phages and plasmids. In this study, 11 S. thermophilus strains from traditional yogurts underwent analysis using next-generation sequencing (NGS) and bioinformatics tools. Initial characterization involved molecular ribotyping. Bioinformatics analysis of the NGS raw data revealed that all 11 strains possessed at least one CRISPR type. A total of 21 CRISPR loci were identified, belonging to CRISPR types II-A, II-C, and III-A, including 13 Type II-A, 1 Type III-C, and 7 Type III-A CRISPR types. By analyzing spacer sequences in S. thermophilus bacterial genomes and matching them with phage/plasmid genomes, notable strains emerged. SY9 showed prominence with 132 phage matches and 30 plasmid matches, followed by SY12 with 35 phage matches and 25 plasmid matches, and SY18 with 49 phage matches and 13 plasmid matches. These findings indicate the potential of S. thermophilus strains in phage/plasmid resistance for selecting starter cultures, ultimately improving the quality and quantity of dairy products. Nevertheless, further research is required to validate these results and explore the practical applications of this approach.
Copy Number Variations Of Stepwise-Selected Doxorubicin-Resistant Mcf-7 Cell Lines
(GENE, 2025-02) Acinan, Irem Sinem; Kazan, Hasan Huseyin; Kandemir, Basak; Karahan, Ceyhan Piril; Kayhan, Guelsuem); Iseri, Ozlem Darcansoy
Elimination of cytotoxic effect in cells with multidrug resistance (MDR) phenotype is a situation that is gradually acquired over time and develops through multiple pathways resulting in global phenotypic changes of cells. Although molecular background of the resistance phenotype has widely been studied in the gene expression level, segmental and gene copy number variations (CNVs) have limitedly been documented. Thus, in the present study, we aimed to analyze the CNVs using DNA microarray in the sensitive and two doxorubicin-resistant MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines which had different resistance indices. In the present study, we performed conventional karyotyping and array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH). Then, results of aCGH data were studied with genomic profiling, comparison analysis and ideogram plotting to evaluate genomic profiles, and the loss and gains of heterozygosity profiles. Next, gene lists for each cell line were compared with the 66-breast cancer- related genes and the multidrug resistance-related genes. aCGH analyses showed that CNV profiles and the copy number of specific genes were dramatically different between these three cell lines. Totally, 6212, 6558, and 11,201 genes were found to be altered in MCF-7, MCF-7/400DOX, and MCF-7/1000DOX genomes, respectively. Amongst the MCF-7/1000DOX had the highest number of altered genes, and doxorubicin resistance may cause differential chromosomal changes depending on the resistance status. DNA microarray would be one of the informative methods used in the studies on the cancer drug resistance in addition to transcriptomic and proteomic level high throughput analysis to define molecular mechanisms of the resistance status.
Determining the Dielectric Characteristics of the Au/C20H12/n-Si (MPS) Structure Over A Wide Temperature and Voltage
(INDIAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICS, 2024) Bengi, S; Altindal, S; Zeyrek, S
The temperature and voltage effects on dielectric properties (epsilon ' and epsilon ''), electric modulus (M' and M''), and ac electrical conductivity (sigma(ac)) of the fabricated Au/C20H12/n-Si (MPS) structures have been investigated in wide temperature range of 200-400 K and voltage (+/- 3 V) using C/G-V measurements at 500 kHz. The voltage and temperature dependence profile of phase-angle (theta degrees) were also extracted from the impedance (Z ' and Z ''). All these parameters were found as a function of temperature and voltage in the forward bias region due to the relaxation mechanisms and interface traps located at C20H12/n-Si interface in the bandgap of Si. The characterizations show that main dielectric parameters such as dielectric constant (epsilon'), dielectric loss (epsilon''), tangent loss (tan delta), and ac electrical conductivity (sigma(ac)) increase with increasing temperature, epsilon'-V and M''-V plots show a peak, and its magnitude and position vary with temperature due to reordering/restructure of traps and polarization under temperature and voltage effects. The E-a value was obtained from the slope of Arrhenius, Ln(sigma(ac))-q/kT), plot as 40.8 meV.
Effective Health Communication Depends on the Interaction of Message Source and Content: Two Experiments on Adherence to COVID-19 Measures in Türkiye
(PSYCHOLOGY & HEALTH, 2024) Bayrak, Fatih; Aktar, Bengi; Aydas, Berke; Yilmaz, Onurcan; Alper, Sinan; Isler, Ozan
ObjectiveFollowing the COVID-19 outbreak, authorities recommended preventive measures to reduce infection rates. However, adherence to calls varied between individuals and across cultures. To determine the characteristics of effective health communication, we investigated three key features: message source, content, and audience.MethodsUsing a pre-test and two experiments, we tested how message content (emphasizing personal or social benefit), audience (individual differences), message source (scientists or state officials), and their interaction influence adherence to preventive measures. Using fliers advocating preventive measures, Experiment 1 investigated the effects of message content and examined the moderator role of individual differences. Experiment 2 presented the messages using news articles and manipulated sources.ResultsStudy 1 found decreasing adherence over time, with no significant impact from message content or individual differences. Study 2 found messages emphasizing 'protect yourself' and 'protect your country' to increase intentions for adherence to preventive measures. It also revealed an interaction between message source and content whereby messages emphasizing personal benefit were more effective when they came from healthcare professionals than from state officials. However, message source and content did not affect vaccination intentions or donations for vaccine research.ConclusionEffective health communication requires simultaneous consideration of message source and content.
Effects of Delayed-Onset Muscle Pain on Respiratory Muscle Function
(SPORTS HEALTH-A MULTIDISCIPLINARY APPROACH, 2024-11) Ozden, Sema; Ozalp, Ozge; Kilic, Rabia Tugba; Yosmaoglu, Hayri Baran
Background: Delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) has been widely examined in the peripheral muscles; however, studies showing the potential effects of DOMS on respiratory function are limited.Hypothesis: DOMS in trunk muscles has a negative effect on respiratory function parameters, respiratory muscle strength, respiratory muscle endurance, and exercise capacity.Study design: Prospective cohort study.Level of evidence: Level 2.Methods: In 24 healthy participants with a mean age of 21 +/- 2 years, DOMS was induced for the trunk muscles with a load equal to 80% of the maximum repetitive voluntary contraction. Pulmonary function parameters, respiratory muscle strength and endurance, exercise capacity, pain, fatigue, and dyspnea perception severity were recorded before DOMS and at 24 and 48 hours after DOMS.Results: After DOMS, decreases were observed in respiratory function parameters, namely, forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in the first second, vital capacity, and 25% to 75% flow rate value of forced expiratory volume (25% to 75%) (P = 0.02, P = 0.02, P < 0.01, P = 0.01, respectively). Maximal inspiratory pressure and exercise capacity also decreased (P = 0.02, P < 0.01, respectively). No difference was observed between all 3 measurements of maximal expiratory pressure (MEP) and MEP% values (P-1 = P-2 = P-3 >= 0.99). The results of the respiratory muscle endurance tests did not reveal a significant difference in terms of load and time in all 3 conditions (P > 0.05).Conclusion: After DOMS, there was a 4% to 7.5% decrease in respiratory function parameters, and a 6.6% decrease in respiratory muscle strength.Clinical relevance: The occurrence of DOMS before a competition can have a detrimental impact on pulmonary performance. Hence, it is imperative to consider this factor when devising training and exercise programs. In addition, the development of treatment protocols becomes crucial if DOMS arises.
Emotional Wellbeing and Life Satisfaction of Singles and Mated People Across 12 Nations
(EVOLUTIONARY PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE, 2024-12) Apostolou, Menelaos; Tekes, Burcu; Blachnio, Agata; Sullman, Mark; Costello, William
The increasing occurrence of singlehood raises the question of whether people enjoy greater emotional wellbeing alone or in an intimate relationship. Guided by an evolutionary theoretical framework of human emotions, the current research aimed to address whether individuals are emotionally better off single than in an intimate relationship, taking a cross-cultural perspective. The quality of the relationship is also crucial; thus, the study also aimed to determine whether individuals in a good or bad intimate relationship differ from each other and from those who are single in terms of emotional wellbeing. In a sample of 6338 participants from 12 nations, we found that singles experienced lower emotional wellbeing and life satisfaction than those in relationships. More specifically, participants who were in a relationship or married reported the highest life satisfaction and emotional wellbeing, while those involuntarily single reported the lowest levels, with individuals who are between relationships or voluntarily single reporting intermediate levels. Additionally, participants in a good relationship experienced higher emotional wellbeing and life satisfaction than those in a bad relationship. The findings among the involuntarily single participants were similarly negative, but to a lesser extent than those in a bad relationship. These results were consistent across the different nations in our sample.
Empathy Increases Warmth Toward Syrian and Afghans, but not Ukrainians: Experimental Evidence from Türkiye
(INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF INTERCULTURAL RELATIONS, 2024) Aktas, Busra Eylem; Salter, Metin Ege; Yilmaz, Ayse Nur; Eker, Selin
Previous research has documented that economic concerns might limit the positive impact of empathy in reducing prejudicial attitudes toward refugees in Turkiye. Other research has also shown that religious conservatism might buffer negativity toward refugees. However, there has been no prior research testing whether empathizing with economic hardships would increase positivity toward refugees. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of empathy by leading individuals to adopt the perspective of those experiencing the detrimental effects of resource scarcity among Turkish citizens. Specifically, we examined whether inducing empathy related to resource scarcity would increase the level of warmth felt toward Syrian, Afghan, and Ukrainian refugees, while considering the moderating roles of religiosity and conservatism in this relationship. The present study employed a between-subjects design experiment wherein participants were randomly assigned to either the control group (n = 131) or the experimental group (n = 110). The results showed that participants in the experimental group reported higher levels of warmth toward Syrians and Afghans but not toward Ukrainians when compared to the control group. Moreover, there were significant moderator roles for religiosity and conservatism in the link between induced empathy and warmth toward Syrians. Specifically, the present findings demonstrate that higher levels of religiosity and conservatism positively predict the association between empathy induction and higher levels of warmth toward Syrians but not toward Ukrainians and Afghans. Overall, these results suggest that empathizing with the scarcity of resources might be an effective approach to reducing negative attitudes toward Afghan and Syrian refugees, but it may not have the same impact on Ukrainians in the Turkish cultural context. Furthermore, these findings indicate that higher levels of conservatism and religiosity can contribute to a positive impact of empathy toward Syrians.
Evaluation of The Use of Plant Protection Products in Türkiye and in The World and Recommendations
(KSU TARIM VE DOGA DERGISI-KSU JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURE AND NATURE, 2024-04-17) Cem-Erdogan
The agricultural sector faces a wide range of local and global risks such as increasing food demand, rapid increase in world population, gradual decrease in fertile agricultural land, loss of biodiversity, environmental pollution, climate change, drought, increasing number of harmful organisms limiting crop production, resistance to plant protection products (PPPs), negative effects of PPPs on beneficial insects, residue, young population moving away from agriculture, etc. Nowadays, chemical control is the most preferred method of controlling diseases, pests and weeds that affect yield and quality in agricultural production, and Plant Protection Products (PPPs) are used. In 2022, 55,374 tonnes of PPP was used in our Turkiye. In Turkiye, PPP usage in the rate per hectare is 2.26 kg/ha, which is quite low compared to developed countries. However, in the Mediterranean, Aegean and Marmara regions where agricultural production activities are intensively carried out, the amount of PPP consumption is high. The use of PPP by groups in the world, it has increased by 53% to 111% compared to the 1990s. The use of PPPs in agriculture in the world is 3.5 million tonnes of active ingredients in 2021 with an increase of 4% compared to 2020, and the total pesticide trade is 7.1 million tonnes of formulated products with a total value of 43.2 billion USD. In this study, the use of PPPs in the world and our country was analysed and recommendations were made.
Fear of Relationship Commitment and Singlehood
(EVOLUTIONARY PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE, 2024-03) Apostolou, Menelaos; Tekes, Burcu
Not having an intimate partner is a common state in contemporary post-industrial societies. One reason that individuals report for being single is their fear of relationship commitment. The objective of the current research was to investigate the factors that are associated with the fear of relationship commitment and how this fear is associated with singlehood. In a sample of 453 Turkish-speaking participants, we found that lower levels of agreeableness, openness, mating performance, and relationship quality were associated with a higher fear of relationship commitment. Moreover, a higher fear of relationship commitment was linked to a greater likelihood of being single compared to being in an intimate relationship. Additionally, we found that lower levels of self-esteem, extraversion, and openness were associated with reduced mating performance, which, in turn, was associated with a higher fear of relationship commitment and a higher probability of being single compared to being in an intimate relationship.
Investigation Of Possible Use Of Pheromone Trap For Adult Population Development And Control Of Ips Sexdentatus (Börner, 1776) (Coleoptera: Scolytidae) Damaging Black Pine In Başkent University Bağlica Campus Afforestation Area
(TURKIYE ENTOMOLOJI DERGISI-TURKISH JOURNAL OF ENTOMOLOGY, 2024-04-12) Erdogan, Cem
The six -toothed pine bark beetle, Ips sexdentatus (Borner, 1776) (Coleoptera: Scolytidae), is one of the important pests of Pinus and Picea species in the forests of Turkiye. Baskent University Baglica Campus was established in 1993 and approximately 5 million trees have been planted in the area to date, including those that have dried up. Pheromone traps were hung in campus for monitoring the adult population development, determining the flight activities of the insect and controlling it on IPM principles. The first adult emergence of I. sexdentatus in Baglica took place in the first half of April, the highest flight activity was in April. Ips sexdentatus produced three generations in the region. The highest numbers of adults caught in traps were 741 (27 July 2021) and 421 (25 April 2022), respectively. In the Baglica Campus, a total of over 19,000 insects were caught and eliminated. Almost 328 tC of carbon stock was preserved and prevented from being released into nature and at least 11.100 black pine trees were saved or 26.640 USD was contributed to the economy. Using pheromone traps for the control of I. sexdentatus is recommended as a sustainable method that protects biodiversity, without any disturbance of the ecological balance.
Mass Migration Governance And Openness Toward Refugees: Comparing Germany And Turkey
(INTERNATIONAL MIGRATION, 2024-01-22) Erden, Yigit; Ozcurumez, Saime
This study seeks answers to the question: 'Under what conditions do communities with migration experience in refugee-receiving states become more open toward accepting more refugees and why?'. The research seeks answers to this question by examining the attitudes of individuals (N = 37) from Turkey who have been living in Germany for at least a year and who have sufficient familiarity with the characteristics of governance of mass migration in both countries. The findings suggest that the respondents are more pessimistic about the consequences of Turkey accepting more refugees in the future, while they are optimistic about the outcomes of the arrival of more refugees in Germany. This study posits that receiving communities' perceptions about the host state's regulatory and institutional capacity in managing mass migration and integration of refugees shape their attitudes toward the possibility of the influx of more refugees over time. The findings indicate that efficient mass migration governance in a receiving state is identified through four characteristics: (i) admission of educated refugees, (ii) proper refugee registration procedures, (iii) systematic integration processes, and (iv) effective monitoring and law enforcement mechanisms. The study concludes that local communities view public authorities as the key actors in managing the consequences of mass migration and establishing and sustaining good mass migration governance at the receiving state level is likely to facilitate positive attitudes towards accepting more refugees.
"My Body is A Cage": A Qualitative Investigation Into The Self-Discrepancy Experiences of Young Women with Metastatic Cancer
(CHRONIC ILLNESS, 2024) Kahraman-Erkus, Ozlem; Ar-Karci, Yagmur; Gencoz, Tulin
Objectives: The current study investigated self-discrepancy experiences of young women with metastatic cancer.Methods: Semistructured interviews were conducted. Data were analyzed through interpretative phenomenological analysis.Findings: Eight female patients with metastatic cancer aged between 27 and 38 years formed the sample. Three superordinate themes emerged: (1) compulsory changes in self-concept with ambivalent evaluations; (2) new ideals not on the agenda of a healthy young woman; and (3) so-called 'minimalist' expectations from others.Discussion: Findings indicated that diagnosis and treatment of metastatic cancer impose unique developmental challenges for young adult women. Advanced cancer disrupted the tasks and responsibilities of young adulthood, resulting in frustration, grief, isolation, and overcompensation. These findings suggest that a developmental perspective is crucial when working with self-discrepancy experiences of young women with metastatic cancer.
Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin (NGAL) and Inflammatory Markers in Schizophrenia: A Comparative Analysis of Drug-Naive Schizophrenia Patients, Remitted Patients, and Healthy Controls
(JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRIC RESEARCH, 2024) Ciftci, Hatice; Asut, Gonca; Kaya, Hasan; Cakmak, Isik Batuhan; Yilmaz, Meltem Aydiner; Copur, Ahmet; Calci, Esin; Oguz, Esra Firat; Turhan, Turan; Goka, Erol
This study aims to examine the plasma concentrations of NGAL and other inflammatory parameters, including TNF-alpha, IL-1 beta, and IFN-gamma, in schizophrenia patients and healthy volunteers. It also investigates potential associations between these biomarkers and symptom severity in schizophrenia and the utility of NGAL as a potential diagnostic and monitoring biomarker for schizophrenia. The study included 49 drug-naive schizophrenia patients (DNS), 59 patients with schizophrenia in remission (REM) on antipsychotic treatment, and 58 healthy volunteers (HC). The Positive and Negative Symptoms Evaluation Scale (PANSS) was utilized to assess the severity of symptoms in schizophrenia patients. Plasma levels of TNF-alpha, IL-1 beta, IFN-gamma, and NGAL were measured for all participants. NGAL levels were significantly lower in the DNS group than in HC. Significantly lower TNF-alpha levels were observed in both the DNS and REM groups compared to the HC group. Notably, a statistically significant positive correlation was detected between TNF-alpha and NGAL levels. The findings of this study are noteworthy, as they demonstrate that drug-naive individuals with schizophrenia exhibit significantly diminished levels of NGAL and TNF-alpha compared to healthy controls. These identified biomarkers hold promise for providing valuable insights into the complex and evolving pathophysiology of schizophrenia.
Omega Fatty Acid Ratios and Neurodegeneration in A Healthy Environment
(PROSTAGLANDINS & OTHER LIPID MEDIATORS, 2024) Yelken, H. Dere; Elci, M. P.; Turker, P. F.; Demirkaya, S
Neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Multiple Sclerosis pose substantial public health challenges. While genetics play a primary role, recent research emphasizes the impact of environmental factors, particularly diet and lifestyle. This study investigates the initiating effects of Omega (omega)3 and Omega (omega)- 6 fatty acids on neuroinflammation, potentially contributing to these diseases. Using BV-2 microglial cells, we explored the influence of different fatty acid compositions and ratios on cell viability, cytokine production, morphological changes, and lipid peroxidation. Notably, a 2/1 omega-6:omega-3 ratio led to decreased cell viability. Fatty acid compositions influenced cytokine secretion, with reduced TNF-alpha suggesting anti-inflammatory effects. IL-17 increased, while IL-4 and IL-10 decreased in the 15/1 omega-6:omega-3 ratio, indicating complex cytokine interactions. This study found that polyunsaturated fatty acids interventions induced microglial activation, altering cell morphology even without immunostimulants. These findings demonstrate the intricate nature of fatty acid interactions with microglial cells and their potential implications for neuroinflammation. Further research is needed to clarify mechanisms and their relevance to neurodegenerative diseases, informing possible therapeutic strategies.
Power, Meta-Perceptions, And Belonging: How Positive Recognition Matters For Group Identification, Identity Compatibility, And Intergroup Attitudes
(POLITICAL PSYCHOLOGY, 2024-12) Obradovic, Sandra; Albayrak-Aydemir, Nihan; Amer, Amena; Boza, Mihaela; Kislioglu, Resit
Creating a shared group identification has been theorized as one pathway for overcoming intergroup divides within larger, superordinate contexts. Although self-identification with superordinate groups has been extensively studied in political psychology, less attention has been paid to how others' recognition of our belonging shapes this process. The present paper examines the role of such perceived recognition for European identification across three countries - Romania, Serbia, and T & uuml;rkiye - using data from three studies. We find support for a hierarchical framing of a superordinate group (Study 1, N = 374), where the perspective of more prototypical subgroups come to act as gatekeepers, impacting the identities of less prototypical members (Study 2, N = 1255). Through an experimental design (Study 3, N = 573), we find that exposure to more positive perspectives of prototypical subgroups can increase identification, superordinate-subordinate identity compatibility and political support for group membership. Significant differences emerge between the countries, highlighting the importance of socio-political and historical context, which we consider in the discussion.