Showing papers by "Ahi Evran University published in 2018"

The impact of foreign direct investment on CO2 emissions in Turkey: new evidence from cointegration and bootstrap causality analysis.

Abstract: Pollution haven hypothesis (PHH), which is defined as foreign direct investment inducing a raising impact on the pollution level in the hosting country, is lately a subject of discussion in the field of economics. This study, within the scope of related discussion, aims to look into the potential impact of foreign direct investments on CO2 emission in Turkey in 1974-2013 period using environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) model. For this purpose, Maki (Econ Model 29(5):2011-2015, 2012) structural break cointegration test, Stock and Watson (Econometrica 61:783-820, 1993) dynamic ordinary least square estimator (DOLS), and Hacker and Hatemi-J (J Econ Stud 39(2):144-160, 2012) bootstrap test for causality method are used. Research results indicate the existence of a long-term balance relationship between FDI, economic growth, energy usage, and CO2 emission. As per this relationship, in Turkey, (1) the potential impact of FDI on CO2 emission is positive. This result shows that PHH is valid in Turkey. (2) Moreover, this is not a one-way relationship; the changes in CO2 emission also affect FDI entries. (3) The results also provide evidence for the existence of the EKC hypothesis in Turkey. Within the frame of related findings, the study concludes several polities and presents various suggestions.

Evaluation of preoperative anxiety and fear of anesthesia using APAIS score.

Abstract: Preoperative anxiety is one of the most important problems for the patients, because it causes emotional and psychiatric problems as well as physical problems It is crucial to detect the patient’s existing anxiety to assist patients Our primary aim in this study is to investigate how the patient’s age, gender, the operation, surgical briefing, type of anesthesia recommended for the operation ahead, and patient’s prior anesthesia experience affect the patient’s anxieties Our secondary aim is to reveal the causes of the patient’s anxieties regarding anesthesia Our study was conducted as a prospective cohort study between May 2016–2017 Interviews with the patients were performed in the anesthesia clinic for preoperative examination For the study, The Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale (APAIS) has been used The answers were evaluated in two scales: the anxiety score and the desire for information score Answers to the statements were evaluated with Likert Scale In addition, our patients were asked whether they had received prior anesthesia, if so, the type of anesthesia, whether they received surgical briefing and anesthetic method we recommended We also asked our patients about the cause of their anxiety regarding the anesthesia A total of 637 patients were recruited to the study, after excluding the patients who do not meet the criteria for inclusion, and 499 patients were included Between the age and desire for information sub-scores, a negative significant correlation was detected (r: − 0241; p = 0001) We found that the scores of graduates of university and higher were statistically significant than the primary school graduates (p = 0003) and secondary school graduates (p = 0034) Anxiety sub-scores of the patients who underwent general anesthesia were found to be significantly higher than the patients who underwent regional anesthesia (p = 0029) Anxiety sub-scores of females were found to be significantly higher than the males (p = 0001) We think that being aware of the patients’ anxiety and finding appropriate approaches for their anxieties can be valuable APAIS is an effective method to measure patient anxiety and it might be beneficial to use during preoperative visits Patient satisfaction and superior outcomes can be achieved in this way Trial registration ISRCTN43960422 Registered 19/02/2018—Retrospectively registered http://wwwisrctncom/ISRCTN43960422

Involvement of miRNAs and Pseudogenes in Cancer.

Abstract: Our understanding of cancer pathways has been changed by the determination of noncoding transcripts in the human genome in recent years. miRNAs and pseudogenes are key players of the noncoding transcripts from the genome, and alteration of their expression levels provides clues for significant biomarkers in pathogenesis of diseases. Especially, miRNAs and pseudogenes have both oncogenic and tumor-suppressive roles in each step of cancer tumorigenesis. In this current study, association between oncogenes and miRNAs-pseudogenes was reviewed and determined in human cancer by the CellMiner web-tool.

Effects of Ai Chi on balance, quality of life, functional mobility, and motor impairment in patients with Parkinson's disease .

Abstract: Purpose: In this study, we aimed to investigate effects of Ai Chi on balance, functional mobility, health-related quality of life, and motor impairment in patients with Parkinson’s disease.Method: This study was conducted as an open-label randomized controlled trial (ISRCTN26292510) with repeated measures. Forty patients with Parkinson’s disease stages 2 to 3 according to the Hoehn and Yahr Scale were randomly allocated to either an Ai Chi exercise group or a land-based exercise control group for 5 weeks. Balance was measured using the Biodex-3,1 and the Berg Balance Scale. Functional mobility was evaluated using the Timed Up and Go Test. Additionally, health-related quality of life and motor activity were assessed with the Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire-39 and the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale-III.Results: Although patients in both groups showed significant improvement in all outcome variables, improvement of dynamic balance was significantly greater in the Ai Chi group (p < 0.001),...

Removal of aniline from air and water by polymers of intrinsic microporosity (PIM-1) electrospun ultrafine fibers.

Abstract: This research aims to investigate the possibility of electrospun fibers from Polymers of Intrinsic Microporosity (PIM-1) as an alternative adsorbent for aniline removal from both air and aqueous solution. Adsorption properties of electrospun PIM-1 fibers were compared with powder and film form of PIM-1. While electrospun PIM-1 nanofibrous mat can adsorb 871 mg g−1 aniline from air, it can also adsorb 78 ± 5.4 mg g−1 aniline from aqueous environment when 50 mg L−1 aniline solution is used. The experimental maximum adsorption capacity of electrospun PIM-1 fibers was found as (qe) 138 mg g−1. Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models have been studied and Langmuir model found more appropriate for aniline adsorption on electrospun PIM-1 fibers. The study reveals that self-standing electrospun fibrous mat of PIM-1 has shown potential to be used as an efficient adsorbent material for the adsorption of VOCs from air and aqueous system thanks to its fast kinetic and high adsorption capacity.

The Effect of Augmented Reality Use on Achievement, Misconception and Course Engagement.

Abstract: Augmented reality is defined as a technology in which real world and virtual objects are combined with a simultaneous interaction. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of augmented reality use on students' achievement, misconception and course engagement. A (matched) quasi-experimental research design with both pretest and posttest control groups was used in the study. The sample of the study consisted of 118 seventh grade students receiving education in six different classes. The students in the experimental group took their lessons with an augmented reality learning material, while the students in the control group continued using their traditional course materials. An achievement test, a misconception test and the student course engagement questionnaire were used as data collection tools. As a result of a 7-week implementation, this study found that augmented reality technology increased the achievement level of students and eliminated their misconceptions. However, the study also found that augmented reality technology did not affect the course engagement of students.

Effects of augmented reality on student achievement and self-efficacy in vocational education and training

Abstract: This study aimed to test the impact of augmented reality (AR) use on student achievement and self-efficacy in vocational education and training. For this purpose, a marker-based AR application, called HardwareAR, was developed. HardwareAR provides information about characteristics of hardware components, ports and assembly. The research design was quasi experimental with pre-test post-test that included a control group. The study was conducted with 46 undergraduate students in the Computer Hardware Course. Computer hardware course achievement test, motherboard assembly self-efficacy questionnaire and unstructured observation form were used in the study for data collection purposes. The control group learned the theoretical and applied information about motherboard assembly by using their textbooks (print material) while students in the experimental group used HardwareAR application for the same purpose. It was found that the use of AR had a positive impact on student achievement in motherboard assembly whereas it had no impact on students’ self-efficacy related to theoretical knowledge and assembly skills. On the other hand use of AR helped learners to complete the assembly process in a shorter time with less support. It is concluded that compared to control group students, experimental group students were more successful in computer hardware courses. This result shows that AR application can be effective in increasing achievement. It was concluded that AR application had no effect on students’ motherboard assembly theoretical knowledge self-efficacy and motherboard assembly skills self-efficacy. This result may have been affected from the fact that students had high levels of theoretical knowledge and assembly skills before the implementation. Observations showed that AR application enabled students to assemble motherboard in a shorter time with less support. It is thought that simultaneous interaction between virtual objects and real world provided by the AR application is effective in reducing assembly time. The students who were able to see the process steps and instructions directly with the help of HardwareAR application could complete the assembly by getting less help. Considering these results, it can be argued that, thanks to simultaneous interaction it provides, AR offers an important alternative for topics that need learner application and practice.

A mixed research-based model for pre-service science teachers' digital literacy

Abstract: This study constructs a science teaching belief system to examine pre-service science teachers' scientific epistemological beliefs (SEBs) and conceptions of teaching and learning (COTL). The aim of the study was to investigate the structural relations among pre-service science teachers' SEBs, COTL and digital literacy skills and to determine the reasons for these relations. First, quantitative research was conducted to examine the structural relations among the variables, using structural equation modeling analysis on the data gathered from 979 pre-service science teachers. Next, qualitative research investigated the reasons for these relations. Thus, the study has a sequential explanatory research design. The findings of the study showed that pre-service science teachers' SEBs affected their constructivist conceptions positively. On the other hand, their SEBs were related to their traditional conceptions negatively. In addition, pre-service teachers' COTL contribute more positively to their digital literacy skills if they hold constructivist conceptions. The previous experiences of pre-service science teachers were also found to affect their beliefs and digital literacy skills. The findings contribute to the educational literature by focusing on the relationships among pre-service science teachers' SEBs, COLT and digital literacy, which is one of the most important 21st century skills, in the context of pre-service science teachers' belief systems. Pre-service science teachers' SEBs had an effect on their COTL.Pre-service science teachers' COTL contribute more positively to their digital literacy if they hold constructivist COTL.Pre-service science teachers' previous experiences impact their beliefs and digital literacy skills.Digital literacy can be more effectively supported if pre-service science teachers' belief systems are considered.

The Effect of the Metacognitive Support via Pedagogical Agent on Self-Regulation Skills:

Abstract: Flipped Classroom (FC) has become an increasingly popular model in many disciplines in today’s educational system In order for the FC model to be effective, it is important for the student to have

The Effects of STEM Training on the Academic Achievement of 4th Graders in Science and Mathematics and Their Views on STEM Training Teachers.

Abstract: This study aims to identify the effects of STEM training on the academic achievement of 4th graders in science and mathematics, as well as their views about STEM training. The study group consisted of 4th graders with similar science and mathematics achievement levels from two separate elementary schools with similar socioeconomic profiles in Nigde. The study used the quasi experimental pre test-post test control group model. The data were collected by using the Science Achievement Test, Mathematics Achievement Test and a semi-structured interview form. The results showed that STEM training affects science and mathematics achievement, students have positive views about the training, wish to see more of it in future courses, and may consider choosing STEM areas for their future careers.

Electronic and lattice dynamical properties of Ti 2 SiB MAX phase

Abstract: The structural, electronic, mechanic, vibrational and thermodynamic properties of Ti2SiB which is a hypothetical MAX phase compound, have been investigated using density functional theory calculations. The structural optimization of Ti2SiB has been performed and the results have been compared with Ti2SiC, Ti2SiN, and Ti2AlB that are studied in the literature. Then the band structure and corresponding partial density of states are computed. In addition, charge density and Bader charge analysis have been performed. The elastic constants have been obtained, then the secondary results such as bulk modulus, shear modulus, Youngs modulus, Poissons ratio, and Vickers Hardness of polycrystalline aggregates have been derived, and the relevant mechanical properties have been discussed. Moreover, the elastic anisotropy has been visualized in detail by plotting the directional dependence of compressibility, Poisson ratio, Youngs and Shear moduli. Furthermore, the phonon dispersion curves as well as corresponding phonon PDOS, and thermodynamical properties such as free energy, entropy and heat capacity have been computed and the obtained results have been discussed in detail. This study provides the first considerations of Ti2SiB that could have a potential application in nuclear industry.

Relationship between nomophobia and fear of missing out among Turkish university students

Abstract: The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between no mobile phobia (nomophobia) which is defined as a modern fear of being unable to communicate through the mobile phone, and Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) which is known to be related with the problematic relationship with Social Networking Sites (SNSs), and play a critical role in the increased use of Social Networking Sites (SNS). The data were collected from a convenient sample of 538 university students via Nomophobia (NMP-Q) and FOMO Scales, The results show that a positive moderate level of relationship was found between Nomophobia and FOMO levels. The findings showed that FOMO level of university students predicts 41% of the total variance at the Nomophobia level. That is, when FOMO level increases, students’ nomophobia level can be predicted from data depicting the increase.

Uranium sorption by native and nitrilotriacetate-modified Bangia atropurpurea biomass: kinetics and thermodynamics

Abstract: In this study, the red alga Bangia atropurpurea was modified with nitrilotriacetate (NTA) ligand and used for removal of U(VI) ions from aqueous solution using native form as a control system. The modification of B. atropurpurea biomass was realized by sequential treatment of algal biomass with glutaraldehyde and NTA ligand. Influence of U(VI) sorption parameters, such as contact time, adsorbent amount, medium pH and ionic strength, initial U(VI) ions concentration, and temperature on the removal performance of both algal biomasses were studied from aqueous solution. The hydroxyl, amino, carbonyl, and carboxyl groups were the main adsorptive groups of the biomasses as observed in FTIR data, and these groups can bind to U(VI) ions via electrostatic interactions. More than 78% of total sorption took place within 40 min, and equilibrium was established about 60 min. Maximum sorption capacities of the native and NTA-modified algal biomasses were found to be 190.2 and 328.8 mg g−1, respectively, at pH 5.5 and at 30 °C. The presence of other ionic species slightly decreased the U(VI) sorption capacity except that in Fe(III) ions. The sorption processes of U(VI) on the algal biomasses were described by the Langmuir and Temkin isotherms and pseudo-second-order kinetic models. The thermodynamic parameters, such as ΔH°, ΔS°, and ΔG°, show that the process is exothermic and spontaneous. It should be stated that the NTA-modified algal biomass has a high potential for the removal of U(VI) ions from aqueous solution.

A comparative study on generating function relations for generalized hypergeometric functions via generalized fractional operators

Abstract: In this paper, we present further generalizations of the beta function; Riemann–Liouville, Caputo and Kober–Erdelyi fractional operators by using confluent hypergeometric function with six parameters. We also define new generalizations of the Gauss F, Appell $F_{1}$ , $F_{2}$ and Lauricella $F_{D}^{3}$ hypergeometric functions with the help of new beta function. Then we obtain some generating function relations for these generalized hypergeometric functions by using each generalized fractional operators, separately. One of the purposes of the present investigation is to give a chance to the reader to compare the results corresponding to each generalized fractional operators.

A Simple, High Sensitive Fiber Optic Microphone Based on Cellulose Triacetate Diaphragm

Abstract: We present a high sensitive fiber-optic microphone (FOM) with a wide measuring range based on a cellulose triacetate diaphragm in this work. The average signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the proposed FOM is measured 50.86 dB in at the frequency range of 100 Hz–20 kHz. In the same spectrum range, the highest SNR for the 2-kHz frequency under 103.16 mPa acoustic pressure is measured at 72.20 dB with 2 Hz resolution bandwidth, which corresponds to a noise-limited minimum detectable acoustic pressure level of 17.91 μPa/√Hz. The proposed sensor has advantages of high sensitivity, low cost, and easy fabrication. According to the assessments based on the obtained results, the FOM can be used for medical spectroscopy, imaging applications, and for long-distance listening and voice recognition in the military-public security.

Physico-Chemical Changes of Composite Whey Protein Hydrogels in Simulated Gastric Fluid Conditions.

Abstract: Polysaccharide blended whey protein isolate (WPI) hydrogels were developed for the delivery of black carrot ( Daucus carota) concentrate as bioactive agent in simulated gastric fluid (SGF). Pectin (PC), gum tragacanth (GT), and xanthan gum (XG) were blended as additional polymers to modulate the release characteristics of the WPI hydrogels. Experiments showed that sole whey protein (C), XG, and GT blended hydrogels possessed restricted release profiles 67%, 61%, and 67%, respectively, whereas PC samples attained higher release rates (83%) ( p < 0.05). Interactions between polymers and aqueous medium were analyzed by nuclear magnetic resonance relaxometry. C (82 ms) and GT (84 ms) hydrogels attained higher T2 values than PC (74 ms) and XG (73 ms) samples in SGF. Hardness of only XG hydrogels increased from 1.9 to 4.1 N after gastric treatment. Physicochemical changes within hydrogels during release were also investigated, and hydrogels were proved to be appropriate for desired delivery purposes.

Preservice Middle and High School Mathematics Teachers’ Strategies when Solving Proportion Problems

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to investigate eight preservice middle and high school mathematics teachers’ solution strategies when solving single and multiple proportion problems. Real-world missing-value word problems were used in an interview setting to collect information about preservice teachers’ (PSTs) reasoning about proportional relationships. An explanatory case study methodology with multiple cases was used to make comparisons within and across cases. Analysis of the semi-structured interviews with each PST revealed that using practical problems, in which plastic gears and a mini balance system were provided, and multiple proportion problems facilitated the PSTs’ recognition of the proportional relationships in their solutions. Therefore, they avoided using cross-multiplication and erroneous strategies in those problems. Among the strategies that the PSTs used in solving single and multiple proportion problems, the ratio table strategy was the most frequent and effective strategy. The ratio table strategy enabled the PSTs to recognize the constant ratio and product relationships more than the other strategies. The results of this study illuminate how PSTs reason about proportional relationships when they cannot rely on computation methods like cross-multiplication.

Examining the Reliability and Validity of a Turkish Version of the Community of Inquiry Survey

Abstract: The aim of this study was to describe the validity and reliability of a Turkish language version of the CoI survey developed by Arbaugh et al. (2008). Adaptation of the survey into Turkish is described. Data was obtained from 1150 students who study in different departments and take courses through online learning. The data were randomly divided into two parts: the first part was subjected to exploratory factor analysis; the second part underwent confirmatory factor analysis. Three-factor structures of the CoI framework explained 75.28% of the variance in the pattern of relationships among the items using the first split-half sample. All three presences had high reliabilities (teaching presence = .965, social presence = .953, and cognitive presence = .972). The three-factor structure of the CoI framework with teaching, social, and cognitive presences confirmed the validity of the Turkish version of the CoI survey.

Silica‐based organic‐inorganic hybrid nanoparticles and nanoconjugates for improved anticancer drug delivery

Abstract: After the introduction of first generation MSNs for drug delivery with some challenges such as large particle sizes, irregular morphologies and aggregations, second generation provided uniform spherical morphologies, tunable pore/particle sizes and compositions. Henceforth, organic-inorganic hybrid mesoporous silica nanosystems have grown rapidly and utilized for active and passive targeting of tumorigenic cells especially conjugated with organic polymers followed by third generation counterparts with improved functionalities for cancer therapy. The aim of this review article is to focus on the advancements in mesoporous silica based organic-inorganic hybrid nanoparticles developed as drug carriers targeting cancer cells. Brief introduction to the state-of-the-art in passive and active targeting methods is presented. Specifically, therapeutic, diagnostic and theranostic applications are discussed with emphases on triggered and ligand conjugated organic-inorganic hybrid mesoporous silica nanomaterials. Although mesoporous silica nanoparticles perform well in preclinical tests, clinical translation progresses slowly as appropriate doses needs to be evaluated for human use along with biocompatibility and efficiency depending on surface modifications.