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As social media becomes increasingly ubiquitous, many events are recorded and released on social media platforms, including chemical weapon attacks. We develop an objective tool in order to evaluate brief and unstructured social media videos for analysing sarin exposure from a civilian medical pathology perspective. We developed and validated this new questionnaire using a standardized procedure that includes content domain specification, item pool generation, content validity evaluation, a pilot study, and assessment of reliability and validity. In total, 51 sarin attacks and 48 matched videos were analysed. Cronbach’s α for all 20 items was 0.75, which indicates adequate internal reliability. The test–retest reliability was 0.96, which indicates good internal reliability. The inter-observer intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.97. After verifying sampling adequacy with the Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin measure and the factorability of the items with Barlett’s test of sphericity, a factor analysis was performed. According to the principal axis factoring, a six-factor solution explained 51.86% of the total variance. The receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis showed that the Video Score Questionnaire has a sensitivity of 0.817, a specificity of 0.478, and an efficiency of 65.3. Therefore, the Video Score Questionnaire is reliable and valid for evaluating sarin attacks from brief and unstructured social media videos. Key points Chemical weapons are still used as a method of warfare. Social media videos are an important source of information. We developed a validated scale which can analyse sarin exposure in short and unstructured videos.

ZnWO4 (sanmartinite) powders were produced by mechanochemical synthesis using ZnO and WO3 at 700 rpm for 25, 50 and 100 min, respectively. SEM indicated the ratio of sub-micron-sized ZnWO4 particles was raised, and particle size distribution was homogenized by increasing process time. XRD results revealed the formation of sanmartinite after 100 min milling with 700 rpm. Raman Spectroscopy confirmed the XRD results except detection of WO3 and ZnO traces. The surface area of the samples was ranged between 3.65 and 4.05 m2/g. Optical band-gap energies of the samples increased from 2.68 to 2.86 eV with further process time. Under the visible light, the highest photocatalytic efficiency for degradation of malachite green dyes was observed in sample ball milled at 700 rpm for 25 min. Samples ball milled at 700 rpm for 100 min have lower photocatalytic activity compared to samples ball milled at 700 rpm 25 and 50 min. The efficiency of photocatalytic activities changed from 45 to 83% after 120-min photocatalysis process. It is possible to claim that ZnWO4 powders are promising photocatalyst.

The present study reports on iron (Fe) silicides produced on 31CrMoV9 steel by using the pack-cementation method. Pack siliconizing was carried out using metallic silicon (Si), ammonium chloride (NH4Cl) and alumina (Al2O3) at 1000–1100–1200°C and with varying deposition times of 3–5–7 h in an open atmospheric furnace. The morphology and structure of silicide layers were analyzed by optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy–energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. It was observed that there was good bonding between the matrix and silicide layers, which were smooth, homogenous and dense and had no remarkable porosity. Dominant phases of Fe3Si, as well as some FeSi, were detected by X-ray diffraction analysis. The layer thickness was measured from the surface to the matrix and changed from 40 to 800 μm, which increased with increasing process time and temperature. The observed silicide layer growth obtained at 1200°C was much higher than those at 1000 and 1100°C. The hardness profile showed that there was no diffusion zone. The matrix hardness is 225 HVN, while the hardness of the coating layer rose to 1021 HVN with the process time and temperature. The activation energy for the growth of the siliconizing layer was determined as 292 (kJ/mol)/K according to the kinetic study. It can be claimed that the optimum siliconizing layer was obtained up to 1100°C for 5 h due to the formation of a layer with smoother morphology, less porosities and oxygen impurities and adequate thickness.

Intermetallics are known as a group of materials that draws attention with their features such as ordered structure, high temperature resistance, high hardness and low density. In this paper, it is aimed to obtain intermetallic matrix composites and also to maintain some ductile Nb and Ti metallic phase by using 99.5% purity, 35-44 μm particle size titanium, niobium and aluminium powders in one step via recently developed powder metallurgy processing technique - Electric current activated/assisted sintering system (ECAS). In this way, metallic reinforced intermetallic matrix composites were produced. Dominant phases of TiAl3 and NbAl3 which were the first compounds formed between peritectic reaction of solid titanium, niobium and molten aluminum in Ti-Al-Nb system during 10, 30 and 90 s for 2000 A current and 1.5-2.0 voltage were detected by XRD and SEM-EDS analysis. Hardness values of the test samples were measured by Vickers indentation technique and it was detected that the hardnesses of intermetallic phases as 411 HVN whereas ductile metallic phase as 120 HVN.

Flat panel loudspeakers are a promising alternative to conventional loudspeakers. In particular, quasi-omnidirectional radiation at higher frequencies is stressed as an advantage of these systems compared to conventional speaker systems. However, this advantage can also be considered a disadvantage. Compared to that from conventional speakers with a flat and smooth on-axis and off-axis response, this wide radiation from flat panel loudspeakers occurs with an inconstant directivity factor, which can cause coloration and unusual spatial artifacts. This paper investigated the root causes of inhomogeneous directivity by using numerical methods. Based on these analyses, specific prototypes with various damping layups were built to overcome this problem. The additional damping layer reduces the off-axis radiation without significantly reducing the pressure level in the listening window. This approach is simple, robust, inexpensive and effective for improving the directivity of flat panel loudspeakers.

In this paper, we present the results of the study on the fabrication of inverted pyramids on n-type Si wafer by a single-step anisotropic copper-assisted chemical etching. The relationship between etchant composition, etching time and the surface morphology for n-type Si has been investigated. Different surface structures were obtained by adjusting molarity of H 2 O 2 , Cu(NO 3 ) 2 , HF in the etching solution. Cu(NO 3 ) 2 amount promoted, while increasing H 2 O 2 amount over optimum value reduced the etch rate. By optimizing etching duration, etching temperature and etchant composition, uniform distribution of inverted pyramids with dimensions around 2 μm was achieved. Surface average weighted reflectance was reduced to 5.67% in the wavelength range of 400-1000 nm with novel surface texturing method.

AimThe synthesis of nanosilver particles (AgNPs) from Pelargonium quercetorum Agnew. (Geraniaceae) and evaluation of the antimicrobial and the cytotoxic potential of AgNPs. Materials & MethodsThe synthesized AgNPs were evaluated for antimicrobial and anticancer efficacy using the minimum inhibition concentration method and MTT (3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay. ResultsThe AgNPs inhibited approximately 90% the growth of gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and gram-negative Esherichia coli and yeast Candida albicans pathogens at a concentration of 500 µg/mL. The synthesized AgNPs showed excellent toxicity in MCF-7 cells, and specifically, pq70 AgNP inhibited the growth of MCF-7 cells by 52% at a concentration of 3.125 µg/mL. ConclusionIt was determined that the AgNPs, which had been synthesized from extracts that contained a high phenolic composition, were smaller in size, and showed high anticancer and antimicrobial properties.

WOS: 000406051800002, Curcumin has remarkable anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effects of curcumin on a rat model of carbapenemresistant Escherichia coli-induced acute lung injury (ALI). Thirty-two rats were randomly allocated to 4 groups to induce an ALI: negative control group (rats not infected with E coli with no antibiotic treatment), positive control group (rats infected with E coli with no antibiotic treatment), imipenem group (rats infected with E coli that received intraperitoneal injection of imipenem), and the imipenem+curcumin group (rats infected with E coli that received intraperitoneal injection of imipenem and were fed on curcumin). The rats were killed, and lung tissues samples were harvested for biochemical analyses and histopathologic examination. Total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha), and interleukin-6 (IL6) were measured. TOS increased in the positive control group (P < 0.001) and decreased in the imipenem and imipenem+curcumin groups (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001, respectively). TAS decreased in the positive control group (P = 0.005). Imipenem treatment did not increase TAS, but the imipenem+curcumin group increased TAS (P = 0.014). TNF alpha and IL6 increased in the positive control group compared with the negative control group (P < 0.001 and P = 0.010, respectively). Imipenem decreased TNF alpha (P < 0.001), but did not decrease IL6 (P = 0.418). Imipenem+curcumin decreased TNF alpha (P < 0.001); this decrease was more pronounced compared with the imipenem group (P = 0.008). IL6 decreased in the curcumin group compared with the positive control group (P = 0.011). Curcumin combined with imipenem can be an alternative therapeutic agent to overcome the resistance of E coli strains., Baskent University [DA 15/05], This study was supported by the Baskent University Research Fund (Project DA 15/05).

Nano-sized hydroxyapatite (HA) particles were synthesized by sol-gel through water and ethanol based mediums of phosphoric acid (H3PO4) and calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)(2)) at pH = 11 for different calcination time (1 h, 2 h, 4 h). The effects of calcination time and solution on the crystallinity, morphology and impurity phases of the HA nanoparticles were examined via Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD). It was found that crystallite size and the fraction crystallinity of the synthesized samples increased with calcination time. According to solution medium, only CaO as impurity was appeared in the water-based solvent, CaO and Ca(OH)(2) impurities were appeared in the ethanol-based solvent. The lowest crystallinity was 0.92 and the highest crystallinity was 1.73 respectively, depending on the process parameters. The Ca/P atomic ratio closest to the bone was found as 1.5178. As a result, the employed water-based sol-gel processes for 1 h calcination time was determined as the optimum for the formation of nano-sized HA powders using calcium hydroxide and phosphoric acid.

In this study, we report, for the first time, the combination of green and hydrothermal syntheis approaches for biosynthesis of red cabbage extract directed spherical Ag NPs with high yield and monodispersity. The Ag NPs have a very narrow size distribution and enhanced inhibitory properties against Staphylococcus aureus (Gram +), Escherichia coli (Gram) and Candida albicans. We investigate how experimental parameters influence Ag NPs formation and their inhibitory properties. Integration of hydrothermal approach to the green synthesis made the Ag NP more stable and retarded aggregation for several weeks, which is a significant finding as plant extract-directed Ag NPs are intrinsically unstable and tend to aggregate. The Ag NPs even at low concentration (9.37 ppm) exhibit effective inhibition property for all target pathogens. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

In this study, we describe new collagen/functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotube/chitosan/hydroxyapatite (Col/f-MWCNT/CS/HA) composite scaffolds which were fabricated by freezing ( - 40 degrees C at 0.9 degrees C/min) and lyophilization (48 h, 0 degrees C and 200 mtorr). The compressive stresses (from 523 to 1112 kPa), swelling (from 513.9 +/- 27 to 481.05 +/- 25%), porosity (from 98 +/- 0.15 to 95.7 +/- 0.1%), contact angle (from 87.8 to 76.7 degrees) properties examined before and after biomineralization for comparison 3D porous Col, CS, Col/f-MWCNT and Col/f-MWCNT/CS scaffolds. Biomineralization was performed by biomimetic method in concentrated SBF (10 x SBF, at 37 degrees C and 6.5 pH). XRD, SEM, EDS, FTIR, TGA, Optical microscopy and BET results showed that compared to Col, CS and Col/f-MWCNT scaffolds, Col/f-MWCNT/CS scaffolds had higher in vitro bioactivity, large surface area (11.746 m(2)/g) and a good pore volume (0.026 cc/g), interconnected porous microstructure (with 20-350 mu m pore size) and incorporates the advantageous properties of both Col, f-MWCNT, CS and HA. Finally, the methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay was performed to evaluate scaffolds cytotoxicity which showed that Col/f-MWCNT/CS scaffolds have the best biocompatibility.

In this study, hydroxyapatite coating on titanium material substrate was successfully performed by using biomimetic method. Titanium plates immersed in 1.5 SBF at pH 7.4 and 37 degrees C were analyzed at the end of the first, second, and fourth weeks. At the end of the first week, the immersion process was continued with the sample exposed to the optimum selected surface pretreatment. Three different treatments have been applied to determine the optimum surface treatment: each substrate immersed into NaOH, HCl, and NaOH + HCl solutions before heat treatment at 600 degrees C for 1 h and immersed in NaOH solution was selected the optimum surface treatment. The presence of biphasic hydroxyapatite (HA, Ca-5(PO4)(3)(OH)) and tricalcium phosphate (TCP, Ca-3(PO4)(2)) on Ti surfaces were confirmed by XRD. SEM studies showed that denser HA coating which have nano-sphere-like morphology formed on Ti pretreated with NaOH solution at the end of first week than other hydroxyapatite (HA)-coated Ti pretreated with NaCl and NaOH + NaCl solutions and coating thickness increased by increasing immersion time. The HA coating thickness of the samples immersed in optimum pretreatment solution was found as 178 and 340 mu m for at the end of second and fourth weeks, respectively. The particle size analysis of the biphasic HA powders scraped from the coating layer on the substrate before and after sintering was carried out by Zetasizer and it showed that HA powders have 0.58 mu m average particle size and their particle size distribution has less dimensional dispersion after sintering. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis revealed that the Ca/P ratio in HA powders was near to 1.5. Raman and Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) results combined with the X-ray diffraction (XRD) indicated the presence of biphasic hydroxyapatite after biomimetic coating process and increment in crystallinity of the powders after sintering. It was found that HA nucleation on Ti pretreated with NaOH solution was higher than Ti pretreated with other solutions which is confirmed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS).

This study reports on biomimetic mineralization route employing reduced graphene oxide (RGO) at different rates as a template material for biomineralization of biphasic hydroxyapatite/tricalcium phosphate (HAP/TCP). RGO-HAP/TCP hybride composites were synthesized via biomineralization in Simulated Body Fluid (SBF). GO was prepared from pristine graphite by Hummers and Offeman method. GO nanoparticles were reduced with sodium borohydride (NaBH4) before soaking in 5xSBF for 3 weeks at 37 degrees C and 7.4 pH to performing biomineralization. Surface area and average size distribution of fabricated GO were found as 813.2 m(2) g(-1) and 1.2968 mu m by using BET and DLS technique, respectively. All surfaces are overall negatively charged and zeta potentials of GO, R(1)GO, R(2)GO, R(3)GO were found to be -35.05, -30.01, 29.5, -29.01 and -28.9, respectively in the neutral pH. The contact angles of GO, R(1)GO, R(2)GO and R(3)GO are 33.5 degrees, 55.3 degrees, 57.4 degrees and 61.1 degrees, respectively. The ID/IG values determined by Raman are 1.07, 1.04, 1.02 and 1.01 for GO, R(1)GO, R(2)GO and R(3)GO, respectively. After the reduction, its maximum peak at 236 was clearly shifted to 260, 264 and 267 nm for R(1)GO, R(2)GO and R(3)GO. The precipitation of biphasic HAP/TCP on R(1)GO and R(2)GO was confirmed by XRD, FTIR and TGA analysis. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The use of microbial cell culture a valuable tool for the biosynthesis of nanoparticles is considered a green technology as it is eco-friendly, inexpensive and simple. Here, the synthesis of nanosilver particle (AgNP) from the yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, gram (+), Bacillus subtilis and gram (-), Escherichia coli was shown. In this field we are the first to study their the antimicrobial effects of the microorganisms mentioned above against pathogens and anticancer activity on MCF-7 cell line. Silver nanoparticles in the size range of 126-323 nm were synthesized extracellularly by the microorganisms, which have different cell structures. Optical absorption, scanning electron microscopy, and zetasizer analysis confirmed the silver nanoparticles formation. Antimicrobial activity of AgNPs was evaluated the minimum inhibition concentration and disc diffusion methods. AgNPs inhibited nearly 90% the growth of Gram-positive Listeria monocytogenes, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Gram-negative Haemophilus influenzae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis bacterial pathogens. Anticancer potentials of AgNPs were investigated by MTT method. The synthesized AgNPs exhibited excellent high toxicity on MCF-7 cells and had a dose-dependent effect on cell viability. Especially AgNP 2 eliminated 67% of the MCF-7 cells at the concentration of 3.125 mu g/mL. We found that extracellular synthesis of nanoparticles from microbial culture may be 'green' alternative to physical and chemical methods from the point of view of synthesis in large amounts and easy process. (C) 2018 The Authors. Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of King Saud University.

In this study a novel composite containing fMWCNT and Ag, Zn or Co doped hydroxyapatite (HA) and undoped HA successfully synthesized using biomimetic process and coated on the chemically silane functionalized Ti via facile surface functionalization and deposition approach through the covalent immobilization. In this approach, the properties of Ti pretreated with NaOH and APTES were examined before the composite coating. Functional groups with oxygen were created on the MWCNT surface by acidic treatment. The synthesized powders were characterized using SEM, XRD, EDS, TGA, FTIR, Raman. Surface energies were decreased from 46.03 mN/m (Ti) to 43,79 mN/m (Ti-/fMWCNT/Ag, Zn or Co doped HA). The contact angles of APTES, fMWCNT and undoped or doped HA containing Ti surfaces increased from 40.03 ± 1.2 to 49.05 ± 1.6°. The bond strengths between the coatings and Ti substrates were measured using an adhesive strength test which indicates that the crosslinking process increased the adhesion strength (from 14.6 ± 0.9 to 19.8 ± 1.2 MPa). The results indicated that the Ag+, Zn2+ or Co2+ added in prepared SBF medium have been located in the HA lattice structure at rate of 1.06, 1.86 and 1.78 at.%, respectively. The biocompatibility of the synthesized composites was evaluated using MTT assays in vitro and no negative effect was observed on cell viability. This work shows that the fMWCNT/Ag, Zn or Co doped HA coating promise for the potential implementation in biomaterial coating fields.

In this study, some properties of biomimetic synthesized hydroxyapatite by using different sources of calcium were investigated. Biomimetic synthesis of hydroxyapatite was carried out in microwave oven using 1.5 simulated body fluid (SBF) solution having different calcium sources with 800 W power for 15 min. As phosphorus source di-ammonium hydrogen phosphate ((NH4)(2)HPO4) while for each sample as a calcium sources calcium chloride (CaCl2), calcium nitrate tetra hydrate (Ca(NO3)(2)center dot 4H(2)0) and calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)(2)) were utilized, respectively. For comparison, precipitation process was also performed in only 1.5 SBF solution without calcium and phosphorus sources. The presence of phases in synthesized hydroxyapatite was confirmed by XRD. The crystallinity and crystalline size of the phases in as synthesized powders were also calculated by using XRD data. It was found that the unique phase is hydroxyapatite (HAp, Cas(PO4)(3)(OH)) by using the calcium nitrate tetra hydrate and calcium hydroxide sources, while the dominant phases are tri-calcium phosphates (TCP) and HAp for CaCl2 source and 1.5SBF which does not contain any additional Ca source. SEM studies revealed that nano hexagonal rods and nano-spherical hydroxyapatites could be synthesized by using this process. Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis revealed that the Ca/P ratio near to be as 1.5 which is the value for HAp in bone. Raman and Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) results combined with the X-ray diffraction (XRD) indicates that dominantly the present of single phase is HAp. The crystal size and fraction crystallinity of as synthesized HAp powders were changed between 29.5 and 45.4 nm and 0.53-2.37, respectively. Results showed that microwave assisted biomimetic synthesis is a promising method for obtaining HAp powders in shorter process time. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Copper matrix composites reinforced with 1 wt.%, 2 wt.%, 3 wt.% and 5 wt.% SiC particles were fabricated by powder metallurgy method. Cu and Cu-SiC powder mixtures were compacted with a compressive force of 280MPa and sintered in an open atmospheric furnace at 900-950 degrees C for 2 h. Within the furnace compacted samples were embedding into the graphite powder. The presence of Cu and SiC components in composites was verified by XRD analysis. Optical and SEM studies showed that Cu-SiC composites have a uniform microstructure in which silicon carbide particles are distributed uniformly in the copper matrix. The results of the study on mechanical and electrical conductivity properties of Cu-SiC composites indicated that with increasing SiC content (wt.%), hardness increased, but relative density and electrical conductivity decreased. The highest electrical conductivity of 98.8% IACS and relative density of 98.2% were obtained for the Cu-1 wt.% SiC composite sintered at 900 degrees C and this temperature was defined as the optimum sintering temperature. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

In this study some properties of copper produced by cementation method and its composites reinforced with 1wt% 2wt% 3wt% and 5wt% SiC particles produced by powder metallurgy method were investigated Composite powders were pressed by applying an urn axial pressure of 280 MPa and sintered at temperatures of 700 degrees C for 2 h embedding in graphite powder Scanning electron microscope (SEM-EDS) X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques were used to characterize the Cu and SIC which are dominant components in the sintered composites Microstructure studies revealed that SIC particles were located around the copper particles The relative densities of Cu-SiC composites determined by Archimedes principle decreased from 98 11% to 90 93% with increasing reinforcement components Measured hardness of sintered compacts varied from 127 to 155 HVN Maximum electrical conductivity of test materials ranged from 80 17% IACS to 57 76% IACS (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd All rights reserved

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is the most common and most fatal of all lung diseases that cause widespread scarring in the lungs. High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) has high diagnostic value in the diagnosis of IPF. Patients exhibiting a pattern of usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) can be diagnosed with IPF without the need for a biopsy if no other conditions exist that could cause this pattern. If no pattern of UIP exists, a multidisciplinary council should gather to discuss the HRCT and pathological and clinical findings and to decide upon a diagnosis. Appropriate supportive therapies such as oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, and seasonal flu and pneumococcal vaccines should be included in the management of the disease. Comorbidities must be investigated and treated. There have been studies identifying the benefits of pirfenidone and nintedanib in patients with mild-to-moderate IPF. There is a lack of appropriate data to guide the selection between pirfenidone and nintedanib, and the patient's preferences and drug tolerance must be considered when making such a drug selection. There have been no randomized studies to date showing the benefits of drugs in severe IPF. The prevention of acid reflux may be beneficial, but the symptoms are obscure. Lung transplantation can be an option for young patients with a severe and progressive disease when there are no comorbidities to pose a contraindication.

In this study, diffusion of rubidium and potassium in soil was observed representing two alkaline elements. Generally, these elements are found as salt compounds in the earth. Soil columns were prepared in the laboratory conditions. Rubidium chlorite and potassium nitrate compounds were irradiated at ITU TRIGA Mark II nuclear research reactor at the Energy Institute of ITU to produce the radiotracer 86Rb and 42K. The irradiated compounds were sprinkled to the surface of different soil columns and were watered with realistic amounts. Radioactivity measurements were carried out by using a scintillation detector at the outside of the column for different soil depths in different diffusion times. As the results of the study, the behavior of two alkaline elements was observed appropriately similar in the soil.

In this study, the in uences of B4C ratios on some mechanical and physical properties such as relative density, microhardness and electrical properties of cold pressed Cu-B4C composites were investigated. Curve tting is applied for the estimation of electrical conductivity. Commercial copper powders with 40 μm particle size were reinforced with B4C, with particle size of 40 μm, at ratios of 1, 2, 3 wt.%, for improving mechanical properties of copper used as electrical conductor. Cu-B4C composites have been fabricated by powder sintering process at a temperature of 900 ◦C for 2 h. The presence of Cu and B4C, which are dominant components in the sintered composites, were con rmed by X-ray di raction analysis technique and SEM-EDS. Scanning electron microscope (SEM-EDS) has shown that B4C particles are distributed homogenously in the copper matrix. The relative densities of Cu and Cu-B4C composites, sintered at 900 ◦C, ranged from 95.7 to 91.6%. Microhardness of composites ranged from 84.5 to 94.6 HB. It was observed that cold pressed Cu-1 wt.% B4C composites revealed promising physical properties. Results of electrical conductivity measurement of Cu-B4C composite material are compared to the results of the model and the overall accuracy level above 96% is obtained.

ries were found to be 66, 76 and 27 Bq/m 3 , respectively, with an outdoor concentration of 14 Bq/m 3 .T he average concentrations were found to decrease as follows for different types of industries: automotive > electronic > metal > textile. Because the maximum measured radon concentrations are 151 Bq/m 3 in the schools, 173 Bq/m 3 in the offices and 52 Bq/m 3 in the factories, the limits of ICRP are not exceeded in any of the buildings in the region. In addition, the estimated mean annual effective doses to the people in the workplace, students, office workers and factory workers have been calculated as 0.27, 0.63 and 0.20 mSv/y, respectively for the region.

Background To investigate the frequency of prostaglandin-associated periorbitopathy among bimatoprost, latanoprost and travoprost users. Design Retrospective observational case series. Participants The study group included 105 patients who were using one of the drugs in one eye for more than 1 month, and the other eye was used as a control. Main Outcome Measures The frequency of prostaglandin-associated periorbitopathy. Methods Special care was taken to detect five prostaglandin-associated periorbitopathy findings. Hertel exophthalmometry measurements and colour pictures of the periocular area were taken. Results Statistically significant differences were found among the groups regarding the presence of all prostaglandin-associated periorbitopathy findings (P

We report the a green approach for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) decorated magnetic graphene oxide nanocomposites (Ag@MGO NCs), which showed highly effective inhibitory property and reusability even at the very low concentration (12.5 ppm) towards Staphylococcus aureus (Gram +), Escherichia coli (Gram-) bacteria and Candida albicans fungus. It is worthy to mention that each component, such as GO, triethylene glycol (TREG) and Matricaria chamomilla (M. chamomile) plant extract (20% w/v), used for the synthesis of Ag@MGO NCs is safe and biocompatible. Although GO showed no significant inhibitory property, M. chamomile directed Ag@MGO NCs exhibited highly enhanced superior inhibitory activity. Benefiting from magnetic property of Ag@MGO NCs allows us for repeated use of them in inhibitory experiment. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Herein, we report the biosynthesis of Ag NPs, for the first time, using identified antimicrobial molecules (gallic acid+apocynin) and (gallic acid+apocynin+quercetin) from the medicinal plant Pelargonium endlicherianum Fenzl. and dramatically enhanced antimicrobial activity. We also investigate the role of each molecule on formation Ag NPs and explain the increase in the antimicrobial activity of identified molecules mediated Ag NPs. The extraction protocols, 11% ethanol and 70% methanol, resulted in identification of different constituents of gallic acid+apocynin (M1) and gallic acid+apocynin+quercetin (M2) with respective concentrations. The M1-Ag and M2-Ag NPs exhibit excellent inhibitory activities towards Gram negative bacteria; Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853 and Gram positive bacteria; Staphylococcus epidermidis ATCC 3699 bacterial using in vitro microdilution method. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of M1-Ag and M2-Ag NPs were determined to be 7.81 and 6.25ppm for S. epidermidis, respectively. Surprisingly, MIC value for both Ag NPs was indicated to be identical as 9. 37ppm for P. aeruginosa and E., coli.

Elimination of the methylene orange which are the main sources of environmental pollution from aqueous media were investigated experimentally by using 0.45 µm hydrophilic nylon membran. Removal of the methylene orange were performed with successfully. Furthermore, repetition effect also was examined rationally. With this study, membrane usage for elimination of the methylene orange are convenient for elimination of them from the aqueous media.

In this study, it is aimed to observe diffusion of sodium in soil samples by using radiotracing technique. To produce the radiotracer24Na, sodium-carbonate compound was irradiated at ITU TRIGA Mark II Research reactor at Energy Institute of Istanbul Technical University. The irradiated sodium-carbonate samples were sprinkled to the surface of soil columns. Then soil was watered with representative amounts of water according to selected rain regimes in Istanbul. Radioactivity measurements were carried out by using high efficiency gamma-ray measurement system at the outside of the column for different soil depths in different times.

The aim of this study is to determine the relationship of radon concentrations between dwellings and the schools located in the same regions and to obtain related indoor average radon concentration dwelling–school correction factor for similar locations. The research has been carried out by determining indoor radon concentrations at schools and dwellings located at the same districts in the selected two separate research fields called The Former Adapazari region and The New Adapazari region in the city of Adapazari using a total of 81 Cr-39 passive radon detectors for 75 days. The average radon concentrations have been determined for the dwellings and the schools in 15 districts of the Former Adapazari region as 59.9 Bq m −3 and 57.1 Bq m −3 , respectively. The results in 4 districts of the New Adapazari region were 63.5 Bq m −3 for the dwellings and 61.0 Bq m −3 for the schools. Moreover, the annual effective doses were calculated as 1.33 mSv/y and 1.41 mSv/y for the dwellings of Former Adapazari and New Adapazari, respectively. It was seen that the doses received in the dwellings are about four times the doses received in the schools. The indoor radon concentration dwelling–school correction factor was found to be 1.04±0.01 for the research area.

SARIOGLU, YUSUF/0000-0002-9227-365X WOS: 000298292300002 PubMed: 21848425 Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the effects of anandamide or arachidonylethanolamide (AEA), an endogenous cannabinoid receptor agonist, on intraocular inflammation in an endotoxin-induced uveitis (EIU) model in rabbits. Methods: Forty New Zealand albino male rabbits were used (5 groups, 8 animals in each). After establishment of sufficient anesthesia, animals were taken under surgery for intravitreal injections. A maximum amount of 50 mu L of solution was injected into the central vitreous with a 30-gauge needle. In the control group, sterile saline was injected into the right eyes of the animals. Likewise, AEA (10(-5) M) in the second group, lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 100 ng) in the third group, and AEA (10(-5) M) and LPS (100 ng) in the fourth group were administered. Fifth group received 0.1 mL subtenon injection of AM251 (10(-5) M), a CB(1)-receptor antagonist, 30 min prior to intravitreal LPS (100 ng) and AEA (10(-5) M) injection. At 24 h after the surgical intervention, clinical evaluation was performed and animals were then euthanized with 100 mg/kg intravenous pentobarbital injections. Immediately after the induction of pentobarbital anesthesia, the anterior chamber of the eyes was quickly punctured using a 30-gauge needle to drain aqueous humor (AH) and obtained specimens were used for cell count, protein measurement, and microbiological contamination tests. After AH collection, enucleation was performed and enucleated material was kept for the pathological evaluation. Results: AEA caused an overall worsening of EIU in studied eyes. It significantly increased the detrimental effects of endotoxin, as assessed by clinical investigation of ocular inflammation, AH leukocyte content, and AH protein concentrations. CB(1)-receptor antagonist AM251 administration reversed some components of this AEA-induced exacerbation to significant extents. Conclusion: AEA exacerbated EIU in rabbit eyes. AM251 has been found beneficial to prevent AEA's aggravating impact on EIU. As AEA is a treatment choice for lowering intraocular pressure in ophthalmology practice, concurrent use of CB(1)-receptor antagonists may be a questionable strategy in cases of secondary glaucoma, to avoid aggravation of the present inflammation.

Human body is exposed to ionising radiations both internally and externally by mainly high-energy cosmic ray particles incident on the earth's atmosphere and radioactive nuclides that originated in the earth's crust. The main objective of this study is to assess the health hazards due to environmental radiation sources in the city of Adapazari, one of the most important industrial cities of the country, Northwestern Turkey. For this purpose, natural radiation sources, external terrestrial radiations, cosmic radiations, and inhalation exposures have been investigated. The annual average external terrestrial radiation doses were determined as 0.08 and 0.35 mSv at outdoor and indoor atmospheres, respectively. The annual average cosmic radiation doses were found to be 0.08 and 0.05 mSv for directly ionising photon components and neutron components, respectively. The annual average inhalation exposure doses due to radon and thoron were obtained as 1.42 and 0.19 mSv, respectively, in the region. The annual average effective dose due to natural radiation sources was determined as a total of 2.35 mSv with the predetermined ingestion radiation dose. The lifetime cancer risk due to the background ionising radiations has been determined as 0.9×10(-2) for the residents of the Adapazari city, with the average lifespan of 70 years. The results of the effective doses due to background radiation sources in the region and the worldwide averages were discussed.

Monitoring of radon in underground mines is important in order to assess the radiological hazards to occupational workers. Radon concentration levels in three underground lignite mines (Tunçbilek, Omerler and Eynez) of Turkey were obtained in this study. For this reason, atmospheric radon level measurements were carried out in mines using CR-39 track detectors. Chemical etching of the detector tracks and subsequent counting were performed at Cekmece Nuclear Research and Training Center. The obtained results were evaluated according to the International Commission of Radiation Protection and the Turkish Atomic Energy Authority whose radon action levels for workplaces are 500-1500 and 1000 Bq(-3), respectively. The radon gas concentrations in the lignite mines were determined to be between 50 +/- 7 and 587 +/- 16 Bq m(-3). The results obtained in these experiments are far under the action levels. The computed radon doses for the mine workers of Tunçbilek, Omerler and Eynez lignite mines are 1.23, 2.44 and 1.47 mSv y(-1), respectively.

The concentrations and distribution of natural and anthropogenic radionuclides in soils from around the Kestanbol (Canakkale), Turkey were investigated with an aim of evaluating the environmental radioactivity and radiological health hazard. Concentrations of radionuclides in the samples were determined by gamma ray spectrometer using HPGe detector. In the soils in general, the concentration of (232)Th was found to be higher than that of the (238)U and the activities of (232)Th and (238)U in this area are higher than the world average. (137)Cs was observed in all the samples, ranging from 0.37 +/- 0.22 to 36.03 +/- 0.54 Bq kg(-1). The mean radium equivalent activity, external hazard index and terrestrial absorbed dose rate for the area under study are 498 Bq kg(-1), 1.4 and 219 nGy h(-1), respectively. The annual effective dose to the public was found to be 269 muSv. The present data were compared with data obtained from different countries.

In this study, gas nitriding behavior of 34CrAlNi7 10 steel was investigated. Single stage processes were carried out at 500 ◦C, 520 ◦C and 540 ◦C for 10, 20, 30 h, respectively. Nitrogen activity on surface was controlled by the nitriding potential KN which is known as thermodynamical control parameter for controlled gas nitriding process. The presence of nitrides formed on surface of test material was determined by X-ray di raction analysis technique. The morphology of nitrided layer was studied by optical microscope. The microhardness of surface of nitrided sample in HV1 was observed between 975 and 1132. Choosing the right nitriding potentials for each temperature, which give the same nitrogen concentration and activity on surface by using the Lehrer diagram, showed that all the samples had almost the same surface roughness of Ra = 0.28 0.32 μm after gas nitriding cycles. The measurements showed that the white layer thickness varies between 4.38 μm and 28.80 μm and the growth of the layer was strongly a ected by process time and temperature. Di usion depths as Nht (HV) for each experiment were determined and compared.

This paper was focused on the effects of particle size and distribution on some properties of the SiC particle reinforced Cu composites. Copper powder produced by cementation method was reinforced with SiC particles having 1 and 30 mu m particle size and sintered at 700 degrees C. SEM studies showed that SiC particles dispersed in copper matrix homogenously. The presence of Cu and SiC components in composites were verified by XRD analysis technique. The relative densities of Cu-SiC composites determined by Archimedes' principle are ranged from 96.2% to 90.9% for SiC with 1 mu m particle size, 97.0 to 95.0 for SiC with 30 mu m particle size. Measured hardness of sintered compacts varied from 130 to 155 HVN for SiC having 1 mu m particle size, 188 to 229 HVN for SiC having 1 mu m particle size. Maximum electrical conductivity of test materials was obtained as 80.0% IACS ( International annealed copper standard) for SiC with 1 mu m particle size and 83.0% IACS for SiC with 30 mu m particle size.

Hidrojen depolama hidrojenin enerji kaynağı olarak gerekli uygulamalarda kullanılabilmesi için kritik bir basamak. Bu yüzden verimli ve kullanışlı alternatif depolama yöntemlerinin geliştirilmesi ilgi gören bir araştırma konusu. Hidrojenin depolandığı ortam güvenli olmanın yanı sıra depolama ve kullanma sırasında maksimum enerji tasarrufu sağlamalı.Birçok değerlendirilmiş yöntem içerisinde gözenekli yapılar hidrojen depolama için iyi bir aday olarak görülüyor. Geçiş metallerinin [Fe(CN)6]3-ve [Fe(CN)5NO]3-gibi yapıtaşları ile tepkimeleri sonucu sentezlenen gözenekli Prusya Mavisi benzeri yapılar yüksek sıcaklık veya basınç gibi zor şartlara dayanıklı oldukları, kolay hazırlandıkları ve çok amaçlı oldukları için bunların hidrojen depolamaları ile ilgili birçok araştırma yapıldı.Bu tez çalışmasında, yapıdaki gözenekleri ve gözeneklerde fonksiyonel polar grupları arttırmak amacıyla önceden çalışılmış yapıtaşlarındaki siyanürün başka bir grupla değitirilerek, M3[Fe(CN)5NH3]2 ve M3[Fe(CN)5pz]2 tipi beş farklı Prusya mavisi benzeri yapının sentezine odaklanıldı.Metalin Cu2+, Ni2+ veya Co2+ olduğu, Prusya Mavisi benzeri yapılar sentezlendi ve ATR, XRD, TGA spektroskopileri ile karakterizasyonları yapıldı. Yapının iç tarafındaki metale(Fe2+) bağlı ligandların ve dış taraftaki metalin çeşidinin IR spektroskopi sonuçlarına etkisi tartışıldı. Cu3[Fe(CN)5NH3]2 , Ni3[Fe(CN)5NH3]2 ve Co3[Fe(CN)5NH3]2 bileşiklerinde Prusya Mavisi benzeri yapılarda genelde görülen Fm3m tipi yapı gözlemlendi. Cu3[Fe(CN)5pz]2 bileşiğinde Fm3m tipi yapıyı işaret eden dört kırılma açısı gözlemlenirken Ni3[Fe(CN)5pz]2 bileşiği Fm3m tipi yapıyı gösteren ama daha zayıf bir kırılma paterni gösterdi. Ölçümlerde sıcaklık değiştirilerek malzemelerin sıcaklığa dayanıklıkları ve bazı iskelet değişiklikleri gözlemlendi. Sıcaklığa bağlı yapı değişiklikleri de XRD, FTIR ve TGA spektroskopi sonuçları kullanılarak tartışıldı.Yapıların iki farklı sıcaklıkta nitrojen ve hidrojen gazlarını yüzeylerinde tutma kapasiteleri araştırıldı. Beş yeni Prusya mavisi benzeri yapının yüzey alanları ve hidrojen tutma kapasiteleri çalışıldı. 95°C sıcaklıkta vakumlanan örnekler arasında Co3[Fe(CN)5NH3]2 bileşiği en yüksek yüzey alanına(243.2 m2/g) Ni3[Fe(CN)5NH3]2 bileşiği ise en iyi hydrogen tutma kapasitesine(1.79 wt % H2)sahipti. Cu3[Fe(CN)5pz]2 ve Ni3[Fe(CN)5pz]2 örnekleri için hidrojen tutma kapasitesinin olmadığı gözlemlendi. A convenient and efficient hydrogen storage system is a research challenge since hydrogen storage is one of the most critical steps in hydrogen economy. The media where hydrogen molecule is stored is important not only because of safety but also to generate maximum energy and consume minimum energy during the adsorption-desorption process. Porous coordination polymers have been considered as convenient hydrogen sorbents among other hydrogen storage systems due to their structural properties. Research in this field focused also on porous Prussian Blue Analogues incorporating [Fe(CN)6]3-and [Fe(CN)5NO]3- building blocks due to their robustness at extreme conditions (e.g. high temperature and high pressure), easy preparation, and versatilities.The project discussed herein focuses on the preparation of five new Prussian Blue analogues incorporating [Fe(CN)5NH3]3-and [Fe(CN)5pyrazine]3-building blocks. It is aimed to improve the porosity and increase the number of polar functional groups on the pore surfaces by substituting one of the cyanide groups with nitrogen donor ammonia or pyrazine group.M3[Fe(CN)5NH3]2 and M3[Fe(CN)5pz]2 type of Prussian Blue analogues with M= Cu2+, Ni2+, Co2+ were prepared and characterized by FTTR, XRD and TGA techniques. The effects of the ligands bound to central cation(Fe2+) and the type of the outer cation in the framework on the CN- stretching mode in IR spectrum have been studied. Cu3[Fe(CN)5NH3]2 , Ni3[Fe(CN)5NH3]2,and Co3[Fe(CN)5NH3]2 compounds have been shown to adopt Fm3mtype structure similar to classic Prussian Blue analogues. Cu3[Fe(CN)5pz]2 compound has exhibited four diffraction angles which belong to Fm3m space group and two additional peaks when Ni3[Fe(CN)5pz]2 has exhibited relatively weak diffraction pattern belonging to Fm3m space group. Thermal stabilities have been discussed and framework changes were observed with increasing temperature. TGA, IR, and XRD techniques have been performed to investigate the structural changes in target materials at different degassing temperatures.The adsorption profiles of nitrogen and hydrogen have been investigated at two different temperatures based on TGA results. Surface areas and hydrogen uptake capacities of five new Prussian Blue analogues have been studied. Co3[Fe(CN)5NH3]2 showed the highest surface area(243.2 m2/g) while Ni3[Fe(CN)5NH3]2 showed the highest hydrogen uptake capacity(1.79 wt % H2) at 95°C among the studied materials. Cu3[Fe(CN)5pz]2 and Ni3[Fe(CN)5pz]2 compounds were observed to exhibit no hydrogen uptake.It is also observed that surface areas of Co3[Fe(CN)5NH3]2 and Ni3[Fe(CN)5NH3]2 compounds increased, surface areas of other three compounds decreased when they are degassed at 225°C. Hydrogen storage capacity is also increased from 1.07 wt % to 1.85 wt % significantly for Co3[Fe(CN)5NH3]2 by increasing the degassing temperature. 102

Selenium and iodine are found in human body and primarily used in nutrition, and excess or absence of them can lead to diseases. Therefore, their possible dispersion to environment through mining and reprocessing of metals, combustion of coal and fossil fuel, nuclear accidents, or similar activities needs remediation. Adsorption is one of the useful techniques to remove pollutants. In this study, a factorial design is used to determine the effect of pH, concentration of adsorbate, and contact time upon adsorption. Adsorption capacities of radio-selenium and radio-iodine were evaluated for factorial design using activated carbons. The used activated carbon samples were prepared by chemical and physical activation methods. Radioactivity measurements were carried out by using high-resolution gamma spectroscopy system. Results of the research lead to provide useful information about energy generation and management processes by preventing hazardous elements’ dispersion to the environment.

The concentration profiles for turbulent flow were determined using a radiotracer technique. An experimental test device was constructed and sodium-24 was used as the tracer. Methylene-blue was also used for a comparison of the results. Samples were taken from different radial planes. The mean squared displacement was calculated and compared with the data of Taylor and Middleman [Taylor, A.R., Middleman, S., 1974. Turbulent dispersion in drag-reducing fluids. AIChE Journal, 20(3), 454-461]. It was shown that the radiotracer technique could be applied successfully to turbulent flow in vertical pipes.

In this study, some properties of cold pressed Cu-B4C composites were investigated. Commercial copper powders with 40 µm particle size were reinforced with B4C in a 40µm particle size at ratios of 0, 1, 2, 3 wt.% for improving mechanical properties of copper used for electrical conductivity. Cu-B4C composites have been fabricated by powder metallurgy method and sintered at 700C for 2h in open atmosphere and then subjected to cold pressing following sintering process. The presence of Cu and B4C which are dominant components in the sintered composites were confirmed by X-ray diffraction analyses technique and SEM-EDS. Scanning electron microscope (SEM-EDS) was showed that B4C particles are distributed homogenously in the copper matrix. The relative densities of Cu and Cu-B4C composites sintered at 700°C are ranged from 97.5% to 90.19%. Microhardness of composites ranged from 80.65 to 87.5 HB and the electrical conductivity of composites changed between 90.04 %IACS and 68.87 %IACS. It was observed that cold pressed Cu - 1 wt.% B4C composites revealed promising physical properties.

In this study, we investigated some properties of borided AISI 1020 steel. Boronizing heat treatment was carried out at 800°C, 875°C and 950°C for 2, 4, 6 and 8 h using Ekabor 1 powders. The hardness of borides formed on the steel substrate measured via Vickers indenter was about 1500 HVN. The thickness of boride layers depending on the process temperature and time was ranged from 20.5 to 216 μm. The presence of Fe2B boride was determined by XRD analysis. SEM microscope studies showed that the borides formed on the AISI 1020 steel have columnar nature. Kinetics studies reveal a parabolic relationship between layer depth and process time, and the activation energy is calculated as 164,356 kJ/mol. Moreover, an attempt was made to investigate the possibility of predicting the iso-thickness of boride layer and to establish an empirical relationship between process parameters of boriding and boride layer for industrial applications.

Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element for human beings and plays important roles in human health but it is also toxic at concentrations above 1 mg of selenium per kg of body weight. Therefore, elimination of selenium ions from aqueous solutions is important. Se can be eliminated by using activated carbon as an adsorbent. Radiotracer concept is applicable for observation of elimination mechanism. For this reason, selenium radioisotope can be used as tracer. Selenium dioxide is irradiated in the central thimble of ITU TRIGA Mark II Training and Research Reactor for radiotracer production. Radioactivity measurements are carried out by the gamma-ray spectroscopy system to determine the effect of different experimental parameters. The relative importance of test parameters like concentration of adsorbate, pH of the solution, and contact time on adsorption performance of activated carbon for selenium ion is examined. Typical adsorption isotherms (Langmuir, Freundlich, Dubinin–Radushkevich, and Temkin) are determined for the mechanism of sorption process. Evaluation of experiments for different parameters shows possibility of elimination of selenium from aqueous media by using activated carbon.

Thirty granite samples commonly used in Turkey were surveyed for natural radioactivity. Concentrations of natural radionuclides in all samples were determined by gamma-ray spectroscopy with hyper-pure germanium detector. The activity concentrations measured for (226)Ra and (232)Th ranged from 0.7±0.1 to 186±1 Bq kg(-1), and from 0.5±0.1 to 249±2 Bq kg(-1), respectively. The activity concentrations obtained for (40)K varied from minimum detectable activity (0.4 Bq kg(-1)) to 1935±11 Bq kg(-1). The radium equivalent activity (Ra(eq)), the absorbed dose rate (D), the external hazard index (H(ex)) and the annual effective dose equivalent were also calculated and compared with the international recommended values. Granite samples were also analysed mineralogically. It was observed that the presence of large amount orthoclase and radiogenic accessory minerals are the sources of high activity concentration levels.