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Öğe Influence of web holes on cold-formed steel beams: Experimental and numerical analysis(Elsevier Ltd, 2025) Oruç, RamazanThis research investigates the impact of web holes on the bending behaviour of beams, presenting both experimental and numerical investigations. It also introduces a new design equation. The experimental study involved subjecting 11 beams with and without holes to a four-point bending test, considering variables such as hole dimensions, number of holes, and spacing. The moment carrying capacity and failure modes of the beams with and without holes were thoroughly examined. It was established that hole dimensions play a crucial role in both the moment carrying capacity and failure mode of the beams. The numerical study developed 106 finite element models to validate the experimental data and explore various parameters. The validation models demonstrated good agreement with the experimental results. The parametric study analyzed variables such as hole shape, size, spacing, location, and section thickness. It was found that the moment carrying capacity decreased when the hole height/web height ratio exceeded 0.67, and the web height/thickness ratio increased. The numerical study results were compared with the local buckling strength equations proposed by AISI S100, AS/NZS 4600, and the design equation in the literature. The comparison revealed the inadequacy of these approaches as hole dimensions increased. Consequently, a new design equation for local buckling strength calculations was proposed and compared with the results. The proposed equation yielded more consistent results, especially for members with larger hole sizes.Öğe An Improved Numerical Solution of Modified Regularized Long Wave Equation by Quartic Trigonometric B-Spline(10.1007/s40819-025-01832-x, 2025) Kirli, Emre; Mersin, Mehmet AliThis study presents the application of a numerical method specifically designed to solve the Modified Regularized Long Wave equation, a crucial model in the analysis of non-linear wave dynamics. The proposed method employs a Quartic Trigonometric B-spline approach for spatial discretization, which ensures smooth and accurate interpolation across the spatial domain, while temporal integration is conducted using the well-established fourth-order Runge–Kutta (RK4) scheme, known for its stability and precision. To evaluate the performance of the method, it is applied to three test problems: the propagation of a single solitary wave, the interaction between two and three solitary waves. The invariant quantities are computed for all test cases. To ensure the stability of the method, a stability analysis is performed through the computation of eigenvalues. The results demonstrate that the proposed method achieves a high degree of accuracy in preserving the invariant properties and produces minimal error, highlighting its efficiency and reliability.Öğe Turnover intention, collaboration and competences of intensive care unit nurses: A descriptive correlational study(W.B. Saunders, 2025) Avcı, Miyase; Avcı, Ahmet...Öğe Increasing microplastics pollution: An emerging vector for potentially pathogenic bacteria in the environment(Elsevier Ltd, 2025) Tavşanoğlu, Ülkü Nihan; Akça, Gülçin; Pekmez, Tülay; Başaran Kankılıç, Gökben; Çırak, Tamer; Çağan, Ali Serhan; Özkan Kotiloğlu, Selin; Grossart, Hans-PeterMicroplastics (MP), plastic particles <5 mm, are of global concern due to their worldwide distribution and potential repercussions on ecosystems and human well-being. In this study, MP were collected from the urbanized Susurluk basin in Türkiye to evaluate their vector function for bacterial biofilms, both in the wet and dry seasons. Bacterial biofilms were predominantly found on polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polystyrene (PS), which constitute the most common MP types in the region. Specific potentially pathogenic bacterial genera, including Pseudomonas sp., Comamonas sp., Salmonella spp., and Shigella spp., were prevalent on MP surfaces. Notably, PE and PP harboured numerous genera of potential human and/or animal origin such as Staphylococcus, Proteus, Escherichia, Enterococcus, and Enterobacter. Water quality played a pivotal role in bacterial biofilm formation on MP. Higher salinity in estuarine areas reduced bacterial abundance on MP, while the more polluted freshwater Nilüfer Stream harboured a higher abundance of total bacteria, particularly of potentially pathogenic strains. Seasonal variations, ambient water conditions, and polymer type are all factors that could influence bacterial colonization on MPs. This catchment-wide evaluation, which includes various habitat types (lentic and lotic systems), the enrichment of cultivable viable bacteria on microplastics (MPs) - a key factor in the spread of pathogens - has significant implications for both environmental and public health. Unlike controlled laboratory experiments or in-situ studies with various particles, this study emphasized the dynamic and complex nature of bacterial strains on MPs, which varied depending on seasonal dynamics and antropogenic impacts in open systems. Further research is needed to thoroughly investigate to fully explore the complex interactions among MPs, microbial communities, and their ecological roles, especially in the context of changing environmental factors across entire river catchments.Öğe Does financial development support renewable energy consumption: Evidence from the UK(Elsevier Ltd, 2025) Demirtaş, Cuma; Tiwari, Aviral Kumar; Soyu Yıldırım, Esra; Shahbaz, MuhammadThis study explores the effects of financial development on the use of renewable energy (RE) in the United Kingdom (UK) between 1980 and 2020, by taking control variables such as urbanization and economic growth into account. For this purpose, wavelet transforms and the fresh Fourier quantile causality test are employed. Our empirical findings demonstrate that both immediately and over time, the use of renewable energy (REC) is stimulated by financial development. Additionally, financial institutions' efficiency and market depth play a significant role in encouraging the REC. In line with the study's general conclusions, it is suggested that the UK should implement policies that increase the spread and effectiveness of financial institutions and financial markets in order to support environmental quality.Öğe Effect of In Vitro Digestion on Anticancer and Antioxidant Activity of Phenolic Extracts From Latex of Fig Fruit (Ficus carica L.)(John Wiley and Sons Inc, 2025) Yeniocak, Salih; Karaduman Yeşildal, Tuğçe; Arslan, Mustafa Enes; Toraman, Gizem Cansu; Yücetepe, AysunIn this study, changes in total phenolic content (TPC), phenolic profile, and antioxidant activity and anticancer activity against cervix cancer and colorectal cancer cell lines of phenolic extracts of black and white fig (Ficus carica L.) latex (milk) were investigated during in vitro gastrointestinal digestions for the first time. The findings indicated that the in vitro digestion process exerted a significant effect on TPC of the phenolic extract from white fig milk (WFM-PE) and phenolic extract from black fig milk (BFM-PE), and TPC tended to decrease after in vitro digestion (p < 0.05). As consistent with these findings, antioxidant activity (by the CUPRAC method) of the samples decreased (p < 0.05) during in vitro digestion. The IC50 value of the undigested BFM-PE was significantly lower than that of the undigested WFM-PE (p < 0.05). The undigested and the digested WFM-PE and BFM-PE did not show any cytotoxic activity against normal cells. However, anticancer activity of WFM-PE on cervix and colorectal cancer cell lines (p < 0.05) and anticancer activity of BFM-PE against colorectal cancer cell lines decreased after in vitro digestion (p < 0.01). On the other hand, the dominant phenolic was catechin hydrate and was syringic acid.Öğe Production and characterization of chitosan-based superhydrophobic film bio-inspired by Verbascum sp. leaf(Elsevier B.V., 2025) Al-jaf, Ivan; Akyüz Yılmaz, Bahar; Karaduman Yeşildal, Tuğçe; Akyüz, Lalehan; Kaya, MuratChitosan, a biodegradable and biocompatible biopolymer, is widely favored in film production as an eco-friendly alternative to petroleum-based films. However, its limited water resistance restricts its applications. To address this issue, the water resistance of chitosan films was enhanced by coating their surfaces with hair derived from the leaves of the Verbascum sp. plant, a species that is abundant and easy to cultivate. Natural superhydrophobic films were successfully produced by embedding needle-like hairs onto the surfaces of chitosan matrices. The resulting films were characterized using standard analytical techniques, including FTIR, TGA, SEM, XRD, elemental analysis, and contact angle measurements. The results indicated that the water contact angle values for the CVH100 and CVH200 films, recorded at 143.01° and 146.83° respectively, exhibited an increase as the quantity of needle-like hairs. However, the contact angle of the chitosan film without needle-like fibrils was 103.44°. Additionally, biocompatibility was confirmed through MTT testing, and blood compatibility was validated via hemolysis assays. These results highlight the potential of these superhydrophobic chitosan films as innovative surface coatings for diverse applications, particularly in the biomedical field.Öğe Thermoplastic Polyurethane-Oleic Acid (TPU-OLE) Membranes for Guided Bone Regeneration(John Wiley and Sons Inc, 2025) Karahaliloğlu, Zeynep; Hazer, BakiGuided bone regeneration (GBR) is a regenerative surgical procedure in dentistry and orthopedics. The aim of this study is to fabricate a novel nano-textured, hydrophilic thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)-based barrier membrane containing unsaturated fatty acid, oleic acid (OLE) to assist GBR. First, TPU copolymer containing OLE in different ratios was synthesized, and GBR membranes were fabricated by the solvent casting method, and then, the surface properties were improved by alkali treatment. Thus, a TPU-OLE structure was obtained with improved surface wettability, the ability to prevent bacterial adhesion, and the capability to promote cell adhesion. The contact angle reduced from 73.3° ± 1° to 30.7° ± 0.3° at TPU-OLE3, while at TPU it decreased from 121.2° ± 2.5° to 63.6° ± 0.8° after treatment with 3 M sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution. Furthermore, plate counting assays showed that TPU-OLE membranes displayed excellent bacterial inhibition (against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus); the control group showed 6 × 107 CFU/mL of E. coli bacterial colonies, while on the plates interacting with TPU-OLE1, TPU-OLE2, and TPU-OLE3 membranes, colonies of 12 × 105, 12 × 105, and 24 × 105 CFU/mL were observed, respectively. The bacterial count on TPU-OLE1, TPU-OLE2, and TPU-OLE3 membranes decreased by 109, 164, and 12 × 105 CFU/mL at 24 h, while the control group and TPU membranes showed 1300 × 105 and 600 × 105 CFU/mL, respectively. The obtained results indicated that either alkali treatment or OLE-modified TPU produced a more hydrophilic and promotive surface for cell attachment. Therefore, we anticipate that alkali-treated TPU-OLE membranes have a great potential in GBR in future applications.Öğe Investigation of conical roof beam under vertical loads: Experimental and parametric studies(Elsevier Ltd, 2025) Oruç, Ramazan; Kara, Mehmet EminThis study presents experimental and numerical analyses to investigate the bending behavior of cold-formed steel (CFS) conical roof beams under vertical loads. The effects of radial beam orientation (face-to-face and face-to-back) and the spacing between circular beams (4500 mm, 1800 mm, 900 mm) on moment capacity, buckling modes, and deformation behavior were examined. Six single-span beam systems were tested, and it was observed that decreasing the spacing between circular beams increased the moment capacity and altered the buckling modes. The face-to-back orientation of radial beams reduced lateral displacement and rotation angles. Experimental results were validated using finite element analysis, and parametric studies were conducted. The parametric analyses revealed that decreasing the height-to-thickness (h/t) ratio of radial beams increased the moment capacity, while the thickness of circular beams had a limited effect. The results were compared with AISI S100–16 standards and an additional method to estimate local and distortional buckling capacities more accurately within the existing DSM approach.Öğe Thiol/Disulphide Homeostasis in the Relationship Between Body Condition Score and Oxidative Stress in Periparturient Period Holstein Heifers(John Wiley and Sons Inc, 2025) Kayar, Tamer; Özkurt, Güzin; Erzurum, Onur; Er, Kübra; Büyükgüngör, Beril; Geçgel, Beyza Nur; Karaburç, Muhammet NureddinThis study aimed to evaluate the effects of body condition scores (BCSs) on oxidative stress and thiol/disulphide homeostasis (TDH) in Holstein pregnant heifers during the transition period. A total of 36 healthy primiparous heifers in the 7th month of pregnancy, all approaching their first calving, were included in the study. The animals were allocated into three equal groups based on their BCS. The BCS measurements were performed 21 days pre-calving and on the 21st day post-calving. Pre-calving and post-calving serum levels of total thiol (TTL), native thiol (NTL) and disulphide (DSF) were quantified using standard techniques. The study revealed significant differences in BCS, TTL and DSF values among groups both pre- and post-calving (p < 0.05), whereas the changes in NTL values were statistically insignificant (p > 0.05). Overall, a decrease in BCS and NTL levels was observed, accompanied by an increase in TTL and DSF levels. Correlation analysis within groups indicated low-level relationships between changes in BCS and TTL, NTL and DSF levels. Consequently, regression analysis did not yield any statistically significant predictive models. The results showed a differential response between the loss of BCS and the oxidative stress during the periparturient period. The increased DSF levels observed during late pregnancy and early lactation indicate a deficiency in antioxidant substances in the animals. Therefore, supplementing the ration with a premix containing antioxidant substances during the transition period may provide significant benefits in terms of maintaining the BCS balance, animal welfare and herd health.Öğe Investigation of the Correlation Between ELISA and Serum Amyloid A in the Diagnosis of Bordetella bronchiseptica in Dogs(John Wiley and Sons Inc, 2025) Sanioğlu Gölen, Gökçenur; Akar, Kadir; Ekin, İsmail HakkıBackground: Bordetella bronchiseptica is an essential bacterial pathogen characterized by chronic respiratory disease in dogs known as Kennel cough. The presence of causative antibodies in animals can also be detected by lipopolysaccharide antigen-based enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In recent years, it has been determined that there is a significant relationship between acute phase proteins and diseases, and disease follow-up can be done within the framework of this relationship. Methods: In this study, blood sera from 150 dogs in an animal shelter in Van province were evaluated for B. bronchiseptica by the homemade ELISA method, and their correlations with serum amyloid A (SAA) were investigated. Blood serum samples were analysed for antibodies against B. bronchiseptica using a homemade ELISA method. Positive animals were also molecularly confirmed using nasal swabs by PCR. A commercial ELISA kit determined SAA levels in blood sera. Results: Eighteen (12%) of the analysed blood serum samples were found positive by the homemade ELISA method. SAA concentrations in the positive blood sera were elevated from 12.7 to ≤38.98 mg/L. SAA concentrations in blood sera serologically positive for B. bronchiseptica were statistically significant. Conclusions: In this study, in which the relationship between SAA concentration and B. bronchiseptica was investigated for the first time in Turkey, it was concluded that SAA concentration analysis may help diagnose and monitor the disease. In addition, the presence and prevalence of this critical and zoonotic agent causing chronic respiratory tract disease in dogs in Van province was revealed for the first time in this study.Öğe Innovative and cost-effective approaches to enhance nutrient removal and energy efficiency in conventional wastewater treatment plants(Academic Press, 2025) Alver, Alper; Küçükbayrak, MustafaThe 42 Evler Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP), originally operated as a conventional activated sludge (CAS) system, was transformed into an advanced biological system using the Modified Ludzack-Ettinger (MLE) process scheme, significantly improving nutrient removal and energy efficiency. Integrating anoxic-aerobic zones and optimizing microbial dynamics enhanced treatment performance, with total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) removal efficiencies increasing from 28.1 % to over 80 % and from 56.4 % to 89.6 %, respectively. These improvements were achieved alongside a 32.9 % reduction in energy consumption. Detailed microbial analyses identified key new species, such as Nitrosomonas and Thiobacillus, whose roles in nitrification and denitrification pathways were pivotal for improving treatment performance. Integrating anoxic-aerobic zones, advanced aeration systems, and optimized sludge management further contributed to the system's sustainability. Evaluating pollutant removal efficiencies before and after the upgrade, supported by statistical analyses, confirmed significant improvements in BOD5, COD, TN, TP, and TSS removal. The microbial community was comprehensively assessed, revealing the specific roles of microorganisms in nutrient removal and process optimization. These advancements align with stringent discharge standards and global environmental goals, demonstrating how microbial insights and process innovations can modernize wastewater treatment. The upgraded system provides a scalable and efficient framework for addressing environmental and operational challenges in wastewater management.Öğe Investigation on the mechanical properties of Nano-Al2O3 particle reinforced single lap adhesive joints using digimat mean field homogenization and finite element method(Elsevier Ltd, 2025) Saraç, İsmail; Yıldırım, FerdiWhen the studies on particle reinforced adhesive joints are evaluated, there is a deficiency in simulation methods. Considering the diversity of particles and the variability of reinforcement ratios, obtaining the mechanical properties of particle reinforced adhesives experimentally is a costly process with a high workload. In this study, the mechanical properties of single-lap adhesive joints (SLJs) produced with pure DP460 and 4 % nano-Al2O3 reinforced DP460 epoxy composite adhesive were investigated using Digimat Mean Field Homogenization and Finite Element Method (FEM). At first, bulk and SLJs specimens were produced from composite and pure adhesives to perform experimental studies. Next, based on the experimental studies, finite element analysis (FEA) of the bulk specimens and SLJs was conducted. In the FEM, the Digimat-Mean Field (Digimat-MF) homogenization approach and Ansys structural analysis were employed together. In the first step of the simulation studies, the mechanical properties of the nano-composite adhesive were obtained using the Digimat-MF homeogenization method. In the second step, Digimat interface was created in the Ansys program and material properties were defined. In this way, the structural analysis of nano-Al2O3 reinforced bulk specimens and SLJs were accurately analyzed. In the FEA, tensile strength values of bulk specimens of pure DP460 and 4 % nano-Al2O3 reinforced DP460 epoxy adhesives were obtained. At the end of the study, experimental and simulation data were verified and compared. When the data acquired were evaluated, it was seen that the Digimat-MF homogenization approach and Ansys FEM were successfully applied to adhesive joints containing composite adhesives.Öğe A high order accurate hybrid technique for numerical solution of modified equal width equation(Elsevier B.V., 2025) Kirli, Emre; Cıkıt, SerpilIn this present study, a high-order accurate hybrid technique is developed to establish the approximate solution of Modified Equal Width (MEW) equation which is used to define solitary waves. The spatial integration is based on combining the cubic B-spline and a fourth-order compact finite-difference (FOCFD) scheme, while the temporal integration is carried out by using fourth-order Runge–Kutta (RK4) scheme. In present technique, the new approximation for the spatial second derivative is constructed by the FOCFD scheme in which the spatial second derivatives of unknowns can be written in terms of the unknowns themselves and their first derivatives. Hence, the spatial second derivative reaches the accuracy of order four, while it is represented by the accuracy of order two in the standard cubic B-spline. The stability of the suggested technique is discussed by using the concept of eigenvalue. Three test problems are examined to verify the efficiency and applicability of the suggested technique. The computed results are compared with the other numerical results in previous works. The comparisons reveal that the suggested hybrid technique provides better results with high accuracy and minimum computational effort.Öğe Hypericum scabrum L.-infused locust bean gum/agar hydrogel film: A novel candidate for anti-aging facial mask applications(Elsevier B.V., 2025) Boran Gülen, RukiyeThis study investigated the anti-aging potential of Hypericum scabrum L. extract and developed a biopolymer-based hydrogel film designed for use as a facial mask. The research evaluated key anti-aging properties, such as the inhibition of collagenase, elastase, and hyaluronidase enzymes, as well as antioxidant activity, and the cytotoxic, genotoxic, and antigenotoxic effects of the extract. Furthermore, the chemical profile of the extract was thoroughly analyzed using LC-MS/MS. The development of a hydrogel film containing locust bean gum (LBG), agar, and glycerol, integrated with H. scabrum extract, was undertaken to provide an innovative and environmentally sustainable solution for skin aging. The structural and functional characteristics of the hydrogel were analyzed using SEM, XRD, FTIR, and TGA/DTA. Additionally, mechanical testing, swelling, weight loss, thickness, in vitro release kinetics, and antibacterial properties were assessed. The H. scabrum extract demonstrated substantial collagenase inhibition, pronounced antioxidant effects, and no genotoxicity, while also exhibiting notable antigenotoxicity (24–69 %). SEM analysis revealed that the unswollen hydrogel had a uniform, smooth surface, while swelling led to a moderately rough texture with pore formation. The hydrogel exhibited rapid swelling (106 ± 1.52 %) and drug release (34.4 ± 0.21 %) within the first 10 min. Thickness and weight loss were within optimal ranges, and the hydrogel exhibited antibacterial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). These findings suggest that the H. scabrum-infused hydrogel film has the potential to serve as a promising candidate for use as an anti-aging facial mask, offering effective anti-aging benefits in an eco-friendly, biocompatible, and sustainable formulation.Öğe Visualised Scale of Attitude Towards Mathematics: A Validity and Reliability Study(John Wiley and Sons Inc, 2025) Kılıç, Remzi; Aydın Bölükbaş, FeyzaThis study was conducted to develop an instrument with good psychometric properties to measure primary school students' attitudes towards mathematics. For this purpose, the screening model was utilised in the research. The form was prepared in the form of a five-point Likert scale (Very Unhappy, Unhappy, Neither Happy nor Unhappy, Happy, Very Happy). Visuals were used to determine the students' responses on the developed scale, thus making the measurement process more fun and interesting for students. We administered the scale to two groups of primary school students and applied exploratory factor analysis (EFA) to the data obtained from the first group (n = 576). The results of the EFA revealed that the scale has a one-dimensional structure consisting of 14 items. The scale was then applied to the second group of elementary school students (n = 347) to confirm the single-factor structure through confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The fit indices calculated during the CFA indicated an excellent model fit of the scale. Finally, Cronbach's alpha, McDonald's omega and item-total correlations were calculated for the reliability analysis of the scale, and the results yielded considerably high values. The analysis results indicate that the developed visual mathematics attitude scale is a highly valid and reliable measurement instrument.Öğe Latent Profile Patterns of Teachers' Organisational Identity Perception in Educational Settings(John Wiley and Sons Inc, 2025) Tabak, Hasan; Sözer Boz, EsraOrganisational identity is crucial in fostering a reliable working environment within educational settings. Therefore, this study focused on examining latent profiles of teachers' organisational identity perceptions. Latent profile analysis was utilised to uncover distinct profiles and their characteristics as assessed by the Teacher Organizational Identity Perception Scale's three dimensions (support, belonging, and communication). The data was collected from 578 in-service teachers working in different grades from preschool to high school. The results identified four distinct teacher profiles: lack of support (n = 59), belonging deficiency (n = 101), engagement (n = 276) and commitment (n = 142). Nearly half of the teachers were in the engagement profile, indicating medium-level organisational identity perception. Covariance analysis revealed that male teachers were significantly more likely to be in the engagement profile rather than the lack of support (OR = 0.59), suggesting that male teachers exhibit higher organisational identity perceptions. This study provides valuable insights into comprehending the nature of teachers' organisational identity perceptions and advocates for future studies to consider these latent profile characteristics in efforts to cultivate a robust school climate.Öğe Physical characteristics of Pb2FeSbO6 double perovskite for thermoelectric applications(Elsevier B.V., 2025) Caid, Messaoud; Rached, Djamel; Deligöz, Engin; Rached, Youcef; Rached, Habib; Irfani, MuhammadThe structural, mechanical, electronic, magnetic, optical, and thermoelectric properties of Pb2FeSbO6 double perovskite are investigated using full-potential linear augmented plane-wave (FP-LAPW) method incorporating the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) and GGA plus onsite Coulomb parameter (GGA + U). Pb2FeSbO6 crystallizes in a ferromagnetic (FM) cubic structure (space group Fm-3m) with lattice constants of 8.072 Å, in good agreement with experimental data. The compound exhibits ductile behavior, as assessed by Poisson and Pugh's ratios. It shows an integer magnetic moment of 5.00μB per formula unit and demonstrates semiconductor behavior with bandgaps as follows: under GGA, the band-gap is 2.347eV (Γ-X) in spin-up and is 1.208eV (X-Γ) in spin-down; under GGA + U, the band-gap is 2.923eV (X-Γ) in spin-up and is 1.665eV (X-X) in spin-down. Optical properties reveal strong absorption in the ultraviolet range, and thermoelectric evaluation suggests a promising figure of merit (ZTmax ≈ 1.0 at 300 K). These findings underscore the potential of Pb2FeSbO6 for thermoelectric and optoelectronic applicationsÖğe Optimization-driven design and experimental validation of a hydraulic robot leg mechanism(2025) Bakırcıoğlu, Veli; Çabuk, Nihat; Jond, Hossein B.; Kalyoncu, MeteHydraulic-actuated legs for quadruped robots excel in producing high force and offering precise control. Although the overall efficiency of hydraulic servo systems can be limited by pump and valve losses, the local mechanical efficiency from the actuator to the leg mechanism can be relatively high. This study introduces an optimization driven methodology for designing and validating robotic leg mechanisms using evolutionary algorithms. By solving three distinct optimization problems, the study addresses trajectory tracking accuracy and force transmission efficiency. The resulting design was experimentally validated, demonstrating reliable motion reproduction with minimal deviation and achieving a force transmission efficiency of 94%. These results demonstrate the feasibility of translating optimization outcomes into high-performing physical prototypes, providing a robust framework for future robotic mechanism developmenÖğe Metaphorical perceptions of nursing students toward sexuality during pregnancy: An example of metaphor analysis(Churchill Livingstone, 2025) Gökşin, İlknur; Yüksel, ArzuBackground: Pregnancy is one of the periods of life in which women's sexuality is negatively affected by the cultural structure of society and false beliefs. Determining the perspectives of nurse candidates on sexuality during pregnancy will contribute to the training of nurses who will be able to evaluate sexuality and provide holistic health care in the future. Objectives: This study aims to describe the metaphorical perceptions of nursing students toward sexuality during pregnancy through metaphors. Design: A metaphor analysis technique based on phenomenological method. Methods: This study was conducted with 317 nursing students in Turkey. The study data were collected with questionnaire form prepared by the researchers between January and February 2024. In the first part of the questionnaire, questions about socio-demographic characteristics were included, and in the second part, the sentence “Sexuality during pregnancy is like., because.” was included to determine the metaphors developed by the students about sexuality during pregnancy. The 317 valid metaphors revealing the students' perceptions of the concept of sexuality during pregnancy were grouped under 3 categories; “Creating danger and causing harm”, “Need/necessity or usual”, and “Unnecessary, wrong or should not be”. Conclusions: In the study, students provided metaphors containing both positive and negative concepts related to sexuality during pregnancy. However, the majority of the metaphors produced contain negative concepts. It is recommended that a sexuality/sexual health course covering sexuality and nursing care in different life periods such as pregnancy be added to the nursing education curriculum in order to determine the perspectives of nursing candidates on pregnancy sexuality, to make them aware of their attitudes and beliefs, and to ensure that they are prepared for the situations they may encounter in health care after graduation.
