MAS Journal of Applied Sciences

The Effect of Different Amounts of Organic Farm Manure Applicatıons on Pasture Yield and Yield Indicators in the Steppe Rangelands of Tektek Mountains in Şanlıurfa Province

Merve BUCAK , Tahir POLAT , Mustafa OKANT , M. İzzet TÜRKOĞLU — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0300

This study was conducted in the steppe rangelands of Tek Tek Mountains in Şanlıurfa province, using a randomized block design with three replications to determine the effects of eight different organic farm manure doses (0, 500, 1000, 1500, 2000, 2500, 3000, 3500 kg da^-1) on rangeland yield, botanical composition, and grazing capacity. The parameters examined in the study included dry matter yield, crude protein yield, the percentage of grasses, legumes, and other plant families based on weight, as well as grazing capacity. According to the results, the investigated features were found to range within the following values: dry matter yield was between 170-460 kg da^-1, crude protein yield ranged from 13.56 to 81.93 kg da^-1, with the proportion of grasses in the botanical composition being 50.39%, legumes 34.23%, and other plant families ranging from 19.06% to 37.18%. The grazing capacity of the rangeland was calculated as 73.93 animal units. In conclusion, it was observed that the majority of the rangeland vegetation was composed of forage crops, leading to an increase in the proportions of grasses and legumes, while the proportion of other plant families decreased. The combined application of 1 ton da^-1 of farm manure with 6 kg da^-1 of phosphorus emerged as a prominent treatment.

Agro-Morphological and Forage Quality Traits of Some Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) Populations Grown Under Şanlıurfa Conditions

Mustafa İzzet ÖZER , Mustafa OKANT — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0300

The research was conducted to determine the dry matter yield and some quality characteristics of pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.], a warm-season annual forage grass grown as a summer crop in 2022. In addition to the Yellow witness variety, seven pearl millet populations (9198, 8022, 4903, 9645, 9449, 5455, and Yellow) obtained from ICRISAT were used as the study material. The harvests were carried out during the dough stage of the grains. Although dry matter yield varied among the populations, it was found to range between 2.32 and 3.47 t ha^-1. Moreover, forage quality characteristics showed that crude protein content ranged from 6.87% to 9.25%, ADF from 31.11% to 36.69%, NDF from 44.49% to 52.09%, and RFV (Relative Forage Value) from 108.83 to 136.04. Among the populations studied, populations 5455, 9198, and Yellow were superior in terms of dry matter yield, while population 9198 outperformed the Yellow witness variety in terms of forage quality. Based on the results of the study, it was concluded that the 9198 population could be considered in future breeding programs when yield and quality characteristics are evaluated together for Şanlıurfa province and similar ecological conditions.

The Effect of Low Temperature Applied During Carpophore Formation on The Development and Nutritional Content of Oyster Mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus (Jacq. ex Fr.) P. Kumm (1871) and P. citrinopileatus Singer)

Turgay KABAY, Aynur SADAK TURHAN , Suat SENSOY , Ruhan lknur GAZIOGLU SENSOY — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Consumption of oyster mushrooms, which is a rich food source, has increased in every region of the world. Especially in recent years, there has been an increase in the production and consumption of foods with high nutritional value such as oyster mushrooms. However, the importance of climatic values is very important in mushroom production. In the present study, the growth and nutrient content of two oyster mushrooms [Pleurotus ostreatus (Jacq. ex Fr.) P. Kumm (1871) (gray oyster mushroom), P. citrinopileatus Singer (yellow oyster mushroom)] were investigated under two different temperatures (22 ⁰C and 10 ⁰C after carpophore formation) to see how mushroom would be affected under low temperature conditions. The study, which was established with 2-liter ready-made mushroom production kits, was designed according to the completely randomized experimental plot design with three replications each consisting four kits. Carpophore area and thickness, potassium (K), calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) contents, and the changes in catalase (CAT) and Ascorbate peroxidase (APX) enzyme activities were investigated in both oyster mushroom species under two temperatures. There were various effects of low temperature and mushroom species on the studied traits. The oyster mushrooms exposed to low temperature had a significant effect on the carpophore area and thickness. Moreover, there was a significant difference between the carpophore areas of two oyster mushroom species at low temperature and between the carpophore thicknesses of two oyster mushroom species at control temperature. The effect of low temperature on the change in K content was found to be significant in both oyster mushrooms. Gray oyster mushroom had significantly higher (17.54%) K content than the yellow oyster mushroom at control temperature, while yellow oyster mushroom had significantly lower (17.49%) Mg content at low temperature compared to control temperature. In low temperature environment condition, the CAT activity increased by 5.7 times in gray oyster mushroom and 5.0 in yellow oyster mushroom. Moreover, The APX activities of mushrooms at low temperature increased by 8.1 times in gray oyster mushroom and 7.5 times in yellow oyster mushroom. Moreover, the yellow oyster mushroom had significantly (p<0.01) higher CAT and APX contents (0.57 and 1.43 times, respectively) than the gray oyster mushroom at low temperature.

Effect of Drought Applied in Different Periods on Plant Morphological and Physiological Characteristics in Tomato

Muhammed Sait YANARDAĞ , Turgay KABAY — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Babacan F1 hybrid tomato seedlings were used in the study conducted to determine the rate of effects of droughts experienced during the tomato production period on plant development, yield and quality in tomatoes. Babacan F1 hybrid tomato seedlings were subjected to control, 1^st period drought treatment and 2^nd period drought. In the first group drought treatment, tomato seedlings planted in the field were exposed to 30 days of drought 10 days after planting. At the end of 30 days, drought was terminated and regular irrigation was started. Similarly, in the second group drought treatment, no irrigation was applied for 30 days after seedling planting, starting 40 days after planting. At the end of 30 days, regular irrigation was started again. Regular irrigation was continued in the control group plants. The study was designed according to the randomized block factorial experimental design with three replications and six plants in each replication. At the end of the study, it was observed that the membrane injury index increased, leaf ratio water content, plant height, root collar diameter, fruit width, fruit length, fruit flesh hardness, fruit weight and yield per plant decreased. It has been observed that in the climatic conditions of Van, during the early tomato production period, the plant withstood 30 days of drought and that data close to control values were obtained when the plants were watered at the end of the 30-day drought.

Role of Giberellic Acid (GA3) in Seed Germination and Early Seedling Development in Some Field Crops: A Review

Nilüfer KOÇAK ŞAHİN, Onur OKUMUŞ , Ahmet SAY — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Seed development and germination are of significant importance in life cycle of both monocotyledonous and dicotyledonous seeds. Germination begins with the absorption of water by a dormant seed, and a radicle emerges from the seed coat. The distribution of germination is influenced by environmental factors that regulate dormancy and germination potential, as well as the genetic characteristics of the plant. Abcisic acid (ABA) and gibberellins (GAs) are considered phyto-hormones that regulate and seed dormancy inversely. Uniformity in germination and initial growth are the functions of seeds, which are mainly affected by excessive fertilizer use of fertilizers, wrong cultural practices soil quality. Various seed coating methods, including GA, have been used to reduce salinity and drought in field crops. Many studies establish that GA₃ doses positively affect plant growth and development under various stress factors. This study is expected to summarize GA₃ studies and serve as an example for future research.

The Effects of Proline and Salicylic Acid Applications on Yield and Plant Growth in Green Onion (Allium cepa L.) Cultivation

Haydar BALCI, Muhsin YILDIZ, Murat KARA — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0300

This study was conducted to determine the effects of salicylic acid (SA) and proline (PR) applications on the growth and development of green onions. The experiment was carried out according to a randomized block design in an unheated glass greenhouse at Van Yuzuncu Yil University. Proline (50 ppm and 100 ppm) and salicylic acid (0.5 mM and 1.0 mM) were applied individually and in combination. Plant height, root length, stem diameter, number of leaves, total fresh and dry weight, and SPAD values were examined. The highest plant height (27.26 cm) was obtained with the PR2+SA1 combination, surpassing individual treatments. PR1 (16.57 cm) and SA2 (16.03 cm) yielded the highest root length; PR1+SA1 (5.62 mm) had the greatest stem diameter; PR2+SA1 (146.67 g) and PR1 (142.00 g) provided the highest fresh weight, whereas PR2+SA1 (19.84 g) led to the maximum dry weight. The highest SPAD value (89.73), indicating chlorophyll content, was recorded with SA2 application. The findings reveal that combinations of PR and SA positively influence green onion growth and may increase yield, suggesting further studies on optimal doses under grower conditions are warranted.

Silage Quality Characteristics in Mixtures of Moringa oleifera and Moringa stenopetala with Maize (Zea mays L.) at Different Ratios

Hager Gamal Maher MOHAMED, Gülcan DEMİROĞLU TOPÇU — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0300

In this study, the aim was to determine some silage characteristics by mixing two different Moringa species (Moringa oleifera and Moringa stenopetala) with maize (Zea mays L.) in different ratios. In the study, the Moringa species were mixed with maize in the ratios of 100-0%, 75-25%, 50-50%, 25-75%, and 0-100% and ensiled with 4 replications. At the end of the ensilling period (60 days), the silages were opened, and their physical characteristics (color, smell, structure, and DLG score), dry matter content (%), ADF, NDF and pH. According to the results of the study, it was observed that the silages obtained by ensiling Moringa oleifera and Moringa stenopetala, either alone or in different ratios with maize, were sufficient in terms of some silage physical characteristics, silage quality, and nutritional value. When the Moringa species were examined, it was determined that the silage quality of 100% Moringa and 25% Moringa + 75% Maize mixtures increased and could be ensile as a sufficient silage.

Effect of Encapsulation on the Amount of HMF in Honey

Elif Sine DÜVENCİ, Pınar KARAGÜL , Bora KARAGÜL — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) is recognized as an undesirable component in honey and is usually formed as a result of heat treatment or prolonged storage of honey. HMF is formed as a result of chemical processes such as the Maillard reaction. Low levels of HMF are often associated with the freshness of honey. To prevent the formation of HMF in honey, it is thought that the application of the encapsulation process can increase the stability of this component and reduce its direct interaction. This method can help to extend the shelf life of honey and preserve its nutritional value. The protection provided by encapsulation may improve the overall quality of honey by reducing HMF formation depending on factors such as temperature and storage time. The aim of this study was to demonstrate that undesirable HMF formation can be prevented by encapsulating honey, which is rich in nutrients, with a biocompatible material. Accordingly, unencapsulated honey and encapsulated honey were kept in an oven at 80 °C for 2 hours and HMF formation was analyzed. In addition, the HMF content of unexposed honey, exposed honey and encapsulated honey samples were analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). As a result of the analysis, it was observed that the highest to the lowest amount of HMF was observed in honey exposed to temperature, encapsulated honey and honey samples not exposed to temperature, respectively. The calculated HMF amounts were 17.21 mg L^-1, 14.80 mg L^-1 and 14.70 mg L^-1, respectively. Furthermore, these results were supported by thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). In conclusion, this study showed that the encapsulation method was effective in reducing HMF formation. The findings suggest that encapsulation can increase the stability of honey and therefore may be an effective method to extend its shelf life.

The Synthesis and Electrochemical Characterization of an Electron Donor-Acceptor Co-Monomer

Hacer DOLAŞ — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0300

This article presents the synthesis, characterization and electrochemical polymerization conditions of 4, 5-dithiophene imidazole (Th2-Im) co-monomer with donor-acceptor character carrying thiophene and imidazole monomer synthesized using Still Cross Coupling reaction. The obtained synthesis product (Th2-Im) was characterized by FT-IR, XPS and SEM images. In the synthesis structure, the presence of S atom belonging to the Th ring was observed in the 175 eV region, and the presence of N atom belonging to the Im ring was observed in the 411 eV region. In addition, B atom, which would indicate the presence of dopant anion, was observed in the 202 eV region. It was determined by SEM images that Poly (Th2-Im) had a more distinct and regular geometric texture than Poly (Th) morphologically. It was determined that Th2-Im was oxidized at 0.6 V from electrochemical polymerization. From monomer free CV, it was determined that Poly (Th2-Im) showed 3 oxidation peaks as 0.25V, 0.75V and 1.2V and 3 reduction peaks as 0.7V, 0.4V and 0.1 V. It was determined that the synthesis polymer obtained from these data could be polymerized more easily than Th and Im and the donor-acceptor character could be clearly observed in CV graphs.

Emotion Recognition in EEG Signals with Wavelet Transform and CNN

Abdulfatah KALAJE , Hasan DEMİR — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0300

In this study, different Wavelet Transform methods were used. Emotion recognition was performed on EEG signals using artificial neural networks and convolutional neural networks with the features obtained by using Wavelet Transform coefficients. A dataset of EEG signals belonging to three different emotions taken from four people was used. It was used to classify stressful, neutral and relaxed emotions. By comparing the results obtained with Continuous Wavelet Transform (CWT), Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) for 1D and 2D and Synchrosqueezed Wavelet Transform (SSWT), an appropriate wavelet transform was tried to be determined for emotion recognition on EEG signals. It was found that Synchrosqueezed Wavelet Transform (SSWT) was the most effective algorithm for emotion classification with the highest accuracy, precision, sensitivity, specificity and F1-score.

Effect of Temperature Fluctuations on Biological Activity and Membrane Performance in Anaerobic Membrane Reactors

Birkut GÜLER , Mehmet Emin ARICI — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Anaerobic membrane bioreactors (anMBR) are increasingly used in wastewater treatment processes. These reactors aim to increase treatment efficiency by combining membrane filtration with biological treatment. In this context, many factors need to be taken into consideration in order to effectively maintain the biological processes taking place in reactors. Water temperature is one of these factors and can significantly affect treatment performance by directly affecting the metabolism of microorganisms. It is known that an increase in water temperature improves the performance of bacteria used in the treatment process. In the current study, it was observed that physical properties changing with temperature slightly reduced treatment performance and it was concluded that the appropriate treatment temperature value is 35 °C, which is still valid in practice. This result provides critical information for optimizing anMBR systems and opens the door to new research on how certain temperature ranges can increase the effectiveness of treatment processes.

Synthesis, Characterization, and Thermal Properties of Cd(II) and Hg(II) Complexes Containing N,N'-bis(2-hydroxyethyl)piperazine and Saccharinate

Serkan GÜNEY — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0300

New complexes of Cd(II) and Hg(II) incorporating N,N'-bis(2-hydroxyethyl)piperazine (bheppz) as a ligand, along with saccharinate (sac), were synthesized. The characterization of these complexes, proposed to have the general structure [M(sac)₂(bheppz)]n (M = Cd(II) or Hg(II)), was conducted using elemental composition determination, FT-IR spectral analysis, and thermal analysis techniques. The complexes were synthesized by reacting [Cd(sac)₂(H₂O)₄]·2H₂O and [Hg(sac)₂] with bheppz. Based on the IR spectra, it has been suggested that the sac ligand coordinates through the N atom, which is its most common coordination mode. Additionally, the bheppz ligand was proposed to act as a bridging ligand via its nitrogen and oxygen donor atoms, leading to the formation of polymeric structures. The immediate precipitation of the complexes as powders during synthesis and their low solubility in common solvents further support their polymeric nature. The IR spectra of the complexes exhibited characteristic absorption bands corresponding to both bheppz and sac ligands. Thermal dissociation studies revealed that the bheppz ligand was exothermically eliminated in the first step, while the sac ligand dissociated in two exothermic steps at higher temperatures. The final decomposition products were identified as CdO for [Cd(sac)₂(bheppz)]_n (1) and elemental mercury for [Hg(sac)₂(bheppz)]_n (2), with mercury volatilizing from the system at elevated temperatures.

Detection of Soil Salinity Using Remote Sensing and Machine Learning: Innovative Approaches and Contributions

Fatma KAPLAN — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Soil salinity is a significant issue that threatens agricultural productivity and ecosystem balance worldwide. Analyzing soil salinity using traditional methods is a challenging, costly, and time-consuming process, as it relies on laboratory measurements, making it difficult to apply over large areas. Thus, there has been a rise in recent years in the trend toward utilizing remote sensing and machine learning methods to evaluate soil salinity quickly and effectively. Remote sensing can detect signs of salinity on the soil surface through spectral data obtained from satellites and aerial vehicles. Data from visible, near-infrared, and thermal bands, in particular, are widely used in mapping soil salinity. Machine learning algorithms process this spectral data to model complex relationships related to soil salinity and make predictions. Methods like Deep Learning, Artificial Neural Networks, Random Forests, and Support Vector Machines have attracted attention in this field due to their high accuracy rates. These methods hold great potential for monitoring changes in soil salinity, optimizing agricultural practices, and developing strategies to combat salinity. At the same time, they contribute to the advancement of sustainable agriculture by supporting soil management decisions, especially in large agricultural areas. In this context, the combination of machine learning and remote sensing technologies stands out as an effective solution for monitoring and managing soil salinity. Therefore, this research attempts to investigate the advantages and limitations of research conducted in this field and to provide a framework that can guide future studies.

Mesozoic Micropaleontological Data of Senirkent (Isparta) Surroundings

Aslı KARABAŞOĞLU — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0300

In the north of Isparta, Senirkent and its surroundings, formations belonging to Barla Mountain, Senirkent and Kırdağ Anamas Units are located. In this study, samples were taken from limestones outcropping along the north and south of Senirkent town. Uluğbey Formation consists of thick-layered, occasionally oolitic and dolomitic limestones, Ergenli Formation consists of gray, medium-thick-layered algal limestones containing dolomitic levels. According to the fossils Orbitopsella sp., Lituosepta sp., Meandrovoluta asiagoensis, Everticyclammina sp., Siphovalvulina sp. detected in the formations, Liassic age was used for both formations, and it is represented by shallow, tidal flat and lagoon environment. Sulucandere and Beşparmak limestone formations are located in the south of Senirkent Town. Sulucandere Formation is composed of oolitic and oncoidal limestones intercalated with pelagic limestones. Characteristic fossils such as Gutnicella bizonorum, Gutnicella cayeuxi, Rectocyclammina sp, Callorbis minor, Andersenolina sp, Protopeneroplis striata, Spiraloconulus sp, Mesoendothyra sp. giving Dogger age were determined in the unit. According to this fossil assemblage, it can be said that it represents the continental slope, shelf environment between the platform and the open sea. Beşparmak Limestone Formation starts with limestones containing rudist clasts representing the shallow sea and shows a transition towards pelagic limestones representing the deep sea. It was determined that the formation characterizes the pelagic environment between the platform and the open sea, according to the fossils of Globotruncana arca, Rotundata calcarata, Abathomphalus mayaroensis and Globotruncana sp., which give a Cretaceous (Campanian-Maastrichtian) age.

The Impact of Social Media in Veterinary Education: Contributions of Social Media Use to the Learning Process in Veterinary Parasitology Education

Meral AYDENİZÖZ, Pınar AYVAZOĞLU DEMİR — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0300

This study investigates the social media and internet usage habits of Veterinary Faculty students, particularly in the context of the parasitology course, and examines the impact of these platforms on their learning processes. As an extension of the research conducted by Demir Ayvazoğlu and Aydenizöz (2024) due to the broad scope of the topic, this study identifies that 56.8% of participants use social media in veterinary education to access visualized case examples, 27.2% to obtain quick information about the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, and 16% to learn about disease prevention and control programs. Specifically, regarding the use of the internet for parasitology course content, 40.3% of participants reported using it to examine parasite images, 25.1% to prepare for exams, and 22.2% to access lecture slides. Google (59.1%) and YouTube (20.5%) were identified as the most preferred platforms among students for these purposes. The frequency of social media usage varied depending on individual preferences and course content, with 21.1% of students reporting frequent use and 46.2% reporting occasional use specifically for the parasitology course. Additionally, approximately 94% of students stated that they prefer to be selective rather than fully trusting information found on the internet and use various criteria to evaluate the reliability of the information. In conclusion, the study highlights that the internet and social media serve as important learning tools for students in the parasitology course, especially in terms of visual learning and quick access to information. However, promoting reliable information sources and enhancing digital literacy are critical for enabling students to benefit more effectively from these tools.

Enhancing EMG Signals for Amputee People with Deep Neural Network and Optimization Algorithms

Çağdaş ÖZER , Zeynep ORMAN — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Individuals with amputations often rely on prosthetic limbs to maintain daily functionality; however, over time, the performance of these devices can be compromised by wear, signal degradation, or other technical issues. In this study, we investigate the enhancement of electromyography (EMG) signals to mitigate changes in signal characteristics associated with long-term use by amputees. Our approach employs deep neural networks (DNN) integrated with various optimization algorithms. Data were acquired using an MYO Armband on the right arms of seven volunteers performing repeated fist clenching until muscle fatigue set in. The acquired data were augmented using synthetic data generation techniques and subsequently processed with a DNN that incorporated methods such as Principal Component Analysis (PCA), low variance and high correlation filters, nonlinear convolution layers, ensemble learning, bagging, batch normalization, and optimization algorithms including Stochastic Gradient Descent (SGD), Adagrad, RMSprop, Adam, and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). The performance was evaluated using metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, and F-measure. Without optimization, the precision was 0.76; however, after extensive testing of various algorithmic combinations and synthetic data augmentation, the best configuration achieved a precision of approximately 0.98. These findings demonstrate that, with carefully selected deep learning and optimization strategies, EMG signals can be processed in near real-time, thereby significantly reducing the impact of mobility limitations.

Process Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (PFMEA) and Improvements on Valve Seizure Issue in Engine Assembly

Taha Cüneyd MENDİ , Hasan AYDOĞAN — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0300

This study analyzes and improves defects encountered in the production processes of internal combustion engines in an engine assembly plant. Process Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (PFMEA) was utilized to detect, assess, and minimize these defects. To enhance its effectiveness, 6M analysis, Ishikawa diagrams, root cause analysis, and statistical process control (SPC) techniques were applied. The research primarily focuses on the valve seizure issue in the cylinder head assembly process, identifying root causes and implementing preventive and corrective actions. As a result, critical defects were significantly reduced, process efficiency improved, and annual defect-related costs decreased. This study provides valuable insights into quality management and continuous improvement in the automotive industry. The systematic application of PFMEA enables proactive error detection, better process control, and enhanced quality standards. Findings contribute to developing a structured framework for quality management in similar manufacturing environments.

Investigation of the Kinetic and Thermal Properties of Lentil Stalk Pyrolysis

Hakan YILDIZ — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0300

The depletion of non-renewable energy sources and the increasing environmental issues have heightened interest in biomass-based renewable energy sources. Biomass is an environmentally friendly and sustainable energy source that can be derived from animals, plants, and microbial waste. This study aims to investigate the pyrolysis processes of lentil stalk biomass and determine its kinetic and thermodynamic properties. The thermal degradation behavior of lentil stalk was evaluated using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) experiments conducted at different heating rates (3 °C min^-1, 5 °C min^-1, 7 °C min^-1, and 10 °C min^-1). The pyrolysis stages of lentil stalk were identified using TG and DTG graphs, and decomposition mechanisms were analyzed. Kinetic calculations were performed using both model-free methods, including Flynn-Wall-Ozawa (FWO) and Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose (KAS), and the model-based Coats-Redfern method. The analysis determined the activation energies for lentil stalk and identified the reaction mechanisms. This study provides valuable scientific data for the development of renewable energy sources by contributing to the evaluation of agricultural waste, such as lentil stalk, for biofuel production.