JNBS
Üsküdar Üniversitesi

ARTICLES

Original Article

Detecting Discriminative Biomarkers For Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Using Deep Learning Algorithms

Turkish Title : Detecting Discriminative Biomarkers For Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Using Deep Learning Algorithms

Güneş NAZİK
JNBS, 2025, 12(3), p:75-80

DOI : 10.32739/jnbs.12.3.277

Aim: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a common psychiatric disorder that usually begins in adolescence. The fact that it is frequently seen together with other psychiatric disorders, its symptoms overlap with different mental illnesses, and the diagnosis is primarily based on clinical interviews and psychometric scales makes it difficult to diagnose obsessive-compulsive disorder. In this context, it is aimed to contribute to the objective diagnostic processes of OCD with biomarker and artificial intelligencesupported approaches. Materials and Methods: In this study, individuals diagnosed with OCD were classified from healthy individuals using two different hybrid deep learning models: Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU) and Transformer Encoder (TE) with one-dimensional convolutional neural networks (1DCNN), respectively. Results: In the 1DCNN-TE model, false negatives (11) and false positives (1) remain at low levels, while in the 1DCNN-GRU model, these values are 30 and 95, respectively. While the training and test accuracy of the 1DCNN-TE model is over 95%, the accuracy of the 1DCNN-GRU model has reached over 90%. While the training and test losses tend to decrease in both models, the fluctuations in the test loss are more pronounced in the 1DCNN-TE model. Conclusion: The results indicate that both deep learning models could classify OCD with high accuracy based on EEG signals and successfully learn discriminative features. However, the fluctuations observed in the test data and errors in detecting the control group have indicated limitations regarding the models’ generalizability and reliability on new data.

Aim: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a common psychiatric disorder that usually begins in adolescence. The fact that it is frequently seen together with other psychiatric disorders, its symptoms overlap with different mental illnesses, and the diagnosis is primarily based on clinical interviews and psychometric scales makes it difficult to diagnose obsessive-compulsive disorder. In this context, it is aimed to contribute to the objective diagnostic processes of OCD with biomarker and artificial intelligencesupported approaches. Materials and Methods: In this study, individuals diagnosed with OCD were classified from healthy individuals using two different hybrid deep learning models: Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU) and Transformer Encoder (TE) with one-dimensional convolutional neural networks (1DCNN), respectively. Results: In the 1DCNN-TE model, false negatives (11) and false positives (1) remain at low levels, while in the 1DCNN-GRU model, these values are 30 and 95, respectively. While the training and test accuracy of the 1DCNN-TE model is over 95%, the accuracy of the 1DCNN-GRU model has reached over 90%. While the training and test losses tend to decrease in both models, the fluctuations in the test loss are more pronounced in the 1DCNN-TE model. Conclusion: The results indicate that both deep learning models could classify OCD with high accuracy based on EEG signals and successfully learn discriminative features. However, the fluctuations observed in the test data and errors in detecting the control group have indicated limitations regarding the models’ generalizability and reliability on new data.


Original Article

Institutional Context, Triggers and Symptoms of Mass Psychogenic Illness: A Literature-Based Content Analysis

Turkish Title : Institutional Context, Triggers and Symptoms of Mass Psychogenic Illness: A Literature-Based Content Analysis

Burak Yılmazer Cem,Dinçer Cekin Murat,Mumtaz Korkutan
JNBS, 2025, 12(3), p:81-86

DOI : 10.32739/jnbs.12.3.278

Aim: This study aimed to investigate mass psychogenic illness (MPI) across various institutional settings worldwide, identifying its triggering factors and symptom profiles. Additionally, it sought to analyze the organizational and psychosocial factors contributing to MPI outbreaks and to propose recommendations for their prevention. Method: The research was based on a dataset comprising peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2025, written in English and documenting MPI cases within specific institutional contexts. A systematic review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases. Employing qualitative content analysis, 14 case studies were evaluated through descriptive and thematic approaches, focusing on institutional categories, triggering factors and symptom profiles. Results: The analysis revealed that 85.7% (12/14) of MPI cases occurred in school settings, while 7.1% (1/14) was reported to occur in a hospital and 7.1% (1/14) in an office environment. In schools, emotional vulnerability among adolescents, academic stress, misinformation dissemination and group interactions emerged as primary triggers. In contrast, environmental perceptions and dramatic interventions were prominent in hospital and office cases. The most frequently reported physical symptoms included nausea, headaches and dizziness, while psychical symptoms such as anxiety and panic were less common. Notably, MPI cases were more prevalent among female students. Conclusion: MPI is predominantly observed in school environments, driven by stress, misinformation and social contagion. Being less frequent in adult-oriented settings, its presence reflects distinct dynamics rather than immunity. The study highlights the critical role of organizational culture and leadership in preventing MPI. Strengthening psychosocial support systems, implementing stress management and fostering transparent communication within institutions can mitigate MPI risks.

Aim: This study aimed to investigate mass psychogenic illness (MPI) across various institutional settings worldwide, identifying its triggering factors and symptom profiles. Additionally, it sought to analyze the organizational and psychosocial factors contributing to MPI outbreaks and to propose recommendations for their prevention. Method: The research was based on a dataset comprising peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2025, written in English and documenting MPI cases within specific institutional contexts. A systematic review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases. Employing qualitative content analysis, 14 case studies were evaluated through descriptive and thematic approaches, focusing on institutional categories, triggering factors and symptom profiles. Results: The analysis revealed that 85.7% (12/14) of MPI cases occurred in school settings, while 7.1% (1/14) was reported to occur in a hospital and 7.1% (1/14) in an office environment. In schools, emotional vulnerability among adolescents, academic stress, misinformation dissemination and group interactions emerged as primary triggers. In contrast, environmental perceptions and dramatic interventions were prominent in hospital and office cases. The most frequently reported physical symptoms included nausea, headaches and dizziness, while psychical symptoms such as anxiety and panic were less common. Notably, MPI cases were more prevalent among female students. Conclusion: MPI is predominantly observed in school environments, driven by stress, misinformation and social contagion. Being less frequent in adult-oriented settings, its presence reflects distinct dynamics rather than immunity. The study highlights the critical role of organizational culture and leadership in preventing MPI. Strengthening psychosocial support systems, implementing stress management and fostering transparent communication within institutions can mitigate MPI risks.


Original Article

Evaluation of Glymphatic System Activity Using Diffusion Tensor Imaging Analysis Along the Perivascular Space (DTI-ALPS) in Alzheimer’s Disease

Turkish Title : Evaluation of Glymphatic System Activity Using Diffusion Tensor Imaging Analysis Along the Perivascular Space (DTI-ALPS) in Alzheimer’s Disease

Aslı BİLSEL Beyza,Barış METİN,Murat AŞIK
JNBS, 2025, 12(3), p:87-93

DOI : 10.32739/jnbs.12.3.279

Aim: The glymphatic system is a recently discovered waste drainage system that facilitates the movement of cerebrospinal fluid through the brain’s perivascular spaces and aids in removing soluble proteins. The Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI-ALPS) index analysis is a modern method used to evaluate the movement of water molecules in these spaces by measuring the diffusion coefficient. This study aimed to examine glymphatic system function in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients compared to healthy controls (HC) using the DTI-ALPS method and to analyze its relationship with cognitive disorders. Methods:DTI data from 59 AD patients and 59 HC were obtained by downloading medical data from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) platform. Using DSI Studio software, the diffusivities of the DTI data were extracted, and DTI-ALPS indices were calculated. Correlation analysis evaluated the relationship between the DTI-ALPS index and clinical features. Results:The findings indicated that the DTI-ALPS index was significantly lower in AD patients compared to HC (p = 0.042). Furthermore, the DTI-ALPS index showed a significant correlation with the Functional Activities Questionnaire (FAQ) (r = -0.214, p = 0.020) and the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) (r = 0.225, p = 0.014). Conclusions:The study demonstrated that AD individuals have impaired glymphatic system function, as indicated by the DTIALPS index, which correlates with worse cognitive performance. These findings support early diagnosis methods for AD. A better understanding of glymphatic system function may provide new perspectives for monitoring AD progression.

Aim: The glymphatic system is a recently discovered waste drainage system that facilitates the movement of cerebrospinal fluid through the brain’s perivascular spaces and aids in removing soluble proteins. The Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI-ALPS) index analysis is a modern method used to evaluate the movement of water molecules in these spaces by measuring the diffusion coefficient. This study aimed to examine glymphatic system function in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients compared to healthy controls (HC) using the DTI-ALPS method and to analyze its relationship with cognitive disorders. Methods:DTI data from 59 AD patients and 59 HC were obtained by downloading medical data from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) platform. Using DSI Studio software, the diffusivities of the DTI data were extracted, and DTI-ALPS indices were calculated. Correlation analysis evaluated the relationship between the DTI-ALPS index and clinical features. Results:The findings indicated that the DTI-ALPS index was significantly lower in AD patients compared to HC (p = 0.042). Furthermore, the DTI-ALPS index showed a significant correlation with the Functional Activities Questionnaire (FAQ) (r = -0.214, p = 0.020) and the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) (r = 0.225, p = 0.014). Conclusions:The study demonstrated that AD individuals have impaired glymphatic system function, as indicated by the DTIALPS index, which correlates with worse cognitive performance. These findings support early diagnosis methods for AD. A better understanding of glymphatic system function may provide new perspectives for monitoring AD progression.


Review Article

Structural, Functional and Cognitive Differences Between Female and Male Brains: A Neuroscientific Review

Turkish Title : Structural, Functional and Cognitive Differences Between Female and Male Brains: A Neuroscientific Review

Sibel TAMKAFA Yamaç,Rıdvan EKMEKÇİ
JNBS, 2025, 12(3), p:94-97

DOI : 10.32739/jnbs.12.3.280

This review aims to systematically examine the structural, functional, and cognitive differences between male and female brains through neuroscientific findings. The process of sexual differentiation begins prenatally under hormonal influences and continues to be shaped by environmental stimuli after birth. Based on an extensive literature review, the study discusses neuroanatomical structures (e.g., corpus callosum, hippocampus, amygdalae), neural connectivity patterns, and cognitive performance variations. It also explores the influence hormones on neurodevelopmental processes and the relationship between sexbased cognitive tendencies and individual differences. The findings indicate that gender-based distinctions should be interpreted within the framework of functional complementarity and neurodiversity, rather than superiority. Differences between male and female brains arise from a complex interplay of biological and environmental factors. These distinctions should be viewed as part of a broader spectrum of neurodiversity.

This review aims to systematically examine the structural, functional, and cognitive differences between male and female brains through neuroscientific findings. The process of sexual differentiation begins prenatally under hormonal influences and continues to be shaped by environmental stimuli after birth. Based on an extensive literature review, the study discusses neuroanatomical structures (e.g., corpus callosum, hippocampus, amygdalae), neural connectivity patterns, and cognitive performance variations. It also explores the influence hormones on neurodevelopmental processes and the relationship between sexbased cognitive tendencies and individual differences. The findings indicate that gender-based distinctions should be interpreted within the framework of functional complementarity and neurodiversity, rather than superiority. Differences between male and female brains arise from a complex interplay of biological and environmental factors. These distinctions should be viewed as part of a broader spectrum of neurodiversity.


Review Article

Investigation of Coaching Process in terms of Neuroplasticity: A Brain-Based Approach to Restructuring Thought Patterns

Turkish Title : Investigation of Coaching Process in terms of Neuroplasticity: A Brain-Based Approach to Restructuring Thought Patterns

BASARANOGLU Kemal,UNALDI Karaer Hatice,YAMAN Komitoğlu Özlem
JNBS, 2025, 12(3), p:98-105

DOI : 10.32739/jnbs.12.3.281

Neuroplasticity is a fundamental neuroscientific principle demonstrating that the brain can be structurally and functionally reshaped throughout life via experience, learning, and repetition. This concept plays a critical role in understanding the potential for change at the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral levels. Coaching, on the other hand, is a goal-oriented developmental process that enables individuals to question their current thought patterns, enhance self-awareness, and develop cognitive flexibility. This literaturebased review highlights how elements known to facilitate neuroplasticity-such as attention, emotional arousal, relational interaction, and experiential repetition-are inherently present in the coaching process. It is argued that coaching conversations provide a fertile ground for neuroplastic change, facilitating the formation of new synaptic connections, the weakening of outdated neural pathways, and the restructuring of cognitive maps. In this regard, coaching is proposed not only as a psychosocial intervention but also as a practice with the potential to induce change at the neurobiological level. This study aims to establish a theoretical framework for the intersection between coaching and neuroplasticity, while also offering a foundation for future experimental research in this field.

Neuroplasticity is a fundamental neuroscientific principle demonstrating that the brain can be structurally and functionally reshaped throughout life via experience, learning, and repetition. This concept plays a critical role in understanding the potential for change at the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral levels. Coaching, on the other hand, is a goal-oriented developmental process that enables individuals to question their current thought patterns, enhance self-awareness, and develop cognitive flexibility. This literaturebased review highlights how elements known to facilitate neuroplasticity-such as attention, emotional arousal, relational interaction, and experiential repetition-are inherently present in the coaching process. It is argued that coaching conversations provide a fertile ground for neuroplastic change, facilitating the formation of new synaptic connections, the weakening of outdated neural pathways, and the restructuring of cognitive maps. In this regard, coaching is proposed not only as a psychosocial intervention but also as a practice with the potential to induce change at the neurobiological level. This study aims to establish a theoretical framework for the intersection between coaching and neuroplasticity, while also offering a foundation for future experimental research in this field.


Original Article

Turkish Title : The Impact of Respiratory Biofeedback Use on Symptom Severity in Panic Disorder

Burkovik Hatice Yıldız,Göçmen Buse Sıdıka,Metin Barış
JNBS, 2025, 12(1), p:1-7

DOI : 10.32739/jnbs.12.1.1

Aim: This study aimed to enhance conscious awareness of respiratory control in panic disorder patients to prevent panic attacks. Materials and Method: Thirty participants (aged 18–65) diagnosed with panic disorder were recruited from NP Istanbul Brain Hospital and NP Istanbul Medical Center. They were divided into two groups: one received only psychoeducation on breathing techniques, while the other received psychoeducation combined with visual biofeedback (Galvanic Skin Resistance, heart rate, respiratory depth, and skin temperature). Breathing training was conducted over four weeks, and outcomes were assessed using the Panic Agoraphobia Scale, State and Trait Anxiety Scale, and biofeedback metrics. Result: Both groups showed significant improvements in Panic Agoraphobia Scale scores and reductions in State and Trait Anxiety scores. The biofeedback group demonstrated more pronounced improvements in respiratory control, with significantly lower breathing rates in the final assessment. Conclusion: Respiratory biofeedback combined with psychoeducation effectively improves respiratory control and reduces anxiety symptoms in panic disorder patients.


Original Article

Turkish Title : The Mediating Role of Body Image in the Relationship Between Rejection Sensitivity and Social Anxiety in Emerging Adults

Yılmazer Eda,Kocaman Nisan İlayda
JNBS, 2025, 12(1), p:8-15

DOI : 10.32739/jnbs.12.1.2

Aim: Social anxiety is a prevalent concern during emerging adulthood and is often associated with heightened sensitivity to rejection and negative self-perceptions. This study examines the mediating role of body image in the relationship between rejection sensitivity and social anxiety among emerging adults. Materials and Methods: A total of 300 participants aged 18-29 completed measures assessing rejection sensitivity, body image, and social anxiety. Results: Findings suggest that individuals with high rejection sensitivity are more likely to experience negative body image, which in turn increases their levels of social anxiety. Body image emerged as a significant mediator, indicating that emerging adults who are more sensitive to social rejection may internalize these experiences as negative self-evaluations, particularly regarding their physical appearance. Conclusion: These findings highlight the importance of addressing body image concerns in interventions aimed at reducing social anxiety, particularly for individuals prone to rejection sensitivity. Understanding this mediation pathway may provide insights for developing more targeted approaches to support mental health during the transition to adulthood.


Original Article

Turkish Title : Raising Through Reflection: The Influence of Childhood Trauma on Millennial Parenting Behaviors

Unuvar Melike,Ünal Ipek Özönder,Erensoy Habib,Berkol Tonguc Demir
JNBS, 2025, 12(1), p:16-22

DOI : 10.32739/jnbs.12.1.3

Aim: Parental childhood traumas significantly influence their parenting styles. This study examines the relationship between childhood neglect and abuse experienced by Generation Y parents and their parental attitudes. Materials and Method: A total of 106 participants (60 women, 46 men) aged 25–40 years completed the Sociodemographic Information Form, Parental Attitude Scale (PAS), and Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ). Data collection was conducted online following ethical approval. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 24.0. Results: Emotional abuse and neglect were positively correlated with authoritarian and permissive parental attitudes. Conversely, a negative correlation was observed between emotional neglect and democratic attitudes. Income level, marital status, and self-harm history significantly influenced CTQ and PAS scores, with authoritarian attitudes being higher in women and younger parents. Conclusions: Childhood traumas are intergenerational and extend beyond individual experiences, influencing societal structures. Addressing trauma requires holistic community interventions. Future studies should expand on how unresolved parental traumas shape generational outcomes.


Original Article

Turkish Title : Investigating the Relationship Between Resting-State EEG Gamma Power and Neuropsychological Performance in Healthy Adults

Düşmez Hafize Meryem
JNBS, 2025, 12(1), p:23-31

DOI : 10.32739/jnbs.12.1.4

Aim: Resting-state gamma oscillations, less studied compared to task-related gamma activity, have increasingly been considered to reflect baseline cognitive processes and readiness for future cognitive demands. Previous research has largely focused on clinical populations, identifying aberrant gamma activity as a marker of cognitive dysfunction in conditions such as schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s disease, and ADHD. This study investigates the relationship between resting-state EEG gamma power and neuropsychological performance in healthy adults. Specifically, it examines the associations between absolute and relative gamma power across different brain regions (frontal, temporal, parietal, and occipital) during resting-state and performance in cognitive domains such as working memory, verbal fluency, face recognition, short-term memory, and attention. Material and Methods: A total of 45 healthy individuals who underwent routine neuropsychiatric evaluations at NP Istanbul Brain Hospital and exhibited no pathological findings were included in the study. Resting-state EEG data, collected retrospectively, were analyzed to extract gamma power values, which were subsequently correlated with neuropsychological test scores. Results: The results revealed significant positive correlations between relative gamma power in the frontal and parietal regions and verbal fluency performance. This association suggests that specific brain regions contribute uniquely to cognitive functions during resting states, with gamma power providing insight into the neural substrates of language-related abilities. Conclusion: These findings highlight the relevance of resting-state gamma power in understanding individual differences in cognitive abilities. Future research should validate these findings with larger, more diverse samples and incorporate advanced techniques like MEG to better understand the neural mechanisms linking gamma oscillations to cognitive performance.


Review Article

Turkish Title : Neural Mechanisms and Cognitive-Behavioral Interventions in Body Dysmorphic Disorder: A Neurobehavioral Perspective

Çınaroğlu Metin
JNBS, 2025, 12(1), p:32-42

DOI : 10.32739/jnbs.12.1.5

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is characterized by obsessive preoccupation with perceived physical
flaws, often unnoticed by others. This preoccupation causes significant emotional distress, social withdrawal,
and functional impairment. Recent advancements emphasize the importance of integrating neurobiological
and behavioral perspectives in understanding BDD. This review synthesizes findings from
neuroscience and behavioral psychology to examine the brain-behavior relationship in BDD and explores
implications for treatment strategies. A narrative synthesis of current literature, including neuroimaging,
neurochemical studies, and behavioral research, was conducted. Evidence from clinical trials on pharmacological
treatments, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and neuromodulation techniques was analyzed.
Neuroimaging studies reveal hyperactivity in the orbitofrontal cortex, amygdala, and fusiform gyrus, contributing
to obsessive thoughts, heightened emotional responses, and distorted visual processing. Neurochemical
imbalances, particularly in serotonin, dopamine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid systems, perpetuate
cognitive distortions and compulsive behaviors. Cognitive patterns, including selective attention to
perceived flaws, catastrophic thinking, and overestimation of others’ judgments, interact with maladaptive
behaviors such as mirror checking, avoidance, and reassurance-seeking. Integrated treatments, including
selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and transcranial magnetic stimulation,
address these interconnected mechanisms effectively. BDD arises from a complex interaction between
neurobiological dysfunction, cognitive distortions, and maladaptive behaviors. Effective treatment
requires a multidisciplinary approach targeting these domains. Future research should focus on longitudinal
brain plasticity studies, sex differences, and optimized neuromodulation protocols to enhance therapeutic
outcomes and personalized interventions.


ISSN (Print) 2149-1909
ISSN (Online) 2148-4325

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