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BACKGROUND: Complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) are being uses more often with cancer patients. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate attitudes, use and influencing factors of CAM among cancer patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted on 407 cancer patients in Turkey. The study was conducted during July-September 2021 using a Questionnaire that included a Complementary, Alternative and Conventional Medicine Attitude Scale (CACMAS). Pearson's Chi-Squared Test, Mann-Whitney U, Kruskal Wallis, and logistic regression were all utilized. RESULTS: The findings revealed that 76.2% of the participants stated that they used CAM methods while undergoing cancer treatment, and 65.2% of those who did so kept from sharing this information to medical professionals. Phytotherapy was the most common CAM method used by patients. The use of CAM was found to be significantly higher among those who were 55–64 years of age, married, secondary school graduates, non-smokers, CAM users before their cancer diagnosis, and who had a family history of cancer (p < 0.05). The participants' average CACMAS scores were 112.20±16.53. Among those who used CAM during treatment, non-smoking, overweight-obese participants had higher CACMAS scores (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Due to the high prevalence of CAM usage among cancer patients and possible interaction effects with chemotherapy medications, it is important for healthcare professionals to assess and educate cancer patients regarding CAM use. Additional research is needed to determine potential interactions, as well as pros and cons of CAM use during cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Mediterranean Nursing & Midwifery is the property of Galenos Yayinevi Tic. LTD. STI and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective: Türkiye is the leading country that has been applying the MPOWER criteria of the World Health Organization for years. However, the prevalence of smoking among nurses appears to be high, according to the literature. Therefore, we aimed to determine the prevalence, addiction levels, and dynamics of tobacco smoking among nurses in Türkiye. Method: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, a questionnaire (prepared in cooperation with the "World Health Organization") and the Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence were administered to 529 nurses working at a tertiary-care university hospital in 2020. Logistic regression was performed to determine factors predicting smoking. Results: The prevalence of smoking among nurses was 32.7% (n = 173). The mean Fagerström test score indicated a "low dependence" level (score: 3 ± 2.6). Both results were higher for males. A relationship was found between trying smoking cigarette and hookah. Of the "current smokers" group, 102 (60.4%) stated that they wanted to quit smoking. Only 21 (27.6%) of the nurses who have tried to quit smoking thus far have received professional help. Conclusion: The prevalence of smoking among nurses working at a tertiary-care university hospital was relatively low compared to that among nurses in Türkiye. While females are normally expected to smoke less, the high prevalence of smoking among nurses (most of them female) raises the question of the professional basis of this situation. However, the low rate of receiving professional help reveals the lack of promotion and accessibility of smoking cessation outpatient clinics in the faculty environment. Finally, the perception that hookah is an alternative tobacco product leads to cigarette smoking. The good news was that nurses had a low dependency rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To explore predictors of spiritual well‐being behaviors among heart failure patients based on Wilson and Cleary's conceptual model of health‐related quality of life and to clarify the interrelationships among these variables. Design: A descriptive and correlational study design was used. Methods: This study included 202 heart failure patients treated between October 2020 and July 2021. Data were collected using the Symptom Status Questionnaire‐Heart Failure, Perception of Health Scale, and Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy‐Spiritual Well‐Being Scale. Descriptive analysis, correlation, and structural equation modeling were performed. Results: Characteristic factors positively affected spiritual well‐being both directly (β = 0.19, p = 0.007) and indirectly (β = 0.19; CI (0.106; 0.311)). The direct relationship between health perception and spiritual well‐being was significant (β = 0.83, p < 0.05). Symptom status acted as an essential mediator between model variables and spiritual well‐being (β = −0.28; CI (−0.449; −0.133)). Comorbidity and symptom status also influence spiritual well‐being through health perceptions. These variables explain 77% of the variance in spiritual well‐being. Conclusion: The modified structural equation modeling based on Wilson and Cleary's conceptual model fits well in predicting spiritual well‐being in patients with heart failure. Spiritual well‐being was reported to be poor, and changes in spiritual well‐being were predicted by age, educational level, marital status, comorbidity, symptom status, and health perception. The results can be applied to patients with heart failure and may serve as a guide for assessment and interventions for improving spiritual well‐being. Clinical Relevance: This study mainly concludes that symptom status and perceived health status affect spiritual well‐being in heart failure patients. Symptom relief and improvement in perceived health status interventions may help enhance spiritual well‐being in this population. Future studies are needed to investigate the different predictor's effects on spiritual well‐being and examine whether symptom management and health status‐enhancing interventions result in improved spiritual well‐being in the heart failure population. Reporting Method: This study was reported following the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) checklist for cross‐sectional studies. Patient or Public Contribution: No patient or public contribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gynecological examination has an very place among to maintain women's health. Negative attitudes and anxiety about gynecological examination may affect coming to the examination. In this study, we aimed to determine the effect of online training and counseling on women's attitudes and anxiety toward the gynecological examination. We randomized 100 women participating in the study into experimental and control groups. We concluded that online training and counseling had a positive effect on the attitudes of women in the experimental group toward gynecological examination. Also we determined that online training and counseling reduced women's state anxiety toward gynecological examinations. In this study, we determined that online training and counseling positively improved women's attitudes toward gynecological examination. We also found that online training and counseling reduced women's state anxiety about gynecological examinations. In the literature, most of the studies on gynecological examination have a descriptive design. This study is important since it contributes to scientific knowledge in determining the attitudes and anxiety levels of women that may affect their status of undergoing gynecological examination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Specific learning disorder (SLD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by significant academic difficulties despite normal intelligence and adequate education. The difficulties with reading, writing, and arithmetic may manifest independently or concurrently at different ages. Early symptoms may appear in preschool, including delays in social skills, motor skills, and language development. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of preschool children at risk for SLD and related psychiatric disorders. Method: Data were collected from 515 preschool children in Edirne City, Turkey, using a screening scale for early symptoms of SLD. Socio-demographic information was obtained, and children at risk were invited for a psychiatric evaluation. Results: The mean age of the participants was 72.5 ± 5.6 months. It was determined that 5.7% of the preschool children who participated in the questionnaire were at risk of SLD according to the screening scale scores. Factors such as a father's low education, the mother smoking during pregnancy, a longer stay in the neonatal intensive care unit, longer screen time, and consanguinity between parents were associated with an increased risk of SLD. Conclusion: This study emphasises the importance of early identification and intervention for SLD and the need to consider associated psychiatric comorbidities. Identifying the risk factors in preschool children may facilitate timely intervention and prevent academic and social difficulties in later years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Studies of the effects of COVID‐19, especially post‐acute COVID‐19 syndrome, on psychological health in non‐severe cases are limited. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence and associated risk factors of psychological symptoms, and quality‐of‐life in three groups of outpatients, hospitalized and intensive care patients. Methods: A total 276 patients, previously confirmed with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, attending the COVID‐19 follow‐up outpatient clinic from December 2020 to July 2021 were interviewed face‐to‐face. In this cross‐sectional, retrospective study, all participants were asked our self‐designed demographic and screening questions to assess their psychological symptoms and administered the WHQOOL‐BREF survey to evaluate quality of life. Results: In screening questions, major depressive disorder symptoms were detected at a rate of 20.3%, generalized anxiety disorder symptoms at a rate of 16.7%, panic attack symptoms at a rate of 10.9%, post‐traumatic stress disorder symptoms at a rate of 28.6% and obsessive‐compulsive disorder symptoms at a rate of 18.1%. The outpatient group with COVID‐19 infection had a higher risk of developing psychological symptoms and decreased quality of life. Conclusion: COVID‐19 infection was found to have a considerable psychological impact on those treated as outpatients despite the less severe course of their illness. Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? Post‐intensive care syndrome affects physical, cognitive and psychological health.It is associated with symptoms such as generalized weakness, memory disturbances, cognitive function impairment, depression, anxiety and post‐traumatic stress disorder.Some physical and psychological symptoms persist for over 12 weeks in some patients and have been classified as 'Post‐acute COVID‐19 Condition or Syndrome' (PCS). What this paper adds? At the post‐acute‐COVID‐19 period, a considerable number of outpatients with COVID‐19 infection were at higher risk for psychological distress symptoms than those who had been treated in the hospital or intensive care unit.Depression, anxiety, panic disorder and PTSD symptoms were found to be higher in outpatients and those with these symptoms were also shown to have a lower quality of life.Our findings highlight the significant psychological impact of COVID‐19 on patients, even after their reported recovery from the acute manifestations of this disease. The implications of this paper: Ongoing psychological symptoms in the post‐COVID period are not associated with the severity of the disease in the acute phase.It is important that healthcare professionals are equally concerned not only with physical condition of post‐COVID‐19 patients but also with their psychological state and the patient's psychology‐related quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AIM: The aim of the study was determined to examine the effect of breastfeeding education, counseling, and support based on Human Caring Theory on mothers' perceptions of breastfeeding self-efficacy and type of breastfeeding. METHODS: The randomized controlled prospective study was conducted with 100 Turkish women (intervention: 50; control: 50) between 2019 and 2021 at a university hospital in Izmir. The intervention program included Human Caring Theory-based face-to-face sessions, for 12 hours, asynchronous distance education modules, and telephone support process. Individual asynchronous distance education and telephone support based on Human Caring Theory were provided from the prenatal process to the sixth month postpartum. The control group received two hours of standard breastfeeding training in a childbirth education class. Clinical trial number was received (NCT05246748). RESULTS: Human Caring Theory-based breastfeeding education and support program improved breastfeeding self-efficacy scores of the intervention group (68.88 ± 3.15) compared to the control group (58.08± 9,92). In addition, the breastfeeding duration and exclusively breastfeeding in the intervention group were longer and statistically higher than the control group. CONCLUSION: Since breastfeeding is an emotional and social interactive process, using the theor etica l/phi losop hical framework based on human care will provide a scientific and holistic perspective. It may be crucial to prefer Human Caring Theory based on routine programs for well-being of breastfeeding rates and successful breastfeeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a persistent inflammatory autoimmune disorder. In an endeavor to juxtapose disease activity against the acknowledged occurrence of subclinical atherosclerosis in patients with SLE, this study sought to evaluate the interrelation between carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT), SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI), and Syndecan-4 (SDC4) levels. Material and Methods: This study assembled a cohort comprising 70 patients with SLE aged 18 years and older, devoid of concomitant systemic diseases, was assembled, alongside a control group consisting of 68 healthy volunteers attending the rheumatology outpatient clinic. The assessment quantifying SDC4 levels using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. CIMT measurements were conducted for both the patient and control groups. SLEDAI scores, as well as sociodemographic and laboratory data for both groups, were systematically extracted from the hospital's digitalized medical records system. Results: SDC4 levels within the patient cohort (8.211±9.069) exhibited a statistically significant reduction compared to the SDC4 levels in the control group (26.221±24.653). Furthermore, the CIMT values for the patient group (0.558±0.116) demonstrated a statistically significant variance in contrast to the CIMT values of the control group (0.49±0.117). Remarkably, a noteworthy correlation emerged between SDC4 and CIMT. Additionally, a significant association was identified between SDC4 levels and body mass index (p<0.05). Further correlations were discerned between SDC4 levels and SLEDAI in the patient group. Correspondingly, a statistically significant correlation was observed between CIMT and SLEDAI in the patient group. Conclusion: Despite the statistically significant elevation in CIMT, an essential indicator of subclinical atherosclerosis, within our patient group compared with the control group, we posit that SDC4 levels may not be reliable predictors of atherosclerosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To examine the prevalence of smoking among medical faculty students in Turkey, and to explore the associations between smoking, depression, and other factors. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out among medical students in Konya, Turkey, from November 2018 to February 2019. The first section included eight questions pertaining to sociodemographic details. The second comprised nine questions addressing smoking and other harmful habits. The third section involved the Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence while the fourth was the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Results: The study was completed with a total of 1117 participants (90.2% of all students). In regard to smoking, 813 (72.78%) were non-smokers, 98 (8.77%) were ex-smokers, and 222 (19.87%) were active smokers. Notably, 16.29% of students (n = 182) had a high BDI score (≥17). Male sex, good economic status, depression diagnosis at any time in life, and alcohol use were independently associated with active smoking. Being a senior student and regular exercise were independently associated with a low (<17) BDI score, whereas depression diagnosis at any time in life and drug use were independently associated with high (≥17) BDI. Conclusions: Almost 20% of medical school students were active smokers, with about a 2.5-fold higher prevalence among males compared to females. There is a significant association between smoking frequency and symptoms of depression. Policies targeting modifiable risk factors can reduce smoking and depression among future physicians, which can have a strong impact on population-wide smoking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Namık Kemal Tıp Dergisi is the property of Galenos Yayinevi Tic. LTD. STI and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The one of the leading causes of adolescent morbidity and mortality worldwide is motor vehicle accidents (MVA). The use of seat belts significantly lowers MVA fatalities and injuries. The aim of this study is to investigate adolescent seat belt usage patterns and relation with risky behaviors. The study conducted at two medical institutions with non-immigrant and literate adolescents aged 12–18. Demographics, seat belt use, and risk-taking behavior were collected through questionnaires. 726 teenagers (422 girls and 304 boys) with an average age of 176.7 ± 23.37 months participated in the study. Parents' educational levels and front-seat belt use have been found to be correlated. Comparatively to non-users, seat belt users demonstrated lower risk scores (total, traffic, substance, and social). The use of seat belts was significantly predicted by traffic risk, according to logistic regression. The frequency of seatbelt use was higher among participants from cities with higher socioeconomic status. As a result, it was found that adolescents who exhibited more risky behaviors had a lower frequency of seat belt use and seat belt use was associated with socioeconomic level and parental education level. It is thought that population-based studies to be conducted on this subject are important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to assess the awareness and knowledge of professional team sport athletes about ACL injuries, injury prevention programs, and the return to sports after ACL injuries. A total of 419 athletes representing soccer, basketball, volleyball and handball sports were included in the study. We utilized a 15-item self-report survey to assess the awareness of athletes about ACL injury, ACL injury prevention program, and return to sport after ACL injuries. Male and soccer players participated in prevention programs more than female athletes (p = 0.001). Participation in prevention programs was significantly higher in the ≥ 18 years old group than in the < 18 years old group (p = 0.040). Participants who were informed about ACL injuries were 8.4 times more likely to participate in the ACL injuries prevention program than others (OR: 8.38, 95% CI: 3.823–18.376, p < 0.001). The majority of participants believed that return to sport after ACL injury takes 6 months and 81.4% of them thought that it is not possible to do sport without an ACL. This study revealed that the awareness and performance of ACL prevention training programs among professional team sport athletes were insufficient. The athletes' knowledge regarding return to sports after ACL injuries was also inadequate. Improving athletes' knowledge of ACL injuries may lead to increased participation in ACL injury prevention programs. Thus, the provision of tailored educational interventions to athletes could potentially enhance their awareness and understanding of ACL injuries, consequently contributing towards the prevention of such injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The study was carried out to investigate the effect of motivational interviewing on peer bullying and cyberbullying among adolescents. Design: A parallel‐group randomized controlled trial. Methods: The study population consisted of ninth‐grade (aged 14 years) high school students (n = 200). The study was completed with 48 participants (intervention: 24; control: 24). The data were collected using the Participant Information Form, the Stages of Change Questionnaire, the Peer Bullying Scale, and the Cyberbullying Scale. The intervention group received a preparatory session and five weekly motivational interviewing sessions. Instruments were administered to both groups before the intervention, at the end of the last motivational interviewing session (post‐test), and at 3rd‐ and 6th‐month follow‐ups. The data were analyzed using chi‐square test, independent sample t‐test, and two‐way mixed‐design ANOVA with Bonferroni's test. Results: In the pre‐test, no statistically significant difference was observed between the intervention and control groups regarding mean scores for peer bullying and cyberbullying (p > 0.05). Following the motivational interviewing sessions, adolescents in the intervention group had a significantly lower mean score for peer bullying and cyberbullying than the control group at the post‐test and follow‐up tests (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The present study concluded that motivational interviewing effectively reduced peer bullying and cyberbullying behaviors among adolescents. Clinical Relevance: Nurses would implement motivational interviewing to prevent bullying behaviors in schools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study is to determine the tobacco use status of first and fifth grade students studying at Dokuz Eylül University Faculty of Medicine in the 2022-2023 academic year and to evaluate the factors affecting tobacco use. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The data of the cross-sectional study were obtained by sending a form prepared in electronic environment to the students after a brief information was given in the unit/classroom where they did their internship, and the students responded on their mobile phones. In research, 539 of 790 students answered the form. RESULTS: The prevalance of tobacco use was 34.1% (first: 29.8%, fifth: 40.8%) (female: 26.7%, male: 40.4%). According to multivariate analysis, tobacco use in first grades increases 1.8 times (95% CI: 1.1-3.3) if the general health perception is moderate/poor, 2.9 times (95% CI: 1.2-6.8) to be exposed to insistence of friends for tobacco use, 2.4 times (95% CI: 1.3-4.3) for at least one of the family members to use tobacco, 29.7 times (95% CI: 3.9-224.1) for at least one of the close friends to use tobacco, and 3.9 times (95% CI: 2.2-7.1) not to think that physicians should set an example for the society by not using tobacco; in fifth grade, tobacco use by at least one of the close friends increases 9.6 times (95% CI: 2.1-43.6), and not thinking that physicians should set an example for the society by not using tobacco increases 4.9 times (95% CI: 2.7-9.2). CONCLUSION: In research, it is seen that tobacco use is common among medical faculty students, and the prevalance of use increases as they get higher classes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Early diagnosis of ovarian cancer (OC) increases survival rates; however, due to low awareness levels, women may be diagnosed with OC at the advanced stage. The aim of this cross‐sectional study is to reveal the OC awareness of Turkish women and affecting factors. Methods: Participants were invited to study via social media tools between February‐June 2022. Data was collected with Personal Information Form and the "OC Awareness Scale" from 446 women. Results: 81% of the participants did not recall OC symptoms, 80.8% recognized OC risk factors. The most frequently recalled and recognized OC symptom is pelvic pain (19.8%; 55.8%, respectively). The most frequently recalled and recognized OC risk factors were smoking (43.1%, 67.9%, respectively) and family history (39%, 58.7%, respectively). 2% of the participants felt very confident in recognizing the signs, 72.9% would seek help within 1–2 days when they recognized the signs of OC. Conclusions: The awareness of OC was higher among women who had advanced age, higher education, family history and were in menopause. Turkish women have low level of awareness and knowledge about OC symptoms and risk factors. There is an urgent need for an OC awareness campaign that takes into account the socio‐demographic characteristics of women. The results of the study may also guide strategies to prevent OC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To compare participation patterns, environmental supports, and barriers to community activities in adolescents with and without attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in Turkey. Participants were 94 adolescents with ADHD and 109 adolescents without ADHD ages 13-17 years (mean age 14.6, S.D 1.49 years) Participation frequency, involvement rate, mothers who desired change, and environmental supports and barriers in a community setting were assessed with the Participation and Environment Measure for Children and Youth (PEM-CY). Adolescents with ADHD participated 20.3% less frequently in socializing with peers in the community than adolescents without ADHD. With moderate to large effect sizes, the mean involvement rate in four community activities, including neighborhood outings, community events, socializing with peers in the community, and religious activities, was significantly lower for adolescents with ADHD than for adolescents without ADHD. Adolescents with ADHD participate less frequently and are less involved in socializing with peers in the community. Almost half of all ADHD adolescents never participate in community events. It was seen that cognitive difficulties, sensory qualities, and safety may prevent adolescents with ADHD from socializing with peers in the community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Migraine, a prevalent neurovascular disorder, is marked by repetitive headache episodes. Its complex etiology encompasses biochemical, genetic, and environmental influences, but its exact pathophysiology remains elusive. Recent studies have hinted at a link between migraine and oxidative stress. Hence, this study sought to delve into the correlation between migraine, oxidative stress markers, and lipid profiles. Material and Method: This case-control study involved 60 adult migraine patients from Dicle University's Neurology Department in Diyarbakır, Türkiye, observed between 2009 and 2010. The control group was age- and gender-matched healthy individuals. Parameters like malondialdehyde (MDA), paraoxonase-1 (PON-1), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and lipid constituents such as total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and triglycerides (TG) were measured in both groups. Results: Migraine sufferers, particularly those with aura, had significantly elevated MDA levels compared to controls (p<0.05). Conversely, TAC and PON-1 levels were notably lower in the migraine population, suggesting an imbalance in their oxidant/antioxidant systems (p<0.05). Lipid analysis showed heightened TC, LDL-C, and TG in migraine patients, while HDL-C was diminished, with marked differences in subgroups (p<0.05). Conclusion: The surge in MDA and the decline in TAC and PON-1 levels insinuate that oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in migraine's pathophysiology. The lipid profile alterations in migraineurs highlight potential cardiovascular concerns. Comprehensive cohort studies are essential to confirm these findings and understand the intricate ties between migraine, oxidative stress, and metabolic indicators. This research underscores oxidative balance's potential significance in migraine pathogenesis, emphasizing the need to consider oxidative stress in migraine management and prevention strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The novel coronavirus caused a disease that mainly affected the respiratory system. The effect of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 on the hypot halam ic–pi tuita ry–ad renal axis is unknown. This study assesses the prognostic accuracy of serum cortisol levels and prediction tools in predicting mortality rates in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Methods: We prospectively analyzed 106 inpatients (53 COVID-19 positive, 53 non-COVID-19; mean 59.9 ± 17.3 years; 38 males and 68 females) with serum cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone levels compared with prognostic scores. Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) scores determined the disease’s severity. The predictive value of serum cortisol, APACHE, and SOFA on mortality was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and the area under the curve (AUC). Results: No significant age or sex differences were found between groups. Serum cortisol levels were similar. The APACHE-II scores in the COVID-19 group were higher than in the other group, while SOFA scores showed no significant difference. The AUC for the APACHE-II score in predicting mortality was 0.765 (95% CI 0.672-0.842), with an optimal cutoff (>9) demonstrating 62.5% sensitivity and 86.7% specificity for overall participants. No correlation was found between serum cortisol levels and prediction tools such as APACHE-II and SOFA. Conclusion: The measurement of serum cortisol did not provide additional prognostic information beyond that established by the APACH-II score. This study highlights the significance of assessing novel prognostic tools for predicting outcomes in hospitalized patients with COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study investigated the effect of lullabies and classical music on preterm neonates' cerebral oxygenation, vital signs, and comfort during orogastric (OG) tube feeding. Methods: This was a parallel-group pretest-posttest randomized controlled study. The research was conducted between December 2020 and May 2022. The sample consisted of 51 preterm neonates hospitalized in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of Selçuk University Faculty of Medicine Hospital in Konya, Türkiye. Participants were randomized into three groups (17 preterm infants in each group). The first group listened to lullabies sung by their mothers and the second group listened to classical music during OG tube feeding. The control group received routine care with no music. Data were collected using a Neonatal Identification Information Form, Physiological Parameters and rSO2 Monitoring Form, and the Newborn Comfort Behavior Scale (Comfort-Neo). The study was registered on the ClinicalTrials database (NCT05333575). Results: The lullaby group had stable peak heart rates and oxygen saturation levels (p =.002). Both lullaby and classical music groups had significantly higher cerebral oxygenation levels than the control group. The classical music group had the highest cerebral oxygenation level (p =.001). Both lullaby and classical music groups had significantly higher mean Comfort-Neo scores than the control group. The classical music group had the highest mean Comfort-Neo score (p =.040). Conclusion: Preterm neonates who listen to lullabies and classical music are likely to have higher cerebral oxygen and comfort levels. Listening to lullabies helps stabilize vital signs. These results suggest that healthcare professionals should encourage parents to get their preterm neonates to listen to lullabies and classical music. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: This study aims to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic process on ethical dilemmas experienced in prehospital resuscitation practices. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study was conducted on 695 emergency medical services employees. A "questionnaire form" consisting of 20 questions developed by the researchers in line with the literature was used as a data collection tool. RESULTS: In the pandemic period, ethical dilemmas in deciding to perform CPR on suspected or identified COVID-19 patients have increased in 52.5% of the participants, whereas ethical dilemmas in deciding to terminate CPR have increased in 41.3%. Moreover, a statistically significant difference was found between the increasing status of the ethical dilemmas of the participants in making the decision to start CPR in EMS and terminate CPR in the COVID-19 pandemic process and the status of having a diagnosis of COVID-19, the state of having complete personal protective equipment during CPR, and the state of applying advanced airway techniques on suspected or identified COVID-19 patients. CONCLUSIONS: Although the COVID-19 pandemic process has increased the ethical dilemmas of emergency medical services employees in relation to CPR application, such dilemmas do not affect their decision to start or end CPR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perceived social support (PSS) is an important factor affecting the treatment outcomes in substance use disorders. The aim of this study was to determine the level of PSS among males with opioid use disorder receiving treatment. The population of this cross-sectional study consisted of 70 adult males diagnosed with opioid use disorder on maintenance therapy. Participants completed a semi-structured socio-demographic form, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Levels of PSS among participants were found as follows: 41.4% had low PSS, 47.1% had moderate PSS, and 11.4% had high PSS. 41.4% of the participants had a history of injection opioid use; this group reported significantly lower PSS scores than non-injection opioid users. PSS scores were found to be significantly lower in patients with depressive scores above the cut-off score of BDI. There was a negative correlation between number of relapse and PSS. Our findings suggest that males with opioid use disorder in Turkey reported lower PSS and PSS was associated with depressive symptoms and frequency of relapse. Aside from routine pharmacotherapy programs, PSS should be taken into consideration for patients with opioid use disorder and patient-specific strategies should be planned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine the correlation between the prognosis of patients admitted to a tertiary intensive care unit (ICU) and the admitted patient population, intensive care conditions, and the workload of intensive care staff. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective cross-sectional study that analyzed data from all tertiary ICUs (a minimum of 40 and a maximum of 59 units per month) of eight training and research hospitals between January 2022 and May 2023. We compared monthly data across hospitals and analyzed factors associated with patient prognosis, including mortality and pressure injuries (PIs). Results: This study analyzed data from 54,312 patients, of whom 51% were male and 58.8% were aged 65 or older. The median age was 69 years. The average number of tertiary ICU beds per unit was 15 ± 6 beds, and the average occupancy rate was 83.57 ± 19.28%. On average, 7 ± 9 pressure injuries (PI) and 10 ± 7 patient deaths per unit per month were reported. The mortality rate (18.66%) determined per unit was similar to the expected rate (15–25%) according to the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score. There was a statistically significant difference among hospitals on a monthly basis across various aspects, including bed occupancy rate, length of stay (LOS), number of patients per ICU bed, number of patients per nurse in a shift, rate of patients developing PI, hospitalization rate from the emergency department, hospitalization rate from wards, hospitalization rate from the external center, referral rate, and mortality rate (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Although generally reliable in predicting prognosis in tertiary ICUs, the APACHE II scoring system may have limitations when analyzed on a unit-specific basis. ICU-related conditions have an impact on patient prognosis. ICU occupancy rate, work intensity, patient population, and number of working nurses are important factors associated with ICU mortality. In particular, data on the patient population admitted to the unit (emergency patients and patients with a history of malignancy) were most strongly associated with unit mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Acute bronchiolitis (AB) is one of the most common respiratory diseases in early childhood and is still an important health problem worldwide. The systemic immune-inflammatory index (SII) is thought to have potential to be a new-generation inflammatory biomarker. We sought to investigate the value of SII for severity assessment in children with AB. Methods A total of 74 AB patients were included in a prospective observational study. Patients were classified into 3 AB groups according to this classification: mild (1-5 points), moderate (6-10 points), and severe (11-12 points). Complete blood count, C-reactive protein, and procalcitonin tests were carried out. Modified Tal score was evaluated to determine severity. The performance of parameters to predict the severity of AB was assessed using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC). Results Whereas neutrophil count (P =.037), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (P =.030), and SII (P =.030) values increased significantly with disease severity, red cell distribution width (P =.048) values were higher in the moderate AB group. The SII was found to have the highest area under the curve in the comparison of the mild-moderate groups combination and the high group on ROC analysis (P =.009). Conclusion The SII values of pediatric patients hospitalized with the diagnosis of AB were significantly higher in the high-severity group. The SII may offer additional severity stratification in children with AB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to determine the relationship between violence, risk factors, and depression at the end of pregnancy. The sample of this descriptive and cross-sectional study consisted of 426 women for normal postpartum monitoring during the six-month period and living in southwestern Turkey of the study. About 5.6% of the women who participated in the study were exposed to obstetric violence. 5.2% of them were intimate partner violence before pregnancy. 79.1% (n = 24), 29.1%, and 25% of them were subjected to physical, sexual, and economic violence, respectively. In addition, 7.5% of women were exposed to verbal obstetric violence. It was found that the postpartum depression scores of the women who had been subjected to violence from their husbands before pregnancy were high. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we aimed to examine and compare the perinatal outcomes between refugee and resident mother–infant dyads. Data of refugee women who had given birth in a university hospital (n = 924) and matched resident mother–infant dyads (n = 957) were included. Analysis revealed higher adolescent pregnancy rates and lower rates of antenatal care attendance among refugee mothers compared to residents. No significant differences in neonatal outcomes were found, except for a significantly higher number of preterm births among refugee infants. Interventions should be made to ensure antenatal care for all pregnant women, which can also prevent preterm birth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim was to evaluate autonomic dysfunction by investigating exercise time, the chronotropic index (CI), and heart rate recovery (HRR) during an exercise stress test (EST) in patients with primary adrenal insufficiency, also called Addison's disease (AD). Methods: Twenty-two patients with adrenal insufficiency and 25 healthy controls were included in this study. The data from the patients who underwent an EST were collected, analyzed, and reported. Results: The mean ages and genders of the patients with AD and the controls were insignificant. The baseline systolic and diastolic blood pressures (SBP and DBP) were significantly lower in the patients with AD compared to the controls before the EST. According to exercise-induced data, the SBP, DBP, and CI were insignificant for females and males between the groups. The exercise time, HRR1, and HRR2 were significantly decreased in the patients with AD compared to the controls. When the patients and controls were evaluated by gender, other than the HRR1 of the females, there were no differences between both genders. Additionally, a multiple logistic regression analysis showed that exercise time was independent and negatively related to the CI, HRR1, and HRR2 in the patients with AD. Conclusion: Exercise time and cardiac autonomic dysfunction in patients with AD may be related to mortality and morbidity. However, further studies and detailed analyses are needed on this subject. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD), mindful eating, environmental beliefs, and obesity in children. Materials and Methods: The study included 318 children (50.6% male, 49.4% female, 10.0 ± 0.73 years old). Data were obtained using survey and a face-to-face interview method. The questionnaire includes general information, anthropometric measurements, the New Ecological Paradigm Scale for Children (NEP), the Mediterranean Diet Quality Index for children and adolescents (KIDMED), and the Mindful Eating Questionnaire for Children. Results: According to the KIDMED classification, 52.5% of the children were in the group that needs improvement, 35.2% were in the low diet quality group, and 12.3% were in the optimal MD group. The Mindless score was higher in overweight/obese children compared to the normal body mass index (BMI) group (P < .05). Awareness, NEP, and KIDMED scores were the lowest in overweight/obese children (P < .05). In regression analysis, the father’s age, KIDMED, and Awareness scores related to NEP scores positively (R2 : 0.545, P < .001). Also, children’s body mass index-related KIDMED scores negatively, and awareness and NEP scores related KIDMED scores positively (R2 : 0.276, P < .001). Conclusion: Our results show that higher adherence to the MD is associated with higher environmental beliefs. Children with higher mindful eating have higher environmental beliefs and adherence to the MD, and these scores are lower in obese children. Therefore, raising generations that adopt sustainable diet models and have high environmental awareness is necessary. This research provides significant findings for future clinical studies on children’s body weight maintenance and sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had detrimental impacts on both physical and mental health worldwide. In addition to the behavioral effects, it has caused a range of psychological problems such as depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, and anger. Fear and stress have been particularly prevalent in individuals. This study aims to assess the psychometric properties of the Scale for the Evaluation of Mental and Psychosomatic Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic (COVID-19 PRPEDS) on adolescents and explore the pandemic's psychosomatic effects. Materials and Methods: A total of 503 adolescents between the ages of 14 and 18 years who continue their high school education constituted the study population. The COVID-19 PRPEDS comprising 18 items and 2 subscales (Mental Effects, Psychosomatic Effects), was used in adolescents. The forms were delivered to the students via the Internet, and in addition to the scale, the age and sex of the adolescents were recorded. Results: A majority of the participants (96.6%, n = 486) had knowledge about COVID-19, 93.8% (n = 472) could differentiate COVID-19 from other diseases, 96.6% (n = 486) were able to explain the transmission ways of COVID-19 and 96% (n = 483) took the necessary precautions to protect themselves from COVID-19. The COVID-19 PRPEDS scores of males were higher than females. The study validation index was above 0.9, which is considered to be acceptable for adolescents. Conclusions: Like in the other pandemics, adolescents experienced serious mental health problems during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to its psychosomatic effects, the mental issues related to the pandemic were more common in male adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can cause hypoxic respiratory failure; long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT) duration is unknown. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The aim was to investigate which patients would need LTOT after COVID-19 pneumonia. This single-center, prospective study was conducted at the Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Chest Diseases, between May 2021 and December 2021. The 70 patients hospitalized for COVID-19 pneumonia and discharged with LTOT due to hypoxemic respiratory failure were included. Patients were divided into 2 groups as group I (LTOT requirement <3 months) and group II (LTOT requirement continued =3 months). RESULTS: The mean age was 64.4 ± 13.5 years, and 44 (62.9%) of them were male. The most frequently encountered comorbidities were cardiovascular disease (57.1%) and lung disease (22.9%). While PaO2 levels increased in both groups during the follow-up period, this increment was significantly higher in group I (PaO2: 66.6 ± 9.9 mm Hg, P < .001). The factors affecting the LTOT requirement were evaluated using binary logistic regression. On multivariate analyses of lymphocytes, ferritin, C-reactive protein, PaO2, SaO2, subpleural reticulation, and number of lobes affected (=3 lobes), the SaO2 level and presence of subpleural reticulation were significantly different between the 2 groups [odds ratio (OR) (95% CI): 0.853 (0.749-0.971), P = .016] and [OR (95% CI): 0.171 (0.042-0.733), P = .017], respectively. CONCLUSION: A significant proportion of patients who develop respiratory failure due to COVID-19 recover within the first 3 months. Factors determining the LTOT requirement for more than 3 months were SaO2 and the presence of subpleural reticulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Complete blood count parameters are associated with the inflammatory process in the diagnosis and prognosis of several types of cancer; thus, they have been studied as markers. In this study, the preoperative complete blood count parameters in patients with and without endometrioid type endometrial cancer were evaluated and the relationship of these biomarkers with prognostic factors in the cancer group was investigated. Methods: This study is retrospective in design. All the patients with endometrial cancer were of the endometrioid type. The cancer group involved 94 pathologically confirmed cases, and the control group comprised 96 women diagnosed with dysfunctional uterine bleeding with no signs of organic gynecological pathology. The clinicopathological features and preoperative complete blood count results of all the patients were evaluated. Results: In comparison with the controls (p<0.05), in the cancer group, hemoglobin, leucocyte, and platelet measurements were higher, whereas lymphocytes, monocytes, and mean platelet volume were lower. When subjects with endometrial cancer performed self-evaluation, the monocyte/lymphocyte ratio was higher in cases with lymph node metastasis in comparison with early-stage cases (p=0.006). Age was the only consistent factor in predictive of prognostic factors such as myometrial invasion depth, lymph node metastases, advanced stage, and grade. Discussion and Conclusion: Complete blood count parameters can be simple, readily available, and low-cost markers in endometrial cancer. Moreover, increasing monocyte/lymphocyte ratios may help predict an advanced disease. Nevertheless, to determine the actual predictive potential of these biomarkers, molecular studies that precisely examine the expression of secretory factors (cytokine/interleukin secretion of lymphocytes/macrophages, immunoglobulin secretion of plasma cells) are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: High rates of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have been observed in earthquake survivors many years after the event. However, its prevalence among patients with schizophrenia is largely unknown. This study, which was conducted two years after the 2020 Elazığ earthquake, sought to identify risk factors for earthquake-related PTSD among patients with schizophrenia and healthy subjects. Methods: Adult patients with schizophrenia (N = 103) and healthy subjects (N = 103) who had survived the earthquake were recruited from affected areas in the Eastern Anatolian Region of Turkey, Elazığ. A detailed questionnaire of earthquake-related risk factors, the Brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced (Brief COPE), the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), and the Clinician-Administered PTSD scale for DSM-V (CAPS-5) scale were administered to participants. Results: Twelve percent of the patients with schizophrenia and 25% of the healthy subjects had earthquake-related PTSD diagnoses two years after the 2020 Elazığ earthquake. Healthy subjects had a significantly higher rate of earthquake-related PTSD when compared to patients with schizophrenia. Religious coping, self-blaming, less emotional support seeking, and going to a safer place on the night of the earthquake were found to be associated with PTSD in patients with schizophrenia. History of traumatic events, self-blaming, and less social support from family were found to be associated with a PTSD diagnosis in healthy subjects. Conclusions: The earthquake in Turkey created a situation such that significant symptoms of PTSD remained present at two years following the event in both patients diagnosed with schizophrenia and healthy subjects. Patients with schizophrenia have different risk factors for the development of PTSD when compared with healthy subjects. Clinical interventions should consider risk factors, coping strategies, and perceived social support when seeking to prevent earthquake-related PTSD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Internet addiction and physical inactivity are often a major public health problem. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the relationship between internet addiction (IA) and physical activity (PA) levels of university students in a province in eastern Turkey. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 638 students. Internet Addiction Test (IAT), and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) were administered. Chi-square, independent sample t-test, correlation analysis, one-way analysis of variance tests (ANOVA), Tukey HSD test, and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed. RESULTS: 64.6% of the participants were female, with a mean age of 20.4±2.4 and a mean body mass index (BMI) of 22.3±3.5. 83.4% of the participants were identified as those asymptomatic, 15.2% showed limited symptoms, and 1.4% were pathological internet users according to IAT. A statistically significant difference was found between IAT scores and gender, mother's education level, father's education level, academic success, smoking status, and alcohol use (p < 0.05). According to IPAQ scores, 28.1% of the students were inactive, 56.3% were moderate PA and 15.7% had vigorous PA levels. IPAQ total scores of male participants, smokers, and participants with exercise habits were found to be significantly higher (p < 0.05). The mean score IAT and IPAQ was found to be 30.9±18.9 and 1697.7±1847.0. A negative, significant correlation was found between students' PA and IA levels (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: It has been observed that IA negatively affects PA. Seminars, conferences, and panels on the internet and physical activity should be organized for university students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Today many surgical operations are performed with laparoscopic methods. This study was performed to investigate the effect of the brochure-based training on pain, anxiety, and life findings in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Materials and methods: This is a quasi-experimental controlled study. The data were collected from all patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy between 1 May 2018 and 30 December 2018, A State Hospital. When the confidence interval was calculated as 95% in the known sample universe, the number of patients to be included in the study was 62. The patients were divided into two groups as control (n = 31) and experiment (n = 31) groups. Patients were selected by random sampling method. The groups were homogenous. The data were collected by face-to-face interview method by the researcher using the patient identification form, the Hospital Anxiety, and Depression Scale, the Visual Analog Scale, and the evaluation of life findings. Patients who had laparoscopic cholecystectomy in the experimental group were given brochure training. The control group received routine nursing practice, and both groups were given a brochure booklet after making them fill in the forms 24 hours before and after the operation. Data were analyzed with SPSS 22 software package by employing Chi-square and t-test. Results: There was a statistically significant difference in the anxiety levels of the patients in the hospital anxiety/depression scale (p<0.05), but there was no statistically significant difference in depression (p>0.05). Pain values were statistically significant (p<0.05) and there were mild positive results in vital signs. Conclusion: We recommend that the training programs should be planned for patients and health care workers to reduce the anxiety levels before and after surgery, together with the training on nan-pharmacological methods for reducing the pain levels in the patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study explored the role of health perceptions and spirituality on cancer screening participation among people with and without cancer history in first degree relatives (FDRs). Subject and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Elazıg, Turkey, with 150 individuals (75 individuals without a family history of cancer and 75 individuals with a family history of cancer). Spirituality and health perception of participants were measured using the Perception of Health Scale and Spirituality Scale at Fırat University Hospital. Univariate analysis (independent t-test/chi-square test) was applied first to identify the candidate independent variables. Then, multivariate logistic regression was used to examine the association between independent variables and participation in cancer screenings. Results: People with cancer history in FDRs participated in more cancer screening such as mammography and colonoscopy than those without FDRs (p = 0.002 and p = 0.001, respectively). People with cancer history in FDRs participated have a better health perception than without FDRs (p = 0.001). Women (OR 3.694; 95% CI, 1.207–11.301; p = 0.022), health perception (OR 1.480; 95% CI, 1.290–1.697; p = 0.001), and spirituality (OR 1.074; 95% CI, 1.028–1.122; p = 0.001), were positively associated with the likelihood of participating in cancer screening. Conclusion: Our study emphasized that spirituality and health perception promote the participation in cancer screening. Future studies with large sample size are suggested to examine cancer screening behaviors for Turkish at-risk populations due to family history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic may adversely affect the physicians' mental health differently. This study aimed to investigate the degree of changes in mental distress in physicians through two cross-sectional studies before and during the COVID-19 pandemic and explore factors associated with the change of mental distress status of participants between two-time periods. This cross-sectional, web-based survey collected demographic data and mental health measurements with the 12-item General Health Questionnaire from 416 and 522 physicians before and during COVID-19, respectively. Mixed-effects ordinal logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the factors associated with the change of mental distress status. During the outbreak, a total of 319 of the 522 participants reported a clinically significant level of mental distress compared with 123 of 416 participants before COVID-19. Higher levels of mental distress were observed in all socio-demographic groups during COVID-19 compared with before, with more than two-fold higher prevalence of mental health deterioration in general. This study suggests a significant deterioration in mental health status after the occurrence of COVID-19 compared with before. The mental health of physicians working in all medical specialty groups, especially those in internal and surgical specialties, may require special attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To determine the effect of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on respiratory and peripheral muscle strength, functional exercise capacity, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), fatigue, depression, and cardiac functions in patients with stable angina. Methods: A randomized, controlled, single-blinded study. Twenty patients (59.95 ± 7.35 y, LVEF - 58.77 ± 7.49) with stable angina received IMT at the lowest load (10 cmH2O), and 20 patients (55.85 ± 7.60 y, LVEF - 62.26 ± 7.75) received training at 30% of maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) seven days/8 weeks. Respiratory muscle strength (MIP; maximal expiratory pressure, MEP), peripheral muscle strength, pulmonary functions, functional exercise capacity (6-min walking test; exercise test), fatigue, HRQoL, depression, and cardiac functions were evaluated before and after. Results: A statistical difference was found between groups in terms of respiratory and peripheral muscle strength, pulmonary functions, functional exercise capacity (p<0.05). The results of fatigue, depression, HRQoL, and cardiac functions were similar between the groups (p>0.05). Conclusions: This study is the first to demonstrate the positive effects of IMT in patients with stable angina. IMT is a safe and effective method and is recommended to be added to cardiopulmonary rehabilitation programs and guidelines, as it results in increased peripheral muscle strength and functional exercise capacity in stable angina patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aimed to examine the relationship between internet addiction (IA) with eating disorders and musculoskeletal health problems among university students. Subject and methods: This study was cross-sectional. A total of 581 students (female 459; male 122) were included in the study. Data were collected through an online survey system. The questionnaire form included some socio-demographic information, Young Internet Addiction Test (YIAT), Eating Attitude Test-26 Scale (EAT-26), and Musculoskeletal System Health Questionnaire Scale (MSK-HQ). The data were evaluated with IBM SPSS 25 statistical package program and the GraphPad program. Results: The prevalence of IA of the students participating in the study (mean age 21.24±2.03 years) is 8.4%. It was determined that individuals with IA had statistically significantly more back pain during their internet use compared to individuals who did not (p < 0.05). In addition, it was determined that individuals with IA had a higher risk of eating disorders and as the EAT-26 score increased, the risk of IA increased 1.02 times (OR 1.022; CI 1.001–1.044; p = 0.044). As the MSK-HQ score increases, the probability of being internet addicted also decreases (OR 0.747; CI 0.565–0.987; p = 0.040). Conclusion: This study shows that IA is associated with eating disorders and deterioration in musculoskeletal health problems among university students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of ESTUDAM Public Health Journal is the property of ESTUDAM Public Health Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background/Aim: Sperm quality has experienced a decline in recent years, with this issue being particularly pronounced in industrialized nations, suggesting a potential link to occupational exposures. Evaluating sperm DNA fragmentation can yield valuable insights into male fertility, although its association with occupational exposures remains less well-established. Our study aimed to investigate the relationship between self-reported occupational exposures and sperm DNA fragmentation in infertile men. Methods: This retrospective cohort study involved 391 infertile men who sought fertility treatment at a university clinic between 2017 and 2020. A brief questionnaire was administered to collect data on patients’ demographic characteristics, medical history, occupation, and exposure types. In this comparative study, patients were categorized into two groups based on their occupational exposures (the unexposed and exposed groups). The exposed group was further sub-grouped according to their specific exposure types, which included cement, solvents, metals, pesticides, mechanical vibration, and heat. The primary outcome in this study was assessed using the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated nick end-labeling test (TUNEL), with results expressed as the sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI). Results: Patients in the exposed group exhibited a significantly higher sperm DFI compared to those in the unexposed group (14 [17] vs. 8 [9], P<0.001). After accounting for potential confounding factors, our results demonstrated that several occupational exposure factors significantly increased the risk of elevated sperm DFI (>15%) levels, including solvents (odds ratio (OR) 8.2, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.6–18.5, P<0.001), metals (OR: 2.2, 95% CI: 1.0–4.7, P=0.048), pesticides (OR: 14.6, 95% CI: 1.6–130.7, P=0.016), mechanical vibration (OR: 2.6, 95% CI: 1.5–4.6, P<0.001), and heat (OR: 6.4, 95% CI: 1.7–23.5, P=0.005). Conclusion: The findings of our study corroborate earlier research suggesting that occupational exposures may have adverse effects on sperm DNA fragmentation in men. The identification and management of such exposures as part of routine clinical practice could offer a complementary approach to enhancing infertility treatment outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Turkiye Klinikleri Journal of Nursing Sciences is the property of Turkiye Klinikleri and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is still a challenge for children. About 15 to 45% of the HIV positive pregnant women can transmit the virus to their children during pregnancy, delivery and/or breastfeeding. The risk of transmission can be decreased my several measures. Aims: To identify factors associated with HIV infection in children born to HIV-infected mothers. Study Design: A multi-center retrospective cohort study. Methods: A ten-year retrospective cohort study in five dedicated HIV centers was conducted. The 325 women in our cohort were between the ages of 18 and 45. During the study period, 44 (13.5%) of these women gave birth and 51 babies were born. Of the 51 infants, 7 (13.7%) were HIV/AIDS positive. Results: Among the factors studied, breastfeeding, having a HIV-positive sibling and being on antiretroviral treatment during pregnancy and detectable HIV-RNA during delivery were found statistically significant. A multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that being on antiretroviral treatment during pregnancy is the most important predictor of mother-to-child transmission. Conclusion: Mother-to-child transmission appears to be an important route of HIV transmission in Turkey. Lack of antiretroviral treatment during pregnancy appears to be a key factor in transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The present study aimed to investigate the potential association between gastric fundus diverticulum and metaplasia by retrospectively analysing patient data and biopsy results. Material and Methods: 37 patients with gastric fundus diverticulum were examined, with their data compared to a control group of 50 patients without it. All diagnoses were made endoscopically. Demographic information, laboratory parameters, and endoscopic biopsy results were compared between the groups. Results: No significant differences were identified between the two groups concerning several laboratory parameters. However, there were significant differences in lymphocytes, urea, albumin, Na, and K values (p<0.05). Helicobacter pylori and atrophy distributions did not differ between the groups (p>0.05), while a notable difference was seen in the distribution of metaplasia (p<0.05). Metaplasia positivity was found to be 16% in patients without gastric diverticulum and 43.2% in patients with gastric diverticulum. Conclusions: This study found a higher prevalence of metaplasia positivity in patients with gastric diverticulum than those without. These findings suggest a potentially significant link between the gastric diverticulum and the occurrence of metaplasia, which warrants further research to better understand the underlying mechanisms and implications for patient management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aim of the study was to investigate associations between hepatosteatosis (HS) with computed tomography severity score (CT-SS) and survival of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients attending the hospital. Methods: Our study was a retrospective analysis of 435 reverse transcription polymerase-chain reaction-positive COVID-19 patients (aged = 18 years) who attended our hospital between September and December 2021. The patient's chest CT parenchymal findings and CT-SSs were reported. For quantitative analysis, HS was defined if hepatic-to-splenic attenuation ratio (CTL/S)<1. In very fatty livers, we defined the hyperdense appearance of vascular structures compared to liver parenchyma as "pseudocontrast sign (PCS)." We divided patients into three groups based on the hepatic attenuation comparison of vascular attenuation. Group 1: no HS, Group 2: HS without PCS, and Group 3: HS with PCS. Results: 210/435 (48.3%) patients were included in Group 1, 184/435 (42.3%) in Group 2, and 41/435 (9.4%) in Group 3. The Mean CTL/S of Group 3 was 0.56±0.14, which was significantly lower than the other two groups (p<0.001). There was a very significant (p<0.001) negative correlation between CT-SS and CTL/S. There was no significant difference between HS groups with intensive care unit (ICU) admission (p=0.27) and mortality (p=0.64). In multivariate Cox regression analysis, HS with PCS was an 11-fold (p<0.001) risk factor for shortening the time from hospital admission to death and 3-fold (p=0.035) for shortening the time from ICU admission to death. Discussion and Conclusion: In our study, HS with the PCS was significantly associated with CT-SS but not with overall mortality. Consequently, this sign may be an independent indicator of shorter survival times among patients who died. However, multicenter studies are needed in a large patient population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Motor coordination (MC) is an essential skill underpinning precise and controlled movements, contributing significantly to daily functioning and overall performance. The developmental trajectory of MC in children is intricately shaped by a spectrum of factors encompassing age, gender, and physical activity engagement. Delving into the complex interrelation of these variables holds the potential to unravel nuanced developmental trends and offer targeted avenues for interventions aimed at augmenting motor proficiency in the pediatric population. This study aimed to assess the differences in MC of primary school students based on sex, age, and physical activity participation (PAP). A total of 848 students from public primary schools, aged between 6–9 years, including 412 boys and 436 girls. The MC was measured using Körperkoordinationstest für Kinder (KTK3+) test battery, which included Jumping sideways (JS), Balancing backward (BB), Moving sideways (MS), and Eye–Hand Coordination (EHC). One-way multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) was used to determine the binary and triple interactions of sex, age, and PAP variables on the MC parameters of the participants. The study revealed that boys aged 6–9 had higher scores than girls on eye–hand coordination (EHC) (p < 0.02). No significant gender-related differences in balancing backward (BB), jumping sideways (JS), and moving sideways (MS) were found. When the subtests of KTK3+ were compared by age, a significant difference was observed between the groups in all subtests (p < 0.05). With respect to PAP, students with PAP had a significant advantage in all subtests of the KTK3+ (p < 0.05). The double co-effects or triple co-effects of age, sex, and PAP parameters do not influence the KTK parameters. This study presents evidence supporting sex differences in the motor skills of children within this age range and highlights the potential impact of age and physical activity on motor development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Qualified individualised nursing care should be provided to all communities and ethnic groups with free of ethnocentrism. Aims: To evaluate nurses' individualised care behaviours and ethnocentric attitudes and predict the relationship between their individualised care behaviours and ethnocentric attitudes. Design: A descriptive and exploratory study. Methods: This study was conducted with 250 nurses working in a public and two private hospitals in a city, an area with many refugees. Data were collected using the Ethnocentrism Scale and Individualised Care Behaviours Scale. Structural equation model analysis to test hypothetical model and descriptive statistics were used. Results: Nurses working in the private hospitals had a higher individualised care decision control mean score. Those nurses who enjoyed spending time with people from different cultures had lower mean ethnocentrism scale scores, higher individualised care clinical status, personal life and decision control status subscales mean scores compared to other nurses. Mean scores of the individualised care personal life and decision control status subscales of the nurses who followed the literature on transcultural nursing was higher. A significant relationship between the ethnocentrism levels and individualised care behaviours was identified. Accordingly, the ethnocentric attitudes of the nurses negatively affected their individualised care behaviours, and the model established between the two concepts is statistically appropriate. Conclusions: Nurses who work in private hospitals, receive intercultural nursing education and enjoy spending time with different cultures have higher individualised care behaviours and lower ethnocentrism levels. Ethnocentric attitudes of the nurses negatively affected their individualised care behaviours. Care strategies should be developed that consider the factors that will maximize individualised care practices that minimize ethnocentric behaviours among nurses. Implications for the Profession: Increasing awareness on individualised care behaviours, ethnocentric attitudes and effected factors will contribute to improve of nursing care quality of nurses while giving care to individuals from different cultures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Inflammatory indexes are shown to have clinical significance in cancer. We aimed to determine the prognostic significance of a novel scale index as combined inflammatory index (CII) including leukocyte/lymphocyte ratio(LLR) & prognostic nutritional index(PNI) in nodular lymphocyte predominant Hodgkin Lymphoma(NLPHL) comparing them with well-known prognostic factors. Methods: 101 patients were evaluated retrospectively. Cut-offs were 3.9 for LLR and 53.5 for PNI by ROC analyses. A novel scale-index ('combined inflammatory index-CII') was obtained by the combination of LLR and PNI. Results: There was a moderate negative correlation between PNI and LLR (r=-0,66). In univariate analyses, advanced stage, bone marrow infiltration(BMI), B symptoms, lymphocytopenia, hypoalbuminemia, higher LLR(=3.9) and lower PNI(=53.5) were found to be significant prognostic factors. In multivariate analyses, LLR, PNI and CII were found to be independent significant risk factors for PFS while the models were standardized by age, stage, anemia, hypoalbuminemia, B symptoms & bulky disease. Conclusion: Prognostic score examining LLR and PNI besides other clinical parameters showed that patients in high risk group (higher LLR and lower PNI) had shortest PFS. In conclusion, a scoring system combining LLR and PNI is a novel scoring system in NLPHL.Combined inflammatory index-CII can be used as a prognostic factor in NLPHL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Pediatric Emergency & Intensive Care Medicine / Çocuk Acil ve Voğun Bakım Dergisi is the property of Galenos Yayinevi Tic. LTD. STI and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Ümraniye Pediatri Dergisi is the property of KARE Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective: The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of psychiatric symptoms such as anxiety, obsession, hostility, and attachment styles, which may be associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. Method: A total of 504 adult participants were included in the study. The sociodemographic data form, including questions on information about participants' COVID-19 infection history and concerns about COVID-19 vaccines, was filled out by the participants. The participants were evaluated with the anxiety, obsessive--compulsive disorder (OCD), hostility, and paranoid ideation subscales of the Symptom Checklist -- Revised 90 scale and the Adults Attachment Style Scale (AASS). The participants were divided into three groups: "vaccinated group (VG)," "nonvaccinated but intend to get vaccinated group (IGV)," and "nonvaccinated group and not intend to get vaccinated group (NIGV)." Results: The mean score of the AASS secure subscale was higher (p=0.009), while the SCL-90 anxiety subscale was lower (p=0.003) in the NIGV group. The mean score of the SCL-90 OCD subscale in the NIGV group was lower than that in the IGV group (p=0.040). Regression analysis showed that concerns about the safety of vaccines (OR: 140, p<0.001) and having secure attachment style (OR: 1.787, p=0.019) increase the intention to not be vaccinated. However, it was found that high anxiety scores decreased the intention not to be vaccinated (OR: 0.966, p=0.035). Conclusion: The findings of the current study indicate that secure attachment style and clinical psychiatric entities such as anxiety and obsession were effective on vaccine hesitancy. However, this interaction needs to be interpreted carefully in the context of the perceived level of COVID-19 threat, more detailed information about the safety and necessity of vaccines, the relationship of individuals with their social environment, and the predominance of vaccine hesitancy in their social environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]