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Today, two main approaches are prominent in the assessment of care quality. The first is the determination of care standards, and the other approach for quality-guarantee is the method of monitoring the patient satisfaction. The aim of this study is to determine the satisfaction levels of patients, who stayed in surgery clinics in different hospitals, with nursing care. The sample of the study consisted of 972 patients who accepted to participate in the research, were able to communicate, 18 of age and above and literate. The data were collected through “The Personal Information Form” and “The Newcastle Scale of Satisfaction with Nursing”. The data were assessed through percentage distribution, t-test, One-Way ANOVA test, Man-Whitney U Test and Kruskal Wallis variance analysis. The satisfaction levels of the patients in the research group have differed according to their age, marital status, educational background, profession, the hospital in which the patients stay, previous hospital experience and whether or not they had companions with them. It became evident that patients were generally satisfied with nursing services, however the satisfaction levels of patients staying in private hospitals were more than those of patients staying in public hospitals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is an etiologically heterogeneous neurodevelopmental condition that eludes a single explanation or cure. Epidemiological studies reveal risk factors, relevant comorbidities, and behavioral correlates to reach a better understanding of ASD. To contribute such data from an understudied ASD population, this paper presents epidemiological data from a Turkish sample of individuals with ASD (n = 911, 748 boys (82.1%) and 163 girls (17.9%) between 1 and 18 years of age). Average age at diagnosis was 31.06 ± 11.88 months, and the male-to-female ratio was 4.6:1. Three in 4 individuals with ASD had obsessive behaviors, and 1 in 4 had allergic conditions, inappropriate sexual behaviors, self-harming behaviors, and harmful behaviors towards others. One in 3 received a dietary treatment for at least 3 months; almost half received vitamin supplements; the majority (70%) did not experience constipation; and 2 in 3 were picky eaters. This paper presents data on the age of diagnosis, gender ratios, accompanying behaviors, and dietary interventions in Turkish individuals with ASD, which are topics of current research interest about ASD. Such data from non-Western populations may supplement epidemiological knowledge gained from Western populations to help reach a more comprehensive understanding of this condition with many unknowns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Our aim was to show that anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) may be used as a quantitative marker of ovarian reserve in Turkish girls aged 18 years and younger and establish the reference values for AMH in Turkish girls. Material and Methods: This retrospective study included girls between 8-18 years old, without premature ovarian failure or without genetic factors resulting in ovarian dysgenesis. Blood specimens were collected after overnight fasting early in the morning during the early follicular phase. Measurement of serum levels of gonadotropins and AMH was done. Mean serum AMH levels of different age groups and best fitting curve representing AMH percentiles (10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, 90th) were calculated. Results: In total 785 girls with a mean age of 16.16±1.90 years were included, divided into seven age groups. The mean serum AMH level for the total cohort was 5.20±4.19 ng/mL. There was a significant difference between the mean values of AMH in age groups as follows: ≤12 and 17-≤18 (p=0.011). The best fitting curves for AMH percentiles were 4th order polynomial functions. There was a significant correlation between AMH and age and follicle stimulating hormone levels (r=0.148, p<0.001 and r=-0.092, p=0.010). Conclusion: Our results reflect the real-life data for serum AMH values in Turkish girls. Our nomogram may be useful for counseling adolescents about their ovarian reserve and diagnosing other gynecological diseases. A longitudinal study is necessary for improving the predictive value of AMH values in girls aged 18 and younger. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Demographic and socio-economic factors determine pharmaceutical health care utilization for individuals. Prescription and non-prescription medicine use are expected to have different determinants. Even though prescription and non-prescription medicine use is being well researched for developed countries, there are only a few studies for developing countries. Objectives: This paper aims to analyze the socio-economic and individual characteristics that determine the use of prescription and non-prescription medicine. We examine the issue for the specific case of Turkey since Turkey's health system has undertaken significant changes in the last two decades and especially after 2003 with the "Health Transformation Programme". Methods: Data from the nationally representative "Health Survey" are used in the analysis. The data set covers the 2008–2016 period with two-year intervals. Pooled multivariate logistic regression is employed to identify the underlying determinants of prescription and non-prescription medicine use. Results: When compared to 2008, non-prescription medicine use decreases until 2012, however, an increasing trend appears after 2012. For prescription medicine use, a decreasing trend emerges after 2012. Findings from the marginal effects indicate that for non-prescription medicine use, the highest effect stems from the health status. For prescription medicine use, the highest marginal effects arise from age, health and employment status indicating the importance of the need and predisposing factors. Conclusion: Decreasing non-prescription medicine use largely depends on easier access to health care service utilization. Although having a health insurance has a positive relationship with prescription medicine use, there is still a problem for individuals living a rural area and heaving a lower income level since they are more likely to use non-prescription medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Health & Nursing Management / Sağlık ve Hemşirelik Yönetimi Dergisi is the property of Logos Medical 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.)

Copyright of Journal of Health & Nursing Management / Sağlık ve Hemşirelik Yönetimi Dergisi is the property of Logos Medical 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.)

Copyright of Turkish Journal of Osteoporosis / Turk Osteoporoz 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.)

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the readiness of our patient population for the transfer to adult care and the applicability of the TRANSITION-Q and STARx scales to the Turkish adolescent patient population. Patients and methods: A total of 153 patients (92 males, 61 females; mean age: 15.5±1.9 years; range, 12 to 18 years) were included in the study between September 15, 2021, and December 15, 2021. The patients were divided into two groups according to age groups: 12 to 15 years old and 16 to 18 years old. The patients were also divided into four groups according to their diagnosis: connective tissue diseases, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, vasculitis, and autoinflammatory diseases. The TRANSITION-Q and STARx scales were administered face-to-face by a nurse and a doctor. The transition readiness of the patients was evaluated according to their scores. Results: Sixty-nine (45%) patients were in the 12 to 15 age group, and 84 (55%) were in the 16 to 18 age group. Eight-four (54.9%) patients had juvenile idiopathic arthritis, 47 (30.7%) patients had an autoinflammatory disease, 14 (9.2%) patients had vasculitis, and eight (5.2%) patients had a connective tissue disease. There was no significant difference in the scale scores according to disease groups and sexes in both scales. Considering the age of the patients, the mean scores of the patients in the 16 to 18 age group were found to be significantly higher compared to the 12 to 15 age group for both the TRANSITION-Q (74.3±13.3 vs. 65.4±9.6, p<0.001) and STARx scales (51.8±8.1 vs. 44.8±9.1, p<0.001). Cronbach's alpha score was 0.71 for the STARx scale and 0.79 for the TRANSITION-Q scale. Conclusion: TRANSITION-Q and STARx scales could guide the Turkish patient population in determining the pretransition needs of patients in planning individualized transition processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination rates and factors affecting vaccination in children with rheumatic diseases. Patients and methods: This multicenter cross-sectional survey-based study was conducted between July 2022 and September 2022. Four hundred seventy-four patients (256 females, 218 males; median age: 15 years; interquartile range, 13 to 16 years) were included in the patient group, and 211 healthy children (124 females, 87 males; median age: 15 years; interquartile range, 13 to 16 years) were included in the control group. A questionnaire was administered to the parents face-to-face during routine outpatient visits. Results: Of the patients, 220 were followed up with the diagnosis of autoinflammatory disease, 174 with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, 48 with connective tissue disease, 23 with vasculitis, eight with uveitis, and one with sarcoidosis. In the study group, 256 (54%) patients and 115 (54.5%) healthy children received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Parents' concern regarding potential side effects of the vaccine was the most common reason for COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy in both groups. The median patient age, follow-up period, colchicine treatment rates, childhood vaccination and influenza vaccination rates, median parental age, parental vaccination rate, and parental education level were higher in vaccinated patients (p<0.05 for all). In addition, vaccination rates were high in patients who shared their concerns about vaccination with the rheumatology team (p<0.001). Conclusion: Parents' concerns about safety and side effects were found to be the most important factors affecting vaccination success. Identification of the underlying causes of parental vaccine hesitancy will facilitate the development of effective vaccination strategies for potential future outbreaks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Health & Nursing Management / Sağlık ve Hemşirelik Yönetimi Dergisi is the property of Logos Medical 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 pathophysiology of uterine scar dehiscence is not yet clear. The aim of this study was to investigate whether preoperative hemogram parameters can be used as predictive markers of uterine scar dehiscence, thus improving prediction and contributing to management of repeat Cesarean section. Material and Methods: Between 2015 and 2020, 36670 (47.6%) cesarean sections were delivered in our hospital and 16943 of them had a previous Cesarean section. All cases of uterine scar rupture detected during Cesarean section were identified, and a total of 40 patients were included after excluding cases with impairment of the systemic inflammatory response (SIR). Controls consisted of 40 randomly selected, ageand body mass index (BMI)-matched patients, and the groups were compared. Results: Age, BMI, and gravidity were similar (p>0.05). Although the gestational week and Apgar scores were similar between the groups (p>0.05), the birth weight amongst controls was significantly higher than the uterine dehiscence group (p=0.028). Platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, and other hemogram values were similar in both groups (p>0.05). Mean platelet volume (MPV) in the control group was significantly higher than in the uterine rupture group (p=0.049). Regression analysis found no significant result between hemogram parameters, birth weight, and dehiscence. Conclusion: In this study, which set out to identify predictors of the risk of uterine scar dehiscence with SIR parameters, only the MPV value was lower in the dehiscence group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The knee, low back, and shoulder account for most overuse injuries in volleyball. Previous researchers have used methodology that did not examine the extent of injury burden and effect on performance. To develop a more accurate and complete understanding regarding the weekly prevalence and burden of knee, low back, and shoulder problems within the highest levels of men's volleyball, including the role that preseason complaints, match participation, player position, team, and age have on complaints. Descriptive epidemiology study. Professional volleyball clubs and the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I program. A total of 75 male volleyball players, representing 4 teams playing in their country's respective premier league (Japan, Qatar, Turkey, and the United States), participated over a 3-season period. Players completed a weekly questionnaire (Oslo Sports Trauma Research Centre Overuse Injury Questionnaire) reporting pain related to their sport and the extent to which knee, low back, and shoulder problems affected participation, training volume, and performance. Problems leading to moderate or severe reductions in training volume or performance or the inability to participate were considered substantial problems. The mean weekly prevalence of knee, low back, and shoulder problems based on 102 player-seasons was 31% (95% CI = 28%, 34%), 21% (95% CI = 18%, 23%), and 19% (95% CI = 18%, 21%), respectively. Most players (93%, 95/102 player-seasons) reported some level of knee (79%, n = 81/102 player-seasons), low back (71%, n = 72/102 player-seasons), or shoulder (67%, n = 68/102 player-seasons) complaints during the season. Most players (58%, n = 59/102 player-seasons) experienced at least 1 episode of substantial problems affecting the knee (33%, n = 34/102 player-seasons), low back (27%, n = 28/102 player-seasons), or shoulder (27%, n = 28/102 player-seasons). Players with preseason complaints had more in-season complaints than teammates without preseason problems (mean weekly prevalence: knee, 42% versus 8%, t49 = −18.726, P <.001; low back, 34% versus 6%, t32 = −12.025, P <.001; shoulder, 38% versus 8%, t30 = −10.650, P <.001). Nearly all included elite male volleyball players experienced knee, low back, or shoulder problems, and most had at least 1 bout that substantially reduced training participation or sport performance. These findings suggest that knee, low back, and shoulder problems result in greater injury burden than previously reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. Violence is a factor that is frequently encountered in health systems and causes problems of various sizes. Nursing students who take an active role in health environments and are also inexperienced are also exposed to this workplace violence. Mental health nurses and nursing students practicing in this field aim to improve the quality of patient care while managing violence and aggression. It is thought that the inability of nursing students practicing in the field of mental health to successfully manage violence and demonstrate resilience may affect their clinical performance and reduce the quality of patient care. This study was conducted to determine the psychological resilience levels, caring behaviors, and violence management competencies of nursing students and to reveal the relationship between the variables. Design and Methods. The type of study is descriptive and cross-sectional. The sample of the study consisted of 452 nursing students who agreed to participate in the study. The data of the study were collected using the personal information form, Adult Resilience Scale, Caring Behaviors Scale-24, and Violence Management Competency Scale for nursing students in practice areas. This study was reported following the STROBE (Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology) recommendations. Findings. A statistically significant positive correlation was found among the psychological resilience levels, caring behaviors, and violence management proficiency of the students participating in the study (p = 0.001). Practice Implications. It is very important to determine the psychological resilience, care behaviors, and violence management competency levels of nursing students, who are the professionals of the future, to present nursing care from a holistic framework and to increase the quality of the care provided. In this context, it is recommended to determine the psychological resilience, care behaviors, and violence management competency levels of nursing students in their education and training processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Emergency service workers have essential responsibilities in determining risk factors for suicide attempts and the traumatizing effects of suicide attempts on the person and directing them for psychiatric treatment. Objective: This retrospective study aimed to determine the causes, demographic, and clinical characteristics of suicide attempts cases admitted to the emergency department. Methodology: This study evaluated the data of 689 cases admitted to the emergency department with a suicide attempt between January 2016 and December 2020 were evaluated retrospectively. The patients' sociodemographic characteristics, data on suicide incidence, and features of a suicide attempt were recorded. Categorical data were presented as frequency and percent. Results: Among the 689 cases screened, 52.4% were 20 years old and younger, 72.3% were female, and 56.0% were married. Of the cases, 70.2% were first-time suicide attempters, 78.5% received psychiatric treatment in the last six months, and 87.4% took medication. The most common cause of suicide attempts was family problems (38.7%). Conclusion: In cases of suicide admitted to the emergency department, psychiatric consultation should be requested, and they should be referred to psychiatry after discharge for psychiatric treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We aimed to determine the knowledge and attitudes of Turkish pediatricians concerning vitamin D supplement. Methods: The study was planned cross-sectional to be carried out between April-May 2015 in Turkey. A questionnaire form that determined the participants' opinions and practices concerning vitamin D supplement was completed via face-to-face interview. Results: A total of 107 pediatricians (49.3%) and 110 pediatric residents (50.7%) participated in the study. Of the physicians, 85.2% recommended vitamin D supplement for all infants and children regardless of diet, 13.4% recommended for the infants which are solely breastfed. Vitamin D supplement is recommended at a dose of 400 IU/day by 88.8% of pediatricians and by 90% of pediatric residents. Of the pediatricians and pediatric residents, 72% and 68.2%, respectively commence vitamin D supplement when the newborn is 15 days old. The rates of recommending vitamin D supplement until the age of one and two years were higher among pediatricians (48.6% and 41.1%, respectively) than pediatric residents (40.9% and 32.7%, respectively). The rate of starting vitamin D supplement for fontanelle closure was significantly higher among pediatric residents (15.5%) than pediatricians (3.7%) (p = 0.002). It was determined that the rate of prescribing vitamin D supplement until fontanelle closure was higher among pediatric residents (18.2%) than pediatricians (0.9%). Conclusions: The present study suggest that the knowledge of pediatricians about recommendation of vitamin D needs to be enhanced by education programs in addition to free vitamin D supplement provided by the Ministry of Health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Ege Journal of Fisheries & Aquatic Sciences (EgeJFAS) / Su Ürünleri Dergisi is the property of Ege Journal of Fisheries & Aquatic Sciences (EgeJFAS) / Su Urunleri Dergisi 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: In this study, we aimed to evaluate whether the demographic and stimulation characteristics, treatment results, and pregnancy outcomes of infertile couples who applied to our assisted reproductive technology center vary according to the calendar year. STUDY DESIGN: The original files of 949 patients who underwent assisted reproductive technology treatment were analyzed between January 2012 and December 2017. Assisted reproductive technology cycles were classified according to year and also basal parameters and assisted reproductive technology outcomes were compared by year. RESULTS: Female age, infertility period, baseline follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, estradiol levels, duration of stimulation, total gonadotropin dose required, peak E2 level, and endometrial thickness on human chorionic gonadotropin administration day were statistically significant between the groups (p<0.05). While a statistically significant difference was observed in fertilization rate (p<0.05), the following were comparable between the groups (p>0.05): number of retrieved and MII oocytes, two pronuclei, day of transfer, embryo transfer technique, single vs. multiple embryo transfer, rates of the Grade-I embryo, biochemical and clinical pregnancy, live birth, ectopic pregnancy, and miscarriage. CONCLUSION: Infertile women of reproductive age benefit from assisted reproductive technology when trying to become pregnant. Factors that could adversely affect assisted reproductive technology, such as advanced age, have a negative impact on the treatment's success. These repercussions should be taken into account by infertile couples who consider delaying pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) after lung resection. Methods: After the implementation of the exclusion criteria, 170 patients were retrospectively analyzed. PLR and NLR were obtained from fasting complete blood counts before surgery. POAF was diagnosed using standard clinical criteria. The associations between different variables and POAF, NLR, and PLR were calculated using univariate and multivariate analyses. The receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve was used to determine the sensitivity and specificity of PLR and NLR. Results: Of the 170 patients, 32 with POAF (mean age =71.28±7.27 y, 28 males and 4 females) and 138 patients without POAF (mean age =64.69±10.31 y, 125 males and 13 females) were identified, and the difference in the mean age was statistically significant (P=0.001). It was found that PLR (157.67±65.04 vs 127.52±56.80; P=0.005) and NLR (3.90±1.79 vs 2.04±0.88; P=0.001) were statistically significantly higher in the POAF group. In the multivariate regression analysis, age, lung resection size, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, NLR, PLR, and pulmonary arterial pressure were independent risk factors. In the ROC analysis, PLR had a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 33% (AUC, 0.66; P<0.001), and NLR had a sensitivity of 71.9% and a specificity of 87.7% (AUC, 0.87; P<0.001). A comparison of AUC between PLR and NLR showed that NLR was statistically more significant (P<0.001). Conclusion: This study showed that NLR was a stronger independent risk factor than PLR for the development of POAF after lung resection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To reveal the prevalence of asymptomatic uterine leiomyomas among gynecologic patients and to evaluate risk factors associated with the presence of leiomyomas. STUDY DESIGN: Two thousand five hundred eighty-three patients aged between 18 and 66 years who presented to the gynecology outpatient clinic of our hospital in January and February 2021 who had an intact uterus and underwent transvaginal ultrasound were included in the study. Patients with symptoms due to fibroids were defined as symptomatic, and those without symptoms were defined as asymptomatic; then two groups were compared in terms of certain variables. The independent risk factors associated with the presence of fibroids were determined using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: Leiomyomas were detected in a total of 437 patients with an overall prevalence of 17.2%. Leiomyomas were detected in 12.2% of asymptomatic patients and 27.8% of symptomatic patients (p<0.001). The prevalence of fibroids tended to increase with advancing age and decreased after age 50 years. It was observed that myoma diameter was significantly large (29.5 (6-123) mm and 18 (7-74) mm; p<0.001) and the frequency of multiple myomas was significantly high in symptomatic patients (46.5% vs. 33.6%; p<0.001). In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, high body mass index, younger age at menarche, and not using oral contraceptives were associated with the presence of fibroids. CONCLUSION: Approximately half of all leiomyomas, one of the important gynecological health problems of women, are asymptomatic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Healthcare system and intersectoral public health policies play a crucial role in improving population health and reducing health inequalities. This study aimed to quantify their impact, operationalized as avoidable deaths, on the gap in life expectancy (LE) and lifespan inequality (LI) between Iran and three neighbour countries viz., Turkey, Qatar, and Kuwait in 2015–2016. Methods: Annual data on population and causes of deaths by age and sex for Iran and three neighbour countries were obtained from the World Health Organization mortality database for the period 2015–2016. A recently developed list by the OECD/Eurostat was used to identify avoidable causes of death (with an upper age limit of 75). The cross-country gaps in LE and LI (measured by standard deviation) were decomposed by age and cause of death using a continuous-change model. Results: Iranian males and females had the second lowest and lowest LE, respectively, compared with their counterparts in the neighbour countries. On the other hand, the highest LIs in both sexes (by 2.3 to 4.5 years in males and 1.1 to 3.3 years in females) were observed in Iran. Avoidable causes contributed substantially to the LE and LI gap in both sexes with injuries and maternal/infant mortality represented the greatest contributions to the disadvantages in Iranian males and females, respectively. Conclusions: Higher mortality rates in young Iranians led to a double burden of inequality –shorter LE and greater uncertainty at timing of death. Strengthening intersectoral public health policies and healthcare quality targeted at averting premature deaths, especially from injuries among younger people, can mitigate this double burden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Turkish Journal of Neurology / Turk Noroloji 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 Journal of Turkish Sleep Medicine 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 To explore social and behavioural impacts of English smoke-free legislation (SFL) in different ethnic groups. Design A longitudinal, qualitative panel study of smokers using in-depth interviews conducted before and after introduction of SFL. Participants A purposive sample of 32 smokers selected from three ethnic groups in deprived London neighbourhoods with approximately equal numbers of younger and older, male and female respondents. Results SFL has had positive impacts with half smoking less and three quitting. Although there were no apparent differences in smoking and quitting behaviours between groups, there were notable differences in the social impacts of SFL. The greatest negative impacts were in smokers over 60 years, potentially increasing their social isolation, and on young Somali women whose smoking was driven more underground. In contrast, most other young adult smokers felt relatively unaffected by SFL, describing unexpected social benefits. Although there was high compliance, reports of illegal smoking were more frequent among young, ethnic minority smokers, with descriptions of venues involved suggesting they are ethnically distinct and well hidden. Half of respondents reported stopping smoking in their own homes after SFL, but almost all were Somali or Turkish. White respondents tended to report increases in home smoking. Discussion Although our study suggests that SFL can lead to reductions in tobacco consumption, it also shows that impacts vary by ethnicity, age and sex. This study highlights the importance of understanding the meaning of smoking in different social contexts so future tobacco control interventions can be developed to reduce health and social inequalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aim of this study was to determine the developmental stages-specific normative values of Trial Making Test (TMT), Enhanced Cued Recall Test (ECRT) and Clock Drawing Test (CDT) which are commonly used in adults for the evaluation of cognitive functions affected by psychiatric and neurological diseases and developmental disorders for a healthy Turkish sample between 6-18 years of age. Method: A total of 249 primary and secondary school students between 6-18 years of age and living in Ankara and educated in public and/or private schools participated in the study. Primary analysis was conducted by appropriate ANOVA and/or MANOVA for 2 (Developmental Stage: Middle-Late Childhood (6-11 years) and Adolescence (12-18 years)) x 2 (Gender: Female and Male) factorial design. In addition, another group of ANOVA and/or MANOVA analyses for 3 (Adolescence Sub-Stages) x 2 (Gender) was also performed for the adolescence stage that was sub-grouped as early (12-13 years), middle (14-15 years) and late (16+ years). Results: Normative values were determined both for two different developmental stages and for the adolescence sub-stages. Comparisons indicated that main effect of gender and interactions were nonsignificant for all tests. On the other hand, the main effects of the developmental stage and adolescence sub-stages were significant for many of the test scores. Conclusion: As a result of the study, three neuropsychological tests and their normative values for children and adolescents were presented as available for use in future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Health literacy is a holistic structure of belief systems and personal philosophy, which consists of functional, critical, and communication skills that explain medical decision-making. Objectives. The study aimed to determine the levels of health literacy and the variables that affect it in patients who were admitted to family health centers (FHCs). Material and methods. This cross-sectional study, which was performed in a Central Anatolia City (Eskisehir), included patients who were admitted to FHCs (n = 1,055) between May and June 2017. Data were collected using a questionnaire consisting of 27 questions about the patient’s sociodemographic characteristics, the resources that are available to them with health-related information, their accessibility to this information and healthcare institutions, and the Turkish Health Literacy Scale. Results. The mean health literacy score of the participants was 29.57 ± 9.27. Health literacy levels of participants were problematic in 38.6% and inadequate in 27.5% of the subjects. According to the results of logistic regression analysis, the probability of having a high level of health literacy in FHC patients was halved for each age increase; it increased by 2.5-fold for graduates of secondary education, by 3.1-fold for high-school graduates, by 3.3-fold for those holding an undergraduate degree, by 1.5-fold for participants who did not suffer from a disease that requires regular medication, by 2.7-fold for individuals most commonly admitted to private hospitals in case of any health problem or disease, and by 0.6-fold for subjects who did not see a family physician in the last six months. Conclusions. The health literacy level of the population of Eskisehir is affected by unchangeable and changeable factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study was carried out with the aim of evaluating the attitudes of nurses to workplace incivility. Design: A crosssectional study. Methods: This study was implemented with the participation of 195 nurses working in a hospital in southeastern Turkey. The Nurse Information Form and Nursing Incivility Scale were used as data collection tools. Results: When the total scores for the scale were compared in terms of the working hours of the participants, it was found that those working only night shifts had higher scores than those working only during daytime hours (p = 0.036). A total of 43.6% of the participants thought that their colleagues' attitudes towards them were uncivil. When this situation was evaluated in terms of total scale scores, it was found that participants who felt that they were being treated uncivilly had higher scores (p = 0.030). Conclusion: Nurses were exposed to incivility in the work environment due to stressors such as insufficient number of nurses on wards and the pattern of shifts. Nurses who felt they were being treated uncivilly had higher incivility scale scores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The burden of cardiovascular risk is distributed unequally between ethnic groups. It is uncertain to what extent this is attributable to ethnic differences in general and abdominal obesity. Therefore, we studied the contribution of general and abdominal obesity to metabolic cardiovascular risk among different ethnic groups. Methods We used data of 21 411 participants of Dutch, South-Asian Surinamese, African-Surinamese, Ghanaian, Turkish or Moroccan origin in Healthy Life in an Urban Setting (Amsterdam, the Netherlands). Obesity was defined using body-mass-index (general) or waist-to-height-ratio (abdominal). High metabolic risk was defined as having at least two of the following: triglycerides ≥1.7 mmol/l, fasting glucose ≥5.6 mmol/l, blood pressure ≥130 mmHg systolic and/or ≥85 mmHg diastolic and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol <1.03 mmol/l (men) or <1.29 mmol/l (women). Results Among ethnic minority men, age-adjusted prevalence rates of high metabolic risk ranged from 32 to 59% vs. 33% among Dutch men. Contributions of general obesity to high metabolic risk ranged from 7.1 to 17.8%, vs. 10.1% among Dutch men, whereas contributions of abdominal obesity ranged from 52.1 to 92.3%, vs. 53.9% among Dutch men. Among ethnic minority women, age-adjusted prevalence rates of high metabolic risk ranged from 24 to 35% vs. 12% among Dutch women. Contributions of general obesity ranged from 14.6 to 41.8%, vs. 20% among Dutch women, whereas contributions of abdominal obesity ranged from 68.0 to 92.8%, vs. 72.1% among Dutch women. Conclusions Obesity, especially abdominal obesity, contributes significantly to the prevalence of high metabolic cardiovascular risk. Results suggest that this contribution varies substantially between ethnic groups, which helps explain ethnic differences in cardiovascular risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The age and growth in two breeding populations of A. danfordi, inhabiting altitudes ranging from 678 m a.s.l. to 1200 m a.s.l. in Turkey, were investigated. The age differences between sexes were not statistically significant in either population. The mean age was calculated as 8.73 ± 2.12 and 8.33 ± 1.8 years in Kozan and 7.25 ± 1.58 and 5.78 ± 1.64 years in Saimbeyli for males and females, respectively. The age distributions of males did not statistically differ between populations, but females in Kozan were significantly older than those in Saimbeyli. The mean snout-vent length (SVL) difference between sexes was not significant in the Kozan population, whereas males were significantly longer than females in Saimbeyli. However, SVL was similar between the populations. Intersexual differences in body size were found to be male-biased for both populations. There was a positive and statistically significant relationship between SVL and age in both populations. This study examines the feasibility of the use of skeletochronology for A. danfordi. It also shows that these populations are getting older and this may endanger the future of A. danfordi in a warming world. Some life history parameters and population structures of A. danfordi are provided in this study but some questions still remain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this quantitative study was to assess falls and fear of falling in patients with knee osteoarthritis, and to determine their effects on daily activities. Design: A descriptive and prospective quantitative study. Methods: The study employed a descriptive and prospective design, examining 93 patients with knee osteoarthritis. We used the Lequesne Index (LI), the Falls Efficacy Scale (FES), and the Visual Analog Scale for Fear of Falling (VAS-FOF) to assess the effects of falls and fear of falling on daily activities. Results: The mean age of participants was 62.0 years old. In total, 78.5% of patients had experienced falls in the past, 53.4% of whom were admitted to hospital as a result. There was a positive significant correlation between total mean Lequesne Index and VAS-FOF scores, age, and BMI of participants (r = 0.310; r = 0.231; r = 0.283) (p < 0.05). A negative correlation was found between FES and VAS-FOF scores, total LI score, and age (p < 0.05). In addition, a negative significant correlation was found between age and BMI (r = -0.257) (p < 0.013). Conclusion: The results demonstrated that fear of falling affects the performance of daily activities. Knee osteoarthritis is an important risk factor for falling, and falls affect daily activities in those with knee osteoarthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In 2013, Turkey introduced one-dose universal varicella vaccination (UVV) at 12 months of age. Inclusion of a second dose is being considered. Methods: We developed a dynamic transmission model to evaluate three vaccination strategies: single dose at 12 months (1D) or second dose at either 18 months (2D-short) or 6 years of age (2D-long). Costs and utilization were age-stratified and separated into inpatient and outpatient costs for varicella and herpes zoster (HZ). We ran the model including and excluding HZ-related costs and impact of exogenous boosting. Results: Five years post-introduction of UVV (1D), the projected varicella incidence rate decreases from 1,674 cases pre-vaccine to 80 cases/100,000 person-years. By 25 years, varicella incidence equilibrates at 39, 12, and 16 cases/100,000 person-years for 1D, 2D-short, and 2D-long strategies, respectively, using a highly effective vaccine. With or without including exogenous boosting impact and/or HZ-related costs and health benefits, the 1D strategy is least costly, but 2-dose strategies are cost-effective considering a willingness-to-pay threshold equivalent to the gross domestic product. The model predicted a modest increase in HZ burden during the first 20–30 years, after which time HZ incidence equilibrates at a lower rate than pre-vaccine. Conclusions: Our findings support adding a second varicella vaccine dose in Turkey, as doing so is highly cost-effective across a wide range of assumptions regarding the burden associated with varicella and HZ disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The burden of multimorbidity is likely higher in ethnic minority populations, as most individual diseases are more prevalent in minority groups. However, information is scarce. We examined ethnic inequalities in multimorbidity, and investigated to what extent they reflect differences in socioeconomic status (SES). Methods We included Healthy Life in an Urban Setting study participants of Dutch (N = 4582), South-Asian Surinamese (N = 3258), African Surinamese (N = 4267), Ghanaian (N = 2282), Turkish (N = 3879) and Moroccan (N = 4094) origin (aged 18–70 years). Educational level, employment status, income situation and multimorbidity were defined based on questionnaires. We described the prevalence and examined age-adjusted ethnic inequalities in multimorbidity with logistic regression analyses. To assess the contribution of SES, we added SES indicators to the age-adjusted model. Results The prevalence of multimorbidity ranged from 27.1 to 53.4% in men and from 38.5 to 69.6% in women. The prevalence of multimorbidity in most ethnic minority groups was comparable to the prevalence among Dutch participants who were 1–3 decades older. After adjustment for SES, the odds of multimorbidity remained significantly higher in ethnic minority groups. For instance, age-adjusted OR for multimorbidity for the Turkish compared to the Dutch changed from 4.43 (3.84–5.13) to 2.34 (1.99–2.75) in men and from 5.35 (4.69–6.10) to 2.94 (2.54–3.41) in women after simultaneous adjustment for all SES indicators. Conclusions We found a significantly higher prevalence of multimorbidity in ethnic minority men and women compared to Dutch, and results pointed to an earlier onset of multimorbidity in ethnic minority groups. These inequalities in multimorbidity were not fully accounted for by differences in SES. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the incidence of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in children under 18 years of age in the northwest region of Turkey during 2013-2015. Methods: All newly diagnosed T1DM cases were recorded prospectively during 2013-2015. Total, as well as gender and age group specific (0-4, 5-9, 10-14 and 15-17 age) mean incidences per 100,000 per year were calculated. Results: There were 1,773 patients diagnosed during 2013-2015 (588 cases in 2013, 592 cases in 2014, 593 cases in 2015). Of these, 862 (48.6%) were girls and 911 (51.4%) were boys. The mean age at diagnosis was 9.2±4.2 years and it was not significantly different between girls (9.0±4.1 years) and boys (9.4±4.4 years) (p=0.052). The crude mean incidence was 8.99/100.000 confidence interval (CI) (95% CI: 8.58-9.42). Although mean incidence was similar between boys [8.98/100.000 (CI: 8.40 to 9.58)] and girls [9.01/100.000 (CI: 8.42 to 9.63)], there was male predominance in all groups except for 5-9 year age group. The standardized mean incidence was 9.02/100.000 according to the World Health Organization standard population. The mean incidence for the 0-4, 5-9, 10-14 and 15-17 age groups was 6.13, 11.68, 11.7 and 5.04/100.000 respectively. The incidence of T1DM was similar over the course of three years (p=0.95). A significant increase in the proportion of cases diagnosed was observed in the autumn-winter seasons. Conclusion: The northwest region of Turkey experienced an intermediate incidence of T1DM over the period of the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Domestic violence (DV) is defined as all kinds of abusive behaviors between spouses or relatives living in the same house. Domestic violence is most commonly directed towards women and children. This study aims to review the extent of domestic violence among women consulting to psychiatric outpatient clinic, and to identify its relation with sociodemographic risk factors and psychological symptoms. Method: Self-reported Domestic Violence Questionnaire and Symptom Checklist-90-R (SCL-90-R) information was collected from women who admitted to psychiatric outpatient clinic at Marmara University Research and Educational Hospital, and accepted to participate in the study. Results: 300 women participated in the study. Mean age of participants was 36.24±10.88, 75.7% of them were married, and mostly live within nuclear families. 70.1% of the participants reported verbal violence, and 49.0% reported physical violence. 65.3% of those who have experienced verbal violence have also experienced physical violence. 26.1% of them reported as not having experienced domestic violence before. The nature and extent of domestic violence, women's attitudes towards it, and its relation with experience of domestic violence during childhood have been explored. Participants' educational levels, current age and age of marriage, style of marriage, educational level and age of spouse were not found to be associated with experiencing of domestic violence. Both verbal and physical domestic violence were significantly associated with the economic status of women (p<0.05). The mean SCL-90-R score was 1.40±0.68 with the highest mean subgroup score under depressive symptoms category (1.80±0.79). Mean SCL-90-R score showed significant association with the experience of domestic violence (p<0.001). Conclusion: Most of the women participated in the study have experienced domestic violence. Both verbal and physical violence increased with lower economic status. Psychiatric symptoms increased with the experience of domestic violence. Considering its high prevalence and detrimental psychological effects, domestic violence should be inquired by clinicians as part of the psychiatric interview. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Turkish Journal of Hematology 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.)

Background: Morphometric data of the frontal lobe are important for surgical planning of lesions in the frontal lobe and its surroundings. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques provide suitable data for this purpose. Objectives: In our study, the morphometric data of mid-sagittal MRI of the frontal lobe in certain age and gender groups of children have been presented. Patients and Methods: In a normal age group of 6-17-year-old participants, the length of the line passing through predetermined different points, including the frontal pole (FP), commissura anterior (AC), commissura posterior (PC), the outermost point of corpus callosum genu (AGCC), the innermost point of corpus callosum genu (IGCC), tuberculum sella (TS), AGCC and IGCC points parallel to AC-PC line and the point such line crosses at the frontal lobe surface (FCS) were measured in three age groups (6-9, 10-13 and 14-17 years) for each gender. Results: The frontal lobe morphometric data were higher in males than females. Frontal lobe measurements peak at the age group of 10-13 in the male and at the age group of 6-13 in the female. In boys, the length of FP-AC increases 4.1% in the 10-13 age group compared with the 6-9-yearold group, while this increase is 2.3% in girls. Conclusion: Differences in age and gender groups were determined. While the length of AGCC-IGCC increases 10.4% in adults, in children aged 6-17, the length of AC-PC is 11.5% greater than adults. These data will contribute to the preliminary assessment for developing a surgical plan in fine interventions in the frontal lobe and its surroundings in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Turkish Journal of Hematology 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.)

Background: Some mortality statistics are misleading when comparing between countries due to varying age distributions in their populations. In order to adjust for these differences, age-standardised mortality rates (ASMRs) are often produced. ASMRs allow for comparisons between countries as if both had the same standardised population. We examined whether the updating of the standard population for Europe affected the description of the relative burden between countries in cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality across the continent. Methods: Mortality and population data were obtained from the World Health Organization (WHO) mortality database. ASMRs were calculated using the direct method and two European Standard Populations (ESP): 1976 ESP and 2013 ESP. We investigated differences in ASMR76 (calculated using 1976 ESP) and ASMR13 (calculated using 2013 ESP), changes in rankings of countries between the two ASMRs and differences in trends in CVD mortality in each country for the two ASMRs. Results: CVD rates calculated using the 1976 ESP were on average half the size of rates calculated using the 2013 ESP. Spearman's rank coefficient showed that the ranks of countries by ASMRs calculated using the two ESPs were different for both sexes. Joinpoint analyses showed no difference in the direction of trend between ASMR76 and ASMR13 although differences in the magnitude of the change were found in some countries. Conclusion: ASMRs are commonly used in studying the epidemiology of a disease. It is crucial that policy makers understand the effect of changes in standard populations on these rates. This includes how populations with different age distributions compare to each other. Similar effects may be seen in other diseases that are also more prevalent in older age groups, such as cancer and dementia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]