Convenient Site Selection of a Floating PV Power Plant in Türkiye by using GIS-Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process

Floating photovoltaics (FPVs) are appearing as a promising and an alternative renewable energy opinion in which PV panels are mounted on floating platforms in order to produce electricity from renewable energy on water such as seas, dams, rivers, oceans, canals, fish farms, and reservoirs. So far, such studies related to the body knowledge on financial, technical, and environmental aspects of installation of FPV have not been performed in Turkey while expanding steadily in other countries. In this study, suitable site selection for installation of FPV power plants on three lakes in Turkey was studied by performing geographic information system (GIS) and the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) as multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) method. This detailed study revealed that the criterion of global horizontal irradiance (GHI) was determined as the most crucial criterion for the installation of FPV on Beysehir Lake, Lake of Tuz, and Van Lake. Additionally, it was clearly seen that the Beysehir Lake had the highest value approximately 52% among other lakes for installation, that is why Beysehir Lake is selected as the best option for installation of an FPV system with this multi-criteria approach.

The quality evaluation of the laurel leaf samples sold in the market under the name of "Defne Yaprağı"

Laurus nobilis L. is an aromatic shrub or tree, Mediterranean element. The leaves are employed as a spice and for medicinal purposes. It is known by various names in Turkey, such as "defne, har and tehnel." In this study, 15 different laurel leaf samples were purchased from 6 different cities in Turkey, diagnosed, and evaluated in terms of quality. The conditions of use and sale of these samples were evaluated. The essential oils obtained from the leaf samples were analyzed, and their physical properties such as density, refractive index, and optical rotation were determined. In the chemical composition of the oils, 1,8-cineole (41.2-64.4%), sabinene (1.5-15.9%), and α-terpinyl acetate (1.5-15%) have been found to be the major components. However, in one station, the presence of 1,8-cineole was not be determined. Laurel leaf drugs offered for sale in some provinces of Turkey were purchased from the market and their morphological characteristics and essential oil profiles were examined and evaluated in terms of public health. It was determined that these samples should be standardized and quality-controlled before being released to the market.

Psychometric properties of the pediatric ward nurses' caring self-efficacy scale: A Turkish validity and reliability study

PURPOSE

To translate the 51-item Pediatric Ward Nurses' Caring Self-Efficacy Scale into Turkish and to test the validity and reliability of the Turkish version of the scale in the Turkish population.

DESIGN AND METHODS

The study was conducted with 308 nurses working in the pediatric/pediatric wards of two hospitals in Turkey between September 2021 and January 2022. A Personal Information Form, the Pediatric Ward Nurses' Caring Self-Efficacy Scale, and the Nursing Profession Self-Efficacy Scale (NPSES) were used to determine the care self-efficacy levels of the research sample.

RESULTS

The Cronbach alpha value of the scale, which was adapted to Turkish culture, was 0.982, and the test-retest reliability coefficient was 0.994. Factor loads varied between 0.40 and 0.89. The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin sample fit coefficient of the scale was 0.963 and the Barlett sphericity test χ2 value was 15,259.02 (p < 0.001). It was determined to have a six-factor structure in Turkish culture and showed good fit indices for the Turkish scale (GFI = 0.93, CFI = 0.97, TLI = 0.96 and RMSEA = 0.09).

CONCLUSIONS

The Pediatric Ward Nurses' Caring Self-Efficacy Scale was found to be valid and reliable for sensitively detecting changes in the care self-efficacy levels of nurses working in pediatric wards.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

The scale can be used by professionals interested in scientific knowledge about pediatric population.

The effectiveness of a training program on perceptions of caring culture among Turkish nurses: A quasi-experimental trial

AIM

To assess the effectiveness of a training program on perceptions of caring culture among Turkish nurses and investigate the relationships among caring culture, job satisfaction, and intention to leave.

BACKGROUND

Every organisation has its on culture with its vairous components including values, symbols, practices and policies. Healthcare organizations need a favorable caring culture to support nurses and other professional working in the organisation.

METHODS

This was a quasi-experimental trial of an educational intervention conducted between October and December 2020 at a university hospital in Turkey. The sample of the study consisted of 86 nurses. A four-week training program based on caring culture was provided for the training group. The data were collected using a Personal Information Form, the Turkish version of the Caring Culture Survey, and the Job Satisfaction Scale. Intention to leave was measured with a single question.

FINDINGS

The mean total caring culture and personal caring scores of the training group were significantly higher after the training than before (p < 0.05). There were significant positive correlations between the mean caring culture total and subscale scores of the participants and their total job satisfaction scores. Besides, there were significant negative correlations between the caring culture total and subscale scores of the participants and their intentions to leave, but these relationships were weak or moderate (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

This training program based on caring culture can contribute to improving the caring culture perceptions of nurses. Caring culture is positively related to job satisfaction and negatively related to intentions to leave.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING AND HEALTH POLICY

Healthcare organizations should prioritize creating a caring culture and designing initiatives that focus on caring culture. The perceptions of nurses about caring culture should be measured and identified regularly.

Antiplatelet Treatment Preferences of a Group of Cardiologists from Türkiye: A Survey Research Study

OBJECTIVE

Deciding on the optimal duration of dual antiplatelet treatment (DAPT) remains a complex decision. This survey aims to explore the preferences for antiplatelet therapy and the daily routine regarding DAPT duration in coronary artery disease among a group of cardiologists in Türkiye.

METHOD

Using an online questionnaire with 38 questions, the preferences of 314 cardiologists were collected. Qualitative descriptive characteristics of the answers received from the participants were examined.

RESULTS

Participating cardiologists mostly worked in training and research hospitals (51.59%) and university hospitals (21.66%). Participants primarily favored ticagrelor in patients undergoing PCI with a diagnosis of STEMI and NSTE-ACS (69.75% and 55.73% respectively). Clopidogrel was the most preferred P2Y12 treatment in patients with chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) after PCI (94.90%). Pre-treatment with a loading dose of a P2Y12 receptor inhibitor was administered to 57.01% of patients with NSTE-ACS, irrespective of the planned treatment strategy. In NSTE-ACS patients with low bleeding risk treated with PCI, 83.12% of participants recommended DAPT for 12 months and 14.65% for >12 months. In high-bleeding-risk NSTE-ACS patients treated with PCI, DAPT durations of six months (74.52%), three months (19.75%), and one month (5.73%) were chosen. Among CCS patients treated with PCI without an increased risk of bleeding, 12 months of DAPT was preferred by 68.15% of participants. Most participants (70.70%) were switching to a more potent P2Y12 receptor inhibitor therapy in emergency department clopidogrel-loaded patients with ACS.

CONCLUSION

The aim of this survey to capture a snapshot of the preferences of a group of cardiologists in Türkiye regarding DAPT treatment and duration. The responses were both in accordance and in conflict with the current guidelines.

Sexual quality of life between healthy women and women with gynecological cancer: Results of a hospital-based case-control study in Türkiye

BACKGROUND

Gynecological cancers among women were both chronic and vitally health problems. The increasing prevalence of women with surviving gynecological cancers and the receiving treatments of cancer negatively affected the sexual quality of life.

AIM

The study was conducted to determine the sexual quality of life of healthy women and women with gynecological cancer and to determine the predictors of sexual quality of life in women with gynecological cancer.

METHODS

The research is a hospital-based case-control study was conducted. The study was carried out with 65 patients with histologically confirmed gynecological cancer were compared with 75 controls, who were admitted to the different departments of the same hospital in the Izmir, in western Türkiye.

RESULTS

The Sexual Quality of Life Questionnaire score (SQOL) of cases was 60.12 ± 9.01 and controls was 78.92 ± 7.08. SQOL scores of cases were significantly lower than controls (p < 0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis results showed that age (B = -0.295, p = 0.072), working (B = 4.981, p = 0.016), smoking (B = -4.590, p = 0.035), diagnosed with cervical cancer (B = -4.214, p = 0.045), and receiving chemotherapy (B = -4.722, p = 0.028) were associated with sexual quality of life in women with gynecological cancer (p < 0.05, R2 : 0.40).

CONCLUSION

Women with gynecological cancer had lower quality of sex life compared with healthy women. Gynecological cancers negatively affect women's sexual quality of life. Health professionals (especially nurses) should be aware of the potential problems that women with gynecological cancer may experience with their sexual lives. They should develop coping strategies and offer solutions for the problems experienced by women with gynecological cancer.

Collected from the Eastern Region of Turkey

Many Vicia species (Fabaceae) were proven to possess bioactive compounds with potential health beneficial properties. The present study was designed to determine the phenolic constituents, antioxidant and enzyme inhibition activities of aerial parts and seed of V. peregrina. Hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol extracts were prepared by maceration and aqueous extract by infusion. The chemical compositions of the extracts were determined using HPLC-MS/MS technology. The antioxidant activities were examined using various assays including free radical scavenging (ABTS and DPPH), reducing ability (CUPRAC and FRAP), metal chelation, and phosphomolybdenum. The enzyme inhibitory effects were investigated against cholinesterase, tyrosinase, amylase and glucosidase. The highest total phenolics and flavonoids contents were recorded in the methanol extracts of the seed (45.42 mg GAE/g) and aerial parts (40.33 mg RE/g) respectively. The aerial parts were characterized by higher accumulation of chlorogenic acid (9893.86 μg g-1 ), isoquercitrin (9400.33 μg g-1 ), delphindin 3,5 diglucoside (9113.28 μg g-1 ), hyperoside (6337.09 μg g-1 ), rutin (3489.83 μg g-1 ) and kaempferol-3-glucoside (2872.84 μg g-1 ). Generally, the methanol and aqueous extracts of the two studied parts exerted the best antioxidant activity with highest anti-DPPH (61.99 mg TE/g), anti-ABTS (101.80 mg TE/g) and Cu++ (16169 mg TE/g) and Fe+++ (172,36 mg TE/g) reducing capacity were recorded from the seed methanol extract. Methanol extract of the seed showed the best anti-tyrosinase activity (75.86 mg KAE/g). These results indicated that V. peregrina is rich with bioactive phenolics suggesting their use in different health promoting applications.

Investigation of non-fatal occupational accidents and their causes in Turkish shipyards

This study reports new data for 1028 non-fatal occupational accidents dated between January 2010 and April 2015 by applying the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) technique. A comprehensive survey was conducted at four shipyards in Tuzla, Istanbul and Yalova regions in Turkey and a workplace questionnaire appropriate for the AHP technique was carried out. The obtained results indicated that inadequate safety equipment and protective clothing, unsuitable usage of machines and tools, and disobeying occupational health and safety (OHS) procedures were the most common risk factors for the accidents. Hence the preventive measures could be identified by analyzing non-fatal accident data. After the identification of the descriptive measures, the priority order of these measures was asked of the occupational safety professionals in the shipbuilding industry, and we used the AHP method to evaluate the results.

The relationship between workplace toxicity, stress, physical activity and emotional eating

This study examines the relationship between perceived workplace toxicity and stress of employees in the hospitality industry and emotional eating behaviors within the context of their physical activity levels. A cross-sectional design from amongst the quantitative research methods was used, in which data were collected via questionnaires from 846 participants who work in five-star hotels in Alanya, Turkey. The study concluded that workplace toxicity positively predicts stress and emotional eating, and the impact of workplace toxicity on emotional eating occurs via stress. Furthermore, physical activity plays a moderating role in the effect of workplace toxicity and stress on emotional eating. As employees' physical activity levels drop, the effect of both stress and workplace toxicity on emotional eating significantly increases. These results reveal that physical activity buffers the negative effects of workplace toxicity and stress on emotional eating.

Chymotrypsin and Trypsin Inhibitory Activity of Some Medicinal Plants Collected from Rize (Türkiye)

In this research, the evaluation of in vitro chymotrypsin and trypsin inhibitory activities of ten plant species collected from Rize were aimed, and fractions that showed strong activity were analyzed through HPLC. Daphne pontica L. and Mentha longifolia (L.) L. were found to have the highest chymotrypsin inhibitory activities (87.75 and 84.24 % inhibition). Similarly, the highest trypsin inhibitory activity was observed in D. pontica (%99.93 inhibition), followed by Sambucus ebulus L. flowers (87.47 % inhibition). Extracts showing strong enzyme inhibition were fractioned and subjected to activity tests. The highest chymotrypsin inhibitory activity was observed in the n-hexane fraction of D. pontica (%80.70 inhibition), while the highest trypsin inhibitory activity was found in the n-butanol fraction of S. ebulus (%86.81 inhibition). HPLC studies determined that the 80 % ethanol extract of D. pontica and its dichloromethane and ethyl acetate fractions contained umbelliferone. It was found that chlorogenic acid was present in the 80 % ethanol extracts of S. ebulus flowers. M. longifolia was found to contain chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, luteolin-7-glucoside, and rosmarinic acid. M. longifolia has been identified as the plant exhibiting the highest antioxidant activity in ABTS and CUPRAC tests, consistent with its high phenolic and flavonoid content.

Botanical origin and elemental content of Turkish honey: Implications for health risks from essential and non-essential elements

Honey, which is popular for its taste and health benefits, can pose health risks due to excessive levels of essential and non-essential elements. Turkey's unique geographical location and biodiversity have made it a major player in the global honey industry. This study analysed Turkish honey samples to determine their botanical origin and elemental content, and to assess non-carcinogenic risks associated with their consumption. Twelve samples were classified as monofloral, while the rest were considered multifloral. The results showed that the levels of elements in the honey samples varied significantly depending on the plant source and geographical location (p < 0.05). However, the health risk assessment for both adults and children indicated that the levels of these elements do not pose a health risk. Principal component -analysis has revealed a correlation among the elements present in honey samples. Overall, the risk of exposure to toxic elements in honey is low unless consumed excessively.

Is environment destiny? Spatial analysis of the relationship between geographic factors and obesity in Türkiye

This study aims to evaluate the relationship of geographical factors, including precipitation, slope, air pollution and elevation with adult obesity prevalence in Türkiye (TR) using a cross-regional study design. Ordinary least squares (OLS) and geographically weighted regression (GWR) were performed to evaluate the spatial variation in the relationship between all geographic factors and obesity prevalence. In the model, a positive relationship was found between obesity prevalence and slope, whereas a negative significant relationship was determined between obesity prevalence and elevation (p < 0.05). These results, revealing spatially varying associations, were very useful in refining the interpretations of the statistical results on adult obesity. This research suggests that geographical factors should be considered as one of the components of the obesogenic environment. In addition, it is recommended that national and international strategies to overcome obesity should be restructured by taking into account the geographical characteristics of the region.

Artificial Intelligence in Early Diagnosis of Preeclampsia

BACKGROUND

Every day, 810 women die of preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth worldwide, and preeclampsia is among the top three causes of maternal deaths.

AIM

To develop a diagnostic system with artificial intelligence for the early diagnosis of preeclampsia.

METHODS

This retrospective study included pregnant women who were screened for the inclusion criteria on the hospital's database, and the sample consisted of the data of 1158 pregnant women diagnosed with preeclampsia and 9194 pregnant women who were not diagnosed with preeclampsia at Kahramanmaras Necip Fazıl City Hospital Gynecology and Pediatrics Additional Service Building, Kahramanmaras/Turkey. The statistical analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for social sciences (SPSS) version 22 for windows. Artificial intelligence models were created using Python, scikit-learn, and TensorFlow.

RESULTS

The model achieved 73.7% sensitivity (95% confidence interval (CI): 70.2%-77.1%) and 92.7% specificity (95% CI: 91.7%-93.6%) on the test set. Furthermore, the model had 90.6% accuracy (95% CI: 90.1% - 91.1%) and an area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.832 (95% CI: 0.818-0.846). The significant parameters in predicting preeclampsia in the model were hemoglobin (HGB), age, aspartate transaminase level (AST), alanine transferase level (ALT), and the blood group.

CONCLUSION

Artificial intelligence is effective in the prediction and diagnosis of preeclampsia.

Relations among Memories of Parental Acceptance-Rejection, Psychological (Mal)Adjustment, Forgiveness, and Vengeance among Turkish Adults

The study investigated relations among memories of parental (maternal and paternal) acceptance-rejection, forgiveness, and vengeance, as mediated by psychological (mal)adjustment. The sample consists of 323 Turkish adults (50% females; Age range: 18-61 years; Mage = 35.73, SD  = 10.41) from Istanbul, Turkiye. Participants responded to mother and father versions of the adult Parental Acceptance-Rejection Questionnaire (adult PARQ; short form), the adult Personality Assessment Questionnaire (adult PAQ; short form), the Heartland Forgiveness Scale, the Vengeance Scale, and the Personal Information Form. The results showed that both men and women remembered their parents as substantially warm and accepting during childhood and self-reported having fair psychological adjustment. Men and women were found to be equally likely to be forgiving as unforgiving and reported no dispositions toward vengeance. However, men reported higher levels of vengeance as compared to women. Psychological adjustment mediated the relations between parental acceptance and forgiveness, while psychological maladjustment mediated the relations between parental rejection and vengefulness for women and men. Implications of the findings and future research directions are discussed.

Impaired perception of cardiovascular risk and health literacy in individuals with high cardiovascular diseases risk from different socioeconomic levels in Antalya, Turkey

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to determine how the frequency of impaired perception of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk is correlated with health literacy in individuals with high CVD risk in two regions with different socioeconomic levels.

METHODS

A descriptive study was conducted. The Systematic Coronary Risk Estimation, recommended by the European and Turkish Cardiology Societies, provides recommendations based on individuals' actual CVD risk levels. According to the Systematic Coronary Risk Estimation, participants suffering from diseases were identified as high and very high risk. The perception of risk was determined by subjectively assessing the risk level of the individuals. The European Health Literacy Survey Questionnaire was used. The Mann-Whitney U test, Chi-squared test and Spearman's correlation analysis were used to analyse the data. We also conducted a logistic regression analysis to identify factors contributing to impaired perception of CVD risk.

RESULTS

A total of 384 individuals, aged between 40 and 70years (with a mean age of 58.35±8.33years), were included in the study. These individuals had a high risk of CVD and were registered to family health centres from two different socioeconomic levels. Out of the 384 participants, 201 individuals belonged to the lower socioeconomic level region and 183 individuals belonged to the higher socioeconomic level region. A total of 61.7% of the participants with high CVD risk had an impaired perception of CVD risk. The health literacy level of 59.9% of individuals was either inadequate or problematic. The health literacy score of participants with impaired risk perception (29.59±9.07) was lower than those with correct risk perception (35.83±10.94; P <0.001). Factors that affected the perception of CVD risk included age, education level, working status, occupation, a family history of CVD, the CVD risk assessment by health professionals and the recommendation of health professionals to individuals for CVD screening.

CONCLUSIONS

It is necessary for health care professionals to make risk assessments and perform interventions to improve health literacy to raise the awareness of individuals with high CVD risk on their actual risk.

Determinants of Turkish nursing students' attitudes towards sustainable development and knowledge of climate change: A descriptive and correlational study

BACKGROUND

Nurses are in a unique position to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, and to prevent and intervene in climate change. Determining nursing students' levels of attitudes and knowledge on this subject is important in determining the content of nursing education programs.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the nursing students' attitudes towards sustainable development and their knowledge of climate change, and to identify determinants associated with these parameters.

DESIGN

A descriptive and correlational design was used.

SETTINGS

National Student Nurses' Association in Turkey.

PARTICIPANTS

The sample of study consisted of 481 nursing students who were members of the National Student Nurses' Association.

METHODS

Data were collected online with the descriptive characteristics' questionnaire, the Attitudes Towards Sustainable Development Scale, and the Climate Change Knowledge Test. We used Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis test, and Spearman correlation analysis to analyze the data obtained from the scales.

RESULTS

The participants' mean sustainable development attitude score was 82.61 ± 12.69 and mean climate change knowledge score was 6.47 ± 1.44. There was a relationship between the sustainable development attitude and the variables such as gender, grade, warning people around them to be sensitive about environmental pollution, following the news about environmental problems, taking precautions about sustainable development and climate change in daily life, and receiving education about sustainable development and climate change in the nursing education. There was a relationship between climate change knowledge and the variables such as gender, grade, membership in an environmental organization, method of keeping up with environmental issues, and receiving education on sustainable development and climate change in nursing education.

CONCLUSION

Although the students displayed favorable attitudes towards sustainable development at a good level, their knowledge of climate change was not adequate. Thus, we recommend that sustainable development and climate change issues should be integrated into nursing education curricula to improve students' attitudes towards and knowledge and awareness of sustainable development and climate change.

Validity and Reliability of the Pieper-Zulkowski Pressure Ulcer Knowledge Test for Use in Turkey

OBJECTIVE

To assess the validity and reliability of the Pieper-Zulkowski Pressure Ulcer Knowledge Test (PZ-PUKT) for use in Turkey.

METHODS

This methodological study was carried out at a state hospital from June to November 2022. The authors used the PZ-PUKT and nurse identification form for data collection. They assessed the validity and reliability of the PZ-PUKT for Turkish society by evaluating language validity, content validity index, exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, Cronbach α, Spearman-Brown Split-Half analysis, item-scale correlations, and test-retest correlations.

RESULTS

Item-level content validity indices ranged from .778 to 1.000 and the scale-level content validity index was .960. Factor loadings of the Turkish version of the PZ-PUKT ranged between .297 and .671. Cronbach α coefficients for the scale subsections were .838 for wounds, .851 for prevention, and .844 for staging; the Cronbach α coefficient was .936 for the total scale score.

CONCLUSIONS

The PZ-PUKT is valid and reliable for use with nurses in Turkey. The authors recommend using the Turkish version of the tool in education and research to assess nurses' pressure injury knowledge.

Determination of the Mental Adjustment Status of Refugee Children in Primary School Age: The Case of Turkey

INTRODUCTION

This research was conducted as a descriptive study to determine the mental adjustment status of refugee children aged 6 to 14 in Duzce.

METHOD

The sample of the study consisted of 163 refugee children. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews with primary caregivers of children using the Hacettepe Mental Adjustment Scale. The collected data were analyzed in the SPSS 22.0 database using percentages, Mann Whitney U, Kruskal-Wallis H, and chi-square tests.

RESULTS

Adjustment problems were detected in 25.8% of the children participating and behavioral problems were detected in over half (52.4%).

DISCUSSION

In line with the findings obtained from the research, it has been suggested to form a team of mental health experts, including psychiatric nurses, who have adopted the principles of transcultural care to make early diagnosis and effective treatment of psychiatric diseases of refugee children.

Early intervention service needs of mothers with a child diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder in Turkey: A qualitative study

BACKGROUND

Early intervention services play a crucial role in the prevention and management of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). With the increasing prevalence of ASD, understanding the specific needs of mothers and their children is essential for the development of effective interventions and support systems.

METHODS

This interview study examines the early intervention service needs of Turkish mothers with children aged 2-6 who have been diagnosed with ASD. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with nine mothers. Thematic analysis was carried out following the guidance and six steps procedures described by Braun and Clarke.

FINDINGS

The study's findings reveal six distinct themes that encompass the needs expressed by the participating mothers: 1) psychological support needs, 2) social support needs, 3) financial support needs, 4) strengthening the family, 5) government-based enhancement, and 6) the need for social awareness.

DISCUSSION

The findings underscore the significance of comprehensive early intervention services tailored to address the needs of mothers. The stressors associated with the impact of ASD on families are highlighted, aligning with Guralnick's framework. The findings emphasize the need for holistic intervention programs and stress the importance of collaborative relationships among parents, educators, and service providers.

APPLICATION TO PRACTICE

The practical implications of this study benefit healthcare professionals, policymakers, educators, and stakeholders. The emphasis lies in aligning interventions with the ASD needs of both mothers and children, ultimately aiding in the development of effective policies and the enhancement of the quality of care for individuals with ASD in Turkey.

The views of cancer patients of Turkish, Moroccan, Surinamese, and Dutch-Caribbean descent on diagnosis, treatment and prognosis: A systematic literature review

BACKGROUND

The number of international migrants is increasing worldwide. The four major non-western ethnic groups in the Netherlands are Turkish, Moroccan, Surinamese, and Dutch-Caribbean. This review examined the scientific literature on the views of cancer patients from these four ethnic groups on cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was conducted using the databases EMBASE, Medline Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register. Studies with patients who were of Turkish, Moroccan, Surinamese, and Dutch-Caribbean descent were included. Both qualitative and quantitative studies were included, and thematic analysis was performed. The methodological quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool.

RESULTS

Thirteen studies were conducted in Turkey on Turkish cancer patients, while three were conducted in the Netherlands on Turkish and Moroccan cancer patients. Four themes emerged from the included studies: disclosure of diagnosis, communication, information provision, and decision-making. The majority of cancer patients in Turkey wanted information regarding their diagnosis and treatment. However, disclosure of a cancer diagnosis was rarely discussed with cancer patients in Turkey, whereas in the Netherlands it was provided directly. Family members in both the host and native countries had a strong influence on communication and decision-making. No literature on this topic for Surinamese or Dutch-Caribbean cancer patients was found.

CONCLUSION

Although major ethnic groups live in host countries, there is a lack of knowledge on optimal communication and information disclosure on cancer to patients and their families.

POLICY SUMMARY

Further research into the views of ethnic groups on how to communicate about cancer is essential to ensuring that every patient receives optimal care and treatment.

The effect of training on coronary artery bypass graft surgery patients

BACKGROUND

In the pre-operative process, patients who will undergo cardiovascular surgery and their families require planned education and education materials. Education given to patients plays a key role in reducing anxiety, overcoming stress, and accelerating discharge.

AIMS

This study was conducted to determine the effect of an education booklet in addition to training by nurses on efficacy expectation, pain and anxiety levels in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery patients.

STUDY DESIGN

This quasi-experimental study was conducted in the cardiovascular surgery service of a university hospital in Izmir, Turkey, between June and October 2018 and involved 60 patients. The patients were divided into two groups: control (n = 30) and intervention (n = 30). The intervention group was patients educated before surgery by using the booklet, but the control group only received routine care by nurses. The data were collected using the Mini-Mental Test, Patient Information Form, Visual Analogue Pain Scale, Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Scale, Barnason Efficacy Expectation Scale, and Education Evaluation Form.

RESULTS

After the intervention at discharge, there was a significant difference between the mean scores of anxiety, pain, and efficacy expectation among the intervention group which received booklet education with the control group which received routine care (p <  .05).

CONCLUSION

The booklet education given to patients before CABG surgery was found to have potential effects on patients' post-operative pain levels, the efficacy expectation, and satisfaction.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

In the pre-operative process, the use of booklet education in addition to routine care increases the level of efficacy expectation and decreases pain and anxiety in CABG surgery patients. Therefore, nurses can use booklet education to improve self-efficacy and reduce pain and anxiety in patients who have CABG surgery.

Trends and associated factors of bottle-feeding in Turkey: dramatic change over the last three decades under the limited implemented code

The study aimed to examine the trends and associated factors of bottle-feeding among children aged 0-35 months. Data covering 11,205 mother-child pairs, from six recent Turkey Demographic and Health Surveys (TDHSs) were analyzed by using complex sample crosstabs and logistic regression. Bottle-feeding was on an upward trend from 33.0% to 51.5% from 1993 to 2013 and fell slightly 47.9% in 2018. Increasing trends of bottle-feeding were found in children aged 6-35 months, the East region, lower wealth index, maternal education under 5 years, Kurdish mothers, and the low antenatal care attendance. Multivariate analysis using data from TDHS-2018 showed that young maternal age, low birth weight and being 6-23 months of age were associated with higher rates of bottle-feeding. The prolonged bottle-feeding became widespread, and the bottle-feeding was common even in 35-month-old children. Interventions by the Government and stakeholders to minimize low rates of bottle-feeding should focus on high-risk groups.

Prediction of monthly evapotranspiration by artificial neural network model development with Levenberg-Marquardt method in Elazig, Turkey

The phenomenon of evapotranspiration (ET) is closely linked to the issue of water scarcity, as it involves water loss through both evaporation and plant transpiration. Accurate prediction of evapotranspiration is of utmost importance in the strategic planning of agricultural irrigation, effective management of water resources, and precise hydrological modeling. The current investigation aims to predict the monthly ET values in the Elazig province by developing an artificial neural network (ANN) model utilizing the Levenberg-Marquardt method. Consequently, the values of temperature, precipitation, relative humidity, solar hour, and mean wind speed were utilized in forecasting evapotranspiration values by implementing ANN algorithms. This research makes a valuable contribution to the existing body of literature by utilizing an ANN model developed with the Levenberg-Marquardt method to estimate evapotranspiration. It has been discovered that evapotranspiration values are impacted by various factors such as temperature (minimum, average, maximum), relative humidity (minimum, average, maximum), wind speed, solar hour, and precipitation values, which are taken into consideration for prediction. The findings indicated that Elazig, Keban, Baskil, and Agin sites had R values of 0.9995, 0.9948, 0.9898, and 0.9994 in the proposed model. It was found that Elazig's MAPE ranged from 0 to 0.2288, Keban's was 0.0001 to 0.3703, Baskil's was between 0 and 0.4453, and Agin's was both 0 and 0.2784. The findings obtained from the proposed model are compatible with evapotranspiration values computed from the Hargreaves method (R2 = 0.996). The study's findings provide significant insights for planners and decision-makers involved in the planning and managing water resources and agricultural irrigation.

Adaptation of the Australian National University Alzheimer's Disease Risk Index-Short Form (ANU-ADRI-SF) into Turkish

BACKGROUND

The 'Australian National University Alzheimer's Disease Risk Index' (ANU-ADRI) assesses the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease (AD) and is a potential tool for its prevention.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study is to adapt the ANU-ADRI-SF (the short version of ANU-ADRI) into the Turkish language and Turkish cultural context.

METHODS

The study was methodological and involved the translation and intercultural adaptation of the ANU-ADRI-SF into the Turkish language. The study included 384 community-based participants from a province in the Western Black Sea Region of Türkiye. Data was collected via an online form prepared using Google Forms.

RESULTS

The index was translated from its original language, English, into Turkish and then retranslated to English by bilingual translators. It was then reviewed and evaluated for possible issues related to translation and degrees of equivalence. When TR-ANU-ADRI-SF levels were compared according to sex, the mean risk scores were found to be 11.25 ± 7.02 for males and 11.69 ± 7.99 for females. After cross-cultural adaptation, the TR-ANU-ADRI-SF was conceptually intelligible to Turkish adults.

CONCLUSIONS

The TR-ANU-ADRI-SF is a valid and reliable AD risk assessment tool.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Given the increase in AD and its impact on people's health, there is a great need for strategies to be implemented by health professionals to improve the lifestyle of the adult population. For use in conjunction with these strategies, a localised AD risk assessment tool that can be applied by clinicians or by individual patients has been adapted and introduced to the Turkish literature.

Effectiveness of a theory-based foot care education program on self-efficacy and adaptation in patients with diabetes in Turkey: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Persons with diabetes often face significant foot problems due to inadequate foot care, and foot care training programs could be beneficial for these patients.

PURPOSE

To examine the effects of diabetic foot care training on self-efficacy and adaptation based on Social Cognitive Theory and the Roy Adaptation Model.

METHODS

In this randomized controlled study, 80 patients treated in the endocrine polyclinic of an education and research hospital in İzmir, Turkey, were randomized to intervention (n = 40) or control (n = 40). The intervention group received diabetic foot care training at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months. Using a diabetic foot model, foot care training was given on diabetic foot care practices; in addition, a foot care training booklet prepared by the researchers was provided. Foot care behaviors, self-efficacy, and adaptation were reevaluated after the training and education. Data were collected at baseline, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months in both groups.

RESULTS

Diabetic foot care training and telephone follow-up were effective in improving foot care behaviors and facilitating the coping and adaptation process of individuals with diabetes, as well as in increasing their self-efficacy regarding foot care.

CONCLUSIONS

When providing theory-based diabetic foot education, the use of visual materials along with verbal instruction as well as telephone follow-ups to evaluate training effectiveness increases patients' self-efficacy and adaptation.

Effect of Nurse Support in the Immediate Postpartum Period on Mothers' Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Levels in Turkey: A Quasi-Experimental Study

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to determine the effect of nurse-based breastfeeding support during the immediate postpartum period on mothers' breastfeeding self-efficacy levels.

METHODS

A quasi-experimental study was conducted with 256 mothers in the immediate postpartum period (128 in the intervention group who received nurse-based breastfeeding support and routine care and 128 in the control group who received routine care) during February-June 2018. Data were collected using the Mother-Infant Data Sheet, the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale-Short Form (BSES-SF), and the Nurse-Parent Support Tool (NPST).

RESULTS

BSES-SF and NPST mean scores of mothers in the intervention group were higher than those of mothers in the control group (p < 0.01). While the association between breastfeeding self-efficacy and nurse support was low in the control group (0.271), it was rather high in the intervention group (0.693) (p < 0.05). It was found that nurse support explained 48% of the variance in breastfeeding self-efficacy in the intervention group, but only 7.3% of the variance in breastfeeding self-efficacy in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS FOR PRACTICE

The results of the study indicate that nurse support for mothers in the immediate postpartum period based on breastfeeding training has a positive impact on breastfeeding self-efficacy.

"What doesn't defeat me makes me stronger" A Qualitative Study drawing on the Perspectives of Syrian Refugee University Students in Turkey

Education is one of the most crucial instruments for refugee youth to remove the disadvantages and enhance their social and structural integration into society. However, the unequal education opportunities concerning the barriers avoid the integration of refugee students into society and make them prone to discrimination. This qualitative descriptive design study aimed at describing the experiences of the subjective perspectives of Syrian refugee students about higher education. The participants were final-year undergraduate Syrian refugee students. Data were collected by conducting in-depth semi-structured face-to-face interviews using a pilot-tested interview guide. The researchers followed a systematic data analysis procedure. The themes were finalized once the researchers had reached a consensus. The responses of the students were subsumed under the following three main themes: (1) Being 'other', (2) Hopes vs Realities, and (3) What doesn't defeat me makes me stronger. The participants reported feeling ignored and worthless due to the biases and assumptions of society, which result in stigma and discrimination. Additionally, refugee students revealed that their peers and even educators may sometimes share the same beliefs. However, the study also underlined the value of resilience in shaping the perspectives, even though they faced many challenging experiences.

The link between electricity consumption and stock market during the pandemic in Türkiye: a novel high-frequency approach

This article examines the relationship between electricity consumption and the stock market in the Turkish economy during the COVID-19 pandemic. A novel high-frequency model is used, incorporating the hourly energy consumption and Borsa Istanbul (BIST) National stock market index variables. To determine the effect of electricity consumption on the stock market index and vice versa, a high-frequency VAR-based spillover approach, time-varying Granger causality, and time-varying Bayesian VAR analysis are employed. The findings reveal a positive and weak relationship between electricity consumption and the stock market but it has a time-varying nature in an emerging market context in the post-COVID-19 period in the Turkish economy.

The relationship between women's climate change awareness and concerns about climate change in Turkiye

OBJECTIVES

This study was conducted to examine the relationship between women's awareness of climate change and their worries about climate change in terms of women's health in Turkiye.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional survey.

METHODS

The research was conducted in a descriptive study design in the relational survey model. The sample of the study consisted of 321 women. Data were collected with the "Personal Information Form, Adaptation of Awareness to Climate Change Questionnaire, Climate Change Worry Scale."

RESULTS

The total mean score of the Awareness to Climate Change Scale for Women was 2.32 ± 0.61 (moderate awareness), and the total mean score of the Climate Change Worry Scale was 2.76 ± 0.84 (moderate anxiety). There was a statistically significant, positive but weak relationship between women's worries about climate change and their awareness to climate change (r = 0.373, p < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

As women's awareness to climate change increases, their worries about climate change increase.

Assessing monofloral bee pollens from Türkiye: Palynological verification, phenolic profile, and antioxidant activity

Honey bee pollen (HBP) is a hive product produced by worker bees from floral pollen grains agglutination. It is characterized by its excellent nutritional and bioactive composition, making it a superior source of human nutrition. This study aimed to evaluate the monofloral bee pollen samples, including Cistus, Crataegus monogyna, Cyanus, Elaeagnus angustifolia, Papaver somniferum, Quercus, Salix, Sinapis, and Silybum from Türkiye according to palynological analysis, antioxidant activity, phenolic profiles, and color. The phenolic profiles were detected using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry. Bee pollens were categorized into monofloral, bifloral, and multifloral, underscoring the significance of confirming the botanical source of them depending on palynological analyses. Total phenolic content (TPC) of bee pollens ranged from 4.5 to 14.4 mg gallic acid/g HBP. The samples exhibited antioxidant activity for 2,2'-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS •+ ) ranging from 94.9 to 233.5 µmol trolox/g HBP, whereas lower values were seen for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•) ranging from 25.86 to 70.81 µmol trolox/g HBP. A yellowish-red tint color was also displayed for whole samples, whereas only E. angustifolia bee pollen indicated a darker color (L* = 31.6). Among the phenolic compounds, luteolin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin, rutin, and genistein were the most abundant, and their profiles varied across the samples. It was also observed that TPC, antioxidant activities, and polyphenol composition were higher in samples containing pollen grains of P. somniferum, Quercus, Plantago, and E. angustifolia species. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The increasing number of new findings on honey bee pollen is crucial to food science and technology. In this sense, this study offers a robust method for verifying the authenticity and quality of 11 monofloral bee pollens, which is crucial for the food industry. It also identifies potential sources of high-quality pollen, benefiting producers, and consumers seeking superior bee pollen products.

Levels, distribution, sources and human exposure pathways of alkylphenol and alkylphenol ethoxylates in indoor dust in Turkiye

Environmental phenolic chemicals, due to their widespread occurrence and potent estrogenic properties, pose a risk to human exposure. The phenolic organic contaminants alkylphenols (APs) and alkylphenol polyethoxylates (APEs) are used in various household applications, and they may enter to the environment during production and use, potentially appearing in indoor dust. However, little is known about the levels of environmental phenolics in indoor environments. In this study, five of these compounds namely octylphenol (OP), 4-Octylphenol Monoethoxylate (4-OPME), 4-tert-octylphenol (4-t-OP), 4-n-nonylphenol (4-n-NP) and nonylphenol diethoxylate (di-NPE) were analyzed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) in household dust samples (n = 148) collected from Ankara, the capital of Turkiye. OP and 4-OPME was not present in any of the analyzed samples. The median concentrations of the 148 settling dust samples were 35, 520, and 1910 ng g-1 dust for 4-t-OP, 4-n-NP, and di-NPE, respectively. An assessment of the human (children and adults) exposure pathway to APs and APEs, which are recognized as endocrine-disrupting chemicals found in residential dust, revealed that it was approximately 3 times higher for children than for adults at both moderate and heavy exposure levels. The association between chemical exposure, house characteristics, and family lifestyle was investigated using a multivariate logistic regression model. According to the results of this model, while the high concentrations measured for 4-t-OP were not found to be associated with any of the household parameters, high levels of 4-n-NP and di-NPE were associated with the frequency of house cleaning, repairs made during the previous year, residential type, the number of occupants, flooring materials, and the purchase of new household items within the past year. This study provides a basis for prioritizing toxicology and exposure studies for EDCs and mixtures and may offer new tools for exposure assessment in health studies.

Determination of skull variation in Akkaraman and Kangal Akkaraman sheep by geometric morphometric method

Sheep breeding has an important place in the world and in Turkey, as sheep are farm animals that provide most of their nutritional needs from pasture, have good adaptability and are low in cost. Akkaraman sheep and the Kangal Akkaraman sheep, which was considered its sub-variety until 2012, constitute half of the sheep population in Turkey. In this study, morphometric diversity between the skulls of Akkaraman and Kangal Akkaraman breed sheep was examined by geometric morphometric method. 2D images obtained from 3D models of 24 male sheep skulls from two different provinces were analyzed using 10 landmarks from dorsal and lateral views. The results from the dorsal view, the first three principal components (PC1, PC2 and PC3) accounted for a total of 64.13% of the morphological variation and the largest changes in are associated with external occipital protuberance, midline nasofrontal suture and rostral edge of the incisive fissure. From the lateral view, three first principal components explained the morphological variation 27.56%, 22.32% and 10.65% respectively. In the comparison of the skull morphology of Akkaraman and Kangal Akkaraman sheep from dorsal and lateral views, no allometric components were identified, as most of the described shape variations were not size-dependent. As a result of these analyses, more detailed information was obtained about the shape differences of the skull. Geometric morphometric analysis is successful in detecting differences in skull shape of different sheep breeds and can be successfully used for classification.

Factors affecting the mortality of February earthquakes victims in Türkiye

OBJECTIVE

>50,000 people died in the February 2023 earthquakes in Türkiye. The aim of this study was to identify the factors affecting mortality rates of the trauma patients who were presented to the emergency department (ED) after the earthquake and provide suggestions for better preparedness strategies for future natural disasters.

METHODS

This retrospective, cross-sectional study encompassed data from 955 trauma patients out of 3072 patients aged 18 years and above who sought assistance in the ED. Patients were divided into two groups: the survivor group and the exitus group. Age, gender, the city where patients came from, type of presentation, injured organ systems and mechanisms of injury, laboratory findings, the diagnoses in the ED, time spent in the ED, surgical intervention, and hemodialysis sessions were analyzed. The characteristics of those who could not be identified at the presentation to the ED were subjected to additional analysis.

RESULTS

Out of 955 patients, 75.9% had extremity injuries, with crushing injuries (23.6%) being predominant. There were no significant differences in age or gender between the survivor and exitus groups (p = 0.776, p = 0.522), nor in the province of admission (p = 0.249). Clinical factors indicated that the exitus group were more likely to lack identification documents (29.6%), have spent longer trapped under debris, and have a higher frequency of ambulance transportation. Injuries such as chest and abdominal trauma, specific injury types, and amputation or open wounds were notably more frequent in the exitus group. Diagnoses revealed that metabolic causes were more common in exitus group (p < 0.001). While no significant difference existed in the need for emergency surgical intervention (p = 0.939), a higher frequency of emergency hemodialysis was observed among exitus group (p = 0.001). Laboratory findings indicated higher levels of various markers and lower calcium, base excess, and pH levels among those in the exitus group.

CONCLUSION

In the aftermath of a devastating earthquake, this study underscores the formidable challenges faced by healthcare systems during natural disasters. To prepare for future disasters, healthcare systems must enhance resilience, develop rapid identification techniques, and adopt a holistic patient care approach.

Psychological first aid practice self-efficacy of nurses in disasters

In the present cross-sectional study, we determined the self-efficacy of nurses to apply psychological first aid (PFA) during disasters. The study sample consisted of 580 nurses working in Turkey. The data were collected online between July and November 2022 using the "Personal Information Form" and the "PFA Application Self-Efficacy Scale." The data were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods (number, percentage, mean, and standard deviation), generalized linear models, Bonferroni correction, and linear regression analysis. The mean PFA scale scores of male nurses, nurses working in intensive care units, working as service nurses, nurses who have previously received PFA training and applied PFA in disaster situations were higher. Moreover, 91.3% of nurses did not receive PFA training and 90.3% did not receive PFA service earlier, 31.0% did not apply for PFA, 18.3% did not know about PFA. The mean score of the PFA practice self-efficacy scale of nurses was 131.61 ± 19.41. There exists an urgent requirement to develop nurses' PFA application self-efficacy. It is recommended that nurses should be provided repeated PFA training and applied studies focusing on PFA interventions.

Determining Breastfeeding Behaviors During Pregnancy and Opinions on Tandem Breastfeeding among Postpartum Women in a High Fertility Region of Turkey

BACKGROUND

Particularly, in regions with high fertility rates, promoting breastfeeding during pregnancy and tandem breastfeeding can be important in increasing breastfeeding rates.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to understand how postpartum women in a high-fertility region in Turkey approach breastfeeding behaviors during pregnancy and opinions on tandem breastfeeding.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a descriptive study involving 267 postpartum women hospitalized in a public hospital's postpartum clinic in Sanliurfa, Turkey. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a Data Collection Form.

RESULTS

15.7% of the women had prior experience with breastfeeding during pregnancy. 58.8% of women became pregnant again while breastfeeding their older baby, and 84.7% of these women continued breastfeeding for 1 to 20 weeks after learning that they were pregnant. The study revealed that women with highly educated partners and those who learned about their pregnancy early tended to breastfeed for a longer duration during pregnancy (P < 0.05). Overall, 9% of women were aware of tandem breastfeeding, but 84.3% of them held negative opinions about it, with the most common concern being a potential lack of breast milk (31.1%). 4.9% of women expressed their intention to engage in tandem breastfeeding if their older child wanted to suck again. This intention was more common among those who most commonly spoke Turkish at home (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The study's findings emphasize the importance of providing informed support and education to women who choose to breastfeed during pregnancy, addressing common misconceptions about tandem breastfeeding, and recognizing the impact of cultural and educational factors on breastfeeding practices.

Detection of Listeria Species by Conventional Culture-Dependent and Alternative Rapid Detection Methods in Retail Ready-to-Eat Foods in Turkey

Foodborne pathogens, like Listeria monocytogenes, continue to inflict substantial financial losses on the food industry. Various methods for detecting Listeria in food have been developed and numerous studies have been conducted to compare the different methods. But, in recent years, new Listeria species have been identified, and currently the genus comprises 26 species. Therefore, it would be a more accurate approach to re-evaluate existing detection methods by considering new species. The present investigation involved the analysis of 42 ready-to-eat (RTE) foods, encompassing a variety of food categories, such as mezes, salads, dairy products, and meat products, with the aim of ascertaining the presence of Listeria. Among the traditional culture-dependent reference methods, the ISO 11290 method was preferred. The process of strain identification was conducted with the API Identification System. Furthermore, to ascertain the existence of L. monocytogenes and Listeria spp., the samples underwent additional analysis employing the VIDAS Immunoassay System, ELISA, and RT-PCR methodologies. Thus, four alternative approaches were employed in this study to compare not only the different methods used to determine Listeria while taking into account the newly identified Listeria species, but also to assess the compliance of retail RTE food items with microbiological criteria pertaining to the genus Listeria. Based on the conducted analyses, L. monocytogenes was conclusively determined to be present in one sample. The presence of Listeria spp. was detected in 30.9% of the samples, specifically in Turkish cig kofte, sliced salami, and salads.

Genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships of Streptococcus thermophilus isolates from traditional Turkish yogurt: multilocus sequence typing (MLST)

Yogurt, a globally consumed fermented dairy product, is recognized for its taste and potential health benefits attributed to probiotic bacteria, particularly Streptococcus thermophilus. In this study, we employed Multilocus Sequence Typing (MLST) to investigate the genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships of 13 S. thermophilus isolates from traditional Turkish yogurt samples. We also assessed potential correlations between genetic traits and geographic origins. The isolates were identified as S. thermophilus using VITEK® MALDI-TOF MS, ribotyping, and 16S rRNA analysis methods. MLST analysis revealed 13 different sequence types (STs), with seven new STs for Turkey. The most prevalent STs were ST/83 (n = 3), ST/135 (n = 2), and ST/134 (n = 2). eBURST analysis showed that these isolates mainly were singletons (n = 7) defined as sequence types (STs) that cannot be assigned to any group and differ at two or more alleles from every other ST in the sample. This information suggests that the isolates under study were genetically distinct from the other isolates in the dataset, highlighting their unique genetic profiles within the population. Genetic diversity analysis of ten housekeeping genes revealed polymorphism, with some genes showing higher allelic variation than others. Tajima's D values suggested that selection pressures differed among these genes, with some being more conserved, likely due to their vital functions. Phylogenetic analysis revealed distinct genetic diversity between Turkish isolates and European and Asian counterparts. These findings demonstrate the genetic diversity of S. thermophilus isolates in Turkish yogurt and highlight their unique evolutionary patterns. This research contributes to our understanding of local microbial diversity associated with yogurt production in Turkey and holds the potential for identifyic strains with enhanced functional attributes.

Biological and growth parameters of Plotosus lineatus in the Mediterranean Sea

This study examined the age distribution and growth characteristics of the striped eel catfish (Plotosus lineatus), which is an invasive alien species in the eastern Mediterranean. A total of 1,011 samples were collected from Iskenderun Bay (Turkey), with lengths ranging from 5.1 to 16.8 cm, predominantly comprising females (1:1.92). Age 3 represented the majority in the population (52.03%). The value of the scaling exponent "b" of the length-weight relationship was less than "3" for both sexes (females: 2.28; males: 2.26; combined: 2.27). The results for the von Bertalanffy growth parameters were observed for the combined sexes as, L∞ = 24.9934 cm, k = 0.1718 year-1, and t₀ = -1.7707 years. The striped eel catfish populations in Iskenderun Bay exhibited negative allometric growth patterns and were predominantly composed of adult individuals. This study presents the dataset on the length-weight correlations, age-growth characteristics, and von Bertalanffy growth parameters of Plotosus lineatus in the Mediterranean Sea, thereby significantly contributing to comprehending the stock dynamics. It is anticipated that this study will make a significant contribution to the management of P. lineatus stocks, given its invasive nature.

Case report of a novel alpha1-antitrypsin null variant in Türkiye: Q0RİZE

BACKGROUND

Alpha1-antitrypsin (AAT) is a serine protease inhibitor that serves as a counterbalance to the activity of elastases, e.g., neutrophil elastase in lung tissue. AAT deficiency (AATD) is a rare disorder usually arising from mutations to the SERPINA1 gene that codes for AAT. The most common AATD alleles are S and Z which produce ~ 40% and ~ 90% reductions in serum AAT, respectively. Rare genetic variants (> 500 identified) can also be associated with mild to severe AATD.

RESULTS

This report describes a novel mutation of SERPINA1 producing AATD, which we have designated, Q0RİZE. This mutation was identified in a 44-year-old woman admitted with massive hemoptysis and treated with bronchial artery embolization. Computed tomography revealed centriacinar and panacinar emphysema with prominent air entrapment, atelectasis, and localized bronchiectasis. Serum AAT was < 0.27 g/L (below detection limit). Genetic analysis showed homozygous deletion of exons I to III.

CONCLUSIONS

Although many SERPINA1 variants have been identified, variants with large deletions and identified in a homozygous individual, as seen in this case with Q0RIZE, are uncommon. AATD is an underdiagnosed and undertreated disease. Wider screening of COPD patients could result in earlier diagnosis and treatment that could preserve lung function.

The burden, risk factors and prevention strategies for drowning in Türkiye: a systematic literature review

INTRODUCTION

Drowning is a public health problem in Türkiye, as in the rest of the world. This study aims to systematically review the literature on drowning in Türkiye with a focus on data sources, epidemiology, risk factors and prevention strategies.

METHODS

Literature searches were conducted using PubMed, SPORTSDiscus, Scopus, Web of Science, Turk MEDLINE, Google Scholar and Google Akademik (Turkish language). Studies (limited to original research written in English and Turkish) reporting drowning (unintentional and intentional; fatal and non-fatal) of residents and tourists in Türkiye were independently dual screened at the title and abstract and full text stages. Study quality was assessed using JBI checklists and evidence level assessed based on study design.

RESULTS

From a total of 917 studies, 49 met the inclusion criteria. Most (51%) focused on unintentional fatal drowning. Included studies were most commonly analytical cross-sectional studies (n = 23) and case series (n = 20) meaning the evidence level was low or very low for 48 (98%) studies. Fifteen studies examined drowning at the national level, while sub-national studies (n = 30) focused on urban areas across three provinces: Antalya (n = 6), Istanbul (n = 6), Izmir (n = 4). There was little consensus on risk factors beyond male drowning risk, and no data reported on implemented or evaluated drowning prevention interventions.

DISCUSSION

There is a need for more national-level studies to identify the causes of drowning and to guide intervention implementation and evaluation to inform policy makers and donors. Currently official data is limited in its detail, providing age and gender data only, hampering efforts to identify, and thus address, causal factors for drowning.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

There is currently very little evidence to inform investment in effective drowning prevention interventions in Türkiye. To improve this, data collection systems on drowning in Türkiye need to be strengthened via the development a national drowning registry.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

#CRD42022382615.

Phenylketonuria from the perspectives of patients in Türkiye

BACKGROUND

The present study aimed to determine the problems, unmet needs and expectations of phenylketonuria (PKU) patients in Türkiye regarding follow-up and treatment in order to provide data for future planning and implementations on PKU.

METHODS

The study included patients diagnosed with PKU and/or their parents. They were informed about the study via phone calls and their verbal consents were obtained. Questions in the data collection forms, which were established separately for pediatric, adolescent, and adult age groups, were applied during the interviews and the answers were recorded.

RESULTS

Among 182 classical PKU patients, 66 (36.3%) were in the pediatric group (0-12 years old), 44 (24.2%) were in the adolescent group (13-19 years old), and 72 (39.5%) were in the adult group (≥ 20 years old). In all patient groups, phenylalanine-restricted diet and medical nutrition products were the main options for treatment. The median of the last measured blood phenylalanine concentration (patient-reported) was 290 µmol/L, 425 µmol/L, and 750 µmol/L in the pediatric, adolescent, and adult groups, respectively. The frequency of blood testing for serum phenylalanine level according to the age groups was appropriate in nearly half of the patients. While the majority of the patients have been visiting the metabolism center they have been diagnosed with PKU for control, considerable proportion of the patients would like to change the center or the doctor they visit for control if they could. It was determined that nearly half of the patients had trouble in accessing the metabolism center. Treatment options' being limited and expensive were the major problems. The main requests of the patients and patient relatives included easier access to the metabolism centers and more options for treatment and diet.

CONCLUSIONS

Access to the services should be easier to improve the patients' follow-up and treatment. There is need for low-cost, easily applicable, and accessible nutrition products and effective novel pharmacological agents. Focusing on these issues in health policies by providing pedagogic/psychological support, establishing support programs also comprising the families, and increasing the awareness activities were the key outcomes.

Assessment of metals (Ni, Ba) deposition in plant types and their organs at Mersin City, Türkiye

The increase in heavy metal concentrations in the air, especially after the Industrial Revolution, is notable for the scientific world because of the adverse effects that threaten environmental and human health. Among the trace elements, nickel (Ni) is carcinogenic, and all barium (Ba) compounds are toxic. Trace elements are critical for human and environmental health. Their threat further increases, especially in the urban areas and surroundings with a high population. In urban areas, the trace element contamination in the airborne can be reduced using plants. However, which plant and plant organs absorb trace elements could not be determined. In the present study, Ni and Ba concentrations in the branch, wood, and leaf samples of 14 species collected from the city center of Mersin province were determined. As a result, broad-leaved species' Ni and Ba concentrations in their leaf sample were generally higher than other species. Almost all species had the lowest Ni and Ba concentrations in their wood samples. Among these 14 species, it was found that Ni concentration was very high, especially in non-washed leaves of Platanus orientalis, Photinia serrulata, and Citrus reticulate, and Ba concentration was very high in Citrus reticulata, Chamaecyparis lawsoniana, Laurus nobilis, and Acer hyrcanum. Using broad-leaved species in urban areas where pollution is at high levels will significantly contribute to reducing Ni and Ba pollution. It is recommended that these points be considered in future urban landscaping projects.

From Local Issues to Global Impacts: Evidence of Air Pollution for Romania and Turkey

Air pollution significantly threatens human health and natural ecosystems and requires urgent attention from decision makers. The fight against air pollution begins with the rigorous monitoring of its levels, followed by intelligent statistical analysis and the application of advanced machine learning algorithms. To effectively reduce air pollution, decision makers must focus on reducing primary sources such as industrial plants and obsolete vehicles, as well as policies that encourage the adoption of clean energy sources. In this study, data analysis was performed for the first time to evaluate air pollution based on the SPSS program. Correlation coefficients between meteorological parameters and particulate matter concentrations (PM1, PM2.5, PM10) were calculated in two urban regions of Romania (Craiova and Drobeta-Turnu Severin) and Turkey (Adana). This study establishes strong relationships between PM concentrations and meteorological parameters with correlation coefficients ranging from -0.617 (between temperature and relative humidity) to 0.998 (between PMs). It shows negative correlations between temperature and particulate matter (-0.241 in Romania and -0.173 in Turkey) and the effects of humidity ranging from moderately positive correlations with PMs (up to 0.360 in Turkey), highlighting the valuable insights offered by independent PM sensor networks in assessing and improving air quality.

Digital Media Use and Health Literacy Levels of Women in Turkey

Obtaining information about women's use of digital media, their behavior in acquiring health information in the digital environment and their level of health literacy will fill an important gap in the literature. This research was conducted to examine the digital media use and health literacy levels of women in Turkey. The population of the research was the female population between the ages of 20-60 in Turkey in 2020, and the sample consisted of 404 women in this age range. The data of this analytical-cross-sectional study were collected online with the Personal Information Form and the Turkish Health Literacy Scale-32. It was determined that 83.9% of the women participating in the study used digital media and 82.9% of them obtained health information in the digital environment. In the categorical score distribution of the scale, it was determined that the health literacy level of 48.8% of women was insufficient, 26.2% problematic/limited, 19.8% sufficient and 5.2% excellent. A significant relationship was determined between women's health literacy level and age, marital status, education level, employment status, perception of income level, place of residence, use of digital media and duration of use (p < .05). We concluded that majority of women in Turkey use digital media, obtain health information in the digital environment and have low health literacy levels.

The real-world outcomes of Lutetium-177 PSMA-617 radioligand therapy in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer: Turkish Oncology Group multicenter study

Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) remains a challenging condition to treat despite recent advancements. This retrospective study aimed to assess the activity and tolerability of Lutetium-177 (Lu-177) PSMA-617 radioligand therapy (RLT) in mCRPC patients across multiple cancer centers in Turkey. The study included 165 patients who received at least one cycle of Lu-177 PSMA-617 RLT, with the majority having bone metastases and undergone prior treatments. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels were assessed before each treatment cycle, and the biochemical response was evaluated in accordance with the Prostate Cancer Work Group 3 Criteria. The PSA decline of ≥50% was classified as a response, while an increase of ≥25% in PSA levels was indicative of progressive disease. Neither response nor progression was considered as stable disease. The Lu-177 PSMA-617 RLT led to a significant PSA response, with 50.6% of patients achieving a >50% decrease in PSA levels. Median overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival were 13.5 and 8.2 months, respectively. Patients receiving Lu-177 PSMA-617 RLT in combination with androgen receptor pathway inhibitors (ARPIs) had a higher OS compared to those receiving Lu-177 PSMA-617 RLT alone (18.2 vs 12.3 months, P = .265). The treatment was generally well-tolerated, with manageable side effects such as anemia and thrombocytopenia. This study provides real-world evidence supporting the effectiveness and safety of Lu-177 PSMA-617 RLT in mCRPC patients, particularly when used in combination with ARPIs. These findings contribute to the growing body of evidence on the potential benefits of PSMA-targeted therapies in advanced prostate cancer.

The relationship between social media addiction and emotional appetite: a cross-sectional study among young adults in Turkey

OBJECTIVE

The present study focused on the relationship between addiction to social media (SM) and emotional appetite in young adults.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional online survey.

SETTING

The Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale (BSMAS) and Emotional Appetite Questionnaire (EMAQ) were used, and the duration and frequency of SM tools usage were analysed.

PARTICIPANTS

Five hundred and twenty-four participants (144 men and 380 women) aged between 18 and 25 years.

RESULTS

The mean of SM usage duration of participants was 3·2 ± 2·2 h per d along with a mean of BSMAS score of 16·1 ± 5·9. Concerning emotional appetite, the mean scores for positive and negative aspects of EMAQ were 4·4 ± 1·9 and 3·1 ± 1·2, respectively. The predominant SM tools were YouTube (92·6 %) and Instagram (90·3 %). Notably, a significant association was observed between SM addiction and the frequency of access to YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter, with addiction levels increasing as access frequency rose (P < 0·01).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated a possible relationship between SM addiction and emotional appetite among young adults. However, further research with more prominent participants and a lengthier follow-up duration is necessary to elucidate how SM tools affect eating behaviour.

Long-term investigation of microplastic abundance in Squalius species in Turkish inland waters

Examining the enduring alterations in microplastic (MP) concentrations within fish in inland waters is of utmost importance in understanding the historical trajectory of plastic waste and formulating consequential predictions regarding upcoming pollution levels. This study includes the collection of fish samples from 22 different river basins in Türkiye and all Squalius species distributed in Türkiye, covering the years 2004-2018, and examined the presence of MP in museum specimens' gastrointestinal tracts (GITs). 331 specimens were examined, and microplastic was observed in 20.8% (69). A mean value of 0.27 ± 0.19 MP per individual was observed, resulting in a cumulative score of 91 MP. Most observed MPs were composed of fiber, representing 79.1% of the total. The polymer types identified were mostly polyethylene (PE) at 38.5% and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) at 29.7%. The black color was prominent among MPs, and MP length ranged between 101 and 4963 μm. The analysis revealed no statistically significant difference in the mean MP values across different years and basins. There is no substantial correlation between the abundance of MP and the sizes of fish, population density, or quantities of plastic production. The data indicate that MP has persistently acted as a contaminant in freshwater ecosystems over an extended period. It is projected that the laundering of synthetic textiles serves as the primary contributor to MP contamination in freshwater bodies. Our results offer significant baseline data on the pervasive issue of MP pollution in the freshwater environment. These findings enable us to gain profound insights into the current state of MP contamination in fish residing in lotic systems while empowering us to make accurate predictions about its future trajectory.

Victim profiles and revealed issues of type 1 Emergency Medical Team in the first minutes of a mega earthquake in Turkey

BACKGROUND

On February 6, 2023, a series of mega-earthquakes (MEs) struck the southern parts of Turkey and northern Syria. In the first 16 days after the Turkey MEs (TMEs), the Tokushukai Medical Assistant Team (TMAT) backed by its infrastructure visited Turkey to support a local hospital. With the goal of helping local communities and working with local supporters and authorities, Turkey is on a mission to positively impact people's lives.

METHODS

Data collected covered the TMAT support period in February 2023. All patients admitted to a hospital were registered through the Minimum Data Set (MDS) of the Emergency Medical Team (EMT) Coordination Cell (EMTCC).

RESULTS

A total of 561 patients were hospitalized during the 16-day mission. A review of the MDS data showed a de-crease in the number of inpatients. The number of diseases directly related to the disaster was confirmed to be due to a gradual decrease in TME aftershock. However, the number of patients with nondisaster-related disease remained stable.

CONCLUSION

The experience of EMT in the initial relief of MEs that struck Turkey and Syria on February 6, 2023 showed that a mobile type 1 EMT in the early stage while rebuilding the infrastructure is essential. From the analysis of patient profiles, it is clear that knowledge and experience of skin diseases is needed in the first minutes of MEs. In addi-tion, it has become clear that to ensure the quality of MDS for further analysis and to improve the efficiency and effec-tiveness of EMS, it is essential to have recorders in the EMS. These MDS recorders, called descriptors, must be isolated from the treating medical staff to eliminate subjectivity and ensure data accuracy.