Awareness of urinary incontinence in pregnant women as a neglected issue: a cross-sectional study.

Background: Pregnancy and labor are independent risk factors for the development of urinary incontinence (UI). Although UI is common during pregnancy, it is a health problem mostly neglected by pregnant women. The high prevalence of UI in pregnancy and its effects on the postpartum period justifies the need to determine the knowledge and attitudes of pregnant women regarding the prevention and management of UI. It is necessary to increase the awareness of pregnant women about UI, educate, consultant, and integrate pelvic floor muscle training into prenatal care services. This study aims to determine the UI awareness of pregnant women and their knowledge and attitudes in this context. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted with 255 pregnant women in a university hospital in Turkey between March and September 2020. Data were collected using the Incontinence Knowledge Questionnaire (PIKQ) and Urinary Incontinence Attitude Scale (UIAS). Results: The UI prevalence was 51% during pregnancy. The mean score of PIKQ was 8.07±2.64, and only 6.3% of participants correctly answered all the questions regarding UI. The mean score of UIAS was 42.33±3.48. A positive correlation was found between UI knowledge and attitude score (r=0.35, p=0.00). Conclusions: The results showed that although UI is prevalent during pregnancy, pregnant women's knowledge of UI is poor. Nearly half of pregnant women need information. They tend to display positive attitudes towards UI, but not sufficient to improve their health-seeking behavior. Strategies should be developed to increase pregnant women's awareness of UI and to encourage them health-seeking behaviors for the prevention/management of UI during prenatal visits.

Investigation of Polymorphisms in Global Genome Repair Genes in Patients With Ovarian Cancer in the Turkish Population.

INTRODUCTION: Ovarian cancer (OC) poses significant challenges due to its high mortality rate, particularly in advanced stages where symptoms may not be evident. DNA repair mechanisms, including nucleotide excision repair (NER), are crucial in maintaining genomic stability and preventing cancer. This study focuses on exploring the role of two NER-related genes, Xeroderma Pigmentosum Complementation Group C (XPC) and DNA Damage Binding Protein 2 (DDB2), in OC susceptibility. OBJECTIVES: This study aims to investigate the association between variations in two NER-related genes, XPC rs2228001 and DDB2 rs830083, among a cohort of Turkish individuals with OC and control subjects. METHODS: Genotyping of XPC rs2228001 and DDB2 rs830083 was performed on 103 OC patients and 104 control subjects from the Turkish population using the Fast Real-Time 7500 PCR platform from Applied Biosystems. RESULTS: Individuals with the homozygous AA genotype of XPC rs2228001 exhibited a reduced likelihood of developing OC (OR 0.511; 95% CI 0.261 - 1.003; P-value 0.049), whereas those with the CC variant faced an elevated risk (OR = 2.32, 95% CI = 1.75-3.08; P-value 0.035). The presence of the A allele was associated with decreased OC occurrence (P-value = 0.035). Similarly, for DDB2 rs830083, individuals with the homozygous CG genotype had a diminished risk of OC (P-value 0.036), compared to those with the GG polymorphism (OR 1.895; 95% CI 1.033 - 3.476; P-value 0.038). Furthermore, the presence of the C allele was associated with a 1.89-fold decrease in the likelihood of OC. CONCLUSION: These findings shed light on the genetic factors influencing OC susceptibility, emphasizing the importance of DNA repair systems in disease. Further research in larger and more diverse populations is warranted to validate these findings, facilitating precise risk assessment, and potentially guiding tailored treatment strategies for OC patients.

Ovarian cancer is a serious disease with a high mortality rate, especially in its advanced stages when symptoms are often not obvious. Our cells have mechanisms to repair DNA damage and maintain stability in our genetic material. Two genes involved in one of these repair mechanisms, called nucleotide excision repair (NER), are Xeroderma Pigmentosum Complementation Group C (XPC) and DNA Damage Binding Protein 2 (DDB2). This study investigates how variations in these genes may influence the risk of developing ovarian cancer. Understanding these genetic factors could lead to improved methods for diagnosing and treating this challenging disease.

Forensic medical evaluation of penetrating abdominal injuries.

BACKGROUND: This study aims to discuss the characteristics, origins, degree of injury, results, reporting, and forensic medical aspects of penetrating abdominal injuries. METHODS: In this study, 28,619 cases who applied to the emergency department of Kutahya Health Sciences University Evliya Celebi Training and Research Hospital between January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2020 were reviewed. The forensic reports and medical documents of 85 cases with penetrating abdominal injuries were evaluated retrospectively, with the approval of the ethics committee. RESULTS: Among the patients included in the study, 87.1% were male and 12.9% were female. The mean age was found to be 31±13 years. When the origins of the cases were analyzed, 87.1% were found to have developed as a result of intentional injury. The incidents predominantly occurred between 20: 00 and 04: 00 hours. As a result of the examinations performed at the hospital after the incident, alcohol was detected in 36.5% of the cases, while 30.6% of the individuals did not consume alcohol. It was observed that 32.9% of the cases were not tested for alcohol. The most common injuries identified were sharp injuries, accounting for 69.4% of cases, and firearm injuries, comprising 27.1%. Organ damage was noted in 68.2% of the cases, with the small intestine being the most frequently damaged organ. The average number of wounds present was 3.6. Intra-abdominal hemorrhage was detected in 61.2% of the cases, and intra-abdominal artery injuries were found in 8.2%. The mortality rate for penetrating abdominal injuries was 8.2%. CONCLUSION: In forensic traumatology, penetrating abdominal injuries commonly lead to life-threatening conditions and loss of organ function, which represent the most severe category in trauma severity assessment. Penetrating abdominal injuries most often result from violent incidents, as observed in our study and in the literature.

Mortality risk factors for crush syndrome after an earthquake in Türkiye: Do systemic inflammatory parameters play any role?

BACKGROUND: The aim of our study is to assess the prognostic impact of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) on 28-day mortality in patients admitted to the intensive care unit with crush syndrome following the Kahramanmaras earthquake in Türkiye. METHODS: A total of 63 adult patients with crush syndrome admitted to the intensive care unit after the earthquake were enrolled in this study. The medical records of the patients were examined using follow-up forms and the hospital data system. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 38.9±17.3 years, and the median time under debris was 31.5 hours. The 28-day mortality rate was 27%. In univariate generalized estimating equations (GEE) and other analyses, variables that are significant (or candidate variables) between 28-day mortality groups included age as a biological factor. These variables were included in the multivariate GEE model. The effects of continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT), serum sodium concentration, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score, and PLR on mortality were statistically significant. CONCLUSION: Elevated SOFA scores, the necessity for CRRT, increased serum sodium levels, and decreased PLR values are associated with increased 28-day mortality in patients with crush syndrome after an earthquake.

Factors associated with thirty-day mortality and intensive care unit admission in patients undergoing hip fracture surgery.

BACKGROUND: Various factors contribute to the development of mortality and morbidity in hip fracture surgeries. This study aims to investigate the effects of modifiable factors such as the type of anesthesia, anesthesia management, surgical method, and timing of surgery on 30-day mortality rates, intensive care unit admissions, and complications. METHODS: A total of 400 patients who underwent hip fracture surgery between January 2021 and December 2023 at a Training and Research Hospital were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were divided into two groups: those followed in the ward, named Group 1 (n=304), and those in the intensive care unit, named Group 2 (n=96). Recorded data included demographic characteristics, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status scores, types of comorbidities, anesthesia type, surgical method, surgical delay time, duration of surgery, blood transfusion requirements, and complications. RESULTS: Patients in Group 2 had higher mean age, comorbidity, and mortality rates compared to Group 1 (p<0.001). In terms of types of comorbidities, the rate of intensive care unit admission was higher in patients with coronary artery disease and chronic renal failure (p<0.001). Mean surgical delay and length of hospital stay were also higher in Group 2 (p<0.001). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, age (p<0.001, Odds Ratio [OR]=1.91, Confidence Interval [CI]=1.046-1.137), ASA score (p<0.001, OR=3.872, CI=1.913-7.838), duration of surgical delay (p<0.001, OR=2.029, CI=1.365-3.017), surgical method (p=0.003, OR=2.003, C=1.258-3.188), and length of hospital stay (p=0.006, OR=1.147, CI=1.04-1.266) were determined as predictive factors for 30-day mortality. CONCLUSION: This study found that age, ASA classification, length of hospital stay, surgical method, and surgical delay were predictive factors for both morbidity and mortality. Among these, surgical delay time appears to be a modifiable parameter when all factors are considered.

Adrenal gland injury in trauma patients and its impact on clinical outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Adrenal gland injury (AGI) associated with trauma is an uncommon and often overlooked condition. This study aimed to evaluate the frequency of AGI in individuals with severe trauma injuries and investigate the outcomes of patients with AGI. METHODS: All patients admitted to a tertiary trauma referral center under the trauma protocol who had a computed tomography (CT) scan between January 2012 and January 2023 were analyzed retrospectively. Patients who were dead on arrival and patients with incomplete data were excluded. They were classified into two main groups, adult and pediatric, and further subcategorized by the presence or absence of radiologically evident AGI. Demographic data, mechanism of injury, injury severity scores (ISS), presence of concurrent abdominal injury, and 30-day mortality rates were compared. A separate analysis was performed for factors affecting mortality rates. RESULTS: A total of 1,253 patients were included: 950 adults and 303 pediatric patients. In the adult group, AGI was detected in 45 (4.7%) patients and was more commonly associated with the following mechanisms of injury: motor vehicle accidents (26.7% vs. 14.3%) and pedestrian accidents (37.8% vs. 15.5%). Injury to the right side was more common (55.6%). Patients with AGI had higher rates of concurrent liver (17.8% vs. 3.9%), spleen (11.1% vs. 3.6%), and kidney injuries (15.6% vs. 1.3%). In the pediatric population, AGI was detected in 30 patients (14.8%), a significantly higher rate compared to the adult group. Similar to the adult group, AGI was more commonly associated with concurrent abdominal injuries and had a right-sided dominance (60%), but the rate of concurrent abdominal injuries was higher in the pediatric group (80% vs. 46%). The 30-day mortality was significantly higher in both adult and pediatric AGI groups compared to patients without AGI (adult: 15.6% vs. 2.9%, pediatric: 10% vs. 1.8%). In patients with AGI, major head and neck injuries and chest injuries were associated with mortality. CONCLUSION: Adrenal gland injuries due to trauma are not uncommon. They are usually associated with blunt trauma and other concurrent abdominal organ injuries. The major contributors to mortality in patients with AGI were major head and neck injuries and chest injuries.

Data analysis of patients admitted to the emergency medicine clinic of Mersin City Training and Research Hospital after the Kahramanmaras earthquake.

BACKGROUND: In earthquakes and other natural disasters, there is a significant number of injuries directly resulting from trauma. Additionally, due to the disaster's impact on overloaded health institutions, healthcare providers face significant challenges during earthquakes. In this context, nearby hospitals providing health services play a crucial role. Nonetheless, with proper planning, the health crisis can be managed in the best possible way. METHODS: A single-center retrospective study was conducted on patients admitted to Mersin City Training and Research Hospital due to injuries attributed to the earthquake that occurred in the southern and mid-eastern regions of Türkiye on February 6, 2023. A total of 2,155 patients meeting the study criteria were included in the analysis. RESULTS: Of the 2,155 patients enrolled in the study, 46.8% (n=1009) were male, with a mean age of 45.86±17.68 years. Falls (57.2%, n=1233) were the most common mechanism of injury, and 71.9% (n=1550) of cases presented to the hospital on their own. Among the head injuries, the most common types were soft tissue injury and lacerations, while soft tissue injury and rib fractures were most common in the thoracic region. Soft tissue injury and retroperitoneal bleeding were the most commonly recorded types among abdominal injuries, whereas soft tissue injury and fractures were most common in the upper and lower extremities. Fractures were identified in 11.1% (n=240) of cases in the upper extremities and 21.3% (n=458) in the lower extremities. Rhabdomyolysis was one of the most frequently observed injury types (n=443, 20.6%). Crush syndrome and acute kidney injury were recorded in 9.2% (n=198) of cases, leading to a total of 46 amputations in 40 (1.8%) patients and 164 fasciotomies in 132 (6.1%) patients. The orthopedics department performed the most frequent surgical interventions and hospitalizations. Mortality was noted in 2.87% (n=62) of cases. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated a significant increase in workload and patient volume following the earthquake. There is a need for a large number of healthcare professionals for expedient intervention in conditions such as fractures, crush syndrome, amputation, and fasciotomy in disasters with a high risk of serious trauma, such as earthquakes. Disaster planning and preparedness for possible consequences will mitigate the healthcare crisis involving the hospitals and lead to significant reductions in mortality and morbidity.

Violence and bullying at school: 10-year data from the Forensic Medicine Department of a University Hospital in Türkiye.

BACKGROUND: Violence at school is broadly defined as a range of acts including physical, psychological, and sexual violence, as well as bullying. These can occur at school, in the school environment, on the way to school, or in any school-related environment. Considering the school environment as the place where a child spends most of their daily life, its impact on the child's life cannot be underestimated. This study aims to contribute to the literature by sharing characteristics of school violence and bullying cases with forensic reports prepared in our department, and by presenting solution suggestions for detecting and preventing these issues. METHODS: Between January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2022, a total of 14,330 forensic reports issued by the Dokuz Eylül University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Forensic Medicine, were analyzed. It was found that 125 cases involved school violence. Five cases involving non-students were excluded, leaving 120 student cases for inclusion in the study. Sociodemographic data, type of violence, incident location, educational stage, injury origin, and psychiatric assessment results were assessed. Statistical analysis of the data was performed using the SPSS 29.0 package. RESULTS: Of the 120 cases analyzed, 90 (75%) were male, and 30 (25%) were female. The cases were most frequently subjected to violence at the secondary education stage (n=73, 60.8%) and, secondarily, at the primary education stage (n=36, 30%). When the type of violence was analyzed, it was found that physical violence was the most common (n=96, 80%), followed by sexual violence (n=21, 17.5%). Among these, 91.1% (n=82) of males and 43.3% (n=13) of females were exposed to physical and sexual violence, respectively. A statistically significant relationship was found between the type of violence and gender (p<0.001). Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was the most common diagnosis among those who underwent psychiatric assessments after experiencing violence (n=15, 45.5%). CONCLUSION: To effectively combat violence and bullying, we believe that strategies based on analyzing the causes of bullying in schools across different cultures, planning and implementing appropriate interventions tailored to the problem area, and preventing recurrence by disseminating the results will yield more effective outcomes.

Acil servis tanilari ile paramediklerin ilk degerlendirme tanilarinin karsilastirilmasi.

BACKGROUND: This study aims to evaluate the accuracy and quality of prehospital assessments and preliminary diagnoses made by Emergency Medical Services (EMS) providers compared to the final diagnoses given by Emergency Department physicians in a metropolitan area. METHODS: This retrospective observational study utilized records from the Yenimahalle EMS Command Center in Ankara, Türkiye, from January 1, 2021, to December 31, 2022. Data were recorded as cases rather than individual patients, with repeated EMS admissions counted separately. Cases were categorized by EMS call time, reasons for EMS requests, age, gender, nationality, and weekday of hospital arrival to assess socioeconomic impacts and congestion patterns. The study included 2.528 pediatric cases, excluding patients aged 18 and older, those who refused EMS transfer, and cases resolved at the scene. Data analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS 27.0, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. RESULTS: The study included 2.528 cases. The data revealed that EMS providers had an average of 9.9±4.7 years of experience. In 1.839 cases (72.7%), the EMS provider was female, and in 689 cases (27.3%), the EMS provider was male. Patients had an average age of 9.2±5.8 years, with 1.173 (46.4%) being female and 1.355 (53.6%) being male. Preliminary diagnosis accuracy was higher in cases involving younger and male patients. Additionally, a lower preliminary diagnosis accuracy rate was observed during office hours (08: 00-15: 59) compared to non-office hours (16: 00-23: 59). The majority of EMS calls were for medical reasons (1,783 cases, 70.5%), followed by trauma-related calls (745 cases, 29.5%). CONCLUSION: This study highlights the need for improved on-field training for EMS providers to enhance the accuracy and quality of prehospital assessments and preliminary diagnoses. The findings suggest that younger and male patients have higher preliminary diagnosis accuracy rates, and there is a noticeable decrease in accuracy during office hours, indicating potential areas for targeted training and protocol adjustments.

The awareness of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) cesarean delivery guidelines among anesthesiology and reanimation assistants in Turkey; a questionnaire study.

BACKGROUND: To reduce maternal-fetal morbidity and mortality, it is becoming increasingly important for anesthetists to understand and implement enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) cesarean delivery guidelines. Our aim was to reveal the knowledge of anesthesia assistants in Turkey about ERAS during cesarean delivery and to increase their awareness of ERAS. METHODS: This descriptive study was conducted in the city of Isparta, Turkey in 2023. The survey, which was approved by the ethics committee, was distributed to participants across Turkey via e-mail and online messages. The survey comprises of a total of 42 questions evaluating perioperative ERAS recommendations. RESULTS: Of the 404 participants in our survey, 59.9% were associated with university hospitals and 65.8% had completed three or more years of education. A total of 87.9% of the participants were familiar with ERAS; however, only 42.8% had received ERAS training. Although 93.8% of the participants' institutions performed a cesarean delivery, ERAS recommendations were only implemented at a rate of 48%. This may be due to the absence of an ERAS team, which was identified in our survey at a high rate of 66.6%. CONCLUSION: Awareness about ERAS was high among the participants, but the implementation rates of some recommendations were low. The reason for this may be the inability to form a multidisciplinary team and inadequate training of participants. For this purpose, we recommend the formation of a multidisciplinary team for ERAS protocol implementation and increased participant training opportunities.

Virtual reality versus low level simulation in newborn care teaching in Turkey.

The aim of this study is a virtual reality versus low level simulation in newborn care teaching in Turkey. Data were collected in 2019-2020 academic year in midwifery students in Turkey. In the first stage, virtual reality simulation software was developed. In the second stage, newborn care was provided with a virtual reality simulator to the experimental group and a low-fidelity simulator to the control group. Students' practice, self-confidence and satisfaction levels were compared using two different simulators. There was a difference between the two groups in terms of their skills, satisfaction and self-confidence. The simulator, which was developed and evaluated in the research, increased the students' satisfaction, self-confidence and skills. It was also found to be more effective than the classical method.

Le but de cette étude est une réalité virtuelle versus simulation de bas niveau dans l'enseignement des soins aux nouveau-nés en Turquie. Les données ont été collectées au cours de l'année universitaire 2019-2020 auprès d'étudiantes sages-femmes en Turquie. Dans un premier temps, un logiciel de simulation de réalité virtuelle a été développé. Dans la deuxième étape, les soins aux nouveau-nés ont été fournis avec un simulateur de réalité virtuelle pour le groupe expérimental et un simulateur basse fidélité pour le groupe témoin. Les niveaux de pratique, de confiance en soi et de satisfaction des étudiants ont été comparés à l'aide de deux simulateurs différents. Il existe une différence entre les deux groupes en termes de compétences, de satisfaction et de confiance en soi. Le simulateur développé et évalué dans le cadre de la recherche a accru la satisfaction, la confiance en soi et les compétences des étudiants. Elle s'est également révélée plus efficace que la méthode classique.

The Turkish version of the Skin Tear Knowledge Assessment Instrument (OASES): Validity and reliability study.

This study was conducted to adapt the Skin Tear Knowledge Assessment Instrument (OASES) into Turkish and to verify its validity and reliability. This study was conducted on 314 nurses in Türkiye between November 2023 and February 2024 to test the psychometric properties of OASES. The instrument consists of 20 items clustered into six domains. The cultural adaptation process was carried out according to the International Testing Commission guidelines: Turkish translation, expert panel, content validity, translation back to English, preliminary study and the final version of the instrument. To check the validity of the multiple-choice test, item difficulty and discriminating index were analysed. The reliability of the instrument was evaluated to the retest 14 days after the first test. Scale level content validity by 11 experts in wound care was 0,97 (I-CVI = 0.8-1.0). In the item analysed of the OASES, the item difficulty index was 0,51 (p-value = 0.34-0.76) and the discriminating index was 0.40 (D-value = 0.26-0.51). The 2-week test-retest intraclass correlation coefficient of the overall instrument was 0.90 (95% CI = 0.79-0.95). The Turkish version of OASES is a valid and reliable measurement instrument to evaluate nurses' knowledge levels regarding skin tears with acceptable psychometric properties. It can be applied in nursing education, research and practice to evaluate the knowledge of Turkish speaking nurses about skin tears.

The Effect of Laughter Yoga Applied to Intensive Care Nurses on Their Perceived Stress, Job Motivation, and Mental Well-being: Randomized Controlled Study.

AIM: The aim of this study was to examine the effect of laughter yoga applied to intensive care nurses on perceived stress, job motivation, and mental well-being. DESIGN: This study was a randomized controlled trial. METHODS: The study was conducted with nurses working at the university hospital's surgical intensive care and anesthesia intensive care units of the third-level intensive care unit in Turkey. Data obtained from 30 participants in the intervention group and 33 participants in the control group were analyzed. The Nurse Introduction Form, Nurse Job Motivation Scale, Perceived Stress Scale, and Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale were used to collect data. Data obtained from the study were evaluated using the SPSS 22.0 package. RESULTS: It was determined that there was no statistically significant difference in the average scores of the pretest/posttest 1/posttest 2 of the Perceived Stress Scale (13.70 ± 3.33 to 14.57 ± 4.57, P > .05; 13.50 ± 3.15 to 13.48 ± 4.59, P > .05; and 13.56 ± 3.15 to 13.15 ± 3.49, P > .05, respectively) and Work Motivation Scale (59.70 ± 7.58 to 59.69 ± 7.98, P > .05; 60.30 ± 8.07 to 58.48 ± 8.94, P > .05; and 60.56 ± 7.86 to 57.93 ± 9.54, P > .05, respectively) for both the intervention and control groups of nurses. A statistically significant difference was found in the average scores of the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale pretest/posttest 1/posttest 2 for the intervention group of nurses (50.90 ± 7.60, 51.50 ± 7.80, and 53.70 ± 7.08, respectively; F = 3.330, P = .043). However, the difference was found to be insignificant in pairwise comparisons in the further analysis (a = b = c). It was determined that there was no statistically significant difference in the average scores of the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale pretest/posttest 1/posttest 2 for the control group of nurses (52.21 ± 9.89, 51.93 ± 10.45, and 51.03 ± 9.63, respectively; P > .05). CONCLUSIONS: The application of laughter yoga on intensive care nurses did not result in a significant change in perceived stress levels and work motivation. However, statistically significant differences were observed in the average mental well-being scores among the intervention group.

Evaluating the Knowledge Levels and Attitudes Regarding Pressure Injuries among Nurses in Turkey.

OBJECTIVE: To determine nurses' knowledge levels and attitudes regarding pressure injury (PI) in Turkey and to reveal the relationship between these two variables. METHODS: This study was conducted with 604 nurses to obtain 98% power based on the G*Power analysis. The authors used the Pressure Ulcer Knowledge Assessment Tool (PUKAT) 2.0 and Attitude toward Pressure Ulcer Prevention (APuP) instrument for data collection. Regression, correlation analysis, independent-sample t test, and analysis of variance were used in data analysis. RESULTS: Nurses' mean total PUKAT 2.0 score was 9.40 ± 2.47 (46.72% correct). Nurses' mean total score on the APuP instrument was 32.39 ± 2.752. The total knowledge score and total attitude score were positively correlated (ρ = 0.761; P = .007). According to the results of linear regression analysis, the demographic variables of sex, education, seniority, and unit significantly predicted PUKAT 2.0 scores and APuP scores. CONCLUSIONS: Nurses' knowledge of PI prevention was insufficient, and their attitudes were average. A significant and positive relationship was identified between nurses' knowledge and attitudes regarding PI.

Evaluating Intensive Care Nurses' Knowledge of Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis: A Multicenter Cross-sectional Study.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the knowledge levels of nurses working in the ICU about incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD). METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in adult ICUs at two private and three public hospitals in a province in Turkey. The study included 296 nurses who agreed to participate in the research. Researchers used the "Nurse Identification Form" and the "IAD Knowledge Test" to collect data on nurses' IAD knowledge. Data analysis included the use of percentage distribution and the Mann-Whitney U, Kruskal-Wallis, and Spearman correlation tests. RESULTS: The mean age of the nurses was 26.55 ± 3.89 years (range, 20-47 years), and the duration of working in the ICU was 2.71 ± 2.55 years (range, 1-22 years). Of the nurses, 183 (61.8%) worked in general ICUs. Of those, 69 (23.3%) received IAD training. Nurses achieved a 49.8% correct response rate on the IAD knowledge test. Nurses working in tertiary and general ICUs demonstrated higher IAD knowledge levels (Ps = .003 and .047, respectively). There were no relationships between age, career length, institution, ICU type, and IAD knowledge level. CONCLUSIONS: Nurses' knowledge level of IAD was low in intensive care. To remedy this, IAD should be added to intensive care nursing certificate programs as content, and the use of IAD risk assessment and diagnosis scales in ICUs should be expanded.

Distribution, morphological and molecular characterization of root-lesion nematodes (Pratylenchus spp.) (Tylenchida: Pratylenchidae) in maize (Zea mays L.) (Poales: Poaceae) in Türkiye.

BACKGROUND: Root-lesion nematodes (RLN) are the most economically important pathogenic nematodes attacking maize. Significant economic losses due to lesion nematodes have been reported in maize producing countries in the world. METHODS AND RESULTS: This study was conducted to determine the distribution and identity of root-lesion nematodes (Pratylenchus spp.) (Tylenchida: Hoplolaimidae) in maize (Zea mays L.) (Poales: Poaceae) fields of the Black Sea region of Türkiye. For this purpose, 39 locations were surveyed and soil samples were taken from 17 regional provinces. Nematodes were extracted using the modified Baerman funnel technique. The species were identified based on sequences of the Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) region of ribosomal DNA, as well as morphological characters and morphometrics. In addition, species identifications were confirmed using species-specific primers in the D3 expansion region of 26 S rDNA. At the end of the study, 51.3% of the maize production areas sampled in the region were infected with root-lesion nematode species. Pratylenchus agilis, P. mediterraneus, P. neglectus, P. penetrans, P. thornei, and P. vulnus were identified, and were present in 25%, 5%, 25%, 10%, 15%, and 20% of samples, respectively. To our knowledge, this is the first report of P. agilis in Türkiye. CONCLUSION: The present study concluded that the molecular analysis of Pratylenchus sequences based on the ITS and D3 region of ribosomal RNA genes allowed the identification of six root lesion nematode species. This study is of great importance in terms of adding additional species to the root-lesion nematode fauna in Turkey and will provide data for future research on the management of these nematodes.

Perception and Attitude of Turkish Gastroenterologists Toward Obesity: A Nationwide Survey Conducted by the Obesity Study Group of the Turkish Gastroenterology Association.

BACKGROUND/AIMS:  Gastroenterologists have an important role in the treatment and management of comorbidities related to obesity. Assessment of gastroenterologists' perception and attitude toward obesity was aimed in this study. MATERIALS AND METHODS:  Survey questions were determined for the study. An online questionnaire was prepared afterward. Participants were invited via e-mail by providing them with information about the study. It was ensured that those who accepted the study could access the questionnaire form with the relevant link. Participants who answered all questions were included in the study. RESULTS:  Totally 117 gastroenterologists were included in the study. The proportion of gastroenterologists who thought that obesity complicates the management of gastroenterological diseases and those who thought obesity as a factor that negatively affects the prognosis of gastroenterological diseases was determined as 88.9% and 95.7%, respectively. Among the obese patients, the proportion of those who applied diet therapy, exercise, pharmacotherapy, and endoscopic methods was 94%, 91.5%, 35%, and 37.6%, respectively. The rates of intragastric balloon therapy and intragastric botulinum toxin A injection were 30% and 21.4%, respectively. The proportion of those who agreed that obese patients lost a significant amount of weight with the treatment methods applied was 47.2%. The proportion of participants who agreed that long-term maintenance of weight loss was impossible for most obese patients was 59.8%. CONCLUSION:  To our knowledge, this is the first study that evaluates the perception and attitude of gastroenterologists toward obesity. Our study results show that gastroenterologists think that obesity is a chronic disease and that gastroenterologists should be involved in management of obesity.

Prevalence of Pancreatic Steatosis and Its Associated Factors in Turkey: A Nation-Wide Multicenter Study.

BACKGROUND/AIMS:  Pancreatic steatosis (PS) is a pathology associated with metabolic syndrome (MS), endocrin and exocrine disfunctions of the pancreas, and fatty liver. The data on the frequency of PS are very limited. We aimed to evaluate the frequency of PS detected by transabdominal ultrasonography (TAU) in gastroenterology clinics located in different geographical regions of Turkey and the factors associated with it. MATERIALS AND METHODS:  Volunteers were evaluated by TAU for PS and hepatosteatosis (HS), and its degree. Pancreatic stiffness was evaluated by ultrasonographic shear wave elastography (SWE). All demographic, physical, and biochemical parametres were measured. RESULTS:  A total of 1700 volunteers from 14 centers throughout Turkey were included in the study. Mean age was 48.03 ± 20.86 years (56.9% female). Prevalance of PS was detected in 68.9%. In the PS group, age, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, fasting blood glucose (FBG), lipid levels, insulin resistance, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, MS frequency, and pancreatic SWE score were increasing, and fecal elastase level was decreasing in correlation with the degree of PS. The frequency of HS was 55.5%. Hepatosteatosis [odds ratio (OR): 9.472], increased age (OR: 1.02), and BMI (OR: 1.089) were independent risk factors for the occurrence of PS. Lean-PS rate was 11.8%. The lean-PS group was predominantly female and younger than non-lean PS. Also it has lower blood pressure, FBG, liver enzymes, lipid levels, and HS rates. CONCLUSION:  The frequency of PS was found 68.9% in Turkey. Its relationship was determined with age, BMI, HS, MS (and its components), pancreatic stiffness, and fecal elastase level.

Do Otologists and Other Otolaryngologists Manage Single-Sided Deafness Differently?

BACKGROUND:  The aim of this study was to survey the knowledge and treatment management practices for single-sided deafness (SSD) among different subspecialties of otolaryngology. METHODS:  A questionnaire was sent via Google Sheets to members of the Turkish and Egyptian Otorhinolaryngology Societies between December 2021 and February 2022. For the statistical analysis, the respondents were divided into 3 groups as otologists, non-otologists, and residents at the department of otolaryngology-head and neck department. RESULTS:  There were no statistically significant differences between otologists and non-otologists in radiological imaging (child P = .469, adult P = .140) and preferred treatment method (child P = .546, adult P = .106). However, otolaryngologists showed significant differences in radiological evaluation (P <.001), vestibular evaluation (P = .000), and frequency of treatment options recommended for pediatric and adult SSD patients (P = .000). CONCLUSION:  There were no significant differences in SSD diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation between otologists and non-otologists. However, when comparing pediatric and adult patients, there was a difference in the treatment management of SSD patients.

Factors associated with substance use among preclinical medical students in Turkey: a cross-sectional study.

Introduction: Medical students experience high levels of stress due to their rigorous training, which can negatively affect their mental health. This study aimed to investigate substance use habits of medical students at Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa and the association on their mental health and demographic factors. Methods: This cross-sectional survey study was conducted in March-April 2022 among preclinical medical students (years 1-3 of a 6-year program). A confidential, anonymous online survey consisting of four sections on sociodemographic and educational characteristics, nicotine use and dependence [Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND)], alcohol use [Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT)], mental health status [12-item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12)], was distributed to 1131 students via WhatsApp and Telegram text messages. Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal Wallis tests compared variables' distribution in the questionnaire categories. Spearman's correlation assessed associations between scales. Significance was p < 0.05. Results: The study included 190 medical students. A total of 26.3% of the participants were smokers, with 8.4% showing moderate to high levels of nicotine dependence. An estimated 45.8% and 8.4%reported low-risk consumption and risky usage of alcohol, respectively. There were statistically significant associations between substance use and demographic factors such as sex, GPA, and religious belief. The study found a statistically significant correlation between FTND scores and GHQ-12 scores, and, between FTND scores and AUDIT scores. Conclusion: The findings of this study will inform the development of interventions to improve the mental health and academic performance of medical students at Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa. Furthermore, it will raise awareness about the importance of addressing substance use among medical students in Turkey.

Introduction: Les étudiants en médecine sont assujettis à des niveaux élevés de stress en raison de leur formation rigoureuse, ce qui peut avoir un impact négatif sur leur santé mentale. Cette étude avait pour but d'étudier les habitudes de consommation de substances des étudiants en médecine de l'Université d'Istanbul-Cerrahpasa et l'association avec leur santé mentale et les facteurs démographiques. Méthodes: Cette étude transversale a été menée en mars-avril 2022 parmi les étudiants en médecine au pré-clinique (années 1 à 3 d'un programme de 6 ans). Un questionnaire en ligne confidentiel et anonyme comprenant quatre sections sur les caractéristiques sociodémographiques et éducatives, l'usage et la dépendance à la nicotine [Test de Fagerström pour la dépendance à la nicotine (FTND)], la consommation d'alcool [Test d'identification des troubles liés à la consommation d'alcool (AUDIT)], l'état de santé mentale [Questionnaire général sur la santé en 12 points (GHQ-12)], a été distribué à 1131 étudiants au moyen de messages texte WhatsApp et Telegram. Les tests de Mann-Whitney U et de Kruskal Wallis ont comparé la distribution des variables dans les catégories du questionnaire. La corrélation de Spearman a évalué les associations entre les échelles. Le niveau de signification statistique était p<0,05. Résultats: L'étude a porté sur 190 étudiants en médecine. Au total, 26,3 % des participants étaient des fumeurs, dont 8,4 % présentaient des niveaux modérés à élevés de dépendance à la nicotine. On estime que 45,8 % et 8,4 % des participants ont déclaré une consommation d'alcool à faible risque et une consommation d'alcool à risque, respectivement. Des associations statistiquement significatives ont été observées entre la consommation de substances et des facteurs démographiques tels que le sexe, la moyenne générale et les croyances religieuses. L'étude a mis en évidence une corrélation statistiquement significative entre les scores FTND et les scores GHQ-12, ainsi qu'entre les scores FTND et les scores AUDIT. Conclusion: Les résultats de cette étude permettront d'élaborer des interventions visant à améliorer la santé mentale et les résultats universitaires des étudiants en médecine de l'université d'Istanbul-Cerrahpasa. En outre, elle sensibilisera à l'importance de la prise en charge de l'utilisation de substances chez les étudiants en médecine en Turquie.