Yazarlar

  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026
    Effects of psychosocial interventions on sexual function, quality of life, and stress in women with gynecologic cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

    Aydın, Esra; Özcan, Handan; Karakaş, Sevda; Uzun, Sevda

    Objectives: To evaluate the effects of psychosocial interventions on sexual function, quality of life, and stress levels in women with gynecologic cancer. Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. PubMed, Web of Science, EBSCOhost, Google Scholar, and the YÖK Thesis Center were searched between June and July 2024 without year restriction. Randomized controlled and quasi-experimental studies evaluating psychosocial interventions were included. Data were synthesized using meta-analysis and narrative synthesis. Outcomes were synthesized separately for sexual function, quality of life, and stress. Results: Seven studies were included in the analysis. Psychosocial interventions significantly improved sexual function (SMD: 0.868; 95% CI: 0.021 to 1.715; Z = 2.008; p = 0.045; I2 = 89.97%) and quality of life (SMD: 0.709; 95% CI: 0.060 to 1.358; Z = 2.142; p = 0.032; I2 = 88.61%) in women with gynecologic cancer. However, psychosocial interventions did not demonstrate a significant effect on stress levels (SMD: − 1.126; 95% CI: − 2.649 to 0.397; Z = − 1.449; p = 0.147; I2 = 95.65%). Conclusion: This systematic review and meta-analysis indicates that psychosocial interventions are associated with improvements in sexual function and quality of life among women with gynecologic cancer, whereas no statistically significant reduction in stress was observed. Although substantial between-study heterogeneity was present, the overall evidence supports the integration of psychosocial approaches into supportive oncology nursing care.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleYalnız künye2026
    Synthesis, antioxidant, and antiurease activities of novel benzimidazole-based 1,3,4-thiadiazole derivatives

    Gümrükçüoğlu, Taner İlker; Akgün, Hakan; Bektaş, Hakan; Sökmen, Bahar Bilgin; Menteşe, Emre

    In this study, we report the synthesis and characterisation of five new benzimidazole-based 1, 3, 4-thiadiazole derivatives (5a–e) and the evaluation of their antioxidant and antiurease activities. The structures were confirmed by NMR (1H, 13C) and LC/TOF–MS analyses (spectra are given in the supplementary information). Biological assays (DPPH, ABTS, iron-reducing power, urease inhibition) revealed that compound 5e (bearing a 4-nitrophenyl substituent) exhibited the strongest urease inhibition (EC50 = 0.1296 ± 0.0260 µM), surpassing thiourea. One-way ANOVA revealed significant differences in urease inhibition between the compounds (p<0.001). Post-hoc Tukey tests confirmed that compound 5e was more effective than several other compounds. The compounds exhibited moderate and comparable antioxidant activities. The first SAR study shows that electron-withdrawing substituents increase urease inhibition, whereas electron-donating groups increase the reducing power. Comparison with earlier reported triazole analogues shows scaffold-dependent changes in bioactivity. These findings support thiadiazoles as promising dual-function agents for oxidative stress and urease-associated pathologies.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleYalnız künye2026
    Surrogate Trauma in Nurses Providing Pediatric Palliative Care: A Phenomenological Study

    Oğuzhan, Hatice; Akay, Gamze; Uzun, Sevda; Koç, Elif Simay; Öncer, Aysun

    The aim of this study was to deeply examine the experiences of proxy grief among nurses providing pediatric palliative care. This qualitative phenomenological study was conducted with 16 nurses working in the pediatric ward of a hospital located in the northern region of the country. Data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s phenomenological analysis method. The analysis revealed 3 themes (challenges experienced while caring for children in palliative care; secondary trauma and coping processes; proxy trauma and professional resilience) and 9 sub-themes (emotional strain during care, establishing an empathetic bond, emotional exhaustion, traumatic experiences, seeking psychological support, religious coping methods, developing a professional approach, resilience and acceptance, and motivation to continue in the profession). The study found that nurses providing pediatric palliative care experienced significant psychosocial stress. Pediatric nurses were particularly challenged emotionally when caring for palliative patients. In this context, it is important to develop stress-coping skills to help nurses manage vicarious trauma. Strengthening nurses psychologically and spiritually will positively impact their professional lives, which in turn will enhance the quality of care they provide.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026
    Between Survival and Sacrifice: Marital Experiences of Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis

    Çakmak, Seher; Karataş, Hicran

    The study aimed to explore the lived experiences of married dialysis patients on the national organ waiting list, focusing on the interplay between illness, familial roles, and societal norms. This research is a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews and participant observation. The study involved 23 marriage-experienced hemodialysis-dependent patients (13 women, 10 men) on the national organ waiting list, recruited between August 16 and November 11, 2022. Data were collected through interviews and observations and were analyzed thematically to identify recurring patterns. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) poses significant physical, psychological, and social burdens, particularly for hemodialysis-dependent patients. Five main themes emerged from this study: (1) When Care Becomes a Test, (2) Dealing with Social Isolation, (3) Sacrifices to Sustain the Marriage, (4) Uninvited voices, (5) Resentful but Thankful. These findings highlight the need for family-centered care that considers diverse family structures and social contexts, while also demonstrating the impact of prolonged hemodialysis (HD) and marital strain on emotional and sexual intimacy.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleYalnız künye2026
    The Effect of Parrot Therapy on During Venipuncture Pain in Chronic Patients

    Demirağ, Hatice; Tuç, Adile

    Objective There are no randomized controlled trial (RCT) in the current literature comparing live, robotic, and visual animal-based therapies. This single-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted to comparatively evaluate the effectiveness of live parrot, robotic parrot, and parrot picture therapies on pain during venipuncture in adults with chronic illness. Methods The study included 240 patients randomized into four groups. Groups interacted with live parrots, robotic parrots, or parrot pictures during venipuncture. The control group received no intervention. Pain levels were assessed before and after the procedure using the "Visual Analog Scale (VAS)." Analysis was performed using Chi-Square test, One-way ANOVA and paired samples t-test. Results There was no difference in pre-procedure pain scores between the groups (p ' .05). After the procedure, the VAS score for the live parrot group was 2.01 ± 1.35, for the robotic parrot group 2.03 ± 1.46, for the parrot picture group 2.08 ± 1.62, and for the control group 4.91 ± 1.88. Again, after the procedure, pain scores in all experimental groups were found to be significantly lower than in the control group (p ' .001). Live parrot therapy was found to be the most effective pet therapy, followed by robotic parrot and parrot picture therapy. The reduction in pain in the live parrot group was statistically more significant than in the picture group. Conclusion The research findings revealed that pet therapy applied during venipuncture, especially live animal interaction, may be a potentially effective, safe, and non-pharmacological method for reducing pain. Robotic animals, on the other hand, can be considered a promising alternative when the use of live animals is not possible. It is recommended that these distraction strategies be considered and integration into routine nursing practices be developed as part of patient-centered care.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026
    Game-based and individualized movement training improves physiological and motor outcomes in young adults with autism spectrum disorder: an experimental study from Türkiye

    Aydın, Ahmet Serhat; Söyler, Mehmet; Zileli, Raif; Halmatov, Medera; Gürkan, Alper Cenk; Akcan, İbrahim Orkun; Yılmaz, Coşkun

    Background: This study aims to examine the effects of game-based and individualized movement training (GBIMT) program on physiological (body weight, body fat percentage, BMI) and motor outcomes (balance, reaction time, motor speed) in young adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Methods: An experimental design with pre-test–post-test control groups was used in the study. A total of 20 participants (10 in the experimental group, 10 in the control group) with a mean age of 22.2 ± 4.8 years were monitored for eight weeks. The experimental group participated in GBIMT sessions for 60 min per day, two days per week, while the control group continued their usual educational routines. Body composition (InBody 270 Body Composition Analyzer, model Plus 270, South Korea), balance (TechnoGym, Cesena, Italy), reaction time (BlazePod Ltd., Israel), and motor speed (Computerized Tapping Test, Neurosoft Inc., USA) parameters were used as measurements. Results: Repeated measures ANOVA results indicated a significant reduction in body weight in terms of the experimental group (p = 0.014, η² = 0.289). Large effect sizes were observed for body fat percentage and BMI; however, the group × time interactions were not found to be statistically significant. A significant improvement was observed in the motor speed parameter within the experimental group (p = 0.032, η² = 0.231). Reaction time decreased by 9.8%, although the group × time interaction stayed within the significance limit (p = 0.063). A trend toward improvement was observed in balance parameters; however, no statistically significant difference was found. Conclusion: The findings indicate that GBIMT produced significant improvements in body composition and motor speed after implementing for eight weeks, and also showed a strong tendency to affect reaction time. As a controlled experimental study conducted in Türkiye, this research offers a unique contribution to the literature by demonstrating the effects of game-based and individualized movement programs on both physiological and motor outcomes in individuals with ASD. Trial registration: GameBased and Individualized Movement Training Improves Physiological and Motor Outcomes in Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder An Experimental Study From Türkiye, ClinicalTrials.gov NCT07170891, Date 20,062,025.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026
    Examination of Post-Traumatic Stress Reaction, Quality of Life, and Loneliness Levels in Adolescents Who Experienced an Earthquake

    Akay, Gamze; Koç, Elif Simay; Oğuzhan, Hatice

    The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between post-traumatic stress, quality of life, and loneliness levels in adolescents following the earthquakes centered in Kahramanmaraş. The research, designed as descriptive and correlational, was conducted with 701 children aged 13–18 who experienced the earthquake in Kahramanmaraş. Data were collected through a Demographic Information Form, the Child Post-Traumatic Stress Reaction Index, the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory, and the UCLA Loneliness Scale-Short Form. Ethical principles were adhered to throughout the study. Female adolescents were found to have higher levels of post-traumatic stress (t = 3.508, p < 0.001) and lower quality of life (t = 4.223, p < 0.001). The adolescents exhibited severe levels of post-traumatic stress (55.25 ± 13.80). It was determined that the mother’s education level (F = 4.423, p = 0.002), the father’s occupation (F = 2.859, p = 0.036), and perceived income level (F = 5.912, p = 0.003) significantly influenced adolescents’ loneliness levels. The father’s occupation (F = 3.403, p = 0.017) was found to have a significant effect on post-traumatic stress levels, and perceived income level (F = 4.753, p = 0.009) had a significant effect on quality of life. A moderate negative correlation was found between post-traumatic stress levels and quality of life (r = −0.474, p < 0.001), and a weak positive correlation was observed between post-traumatic stress and loneliness levels (r = 0.215, p < 0.001). A weak negative correlation was also found between quality of life and loneliness levels (r = −0.284, p < 0.001). A moderate negative correlation was found between adolescents’ post-traumatic stress levels and quality of life, while a weak positive correlation was observed between post-traumatic stress levels and loneliness. It is recommended to provide psychological support and guidance services aimed at reducing post-traumatic stress and loneliness levels in adolescents.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleYalnız künye2026
    An AI-Supported Virtual Patient Application Using a Structured Prompting Framework to Develop Mental Status Examination Skills in Psychiatric Nursing Internship Students: An Interventional Mixed-Methods Study

    Tuncer, Gülsüm Zekiye; Çetinkaya Duman, Zekiye; Kilinçkaya, Başak

    The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered virtual patient application (ChatGPT) on the development of Mental Status Examination (MSE) skills in psychiatric nursing internship students and to explore how this process is reflected in their experiences. This study employed a sequential explanatory mixed-method design, consisting of a quantitative pre/post-test phase followed by a qualitative phase. In the quantitative phase, the MSE Competency Assessment scores of 27 undergraduate psychiatric nursing internship students were evaluated using a pre-test/post-test model. In the qualitative phase, in-depth individual interviews were conducted with 18 volunteer students. As part of the intervention, students participated in the “AI-Supported Virtual Patient Intervention: Structured Prompting Framework”. The quantitative findings of the study revealed that the mean MSE Competency Assessment scores increased from 42.00 ± 6.43 in the pre-test to 49.57 ± 3.44 in the post-test (Z = −6.266, p < 0.001). Thematic analysis of the qualitative data yielded five main themes: Skill Development, Learning Experience, Impact of AI, Debriefing, and Limitations. Students reported that the application enhanced their MSE examination and communication skills; they also described a unique learning experience through AI, highlighted the importance of guided support.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
    • SDG 4 · Nitelikli Eğitim
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026
    Turkish validation of the CompACT: assessing psychological flexibility among emergency aid and disaster management students

    Çınar, Öznur; Oral, Vildan; Turan, Melikşah; Cengiz, Ekrem

    Psychological flexibility is a central construct in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and an important protective factor for mental health, particularly among individuals expected to function effectively under high stress and uncertainty, such as those in emergency aid and disaster management. Despite its relevance for this population, no Turkish version of the Comprehensive Assessment of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Processes (CompACT) had been available. The present study aimed to perform a cross-cultural adaptation of the English version of CompACT into Turkish and to evaluate its psychometric properties in emergency aid and disaster management students. The study was conducted in two phases: translation and cross-cultural adaptation, followed by psychometric evaluation in a sample of 302 students. Data were analyzed using SPSS v.21 and AMOS v.22 through exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, reliability analyses, test-retest analysis, and correlational validity testing. The exploratory factor analysis (EFA) showed that the CompACT consisted of three factors (Openness to Experience, Behavioral Awareness, and Valued Action) explaining 75.848% of the total variance, comprising 20 items. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) showed that the three-factor model provided the best fit to the data (χ²/df = 2.590, CFI = 0.963, TLI = 0.956, RMSEA = 0.073). The scale demonstrated satisfactory internal consistency (overall alpha = 0.843) and temporal stability (test-retest r > 0.70 across all subscales), and its expected negative associations with the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-II (r = −0.365) and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21 (r = −0.403) supported its criterion-related validity.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026
    Nurse-Led Mobile App Effect on Quality of Life in Breast Cancer Patients After Surgery: Nonrandomized Controlled Prospective Cohort Study (Step 3)

    Aydin, Aydanur; Gürsoy, Ayla

    Background: – Following surgery, women with breast cancer (BC) frequently experience emotional and physiological negative consequences. Objective: – To evaluate the effect of a nurse-led mobile app (NL-Mapp) intervention on quality of life (QoL) in patients after surgery for BC. Methods: – This single-center, 12-month, nonrandomized controlled trial, with 2 parallel groups, represents the final stage of 3-step research. In this study, women were assigned to either the intervention (n = 45) or control (n = 45) group. The intervention group participated in the NL-Mapp, whereas participants in the control group received standard care. The main outcomes were measured using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy—Breast at 3 time points (baseline and 1 and 12 months after the intervention). Clinical Trial number: NCT06505538 Results: – The intervention participants reported significant improvement in physical well-being, emotional well-being, and the BC-specific subscale compared with the control group at the 1-month postsurgery mark. Equally noteworthy, at the 1-year follow-up, consistent improvements were observed across all QoL subscale scores for the intervention group, except for the BC-specific subscale for additional concerns. Conclusion: – Our study revealed a notable enhancement in the QoL among postoperative women with BC who utilized the NL-Mapp. This program emerges as an effective intervention for providing short-term and longer-term supportive care to women affected by BC, leading to tangible improvements in their QoL. Implication for Nursing: – The study’s findings offer valuable evidence supporting the integration of mobile health services into clinical and transitional nursing care.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleYalnız künye2026
    Changes in BMI, lipid profile, disease perception, and quality of life among myocardial infarction patients participating in a 12-week green walking: A quasi-experimental study

    Cin, Aynur; Hintistan, Sevilay

    Objective This study assessed the 12-week intervention of green walking on BMI, blood lipids, disease perception, and quality of life among myocardial infarction patients. Methods In a quasi-experimental design, 60 participants (28 men, 32 women; aged 36–77 years) were assigned to intervention (green walk) or control (routine care) groups based on geographic convenience. The green walking group performed high-intensity interval walking for 50 min three times a week in a natural setting for 12 weeks. Adherence was monitored via attendance logs, with a mean of 91.7 % (SD 7.1 %). Primary outcomes included BMI and lipid profiles, while secondary outcomes included perceived illness and quality of life, assessed through validated questionnaires. A mixed-design model incorporating time-group interaction was used for analysis. Data were analyzed using mixed-design ANOVA, repeated-measures ANOVA, paired t-tests, Friedman tests, and Wilcoxon tests. Results The green walk group showed improvements in several measures including a reduction in BMI and positive changes in lipid profiles and disease perception scores with enhanced quality of life for both groups. The mean differences between groups for weight, BMI, and concerns over medication were not significant. No severe adverse events were recorded during the entire 12-week program. Conclusions Participation in the green walking program for 12 weeks is associated with favorable trends in BMI, lipid levels, disease perception, and quality of life among myocardial infarction patients which structured green walking can be an aid toward improving well-being during cardiac rehabilitation; however further randomized controlled studies will substantive such an association.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026
    Antibacterial efficacy of pyrolysis-derived plant fractions against resistant pathogens: a comparative evaluation using nutrient and Müller–Hinton agar

    Demirel, Maruf Hurşit; Gül, Abdulkadir; Aydoğmuş, Ercan; Özgen, İnanç; Arslanoğlu, Hasan

    BACKGROUND: This study investigates the antibacterial potential of pyrolysis-derived extracts from rosehip fruit (RF), orange peel (OP), corn silk (CS), spurge root (ER) and mullein leaf (ML) against antibiotic-resistant pathogens using two different culture media. Bioactive compounds were obtained via a PID-controlled pyrolysis system, and antibacterial activity was evaluated to clarify both extract efficacy and medium-dependent effects on bacterial growth and diffusion. RESULTS: Antibacterial activities were assessed using the agar well diffusion method, with ampicillin as a positive control, against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis. A key novelty of this work is the comparative evaluation of extract performance on nutrient agar (NA) and Müller–Hinton agar (MHA). Among all samples, the ML extract exhibited the strongest antibacterial activity across all tested strains, producing inhibition zones of 18.85 mm against E. coli and 17.15 mm against E. faecalis on NA, compared with 13.05 mm and 13.60 mm on MHA, respectively. CS and ER extracts showed moderate antibacterial effects, with consistently higher inhibition zones on NA than on MHA. Ampicillin generated substantially larger inhibition zones on NA (33.35 mm for E. coli and 34.45 mm for P. aeruginosa) compared with MHA (13.80 and 27.70 mm, respectively), confirming the strong influence of culture medium composition on measurable antibacterial activity. CONCLUSION: These results indicate that both plant extracts and ampicillin exhibit higher antibacterial activity on NA than on MHA. The pronounced efficacy of the ML extract highlights pyrolysis-derived plant fractions as promising natural antimicrobials and emphasizes the critical importance of culture medium selection.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleYalnız künye2026
    The relationship between compassion fatigue and levels of depression, anxiety, and stress in nurses: A multicenter cross-sectional study

    Coşar, Dilan Aktepe; Ayyıldız, Neşe Işcan; Şimşekli, Derya

    Aim This study aimed to investigate the relationship between compassion fatigue and depression, anxiety, and stress levels in nurses. Method This research is a multicenter, cross-sectional study. The study was conducted with 283 nurses in three state hospitals in northeastern Turkey using a purposive sampling method. Research data were collected by the researchers using a Demographic Form, the Compassion Fatigue Scale (CFS), and the Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale (DASS-21). Descriptive statistics, normality assessment, one-way ANOVA, t -tests, Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression analysis were performed using SPSS 26 software. Results A total of 283 nurses participated in the study. The mean CFS score was 83.97 ± 13.76, while the mean DASS-21 scores were 8.05 ± 4.10 for depression, 4.89 ± 2.97 for anxiety, and 9.22 ± 4.32 for stress. Correlation and regression analyses revealed a strong positive correlation between compassion fatigue and depression (r = 0.574, p < 0.001), a moderate positive correlation with anxiety (0.349, p < 0.001), and a strong positive correlation with stress (0.583, p < 0.001). Multiple regression analysis revealed that depression, stress, male gender, working as a nursing education specialist, and job dissatisfaction were variables significantly associated with compassion fatigue. Conclusion Based on these results, it is necessary to evaluate compassion fatigue in nurses in conjunction with psychological factors as well as individual and professional characteristics. Furthermore, it is important to support nurses' psychological health, develop strategies to address compassion fatigue, and increase individual resilience.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
    • SDG 8 · İnsana Yakışır İş ve Ekonomik Büyüme
  • MakaleYalnız künye2026
    Cultural adaptation and psychometric validation of the Azerbaijani version of the Optimism Scale among university students

    Güngör, Sunay; Karimi, Kambiz

    In a dynamic society, instilling a sense of positive attitudes is crucial. Yılmaz and Balcı's (2002) The Optimism Scale was translated into Azerbaijani and its construct validity and reliability were tested using a convenience sample of university students (n = 300, 18–24 years). cities. The sample was split for exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. Findings showed cultural commonalities between Azerbaijani and Turkish societies, attested through shared factors such as religion and language. The scale showed high construct validity, high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha =.869; McDonald's omega =.867), and convergent validity (r =.41 with measures of happiness). It supports usability of the scale in Azerbaijan. Future studies should explore structural characteristics of the scale among different populations and age brackets.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026
    The Effect of a Psychiatric Nurse–Led AI-Based Online Group Guided Self-Help Program on Eating Behaviours and Body Image among Overweight and Obese Women Nurses: A Randomized Controlled Trial

    Tuncer, Gülsüm Zekiye; Duman, Zekiye Çetinkaya; Tuncer, Metin

    Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a psychiatric nurse–led, AI-supported online group guided self-help programme on eating behaviours, body image, and body mass index (BMI) among overweight and obese women nurses. Method: A randomised controlled experimental design with pre-test, post-test, and three-month follow-up assessments was employed. Forty-four overweight and obese women nurses were randomly assigned to intervention (n = 22) and control (n = 22) groups. The intervention consisted of an 8-week online group guided self-help programme supported by a large language model (LLM), under the leadership of a psychiatric nurse. Participants did not interact directly with the LLM; all AI-generated feedback was clinically reviewed and delivered by the researcher. Results: The intervention group demonstrated significant reductions in emotional eating and external eating, along with significant improvements in body image scores and adaptive coping strategies. A significant decrease in BMI was also observed from baseline to three-month follow-up. Between-group comparisons at post-test and follow-up indicated statistically significant differences favouring the intervention for eating behaviours and selected body image–related outcomes, whereas between-group differences in BMI were not statistically significant. Conclusion: A multi-component online group guided self-help intervention incorporating structured AI-assisted feedback under psychiatric nurse leadership may represent a promising approach to improving eating behaviours, body image, and weight-related outcomes among overweight and obese women nurses.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleYalnız künye2026
    Evaluation of family-centered care from the perspectives of pediatric nurses, nursing students and parents: A mixed-methods study

    Çolak, Bahar; Güner, Yasemin; Goger, Berrin; Kahriman, İlknur; Dal Sevim, Şura

    Introduction This study aimed to evaluate family-centered care (FCC) practices in pediatric units from the perspectives of pediatric nurses, nursing students, and parents. Methods A convergent parallel mixed-methods design was employed. Quantitative data were collected using a cross-sectional design, while qualitative data were obtained through a case study approach. The sample consisted of 338 parents, 221 nursing students, and 10 pediatric nurses. Parents completed the FCC Assessment Scale and the PedsQL Healthcare Satisfaction Module, nursing students completed the Caring Behaviors Inventory, and pediatric nurses participated in semi-structured interviews. Results Parents reported high scores in the FCC dimensions of “support,” “collaboration,” and “respect,” which significantly predicted parental satisfaction. The “support” dimension was the strongest predictor of satisfaction with information, family participation, and technical skills. Nursing students rated pediatric nurses' caring behaviors highly. Qualitative analysis identified five major themes: (1) Perception of FCC, (2) Role of the Nurse, (3) Role of the Physician, (4) Benefits of FCC, and (5) Barriers to FCC. These themes highlighted the importance of family participation, the nurse's leadership role, gaps in physician communication, the multifaceted benefits of FCC at the child, family, and system levels, and barriers including workload, physical environment limitations, and family-related challenges. Conclusion Perceived FCC practices significantly predicted parental satisfaction. However, improvements are needed in information sharing, family participation, and physical environment conditions. Implications to practice These findings provide valuable insights for developing educational, clinical, and policy strategies to strengthen the implementation of FCC in pediatric nursing practice.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
    • SDG 4 · Nitelikli Eğitim
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026
    A Deep Learning–Based Framework for Automatic Determination of Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip from Graf Angles

    Taşolar, Sevgi; Günen, Mehmet Akif; Sığırcı, Ahmet; Taşolar, Hakan

    Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a common neonatal condition that necessitates early diagnosis to ensure effective treatment. The traditional Graf method, while widely used for evaluating infant hips via ultrasound, is limited by operator dependency and measurement variability. This research has proposed a framework using deep learning network, morphological operation and local maxima method to diagnose DDH in newborns using ultrasound images. The method utilizes DeepLabv3 + for image segmentation, evaluating multiple backbone architectures (ResNet50, InceptionResNetV2, MobilenetV2, and Xception) to identify the region of interest accurately. Local maxima method was used to determine the extremum points of the line defining the Graf angles. Denoising filters, including mean, median, and Wiener, are applied to determine local maxima points accurately. The evaluation comprises two stages: first, assessing the performance of DeepLabv3 + backbones in producing masks for Graf angles determination, and second, comparing the angles obtained through proposed framework with those determined by expert radiologists. Comparative analysis demonstrates that MobileNetV2 (94.64 accuracy, 86.99 Cohen’s kappa, 94.31 F-score) surpasses other models in segmentation accuracy and measurement reliability. This conclusion is backed by key performance metrics such as accuracy, IoU, PSNR, F-score, SSIM, Cohen’s kappa, as well as by the intraclass correlation coefficient and Bland–Altman analyses. The proposed framework shows considerable promise in automating hip ultrasound analysis for DDH diagnosis, minimizing operator dependency while enhancing measurement consistency.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026
    Modulation of Hot Pepper Pungency by Melt Dispersion Encapsulation: Role of Wax Type on Microcapsule Structure, Bioactive Compound Content, and Antioxidant Activity

    İncegül, Yasemin; Berktaş, Serap; Çam, Mustafa

    In this study, it was aimed to suppress pungency and obtain a new product by using carnauba, beeswax, and their mixture in the encapsulation of hot pepper oleoresin. Melt dispersion technique was used in production and physical, chemical, and structural analyzes of the obtained capsules were examined. The suppression of the pungency sensation was determined by sensory analysis, and it was determined that the beeswax-based capsule (BW50) was the most effective formulation in suppressing pungency perception (0.83). When looking at the sensory and Scoville Heat Units (SHU) results, there is a parallelism, and it can be stated that the pungency sensation is suppressed. The highest encapsulation efficiency values were observed in CW20 (91.92%), BW20 (90.69%), BC20 (86.92%), and CW30 (86.49%) capsules. When capsule bioactivities were examined, beeswax capsules showed the highest values, while carnauba wax capsules generally showed the lowest values. As expected, as the amount of oleoresin in the capsules increased, the capsules exhibited higher phenolic, flavonoid, carotenoid, and antioxidant activity scores. SEM, FT-IR, and TGA determined that the encapsulation process did not cause any adverse structural reactions in oleoresin. This study broadened the potential application of encapsulated hot pepper oleoresin in food formulations, particularly in functional foods and products intended for consumers sensitive to pungency, by converting it into a more tolerable form.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleYalnız künye2026
    Challenge of existence: social anxiety in Finding Audrey

    Demir, Nalan

    Mental health problems affect individuals worldwide, and literature functions as a medium for both reflecting and shaping social understandings of these issues. Young adult (YA) novels that address mental health can raise public awareness, enhance mental health literacy, and support earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment. This study examines the representation of social anxiety disorder in Finding Audrey (2015) by Sophie Kinsella, focusing on the protagonist Audrey Turner. It analyses Audrey’s experience through her symptoms and treatment process, classifying symptoms into behavioural and cognitive-emotional categories. Behavioural symptoms include avoidance, limited eye contact, and physical reactions, while cognitive-emotional symptoms involve negative self-talk, shame, low self-esteem, negative self-perception, and diminished trust in others. These symptoms and the depicted therapeutic approaches are evaluated in relation to current psychological and psychiatric research. Overall, the novel presents social anxiety disorder in a realistic and psychologically coherent manner, aligning with findings in psychology and psychiatry.

    • SDG 3 · Sağlık ve Kaliteli Yaşam
  • MakaleAçık Erişim2026
    Effect of Breastfeeding Education Delivered Through Motivational Interviewing on Breastfeeding Motivation, Self-Efficacy, and Maternal Bonding in Mothers Giving Vaginal Birth: Randomized, Controlled Trial

    Palancı Ay, Özge; Aktaş, Songül

    Objectives: This study examined the effect of breastfeeding education using the motivational interviewing technique on breastfeeding motivation, self-efficacy, and mother–infant bonding in mothers who gave birth vaginally. Methods: This randomized, controlled trial included 80 primiparous mothers. The experimental group received breastfeeding education with the motivational interviewing technique at four time points. Data were collected using Maternal Descriptive Information Form (MDIF), the Primiparous Breastfeeding Motivation Scale (PBMS), the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale (BSES), the Mother–Infant Bonding Scale (MIBS), and the Motivational Interviewing Importance and Confidence-Efficacy Rating Scale. Data were collected at three time points: immediately before training (pretest), 15 days following completion of the training (post-test), and 4 weeks thereafter (follow-up). Data were evaluated using Student’s t test, Mann–Whitney U test, analysis of variance, Friedman variance test, and intention-to-treat analysis. Results: In the post-test and follow-up evaluations, the experimental group had significantly higher mean scores than the control group in the “Value ascribed to breastfeeding” (p < 0.001 and p = 0.004, respectively) and “Midwife support” (p < 0.001 and p = 0.003, respectively) subdimensions of the PBMS as well as in “Motivational interviewing importance” (p < 0.005) and “Confidence-efficacy rating scale” (p < 0.001). During the follow-up period, the experimental group also showed significantly higher scores in the “Self-efficacy” subdimension (p < 0.001) and total mean scores of the BSES (p = 0.033) and MIBS (p = 0.002) than the control group. However, the “Expectation of success” subdimension score of the PBMS was not significant (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Breastfeeding education using the motivational interviewing technique enhances breastfeeding motivation (including values ascribed to breastfeeding, self-efficacy, and midwife support), breastfeeding self-efficacy, mother–infant bonding, and the importance and confidence-efficacy levels in breastfeeding. © The Author(s) 2026. This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/) which permits non-commercial use, reproduction and distribution of the work without further permission provided the original work is attributed as specified on the SAGE and Open Access pages (https://us.sagepub.com/en-us/nam/open-access-at-sage).

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