Variation of radiation-induced effects in poly(epichlorohydrin-co-ethylene oxide-co-allyl glycidyl ether) (GECO) terpolymers as a function of molecular and structural architecture

The aim of this study was to investigate how radiation-induced effects vary in poly (epichlorohydrin-co-ethylene oxide-co-allyl glycidyl ether) (GECO) terpolymers based on their molecular and structural architecture. To modify the molecular and structural features, we examined GECO terpolymers with different molecular weights and varying ratios of epichlorohydrin (ECH), ethylene oxide (EO), and allyl glycidyl ether (AGE) in their chain structure. Polymers were irradiated at room temperature with accelerated electrons within an absorbed dose range of 0-100 kGy. Before analyzing the effects of ionizing radiation on the terpolymers, a comprehensive characterization of GECO terpolymers was performed using spectroscopic and chromatographic methods. Additionally, previously unknown physicochemical parameters, such as the solubility parameter and Mark-Houwink constants, were identified. The effects of irradiation on the chain structure of the terpolymers were examined using sol-gel, rheological, and spectroscopic methods. It was found that all terpolymers rapidly undergo cross-linking up to a certain dose. Beyond this dose, there is a slight chain scission as the dose increases; however, the gelation percentage up to 100 kGy remains mostly unchanged. It has been observed that the gelation tendency of GECO terpolymers depends on their molecular structure, and the gelation ratio increases with the increase in the AGE content. Using the Charlesby-Pinner and Charlesby-Rosiak equations for each terpolymer, the chain scission and crosslink yield ratio (po/qo), gelation dose (Dg), and virtual gelation dose (Dv) were determined and the effect of ionizing radiation on these terpolymers-whose use has increased in recent years-was analyzed. This study also examined the impact of ionizing radiation on physicochemical parameters such as the Flory constant and solubility parameter, as well as the changes induced in the chemical structure through swelling analyses and spectroscopic analyses, respectively. As a result of the interaction with radiation, the changes observed in the chemical structure particularly in chloride, allyl, and methyl groups were evaluated using FTIR, and a mechanism was proposed for how GECO terpolymers can be cross-linked through radiation

Cultural Intelligence and Migration Intentions Among Nursing and Midwifery Students in Southeastern Region of Turkey: A Correlational Study

Aim: This study explores the relationship between cultural intelligence and attitudes towards the intention to migrate among nursing and midwifery students. Methods: Using a correlational design, data were collected from 804 students through the Student Descriptive Form, The Attitude Scale for Brain Drain in Nursing Students and the Cultural Intelligence Scale. The analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics and AMOS, employing structural equation modelling and analysis of variance. Results: The majority of participants were female (84.8%) and Turkish citizens (89.1%). The findings showed that both cultural intelligence levels and attitudes towards brain drain were above average. A positive correlation was identified between cultural intelligence and attitudes towards the intention to migrate. Conclusion: Enhancing cultural intelligence through intercultural education, overseas experiences and multilingual proficiency is essential. The study underscores the critical need for policy reforms aimed at improving working conditions in low-income countries and addressing the challenges posed by the intention to migrate. Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care: Incorporating cultural intelligence training into nursing and midwifery curricula is essential for preparing students to work in multicultural healthcare settings. Educational reforms are needed to equip future healthcare professionals with the skills required for diverse patient care. Additionally, policy interventions aimed at improving working conditions and offering better incentives in low-income regions are critical to mitigating brain drain by addressing the root causes of migration among skilled healthcare workers. Impact: The study underscores the role of cultural intelligence in shaping the migration intentions of nursing and midwifery students. It highlights how higher levels of cultural intelligence correlate with more positive attitudes towards migration, suggesting that culturally adept healthcare professionals may be more inclined to seek international opportunities. Reporting Method: This study adhered to the STROBE guidelines for reporting observational studies. Patient or Public Contribution: No patient or public contribution

Heavy metal levels in postmortem blood samples: Unraveling links to suicide and neurological impacts

Objective: The study investigates the relationship between heavy metal exposure and suicidal behavior. Specifically, it examines whether postmortem blood levels of heavy metals and trace elements can serve as distinguishing factors in suicide cases. Methods: A total of 108 postmortem cases were examined, consisting of 70 suicide cases and 38 non-suicidal control cases. Blood samples were collected and analyzed for Chromium (Cr), Manganese (Mn), Cadmium (Cd), Antimony (Sb), Lead (Pb), Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn), Selenium (Se), Molybdenum (Mo), Cobalt (Co), Arsenic (As), Nickel (Ni), and Mercury (Hg) using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Statistical analyses, including Mann-Whitney U tests and multivariate linear regression, were performed to assess differences between the groups. Results: Significant differences in the levels of Cu, Zn, Mo, Co, and As were observed between the suicide and control groups. Individuals residing in urban areas showed higher levels of Cd and Hg compared to those in rural areas. Elevated concentrations of heavy metals and trace elements, particularly Cd, Hg, Cu, Zn, and As, were associated with suicide cases. Conclusion: The study suggests that heavy metal exposure, especially in urban environments, may play a significant role in suicidal behavior. The findings highlight the potential of certain heavy metal and trace element levels in postmortem blood samples as distinctive markers for suicide cases

Effects of 10 weeks of walking-based exercise training on resting substrate oxidation in postmenopausal women with obesity

Background and aims: Accumulating evidence supports the effectiveness of moderate-intensity aerobic training on metabolic health, with limited studies investigating change in resting substrate oxidation. The aim of this study was to explore whether 10 weeks of walking-based aerobic training would alter substrate oxidation in postmenopausal women with obesity. Methods and results: Twenty-four postmenopausal women with obesity who were assigned into the control (n = 12) or exercise groups (n = 12) undertook a 10-week aerobic training program (3 dweek-1) that involved walking exercises at 50-70% of heart rate reserve on a treadmill, with exercise volume increased from 25 to 40 minday-1. Resting metabolic rate (RMR) and body composition were measured pre- and post-training. Whole-body substrate oxidation was calculated using respiratory data collected during RMR measurement via indirect calorimetry. No significant change was noted (p > 0.05) in resting fat oxidation and carbohydrate oxidation in the exercise group. Resting respiratory exchange ratio and RMR did not alter in response to the training program (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Our results show that a 10-week of moderate-intensity aerobic training does not modify substrate oxidation in postmenopausal women with obesity

Examination of Physical Fitness and Nutritional Status in Geriatric Individuals with and without Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Aims: The aim of our study is to examine the physical fitness and nutritional status of geriatric individuals with and without Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). Methods: A total of 80 geriatric individuals, 40 with and 40 without Type 2 DM, aged 65-75, participated in the study. Geriatric individuals in both groups were evaluated with physical fitness tests and Mini Nutrition Assesment-Short Form (MNA-SF) was evaluated. Body mass index values (BMI) of the participants were calculated and their nutrition consumption was analyzed by taking 3-day nutrition consumption records. Results: The average age of the geriatric individuals participating in the study was 68.78 +/- 6.25. A statistically significant difference was found between the groups in terms of physical fitness, MNA-SF, BMI and energy-nutrient intake (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Geriatric individuals with Type 2 DM had worse physical fitness and nutritional status than those without Type 2 DM, but their protein intakes (gram/kilogram/day) were better than those without Type 2 DM

The risk factors for preschoolers' behavioral problems in a low/middle-income country

BackgroundChildren have a greater risk of mental health problems in low/middle-income countries. Determining the risk factors and earlier identification of young children at high risk for behavioral problems are central to cost-effective intervention with positive long-term outcomes. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence and risk factors of behavioral problems of preschoolers in three different cities located in eastern, western, and central T & uuml;rkiye, a low/middle-income country.MethodsIn total, 300 children (4-6 years old) without any chronic diseases participated the study. The parents completed the Children's Behavior Checklist/4-18 (CBCL/4-18), the Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and the Beck Depression Inventory. Daily activities were evaluated using questionnaires that were specifically developed for the present study.ResultsBased on the CBCL4-18, 12.3% of children were at high risk for behavioral problems. Paternal unemployment, screen time, maternal depressive symptoms, and maternal and child sleep problems were associated with internalizing behavioral problems; maternal depressive symptoms and watching videos on touch-screen devices were associated with externalizing behavioral problems. Total behavioral problems were associated with maternal unemployment, maternal depressive symptoms, being the eldest child, and child sleep problems.ConclusionPreventable risk factors such as daily activities and maternal mental health should be evaluated as well as sociodemographic factors among preschoolers who may be at high risk of behavioral problems. The results of this study contribute toward drawing attention to preventable risk factors in a low/middle-income country