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IntroductionSexually transmitted infections (STIs) cause a wide range of public health problems if left untreated. They can lead to adverse birth outcomes, including stillbirth, fetal loss, neonatal death, preterm birth, and low birth weight. Although great efforts have been made to reduce STIs nationally, their incidence remains high in Ethiopia, and their co-infection calls for urgent action. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the determinants of three STIs among pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) in the context of the elimination of mother-to-child transmission in public health facilities in Sawla Town, Gofa zone, Southern Ethiopia.MethodsA cross-sectional study design was conducted among pregnant women attending antenatal care in public health facilities in Sawla Town, Southern Ethiopia, from May to July 2022. Data were collected from pregnant women’s serum using an HIV rapid test, an HBsAg rapid test device, and a VDRL for HIV, HBV, and syphilis, respectively. Descriptive statistics, such as frequencies and percentages, were used to describe each relevant variable. Logistic regression analyses were used to identify the determinants of STIs.ResultsA total of 484 pregnant women attending antenatal care were screened. The mean age of the women was 24.0 ± 4.6 years, and nearly half of the participants had completed secondary school or higher. The overall seroprevalence of three STIs (HIV, HBV, and syphilis) among pregnant women was 6.8%. These three sexually transmitted infections were shown to be more common among pregnant women who were not able to read and write, had tattoos, had previously had an abortion, and had a history of multiple sexual partners.ConclusionsThe seroprevalence found in this study was intermediate in comparison with the WHO standard. Efforts should be made to strengthen the existing health education and RH service integration on STI screening, and treatment that further eliminates vertical infection.

Reviews advantages and disadvantages of questionnaires for continuing-education needs-assessment. Outlines considerations for effective questionnaire design--understanding the learning context and how learning and change occur in medical practice--as well as practical strategies for instrument development. (SK)

ABSTRACT Objective: To validate a risk rating scale for triaging of cancer patients in emergency rooms that can identify individuals needing urgent care or in imminent worsening of the clinical condition. Methods: This is a health instrument validation study developed in the emergency care ward of a Brazilian hospital, a referral center for cancer and hematological diseases. We built the Emergency Oncology Scale (EMOnco) based on literature review and a Delphi survey with 20 experienced oncologists (physicians and nurses). We validated the scale by assessing its construct validity, interobserver agreement and reliability after applying them in a convenience sample of all consecutive patients with cancer who visited the ward between August 2017 and January 2018. We compared the EMOnco Scores with those from other scales, used by six trained nurses: the Emergency Severity Index, the Manchester Triage System, and the Karnofsky Performance Status. We also recorded socio-demographic and clinical features and the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) results in the intensive care unit. Results: We included 250 patients with locally advanced or recurrent disease and undergoing chemotherapy. EMOnco screening took 2.24 (± 2.9) minutes in average. The interobserver correlation coefficient was 0.9. EMOnco was highly correlated with Emergency Severity Index (r=0.617) and also correlated with Karnofsky Performance Status (0.420) Manchester Triage System (0.491; p

Background: A holistic approach to emergency care treatment planning is needed to ensure that patients’ preferences are considered should their clinical condition deteriorate. To address this, emergency care and treatment plans (ECTPs) have been introduced. Little is known about their use in general practice. Aim: To find out GPs’ experiences of, and views on, using ECTPs. Design & setting: Online survey of GPs practising in England. Method: A total of 841 GPs were surveyed using the monthly online survey provided by medeConnect, a market research company. Results: Forty-one per cent of responders' practices used Recommended Summary Plan for Emergency Care and Treatment (ReSPECT) plans for ECTP, 8% used other ECTPs, and 51% used Do Not Attempt Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (DNACPR) forms. GPs were the predominant professional group completing ECTPs in the community. There was broad support for a wider range of community-based health and social care professionals being able to complete ECTPs. There was no system for reviewing ECTPs in 20% of responders’ practices. When compared with using a DNACPR form, GPs using a ReSPECT form for ECTP were more comfortable having conversations about emergency care treatment with patients (odds ratio [OR] = 1.72, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.1 to 2.69) and family members (OR =1.85, 95% CI = 1.19 to 2.87). Conclusion: The potential benefits and challenges of widening the pool of health and social care professionals initiating and/or completing the ECTP process needs consideration. ReSPECT plans appear to make GPs more comfortable with ECTP discussions, supporting their implementation. Practice-based systems for reviewing ECTP decisions should be strengthened.

The article presents a study which investigates the proliferation and territorial expansion of the waterbird Australian White Ibis or Threskiornis molucca in eastern Australia. Topics discussed include the potential impact of increased ibis population on urban areas near the coast of eastern Australia, the use of field survey techniques and the t-test statistical method used in the study, and an analysis of the results.

Objetivo: caracterizar las gestantes con preeclampsia severa y su calidad de vida en una institución de alta complejidad obstétrica. Metodología: estudio observacional descriptivo. Se incluyeron gestantes con preeclampsia severa hospitalizadas entre enero a octubre del 2020. Se utilizó el cuestionario EuroQOL-5D-3L al ingreso y egreso para la medición de calidad de vida. Resultados: el 75 % tenían 33 años o menos, el 25 % de ellas con embarazos a término, de forma predominante de procedencia rural y bajo nivel socioeconómico. El criterio de severidad más frecuente fue la cefalea moderada-grave y presión arterial >160/110mmHg. A lo largo de la estancia se presentó una tendencia a la mejoría del dolor-malestar y ansiedad-depresión, mientras que la movilidad, cuidado personal y realización de actividades cotidianas presentaron una tendencia a la desmejora. Conclusiones: la preeclampsia severa no solo afecta clínicamente al binomio materno fetal, sino también sus dimensiones psicosociales. Se deben dirigir esfuerzos para una atención segura y humanizada con altos estándares de control del dolor y detección precoz de ansiedad-depresión, que apunten a una mayor calidad de vida de las gestantes con preeclampsia.

BackgroundThe role of pelvic irradiation in men receiving external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) for prostate cancer is unclear, in part due to a lack of data on patient-reported outcomes. We sought to compare functional outcomes for men receiving prostate and pelvic versus prostate-only radiotherapy, longitudinally over 5 years.Materials and methodsWe performed a population-based, prospective cohort study of men with clinically-localized prostate cancer undergoing EBRT. We examined the effect of prostate and pelvic (n = 102) versus prostate-only (n = 485) radiotherapy on patient-reported disease-specific (using the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite[EPIC]-26) and general health-related (using the SF-36) function, over 5 years. Regression models were adjusted for outcome-specific baseline function, clinicopathologic characteristics, and androgen deprivation therapy (ADT).Results587 men (median [quartiles] age 69 [64-73] years) met inclusion criteria and completed ≥1 post-treatment survey. More men treated with prostate and pelvic radiotherapy had high-risk disease (58% vs. 18%, P < 0.01) and received ADT (75% vs. 41%, P < 0.01). These men reported worse sexual (6 months-5 years), hormonal (at 6 months), and physical (6 months-5 years) function. Accounting for baseline function, patient and tumor characteristics, and use of ADT, pelvic irradiation was not associated with statistically or clinically significant differences in bowel function, urinary incontinence, irritative voiding symptoms or sexual function through 5-years (all P > 0.05). Marginally clinically important differences were noted in hormonal function at 3-years (adjusted mean difference 4.7, 95% confidence interval [1.2-8.3]; minimally clinically important difference (MCID) 4 to 6) and 5-years (4.2, [0.4-8.0]) following treatment. After adjustment, there was a transient statistically significant, but not clinically important, difference in emotional well-being at 6 months (3.0, [0.19-5.8]; MCID 6) that resolved by 1 year and no differences in physical functioning or energy and fatigue.ConclusionThis prospective, population-based cohort study of men with localized prostate cancer treated with EBRT, showed no clinically important differences in disease-specific or general health-related quality of life with the addition of pelvic irradiation to prostate radiotherapy, supporting the use of pelvic radiotherapy when it may be of clinical benefit, such as men with increased risk of nodal involvement.

Abstract Objectives To determine the perspective of final-year medical students on the use of computed tomography (CT) in patients with sepsis. Methods A total of 207 questionnaires were distributed to final-year medical students at a large university medical center, and 113 returned questionnaires met the criteria for inclusion in the analysis. Questions referred to sepsis guidelines, CT indications, and the use of contrast agents. Control variables included a level of practical experience as a final-year student (trimester of student’s practical year) and previous radiological experience. Statistical hypothesis tests such as the Mann-Whitney U test and chi-square test were performed. Results The majority of participating students, 85% (n = 91/107), considered a Systemic Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score ≥ 2 as a diagnostic criterion for sepsis. The presence of ≥ 2 positive systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) criteria was considered relevant for diagnosing sepsis by 34% (n = 34/100). Ninety-nine percent (n = 64/65) of the participants who fully agreed with a SOFA score ≥ 2 being relevant for diagnosing sepsis would also use it as an indication for a CT scan. Seventy-six percent (n = 78/103) of the students rated a known severe allergic reaction to contrast agents as an absolute contraindication for its administration. Ninety-five percent (n = 78/82) considered radiation exposure as problematic in CT examinations, especially in repeat CTs. Conclusion Most final-year medical students were familiar with the sepsis criteria. Still, some referred to outdated diagnostic criteria. Participants saw the ability to plan further patient management based on CT as a major benefit. Most participants were aware of radiation as a risk of CT. Critical relevance statement More detailed knowledge of CT in septic patients should be implemented in the medical curriculum. Retraining of medical students could help increase student confidence potentially improving patient care. Key points 1. Whereas the majority of final-year medical students were familiar with sepsis criteria, some referred to outdated diagnostic criteria. 2. Participants saw the ability to plan further patient management based on CT as a major benefit. 3. Most participants were aware of radiation as a risk of CT. Graphical Abstract

Context: Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic, the education system swiftly shifted to online mode. Aims: To understand the attitude, comfortability, challenges, and health issues faced by dental students during online classes. Settings and Design: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among dental undergraduate students in Haryana. Materials and Methods: A self-designed questionnaire survey form having five sections and 28 questions was used. Statistical Analysis Used: The content validity index was 0.88. Cronbach's alpha coefficient for attitude was 0.844, and 0.905 for health issues. Descriptive statistics and frequency distribution were studied. Results: The response rate was 94.25%. Most students reported that they find it difficult to concentrate during online classes and strongly agreed that learning is better during offline classes. Practical classes were a bigger challenge in online mode. Conclusions: The majority of students preferred offline classes to online classes.

Background and Aims: Rapid Sequence Induction (RSI) is an established technique to secure the airway in patients who are at risk of aspiration. The practice of RSI in the pediatric population is highly variable due to numerous patient factors. We conducted a survey to find the prevalent practices and adherence of anesthesiologists to the practice of RSI in different pediatric age groups and whether it differs with the experience of the anesthesiologist or the age of the child. Material and Methods: The survey was conducted among residents and consultants attending the pediatric national anesthesia conference. The questionnaire consisted of 17 questions on anesthesiologist's experience, adherence, conduct of pediatric RSI, and the reason for nonadherence. Results: The response rate was 75% (192/256). Anesthetists having less than 10 years of experience adhered to RSI more often as compared to respondents with more experience. Succinylcholine was the most commonly used muscle relaxant for induction, with use increasing in higher age groups. The application of cricoid pressure increased with increasing age groups. Anesthetists with >10 years of experience used cricoid pressure more often in age groups of

Background: Diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) vary among countries in terms of availability of modalities, affordability of health care resource, health care policy and cultural background. This may be the case in different countries in Eastern Asia. The aim of this study was to determine and understand the differences in diagnostic and therapeutic strategies of IBD between Japan and the rest of Asian countries (ROA)., Methods: Questionnaires with regard to clinical practice in IBD were distributed to members of the International Gastroenterology Consensus Symposium Study Group. The responders were allowed to select multiple items for each question, as multiple modalities are frequently utilized in the diagnosis and the management of IBD. Dependency and independency of selected items for each question were evaluated by the Bayesian network analysis., Results: The selected diagnostic modalities were not very different between Japan and ROA, except for those related to small bowel investigations. Balloon-assisted enteroscopy and small bowel follow through are frequently used in Japan, while CT/MR enterography is popular in ROA. Therapeutic modalities for IBD depend on availability of such modalities in clinical practice. As far as modalities commonly available in both regions are concerned, there seemed to be similarity in the selection of each therapeutic modality. However, evaluation of dependency of separate therapeutic modalities by Bayesian network analysis disclosed some difference in therapeutic strategies between Japan and ROA., Conclusion: Although selected modalities showed some similarity, Bayesian network analysis elicited certain differences in the clinical approaches combining multiple modalities in various aspects of IBD between Japan and ROA., (© 2016 S. Karger AG, Basel.)

Resumen: Objetivo: Los Registros de Mortalidad (RM) codifican las causas de muerte para la elaboración de la estadística de defunciones según la causa de muerte del Instituto Nacional de Estadística (INE). Esta actividad puede mejorarse por búsqueda documental y formación médica. Nuestro objetivo fue analizar el perfil profesional y las actividades de los RM. Método: Se diseñó una encuesta que fue distribuida en febrero de 2021. Sus dominios fueron perfil profesional, actividades de mejora, docencia y publicación. Participaron 16/18 RM. Se realizó un análisis de agrupamientos. Resultados: Once RM pertenecen a Salud Pública. Cinco disponen de convenio con el INE. El 39% impartieron formación. El 56% realizaban publicaciones. Diez mejoraban las causas de muerte. El 17% verificaban la codificación automática. El análisis de agrupaciones partió de 5/16 grupos. Conclusiones: Los RM son heterogéneos en cuanto a profesionales, calidad y publicaciones. Homogenizar implicaría la búsqueda documental, un único convenio con el INE e impartir formación médica sistémica. Abstract: Objective: The mortality registries (MR) code death causes for the elaboration of the mortality statistics of the Spanish National Institute of Statistics (INE). Documentary research and medical training can improve this activity. Our objective was to analyse the professional profile and activities of the MR. Method: A survey was designed and distributed in February 2021. Professional profile, quality activities, medical training, and regular publications were the major topics. 16/18 MR participated. A cluster analysis was performed. Results: Eleven registries belong to Public Health. Five have an INE agreement, 39% provided training, and 56% made regular publications. Ten improved the causes of death, and 17% reviewed the automatic coding. The cluster analysis started from 5/16 groups of registries. Conclusions: The MR were heterogeneous in professionals, quality and publications. Homogeneity implies documentary search, a sole INE agreement, and providing systemic medical training.

Abstract Objectives While magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is considered the gold standard for the imaging of female pelvis, there is an ongoing debate about the most appropriate indications and optimal imaging protocols. The European Society of Urogenital Radiology (ESUR) launched a survey to evaluate the current utilization of female pelvic MRI in clinical practice. Methods The ESUR female imaging subgroup developed an online survey that was then approved by the ESR board and circulated among the ESR members. The questions in the survey encompassed training and experience, indications for imaging and MR imaging protocols, reporting styles and preferences. The results of the survey were tabulated, and subgroups were compared using χ 2 test. Results A total of 5900 ESR members with an interest in both MRI and female pelvic imaging were invited to participate; 840 (14.23%) members completed the survey. Approximately 50% of respondents were academic radiologists (50.6%) and nearly 60% women (59.69%). One third of the respondents were subspecialized in Gynecological imaging. Nearly half of the survey participants were aware of the presence of ESUR guidelines for imaging of the female pelvis (47.1%). The adoption of the ESUR recommendations was higher among subspecialized and/or academic and/or senior and/or European radiologists compared to all others. The current ESUR recommendations about female pelvic MRI protocols were generally followed. However wide variations in practice were identified with respect to the use of contrast media. Conclusion Female pelvic MRI protocol was generally following the ESUR recommendations, especially among subspecialized and academic radiologists. However, the fact that they are followed by only half of the participants highlights the need for wider awareness of these recommendations.

Background/Aim. Good undergraduate education is necessary to overcome the reluctance of dentists to use the rubber dam (RD). The aim of the study was to assess dental students’ knowledge, training skills, attitudes, and opinions concerning the use of RD in order to isolate an operation field. Methods. A 34-item original questionnaire was distributed to 130 final-year students of the Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Belgrade. The questions were divided into four segments: general information, RD-related knowledge and training skills, opinions and attitudes regarding the use of RD, and opinions on the intended future use of RD. Results. All students confirmed that they had theoretical lessons about RD and that its advantages were pointed out. During practical courses, 34% of students observed RD placement and 10% of them placed RD on their own or with assistance. Most (88%) of the students did not feel capable of using RD on their own. Less than half of the students (38%) believed that adequate isolation of the operating field is possible without RD. Sixty-four percent of students considered that RD was not uncomfortable for the patients. More than half of the students were willing to use RD in their future practice. Almost all of them planned to gain additional postgraduate training with RD. Conclusion. Students have solid theoretical knowledge about RD; they are aware of its importance and have a positive attitude toward RD use. However, their practical training and skills are poor and insufficient for independent RD use in order to isolate an operation field.