Current Attitudes Research Articles

Knowledge and attitudes of medical undergraduate students in Malaysia on people living with human immunodeficiency virus

BackgroundStigmatization related to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) poses significant barriers to optimizing the quality of life for individuals living with HIV (PLHIV). The knowledge and attitudes of medical students towards HIV/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) serve as indicators of the preparedness of future healthcare providers in catering to PLHIV. In Malaysia, the existing information on this topic is outdated. This study aims to understand the current knowledge and attitudes of medical undergraduate students in Malaysia on PLHIV.MethodsA cross-sectional study was executed among medical students (n = 1161) in Malaysia. All medical undergraduates enrolled in accredited public and private medical schools in Malaysia during the study period were considered. A Google form, comprising participant information, consent, and a questionnaire, was disseminated through the social media pages of medical students' associations and representatives from medical schools nationwide.ResultsThe findings indicated a significant correlation between HIV and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) knowledge scores and prior exposure to HIV/AIDS information during medical courses (p < 0.001). Factors such as race, religion, state of origin, type of medical school, year and stage of medical study, personal acquaintances with PLHIV, and encounters with PLHIV throughout the medical course exhibited significant associations with general and medical stigma, as well as emotion and fear scores (p < 0.05). Only race demonstrated a significant association with scores related to the disclosure of HIV/AIDS information (p < 0.05).ConclusionThis study underscores the need to augment HIV/AIDS education among medical undergraduates to mitigate stigma against PLHIV among prospective healthcare providers.

Māori healthcare professionals' perceptions of psychedelic-assisted therapy: a qualitative study.

Psychedelic-assisted therapies are gaining interest as an innovative treatment for problems with mental health and addictions, and there are several clinical trials in this area currently being conducted in Aotearoa New Zealand. However, many stakeholder groups hold concerns about cultural acceptability and safety. While psychedelic substances have a long history overseas in various Indigenous populations for spiritual and ritualistic purposes, their traditional use with Māori in Aotearoa New Zealand is unclear. Given our Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations and the significant health inequities for Māori, any new treatments should be developed considering Te Ao Māori (Māori worldview) perspectives. This study aimed to explore Māori healthcare professionals' current awareness, attitudes and perspectives on psychedelics and psychedelic-assisted therapy. To explore these aims, 13 Māori healthcare professionals were recruited to participate in semi-structured qualitative interviews investigating psychedelic awareness, knowledge and attitudes using Māori health models Te Whare Tapa Whā and Te Wheke as a framework for data collection and analysis. Four key themes were identified, including 1) greater awareness leads to greater openness towards psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT), 2) more research and education about PAT is needed, 3) PAT has the potential to align with Te Ao Māori, and 4) equitable access is critical for Māori. Our sample of Māori healthcare professionals generally supported research investigating psychedelic therapies in Aotearoa New Zealand. Improving awareness of this novel treatment is likely to influence its acceptability as a treatment option and will inform the cultural safety of its use with Māori.

Brain Health Attitudes, Awareness and Actions in Middle-Aged Latinos.

Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) disproportionately impact Latinos in the US. Interventions that promote engagement in established protective behaviors throughout the life course may offer an opportunity to address disparities. To inform brain health promotion efforts, this study aimed to examine current brain health-related attitudes, awareness, and actions of middle-aged Latinos. A cross-sectional, online survey was completed by 200 Latinos 35-64 years old. Survey items assessed concern about ADRD, beliefs related to ways to support brain health, knowledge of protective behaviors, and actual engagement in protective behaviors. Multivariable analyses examined differences in knowledge, attitudinal, and behavioral outcomes by sociodemographic and psychosocial factors including health literacy and health activation. A third (36.0%) of participants were "very concerned" about ADRD. Nearly two thirds (61.0%) "strongly agreed" steps can be taken to reduce risk of ADRD. Less than a third (29.5%) were able to name three steps to support brain health, and 45.5% reported currently engaging in behaviors to support brain health. In multivariable analyses, participants with lower acculturation were more likely to be "very concerned" about ADRD and to "strongly agree" that steps can be taken to support brain health. Participants with low health activation were less likely to agree that steps can be taken. Those who were older and had a family member with ADRD were more likely to be able to name three steps that can be taken. Most middle-aged Latinos believed brain health is actionable, while concern for ADRD, awareness of ways to protect the brain, and engagement in science-based protective behaviors was variable. Opportunities exist for increasing education about well-established modifiable risk factors for ADRD, yet more research is needed to understand these factors in historically minoritized communities.

An investigation into personal data sensitivity in the Internet of Everything—insights from China

The ubiquitous monitoring and collection capabilities of the IoE, as well as its innovative scenarios, have led to changes in the content and type of personal data. Personal data sensitivity, as a standard for measuring privacy attitudes, can provide a reference for the design and improvement of privacy systems. This study aims to evaluate individuals’ personal data sensitivity in the IoE context, to better understand individuals’ current privacy attitudes. This study uses a questionnaire survey to study personal data sensitivity and the antecedents affecting personal data sensitivity among 1921 Chinese citizens. Research suggests that, within the spectrum of 41 personal data categories, identifiers such as ID numbers and home addresses are deemed highly sensitive. Furthermore, within the IoE context, emerging types of personal data, including behavioural and facial recognition data, also demonstrate significant sensitivity. With respect to sensitivity levels, personal data can be categorized into four tiers: very highly sensitive data, highly sensitive data, medium sensitive data, and low sensitive data. The study also finds that perceived privacy risks, privacy concerns, and social influences have a significant impact on personal data sensitivity, and there are differences in public perception of personal data sensitivity among different genders, ages, and educational levels.

Drivers of human attitudes towards wolves Canis lupus in Kazakhstan

Abstract Kazakhstan is recognized as a key stronghold for the grey wolf (Canis lupus). Nonetheless, the wolf status and the dynamics of human‐wolf coexistence in the region remain poorly understood. This study aims to fill that gap by exploring current attitudes towards wolves in Kazakhstan and identify the underlying drivers of these attitudes. We collected information using a survey questionnaire (in person and online) from 1068 individuals across various demographic groups, including rural and urban residents, hunters and livestock owners. The survey was conducted across the country's three main landscapes—steppe, desert and high mountains to ensure a diverse and representative sample of perspectives. Our findings indicate that respondents generally held neutral or positive views about wolves and their presence in Kazakhstan. However, attitudes towards coexistence with wolves in respondents' home regions were notably more negative. Livestock owners exhibited the most antagonistic attitudes towards wolf presence in their home regions. These attitudes were primarily influenced by wildlife value orientations, fear and knowledge of wolf behaviour. Synthesis and applications. Our findings highlight the need for further research to develop strategies for fostering human‐wolf coexistence in Kazakhstan. Key priorities include: (1) investigating the causes and drivers of wolf attacks on humans, with particular attention to the role of rabies; (2) evaluating the effectiveness of traditional and innovative approaches to preventing livestock predation in Kazakh rangelands; and (3) collecting data on wolf distribution and population densities to inform evidence‐based management strategies. These efforts will contribute to the sustainable management of wolf populations, balancing conservation objectives with the concerns of local communities. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

Attitudes of rural Polish population towards Ukrainian migrants

Over the two years, the sentiment and attitudes of Poles towards those who came from Ukraine have evolved. The coexistence of Poles and Ukrainians presents a substantial challenge marked by history, culture, and religion. The aim of the article is to present the attitudes of Poles towards supporting people from Ukraine who came to Poland against the backdrop of the integration of the two nations. The authors attempted to identify factors shaping Poles' attitudes towards migrants from Ukraine in a study titled ‘National Identity of Poles in Light of Migration of Ukrainian Nationals: Prevention of Social Conflicts’. The CATI survey was conducted in March 2023. The independent variables considered relevant under the research design are sex, age, education, and type of residence (village or small town). The authors proposed that the historical and cultural diversity of Poland may affect the current attitudes of Poles towards Ukrainians. Despite the long time since the Ukrainian aggression against Poles, the trauma may still influence relationships. The statistical analysis offers the following conclusions: women demonstrated a less favorable attitude towards Ukrainian refugees than men; young respondents aged 25–34 declared the most negative attitudes; people with higher education declared the most positive attitudes; residents of municipalities where the number of Ukrainians grew assumed less favorable attitudes; the respondents indicated three potential causes of problems for Polish-Ukrainian relationships: mindset differences, historical resentments, and cultural differences. They found religious differences to be much less of a potential problem. The results demonstrate the need to educate Polish society, especially in the eastern region bordering Ukraine. Moreover, residents of rural municipalities where the Ukrainian population grew exhibit more critical attitudes. This suggests a passive approach by municipal authorities to integrating these individuals. The present study should be considered a pilot that needs to be complemented with further in-depth qualitative analyses.

Trends and Insights in Direct Anterior Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Comprehensive Bibliometric Analysis.

Total hip arthroplasty (THA), a commonly performed surgical procedure for management of end-stage osteoarthritis, is considered minimally invasive and the popularity of the direct anterior approach (DAA) is increasing. The objective of this study is to analyze the current literature on DAA THA through conduct of a comprehensive bibliometric analysis. A comprehensive search of the Web of Science Core Collection was conducted for identification of articles published between 1993 and 2022. Specific keywords associated with hip replacement and the anterior approach were used as an attempt to identify articles published in scientific journals. As a result of the analysis, 743 articles were linked to DAA THA. The highest number of annual publications was reported for 2021, with 120 articles, followed by 2022 with 113 articles, 2020 with 104 articles, and 2018 with 69 articles. The United States led in contributions with 34.1% in production. The Medical University of Innsbruck contributed the highest number of studies with 263 articles, followed by the University of Ottawa with 229. The Journal of Arthroplasty emerged as the most influential journal with 903 articles and 4,571 citations. Keywords including "dislocation," "posterior approach," and "revision" were used frequently in 2015-2020, along with the increasing emphasis on perioperative complications and comparing different approaches. The findings of this analysis provide helpful insights into the current attitude regarding DAA THA research, highlighting emerging trends and guiding the direction of future research. The increasing scientific production reflects growing interest in DAA THA.

Experience of Anesthesiology Residents in the conduct of their Research during Residency Training at Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center

Introduction: Research provides a framework for Anesthesia residents who are critical thinkers who approach clinical practice with an open mind. The goal of this study was to determine current attitudes regarding performing research during residency as well as perceived obstacles to doing so. A resident physician should be ready to face the challenges of the growing technology, tons of journals published in different portals, and increasing sophistication of the health care delivery system. Practice-based learning, systems-based practices, and medical knowledge are the vital core directly affected by strong research skill set. Methods: The study was done through a survey of all 15 current residents in Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center Anesthesia Resident. They answered a 13 self-administered survey, which was adopted from previous similar research. Data was collected for 1 week to give time to the busy schedule of the resident. Results: Respondents cited that the lack of time in balancing clinical and research responsibilities is the most common obstacle encountered by 86.7% of respondents. Researchers feel they have inadequate research skills and a lack of time in balancing responsibilities between family and work was among the most common answers by the respondents. 2nd prevalent barrier to research during residency was a lack of mentoring. Conclusion: The top barriers to research are lack of time and inadequate access to research mentors. These barriers can be addressed to optimize the current research environment for residents. Anesthesia residents identified several critical aspects that they believe are obstacles to research. These findings can be used by programs to overcome hurdles and increase the inclusion of research into residency training.

Knowledge and attitudes toward [18F] fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography among non-radiologist medical staff

BackgroundTo investigate the current knowledge and attitudes towards [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) among non-radiologist medical staff in China.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted between November 18, 2022, and December 6, 2022, at the First Affiliated Hospital (Southwest Hospital) of the Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University) among non-radiologist staff (medical, nursing, and others). The questionnaire survey (Cronbach’s α = 0.887) included 28 items: 10 on demographics, 11 on knowledge (maximum score of 22), and seven on attitudes (maximum score of 35). The factors influencing knowledge and attitudes were identified using multivariable logistic regression analysis.ResultsThis study analyzed 631 valid questionnaires. The mean knowledge score was 7.16 ± 6.48 (32.55%), indicating poor knowledge. The mean attitude score was 22.859 ± 2.36 (65.29%), indicating positive attitudes. Nursing (OR = 0.301, 95%CI: 0.159–0.571), other occupations (OR = 0.426, 95%CI: 0.200-0.905), departments with high volumes of PET/CT prescriptions (OR = 0.419, 95%CI: 0.269–0.652), radioprotection training (OR = 2.520, 95%CI: 1.576–4.030), underwent (or a relative) a PET/CT (OR = 1.713, 95%CI: 1.063–2.761), and contact with 1–10 (OR = 2.429, 95%CI: 1.627–3.627) or > 10 (OR = 3.575, 95%CI: 1.762–7.252) patients per month were independently associated with higher knowledge scores. Only the knowledge scores (OR = 1.063, 95%CI: 1.032–1.094) were independently associated with higher attitude scores.ConclusionNon-radiologist medical staff members in China have poor knowledge but positive attitudes toward PET/CT. This study identified knowledge areas worth improving in future training interventions. Radioprotection training appears particularly useful in improving the knowledge of PET/CT, which should translate into more favorable attitudes.Trial registrationNot applicable.

Towards human-centric AI in museums: practitioners’ perspectives and technology acceptance of visitor-centered AI for value (co-)creation

Towards human-centric AI in museums: practitioners’ perspectives and technology acceptance of visitor-centered AI for value (co-)creation

Perceptions of clinicians on promoting oral health care in an alcohol and other drug use health care service: A qualitative study.

Alcohol and illicit drug use is linked to a higher prevalence of oral health complications. However, substance use can lead to avoidance of dental services due to anxiety and competing health priorities. This study explores current knowledge, attitudes and practices of clinicians of an alcohol and other drug service regarding promoting oral health among their clients. Exploratory qualitative design using semi-structured interviews with medical and nursing staff working as alcohol and other drug professionals in a Drug Health Service in South Western Sydney, Australia. Three main themes were identified: perceptions of providing oral health care to clients; barriers to promoting oral health care; and recommendations for oral health integration in alcohol and other drug settings. Oral health concerns were identified as a significant issue for their clients within the alcohol and other drug setting. Considering a higher prevalence of oral health issues among clients, staff acknowledged that oral health interventions within alcohol and other drug settings would be beneficial. Barriers included access challenges for public dental services, affordability of private dental care, limited oral health training and time constraints. Staff recommends that training/resources are required to support staff in the provision of oral health promotion to clients. Clients accessing alcohol and other drug services often have unmet oral health needs. The clinicians who participated in this study, are motivated to provide oral health promotion within this setting, however, they require training, resources (including allocation of time) and appropriate referral pathways to support provision of this service.

A Study on the Beliefs and Attitudes of Nurses in Yunnan Province Towards Nurse Prescriptive Authority

Objective: To investigate the current beliefs and attitudes of nurses in Yunnan Province toward prescriptive authority, analyze the influencing factors, and provide evidence for future research and policy formulation to support the establishment of nurses’ prescriptive authority in China. Method: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 937 nurses in Yunnan Province using the Beliefs and Attitudes Scale on Nurses’ Prescriptive Authority. The scale assessed four dimensions: perceived need, self-efficacy, perceived benefits, and perceived barriers. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to identify factors influencing the overall score and each dimension. Results: The total score of the Beliefs and Attitudes Scale was 89.17 ± 17.69, indicating a moderate level of awareness and positive attitude among nurses. The highest-scoring dimension was perceived benefits (34.94 ± 8.04), while the lowest was perceived barriers (15.23 ± 3.5). Age was identified as a significant factor influencing the overall score and self-efficacy dimension (P &lt; 0.05). Years of practice influenced the perceived benefits dimension (P = 0.051), while gender, age, and professional title were key factors affecting the perceived barriers dimension (P &lt; 0.05). Male nurses and senior nurses demonstrated more caution toward potential risks associated with prescriptive authority. Conclusion: Nurses in Yunnan Province exhibit moderate levels of belief in and attitudes toward prescriptive authority, with age being the most significant influencing factor. Tailored training programs, policy promotion, and practical guidance are recommended to enhance nurses’ understanding and support for prescriptive authority, thereby improving nursing practices and addressing regional healthcare challenges.

Exploring myopia management practices among eye care professionals in India: A knowledge, attitudes, practices, and barriers study

ABSTRACT Clinical relevance Rising myopia prevalence in Indian children necessitates an increase in the number of myopia practitioners across all states to effectively counteract its progression and prevent long-term visual impairment. Purpose There is limited information on how eye care practitioners perceive and practice myopia control treatments in India. This study aimed to assess the current knowledge, attitudes, practices, and barriers to initiating myopia management among eye care practitioners in India. Methods A self-administered online questionnaire was distributed through social media platforms and emails to eye care practitioners from January 8 to 23, 2022. This survey comprised a total of 12 questions to seek information related to knowledge, attitudes, practices, and barriers associated with myopia management. Basic descriptive and percentage analyses were performed. Results Among the 423 respondents, optometrists were 66% (n = 279/423), followed by ophthalmologists (16%, n = 68/423) and trainees involving optometrists and ophthalmologists (18%, n = 76/423). Of all, only 22% (n = 94/423) indicated practicing myopia management. They gained knowledge through scientific articles (71%, n = 300/423), conferences, and continuous professional education (62%, n = 231/423). Low-concentration atropine eye drops are widely considered for myopia control by both optometrists (57%, n = 28/49) and ophthalmologists (97%, n = 38/39), along with behavioural and lifestyle modifications (55%, n = 27/49; 74%, n = 29/39). A smaller proportion preferred to under-correct myopia (20%, n = 19/94) to counteract progression. Among myopia practitioners, combination therapy was recommended by 24% (n = 12/49) of optometrists and 23% (n = 9/39) of ophthalmologists to halt progression if a single modality was ineffective. The major barriers to initiating myopia management were lack of awareness among parents (73%, n = 68/94), lack of education (34%, n = 143/423) and training (26%, n = 112/423) among practitioners, and unavailability of treatment modalities in various regions of India (18%, n = 76/423). Conclusion Only 1 out of 5 practitioners was actively involved in practicing myopia management. Barriers must be minimised through various means to enable routine myopia practice in clinics.

Pharmacists as Gate Keepers in Suicide Prevention: Assessing Support Needs of Pharmacy Teams.

Pharmacists as Gate Keepers in Suicide Prevention: Assessing Support Needs of Pharmacy Teams.

Mental Health and the Menstrual Cycle: Practitioner Attitudes, Confidence, and Practice

There is evidence of significant fluctuations in mental health symptoms across the menstrual cycle, however it is not clear whether mental health practitioners routinely address this with their clients. This study aimed to explore the current practice, confidence, and attitudes of mental health professionals in considering the role of the menstrual cycle in their clients’ mental health. Mental health professionals working in Australia (N = 197) responded to an online survey. Findings indicate that while many mental health professionals are relatively confident in discussing the menstrual cycle it is not consistently common practice. Of eight psychological variables, participants perceived mood symptoms as most important to address in relation to client’s menstrual cycle, while risk to others and psychotic symptoms were perceived as least important. In terms of barriers to discussing the menstrual cycle, four categories of barriers identified were: lack of knowledge and training; not considering it to be relevant; shame and discomfort; practical barriers. Two categories relating to additional resources required to support this practice were: training and practical tools. Training opportunities, practice guidelines, and resources are required to support practitioners in considering and discussing the menstrual cycle with mental health clients.

The Use and Understanding of Mild Cognitive Impairment in Routine Specialist Care: A Survey Among German Memory Clinics.

Objectives: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a heterogeneous clinical syndrome and is important for the diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease (AD). With the expansion of biomarker-based diagnostics, the aim of this study is to clarify the current attitudes towards and the use of MCI, and MCI due to AD, in German memory clinics. Methods: An online survey (50 items) was performed in 2022 among specialized clinicians (N = 45) in German memory clinics to assess the use of MCI and biomarkers in current diagnosis and treatment. Attitudinal and frequency items were assessed with a five-point numeric scale (strongly disagree = 1 to completely agree = 5 and never = 1 to always = 5, respectively). Results: All respondents used MCI as a clinical diagnosis. The benefits of diagnosing MCI were labeling deficits as disease symptoms (M = 4.4, SD = 0.7), improving coping with symptoms (M = 4.1, SD = 0.9), and motivating risk reduction activities (M = 4.0, SD = 0.9). Overall, 37 respondents used specialized diagnostic criteria for MCI due to AD, and all had access to biomarker diagnostics. Patients with MCI due to AD received more frequent counseling on memory training (p < 0.001), other non-pharmacological treatments (p < 0.001), and antidementive drug treatment (p < 0.001) than patients with MCI of other etiologies. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors were prescribed significantly more frequently to patients with MCI due to AD (p < 0.001) compared to other MCI patients. Conclusions: MCI is commonly used as a clinical diagnosis in German memory clinics. AD biomarker assessment is well established and influences patient counseling and treatment recommendations.

Current surgical practices and attitudes toward pilonidal sinus disease among Russian surgeons: A national survey.

Pilonidal sinus disease (PSD), also known as pilonidal disease, is a common chronic disorder in coloproctology and general surgery. It predominantly affects young male patients and is typically located in the sacrococcygeal region. Nowadays, various approaches are used to address this condition, but no consensus on a gold standard has been established. The aim of this study was to analyse and assess current PSD practice, diagnostic and surgical approaches, training and attitudes among Russian surgeons. A comprehensive online survey comprising 35 structured questions was developed by the Russian Society of Colorectal Surgeons and distributed to its members. The survey targeted colorectal and general surgeons and collected data on demographics, professional experience, surgical training, PSD management practices and both elective and abscess surgery techniques. Categorical data are reported as frequencies and percentages. Of the 158 respondents, the vast majority were coloproctologists and general surgeons (n = 152, 96%) with over 10 years of experience (n = 110, 69.6%) and performing 10-50 operations per year. The most popular surgical procedures were excision with midline closure (68%), open healing (62%) and marsupialization (59%). PSD-associated abscesses were managed through incision and drainage by 81 surgeons (51%). About half of surgeons had access to laser therapy for treating PSD, but sinus laser-assisted closure was used by only 16%. Most surgeons had received training in PSD surgery under specialist supervision and felt sufficiently trained. Our findings suggest that PSD surgery in Russia has not yet shifted from midline excisions to off-midline flap procedures and minimally invasive surgery. This study calls for attention to this underprioritized group of patients and underscores the importance of developing national guidelines in Russia.

Impact of Critical Infrastructure Cyber Security on the Sustainable Development of Smart Cities: Insights from Internal Specialists and External Information Security Auditors

This study aims to describe and assess the impact of critical infrastructure (CI) cybersecurity issues on the sustainable development of smart cities. This study highlights the integration of PayTech systems into the broader CI landscape, highlighting their impact on maintaining economic stability and ensuring the smooth operation of city services. Key companies within smart regions, particularly those operating in the payment industries, are essential to maintaining the functionality of critical services. These companies facilitate the processing of services provided to citizens, enabling access to vital municipal services. As key players in the PayTech and online e-commerce sectors, they form a crucial part of modern critical infrastructure, operating within an ever-evolving digital environment. This study examines the recovery processes employed after cyberattacks, focusing on the differing perspectives of internal and external professionals. It identifies significant differences in the perceptions of recovery strategies among internal stakeholders, such as investor relations (IR) teams, reputation management (RM) experts, and Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs), who represent critical infrastructure companies. Additionally, it explores the roles of external auditors, who provide impartial emergency support and perform specialized recovery tasks. Importantly, this study underscores the current attitudes toward future information security strategies and their influence on the financial recovery and reputation of reliable companies following cyber incidents. This research contributes to the existing knowledge by shedding light on the perspectives of both a company’s internal and external specialists involved in the recovery process and cyber resilience strategies in critical infrastructure sectors.

Yan and Ying Today

The author, an instructor in nutrition in the home economics department of Queens College of the City University of New York, visited China in the summer of 1980. She took advantage of the opportunity to question various kinds of people about current Chinese attitudes to the principles of Yin and Yang (the two opposing forces which, according to the Tao philosophy, must be balanced in the diet to maintain good health). The responses varied from surprise that anyone should still see any significance in an such an old-fashioned concept to assurances that it goes without saying that the balance between yin and yang must constantly be maintained. Rather bewildering. But this informal questioning took place against the background of a systematic study, conducted by means of carefully composed written questionnaires, directed at Chinese people in China, in Hong Kong and in the United States, which produced a reasonably coherent pattern. In this essay, based on a paper recently delivered to a conference on Asian studies in New York, Elaine Kris explains her findings on a subject which seems still to be fundamental to an understanding of the cuisines of China and of the overseas Chinese.

Current practices, training gaps, and attitudes toward dermoscopy among UK plastic surgeons

Current practices, training gaps, and attitudes toward dermoscopy among UK plastic surgeons