Field Of Health Research Articles

Does the transition from face-to-face to face-to-screen improve oral health literacy? A non-inferiority randomized controlled trial

BackgroundIn recent years, more attention has been paid to virtual education methods in the field of oral health. Oral health literacy (OHL) plays a major role in reducing oral health inequalities. Individuals with inadequate health literacy are more susceptible to oral disorders. This study was a parallel randomized controlled trial with a non-inferiority design that aimed to compare a virtual educational intervention with traditional in-person education to improve OHL.MethodsThis study was conducted in adults visiting a university dental school, from February 2022 to May 2023. After the inclusion and exclusion criteria were checked and informed consent was obtained, the participants were randomly allocated into two groups by balanced block randomization. One group received in-person education in the waiting room, and the other received an educational video through an online messenger. The Oral Health Literacy Adult Questionnaire (OHL-AQ) assessed participants’ OHL levels before, immediately after, and three months after the intervention. The researchers who analysed the data were blinded. Generalized estimating equation (GEE) analysis was used to compare the groups (P < 0.05). The non-inferiority margin was determined using the fixed-margin method.ResultsIn total, 149 individuals participated. Seventy-five patients were randomly allocated to the in-person group, and 74 were allocated to the virtual group; their data were analysed. GEE analysis revealed no significant difference in the change of OHL scores immediately after the intervention between the two groups (P = 0.07). However, at the three-month follow-up, the in-person group exhibited a significantly greater improvement in OHL scores compared to the virtual group (P = 0.03). After three months, virtual education was inferior to in-person education, unlike in the immediate post-test.ConclusionAfter three months, an online video sent in a messenger environment was less effective than traditional in-person education in improving OHL.Trial registrationThe trial protocol was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT) on 08–02-2022, (IRCT20220106053643N1||http://www.irct.ir/).

Impact of Racial Bias on Providers' Empathic Communication Behaviors with Women of Color in Postpartum Checkup.

Racial bias in healthcare settings can manifest as biased communication, discriminatory treatment, lower quality of care, and a lack of empathy toward women of color [WoC; Nong et al. in JAMA Netw Open 3:e2029650-e2029650, 1; McLemore et al. in Soc Sci Med 201:127-135, 2; Hagiwara et al. in Patient Educ Couns 102:1738-1743, 3]. Despite a large body of research on racial bias, more research is needed to understand how bias translates into specific communication behaviors to develop interventions that reduce racial mistreatment in communication with WoC (Hagiwara et al. in Patient Educ Couns 102:1738-1743, 3). This study contributes to the existing research by exploring the impact of colorblind racial ideology (i.e., the denial and minimization of racism) and ethnocultural empathy (i.e., the ability to understand and relate to others from different ethnic or cultural groups) on health providers' observed empathic communication behaviors. Providers were recruited through US hospital listservs. Inclusion criteria required that participants work in the field of maternal health. A total of 65 healthcare providers completed a survey, which included measures of colorblindness and ethnocultural empathy, and simulated interaction over HIPAA Zoom with trained actors playing patients. Participants were randomly assigned to administer the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale to a Black, Asian, or White patient in a simulated postpartum 4-week checkup. Path analyses were conducted using Mplus. Findings indicated that colorblind racial ideology and ethnocultural empathy were associated with racially biased reasoning, which in turn was related to a lack of providers' empathic communication behaviors. Study findings suggest racial bias can lead to less empathic patient-provider communication interaction and support changes aimed at both reducing racial bias and increasing empathic interaction.

The top 100 cited papers on mental health and virtual reality: a bibliometric analysis

ABSTRACT Virtual reality technology has been widely applied in the field of mental health research. However, to date, no study has employed bibliometric methods to systematically analyze the application of virtual reality in mental health. By searching the Web of Science Core Collection, we have summarized the top 100 cited papers in this field and conducted the first bibliometric study on mental health and virtual reality using CiteSpace. The results indicate that this area has received considerable attention. The United States stands out as the most influential country. The University of London and Emory University are the leading contributing institutions. Rothbaum BO is the most productive author, and Cyberpsychology, Behavior, And Social Networking, is the journal with the most publications in this area. The primary focus of research in this domain is on virtual reality therapy for mental disorders, especially virtual reality exposure therapy for anxiety disorders. These findings may help researchers understand the current state and future trends in the field of mental health and virtual reality.

Genomic insights into habitat adaptation of Lactobacillus species

Lactobacillus is one of the most important genera within the lactic acid bacteria group, due to its importance in the food industry and the health field. This diversity can be explained either by their radiation in different environments or by the domestication process in artificial habitats, such as fermented foods. In this study, we performed a comparative genomic analysis of 1020 Lactobacillus genomes, categorizing them into five broad habitats: insects, vertebrates (including humans and animals), vegetables, free-living environments, and dairy products. Utilizing phylogenetic relationships, genomic distances, and gene presence/absence profiles, we identified distinct clustering patterns associated with specific environmental adaptations. Notably, species within the Lactobacillus delbrueckii clade exhibited GC content variations fivefold greater than those observed in other bacterial genera, indicating significant genomic divergence. Insect-associated species showed a strong correlation between genes for carbohydrate utilization and those for amino acid biosynthesis across all habitats. However, individual gene analyses revealed no consistent correlation between habitat adaptation and phylogenetic proximity, suggesting that Lactobacillus employs strain-specific adaptive mechanisms rather than universal genetic markers. Notably, around 50% of the genes associated with specific habitats are hypothetical. Our findings highlight the genomic complexity of Lactobacillus, driven by diverse adaptive strategies, and underscore the need for more comprehensive sampling to fully elucidate the evolutionary dynamics within this important genus.

The association between consumption of ultra-processed foods and sperm quality parameters: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundWhile recent studies suggest a correlation between unhealthy dietary patterns, oxidative stress, inflammation, and male infertility, the potential association between ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and male infertility remains underexplored. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the association between UPF intake and male infertility by evaluating sperm quality parameters.MethodsThe participants (n = 260) of the current cross-sectional study were recruited from an infertility center in Isfahan Province, Iran. Four semen parameters—such as total sperm motility, sperm concentration, sperm volume, and normal sperm morphology—were evaluated. Also, the participants’ food intake was assessed using a validated 168-item food frequency questionnaire. Moreover, the NOVA system was employed to calculate the UPF index. The association between UPFs and sperm parameters was analyzed using logistic regression.ResultsIn the crude model, no significant associations were observed between the second and last tertiles of UPFs with abnormalities in sperm concentration, total motility, and morphology (p > 0.05 for all). However, after adjusting for age, marriage duration, body mass index, physical activity, depression, anxiety, stress, energy intake, cigarette history, and mineral and vitamin supplements, a significantly higher association was identified between the second tertile of UPFs and abnormalities in sperm concentration (odds ratio (OR) = 3.962, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.345–11.670, p = 0.013).ConclusionsIn conclusion, although the analysis did not find significant associations between UPF consumption and impaired sperm motility and morphology, it revealed significant trends linking higher UPF intake with lower sperm concentration. If future studies confirm these results, they could aid in designing interventional and preventive programs aimed at addressing infertility in men of reproductive age in the field of public health.

Depression and resilience levels as predictors of suicidal ideation in early adults

Suicide is a manifestation of suicidal ideation and is associated with poor psychological adjustment and functioning. Depression is one of the factors in the emergence of suicidal ideation, and resilience levels play a role in this phenomenon. This study aimed to determine the role of depression and resilience levels as predictors of suicidal ideation in early adults. This research used a correlational quantitative method. The participants were early adults (n=139) consisting of males (n=2) and females (n=137) aged 18-40 years who had experienced suicidal ideation (in the past year). The sampling method used was the purposive sampling technique. The instruments used were the Indonesian versions of the Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation (BSSI), the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), and the Brief Resilience Scale (BRS). Multiple linear regression test results showed that depression and resilience levels predicted suicidal ideation in early adults (R2 = 0.358; 0.000; p&lt;0.01). The practical contribution of both predictors was 35.8%. The implications of this research can be applied in the health field, particularly clinical psychology, to reduce suicide rates so that psychologists can provide intervention efforts to reduce depression symptoms and preventive efforts by increasing individual resilience levels.

Contribution of the Geodiversity knowledge to social, economic, and environmental health development

With the support of this study, based on published information, this article highlights that Geosciences enable the research of methods and perspectives aimed at optimizing the management of natural resource use, aligning them with ecological limitations and incorporating environmental and social variables into the territorial planning process. Geoscientific information, knowledge, and learning establish a foundation for the supply of essential resources and provide technical and scientific support across various sectors and topics of societal interest. These include mining, where knowledge and proper utilization of essential mineral resources are crucial for human survival and quality of life; energy, which relies on petroleum, gas, coal, peat, and other minerals for nuclear energy generation, as well as for renewable energy sources like wind and solar power. Agriculture, which depends on fertilizers, soil remineralizers, conditioners, and a reliable water supply. In the field of public health, geoscientific knowledge helps ensure the quality of water, soil, and air. In urban planning, it guides land-use restrictions or expansion. In housing, the availability of construction materials is essential. In civil defense, geoscientific insights are crucial for managing landslides, floods, earthquakes, subsidence, and erosion. Regarding infrastructure, geosciences support both social (housing, sanitation, education, healthcare) and economic (energy, transportation, communications) developments. Tourism benefits from geoparks and scenic areas, while environmental studies focus on impact assessments, disaster prevention, and the rehabilitation of degraded areas. Moreover, geoscientific knowledge is indispensable for planning across various sectors of the economy, regions, and societal issues. This applies to public institutions, civil society organizations, private companies, and watershed committees, aiding in the formulation of Regional Development Plans, Ecological-Economic Zoning, Territorial Planning, and strategies for the utilization of continental shelves, coastal environments, and accident prevention. We are entirely dependent on the geological characteristics of natural environments, as they provide the raw materials—such as minerals, water, and food—necessary for our survival and socio-economic development. As geoscientific knowledge and understanding of land and environmental suitability and limitations increase, Geodiversity can play a more significant role in shaping public policies related to urban and rural land use, infrastructure, and the sustainable economic exploitation of mineral and water resources, aligning with Municipal Master Plans, State Development Plans, and the National Territorial Planning Strategy.

The impact of channel density, inverse solutions, connectivity metrics and calibration errors on OPM-MEG connectivity analysis: A simulation study.

Magnetoencephalography (MEG) systems based on optically pumped magnetometers (OPMs) have rapidly developed in the fields of brain function, health, and disease. Functional connectivity analysis related to the resting-state has gained popularity as a field of research in recent years. Several studies have attempted to use OPM-based MEG (OPM-MEG) for brain network estimation research; however, the choice of source connectivity analysis pipeline may lead to outcome variability. Several methods and related parameters must be selected carefully at each step of the analysis. Therefore, this study assessed the effect of such analytical variability on the OPM-MEG connectivity analysis by conducting simulations. Synthetic MEG data corresponding to two default mode networks (DMN) with six or ten DMN regions were generated using the Gaussian Graphical Spectral (GGS) model. Six intersensor spacings were constructed, and six inverse algorithms and six functional connectivity measures were selected to assess their impact on the network reconstruction accuracy. Three potential sources of error-errors in the sensor gain, crosstalk, and angular errors of the sensitive axis of the OPM-were also assessed. Analytical variability with regard to the tested intersensor spacings, inverse solutions, and functional connectivity measures led to high result variability. Crosstalk exerted a significant impact on the accuracy, which may lead to network reconstruction failure. The accuracy improvement caused by an increase in the sensor density may be reduced by gain and angular errors. The minimum norm estimate (MNE) and weighted minimum norm estimate (wMNE) exhibited low robustness to sensor noise and calibration errors. Hence, a calibration workflow for accurate sensor parameters, such as the gain and direction of the sensitive axis, before commencing OPM-MEG measurement and a careful choice of different method combinations play crucial roles in ensuring that OPMs yield optimal results for functional connectivity analysis. A thorough framework for analyzing brain connectivity networks was provided herein.

Bacillus cereus Sepsis in Preterm Neonates Caused by Central Venous Catheter: A Case Report.

In recent years, Bacillus cereus infection has emerged as a main concern in the field of children's public health. This bacterium, known to be a pollutant, can be found in various settings such as hospital wards, equipment, breast milk, nutrient solution, and so on. With its high pathogenicity and toxicity, Bacillus cereus infection can lead to severe and life-threatening symptoms, particularly in premature infants. This case report documents the death of a preterm infant due to Bacillus cereus sepsis, septic shock, meningitis, and pneumonia, all of which were linked to the use of a central venous catheter.

Robustifying Marginal Linear Models for Correlated Responses Using a Constructive Multivariate Huber Distribution

ABSTRACTThe marginal regression model is convenient for analyzing correlated responses, including repeated measures and longitudinal data. This paper proposes a robust marginal linear model for analyzing a vector of univariate responses with correlated components by incorporating an innovative multivariate Huber distribution. It employs a flexible parameterization using modified Cholesky decomposition, provides a convenient approach for estimating the covariance matrix, and allows for subject‐varying the tuning parameter. Our research introduces a method for estimating parameters by employing the exact likelihood function through the Hamiltonian Monte Carlo algorithm. To highlight the advantage of our model, we carried out a simulation experiment and reanalyzed two real‐world case studies in the health and economics fields. The results indicate that our model offers a more robust analysis by assigning appropriate weights to extreme observations, thereby handling outliers more effectively than traditional models.

Secretary bird optimization algorithm based on quantum computing and multiple strategies improvement for KELM diabetes classification.

The classification of chronic diseases has long been a prominent research focus in the field of public health, with widespread application of machine learning algorithms. Diabetes is one of the chronic diseases with a high prevalence worldwide and is considered a disease in its own right. Given the widespread nature of this chronic condition, numerous researchers are striving to develop robust machine learning algorithms for accurate classification. This study introduces a revolutionary approach for accurately classifying diabetes, aiming to provide new methodologies. An improved Secretary Bird Optimization Algorithm (QHSBOA) is proposed in combination with Kernel Extreme Learning Machine (KELM) for a diabetes classification prediction model. First, the Secretary Bird Optimization Algorithm (SBOA) is enhanced by integrating a particle swarm optimization search mechanism, dynamic boundary adjustments based on optimal individuals, and quantum computing-based t-distribution variations. The performance of QHSBOA is validated using the CEC2017 benchmark suite. Subsequently, QHSBOA is used to optimize the kernel penalty parameter [Formula: see text] and bandwidth [Formula: see text] of the KELM. Comparative experiments with other classification models are conducted on diabetes datasets. The experimental results indicate that the QHSBOA-KELM classification model outperforms other comparative models in four evaluation metrics: accuracy (ACC), Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC), sensitivity, and specificity. This approach offers an effective method for the early diagnosis and prediction of diabetes.

The reality of pressure ulcers: an exploratory sequential mixed design study in coaches and Paralympic athletes

ABSTRACT Objectives This study aims to explore and understand the knowledge and attitudes of Paralympic athletes and their coaches toward pressure ulcers. By focusing on this underserved population, the study seeks to improve awareness, recognition, and management practices to minimize the health and performance impacts of pressure ulcers in Paralympic sports. Methods Paralympic athletes and their coaches were contacted. Volunteers were included in the exploratory sequential mixed design study. In the quantitative phase, a digital survey was used to evaluate Paralympic athletes’ and coaches’ awareness of pressure ulcers. To gain a deeper understanding of the factors deemed significant in the quantitative analyses, the researcher conducted one-on-one semi-structured interviews with athletes and coaches. The data was analyzed using the SPSS package program and MAXQDA program. Results Ten coaches and 82 Paralympic athletes participated in the study. The sports disciplines were wheelchair basketball (40%), Paralympic table tennis (40%), Paralympic court tennis (10%), and athletics (10%). Coaches’ knowledge about pressure ulcers was low, and athletes’ knowledge was even lower. It was concluded that coaches should improve their attitudes toward pressure ulcers, particularly in the areas of competence and responsibility sharing. During the interviews with the participants, several themes emerged. Conclusion To address pressure ulcers’ significance, it is essential to increase the knowledge level of both athletes and the entire team and adopt a positive attitude. It has been concluded that different areas of expertise in the fields of health and sports should work with a more organized structure and team awareness.

The mattering citizen: young adults with mental illness and complex needs’ experiences and perceived opportunities of social inclusion

The negative effects of social exclusion are well known, as are the effects of social inclusion on quality of life and well-being. Young adults with mental illness and complex needs are among the most marginalized people in the community. There is a pressing need to better define and promote social inclusion in mental health and substance use services, addressing both objective and subjective factors. The aim of this qualitative study was to examine the experiences and perceived opportunities of social inclusion among young adults with mental illness and complex needs. This was done to develop a comprehensive understanding of social inclusion that can be applied by providers in the fields of welfare, mental health, and substance use. Seven young adults (three males/four females, aged 22–29) were recruited through Flexible Assertive Community Treatment teams and participated in the study through qualitative semi-structured interviews. The material was analyzed employing an abductive thematic analysis. The findings show the interconnection between the elements of Citizenship and Mattering and underline the need for a framework including both the psychological and sociological perspectives. Developing the Citizenship framework and incorporating the Mattering approach is suggested as a multifaceted approach to promote social inclusion in practice, calling for further research on this.

Challenges of community participation in health emergency and disaster risk management in an Iranian context: a qualitative study

BackgroundDisasters are considered one of the major threats to the health of communities. Given the global spread of disasters, there has been a renewed emphasis in recent years on using community participation approaches in disaster risk management. Community participation in field of emergency and disaster health in Low and Middle-income countries faces a lot of challenges.ObjectiveThe objective of this study is to explore the specific challenges faced by communities in Iran concerning their participation in health emergency and disaster risk management.MethodsIn this study, a qualitative content analysis as research methodology was employed. Purposeful sampling was conducted from June 2023 to May 2024 among community members who were willing to participate and had experience collaborating during disasters. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews and analyzed using Graneheim and Lundman’s method. The rigor of the study was ensured using Lincoln and Guba’s criteria. Each interview was recorded, transcribed into a word document, and then uploaded into MAXQDA (2020). A total of 23 interviews were conducted with 20 participants.ResultsThere were 15 males and five females participating in the study including healthcare managers, academic people, and laypeople. Data analysis revealed nine distinct categories, which were grouped into three overarching themes based on their similarities. These themes addressed issues of insufficient risk perception, community traumatization, and poor social capital.ConclusionThis study sheds light on the multifaceted challenges that hinder effective community participation in health emergency and disaster risk management in Iran. Addressing these barriers is essential for enhancing community resilience and ensuring effective disaster preparedness. To overcome these challenges, it is imperative for policymakers, healthcare managers, and community leaders to collaborate and implement comprehensive strategies that foster community participation.

Beyond the current state of just-in-time adaptive interventions in mental health: a qualitative systematic review

BackgroundJust-In-Time Adaptive Interventions (JITAIs) are interventions designed to deliver timely tailored support by adjusting to changes in users' internal states and external contexts. To accomplish this, JITAIs often apply complex analytic techniques, such as machine learning or Bayesian algorithms to real- or near-time data acquired from smartphones and other sensors. Given the idiosyncratic, dynamic, and context dependent nature of mental health symptoms, JITAIs hold promise for mental health. However, the development of JITAIs is still in the early stages and is complex due to the multifactorial nature of JITAIs. Considering this complexity, Nahum-Shani et al. developed a conceptual framework for developing and testing JITAIs for health-related problems. This review evaluates the current state of JITAIs in the field of mental health including their alignment with Nahum-Shani et al.'s framework.MethodsNine databases were systematically searched in August 2023. Protocol or empirical studies self-identifying their intervention as a “JITAI” targeting mental health were included in the qualitative synthesis if they were published in peer-reviewed journals and written in English.ResultsOf the 1,419 records initially screened, 9 papers reporting on 5 JITAIs were included (sample size range: 5 to an expected 264). Two JITAIs were for bulimia nervosa, one for depression, one for insomnia, and one for maternal prenatal stress. Although most core components of Nahum-Shani's et al.'s framework were incorporated in the JITAIs, essential elements (e.g., adaptivity and receptivity) within the core components were missing and the core components were only partly substantiated by empirical evidence (e.g., interventions were supported, but the decision rules and points were not). Complex analytical techniques such as data from passive monitoring of individuals' states and contexts were hardly used. Regarding the current state of studies, initial findings on usability, feasibility, and effectiveness appear positive.ConclusionsJITAIs for mental health are still in their early stages of development, with opportunities for improvement in both development and testing. For future development, it is recommended that developers utilize complex analytical techniques that can handle real-or near-time data such as machine learning, passive monitoring, and conduct further research into empirical-based decision rules and points for optimization in terms of enhanced effectiveness and user-engagement.

International Urogynecology Consultation Chapter3 Committee 1 - Pessary Management.

This manuscript is part of the International Urogynecological Consultation (IUC) on Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP), Chapter 3, Committee 1 focusing on pessary management of POP. A narrative review was conducted by an international, multi-disciplinary group of clinicians working in the field of pelvic health following a search of the literature using the MeSH terms "pelvic organ prolapse" OR "urogenital prolapse" OR "vaginal prolapse" OR "uterovaginal prolapse" AND "pessary" OR "support device" OR "intravaginal device." Relevant studies, as determined after review using the Covidence manuscript review platform, were included. A total of 540 articles were reviewed, of which 313 were included for this narrative review. The reported pessary fitting success rate ranges from 41% to 96.6%, and the continuation of successful use rate varied from 21% to 97.7%. The most likely predictors of unsuccessful fitting trials were previous POP surgery, previous hysterectomy, short vaginal length, wide genital hiatus, and posterior compartment involvement. Following successful pessary placement in individuals with POP, vaginal bulge and pressure resolved in over 90%. A significant improvement in obstructive voiding was reported in 40-97% of participants, urinary urgency in 38%, urgency urinary incontinence in 29-77%, and stress urinary incontinence in 9-45%. Older age and women who can self-manage the pessary care or had family support were factors associated with pessary continuation. Common reasons reported for discontinuation included expulsion, vaginal pain/discomfort, unwillingness to continue, erosions, desire for surgery, bleeding, symptoms not improved with pessary, and incontinence. More serious complications (fistula, bowel obstruction, pessary impaction, and vaginal cancer) are rare, and occur usually in older women in whom pessary maintenance has been neglected. There is no high-quality evidence to guide pessary choice. The current literature lacks studies specifically focused on determining the role of preventative measures, i.e., estrogen, pessary type/material as regardsto pessary-associated complications (PACs). The review identified a lack of information about the relevant and required training and education (for healthcare professionals and patients) for pessary provision, use, and management. There is a considerable body of published work on the use of pessaries for POP, including effectiveness, factors associated with success and failure, and complications. However, there is a dearth of published literature regarding how pessary types are selected by providers, how providers are trained, what defines competency in pessary provision, and what constitutes appropriate patient education related to pessary use and management.

Healthcare Settings and Infection Prevention: Today’s Procedures in Light of the “Instructions for Disinfection” Issued During the 1817 Typhus Epidemic in the Grand Duchy of Tuscany (Pre-Unification Italy)

Even today, healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) remain the most frequent and serious complications in healthcare, with a significant clinical and economic impact. The authors of this manuscript address the causes and conditions that determine this situation and describe them in comparison with the situation in the Grand Duchy of Tuscany more than two centuries ago and with the instructions that were issued at the time to contain the typhus epidemic of 1817, increase hospital sanitation, and disinfect houses. Today, we know that a crucial element in the fight against healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) is the definition and implementation of best care practices and other measures, according to a combined program that must be tailored to each healthcare setting. In the early nineteenth century, these approaches originated from experience and chemical knowledge that were becoming established, opening the way to the ideas and experiments of Ignác Fülöp Semmelweis and later of Joseph Lister, who traced the path for the birth of hygiene. Two centuries later the pioneering vision of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany at the beginning of the 19th century, when preventive measures in the field of public health were still backward and underdeveloped, is still enlightening and surprisingly topical.

Certificate program "Readiness, response and management of emergency situations" as a component in the formation of competencies for public health specialists

In the field of public health, the acquiring of relevant knowledge, skills and competencies for managing emergencies as well as the problem of effective response to them, and how to mitigate their consequences within the healthcare system are the crucial issues. The research employs bibliosemantic, informational, analytical, medical, statistical, sociological methods, method of content analysis, as well as surveys of practitioners from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and the Public Health Center of Ukraine. The minimum sample size comprises 326 individuals, which was calculated using the statistical package G*Power; a total of 369 respondents participated in the survey. The statistical processing of the materials was carried out using the licensed program Microsoft Excel 2016. In addition, the inclusion criteria for respondents concerned the individuals who participated in rapid response groups (both primary and reserve). The exclusion criteria encompassed specialists who were on leave for various reasons, such as maternity or health-related issues, in addition to individuals who opted not to engage in the survey. When developing the requisite competencies, it is imperative to allocate appropriate consideration to the practical aspect, as evidenced by the information gathered through the survey. Thus, 47% of respondents believe that this aspect needs improvement. Furthermore, within the array of challenges linked to the attainment of requisite competencies, specialists from rapid response groups have delineated the subsequent factors: psychological and emotional stress, a perceived threat to personal safety (19%), inadequate levels of professional training (18.4%), health-related concerns (11.7%), and deficiencies in material and technical support (26.8%). Consequently, upon analysis of the acquired data, the imperative to initiate the subsequent modifications to the accredited program "Readiness, Response and Emergency Management" has been ascertained, namely: to enhance practical training methodologies, to underscore holistic competencies, to implement psychological training protocols, and to instruct on the operation with modern technical equipment.

Urban-EPR: a universal model for simulating individual human mobility within intra-urban areas

Understanding and simulating individual human mobility within intra-urban areas are essential for urban planning, transportation, public health, and other related fields. Currently, Random Walk-based and Exploration and Preferential Return (EPR)-based models are the primary mechanistic approaches used to model individual human mobility. However, these models often rely on assumptions and parameters derived from studies conducted at larger spatial scales, such as the national level. This results in inaccuracies when applied to urban contexts because individual mobility at the intra-urban scale exhibits unique spatiotemporal characteristics. Through a systematic analysis of three consecutive trajectory datasets and three check-in trajectory datasets collected from six cities worldwide, we identified two key insights into intra-urban mobility: (1) individuals’ waiting time distributions follow a log-normal function with universal parameters, rather than the gamma, power-law, or exponential functions commonly used in current studies, and (2) individuals’ spatial choice behavior is better captured by the Universal Opportunity (UO) model with universal parameters, rather than the frequently used gravity models. Based on these findings, we proposed Urban-EPR, a universal model specifically designed to simulate intra-urban individual mobility. Additionally, we compared seven mainstream mechanistic models, demonstrating the superior performance of Urban-EPR and providing a benchmark for intra-urban mobility research.

In the wake of antisemitism and collective trauma: Jewish mental health professionals’ experiences after October 7th

ABSTRACT There has been a notable surge in the demand for mental health services within Israeli and diasporic Jewish communities in the aftermath of the October 7th attack on Israel and subsequent Israel-Hamas war. It is as though Pandora’s box has been opened, exposing a profound lack of awareness about the insidious nature of antisemitism and its manifestation within the field of Mental Health. This mixed method study examines two different yet related questions: (1) What were the experiences of Jewish mental health professionals assisting individuals in Israel post-October 7th? (2) What challenges emerged for mental health professionals post-October 7th within their work environments and communities? This study focuses on the qualitative aspects of a mixed-methods study. The primary focus is on insights from 15 semi-structured interviews exploring participants’ stress levels, concerns about antisemitism, and roles in addressing increased mental health needs in Israel since October 7th, 2023. Quantitative data from 91 mental health professionals are summarized descriptively. Findings indicate that many participants experienced a significant shift in their sense of self, feeling an increased need to protect their Jewish identity. Involvement in Israel-related projects was associated with reduced worry and a greater sense of control. They communicated a desire to both seek support from and provide support for other Jewish colleagues. Over half of the participants reported increased burnout and compassion fatigue, particularly those in nonprofit settings. This research highlights the need to develop a framework that better supports Jewish mental health professionals, and emphasizes the importance of implementing policies that effectively handle incidents of antisemitism. There must be professional spaces where Jewish therapists are genuinely included and supported—spaces that prevent them from feeling so marginalized that they have to create their own external, separate networks for support.