Post Questionnaires Research Articles

Effects of Intra-Articular Stromal Vascular Fraction Injection on Clinical Symptoms and Cartilage Health in Osteoarthritic Knees: A Single-Center Pilot Study

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent form of arthritis worldwide. Intra-articular stromal vascular fraction (SVF) injections are a potential therapeutic option for patients with OA. This study aims to assess the effects of intra-articular SVF injections on knee OA. Ten patients with knee OA participated in this study. After administering them with intra-articular SVF injections, their outcomes were evaluated using various questionnaires. MRI T2 mapping was conducted and compared before the intervention and 6 months after. All the data underwent analysis using various tests. Significant differences were observed in the change of Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index, VAS, and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score between pre-intervention and 6 months post-intervention. The T2 values were significantly lower in the anterior superficial layer of the medial femoral cartilage and middle superficial layer of the lateral femoral cartilage. However, no positive effects were observed in any other regions of the knee cartilage. This study revealed significant differences between the pre- and 6-month post-intervention questionnaires. However, the T2 values did not show consistent changes across all regions of the knee cartilage. Despite positive effects in two regions, the degenerative process appeared to continue in other regions during the tracking period.

The feasibility, acceptability and perceived impact of a theory-based intervention on non-medical prescribing students’ antibiotic prescribing behaviour: an experimental study

Abstract Introduction Acute upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) are one of the most common infections. URTIs usually resolve spontaneously but 60% of all prescriptions issued in UK primary care are for URTIs1 contributing to antimicrobial resistance. Non-medical prescribers are a growing group of prescribers but there are few if any antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) interventions to support their prescribing practices. Introducing AMS interventions when learning to prescribe can play an important role to embed appropriate practice at the start of a prescribers’ journey. Aim To test the feasibility, acceptability and perceived impact of a theory-based electronic learning intervention on the antibiotic prescribing behaviour of non-medical prescribing students. Methods Non-medical prescribing students registered at the study setting (university) were recruited via email and word of mouth. Following consent, participants completed an online pre-intervention questionnaire that explored their perceived prescribing behaviour and confidence in treating patients with URTIs. Participants then completed the intervention, accessible from any internet-enabled device via a weblink. The intervention was previously developed2 using the behaviour change wheel and comprised an animation of a prescriber opting against prescribing antibiotics for an adult with self-limiting URTI using a motivational interviewing approach. The patient felt satisfied and confident about their care. Four questions followed the scenario. Participants then completed an online post-intervention questionnaire that explored the usefulness of the intervention, and the same pre-intervention confidence questions. A one-to-one online audio-recorded semi-structured interview followed, exploring participants’ experiences of using the intervention. Questionnaire and interview questions were informed by the Capability Opportunities Motivation-Behaviour model. Questionnaire data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis3. Ethical approval was given by the School Research Ethics Committee where the researchers were based. Results Twelve participants (of 50 approached) consented to take part. Eight completed the pre- and post-intervention questionnaires and the intervention. Seven completed all stages of the study. 87.5% of participants worked in a hospital setting. All were qualified for at least two years. Interviews lasted between 9-15 minutes. Participants’ confidence in treating patients with URTI increased in all statements; gain information on patient expectations, support patients’ comprehension of health information, build rapport, communicate effectively, help patients to see and examine different viewpoints (highest mean increase) and patients understand and are happy with their prescribing decision. These increases aligned with qualitative accounts. Participants agreed that the intervention would be useful to them and would change their practice positively. Participants found the intervention easy to use; access was straightforward and took between 5-20minutes to complete. The addition of a wider range of complex, challenging scenarios to the intervention were suggested. Discussion/conclusions The intervention was feasible to complete and acceptable to the participants. Participants’ confidence in treating patients increased; even though many were familiar with AMS, the intervention gave them further confidence to support a no antibiotic prescribing strategy. Participants suggested including more complex patient scenarios; this will be considered in a future study. Study limitations includes a small sample size and most participants worked in hospital settings but the intervention was set in primary care.

Usability and engagement of web application on parental behaviors for child obesity intervention

Background: Childhood obesity is a growing global health issue, with increasing prevalence in Asian countries, including Malaysia. Web applications such as JEJAK BMI offer an alternative intervention to address this concern by targeting parental behaviors that could influence their children’s weight. The usability and engagement of the app used are important elements that could influence the intervention outcome. Objective: To assess the engagement and usability of JEJAK BMI apps that could affect parental use of apps in child obesity interventions. Methods: To evaluate the app’s usability, three criteria were evaluated which were ease of use, visual appeal and functionality, post-intervention questionnaires were completed by the parents. Results: The study found that most parents considered the app practical, easy to use, visually engaging and functional. However, the impact on children's BMI over the short term was inconclusive. Conclusion: The JEJAK BMI web application demonstrated strong usability and positive effects on parental behaviors. Nonetheless, significant changes in children's BMI may require longer-term interventions and additional strategies.

Implementation of an Optimized Preoperative Checklist for Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Within a Multiinstitutional Resident Education Curriculum.

Preoperative review of computed tomography (CT) imaging assists with endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) planning, where trainees may benefit from a systematic approach. We have previously developed an optimized preoperative checklist for sinus CT imaging using an iterative modified Delphi method. In this study, we assess the utility of an optimized preoperative checklist for residents performing ESS. Resident sinus CT scan education consisted of a preintervention questionnaire, an 18-min video outlining the optimized preoperative checklist, and a delayed postintervention questionnaire; these were distributed via Qualtrics to otolaryngology residents across 5 training programs in the NY metro area. The preintervention questionnaire contained 25 survey questions and a 225-point quiz on sinus CT anatomy; the delayed postintervention questionnaire contained the same 25 survey questions and a second, distinct 225-point quiz. In total, 74 residents completed the preintervention questionnaire, 47 completed the postintervention questionnaire, and 36 completed both. Among residents completing both questionnaires, the average preintervention quiz score was 136.8 ± 24.0 and the average postintervention quiz score was 156.0 ± 23.5 (P < .001). Resident habitual utilization of a systematic preoperative CT imaging checklist increased significantly from 21.6% to 72.9% as a result of the curriculum intervention. We find that an educational program centered on an iteratively optimized preoperative checklist for ESS improves the ability of trainees to identify critical sinus CT structures. Further integration of checklists and educational curricula may enhance rhinology education efforts and improve surgical anatomy competency.

Learning through playing in public health: a card game’s evaluation

Abstract Background In medical education and particularly in public health, the shift toward active learning addresses the limitations of traditional lecture-based methods. Game-based learning, such as serious games, showed potential to overcome these limitations. “Accidémie” is a card game designed to improve medical students’ knowledge of home accidents and their competencies in public health through an interactive format. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of “Accidémie”. Methods We conducted a quantitative pre-post assessment study among sixth-year medical students of the University of Versailles. Data were collected through a 20-item true/false repeated questionnaire before and after. In addition, the post-intervention questionnaire included questions on students’ satisfaction and an open-ended question. Responses to the questionnaires were converted into scores. The main outcome measured was the change in the scores. The scores before and after the intervention are presented with their mean and standard deviation. They were compared using a paired t-test. Student satisfaction is presented in terms of frequency and includes verbatim responses from the students. Results Thirty-eight students participated, with pre-test scores averaging 13.13 (SD = 1.98) and post-test scores averaging 14.89 (SD = 1.94). A paired t-test provided statistical evidence of the difference between the pre- and post-test scores (p &amp;lt; 0.001). Students provided positive feedback: 81.6% of the students were very satisfied with the game; 42.1% considered it extremely useful. They also underlined that ‘Accidémie’ is an enjoyable learning tool, praising its innovative approach. Conclusions “Accidémie” improved students’ knowledge of home accidents and their engagement. It supports the use of serious games in medical education complementary to traditional methods. Applying the concept of “Accidémie” across various subjects and among diverse groups of health students offers promising prospects. Key messages • ‘Accidémie’ significantly improves students’ knowledge of home accidents, a public health topic. • “Accidémie” allows medical students to learn while playing, boosting satisfaction and engagement.

Feasibility and pilot study of Indonesia’s first telehealth support program for gynecological cancer survivors undergoing chemotherapy

Most Indonesian gynecological cancer survivors experience chemotherapy side effects on their physical and mental health as they face unmet needs of supportive care, which increases the likelihood of discontinuing treatment. Interventions in telehealth assist survivors in resolving these issues. The aim of this pilot study was to determine the feasibility of fighting distress, self-efficacy, health effects, and sexual (FoRSHE-X) interventions and evaluate their potential impact on distress level, side effects knowledge and management, self-efficacy, and sexual quality of life. The study involved gynecological cancer survivors who underwent chemotherapy and participated in ten weeks of individual social media-based education, tele-coaching, and teleconsultations, from September 2023 to June 2024. The study feasibility and pilot outcomes were evaluated using descriptive statistics and qualitative thematic analysis. Of the twelve women recruited, six (50%) completed the study, filled out pre- and post-intervention questionnaires, and participated in interviews. Fifty-four virtual education, coaching, and consultation sessions were performed individually. The statistical results indicated that participants were highly satisfied with the telehealth program, which significantly increased their knowledge (p=0.02), health practices (p=0.04), and self-efficacy (p=0.01). The qualitative analysis highlighted participants' and coaches' perspectives on the study’s acceptance, barriers, and recommendations. In conclusion, this pilot study suggests that a definitive trial to assess the FoRSHE-X interventions is feasible, acceptable, and can be applied not only to gynecological cancer survivors but also to other types of cancer, thereby broadening the potential impact of the study.

Improving Social Communication in Autistic Adolescents Through a Clinic-Home-School Collaboration.

Differences in social communication are common in highly verbal autistic adolescents and can interfere with development of friendships as well as lead to other co-occurring challenges. The purpose of this initial study was to assess whether targeted areas of social communication would improve following the implementation of a manualized social communication package with parent participation and school coordination. Autistic adolescents who demonstrated challenges with social communication participated in this study in the context of a rigorous concurrent multiple baseline experimental design. Weekly intervention targeting social communication was implemented over a period of six to seven weeks (depending on preintervention scores). Additionally, parents and participants completed standardized assessments of anxiety and depression and a post-intervention questionnaire was administered to assess their satisfaction with the intervention. This study demonstrated that social communication could be improved with a short-term intervention program with parent and school participation. All participants showed improvements in social communication, which was maintained at follow-up. Also, all participants and their parents reported high satisfaction with the program. These findings corroborate a growing literature base suggesting that support in the area of social communication is needed and can benefit autistic adolescents.

The SEMinal impact of contemporary science: integrated authentic science design and students’ self-efficacy and career aspirations

ABSTRACT Authentic science learning has a significant potential for contributing to students’ self-efficacy (SE) and science career aspirations (SCA) by introducing contemporary science. However, the design of authentic learning remains challenging due to the elusive and subjective nature of experiencing authenticity and the interdisciplinarity and complexity of contemporary science. This study aimed to transform these challenges into opportunities by integrating theoretical frameworks of authentic design with a unique setting, including: (a) authentic pedagogy highlighting social experiences, (b) authentic scientific equipment including hands-on operation of a scanning electron microscope (SEM) situated in a research institute, (c) contemporary science theme (biomineralization). This integrated design was investigated by collecting data from 70 secondary science students on their perceived-authenticity, SE, and SCA using pre–post Likert-type questionnaires. After discovering that authenticity was intensely perceived, we used inferential statistics to examine the relationships between different authentic aspects related to both hard and soft science skills and SE and SCA. We identified a significant connection between students’ experience of acquiring authentic knowledge (i.e. hard skills) and their SCA, as well as between the social experience (i.e. soft skills) and students’ SE. This study contributes to understanding the design and impact of authentic science activities in research institutes.

Early Mobilization Training Education for Sectio Caesarea Patients

Background: The global rise in caesarean section (C-section) rates, particularly in Asia where the incidence stands at 19.5%, underscores the need for effective post-operative care strategies. Early mobilization is critical for post-C-section recovery, as it enhances patient mobility, reduces complications, and promotes overall health. Purpose: This study aims to assess the impact of early mobilization education on post-C-section patients' knowledge. Methods: This community service initiative, conducted at the Albarokah Room of Purwokerto Islamic Hospital, targeted 30 post-C-section maternal patients. The educational intervention was delivered using audiovisual media and the caramah method. Knowledge levels were assessed using a pre- and post-intervention questionnaire, which evaluated understanding of early mobilization, its benefits, contraindications, and procedural stages. Findings: Prior to the educational intervention, participants' knowledge was predominantly categorized as poor, with 40% (12 participants) scoring in this range. Post-education assessment revealed a significant improvement, with 100% (30 participants) achieving a good knowledge level regarding early mobilization. Conclusions: The implementation of early mobilization education through audiovisual media markedly improved participants' knowledge about early mobilization post-C-section. This study demonstrates that structured educational interventions can effectively enhance patient understanding and potentially improve post-operative outcomes. Further research is warranted to explore long-term effects on recovery and health

Impacts and Pathways of Behavioral Activation on Psychological Distress Among Patients Diagnosed With Esophageal and Gastric Cancer in China: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

The objective of this study is to investigate the efficacy of behavioral activation (BA), a novel psychological intervention, in ameliorating psychological distress and anxiety symptoms among patients diagnosed with esophageal and gastric cancer, as well as the mediating role of self-efficacy between BA and psychological distress. A total of 139 patients diagnosed with esophageal and gastric cancer were recruited in China from March 2023 to October 2023 and randomly assigned to either the BA plus care as usual group (BA+CAU group) or the care as usual group (CAU group). Pre- and post-intervention questionnaires, including the Psychological Distress Thermometer (DT), Generalized anxiety disorder 7-item (GAD-7) Scale, General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) and the activation subscale of Behavioral Activation for Depression Scale (BADS-A), were administered. Generalized estimating equation analyses revealed that, compared to usual care alone, combining BA with usual care significantly ameliorated psychological distress, anxiety as well as improved self-efficacy and activation. The mediation analysis revealed that self-efficacy served as a mediator in the relationship between activation and psychological distress. BA primarily based on telephone or WeChat can not only directly ameliorates psychological distress and anxiety symptoms in patients with esophageal cancer and gastric cancer but also indirectly alleviates psychological distress by enhancing self-efficacy. The study also demonstrates the potential of BA in cancer patients, a skill that can be effectively acquired by primary care workers without specialized training and implemented more flexible. NCT06348940.

Group cognitive remediation therapy for adolescents with anorexia nervosa: Outcomes before, after, and during follow-up in a real-world setting in Japan.

Objective: Cognitive remediation therapy (CRT) can be used as an adjunct treatment for adolescents with severe and complex anorexia nervosa (AN) requiring inpatient treatment. However, there has been only one study on CRT for adolescents with AN in Japan. This study explored group CRT as an adjunct to inpatient treatment for Japanese adolescents with severe and complex AN requiring inpatient care. Methods: Thirty-one adolescents with AN underwent group CRT. Neuropsychological (set-shifting and central coherence) and psychological assessments (motivation, self-esteem, and depressive symptoms) were measured before and after the intervention. Weight and AN symptoms were measured before and after the intervention and at follow-up, and the adolescents completed post-intervention and follow-up questionnaires. Results: Set-shifting led to medium to large effect size improvements. Medium effect size improvements in central coherence and depressive symptoms were also observed. The feedback from the adolescents was mainly positive, and the treatment completion rate was high. The patients also reported that the skills learned through group CRT could be applied in daily life. Conclusion: Group CRT may be beneficial for adolescents with severe and complex AN who require inpatient care.

Learning to Integrate STEM Into Physical Education Through Asynchronous Professional Development Modules

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to understand nine physical education (PE) teachers’ experiences with an asynchronous professional development module focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) integration, and the barriers they perceived to integrating STEM into PE. Methods: Semistructured interviews, pre- and post open-ended questionnaires, and discussion board posts were analyzed through a collaborative coding process. Trustworthiness was increased by using a peer debriefer, multiple coders, negative case checks, and data triangulation. Results: Four themes describe the experiences of PE teachers learning to integrate STEM into PE: teacher’s knowledge about technology and STEM, barriers to PE teachers in integrating STEM, “We’re already integrating STEM,” and issues in professional development. Discussion/Conclusion: STEM integration is possible if PE teachers are provided time and opportunities to work with content experts to learn STEM concepts and have STEM be a by-product of PE lessons rather than the sole focus of the lesson.

디자인 씽킹을 적용한 친환경 건축 디자인교육 프로그램 개발 및 효과성 분석 - 중학교 1학년 자유학기제 예술·체육 활동 적용을 중심으로

The recently fast urban growth is leading to being deepened the severe environmental pollution and to being damaged the earth. According to the importance of the global sustainable power generation energy amid this destruction, the eco-friendly education is being carried out. Hence, in the wake of recognizing this issue, this study developed the eco-friendly architectural design education program by connecting the 2022 Revised Curriculum with the achievement standard for a free-semester system in middle school and applied it to the first grade of M middle school during the period of 5 weeks starting from April 29. And to verify effectiveness, the pre and post questionnaires and the student participation reviews were confirmed targeting 43 first graders of M middle school in Jungnang-gu, Seoul who take free semester arts and sports classes for 5 weeks from April 29, 2024 to May 20. As the pre and post survey questions include totally 3 realms such as ‘perception, problem-solving, environment’ in terms of the design thinking and the environmental problem, the item number corresponds to 10 pieces. As a result of t-test in the questions of all realms regarding ‘perception, problem-solving, environment,’ it could be known to have gotten higher after proceeding with the program at the significance level. This outcome shows that the implementation of a class with the application of design thinking leads to being capable of solving a problem by applying and using it even in daily life. It urgently needs the participation in social problem solving and the transformation of school education into self-directed experimental and practical education. In this situation, this study is expected to be likely able to be used as basic data that suggests the directivity of new design education.

Transdermal Carboxytherapy for Treating Vulvovaginal Atrophy: A Pilot Study

Objective: Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is a prevalent disorder that can negatively impact the overall health, sexual function, and quality of life of affected women; however, available data do not support specific treatment protocols. A novel product enables the noninvasive transdermal administration of carboxytherapy with a topical gel (CO2Lift®, Lumisque, Inc.; Weston, FL). The following randomized, placebo-controlled pilot study assessed the safety and efficacy of the transdermal carboxytherapy gel for treating GSM-related vulvovaginal changes. Methods: Menopausal or postmenopausal women 40 to 70 years old with signs or symptoms of vulvovaginal atrophy and Female Sexual Dysfunction were randomized to receive topical carboxytherapy gel (n=40) or placebo gel (n=10) in a randomized, double-blind fashion. The assigned treatments were placed into the vagina and on the vulva for 45 minutes before removal. Treatment was applied daily for 5 days, stopped for 2 days, then continued for 5 additional days. Subjects completed four validated pre- and posttreatment questionnaires to assess female sexual function, sexual health, and genital self-image. Additionally, control (n=10) and treatment subjects (n=10) were randomized to undergo 3 mm pre- and posttreatment punch biopsies of vulva and vaginal tissue. Results: Overall, carboxytherapy-treated subjects achieved significant improvements in Female Sexual Function Index scores with strong positive correlations between sexual desire and arousal, arousal and sexual satisfaction, and sexual satisfaction and desire. The Day-to-Day Impact of Vaginal Aging Questionnaire results demonstrated a significant difference in mean pre- and posttreatment values for each assessment among subjects receiving topical carboxytherapy. Biopsy improvements included hyperplasia of the keratinized squamous epithelium, discrete hyperplasia of the basal layer and neovascularization, and increased thickness of mucous squamous epithelium. There were no adverse events. Conclusion: Transdermal carboxytherapy represents a safe, noninvasive means of treating the genitourinary syndrome of menopause symptoms and is suitable for home use. Additional research on this treatment is warranted.

Enhancing social presence in online learning through metaverse platform

The rapid growth of online learning has led to the exploration of various strategies for improving its effectiveness. One such strategy is the use of metaverse platforms, which are believed to enhance social communication and presence. This study aimed to investigate the impact of using GatherTown, a metaverse platform, on the social presence of online learning. The study involved a 2-week intervention with 148 students using GatherTown, and data were collected through a pre- and post-intervention questionnaire, as well as interviews with learners. The results indicate that the use of GatherTown positively influences the social presence of online learning. The learners reported higher levels of social presence after using GatherTown, which was attributed to the platform’s ability to facilitate social interaction and personalization of the learning environment. The interviews also revealed that the learners felt more engaged and connected to the learning community as a result of virtual space design. The results of this study shed light on the possible use of metaverse platforms to improve online learning.

Evaluation of an Occupational Therapy led Cognitive Stimulation Therapy Programme in an Integrated Care Programme for Older Persons

Abstract Background Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) is a non-pharmacological, evidence-based approach specifically designed to support people with dementia to maintain their cognitive functions e.g. reminiscence, higher executive skills, sensory integration, orientation, memory strategies and day-to-day activities. Methods Participants referred to a community specialist ICPOP team were identified for CST following Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA), where cognitive impairment or dementia was identified. Inclusion criteria: Rockwood Clinical Frailty Scale ≤5, Barthel Index of Activities of Daily Living ≥11, Lawton Brody Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale (IADL) ≥4, Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) ≥10, and ability to consent to participate. Addenbrooks Cognitive Examination (ACE-III) scores were obtained pre and post CST, alongside post CST feedback questionnaires. Results 5 CST programmes of seven weeks duration were conducted over a ten-month period. 31 (male=16, female=15) participants completed the programme. 3 participants dropped out due to lack of transport/interest. The average ACE-III score pre-CST was 68.3 +/- 14.31; post-CST was 76.1 +/- 11.4. 28 participants completed feedback questionnaires. Positive feedback included “Got a great sense of achievement with each session, and eagerly looked forward to the coming weeks”, “Each session topped the previous session” “Gave me a reason to get out, a routine to my week”. 45 % commented that they felt safe sharing difficulties/problems with the group. 71% reflected that CST provided an opportunity to meet others in a similar situation. 100% would recommend CST to others. Conclusion Experience of CST was overwhelmingly positive demonstrating benefit not only from a cognitive perspective but from informal peer support and connections made in group settings. Participants commented on lack of follow-on programmes, identifying the need to develop maintenance CST programmes led by trained community stakeholders which would sustain these benefits long-term as well as increasing awareness and knowledge of dementia within communities.

“Everyone has a role in Rehabilitation” - Delivering staff education on rehabilitation skills in a post-acute rehabilitation unit

Abstract Background Due to a combination of disrupted services, it was observed that there was a gap in nursing and HCA knowledge of their crucial role within the rehabilitation process for the patients in an older person's post-acute rehabilitation unit. The purpose of this study was to highlight the importance of delivering nursing and healthcare assistant care (HCA) through the lens of goal specific rehabilitation. Methods A staff education programme was designed covering topics of rehabilitation including interdisciplinary team working, therapy group interventions, role of HCA in rehabilitation, personal care, toileting, continence, pressure areas, manual handling, weight bearing status, pain management, mobility aids, equipment, orthopaedic braces and physical activity recommendations in the older adult. A pre and post knowledge-based questionnaire was completed specific to each topic with maximum score 100% indicating full knowledge of the topic. Handouts and resources were created and provided at each session. Education was facilitated by an OT and PT, on a weekly basis. Participants were given the opportunity to provide feedback on the education session. An analysis of the pre/post questionnaire scores was completed using Microsoft Excel. Results Of the 26 staff (HCA and nurses) on the unit, 23 completed the education. Staff scored an average of 45% on the pre-education questionnaire and 76% on the post-education questionnaire. There was a significant increase in the post education session score (p&amp;lt;0.0001). Participants reported benefited from education session (87% strongly agreed n=20, 13% agreed n=3). Conclusion Peer to peer staff educations within the MDT improved knowledge in core aspects of rehabilitation care. To enhance patient experience and outcome the full MDT should feel part of the rehabilitation programme and be aware of the individuals' goals and their role to achieve the goal. This education initiative was beneficial in reinforcing the rehabilitation ethos of the ward and addressing gaps in ward staff’s knowledge.

Abstract A134: Overcoming barriers to prostate cancer screening: A tethered educational video and mobile screening program

Abstract Background: Prostate cancer (PC) is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men. One in 8 White and 1 in 6 Black men will be diagnosed with PC in their lifetime. The current prostate cancer screening (PCS) guidelines recommend shared decision making to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of PCS. In Philadelphia, among men over 40 years of age, only 39% and 18% have discussed the advantages and disadvantages of PCS with a provider, respectively. Among men over 50 years of age, only 47% have had a Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test. This research evaluated an educational video designed to increase awareness of the advantages and disadvantages of PCS and provided access to mobile PSA screening among the diverse men in Philadelphia. Methods: Between April-May 2024, we enrolled men aged 40+ at community events within and around the city of Philadelphia and excluded men who previously participated in the study. Screening events were advertised through social media, printed flyers, emails, and text messages disseminated by labor union administrators to union members. Participants completed a questionnaire which examined PC and PCS knowledge, decisional conflict, and likelihood to screen before and after viewing a 12-minute educational video on an iPad or personal device. The video consisted of a conversation between a local pastor, who is a Black PC survivor, and a urologist. The video included the pastor’s personal experience with PC and allowed him and the urologist to have the opportunity to address common PC misconceptions and myths. After the video, participants provided video feedback. A $10 gift card and giveaways were offered before presenting the option for on-site PSA draws by a licensed phlebotomist. Results: A total of 133 men (38% Black; 56% White, 10% Hispanic; mean age of 53 years old (s.d.=10.4)) completed the pre and post questionnaires. A total of 61% of participants had never had a PSA test. Twenty-two percent did not know blood testing was an option, and 28% did not know they needed a PSA test. Thirty-two percent of participants would have been somewhat or very unlikely to get screened without this program. Having the screening option come to their community or place of work was the determining factor for 81% of screened participants. After watching the video, PC knowledge improved in 6 of 10 items (overall knowledge score pre vs. post p&amp;lt;.01). Post video, decisional conflict was reduced in 9 of the 10 questionnaire items (each item had a p≤.001). A total of 95% of participants stated ‘yes’, they would undergo PCS after watching the video versus 69% being either somewhat or very likely to get screened before watching the video (p&amp;lt;0.001). All 95% were screened on-site. The video information was deemed useful to 99% and credible by 97% of respondents. Conclusion: This educational video increased PCS awareness, intention to screen for PC, and completion of PCS. When coupled with an educational video, mobile PSA screening initiatives are an effective and efficient way to increase access to PSA screening for diverse men. Citation Format: Mallorie C. Jones, William Buckley, Alexandra Cordoba, Suji Kim, David Barreto, Debanjan Pain, Vivian Nguyen, Blane Newberry, Daniel Lee, Carmen E. Guerra. Overcoming barriers to prostate cancer screening: A tethered educational video and mobile screening program [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr A134.

Effect of a plant extract of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) on testosterone in blood plasma and saliva in a double blind randomized controlled intervention study.

Many aging men experience reduced energy and libido related to non-optimal testosterone levels. We conducted a randomized double-blind trial with TrigozimR fenugreek extract to assess impact on plasma and saliva testosterone, and some subjective effects. 95 men (40-80y) completed a 12-week intervention, taking 3 tablets daily with 0 mg (placebo; n = 22), 600 mg (n = 21), 1200 mg (n = 25) and1800 mg (n = 27) fenugreek extract and essential nutrients. Samples were collected at weeks 0, 2, 6, and 12. Participants answered a pre- and post-intervention questionnaire on lifestyle and libido. We measured total testosterone (HPLC-MS/MS) and sex hormone binding globulin (ELISA), calculated free testosterone index (FTI), and measured saliva testosterone. Plasma total testosterone and FTI increased after any dose of TrigozimR vs. baseline (13.0%, p = 1.0x10-4 and 16.3%, p = 6.2x10-6), but not vs. placebo (9.0%, p = 0.122 and 11.3% p = 0.059). 1800 mg TrigozimR resulted in 12.2% increased FTI (p = 0.025). Saliva testosterone concentration increased after any dose of TrigozimR vs. baseline (31.1%, p = 2.3x10-4) and vs. placebo (37.2%, p = 0.042). 1800 mg TrigozimR for 12 weeks resulted in 19.6% (p = 0.006) increased saliva testosterone. Compliance was confirmed by enhanced plasma concentration of 25-hydroxy vitamin D3. We observed no subjective effects or side-effects of TrigozimR. TrigozimR increased saliva and plasma testosterone concentration during intervention but only for saliva vs. placebo. Saliva may be preferred for measuring free testosterone due to no protein-bound testosterone.

The role of consensus messaging in teaching evolution

ABSTRACT Evolutionary theory is considered the unifying theory of modern biosciences, but the public continues to misperceive the prevailing scientific consensus. Science communication studies emphasise the influence of perceived scientific and social consensus on personal beliefs, which can be manipulated through communication strategies. This study investigates the impact of consensus messaging on (1) perceptions of scientific and social consensus, (2) students’ feelings of certainty about these perceptions, and (3) acceptance of evolutionary theory. Employing a 2 × 2 factorial design (Factor 1: scientific consensus messaging versus consensus uncertainty; Factor 2: social consensus messaging), we randomly assigned 218 German upper secondary school students to one of four text variants to complete a close-ended pre – post questionnaire. We found positive correlations of evolutionary theory acceptance with perceived scientific and social consensus, and with feeling of certainty regarding perceived scientific consensus. Scientific consensus messaging positively affected perceived scientific consensus and feeling of certainty. Assessed with all items of MATE 2.0, acceptance decreased in the consensus uncertainty condition. When measured with two items, acceptance increased with scientific consensus messaging. The role of consensus messaging in teaching evolution and its use as a component of teaching strategies in evolutionary education and other fields are discussed.