Professional Social Networks Research Articles

How often are patients recording their healthcare consultations in Australia and why? An online survey

PurposeRecording important healthcare consultations can benefit patients. Technological developments enable recordings by patients and health professionals, as well as real-time ‘listening’ by AI scribes. Not enough is known about whether and why patients record their consultations. ObjectiveTo investigate people's experiences and preferences regarding consultation recording in Australia. MethodsA 21-item online survey available for all Australians aged 18+ was distributed via social media and professional networks in 2022. Items explored recording behaviour (past and planned), and reasons for recording and sharing. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively; qualitative content analysis was used to analyse open-text items. ResultsA total of 486 responses were received, of which 236 responses were analysed. Of these, 26 % had openly recorded a healthcare consultation, and 15 % had recorded covertly. The majority (71 %) of participants would consider recording a visit and would like their clinic to allow this (56 %). Participants strongly opposed the idea of sharing a recording on social media (84 %). Open-text responses indicated participants valued the health professional's consent, and protecting their own privacy by not oversharing recordings. ConclusionRecording of consultations in Australia is common, usually to enhance patients' knowledge, understanding, and participation in their care. Patients value the possibility of recording, especially when they are experiencing vulnerability. Recording can help people navigate the impacts of disability and barriers to information access. Privacy and fairness remain paramount. InnovationThis is the first survey of recording practices in Australia and is highly-relevant given recent technological developments. The findings indicate that changes in policy, law and technologies themselves are needed, to clarify parties' rights and responsibilities and to ensure the benefits of consultation recording are realised.

Collaborative approaches to health education: perspectives of parents and teachers on self-care and managing common health issues in UK primary schools

BackgroundHealth education in primary schools plays a critical role in equipping children with essential self-care skills, fostering health literacy, and addressing social determinants of health. This study explores the perspectives of parents and teachers on teaching self-care and managing common health issues in UK primary schools. Despite the recognized importance of health education, there is limited research on how self-care education is perceived and implemented in the primary school setting.MethodsA qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with 18 participants, including 9 generalist primary teachers and 9 parents from diverse educational and socioeconomic contexts in the West Midlands, East Midlands, Northwest, and London of England. Participants were recruited via social media and professional networks, and interviews were conducted via video conferencing platforms. Data were thematically analysed using NVivo 12 to identify recurring themes related to the delivery and impact of self-care education in primary schools.ResultsTeachers and parents highlighted key self-care topics, including hygiene, managing common illnesses like colds and cuts, and mental well-being. There was a consensus on the importance of self-care education, but views diverged on whether the responsibility should lie primarily with schools, parents, or a collaborative approach. Teachers expressed concerns about their preparedness to teach sensitive topics, citing a lack of training and resources. Socioeconomic and religious contexts further influenced perceptions, with participants emphasising further importance of school-led self-care education for children from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Strengths were identified in current self-care education efforts, particularly in practical lessons that empower children with age-appropriate skills.ConclusionsThis study highlights the critical need for comprehensive and collaborative health education in primary schools to promote health literacy and reduce health disparities. Enhancing teacher training, integrating self-care topics into the primary curriculum, and fostering stronger partnerships between schools and families are essential to improving the quality and consistency of self-care education. Policymakers should consider implementing mandatory health education training in teacher education programs and providing ongoing professional development to support teachers. By addressing these gaps, schools can play a pivotal role in preparing children for lifelong health management, reducing the burden on healthcare services, and supporting public health objectives.

Bias related to overweight and obesity among French psychiatrists: Results of a national survey

BackgroundAccording to people with a higher weight, physicians are the second most stigmatizing group related to excess weight. As a result of these weight-related biases, the therapeutic relationship with the patient and the quality of care would be negatively affected. In addition, this stigma could negatively impact the clinical practice related to higher weight and avoidance of care. ObjectivesThe objective of this study was to assess the stigma of overweight and obesity among psychiatric residents and psychiatrists in France. Specifically, the study aimed to assess factors that may influence weight-related bias among psychiatrists, to explore the relevance of visual assessment of body mass index, and to determine how they this feature is integrated into their practice. MethodAn online questionnaire including sociodemographic items, the Fat Phobia Scale, the Beliefs About Obese Persons Scale, the Body Shape Scales, and questions about their clinical practice was distributed via national professional mailing lists and social networks. ResultsThe survey was answered by 271 seniors or residents in psychiatry. The results indicated a moderate level of weight-related bias among psychiatrists as assessed by the Fat Phobia Scale which was higher in residents than in senior psychiatrists. Over a third of the respondents had no material to assess their patient's weight, and two thirds did not systematically assess overweight or obesity. Finally, the results demonstrate that psychiatrists failed to accurately evaluate overweight or obesity based on male or female silhouettes. ConclusionIt appears that measures should be taken to raise awareness among psychiatrists of the stigmatization of individuals living with a higher weight, as well as to enhance the quality of weight gain care in psychiatry.

Stéréotypes d’incompétence des bénéficiaires du RSA : une enquête auprès des professionnels de l’insertion du RSA

BackgroundRSA beneficiaries constitute a stigmatized group within the French population. The stereotype of incompetence, defined very broadly, appears central in this stigmatization, even though the valorization of skills is a fundamental aspect of professional integration support. ObjectivesThe objective of this study is to identify the domains of skills stigmatized in RSA beneficiaries by insertion professionals and the factors associated with this stigmatization. MethodAn online survey was conducted with a specific measure of the stereotype of incompetence and its associated factors. Participants must be insertion professionals working with RSA beneficiaries. Participants were recruited on professional social networks. ResultsThe responses of 427 participants were analyzed. The results reveal four domains of strongly stigmatized skills: the competence to make decisions regarding one's health, the competence to be effective at work, the competence to maintain good social relationships, and the ability to control one's emotions. Beliefs regarding the possibility of professional integration, perceived similarities between professionals and RSA beneficiaries, and the type of support are factors associated with less stigmatization of skills. ConclusionRSA beneficiaries are the subject of multiple stereotypes of incompetence among insertion professionals. These different domains of stereotypical beliefs are therefore a relevant target for promoting RSA beneficiary support types aimed at reducing stigmatization and promoting their professional integration.

Perceptions of Artificial Intelligence in Medicine Among Newly Graduated Interns: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the healthcare sector, enhancing clinical decision-making, improving patient outcomes, and streamlining operations. Despite its promise, the integration of AI raises important questions about ethical considerations, data privacy, and implications for healthcare professionals. Methods This cross-sectional study utilized an online survey to assess the perceptions of newly graduated interns applying to post-graduate programs under the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties. A total of 349 participants were recruited through social media and professional networks. The structured questionnaire included sections on demographic information, awareness of AI, perceived impacts, concerns, training experiences, and future perspectives. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results The participants (N=349) were predominantly aged 20-25 years (142, 40.7%) with a higher representation of females (215, 61.6%). Awareness levels varied, with 65 participants (18.6%) reporting not being familiar with AIwhile 146 participants (41.8%) identified as familiar. A majority perceived AI positively, believing it improves patient diagnosis (114, 32.7%) and reduces medical errors (129, 36.9%). However, significant concerns emerged regarding data privacy (140, 40.1%) and job displacement (110, 31.5%). Notably, 189 participants (54.2%) reported no formal training in AI, highlighting a gap in preparedness. Conclusions The study reveals a mix of optimism and concern among newly graduated interns regarding AI in medicine. There is a critical need for enhanced training and education on AI technologies within medical curricula to prepare future healthcare professionals adequately. Addressing the opportunities and challenges posed by AI can foster a collaborative healthcare environment that prioritizes patient care while maintaining the human element of practice.

An exploration of UK speech and language therapists' treatment and management of functional communication disorders: A mixed-methods online survey.

Functional Communication Disorders (FCDs) are one specific presentation of Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). FND is characterised by neurological symptoms, such as sensory and motor symptoms, which are not explained by neurological disease. Speech and language therapists (SLTs) have expertise in managing communication disorders, including FCDs, though is not known is what clinicians do in practice to treat and manage FCDs. To explore the clinical practices of SLTs who regularly manage FCDs in the UK, including the assessment and intervention approaches taken. An online survey was developed using Qualtrics software and piloted before dissemination. Participants were experienced SLTs working in the UK who managed at least three FCD referrals a year. The survey was developed with a mix of qualitative and quantitative questions. The survey was disseminated via social media and professional networks. There were 73 completed responses to the survey. Participants reported working with a range of FCDs clinically, with functional stuttering and articulation disorders seen most frequently. SLTs reported working with a wide range of multidisciplinary professionals when managing patients with FCDs, though lack of access to mental health professionals was raised as an issue. SLTs reported using a combination of formal and informal communication assessments. Interventions varied, with a wide range of psychological approaches informing treatment. Lack of specific training, evidence base and negative attitudes around functional neurological disorder (FND) were raised as ongoing issues. Therapists encountered a wide range of FCDs as part of their clinical practice, though there was a significant disparity in the service and interventions offered. SLTs feel their input can be effective, but lack the resources, training and evidence-based interventions to provide adequate care. What is already known on the subject FCDs are one manifestation of FND and can present as a wide range of communication disorders. SLTs encounter FCDs as part of clinical practice, but report feeling unsure and underprepared to manage these disorders. Consensus recommendations have provided some guidance on how to manage these disorders, though what was not known was what practising SLTs are doing in practice with FCD patients: what assessment, intervention and management strategies they use, and what they feel are the facilitators and barriers to effective management. What this study adds to the existing knowledge This is the first UK-wide survey of FCD SLT clinical practice. The survey found that SLTs are seeing a range of FCDs as part of their clinical practice. SLTs reported that they feel their input is effective, that they had confidence in their ability to provide assessment and intervention, and that SLT for FCDs should be routine. SLTs reported using a wide variety of approaches to assessment and intervention. Barriers to effective management included a lack of resources, training, negative staff attitudes towards FND, and lack of research and evidence-based interventions. What are the practical and clinical implications of this work? This survey has found that SLTs working across the UK are providing input for patients with FCDs, but frequently reported feeling isolated and lacking clinical peer support. This shows the potential for networking groups to support SLTs to learn and share resources. There is a training need for SLTs and other healthcare professionals to tackle pervasive negative attitudes towards FND. Common themes in intervention approaches were found, but there was variability in the specific approach taken. This requires further research to guide SLTs on the best evidence-based practice.

How women and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer physics doctoral students navigate graduate education: The roles of professional environments and social networks

Despite knowing physics and astronomy doctoral programs are laden with identity-based inequities, they continue to push minoritized students to the margins. This qualitative social network analysis of 100 women and/or lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and more (LGBT+) physics and astronomy Ph.D.’s explores how minoritized physics and astronomy students utilize social networks to navigate departmental exclusion. Our findings indicate that many of the participants’ identities were often unacknowledged or negatively addressed within their graduate education, with only four participants reporting a positive or favorable experience during this period of their career. Direct support from peers, faculty, and identity-based affinity groups was necessary for participants to navigate their educations. This study demonstrated that generic best practices often cannot fully support the diverse range of persons who come to physics and that identity-neutral values in physics further isolate students by insinuating that their own minoritized experiences are not valid. Published by the American Physical Society 2024

Beyond bones, joints and muscles: can physiotherapists have a role in identifying and supporting domestic violence victims?

Purpose Domestic violence (DV) is a pervasive global issue affecting people across all demographics. Physiotherapists, due to their close patient contact, may be ideally positioned to identify and support victims. However, their preparedness for this role is shown to fall short of needs via a study that aimed to determine physiotherapists’ knowledge, attitudes, and experiences with DV in Estonia, Greece, Cyprus, and Spain. Methods An online questionnaire via the LimeSurvey® platform assessed the experiences of 167 physiotherapists across the four countries. The survey covered respondent demographics, training received on DV identification and referral procedures, self-reported confidence in identifying and referring DV victims, and the frequency of encountering suspected cases. Results The findings revealed a substantial gap between the legal mandates for healthcare professionals to address DV (as outlined in the Istanbul Convention and a 2024 EU Directive) and the preparedness of physiotherapists. Only 13.2% of respondents had received any DV training, and less than half felt confident making referrals to support services. However, there is an evident association between experience and awareness – physiotherapists with more years of experience, particularly those specialising in paediatrics or chronic conditions, are more likely to have encountered and reported suspected DV cases. Conclusions The study’s generalisability may be limited due to the sample size and the selection process (social media outreach and professional networks). Additionally, self-reported data can be prone to bias. Nonetheless, these findings highlight a critical need for integrating DV training modules into physiotherapy education curricula, both at the entry-level and throughout continuing education programs. The Online Professional Education for Physiotherapists and other healthcare professionals on DV (OPEP) project, in response to this gap, has developed a comprehensive online training resource specifically for physiotherapists on DV identification and referral protocols. This initiative aligns with the growing recognition of healthcare professionals’ role in combating DV and can play a vital role in supporting victims and survivors.

Examining the professional development of hungarian teachers in Romania

This study presents the partial results of a comprehensive research on the professional development of Hungarian teachers in Romania which were gained through adapting and complementing the questions related to the professional development of the 2018 OECD TALIS (Teaching and Learning International Survey). From 15 counties of Romania, 500 Hungarian primary and secondary school teachers completed the online questionnaire. The forms and topics of professional development were studied on a 5-year research period, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic (2017–2021). The results show that the most popular forms of professional development were attending training courses, reading professional literature, and visiting online professional social networking sites. Among the topics of professional development activities subject-specific knowledge and the development of competences necessary for the teaching of the subject were dominated. Teachers found those training courses the most efficient that were coherent and provided opportunities for the practical implementation of new ideas, for active learning and cooperation. In only a few cases were found differences between the opinions of primary and secondary school teachers, and between groups according to teaching experience.

Shoulder osteoarthritis: A survey of current (2024) UK physiotherapy practice.

Shoulder osteoarthritis can cause significant pain and disability. It is thought that the wider principles of osteoarthritis management can be applied in the management of people with shoulder osteoarthritis, but most prior research has been conducted with people experiencing osteoarthritis of the hip and knee. There is a paucity of evidence to guide the non-surgical management of shoulder osteoarthritis and limited understanding of current physiotherapy practice. We aimed to investigate the current treatment recommendations by physiotherapists in the UK for people with shoulder OA. An online survey using a clinical vignette was designed and distributed to UK registered physiotherapists with experience of managing people with shoulder osteoarthritis, via social media and professional networks. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse demographic and multiple-choice questions, and free text responses were summarised narratively. 114 respondents accessed the survey with 110 valid responses; 105 (95%) respondents would offer face-to-face consultations, with 89 (81%) respondents expecting to offer 2-4 appointments. 108 (98%) respondents would offer advice/education; 79 (72%) would offer weight management; 82 (75%) prescribed exercises to improve movement; and 101 (92%) offered exercises to increase strength. If a person lived with obesity or had a treatment preference, the majority of respondents would change their recommendations. This is the first survey of NHS physiotherapy practice for people with shoulder osteoarthritis. The responses largely align with NICE guidelines; despite this alignment, it is not known whether such guideline-based care is acceptable to people with shoulder osteoarthritis or clinically effective.

Assessment of the importance of sleep quality and the effects of deprivation on Sudanese healthcare professionals amidst conflict in Sudan

BackgroundQuality sleep is vital for well-being, especially for healthcare workers facing high risks of fatigue and burnout. Sleep deprivation impairs cognitive and motor functions, contributing to medical errors. Addressing sleep disorders among healthcare professionals is crucial for enhancing patient care. Tailored interventions are needed to support their well-being and improve healthcare outcomes.ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of Sleep Quality and its Deprivation on Sudanese Healthcare Professionals amidst conflict in Sudan.MethodsA cross-sectional online survey of Sudanese doctors was conducted using convenience sampling. The questionnaire covered sleep quality, daytime sleepiness, and psychological well-being. Pilot testing ensured questionnaire clarity. Data collection utilized Google Forms distributed through social media and professional networks. A minimum sample size of 384 was calculated. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and various tests for significance. Data were securely stored and analyzed using SPSS and R software.ResultsAmong 649 participants, 404 (62.2%) were women, with a mean age of 30.34 years. Most were single (434, 66.9%). General practitioners constituted the largest professional group (267, 41.1%), followed by registrars/residents (142, 21.9%). Participants took an average of 43.70 minutes to fall asleep and slept an average of 5.90 hours per night. According to the PSQI, 300 (46.2%) reported mild sleep disturbance, 287 (44.2%) moderate, 42 (6.5%) severe, and only 20 (3.1%) normal sleep. The ESS revealed 285 (43.9%) with lower normal daytime sleepiness, 188 (29.0%) with higher normal, and various levels of excessive daytime sleepiness. Stress levels varied, with 398 (61.3%) reporting normal stress, while anxiety ranged from 248 (38.2%) normal to 148 (22.8%) extremely severe.ConclusionThis study emphasizes the importance of addressing sleep quality, mental health, and performance challenges among Sudanese healthcare professionals. It highlights the need for hospitals to implement measures enabling more time off, adequate sleep, and reduced on-call service days. Healthcare workers must recognize the significance of these factors for their well-being and patient care quality. The research outcomes can raise awareness about the necessity of regulating healthcare practitioners' working hours and ensuring adequate sleep.

Healthcare professional perspectives on improving inter-pregnancy care after a baby loss for women with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

Women with diabetes (WWD) (type 1 and type 2) are around four times more likely to experience baby loss: miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal death or termination of pregnancy for medical reasons. Many WWD become pregnant again soon after loss. This study aimed to explore healthcare professional perspectives on improving inter-pregnancy care for WWD after baby loss, as they play a crucial role in facilitating access to support for WWD to prepare for subsequent pregnancy. Eighteen healthcare professionals recruited through social media and professional networks between November 2020 and July 2021 participated in a semi-structured remote interview. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Three main themes were identified: (1) supporting WWD who want to become pregnant again after baby loss; (2) recognising multiple hidden burdens in the inter-pregnancy interval after loss; (3) discontinuities and constraints in inter-pregnancy care. Most participants tended to assume WWD wanted time and space before thinking about pregnancy after loss, so they did not routinely broach the subject. Participants reported receiving little or no training on managing sensitive conversations. Care provision varied across providers, and unclear referral pathways were challenging to navigate. Participants reported concerns that not all healthcare professionals knew how to mitigate pregnancy risks. It is unclear who is responsible for supporting WWDs preconception health between baby loss and subsequent pregnancy. Healthcare professionals may be reticent to initiate conversations about pregnancy for fear of causing upset or distress. Future research is required to scope out ways to raise awareness among healthcare professionals and practical tips on sensitively raising the topic of subsequent pregnancy.

Exploring the fear of clinical errors: associations with socio-demographic, professional, burnout, and mental health factors in healthcare workers - A nationwide cross-sectional study.

The fear of clinical errors among healthcare workers (HCW) is an understudied aspect of patient safety. This study aims to describe this phenomenon among HCW and identify associated socio-demographic, professional, burnout and mental health factors. We conducted a nationwide, online, cross-sectional study targeting HCW in France from May to June 2021. Recruitment was through social networks, professional networks, and email invitations. To assess the fear of making clinical errors, HCW were asked: "During your daily activities, how often are you afraid of making a professional error that could jeopardize patient safety?" Responses were collected on a 7-point Likert-type scale. HCW were categorized into "High Fear" for those who reported experiencing fear frequently ("once a week," "a few times a week," or "every day"), vs. "Low Fear" for less often. We used multivariate logistic regression to analyze associations between fear of clinical errors and various factors, including sociodemographic, professional, burnout, and mental health. Structural equation modeling was used to explore how this fear fits into a comprehensive theoretical framework. We recruited a total of 10,325 HCW, of whom 25.9% reported "High Fear" (95% CI: 25.0-26.7%). Multivariate analysis revealed higher odds of "High Fear" among males, younger individuals, and those with less professional experience. High fear was more notable among physicians and nurses, and those working in critical care and surgery, on night shifts or with irregular schedules. Significant associations were found between "High Fear" and burnout, low professional support, major depressive disorder, and sleep disorders. Fear of clinical errors is associated with factors that also influence patient safety, highlighting the importance of this experience. Incorporating this dimension into patient safety culture assessment could provide valuable insights and could inform ways to proactively enhance patient safety.

The hustle is real: an examination of the self-related consequences of consuming idealized self-promotional content on LinkedIn

PurposeEveryday users of professional networks such as LinkedIn are flooded by posts presenting the achievements of their connections (e.g. I got a new job/award). The present research takes a self-discrepancy perspective to examine the mixed-emotional and behavioral consequences of viewing such idealized self-promotional content on professional networks.Design/methodology/approachThe emotional and behavioral consequences following viewership of idealized self-promotional content on LinkedIn are explored through one pilot study (N = 109) and one online experiment (N = 714), which is evaluated using structural equation modeling.FindingsViewership of idealized self-promotional content on professional social networking sites acts as an emotional double-edged sword for LinkedIn users. Users feel both dejection and symhedonia (i.e. happiness for others), dependent on their reported career-based self-discrepancy. We find the experience of symhedonia to be bound by the relational closeness of the poster (acquaintance vs close friend). Furthermore, we show how resultant emotions drive self-regulatory compensatory IT-use behaviors (i.e. direct resolution, fluid compensation, dissociation, and escapism).Originality/valueWe offer four distinct contributions. Firstly, we disentangle inconsistent findings of mixed emotions by introducing symhedonia to IT literature. Secondly, we investigate the boundary condition of relational closeness. Thirdly, we extend our findings by investigating compensatory-consumption behaviors that stem from mixed-affective outcomes. Finally, we do so in the context of professional networks, which are greatly understudied and are distinctive from personal networks. Practical implications are discussed.

Formation of professional social networks via physicians’ online engagement: Evidence from Sina Weibo and Sina Health

The professional social networks of physicians are an essential source of health-related user-generated content and online social capital. Yet limited research has examined how social networks of physicians emerge at the level of relationships between physicians. To help fill this gap, this study investigates the formation of followship between physicians (i.e., when one physician follows another) from the perspectives of network structures, actor attributes, and external contextual factors. Using exponential random graph models and strategic network formation models, this study analyzes the effects of reciprocity and transitive closure, physicians’ social media and online healthcare community (OHC) engagement, and physicians’ interaction networks. The results reveal that physicians’ professional social networks have a reciprocated and open structure. Physicians’ social media connectivity and content, online service performance, professional capital, and social identity homophily facilitate the formation of professional social networks. In addition, the interaction networks have an entrainment effect on professional social networks. This study reveals the mechanism of social processes, including reciprocity, preferential attachment, and homophily, in the formation of social networks. The results also extend social cognitive theory and signaling theory into the context of physicians’ professional social networks.

Sustainable practices in hand therapy: a global perspective.

Given its significant environmental footprint, healthcare sustainability is paramount. This study delves into the contributory role of hand therapy, assessing hand therapists' comprehension, implementation and barriers to sustainable practices, focusing on orthotic fabrication. A global survey distributed via social media and professional networks collected data on sustainability awareness, practices and educational needs from 113 respondents, primarily from North America (34%) and Europe (32%). Although 91% recognized climate change, only 34% practised sustainability. Despite 57% attempting eco-friendly actions in orthotic fabrication, such as reusing components (65%), knowledge of reusable materials was low (17%) and recycling thermoplastics was inadequate (74.3%). The main barriers were lack of awareness (59%), material scarcity (56.6%) and time constraints (54%). The findings underscore the urgent need for enhanced education, better resource availability and policy reforms to close the gap between awareness and action, promoting sustainability in hand therapy.

Bacterial vaginosis after menopause: factors associated and women's experiences: a cross-sectional study of Australian postmenopausal women.

Background Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common cause of vaginal discharge in reproductive age women; however, little is known about it after menopause. We aimed to learn more about BV in Australian postmenopausal women. Methods We conducted an online survey (July-September 2021). Participants were recruited via social media and professional networks and asked about demographic characteristics, sexual history and BV experiences. Outcomes of interest were the proportion who had heard of BV, had BV ever, or had BV after menopause. Factors associated with these outcomes were assessed using logistic regression. Results Of 906 participants, 83% were included in the analysis. Overall, 37.9% had heard of BV, 11.0% reported having a BV diagnosis ever, 6.3% reported having a BV diagnosis after menopause and 4.4% reported having a BV diagnosis only after menopause. Multivariable analysis found that among all women the odds of having a BV diagnosis after menopause were increased for those who had BV before menopause, had douched in the past 12months, or had a previous STI diagnosis. Among those in a sexual relationship, a BV diagnosis after menopause was associated with a BV diagnosis before menopause, or being in a sexual relationship of 5years or less in duration. About half who reported BV after menopause described recurrences, distress, and a detrimental effect on sexual relationships. Conclusions BV in postmenopausal women is associated with sexual activity, and impacts negatively on their lives. Research into BV should not be limited to reproductive age women.

Using LinkedIn in the economics curriculum

Social media is becoming a more widely used tool to engage students in learning. LinkedIn (linkedin.com) is a professional social networking platform that most college students are encouraged to use, but it is not widely used as an educational tool. In this article, the author describes how LinkedIn was deployed in a principles course to teach students how to differentiate themselves in the labor market and to showcase their ability to apply economics to everyday life and/or their career interests by creating posts on their newsfeed. A feedback survey indicated that students felt this course project using LinkedIn was a valuable learning experience. Other examples are also given for using LinkedIn in the economics curriculum and with program assessment.

Perception and Use of Herbal Medicine in General Practice Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study in Saudi Arabia.

In Saudi Arabia, herbal medicine is an essential component of traditional health practices, reflecting a deep cultural appreciation for natural remedies. Despite widespread use, comprehensive data on perceptions and utilization among general practice patients are scarce. This study aims to elucidate the patterns of herbal medicine use, associated beliefs, and communication with healthcare professionals in this context. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using an online questionnaire distributed through social media and professional networks, targeting adult residents of Saudi Arabia. The survey encompassed questions on demographic characteristics, use of herbal medicine, reasons for use, sources of herbal products, perceptions of efficacy and safety, and discussions with healthcare professionals about herbal medicine usage. The survey was completed by 1,184 participants, with 736 (62%) reporting the use of herbal medicines in the past 12 months. Among these users, the age group 30-39 was most represented (328/1,184, 27.8%), while participants over 60 were the least (66/1,184, 5.6%). Herbal medicines were primarily used for general wellness (332/736, 45%) and treatment of specific ailments (221/736, 30%). The majority obtained their herbal medicines from pharmacies (427/736, 58%), and 294 (40% of users) used them as alternatives to prescribed medications. Only 259 (35% of herbal medicine users) had discussed their usage with healthcare professionals. Most users believed in the safety (515/736, 70%) and effectiveness (478/736, 65%) of herbal remedies, with a significant portion (626/736, 85%) advocating for more scientific research. This study reveals a significant engagement with and positive perception of herbal medicine among general practice patients in Saudi Arabia, alongside a notable gap in communication between patients and healthcare providers. The findings highlight the need for integrating discussions on herbal medicine into patient care, encouraging evidence-based, safe use through better-informed healthcare practices.

Documented and Undocumented Skilled Mexican Immigrants and the Global Recession in Los Angeles Metropolitan Region

The main purpose of this article is to analyze the labor market integration of documented and undocumented skilled Mexican immigrants in Los Angeles Metropolitan region during the global recession of 2008. To this end, we use a mixed methodological approach. From the quantitative perspective, we analyze data from the American Community Survey. The qualitative approach includes 20 open-ended interviews with Mexican skilled immigrants. The main findings reveal that skilled immigrants were not negatively affected by the global recession. In addition, legal immigration status turned out to be the most important factor in differentiating those who obtained a skilled occupation and those who did not. However, some immigrants, including those who were undocumented, were able to strategically use their investment in human capital and their access to professional social networks in order to obtain professional occupations.