Identification With Terrorist Attack Victims: Association With Television Viewing and Prior Life Threat

2017 ◽  
Vol 12 (3) ◽  
pp. 337-344 ◽  
Author(s):  
Holly B. Herberman Mash ◽  
Carol S. Fullerton ◽  
K. Nikki Benevides ◽  
Robert J. Ursano
Keyword(s):  
Online Survey ◽  
Television Viewing ◽  
Terrorist Attack ◽  
Female Gender ◽  
Parental Status ◽  
Washington Dc ◽  
Past Life ◽  
Life Threatening ◽  
Life Threat ◽  
Terrorist Event

AbstractObjectiveA series of sniper attacks in the Washington, DC, area left 10 people dead and 3 wounded. We developed and tested a model that examined the unique and interdependent relationships of sniper-related television viewing, prior life-threatening events, and parental status to identification with attack victims.MethodsParticipants were 1238 residents of the DC area (aged 18-90 years, mean=41.7 years; 51% female; 68% white) who completed an online survey that assessed identification with sniper attack victims, amount of television viewing, and prior life-threatening events. Identification was measured by using a previously developed scale that assessed to what extent participants identified victims as similar to themselves, a friend, or a family member.ResultsThe relationship of television viewing to identification was examined by using multivariate linear regression analyses. In univariate analyses, female gender, having children, higher levels of television viewing, and past life-threatening events were independently related to greater identification. After adjustment for demographics and life-threatening events, sniper-related television viewing continued to be associated with identification (B=0.61, P≤0.001, ∆R2=0.07). Examination of the interactions of television viewing by parental status and television viewing by life-threatening event revealed significant relationships.ConclusionsAttention to events preceding and during a terrorist event could help in the recognition of those at particular risk for increased identification with attack victims. These findings also have implications for recommendations for media exposure during an event. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2018; 12: 337–344)

Effects of the 2002 Sniper Attacks on the Homeless Population in Washington, DC

2009 ◽  
Vol 3 (3) ◽  
pp. 163-167 ◽  
Author(s):  
Carol S. Fullerton ◽  
Robert K. Gifford ◽  
Brian W. Flynn ◽  
Karen M. Peterson ◽  
Frederick L. Ahearn ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Disaster Response ◽  
Terrorist Attack ◽  
Vulnerable Groups ◽  
Homeless Population ◽  
Washington Dc ◽  
Local Law Enforcement ◽  
The Media ◽  
Terrorist Event ◽  
Effective Public Health

ABSTRACTObjective: Despite the prevalence of homelessness, this population has rarely been included in disaster and terrorism planning. To better understand the mental health needs of the homeless during a terrorist event and to highlight the need to address methodological limitations in research in this area, we examined responses to the October 2002 Washington, DC, sniper attacks.Methods: We interviewed 151 homeless individuals 1 year after the Washington, DC, sniper attacks.Results: The majority (92.7%) was aware of the sniper events; 84.1% stayed informed through the media and 72.7% had someone to turn to for emotional support. Almost half (44%) reported identification with victims and 41% increased substance use during the attacks. More than half (61.7%) felt extremely frightened or terrified and 57.6% reported high perceived threat. Females, nonwhites, and participants with less than a high school education experienced greater threat. Women, nonwhites, and younger (<43 years old) participants were more likely to have decreased more activities and 32.7% increased confidence in local law enforcement; however, 32.7% became less confident.Conclusions: During a terrorist attack the homeless population may be difficult to reach or reluctant to comply with public health programs. Addressing barriers to health care in vulnerable groups is critical to effective public health disaster response. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2009;3:163–167)

Active Shooter and Terrorist Event-Related Posttraumatic Stress and Depression: Television Viewing and Perceived Safety

2018 ◽  
Vol 13 (03) ◽  
pp. 570-576 ◽  
Author(s):  
Carol S. Fullerton ◽  
Holly B. Herberman Mash ◽  
Joshua C. Morganstein ◽  
Robert J. Ursano
Keyword(s):  
Depressive Symptoms ◽  
Posttraumatic Stress ◽  
Television Viewing ◽  
Media Exposure ◽  
Washington Dc ◽  
Tv Viewing ◽  
Perceived Safety ◽  
Terrorist Event ◽  
Relationship Of ◽  
The Relationship

AbstractObjectiveThis study examined the relationship of sniper-related television viewing (TV) and perceived safety to posttraumatic stress (PTS) and depressive symptoms during the Washington, DC sniper attacks.MethodsParticipants were 1238 Washington, DC area residents assessed using an internet survey including the Impact of Event Scale-Revised, Patient Health Questionnaire-9, hours of TV, and perceived safety.ResultsAlmost 40% (n = 459) of participants watched at least 2 hours of sniper-related TV daily. TV viewing was associated with lower total perceived safety. After adjusting for demographics, more TV viewing and decreased perceived safety were related to increased PTS and depressive symptoms. TV viewing modified the effect of safety on PTS and depressive symptoms. Among participants with low and high perceived safety, hours of TV were positively associated with PTS; however, the effect was stronger among those with low perceived safety. The relationship of TV to increased depressive symptoms was identified only in participants who reported low perceived safety.ConclusionsThe influence of media exposure and perceived safety have implications for intervention by community leaders and mental health care providers. Recommendations include limiting media exposure during a terrorist event, particularly among those who perceive that their safety is at risk, and targeting safety in communication strategies. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2019;13:570-576)

Learning Electrocardiogram Interpretation: Insights from Residents and a Proposed Solution in an Observational Study (Preprint)

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mohammad Alakchar ◽  
Abdisamad M. Ibrahim ◽  
Mohsin Salih ◽  
Mukul Bhattarai ◽  
Nitin Tandan ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Internal Medicine ◽  
Correlation Coefficient ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Resident Attitudes ◽  
Internal Medicine Residents ◽  
Life Threatening ◽  
Degree Of Participation ◽  
Electrocardiogram Interpretation

BACKGROUND Interpretation of electrocardiograms (EKG) is an essential tool for every physician. Despite this, the diagnosis of life-threatening pathology on EKG remains suboptimal in trainees. The purpose of this study is to study resident attitudes and behaviours towards EKGs, and describe an innovative way to teach EKGs. OBJECTIVE Study attitudes and behaviours towards EKGs. Describe an innovative way to teach EKGs. METHODS Design: An observational cross-sectional study through an anonymous online survey of resident attitudes and comfort with EKG interpretation. This was followed by creation of a WhatsApp group for discussion and interpretation of EKGs with peers. At the end of the day, the official EKG interpretation was posted. Setting: Internal medicine residency at Southern Illinois University. Participants: Internal medicine residents Interventions: Creation of WhatsApp group to aid with EKG interpretation Measurements: A 17 item questionnaire, followed by detection of degree of participation in a WhatsApp group. RESULTS Forty-one out of 63 residents (65%) completed the survey. 85% of respondents thought that an interactive way to teach EKGs is the best method of teaching, and 73% did not feel confident interpreting EKGs. 30% often rely on automated EKG interpretation. Further analysis indicated that PGY-1 residents reported ordering fewer EKGs (correlation coefficient -0.399, p = 0.012) and were uncomfortable diagnosing QT prolongation on an EKG (correlation coefficient -0.310, p = 0.049). Residents in the third or greater year of training ordered more EKGs (correlation coefficient 0.379, p = 0.015), less frequently relied on the computer for EKG diagnosis (correlation coefficient 0.399, p = 0.010), and were comfortable diagnosing an acute myocardial infarction and atrial arrhythmias. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, most IM trainees do not feel comfortable interpreting EKG, however, this does improve with PGY year. WhatsApp is a possible platform for teaching EKGs.

scholarly journals How is the COVID-19 lockdown impacting the mental health of parents of school-age children in the UK? A cross-sectional online survey

BMJ Open ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (5) ◽  
pp. e043397
Author(s):  
Austen El-Osta ◽  
Aos Alaa ◽  
Iman Webber ◽  
Eva Riboli Sasco ◽  
Emmanouil Bagkeris ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Physical Activity ◽  
Social Isolation ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Female Gender ◽  
School Age Children ◽  
School Age ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
The Uk ◽  
The Impact

ObjectiveInvestigate the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on feelings of loneliness and social isolation in parents of school-age children.DesignCross-sectional online survey of parents of primary and secondary school-age children.SettingCommunity setting.Participants1214 parents of school-age children in the UK.MethodsAn online survey explored the impact of lockdown on the mental health of parents with school-age children, and in particular about feelings of social isolation and loneliness. Associations between the UCLA Three-Item Loneliness Scale (UCLATILS), the Direct Measure of Loneliness (DMOL) and the characteristics of the study participants were assessed using ordinal logistic regression models.Main outcome measuresSelf-reported measures of social isolation and loneliness using UCLATILS and DMOL.ResultsHalf of respondents felt they lacked companionship, 45% had feelings of being left out, 58% felt isolated and 46% felt lonely during the first 100 days of lockdown. The factors that were associated with higher levels of loneliness on UCLATILS were female gender, parenting a child with special needs, lack of a dedicated space for distance learning, disruption of sleep patterns and low levels of physical activity during the lockdown. Factors associated with a higher DMOL were female gender, single parenting, parenting a child with special needs, unemployment, low physical activity, lack of a dedicated study space and disruption of sleep patterns during the lockdown.ConclusionsThe COVID-19 lockdown has increased feelings of social isolation and loneliness among parents of school-age children. The sustained adoption of two modifiable health-seeking lifestyle behaviours (increased levels of physical activity and the maintenance of good sleep hygiene practices) wmay help reduce feelings of social isolation and loneliness during lockdown.

scholarly journals Investigating awareness, fear and control associated with norovirus and other pathogens and pollutants using best–worst scaling

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Kata Farkas ◽  
Emma Green ◽  
Dan Rigby ◽  
Paul Cross ◽  
Sean Tyrrel ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Foodborne Pathogens ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Risk Mitigation ◽  
Terrorist Attack ◽  
Gastrointestinal Diseases ◽  
Resistant Bacteria ◽  
Best Worst Scaling ◽  
Important Health ◽  
Health Need ◽  
Levels Of Control

AbstractPollutants found in the water and air environment represent an ever-growing threat to human health. Contact with some air-, water- and foodborne pathogens (e.g. norovirus) results in gastrointestinal diseases and outbreaks. For future risk mitigation, we aimed to measure people’s awareness of waterborne and foodborne norovirus relative to other environment-associated pollutants (e.g. pesticides, bioaerosols, antibiotic resistant bacteria) and well-known risks (e.g. diabetes, dementia, terrorist attack). We used an online survey, which included a best–worst scaling component to elicit personal levels of control and fear prompted by norovirus relative to 15 other risks. There was a negative correlation between levels of fear vs. control for all 16 measured risks. Perceived infection control levels were higher amongst women compared to men and correlated with age and the level of qualification in both groups. Participants who had sought advice regarding the symptoms caused by norovirus appeared to have more control over the risks. Norovirus is associated with high levels of fear, however, the levels of control over it is low compared to other foodborne illnesses, e.g. Salmonella. Addressing this deficit in the public’s understanding of how to control exposure to the pathogen in an important health need.

scholarly journals Blood Donation-Related Adverse Reactions: Results of an Online Survey among Donors in Germany (2018)

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-11
Author(s):  
Stefano Orru’ ◽  
Kay Poetzsch ◽  
Marcus Hoffelner ◽  
Margarethe Heiden ◽  
Markus B. Funk ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factors ◽  
Whole Blood ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Adverse Reactions ◽  
Blood Donation ◽  
Age Groups ◽  
Female Gender ◽  
Online Questionnaire ◽  
Logistic Analysis ◽  
German Legislation

<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> According to German legislation, reports of suspected serious adverse reactions (AR) associated with the donation of blood and its components are continuously being evaluated by the Paul-Ehrlich-Institut. This survey aimed at providing a more complete picture of the AR associated with the donation of blood and blood components. <b><i>Materials and Methods:</i></b> Eligible donors had the opportunity to anonymously report all AR occurring during or after their last donation by completing an online questionnaire. Reported AR were classified according to the Standard for Surveillance of Complications Related to Blood Donation. Donors’ self-assessment of AR seriousness was compared with the official severity classification as laid down by German legislation. Besides a descriptive statistical analysis, a multiple logistic analysis was performed to identify risk factors for AR. <b><i>Results:</i></b> A total of 8,138 data records were evaluated. Slightly more males (57.9%) participated in the survey and, except for donors aged ≥60 years, all age groups were equally represented. The majority of participants were whole blood donors (85.4%), repeat donors (97.2%), and stayed under observation in the blood establishment (BE) for more than 5 min (63.1%) after donation. Most participants did not report any reaction (72.5%), whereas 2,237 reported at least one AR (27.5%), 475 of whom underwent apheresis and 1,762 donated whole blood. Most AR occurred after leaving the BE (64.4%). Only a minority of participants required medical treatment (5.1%) or assessed the experienced AR as serious (3.9%). The most frequently reported donor AR were haematoma and other local reactions (57.6%). Vasovagal reactions without and with loss of consciousness were developed in 17 and 2% of the participants, respectively, whilst 7.6% experienced citrate reactions. New AR (i.e., allergic reactions and symptoms associated with iron deficiency) were reported as well. The occurrence of AR was linked to risk factors (i.e., female gender, young age, first-time donation, and thrombocytapheresis). <b><i>Discussion:</i></b> This survey yielded a more comprehensive AR spectrum, revealed a prolonged time to symptom onset, and identified risk factors for AR. This novel information could be implemented in an amended informed consent addressing common and rare AR.

scholarly journals Concerns in the Norwegian Population during the Initial Lockdown Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (11) ◽  
pp. 6119
Author(s):  
Inger Schou-Bredal ◽  
Laila Skogstad ◽  
Tine K. Grimholt ◽  
Tore Bonsaksen ◽  
Øivind Ekeberg ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Online Survey ◽  
Female Gender ◽  
Population Based ◽  
Snowball Sampling ◽  
Financial Loss ◽  
Next Of Kin ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Norwegian Population ◽  
Gender And Age ◽  
Response Alternatives

Although concern affects one’s welfare or happiness, few studies to date have focused on peoples’ concerns during the initial COVID-19 lockdown. The aim of the study was to explore concerns in the Norwegian populations according to gender and age, and identify which concerns were most prominent during the lockdown. A population-based cross-sectional online survey using snowball-sampling strategies was conducted, to which 4527 adults (≥18 years) responded. Questions related to concerns had response alternatives yes or no. In addition, they were asked which concern was most prominent. Nearly all the 4527 respondents (92%) reported that they were concerned: 60.9% were generally concerned about the pandemic, 83.9% were concerned about family and friends, 21.8% had financial concerns, and 25.3% expected financial loss. More women were concerned about family and friends than males, (85.2% vs. 76.2%, p < 0.001), whereas more men expected financial loss (30.4% vs. 24.4%y, p = 0.001). Younger adults (<50 years) had more financial concerns than older adults (25.9% vs. 10.5%, p < 0.001). Being concerned about family and friends was the most prominent concern and was associated with; lower age (OR 0.79), female gender (OR 1.59), and being next of kin (2.42). The most prominent concern for adults 70 years or older was being infected by COVID-19. In conclusion, women and younger individuals were most concerned. While adults under 70 years of age were most concerned about family and friends and adults 70 years or older were most concerned about being infected by COVID-19.

Caregivers’ role in managing hereditary angioedema and perceptions of treatment-related burden

2021 ◽  
Vol 42 (3) ◽  
pp. S11-S16 ◽  
Author(s):  
Timothy J. Craig ◽  
Aleena Banerji ◽  
Marc A. Riedl ◽  
Jessica M. Best ◽  
Jinky Rosselli ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Hereditary Angioedema ◽  
Genetic Disease ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Scientific Literature ◽  
Upper Airway ◽  
The United States ◽  
Care Recipient ◽  
Psychosocial Impacts ◽  
Life Threatening ◽  
Familial Caregivers

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare genetic disease that results in recurrent, debilitating, and potentially life-threatening swelling episodes in the extremities, genitals, gastrointestinal tract, and upper airway. Patients can experience significant burdens related to their disease. Informal or familial caregivers often support patients with HAE and likely share in the disease-related burdens, although there are limited HAE caregiver‐focused reports in the scientific literature. In the United States, we conducted an online survey of adults caring for an individual with HAE to better understand their experiences with the disease and identify psychosocial impacts of providing care for a patient with HAE. Thirty caregivers provided responses to the survey. Most caregivers were family members of the care recipient and many had HAE themselves. Caregivers reported participating in a number of medical-related tasks and experiencing some burdens as a result of caring for a person with HAE.

scholarly journals Factors Associated With the Experience of Cognitive Training Apps for the Prevention of Dementia: Cross-sectional Study Using an Extended Health Belief Model

10.2196/31664 ◽  
2022 ◽  
Vol 24 (1) ◽  
pp. e31664
Author(s):  
Jaegyeong Lee ◽  
Jung Min Lim
Keyword(s):  
Health Belief Model ◽  
Cognitive Training ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Mobile Apps ◽  
Health Belief ◽  
Female Gender ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Factors Associated ◽  
Belief Model

Background The prevalence and economic burden of dementia are increasing dramatically. Using information communication technology to improve cognitive functions is proven to be effective and holds the potential to serve as a new and efficient method for the prevention of dementia. Objective The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with the experience of mobile apps for cognitive training in middle-aged adults. We evaluated the relationships between the experience of cognitive training apps and structural variables using an extended health belief model. Methods An online survey was conducted on South Korean participants aged 40 to 64 years (N=320). General characteristics and dementia knowledge were measured along with the health belief model constructs. Statistical analysis and logistic regression analysis were performed. Results Higher dementia knowledge (odds ratio [OR] 1.164, P=.02), higher perceived benefit (OR 1.373, P<.001), female gender (OR 0.499, P=.04), and family history of dementia (OR 1.933, P=.04) were significantly associated with the experience of cognitive training apps for the prevention of dementia. Conclusions This study may serve as a theoretical basis for the development of intervention strategies to increase the use of cognitive training apps for the prevention of dementia.

scholarly journals The Impact of Vitiligo on Patients' Psychological Status and Sexual Function: Cross-Sectional Questionnaire-Based Study

2021 ◽  
Vol 15 (1) ◽  
pp. 23-30
Author(s):  
Ghadah I Alhetheli
Keyword(s):  
Regression Analysis ◽  
Sexual Function ◽  
Female Gender ◽  
Psychological Status ◽  
Roc Curve Analysis ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Sexual Dissatisfaction ◽  
Life Threatening ◽  
Underlying Causes ◽  
The Impact

Introduction: Vitiligo is a chronic pigmentary cutaneous disorder. Although vitiligo is not a life-threatening disease, it seriously affects patients' psychological status and Quality-of-Life (QoL). Moreover, the effect of vitiligo on genital image severely affects sexual function, especially in females. Patients & Methods: This cross-sectional questionnaire-based study had targeted patients with vitiligo of both genders. 173 patients who had responded to the given questionnaires were included and their responses were statistically analyzed. Patients’ files were revised for extraction of demographic and clinical data and the previous evaluation of the Vitiligo Area Scoring Index (VASI) score. Results and Discussion: Median VIS-22 score was in the range of 21-49, but 109 patients had a median score of 28. Seventy-eight patients had mild and 15 patients had moderate depression. Regression analysis defined the sense of being unattractive, disappointed in self and discouragement about the future as the most significant underlying causes of depression. Ninety-two patients had sexual dysfunction and scoring of satisfaction by the sexual act was the highest while scoring for the desire was the lowest. Regression analysis revealed that female gender, high ASEX and VASI scores are the significant predictors for high BDI-II. ROC curve analysis defined a high ASEX score as a significant predictor for a high BDI-II score. Conclusion: The obtained results indicated a deleterious effect of vitiligo on patients’ psychological status that may progress to depression. The effects of the disease on body image, especially the genital area, induced sexual dissatisfaction with an impact on sexual function. Altogether, raise a suggested adjuvant role for psychotherapy in patients with vitiligo which might even indirectly lead to improvement of vitiligo.

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