bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Incidence of Penetrating Trauma in an Urban Level 1–Trauma Center. A Retrospective Clinical Survey of the Years 2016-2021.
Authors: Hinrichs Katharina , Frank Mark , Gierer Philip 
Published: June 2023

Introduction:Penetrating trauma is a highly visible issue in history, social media, and politics. Crime statistics showed increasing numbers of violations of the law banning assault weapons in Germany. Although these injuries have historically been rare in Germany, we have noticed increasing numbers in our hospital. Studies focusing on these injuries of penetrating trauma are lacking, hence a distinct therapy algorithm is missing.Method:All penetrating injuries proximal to the wrist and ankle in the years 2016-2021 were analyzed in a retrospective survey. Isolated injuries of hand and foot were excluded. Data were gathered from the clinical information system and the protocol of the emergency medical services. For further analysis we identified three distinct groups: Patients who acquired the injury by an accident (ACCIDENT), self-inflicted (SELF-HARM) or by crime (ASSAULT). The groups were compared using MicroSoft Excel® and Sigma plot® (Jandel, San Rafael, CA).Results:A total of 961 cases were identified. The analysis showed an increasing number of cases with penetrating injuries from 2016 until 2019. Furthermore, major differences between the groups were revealed. The assault victims (ASSAULT n=117) were mostly male (91%) and non-German (52%). They were more likely to be accompanied by the police (13%), to be intoxicated, to require hospital admission (also to critical care) and to require surgery as compared to the cases of the ACCIDENT (n=484) and SELF-HARM (n=360) group. The SELF-HARM group cases were predominantly female, younger and had psychiatric comorbidities.Conclusion:The cause of penetrating trauma injury is important and can provide information crucial to the management of the patient. The emergency treatment of assault victims is challenging due to the particular circumstances of these cases. Optimal preparation and anticipation of the accident and emergency staff are necessary to deal with these patients. In summary, assault victims had more serious injuries than the other groups.
Mass Vaccination for All: Increasing Inclusivity of Point of Dispensing Plans in New Orleans.
Authors: Goldfine Shayna , Mclnturff Meredith 
Published: June 2023

Introduction:In January 2021, the State of Louisiana approved COVID-19 vaccine distribution to elderly and immunocompromised persons. From annual hurricane planning assessments, the city of New Orleans recognized medical and transportation barriers would prevent some eligible residents from accessing vaccines at public point of dispensing (POD) sites. A new vaccine distribution system was needed for homebound individuals and their caregivers. By February, the city developed and implemented a homebound vaccination plan under the direction of New Orleans Emergency Medical Services (NOEMS) and the New Orleans Health Department. This presentation will review this vaccine distribution model and the opportunities and challenges identified in maintaining this model for future medical POD interventions.Method:The City of New Orleans, along with news outlets and service providers, instructed homebound residents and caregivers to self-identify their need for a homebound vaccine by calling 311 and adding their name to a centralized waitlist. NOEMS/NOHD staff would schedule appointments based on resident and provider availability and geography of their home residence. Two 2-person teams were deployed simultaneously to provide ten doses within a five-hour time frame to minimize waste. Each deployment team included one city employee with an EMS certification and one volunteer, along with a cooler, ancillary supplies, registration form, and educational sheet to complete the appointment.Results:350 homebound residents and caregivers were vaccinated with the COVID-19 vaccine from February 2021 to January 2022. Vaccine doses were rarely wasted due to the availability of a centralized city-wide vaccine request list.Conclusion:The COVID-19 pandemic exposed gaps in mass dispensing plans and procedures. This local plan, created in haste to meet community need, became a model practice for other Parishes within the State of Louisiana and nationwide. This distribution modality needs to be maintained and tested, in addition to traditional POD sites, to be utilized in future dispensing events.
Border Measures Taken in Japan Against COVID-19 (Focusing on the Response to the Large Number of People Entering Japan when the Omicron Variant Emerged)
Authors: Kotani Satoshi , Koido Yuichi , Kondo Hisayoshi , Wakai Akinori , Mimura Seiji , Toyokuni Yoshiki 
Published: June 2023

Introduction:Various COVID-19 countermeasures were taken at Japan border control policy, especially, the return mission of Japanese nationals from Wuhan and the response to the Diamond Princess are considered to be cases that have stood out worldwide attention.On the other hand, in response to the variants after December 2020, strict measures were taken, such as testing all those who entered Japan, quarantining those who tested positive, and requiring those who entered from certain regions to wait at some hotels even if they tested negative.Method:Report the response of quarantine in Japan.Results:In particular, for the Omicron variant in December 2021, the government took measures such as limiting the total number of people entering Japan, securing a maximum of over 20,000 rooms in a very short period of time, and providing domestic air transportation when necessary. The results of measures will be reported in this study.Conclusion:Various countermeasures taken as border control against COVID-19 in Japan were reported.
Linking Public Health Monitoring to Dialogue-based Decision-making During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Experiences from a Participatory Pilot in the Netherlands
Authors: Dückers Michel , Jansen Noortje , Horst Sam Ter , Haagen Joris 
Published: June 2023

Introduction:In the Netherlands, a nationally coordinated research program has been initiated to monitor the immediate and long-term public health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. This contribution describes the design and early results of a continuous dialectic process to involve national and local public health authorities and professionals in monitor-driven decision-making to anticipate the health impact of viral infections and mitigation measures.Method:An ongoing series of dialogue sessions was organized upon the release of quarterly and annual results of the monitoring program. Apart from supporting public health decision-making, the stepwise dialectic process aimed to ensure multi-sectoral learning and co-creation and nurture a sense of ownership among stakeholders from policy, practice and science. National and regional public health authorities served as hub coordinators and participated in determining and approaching relevant stakeholders. Whenever considered relevant, new stakeholders were invited to participate.Results:In the first year, three dialogue sessions were organized, with an emphasis on youth and young adults. Representatives from ministries, municipalities, health organizations, experiential experts and knowledge institutes attended the sessions. Based on the exchange, policy recommendations were formulated and shared among participants. The themes prioritized included mental health issues, overburdened healthcare services, involvement of vulnerable groups in policy development and understanding the complex myriad of risk factors. Moreover, several factors were identified that might facilitate or hinder the implementation and uptake of monitoring findings.Conclusion:The dissemination and discussion of monitoring data proved to be of added value in developing evidence-informed solutions and areas of attention for future monitoring, including the need to track progress of local and national implementation of recommendations. More broadly, the methodology piloted during the program requires further testing as a community engagement strategy and might be meaningful in other crises or problem contexts as well.
Group Psychological First Aid: Toward a New Model for Group-Based Disaster Mental Health Intervention
Authors: Nitza Amy , Lefforge Noelle , O'Meara Andrew 
Published: June 2023

Introduction:As the number of individuals impacted by disasters rises, an adaptation of Psychological First Aid (PFA) into a group intervention is warranted. Such a model would allow for more people to receive the support they need, while harnessing the power of group interventions. Groups have established effectiveness that is equivalent, if not superior, to individual treatment. Additionally, the five essential elements of early intervention for mass trauma (safety, calm, efficacy, connectedness, and hope) are closely related to the established mechanisms of change in groups. Groups are particularly well-suited to promote connectedness, the element with the strongest empirical link to recovery. Nevertheless, groups are underutilized in disasters and caution is warranted as some models have been shown to cause potential harm by over-exposing those involved to one another’s trauma and attempting to process the trauma when the focus should be on stabilization. This presentation proposes a model for group-based PFA that incorporates the known risks and benefits of disaster response and group interventions.Method:Literature on group interventions for disaster was reviewed and compared to established best practices in disaster mental health including PFA, Skills for Recovery, and related interventions. This literature was combined with the clinical and training experience of the presenters to develop an initial model for adapting PFA into a group intervention.Results:The model proposed involves dissemination of PFA’s general tenets among large groups and then utilizing small groups to provide the PFA core skills most applicable to each group. The model also incorporates group processes known to promote recovery that are not available in individual interventions, emphasizing the role of group cohesion to create connectedness and social support.Conclusion:This proposal is conceptualized as a tabletop presentation to allow for discussion, with a goal of advancing Group PFA and recommending next steps in its development and dissemination.
Active Versus Comforting Aid: The SIX C's Model for Psychological First Aid: Empirical Evaluation. A Retrospective Study
Authors: Farchi Moshe , Gidron Yori 
Published: June 2023

Introduction:Compassion, calming down and providing aid are common ways of helping people in need soon after traumatic events. However, such forms of help were seldom tested and other research suggests that active coping may have more positive long-term effects. The SIX C's model was created to provide simple and effective evidence-based Psychological First Aid guidelines that help shift the person from helpless into active and effective activation in a very short time. The model emphasizes the need for cognitive communication as well as effective activation in contrast to the previous concepts of calming and emotional communicationMethod:This retrospective cross-sectional study examined empirically the SIX C's Model's basic concepts. We checked the association between whether people received activating versus more passive forms of aid during crises, their self-efficacy and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. 428 participants completed scales on the type of aid received during past traumatic events including activating aid (encouraging active and effective responses) versus passive aid (receiving compassion, calming down and general aid), as well as their current general self-efficacy (GSE) and PTSD symptomsResults:Results revealed that passive aid was not related to PTSD while activating aid correlated inversely with PTSD. Importantly, both resilience and GSE emerged as mediators and moderators between activating aid and PTSD. The moderation showed that receiving activating aid was associated with less PTSD only in people low on resilience or GSEConclusion:The study revealed a major role for self-efficacy in protecting people from PTSD. Self-efficacy not only statistically mediated the relationship between active aid and PTSD but also moderated this relationship. The findings underline the importance of encouraging the person to act effectively during the event and to maintain cognitive communication. This type of aid leads to increased self-efficacy and contributes to the reduction of risk for PTSD.
Disaster and Emergency Preparedness and the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Child Care Programs in Michigan: A Mixed-Methods Analysis
Authors: Bradin Stuart , Budnik Elizabeth , Hashikawa Andrew , Cator Allison , Mangus Courtney 
Published: June 2023

Introduction:Historically, the child care industry has been unprepared for emergencies. A previous study identified gaps in Michigan’s child care programs’ emergency plans. Study objectives were to reassess programs’ preparedness plans after the introduction of state-mandated emergency plans and to examine the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on programs’ operations.Method:A 29-question survey was sent to ~500 child care programs across Michigan in 2020 to assess emergency plans and response to COVID-19. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative methods.Results:Overall, 346 programs (70%) responded. Most (92%) reported having a written plan, but one-third reported having no infectious outbreak plan pre-pandemic. One-third of programs lacked plans for special needs children (vs. 40% in 2014); 62% lacked plans for child reunification (vs. 60% in 2014); 46% reported staff received no preparedness training. COVID-19 impacted programs substantially: 59% closed, 20% decreased capacity, and 27% changed disinfecting protocols. Several themes related to the pandemic’s effect on programs were identified: 1) changes in learning 2) changes in socialization 3) increased family burden 4) financial challenges 5) lack of guidance.Conclusion:Significant preparedness gaps remain among Michigan’s child care programs, suggesting the need for increased support and the addition of emergency preparedness to programs’ quality ratings.
Development and Validation of a Novel "Luminescent Guidewire“ for more Efficient and Safer Guidance During Endovascular Rescue Procedures
Authors: Plass Andre , Gaetani Patrick , Babicki Josef , Emmert Maximilian 
Published: June 2023

Introduction:Endovascular procedures in emergencies like the implantation of tubes for a life support system are increasing. Guidewires are the essential basis for the regularly used Seldinger Technique. We present a novel concept that may further optimize the safety and efficacy of guidewire handling and navigation during endovascular procedures.Method:Using specifically designed luminescent particles, a novel, clinical-grade coating protocol was created to develop a new luminescent guidewire. Different prototypes were designed and tested for their luminescent capacity following a short exposure to any light-source. Chemical-analysis, hemocompatibility, hemolysis and cytotoxicity testing of the new guidewire was performed. The usability of the new prototype was compared to regular guidewires by application into needles, catheters and tubes which are used during percutaneous procedures.Results:The engineered guidewires demonstrated a luminescent capacity of at least 20 minutes after less than ten seconds of exposure to a light source. Chemical analysis, cytotoxicity, hemolysis, and hemocompatibility indicated a biocompatibility profile of the guidewire. Good usability, safe and rapid handling was demonstrated when simulating endovascular procedures. Under dimmed-light conditions, the luminescent guidewire demonstrated substantially enhanced visibility when compared to the standard-of-care.Conclusion:We present a new, luminescent guidewire that may enhance the safety and efficacy of endovascular procedures, especially where light conditions are suboptimal or for emergency situations when procedures have to be as fast and efficient as possible.
Factors Associated with International Humanitarian Aid Appeal: Analysis of Disasters from 1995 to 2015
Authors: Cheng Lenard , Hertelendy Attila , Hart Alexander , Law Lawrence , Hata Ryan , Nouaime Georgina , Issa Fadi , Echeverri Lina , Voskanyan Amalia , Ciottone Gregory 
Published: June 2023

Introduction:International humanitarian aid is crucial in disasters but must be needs-driven and coordinated with requests from local authorities. We identify disaster and population factors associated with international aid appeal during disasters and hence guide preparation by international humanitarian aid providers.Method:In this retrospective database analysis, we searched the Emergency Events Database for all disasters from 1995 to 2015. Disasters with and without international aid appeals were compared by location, duration, type of disaster, deaths, number of people affected, and total estimated damage. Logistic regression was used to examine the association of each factor with international aid appeal.Results:Of 13,961 disasters recorded from 1995 to 2015, 168 (1.2%) involved international aid appeals. Aid appeals were more likely to be triggered by disasters which killed more people (OR 1.29 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.02-1.64] log10 persons), affected more people (OR 1.85 [95%CI 1.57-2.18] / log10 persons), and occurred in Africa (OR 1.67 [95%CI 1.06-2.62). Earthquakes (OR 4.07 [95%CI 2.16-7.67]), volcanic activity (OR 6.23 [95%CI 2.50-15.53]), and insect infestations (OR 12.14 [95%CI 3.05-48.35]) were more likely to trigger international aid appeals. International aid appeals were less likely to be triggered by disasters which occurred in Asia (OR 0.46 [95%CI 0.29-0.73]) and which were transport accidents (OR 0.12 [95%CI 0.02-0.89]).Conclusion:International aid appeal during disasters was associated with greater magnitude of damage, disasters in Africa, and specific types of disasters such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and insect infestations. Humanitarian aid providers can focus preparation on these identified factors.
The Role of Diagnostic Medical Imaging Community in Responding to Nuclear and Radiological Events in Urban Environments
Authors: Naeem Mohammad 
Published: June 2023

Introduction:To understand the role of medical providers in general and the radiology community in the prevention, management, and aftermath of a radiological or nuclear event.Method:Using a power point presentation, the author will describe in detail the role diagnostic medical imagers can play in responding to the radiological or nuclear MASCAL events.Results:The purpose is to educate the civilian radiology audience about their role amidst the changing nature of current nuclear threats and asymmetric and hybrid warfare in urban settings. It is very likely that in the future the civilian radiology community may be involved and respond to a nuclear crisis or a radiation accident or its aftermath before the military gets involved because it will most likely be initially a MASCAL event in a civilian setting, not immediately under the purview of the military.Conclusion:Radiologists and nuclear medicine physicians will play a very critical and central role in the event of a nuclear detonation or a radiation dispersal device detonation due to their inherent knowledge of the principles of radiation, contamination, exposure and radiation protection.
Handover Between Prehospital and Intra-hospital Physicians–Utility of Simulation in Enhancing Quality of Transmission
Authors: Chermiti Ines , Ghazali Hanene , Bakir Amira , Arbaoui Amal , Jamli Slim , Chortani Naziha , Souissi Sami 
Published: June 2023

Introduction:Handover is of big value in preserving continuity of the medical services chain when managing patients. Simulation is well accepted as a good learning method to acquire non-technical skills. Actual studies dealing with this issue are performed on paramedics. Studies involving physicians are rare and usually focus on interviews or questionnaires describing practical situations.The aim of our study was to evaluate the utility of simulation in enhancing the quality of handover between both pre-hospital and intra-hospital physicians.Method:We conducted a prospective pre-test/post-test study in a regional Emergency Medical System (EMS) on the handover topic.We included voluntary physicians who signed participation consent. The study was designed as a three-step project: theoretical training with pre-test and post-test, 1st simulation session, 2nd simulation session with post-test. The two simulation sessions were evaluated according to a specific score. We evaluated the progression of knowledge (tests means) and skills (percentages of good answers): before and after theoretical training and before and after simulation sessions.Results:Sixteen EMS physicians were enrolled. Thirteen were under 40 years old and ten were emergency medicine physician specialists. Theoretical training made progression in means and percentage good answers (post-test 1 vs. pré-test : 9.5±3.3 vs 6.9±2 ; p=0.008 et 22 vs. 10% ; p=0,001 respectively). Progression of means after simulation was noticed (2nd session vs. 1st session) (16.3±0.9 vs. 12.3±2.5 ; p<0.001). Simulation enhanced significant quality of handover. Means and percentage of good answers in tests was better after simulation sessions (post-test 2 vs. post-test 1 vs. pre-test : 10.7±2.8 vs. 9.5±3.3 vs. 6.9±2 ; p=0.01 et 29% vs. 22% vs. 10% ; p<0.001 respectively).Conclusion:Our study showed the utility of simulation in enhancing handover between pre-hospital and intra-hospital physicians. Simulation as an active learning method, combined with theoretical training, can improve knowledge and enhance skills.
Preparing Hospitals for CBRN Emergencies in Israel–A Review
Authors: Hertzog Diana 
Published: June 2023

Introduction:The mission of the medical department in the Home Front Command is to support the preparedness of Israel’s health system for emergencies, both in day-to-day routine and during wartime. This is achieved by practicing emergency scenarios in all general hospitals, including biological, chemical, and radiological mass-casualty events.Method:Implementing an annual drill plan in all general hospitals and practicing emergency scenarios, including non-conventional events such as mass toxicological events and radiological mass casualty events.Results:The presentation describes the hospital radiological and chemical mass casualty event doctrine and the drills performed in hospitals to achieve better preparedness.Conclusion:The drills conducted in the general hospitals in Israel enable better preparation for CBRN emergency scenarios.