Irish journal of medical science
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Management of the COVID-19 pandemic has been plagued by an online 'infodemic', not least on the topic of vaccine safety. Failure to vaccinate is often addressed with corrective, factually based information. However, this may be overly simplistic. European vaccine hesitancy levels correlate closely with popularity of populist parties while scientific populism refers specifically to populist distrust in scientific expertise. ⋯ While the 'right thing to do' is clear when viewed through a lens of scientific expert advice, this is precisely the paradigm which populist movement rejects. Segmentations, such as the outputs from this study, validate the importance of proactively engaging with diverse communities both on and offline and afford a framework for developing and evaluating more refined, targeted, policies and interventions.
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Observational Study
Thirst in patients admitted to intensive care units: an observational study.
Despite various studies reporting a high prevalence, reaching 71%, the sensation of thirst in intensive care unit (ICU) patients, its prevention, detection, and management, is not well known nor considered. Limited research has examined the causes of thirst in ICU patients, while it has been examined in other patient populations. ⋯ Thirst is highly prevalent among patients in this population of intensive care patients. It would be desirable to evaluate this stressor at least daily, to eliminate or relieve this sensation.
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The estimated incidence of testicular torsion (TT) is 4 per 100,000 males under 25 years [1]. Age, region and health insurance status have been associated with a higher risk of orchidectomy following TT [2]. ⋯ The incidence of TT appears to be higher in Ireland than elsewhere. Epidemiological data for TT in Ireland will help inform health policy and clinical guidelines, facilitate comparison with other jurisdictions and improve public awareness. Further research is needed to identify modifiable risk factors that predict treatment outcomes.
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Estrogens play an extremely important role in regulating the proliferation of ovarian cancer. The estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) stimulates cell growth, whereas ERβ can be attributed to tumor suppressors. The study aims to assess the relationship between the expression of estrogen receptors in tumors and the efficacy of front-line platinum plus taxane chemotherapy in ovarian cancer patients.
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Involving medical students in research in their undergraduate careers may increase the likelihood that they will be research active after graduation. To date, there has been a paucity of published research of students doing research in general practice. ⋯ We found this audit initiative feasible and useful in helping students learn about audit skills, patient safety and real-world prescribing. GPs and students would benefit more if it were linked to a substantial clinical placement, focussed on a topic of interest and given protected time. Separate research projects may be needed to develop research skills confidence.