Incidental findings arising from targeted lung health checks: a GP practice perspective

Introduction: Newcastle Gateshead is a phase one Targeted Lung Health Checks site. Walker Medical Group GP practice serves a deprived population and is a designated Deep End practice. We report on the experience of Targeted Lung Health Checks at this practice. Method(s): Invitations were sent to eligible participants registered at the practice. Lung health checks were carried out by telephone according to Standard Protocol in the context of the COVID 19 pandemic. Those meeting criteria for Low Dose CT were invited to a mobile scanner located in the community near to the practice. Scans were reported according to the Standard Protocol. Result(s): Of 1481 eligible patients, 736 (50.44%) attended a telephone lung health check. 458 (63.6%) met criteria for a CT scan, of whom 33 declined a scan and 2 were unable to lie flat. 11 lung cancers (2.6%) and one other cancer were diagnosed. 71 (16.8%) had nodules requiring follow-up. These cases were managed by the TLHC programme and lung cancer MDT. Incidental findings had the greatest impact on general practice. 72.3% of scans showed coronary artery calcification. Of these, over 1 in 4 was not currently prescribed a Statin. New diagnoses of bronchiectasis (8 patients = 2%) and interstitial lung disease (7 patients = 1.6%) required GP action. 5 new cases of undiagnosed thoracic aortic aneurysm were identified, requiring referral for further action (1%). Conclusion(s): Incidental findings of Targeted Lung Health Checks CT scans require substantial input from a GP team. Coronary artery calcification is numerically most significant. Participants and practices should be supported by information and resources. Thoracic aortic aneurysm cases are also found in significant numbers and TLHC projects are advised to work with cardiology and cardiac surgery units when setting up. We plan to explore the reasons for participant refusal of CT scanning. Disclosure: No significant relationships.Copyright © 2023 Elsevier B.V.

Neurological complications of COVID-19.

Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused several pandemic peaks worldwide due to its high variability and infectiousness, and COVID-19 has become a long-standing global public health problem. There is growing evidence that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) frequently causes multi-organ injuries and more severe neurological manifestations. Therefore, increased awareness of possible neurological complications is beneficial in preventing and mitigating the impact of long-term sequelae and improving the prognostic outcome of critically ill patients with COVID-19. Here, we review the main pathways of SARS-CoV-2 neuroinvasion and the potential mechanisms causing neurological damage. We also discuss in detail neurological complications, aiming to provide cutting-edge basis for subsequent related basic research and clinical studies of diagnosis and treatment.

Filipino College Students' Perspectives on the Challenges, Coping Strategies, and Benefits of Self-Directed Language Learning in the New Normal

COVID-19 pandemic posed different challenges among teachers and learners worldwide. To add to literature regarding teachers' and learners' responses towards the pandemic, this study sought to determine the challenges and coping strategies of self-directed language learners. Anchored in the Zone of Proximal Development Theory, utilizing a case study design, eight randomly sampled college self-directed language learners from three purposively and conveniently sampled higher educational institutions in the Philippines were interviewed. Three teachers and two parents were also interviewed for triangulation. Emerging themes revealed that the self-directed language learners have difficulty consulting with teachers, logistical issues and poor Internet connections, and family commitment and distractions. To cope with these challenges, they developed time management and self-discipline, cultivated self-reliance, and prepared contingency plans. Moreover, they gained selfmotivation and academic independence while employing self-directed language learning in the new normal. This implies a positive adaptation to a new normal way of studying. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] Copyright of Human Behavior Development & Society is the property of Asia-Pacific International University, Institute Press and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)