Search Results (36)

In the current era, when civilizations are in constant conflict and humankind is facing a series of serious existential crises, there is an urgent need for universal love to unite humankind. As models of world religions, Christianity and Buddhism provide rich intellectual resources for the construction of such universal love. Regarding Thomistic Christianity, its philosophy of friendship has gradually achieved a dual transformation from virtue-oriented to love-oriented, and from God-centered to human-centered. In the case of Mahayana Buddhism, its philosophy of friendship has evolved with the “Humanistic Buddhism” movement, increasingly demonstrating a compassionate spirit of saving the world. By comparing Thomistic Christianity with Mahayana Buddhism, we can see that although they exhibit different models of friendship, their main developmental trends are consistent. Both are committed to demonstrating a human-centered model of friendship, both emphasize the value of self-reduction in friendship, and both demonstrate the unique and irreplaceable role of religion in friendship. The goal of the philosophy of friendship is universal love and harmonious development of civilizations, while its future development depends on the joint efforts of contemporary religious scholars and philosophers. Full article

Background: Belantamab mafodotin (belamaf) is a BCMA-targeting antibody–drug conjugate used in triple-class refractory multiple myeloma. Despite its efficacy, keratopathy remains a significant dose-limiting toxicity. Following its withdrawal from the U.S. market in 2022, its use in Austria is limited to clinical trials or compassionate use. Methods: In this real-world, retrospective study, we analyzed 36 relapsed/refractory, BCMA-naïve multiple myeloma patients treated at the University Hospital of Vienna (January 2020–June 2024); 42% received a reduced dose (1.9 mg/kg) throughout all treatment cycles. The primary objective was to assess adverse events, particularly keratopathy, and the impact of dose modifications on toxicity and efficacy. Results: The overall response rate was 64%, with responders having significantly fewer prior therapy lines (median 3 vs. 4.5, p = 0.015). Median PFS was 7.3 months, significantly longer in responders (11.1 vs. 1.6 months, p < 0.0001); median OS was 20.1 months, also longer in responders (not reached vs. 18 months, p = 0.031). Keratopathy occurred in 75% of patients; 33% experienced grade 3–4 events. Dose reduction significantly decreased grade 3–4 keratopathy (7% vs. 52%, p = 0.004) and thrombocytopenia (33% vs. 67%, p = 0.048) without compromising efficacy. Conclusions: Belamaf dose reductions improved tolerability without loss of efficacy, supporting reduced dosing in practice. Full article

Previous research indicates that cultural variations exist in conceptualizations of compassion, potentially attributable to the extent to which individuals in diverse cultural settings want to avoid (versus accept) feeling negative emotions and the significance they place on emotion sharing as a component of compassion. The present study investigates the conceptualization of compassion among individuals in Mexico and the United States, aiming to understand why these cultural differences occur. We hypothesized that Mexicans (1) would want to avoid feeling negative less, (2) would consequently regard emotion sharing as a more critical element of a compassionate response, and (3) would therefore conceptualize a compassionate face as one that mirrors sadness more and expresses happiness less compared to U.S. Americans. Participants from Mexico and the United States engaged in a reverse correlation task, selecting stimuli that most closely resembled a compassionate face. The selected images were aggregated and coded for the extent of sadness and happiness depicted. Additionally, participants indicated how much they wanted to avoid feeling negative and, by using an open-ended format, described what a compassionate response would entail in their view. These responses were coded for whether or not they focused on emotion sharing. Consistent with our hypotheses, Mexicans, who want to avoid feeling negative less compared to U.S. Americans, place greater importance on emotion sharing in a compassionate response. This variation is associated with Mexicans conceptualizing a compassionate face as one that portrays more sadness and less happiness compared to U.S. Americans. People in different cultural contexts have different views about what compassion might entail. Understanding and embracing these cultural differences in compassion can help us navigate our increasingly multicultural world, fostering more meaningful connections and guiding our actions with more humility and sensitivity. Full article

Background and Objectives: Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) posed unique challenges worldwide, underscoring important gaps in healthcare preparedness for patients receiving immunosuppressive therapies, such as the individuals with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), a subgroup of spondyloarthritis (SpA) characterized by chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation. While global registry data exist for SpA, specific data on axSpA alone remain scarce, especially in Central and Eastern European populations. This study aims to identify predictive factors for severe COVID-19 outcomes and provide a descriptive analysis of axSpA patients infected with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), using real-world data from the Romanian Registry of Rheumatic Diseases (RRBR). Materials and Methods: This is a three-year retrospective observational cohort study that included 5.786 axSpA patients from the RRBR, of whom 183 (3.16%) were diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Data were analyzed using R V4.4.1 and performing univariate and multivariate binary logistic regression to estimate associations using odds ratios (ORs), 95% confidence intervals (CIs), and p-values. A backward selection algorithm was applied to create the final predictive model, accounting for multicollinearity through variance inflation factors (VIFs). Results: The mean age of patients was 48.19 ± 12.26 years, with male predominance (64.5%). Serious COVID-19 (encompassing moderate to critical cases) occurred in 46 cases, with age ≥ 52.5 years (OR 2.64, 95% CI: 1.28–5.48, p = 0.009) and arterial hypertension (OR 2.57, 95% CI: 1.29–5.16, p = 0.007) identified as significant predictors. Individuals with advanced education levels had nearly three times lower odds of experiencing serious COVID-19 (OR 0.38, 95% CI: 0.18–0.76, p = 0.008). Furthermore, our findings confirm the lack of association between HLA-B27 and COVID-19 severity (p = 0.194), contributing to the ongoing discussion regarding its potential immunological role. Moreover, irrespective of the biological therapy administered, the likelihood of experiencing serious SARS-CoV-2 outcomes was not statistically significant (p = 0.882). In the final predictive model, only older age and higher education were deemed as predictive factors. Conclusions: This study highlights key predictors of COVID-19 severity in axSpA patients and emphasizes the protective role of higher education, an underexplored determinant of health outcomes in inflammatory diseases. The lessons learned during these last years can shape a more informed and compassionate healthcare system. Full article

Genuine Humans can achieve a way of existence in harmony with the “Way of Heaven” and open up a meaningful world where Heaven and humanity are integrated. Therefore, the “Way of Heaven”, as the true source of value for true knowledge, highlights the “transcendental” aspect of true knowledge. On the other hand, true knowledge includes the compassionate understanding and sincere empathy of a Genuine Human towards the unavoidable fact of the human world, thereby manifesting its “practical” dimension in a harmonious sense. Full article

Individuals with certain primary immunodeficiency disorders (PID) may be unable to clear poliovirus infection after exposure to oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV). Over time, vaccine-related strains can revert to immunodeficiency-associated vaccine-derived poliovirus (iVDPVs) that can cause paralysis in the patient and potentially spread in communities with low immunity. We reviewed the efforts for detection and management of PID patients with iVDPV infections and the epidemiology through an analysis of 184 cases reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) during 1962–2024 and a review of polio program and literature reports. Most iVDPV patients (79%) reported in the WHO Registry were residents in middle-income countries and almost half (48%) in the Eastern Mediterranean Region. Type 2 iVDPV was most frequently isolated (53%), but a sharp decline was observed after the switch to bivalent OPV in 2016, with only six cases reported during 2017–2024 compared to 63 during 2009–2016. Patients with common variable immunodeficiency have longer excretion of iVDPV than with other PID types. Implementation of sensitive sentinel surveillance to detect cases of iVDPV infection in high-risk countries and offer antiviral treatment to patients is challenged by competition with other health priorities and regulatory hurdles to the compassionate use of investigational antiviral drugs. Full article

Introduction: The concept of clinical readiness for practice among nursing students is yet to be analyzed, and there is a lack of empirical evidence on its usage among academics and clinicians. Methods: This concept analysis is anchored on a systematic literature review that adhered to the PRISMA guidelines and incorporated the eight iterative steps of Walker and Avant’s concept analysis method. This concept analysis method involved: (1) choosing a concept; (2) determining the objectives of the analysis; (3) identifying usages of the concept; (4) determining the defining attributes; (5) identifying a model case; (6) identifying other cases, including borderline, contrary, and related cases; (7) identifying antecedents and consequences; and (8) defining empirical references. The integrative thematic data synthesis method was adopted. Results: The concept of nursing students’ clinical readiness for practice is said to have four interrelated attributes. These attributes included (1) professional skills, (2) communication skills, (3) self-management skills, and (4) self-confidence. The two antecedents for nursing students’ clinical readiness to practice are (1) personal factors, including demographic characteristics, prior healthcare experience, income, and emotional intelligence; and (2) educational factors, including the clinical learning environment, clinical internship program, learning resource, and learning strategy. The consequence of clinical readiness for the practice of nursing students includes obtaining practice skills that can lead to more personal and job-related satisfactory outcomes. Conclusions: clinical readiness for practice in nursing encompasses the acquisition and integration of professional knowledge, skills, effective communication abilities, and self-management capabilities and the application of these competencies with confidence toward the provision of high-quality care to patients. Clinical Relevance: Understanding the components of clinical readiness is crucial for nursing educators, preceptors, and healthcare institutions to ensure that nursing students are adequately prepared for the challenges they will face in clinical practice. By recognizing the importance of professional knowledge, skills, communication, and self-management in clinical readiness, educators and training institutions can tailor their curricula, programs, and support systems to better prepare nursing students for the demands of real-world healthcare settings. This focus on clinical readiness ultimately delivers safe, effective, and compassionate patient care. Full article

Cross-cultural psychology evaluates how cultural factors influence people’s behaviour and mental processes. Cross-cultural psychology aims to understand individual differences and commonalities, and to develop an appreciation, respect, and knowledge of cultures distinct from one’s own. Compassion refers to the emotional response of understanding, empathising with, and desiring to alleviate or reduce the suffering or distress of others. Compassion involves noticing the pain or difficulties another person is experiencing and being motivated to help, often characterised by acts of kindness, support, and caring. This entry paper explores the intersection of these two concepts, illustrating how insights from cross-cultural psychology can contribute to fostering compassion. Full article

Salivary gland cancers (SGC) are rare tumours with limited availability of systemic therapies. Some SGC subtypes overexpress HER2, and this represents a potential therapeutic target, but the evidence base is limited. This study sought to analyse real-world data on the efficacy of HER2-directed therapies in SGC. This is a retrospective observational study using anonymised data from commercial compassionate-use access registrations and a privately funded pharmacy prescribing register. Treatment duration was defined as the time from drug initiation to treatment discontinuation. Kaplan–Meier analysis of treatment duration was performed using R for Windows (v4.3.2). A case report is also provided of an exceptional responder. Eighteen patients were identified who received HER2-directed therapies for HER2-positive recurrent/metastatic SGC, and complete data on treatment duration was available for 15/18. Histology was salivary duct carcinoma in 13/18 patients, adenocarcinoma NOS in 4/18, and carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma in 1/18. The median treatment duration was 8.3 months (95% CI: 6.41-not reached), and the range was 1.0–47.0 months. Choice of HER2-directed therapy varied, with ado-trastuzumab emtasine being the most common (9/18). At the time of analysis, HER2-directed therapy was ongoing for 9/15, discontinued due to disease progression for 4/15, discontinued due to toxicity for 1/15, and 1/15 was discontinued for an unspecified reason. An exceptional responder experienced a complete response with a treatment duration of 47.0 months. These real-world data are comparable to the median PFS observed with HER2-directed therapies in phase II trials and support the use of HER2-directed therapies in this group. Full article

The introduction of a new vaccine into immunization programs represents a significant advancement in the global effort to combat vaccine-preventable diseases. Data from the World Health Organization support that immunization prevents between 2 and 3 million deaths each year across various diseases, underscoring its pivotal role in global health. The present study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and anticipated vaccination practices among health professionals in Central Greece in response to the potential introduction of new Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccination guidelines by the National Vaccines Committee. Among the 450 health professionals solicited for the study, 219 provided responses, yielding a response rate of approximately 55%. A substantial majority (70.3%) accurately identified the vaccine’s current availability, and 62.1% were aware of the current recommendation for RSV vaccination in pregnant women. In response to whether health professionals support the inclusion of an RSV vaccine in the national vaccination program if it becomes commercially available and is recommended by the Greek National Immunization Program, general practitioners showed the most support, with an average score of 4.86 (95% CI, 4.69–5.00), followed by pediatricians at 4.76 (95% CI, 4.63–4.89), pulmonologists at 4.68 (95% CI, 4.36–5.00), and obstetricians at 4.33 (95% CI, 3.95–4.71). Concerning general opinions on vaccinations, a high level of agreement was noted among the majority of health professionals, excluding nurses. Pharmacists recorded the highest agreement, with a perfect score of 5 (CI, 5.00–5.00), followed closely by pediatricians at 4.99 (CI, 4.97–5.00), GPs at 4.95 (CI, 4.85–5.00), pulmonologists at 4.93 (CI, 4.83–5.00), obstetricians at 4.74 (CI, 4.42–5.00), and nurses at 3.80 (CI, 3.06–4.54). A tailored approach to education is needed to ensure that healthcare professionals can communicate more effectively about RSV risks and vaccination benefits, fostering a proactive stance towards disease prevention and patient care. In essence, our study underscores the importance of knowledge in shaping a compassionate and responsive healthcare environment, ready to meet the challenges of RSV head-on. Full article

Context: In today’s ever-changing world, fostering personal and social responsibility is essential for building strong and compassionate communities. This study aimed to provide a quantitative synthesis focusing on the emotional and social outcomes of Teaching Personal and Social Responsibility (TPSR) model-based Physical Education (PE) programs. Methods: A comprehensive literature review covering the period from November 2022 to September 2023 identified 637 articles published between 2005 and 2023. Of these, 20 met the inclusion criteria. Data from these articles were coded, and a comprehensive meta-analysis was conducted, incorporating 28 effect sizes. Methodological quality was assessed using the Medical Education Research Study Quality Instrument. Hedge’s g served as the effect size measure and emotional and social outcomes subgroups were consolidated. Heterogeneity was evaluated with Cochran’s Q and I². Meta-regression and ANOVA-like models addressed categorical moderators, whereas publication bias was assessed through funnel plot, failsafe number, and Egger’s linear regression. Results: A significant and positive effect of the TPSR model on product outcomes (Hedge’s g = 0.337, 95% CI = 0.199 to 0.476) was found. Despite considerable heterogeneity (I² = 83.830), a random effects model was justified. Assessment of publication bias indicated a low likelihood. Moderator analyses revealed that publication countries significantly influenced the effect, with stronger effects in Turkey. Publication type (article vs. thesis) also played roles in moderation. The meta-regression analyses did not reveal significant effects for the grade level, duration of intervention, publication year or sample size on the TPSR model’s impact on product outcomes. The TPSR model positively impacts emotional and social outcomes in PE, enhancing children’ skills and behaviour. However, variations across cultures highlight the need for further research, considering limitations like language constraints and potential biases in study selection and data extraction. Full article

This essay is an attempt to propose an outline of a new respiratory animal philosophy. Based on an analysis of the forgetting of breath in Western philosophy, it aims to gesture towards a future, breathful and compassionate world of co-sharing and co-breathing. In the first part, the basic features of forgetting of breath are explained based on David Abram’s work in respiratory ecophilosophy. This part also introduces an important contribution to modern philosophy by Ludwig Klages. The second part is dedicated to reflections on what I understand as an unfortunate transition from soul and pneuma to spirit and Geist. Based on these analyses, I proceed towards an idiosyncratic thought on the nocturnal mystery of pneuma, with references to ancient Upanishadic and 20th-century phenomenological Levinasian thought. Based on these teachings, I argue that, at the bottom of her existence, the subject is a lung partaking in an immense external lung (Merleau-Ponty). In the fourth part of the essay, I extend my reflections toward comparative animal respiratory phenomenology and argue for the immense compassion for all our fellow breathing beings. Finally, in the concluding, fifth part of this essay, I am arguing for a future biocentric and breathful environment, signifying and bringing a new compassionate-respiratory alliance into the world. Full article

In a fractured, complex, and chaotic world, excellence in critical, caring, and creative thinking skills are crucial to effective Christian living. The author’s research, a qualitative inquiry and interdisciplinary literature review and analysis, suggests that one’s theological perspective and belief system concerning the gifts and power of the Holy Spirit may profoundly affect the ability of the individual and the body of Christ to rationally pursue Kingdom work, whether through evangelism, discipleship, or merely survival. Christians, regardless of theology, philosophy, worship styles, polity, geographical location, culture, or tradition, intending to positively affect their world, should consider adopting an active engagement, a participating partnership, with “Profound Perception”, the logical rational component of the mind of Christ which is normally identified with a compassionate state of mind for service. Proper preparation and exercise of human thinking skills combined with the engagement in a participating partnership with profound perception enables one to effectively deal with the realities of life in a time of extreme complexity, cognitive dissonance, excessive deceit, and distortions of reality. The research indicates it is possible for followers of Christ, engaged in an active partnership with the mind of Christ in the pursuit of solutions and resolutions for complex and wicked problems along with the creation of master pieces of art, literature, and music glorifying Christ Jesus, to be successful in their endeavors. The intent is not to defend or to attack any of the many theological perspectives concerning the charismata, but rather to explore the possibilities of integrating our mind and the charismata with the mind of Christ. An examination of one’s theology in light of how best to effectively and efficiently engage at the highest level possible with the mind of Christ in all that they do seems in the best interest of the church engaged in a global mission. Full article

In many contexts, the interests of nonhuman animals (hereafter “animals”) are often overlooked or considered to be a lower priority than those of humans. While strong arguments exist for taking animal moral claims seriously, these largely go unheard due to dominant anthropocentric attitudes and beliefs. This study aimed to explore how animal interests might be best represented in the human world. We conducted interviews to investigate people’s perceptions of what it means to speak for other animals and who can reliably represent animal interests. Using Grounded Theory analytical methods, we identified one major theme: “Animal voice”, and its subthemes: “Animals do/do not have a voice”, “Human language constructs realities and paradigms”, and “Let animals speak”. Our findings illustrate how human language constructs contribute to shaping the realities of animals by contextually defining them as voiceless. This has serious implications for animals, society, and the environment. Drawing parallels with the relevant literature, our results reflect calls for the social and political recognition of animal voice as fundamental to animal representation. We recommend future research to focus on developing ethical and compassionate approaches to understanding animal subjective experiences to empower and amplify animal voices. Full article

Pope Francis invites the Church to turn to the peripheries of society as the loci of saturated vision and grace, if it is to embody the grace of synodality. This work makes a claim that a synodal church that turns to the peripheries of the world ought to embody three markers that exude the fullness of being church in the world. These include the praxes of compassionate imagination, re-existing as a Pentecost church, and being an embodiment of ritualized hope for all. A turn to the Spirit-centered gift of compassionate imagination is itself a deliberate embrace of the messiness of life where the beauty of the sound of God’s voice is heard and encountered. It involves an embrace of the summons of the Spirit that is found at the peripheries of the world and to embody abundant life for all in a manner that upends the dynamics of empire manipulations. To do this effectively, the Church ought to become an embodiment of hope in all its ways of being in the world. An embodiment of hope that is grounded in solidarity with others must necessarily entail the praxis of suspension of judgment. Full article