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Bagian LK, Davis DC, Parker RC, Mosley CF, Balta JY. Giving a voice to our silent teachers: Whole body donation from the donor perspective at one donation program in the United States. ANATOMICAL SCIENCES EDUCATION 2024; 17:893-908. [PMID: 38520129 DOI: 10.1002/ase.2410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
Human body donors play a crucial role in anatomical education, research, and clinical skills training, and those interested in anatomical donation may bequeath their bodies to body donation programs (BDPs). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the perspective of body donors on the donation process in order to make recommendations for improvement that align with donor values. A survey was administered via email to 2145 individuals that had enrolled in The Ohio State University's BDP and yielded a 40% response rate. Results showed that a majority of registered donors do not place high importance on detailed consent options during the enrollment process, but do value BDP oversight, such as through the use of an oversight committee to supervise the program. Only 9.1% of donors felt that their loved ones should be permitted to make changes to their consent forms after they have passed. Although 96.2% of participants would allow photos/videos to be taken of their donated bodies, females were significantly less likely to consent to this than males (p = 0.001), as well as less likely to allow their donations to be utilized for anatomy outreach (p = 0.023). Racial minorities were significantly less trusting of the university to treat their donation with dignity and respect compared to White registrants (p = 0.034). Suggestions for improving BDP protocols include the implementation of an annual newsletter for registrants, improving methods to spread awareness about donation, increasing transparency during the consent process, and creating resources for donors' families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren K Bagian
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular & Cellular Biology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Danielle C Davis
- Division of Anatomy¸ Department of Biomedical Education and Anatomy, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Ryan C Parker
- Division of Anatomy¸ Department of Biomedical Education and Anatomy, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Claudia F Mosley
- Division of Anatomy¸ Department of Biomedical Education and Anatomy, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Joy Y Balta
- Anatomy Learning Institute, College of Health Sciences, Point Loma Nazarene University, San Diego, California, USA
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of California at San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
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2
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Bagian LK, Wyatt TB, Mosley CF, Balta JY. Investigating the status of whole-body donation across the United States of America. ANATOMICAL SCIENCES EDUCATION 2024; 17:646-659. [PMID: 38308395 DOI: 10.1002/ase.2387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Dissection of human body donors is a valuable part of anatomical education, research, and clinical training. In the United States, deceased human bodies are predominantly sourced through whole-body donation programs (BDPs) housed by academic institutions. Due to the lack of information regarding BDPs, the aim of this study was to gather information from US BDPs through a survey to better understand the donation process and standard operating procedures of these programs. In 2021, a Qualtrics survey was distributed to 125 BDPs and yielded responses from 72 program leaders. Collectively, these programs received more than 26,000 whole-body donations annually. Findings show that 70% typically receive enough donations to fit the needs of their institutions, 17% receive a surplus of donations, and 13% receive too few donations. Sixty-eight percent of programs permit next of kin body donation regularly or in times of need, and 44% allow next of kin to make changes to a donor's donation form after death. On average, over 85% of the registered donor population is composed of white individuals, and only 6 institutions have methods in place to promote diversity among their donor population. Overall, there is considerable variability in the operation of BDPs across the United States. These findings can be used to make recommendations about donor enrollment and program operations to ultimately improve the donation process. Future research needs to investigate the opinions and preferences of body donors along with their next of kin on the body donation process and associated policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren K Bagian
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular & Cellular Biology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Taylor B Wyatt
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Biomedical Education and Anatomy, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Claudia F Mosley
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Biomedical Education and Anatomy, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Joy Y Balta
- Anatomy Learning Institute, College of Health Sciences, Point Loma Nazarene University, San Diego, California, USA
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of California at San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
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3
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Brenner E, Bleys RLAW, de Caro R, Catereniuc I, Chirculescu ARM, Destrieux C, Eppler E, Filgueira L, Kachlik D, Kiss P, Lee C, Matveeva N, Natsis K, Pais D, Paulsen F, Piagkou M, Quondamatteo F, Reglődi D, Şendemir E, Tranum-Jensen J, Tutkuviene J, Vázquez Osorio MT. The legal and ethical framework governing body donation in Europe - 2nd update on current practice. Ann Anat 2024; 252:152195. [PMID: 38042354 DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2023.152195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2008, members of the TEPARG provided first insights into the legal and ethical framework governing body donation in Europe. In 2012, a first update followed. This paper is now the second update on this topic and tries to extend the available information to many more European countries. METHODS For this second update, we have asked authors from all European countries to contribute their national perspectives. By this enquiry, we got many contributions compiled in this paper. When we did not get a personal contribution, one of us (EB) searched the internet for relevant information. RESULTS Perspectives on the legal and ethical framework governing body donation in Europe. CONCLUSIONS We still see that a clear and rigorous legal framework is still unavailable in several countries. We found national regulations in 18 out of 39 countries; two others have at least federal laws. Several countries accept not only donated bodies but also utilise unclaimed bodies. These findings can guide policymakers in reviewing and updating existing laws and regulations related to body donation and anatomical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erich Brenner
- Institute of Clinical and Functional Anatomy, Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria; Trans-European Pedagogic Anatomical Research Group (TEPARG).
| | - Ronald L A W Bleys
- Department of Anatomy, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Raffaele de Caro
- Section of Anatomy, Department of Human Anatomy and Physiology, University of Padova, Italy; Trans-European Pedagogic Anatomical Research Group (TEPARG)
| | - Ilia Catereniuc
- Department of Anatomy and Clinical Anatomy, Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Chisinau, Republic of Moldova
| | - Andy R M Chirculescu
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, C Davila University, Bucharest, Romania; Trans-European Pedagogic Anatomical Research Group (TEPARG)
| | | | | | - Luis Filgueira
- Anatomy, Faculty of Science and Medicine, University of Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - David Kachlik
- Department of Anatomy, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Péter Kiss
- Department of Anatomy, University of Pécs, Hungary
| | - Clive Lee
- Department of Anatomy and Regenerative Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Niki Matveeva
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Ss. Cyril and Methodius University, Skopje, North Macedonia
| | - Konstantinos Natsis
- Laboratory of Anatomy and Anatomy of Surgery, Aristotele University School of Medicine, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Diogo Pais
- Departamento de Deontologia, Bioética e DireitoMédico, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Portugal; Trans-European Pedagogic Anatomical Research Group (TEPARG)
| | - Friedrich Paulsen
- Institute for Functional and Clinical Anatomy, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Maria Piagkou
- Department of Anatomy and Surgical Anatomy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
| | - Fabio Quondamatteo
- Department of Anatomy and Regenerative Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Dóra Reglődi
- Department of Anatomy, University of Pécs, Hungary
| | - Erdoğan Şendemir
- Anatomy Department, Medical Faculty, Uludağ University, Bursa, Turkey; Trans-European Pedagogic Anatomical Research Group (TEPARG)
| | - Jørgen Tranum-Jensen
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Janina Tutkuviene
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Anthropology, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Lithuania
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He Y, Liu Q, Wen H, Yuan L, Luo C, Yuan R, Xiao Z, Li L. The relationship between body donation and attitudes toward death and altruism in Changsha City in China. ANATOMICAL SCIENCES EDUCATION 2023; 16:1200-1208. [PMID: 37328430 DOI: 10.1002/ase.2309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, China has been facing a shortage of cadavers for teaching medical students. A better comprehension of the attitudes and factors influencing the general public's opinion toward body donation would be invaluable for planning and implementing body donation programs. Although altruistic attitude and attitudes toward death have received considerable attention in recent years globally, they have been largely understudied in China. Herein, the potential relationship between attitudes toward altruism and death, and willingness toward whole-body donation in a sample of university students in Changsha City in China were analyzed. A multi-stage sampling method was adopted to recruit 478 Chinese college students from two universities: the Medical College of Hunan Normal University (n = 272) and the College of Civil engineering of Hunan University (n = 206). The study participants were assessed by a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Death Attitude Profile-Revised (DAP-R-C) questionnaire, and the altruism scale. Moreover, Chinese University students demonstrated moderate willingness to donate their bodies. The mean score of the willingness of study participants to donate their bodies was 3.138 ± 0.933 (5-point Likert scale). Acceptance toward death, gender, and type of university were positive factors, whereas fear of death negatively affected willingness toward body donation. Regression analysis showed that factors, including gender (β = 0.237), type of university (β = 0.193), natural acceptance (β = 0.177), and fear of death (β = -0.160) influenced willingness toward body donation. Overall, the present study provides hitherto undocumented evidence on factors influencing willingness toward body donation among Chinese university students, which can assist in designing public awareness programs for encouraging body donation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying He
- School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Liu
- School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Wen
- School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Liming Yuan
- School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuhong Luo
- School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Rong Yuan
- School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - ZhiYong Xiao
- School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Lun Li
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, People's Republic of China
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Bolcato V, Belli G, Franzetti C, Monti MC, Tronconi LP, Puci M, Morini L. Survey on health students' knowledge and perception on body donation for scientific research, education, and training after specific Italian law no. 10/2020. Ann Anat 2023; 250:152147. [PMID: 37595931 DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2023.152147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Practicing on the human body was considered extremely relevant for health professionals' education, but a drastic reduction was observed due to an increase in alternative virtual and multimedia means, and, in Italy, also due to a lack of regulation. Italian Law 10/2020 regulates body donation for research and training through an advanced directive for post-mortem body donation. METHODS A cross-sectional study was carried out to investigate the law knowledge and body donation perception of health students of any degree courses enrolled at the University of Pavia, Italy, in 2021, through ad hoc web questionnaire. RESULTS 485 students participated to this survey; median age was of 21 years (25th-75th percentiles, 20-23), 73.2% were females, and 62.5% were medical students. Among them 14.9% knew the Italian law 10/2020. Age was the only variable associated with students' knowledge of the law. Further, 8.3% reported the current availability of cadaveric practice, 85.6% of health students acknowledged usefulness of cadaveric practice, with a significant difference between medical and non-medical students (71.4% vs 28.6%, p < 0.001). Overall, 59.7% would donate their body, rising to 62.7% with reference to specific law regulation, with 30.5% and 28.7% undecided, respectively. 51.3% of participants answered not practicing religious faith, 82.9% with Catholic families, without significance on the knowledge of the law. CONCLUSIONS Poor knowledge of the law compared with great interest and acknowledged cadaveric practice usefulness highlighted the need for better information, especially among health students, where critical discussion could be more valuable. Then, there arises the urgent need to fill the gaps within university studies and syllabuses, to relaunch the central role that cadaveric practice and research had in the education of health professionals. Consequences on basic and specific health students' skills, on health education quality in general, and further on health professionals' expertise must be carefully considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittorio Bolcato
- Legal Medicine Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Istituto Neurologico Nazionale C. Mondino, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giacomo Belli
- Unit of Legal Medicine and Forensic Science, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Chiara Franzetti
- Unit of Legal Medicine and Forensic Science, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Monti
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Livio P Tronconi
- Unit of Legal Medicine and Forensic Science, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Mariangela Puci
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Luca Morini
- Unit of Legal Medicine and Forensic Science, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
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Bolino G, Fineschi V, Cecannecchia C, D'Antonio G, Frati P. The Practice of Teaching and Scientific Research on Cadaveric Material Remains Crucial for Medical Education. Clin Pract 2023; 13:1073-1081. [PMID: 37736931 PMCID: PMC10514866 DOI: 10.3390/clinpract13050095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The practice of teaching and scientific research on cadaveric material remains crucial for medical education, especially in surgical disciplines. However, in Italy, this practice has been neglected due to legislative insufficiency and financial constraints. Although innovative methods and tools like simulators and e-learning have been adopted, direct hands-on experience with human cadavers remains irreplaceable for medical and surgical education. The absence of clear legislation governing cadaveric dissection has limited availability for teaching and research, resulting in economic burdens for universities and individuals seeking proper surgical training. To address this issue, Law No. 10/2020 and the recent implementing decree were introduced in Italy, providing detailed legislation on the donation of bodies for educational and research purposes. The law emphasizes the importance of respecting the donor's specific choices and aligns with constitutional principles promoting culture, research, and health protection. However, some critical issues related to consent procedures, duration of body availability, and preservation of anatomical parts remain. Additionally, the law's dissemination among the population needs improvement. Future optimization could include allowing donors to choose the timing of body donation and considering different timeframes for body availability. Furthermore, the implementation of consent procedures could be simplified to increase donations. The law should also address the need for appropriate reception centers and allocate resources for effective dissemination. Despite these challenges, Law No. 10/2020 represents a significant step forward in enhancing medical-surgical training, scientific research, and the overall quality of patient care in Italy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Bolino
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Vittorio Fineschi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Camilla Cecannecchia
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Gianpiero D'Antonio
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Frati
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, Italy
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Zhang S, Wang J, Zhang J, Xu G, Zhang Z, Wang Y, Chang C, Chen X, Li M, Cao J, Zang W. The impact of enhancing publicity and commemoration of body donors at Zhengzhou University, China. ANATOMICAL SCIENCES EDUCATION 2023; 16:405-414. [PMID: 36744983 DOI: 10.1002/ase.2259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
As a fundamental subject of medical education, human anatomy plays a critical role in the development of medical science. However, because of multiple factors including cultural conservativism and limited social understanding, China is facing a particularly severe shortage of bodies donated for anatomy education. Zhengzhou University (ZZU) has continued to uphold whole-body dissection as the preferred method for medical students to learn anatomy. For this study, records of registered individuals (who have signed a body donation agreement) and donors (whose bodies have been received) from 2001 to 2020 were collected and analyzed. The aim of this study was to explore the factors influencing the body donation program (BDP) at ZZU, and then reinforce the social understanding for the BDP. The results showed a significant increase in the numbers of both registered individuals and donors since 2015, which is the year the publicity and commemoration in honor of donors were increased. There were no significant differences between the biological male and female sexes in the registered individuals, but the number of male donors (12.85 ± 10.86, per year) was significantly higher than that of female donors (4.75 ± 4.53, per year). The current donor profile at ZZU is male in his 60/70s, while the profile of registered individuals is male or female in their 60s. Strengthening the publicity and commemoration in honor of donors may contribute to the implementation of BDPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiqiang Zhang
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiannan Wang
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
- Red Cross Society of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Gaolei Xu
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenhua Zhang
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongkui Wang
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng Chang
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuemei Chen
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Cao
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Weidong Zang
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
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Chen WL. Body Donation Registration in Taiwan: Reasons and Associated Psychological Factors. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11070969. [PMID: 37046896 PMCID: PMC10093931 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11070969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Dissection is an essential element of medical training and depends on the availability of cadavers. However, traditional Chinese culture widely regards the body as a gift from one’s parents that should remain intact after death, resulting in a shortage of cadavers for medical training and research. This situation changed in Taiwan when Master Cheng Yen, the founder of the Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, supported the donation of bodies to medical science. This study aimed to investigate the current situation of body donation in Taiwan, including donors’ motivation and psychological characteristics. A questionnaire was conducted with 681 adult participants, including 336 people who pledged to donate their bodies to medical science after death and a control group comparable in age, gender, and level of education. All participants answered questions regarding anxiety over death, purpose in life, gratitude, altruism, and life satisfaction. In addition, the registered donor group answered questions regarding the motivation for donating their bodies to science. The main influencing factors were to help advance medical science, make a positive contribution to society, and release attachment from the body. Further, many male participants indicated the desire to reduce trouble and expenses that their families would incur in making funeral and burial or cremation arrangements. The main predictors of donating one’s body to medical science were low anxiety concerning death, a high level of altruism, and gratitude.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wan-Lan Chen
- Department of Human Development and Psychology, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 970048, Taiwan
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9
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Smith CF, Munro R, Davies DC, Wilkinson T, Shaw H, Claridge K, Llewellyn S, Mc Ateer P, Ward S, Farsides T. Understanding beliefs, preferences and actions amongst potential body donors. ANATOMICAL SCIENCES EDUCATION 2023; 16:224-236. [PMID: 35726397 DOI: 10.1002/ase.2204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Body donation is a prosocial act providing a unique learning experience to students, ultimately impacting on patient care and science. With an increasing number of training professionals, there is an increasing need for body donors, yet little is understood about donors' beliefs and preferences. A four-center study aimed to understand donors' perceptions, 843 responses highlighted a significant relationship between completing a body donor consent form and being both an organ donor and having ever donated blood (p < 0.01). In exploring donor intentions, 69% had been considering donation for fewer than five years, 40% knew another body donor, and 27% had a family member or friend currently registered. Of those who had requested donor information packs, 97% had completed body donation consent forms. Of these, 92% had not selected any time restriction for their donation and 96% had consented to images being taken. Almost all (98%) were aware that their donation might not be accepted. Donors' motives highlighted a wish to: improve education, improve health care, advance science, and contribute to the greater good. A bimodal response was observed with body donation being used to save relatives money and inconvenience. Donors felt comfortable with their bodies being used by medical, dental, and allied health professionals; however, donors were less comfortable with their bodies being used by other groups. Only 57% were comfortable with artists, beauticians and yoga teachers using their remains. Understanding donors' motivations and decision-making process is vital to ensure resources for future and to meet any changing requirements of both donors and those studying them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire F Smith
- Department of Medical Education, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Ross Munro
- Department of Medical Education, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - D Ceri Davies
- Human Anatomy Unit, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Tracey Wilkinson
- Centre for Human Anatomy and Identification, School of Science and Engineering, Dundee University, Dundee, UK
| | - Hannah Shaw
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Kim Claridge
- London Anatomy Office, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | | | - Siobhan Ward
- Discipline of Anatomy, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Tom Farsides
- School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
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Noël GPJC, Heron J, Naismith C. From 1883 to 2019; Variables Influencing Body Procurement at McGill University. ANATOMICAL SCIENCES EDUCATION 2022; 15:599-608. [PMID: 33590720 DOI: 10.1002/ase.2063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
McGill University has continued to maintain whole body dissection as an integral component of its medical school curriculum. To better explore the factors influencing body procurement at McGill University, records of body receipts were collected from their paper and electronic records and analyzed from 1883 to 2019. The data collected allowed for discussion on the number of bodies received at McGill University each year, the age at death of the bodies, their sex, as well as religious affiliation and language spoken at home. As bodies of the deceased have a long held and unique status in law, this information was considered in light of historical and legislative data and, in the case of religion and language, it was compared to census data for Montréal, Québec, Canada. Overall numbers of bodies procured by McGill University have varied throughout the years, with no discernable target number over time. The current body donor profile at McGill University is likely to be a male in his 70's and likely to speak French at home. However, the strong connection of the University with the Anglophone community of Montréal is reflected by the significantly higher proportion of English-speaking donors when compared to the general population of the city. In regard to legislation, it appears that the most recent legislations did not affect the rate of procurement. However, when legislations were embraced by religious institutions in 1883, there was a 261% increase in bodies sent for dissection, over the following two decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffroy P J C Noël
- Division of Anatomical Sciences, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Institute of Health Sciences Education, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Julia Heron
- Public Health and Preventive Medicine Resident Training Program, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Carly Naismith
- Department of History, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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France CR, France JL, Ysidron DW, Samstein B. Assessing motivations for non-living and living organ donation among individuals with and without a history of blood donation. Transfus Med 2022; 32:120-127. [PMID: 35170103 DOI: 10.1111/tme.12854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The current study investigated relationships between a history of blood donation, registration as a non-living and living organ donor, and differential motivations. BACKGROUND Motivational commonalities exist between blood and organ donors, but there is no prior data on the relationships between blood donation history and both living and non-living organ donor registration and motivation. METHODS/MATERIALS Participants completed online surveys assessing blood donation history, organ donor registration and interest, and motivations related to donation behaviour. RESULTS Blood donation history was not significantly related to registration as either a non-living organ donor (blood donors = 81.4%; non-blood donors = 76.4%) or as a living organ donor (blood donors = 14.0%; non-blood donors = 10.9%). Further, blood donation history was not related to interest in learning more about being an organ donor. Compared to those not registered as an organ donor, those who were registered reported more positive organ donation motivations, but these relationships were unrelated to prior blood donation history. CONCLUSION The present findings are consistent with existing research on attitudes, warm glow, and identity as organ donation motivators, and provide novel information regarding the importance of independent assessment of motivations for non-living and living organ donation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Janis L France
- Department of Psychology, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, USA
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12
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Keet K, Kramer B. Advances in Digital Technology in Teaching Human Anatomy: Ethical Predicaments. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1388:173-191. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-10889-1_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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13
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Abstract
Altruism is consistently identified as the dominant motive for body donation. Over 12 months, 843 people who requested body donation information packs also completed research questionnaires that included open-ended questions about their motives. Abductive analysis suggested two distinct sets of altruistic motives: those seeking benefits for medical professionals and patient groups ("medical altruism") and those seeking benefits for friends and family ("intimate altruism"). Either could facilitate or impede body donation. Altruism may not be best understood as a unitary motive invariably promoting body donation. Rather, it is a characteristic of various motives, each of which seek benefits for specific beneficiaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Farsides
- School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Claire F Smith
- Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Paul Sparks
- School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
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14
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Ok F, Gürses İA. Evaluation of Information on Body Donation Promotion at Official Websites of Turkish Anatomy Departments. ANATOMICAL SCIENCES EDUCATION 2021; 14:816-827. [PMID: 32991784 DOI: 10.1002/ase.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Raising public awareness of body donation is crucial for countries like Turkey that have struggling donation programs. The official websites of anatomy departments may contribute to achieving this goal. Nevertheless, previous studies reported institutional or individual reluctance of departments or anatomists, respectively, due to an expectation of adverse publicity. This study aimed to investigate whether the official websites of Turkish anatomy departments provided information on body donation and analyzed the content of these websites. Websites of anatomy departments at 100 medical faculties were evaluated. Only 12 departments (12%) provided information on body donation with varying content. A thematic analysis of the information provided revealed five main themes. These were (1) legal aspects, (2) significance, (3) acceptance/rejection criteria, (4) availability, and (5) redirection. All departments (n = 12, 100%) outlined the legal aspects of body donation, seven departments (58%) highlighted the significance of body donation, seven departments (58%) provided contact information for potential donors, five departments (41%) covered acceptance/rejection criteria, and three departments (25%) provided a link to the official website of the Turkish Society of Anatomy and Clinical Anatomy. Thus, Turkish anatomy departments were reluctant to provide information on body donation, and the content of provided information varied greatly among departments. This lack of information, coordination, and participation in existing awareness activities for body donation in anatomy department websites may be contributing to the low numbers of body donations and donor registrations seen nationally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma Ok
- Department of Anatomy, Istanbul University, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - İlke Ali Gürses
- Department of Anatomy, Istanbul University, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
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15
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Oliveira AGFD, Gonçalves AF, Soares JN, Salgado LHN, Santana BS, Passos MV, Reis JLDO, Arantes GC, Campos LFS, Carvalho MS, Gama LCFD, Rezende AB. The creation of a body donation program at Federal University of Juiz de Fora in Brazil: academic importance, challenges and donor profile. Anat Cell Biol 2021; 54:489-500. [PMID: 34657839 PMCID: PMC8693134 DOI: 10.5115/acb.21.096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Dissection and human specimens study remain the gold standard method for teaching anatomy. Due to the increasing health science courses in Brazil, the traditional way of obtaining bodies for scientific purposes, the unclaimed ones, became insufficient. In addition, this source is no longer ethically appropriate according to anatomists. In order to maintain the teaching quality, the Federal University of Juiz de Fora (UFJF) in Brazil, inspired by successful initiatives around the world, created a body donation program; Sempre Vivo. Besides the bureaucratic difficulty faced during its regulation, the implementation of a body donation program requires special attention regarding the religiosity, culture and uniqueness of the city's inhabitants. Informing people can demystify the process, avoid prejudice and increase the number of donors. In this way, an outreach project was designed to publicize Sempre Vivo and raise public awareness. In the first six years, Sempre Vivo reached the mark of 64 registered donors and seven bodies received. The donor’s profile corresponds to female (70.3%), 57 years of age, retired (50.8%), spiritist (53.1%) and with 12 years or more of formal education (90.6%). Considering that the UFJF has not received unclaimed bodies for ten years, the program was considered satisfactory up to this level and, in the future, it may be the exclusive source of anatomical specimens. The description of the creation and the publicizing of Sempre Vivo, the overcome challenges, as well as the donors’ profile, may encourage and facilitate the foundation of similar programs in Brazil and abroad.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Júlia Nunes Soares
- Department of Anatomy, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Alice Belleigoli Rezende
- Department of Anatomy, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, Brazil.,Department of Medical Education, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, Brazil
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16
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Naidoo N, Al-Sharif GA, Khan R, Azar A, Omer A. In death there is life: perceptions of the university community regarding body donation for educational purposes in the United Arab Emirates. Heliyon 2021; 7:e07650. [PMID: 34381903 PMCID: PMC8333108 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e07650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Human body dissection is the traditional instructional method for anatomy education worldwide, providing a kinaesthetic learning experience that is often challenging to achieve with other teaching techniques. However, due to lack of body donation programs in Middle Eastern medical schools, dead bodies are imported from abroad. Since literature suggests that the body shortage is influenced by reluctance to donate one's body, this study aimed to determine the perceptions of faculty, staff, and students regarding body donation for educational purposes at a new Dubai-based medical school. An online dually translated questionnaire was administered to the target population (322), of which 150 participants representative of faculty, staff, and students, responded. Although 111 (74.0 %) of participants considered body donation to be appropriate for educational and research purposes, only 44 (29.3 %) of participants expressed willingness to donate their bodies. Reluctance to donate 106 (70.7 %) appeared to be mostly influenced by religion, psychological barrier, and familial reasons. The emergence of four themes (i.e., resource, barrier, humanitarian, and awareness) and the identification of a potential donor group within the group that was willing to donate provided insight into the level of awareness within the university community. Furthermore, such findings may assist to establish future body donation programs and strategize recruitment approaches, especially when there is an ensuing dearth of anatomical donations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nerissa Naidoo
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ghadah A. Al-Sharif
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Raeesa Khan
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Aida Azar
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Amar Omer
- Hamdan Bin Mohammed College of Dental Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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17
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De Caro R, Boscolo-Berto R, Artico M, Bertelli E, Cannas M, Cappello F, Carpino G, Castorina S, Cataldi A, Cavaletti GA, Cinti S, Cocco LI, Cremona O, Crivellato E, De Luca A, Falconi M, Familiari G, Ferri GL, Fornai F, Gesi M, Geuna S, Gibelli DM, Giordano A, Gobbi P, Guerra G, Gulisano M, Macchi V, Macchiarelli G, Manzoli L, Michetti F, Miscia S, Montagnani S, Montella ACM, Morini S, Onori P, Palumbo C, Papa M, Porzionato A, Quacci DE, Raspanti M, Rende M, Rezzani R, Ribatti D, Ripani M, Rodella LF, Rossi P, Sbarbati A, Secchiero P, Sforza C, Stecco C, Toni R, Vercelli A, Vitale M, Zancanaro C, Zauli G, Zecchi S, Anastasi GP, Gaudio E. The Italian law on body donation: A position paper of the Italian College of Anatomists. Ann Anat 2021; 238:151761. [PMID: 34139280 DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2021.151761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
In Italy, recent legislation (Law No. 10/2020) has tuned regulations concerning the donation of one's postmortem body and tissues for study, training, and scientific research purposes. This study discusses several specific issues to optimise the applicability and effectiveness of such an important, novel regulatory setting. Critical issues arise concerning the learners, the type of training and teaching activities that can be planned, the position of academic anatomy institutes, the role of family members in the donation process, the time frame of the donation process, the eligibility of partial donation, or the simultaneous donation of organs and tissues to patients awaiting transplantation. In particular, a universal time limit for donations (i.e., one year) makes it impossible to plan the long-term use of specific body parts, which could be effectively preserved for the advanced teaching and training of medical students and surgeons. The abovementioned conditions lead to the limited use of corpses, thus resulting in the inefficiency of the whole system of body donation. Overall, the donors' scope for the donation of their body could be best honoured by a more flexible and tuneable approach that can be used on a case-by-case basis. Furthermore, it is deemed necessary to closely monitor the events scheduled for corpses in public nonacademic institutions or private enterprises. This paper presents useful insights from Italian anatomists with the hope of providing inspiration for drafting the regulations. In conclusion, this paper focuses on the critical issues derived from the recently introduced Italian law on the donation and use of the body after death and provides suggestions to lawmakers for future implementations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaele De Caro
- Department of Neurosciences, Institute of Human Anatomy, University of Padua, Padua, Italy.
| | - Rafael Boscolo-Berto
- Department of Neurosciences, Institute of Human Anatomy, University of Padua, Padua, Italy.
| | - Marco Artico
- Department of Sensory Organs, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Eugenio Bertelli
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Mario Cannas
- Department of Health Sciences, Laboratory of Human Anatomy, University of Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Francesco Cappello
- Department of Biomedicine and Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Guido Carpino
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy
| | - Sergio Castorina
- Department of Biomedical and Technological Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy and Histology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Amelia Cataldi
- Department of Pharmacy, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Guido Angelo Cavaletti
- School of Medicine and Surgery, Experimental Neurology Unit, University of Milano-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Saverio Cinti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Center of Obesity, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | | | - Ottavio Cremona
- Division of Neuroscience, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Enrico Crivellato
- Department of Medicine, Section of Human Anatomy, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Antonio De Luca
- Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, Section of Human Anatomy, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Mirella Falconi
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Familiari
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Gian Luca Ferri
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, NEF-Laboratory, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Francesco Fornai
- Department of Translational Research and of New Surgical and Medical Technologies, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Marco Gesi
- Department of Translational Research and of New Surgical and Medical Technologies, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefano Geuna
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Giordano
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Pietro Gobbi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Urbino, Italy
| | - Germano Guerra
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "Vincenzo Tiberio", University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Massimo Gulisano
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Veronica Macchi
- Department of Neurosciences, Institute of Human Anatomy, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Guido Macchiarelli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Lucia Manzoli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Michetti
- Department of Neuroscience, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Miscia
- Department of Medicine and Aging Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Stefania Montagnani
- Department of Public Health, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Sergio Morini
- Laboratory of Microscopical and Ultrastructural Anatomy, "Campus Bio-Medico di Roma" University, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Onori
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Carla Palumbo
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Section of Human Morphology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Michele Papa
- Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, Section of Human Anatomy, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Porzionato
- Department of Neurosciences, Institute of Human Anatomy, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Mario Raspanti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Mario Rende
- Department of Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, Section of Human, Clinical and Forensic Anatomy, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Rita Rezzani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Anatomy and Physiopathology Division, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Domenico Ribatti
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sensory Organs, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - Maurizio Ripani
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Division of Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Fabrizio Rodella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Anatomy and Physiopathology Division, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Pellegrino Rossi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Sbarbati
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Paola Secchiero
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiarella Sforza
- Department of Biomedical Science for Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Carla Stecco
- Department of Neurosciences, Institute of Human Anatomy, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Roberto Toni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Section of Human Anatomy, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Alessandro Vercelli
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Marco Vitale
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Section of Human Anatomy, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Carlo Zancanaro
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giorgio Zauli
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Sandra Zecchi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Anatomy and Histology Section, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Pio Anastasi
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Eugenio Gaudio
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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18
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Ortug G, Midi A, Elbizim DS, Karaot H, Yılık E, Uluışık IE. Introducing Children to Anatomy: "Getting to Know Our Bodies: The First Step Toward Becoming a Scientist". ANATOMICAL SCIENCES EDUCATION 2021; 14:232-240. [PMID: 32949100 DOI: 10.1002/ase.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Museums are used in every discipline to collect, classify, and present information for scientific purposes. They also serve as an effective educational medium. Since the establishment of a boutique anatomy museum at Bahçeşehir University, lectures, conferences, and seminars have been organized there over the past four years on the history of human anatomy and the human body. In order to raise awareness about the need to make anatomy accessible to kindergarteners and school-aged children, rather than exclusively to undergraduate students, activities that are suited to a wide range of ages have been developed at the museum and at the anatomy laboratory. Four different sessions were conducted, including activities such as lectures using plastic models as props, shaping organs out of playdough, anatomy puzzles, watching cartoons, and examining specimens through a microscope. Healthy and pathologic anatomies were chosen to match daily themes. Among the kindergarteners and elementary school children, no grading was done, nor was any questionnaire administered; however, a survey was administered in the 10-12 age group (N = 64). According to the students' written feedback, 93.75% said they "are happy with microscope activities" while 84.37% said they "had so much fun" participating in the playdough activities. However, 18.75% criticized the activities, saying they "could have been longer." In conclusion, it is believed that these "getting to know our bodies" activities that were hosted in the anatomy museum, including conferences, workshops, material preparation, and instructional movies, may play an important role in the development of a healthy society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gursel Ortug
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Bahçeşehir University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Midi
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Bahçeşehir University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Hasan Karaot
- School of Medicine, Bahçeşehir University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Elif Yılık
- School of Medicine, Bahçeşehir University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Mueller CM, Allison SM, Conway ML. Mississippi's whole body donors: Analysis of donor pool demographics and their rationale for donation. Ann Anat 2021; 234:151673. [PMID: 33400980 DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2020.151673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whole body donation (WBD) is fundamental to anatomical education and research because human dissection provides an educational tool for training healthcare professionals. Investigation into the demographics and rationale of whole body donors can provide insight on who donates their bodies to science. Literature reports a typical donor who is a 60 to 70-year-old, white, married, educated man with the reason for donating to be altruism. Because there are no studies in the United States (US) about the rationale of WBD in correlation with the donor characteristics, this study seeks to accomplish two aims: (1) analyze the demographics of the University of Mississippi Medical Center's (UMMC) current donor registrants and (2) analyze their reasons for donation. METHODS Data from authorization forms from living preregistered donors were analyzed. A survey was sent to registrants who filled out these forms between 2017 and 2019 about their reasons for body donation. RESULTS UMMC has an average donor registrant population consisting of 69-year-old white (95.2%), females (56.5%) who acquired a college degree (24.9%) and are in good health at the time of donation (50.8%). Males and females differed in their marital status (p = 0.001), with more married males (67.2%) than females (46.2%) donating their bodies to science. Seven hundred eighty-one registrants completed the survey (56.3% response rate, n = 1,387). Their primary and secondary reasons for donation were furthering medical education/research (57.4%) and giving their body purpose after life (49.2%), respectively. In addition, thematic analysis of 62 donor rationale statements revealed that the majority of registrants wanted to donate their bodies for the purpose of being useful. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that UMMC's current registrant demographic data deviates from what is presented in the literature. The study also found that the main reason for donation for this registrant population was altruism with the purpose of being useful. Information from this study adds current US data to the published literature on WBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline M Mueller
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomical Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 N. State St., Jackson, MS, 39216-4505 United States.
| | - Sara M Allison
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, 1000 Oakland Drive, Kalamazoo, MI 49008 United States
| | - Marianne L Conway
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomical Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 N. State St., Jackson, MS, 39216-4505 United States
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20
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Jiang J, Zhang M, Meng H, Cui X, Yang Y, Yuan L, Su C, Wang J, Zhang L. Demographic and motivational factors affecting the whole-body donation programme in Nanjing, China: a cross-sectional survey. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e035539. [PMID: 32895264 PMCID: PMC7478054 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-035539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the demographics and motivations of whole-body donors in China, and help suggest a solution to the problem of low body donation numbers. DESIGN A cross-sectional study on body donors in China. Demographic analysis of the donating information of deceased donors and in-depth interviews of potential body donors. SETTING Eleven districts in Nanjing, China. PARTICIPANTS Deceased whole-body donors who had donated their bodies to the body donation receiving station of Nanjing Medical University between 1 July 2009 and 30 June 2019 (n=835), and living registered whole-body donors (n=68). RESULTS Among the whole-body donor population, the numbers of males, people older than 65 years and those working as teachers, government officials, medical staff and farmers were significantly higher than those of the general Nanjing population. Donors with an education level of college or above accounted for nearly half of the deceased donors, and considered donating their bodies earlier in their lives than others. Cancer and heart disease were the major causes of death among donors. Interviews of the 68 living donors revealed the following major motivations for the decision to donate: to support medical education; to reduce their children's funeral burden; no longer holding traditional Chinese views on life and death; influence by role models and annoyance at complex funeral ceremonies. CONCLUSIONS Older people, people with an education level of college or above, labourers, teachers, government officials and farmers are the major groups that donate their bodies. Although people's motivations for donation are complex, their desire to support medical education is the most prevalent motivation. By helping focus on target groups for promotional messaging and identifying their prime motivations, this study's findings can provide a reference for promoting body donation in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayi Jiang
- School of Pediatrics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mingyi Zhang
- School of Pediatrics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Haojie Meng
- School of Pediatrics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiang Cui
- School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuxin Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li Yuan
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chuan Su
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jinfan Wang
- Research Center of Doctor-Patient Communication, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Luqing Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Research Center of Doctor-Patient Communication, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Body Donation Receiving Station, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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21
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Zdilla MJ. Creating a Human Gross Anatomy Laboratory: The Experience at a Primarily Undergraduate Institution. ANATOMICAL SCIENCES EDUCATION 2020; 13:636-647. [PMID: 31990441 DOI: 10.1002/ase.1946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2018] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
This paper details the creation of a human gross anatomy laboratory from a defunct chemistry laboratory at West Liberty University, a small primarily undergraduate institution in West Virginia. The article highlights important considerations with regard to the development of a human gross anatomy laboratory including access to human gifts; assessment of the space for size, security, and privacy; assessment of the utilities; acquisition of a dissection table; ventilation; aesthetics in functional design; expenses; and sustainability. The report also identifies favorable conditions and potential pitfalls regarding the creation of a human gross anatomy laboratory. This paper demonstrates that a human gross anatomy laboratory can be created quickly and at little expense.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Zdilla
- Department of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, West Liberty University, West Liberty, West Virginia
- Department of Graduate Health Sciences, West Liberty University, West Liberty, West Virginia
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy, and Laboratory Medicine (PALM), West Virginia University School of Medicine, Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center, Morgantown, West Virginia
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22
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Boscolo-Berto R, Porzionato A, Stecco C, Macchi V, De Caro R. Body donation in Italy: Lights and shadows of law No. 10/2020. Clin Anat 2020; 33:950-959. [PMID: 32427400 DOI: 10.1002/ca.23623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recently, law No. 10 of February 10, 2020, entitled "Rules regarding the disposition of one's body and post-mortem tissues for study, training, and scientific research purposes" was introduced in Italy. Although its provisions respond to a constructive subject, some practical issues are evident in the approved text. MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic review of the literature was performed by searching online medical and juridical databases to identify publications and Italian law provisions related to body donation programs. RESULTS The updated regulatory framework was outlined and compared to that in force previously, and the following features are discussed: (a) matter of law; (b) donors' information and consent; (c) reference centers and funding, and (d) procedural regulatory details. Several critical issues were detected in the approved wording with respect to teaching/training recipients, the role of university anatomy institutes, family members' exclusion from participating in the donation process in any capacity, the duration of donation, the management of corpses, partial donations, and the compatibility with organ donation. Suggestions are provided to overcome certain operational limitations in implementing the regulation, which is still being drafted to date. CONCLUSIONS This article shares with the international scientific community the principles and controversies underlying a regulatory innovation introduced in Italy to allow legislative amendments to inadequate provisions of body donation, as well as draw the attention of the entire anatomic community to critical issues if other countries undertake the same legislative reform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Boscolo-Berto
- Department of Neurosciences, Institute of Human Anatomy, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.,Veneto Region Reference Center for the Preservation and Use of Gifted Corpses, Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Porzionato
- Department of Neurosciences, Institute of Human Anatomy, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.,Veneto Region Reference Center for the Preservation and Use of Gifted Corpses, Padova, Italy
| | - Carla Stecco
- Department of Neurosciences, Institute of Human Anatomy, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.,Veneto Region Reference Center for the Preservation and Use of Gifted Corpses, Padova, Italy
| | - Veronica Macchi
- Department of Neurosciences, Institute of Human Anatomy, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.,Veneto Region Reference Center for the Preservation and Use of Gifted Corpses, Padova, Italy
| | - Raffaele De Caro
- Department of Neurosciences, Institute of Human Anatomy, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.,Veneto Region Reference Center for the Preservation and Use of Gifted Corpses, Padova, Italy
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23
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Jiang J, Chen Q, Zhang M, Hong T, Huang K, Meng H, Ding J, Zhang L. Effects of Commemorations and Postdonation Services on Public Willingness to Donate Bodies in China. ANATOMICAL SCIENCES EDUCATION 2020; 13:218-229. [PMID: 31074191 DOI: 10.1002/ase.1892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Multiple body donation programs have been established throughout China over the last 20 years, but these programs remain challenged by an insufficient supply of cadavers for medical education. The commemoration of body donors is a feature of many successful programs, and adopting this practice throughout the country could be an important element of raising public awareness and encouraging body donation among the public. The present study aimed to investigate public views on the commemoration of whole-body donors and postdonation services in China by analyzing the factors that influence participants' willingness to donate. A survey was conducted using convenience sampling with a non-probability sampling method, and data were analyzed using chi-square and post hoc multiple comparisons tests. A total of 1,800 questionnaires were distributed, 1,717 were returned, and 1,605 were considered valid. Of the respondents, 20.87% were willing to donate, and 64.80% thought that it is necessary to commemorate donors. The results of multiple comparisons demonstrated that the elderly and those with a higher educational level were more willing to donate than participants in other groups. Education was also found to influence views on donation memorial activities, and the chi-square test revealed that conducting commemorations and improving postdonation services can promote the establishment of successful donor programs in China and improve the social acceptance of body donation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwen Jiang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Qinghuo Chen
- Jinling Clinical Medical College, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingyi Zhang
- School of Pediatrics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Tongtong Hong
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Kun Huang
- Kangda College, Nanjing Medical University, Lianyungang, People's Republic of China
| | - Haojie Meng
- School of Pediatrics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiong Ding
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
- Body Donation Receiving Station, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Luqing Zhang
- Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
- Body Donation Receiving Station, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
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24
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Cornwall J, Hildebrandt S. Anatomy, Education, and Ethics in a Changing World. ANATOMICAL SCIENCES EDUCATION 2019; 12:329-331. [PMID: 31125503 DOI: 10.1002/ase.1898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jon Cornwall
- Centre for Early Learning in Medicine, Otago Medical School, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Sabine Hildebrandt
- Division of General Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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25
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Halliday NL, Moon MB, O'Donoghue DL, Thompson BM, Crow SM. Transformation and Closure for Anatomical Donor Families that Meet Medical Students. ANATOMICAL SCIENCES EDUCATION 2019; 12:399-406. [PMID: 31038285 DOI: 10.1002/ase.1888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 04/22/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The University of Oklahoma College of Medicine has conducted an annual Anatomical Donor Luncheon where families of the anatomical donors met anatomy dissection groups of medical students. The luncheon presented an opportunity for donor family members to share the life story of their loved one with the medical students prior to the start of the anatomy course. This study was designed to understand the impact of the Anatomical Donor Luncheon on families of the donors. Seven families in two different focus groups were included to explore the reactions and attitudes of the donor families to meeting the medical students. Conversations were digitally recorded and transcribed. Qualitative analysis of textual data were coded by three investigators using the Constant Comparative Method. To provide evidence of validity, a form of member checking was utilized. For further triangulation, an analyst not involved in conducting the focus groups or analyzing the data, re-coded all data. This analyst used categories and themes identified by the original analysts, ensuring validity of the themes and any negative cases (data not supporting or contradictory of the established categories and themes). One meta-theme and three sub-themes were identified. The meta-theme was Donor Family Participants Experience Transformation and Closure, and sub-themes were Motivators for Participation, Optimal Venue Factors, and Optimal Medical Student-Anatomical Donor Family Interactions. Study findings indicated the Anatomical Donor Luncheon facilitated closure on the death of their loved one, and transformed their apprehension about the luncheon and body donation into an attitude of gratitude and appreciation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy L Halliday
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Medicine, The University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Mary B Moon
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Medicine, The University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Daniel L O'Donoghue
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Medicine, The University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, The University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Britta M Thompson
- Department of Medicine, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Sheila M Crow
- Educational Development Office, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
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