Journal of Military and Veteran’s Health - JMVH

"Military Personnel and Psychological Support: An Analysis Based on Social Representation Theory" by V. Karamanoli & K. Papachristopoulos examines how Greek military trainees perceive the process of seeking psychological support across various ranks using Social Representation Theory. The research highlights a significant internal conflict where participants acknowledge the efficacy of mental health services while simultaneously viewing the need for help as a lack of military virtue. These social perceptions fluctuate based on hierarchical roles, with trainees often devaluing services for themselves to protect their professional identity and sense of strength. Interestingly, the data suggests that social stigma is not a primary core belief but exists on the periphery of their collective thought process. Ultimately, the authors argue that these cognitive frameworks act as barriers to care, as soldiers fear that admitting to psychological struggles equates to personal weakness. The findings provide a foundation for improving mental health interventions by addressing the specific cultural values embedded within the military environment.

You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/military-personnel-and-psychological-support-an-analysis-based-on-social-representation-theory/ 
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"Contact Poisons: A Brief Touch" by Andrew Robertson examines the reality of contact poisons, which are hazardous substances capable of entering the body through the skin to cause illness or death. While often dismissed as a trope of crime fiction, these toxins represent a genuine threat in military, industrial, and agricultural settings. The author highlights how specific factors like skin hydration, surface area, and chemical solvents—notably dimethyl sulfoxide—can significantly increase the danger of transdermal absorption. Though highly complex toxins like ricin are difficult to absorb this way, common substances such as pesticides, nerve agents, and nicotine pose documented risks. Ultimately, the article serves as a warning for medical professionals to remain vigilant regarding potential skin exposures during patient assessments.

You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/contact-poisons-a-brief-touch/
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"Combat, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Health of Australian Vietnam Veteran Conscripts and Volunteers in the Three Decades After Return" by B O’Toole, K Pierse, B Friedrich, S Outram, M Dadds, & S Catts examines the long-term physical and psychological health of Australian Vietnam War veterans, specifically comparing conscripts and voluntary enlistees. While regular soldiers typically faced more intensive combat exposure and longer deployments, national servicemen often entered the military with higher education levels but less specialized training. The study reveals that both groups experience similar rates of PTSD and psychiatric disorders decades after their service ended. However, regular soldiers show a higher prevalence of chronic physical conditions, such as heart disease and osteoarthritis, likely due to prolonged physical strain. Ultimately, the findings suggest that the specific advantages or disadvantages of one's enlistment status do not significantly alter overall health or socioeconomic outcomes in later life.

You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/combat-posttraumatic-stress-disorder-and-health-of-australian-vietnam-veteran-conscripts-and-volunteers-in-the-three-decades-after-return/
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"Unraveling the Interplay Between Self-efficacy and Decision-making in Military Contexts: A Systematic Review" by Chrysanthi Lioupi and Vassiliki Ignatiou Karamanoli investigates the connection between self-efficacy and decision-making effectiveness within military and high-pressure operational environments. By analyzing six distinct studies, the research demonstrates that personnel with higher confidence in their capabilities consistently achieve better outcomes, faster response times, and reduced human error. The text highlights how this psychological trait helps individuals manage stress and uncertainty, effectively acting as a buffer that allows for clearer judgment during crises. Beyond personal belief, the sources emphasize that experience, resilience, and cultural context further shape how efficacy influences a leader's choices. Ultimately, the findings suggest that military organizations can enhance operational readiness by integrating self-efficacy development into their training and leadership strategies. Despite these positive trends, the authors call for more standardized research to fully understand how these psychological factors interact in complex, real-world scenarios.

You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/unraveling-the-interplay-between-self-efficacy-and-decision-making-in-military-contexts-a-systematic-review/
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"Combat Helmets and Blast Traumatic Brain Injury" by Duncan Wallace explores the evolution and efficacy of military helmets in protecting soldiers from traumatic brain injuries (TBI) caused by modern explosive devices. While historical designs prioritized defense against shrapnel and blunt force, current research examines how to mitigate the complex pressure waves produced by blasts in Iraq and Afghanistan. The author evaluates emerging technologies, such as ballistic materials capable of stopping rifle rounds and integrated helmet sensors that record concussive data for medical analysis. However, the text notes that increasing protection often adds weight and physical discomfort, which can discourage consistent use among personnel. Ultimately, the source emphasizes that future helmet development must find a functional balance between advanced trauma prevention and the practical needs of the soldier in the field.

You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/combat-helmets-and-blast-traumatic-brain-injury/
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"The Legacy of the Anaesthesia ‘Events’ at Pearl Harbor, 7th December 1941." by John A Crowhurst examines the historical significance of medical complications involving the anesthetic drug thiopentone during the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. For decades, a narrative persisted that improper use of this sedative caused massive casualties, prompting the author to investigate how much truth lies behind these claims. The source suggests that while precise death tolls remain unknown due to poor record-keeping and military censorship, the tragedies were likely fueled by untrained personnel and a lack of pharmacological knowledge. This crisis served as a pivotal turning point for the medical field, highlighting the dangers of administering powerful drugs to patients in shock. Ultimately, the failures at Pearl Harbor accelerated the professionalization of anesthesiology, transforming it from a task for technicians into a specialized medical discipline requiring rigorous training.

You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/the-legacy-of-the-anaesthesia-events-at-pearl-harbor-7th-december-1941/
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"Dengue Epidemics During the Second World War in Queensland" by Dennis G Shanks is a fascinating historical article; during World War II, the massive mobilization of military forces and civilians led to significant dengue fever epidemics across Queensland and the Northern Territory. These outbreaks were fueled by the heavy mixing of populations in areas where mosquito vectors were already established, often overwhelming existing quarantine and prevention efforts. Thousands of Australian and American soldiers were affected, leading to substantial operational challenges due to widespread illness and lingering post-viral fatigue. Military medical officers struggled to distinguish the virus from malaria, yet the crisis eventually spurred critical early research into virus isolation. While modern cases in Australia are typically linked to overseas travel, these historical events highlight the ongoing biosecurity threat dengue poses to deployed troops. Today, the virus remains a concern for military readiness, necessitating continued focus on personal protection and the development of effective vaccines.

You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/dengue-epidemics-during-the-second-world-war-in-queensland/
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"Over a century of service: the .303 projectile and its wounding capabilities – a historical profile" by David Andrew examines the evolution of the .303 military projectile and the controversies surrounding its wounding capabilities over more than a century of use. The text details the progression from early black powder rounds to sophisticated dual-core spire point bullets designed to tumble upon impact. Significant focus is placed on the legal and ethical debates sparked by expanding "dum-dum" ammunition, which eventually led to bans under the Hague Convention. The source also highlights how British and Australian forces adapted the cartridge’s design to balance stopping power with international military regulations. Ultimately, the article illustrates how a single caliber transitioned through various mechanical and chemical iterations to remain a global military staple.

You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/over-a-century-of-service-the-303-projectile-and-its-wounding-capabilities-a-historical-profile/
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"The Effects of Current Cold Chain Management Equipment in Controlling the Temperature of Thermolabile Medications and Temperature Sensitive Diagnostics, Dressings and Fluids in A Routine Australian Defence Force Operating/Exercise Environment" by E Daly, N Evans and S Holmes-Brown examines how effectively the Australian Defence Force maintains the cold chain for medications and medical supplies during field exercises. Research findings reveal that existing storage containers and logistical protocols frequently fail to keep temperature-sensitive items within the required thermal ranges, leading to significant cold-chain breaches. These failures compromise the safety and efficacy of pharmaceuticals, potentially putting military personnel at risk during treatment. The authors suggest that current equipment is inadequate for harsh environmental conditions and recommend adopting specialized cooling technologies. Ultimately, the report advocates for stricter regulatory compliance and updated training to ensure military health support matches civilian standards.

You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/the-effects-of-current-cold-chain-management-equipment-in-controlling-the-temperature-of-thermolabile-medications-and-temperature-sensitive-diagnostics-dressings-and-fluids-in-a-routine-australian-de/
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"Acceleration-Induced atelectasis; a case with deceptive clinical manifestations for COVID-19 pneumonia" by H Shahli & M Darvishi details a medical case study involving an F-14 pilot whose physical symptoms initially mimicked a COVID-19 infection. Despite presenting with a fever, cough, and low oxygen levels, diagnostic testing revealed that the patient was actually suffering from acceleration-induced atelectasis caused by high-gravity flight maneuvers. The text explains that this condition occurs when sustained gravitational forces and high oxygen concentrations cause lung segments to collapse. Fortunately, the aviator made a full recovery through respiratory rehabilitation and the use of mucolytic medication. The authors emphasize the importance of distinguishing this aviation-specific ailment from viral pneumonia to ensure accurate diagnoses during global health crises. This report serves as a critical reminder for military medical professionals to consider a patient's occupational history when evaluating deceptive clinical manifestations.

You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/acceleration-induced-atelectasis-a-case-with-deceptive-clinical-manifestations-for-covid-19-pneumonia/
#podcast #militarymedicine #AMMA #JMVH #veteranshealth #militaryhealth