Journal of Military and Veteran’s Health - JMVH

"When and How Military Students’ Self-Esteem May Become an Obstacle in Seeking Professional Mental Health Help When Needed?" by Vassiliki Karamanoli examines how self-esteem and social stigma impact the willingness of Greek military students to seek professional mental health services. Research indicates that while these students often acknowledge the effectiveness of psychological support, they frequently avoid it due to fears of appearing weak or damaging their careers. Interestingly, the findings suggest that high self-esteem among trainees can actually serve as a barrier, as it reinforces a social identity of strength that views seeking help as a violation of military virtues. Consequently, both self-stigma and public stigma negatively correlate with the intention to access care, even when individuals face significant emotional distress. The author concludes that targeted psychoeducation and supportive leadership are essential to decouple the pursuit of mental wellness from perceptions of professional failure. You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/self-esteem-stigma-and-attitudes-concerning-seeking-mental-help-in-the-military-environment/#podcast #militarymedicine #AMMA #JMVH #veteranshealth #militaryhealth

"Submarine escape and rescue: a brief history" by Nick Stewart traces the historical evolution of submarine escape and rescue methods from the early 20th century to modern times. It distinguishes between escape, where crews exit a disabled vessel independently, and rescue, which involves external assistance from specialized vehicles or chambers. The text highlights how tragic disasters, such as those involving the HMS Truculent and the Kursk, served as catalysts for improving thermal protection and international cooperation. It further explores the transition from simple breathing apparatuses to advanced technologies like the McCann Rescue Chamber and modern Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicles. Ultimately, the source emphasizes that while early submariners relied on risky self-recovery, current global initiatives like ISMERLO significantly increase the likelihood of survival today. You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/submarine-escape-and-rescue-a-brief-history-2/#podcast #militarymedicine #AMMA #JMVH #veteranshealth #militaryhealth

"Thermobaric Munitions and their Medical Effects" by David Andrew examines the mechanics, history, and pathological consequences of thermobaric munitions. Unlike traditional explosives, these weapons disperse a fuel cloud that ignites to create a sustained, high-temperature blast wave capable of flowing into fortified structures. The text highlights how the resulting extended overpressure causes severe internal trauma, specifically targeting air-tissue interfaces in the lungs, ears, and digestive tract. Beyond discussing global development by nations like Russia and the United States, the article details the specialized medical assessments and interventions required to treat primary blast injuries. It concludes that the unique physical properties of these weapons necessitate a high index of clinical suspicion for delayed internal damage and respiratory failure. You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/thermobaric-munitions-and-their-medical-effects-2/#podcast #militarymedicine #AMMA #JMVH #veteranshealth #militaryhealth

"Treating combat-related Posttraumatic Stress Disorder using Therapeutic Fly-Fishing with EMDR (TF-EMDR)" by A Parmenter introduces Therapeutic Fly-Fishing with EMDR (TF-EMDR), a novel treatment framework designed specifically for military veterans and active-duty personnel suffering from combat-related PTSD. The author argues that while nature-based interventions show promise, they often lack the clinical oversight and evidence-based structure necessary for safe trauma recovery. By integrating the eight-phase EMDR protocol with the simplified Japanese fishing method known as Tenkara, the model uses the rhythmic motion of casting as a form of bilateral stimulation. This approach aims to decrease the stigma associated with traditional office-based therapy by moving the healing process into natural environments. Ultimately, the source serves as both a clinical guide for trained therapists and a call for further research into combining ecological activities with established psychotherapeutic modalities. You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/treating-combat-related-posttraumatic-stress-disorder-using-therapeutic-fly-fishing-with-emdr-tf-emdr/#podcast #militarymedicine #AMMA #JMVH #veteranshealth #militaryhealth

"History of Tuberculosis. Part 2 – the Sanatoria and the Discoveries of the Tubercle Bacillus" by John Frith details the scientific evolution of tuberculosis management, tracing its journey from a lethal epidemic to a treatable condition. It highlights the foundational discovery of the tubercle bacillus by Robert Koch in 1882, which shifted the medical understanding of the disease from a hereditary ailment to an infectious one. The text examines early treatment methods, including the rise of isolated sanatoria and invasive surgical techniques like lung collapse therapy. It also explores diagnostic milestones, such as the implementation of X-rays and the development of the BCG vaccine. Furthermore, the source addresses modern challenges, specifically the resurgence of the illness alongside HIV and the emergence of drug-resistant strains. Finally, it notes the historical impact on military populations, emphasizing how close quarters and global deployments continue to make the disease a significant concern for armed forces. You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/history-of-tuberculosis-part-2-the-sanatoria-and-the-discoveries-of-the-tubercle-bacillus/#podcast #militarymedicine #AMMA #JMVH #veteranshealth #militaryhealth

"A SHORT LIFE RICH IN IMAGES: New Records of the Life of John Kirkpatrick (1892-1915) “Simpson” of the Australian Army Medical Corps" by John Pearn explores the life and enduring legacy of John Kirkpatrick, famously known as "Simpson," an iconic stretcher-bearer in the Australian Army Medical Corps. The authors present newly discovered archival evidence and photographs concerning his English childhood in South Shields, linking his early experiences with donkeys and maritime life-saving to his later heroics. Despite only serving for twenty-four days at Gallipoli, Kirkpatrick became a legendary figure of self-sacrifice, celebrated through various statues, coins, and stamps across multiple nations. The text clarifies historical details regarding his identity and upbringing, noting how a boy from humble beginnings evolved into a universal symbol of military medicine and compassion. Additionally, it highlights how his image has been memorialized alongside his donkey, which even received a posthumous award for bravery in saving lives. Through this comprehensive overview, the source examines why Kirkpatrick's brief operational service continues to resonate as a defining national icon for Australia. You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/a-short-life-rich-in-images-new-records-of-the-life-of-john-kirkpatrick-1892-1915-simpson-of-the-australian-army-medical-corps/#podcast #militarymedicine #AMMA #JMVH #veteranshealth #militaryhealth

"Military Effectiveness of Five Dietary Supplements Purported to Aid Cognitive and Physical Performance" by Bradley Baker evaluates the military effectiveness and safety of five common dietary supplements: Rhodiola rosea, long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, beetroot juice, arginine, and beta-alanine. While these substances are often marketed as performance enhancers, researchers found that fish oils are the only supplement consistently recommended for health, though they likely do not boost immediate cognitive or physical results. The report warns that Rhodiola rosea and arginine lack reliable evidence for efficacy in highly fit personnel. Furthermore, beetroot juice and beta-alanine present potential safety risks or side effects that could undermine tactical performance. Ultimately, the authors conclude that most of these nutrients are already sufficient in a standard diet, making additional supplementation largely unnecessary for service members. You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/military-effectiveness-of-five-dietary-supplements-purported-to-aid-cognitive-and-physical-performance/#podcast #militarymedicine #AMMA #JMVH #veteranshealth #militaryhealth

"Glimpses of future battlefield medicine – the proliferation of robotic surgeons and unmanned vehicles and technologies" by Gary Martinicexplores the growing integration of robotic surgical systems and unmanned ground vehicles within the field of military medicine. By utilizing advanced technologies like the BEAR extraction robot and the da Vinci surgical platform, the military aims to provide life-saving interventions in high-risk zones without exposing human medics to direct fire. These innovations include autonomous porters for logistics, remote-controlled stretchers for physiological monitoring, and portable operating rooms designed for rapid casualty care. Despite their promise, the text notes that these systems face hurdles regarding technical latency, high costs, and ethical concerns over increasing machine autonomy. Ultimately, the source positions these unmanned platforms as essential tools for the future of battlefield trauma care and logistical support. You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/glimpses-of-future-battlefield-medicine-the-proliferation-of-robotic-surgeons-and-unmanned-vehicles-and-technologies/#podcast #militarymedicine #AMMA #JMVH #veteranshealth #militaryhealth

"Does Current Policy Support Reproductive Health of Australian Defence Force Veterans? A Review of Australian Defence Force Policy" by Rachelle Warner assesses how Australian Defence Force (ADF) policies address the sexual and reproductive health of its members and veterans, with a specific focus on the growing cohort of women. The authors highlight that while the military has updated guidelines for pregnancy management, assisted reproduction, and gender dysphoria, many existing protocols remain outdated or inconsistent with current medical best practices. Key issues identified include the physical impact of service on fertility and pelvic health, as well as the administrative challenges surrounding deployment restrictions and medical repatriations. The text notes that although infertility services and sterilization are supported through Medicare benchmarks, there are ongoing debates regarding preventative measures like gamete cryopreservation for high-risk roles. Ultimately, the source argues for a comprehensive policy overhaul to ensure that military healthcare reflects modern clinical standards and the unique biological needs of all personnel. This transformation is deemed essential for maintaining a capable fighting force and supporting the long-term well-being of veterans transitioning to civilian care. You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/does-current-policy-support-reproductive-health-of-australian-defence-force-veterans-a-review-of-australian-defence-force-policy/#podcast #militarymedicine #AMMA #JMVH #veteranshealth #militaryhealth

"Psychological Screening in the Australian Defence Force: An Historical and Contemporary Analysis of what Works" by Kylie Tuppin analyzes the historical evolution and modern application of psychological screening within the Australian Defence Force. The authors distinguish between rapid screening, used to identify current disorders or cognitive traits like intelligence, and comprehensive assessments used for deeper diagnostic purposes. A critical finding of the review is that while screening effectively measures existing mental illness and aptitude, it has consistently failed to predict future psychological distress or combat breakdowns. To address current ambiguities, the text recommends standardizing screening tools and clearly separating those used for recruitment selection from those intended for mental health support. Ultimately, the research emphasizes that the military should adopt a nuanced, evidence-based approach rather than relying on broad mandates that lack predictive validity. You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/psychological-screening-in-the-australian-defence-force-an-historical-and-contemporary-analysis-of-what-works/

"The neurophysiologic aspects of G-induced loss of consciousness (G-LOC)" by David G Newman examines G-induced loss of consciousness (G-LOC), a critical physiological failure occurring when high acceleration forces prevent the cardiovascular system from delivering oxygenated blood to the brain. The author details the historical research and mathematical theories that define human tolerance limits, noting how modern fighter jets can easily exceed these biological boundaries. A central focus is the neurophysiologic timeline of an episode, which includes a brief functional buffer followed by periods of absolute and relative incapacitation. During recovery, pilots often experience physical convulsions, dream-like states, and significant cognitive confusion that can last for several seconds. The text emphasizes that event amnesia and psychological denial frequently follow these incidents, posing a lethal threat to flight safety. Ultimately, the source argues for a deeper understanding of these biological responses to develop more effective countermeasures for high-performance aviators. You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/https-doi-ds-org-doilink-03-2023-12453347-jmvh-vol-6-no-3/

"Antimalarial Drug Supply Issues during the Second World War" by G. Dennis Shanks examines how antimalarial drug shortages severely compromised Allied military operations in the Southwest Pacific during World War II. The author explains that the Japanese seizure of cinchona plantations and European manufacturing hubs stripped the Allies of vital quinine and synthetic drug supplies, leading to massive non-combat casualties. Operations in regions like Papua New Guinea and the Philippines were stalled or lost until quinacrine production and strict medicinal discipline were established in 1943. By comparing these historical logistical failures to modern supply chain disruptions seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, the text warns of the ongoing strategic risks posed by infectious diseases. Ultimately, the source highlights that medical logistics and anti-infective medications remain critical, yet vulnerable, components of national defense and regional stability. You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/antimalarial-drug-supply-issues-during-world-war-ii/

"Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Killing in Combat: A Review of Existing Literature" by Vicky Aldridge examines the complex psychological link between the act of killing in combat and the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). By analyzing various studies, the text reveals that service members who have taken a life generally report more severe trauma symptoms and higher levels of guilt or moral injury. Research indicates that the characteristics of the victim, such as being a civilian or a child, significantly intensify the emotional distress experienced by veterans. While most data suggests a strong correlation between combat killing and mental health struggles, some findings remain inconsistent due to gender differences and varying study methodologies. Ultimately, the source emphasizes that clinicians must address the specific act of killing during assessments to provide more effective, specialized support for the veteran population. You can read the original article here: https://jmvh.org/article/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-and-killing-in-combat-a-review-of-existing-literature/