bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Translational Research of Hemoglobin Vesicles as a Transfusion Alternative
Authors: Sakai Hiromi , Kobayashi Naoko , Kure Tomoko , Okuda Chie
Published: April 2021

:

Clinical situations arise in which blood for transfusion becomes scarce or unavailable. Considerable demand for a transfusion alternative persists because of various difficulties posed by blood donation and transfusion systems. Hemoglobin-vesicles (Hb- V) are artificial oxygen carriers being developed for use as a transfusion alternative. Just as biomembranes of red blood cells (RBCs) do, phospholipid vesicles (liposomes) for Hb encapsulation can protect the human body from the toxic effects of molecular Hb. The main HbV component, Hb, is obtained from discarded human donated blood. Therefore, HbV can be categorized as a biologic agent targeting oxygen for peripheral tissues. The purification procedure strictly eliminates the possibility of viral contamination. It also removes all concomitant unstable enzymes present in RBC for utmost safety from infection. The deoxygenated HbVs, which are storable for over the years at ambient temperature, can function as an alternative to blood transfusion for resuscitation from hemorrhagic shock and O2 therapeutics. Moreover, a recent study clarified beneficial effects for anti- oxidation and anti-inflammation by carbon monoxide (CO)-bound HbVs. Autoxidation of HbV (HbO2 → metHb + O2 -.) is unavoidable after intravenous administration. Co-injection of methylene blue can extract the intraerythrocytic glycolytic electron energy effectively and reduce metHb. Other phenothiazine dyes can also function as electron mediators to improve the functional life span of HbV. This review paper summarizes recent progress of the research and development of HbV, aimed at clinical applications.
Pd-catalyzed Intermolecular Dehydrogenative Heck Reactions of Six-membered Heteroarenes
Authors: Bras Jean Le , Muzart Jacques
Published: April 2021

The PdII-mediated cross-coupling of (hetero)arenes with alkenes may be an effective
method for the formation of a C–C bond from two C–H bonds. This reaction was discovered
by Fujiwara and his co-workers in 1967, which led to a number of reports that we first
highlighted in 2011 (review with references till June 2010) and for which we retained the
name “Dehydrogenative Heck Reaction” (DHR). The DHR of six-membered heteroarenes
has been the subject of intensive research over the last ten years. The present review is limited
to these dehydrogenative Heck reactions published since 2010, underlining the diversity of
the procedures, mechanisms and intermediates that have been proposed along with some personal
comments.
Engineering Resistance Against Viruses in Field Crops Using CRISPRCas9
Authors: Hinge Vidya R. , Chavhan Rahul L. , Kale Sandeep P. , Suprasanna Penna , Kadam Ulhas S.
Published: April 2021

Food security is threatened by various biotic stresses that affect the growth and production
of agricultural crops. Viral diseases have become a serious concern for crop plants as they incur
huge yield losses. The enhancement of host resistance against plant viruses is a priority for the
effective management of plant viral diseases. However, in the present context of the climate
change scenario, plant viruses are rapidly evolving, resulting in the loss of the host resistance mechanism.
Advances in genome editing techniques, such as CRISPR-Cas9 [clustered regularly interspaced
palindromic repeats-CRISPR-associated 9], have been recognized as promising tools for the
development of plant virus resistance. CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing tool is widely preferred due
to high target specificity, simplicity, efficiency, and reproducibility. CRISPR-Cas9 based virus resistance
in plants has been successfully achieved by gene targeting and cleaving the viral genome
or altering the plant genome to enhance plant innate immunity. In this article, we have described
the CRISPR-Cas9 system, mechanism of plant immunity against viruses and highlighted the use of
the CRISPR-Cas9 system to engineer virus resistance in plants. We also discussed prospects and
challenges on the use of CRISPR-Cas9-mediated plant virus resistance in crop improvement.
Recent Advancement in Topical Drug Delivery for Psoriasis: Clinical Pertinence and Potential Market
Authors: Kumari Rakhi , Halder Jitu , Sharma Amit , Rai Vineet Kumar
Published: April 2021

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated chronic skin inflammation. This disease can be associated
with several manifestations like red flakes, silver scales, patches, plaques, and silvery-white
squams. Approximately 70% of the patients treated with topical dosage forms have a mild-to-moderate
form of psoriasis, whereas a moderate-to-severe form of psoriasis is treated with systemic,
photo, and biological therapies. Considering the big fraction that topicals cover, we present the current
market potential, clinical relevance, and recent advances in the topical delivery of the drug for
psoriasis. Though we witnessed several advancements in the recent few decades, delivering new
immunomodulatory and biological molecules for topical psoriatic treatment have been proven to be
efficient and safe options for the large percentage of patients for whom systemic therapy is not indicated.
This article enumerates the promising topical dosage forms at present under assessment for
their clinical pertinence. The competency of conventional topicals to reach and transform the world
market is enumerated in terms of their success rate after proving the clinical pertinence against psoriasis.
However, the entrance of novel drug delivery systems based on advanced topical products in
the global market is highly anticipated as they have immense potential to impact the psoriasis treatment
in the near future.
The Gut Microbiota and Traditional Chinese Medicine: A New Clinical Frontier on Cancer
Authors: Chen Yan-Zhen , Yuan Meng-Yun , Chen Ya Ling , Zhang Xingxing , Xu Xin-Tian , Liu Shen-Lin , Zou Xi , Tao Jia-Lei , Qiang Yong-Hu , Wu Jian , Sun Qing-Min
Published: April 2021

Gut microbiota is a complex microecosystem, which is called the second genome of the
human body. Herbal medicine can balance tumor-suppressing bacteria and tumor-promoting bacteria
and exert its anti-cancer effect by regulating gut microbiota. Traditional Chinese medicine
(TCM) has a history of thousands of years in prevention and treatment of diseases in China. In recent
decades, TCM has been shown to have an obvious advantage in prolonging the survival time
and improving the living quality of patients with cancer. Notably, gut microbiota has become a
new pathway to understanding TCM. In this review, we will focus on gut microbiota and tumor
progression, especially the diversity, functionality and metabolites of gut microbiota affected by
TCM in various cancer. We will also discuss the potential mechanism of gut microbiota for exploring
TCM in anti-cancer effect. This article aims to comprehensively review the anti-cancer research
of TCM by regulating gut microbiota, and address future perspectives and challenges of gut
microbiota in TCM intervention for cancer.
A Review of the Synthesis of Nitric Oxide Donor and Donor Derivatives
with Pharmacological Activities
Authors: Wang Kexin , Wang Yue , Zhang Hualin , Li Xintong , Han Weina
Published: April 2021

:

Endogenous nitric oxide (NO) is an important effector molecule and signal transduction molecule, which participates in the regulation of multiple functions in organisms, involving a variety of physiological and pathological processes, especially playing a very important role in the cardiovascular, immune, and nervous systems. NO is a gaseous substance with a short half-life in the body and is unstable in aqueous solutions. Therefore, many researchers focus on the release and activity of NO donors and their derivatives. However, NO donors can release free NO or NO analogues under physiological conditions to meet the human need. NO donors can be coupled with the corresponding active basic nucleus, so that they have the biological activity derived from both the basic nucleus and the NO donors, thus performing better bioactivity. This paper reviewed the routes of synthesis and advance activities of NO donor derivatives.
Natural Bioactives as Potential Therapeutic Modalities Against NeuroAIDS
Authors: Ahmed Musheer , Iqubal Ashif , Baboota Sanjula , Ali Javed
Published: April 2021

With the introduction of antiretroviral therapy, the worldwide AIDS-related deaths have
decreased, and life expectancy has increased, including the prevalence of AIDS-related neurological
disorders or neuroAIDS. HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders such as mild neurocognitive
disorder and asymptomatic neurocognitive impairment have largely remained stable or increased
among the HIV-infected individuals in the combination antiretroviral therapy era. The emerging
evidence that antiretrovirals with high CNS penetration effectiveness score contribute to the neurotoxicity
and HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders has ushered the search for natural, nontoxic
bioactive constituents having pre-established neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and restorative
neurocognitive activity. In this review, we have highlighted the probable mechanism of neuroAIDS
infection, the problem with the existing antiretroviral therapy, along with various bioactive constituents
with in vivo, in vitro, or ex vivo evidence of their neuroprotective activity that can be used
as an adjuvant with the current combination antiretroviral therapy regimen or can even serve as an
alternate to the antiretrovirals for treatment of HIV associated neurocognitive disorder.
Synthetic Cannabinoids and Cathinones Cardiotoxicity: Facts and Perspectives
Authors: Radaelli Davide , Manfredi Alessandro , Zanon Martina , Fattorini Paolo , Scopetti Matteo , Neri Margherita , Frisoni Paolo , D’Errico Stefano
Published: April 2021

New psychoactive substances (NPS) constitute a group of psychotropic substances, designed
to mimic the effects of traditional substances like cannabis, cocaine, MDMA, khat, which
was not regulated by the 1961 United Nations Convention on Narcotics or the 1971 United Nations
Convention on Psychotropic Substances. Illegal laboratories responsible for their production regularly
developed new substances and placed them on the market to replace the ones that have been
banned; for this reason, during the last decade this class of substances has represented a great challenge
for the public health and forensic toxicologists. The spectrum of side effects caused by the
intake of these drugs of abuse is very wide since they act on different systems with various mechanisms
of action. To date most studies have focused on the neurotoxic effects, very few works focus
on cardiotoxicity. Specifically, both synthetic cannabinoids and synthetic cathinones appear to be
involved in different cardiac events, including myocardial infarction and sudden cardiac death due
to fatal arrhythmias. Synthetic cannabinoids and cathinones cardiotoxicity are mainly mediated
through activation of the CB1 receptor present on cardiomyocyte and involved with reactive oxygen
species production, ATP depletion and cell death. Concerns with the adrenergic over-stimulation
induced by this class of substances and increasing oxidative stress are mainly reported. In this systematic
review we aim to summarize the data from all the works analyzing the possible mechanisms
through which synthetic cannabinoids and synthetic cathinones damage the myocardial tissue.
Apatinib Inhibits Stem Properties and Malignant Biological Behaviors of Breast Cancer Stem Cells by Blocking Wnt/β-catenin Signal Pathway through Downregulating LncRNA ROR
Authors: Jiang Baohong , Zhu Hongbo , Tang Liting , Gao Ting , Zhou Yu , Gong Fuqiang , Tan Yeru , Xie Liming , Wu Xiaoping , Li Yuehua
Published: April 2021

Background:

Cancer stem cells could influence tumor recurrence and metastasis.

Objective:

To develop a new effective treatment modality targeting breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) and to
explore the role of Apatinib in BCSCs.

Methods:

BCSCs were isolated from MDA-MB-231 cells by the immune magnetic beads method. BCSCs were
treated with Apatinib, lentiviral plasmids (lncRNA ROR), and iCRT-3 (Wnt pathway inhibitors). Viability,
colony numbers, sphere numbers, apoptosis, migration, invasion of BCSCs were detected by MTT, colony
formation, tumorsphere, flow cytometry, wound-healing, transwell assays, respectively. The expressions of
markers (ABCG2, CD44, CD90, and CD24), epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related molecules (Ecadherin,
N-cadherin, Vimentin, MMP-2, MMP-9), and Wnt/β-catenin pathway-related proteins (Wnt3a, Wnt5a,
β-catenin) in breast cancer stem cells were determined by performing Western blot and qRT-PCR analysis.

Results:

Apatinib decreased the viability and colony numbers of BCSCs in a concentration-dependent manner,
and it also reduced sphere numbers, suppressed migration, invasion and lncRNA ROR expression, and induced
apoptosis of BCSCs. However, these results were partially reversed by lncRNA ROR overexpression. Apatinib
suppressed stem property, EMT process, and Wnt/β-catenin pathway in BCSCs, which was partially reversed by
lncRNA ROR overexpression. Moreover, lncRNA ROR overexpression increased the colony and sphere
numbers and promoted the cell viability, apoptosis inhibition, migration, and invasion of BCSCs, but these
effects were partially reversed by iCRT-3. LncRNA ROR overexpression increased the stem property, EMT
process, and Wnt/β-catenin pathway, which were partially counteracted by iCRT-3.

Conclusion:

Apatinib inhibited stem property and malignant biological behaviors of BCSCs by blocking the
Wnt/β-catenin signal pathway through down-regulating lncRNA ROR.
The Salivary miRNome: A Promising Biomarker of Disease
Authors: Tomei Sara , Manjunath Harshitha Shobha , Murugesan Selvasankar , Al Khodor Souhaila
Published: April 2021

:

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding RNAs ranging from 18-24 nucleotides, also
known to regulate the human genome mainly at the post-transcriptional level. MiRNAs were
shown to play an important role in most biological processes such as apoptosis and in the pathogenesis
of many diseases such as cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Recent developments of advanced
molecular high-throughput technologies have enhanced our knowledge of miRNAs. MiRNAs
can now be discovered, interrogated, and quantified in various body fluids serving as diagnostic
and therapeutic markers for many diseases.

:

While most studies use blood as a sample source to measure circulating miRNAs as possible biomarkers
for disease pathogenesis, fewer studies have assessed the role of salivary miRNAs in
health and disease. This review aims at providing an overview of the current knowledge of the salivary
miRNome, addressing the technical aspects of saliva sampling, and highlighting the applicability
of miRNA screening to clinical practice.
High Expression of miR-483-5p Predicts Chemotherapy Resistance in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Rattanapan Yanisa , Korkiatsakul Veerawat , Kongruang Adcharee , Siriboonpiputtana Teerapong , Rerkamnuaychoke Budsaba , Chareonsirisuthigul Takol
Published: April 2021

Background:

Ovarian cancer is the most deadly cancer that requires novel diagnostics
and therapeutics. MicroRNAs are viewed as essential gene regulatory elements involved in different
pathobiological mechanisms of many cancers, including ovarian cancer.

Objective:

This study examined the relationship between microRNA (miRNA) expression and response
to platinum-based chemotherapy.

Methods:

Genome-wide miRNA expression analysis was conducted using Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
(EOC) tissues from 25 patients with 17 malignant tumors and eight benign ovarian tumors. Candidate
miRNAs that respond to platinum-based chemotherapy were selected for validation by quantitative
RT-PCR.

Result:

Among 2,578 mature human miRNAs, high expression of miR-483-5p correlated with
poor responses to platinum-based chemotherapy in EOC patients. Furthermore, high levels of
miR-483-5p in the resistant group suppressed expression of the apoptotic regulator TAOK-1.

Conclusion:

A possible marker for the prediction of chemotherapy response and resistance in patients
may be miR-483-5p. Choosing the right treatment for each patient with EOC can avoid the
risk of developing chemotherapy resistance.
ВИРУС ДЕНГЕ
Authors:   ФБУН «Государственный научный центр вирусологии и биотехнологии «Вектор» Роспотребнадзора», Казачинская Е.И.
Published: April 2021

The review is devoted to the analysis of literature data on the history research of dengue fever, the discovery of the etiological infectious agent of this disease-dengue virus and its serotypes. A taxonomic overview of the }lavivirus family, genome organization, structure and function of viral proteins, mosquito species-viral vectors and virus transmission cycles, theories of its origin are presented. As well as the evolution, characteristics and epidemiology of viral serotypes, cellular receptors for dengue virus penetration, pathogenicity for human and factors for the development of severe disease, induced immunity, applied methods and markers for diagnosis, principles of disease treatment and drug development (more information about monoclonal antibodies-potential therapeutic drugs), vaccine options and their effectiveness are considered. The book is intended for students, graduate students, employees of research institutions and universities, as well as doctors involved in the study of }laviviruses and the problem of differential diagnosis of flavivirus infections.
Utilization of ICT and AI techniques in harnessing residential energy consumption for an energy-aware smart city: A review
Authors:   Department of Computer Science, SZABIST Islamabad Campus, Islamabad, Pakistan, et al. Mahmood
Published: April 2021

Fusion of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in traditional grid infrastructure makes it possible to share certain messages and information within the system that leads to optimized use of energy. Furthermore, using Computational Intelligence (CI) in the said domain opens new horizons to preserve electricity as well as the price of consumed electricity effectively. Hence, Energy Management Systems (EMSs) play a vital role in energy economics, consumption efficiency, resourcefulness, grid stability, reliability, and scalability of power systems. The residential sector has its high impact on global energy consumption. Curtailing and shifting load of the residential sector can result in solving major global problems and challenges. Moreover, the residential sector is more flexible in reshaping power consumption patterns. Using Demand Side Management (DSM), end users can manipulate their power consumption patterns such that electricity bills, as well as Peak to Average Ratio (PAR), are reduced. Therefore, it can be stated that Home Energy Management Systems (HEMSs) is an important part of ground-breaking smart grid technology. This article gives an extensive review of DSM, HEMS methodologies, techniques, and formulation of optimization problems. Concluding the existing work in energy management solutions, challenges and issues, and future research directions are also presented.
Veterinary perspective of the renal system in sepsis
Authors: Gasser Beatriz , Ramirez-Uscategui Ricardo Andres , Maronezi Marjury Cristina , Rodrigues-Simões Ana Paula , Perez-Gomes Luiz Fernando , Pavan Letícia , Rossi-Feliciano Marcus Antonio
Published: April 2021

This paper aims to review, discuss and define the factors associated with development of kidney injury in patients with sepsis, diagnosis alternatives, therapy and prevention, offering to the veterinarians an updated guide to improve the prognosis of sepsis patients. Sepsis is a clinical condition that leads to systemic complications and to multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), mainly due to poor tissue perfusion in humans and animals. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is considered the most frequent and lethal among organ complications secondary to sepsis, however the etiology of AKI in patients with sepsis is complex and multifactorial and not completely elucidated. Early diagnosis of AKI is difficult and consequently the treatment is not very successful, due to hemodynamic aspects. The ultrasonography seems to be a promising exam for early diagnosis of this lesion, especially with the advent of contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) technique, which makes possible to detect microcirculation changes in the renal parenchyma, opening the door for a variety of physiological, clinical and therapeutic applications, however, studies proving CEUS accuracy for early detection of renal damage related to sepsis in humans and animals are still necessary.
Digital Patient-Reported Outcome Measures for Monitoring of Patients on Cancer Treatment: Cross-sectional Questionnaire Study
Authors: Sivanandan Mayuran Ananth , Sharma Catherine , Bullard Pippa , Christian Judith
Published: April 2021

Background

Oncology has been facing increasing outpatient activity associated with higher cancer incidence, better survival rates, and more treatment options. Innovative technological solutions could help deal with this increasing demand. Using digital patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) to identify patients who need a face-to-face (FTF) appointment is a potential approach.

Objective

This study aims to assess the feasibility of digital PROM questionnaires to enable remote symptom monitoring for patients undergoing cancer treatment and their ability to highlight the requirement for an FTF appointment.

Methods

This study was performed at a tertiary oncology center between December 2018 and February 2019. The Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events were adapted into patient-friendly language to form the basis of treatment-specific digital questionnaires covering specific cancer drugs and radiotherapy treatments. These treatment-specific digital PROM questionnaires were scored by both patients and their clinicians during FTF appointments. Patients and clinicians did not see each other’s scored PROMs. Agreement between patients and clinicians was assessed using descriptive statistics. Patient and staff feedback was also obtained.

Results

In total, 90 patients participated in the study across 10 different treatment pathways. By comparing paired patient and clinician responses, the sensitivity of the patient-completed questionnaires in correctly highlighting the need for FTF review was 94% (44/47), and all patients with severe or grade 3+ symptoms were identified (6/6, 100%). Patient-completed PROMs appropriately revealed that 29% (26/90) of the participating patients did not need FTF review based on their symptoms alone. Certain oncological treatment pathways, such as immunotherapy, were found to have a larger proportion of patients with minimal symptoms than others, such as conventional chemotherapy. Patient and staff feedback showed high approval of digital PROMs and their potential for use in remote monitoring.

Conclusions

Digital PROM questionnaires can feasibly highlight the need for FTF review in oncology clinics for treatment. Their use with specific treatments could safely reduce the requirement for FTF care, and future work should evaluate their application in the remote monitoring of patients.
Shared Tobacco Cessation Curriculum Website for Health Professionals: Longitudinal Analysis of User and Utilization Data Over a Period of 15 Years
Authors: Elkhadragy Nervana , Aviado Jeremie , Huang Henry , Corelli Robin L , Hudmon Karen Suchanek
Published: April 2021

Background

Because tobacco use is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, it is essential to prepare health care providers to assist patients with quitting smoking. Created in 1999, the “Rx for Change” tobacco cessation curriculum was designed to fill an educational gap in cessation training of health professional students. In 2004, a website was launched to host teaching materials and tools to support the efforts of educators and clinicians.

Objective

The objective of this study was to characterize users and utilization of a website hosting shared teaching materials over a period of 15 years.

Methods

Data from the Rx for Change website have been collected prospectively since its inception. In this study, end-user data were analyzed to determine user characteristics, how they heard about the website, intended use of the materials, and numbers of logins and file downloads over time.

Results

Total number of website registrants was 15,576, representing all 50 states in the United States and 94 countries. The most represented discipline was pharmacy (6393/15,505, 41.2%), and nearly half of users were students or residents. The most common source of referral to the website was a faculty member or colleague (33.4%, 2591/7758), and the purpose of enhancing personal knowledge and skills was the most commonly cited intended use of the curricular materials. A total of 259,835 file downloads occurred during the 15-year period, and the most commonly downloaded file type was ancillary handouts.

Conclusions

The Rx for Change website demonstrated sustained use, providing immediate access to tobacco cessation teaching and practice tools for educators and clinicians over the first 15 years of its existence. The website has a broad interprofessional reach, and the consistent utilization over time and large number of downloads provide evidence for the feasibility and utility of a public-access website hosting teaching materials. The shared curriculum approach averts the need for educators to create their own materials for teaching tobacco cessation to students in the health professions.
Advancing Mental Health and Psychological Support for Health Care Workers Using Digital Technologies and Platforms
Authors: Ye Jiancheng
Published: April 2021

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic is a global public health crisis that has not only endangered the lives of patients but also resulted in increased psychological issues among medical professionals, especially frontline health care workers. As the crisis caused by the pandemic shifts from acute to protracted, attention should be paid to the devastating impacts on health care workers’ mental health and social well-being. Digital technologies are being harnessed to support the responses to the pandemic, which provide opportunities to advance mental health and psychological support for health care workers.

Objective

The aim of this study is to develop a framework to describe and organize the psychological and mental health issues that health care workers are facing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on the framework, this study also proposes interventions from digital health perspectives that health care workers can leverage during and after the pandemic.

Methods

The psychological problems and mental health issues that health care workers have encountered during the COVID-19 pandemic were reviewed and analyzed based on the proposed MEET (Mental Health, Environment, Event, and Technology) framework, which also demonstrated the interactions among mental health, digital interventions, and social support.

Results

Health care workers are facing increased risk of experiencing mental health issues due to the COVID-19 pandemic, including burnout, fear, worry, distress, pressure, anxiety, and depression. These negative emotional stressors may cause psychological problems for health care workers and affect their physical and mental health. Digital technologies and platforms are playing pivotal roles in mitigating psychological issues and providing effective support. The proposed framework enabled a better understanding of how to mitigate the psychological effects during the pandemic, recover from associated experiences, and provide comprehensive institutional and societal infrastructures for the well-being of health care workers.

Conclusions

The COVID-19 pandemic presents unprecedented challenges due to its prolonged uncertainty, immediate threat to patient safety, and evolving professional demands. It is urgent to protect the mental health and strengthen the psychological resilience of health care workers. Given that the pandemic is expected to exist for a long time, caring for mental health has become a “new normal” that needs a strengthened multisector collaboration to facilitate support and reduce health disparities. The proposed MEET framework could provide structured guidelines for further studies on how technology interacts with mental and psychological health for different populations.
Usability Analysis of a Health Sciences Digital Library by Medical Residents: Cross-sectional Survey
Authors: Jamal Amr , Tharkar Shabana , Alenazi Hanan , Julaidan Bedoor Saud , Al Hindawi Dania Ali , AlAkeel Norah Suleman , AlNuhayer Ola Mohammed , AlDubaikhi Raneem Hamoud
Published: April 2021

Background

The usability of a digital library depends on a myriad of factors ranging from the end users’ ability to website complexity. Although digital libraries provide instant access to online content, offering an efficient reference platform, their usability is highly variable.

Objective

The aim of this study was to measure users’ perspectives and usability of the digital library of the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS).

Methods

A web-based questionnaire survey was conducted using a validated System Usability Scale (SUS) containing 5 positive and 5 negative items on the usability of the digital library. The SUS standard cut-off score of 68 was considered for interpretation.

Results

The overall mean SUS score of digital library usability was 52.9 (SD 15.2) with a grade “D” categorization, indicating low usability. The perceived measures of attributes of the 10 SUS items of findability, complexity, consistency, and confidence obtained below average scores. Only item 1 relating to perceived willingness to use the digital library frequently obtained a score above the targeted benchmark score (mean score 3.6). Higher SUS scores were associated with training (P=.02). Men felt the digital library to be more complex (P=.04) and board-certified physicians perceived a greater need for training on digital library use (P=.05). Only the UpToDate database was widely used (72/90, 80%).

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate the low usability of the extensive facilities offered by the SCFHS digital library. It is pivotal to improve awareness of the availability of the digital library and popularize the databases. There is also a need for improved user training to enhance the accessibility and usability of the multiple databases.
Using Social Media for Qualitative Health Research in Danish Women of Reproductive Age: Online Focus Group Study on Facebook
Authors: Temmesen Camilla Gry , Nielsen Henriette Svarre , Andersen Heidi Lene Myglegård , Birch Petersen Kathrine , Clemensen Jane
Published: April 2021

Background

Social media platforms provide new possibilities within health research. With Facebook being the largest social network in the world, it constitutes a potential platform for recruitment and data collection from women of reproductive age. Women in Denmark and in other Western countries postpone motherhood and risk infertility due to their advanced age when they try to conceive. To date, no study has explored Danish women’s reflections on the timing of motherhood within a social media setting.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the challenges and opportunities of using Facebook as a platform for qualitative health research in Danish women of reproductive age.

Methods

This study was a qualitative study based on 3 online focus groups on Facebook with 26 Danish women of reproductive age discussing the timing of motherhood in January 2020.

Results

Conducting online focus groups on Facebook was successful in this study as the web-based approach was found suitable for developing qualitative data with women of reproductive age and made recruitment easy and free of charge. All participants found participating in an online focus group to be a positive experience. More than half of the women participating in the online focus groups found it advantageous to meet on Facebook instead of meeting face-to-face.

Conclusions

Conducting online focus groups on Facebook is a suitable method to access qualitative data from women of reproductive age. Participants were positive toward being a part of an online focus group. Online focus groups on social media have the potential to give women of reproductive age a voice in the debate of motherhood.
Understanding Barriers to Novel Data Linkages: Topic Modeling of the Results of the LifeInfo Survey
Authors: Clarke Holly , Clark Stephen , Birkin Mark , Iles-Smith Heather , Glaser Adam , Morris Michelle A
Published: April 2021

Background

Novel consumer and lifestyle data, such as those collected by supermarket loyalty cards or mobile phone exercise tracking apps, offer numerous benefits for researchers seeking to understand diet- and exercise-related risk factors for diseases. However, limited research has addressed public attitudes toward linking these data with individual health records for research purposes. Data linkage, combining data from multiple sources, provides the opportunity to enhance preexisting data sets to gain new insights.

Objective

The aim of this study is to identify key barriers to data linkage and recommend safeguards and procedures that would encourage individuals to share such data for potential future research.

Methods

The LifeInfo Survey consulted the public on their attitudes toward sharing consumer and lifestyle data for research purposes. Where barriers to data sharing existed, participants provided unstructured survey responses detailing what would make them more likely to share data for linkage with their health records in the future. The topic modeling technique latent Dirichlet allocation was used to analyze these textual responses to uncover common thematic topics within the texts.

Results

Participants provided responses related to sharing their store loyalty card data (n=2338) and health and fitness app data (n=1531). Key barriers to data sharing identified through topic modeling included data safety and security, personal privacy, requirements of further information, fear of data being accessed by others, problems with data accuracy, not understanding the reason for data linkage, and not using services that produce these data. We provide recommendations for addressing these issues to establish the best practice for future researchers interested in using these data.

Conclusions

This study formulates a large-scale consultation of public attitudes toward this kind of data linkage, which is an important first step in understanding and addressing barriers to participation in research using novel consumer and lifestyle data.
Challenges and Considerations for Reducing Diabetes Distress and Fear of Hypoglycemia in Parents of Youth With Type 1 Diabetes During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Monzon Alexandra , Kahhan Nicole , Marker Arwen , Patton Susana
Published: April 2021

Type 1 diabetes management can be challenging for children and their families. To address psychosocial concerns for parents of youth with type 1 diabetes, we developed two parent-focused interventions to reduce their diabetes distress and fear of hypoglycemia. Our team conducted several of these interventions during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic and recognized a need to make timely adjustments to our interventions. In this viewpoint article, we describe our experience conducting these manualized treatment groups during the pandemic, the range of challenges and concerns specific to COVID-19 that parents expressed, and how we adjusted our approach to better address parents’ treatment needs.
The Potential of mHealth as a Game Changer for the Management of Sickle Cell Disease in India
Authors: Kumar Ravindra , Das Aparup
Published: April 2021

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a chronic genetic disease that requires lifelong therapy and monitoring. Low drug adherence and poor monitoring may lead to an increase in morbidities and low quality of life. In the era of digital technology, various mobile health (mHealth) apps are being tested for their potential in increasing drug adherence in patients with SCD. We herewith discuss the applicability and feasibility of these mHealth apps for the management of SCD in India.
Use of the Instagram Hashtags #winemom and #momjuice Among Mothers During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Descriptive, Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Basch Corey H , Meleo-Erwin Zoe C , Mohlman Jan , Fera Joseph , Quinones Nasia
Published: April 2021

Background

The tendency of parents to consume alcohol during the COVID-19 pandemic is likely to be moderated by pandemic-related stress combined with the ongoing demands of childcare and home-based education, which are reported to be more burdensome for females than males.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to describe alcohol-related content posted by mothers on Instagram during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Using two popular hashtags, #momjuice and #winemom, 50 Instagram posts on each were collected from the “top posts” tab. The coding categories were created inductively and were as follows: displays alcohol (drinking/holding alcohol or alcohol itself), person is making alcoholic beverages, type of alcohol featured or discussed, highlights anxiety and/or depression/mental state, highlights struggling (in general), highlights parenting challenges, encourages alcohol consumption, discourages alcohol consumption, features a person wearing clothing or shows products promoting alcohol, promotes alcohol rehabilitation, highlights caffeine to alcohol daily transition throughout the day, and highlights other drugs besides caffeine and alcohol.

Results

Overall, the 100 selected posts had a total of 5108 comments and 94,671 likes. The respective averages were 51.08 (SD 77.94) and 946.71 (SD 1731.72). A majority (>50%) of the posts reviewed encouraged alcohol consumption (n=66) and/or displayed alcohol (n=56). Of the 66 that encouraged and/or displayed alcohol, the common type of alcohol discussed or featured was wine (n=55). Only 6 posts discouraged alcohol use and only 4 provided the audience with a disclaimer. None of the videos promoted or endorsed alcohol rehabilitation in any way. Only 37 posts highlighted struggle. However, these posts garnered more than a majority of the likes (n=50,034, 52.3%). Posts that showed struggle received an average of 1359.57 (SD 2108.02) likes. Those that did not show struggle had an average of 704.24 (SD 1447.46) likes. An independent one-tailed t test demonstrated this difference to be statistically significant (P=.0499).

Conclusions

The findings of this investigation suggest that though these hashtags ostensibly exist to valorize excess alcohol consumption, they may be serving as a support system for mothers who are experiencing increased burdens and role stress during the pandemic. Given the strains placed on mothers overall and especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, efforts must be taken to increase access to and affordability of telehealth-based mental health care.
The Potential of mHealth as a Game Changer for the Management of Sickle Cell Disease in India (Preprint)
Authors: Kumar Ravindra , Das Aparup
Published: April 2021

UNSTRUCTURED

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a chronic genetic disease that requires lifelong therapy and monitoring. Low drug adherence and poor monitoring may lead to an increase in morbidities and low quality of life. In the era of digital technology, various mobile health (mHealth) apps are being tested for their potential in increasing drug adherence in patients with SCD. We herewith discuss the applicability and feasibility of these mHealth apps for the management of SCD in India.
Early Adopters of Apple Health Records at a Large Academic Medical Center: Cross-sectional Survey of Users (Preprint)
Authors: Rolnick Joshua , Ward Robin , Tait Gordon , Patel Neha
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

Mobile applications offer a new approach to personal health records, which are internet-based tools for patients to consolidate and manage their health information. The University of Pennsylvania Health System (UPHS) was one of the first health systems to participate in Apple Health Records (AHR), a prominent example of this new generation of personal health records.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to characterize early adoption of AHR among UPHS patients and understand user perspectives.

METHODS

An email-based survey with fixed answer, Likert scale, and open-ended questions was administered to all UPHS patients using AHR in the first 10 months of enrollment. Survey data linked to the UPHS electronic health record system were used to analyze responses. Multivariable logistic regression modeled the association of patient characteristics with user ratings. Content analysis was used to analyze open-ended questions.

RESULTS

At the time of the survey, a total of 1458 patients had used AHR at least once. Mean age of AHR users was 47.5 years, 66.3% (967/1458) were male, 70.9% (1033/1458) were white, and 80.8% (1178/1458) had private insurance. Response rate was 26.8% (391/1458); 46.3% (180/389) were very satisfied with AHR, and 67.7% (264/390) described it as very easy to use. The most commonly utilized features were lab results (324/391, 82.9%), clinical vitals (264/391, 67.5%), and medications (253/391, 64.7%). No patient characteristics were associated with reporting high satisfaction or ease of use. The most common reason for using AHR was convenience/ease of use, and 58.2% (160/275) of users reported allowing no other apps to access their health information, citing privacy as one consideration.

CONCLUSIONS

Early adopters of AHR were demographically white, male, and privately insured. Convenience was an important facilitator, and users were selective in which apps they allowed to access their health information.
Neural Epidermal Growth Factor–Like 1 Protein–Positive Membranous Nephropathy in Chinese Patients
Authors: Wang Guoqin , Sun Lijun , Dong Hongrui , Wang Yanyan , Xu Xiaoyi , Zhao Zhirui , Cheng Wenrong , Liu Xuejiao , Zhao Xiaoyi , Geng Yanqiu , Bao Siqin , Chen Yipu , Cheng Hong
Published: April 2021

Background and objectives

The neural EGF-like 1 (NELL-1) protein is a novel antigen in primary membranous nephropathy. The prevalence and clinical characteristics of NELL-1–positive membranous nephropathy in Chinese individuals with primary membranous nephropathy are unclear.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

A total of 832 consecutive patients with biopsy-proven primary membranous nephropathy were enrolled. The glomerular expression of phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) and thrombospondin type 1 domain-containing 7A (THSD7A) was screened. Glomerular immunohistochemistry staining for NELL-1 was performed in 43 patients with PLA2R- and THSD7A-negative membranous nephropathy, 31 patients with PLA2R-positive membranous nephropathy, and two patients with PLA2R and THSD7A double positivity. The NELL-1 antibody was also detected in the sera of patients with NELL-1–positive membranous nephropathy by western blot. Clinical and pathologic features were comparable between patients with isolated NELL-1–positive, isolated PLA2R/THSD7A-positive, and triple antigen–negative membranous nephropathy.

Results

Among the 832 patients with primary membranous nephropathy, 11 of 54 (20%) patients with PLA2R-negative membranous nephropathy had THSD7A-positive membranous nephropathy. NELL-1–positive membranous nephropathy accounted for 35% (15 of 43) of all patients with PLA2R- and THSD7A-negative membranous nephropathy. One patient was double positive for NELL-1 and PLA2R in glomerular deposits and positive for only the PLA2R antibody in the serum. Most patients with NELL-1–positive membranous nephropathy were women. No tumors were found. There were significant differences in the prevalence of IgG subtypes between patients with different antigen positivity. Among patients with isolated NELL-1–positive membranous nephropathy, although 80% (12 of 15) were IgG4 staining positive, the proportion of IgG4 dominance was only 67% (ten of 15).

Conclusions

About one third of patients who were PLA2R and THSD7A negative were NELL-1 positive in Chinese patients with primary membranous nephropathy. NELL-1–positive membranous nephropathy was more common than THSD7A-positive membranous nephropathy in PLA2R-negative membranous nephropathy.
Vulnerabilidad social, un blanco fatal de la coinfección tuberculosis-VIH en Cali
Authors: Gómez-Vasco José David , Candelo Cristhian , Victoria Salomé , Luna Lucy , Pacheco Robinson , Ferro Beatriz E.
Published: April 2021

Objetivo: Describir la proporción, características clínicas, demográficas y programáticas de casos fatales de coinfección TB/VIH de Cali-Colombia, en 2017. Material y Método: Estudio de corte transversal, con información de las bases de datos del programa de tuberculosis, las historias clínicas y unidades de análisis de mortalidad disponibles. Resultados: Se depuraron 257 casos fatales por TB, el 24,5% (63/257) falleció con coinfección TB/VIH. La mediana de edad fue 43 años (Rango Intercuartílico: 30-52), 73% (46/63) eran hombres, 76,2% (48/63) no pertenecían al régimen contributivo, 28,6% eran habitantes de calle. 81,2% (39/48) eran casos nuevos de TB, 76,6% (37/47), inició tratamiento; al 74,6% (47/63) se les realizó unidad de análisis de mortalidad. La presentación pulmonar fue frecuente (75,9%-44/58), en 60% de los registros se observó desnutrición (Índice de Masa Corporal <20), en 39,7% (25/63) dependencia al alcohol, tabaco o farmacodependencia. Conclusiones: La mortalidad asociada a TB/VIH es prevenible, pero en 2017 representó la cuarta parte de la mortalidad por TB en Cali. Hombres adultos con condiciones de vulnerabilidad social, diagnosticados en estados avanzados de enfermedad, fueron blanco de fatalidad. Mejorar los sistemas de información e integrar los programas de TB/VIH, deben ser estrategias prioritarias para la salud pública en Colombia.
Factores de riesgo en población rural andina con COVID-19: un estudio de cohorte retrospectivo
Authors: Moya-Salazar Jeel , Cañari Betsy , Sánchez-Llanos Alondra , Hernandez Sofia A. , Eche-Navarro Marylin , Salazar-Hernandez Richard , Contreras-Pulache Hans
Published: April 2021

Objetivo: Determinar los factores de riesgo en adultos con COVID-19 en población rural andina durante 2020. Métodos: En este estudio de cohorte retrospectivo multicéntrico, incluimos a 184 pacientes adultos (≥18 años) con pruebas serológicas y moleculares para COVID- 19 de tres hospitales de la sierra peruana (Ancash y Apurímac) incluidos con sospecha clínica entre abril y junio. Se utilizó análisis descriptivos y regresión logística univariable para explorar los factores de riesgo asociados a los pacientes con COVID-19. Resultados: Del total de pacientes, 14 (7.6%) tuvieron SARS-CoV-2. En los pacientes infectados 12 (85.7%) fueron varones con promedio de edad de 47.3±21 años. Las comorbilidades estuvieron presentes en cerca de la tercera parte de pacientes, siendo la hipertensión y diabetes las más frecuentes (ambas 14.3%), y la sintomatología más frecuentes fueron fiebre y cefalea (57.2%). La regresión univariable mostró mayores probabilidades de infección con SARS-CoV-2 en la población rural andina asociada con la edad avanzada (OR: 1.1 IC95% 0.7-1.8; p=0,019), comorbilidades previas (OR: 1.7, IC95% 0.32–9.39; p=0,006), y sintomatología previa (OR: 49.8, IC95% 5.6–436.9; p=0,0011). Conclusiones: Los posibles factores de riesgo como la edad avanzada, las comorbilidades y sintomatología previas están relacionados con el desarrollo de COVID- 19 en población rural andina de Perú.