bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of Substance Use Among High School Students in Jordan
Authors: Hamdan-Mansour Ayman M. , AL-Sagarat Ahmad Yahya , Shehadeh Jumana H. , Al Thawabieh Sumaya S.
Published: May 2020

Background:

Substance use is becoming a global health problem that concerns health
professionals and decision makers. Studies showed that teens are at higher risk for substance use.

Purpose:

the purpose of this study was to examine the prediction power of the selected sociodemographic
and psychological factors on substance use among high school students in Jordan. Specific
aims were; 1) to explore substance use among high school students in Jordan, and 2) to examine the
prediction power of sociodemographic and psychological factors on substance use among high
school students in Jordan.

Methods:

This is a predictive cross-sectional study where data was collected using self-administered
questionnaires from a convenience sample of 1497 high school students in the central district of Jordan.

Results:

Students who reported that they have never used stimulant agent were 91.5%, tranquilizer
sedative 87.2%, hypnotic agent 85.8% and antidepressant agent 94.5%, while those never used nicotine
were 81.7%. Coping efficacy (crude OR = 1.07, CI 95% = 1.03 – 1.12), psychological distress
(crude OR = 1.07, CI 95% = 1.03 – 1.11), and perceived social support from family (crude OR =
1.20, CI 95% = 0.95 – 1.24) were significantly associated with substance use. While perceived social
support from friends was not.

Conclusion:

High school students are at risk for the use of various forms of substances and mainly
the over counter ones. Legitimate rules of screening and using substance prevention programs at
high schools considering the psychological factors is a priority for school health professionals and
policy makers.
Exploring Strategies for Using Social Media to Self-Manage Health Care When Living With and Beyond Breast Cancer: In-Depth Qualitative Study (Preprint)
Authors: Ure Cathy , Cooper-Ryan Anna Mary , Condie Jenna , Galpin Adam
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

As breast cancer survival rates improve and structural health resources are increasingly being stretched, health providers require people living with and beyond breast cancer (LwBBC) to self-manage aspects of their care.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore how women use and experience social media to self-manage their psychosocial needs and support self-management across the breast cancer continuum.

METHODS

The experiences of 21 women (age range 27-64 years) were explored using an in-depth qualitative approach. The women varied in the duration of their experiences of LwBBC, which facilitated insights into how they evolve and change their self-management strategies over time. Semistructured interviews were analyzed inductively using a thematic analysis, a polytextual analysis, and voice-centered relational methods.

RESULTS

The use of multiple social media platforms, such as YouTube, Facebook, WhatsApp, and Twitter, enabled women to self-manage aspects of their care by satisfying needs for timely, relevant, and appropriate support, by navigating identities disrupted by diagnosis and treatment and by allowing them to (re)gain a sense of control. Women described extending their everyday use of multiple platforms to self-manage their care. However, women experienced social media as both empowering and dislocating, as their engagement was impacted by their everyday experiences of LwBBC.

CONCLUSIONS

Health care professionals (HCPs) need to be more aware, and open to the possibilities, of women using multiple social media resources as self-management tools. It is important for HCPs to initiate value-free discussions and create the space necessary for women to share how social media resources support a tailored and timely self-managed approach to their unique psychosocial needs.
Assessing the Efficacy and Acceptability of a Web-Based Intervention for Resilience Among College Students: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Enrique Roig Angel , Mooney Olwyn , Salamanca-Sanabria Alicia , Lee Chi Tak , Farrell Simon , Richards Derek
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

College students are at elevated risk for developing mental health problems and face specific barriers around accessing evidence-based treatment. Web-based interventions that focus on mental health promotion and strengthening resilience represent one possible solution. Providing support to users has shown to reduce dropout in these interventions. Further research is needed to assess the efficacy and acceptability of these interventions and explore the viability of automating support.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the feasibility of a new web-based resilience program based on positive psychology, provided with human or automated support, in a sample of college students.

METHODS

A 3-armed closed pilot randomized controlled trial design was used. Participants were randomized to the intervention with human support (n=29), intervention with automated support (n=26), or waiting list (n=28) group. Primary outcomes were resilience and well-being, respectively measured by the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale and Pemberton Happiness Index. Secondary outcomes included measures of depression and anxiety, self-esteem, and stress. Outcomes were self-assessed through online questionnaires. Intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses were conducted.

RESULTS

All participants demonstrated significant improvements in resilience and related outcomes, including an unexpected improvement in the waiting list group. Within- and between-group effect sizes ranged from small to moderate and within-group effects were typically larger for the human than automated support group. A total of 36 participants began the program and completed 46.46% of it on average. Participants were generally satisfied with the program and found it easy to use.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings support the feasibility of the intervention. Preliminary evidence for the equal benefit of human and automated support needs to be supported by further research with a larger sample. Results of this study will inform the development of a full-scale trial, from which stronger conclusions may be drawn.

CLINICALTRIAL

International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN) 11866034; http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN11866034

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

RR2-10.1016/j.invent.2019.100254
Mathematical myocardium elasticity properties modeling in echocardiography study of diastolic and systolic function of the left ventricle (Preprint)
Authors: Popescu Lucian , Trofenciuc Nelu-Mihai , Crisan Simina , Bordejevic Aurora Diana , Mischie Alexandru , Pop-Moldovan Adina Ligia
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

A systematic and quantitative comparative analysis for this subject has not been done so far. Thus defined, the coefficient of elasticity is a whole new dimension.

OBJECTIVE

This study proposes a new mathematical myocardium elasticity property modeling in characterizing of the ventricular diastole and systole.

METHODS

The study group consisted of 2283 consecutive patients evaluated by echocardiography.
The mathematical approach is made starting from energetic consideration, by applying the energy conservation low for the blood entering from left atrium into left ventricle during diastole period.

RESULTS

Analyzing all the data obtained we developed two brand new coefficients to describe the cardiac cycle and we had verified if the coefficients are correlated with classically used parameters. We consider that the energetic approach take into consideration the whole mechanical movement that is happening inside the heart and can offer a very synthetic and scientific solid view about the cardiac cycle.

CONCLUSIONS

The new coefficients are simply to be calculated and as you will see from our research the correlation with other classically used parameters is obvious. The direct physical approach of blood flow within the heart can generate new, beneficial perspectives in diagnosing various heart conditions, or even in understanding how works the filling of the ventricles and atria during a heartbeat.
Digital Cardiovascular Biomarker Responses to Transcutaneous Cervical Vagus Nerve Stimulation: State-Space Modeling, Prediction, and Simulation (Preprint)
Authors: Gazi Asim H , Gurel Nil Z , Richardson Kristine L S , Wittbrodt Matthew T , Shah Amit J , Vaccarino Viola , Bremner J Douglas , Inan Omer T
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Transcutaneous cervical vagus nerve stimulation (tcVNS) is a promising alternative to implantable stimulation of the vagus nerve. With demonstrated potential in myriad applications, ranging from systemic inflammation reduction to traumatic stress attenuation, closed-loop tcVNS during periods of risk could improve treatment efficacy and reduce ineffective delivery. However, achieving this requires a deeper understanding of biomarker changes over time.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to reveal the dynamics of relevant cardiovascular biomarkers, extracted from wearable sensing modalities, in response to tcVNS.

METHODS

Twenty-four human subjects were recruited for a randomized double-blind clinical trial, for whom electrocardiography and photoplethysmography were used to measure heart rate and photoplethysmogram amplitude responses to tcVNS, respectively. Modeling these responses in state-space, we (1) compared the biomarkers in terms of their predictability and active vs sham differentiation, (2) studied the latency between stimulation onset and measurable effects, and (3) visualized the true and model-simulated biomarker responses to tcVNS.

RESULTS

The models accurately predicted future heart rate and photoplethysmogram amplitude values with root mean square errors of approximately one-fifth the standard deviations of the data. Moreover, (1) the photoplethysmogram amplitude showed superior predictability (P=.03) and active vs sham separation compared to heart rate; (2) a consistent delay of greater than 5 seconds was found between tcVNS onset and cardiovascular effects; and (3) dynamic characteristics differentiated responses to tcVNS from the sham stimulation.

CONCLUSIONS

This work furthers the state of the art by modeling pertinent biomarker responses to tcVNS. Through subsequent analysis, we discovered three key findings with implications related to (1) wearable sensing devices for bioelectronic medicine, (2) the dominant mechanism of action for tcVNS-induced effects on cardiovascular physiology, and (3) the existence of dynamic biomarker signatures that can be leveraged when titrating therapy in closed loop.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02992899; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02992899

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

RR2-10.1016/j.brs.2019.08.002
Use of mHealth Devices to Screen for Atrial Fibrillation: Cost-Effectiveness Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Giebel Godwin D
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

With an estimated prevalence of around 3% and an about 2.5-fold increased risk of stroke, atrial fibrillation (AF) is a serious threat for patients and a high economic burden for health care systems all over the world. Patients with AF could benefit from screening through mobile health (mHealth) devices. Thus, an early diagnosis is possible with mHealth devices, and the risk for stroke can be markedly reduced by using anticoagulation therapy.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this work was to assess the cost-effectiveness of algorithm-based screening for AF with the aid of photoplethysmography wrist-worn mHealth devices. Even if prevented strokes and prevented deaths from stroke are the most relevant patient outcomes, direct costs were defined as the primary outcome.

METHODS

A Monte Carlo simulation was conducted based on a developed state-transition model; 30,000 patients for each CHA2DS2-VASc (Congestive heart failure, Hypertension, Age≥75 years, Diabetes mellitus, Stroke, Vascular disease, Age 65-74 years, Sex category [female]) score from 1 to 9 were simulated. The first simulation served to estimate the economic burden of AF without the use of mHealth devices. The second simulation served to simulate the economic burden of AF with the use of mHealth devices. Afterwards, the groups were compared in terms of costs, prevented strokes, and deaths from strokes.

RESULTS

The CHA2DS2-VASc score as well as the electrocardiography (ECG) confirmation rate had the biggest impact on costs as well as number of strokes. The higher the risk score, the lower were the costs per prevented stroke. Higher ECG confirmation rates intensified this effect. The effect was not seen in groups with lower risk scores. Over 10 years, the use of mHealth (assuming a 75% ECG confirmation rate) resulted in additional costs (€1=US $1.12) of €441, €567, €536, €520, €606, €625, €623, €692, and €847 per patient for a CHA2DS2-VASc score of 1 to 9, respectively. The number of prevented strokes tended to be higher in groups with high risk for stroke. Higher ECG confirmation rates led to higher numbers of prevented strokes. The use of mHealth (assuming a 75% ECG confirmation rate) resulted in 25 (7), –68 (–54), 98 (–5), 266 (182), 346 (271), 642 (440), 722 (599), 1111 (815), and 1116 (928) prevented strokes (fatal) for CHA2DS2-VASc score of 1 to 9, respectively. Higher device accuracy in terms of sensitivity led to even more prevented fatal strokes.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of mHealth devices to screen for AF leads to increased costs but also a reduction in the incidence of stroke. In particular, in patients with high CHA2DS2-VASc scores, the risk for stroke and death from stroke can be markedly reduced.
Expressions of Individualization on the Internet and Social Media: Multigenerational Focus Group Study (Preprint)
Authors: Mayer Gwendolyn , Alvarez Simone , Gronewold Nadine , Schultz Jobst-Hendrik
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Growing individualization within the past decades has been described as a fundamental shift in society. Studies have reported how the digital age promotes new forms of individualism with self-tracking technologies and self-presentation in social networks. Potential harmful effects on the mental health of young adults have already been at the forefront of research. However, 2 questions that remain unanswered are how emotional experiences and expressions of self-relatedness differ among generations in their usage of the internet and social media, and if an increasing individualism can be observed by this.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to examine whether the use of the internet and social media has led people to be more concerned about themselves than former generations. The potential consequences of mental and emotional distress among different age groups are analyzed.

METHODS

A focus-group approach was chosen to study the following age groups: Baby Boomers (those born in 1950-1965), Generation X (those born in 1966-1980), and Digital Natives (those born in 1981-2000). We organized 6 focus groups with 36 participants who discussed their private usage of the internet and social media, different devices, platforms and functions, communication behavior, and self-tracking. We applied inductive category formation and followed the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR) checklist.

RESULTS

We found differences in the 3 studied generations regarding the reasons for their use of the internet and social media, the effects of this use, personal feelings and experiences, expressions of self-relatedness, and social relationships. The Baby Boomers voiced a wish to stay autonomous while being in contact with their personal network. Generation X included enthusiastic members who appreciate self-tracking for curiosity and fascination, as well as people who felt fears about data surveillance. The Digital Natives reported a wish to optimize their own body by self-tracking while being faced with norms and expectations that were communicated via the internet and social media.

CONCLUSIONS

All generations expressed self-relatedness, yet by different means. The Baby Boomers expressed less individualism than Generation X and the Digital Natives, who felt the highest strain due to social comparisons. However, all generations reported specific, potentially problematic consequences for their mental health. Age-specific coping strategies are necessary to promote a mentally healthy way of using the internet and social media.
The Association Between Electronic Device Use During Family Time and Family Well-Being: Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study (Preprint)
Authors: Zhao Sheng Zhi , Guo Ningyuan , Wang Man Ping , Fong Daniel Yee Tak , Lai Agnes Yuen Kwan , Chan Sophia Siu-Chee , Lam Tai Hing , Ho Daniel Sai Yin
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Electronic devices (eDevices) may have positive or negative influences on family communication and well-being depending on how they are used.

OBJECTIVE

We examined eDevice use during family time and its association with the quality of family communication and well-being in Hong Kong Chinese adults.

METHODS

In 2017, a probability-based 2-stage random sampling landline telephone survey collected data on eDevice use in daily life and during family time (eg, family dinner) and the presence of rules banning eDevice use during family dinner. Family communication quality was rated from 0 to 10 with higher scores being favorable. Family well-being was calculated as a composite mean score of 3 items each using the same scale from 0 to 10. The associations of family communication quality and well-being with eDevice use in daily life and during family time were estimated using beta-coefficient (β) adjusting for sociodemographics. The mediating role of family communication quality in the association between eDevice use and family well-being was analyzed.

RESULTS

Of the 2064 respondents (mean age 56.4 [SD 19.2] years, 1269/2064 [61.48%] female), 1579/2059 (76.69%) used an eDevice daily for a mean of 3.6 hours (SD 0.1) and 257/686 (37.5%) used it for 30+ minutes before sleep. As much as 794/2046 (38.81%) often or sometimes used an eDevice during family time including dinner (311/2017, 15.42%); 713/2012 (35.44%) reported use of an eDevice by family members during dinner. Lower family communication quality was associated with hours of eDevice use before sleep (adjusted β=–.25; 95% CI –0.44 to –0.05), and often use (vs never use) of eDevice during family dinner by oneself (adjusted β=–.51; 95% CI –0.91 to –0.10) and family members (adjusted β=–.54; 95% CI –0.79 to –0.29). Similarly, lower family well-being was associated with eDevice use before sleep (adjusted β=–.26; 95% CI –0.42 to –0.09), and often use during family dinner by oneself (adjusted β=–.48; 95% CI –0.83 to –0.12) and family members (adjusted β=–.50; 95% CI –0.72 to –0.28). Total ban of eDevice use during family dinner was negatively associated with often use by oneself (adjusted odds ratio 0.49; 95% CI 0.29 to 0.85) and family members (adjusted odds ratio 0.41; 95% CI 0.28, 0.60) but not with family communication and well-being. Lower family communication quality substantially mediated the total effect of the association of eDevice use time before sleep (61.2%) and often use at family dinner by oneself (87.0%) and by family members (67.8%) with family well-being.

CONCLUSIONS

eDevice use before sleep and during family dinner was associated with lower family well-being, and the association was substantially mediated by family communication quality. Our results suggest that interventions on smart use of eDevice may improve family communication and well-being.
Secondary Impact of Social Media via Text Message Screening for Type 2 Diabetes Risk in Kuwait: Survey Study (Preprint)
Authors: Alqabandi Naeema , Al-Ozairi Ebaa , Ahmed Adel , Ross Edgar L , Jamison Robert N
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is an international problem of alarming epidemic proportions. T2DM can develop due to multiple factors, and it usually begins with prediabetes. Fortunately, this disease can be prevented by following a healthy lifestyle. However, many health care systems fail to properly educate the public on disease prevention and to offer support in embracing behavioral interventions to prevent diabetes. SMS messaging has been combined with cost-effective ways to reach out to the population at risk for medical comorbidities. To our knowledge, the use of nationwide SMS messaging in the Middle East as a screening tool to identify individuals who might be at risk of developing T2DM has not been reported in the literature.

OBJECTIVE

The primary aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of conducting a series of SMS messaging campaigns directed at random smartphone users in Kuwait for the detection and prevention of T2DM. It was predicted that 1% of those receiving the text message would find it relevant and participate in the study. The secondary aim of this study was to assess the incidence of participation of those who were forwarded the initial text message by family members and friends.

METHODS

In this study, 5 separate text message screening campaigns were launched inviting recipients to answer 6 questions to determine the risk of developing T2DM. If subjects agreed to participate, a link to the prediabetes screening test devised by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention was automatically transmitted to their mobile devices. Those identified as high risk were invited to participate in a diabetes prevention program.

RESULTS

A total of 180,000 SMSs were sent to approximately 6% of the adult population in Kuwait. Of these, 0.14% (260/180,000) of the individuals who received the SMS agreed to participate, of whom 58.8% (153/260) completed the screening. Surprisingly, additional surveys were completed by 367 individuals who were invited via circulated SMS messages forwarded by family members and friends. Altogether, 23.3% (121/520) qualified and agreed to participate in a diabetes prevention program. The majority of those who chose to participate in the prevention program were overweight, aged 45-65 years, and reported being less physically active than those who chose not to participate (χ22=42.1, P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Although health care screening via text messaging was found to have limited effectiveness by itself, it exhibited increased reach through shared second-party social media messaging. Despite the fact a subpopulation at possible risk of developing T2DM could be reached via text messaging, most responders were informed about the screening campaign by family and friends. Future research should be designed to tap into the benefits of social media use in health risk campaigns.
Internet and social media usage for health related information
among diabetes patients in Saudi Arabia (Preprint)
Authors: Alharbi Emtinan , Alreheli Ahdab , Almubarak Maryam , Elshatarat Rami , Al Nozha Omar
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Health-related information (H.I.) can now be accessed more easily than ever using the web and social media.

OBJECTIVE

Identify H.I. seeking behavior on the internet and social media among DM patient in Kingdom Saudi Arabia (KSA).

METHODS

This is a descriptive cross-sectional study. A convenience sampling method was used to recruit 406 patients with DM. A structured Arabic questionnaire was used to collect the data.

RESULTS

A total of 211 of the participants used the internet and/or social media to seek H.I. Most of the participants (44.4%) were using internet for the last 6 to 10 years. The majority of the participants (60%) rated their skills as a “very good”, used YouTube (72.7%) and Twitter (55.2%) when seeking H.I., and considered YouTube (76.4%) and Twitter (64.8%) as “excellent” or “very good” resources to seek online H.I.

CONCLUSIONS

Older age and low educated people are less likely to seek online H.I. about DM management. The majority of the participants believed that their health behaviors are positively influenced after online seeking for H.I.
Use Characteristics and Triage Acuity of a Digital Symptom Checker in a Large Integrated Health System: Population-Based Descriptive Study (Preprint)
Authors: Morse Keith E , Ostberg Nicolai P , Jones Veena G , Chan Albert S
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Pressure on the US health care system has been increasing due to a combination of aging populations, rising health care expenditures, and most recently, the COVID-19 pandemic. Responses to this pressure are hindered in part by reliance on a limited supply of highly trained health care professionals, creating a need for scalable technological solutions. Digital symptom checkers are artificial intelligence–supported software tools that use a conversational “chatbot” format to support rapid diagnosis and consistent triage. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought new attention to these tools due to the need to avoid face-to-face contact and preserve urgent care capacity. However, evidence-based deployment of these chatbots requires an understanding of user demographics and associated triage recommendations generated by a large general population.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we evaluate the user demographics and levels of triage acuity provided by a symptom checker chatbot deployed in partnership with a large integrated health system in the United States.

METHODS

This population-based descriptive study included all web-based symptom assessments completed on the website and patient portal of the Sutter Health system (24 hospitals in Northern California) from April 24, 2019, to February 1, 2020. User demographics were compared to relevant US Census population data.

RESULTS

A total of 26,646 symptom assessments were completed during the study period. Most assessments (17,816/26,646, 66.9%) were completed by female users. The mean user age was 34.3 years (SD 14.4 years), compared to a median age of 37.3 years of the general population. The most common initial symptom was abdominal pain (2060/26,646, 7.7%). A substantial number of assessments (12,357/26,646, 46.4%) were completed outside of typical physician office hours. Most users were advised to seek medical care on the same day (7299/26,646, 27.4%) or within 2-3 days (6301/26,646, 23.6%). Over a quarter of the assessments indicated a high degree of urgency (7723/26,646, 29.0%).

CONCLUSIONS

Users of the symptom checker chatbot were broadly representative of our patient population, although they skewed toward younger and female users. The triage recommendations were comparable to those of nurse-staffed telephone triage lines. Although the emergence of COVID-19 has increased the interest in remote medical assessment tools, it is important to take an evidence-based approach to their deployment.
A Double Triage and Telemedicine Protocol to Optimize Infection Control in an Emergency Department in Taiwan During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Retrospective Feasibility Study (Preprint)
Authors: Lin Chien-Hao , Tseng Wen-Pin , Wu Jhong-Lin , Tay Joyce , Cheng Ming-Tai , Ong Hooi-Nee , Lin Hao-Yang , Chen Yi-Ying , Wu Chih-Hsien , Chen Jiun-Wei , Chen Shey-Ying , Chan Chang-Chuan , Huang Chien-Hua , Chen Shyr-Chyr
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Frontline health care workers, including physicians, are at high risk of contracting coronavirus disease (COVID-19) owing to their exposure to patients suspected of having COVID-19.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the benefits and feasibility of a double triage and telemedicine protocol in improving infection control in the emergency department (ED).

METHODS

In this retrospective study, we recruited patients aged ≥20 years referred to the ED of the National Taiwan University Hospital between March 1 and April 30, 2020. A double triage and telemedicine protocol was developed to triage suggested COVID-19 cases and minimize health workers’ exposure to this disease. We categorized patients attending video interviews into a telemedicine group and patients experiencing face-to-face interviews into a conventional group. A questionnaire was used to assess how patients perceived the quality of the interviews and their communication with physicians as well as perceptions of stress, discrimination, and privacy. Each question was evaluated using a 5-point Likert scale. Physicians’ total exposure time and total evaluation time were treated as primary outcomes, and the mean scores of the questions were treated as secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

The final sample included 198 patients, including 93 cases (47.0%) in the telemedicine group and 105 cases (53.0%) in the conventional group. The total exposure time in the telemedicine group was significantly shorter than that in the conventional group (4.7 minutes vs 8.9 minutes, P<.001), whereas the total evaluation time in the telemedicine group was significantly longer than that in the conventional group (12.2 minutes vs 8.9 minutes, P<.001). After controlling for potential confounders, the total exposure time in the telemedicine group was 4.6 minutes shorter than that in the conventional group (95% CI −5.7 to −3.5, P<.001), whereas the total evaluation time in the telemedicine group was 2.8 minutes longer than that in the conventional group (95% CI −1.6 to −4.0, P<.001). The mean scores of the patient questionnaire were high in both groups (4.5/5 to 4.7/5 points).

CONCLUSIONS

The implementation of the double triage and telemedicine protocol in the ED during the COVID-19 pandemic has high potential to improve infection control.
Comment on “Containing COVID-19 Among 627,386 Persons in Contact With the Diamond Princess Cruise Ship Passengers Who Disembarked in Taiwan: Big Data Analytics” (Preprint)
Authors: Liu Rock
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

The Diamond Princess Cruise outbreak of new corona virus (COVID-19) infection on 2nd February, and more than 2,000 passengers have entered Taiwan, causing concern. The government uses a lot of information to complete the electronic map of cruise passengers within a day, and sends a cell message to the 620,000 people who have contacted the cruise passengers, followed by more than one tracking, if there are respiratory symptoms or pneumonia; then go for an inspection. Chen [1] et al.’s paper has two main points. One is to use the online signal between the mobile phone and the base station to find out the people who have contacted the Princess Diamond passenger. The second is to the 620,000 people who have contacted the Princess Diamond passenger. Use the health insurance database for follow-up health tracking.

OBJECTIVE

Disease control and prevention sometimes conflict with personal data protection and privacy [6-7, 10]. Science and technology and law always come from human nature [8-9]. How make the balances of both, we needs people's wisdom [11].

METHODS

Although the effectiveness of Taiwan’s control against the new coronavirus epidemic is very good, it has taken the lead in violating the law in this practice. The paper by Chen et al. claimed that in the face of new epidemic diseases such as the new coronavirus, it is possible to directly access personal data without obtaining personal consent. According to the investigation, there are currently three laws in Taiwan:
1) Communicable Disease Control Act [3].
2) The Communication Security and Surveillance Act [4].
3) Personal Data Protection Act [5].
Those are not mentioned that the government directly calls individuals without personal authorization under special circumstances, such as the new coronavirus epidemic. Therefore, the government violated the law in this case.
On the other hand, the paper also emulates South Korea’s policies [2] and practices in the new coronavirus epidemic, such as cell phone positioning, electronic medical records, swipe records, and monitors. South Korea’s laws do not satisfy to Taiwan. Here is another wrong example.

RESULTS

We know that the world is fighting against the new coronavirus, but this cannot allow the Taiwan government to use it as a reasonable excuse for infringing on personal privacy. Although the other countries have serious new coronavirus epidemics, they seal the city or limit the people’s social distance, and do not violate personal privacy. How to strike a balance between controlling the epidemic situation and protecting personal data and privacy, it is the direction we need to work hard in the future.

CONCLUSIONS

How to strike a balance between controlling the epidemic situation and protecting personal data and privacy, it is the direction we need to work hard in the future.
Psychological Impact of Health Risk Communication and Social Media on College Students During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Cross-Sectional Study (Preprint)
Authors: Li Mengyao , Liu Li , Yang Yilong , Wang Yang , Yang Xiaoshi , Wu Hui
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

The outbreak of COVID-19 began in 2019 and is expected to impact the psychological health of college students. Few studies have investigated the associations among health risk communication, social media, and psychological symptoms during a major pandemic.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this research was to assess the prevalence of psychological symptoms among college students and explore their associations with health risk communication and social media.

METHODS

A web-based survey was distributed through the Wenjuanxing platform among Chinese college students from March 3-15, 2020. In addition to demographics, information on health risk communication and social media was collected, and the Symptom Checklist 90 Phobia and Health Anxiety Inventory subscale was used to assess psychological symptoms among 1676 college students in China. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to examine these independent risk factors.

RESULTS

The prevalence of panic and health anxiety was 17.2% (288/1676) and 24.3% (408/1676), respectively. Regarding risk communication, understanding the risk of COVID-19 (odds ratio [OR] 0.480, 95% CI 0.367-0.627) was a protective factor against panic. Knowledge of prognosis (OR 0.708, 95% CI 0.551-0.910), preventive measures (OR 0.380, 95% CI 0.195-0.742), and wearing face masks (OR 0.445, 95% CI 0.230-0.862) were shown to be protective factors in predicting health anxiety. Perceived lethality (OR 1.860, 95% CI 1.408-2.459), being affected by the global spread (OR 1.936, 95% CI 1.405-2.669), and impact on social contacts (OR 1.420, 95% CI 1.118-1.802) were identified as significant risk factors associated with health anxiety. In terms of social media, trust in mainstream media (OR 0.613, 95% CI 0.461-0.816) was considered to be a protective factor against health anxiety.

CONCLUSIONS

There was a high prevalence of psychological symptoms among college students. Health risk communication and social media use were important in predicting psychological symptoms, especially health anxiety. Scientific and evidence-based information should be reported by social media platforms. Web-based consultation and intervention measures should be the focus of future studies.
ESP/ EMP: ARE STUDENTS PREPARED FOR IT?
Authors: Markovina Irina , Krasilnikova Varvara , Kravtsova Viktoria , Litvinova Tatyana
Published: May 2020

ESP is considered the best choice in tertiary education context as it meets the students’ needs and consequently boosts motivation. However, the results of needs analysis applied while designing the course and the students’ awareness of their needs when using the language in professional communication may differ. The survey of 1st year students conducted at Sechenov University (Moscow, Russia) between 2014 and 2019 revealed only partial awareness of the needs. The possible solution may be either creating ‘first-hand’ experience (students’ exposure to the situations where they have to use respective ESP skills), or ‘second-hand’ experience (students’ exposure to communication with professionals in their prospective sphere of employment who are regularly using ESP skills).
EFFECT OF CAPTION TYPE IN PICTURE PROMPTS ON EFL WRITING QUALITY
Authors: Shi Jaqueline
Published: May 2020

To explore the validity of picture-prompt writing assessment, the study investigated the influence of caption type (i.e. narrative, abstract, and zero) in the picture prompt on EFL writing quality of Chinese college students in terms of holistic scores and functional dimensions (i.e. Dimensions of Involvement, Narration, Elaborated reference, Persuasion, Abstractness, and On-line informational elaboration). ANOVA, MANOVA, and linear regression analysis were conducted and results showed that (a) participants performed significantly better with the abstract caption; (b) Dimensions of Involvement and Abstractness significantly distinguished essays with the abstract caption from those with other types; (c) Dimension of Persuasion significantly predicted ratings of essays with the narrative caption, while Dimension of Narration significantly predicted ratings of essays with the abstract caption. Finally, implications for picture-prompt writing assessment and instruction were discussed.
LEARNERS’ PERCEPTIONS OF PERFORMANCE IN MAJOR SPEAKING ACTIVITIES AT TERTIARY LEVEL
Authors: Sliogeriene Jolita , Darginaviciene Irena -
Published: May 2020

The objective of the research is to explore learners‘ attitudes to their performance in oral class activities at tertiary level. The research method employed the survey on key speaking issues such as spontaneous speaking, short talks, participation in discussions or debates, and delivering PPPs on professional topics. The learners were asked to assess their performance in speaking on the 5-point Likert scale ranging from ‘very difficult’ to ‘very easy’ and reflect on the difficulties they faced while speaking in front of the audience. The respondents are 145 full-time students of two specializations who study at the VGTU, Vilnius. Different methods of statistical treatment of students’ responses by a means of the SPSS procedures have been analyzed with the aim of selecting the appropriate one for the obtained data. Computations of the Student’s t-test yield critical t-values that indicate that the obtained data are significant at the probability of 95%. Learners’ reflections on speaking difficulties indicate fear of making mistakes, lack of self-confidence, shortage of ideas, and complexity of topics.
Intervención de enfermería en la promoción de salud de las personas en hemodiálisis, una mirada desde la disciplina: Revisión integrativa
Authors: Méndez Barbecho Nancy , Rodríguez Campo Varinia , Orellana Yáñez Alda , Valenzuela Suazo Sandra
Published: May 2020

Las personas con Insuficiencia renal crónica terminal en hemodiálisis están susceptibles a complicaciones que pueden prevenirse con promoción de la salud. Estas complicaciones pueden provocar discapacidad e incluso muerte precoz, enfermería forma parte del equipo de salud; razón por la cual, tienen un rol clave en la educación para mejorar la calidad de vida de este grupo de personas. La presente revisión pretende conocer el estado del arte, en relación con la intervención de enfermería en la promoción de la salud en las personas con insuficiencia renal crónica terminal sometidas a hemodiálisis y su impacto en la calidad de vida. Se utilizó la formulación de la pregunta según el acrónimo “PICO” (pacientes, intervención, comparación, resultados); posteriormente, se inició la búsqueda de la información en diferentes bases de datos del repositorio de la Universidad de Concepción: Pub Med, Wef of Science, Biblioteca virtual de Salud, Scielo y Scopus, de manera que se trató de recuperar la mayor cantidad de información; se seleccionaron finalmente siete artículos científicos que cumplieron criterios de inclusión y exclusión. Se evidenció que las intervenciones fueron enfocadas a la alimentación, ingesta de líquidos, empoderamiento, autoeficacia y autocuidado; y una de ellas utilizó la Teoría de rango medio de Nola J. Pender “Modelo de Promoción de Salud”. Finalmente, se concluye que la intervención de enfermería en la promoción en este grupo de personas mejora su calidad de vida.
Prescription Pattern Analysis of Type II Diabetes Mellitus Inpatients and Associated Co-Morbidities
Authors: Ashok Purnima , Subrahmanian Vijesh Thollur , Raj Rinju , Babu Rahul Rajendra , P. Ramshad T. , L. Kevin
Published: May 2020

Background: The present study was planned to assess the prescription pattern analysis of Type II Diabetes Mellitus and associated co-morbidities. As per WHO, the worldwide prevalence of DM will reach 366 million by 2030. Evaluating drug prescription pattern is a major aspect of patient care, which is used as a measure of the quality of care provided. Objectives: Primary objectives of the study were to highlight the current prescription pattern trends in patients having diabetes mellitus with or without other co-morbid conditions, to ensure safety and rational use of prescribed regimen. And the secondary objectives of the study were to analyse the demographic information of the enrolled patients and also to identify and analyse the prescriptions with polypharmacy. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted to analyse the prescribing pattern of anti-diabetic drugs. The study incorporated 100 Type II DM inpatients having comorbid conditions. The study has been conducted with the help of WHO prescribing indicator scale. It is used to analyse drug class, generic and branded drugs, fixed dose combination and dosage form. Patient data was collected and medical data records were analysed daily till discharge from hospital. Results: It was found that most of the drugs have been prescribed are purely from Karnataka Essential Medicine list (KEML). And percentages of medicines prescribed on their generic name were 76%. About 51% of patients were treated only with oral hypoglycemic agents. Whereas, 38% were treated with Insulin and 11% were treated with both oral hypoglycemic agents and Insulin. Conclusion: Improved rational use of prescription by using Essential Medicine List (EML).And also ensured the appropriateness of prescription by using WHO scale. Several Adverse Drug Reactions (ADR)have been reported and which leads to improved  prescription pattern.

Keywords: Type II Diabetes Mellitus, Prescribing Indicator, Co-Morbidities.
Comparative Study of Chitosan and Carboxy Methyl Chitosan Nanoparticles in Mefenamic Acid Drug Delivery
Authors: Vedavahini Parankusham , Sailu Chintha
Published: May 2020

Nanoparticle based technologies improve the efficiency and speed of already existing processes.The larger size materials and reagents which are in reactive form, can be nanosized to give efficient output. Chitosan and the carboxy methyl chitosan nanoparticles were prepared by using solvent evaporation nanoprecpitation method, loaded with mefenamic acid, (anthranilic acid derivative) a poorly aqueous soluble drug. Mefenamic acid, if used as conventional dosage form, duration of action was 6 hours; when the drug loaded into Chitosan and the carboxy methyl chitosan nanoparticles the drug release profile was up to 26hrs. The particle size, entrapment efficiency, poly dispersity index, drug loading, drug release profiles of mefenamic acid were compared for both nanoparticles and it was observed that carboxy methyl chitosan nanoparticles released mefenamic acid more effectively than chitosan nanoparticles.

Keywords: Nanoparticles, Chitosan, Carboxy methyl chitosan, Mefenamic acid
A review on various aspect of COVID-19
Authors: Sherpa Lakpa Sangay
Published: May 2020

This review is virtually focused on the current pandemic (Covid-19) ,  its pathogenesis and recent treatment available till date .As ,we know that covid-19, caused by SARS-COV 2 is highly mutating and transmissible virus which has put a new challange for development of vaccines and drugs to researchers worldwide. Among Corona virus, SARS-COV 2 is a 7th corona virus which is highly transmissible from human to human and no vaccines are available till date, due to this it has become a global threat for human being. It is believed to be zoonotic disease but no clean evidence of it main source has been known

Keywords:  SARS-COV 2, Pandemic, Pneumonia, respiratory system.
Efficient Enhancement in Itraconazole Solubility through its Cyclodextrin-Water Soluble Polymer Ternary Inclusion Complexes
Authors: SID Dounia , BAITICHE Milad , ELBAHRI Zineb , DJERBOUA Ferhat , MESSALTI Sabrine , BOUTAHALA Mokhtar
Published: May 2020

The aim of this work is the enhancement of the hydrosolubility behaviour of a poorly soluble, weakly basic drug, using itraconazole (ITZ) as a case example. Binary inclusion complexes of ITZ with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) are prepared in 1:2 molar ratios of ITZ to β-CD by co-evaporation method. Both solubility and dissolution behaviour are compared with that of the pure drug. Ternary complexes can be obtained by adding the polyvinylpirrolidone (PVP) which is a highly water soluble polymer, in the ITZ/ β-CD complex formation. Actually, Solid state analysis is performed for all formulations and for pure ITZ applying the Fourier transforms infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction (pX-RD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Solubility tests indicate that with all formulation, the solubility of ITZ formed with β-CD or β-CD and PVP proved to be increased. The obtained results show that the pure drug has a poor dissolution property, and the ternary inclusion complexes resulted in fast and extensive release of ITZ.

Keywords: Itraconazole, β-cyclodextrin, polyvinylpyrrolidone.
A Prospective Observational Study on Rational Use of Antibiotics for Paediatric Patients with Respiratory Tract Infections in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Hussaini Syeda Zaineb Kubra , Rani G. Tulja , Murthy Dr. , Kumar Sathish , Dyavarishetty Shravya , Prasanna Cherala Laxmi , Praneeth Goli
Published: May 2020

Background: Antibiotic drug overuse and inappropriate antibiotic drug selection are associated with increased drug resistance among respiratory pathogens (most notably, Streptococcus pneumoniae), possible progression to chronic disease, and increased treatment costs.[1] The selection of an antibiotic for prophylaxis should be based on known or likely target pathogens, for a short duration of time.

Objective: To evaluate Rational use of antibiotics in Paediatric patients suffering from Respiratory tract    infections.

Method: It was Prospective, observational study conducted by random selection of patients. Based on diagnosis, the study population was categorized into 2 groups: Upper respiratory tract infections and Lower respiratory tract infections. The study population was interviewed after obtaining written informed consent for information like demographics, diagnosis, treatment and antibiotics prescribed.

Results and Discussion: In our study population, it was observed that male patient (74%) were higher than female patients (26%). Total number of antibiotics prescribed during the study period is 83. Most commonly prescribed antibiotic was Augmentin (Amoxicillin +Clavulanic acid) of dose (450mg IV BD) which is the combination drug, i.e, more effective than individual antibiotic drugs.

Conclusion: In the present study it is observed that 4-different classes of antibiotics-Pencillins,Cephalosporins,Macrolides and Aminoglycosides were prescribed and used for different Respiratory diseases.The percentage of average antibiotic utilization is highest in Lower Respiratory Tract Infection with (55.22%).Mostly used Antibiotic in males for both LRTI and URTI is Augmentin with the percentage of (52%) and (80%) respectively.Where as in females it is observed that in both LRTI and URTI mostly used Antibiotic is Augmentin with percentage of (38.8%) and( 80%) respectively.Overall Second mostly used antibiotic is Ceftriaxone.

Keywords: pediatrics, lower and upper respiratory tract infections, antibiotics.