bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Exploring Health Professionals’ Views on Hive: A Digital collaborative space for Health Emergencies
Authors: Hang F , Farhat M , Yau B , Latinovic L , von Harbou K , Emiroglu N , Kovačev N 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
The rapidly changing media landscape has significantly affected how information is consumed, particularly during health emergencies. Conflicting information shared or information lacking in scientific rigour can be exploited nefariously online to undermine the health response and damage trust. Digital platforms have become increasingly vital for facilitating communication, and in response, the WHO developed the Hive digital space to provide a safe environment for public health professionals to convene, share information, ask questions, and learn from each other. This study aims to explore the experiences of public health professionals in health emergencies to assess the added value of the Hive platform to coordinate and connect health expertise globally.

Methods
This study uses a cross-sectional online survey distributed to Hive users focusing on their experiences of working in health emergencies. The responses will undergo descriptive and thematic analysis, as well as inferential statistics such as one-way ANOVA and post-hoc analysis. The survey will emphasize the practical application, value, satisfaction, perceptions, and strategy for the Hive platform to be utilised for global health emergency coordination.

Expected Outcomes
Insights from this study will delineate how the Hive platform is used by public health experts at all levels in emergency management. It will also highlight the challenges, needs and demands for digital tools to connect skills, experience and knowledge in one place. These insights will demonstrate how the Hive can streamline these processes and provide a safe space for information exchange for a coordinated response to health emergencies.

Conclusions
Understanding the needs and perceptions of Hive users involved in health emergency prevention, preparedness, response, and resilience will provide critical insights into optimizing the platform’s usability, connectiveness across emergency teams and sustainability of the platform.

Key messages
• Connecting communities, fostering collaboration and co-creation for improved health emergency management.
• Hive enhances collaboration among health professionals, providing a safe environment for knowledge and information sharing.
Barriers and challenges to telemedicine usage among the elderly population in Israel
Authors: Haimi M , Goren U , Grossman Z 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Despite the challenges to its adoption, telemedicine is becoming more and more popular for helping elderly people preserve their independence and continue to live in their own homes.

Aims
We investigated the challenges and barriers experienced by the elderly population when using telemedicine services in Israel.

Methods
Fourteen elderly people were recruited for the study and interviewed in person using a semi structured interview protocol, using a qualitative technique. Participants’ replies were evaluated and analyzed thematically. The participants were questioned regarding their usage of telehealth services, the benefits they perceive in them, any potential difficulties to use, and suggestions they had for making these services more readily available and simpler to use for the elderly.

Results
Most participants recognized the advantages of telehealth services, particularly for the elderly population during pandemics and normal times. However, most of them also expressed various challenges that face the elderly population in using these services. Many participants were concerned that the quality of telemedicine sessions may not be good enough compared to in-person sessions, and expressed a lack of confidence in telemedicine services, and frustration from the absence of in person interaction. Many participants highlighted the technological challenges in the use of computers and applications in general and in the context of healthcare, in particular, in addition to physiological and literacy difficulties. Finally, the participants suggested several ways to increase the accessibility and usage of telemedicine solutions by elderly people.

Conclusions
A proactive approach to identifying and resolving telehealth barriers can maximize virtual interactions for the older population and alleviate care inequities. There is a need to increase awareness of the availability, benefits, and uses of each telehealth service in comparison to in-person consultations.

Key messages
• A proactive approach to identifying and resolving telehealth barriers can maximize virtual interactions for the older population and alleviate care inequities.
• There is a need to increase awareness of the availability, benefits, and uses of each telehealth service in comparison to in-person consultations.
Physical activity for the elderly: systematic review and synthesis of digital health interventions
Authors: Di Pumpo M , Miatton A , Riccardi M T , Graps E A , Baldo V , Buja A , Damiani G 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Physical activity (PA) is key for the well-being of the elderly. Despite its proven efficacy, many older adults remain sedentary. Digital health interventions offer promising results. The study aimed to appraise scientific literature evidence regarding digital interventions to improve physical activity levels among community-dwelling adults aged 60 years or older.

Methods
A systematic review and semiquantitative analysis were performed. Digital interventions were included if using eHealth/mHealth tools, app-based technologies and text messaging. An intervention control was required. Main outcomes consisted in physical activity levels and related measures. A semiquantitative approach was chosen for evidence synthesis, using a harvest plot to visually facilitate the weighing of results with sample size and quality assessment.

Results
A total of 10 studies (13 publications) were included, from which five main intervention types were identified (2 studies per each intervention type). A semiquantitative evidence synthesis via a harvest plot was performed, to base the studies evaluation on the simultaneous consideration of sample size, study quality by type and effectiveness of intervention. Interventions adopting dynamically-adjusted exercise plans via wearables and app-based digital peer-support resulted the most successful, whereas PA digital coaching interventions resulted the least recommendable for adoption. Motivating interventions through digital platforms and digital diaries showed inconclusive results.

Conclusions
Personalized interventions using dynamically-adjusted wearable-based technology and app-based digital peer-support ones resulted as the most promising. Their ability to provide real-time, personalized feedback and foster social support is key for health promotion. It is crucial to leverage these promising tools for enhancing population health, integrating them into comprehensive, equitable, sustainable and engaging public health interventions.

Key messages
• Interventions using personalized and dynamically-adjusted plans result as the most effective to increase physical activity amond the elderly.
• It is key to integrate effective digital health tools into comprehensive, equitable, sustainable and engaging public health interventions to enhance population health.
Digital communication and techno-stress among health professionals: a cross-sectional study in Italy
Authors: Butnaru A M , Scaioli G , Lodin M , Toffanin C , Cataldo A , Lo Moro G , Bert F , Siliquini R 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Digital technologies are increasingly indispensable in physicians’ clinical practice. Despite their advantages, they are also linked to information overload and constant availability, which might affect healthcare professionals’ quality of life. The study aims to investigate the utilisation of digital technologies among healthcare providers and to identify possible predictors of techno-stress associated with these technologies.

Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted through an anonymous questionnaire distributed to Medical Doctors (MDs) via social media. The main outcomes were “Impact of digital technologies” and “E-mail overload” (EO), and “Whatsapp overload” (WO) as indicators of techno-stress. Univariable and multivariable regression models analyzed the association between the outcome variables and selected independent variables.

Results
Preliminary results were conducted on 246 MDs. Most respondents declared that using digital technologies positively impacted their relationship with patients and colleagues (67.1% and 56.7%, respectively). Multivariable linear regression analyses highlighted that variables associated with a higher or lower EO and/or WO were age (WO: adjusted coefficient (adjCoeff)=0.24, p = 0.004), being a specialist compared to a General Practitioner (GP) (EO: adjCoeff -8.42, p = 0.000; WO: adjCoeff=-5.2, p = 0.02), the number of patients visited each day (EO: adjCoef=16.10, p = 0.000; WO: adjCoeff=10.43, p = 0.001), working in a town with a larger population (EO: adjCoeff=-8.22, p = 0.001).

Conclusions
In agreement with the literature, GPs were the medical category most affected by techno-stress. Doctors with a higher volume of patients and who work in smaller towns have a higher likelihood of techno-stress. These findings underscore the necessity of interventions to address the issue, specifically through increased MD education and enhanced EU-wide regulations on digital technology use in healthcare.

Key messages
• Digital technologies positively impact physicians’ relationships with patients and colleagues, but also contribute to techno-stress, especially among General Practitioners and those with more patients.
• Interventions like improved Medical Doctors’ education and stronger European regulations are needed to manage techno-stress and optimize the use of digital technologies in healthcare.
Evaluating Accuracy of AI-Generated Travel Vaccine Recommendations: GPTs in Public Health
Authors: Marin-Rodriguez J A , Rodriguez M , Leyva L , Torralba C , Agustin F , Enriquez F 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Artificial intelligence (AI), particularly generative pre-trained transformers (GPTs), holds promise for enhancing public health strategies like travel vaccine recommendations. This pilot study evaluated GPTs’ accuracy in delivering tailored vaccine advisories compared to standards set by public health professionals. Integrating AI’s data analysis capabilities into healthcare decision-making could improve recommendation precision and personalization.

Methods
This retrospective study analyzed GPT travel vaccine recommendation accuracy against a gold standard from health professionals for 90 travelers visiting various countries. Sociodemographic data and vaccine recommendation outcomes were examined. Accuracy assessments were stratified by age, sex, country of travel, duration of travel, type of travel, and specific vaccines.

Results
Preliminary results showed an 77.43% overall accuracy across all vaccine recommendations. Specific vaccine accuracies varied, with 97.78% alignment for hepatitis A, 93.51% for typhoid fever and 89.36% for rabies. However, lower accuracies were observed for cholera (33.33%) and encephalitis (56.25%). Moderate accuracies were noted for yellow fever (75%), 74.07% for malaria prophylaxis, diphtheria and tetanus (63.33%), and dengue (57.58%). Stratified analyses are expected to provide more realistic results and highlight discrepancies in certain groups.

Conclusions
This pilot demonstrates GPTs can be a valuable tool for supporting international vaccination professionals, but they are still not a substitute for these professionals, achieving 77.43% overall accuracy. Recommendations include: a) Educate health professionals in the use of GPTs, b) Developing guidelines for ethical and accurate AI use in public health, c) Using AI to strengthen surveillance and response systems. Combining AI with traditional strategies aims to optimize international traveler health outcomes.

Key messages
• Using artificial intelligence can optimize and facilitate the task of clinical consultancy in traveler’s advice.
• It is necessary to establish guidelines for AI use to ensure ethical and accurate applications.
Impact of in-silico technologies in the development of high-risk medical devices on healthcare
Authors: Roesler D , Czypionka T , Eisenberg S , Kraus M , Reiss M , Zech C 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This study examines the impact of in-silico technologies (IST), such as virtual cohorts and digital twins, on the development of high-risk medical devices within the healthcare sector. An iterative empirical approach combining a literature review, exploratory and in-depth interviews with stakeholders from academia, industry, regulators, healthcare professionals, and focus groups with patients across Europe, Japan, and the USA was employed to gain insight into the implications of IST on healthcare. The findings indicate that IST can reduce the time to market for medical devices, thereby facilitating faster, broader, and more equitable access for patients. The implementation of extensive early testing, optimized study designs and increased sample sizes in trials can facilitate the achievement of enhanced safety. The early identification of adverse effects can enhance the safety of medical devices and improve patient outcomes. Furthermore, IST may facilitate the inclusion of underrepresented groups, such as children, in clinical trials, thereby enhancing their representation in medical research. The reduction in costs associated with IST may facilitate innovation cycles. However, the impact on prices is contingent on competition. Furthermore, IST have the potential to reduce the need for animal testing. Nevertheless, several uncertainties and potential adverse effects have been identified. Physician training on new devices remains a bottleneck, which may limit the benefits of new products. Despite the advancements, a complete replacement of traditional clinical and preclinical trials with IST is not seen to be feasible. From a policy perspective, it is crucial to promote regulatory clarity by providing guidance for the usage of IST, to offer incentives for the adoption of IST, and to foster competition. These findings demonstrate the multifaceted potential benefits and challenges of IST, including enhanced safety, accessibility, and innovation in healthcare.

Key messages
• In-silico technologies can reduce time-to market of medical devices up medical device and improve safety for patients.
• Challenges like physician training and regulatory guidance must be addressed to fully realize benefits of in silico technologies.
Occupational Hazards: The Impact of Streptococcus suis Infections in Portuguese Pig Farming
Authors: Salvador S , Sousa S , Sousa-Gomes D , Ferreira R 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
In Portugal, the commensal and opportunistic bacteria Streptococcus suis is prevalent among pigs. Recognizing its public health significance, this systematic review investigates the relationship between occupational exposure in pig farming and the incidence of S. suis infections among workers. The importance of this study is to identify high-risk occupational activities and formulate effective public health interventions.

Methods
This review analyzed 20 scientific studies from 1986 to 2023 on human infections with S. suis in Portugal. The primary sources included articles in Portuguese from databases like MedLine, Scopus, and Pubmed. Studies were selected based on their focus on occupational exposure and the details provided on epidemiological context, clinical presentations, and outcomes.

Results
The review found that 85% of infection cases occurred in occupational settings, particularly among butchers (53%) and pig breeders or handlers (29%). Clinical manifestations predominantly included acute bacterial meningitis, with significant occurrences of neurosensory hearing loss as a sequelae. The average age of affected individuals was 44, predominantly male.

Conclusions
The study confirms a significant correlation between occupational exposure in pig farming and S. suis infections in humans. The findings underscore the need for stringent occupational health measures and integrated approaches encompassing human, animal, and environmental health under the One Health initiative. Innovations in public health interventions recommended include enhanced surveillance, improved workplace hygiene, and targeted health education for at-risk populations.

Key messages
• Occupational exposure in pig farming is a significant risk factor for S. suis infections in humans.
• Integrative One Health approaches are essential for preventing S. suis infections in occupational settings.
Born in Ethiopia
Authors: Capitani E , Cozzolino M , Nante N , Alaimo L 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Goal 3 of the United Nation 2030 Agenda states that we want to ensure health and well-being for all. This is even more true for countries in the IV World. The aim of our study is to investigate the timing of childbirth in Ethiopia.

Methods
The stages of our ethnographic study include: choosing the study topic and location, participating in group life, collecting and analysing data. The field experience, led by a midwife, took place from September 2023 to October 2023 in Ethiopia, within the Saint Luke Catholic Hospital in Wolisso.

Results
The instruments that the midwives have at their disposal are few and obsolete: the most is Pinard’s stethoscope. The mothers are all very young: the youngest woman was fourteen years old while the oldest woman was thirty-eight years old. As for parity, the fertility rate is around 4.6 live births per woman. Women’s family members take care of them in all aspects of care. Pregnant and new mothers receive support from their attendants, an all-female network. Pregnancy monitoring is almost non-existent. There is no prenatal diagnosis. In 2022, St. Luke’s hospital saw a 20% caesarean section rate, an increase from the previous two years. Poverty and the lack of government facilities that can support a problem child are two of the reasons why many of these children are abandoned. In terms of maternal and child health, mortality indicators are still too high for mothers and children. There are 353 mothers dying per 100,000 live births and 41 babies dying per 1,000 live births.

Conclusions
The biomedical model exported from the Western world, as shown for example by the increase in caesarean sections, has led to a slow but progressive hospitalisation of childbirth in the search for safety from maternal and neonatal mortality.

Key messages
• Poverty, malnutrition, lack of sanitation and drinking water, as well as early pregnancies and high parity remain among the leading causes of mortality in Ethiopia.
• The biomedical model exported from the Western world has led to a slow but progressive hospitalisation of childbirth in the search for safety.
A Multidisciplinary One Health Approach to Addressing Unsanitary Conditions: The Case of Cascais
Authors: Quelhas C , Lopes M , Silva J , Nunes R , Fernandes M 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Unsanitary conditions in domiciles often stem from complex social and health-related issues, involving the elderly and/or individuals with mental health problems. These situations typically lead to a decreased quality of life for those involved, directly and indirectly, and may pose a risk to public health depending on their magnitude. In Cascais municipality, identified cases of unsanitary conditions undergo a multidisciplinary analysis. It has been established a Local Technical Group for Domiciliary Unsanitary Situations, comprising various institutions such as local authorities, law enforcement agencies, civil protection, health and social security ministries, and the animal rescue center. This group operates under a One Health approach, encompassing human health, environmental health, and animal health. Interventions are determined by the working group, with the aim of promoting health and enhancing citizens’ quality of life. Cases of unsanitary conditions reported are subsequently discussed within the technical group, which has regular meetings, and may organize joint assessment visits and appropriate actions. This social and environmental initiative responds to the growing need to address unsanitary and cluttered living conditions, which significantly impact individuals’ physical, emotional, and social well-being. The objective is to restore housing conditions in homes by removing waste and unnecessary items, contributing to general individual well-being. While international studies suggest a correlation between unsanitary conditions and hoarding disorder, it’s crucial to differentiate between distinct and independent situations caused by various physical, psychological, and cognitive processes. The establishment of a Local Technical Group for Domiciliary Unsanitary Situations exemplifies a proactive approach to addressing complex health and social challenges, emphasizing collaboration, and holistic intervention strategies, always with a One Health approach.

Key messages
• Addressing unsanitary conditions is crucial for safeguarding public health, impacting physical, emotional, and social well-being.
• The establishment of a Local Technical Group for Domiciliary Unsanitary Situations, under a One Health framework, reflects a collaborative approach to addressing complex health and social challenges.
Social patterning of health misinformation in two Eastern Mediterranean populations
Authors: Heraclides A , Kouvari K , Hadjikou A , Gkoutzourelas A 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Health misinformation, the spread of false or misleading information relevant to health, has been proposed as a major global public health thread by the WHO. We aimed to identify the major social determinants of health misinformation in the general Greek and Cypriot populations.

Methods
Following proportional quota sampling we recruited a nationwide sample of 585 adults from Greece and Cyprus between January 2022 and May 2023. A newly developed, culturally adopted questionnaire comprising 48 items, was used to assess misinformation on COVID-19 vaccines and the pandemic. Sociodemographic determinants of interest included gender, age, marital status, area of residence, educational attainment, and income. Multiple linear regression was used to determine associations between the aforementioned social factors and the two dimensions of health misinformation, applying mutual adjustment.

Results
Misinformation about both vaccination and the pandemic was higher in younger age groups (p-trend 0.026 and 0.007, respectively), among those separated, divorced, or widowed (mean difference, 95% CI compared to those single: 9.73, 0.45, 19.01), and among those living in semi-urban compared to urban areas (11.14, 1.32; 20.97 and 9.44, 1.96; 16.92, respectively). We also detected strong inverse socioeconomic gradients in health misinformation based on educational attainment and income (p-trend &lt;0.001, for both).

Conclusions
Younger individuals, those living alone, those residing in semi-urban areas, and those with lower educational attainment and income are particularly prone to health misinformation. Our adjusted models show that this social phenomenon is not simply explained by differences in education, hence more complex, cultural, political, perceptual, and psychosocial dynamics might be in place. Addressing the social patterning of health misinformation would help manage the issue more effectively and also reduce health inequalities.

Key messages
• Health misinformation is strongly socially patterned in two Eastern Mediterranean European populations.
• Targeting efforts to tackle health misinformation to those more vulnerable, would render such programmes more effective, also helping reduce social inequalities in health.