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Showing 21 results for Type of Study: Review
Ali Mohammad Mosadeghrad, Parvaneh Esfahani , Marziyeh Nikafshar,
Volume 11, Issue 3 (9-2017)
Volume 11, Issue 3 (9-2017)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Increasing healthcare organizations’ efficiency is a necessity due to the resource scarcity in health sector. The aim of this study was to evaluate hospitals’ efficiency in Iran.
Materials and Methods: This study was conducted using a systematic review and meta-analysis approach to find empirical research papers published on hospital efficiency in Iran between 1997 and 2016. Seven electronic databases and two search engines were searched using appropriate key words. Bibliography section of the retrieved papers and related journals were also searched for papers that were not yet indexed in the data bases. 1563 publications were identified. All retrieved papers were assessed using a checklist before analysis. Finally 91 empirical studies were reviewed.
Results: Data Envelopment Analysis, Pabon Lasso and Stochastic Frontier Analysis methods were mostly used for measuring hospital efficiency respectively. The average efficiency of Iran hospitals varied between 0.584 and 0.998. Hospitals affiliated to Social security organisation were more efficient. In contrast, non teaching public hospitals and charity and private hospitals were less efficient. Number of hospital beds and manpower were the most used input variables and number of outpatients and inpatients patient and surgical procedures were the most used output variables in Data Envelopment Analysis. Stochastic Frontier Analysis method has more advantage in measuring hospital efficiency compared to Data Envelopment Analysis.
Conclusion: Iran hospitals suffer from inefficiency. Thus, managers should identify the reasons for hospitals’ ineffeiciency and apply measures for increasing their efficiency and reducing wastage of limited resources.
Materials and Methods: This study was conducted using a systematic review and meta-analysis approach to find empirical research papers published on hospital efficiency in Iran between 1997 and 2016. Seven electronic databases and two search engines were searched using appropriate key words. Bibliography section of the retrieved papers and related journals were also searched for papers that were not yet indexed in the data bases. 1563 publications were identified. All retrieved papers were assessed using a checklist before analysis. Finally 91 empirical studies were reviewed.
Results: Data Envelopment Analysis, Pabon Lasso and Stochastic Frontier Analysis methods were mostly used for measuring hospital efficiency respectively. The average efficiency of Iran hospitals varied between 0.584 and 0.998. Hospitals affiliated to Social security organisation were more efficient. In contrast, non teaching public hospitals and charity and private hospitals were less efficient. Number of hospital beds and manpower were the most used input variables and number of outpatients and inpatients patient and surgical procedures were the most used output variables in Data Envelopment Analysis. Stochastic Frontier Analysis method has more advantage in measuring hospital efficiency compared to Data Envelopment Analysis.
Conclusion: Iran hospitals suffer from inefficiency. Thus, managers should identify the reasons for hospitals’ ineffeiciency and apply measures for increasing their efficiency and reducing wastage of limited resources.
Medical Laboratory Director Competencies: State of the Basic Medical Sciences and Global Perspective
Mohammad Erfan Zare, Reza Meshkani, Mojtaba Abbasi, Farhad Shaveisi Zadeh, Atefeh Nasir Kansestani ,
Volume 11, Issue 3 (7-2017)
Volume 11, Issue 3 (7-2017)
Abstract
Background and Aim: There has been a long-lasting debate among medical laboratory-associated specialists about required competencies and educational background to qualify for directing medical laboratories in Iran. The aim of this study was to provide a comprehensive review regarding required training and competencies for becoming a medical laboratory director in Iran and all around the world.
Materials and Methods: A thorough search of the literature was carried out in scientific databases including Web of Science, Science Direct, Springer Link, Wiley Online, PubMed, Scopus, SID and web-based search engines such as Google and Google Scholar.
Results: The results revealed detailed required competencies for directing medical laboratories in the United States of America, Canada, European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (EFLM) and its many affiliated European countries.
Conclusion: Our results indicate that in all assessed countries, specialists of basic medical sciences and also physicians, after passing certifying examinations, are equally qualified to direct medical laboratories. Indeed, Iran is the only country within the evaluated ones, in which basic medical sciences specialists (which have their own specific curriculum and are educated as clinical majors) have been eliminated from directing medical laboratory and the position has almost exclusively been available for graduates of pathology and it is important to revise this approach.
Materials and Methods: A thorough search of the literature was carried out in scientific databases including Web of Science, Science Direct, Springer Link, Wiley Online, PubMed, Scopus, SID and web-based search engines such as Google and Google Scholar.
Results: The results revealed detailed required competencies for directing medical laboratories in the United States of America, Canada, European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (EFLM) and its many affiliated European countries.
Conclusion: Our results indicate that in all assessed countries, specialists of basic medical sciences and also physicians, after passing certifying examinations, are equally qualified to direct medical laboratories. Indeed, Iran is the only country within the evaluated ones, in which basic medical sciences specialists (which have their own specific curriculum and are educated as clinical majors) have been eliminated from directing medical laboratory and the position has almost exclusively been available for graduates of pathology and it is important to revise this approach.
Sorayya Rezayi , Ali Asghar Safaei , Nilofar Mohammadzadeh ,
Volume 11, Issue 6 (3-2018)
Volume 11, Issue 6 (3-2018)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Nowadays, one of the most important areas of application of information technology in the health sector is monitoring patients' condition. Recently utilization of body area sensor networks in healthcare had significant advances. The purpose of this article is to examine the applications of wireless health sensor networks in the field of health.
Materials and Methods: This study was a review study which was done by searching in reliable scientific sources such as Pubmed, IEEE, Science Direct, Springer and other Persian information sources like Magiran and Sid. In order to search English sources, keywords such as “Wearable and implantable body sensors” “Body area sensor network”, and in order to search in Persian sources, keywords such as “implantable and wearable network nodes”, were used.
Results: The tasks of the body sensor networks are to monitor the important parameters of the body, which are vital signs of ill health and illness. Additionally, various types of sensor networks can control various illnesses, for example, heart disease, neoplasms, diabetes, kidney disease, Parkinson's disease, infectious diseases, and so on. Also a variety of wireless body sensor networks in the medical field are divided into two main categories: the wearable wireless body area networks and the implantable wireless body area network.
Conclusion: The use of body sensor networks has a tremendous impact on health and leads to improvements in the life quality and comfort of patients. These technologies are improving, and their development aims to help patients, doctors and the treatment team.
Materials and Methods: This study was a review study which was done by searching in reliable scientific sources such as Pubmed, IEEE, Science Direct, Springer and other Persian information sources like Magiran and Sid. In order to search English sources, keywords such as “Wearable and implantable body sensors” “Body area sensor network”, and in order to search in Persian sources, keywords such as “implantable and wearable network nodes”, were used.
Results: The tasks of the body sensor networks are to monitor the important parameters of the body, which are vital signs of ill health and illness. Additionally, various types of sensor networks can control various illnesses, for example, heart disease, neoplasms, diabetes, kidney disease, Parkinson's disease, infectious diseases, and so on. Also a variety of wireless body sensor networks in the medical field are divided into two main categories: the wearable wireless body area networks and the implantable wireless body area network.
Conclusion: The use of body sensor networks has a tremendous impact on health and leads to improvements in the life quality and comfort of patients. These technologies are improving, and their development aims to help patients, doctors and the treatment team.
Kiana Farhadyar , Reza Safdari ,
Volume 11, Issue 6 (3-2018)
Volume 11, Issue 6 (3-2018)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Medication errors are preventable event, which may result inappropriate medication intake or damage to patients and, Medication management is a complicated process including multiple activities in order to improve patient safety. There are many documentations that indicate the considerable potential of information technology, especially mhealth in this area. The aim of this study was to review the mobile based medication management systems in order to extract the requirements for these systems development.
Materials and Methods: Four electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Science Direct) were searched for papers regarding mhealth based medication management systems. After screening the abstracts and publications information a descriptive study was performed on 15 papers.
Results: In this study, 13 functional requirements were extracted and the user requirements was divided into six main groups. Also the technologies which was used in order to implement the functional requirements were extracted.
Conclusion: According to the current study, medication management systems using mhealth technologies are feasible for people with chronic diseases, elderly people and etc. but there is not any medication management system for visually impaired people. Although due to their disabilities they are at higher risk of medication errors and it is a research gap that should be considered in future works.
Materials and Methods: Four electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Science Direct) were searched for papers regarding mhealth based medication management systems. After screening the abstracts and publications information a descriptive study was performed on 15 papers.
Results: In this study, 13 functional requirements were extracted and the user requirements was divided into six main groups. Also the technologies which was used in order to implement the functional requirements were extracted.
Conclusion: According to the current study, medication management systems using mhealth technologies are feasible for people with chronic diseases, elderly people and etc. but there is not any medication management system for visually impaired people. Although due to their disabilities they are at higher risk of medication errors and it is a research gap that should be considered in future works.
Elahe Behmani, Rastegar Hoseini, Ehsan Amiri,
Volume 14, Issue 6 (1-2021)
Volume 14, Issue 6 (1-2021)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive disease of the central nervous system, of which the symptoms and problems reduce the quality of life. Recent research has identified sport exercises as an important part of healthy lifestyle in reducing the symptoms of the disease and improving the quality of life; however, the most effective type of exercise is not yet clearly known. The aim of this study was to provide information about the beneficial effects of exercise in MS patients and guidelines for prescribing exercise programs for them.
Materials and Methods: This article is an overview of the ways different sport exercises affect MS. To access scientific articles, databases of PubMed, SID, Google Scholar, and Mag Iran, and the keywords including multiple sclerosis (MS), aerobic training, resistance training, and combined training were used.
Results: Recent reports show that different types of sport exercises lead to a significant increase in the improvement of MS symptoms, although there are many discrepancies between researchers in prescribing different exercise programs (various training protocol, duration, and intensity). However, according to the results of studies, regular moderate-intensity exercise training leads to the functional benefits and improvement and control of the disease process without exacerbation of inflammation through various physiological mechanisms. thus, contrary to popular belief, modulated exercise training can have beneficial effects on MS patient.
Conclusion: Based on the findings of the present study, regular exercises (aerobic, resistance and combination) with moderate intensity improve the symptoms of MS and increase the quality of life.
Materials and Methods: This article is an overview of the ways different sport exercises affect MS. To access scientific articles, databases of PubMed, SID, Google Scholar, and Mag Iran, and the keywords including multiple sclerosis (MS), aerobic training, resistance training, and combined training were used.
Results: Recent reports show that different types of sport exercises lead to a significant increase in the improvement of MS symptoms, although there are many discrepancies between researchers in prescribing different exercise programs (various training protocol, duration, and intensity). However, according to the results of studies, regular moderate-intensity exercise training leads to the functional benefits and improvement and control of the disease process without exacerbation of inflammation through various physiological mechanisms. thus, contrary to popular belief, modulated exercise training can have beneficial effects on MS patient.
Conclusion: Based on the findings of the present study, regular exercises (aerobic, resistance and combination) with moderate intensity improve the symptoms of MS and increase the quality of life.
Asma Maleki, Zahra Kashani Khatib, Shaban Alizadeh, Amir Ali Hamidieh, Ali Akbar Pourfatollah,
Volume 15, Issue 2 (5-2021)
Volume 15, Issue 2 (5-2021)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Blood malignancies, one of the most common cancers in the world, cause a large number of deaths each year. Many inherited and acquired factors are involved in the development of this disease. Exosomes are a very small model of cells that are secreted by most cells in the body under physiological and pathological conditions. On the other hand, they have found a special place in the treatment of these diseases because of their very small structure and biodegradability.
Materials and Methods: This study is a systematic review article. For this study, the electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science were reviewed and 110 original and review articles were studied from 2000 to 2020. Exosome, blood malignancies and immunotherapy were used as keywords along with a number of other related terms such as tumor microenvironment, acute myeloid leukemia, acute lymphoid leukemia, chronic lymphoid leukemia and multiple myeloma (Exosome AND Leukemia, Leukemia AND Immunotherapy, Exosome AND Cancer, AML AND Exosome) to search in these databases. Finally, 51 sources that related to exosomes and myeloid and lymphoid blood malignancies were used.
Results: The genomic profile of malignant cells and tumor microenvironment changes in the conditions of the disease. The contents of exosomes released by leukemic cells, including anti-apoptotic proteins, various microRNAs, angiogenic agents, heat shock proteins and oncogenes involved in the development of inflammatory phenotype in the target cells, are known as factors involved in the pathogenesis of leukemia. A variety of therapeutic materials such as anti-inflammatory drugs, recombinant proteins, siRNA and the inhibitor of various microRNAs can also be packaged in the exosomes with several ways and used to treat leukemia.
Conclusion: Exosomes derived from malignant cells play the important role in the growth and proliferation, angiogenesis, metastasis, resistance to chemotherapeutic agent, and the escape of cancer cells from the immune system by the modification of tumor microenvironment. The role of exosomes in the creation and development of blood malignancies has been proven. Therefore, using of them will probably be very helpful and promising in the treatment of these disorders with various forms.
Materials and Methods: This study is a systematic review article. For this study, the electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science were reviewed and 110 original and review articles were studied from 2000 to 2020. Exosome, blood malignancies and immunotherapy were used as keywords along with a number of other related terms such as tumor microenvironment, acute myeloid leukemia, acute lymphoid leukemia, chronic lymphoid leukemia and multiple myeloma (Exosome AND Leukemia, Leukemia AND Immunotherapy, Exosome AND Cancer, AML AND Exosome) to search in these databases. Finally, 51 sources that related to exosomes and myeloid and lymphoid blood malignancies were used.
Results: The genomic profile of malignant cells and tumor microenvironment changes in the conditions of the disease. The contents of exosomes released by leukemic cells, including anti-apoptotic proteins, various microRNAs, angiogenic agents, heat shock proteins and oncogenes involved in the development of inflammatory phenotype in the target cells, are known as factors involved in the pathogenesis of leukemia. A variety of therapeutic materials such as anti-inflammatory drugs, recombinant proteins, siRNA and the inhibitor of various microRNAs can also be packaged in the exosomes with several ways and used to treat leukemia.
Conclusion: Exosomes derived from malignant cells play the important role in the growth and proliferation, angiogenesis, metastasis, resistance to chemotherapeutic agent, and the escape of cancer cells from the immune system by the modification of tumor microenvironment. The role of exosomes in the creation and development of blood malignancies has been proven. Therefore, using of them will probably be very helpful and promising in the treatment of these disorders with various forms.
Marjan Ghazi Saeedi, Mozhgan Tanhapour,
Volume 15, Issue 5 (1-2022)
Volume 15, Issue 5 (1-2022)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Telemedicine provides medical services remotely. There are some problems with implementing telemedicine projects. The purpose of this study was to investigate the most common telemedicine services in Iran and other developed countries as well as examine the legal, financial and privacy challenges of telemedicine services in these countries, especially in the era of the COVID-19 epidemic.
Material and Methods: In this study, the status of telemedicine in Iran and developed countries was reviewed. Thus, related papers and grey literature were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, SID and Magiran scientific databases. Also, related websites including the Ministry of Health and Medical Education of the Islamic Republic of Iran were examined. According to the study’s purposes, the relevant resources were selected and summarized by researchers.
Results: Radiology, psychiatry and cardiology are the most widely used telemedicine services for interaction with patients as well as emergency, pathology and radiology for healthcare professional communication. Teleconsulting is the most widely used telemedicine service in Iran. There are some laws such as article 74 from section 14 in the Iran development plan to support the provision of e-health and telemedicine services. Also, there are some limited laws for patients’ privacy. In Europe, there is a set of guidelines for health websites, mobile health and cross-border exchange of health information, etc. although there are no uniform laws about telemedicine. HIPAA in the United States and GDPR in Europe are some privacy laws in developed countries. There are some restrictions on telemedicine reimbursement in the United States including the fee-for-service payment model; however, the costs of telemedicine in the United States are usually less than face-to-face treatment.
Conclusion: In the present era using telemedicine services become a requirement due to the outbreaks of epidemics such as COVID-19. Concerning the experience of developed countries, telemedicine services development in Iran requires some considerations in terms of legal, financial and privacy aspects including the creation of explicit laws on patients and healthcare provider’s rights, providing the telemedicine guidelines in different clinical fields such as structured formats for teleconsultation as well as the explicit laws for preserving the patient’s privacy.
Material and Methods: In this study, the status of telemedicine in Iran and developed countries was reviewed. Thus, related papers and grey literature were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, SID and Magiran scientific databases. Also, related websites including the Ministry of Health and Medical Education of the Islamic Republic of Iran were examined. According to the study’s purposes, the relevant resources were selected and summarized by researchers.
Results: Radiology, psychiatry and cardiology are the most widely used telemedicine services for interaction with patients as well as emergency, pathology and radiology for healthcare professional communication. Teleconsulting is the most widely used telemedicine service in Iran. There are some laws such as article 74 from section 14 in the Iran development plan to support the provision of e-health and telemedicine services. Also, there are some limited laws for patients’ privacy. In Europe, there is a set of guidelines for health websites, mobile health and cross-border exchange of health information, etc. although there are no uniform laws about telemedicine. HIPAA in the United States and GDPR in Europe are some privacy laws in developed countries. There are some restrictions on telemedicine reimbursement in the United States including the fee-for-service payment model; however, the costs of telemedicine in the United States are usually less than face-to-face treatment.
Conclusion: In the present era using telemedicine services become a requirement due to the outbreaks of epidemics such as COVID-19. Concerning the experience of developed countries, telemedicine services development in Iran requires some considerations in terms of legal, financial and privacy aspects including the creation of explicit laws on patients and healthcare provider’s rights, providing the telemedicine guidelines in different clinical fields such as structured formats for teleconsultation as well as the explicit laws for preserving the patient’s privacy.
Sakineh Abbasi, Shahrzad Sharifpour Vajari,
Volume 15, Issue 5 (1-2022)
Volume 15, Issue 5 (1-2022)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Cervical cancer is the fourth main cause of mortality among women, and annually about half a million new cases are detected in developed countries. Based on oncological studies, human papillomavirus (HPV) is classified into two categories: high-risk type and low-risk type, and most cases are related to the high-risk type of human papillomavirus. HPV 16 and 18 are among the more dangerous ones in this type of cancer. Human papillomavirus is a small group of uncoated viruses with double-stranded DNA that belong to the papillomaviridae family.
Materials and Methods: In this review study, more than 200 articles related to human papillomavirus and immune system function against this virus were reviewed from 2015 to 2020 and among them, 34 articles related to markers and cytokines in cervical cancer were chosen from Google Scholar, Scopus, and PubMed.
Results: One of In-vitro methods in markers detection , is using vectors to infect dendritic cells to present antigen, increase the expression of markers and mature T cell, which leads to the identification of a variety of markers and cytoklines such as PD, PDL, CD, MHC, FASL, IFN, IL, TLR associated with cervical cancer.
Conclusion: Cervical cancer prevention can reduce the economic as well as the social burden of having the disease in the community. Important cytokines expressed when exposed to HPV include IL-6 and IL-8. Several agonist epitopes with enhanced binding power to the human leukocyte antigen (HLA-A2) A2 class I antigen have been described to enhance cytotoxic T lymphocyte responses and to be used in the development of effective HPV vaccines; this is because it has already been shown that different epitopes of 16 HPVs, such as E6 and E7, are able to elicit human cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) responses by binding to HLA-A2.
Saman Mohammadpour, Reza Rabiei, Elham Shabahrami, Kamyar Fathisalari, Maryam Khakzad, Mostafa Langarizadeh,
Volume 16, Issue 2 (5-2022)
Volume 16, Issue 2 (5-2022)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the world, which leads to the death of more than 10 million people in the world every year. Its early diagnosis, management and proper treatment play an important role in reducing complications and mortality. One of the support tools in early diagnosis, treatment and management of this disease are Clinical Decision Support System (CDSS), which are divided into two groups, rule-based and non-rule-based. Rule-based decision support systems are created based on clinical guidelines, while non-rule-based decision support systems use machine learning. In this research, the effects of decision support systems, rule-based and non-rule-based, on cancer diagnosis, treatment and management were measured.
Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted using a systematic review method, which was conducted by searching the Web of Science, Scopus, IEEE and PubMED databases until 12/31/2021. After removing duplicates and evaluating the characteristics of the inclusion and exclusion criteria, studies related to the goal were selected. The selection of articles was based on the title, abstract and full text The data collection tool was the data extraction form, which included year of study, type of study, system of body, organ of body, the service provided by the decision support system, type of decision support system, effect, effect index and the score of effect index. Narrative synthesis were used for data analysis.
Results: Out of 768 articles, 16 articles related to the objectives of the study were identified. Studies were presented in two categories of clinical decision-support systems: Rule-based and non-Rule based. The effects evaluated in the clinical decision support systems were Rule-based, dose adjustment, symptoms, adherence to treatment guidelines, care time, smoking, need for chemotherapy and pain management, all of which except pain management were significant and positive. The effects evaluated were in the category of non-Rule based clinical decision support systems, diagnostic and therapeutic decisions, controlling neutropenia, all of which were significant and positive except controlling neutropenia.
Conclusion: The results obtained for the effectiveness of both Rule-based and non-Rule-based decision support systems indicated different benefits of these two categories. Therefore, using their combination in the field of cancer can bring very useful results.
Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted using a systematic review method, which was conducted by searching the Web of Science, Scopus, IEEE and PubMED databases until 12/31/2021. After removing duplicates and evaluating the characteristics of the inclusion and exclusion criteria, studies related to the goal were selected. The selection of articles was based on the title, abstract and full text The data collection tool was the data extraction form, which included year of study, type of study, system of body, organ of body, the service provided by the decision support system, type of decision support system, effect, effect index and the score of effect index. Narrative synthesis were used for data analysis.
Results: Out of 768 articles, 16 articles related to the objectives of the study were identified. Studies were presented in two categories of clinical decision-support systems: Rule-based and non-Rule based. The effects evaluated in the clinical decision support systems were Rule-based, dose adjustment, symptoms, adherence to treatment guidelines, care time, smoking, need for chemotherapy and pain management, all of which except pain management were significant and positive. The effects evaluated were in the category of non-Rule based clinical decision support systems, diagnostic and therapeutic decisions, controlling neutropenia, all of which were significant and positive except controlling neutropenia.
Conclusion: The results obtained for the effectiveness of both Rule-based and non-Rule-based decision support systems indicated different benefits of these two categories. Therefore, using their combination in the field of cancer can bring very useful results.
Alireza Monadi Sefidan, Reza Afrisham,
Volume 16, Issue 3 (8-2022)
Volume 16, Issue 3 (8-2022)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Previous studies have shown that viral and host miRNAs play a role in the process of controlling or progressing the disease and can even be considered as therapeutic targets. Accordingly, the present review study was designed to evaluate the role of host miRNAs and Covid-19 virus in the disease process.
Materials and Methods: The current study was a review study that was conducted during 2012-2022. Studies were extracted from PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science and Scopus scientific databases. The researchers selected relevant resources and a summary of them was presented in this review.
Results: The present review study showed that some host miRNAs such as miR-23b-5p, miR-200c, and miR-125a-5p had an inhibitory effect on ACE2 receptor, while miR-3909, miR-4677, and miR-133a had a stimulatory effect on this receptor. Furthermore, host miR-98-5p had an inhibitory effect on TMPRSS2 gene expression. On the other hand, host miR-146a, miR-21, and miR-142 induced inflammation through MAPK and NF-Ƙβ signaling. While, host miR-124, miR-410, and miR-1336 inhibited factor STAT3 and prevented inflammation. Furthermore, host miR-302b and miR-372 targeted the mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein (MAVS), resulting in silencing of type 1 interferon signaling. It has also been established that host exosomal miR-7-5p, miR-24-3p, miR-145-5p, and miR-223-3p inhibited the replication of SARS-CoV-2 and the expression of S protein and their decreased expression in elderly and Diabetic subjects was associated with decreased inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 replication. Moreover, viral miR-359-5p regulated the expression of MYH9 (non-muscle myosin heavy chain 9), which caused virus invasion and release in the host cell.
Conclusion: This study showed that many miRNAs play a role in controlling or progressing the disease of Covid-19 and it is possible to treat the disease of Covid-19 by changing the expression of viral and host miRNA. However, more research is needed in this regard.
Materials and Methods: The current study was a review study that was conducted during 2012-2022. Studies were extracted from PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science and Scopus scientific databases. The researchers selected relevant resources and a summary of them was presented in this review.
Results: The present review study showed that some host miRNAs such as miR-23b-5p, miR-200c, and miR-125a-5p had an inhibitory effect on ACE2 receptor, while miR-3909, miR-4677, and miR-133a had a stimulatory effect on this receptor. Furthermore, host miR-98-5p had an inhibitory effect on TMPRSS2 gene expression. On the other hand, host miR-146a, miR-21, and miR-142 induced inflammation through MAPK and NF-Ƙβ signaling. While, host miR-124, miR-410, and miR-1336 inhibited factor STAT3 and prevented inflammation. Furthermore, host miR-302b and miR-372 targeted the mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein (MAVS), resulting in silencing of type 1 interferon signaling. It has also been established that host exosomal miR-7-5p, miR-24-3p, miR-145-5p, and miR-223-3p inhibited the replication of SARS-CoV-2 and the expression of S protein and their decreased expression in elderly and Diabetic subjects was associated with decreased inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 replication. Moreover, viral miR-359-5p regulated the expression of MYH9 (non-muscle myosin heavy chain 9), which caused virus invasion and release in the host cell.
Conclusion: This study showed that many miRNAs play a role in controlling or progressing the disease of Covid-19 and it is possible to treat the disease of Covid-19 by changing the expression of viral and host miRNA. However, more research is needed in this regard.
Alireza Monadi Sefidan, Ziba Majidi,
Volume 16, Issue 4 (10-2022)
Volume 16, Issue 4 (10-2022)
Abstract
Background and Aim: It is important to understand how inflammation caused by COVID-19 affects patients and leads to more complications and diseases. According to the importance of controlling COVID-19 related complications, the current study was designed to evaluate the inflammation caused by COVID-19 and its related complications.
Materials and Methods: The present study is a review study. Studies were retrieved from PubMed, Web of science, Scopus and Google scholar databases. Finally, according to the purpose of the study, the relevant resources were selected by the researchers and a summary of their results was presented in this study.
Results: The present study showed that SARS-CoV-2 viruses enter their genome into the host cell after entering the cell by the spike protein (S) and the important receptor of coronavirus, angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE - 2), and causes the onset of cytokine storms and consequently increase of primary cytokines involved in inflammation. IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α and IL-1 cytokines are key factors; These factors in turn activate macrophages, dendritic cells (DC) and other immune cells. Studies revealed that the inflammation caused by SARS-CoV-2 in the liver by inducing IL-6 activates the JAKs/STAT3 pathway, whose receptor is only found in the liver and immune cells, and causes cytokine release syndrome. Cytokines also cause the release of reactive oxygen species (ROS), superoxide anion, and nitric oxide, so that all of them can damage myocardial cells and cause insulin resistance and diabetes. In addition, the increase of inflammatory cytokines such as IL4, IL10 and IL6 and immune cells lead to cardiac disorders such as arrhythmia. The entry of the virus into the digestive system reduces the bacteria secreting butyrate (with anti-inflammatory effects) and leads to the induction of severe inflammation. Also, corona virus causes obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression and other neurological disorders by increasing pro-inflammatory cytokines and increasing the activity of indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase (IDO).
Conclusion: Studies have shown that the inflammation caused by COVID-19 plays an important role in the development of the related complications such as disorders in the digestive, hepatic, cardiac, neurologic, pancreas systems and other organs. Therefore, targeting cytokines can potentially improve survival and reduce mortality.
Materials and Methods: The present study is a review study. Studies were retrieved from PubMed, Web of science, Scopus and Google scholar databases. Finally, according to the purpose of the study, the relevant resources were selected by the researchers and a summary of their results was presented in this study.
Results: The present study showed that SARS-CoV-2 viruses enter their genome into the host cell after entering the cell by the spike protein (S) and the important receptor of coronavirus, angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE - 2), and causes the onset of cytokine storms and consequently increase of primary cytokines involved in inflammation. IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α and IL-1 cytokines are key factors; These factors in turn activate macrophages, dendritic cells (DC) and other immune cells. Studies revealed that the inflammation caused by SARS-CoV-2 in the liver by inducing IL-6 activates the JAKs/STAT3 pathway, whose receptor is only found in the liver and immune cells, and causes cytokine release syndrome. Cytokines also cause the release of reactive oxygen species (ROS), superoxide anion, and nitric oxide, so that all of them can damage myocardial cells and cause insulin resistance and diabetes. In addition, the increase of inflammatory cytokines such as IL4, IL10 and IL6 and immune cells lead to cardiac disorders such as arrhythmia. The entry of the virus into the digestive system reduces the bacteria secreting butyrate (with anti-inflammatory effects) and leads to the induction of severe inflammation. Also, corona virus causes obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression and other neurological disorders by increasing pro-inflammatory cytokines and increasing the activity of indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase (IDO).
Conclusion: Studies have shown that the inflammation caused by COVID-19 plays an important role in the development of the related complications such as disorders in the digestive, hepatic, cardiac, neurologic, pancreas systems and other organs. Therefore, targeting cytokines can potentially improve survival and reduce mortality.
Fatemeh Bahador, Azam Sabahi, Samaneh Jalali, Fatemeh Ameri,
Volume 16, Issue 6 (1-2023)
Volume 16, Issue 6 (1-2023)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Diabetes is one of the most common metabolic diseases in Iran and the fifth leading cause of death all over the world. Its spread around the world has created new methods in biomedical research, including artificial intelligence. The present study was carried out to review the studies conducted in the area of artificial intelligence and diabetes in Iran.
Materials and Methods: This study was carried out using a systematic review method. Valid domestic databases, including Irandoc, Magiran, Sid and Google Scholar search engine, were reviewed using the keywords of artificial intelligence and diabetes in Persian both individually and in a combined manner without time limitation until June 20, 2021. A total number of 7495 articles were retrieved, which were screened in different stages (exclusion of duplicates (1824), title and summary of the articles (5884) and full text (30) and finally 20 articles that met the criteria desired by the researchers were carefully reviewed.
Results: Among the retrieved articles, 20 articles met the inclusion criteria, of which 16 articles dealt with methods based on artificial intelligence and 4 articles dealt with the design of new systems based on artificial intelligence. Also, 10 articles examined the role of artificial intelligence in prediction, 8 articles in diagnosis, and 2 articles dealt with the control and management of diabetes. Most of the articles were related to the use of data mining methods such as artificial neural network, decision tree, etc. (16 articles). Some studies also evaluated and compared artificial intelligence methods on application, accuracy and the sensitivity of artificial intelligence in diagnosing and predicting diabetes (10 studies).
Conclusion: A systematic review of articles revealed that the use of data mining methods for diabetes management in Iran has been associated with good progress, but there is a need to design artificial intelligence systems and algorithms and more measures should be taken in the area of diabetes control and management.
Materials and Methods: This study was carried out using a systematic review method. Valid domestic databases, including Irandoc, Magiran, Sid and Google Scholar search engine, were reviewed using the keywords of artificial intelligence and diabetes in Persian both individually and in a combined manner without time limitation until June 20, 2021. A total number of 7495 articles were retrieved, which were screened in different stages (exclusion of duplicates (1824), title and summary of the articles (5884) and full text (30) and finally 20 articles that met the criteria desired by the researchers were carefully reviewed.
Results: Among the retrieved articles, 20 articles met the inclusion criteria, of which 16 articles dealt with methods based on artificial intelligence and 4 articles dealt with the design of new systems based on artificial intelligence. Also, 10 articles examined the role of artificial intelligence in prediction, 8 articles in diagnosis, and 2 articles dealt with the control and management of diabetes. Most of the articles were related to the use of data mining methods such as artificial neural network, decision tree, etc. (16 articles). Some studies also evaluated and compared artificial intelligence methods on application, accuracy and the sensitivity of artificial intelligence in diagnosing and predicting diabetes (10 studies).
Conclusion: A systematic review of articles revealed that the use of data mining methods for diabetes management in Iran has been associated with good progress, but there is a need to design artificial intelligence systems and algorithms and more measures should be taken in the area of diabetes control and management.
Keyhan Fatehi, Farimah Rahimi, Reza Rezayatmand,
Volume 17, Issue 1 (3-2023)
Volume 17, Issue 1 (3-2023)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers that its incidence and prevalence and so deaths due to this cancer have increased worldwide recently. This study examines the economic burden of colorectal cancer from different perspectives by conducting a scoping review.
Materials and Methods: In this scoping review, by searching Scopus, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science, the articles reporting the costs of CRC were reviewed. The search was limited to those published in the past years leading up to 2020. In addition to categorizing different aspects of the reviewed paper, per capita costs were adjusted with the purchasing power parity in order to make some comparisons possible. In this study, the calculated costs of retrieved studies were categorized based on the perspective of each study.
Results: Out of 29 studies, only two have reported indirect costs of CRC, and 4 studies have reported both direct and indirect costs. In other studies, only direct costs of CRC have been reported. Nearly 40% of studies calculated CRC costs from the provider’s perspective. The highest reported annual per-patient cost was $175020(PPP-adjusted) which is related to the average annual costs of patients with CRC at the fourth stage in the United States from a provider perspective. The lowest reported amount was $ 954(PPP-adjusted) which was related to average annual inpatient costs in Brazil from a provider perspective.
Conclusion: Due to variations in study characteristics in terms of perspective, type of costs, type of patient included, etc. any comparison between the economic burden of CRC should be made with caution. However, reviewing various aspects of the economic burden of CRC reported in included studies, will provide researchers and policymakers with a better insight into the CRC burden while designing intervention programs will reduce the budget impact of the those programs.
Materials and Methods: In this scoping review, by searching Scopus, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science, the articles reporting the costs of CRC were reviewed. The search was limited to those published in the past years leading up to 2020. In addition to categorizing different aspects of the reviewed paper, per capita costs were adjusted with the purchasing power parity in order to make some comparisons possible. In this study, the calculated costs of retrieved studies were categorized based on the perspective of each study.
Results: Out of 29 studies, only two have reported indirect costs of CRC, and 4 studies have reported both direct and indirect costs. In other studies, only direct costs of CRC have been reported. Nearly 40% of studies calculated CRC costs from the provider’s perspective. The highest reported annual per-patient cost was $175020(PPP-adjusted) which is related to the average annual costs of patients with CRC at the fourth stage in the United States from a provider perspective. The lowest reported amount was $ 954(PPP-adjusted) which was related to average annual inpatient costs in Brazil from a provider perspective.
Conclusion: Due to variations in study characteristics in terms of perspective, type of costs, type of patient included, etc. any comparison between the economic burden of CRC should be made with caution. However, reviewing various aspects of the economic burden of CRC reported in included studies, will provide researchers and policymakers with a better insight into the CRC burden while designing intervention programs will reduce the budget impact of the those programs.
Ali Mohammad Mosadeghrad, Parvaneh Isfahani,
Volume 17, Issue 3 (8-2023)
Volume 17, Issue 3 (8-2023)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Induced demand is the provision of healthcare services to patients by the influence of healthcare providers. Induced demand causes excessive use of health services, increases the waiting time for receiving health services, increases the price of health services, increases the costs and reduces the efficiency of the health system. Policymakers and health managers should take measures to reduce induced demand. Hence, they should understand the reasons for induced demand in the health system. Therefore, this research aimed to identify the reasons for induced demand in the health system.
Materials and Methods: This research was carried out using the scoping review method. All published articles and documents about the reasons for induced demand in the health system until June 21, 2023 were searched in nine databases and Google Scholar search engine. Finally, 38 articles were selected and reviewed. The data were analyzed by thematic analysis method and using MAXQDA10 software.
Results: Thirty-eight studies about the reasons of induced demand in the health system were published between 1974 and 2021. The number of researches in this area has been growing since 2011. Overall, 32 reasons for induced demand in the health system were identified and grouped into three categories: macro (health system), meso (health care organization) and micro (provider and receiver of health services). The most frequent reasons for healthcare induced demand in the literature include inappropriate policies, insufficient monitoring, inappropriate payment system, large number of physicians, lack of attention to clinical guidelines, financial motivation of healthcare providers, patient insurance coverage, unreasonable patients’ expectations, inappropriate price of health services, the complexity of the health service and patients’ inadequate medical knowledge.
Conclusion: Induced demand has negative effects on the health system and will lead to an increase in health costs, waste of health resources, a decrease in the efficiency of the health system, and finally, a decrease in people’s access to essential health services. Several factors at different levels of the health system lead to induced demand for health services. Therefore, interventions should be systematically applied at three levels of the health system, healthcare organizations, and providers and recipients of health services to prevent and reduce healthcare induced demand.
Materials and Methods: This research was carried out using the scoping review method. All published articles and documents about the reasons for induced demand in the health system until June 21, 2023 were searched in nine databases and Google Scholar search engine. Finally, 38 articles were selected and reviewed. The data were analyzed by thematic analysis method and using MAXQDA10 software.
Results: Thirty-eight studies about the reasons of induced demand in the health system were published between 1974 and 2021. The number of researches in this area has been growing since 2011. Overall, 32 reasons for induced demand in the health system were identified and grouped into three categories: macro (health system), meso (health care organization) and micro (provider and receiver of health services). The most frequent reasons for healthcare induced demand in the literature include inappropriate policies, insufficient monitoring, inappropriate payment system, large number of physicians, lack of attention to clinical guidelines, financial motivation of healthcare providers, patient insurance coverage, unreasonable patients’ expectations, inappropriate price of health services, the complexity of the health service and patients’ inadequate medical knowledge.
Conclusion: Induced demand has negative effects on the health system and will lead to an increase in health costs, waste of health resources, a decrease in the efficiency of the health system, and finally, a decrease in people’s access to essential health services. Several factors at different levels of the health system lead to induced demand for health services. Therefore, interventions should be systematically applied at three levels of the health system, healthcare organizations, and providers and recipients of health services to prevent and reduce healthcare induced demand.
Leila Erfannia, Azita Yazdani,
Volume 17, Issue 3 (8-2023)
Volume 17, Issue 3 (8-2023)
Abstract
Background and Aim: With the spread of the Corona pandemic, the statistics of the number of mobile health applications have grown significantly. This research was conducted with the aim of evaluating the content of Persian language applications in the management of Covid-19.
Material and Methods: In this review research, a systematic search for Persian language programs in the field of Covid-19 management was conducted in four mobile application markets including Myket, Bazzar, Google Play and App Store. The content of the programs was evaluated based on a researcher-made checklist, which was verified according 3 specialist comments, in the five axes of ease of use, education, monitoring, privacy and data sharing. Programs that received more than 50% of the evaluation score were introduced as selected programs. By removing duplicate programs, 119 programs were extracted, of which 21 programs entered the final stage of quality evaluation based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria and after a complete review of the content and capabilities.
Results: Based on the total points of the program, Safiran Salamat received the most score (31), Ac19 and mask were ranked next with 27 and 22 points, respectively. These three programs along with Corona Amar Tashkhis as fourth program received more than 50% of the content review and 17 other programs received less than 50% of the total score. Government has a great role in programs development (three program were government and one was non- government base). All 4 programs, had acceptable score in ease of use but none of them develop for user tracking. Pearson’s correlation test was used to test the relationship between the quality (total scores of apps) and the popularity (amount of downloads), and no significant correlation was observed.
Conclusion: The results of the present study showed that Iranian mobile applications have an acceptable performance in the fields of education and information sharing, but their low popularity makes the achievement of these goals far from expected. Marketing strategies can be effective as one of the useful policy in increasing the use of mobile health programs. Also, the inclusion of capabilities such as contact tracing and online consultations can be fruitful in the pursuit of goals.
Material and Methods: In this review research, a systematic search for Persian language programs in the field of Covid-19 management was conducted in four mobile application markets including Myket, Bazzar, Google Play and App Store. The content of the programs was evaluated based on a researcher-made checklist, which was verified according 3 specialist comments, in the five axes of ease of use, education, monitoring, privacy and data sharing. Programs that received more than 50% of the evaluation score were introduced as selected programs. By removing duplicate programs, 119 programs were extracted, of which 21 programs entered the final stage of quality evaluation based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria and after a complete review of the content and capabilities.
Results: Based on the total points of the program, Safiran Salamat received the most score (31), Ac19 and mask were ranked next with 27 and 22 points, respectively. These three programs along with Corona Amar Tashkhis as fourth program received more than 50% of the content review and 17 other programs received less than 50% of the total score. Government has a great role in programs development (three program were government and one was non- government base). All 4 programs, had acceptable score in ease of use but none of them develop for user tracking. Pearson’s correlation test was used to test the relationship between the quality (total scores of apps) and the popularity (amount of downloads), and no significant correlation was observed.
Conclusion: The results of the present study showed that Iranian mobile applications have an acceptable performance in the fields of education and information sharing, but their low popularity makes the achievement of these goals far from expected. Marketing strategies can be effective as one of the useful policy in increasing the use of mobile health programs. Also, the inclusion of capabilities such as contact tracing and online consultations can be fruitful in the pursuit of goals.
Zohreh Javanmard, Marziyhe Meraji, Mahsa Gholizad, Fatemeh Ameri,
Volume 17, Issue 4 (10-2023)
Volume 17, Issue 4 (10-2023)
Abstract
Background and Aim: With the increase of the covid-19 epidemic, wearable devices have received a lot of attention in the field of managing this disease. The present systematic review study was conducted with the aim of investigating the role of wearable devices in the management of the covid-19 disease.
Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted according to the guidelines of PRISMA. For this purpose, Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus databases were searched to retrieve English articles without time limit, until August 16, 2022. The search strategy included the terms “Wearable Device” and “COVID-19”. The inclusion criteria for the study were original and English-language articles that have been carried out to design and implement wearable tools in managing Covid-19. All short articles, letters to the editor, conference abstracts, observational studies, review articles, as well as articles whose full version was not available and in a language other than English, as well as unimplemented items, were excluded from the study process. In order to evaluate the quality of articles, the AXIS evaluation tool was used to evaluate the quality of cross-sectional studies. After selecting the studies, data was collected based on the data extraction form. Then the data was analyzed through the content analysis method.
Results: Finally, 10 articles were included in the present review and the wearable devices introduced in them were examined. Seventy percent of wearable devices are used for symptom monitoring, health status, and quarantine, and 30% for diagnosis. The primary users of these tools were patients, the general public, doctors, and Authorities of statistics and information. The types of wearable devices used were bracelets and smart watches (60%), sensors (30%), pulse oximeters, and chest patches (10%).The most important capability and feature of wearable devices include transferring data and activities to mobile phones and low energy consumption. Using the AXIS quality assessment tool, four studies were rated as very good, five as good, and one as poor.
Conclusion: The review of studies showed that wearable devices provide many capabilities for disease monitoring and patient empowerment, disease diagnosis, and remote monitoring of vital signs of Covid-19 patients. These tools are presented in different forms. It is suggested to develop new tools with the aim of monitoring the covid-19 disease with an emphasis on the use of patients in the form of bracelets and smartwatches, and also the necessary attention should be paid to privacy and confidentiality issues.
Alireza Hajizadeh, Reza Hafezi, Mrs Maryam Tajvar,
Volume 17, Issue 5 (12-2023)
Volume 17, Issue 5 (12-2023)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Futures studies are constantly evolving and help organizations and individuals for better identification of future events, opportunities, and threats. In the field of health, futures studies are also applied for better prediction of health issues in future, control of unpleasant condition and preparing for pleasant future in health system. The purpose of this study is to conduct a scoping review of the futures studies accomplished in the field of health in Iran,
Materials and Methods: This study is a scoping review, conducted based on the Arksey and O’Malley framework with 6 steps including research question identification, related study identification, study selection / screening, data segmentation, summarizing and reporting results and providing guidance and recommendations n. National and international databases and search engines including PubMed, Web Of Science (WOS), Scopus, ProQuest, SID, Magiran, IranDoc and Google Scholar were searched using related keywords. After removing duplicate articles, the remaining articles were screened according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. The results of the selected articles were finally categorized, summarized and reported based on the mentioned steps.
Results: Among of 6691 articles identified, 30 articles reached the final synthesis stage. The articles were classified into forecasting, foresighting, and mixed categories, with the scenario writing method being the most widely used and applied in 20 studies. Also, studies were classified in scope of nature based on quantitative or qualitative and time horizon. Types of futures studies methods in Iran, in the fields of public health, medicine, science and technology, financing, prescription, health tourism, diet, human resources, aging, Covid-19 epidemic, health policy, hospital and macro level of health system were used.
Conclusion: The use of futures studies methods in a targeted manner and on the issues of Iran’s health system can play an effective role in knowing the future for more informed decision-making and planning in order to build a desirable future. The results of this review showed that scattered studies have been conducted with futures studies methods in the field of health, among which the scenario writing method has received more attention.
Azra Daei, Mohammad Reza Soleymani, Hasan Ashrafi-Rizi,
Volume 17, Issue 6 (2-2024)
Volume 17, Issue 6 (2-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: The role of information in improving the health of society and reducing healthcare costs is undeniable. However, in practice, there exists insufficient and incomplete information among healthcare providers. This lack of comprehensive information among market players leads to inefficiencies and failure in market performance. The main goal of the current research was to investigate health information asymmetry and inadequacy within the health information market.
Materials and Methods: This article is a narrative and unsystematic review. Studies were retrieved from the Scopus, PubMed, Web of Knowledge, Magiran, Sid and Google Scholar databases by using the keywords of information inadequacy, Asymmetry of health information done in the fields of article title, abstract and keywords. Subsequently, according to the purpose of the study, the researchers selected relevant resources and summarized their findings.
Results: 18 paper were selected for this research. In this research, we specifically address health information inadequacies across three key sections: patients, doctors, and insurance. At the end of each section, ways to solve these deficiencies were mentioned. Results Showed patients faced with the phenomenon of injustice in accessing health information, and the continuation of this injustice leads to the poverty of health information, and due to the lack of proper access to health information, the asymmetry of information between the doctor and the patient was created. Doctors, on the other hand, faced challenges in accessing up-to-date and evidence-based information for patient care. Asymmetric information could be exploited, resulting in induced demand. Insurances face the problems of inappropriate selection, moral hazard and demand induction by the supplier or consumer.
Conclusion: Information asymmetry has seriously penetrated the health field and there is a high level of unconfident and uncertainty in it. One of the ways to overcome the health information asymmetry and insufficiency of the health information market is the access of all stakeholders to the information.
Seyedeh Nasim Mirbahari, Sina Salari, Shabnam Shahrokh, Mohammadreza Zali, Mehdi Totonchi,
Volume 18, Issue 1 (3-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 1 (3-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Oncolytic viruses, as novel and advanced tools in the field of treating various types of cancer, have played a very important role in medical developments. The term “oncolytic” refers to the ability of these viruses to destroy and damage cancer cells while preserving the surrounding healthy cells.
Materials and Methods: To conduct this study, a total of 270 initial results were collected through searching in the PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases from 2012 to 2024. The primary researcher reviewed 68 relevant articles, extracted and summarized the contents, and finally compiled the findings.
Results: The findings from this review study demonstrate that cancer cells possess distinct characteristics that differentiate them from normal cells, including continuous growth signaling, resistance to anti-growth signaling, evasion of apoptosis, increased angiogenesis, and invasion into other body parts. Oncolytic viruses utilize these distinctive features to selectively target and infect cancer cells. Most oncolytic viruses directly eliminate host tumor cells, resulting in viral replication and induction of host antiviral responses. Moreover, these viruses can destroy cancer cells through the production of specific proteins. The cytotoxic potential of oncolytic viruses depends on viral type, genetic manipulation, optimal virus dosage for injection, natural and induced viral tropism, and cancer cell sensitivity to various forms of cell death. The mechanism driving the selective replication of oncolytic viruses in cancer cells likely relates to defects in signaling pathways specific to tumor cells. Phase III clinical trials have demonstrated significant improvements in the treatment outcomes of various cancers, including head and neck cancer, melanoma, glioblastoma, and bladder cancer, through the use of H101 (Oncorine), T-Vec, ECHO-7, and Teserpaturev (Delytact) viruses.
Conclusion: Oncolytic viruses are constructed from various types of viruses and are currently being evaluated in laboratory, preclinical, and clinical stages. The use of these viruses for the treatment of cancer as a new and targeted approach has been proposed, which requires further investigation and achievement of more precise mechanisms for their better performance.
Materials and Methods: To conduct this study, a total of 270 initial results were collected through searching in the PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases from 2012 to 2024. The primary researcher reviewed 68 relevant articles, extracted and summarized the contents, and finally compiled the findings.
Results: The findings from this review study demonstrate that cancer cells possess distinct characteristics that differentiate them from normal cells, including continuous growth signaling, resistance to anti-growth signaling, evasion of apoptosis, increased angiogenesis, and invasion into other body parts. Oncolytic viruses utilize these distinctive features to selectively target and infect cancer cells. Most oncolytic viruses directly eliminate host tumor cells, resulting in viral replication and induction of host antiviral responses. Moreover, these viruses can destroy cancer cells through the production of specific proteins. The cytotoxic potential of oncolytic viruses depends on viral type, genetic manipulation, optimal virus dosage for injection, natural and induced viral tropism, and cancer cell sensitivity to various forms of cell death. The mechanism driving the selective replication of oncolytic viruses in cancer cells likely relates to defects in signaling pathways specific to tumor cells. Phase III clinical trials have demonstrated significant improvements in the treatment outcomes of various cancers, including head and neck cancer, melanoma, glioblastoma, and bladder cancer, through the use of H101 (Oncorine), T-Vec, ECHO-7, and Teserpaturev (Delytact) viruses.
Conclusion: Oncolytic viruses are constructed from various types of viruses and are currently being evaluated in laboratory, preclinical, and clinical stages. The use of these viruses for the treatment of cancer as a new and targeted approach has been proposed, which requires further investigation and achievement of more precise mechanisms for their better performance.
Marziyeh Najafi, Roya Rajaee, Hojjat Rahmani, Behrooz Pouragha, Nazanin Sheikh Mohammadi, Ghasem Rajabi Vasokolaei,
Volume 18, Issue 1 (3-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 1 (3-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Patient falls are common in hospitals, leading to financial loss and potential harm to patients, staff, and the organization. They can often be prevented with proper planning. This study aims to identify strategies to prevent patient falls and provide evidence to develop safety initiatives.
Materials and Methods: Our review used the Arksey and O’Malley scoping review model to identify strategies for preventing patient falls. We conducted searches with relevant keywords in the PubMed and Web of Science databases until May 25, 2024. In the final stage, we consulted with 18 experts using the Delphi method to gather their opinions. The data were analyzed using the thematic analysis method.
Results: Out of the 4202 studies initially found, 19 articles were chosen. The solutions to prevent patient falls can be grouped into six general categories: planning (which includes quality improvement programs, establishment of patient safety culture, patient fall prevention guidelines and programs), physical space (involving patient room design and the location of treatment staff), equipment (such as monitoring and alarms, pressure sensors, and standard beds), human resources (including communication networks between nurses and other treatment staff, as well as factors like self-efficacy and responsiveness of nurses, and their motivation and job satisfaction), training (covering education and patient participation, training of nurses and treatment staff, and electronic training), and control of executive processes (involving evaluation of risk factors and process control). The highest level of agreement among the members was on the equipment dimension (9.76), and the lowest was on the human resources dimension (8.65).
Conclusion: Patient falls are a common safety concern in hospitals and can be prevented with proper planning. Each hospital should use a combination of prevention methods tailored to its specific conditions.
Materials and Methods: Our review used the Arksey and O’Malley scoping review model to identify strategies for preventing patient falls. We conducted searches with relevant keywords in the PubMed and Web of Science databases until May 25, 2024. In the final stage, we consulted with 18 experts using the Delphi method to gather their opinions. The data were analyzed using the thematic analysis method.
Results: Out of the 4202 studies initially found, 19 articles were chosen. The solutions to prevent patient falls can be grouped into six general categories: planning (which includes quality improvement programs, establishment of patient safety culture, patient fall prevention guidelines and programs), physical space (involving patient room design and the location of treatment staff), equipment (such as monitoring and alarms, pressure sensors, and standard beds), human resources (including communication networks between nurses and other treatment staff, as well as factors like self-efficacy and responsiveness of nurses, and their motivation and job satisfaction), training (covering education and patient participation, training of nurses and treatment staff, and electronic training), and control of executive processes (involving evaluation of risk factors and process control). The highest level of agreement among the members was on the equipment dimension (9.76), and the lowest was on the human resources dimension (8.65).
Conclusion: Patient falls are a common safety concern in hospitals and can be prevented with proper planning. Each hospital should use a combination of prevention methods tailored to its specific conditions.
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