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Showing 34 results for Type of Study: Review
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.
Sara Hashemi, Shahla Faramarzi, Laya Rahmani Pirouz, Azita Yazdani,
Volume 18, Issue 2 (5-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 2 (5-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Burn injury are one of the most common traumas worldwide and the sixth leading cause of death in Iran. The challenges related to the survival rate of burn patients, as well as the associated mortality cases, have led to advancements in the identification of risk factors. Early detection and recognition of these risk factors are essential, and the provision of predictive models can be beneficial. This research was conducted with the aim of reviewing the effectiveness of artificial intelligence in predicting survival in burn patients.
Materials and Methods: This study was a systematic review. A comprehensive search of Scopus, PubMed, IEEE, and Web of Science databases was conducted from inception to July 2023 following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Keywords and Mesh terms related to burn, artificial intelligence, survival and prediction were used in the search.
Results: Out of 3599 identified studies, only nine were included in the analysis. Based on the articles reviewed, the effective factors in predicting survival or mortality in burn patients were classified into four main categories: demographic, clinical, tests and co-morbidities. Some of the known effective factors in patient survival, which have been examined in over 40% of studies, include age, gender, total body surface area, inhalation injury, and type of burn. The results showed that in the studies reviewed, the volume of the smallest dataset used in the analyses was 92 samples. In contrast, the volume of the largest dataset used was reported to be 66,611 samples. Among these studies, 33% have indicated that artificial neural network algorithms and random forest show the best performance. The criteria used to evaluate the models in the retrieved studies are diverse.
Conclusion: The use of machine learning algorithms in predicting the survival of burn patients is promising. The results obtained from identified influential factors can assist data science researchers in the data understanding phase and can serve as a roadmap in collecting the initial dataset.
Materials and Methods: This study was a systematic review. A comprehensive search of Scopus, PubMed, IEEE, and Web of Science databases was conducted from inception to July 2023 following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Keywords and Mesh terms related to burn, artificial intelligence, survival and prediction were used in the search.
Results: Out of 3599 identified studies, only nine were included in the analysis. Based on the articles reviewed, the effective factors in predicting survival or mortality in burn patients were classified into four main categories: demographic, clinical, tests and co-morbidities. Some of the known effective factors in patient survival, which have been examined in over 40% of studies, include age, gender, total body surface area, inhalation injury, and type of burn. The results showed that in the studies reviewed, the volume of the smallest dataset used in the analyses was 92 samples. In contrast, the volume of the largest dataset used was reported to be 66,611 samples. Among these studies, 33% have indicated that artificial neural network algorithms and random forest show the best performance. The criteria used to evaluate the models in the retrieved studies are diverse.
Conclusion: The use of machine learning algorithms in predicting the survival of burn patients is promising. The results obtained from identified influential factors can assist data science researchers in the data understanding phase and can serve as a roadmap in collecting the initial dataset.
Zahra Karbasi, Michaeel Motaghi Niko, Maryam Zahmatkeshan,
Volume 18, Issue 3 (7-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 3 (7-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Cataracts are recognized as the cause of 51% of blindness worldwide. Following the promising initial results of artificial intelligence systems in eye diseases, AI algorithms have been applied in the diagnosis of cataracts, grading the severity of cataracts, intraocular lens calculations, and even as an assistive tool in cataract surgery. This study presents a systematic review of AI techniques in the management of cataract disease.
Materials and Methods: This systematic review study was conducted to investigate artificial intelligence techniques to manage cataract disease until November 11, 2023, and based on PRISMA guidelines. We retrieved all relevant articles published in English through a systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science online databases.
Results: In our initial search, 192 records were identified in the databases, and eventually, 23 articles were selected for review. The results indicated that convolutional neural network algorithms (6 articles), recurrent neural networks (1 article), deep convolutional networks (1 article), support vector machines (2 articles), transfer learning (1 article), decision trees (4 articles), random forests (4 articles), logistic regression (3 articles), Bayesian algorithms (3 articles), XGBoost (3 articles), and K-nearest neighbors clustering algorithms (2 articles) were the artificial neural network and machine learning techniques and algorithms utilized. These techniques were employed in the studies for the diagnosis (70%), management (17%), and prediction (13%) of cataract disease.
Conclusion: Various artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques and algorithms can be effective and efficient in diagnosing, grading, managing, and predicting cataracts with high accuracy. In this study, deep learning techniques and convolutional neural networks have made the greatest contribution to cataract diagnosis. Deep learning techniques, decision trees, and Bayesian algorithms were involved in cataract management. Machine learning algorithms such as logistic regression, random forest, artificial neural network, decision tree, K1-nearest neighbor, XGBoost, and adaptive boosting also played a role in cataract prediction. Just as early prediction, diagnosis, and timely referral can reduce future complications of the disease, the use of systems based on artificial intelligence models that have acceptable accuracy can be effective in supporting the decision-making process of physicians and managing this disease.
Materials and Methods: This systematic review study was conducted to investigate artificial intelligence techniques to manage cataract disease until November 11, 2023, and based on PRISMA guidelines. We retrieved all relevant articles published in English through a systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science online databases.
Results: In our initial search, 192 records were identified in the databases, and eventually, 23 articles were selected for review. The results indicated that convolutional neural network algorithms (6 articles), recurrent neural networks (1 article), deep convolutional networks (1 article), support vector machines (2 articles), transfer learning (1 article), decision trees (4 articles), random forests (4 articles), logistic regression (3 articles), Bayesian algorithms (3 articles), XGBoost (3 articles), and K-nearest neighbors clustering algorithms (2 articles) were the artificial neural network and machine learning techniques and algorithms utilized. These techniques were employed in the studies for the diagnosis (70%), management (17%), and prediction (13%) of cataract disease.
Conclusion: Various artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques and algorithms can be effective and efficient in diagnosing, grading, managing, and predicting cataracts with high accuracy. In this study, deep learning techniques and convolutional neural networks have made the greatest contribution to cataract diagnosis. Deep learning techniques, decision trees, and Bayesian algorithms were involved in cataract management. Machine learning algorithms such as logistic regression, random forest, artificial neural network, decision tree, K1-nearest neighbor, XGBoost, and adaptive boosting also played a role in cataract prediction. Just as early prediction, diagnosis, and timely referral can reduce future complications of the disease, the use of systems based on artificial intelligence models that have acceptable accuracy can be effective in supporting the decision-making process of physicians and managing this disease.
Seyyedeh Fatemeh Mousavi Baigi, Reyhaneh Norouzi Aval, Masoumeh Sarbaz, Khalil Kimiafar,
Volume 18, Issue 4 (10-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 4 (10-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Proficiency in medical terminology is a basic competency of most medical students, which ensures communication with other healthcare providers. Facing the lack of motivation and involvement of students, applications, and games based on smartphones are considered as a possible educational option. Due to the rapid expansion of these applications, a correct evaluation of their quality is often not provided. This study investigated and evaluated the quality of smartphone applications and games for teaching medical terminology.
Materials and Methods: A systematic review was conducted in August 2024, in the official stores of Bazaar and Google Play applications. The two main keywords “medical terminology” and “medical vocabulary” were searched in Persian and English. Two evaluators independently downloaded and evaluated smartphone-based applications and games for teaching medical terminology. The same checklist was used for data extraction. The quality of apps was measured using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS). The points of each section, the final score of the retrieved applications, and the mean and standard deviation were obtained.
Results: In total, eighteen programs were included in this study, four of which were games. The average quality of the programs was between 2.70 and 4.30 (average 3.80) on a scale from 1 (inadequate) to 5 (excellent). The best scores are in performance (mean: 3.91), followed by information quality (mean: 3.15). Aesthetics (mean: 2.56) and mental quality of the program (mean: 2.58) had the lowest scores. Two applications offered data privacy, and four had privacy statements. The game ‘Dean Vaughn’ and the application ‘MediTerm’ received the highest overall scores.
Conclusion: This study provides an analysis and description of smartphone-based applications and games for teaching medical terminology to help students and users choose high-quality applications that suit their needs and tastes, and on the other hand, it provides the possibility of identifying research and operational gaps to strengthen and design more effective and better applications for the developers of these applications. The applications evaluated were generally of good overall quality, particularly in terms of functionality and information. However, some applications need to improve aspects such as aesthetics and subjective quality to increase their impact on users and ensure better security and privacy.
Materials and Methods: A systematic review was conducted in August 2024, in the official stores of Bazaar and Google Play applications. The two main keywords “medical terminology” and “medical vocabulary” were searched in Persian and English. Two evaluators independently downloaded and evaluated smartphone-based applications and games for teaching medical terminology. The same checklist was used for data extraction. The quality of apps was measured using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS). The points of each section, the final score of the retrieved applications, and the mean and standard deviation were obtained.
Results: In total, eighteen programs were included in this study, four of which were games. The average quality of the programs was between 2.70 and 4.30 (average 3.80) on a scale from 1 (inadequate) to 5 (excellent). The best scores are in performance (mean: 3.91), followed by information quality (mean: 3.15). Aesthetics (mean: 2.56) and mental quality of the program (mean: 2.58) had the lowest scores. Two applications offered data privacy, and four had privacy statements. The game ‘Dean Vaughn’ and the application ‘MediTerm’ received the highest overall scores.
Conclusion: This study provides an analysis and description of smartphone-based applications and games for teaching medical terminology to help students and users choose high-quality applications that suit their needs and tastes, and on the other hand, it provides the possibility of identifying research and operational gaps to strengthen and design more effective and better applications for the developers of these applications. The applications evaluated were generally of good overall quality, particularly in terms of functionality and information. However, some applications need to improve aspects such as aesthetics and subjective quality to increase their impact on users and ensure better security and privacy.
Shabnam Ghasemyani, Kobra Movalled, Shafi Habibi, Rahim Khodayari Zarnaq,
Volume 18, Issue 5 (11-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 5 (11-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: In recent years, active patient participation in healthcare has been increasingly recognized as a vital component in health policies aimed at achieving optimal health outcomes. This study aims to identify the contexts and areas in which patients engage in safety-related measures within healthcare settings.
Materials and Methods: A scoping review of the English-language literature published from 2000 to 2021 was performed. The search strategy involved relevant keywords, including MeSH modifications, as well as common terms associated with the topic, such as patient collaboration, patient participation, patient engagement, patient involvement, patient education, and patient safety. Literature was sourced from the Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and ProQuest databases. The research design adhered to the framework proposed by Arksey and O’Malley, and data analysis was conducted using a content analysis approach.
Results: The search strategy yielded a total of 2,951 articles, of which 38 articles met the inclusion criteria. The majority of studies originated from the United States (14), the United Kingdom (8), and Australia (6). The publication years with the highest output were 2015 (5 articles) and 2017 (4 articles). Five key areas of patient participation were identified: fall prevention, prevention of drug interactions, medical error prevention and awareness, participation in infection control and staff hand hygiene, and educational initiatives. The articles identified focused on various areas, including participation in fall prevention (26.3%), education and awareness promotion, participation in infection control and hand hygiene (23.6%), prevention and awareness of medical errors (18.4%), and prevention of drug interactions (7.9%).The main findings of the reviewed studies were categorized into four areas: patient participation, methods of patient participation, examples and outcomes of patient participation, and challenges associated with patient participation in safety-related measures.
Conclusion: Promoting patient involvement in safety-related practices within healthcare is essential for bolstering patient safety. Such participation is contingent upon empowering patients by improving their health literacy and knowledge while simultaneously fostering a shift in the attitudes of healthcare providers. The involvement of policymakers, particularly at the levels of the Ministry of Health and Medical Education, is critical in advancing patient and family participation in national hospital accreditation standards and facilitating broader initiatives aimed at transitioning the health system towards a model of participatory care.
Materials and Methods: A scoping review of the English-language literature published from 2000 to 2021 was performed. The search strategy involved relevant keywords, including MeSH modifications, as well as common terms associated with the topic, such as patient collaboration, patient participation, patient engagement, patient involvement, patient education, and patient safety. Literature was sourced from the Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and ProQuest databases. The research design adhered to the framework proposed by Arksey and O’Malley, and data analysis was conducted using a content analysis approach.
Results: The search strategy yielded a total of 2,951 articles, of which 38 articles met the inclusion criteria. The majority of studies originated from the United States (14), the United Kingdom (8), and Australia (6). The publication years with the highest output were 2015 (5 articles) and 2017 (4 articles). Five key areas of patient participation were identified: fall prevention, prevention of drug interactions, medical error prevention and awareness, participation in infection control and staff hand hygiene, and educational initiatives. The articles identified focused on various areas, including participation in fall prevention (26.3%), education and awareness promotion, participation in infection control and hand hygiene (23.6%), prevention and awareness of medical errors (18.4%), and prevention of drug interactions (7.9%).The main findings of the reviewed studies were categorized into four areas: patient participation, methods of patient participation, examples and outcomes of patient participation, and challenges associated with patient participation in safety-related measures.
Conclusion: Promoting patient involvement in safety-related practices within healthcare is essential for bolstering patient safety. Such participation is contingent upon empowering patients by improving their health literacy and knowledge while simultaneously fostering a shift in the attitudes of healthcare providers. The involvement of policymakers, particularly at the levels of the Ministry of Health and Medical Education, is critical in advancing patient and family participation in national hospital accreditation standards and facilitating broader initiatives aimed at transitioning the health system towards a model of participatory care.
Zohreh Ehteshami, Azam Shahbodaghi, Mohammad Javad Mansourzadeh,
Volume 18, Issue 5 (11-2024)
Volume 18, Issue 5 (11-2024)
Abstract
Background and Aim: An efficient data librarian equipped with the necessary competencies and capabilities is one of the most crucial elements in managing research data. The aim of this study is to identify the expected competencies and capabilities for data librarians in research data management according Harvard Biomedical Data Life Cycle.
Materials and Methods: This study is a scoping review, utilizing the Harvard Biomedical Data Lifecycle model to systematically present the findings. To retrieve relevant literature, a search strategy was employed using related keywords in databases such as Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, Google scholar and other reputable domestic databases, over the past five years. The research population comprised original research articles published in Persian and English that addressed the expected skills and capabilities for data librarians in managing research data.
Results: Out of 5064 documents found, 196 were selected for full-text review. After reviewing the full texts, 17 studies were included in the research. In total, 92 competencies and capabilities were identified across 23 processes within the 7 stages of the Harvard Biomedical Data Lifecycle: 16 in the first stage, 16 in the second stage, 7 in the third stage, 15 in the fourth and fifth stages, 12 in the sixth stage, 8 in the seventh stage, and 18 general competencies and capabilities. According to the findings, the most studies focused on the competencies and capabilities required for the second stage, “Collection and Creation,” while the fewest studies addressed the seventh stage, “Publish and Reuse.” No studies mentioned competencies and capabilities for the processes “Image Management” in the third stage and “Preprints and Publishing” in the seventh stage.
Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that among the various stages of the data lifecycle, the “Collection and Creation” stage received the most attention. Additionally, data librarians should possess not only specialized and professional skills but also general competencies and capabilities. It is recommended that the findings of this research be considered for designing short-term and long-term educational programs to train data librarians for research data managenet.
Materials and Methods: This study is a scoping review, utilizing the Harvard Biomedical Data Lifecycle model to systematically present the findings. To retrieve relevant literature, a search strategy was employed using related keywords in databases such as Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, Google scholar and other reputable domestic databases, over the past five years. The research population comprised original research articles published in Persian and English that addressed the expected skills and capabilities for data librarians in managing research data.
Results: Out of 5064 documents found, 196 were selected for full-text review. After reviewing the full texts, 17 studies were included in the research. In total, 92 competencies and capabilities were identified across 23 processes within the 7 stages of the Harvard Biomedical Data Lifecycle: 16 in the first stage, 16 in the second stage, 7 in the third stage, 15 in the fourth and fifth stages, 12 in the sixth stage, 8 in the seventh stage, and 18 general competencies and capabilities. According to the findings, the most studies focused on the competencies and capabilities required for the second stage, “Collection and Creation,” while the fewest studies addressed the seventh stage, “Publish and Reuse.” No studies mentioned competencies and capabilities for the processes “Image Management” in the third stage and “Preprints and Publishing” in the seventh stage.
Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that among the various stages of the data lifecycle, the “Collection and Creation” stage received the most attention. Additionally, data librarians should possess not only specialized and professional skills but also general competencies and capabilities. It is recommended that the findings of this research be considered for designing short-term and long-term educational programs to train data librarians for research data managenet.
Ayoub Mohamadian, Ali Moeini, Mahnaz Sanjari, Zahra Abdullahzade,
Volume 18, Issue 6 (2-2025)
Volume 18, Issue 6 (2-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Smart health, due to its capacity in disease prevention, is a suitable solution for providing osteoporosis fracture prevention services. Also, the existence of close relationships between active organizations for the prevention of this disease requires this area to be examined from the perspective of the ecosystem. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to identify the factors and players of the ecosystem of preventing fractures caused by osteoporosis in smart health.
Materials and Methods: A qualitative systematic review of meta-synthesis was conducted to find resources related to the prevention of osteoporosis-related fractures. For this purpose, scientific databases of Web of Science, Scopus and PubMed were examined and 155 were selected from 10344 sources found. At the end, by using the Shannon entropy method, the categories of each dimension were ranked.
Results: This systematic review demonstrated that the ecosystem for preventing fractures caused by osteoporosis comprises four main categories of factors: lifestyle (nutrition, exercise, fall prevention, cessation of tobacco, alcohol, and caffeine consumption), clinical (screening, diagnosis, and drug therapy), technological (infrastructure, platform, and application), and contextual (cultural, social participation, policy, economic, and education). The application and infrastructure secured the first and second positions in the ranking, while the platform and education collectively ranked third. Ecosystem participants were also categorized into three core layers: the fracture prevention and treatment team members, firms related to fracture prevention and treatment, and other health stakeholders; the extended layer, which includes affected or at-risk individuals, education stakeholders, cultural stakeholders, social stakeholders, and health stakeholders; and the external layer, comprising international organizations and national ministries. In the ranking, affected or at-risk individuals, other health stakeholders, and fracture prevention and treatment team members earned first to third positions, respectively.
Conclusion: The research results showed that “technological”, “contextual”, “lifestyle change” and “clinical” factors are in the first to fourth places, respectively. Also, among the players, the first place was assigned to the extended layer, the main core took the second place, and the external layer took the third place.
Materials and Methods: A qualitative systematic review of meta-synthesis was conducted to find resources related to the prevention of osteoporosis-related fractures. For this purpose, scientific databases of Web of Science, Scopus and PubMed were examined and 155 were selected from 10344 sources found. At the end, by using the Shannon entropy method, the categories of each dimension were ranked.
Results: This systematic review demonstrated that the ecosystem for preventing fractures caused by osteoporosis comprises four main categories of factors: lifestyle (nutrition, exercise, fall prevention, cessation of tobacco, alcohol, and caffeine consumption), clinical (screening, diagnosis, and drug therapy), technological (infrastructure, platform, and application), and contextual (cultural, social participation, policy, economic, and education). The application and infrastructure secured the first and second positions in the ranking, while the platform and education collectively ranked third. Ecosystem participants were also categorized into three core layers: the fracture prevention and treatment team members, firms related to fracture prevention and treatment, and other health stakeholders; the extended layer, which includes affected or at-risk individuals, education stakeholders, cultural stakeholders, social stakeholders, and health stakeholders; and the external layer, comprising international organizations and national ministries. In the ranking, affected or at-risk individuals, other health stakeholders, and fracture prevention and treatment team members earned first to third positions, respectively.
Conclusion: The research results showed that “technological”, “contextual”, “lifestyle change” and “clinical” factors are in the first to fourth places, respectively. Also, among the players, the first place was assigned to the extended layer, the main core took the second place, and the external layer took the third place.
Niloofar Mohammadzadeh, Zohreh Javanmard, Fatemeh Bahador,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (7-2025)
Volume 19, Issue 2 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Today, with the digitalization of many healthcare processes, healthcare organizations strive to implement electronic health records (EHR) as effectively as possible. In this regard, the Meaningful Use (MU) program of EHRs was introduced in the United States. However, due to the existing challenges in this program and in order to accelerate the adoption of EHRs and reduce barriers, the Promoting Interoperability (PI) program was introduced by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). This study was conducted with the aim of reviewing the various dimensions of the PI within the EHR roadmap and examining strategies to overcome the obstacles of the MU program.
Materials and Methods: This scoping review was conducted in 2024. To assess the PI program, relevant articles were searched on PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, as well as electronic documents from CMS, without any time restrictions until March 2024. The searches employed the primary keywords “EHR,” “Meaningful Use,” “Promoting Interoperability,” and their synonyms. Additionally, a manual search was performed using the Google Scholar search engine to ensure comprehensive retrieval of all pertinent literature. Subsequently, articles and documents meeting inclusion criteria were selected, and their main characteristics were extracted.
Results: The review revealed that the PI program introduces substantial changes in EHR program requirements, objectives, and scoring methods. The core objectives of this program include: 1. electronic prescribing, 2. health information exchange, 3. provider-to-patient information transfer, and 4. public health and clinical data exchange. Furthermore, the program emphasizes additional requirements to enhance the quality of implementation, promote better sharing of EHR data, and improve clinical quality.
Conclusion: The Promoting Interoperability program has the potential to enhance patient health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. Moreover, it is expected to gain increasing significance for hospitals as they adopt innovative healthcare delivery and payment models.
Materials and Methods: This scoping review was conducted in 2024. To assess the PI program, relevant articles were searched on PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, as well as electronic documents from CMS, without any time restrictions until March 2024. The searches employed the primary keywords “EHR,” “Meaningful Use,” “Promoting Interoperability,” and their synonyms. Additionally, a manual search was performed using the Google Scholar search engine to ensure comprehensive retrieval of all pertinent literature. Subsequently, articles and documents meeting inclusion criteria were selected, and their main characteristics were extracted.
Results: The review revealed that the PI program introduces substantial changes in EHR program requirements, objectives, and scoring methods. The core objectives of this program include: 1. electronic prescribing, 2. health information exchange, 3. provider-to-patient information transfer, and 4. public health and clinical data exchange. Furthermore, the program emphasizes additional requirements to enhance the quality of implementation, promote better sharing of EHR data, and improve clinical quality.
Conclusion: The Promoting Interoperability program has the potential to enhance patient health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. Moreover, it is expected to gain increasing significance for hospitals as they adopt innovative healthcare delivery and payment models.
Faezeh Sadat Bahrololoumi Tabatabai, Nosrat Riahinia, Davoud Haseli, Fatemeh Pazouki,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (7-2025)
Volume 19, Issue 2 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: With the increasing elderly population and their specific needs, access to health information in public libraries has become increasingly important. Public libraries can play a crucial role in providing reliable health information and enhancing health literacy among the elderly. This study aimed to identify the health information needs of the elderly in public libraries based on global experiences.
Materials and Methods: This study was conducted as a systematic review using the Kitchenham and Charters framework. Relevant articles were retrieved from three major citation databases—PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science—covering the period from 2010 to 2024. Relevant keywords were used for searches, and reference lists and citations of the retrieved documents were examined to ensure comprehensive coverage. Inclusion criteria consisted of research articles related to the health information needs of the elderly in public libraries. Ultimately, 40 English-language articles were selected and analyzed. The extracted data were coded and categorized qualitatively.
Results: The findings indicated that the health information needs of the elderly in public libraries could be classified into four main categories: (1) Information Needs, including access to diverse health information resources, primary health information, public health and prevention information, and self-care and personal empowerment resources; (2) Educational Needs, encompassing information literacy, health information literacy, and educational events; (3) Social and Cultural Needs, including cultural and recreational activities, social and communication needs, social participation, and reducing social exclusion; and (4) Library Services and Facilities, comprising appropriate physical spaces, assistive reading technologies, and mobile and remote library services.
Conclusion: With the growing elderly population, public libraries face a critical responsibility in promoting the health and well-being of this demographic. The findings of this study reveal that the health information needs of the elderly extend beyond mere access to resources; they encompass educational, social-cultural, and library service dimensions. Therefore, it is essential to move beyond traditional information dissemination approaches and adopt a comprehensive, multilayered, and participatory framework—one that positions libraries as active institutions in enhancing public health among the elderly.
Materials and Methods: This study was conducted as a systematic review using the Kitchenham and Charters framework. Relevant articles were retrieved from three major citation databases—PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science—covering the period from 2010 to 2024. Relevant keywords were used for searches, and reference lists and citations of the retrieved documents were examined to ensure comprehensive coverage. Inclusion criteria consisted of research articles related to the health information needs of the elderly in public libraries. Ultimately, 40 English-language articles were selected and analyzed. The extracted data were coded and categorized qualitatively.
Results: The findings indicated that the health information needs of the elderly in public libraries could be classified into four main categories: (1) Information Needs, including access to diverse health information resources, primary health information, public health and prevention information, and self-care and personal empowerment resources; (2) Educational Needs, encompassing information literacy, health information literacy, and educational events; (3) Social and Cultural Needs, including cultural and recreational activities, social and communication needs, social participation, and reducing social exclusion; and (4) Library Services and Facilities, comprising appropriate physical spaces, assistive reading technologies, and mobile and remote library services.
Conclusion: With the growing elderly population, public libraries face a critical responsibility in promoting the health and well-being of this demographic. The findings of this study reveal that the health information needs of the elderly extend beyond mere access to resources; they encompass educational, social-cultural, and library service dimensions. Therefore, it is essential to move beyond traditional information dissemination approaches and adopt a comprehensive, multilayered, and participatory framework—one that positions libraries as active institutions in enhancing public health among the elderly.
Mozhgan Farazmand, Mandana Asgari, Hamid Bouraghi, Taleb Khodaveisi, Ali Mohammadpour, Soheila Saeedi,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (9-2025)
Volume 19, Issue 3 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Cardiovascular diseases have a very high prevalence globally and are recognized as one of the main causes of mortality worldwide. Artificial intelligence, as a novel technology, has garnered attention in recent years in Iran and other parts of the world for the management of a wide variety of diseases. The present study aimed to systematically review research studies conducted in the field of applying artificial intelligence in cardiovascular diseases.
Materials and Methods: To investigate research studies conducted in the field of cardiovascular diseases utilizing artificial intelligence, the Persian language databases SID, Google Scholar, and Magiran were searched. This search was conducted without time limitations on April 3, 2024 and included all research studies that, up to this date, had used various artificial intelligence methods in the field of cardiovascular diseases in the present systematic review.
Results: The results of the search in the aforementioned three databases led to the retrieval of 17,819 research studies, of which 46 research studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria of the study. These research studies had used artificial intelligence in three areas: prediction, treatment, and diagnosis. Neural networks (n=22), support vector machines (n=20), and decision trees (n=16) were the algorithms that were used more than other techniques. The data sources of the included research studies were mainly patient medical records and the UCI database. Additionally, MATLAB software was used more than other software. The most frequently mentioned limitations in the research studies included not considering all factors, limited access to data, insufficient data, the presence of noise in signals or images, and the presence of outliers, missing values, and non-normality of data.
Conclusion: The systematic review of research studies conducted in the field of cardiovascular diseases utilizing artificial intelligence showed that this technology has been used in a wide range of cardiovascular diseases, and most of the conducted research studies confirmed its effectiveness and successful performance.
Materials and Methods: To investigate research studies conducted in the field of cardiovascular diseases utilizing artificial intelligence, the Persian language databases SID, Google Scholar, and Magiran were searched. This search was conducted without time limitations on April 3, 2024 and included all research studies that, up to this date, had used various artificial intelligence methods in the field of cardiovascular diseases in the present systematic review.
Results: The results of the search in the aforementioned three databases led to the retrieval of 17,819 research studies, of which 46 research studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria of the study. These research studies had used artificial intelligence in three areas: prediction, treatment, and diagnosis. Neural networks (n=22), support vector machines (n=20), and decision trees (n=16) were the algorithms that were used more than other techniques. The data sources of the included research studies were mainly patient medical records and the UCI database. Additionally, MATLAB software was used more than other software. The most frequently mentioned limitations in the research studies included not considering all factors, limited access to data, insufficient data, the presence of noise in signals or images, and the presence of outliers, missing values, and non-normality of data.
Conclusion: The systematic review of research studies conducted in the field of cardiovascular diseases utilizing artificial intelligence showed that this technology has been used in a wide range of cardiovascular diseases, and most of the conducted research studies confirmed its effectiveness and successful performance.
Roya Rajaee, Marziyeh Najafi, Nasrin Donyaee, Masoumeh Vaziri Seta, Hojjat Rahmani, Ghasem Rajabi, Mahsa Akbari,
Volume 19, Issue 4 (11-2025)
Volume 19, Issue 4 (11-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Budgeting in the health system plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of healthcare services, increasing equitable access to health care, and reducing costs. Financial decision-making based on scientific data and evidence can improve the efficiency of the health system and ensure equity in resource allocation. This study aimed to examine the scientific status and trends of published literature on budgeting methods in the health system using bibliometric analysis to assist policymakers in making better financial decisions.
Materials and Methods: This study is a bibliometric review with a descriptive–analytical approach, analyzing 222 scientific documents indexed in Scopus between 1974 and 2024. Data were analyzed using Excel, Bibexcel, VOSviewer, and Gephi software to map the knowledge structure, co-word relationships, and international collaborations in this field.
Results: The United States (30%), Taiwan (15%), and Canada (10%) were the leading contributors to scientific output in this field. Journal articles comprised nearly 90% of all publications. The most frequent keywords were “budget,” “health care cost,” and “financial management,” reflecting a strong emphasis on cost control and resource management. Three main budgeting approaches were identified: performance-based, traditional (historical), and needs-based. Traditional budgeting remains dominant in developing countries, particularly where information infrastructure and managerial capacity are limited. International collaboration involved 18 countries, with the strongest cooperation observed between the United States and Taiwan.
Conclusion: Improving the health budgeting system requires strengthening information systems, training managers, and enhancing international scientific collaboration. Resource allocation based on scientific data and bibliometric insights can optimize resource distribution and enhance equity in access to health services. Such measures would lead to greater health system efficiency and more comprehensive financial decision-making.
Materials and Methods: This study is a bibliometric review with a descriptive–analytical approach, analyzing 222 scientific documents indexed in Scopus between 1974 and 2024. Data were analyzed using Excel, Bibexcel, VOSviewer, and Gephi software to map the knowledge structure, co-word relationships, and international collaborations in this field.
Results: The United States (30%), Taiwan (15%), and Canada (10%) were the leading contributors to scientific output in this field. Journal articles comprised nearly 90% of all publications. The most frequent keywords were “budget,” “health care cost,” and “financial management,” reflecting a strong emphasis on cost control and resource management. Three main budgeting approaches were identified: performance-based, traditional (historical), and needs-based. Traditional budgeting remains dominant in developing countries, particularly where information infrastructure and managerial capacity are limited. International collaboration involved 18 countries, with the strongest cooperation observed between the United States and Taiwan.
Conclusion: Improving the health budgeting system requires strengthening information systems, training managers, and enhancing international scientific collaboration. Resource allocation based on scientific data and bibliometric insights can optimize resource distribution and enhance equity in access to health services. Such measures would lead to greater health system efficiency and more comprehensive financial decision-making.
Abdolahad Nabiolahi, Nasser Keikha,
Volume 19, Issue 4 (11-2025)
Volume 19, Issue 4 (11-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Point of Care Tests (POCTs) are a laboratory diagnostic system that can be performed at the patient care location and help diagnose diseases quickly. Due to the increase in population, the prevalence of contagious diseases, none access of society members to laboratories, the global need for the availability of modern diagnostic and health technologies at the place of patient care, the aim of research was to explore new aspects of the application of Point of Care Tests to patients as well as the process of developing these technologies in the field of healthcare.
Materials and Methods: A scoping review method were applied by determining the key words through medical subject headings and related articles, searching in the databases of Web of Science, Scopus and PubMed databases as well as Google Scholar, Google and Magiran and Scientific information database. Furthermore to preserve the variety of sources and articles, the criteria for entering the study were English-language articles and no time limit was applied.
Results: Most of the 17 related articles were reviews. The most common technologies in POCTs were lateral flow assays (LFA) that applied to diagnosis of Cryptococcus fungal infection, tuberculosis, hepatitis, legionella, malaria and covid-19, and nucleic acid amplification tests have helped to detect viruses and bacteria using DNA and RNA. From NAAT (Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests) based on microsialate, it can be referred to RT-PCR (Reverse transcription- polymerase chain reactio) and LAMP oop-Mediated- Isothermal Amplification (LAMP), where in recent years are widely used for detection of infectious diseases specially SARS-CoV-19. Additional basic diagnostic tools have focused on Small handheld, POCT devices with a monitoring device, cartridge, and other devices; whereas in the new generations, special focus were on quality assurance, microfluidics, Nano-biosensors and smart phones.
Conclusion: The analysis of published studies showed that the diagnostic tools of tests on POCTs are expanding and have been able to provide better clinical and economic results. In addition to the extensive use of two advanced types of lateral flow assays and nucleic acid amplification tests to diagnose tests at the patient’s bedside; Microfluidics, Nano biosensors and smart phones have also expanded. Quality assurance also requires the determination of accurate quality management procedures, policy programming and necessary policy formulation by officials to achieve reliable results for patient care.
Materials and Methods: A scoping review method were applied by determining the key words through medical subject headings and related articles, searching in the databases of Web of Science, Scopus and PubMed databases as well as Google Scholar, Google and Magiran and Scientific information database. Furthermore to preserve the variety of sources and articles, the criteria for entering the study were English-language articles and no time limit was applied.
Results: Most of the 17 related articles were reviews. The most common technologies in POCTs were lateral flow assays (LFA) that applied to diagnosis of Cryptococcus fungal infection, tuberculosis, hepatitis, legionella, malaria and covid-19, and nucleic acid amplification tests have helped to detect viruses and bacteria using DNA and RNA. From NAAT (Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests) based on microsialate, it can be referred to RT-PCR (Reverse transcription- polymerase chain reactio) and LAMP oop-Mediated- Isothermal Amplification (LAMP), where in recent years are widely used for detection of infectious diseases specially SARS-CoV-19. Additional basic diagnostic tools have focused on Small handheld, POCT devices with a monitoring device, cartridge, and other devices; whereas in the new generations, special focus were on quality assurance, microfluidics, Nano-biosensors and smart phones.
Conclusion: The analysis of published studies showed that the diagnostic tools of tests on POCTs are expanding and have been able to provide better clinical and economic results. In addition to the extensive use of two advanced types of lateral flow assays and nucleic acid amplification tests to diagnose tests at the patient’s bedside; Microfluidics, Nano biosensors and smart phones have also expanded. Quality assurance also requires the determination of accurate quality management procedures, policy programming and necessary policy formulation by officials to achieve reliable results for patient care.
Elham Maserat, Zeinab Mohammadzadeh, Zahra Mahmoudvand, Hasan Siamian, Pourya Taghizadeh, Azadeh Yazdanian,
Volume 19, Issue 5 (12-2025)
Volume 19, Issue 5 (12-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: As a pandemic, the COVID-19 epidemic has had widespread impacts on society and has highlighted the need for effective management through timely case detection, early isolation, and treatment. Web portals have emerged as an effective information technology intervention and a solution for crisis management. This study aims to review various web portals implemented in the context of COVID-19.
Materials and Methods: In 2025, a systematic review was conducted to identify articles related to the use of web portals in the COVID-19 context. Keywords such as information technology, portal, COVID-19, and university were used to search multiple databases and search engines including Scopus, PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Knowledge, Ovid Medline, and Google Scholar. Published texts from 2019 to 2025 were included in the search.
Results: Initially, 1,058 articles were retrieved, and after careful evaluation, 40 articles directly relevant to the research topic were selected for inclusion. The analysis identified several notable web portals deployed during the COVID-19 pandemic, including platforms such as COVIDome, Over COVID, interactive visualization portals, country-specific information portals, prediction-based systems, electronic portals for specific medical conditions, data platforms, drug repurposing portals, patient triage and scheduling tools, health mapping portals, telemetry capabilities, and epidemiology applications. The results showed that the highest number of related articles were published in 2020, primarily concentrated in the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Canada. In-depth reviews indicated that WPs such as COVIDome and MyChart significantly facilitated patient access to medical information and healthcare services. These portals not only provided timely information regarding vaccination and outbreaks but also played a crucial role in facilitating effective communication between patients and Healthcare Providers. Furthermore, the overall use of portals increased 10-fold during the pandemic, a trend that persisted afterward. Findings also highlight existing digital divides, as individuals with higher education and income levels benefited more from these portals.
Conclusion: Successful implementation of web portals requires proper management and planning, increased awareness among stakeholders including policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the general public, user training, comprehensive data integration, adherence to standards, and periodic evaluations. These measures are essential to optimize the effectiveness and utility of the portals.
Materials and Methods: In 2025, a systematic review was conducted to identify articles related to the use of web portals in the COVID-19 context. Keywords such as information technology, portal, COVID-19, and university were used to search multiple databases and search engines including Scopus, PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Knowledge, Ovid Medline, and Google Scholar. Published texts from 2019 to 2025 were included in the search.
Results: Initially, 1,058 articles were retrieved, and after careful evaluation, 40 articles directly relevant to the research topic were selected for inclusion. The analysis identified several notable web portals deployed during the COVID-19 pandemic, including platforms such as COVIDome, Over COVID, interactive visualization portals, country-specific information portals, prediction-based systems, electronic portals for specific medical conditions, data platforms, drug repurposing portals, patient triage and scheduling tools, health mapping portals, telemetry capabilities, and epidemiology applications. The results showed that the highest number of related articles were published in 2020, primarily concentrated in the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Canada. In-depth reviews indicated that WPs such as COVIDome and MyChart significantly facilitated patient access to medical information and healthcare services. These portals not only provided timely information regarding vaccination and outbreaks but also played a crucial role in facilitating effective communication between patients and Healthcare Providers. Furthermore, the overall use of portals increased 10-fold during the pandemic, a trend that persisted afterward. Findings also highlight existing digital divides, as individuals with higher education and income levels benefited more from these portals.
Conclusion: Successful implementation of web portals requires proper management and planning, increased awareness among stakeholders including policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the general public, user training, comprehensive data integration, adherence to standards, and periodic evaluations. These measures are essential to optimize the effectiveness and utility of the portals.
Afzzal Shamsi, Fatemeh Sheikh Shoaei, Parya Amiri,
Volume 19, Issue 6 (3-2026)
Volume 19, Issue 6 (3-2026)
Abstract
Background and Aim: War is an inseparable part of human history that brings many problems. Self-care plays a major role in reducing complications and mortality. The purpose of this study is to “familiarize war casualties with self-care immediately after injury.”
Materials and Methods: In this study, a narrative review of library resources and searching of internal and external databases related to the purpose of the study was used. Then, articles, books, dissertations, and other scientific resources related to the subject were examined.
Results: In wartime conditions, a set of clinical problems leads to the deterioration of casualties’ conditions. One of the most important factors influencing self-care during wars is having sufficient awareness and knowledge in first aid, which requires the development of integrated approaches for first aid content. Other factors include identifying and eliminating threatening factors; quickly stopping the damaging agent; immediate contact with rescuers; maintaining an open airway; general self-assessment and temporary control of external bleeding; more thorough examination to identify signs of injury and life-threatening conditions; monitoring status (consciousness, breathing, circulation) and psychological self-support; and ambulance transfer to medical centers.
Conclusion: To have a successful and effective self-care program for war casualties, first aid training specific to war crises should be provided to members of the community. Control of extensive bleeding, airway protection, wound dressing, pain control, and psychological self-support should be included in self-care programs. Accordingly, basic planning by relevant authorities, especially the health system, is recommended to increase the level of awareness and knowledge of self-care among members of the community in war crises.
Materials and Methods: In this study, a narrative review of library resources and searching of internal and external databases related to the purpose of the study was used. Then, articles, books, dissertations, and other scientific resources related to the subject were examined.
Results: In wartime conditions, a set of clinical problems leads to the deterioration of casualties’ conditions. One of the most important factors influencing self-care during wars is having sufficient awareness and knowledge in first aid, which requires the development of integrated approaches for first aid content. Other factors include identifying and eliminating threatening factors; quickly stopping the damaging agent; immediate contact with rescuers; maintaining an open airway; general self-assessment and temporary control of external bleeding; more thorough examination to identify signs of injury and life-threatening conditions; monitoring status (consciousness, breathing, circulation) and psychological self-support; and ambulance transfer to medical centers.
Conclusion: To have a successful and effective self-care program for war casualties, first aid training specific to war crises should be provided to members of the community. Control of extensive bleeding, airway protection, wound dressing, pain control, and psychological self-support should be included in self-care programs. Accordingly, basic planning by relevant authorities, especially the health system, is recommended to increase the level of awareness and knowledge of self-care among members of the community in war crises.
Hojjat Rahmani, Payam Bahadori, Hossein Dargahi, Mohammad Arab, Nasrin Abolhasanbeigi Gallehzan, Mohsen Mardali,
Volume 19, Issue 6 (3-2026)
Volume 19, Issue 6 (3-2026)
Abstract
Background and Aim: The occurrence of conflict of interest in the Iranian health system has a negative impact on the provision of efficient and effective health care and services to patients, the training and education of students in medical sciences. Despite the efforts made in the country’s health system to manage conflict of interest, this phenomenon is currently observed through various factors, including the inefficiency of the financial structure, lack of transparency, and the lack of an integrated health information system in Iran.
Materials and Methods: The present scoping review study that aimed to identify and determine conflict of interest management strategies in the Iranian health system in comparison with selected countries and to select appropriate strategies in 2024-2025 using the Arksey and O’Malley guidelines. All relevant articles and resources from 2007 to 2024 were extracted from national and international databases by observing the entry and exit criteria and by selecting Persian and English keywords. After screening steps using Prisma flowchart, 23 studies in English and Persian language from international and national databases, were analyzed.
Results: Findings from 17 international studies—most of which were conducted in the United States—along with 6 domestic articles, showed main strategies of Iranian conflict of interest which included participation, transparency, legal oversight, processes reform, restructuring and reorganization. Although, using collective campaigns for correction of process behaviors and decisions, definition of ethical ethic codes, and standardization may help implementation of these strategies. Also, the most common cause of conflict of interest in the health system is individual rather than organizational, which requires regulation, the use of legislative levers, and the transparency of financial relations in the health system.
Conclusion: Accurate identification of potential examples of conflict of interests among the agents of health care system by implementing information clarification, and using modern procedures may decrease the challenges in formulating and implementing strategies of conflict of interests among Iranian health care system. Although benchmarking from successful countries will be helpful in these countries. The implementation of these recommendations may face challenges within Iranian society, including resistance from certain professional groups, a lack of financial and technical resources, and the complexity and specific conditions of the health system. Therefore, a step-by-step approach to implementing policy recommendations for managing conflicts of interest in the health system should be considered.
Materials and Methods: The present scoping review study that aimed to identify and determine conflict of interest management strategies in the Iranian health system in comparison with selected countries and to select appropriate strategies in 2024-2025 using the Arksey and O’Malley guidelines. All relevant articles and resources from 2007 to 2024 were extracted from national and international databases by observing the entry and exit criteria and by selecting Persian and English keywords. After screening steps using Prisma flowchart, 23 studies in English and Persian language from international and national databases, were analyzed.
Results: Findings from 17 international studies—most of which were conducted in the United States—along with 6 domestic articles, showed main strategies of Iranian conflict of interest which included participation, transparency, legal oversight, processes reform, restructuring and reorganization. Although, using collective campaigns for correction of process behaviors and decisions, definition of ethical ethic codes, and standardization may help implementation of these strategies. Also, the most common cause of conflict of interest in the health system is individual rather than organizational, which requires regulation, the use of legislative levers, and the transparency of financial relations in the health system.
Conclusion: Accurate identification of potential examples of conflict of interests among the agents of health care system by implementing information clarification, and using modern procedures may decrease the challenges in formulating and implementing strategies of conflict of interests among Iranian health care system. Although benchmarking from successful countries will be helpful in these countries. The implementation of these recommendations may face challenges within Iranian society, including resistance from certain professional groups, a lack of financial and technical resources, and the complexity and specific conditions of the health system. Therefore, a step-by-step approach to implementing policy recommendations for managing conflicts of interest in the health system should be considered.
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