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The Lancet Regional Health. Western... May 2023A systematic scoping review of digital contact tracing (DCT) interventions for COVID-19 was conducted to describe the implementation, adoption, use and effectiveness of... (Review)
Review
A systematic scoping review of digital contact tracing (DCT) interventions for COVID-19 was conducted to describe the implementation, adoption, use and effectiveness of DCT interventions implemented as part of the COVID-19 response in the Western Pacific Region (WPR). A systematic search identified 341 studies and 128 grey literature sources, of which 18 studies and 41 grey literature sources were included. 17 (46%) WPR countries and areas implemented DCT interventions. Adoption ranged from 14.6% to 92.7% in different adult populations and epidemiological contexts. Trust in authorities, and privacy concerns and beliefs, were the most frequent determinants of adoption and use. Only two studies analysed DCT effectiveness, which showed limited to no effectiveness of DCT interventions in low transmission settings. Overall, there is limited evidence available to evaluate the contribution of DCT to mitigating COVID-19 in the WPR. Preparedness for future health emergencies should include developing robust frameworks for DCT effectiveness evaluations.
PubMed: 37256207
DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2022.100647 -
Journal of Medical Internet Research Jan 2022Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of health care service delivery. However, the perceptions and needs of such... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of health care service delivery. However, the perceptions and needs of such systems remain elusive, hindering efforts to promote AI adoption in health care.
OBJECTIVE
This study aims to provide an overview of the perceptions and needs of AI to increase its adoption in health care.
METHODS
A systematic scoping review was conducted according to the 5-stage framework by Arksey and O'Malley. Articles that described the perceptions and needs of AI in health care were searched across nine databases: ACM Library, CINAHL, Cochrane Central, Embase, IEEE Xplore, PsycINFO, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for studies that were published from inception until June 21, 2021. Articles that were not specific to AI, not research studies, and not written in English were omitted.
RESULTS
Of the 3666 articles retrieved, 26 (0.71%) were eligible and included in this review. The mean age of the participants ranged from 30 to 72.6 years, the proportion of men ranged from 0% to 73.4%, and the sample sizes for primary studies ranged from 11 to 2780. The perceptions and needs of various populations in the use of AI were identified for general, primary, and community health care; chronic diseases self-management and self-diagnosis; mental health; and diagnostic procedures. The use of AI was perceived to be positive because of its availability, ease of use, and potential to improve efficiency and reduce the cost of health care service delivery. However, concerns were raised regarding the lack of trust in data privacy, patient safety, technological maturity, and the possibility of full automation. Suggestions for improving the adoption of AI in health care were highlighted: enhancing personalization and customizability; enhancing empathy and personification of AI-enabled chatbots and avatars; enhancing user experience, design, and interconnectedness with other devices; and educating the public on AI capabilities. Several corresponding mitigation strategies were also identified in this study.
CONCLUSIONS
The perceptions and needs of AI in its use in health care are crucial in improving its adoption by various stakeholders. Future studies and implementations should consider the points highlighted in this study to enhance the acceptability and adoption of AI in health care. This would facilitate an increase in the effectiveness and efficiency of health care service delivery to improve patient outcomes and satisfaction.
Topics: Adult; Aged; Artificial Intelligence; Chronic Disease; Community Health Services; Delivery of Health Care; Humans; Male; Mental Health; Middle Aged
PubMed: 35029538
DOI: 10.2196/32939 -
BMJ Open Mar 2023The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of artificial intelligence (AI) and/or algorithms on drug management in primary care settings comparing AI and/or...
OBJECTIVES
The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of artificial intelligence (AI) and/or algorithms on drug management in primary care settings comparing AI and/or algorithms with standard clinical practice. Second, we evaluated what is the most frequently reported type of medication error and the most used AI machine type.
METHODS
A systematic review of literature was conducted querying PubMed, Cochrane and ISI Web of Science until November 2021. The search strategy and the study selection were conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses and the Population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcome framework. Specifically, the Population chosen was general population of all ages (ie, including paediatric patients) in primary care settings (ie, home setting, ambulatory and nursery homes); the Intervention considered was the analysis AI and/or algorithms (ie, intelligent programs or software) application in primary care for reducing medications errors, the Comparator was the general practice and, lastly, the Outcome was the reduction of preventable medication errors (eg, overprescribing, inappropriate medication, drug interaction, risk of injury, dosing errors or in an increase in adherence to therapy). The methodological quality of included studies was appraised adopting the Quality Assessment of Controlled Intervention Studies of the National Institute of Health for randomised controlled trials.
RESULTS
Studies reported in different ways the effective reduction of medication error. Ten out of 14 included studies, corresponding to 71% of articles, reported a reduction of medication errors, supporting the hypothesis that AI is an important tool for patient safety.
CONCLUSION
This study highlights how a proper application of AI in primary care is possible, since it provides an important tool to support the physician with drug management in non-hospital environments.
Topics: Humans; Child; Artificial Intelligence; Medication Therapy Management; Medication Errors; Patient Safety; Primary Health Care
PubMed: 36958780
DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-065301 -
Journal of Medical Internet Research Jun 2021Simulation study results suggest that COVID-19 contact tracing apps have the potential to achieve pandemic control. Concordantly, high app adoption rates were a...
BACKGROUND
Simulation study results suggest that COVID-19 contact tracing apps have the potential to achieve pandemic control. Concordantly, high app adoption rates were a stipulated prerequisite for success. Early studies on potential adoption were encouraging. Several factors predicting adoption rates were investigated, especially pertaining to user characteristics. Since then, several countries have released COVID-19 contact tracing apps.
OBJECTIVE
This study's primary aim is to investigate the quality characteristics of national European COVID-19 contact tracing apps, thereby shifting attention from user to app characteristics. The secondary aim is to investigate associations between app quality and adoption. Finally, app features contributing to higher app quality were identified.
METHODS
Eligible COVID-19 contact tracing apps were those released by national health authorities of European Union member states, former member states, and countries of the European Free Trade Association, all countries with comparable legal standards concerning personal data protection and app use voluntariness. The Mobile App Rating Scale was used to assess app quality. An interdisciplinary team, consisting of two health and two human-computer interaction scientists, independently conducted Mobile App Rating Scale ratings. To investigate associations between app quality and adoption rates and infection rates, Bayesian linear regression analyses were conducted.
RESULTS
We discovered 21 national COVID-19 contact tracing apps, all demonstrating high quality overall and high-level functionality, aesthetics, and information quality. However, the average app adoption rate of 22.9% (SD 12.5%) was below the level recommended by simulation studies. Lower levels of engagement-oriented app design were detected, with substantial variations between apps. By regression analyses, the best-case adoption rate was calculated by assuming apps achieve the highest ratings. The mean best-case adoption rates for engagement and overall app quality were 39.5% and 43.6%, respectively. Higher adoption rates were associated with lower cumulative infection rates. Overall, we identified 5 feature categories (symptom assessment and monitoring, regularly updated information, individualization, tracing, and communication) and 14 individual features that contributed to higher app quality. These 14 features were a symptom checker, a symptom diary, statistics on COVID-19, app use, public health instructions and restrictions, information of burden on health care system, assigning personal data, regional updates, control over tracing activity, contact diary, venue check-in, chats, helplines, and app-sharing capacity.
CONCLUSIONS
European national health authorities have generally released high quality COVID-19 contact tracing apps, with regard to functionality, aesthetics, and information quality. However, the app's engagement-oriented design generally was of lower quality, even though regression analyses results identify engagement as a promising optimization target to increase adoption rates. Associations between higher app adoption and lower infection rates are consistent with simulation study results, albeit acknowledging that app use might be part of a broader set of protective attitudes and behaviors for self and others. Various features were identified that could guide further engagement-enhancing app development.
Topics: COVID-19; Contact Tracing; Europe; Humans; Interdisciplinary Studies; Mobile Applications; Pandemics; Quality of Health Care; SARS-CoV-2
PubMed: 33890867
DOI: 10.2196/27989 -
Heliyon Feb 2021Agriculture is the biggest consumer of fresh water in the world accounting for almost 70% of the water use. The burgeoning world population and increased demands to feed... (Review)
Review
Agriculture is the biggest consumer of fresh water in the world accounting for almost 70% of the water use. The burgeoning world population and increased demands to feed the world requires novel technologies that reconcile water consumption and food security. Moistube is a polymeric semi-permeable membrane irrigation technology that is known to improve water use efficiency and boost yields. The technology is relatively new, hence a lack of comprehensive literature regarding Moistube irrigation (MTI) technology warrants empirical investigation of the existing literature. The study performed a systematic review guided by the Preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis protocols (PRISMA-P) and the scoping studies methodological framework to compile an evidence-based literature review on Moistube irrigation. The study performed search queries in the following over-arching and comprehensive databases for grey literature: Google Scholar, Science Direct, Research Gate, CAB direct, All Journals, CNKI, FAO, SCOPUS, Web of Science, and UKZN-EFWE. DistillerSR software was used for screening, data extraction and data charting. Article screening retained one hundred and 55 (n = 155) articles. Forty-nine articles (n = 49) and information sources were found to be related directly and indirectly to Moistube. Moistube articles (n = 29, 59%) were from China were the technology originated. A bulk of literature reported Moistube irrigation use in the arid regions of China. The review revealed areas for research enquiry into the subject matter. Future research areas were fertigation performance under MTI, effects of waste-water on MTI nanopore plugging, yield response of industrial crops of economic importance under MTI and soil wetting geometries under MTI. This signified the need to perform further research enquiries into the subject matter to improve literature availability. Moistube irrigation technology has a low adoption rate in Africa with reported use in South Africa and Morocco. The technology has massive adoption potential in arid and semi-arid regions of sub-Sahara Africa.
PubMed: 33615012
DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e06213 -
Journal of General Internal Medicine Sep 2023Improving access to evidence-based psychotherapies (EBPs) is a Veterans Health Administration (VHA) priority. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and...
Evaluation of Implementation Strategies for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR): a Systematic Review.
BACKGROUND
Improving access to evidence-based psychotherapies (EBPs) is a Veterans Health Administration (VHA) priority. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) are effective for chronic pain and several mental health conditions. We synthesized evidence on implementation strategies to increase EBP access and use.
METHODS
We searched MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and CINAHL from inception until March 2021 for articles on EBP implementation within integrated health systems to treat chronic pain or chronic mental health conditions. Reviewers independently screened articles, extracted results, coded qualitative findings, and rated quality using modified criteria from Newcastle-Ottawa (quantitative results) or Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (qualitative results). We categorized implementation strategies using the Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (ERIC) framework and classified outcomes using RE-AIM domains (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance).
RESULTS
Twelve articles (reporting results from 10 studies) evaluated CBT (k = 11) and ACT (k = 1) implementation strategies in large integrated healthcare systems. No studies evaluated MBSR implementation. Eight articles evaluated strategies within VHA. Six articles reported on national VHA EBP implementation programs; all involved training/education, facilitation, and audit/feedback. CBT and ACT implementation demonstrated moderate to large improvements in patient symptoms and quality of life. Trainings increased mental health provider self-efficacy in delivering EBPs, improved provider EBP perceptions, and increased provider EBP use during programs, but had unclear impacts on Reach. It was unclear whether external facilitation added benefit. Provider EBP maintenance was modest; barriers included competing professional time demands and patient barriers.
DISCUSSION
Multi-faceted CBT and ACT implementation programs increased provider EBP Adoption but had unclear impacts on Reach. Future implementation efforts should further evaluate Reach, Adoption, and Maintenance; assess the added value of external facilitation; and consider strategies targeting patient barriers. Future work should use implementation frameworks to guide evaluations of barriers and facilitators, processes of change, and outcomes.
REGISTRATION
PROSPERO registration number CRD42021252038.
Topics: Humans; Acceptance and Commitment Therapy; Mindfulness; Chronic Pain; Quality of Life; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
PubMed: 37012538
DOI: 10.1007/s11606-023-08140-4 -
Research in Social & Administrative... Feb 2023The use of competency-based education (CBE) worldwide is increasing and has been advocated for by key reports in health professional education. Recent developments,... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
The use of competency-based education (CBE) worldwide is increasing and has been advocated for by key reports in health professional education. Recent developments, including the first global competency framework for pharmacists published by the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) in 2012, can help facilitate CBE adoption. However, adopting CBE is complex and involves various features and stages of development.
OBJECTIVE
This systematic review examines pharmacy education and training to identify features of CBE-related approaches currently in use worldwide to develop a picture of contemporary CBE-related activity in pharmacy for the purpose of guiding future development.
METHOD
Scopus, Web of Science, Medline, Embase, and ERIC electronic databases were searched to identify relevant literature. Studies associated with CBE or training of pharmacy practitioners and related postgraduate or undergraduate students were included. Studies were limited to those published in English from 2010 to 2021. Two authors performed the screening and selection of studies, and a 3rd author resolved any discrepancies. The review followed PRSIMA guidelines and was registered with PROSPERO under CRD42022296424. The findings were analysed using an inductive approach and presented descriptively.
RESULTS
Twenty-eight studies were included in the review, all of which originate from high-income countries, spanning a range of educational levels and research designs. A total of 20 features and 21 supporting components were identified and categorised, connected to those previously identified in the closely linked medical literature, and categorised into 6 overarching themes: design, teaching and learning, feedback and assessment, faculty, resources, and internal and external factors. A collective understanding of the concept of competency, in combination with a shared vision between education, regulation, and practice, underpins successful application of the CBE approach.
CONCLUSIONS
This review summarises common features of CBE across the globe which can be used to guide further developments in pharmacy education. Mutual consensus on the design and delivery of CBE features ensures that the intended learning outcomes are in alignment with the learner's experience and congruent with the realities of pharmacy practice.
Topics: Humans; Competency-Based Education; Students; Curriculum; Educational Status; Education, Pharmacy; Pharmacy; Students, Pharmacy
PubMed: 36272964
DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2022.09.013 -
Nutrients Oct 2022The Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) has been linked with physical and mental health benefits. Previous research, however, suggests that adoption and adherence to a... (Review)
Review
Barriers and Facilitators Associated with the Adoption of and Adherence to a Mediterranean Style Diet in Adults: A Systematic Review of Published Observational and Qualitative Studies.
The Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) has been linked with physical and mental health benefits. Previous research, however, suggests that adoption and adherence to a Mediterranean diet might be difficult for people who live outside of the Mediterranean region. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the factors that influence adoption and adherence to a Mediterranean style diet in adults aged 18 years old and over, as identified in published observational and qualitative studies. Following registration of our protocol on PROSPERO (ID: CRD42018116515), observational and qualitative studies of adults' perceptions and experiences relevant to following a Mediterranean style diet were identified using systematic searches of databases: MEDLINE, the Cochane Library, CINAHL, Web of Science and Scopus, over all years of records until February 2022. A narrative synthesis was then undertaken. Of 4559 retrieved articles, 18 studies fulfilled our inclusion criteria and were included. Factors influencing adoption and adherence to a MedDiet were identified and categorized as: financial, cognitive, socio-cultural, motivational, lifestyle, accessibility & availability, sensory & hedonic and demographic. Similar barriers and facilitators are often reported in relation to healthy eating or the consumption of specific healthy foods, with a few exceptions. These exceptions detailed concerns with specific components of the MedDiet; considerations due to culture and traditions, and concerns over a cooler climate. Suggestions for overcoming these barriers and facilitators specific to adoption and adherence to the Mediterranean diet are offered. These data will inform the development of future studies of robust methodology in eating behaviour change which offer pragmatic approaches for people to consume and maintain healthy diets.
Topics: Adult; Humans; Adolescent; Diet, Mediterranean; Diet, Healthy; Feeding Behavior; Qualitative Research; Life Style
PubMed: 36296998
DOI: 10.3390/nu14204314 -
European Journal of Public Health Jul 2021There is a growing body of research and evidence for the efficacy of Internet-based eating disorder (ED) prevention interventions for adults. However, much less is known...
BACKGROUND
There is a growing body of research and evidence for the efficacy of Internet-based eating disorder (ED) prevention interventions for adults. However, much less is known about the reach, adoption, implementation and maintenance of these interventions. The RE-AIM (reach, efficacy/effectiveness, adoption, implementation, maintenance) model provides a framework to systematically assess this information.
METHODS
A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science and PsycINFO for articles published between 2000 and 2019. Additionally, reference lists of the studies included and existing reviews published until the end of 2020 were searched. Sixty original articles describing 54 individual studies fulfilled inclusion criteria. Data were extracted for a total of 43 RE-AIM indicators for each study. Fostering and hindering factors for reach, adoption, implementation and maintenance were assessed qualitatively.
RESULTS
Overall reporting rates were best for the RE-AIM dimensions reach (62.6%), implementation (57.0%) and effectiveness (54.2%), while adoption (24.2%) and maintenance (21.5%) had comparatively low overall reporting rates. Reporting on indicators of internal validity, such as sample size, effects or description of interventions was better than indicators relevant for dissemination and implementation in real-world settings, e.g. characteristics of non-participants, characteristics and representativeness of settings, and data to estimate cost.
CONCLUSIONS
Because most Internet-based ED prevention interventions are provided in a research-funded context, little is known about their public health impact. Better reporting of factors determining external validity is needed to inform dissemination and implementation of these interventions.
Topics: Adult; Feeding and Eating Disorders; Health Promotion; Humans; Internet-Based Intervention; Public Health
PubMed: 34240154
DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckab044 -
Cureus Aug 2023Childhood obesity is a global public health problem with significant implications for the health and well-being of children. The prevalence of childhood obesity is... (Review)
Review
Childhood obesity is a global public health problem with significant implications for the health and well-being of children. The prevalence of childhood obesity is increasing every decade, making it a recognized public health concern. This systematic review aims to explore and evaluate the impact of school-based interventions on reducing pediatric obesity among school-aged children. A systematic review of literature according to the recommendations of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 was conducted. Google Scholar, PubMed, and Cochrane were the databases used. After screening for bias, inclusion and exclusion criteria, and quality, 27 studies were included in the systematic review, and data were synthesized. The results show that physical activity reduces obesity and improves cardiovascular health. The nutritional change reduces the risk of obesity more than physical activity alone. When blended, the two provide the most benefits for participants. Motivation, self-efficacy, and behavioral change could help maintain the improvements. Schools should adopt a blend of physical activity and nutritional change to reduce prevent, reduce, and manage obesity.
PubMed: 37692730
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.43153