bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Basing Information on Comprehensive, Critically Appraised, and Up-to-Date Syntheses of the Scientific Evidence: An Update from the International Patient Decision Aid Standards
Authors: Hoffmann Tammy C. , Bakhit Mina , Durand Marie-Anne , Perestelo-Pérez Lilisbeth , Saunders Catherine , Brito Juan P.
Published: March 2021

Background

Patients and clinicians expect the information in patient decision aids to be based on the best available research evidence. The objectives of this International Patient Decision Aid Standards (IPDAS) review were to 1) check the currency of, and where needed, update evidence for the domain of “basing the information in decision aids on comprehensive, critically appraised, and up-to-date syntheses of the evidence”; 2) analyze the evidence characteristics of decision aids; and 3) propose updates to relevant IPDAS criteria.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE and PubMed to inform updates of this domain’s definitions, justifications, and components. We also searched 5 sources to identify all publicly available decision aids ( N = 471). Two assessors independently extracted each aid’s evidence characteristics.

Results

Minor updates to the definitions and theoretical justifications of this IPDAS domain are provided and changes to relevant IPDAS criteria proposed. Nearly all aids (97%) provided a year of creation/update, but most (81%) did not report an explicit update or expiration policy. No scientific references were cited in 33% of aids. Of the 314 that cited at least 1 reference, 39% cited at least 1 guideline, 44% cited at least 1 systematic review, and 23% cited at least 1 randomized trial. In 35%, it was unclear what statement in the aid the citations referred to. Only 14% reported any of the processes used to find and decide on evidence inclusion. Only 14% reported the evidence quality. Many emerging issues and future research areas were identified.

Conclusions

Although many emerging issues need to be addressed, this IPDAS domain is validated and criteria refined. High-quality patient decision aids should be based on comprehensive and up-to-date syntheses of critically appraised evidence.
Development and evaluation of a computer-based decision support system for diffuse lung diseases at high-resolution computed tomography
Authors: Martin Simon S , Kolaneci Delina , Wichmann Julian L , Lenga Lukas , Leithner Doris , Vogl Thomas J , Jacobi Volkmar
Published: March 2021

Background

High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) is essential in narrowing the possible differential diagnoses of diffuse and interstitial lung diseases.

Purpose

To investigate the value of a novel computer-based decision support system (CDSS) for facilitating diagnosis of diffuse lung diseases at HRCT.

Material and Methods

A CDSS was developed that includes about 100 different illustrations of the most common HRCT signs and patterns and describes the corresponding pathologies in detail. The logical set-up of the software facilitates a structured evaluation. By selecting one or more CT patterns, the program generates a ranked list of the most likely differential diagnoses. Three independent and blinded radiology residents initially evaluated 40 cases with different lung diseases alone; after at least 12 weeks, observers re-evaluated all cases using the CDSS.

Results

In 40 patients, a total of 113 HRCT patterns were evaluated. The percentage of correctly classified patterns was higher with CDSS (96.8%) compared to assessment without CDSS (90.3%; P < 0.01). Moreover, the percentage of correct diagnosis (81.7% vs. 64.2%) and differential diagnoses (89.2% vs. 38.3%) were superior with CDSS compared to evaluation without CDSS (both P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Addition of a CDSS using a structured approach providing explanations of typical HRCT patterns and graphical illustrations significantly improved the performance of trainees in characterizing and correctly identifying diffuse lung diseases.
Clinical outcomes and survival analysis in patients with psycho-cardiological disease: a retrospective analysis of 132 cases
Authors: Lai Minhua , Shen Teimei , Cui Hong , Lin Lixia , Ran Peng , Huo Peixia , Chen Ling , Li Jingzhi
Published: March 2021

Objectives

The deleterious effects of psychological problems on coronary heart disease (CHD) are not satisfactorily explained. We explored influential factors associated with mortality in psycho-cardiological disease in a Chinese sample.

Methods

Of 7460 cardiac patients, we selected 132 patients with CHD and mental illness. Follow-up was conducted via telephone. We analyzed clinical characteristics, clinical outcomes, and survival.

Results

The clinical detection rate of psycho-cardiological disease in the overall patient population was 1.8%. Of these, 113 patients completed follow-up; 18 died owing to cardiovascular diseases during follow-up. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed dysphagia, limb function, self-care ability, percutaneous coronary intervention, low-density lipoprotein, total cholesterol, pro-brain natriuretic peptide and high-sensitivity (hs) troponin T had significant associations with cumulative survival. Cox regression analysis showed total cholesterol (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.765, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.001–7.641), hs troponin T (HR: 4.668, 95% CI: 1.293–16.854), and percutaneous coronary intervention (HR: 3.619, 95% CI: 1.383–9.474) were independently associated with cumulative survival.

Conclusions

The clinical detection rate of psycho-cardiological disease was far lower than expected. Normal total cholesterol and hs troponin T were associated with reduced cardiovascular disease mortality over 2 years. Percutaneous coronary intervention is a prognostic risk factor in patients with psycho-cardiological disease.
Effect of magnetic field and voids on Rayleigh waves in a nonlocal thermoelastic half-space
Authors: Abd-Alla AM , Abo-Dahab SM , Ahmed SM , Rashid MM
Published: March 2021

This work is concerned with the propagation of surface waves is considered in an isotropic elastic homogeneous nonlocal generalized thermoelastic solid medium in the presence of a magnetic field and voids. The normal mode analysis and Lame’s potential theory are used to solve the resulting non-dimensional coupled equations. Dispersion relation for Rayleigh surface wave are derived for both thermally insulated and isothermal surfaces. The non-dimensional wave speed of Rayleigh surface wave is computed for a specific material. The non-dimensional wave speed of Rayleigh surface waves are found to be influenced by the presence of voids, magnetic field, thermal field, and elastic nonlocal parameter. For a particular model, the effect of magnetic field, void parameters, thermal parameter, and nonlocality has been studied numerically on the Rayleigh surface waves. All the computed results obtained have been depicted graphically and explained.
Experimental Investigation into Driver Behavior along Curved and Parallel Diverging Terminals of Exit Interchange Ramps
Authors: Portera Alberto , Bassani Marco
Published: March 2021

Current design manuals provide guidance on how to design exit ramps to facilitate driving operations and minimize the incidence of crashes. They also suggest that interchanges should be built along straight roadway sections. These criteria may prove ineffective in situations where there is no alternative to terminals being located along curved motorway segments. The paper investigates driving behavior along parallel deceleration curved terminals, with attention paid to the difference in impact between terminals having a curvature which is the same sign as the motorway segment (i.e., continue design), and those having an opposite curvature (i.e., reverse design). A driving simulation study was set up to collect longitudinal and transversal driver behavioral data in response to experimental factor variations. Forty-eight drivers were stratified on the basis of age and gender, and asked to drive along three randomly assigned circuits with off-ramps obtained by combining experimental factors such as motorway mainline curve radius (2 values), terminal length (3), curve direction (2), and traffic conditions (2). The motorway radius was found to be significant for drivers’ preferred speed when approaching the terminal. Terminal length and traffic volume do not have a significant impact on either longitudinal or transversal driver outputs. However, the effect of curve direction was found to be significant, notably for reverse terminals which do not compel drivers to select appropriate speeds and lane change positions. This terminal type can give rise to critical driving situations that should be considered at the design stage to facilitate the adoption of appropriate safety countermeasures.
Correlation of Patient-Reported Outcomes After Periacetabular Osteotomy With Femoral Head Coverage and Acetabular Orientation: A Single-Center Cohort Study
Authors: Ibrahim Mazen M. , Smit Kevin , Poitras Stéphane , Grammatopoulos George , Beaulé Paul E.
Published: March 2021

Background:

Gaining a better understanding of the underlying pattern of acetabular dysplasia 3-dimensionally can help better guide treatment and optimize clinical outcomes after periacetabular osteotomy (PAO).

Purpose:

(1) To examine the relationship between femoral head coverage before and after PAO for dysplasia and patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) scores and (2) to assess if the direction/orientation of correction of the acetabulum can be predicted based on the Ottawa classification.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database from a single-center institutional registry of PAO was conducted, and PROM scores at a minimum of 2 years were analyzed. A total of 79 hips (67 patients [56 female]; mean age at surgery, 27.5 years [range, 15.8-53.7 years]) were available for inclusion. According to the Ottawa classification, 54 hips (68.4%) had global deficiency, 15 hips (18.9%) had posterior deficiency, and 10 hips (12.7%) had anterior deficiency. Hip2Norm software was used to analyze the 3-dimensional coverage of the femoral head. Statistical analysis was conducted to look at significant predictors of improvements in PROMs using the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for the Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS) Activities of Daily Living subscale.

Results:

At a mean follow-up of 3.1 years (range, 2.0-7.4 years), all functional outcome scores improved significantly. A postoperative total femoral coverage <75.7%, posterior coverage (PC) <45.2%, and femoral head extrusion index >15.5% were all associated with not reaching the MCID for the HOOS Activities of Daily Living subscale. Multivariate analysis showed that PC was the single most important significant modifier influencing functional outcomes after PAO for the treatment of acetabular dysplasia, with an odds ratio of 6.0 (95% CI, 1.8-20.4; P = .004). One-way analysis of variance showed a significant difference comparing the mean change in radiographic measurements, that is, anterior coverage, PC, and total femoral coverage, per the Ottawa classification ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

Our study demonstrated that postoperative femoral head coverage and acetabular orientation were significant predictors of PROM scores. Classifying acetabular dysplasia into 3 groups based on the plane of instability could optimize the planning of PAO by giving a better understanding of the 3-dimensional deformity.
Municipal solid waste management in refugee hosting communities: Analysis of a case study in northern Jordan
Authors: Gibellini Silvia , Abu Qdais Hani , Vaccari Mentore
Published: March 2021

The Syrian civil war, which broke out in 2011, caused the displacement of more than one million refugees to Jordan. Most of them settled in the Northern Govenorates of Jordan. Due to this, the local services and infrastructures of the hosting communities, in particular the solid waste management (SWM), were put under great pressure. The aim of this study is to evaluate how the off-camp refugees impacted the SWM in the Greater Irbid Municipality (GIM; in the Irbid Governorate), both quantitatively and qualitatively. Data and results obtained from the studies carried out before the Syrian crisis are compared with data collected by the authors in 2016 using similar or comparable methodologies. Moreover, local citizen perceptions of and satisfaction with the solid waste (SW) service level were assessed. A deterioration of the SWM in GIM between 2011 and 2016 was observed in terms of service performance indicators (e.g., an increase of SW collection and transportation costs by 2.5 times and of fines for improper SW disposal by 2.2 times) and of citizens’ views (a decline in SWM quality was felt by 59% of the respondents). An attempt to cope with this situation has been made in recent years with international donors mobilizing efforts and resources to enable municipalities to meet the growing demand in basic SW services. There is however, still much to be done.
I Just Have to Try Harder: Examining the Mindsets of Students with LD
Authors: Goegan Lauren D. , Pelletier Gabrielle N. , Daniels Lia M.
Published: March 2021

Growth and fixed mindset messaging is gaining popularity. In our pilot study, we examine the mindsets of students with learning disabilities (LD) to determine how their self-beliefs relate to this messaging. Our results demonstrate that students with LD endorse growth mindsets more than fixed mindsets which is consistent with their peers without LD. Moreover, in their comments about being a student with LD, participants highlight important components of growth mindset messaging. However, some comments may reflect a false-growth mindset wherein students are only focused on effort and not the additional resources required for growth. We provide directions for future research.
Reducing Barriers and Achieving Success in Registration Examination Among Internationally Educated Nurses: A Participatory Action Research Project
Authors: Belita Lydia Lorna , Ford Patricia Ann
Published: March 2021

Background

Multiple challenges impede the Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs) professional development and success in writing the registration examination. This paper aims to explore these challenges and describes the educational program which adopts a tailored mentoring approach to facilitate their successful completion of the registration exam. Methodology: Participatory Action Research model informed the development and revision of the educational process. For this qualitative study, individual 1:1 audiotaped and telephone interviews were conducted among the initial participants to explore their experiences in the program.

Results

Findings from this study provided more insights as to participants’ success in passing registration examination and enhanced performance in their clinical practices. From the thematic analysis, we interpreted the IEN’s journey in their knowledge transition into four major themes: Acknowledging the barriers, Learning the new culture, Making progress, Transitioning into power.

Conclusion

This project demonstrated that the integration of a strong mentor-mentee relationship that gives voice to the participants’ learning experience so as to meet their knowledge gaps, engenders a deeper understanding of Canadian professional nursing practice, positions them for success in writing the registration examination and builds a sense of empowerment among them.
Extent of and Reasons for Vaccine Hesitancy in Adults at High-Risk for Pneumococcal Disease
Authors: Gatwood Justin , McKnight Madison , Frederick Kelsey , Hohmeier Kenneth , Kapan Shiyar , Chiu Chi-Yang , Renfro Chelsea , Hagemann Tracy
Published: March 2021

Purpose:

To determine the extent of and reasons for hesitancy toward vaccination among adults at high-risk for pneumococcal disease.

Design:

Cross-sectional.

Setting:

Online survey in March-April 2019 via QuestionPro.

Subjects:

Tennessee adults (18-64 years) at high-risk of pneumococcal disease (n = 1,002).

Measures:

Modified version of the validated Vaccine Hesitancy Scale assessed vaccine-related beliefs, reasons for hesitancy, external influences on vaccination, and prior vaccination

Analysis:

Descriptive and inferential statistics provided an overview of the responses and comparisons among subgroups. Logistic regression determined the odds of being hesitant using the listed beliefs and influencers as predictors. Thematic analysis was performed on the qualitative data gathered from free response questions throughout the survey.

Results:

Analysis included 1,002 complete responses (12% response rate [total viewed = 8,331]) with 34.3% indicating hesitancy toward one or more recommended vaccinations, with 53% of which indicating hesitancy to the pneumococcal vaccine despite it being recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) for all respondents. The odds of vaccine hesitancy or resistance were higher in minorities (OR: 1.6; 95% CI: 1.19-2.11), those not believing others like them get vaccinated (OR: 1.82; 95% CI: 1.262-2.613), and respondents recalling negative media about vaccines (OR: 2.56; 95% CI: 1.797-3.643).

Conclusions:

Patients at high-risk of pneumococcal disease lack awareness of the need for the recommended vaccine, and provider education may need improving to increase vaccination in this population.
Measurement of five-degrees-of-freedom spindle error motion using multi probe error separation
Authors: Baek Sang-Woo , Hwang In-Oh , Cho Nahm-Gyoo
Published: March 2021

Herein, a precision measurement method is proposed to evaluate the radial, axial, and tilt error motions of rotating devices such as precision spindles. To improve the accuracy of the estimated multiple-degree-of-freedom error motion components, form error signals in the runout signals are separated and precompensated for before the calculation of the five-degrees-of-freedom error motion components. Fourier model-based multi probe error separation (MPES) techniques, which can prevent the occurrence of harmonic distortions, are applied to separate the form error signals. A three-probe method is applied to layers on the side surface of the cylindrical artifact, and a modified two-probe method is developed and applied to the upper surface. The radial, tilt, and axial error motions are calculated using the runout signals that do not contain the separated form error signals. The measurement system uses eight capacitive probes to detect the runout signals of the cylindrical artifact mounted at the center of the rotating device. To compare the proposed method with the five-probe-based conventional measuring method, an evaluation test simulation is conducted repeatedly five times. Results indicate that the proposed MPES method calculated the uncertainty using the deviation between the computed results from the existing and novel methods; additionally, the input signal in terms of the radial, tilt (layers 1 and 2), and axial error motions are [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text], respectively. It is confirmed that the undesirable effects of the form error signals are successfully removed and that the accuracies of the measured spindle error motion components improve.
Adsorptive removal of lead and cadmium ions from aqueous solutions by aluminium oxide modified onion skin wastes: Adsorbent characterization, equilibrium modelling and kinetic studies
Authors: Yusuff Adeyinka Sikiru
Published: March 2021

Aluminium oxide modified onion skin waste (Al2O3/OSW) was characterized and used for adsorption of metal ions (Pb2+ and Cd2+) in this study, and the relations between sorbent properties and metal ion sorption were investigated. The effects of adsorption process conditions on metal ion removal efficiency, including initial cation concentration, contact time, adsorbent dosage and pH, were examined. The obtained adsorption data were analyzed by various adsorption isotherm and kinetic models. It was found that the optimum values of the initial concentration, contact time, adsorbent dosage and pH were 10 mg/L, 120 min, 1.6 g/L and 6.0, respectively. At these optimum conditions, maximum removal percentages of Pb2+ and Cd2+ were 91.23 and 94.10%, respectively. The isotherm and kinetic studies showed a multilayer adsorbate-adsorbent system with the dominance of the chemisorption mechanism. The study concluded that onion skin waste is a viable, cheap and effective alternative for removing heavy metal ions from water/wastewater.
One-year prospective nerve conduction study of thalidomide neuropathy in lupus erythematosus: Incidence, coasting effect and drug plasma levels
Authors: Yuki Emily Figueiredo Neves , Soares Renata , Kupa Léonard de Vinci Kanda , Heise Carlos Otto , Aikawa Nadia Emi , Arnone Marcelo , Romiti Ricardo , Pedrosa Tatiana do Nascimento , Silva Clovis Artur Almeida da , Bonfa Eloisa , Pasoto Sandra Gofinet
Published: March 2021

Background

Few prospective studies in cutaneous and systemic lupus erythematosus (CLE/SLE) assessed thalidomide-induced peripheral neuropathy (TiPN) incidence/reversibility, and most have not excluded confounding causes neither monitored thalidomide plasma levels.

Objectives

To evaluate TiPN incidence/reversibility, coasting effect and its association with thalidomide plasma levels in CLE/SLE.

Methods

One-year prospective study of thalidomide in 20 CLE/SLE patients without pregnancy potential, with normal nerve conduction study (NCS), and excluded other PN causes. Thalidomide levels were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

Twelve patients (60%) developed TiPN: 33.3% were symptomatic and 66.6% asymptomatic. Half of this latter group developed coasting effect (TiPN symptoms 1-3 months after drug withdrawal). The main predictive factors for TiPN were treatment duration ≥6 months (p = 0.025) and cumulative dose (p = 0.023). No difference in plasma thalidomide levels between patients with/without TiPN was observed (p = 0.464). After drug withdrawal, 75% symptomatic TiPN patients improved their symptoms. Seven TiPN patients underwent an additional NCS after drug withdrawal: 42.8% worsened NCS, 14.2% was stable, and 42.8% had improved NCS.

Conclusion

Our data provides novel evidence of coasting effect in half of asymptomatic patients with TiPN. The irreversible nature of this lesion in 25% of TiPN patients reinforces the relevance of early NCS monitoring, and suggests thalidomide use solely as a bridge for other effective therapy for refractory cutaneous lupus patients.
Combined aerobic and resistance training improves physical and executive functions in women with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Kao Victoria PY , Wen Huei-Jhen , Pan Yu-Jen , Pai Chia-Sheng , Tsai Shih-Tzu , Su Kuei-Ying
Published: March 2021

Objectives

Exercise is considered as an adjuvant therapeutic modality to alleviate symptoms of several rheumatic diseases. However, data regarding the benefits of exercise to patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are relatively scant.

Methods

This study aimed to assess the effects of regular, moderate-intensity, aerobic exercise combined with resistance training on women with SLE who had no regular exercise. Patients were recruited and allocated into either the exercise or control group by their willingness. Patients in the exercise group (n = 12) underwent 12 weeks of combined exercise (five days per week), whereas those in the control group (n = 11) maintained their usual lifestyle.

Results

At baseline, there were no between-group differences in body composition, disease activity, two-kilometer walking test, and executive function test. After the combined exercise intervention for 12 weeks, significant improvements of both fitness index and reaction time to the stimuli in the go/no-go test were observed in the exercise group, but not in the control group. The disease activities in both study groups did not change significantly at the end of the study period.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that regular moderate-intensity aerobic exercise combined with resistance training improves the physical and executive functions of SLE patients without exacerbating disease activity.
Nailfold capillary abnormalities in childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus: a cross-sectional study compared with healthy controls
Authors: Schonenberg-Meinema Dieneke , Bergkamp Sandy C , Nassar-Sheikh Rashid Amara , van der Aa Leontien B , de Bree Godelieve J , ten Cate Rebecca , Cutolo Maurizio , Hak A Elisabeth , Hissink Muller Petra CE , van Onna Marieke , Kuijpers Taco W , Smith Vanessa , van den Berg J Merlijn
Published: March 2021

Objectives

For selection of high-risk systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients it is necessary to obtain indicators of disease severity that predict disease damage. As in systemic sclerosis, nailfold capillary abnormalities could be such a biomarker in SLE. The primary objective of this cross-sectional study is to describe capillary abnormalities in childhood-onset SLE (cSLE) cohort (onset < 18 years) and compare them with matched healthy controls. The secondary objective is to correlate the observed capillary abnormalities with demographical variables in both cohorts and with disease-specific variables in cSLE patients.

Methods

Healthy controls were matched for ethnic background, age and gender. Videocapillaroscopy was performed in eight fingers with 2-4 images per finger. Quantitative and qualitative assessments of nailfold capillaroscopy images were performed according to the definitions of the EULAR study group on microcirculation in Rheumatic Diseases.

Results

Both groups (n = 41 cSLE-patients and n = 41 healthy controls) were comparable for ethnic background (p = 0.317). Counted per mm, cSLE-patients showed significantly more ‘giants’ (p = 0.032), ‘abnormal capillary shapes’ (p = 0.003), ‘large capillary hemorrhages’ (p < 0.001) and ‘pericapillary extravasations’ (p < 0.001). Combined ‘abnormal capillary shapes and pericapillary extravasations’ (in the same finger) were detected in 78% (32/41 patients). By qualitative analysis, ‘microangiopathy’ was detected in 68.3% (28/41) and a ‘scleroderma pattern’ in 17.1% (7/41) of the cSLE-patients (without scleroderma symptoms). The difference of percentage positive anti-RNP antibodies in the group with or without a scleroderma pattern was not significant (p = 0.089). The number of ‘abnormal capillary shapes per mm’ was significantly correlated with treatment-naivety. The number of ‘large pathological hemorrhages per mm’ was significantly correlated with SLEDAI score and presence of nephritis. Compared to healthy controls, ‘pericapillary extravasations’ were found in significantly higher numbers per mm (p < 0.001) as well as in percentage of patients (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our observations confirm that giants, abnormal capillary morphology and capillary hemorrhages are also observed in cSLE, as was already known for adults with SLE. Number of capillary hemorrhages in cSLE was significantly correlated with disease activity. A high frequency and total amount of “pericapillary extravasations” was observed in cSLE patients, possibly revealing a new subtype of capillary hemorrhage that might reflect endothelial damage in these pediatric patients.
Testing and Diagnosis as Social Interventions: An Interview with Annemarie Jutel
Authors: Pienaar Kiran , Petersen Alan
Published: March 2021

Kiran Pienaar (KP) and Alan Petersen (AP): Thank you, Annemarie, for agreeing to share your perspectives in this interview. We are delighted to have this opportunity to engage with your insights and scholarly contributions on the sociology of diagnosis.

In 2011 you co-edited a special issue of Social Science and Medicine entitled ‘Toward a Sociology of Diagnosis’ in which you called for sociologists to pay more attention to medical diagnosis as a central practice and classification tool of medicine. In the introduction, you note that ‘diagnosis has had an absent presence in the sociology of health and illness’ (Jutel & Nettleton, 2011, p. 793). Do you think this is still the case or has the field developed since then to attend more closely to the social issues and processes at work in diagnosis? In your view, does diagnosis merit continued/renewed sociological attention? And if so, why?
Scientific Citizenship’s Youngest Domain: Function Creep in Norway’s Newborn Screening Programme
Authors: Evans-Jordan Sarah B. , Skolbekken John-Arne
Published: March 2021

Newborn screening (NBS) for inborn errors of metabolism and other serious conditions with onset during infancy is a widespread public health initiative. Like other screening programmes, it aims to discover and treat a disease before effects manifest themselves. Recently, there have been two prominent changes in NBS: a substantial increase in the number of conditions screened for and growing attention to secondary use of residual newborn blood spots. Here, we analyse how this latter change has transpired in Norway.

In 2018, Norway’s parliament sanctioned the secondary use of NBS samples for epidemiological research unrelated to NBS. This broadened the programme’s scope, co-opting it for research purposes, making samples available for inclusion in Norway’s biobanking strategy. We argue that this transformation is a case of function creep, whereby the function of screening samples is expanded to serve purposes other than helping newborns. The process provided only minimal involvement from ordinary citizens, but it transformed screened infants into potential scientific citizens. Henceforth, all future generations of Norwegians must choose to stay in or opt out of biobank research when they turn sixteen. Additionally, consenting to this research may occasion a second form of function creep, as ‘actionable findings’ are fed back to participants.
Book review: Peter A. Fanconi and Patrick Scheurle, Small Money Big Impact: Fighting Poverty with Microfinance
Authors: Matharu Sukhjeet Kaur
Published: March 2021

Peter A. Fanconi and Patrick Scheurle, Small Money Big Impact: Fighting Poverty with Microfinance, 2017, New York, NY: Wiley, 272 pp., ₹3975. ISBN: 9781119338208.
Antioxidant Levels in Cord Blood of Term Low Birth Weight Neonates Requiring Delivery Room Resuscitation
Authors: Sonowal Rimjhim , Jain Anamika , Bhargava V. , Khanna H.D. , Kumar Ashok
Published: March 2021

Objective:

The objective of this study was to evaluate the serum levels of various antioxidants, namely, vitamin A and E, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in the cord blood of term low birth weight (LBW) neonates who required delivery room resuscitation (DRR).

Materials and Methods:

This case control study included 37 term LBW neonates who needed DRR as cases and 44 term neonates as controls (15 term LBW and 29 term normal birth weight) who did not require resuscitation at birth. Neonates suffering from major congenital malformations, infection, or hemolytic disease were excluded. Standard methods were used to measure the levels of vitamin A, vitamin E, SOD, catalase, and GPx levels in the cord blood.

Results:

Vitamin A and E levels were significantly low in cases compared to term LBW controls as well as term normal birth weight controls. Levels of SOD, GPx, and catalase were comparable in different study groups.

Conclusion:

Our study shows that term LBW neonates requiring DRR had significantly low levels of vitamin A and E in their cord blood. This might compromise their ability to tolerate oxidative stress during DRR.
Modes of Interaction in Naturally Occurring Medical Encounters With General Practitioners: The “One in a Million” Study
Authors: Lian Olaug S. , Nettleton Sarah , Wifstad Åge , Dowrick Christopher
Published: March 2021

In this article, we qualitatively explore the manner and style in which medical encounters between patients and general practitioners (GPs) are mutually conducted, as exhibited in situ in 10 consultations sourced from the One in a Million: Primary Care Consultations Archive in England. Our main objectives are to identify interactional modes, to develop a classification of these modes, and to uncover how modes emerge and shift both within and between consultations. Deploying an interactional perspective and a thematic and narrative analysis of consultation transcripts, we identified five distinctive interactional modes: question and answer (Q&A) mode, lecture mode, probabilistic mode, competition mode, and narrative mode. Most modes are GP-led. Mode shifts within consultations generally map on to the chronology of the medical encounter. Patient-led narrative modes are initiated by patients themselves, which demonstrates agency. Our classification of modes derives from complete naturally occurring consultations, covering a wide range of symptoms, and may have general applicability.
Outpatient Palliative Care Practice for Cancer Patients During COVID-19 Pandemic: Benefits and Barriers of Using Telemedicine
Authors: Silva Milagros D. , Schack Elizabeth E.
Published: March 2021

The current COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the way outpatient palliative care providers deliver care for patients and their families. Operational changes such as the reduction of in-person care to minimize the risk of exposure is a way healthcare has adjusted to the pandemic. Our New York City-based outpatient palliative care practice is embedded in oncology. Adopting telemedicine was an essential tool to continue providing comprehensive palliative care to vulnerable oncology patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. We describe a case illustrating the benefits and barriers of telemedicine in the care of an oncology patient in the outpatient palliative care setting.
Book Review: Wittenberg, E., Goldsmith, J. V., Ragan, S. L., & Parnell, T. A. (2020). Caring for the Family Caregiver: Palliative Care Communication and Health Literacy. Oxford University Press
Authors: Prince-Paul Maryjo
Published: March 2021

Caring for the Family Caregiver is published by Oxford University Press and introduces the novel framework of the Family Caregiver Communication Typology. The volume offers a close analysis of caregiver health literacy and patient outcomes and invites readers to consider the family system as the driver in shaping how family caregivers deal with chronic illness demands. The expertise of all authors (three health communication scholars and one nurse who is a health literacy expert) in the analysis illuminates the delicate balance between caregivers’ ability to understand and communicate in the context of social determinants of health. The book shares the interwoven challenges of palliative care, family caregiving, and health literacy. Caring for the Family Caregiver establishes the urgent call to address family caregiver information and communication needs and leaves the reader empowered to make changes in their own clinical practice communication and/or develop family caregiving research that addresses cultural and social factors.
A chemo-micromechanical damage model of concrete under sulfate attack
Authors: Zhou Shuai , Ju J Woody
Published: March 2021

It is essential to explore the corrosion cracking of concrete under sulfate attack to predict the service performance and durability of concrete structures. The damage degree of concrete caused by sulfate attack is quantitatively investigated. Based on the damage mechanism of the local cracking stage, a chemo-micromechanical damage model of sulfate attack of concrete is established by elasto-damage mechanics. The progressive degradation behavior of concrete under sulfate attack is divided into three zones, including the chemical corrosion zone, the damaged concrete zone by expansive stress, and the intact concrete zone. The proposed chemo-micromechanical damage model can quantitatively determine the effects of chemical sulfate corrosion on mechanical properties of concrete. In addition, the present model considers the interaction among corrosion products, the damaged concrete, the intact concrete and uncorrupted hydration products. The comparison between the calculation results and the available experimental data shows that the proposed model is feasible for corrosion cracking analysis. Based on the proposed model, the influencing factors of concrete damage are discussed. With the increase of corrosion degree, the content of corrosion products, the expansion coefficient of corrosion products and the initial radius of corrosion products, the elastic moduli of concrete decrease after sulfate attack. When the tensile strength and rigidity of concrete matrix reduce, the effective elastic moduli of concrete after sulfate attack also deteriorate. The numerical results exhibit that the proposed chemo-micromechanical model is of notable significance to the application of the chemo-mechanical coupling problems of cementitious composite materials.
Provider Attitudes and Self-Efficacy When Delivering a Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Module: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Guastaferro Kate , Font Sarah A. , Miyamoto Sheridan , Zadzora Kathleen M. , Walters Katie E. , O’Hara Kathryn , Kemner Allison , Noll Jennie G.
Published: March 2021

Background

As constant figures in children’s lives, parents are key in protecting children from sexual abuse. One barrier to reaching parents is that the topic can be difficult to broach and is sensitive in nature. Such barriers can interfere with implementation and fidelity of evidence-based prevention strategies that are focused on reducing rates of childhood sexual abuse (CSA).

Aims

In this exploratory study, we examine provider attitudes about delivering CSA-specific content in an evidence-based prevention module and their self-efficacy.

Method

Thirty-three providers participated in three surveys: prior to a skills-oriented training on how to deliver the CSA prevention module (pretraining), immediately posttraining, and 6 months posttraining. Changes in self-reported willingness to deliver content, beliefs about parents’ role in CSA prevention, and confidence about their ability to deliver content were assessed over time. Open-ended questions were coded thematically to reinforce quantitative findings.

Results

Prior to training, providers were worried that parents would respond negatively to CSA content and were concerned about their comfort level discussing victimization and sexual development. Findings suggest that skill-oriented training and provision scripts effectively supported providers and improved confidence in delivering CSA prevention content.

Discussion

Provider self-efficacy is an important element of implementation fidelity. This exploratory study demonstrated that, though providers may approach CSA content with wariness and trepidation, adequate skills-oriented training can reduce negative attitudes and increase perceived efficacy in the actual delivery of CSA content that persists through implementation.

Conclusion

Skills-based training can significantly enhance fidelity in the delivery of difficult content included in parent-focused preventative interventions.
Exploring the Determinants of Hotel Operating Performance Stabilization in Emerging Markets: Deciphering the Myth
Authors: Tan Karen Pei-Sze , Li Xiang (Robert) , Lee Seoki
Published: March 2021

Guided by resource-based view, this study investigates performance stabilization of new hotels in emerging markets. Profitability measures (e.g., gross operating profit percentage [GOP%]) and standard operating metrics (i.e., average daily rate [ADR], occupancy, and revenue per available room [RevPAR]) for 105 hotels in China, Indonesia, and Thailand were collected from 2002 to 2015. Growth analysis of the data showed that, contrary to industry assumptions within mature markets, most hotels did not stabilize when standard operating metrics were used; even when they did, they took significantly longer than 3 years. Instead, GOP% was identified as the best measure to exhibit stable performance; hence, this measure was econometrically regressed against each hotel’s comparative advantages. Results showed that real estate type and hotel positioning significantly affected performance stabilization, whereas location and scale did not. This study contributes to the current dearth of literature on strategic management and hotel performance, providing previously unavailable empirical evidence relating to bottom-line profitability.
Capturing the Added Value of Participatory Evaluation
Authors: Odera Erica L.
Published: March 2021

Narrative case studies have shown that, when people are involved in an evaluation of a program they are part of, it can change how they experience the program. This study used a quasi-experiment to test this proposition empirically in the context a participatory action research curriculum called Youth as Researchers. Half of all Youth as Researcher groups engaged in a participatory evaluation (PE) of their program experience through writing reflective essays, creating their own evaluation questions, and conducting peer interviews. The other half served as control groups and did not engage in the PE activities. Pre-/posttest surveys and focus group data were used to assess differences among the experimental and control groups. Study results show that participants in the experiment had important differences in their experiences in the program as a result of participation in the evaluation. Implications for future practice and research are also explored.
A Novel Application of Photovoice in a Statewide Home Visiting Evaluation
Authors: Agu Ngozichukwuka , Rojas Dogeli , Foti Tara , Birriel Pamela C. , Delva Jennifer , Bello Temitope , Sharon Vanessa , Kaushik Shruti , Marshall Jennifer
Published: March 2021

Photovoice is an empowering, qualitative, community-based participatory research method that engages participants to take photographs and reflect on their meanings. We employed a novel application of a Photovoice-inspired methodology to evaluate perinatal home visiting services. This article describes the feasibility and utility of remote implementation of a Photovoice-inspired project in one state’s federally funded Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Initiative. The initial project aimed to identify aspects of parenting roles/identities, goals, and home visitor–client relationship that can be leveraged to improve program engagement and retention. Training materials were sent to home visitors who acted as liaisons with parents. Reflective interviews about this photo-elicitation method conducted with parents, home visitors, and the evaluators following the project revealed that informational materials were beneficial to understanding the process. Home visitors were noted as gatekeepers and key motivators. Trainings, flexibility, timely communication, and logistics should be considered when remotely implementing Photovoice.
Analysis of Evaluation Policies in the Philanthropic Sector
Authors: Kinarsky Alana R. , Christie Christina A.
Published: March 2021

Since 2007, two taxonomies have been proposed to identify the components of evaluation practice that may be specified in an evaluation policy. Little is known, however, about how these taxonomies align with evaluation policies developed by philanthropic foundations. Through thematic analysis, this article first compares 12 foundation evaluation policies to the components of the two existing taxonomies. Based on this analysis, an updated taxonomy is proposed, with 11 components to inform evaluation policies in the philanthropic sector and beyond. The 12 foundation policies are then reexamined in relation to the new taxonomy to compare their length, breadth, and depth. This article concludes with implications for practice and suggestions for future research.
Comments on one- versus two-stage procedure for transposed brachio-basilic arteriovenous fistulae
Authors: Hong Joon Ho
Published: March 2021

The maturation and long-term patency of transposed brachio-basilic arteriovenous fistulae can best be achieved not by adopting a two-stage construction procedure, but by using a loop configuration and an anastomosis angle that allows for the most favorable flow dynamics.
Quantitative Ultrasound to Assess Skeletal Muscles in Post Stroke Spasticity
Authors: Tran Anthony , Gao Jing
Published: March 2021

Quantitative ultrasound (QUS) techniques such as pixel intensity, ultrasound strain, and shear wave elastography have made it possible to identify the echogenicity (brightness) and mechanical properties (stiffness) of normal and pathological tissues. These techniques can be utilized as an alternative diagnosis tool to assess post stroke spasticity. Current clinical assessment methods include the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) and the Modified Tardieu Scale (MTS), which can result in inconsistencies due to their subjective nature. QUS provides robust approaches to assessing muscle stiffness associated with post stroke spasticity. Computer-aided pixel count quantifies tissue echogenicity in grayscale image. A strain ratio in ultrasound strain imaging compares the stiffness and movement (lengthening or shortening) of a spastic muscle with nonspecific muscle. In addition, shear wave elastography provides the shear wave velocity of an affected muscle that directly associated with the muscle stiffness before and after treatment for spasticity. This article reviews the theory behind these aforementioned concepts and discuss the relations between QUS and skeletal muscles in post stroke spasticity.
Exposure to COVID-19 and travel intentions: Evidence from Spain
Authors: Boto-García David , Leoni Veronica
Published: March 2021

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has disrupted the global economy. Since containment measures directly limit mobility and social interactions, the pandemic has substantially affected the tourism sector. This work explores the effect of COVID-19 exposure on people’s travel intentions during the summer of 2020 use representative survey data for 3873 individuals collected in Spain, one of the countries with the highest infection and mortality rates. We define exposure to COVID-19 at two levels: (i) zonal, according to the degree of limitations imposed in the zone where the respondent lives, and (ii) individual, according to whether the individual has personally suffered from COVID-19 symptoms. We perform regression analysis and propensity score matching and also consider potential treatment heterogeneity. The results consistently show that those who were more severely affected by the pandemic exhibit a relatively higher willingness to travel.
A comparison of perceived effectiveness of preventive behaviors against COVID-19 between the public and medical experts: Not so different in means, but in distributions
Authors: Nakayachi Kazuya , Ozaki Taku , Shibata Yukihide , Yokoi Ryosuke
Published: March 2021

This brief report documents the results of a survey that measured the public’s and doctors’ perceived effectiveness of preventive behaviors against COVID-19, in Japan. Medical doctors ( n = 117) and the general public ( n = 1086) participated in our online survey. The results of the analysis of mean scores indicate that there were only slight differences in perceived effectiveness between the two groups, while the differences in distributions were remarkable. The results of Silverman’s test suggest the unimodality of doctors’ responses and multimodality of the public’s responses. Implications of the findings to combat the risk of infection are discussed.