bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hypercholesterolemia and LDL Apheresis
Authors: Morelli F. , Carlier P. , Giannini G. , De Luigi M.C. , Dejana A. , Ruzzenenti M.R. , Valbonesi M.
Published: January 2018

Several trials have assessed the link between low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) and the development of coronary heart disease (CHD). LDL apheresis provides an effective role in treating patients with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) and in preventing the progression of coronary artery disease (CAD). Five different techniques of LDL apheresis are in current use: immunoadsorption (IMA), dextran sulphate-cellulose adsorption (DSA), heparin extracorporeal LDL precipitation system (HELP), double filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP) or lipidfiltration and direct adsorption of lipoprotein using hemoperfusion (DALI). All methods are efficient, but their cost restricts LDL apheresis to the treatment of FH. Indications could include other diseases, but controlled trials are still lacking.
Implant Infections Due to Enterococci: Role of Capsular Polysaccharides and Biofilm
Authors: Fabretti F. , Huebner J.
Published: January 2018

Enterococci are natural inhabitants of the gastrointestinal tract and of the female genital tract of humans and many animals. In recent years, enterococci have been increasingly recognized as important human pathogens causing infections associated with medical devices. Their resistance to most antimicrobial agents and their ability to form biofilm has contributed to the increasing incidence of nosocomial enterococcal infections. Enterococci possess a capsular polysaccharide composed of a glycerol-teichoic acid-like molecule consisting of repeating units of 6-α-D-glucose-1-2-glycerol-3-PO4, substituted on carbon 2 with a α-2,1-linked molecule of glucose. Using both immunologic and genetic data E. faecalis can be assigned to specific serotypes based on capsular polysaccharides. Clinical examples of foreign-body infections due to enterococci are described, comprising infections of artificial joints, implanted intravascular catheters, artificial hearts and artificial valves, stents, liquor shunt devices, and intraocular infections. Methods to prevent and/or treat enterococcal infections are presented.
The “Ronco” Catheter for Continuous Flow Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Ronco C. , Dell'Aquila R. , Rodighiero M.P. , Di Loreto P. , Nalesso F. , Spanò E. , Parkhill R. , Amerling R. , Levin N.
Published: January 2018

To perform CFPD, a two way access must be available in order to allow continuous inflow and outflow of the solution. This is most likely achieved with a double lumen peritoneal catheter. To design a double lumen catheter does not necessarily mean to increase the size of the tube or to increase the discomfort of the patient. However, the real challenge is to find a design in which minimal re-circulation is experienced. The two tips of the catheter must be positioned such that a maximal exposure of the peritoneal surface to the fluid is guaranteed during one single passage of the fluid from one lumen to another.

Double lumen catheters with one short branch and another long of straight and of spiral shape were originally designed. Ash and coworkers have designed a catheter with a t-shape configuration in order to distantiate to the maximum the tips of the two lumens. Recently we have designed a novel catheter for CFPD equipped with a thin walled silicone diffuser used to gently diffuse the inflow dialysate into the peritoneum. The holes on the round tapered diffuser are positioned to allow dialysate to perpendicularly exit 360 degrees from the diffuser. The diffuser design and hole locations disperse the high-flow dialysate fluid at 360 degrees, reducing trauma to the peritoneal walls and allowing the dialysate to mix into the peritoneum. The dispersed fluid infused into the peritoneal cavity is then drained through the second lumen whose tip is placed into the lower Douglas cavity. The new catheter with diffuser is also equipped with a special removable hub that allows for easy creation of the subcutaneous tunnel without increasing the size of the skin exit site. The results so far achieved seems to offer advantages in terms of high flows, minimal pressure regimes and negligible recirculation.
The Catheter as Ariadne's Thread to Follow the Path of Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) through the Long-Term Experience of a Center
Authors: Pacitti A.
Published: January 2018

In our institution, the first patient was treated by HD in 1955. In the middle of the '60s, the PD technique, revised by Maxwell (1), was implemented. The access to peritoneum was obtained by repeated puncturing of the abdomen, the catheter being removed after each session. In 1966, our first results on one year of PD were published (20 patients treated, 13 affected by ARF and 7 by CRF, for a total number of 150 sessions). Since 1967, the procedure of the repeated punturing was improved by the Seldinger technique. The efficiency of the PD intermittent treatment was increased with the “fast shift” schedule and PD automation was pursued with the project of a cycler (1968). The first CRF patients were treated by fast shift PD.

In the late intermittent PD phase, the adoption of permanent catheters, destined to endure in our practice, the rigid and the soft indwelling for long-term treatments, allowed us to launch programs of home and nocturnal PD.

With the incoming CAPD age, the greatest care was directed to the role of the catheter. The adoption of the surgical insertion by paramedian approach through rectus muscle, minimized, in our experience, the early complications.

With the reduction of peritonitis rate, the later catheter complications increased in terms of patient discomfort, hospitalization and technique survival. On those grounds, in our institution a prospective trial on a ten year period was undertaken to compare, in terms of late complications rate, new versions of the classic Tenckhoff straight catheter (ST). The surgical insertion method was adopted for all the types, for a total of 196 catheters in 163 CRF patients. The tip displacement rate (12.2% with ST) decreased, albeit non significantly, with Swan Neck (7.9%), but was markedly and significantly reduced (1.0%) with the Self-Locating (SL) catheter experience. The surgical insertion of SL was comparable to that of ST. For those reasons, in recent years, in our institution the SL catheter became the first choice catheters for CRF patients.
Evaluation of Hygiene and Safety Controls for On-Line Paired Hemodiafiltration (PHF)
Authors: Mandolfo S. , Corsi A. , Wratten M.L. , Sereni L. , Imbasciati E.
Published: January 2018

Background

On-line hemodiafiltration is gaining popularity due to increasing evidence of clinical benefits however it also requires strict attention to hygiene and safety as notable quantities of liquid are reinfused into the patient. Although most centers are improving their attention to water quality, a frequent concern is the inadvertent or accidental contamination of water and whether the redundant safety controls are sufficient to protect the patient. In the present study, in order to simulate a worst-case safety condition, we tested in vitro the reliability of paired hemodiafiltration – (PHF), under low, moderate and high bacterial contamination of the water supply. Tests were performed using various bacterial concentrations (range 85–2000 cfu/mL) of Pseudomonas Aeruginosa. Samples were analyzed from different sites throughout the entire on-line hemodiafiltration circuit for bacteria endotoxin, fungus and ability to stimulate whole blood production of TNF α.

Results

In the in vitro contamination study, with the three bacterial concentrations tested at various points of the circuit, bacteria were below the level of detection and endotoxins were < 0.01 UE/mL. Addition of dialysate samples taken after the first stage of microfiltration, as well as after the first and second stage of ultrafiltration and incubated with whole blood were not associated with stimulated production of TNFα.

Conclusions

PHF appeared to be a safe and feasible method for on-line hemodiafiltration even in the unforeseen presence of bacterial contamination of the feed water or water distribution system.
Sildenafil in Dialysis Patients
Authors: Sam R. , Patel P.
Published: January 2018

Some of the highest rates of erectile dysfunction are seen in patients with renal failure, especially those on dialysis. The treatment of erectile dysfunction has been revolutionized in the last decade by the introduction of sildenafil. The literature on sildenafil in dialysis patients is here reviewed. Sildenafil seems to be both safe and effective in the treatment of sexual dysfunction in the dialysis population.
Antibacterial Activity of Zinc Modified Titanium Oxide Surface
Authors: Petrini P. , Arciola C.R. , Pezzali I. , Bozzini S. , Montanaro L. , Tanzi M.C. , Speziale P. , Visai L.
Published: January 2018

Titanium-based implants are successfully used for various biomedical applications. However, in some cases, e.g. in dental implants, failures due to bacterial colonization are reported. Surface modification is a commonly proposed strategy to prevent infections. In this work, titanium oxide, naturally occurring on the surface of titanium, was modified by promoting the formation of a mixed titanium and zinc oxide, on the basis of the idea that zinc oxide on titanium surface may act as the zinc oxide used in pharmaceutical formulation for its lenitive and antibacterial effects.

The present work shows that it is possible to form a mixed titanium and zinc oxide on titanium surfaces, as shown by Scanning Electron Microscopy and XPS analysis. To this end titanium was preactivated by UV on crystalline titanium oxide, both in the anatase form or in the co-presence of anatase and rutile. By performing antibacterial assays, we provide evidence of a significant reduction in the viability of five streptococcal oral strains on titanium oxide surfaces modified with zinc.

In conclusion, this type of chemical modification of titanium oxide surfaces with zinc might be considered a new way to reduce the risk of bacterial colonization, increasing the lifetime of dental system applications.
Ventricular Assistance with Microaxial Flow Pump following Mitral Repair for Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Onorati F. , Cristodoro L. , Borrello F. , Esposito A. , Merola S. , Renzulli A.
Published: January 2018

Background

Postcardiotomy heart failure is still the main cause of death in patients undergoing palliative surgery for end-stage dilative cardiomyopathy. New micro-axial flow ventricular assisting devices (LVAD) have been suggested in such cases.

Objective

Evaluate the effect of the new LVAD on short-term outcome of a patient admitted for endstage heart failure.

Study Design

Case report.

Data Sources

One patient admitted for severe mitral regurgitation secondary to end-stage dilative cardiomyopathy and chronic atrial fibrillation (AF).

Intervention

Preoperative intraaortic balloon pump (IABP) insertion, mitral plasty with radiofrequency ablation of AF, microaxial flow LVAD support.

Results

The patient was unweanable from cardiopulmonary bypass until microaxial flow LVAD unloaded the left ventricle and restored adequate cardiac function. The patient was discharged home and is still well at 5 months folllow-up

Conclusions

The miniinvasive insertion and withdrawal, low anticoagulation protocols, and the possibility of coupling with IABP make the microaxial flow LVAD promising for patients with end-stage heart failure undergoing surgery.
The Evidence-Based Epidemiology of HCV-Associated Kidney Disease
Authors: Fabrizi Fabrizio , Dixit Vivek , Martin Paul , Messa Piergiorgio
Published: January 2018

Novel information supports a definite link between hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the general population. HCV is associated with a large spectrum of histopathological lesions in both native and transplanted kidneys. Kidney disease is probably uncommon in HCV-infected patients even if its exact frequency remains unknown. The most common HCV-associated nephropathy is type I membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, usually in the context of type II mixed cryoglobulinemia. Controversial information exists on the relationship between positive HCV serology and CKD but several surveys at population-based level suggest that infection with HCV per se is associated with an increased risk of having or developing renal insufficiency or proteinuria. According to a novel metaanalysis of observational studies (4 clinical studies, 93,919 unique individuals), positive HCV serology was an independent and significant risk factor for proteinuria; the summary estimate for adjusted relative risk is 1.55 with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 1.14; 2.12, p = 0.0001 (random-effects model). The mechanisms of these associations appear complex, but both viral and non-viral processes have been implicated. Prospective studies are needed to fully characterize the exact impact of chronic HCV infection on kidney function trajectories over time.
Titanium Oxide Modeling and Design for Innovative Biomedical Surfaces: A Concise Review
Authors: De Nardo Luigi , Raffaini Giuseppina , Ebramzadeh Edward , Ganazzoli Fabio
Published: January 2018

The natural oxide layer on implantable alloys insulates the reactive underlying metal from the physiological environment, preventing substrate corrosion and device failure. This type of oxide film has had a major role in the minimization of functional failure and toxic response after implantation in the first generation biomaterials. Recent advances in theoretical, computational, and experimental surface engineering tools provide the foundation for the design of novel devices with improved performances in this regard based on conventional implantable metal alloys. An increasing number of technologies provide the possibility of tailoring chemico-physical and morphological parameters of the surface oxide layers. For some applications, such as dental implants, surface modifications result in substantial innovation and economic success. However, the selection of novel surfaces is in general based on experimental studies and has a limited theoretical and computational foundation.

In this review, we offer a perspective analysis of the correlation between theoretical studies and chemical surface modification technologies, with a special emphasis on titanium oxide on Ti alloys. Theoretical approaches for the surface behavior at an atomistic level of description are presented, together with some adsorption studies on a rutile surface. The role of chemical and electrochemical surface modification technologies in modifying the TiO2 structure, morphology, and chemistry to tailor in vivo biological response is then briefly reviewed. Finally, we discuss the role of surface modeling as a powerful design tool for a new generation of implantable devices in which metal oxide surface can be tuned to yield specific biological response.
Angiopoietin-2/Tie2 Signaling Involved in TNF-α Induced Peritoneal Angiogenesis
Authors: Yuan Jiangzi , Fang Wei , Lin Aiwu , Ni Zhaohui , Qian Jiaqi
Published: January 2018

Purpose

Angiopoietin-2/Tie2 signaling has been found to play an important role in producing a vasculature in a variety of conditions. However, whether angiopoietin-2/Tie2 signaling is involved in peritoneal angiogenesis induced by TNF-α is not clear. In this study, we investigated the role of TNF-α on the function of human omental tissue microvascular endothelial cells (HOTMECs) and whether angiogenesis is inhibited by blocking angiopoietin-2/Tie2 signaling.

Methods

Primary cultured HOTMECs were exposed to complete medium as control, medium containing 10 ng/ml TNF-α, a mixture of 10 ng/ml TNF-α plus 2 μg/ml sTie2/Fc or 2 μg/ml sTie2/Fc alone, respectively, as experimental groups. The proliferation of HOTMECs was measured by MTT assay. Expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), Angiopoietin-2, and Tie2 were assessed by real-time PCR. We also investigated the angiogenesis of the HOTMECs by tube formation assay, their migration as well as their permeability to FITC-labeled BSA.

Results

Compared to the cells in control, exposure to TNF-α or sTie2/Fc had no effect on proliferation of HOTMECs. TNF-α up-regulated the gene expression of VEGF, Angiopoietin-2, and Tie2 (p<0.05). TNF-α significantly promoted tube formation, migration and enhanced permeability of HOTMECs (p<0.05). Supplement with sTie2/Fc partially inhibited tube formation and migration (p<0.05). However, sTie2/Fc did not inhibit the increased permeability induced by TNF-α (p>0.05).

Conclusions

Angiopoietin-2/Tie2 signaling involved in TNF-α induced peritoneal angiogenesis may provide an alternative way to prevent peritoneal angiogenesis.
Survival in Critically Ill Patients with Acute Kidney Injury Treated with Early Hemodiafiltration
Authors: Boussekey Nicolas , Capron Benoit , Delannoy Pierre-Yves , Devos Patrick , Alfandari Serge , Chiche Arnaud , Meybeck Agnes , Georges Hugues , Leroy Olivier
Published: January 2018

Purpose

Early renal replacement therapy (RRT) initiation should theoretically influence many physiological disorders related to acute kidney injury (AKI). Currently, there is no consensus about RRT timing in intensive care unit (ICU) patients.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of all critically ill patients who received RRT in our ICU during a 3 year-period. Our goal was to identify mortality risk factors and if RRT initiation timing had an impact on survival. RRT timing was calculated from the moment the patient was classified as having acute kidney injury in the RIFLE classification.

Results

A hundred and ten patients received RRT. We identified four independent mortality risk factors: need for mechanical ventilation (OR = 12.82 (1.305 - 125.868, p = 0.0286); RRT initiation timing >16 h (OR = 5.66 (1.954 - 16.351), p = 0.0014); urine output on admission <500 ml/day (OR = 4.52 (1.666 - 12.251), p = 0.003); and SAPS II on admission >70 (OR = 3.45 (1.216 - 9.815), p = 0.02). The RRT initiation <16 h and RRT initiation >16 h groups presented the same baseline characteristics, except for more severe gravity scores and kidney failure in the early RRT group.

Conclusions

Early RRT in ICU patients with acute kidney injury or failure was associated with increased survival.
Self-Advocacy Instruction to Teach High School Seniors With Mild Disabilities to Access Accommodations in College
Authors: Holzberg Debra G. , Test David W. , Rusher Dana E.
Published: January 2018

For students with high-incidence disabilities, the transition from secondary to postsecondary educational settings poses the additional challenge of acquiring accommodations. Self-advocacy interventions have been identified as important skills for students with disabilities in accessing accommodations. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of Self-Advocacy and Conflict Resolution (SACR) instruction on the ability of four high school seniors with mild disabilities to request and negotiate academic accommodations. Results of this multiple probe across participant study indicated a functional relation between SACR instruction and students’ ability to request and negotiate academic accommodations in a role-play situation and in situ. Implications for practice and suggestions for future research are offered.
Giving voice to headteachers using interpretative phenomenological analysis-IPA
Authors: Moriah Mishel P
Published: January 2018

Successful school leadership is an issue debated globally, but these discussions do not seem to occur within the context of inclusive education in the Caribbean. Although there have been reports indicating steady progression in educational leadership and inclusive practices within the last decade, no planned, long-term innovations have emerged. This article reports part of a small-scale, qualitative study, conducted with 16 headteachers of secondary schools from across Guyana and Trinidad & Tobago. An interpretative phenomenological approachwas used to explore how headteachers ascribe meaning to their unique, lived experiences and how this affects their role in facilitating inclusive education. The study identified a relationship between the lived experiences of headteachers, and their resulting approach to leading their respective schools. There is also potential for the strengthening of educational leadership and inclusion through reflexive practice that promotes equity in the schools’ contexts.
Mixed methods research on the role of pupils as assessors in quality assurance of schools in Malta
Authors: Pulis Angele
Published: January 2018

This article describes a study conducted in Malta on pupil voice in the role of assessor. The purpose of the study was to provide a fresh perspective on school quality assurance in Malta, by asking those who are directly affected – the pupils themselves. The data provided by the study could help educational leaders, together with the whole school community to understand how schools in Malta are perceived and judged by pupils. The results could provide valuable knowledge for more effective and more efficient appraisal of schools. Ultimately, the findings could shed light on proposals for better-quality schools in Malta. The main research question of the study was: From the pupils’ perspective, what are the quality indicators of a good school? The article describes how, and why, the study adopted a mixed methods approach, gathering both quantitative and qualitative data to address the research questions in a way that allowed multiple perspectives to be considered. The main research instrument was a questionnaire survey, collecting largely quantitative data, in which 1618 pupils participated. This was complemented by qualitative data collected through focus group sessions with pupils, group interviews with student councils and one-to-one interviews with heads of schools and policymakers. Data was gathered from a total of 42 different schools.
Optimal parameters design method for power reflux hydro-mechanical transmission system
Authors: Zhang Qiao , Sun Dongye , Qin Datong
Published: January 2018

To ensure the starting torque ratio while improving the efficiency of the automatic transmission system, a power reflux hydro-mechanical transmission system which consists of a torque converter, a planetary gear, and two gearboxes is proposed. First, the properties of the speed ratio, torque ratio, efficiency, and capacity in the power reflux hydro-mechanical transmission system are modeled. Then, the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II is used to optimize the structural parameter of the planetary gear and the speed ratio of the gearbox T1, with the speed ratio width in the high-efficiency area, efficiency, and power performance acting as target functions. Moreover, the method of selecting the specific torque converter for the power reflux hydro-mechanical transmission system is proposed. Results show that the starting torque ratio of the power reflux hydro-mechanical transmission system increases to 4.87 and the equivalent efficiency in high-efficiency area of the power reflux hydro-mechanical transmission system reaches to 90.87%. Therefore, the power reflux hydro-mechanical transmission system can reach higher efficiency while ensuring the starting torque ratio compared with hydro-mechanical power split transmission, which can significantly reduce fuel consumption once applied to the construction vehicle.
The use of synthetic ligaments in the design of an enhanced stability total knee joint replacement
Authors: Stokes Michael D , Greene Brendan C , Pietrykowski Luke W , Gambon Taylor M , Bales Caroline E , DesJardins John D
Published: January 2018

Current total knee replacement designs work to address clinically desired knee stability and range of motion through a balance of retained anatomy and added implant geometry. However, simplified implant geometries such as bearing surfaces, posts, and cams are often used to replace complex ligamentous constraints that are sacrificed during most total knee replacement procedures. This article evaluates a novel total knee replacement design that incorporates synthetic ligaments to enhance the stability of the total knee replacement system. It was hypothesized that by incorporating artificial cruciate ligaments into a total knee replacement design at specific locations and lengths, the stability of the total knee replacement could be significantly altered while maintaining active ranges of motion. The ligament attachment mechanisms used in the design were evaluated using a tensile test, and determined to have a safety factor of three with respect to expected ligamentous loading in vivo. Following initial computational modeling of possible ligament orientations, a physical prototype was constructed to verify the function of the design by performing anterior/posterior drawer tests under physiologic load. Synthetic ligament configurations were found to increase total knee replacement stability up to 94% compared to the no-ligament case, while maintaining total knee replacement flexion range of motion between 0° and 120°, indicating that a total knee replacement that incorporates synthetic ligaments with calibrated location and lengths should be able to significantly enhance and control the kinematic performance of a total knee replacement system.
Effects of incidence angle on a low-pressure turbine blade boundary layer evolution through large eddy simulation
Authors: Wang Yunfei , Sui Xiuming , Zhang Kai , Xiang Xiaorong , Zhao Qingjun
Published: January 2018

The evolution mechanism of the boundary layer and coherent structures in a low-pressure turbine blade is discussed. Five different incidence angles over the T106A blade for a Mach number Ma = 0.404 and Reynolds number Re = 0.6 × 105 (based on the axial chord and outlet velocity) are performed using large eddy simulation method. The calculation results at +7.8 incidence angle are agreed well with the experimental and direct numerical simulation data. The influence of the incidence angle on the flow field is mainly shown at the front of the suction side and pressure side. As the incidence angle changes from positive to negative, the separation bubble near the leading edge disappears and the blade loading decreases gradually. When the incidence angle reduces to −5°, separation bubble appears near the leading edge of the pressure side. At the case of incidence angle equaling −10°, the length of time-averaged separation bubble on the pressure side grows to 39% axial chord and the evolution process of the coherent structures is extremely complex. The spanwise vortexes roll up near the leading edge and gradually evolve into streamwise vortexes. High-energy fluid in the main flow was driven to near-wall zone by the rotating effect of streamwise vortexes, which increases the fluid momentum inside the boundary layer. The streamwise vortexes are stretched by the strong acceleration of the flow until they transport to the trailing edge.
Triage: A new group technique gaining recognition in evaluation
Authors: Gervais Marie , Pépin Geneviève
Published: January 2018

TRIAGE, or Technique for Research of Information by Animation of a Group of Experts, is an inductive and structured method for collecting information that aims to obtain a group consensus. The goal of this technique is to provide quality informative material quickly and efficiently to enable decision-making or to develop more sophisticated survey tools. TRIAGE both distinguishes itself from, and complements, the main group techniques used in evaluation up until now. These are the Delphi technique, the Nominal Group Technique (NGT) and the focus group (Delbecq, Van de Ven & Gustafson, 1975).

The definition, the context for use as well as the different parts of the usual process of TRIAGE technique (recruiting of participants, individual production phase, collective production phase with visual support, validation of results) will firstly be presented then compared to these advocated in the Delphi, NGT and focus group techniques.

Also, examples of TRIAGE being applied in different evaluation contexts, such as the development of measurement instruments and the evaluation of health programs, will be presented. These examples will illustrate the richness, the flexibility and the potential of this technique as an assessment tool. Finally, the strengths and shortcomings of TRIAGE will be discussed.
Evaluating the cultural appropriateness of service delivery in multi-ethnic communities
Authors: Thomas David R
Published: January 2018

In reports of evaluations carried out in New Zealand the assessment of the cultural appropriateness of the service being evaluated is rarely mentioned. Over the past 5-10 years evaluators have been increasingly required to demonstrate that their research approach is consistent with the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and responsive to the needs of the indigenous Mäori people and other non-dominant ethnic groups such as those of Pacific descent. This requires attention to at least two aspects of an evaluation: (1) the appropriate design of the research methods and conduct of the research team; and (2) assessment of the extent to which programs and services operate in culturally appropriate ways. There has been relatively little discussion of how these aspects might be incorporated into the design of evaluations. This paper will focus on the second topic. Literature discussing appropriate programs and services for indigenous Mäori people in New Zealand is reviewed. Specific strategies for assessing culturally appropriateness are illustrated using examples drawn from evaluation of ‘mainstream’ services in New Zealand. These topics will include: program management policies and practices, staff training and orientation, use of cultural advisers, networking with local communities, and liaison with specialist service providers. A framework that includes specific indicators for assessing the cultural appropriateness of services is outlined.
Social indicators –promises and problems: A critical review
Authors: Armstrong Anona , Francis Ronald
Published: January 2018

Victoria University in conjunction with Crime Prevention Victoria (CPV) received an ARC grant to investigate the relationships between crime prevention and community governance. The first task of the project was to develop a framework linking community needs, community capacity, wellbeing and CPV interventions, to guide selection of social indicators and then compile a database of data from various sources. Among the difficulties inherent in developing social indicators are: selecting a framework to guide the development and analysis of the indicators; the difficulty of obtaining a reliable across-government comprehensive database that would be continuously updated; the different contexts, policy goals and programs that indicators could serve; the significance of different definitions and contexts; applying appropriate criteria to guide the selection of the indicators; and the diversity of views about how indicators should or could be used. The purpose of this paper is to describe how these issues are addressed in this project, the theoretical framework that guides the selection of data from the database and how some of these difficulties are addressed.
Evaluation Standards and Their Application to Indigenous Programs in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Berends Lynda , Roberts Bridget
Published: January 2018

The historical and current status of Indigenous people needs careful consideration in designing evaluations of Indigenous-specific programs. In Australia, the evaluator operates in a context arising from past policies of discrimination against Indigenous people and limited current policy moves toward community control and self-determination. Evaluation guidelines and standards exist to provide direction and become particularly valuable in complex project conditions, such as the current evaluation. This paper reflects on guidelines of the Australasian Evaluation Society and standards of the American Evaluation Association (AEA) as they apply to the evaluation of Indigenous programs in Victoria, focusing on our recent experience in the evaluation of Indigenous specific alcohol and drug programs. Particular attention is given to the utility standards of the AEA, given the range of key stakeholders involved in the evaluation. We discuss the consistency of our approach with the utility standards and suggest areas where modification to the standards may be useful, drawing particularly on the modifications to the standards that have been put forward by the African Evaluation Association. In reflecting on the evaluation, we also identify areas for change in future projects involving Indigenous programs.
Cultivating Communities of Practice to Build Organisational Capacity: A Case Study of the Philippines-Australia Basic Education Assistance for Mindanao (BEAM) Project
Authors: Cawrse Scott , Walsh Ian D'arcy
Published: January 2018

This article examines how the latent potential of communities of practice (CoPs) can be harnessed as a strategic resource for building capacity and improving organisational performance. In particular it focuses on a case study of developing communities of practice in the Philippines Department of Education (DepEd) in three Regions (XI, XII and the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM)), which have been supported under the Philippines-Australia Basic Education Assistance for Mindanao (BEAM) Project.

This article describes community-building activities sponsored by BEAM to strengthen local Department of Education (DepEd) management capacity to assume greater responsibilities following the passing of the Governance of Basic Education Act 2001. It maps and examines the process of connecting staff who were previously performing the same function independently, to come together to form knowledge sharing networks. Real examples of the changes that emerging CoPs are delivering are also provided. Discussion then turns to the new challenges CoPs face in sustaining the momentum and benefits that these professional networks are yielding.
A Stagecraft of New Zealand Evaluation
Authors: Lunt Neil T , Trotman Ian G
Published: January 2018

Since the 1960s there has been a growing interest in evaluation shown by most Western countries. Alongside discussion of practical and theoretical issues of evaluation, such as methodological developments, best practice, and cross-cultural practice, there has also been increased interest in mapping the history of evaluation activity.

Historical discussions are significant for three reasons; first, in providing a record for future generations of evaluators. Second, they provide a consideration of the domestic and international context that has shaped evaluation development, giving each country its distinct institutional make-up and brand of evaluation activity. Third, they assist a country's evaluation capacity development by building on its strengths and compensating for the weaknesses of its history.

This article traces the emergence of evaluation within New Zealand using the metaphor of dramaturgy to introduce the settings and actors that we consider to have been constituent of what was played out in the New Zealand situation. Our remit is a broad one of attempting to describe and explain the range of evaluation activities, including program evaluation, organisational review, performance management, and process and policy evaluation.

Within this article a broad overview only is possible. As an example of a more in-depth study, a comprehensive article could be prepared on the history of performance management in the public service. Our comments cover developments in the public sector, tertiary sector, and private and professional organisations. It is a companion paper to one on the history of evaluation in Australia, prepared by Colin A Sharp in a recent issue of this journal (Sharpe 2003).
Evaluation: What is it Really for? A Framework for Examining Issues of Evaluation Purpose and Use
Authors: Barlow Anne
Published: January 2018

This article considers matters relating to evaluation purpose, and the dissemination and use of findings. The author discusses some of the challenges occurring in a particular health services evaluation in New Zealand and proposes an acronym framework, based on the word ACCEPTANCE (accessibility, audience, criteria, credibility, credentials, communication, ethics, purpose, politics, participants, position, timeliness, tone, attitude, appearance, numbers, critique and excellence of evaluation) to explore associated issues in the wider evaluation context.
Empowerment Evaluation: A Practical Method for Evaluating a National School Breakfast Program
Authors: Miller Wayne , Lennie June
Published: January 2018

Over the past decade, empowerment evaluation has demonstrated its worth as a practical and valuable alternative to traditional program evaluation methodologies. Following a brief overview of the development of empowerment evaluation, we outline its 10 underlying principles and the three key steps involved in conducting an empowerment evaluation. A preliminary case study on our use of this methodology to evaluate the Good Start Breakfast Club program is presented. The Australian Red Cross operates this program in nearly 100 primary schools around Australia with sponsorship and support from the Sanitarium Health Food Company and other organisations. This case study highlights the potential effectiveness of empowerment evaluation in improving and assessing the impacts of other public health and community-based programs in Australia and some of the lessons we have learned so far from using this methodology.

We identify strengths and limitations of empowerment evaluation and argue that a more critical approach is required to avoid the idealism that tends to underpin this approach. We suggest that greater attention needs to be paid to the communicative and relational dimensions of empowerment evaluation in order to increase its effectiveness.
Fly High, Go Deep, Add Value: Characteristics of ‘Black Belt’ Evaluators
Authors: Lake Robert
Published: January 2018

In this paper I discuss the characteristics of an expert evaluator. My thesis is that the expert evaluator—the ‘black belt’ in the field—is characterised by taking a broad view that sees patterns where others see points; by delving deep for root causes where others see surface explanations; and by emphasising worth and value. This paper is a thought piece and a reflection—its aim is to stimulate debate and discussion rather than to offer definitive conclusions.

The intent of this paper is to explore what it is that makes a ‘black belt’ evaluator; that is, someone who is a recognised expert in the area with demonstrated mastery. The thesis of the paper is that expertise/mastery in evaluation involves more that just the superior acquisition of the same set of skills, attributes or competencies that define ‘an evaluator’; rather expertise/mastery involves an additional set of qualities. These additional qualities are taking the macro perspective and a focus on value for the client.

The structure of this paper is as follows. After discussing why I think it matters to consider ‘black belt’ evaluators, and what ‘black belt’ means, I describe the work in Australia and New Zealand on evaluator competencies, Next, I consider from a theoretical perspective the nature of competence and expertise before considering how competence models fit within an expert–novice framework. I then draw on the literature on expert–novice differences to hypothesise areas in which expert and novice evaluators might differ.
Evaluation Capacity-building: A Tale of Value-adding
Authors: Beere Diana
Published: January 2018

Evaluation capacity-building entails not only developing the expertise needed to undertake robust and useful evaluations; it also involves creating and sustaining a market for that expertise by promoting an organisational culture in which evaluation is a routine part of ‘the way we do things around here’. A challenge for evaluators is to contribute to evaluation capacity-building while also fulfilling their key responsibilities to undertake evaluations. A key strategy is to focus on both discerning value and adding value for clients/commissioners of evaluations. This paper takes as examples two related internal evaluation projects conducted for the Queensland Police Service that have added value for the client and, in doing so, have helped to promote and sustain an evaluation culture within the organisation. It describes key elements of these evaluations that contributed to evaluation capacity-building. The paper highlights the key role that evaluators themselves, especially internal evaluators, can take in evaluation capacity-building, and proposes that internal evaluators can, and should, integrate evaluation capacity-building into their routine program evaluation work.
Challenging times for evaluation of international development assistance
Authors: Nagao Masafumi
Published: January 2018

The spread of results-based management in developed countries, combined with increasing taxpayers’ concern for non-performing projects, has increased the relevance of evaluation in development assistance. There are challenges, however, stemming from the ‘more than usual’ complexities of evaluation circumstances (e.g. asymmetry of interest in evaluation between an aid donor and a recipient) as well as the changing development context, such as increasingly strategic orientation of donor policies, growing weight of global development targets such as the Millennium Development Goals, and spread of the practice of multi-donor assistance. The paper reviews the theoretical and practical issues involved in coping with these challenges. It argues that the increasing emphasis placed on capacity development in development policy and programs, when coupled with empowerment approaches in evaluation, may give rise to a new and promising role for evaluation in development and development cooperation.
The fate of recommendations
Authors: Wheeler Glenn
Published: January 2018

This article examines a case of recommendation implementation in evaluation practice. It summarizes the results of a performance audit, Management of Programs for First Nations, completed by the Office of the Auditor General of Canada and reported to the Canadian Parliament in May 2006. The performance audit took an innovative approach to examining First Nations programs that included applying a causal lens to identify and understand factors critical to the successful use of recommendations in complex government decision-making.

The performance audit assessed the progress of federal departments in implementing recommendations that the Auditor General had made in audits reported between 2000 and 2003 on First Nations issues. The Office of the Auditor General's performance audits usually make recommendations and sometimes follow-up audits report on their implementation, but typically do not address the reasons behind the progress of adoption; this audit was different in that it attempted to ascertain some of the reasons for progress or the lack of progress. This innovative approach resulted in the identification of several factors that appear to be critical to the successful implementation of recommendations, and to the successful design and delivery of programs.
Evaluation of an action research project in workforce development and organisational change: Healthy Ageing—Nutrition
Authors: Jolley Gwyneth M
Published: January 2018

This article reports on the evaluation of an action research project designed to support workforce development in the promotion of healthy nutrition for older people. The evaluation methodology was grounded by the action research approach of the project and focused on case studies of the 10 partner organisations. Findings indicate that the Healthy Ageing—Nutrition Project has resulted in a large increase in awareness and knowledge about healthy ageing and nutrition in the case study organisations, and to a lesser extent, in the broader health and aged care sectors. For the case study organisations it seems likely that transformational change has been made through the project's work of building capacity, mediating and facilitating change and providing resources. Support at board and management level, as well as thoughtful development of the workforce, were critical success factors in bringing about organisational change. The main challenge was identified as time and resources needed. Follow-up evaluation of the health outcomes from nutritional assessment, screening and intervention should also be implemented in order to provide further evidence of the value of this effort.
2008 AES Awards for Excellence in Evaluation
Authors: Bycroft Peter
Published: January 2018

The aim of the AES Awards for Excellence in Evaluation is to encourage the development of evaluation and high-quality evaluation practice in Australasia. In 2008, seven awards were offered by the Australasian Evaluation Society.

Two of the awards recognise individual evaluators nominated by their peers: the Outstanding Contribution to Evaluation (ET&S) Award and the Emerging New Talent Award. Five awards recognise organisations, project teams, specific evaluation projects, programs or systems nominated by the evaluators and/or the organisations involved: the Best Evaluation Publication Award (the Caulley Tulloch Award), the Best Evaluation Study Award, the Best Evaluation Policy and Systems Award, the Community Development Evaluation Award and the Indigenous Evaluation Award.

The following awards were presented at the 2008 AES International Conference dinner in Perth in September.
Additionality: A Useful Way to Construct the Counterfactual Qualitatively?
Authors: Hind Julie
Published: January 2018

One concern about impact evaluation is whether a program has made a difference (Owen 2006). Essentially, in trying to understand this, an evaluation seeks to establish causality—the causal link between the social program and the outcomes (Mohr 1999; Rossi & Freeman 1993). However, attributing causality to social programs is difficult because of the inherent complexity and the many and varied factors at play (House 2001; Mayne 2001; Pawson & Tilley 1998; White 2010).

Evaluators can choose from a number of theories and methods to help address causality (Davidson 2000). Measuring the counterfactual—the difference between actual outcomes and what would have occurred without the intervention—has been at the heart of traditional impact evaluations. While this has traditionally been measured using experimental and quasi-experimental methods, a counterfactual does not always need a comparison group (White 2010) and can be constructed qualitatively (Cummings 2006).

With these in mind, this article explores the usefulness of the concept of additionality, a mixed-methods framework developed by Buisseret et al. (cited in Georghiou 2002) as a means of evaluative comparison of the counterfactual.