bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between dysphagia risk and unplanned hospitalization in older patients receiving home medical care
Authors: Watanabe Kazuhisa , Umegaki Hiroyuki , Huang Chi‐Hsien , Arakawa Martins Beatriz , Asai Atsushi , Kanda Shigeru , Nomura Hideki , Kuzuya Masafumi
Published: August 2019

Aim

Home medical care for older adults with chronic conditions is becoming an increasing important issue in Japan. We need to support long‐term medical care at home and avoid unplanned hospitalizations, which can adversely affect activities of daily living and quality of life. In this study, we investigated whether swallowing function is a risk for unplanned hospitalization in older patients with functional decline who are receiving home medical care.

Methods

In the current study, we examined data obtained in the Observational study of Nagoya Elderly with HOme MEdical study (ONEHOME) that investigated the medical health of older adults receiving home medical care services in Nagoya City, Japan. The data analyzed were patients’ age, sex, number of medications, Dysphagia Severity Scale, Charlson Comorbidity Index, Barthel Index, Mini Nutritional Assessment – Short Form, Frailty Index and dementia independent scale. The Dysphagia Severity Scale was categorized into the presence or absence of dysphagia risk. The association between dysphagia risk and days until first hospitalization was investigated by Cox regression analysis.

Results

In total, 86 out of 178 patients had a hospitalization during the study period of 4 years. Cox regression analysis with adjustment for age, sex, Charlson Comorbidity Index, Barthel Index and Mini Nutritional Assessment – Short Form scores showed that a lower Dysphagia Severity Scale score was significantly associated with unexpected hospitalization.

Conclusions

Dysphagia risk predicts the first unexpected hospitalization in older individuals receiving home medical care. Patients’ swallowing function is an important factor for estimating prognosis. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 977–981.
Saccharomyces boulardii as an adjuvant therapy for Helicobacter pylori eradication: A systematic review and meta‐analysis with trial sequential analysis
Authors: Zhou Ben‐Gang , Chen Ling‐Xiao , Li Bo , Wan Lin‐Yan , Ai Yao‐Wei
Published: August 2019

Background and Aims

Whether Saccharomyces boulardii (S boulardii) as an adjuvant therapy are beneficial to H pylori eradication remains controversial. The aim of the study was to update and determine the effects of S boulardii as an adjuvant therapy on H pylori eradication rates and adverse effects.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL, and Web of Science to collect all randomized controlled trials assessing the effects of S boulardii as an adjuvant therapy for H pylori eradication from inception to February 2019. Quality of evidence was appraised using Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation system. Trial sequential analysis was performed to control the risk of type I and type II errors.

Results

Eighteen trials with 3592 patients were eligible for meta‐analysis. Compared with standard eradication regimen, the S boulardii supplementation could significantly improve eradication rates [risk ratio (RR) = 1.09, 95% confidence interval (CI):1.05‐1.13; moderate quality evidence] and reduce the incidence of total side effects (RR = 0.47, 95%CI:0.36‐0.61; low quality evidence), as well as some gastrointestinal adverse effects, especially diarrhea (RR = 0.33, 95%CI:0.23‐0.47; low quality evidence) and constipation (RR = 0.37, 95%CI:0.23‐0.57; moderate quality evidence). In addition, the need for discontinuation rate in S boulardii supplementation group was significantly lower than in the control group (RR = 0.33, 95%CI:0.16‐0.69, P = .003; moderate quality evidence). The TSA results for overall eradication rates and total side effects indicated that the effects were conclusive.

Conclusions

Our meta‐analysis shows that S boulardii supplementation on standard eradication therapy significantly increased H pylori eradication rates and reduced the incidence of total side effects and some gastrointestinal adverse effects during eradication therapy.
Activity‐based funding for safety and quality: A policy discussion of issues and directions for nursing‐focused health services outcomes research
Authors: Heslop Liza
Published: August 2019

Aims

A discussion of the implications and opportunities arising from the Commonwealth of Australia health care reform agenda; linking pricing with quality, with particular reference to directions for nursing‐focused health services outcomes research directed to improve the safety and quality of health care practices.

Background

National activity‐based funding in Australia is a policy‐focused development. As the relationship between cost and quality becomes apparent, the role of clinicians and their contribution to high quality care has become a pressing issue for leadership, teaching, and research.

Design

Discussion paper

Data Sources

This paper is based on seven years' experience as a member of a Commonwealth of Australia statutory committee—the Clinical Advisory Committee of the Independent Hospital Pricing Authority—and is supported by relevant literature and theory.

Implications for Nursing

To date, unravelling the linkage, especially causal relationships, between direct care nursing and patient safety outcomes has not been well established. New activity‐based funding data elements developed for national implementation in Australia provide accessible and meaningful standardised data for measurement of never events, hospital‐acquired complications, and preventable readmissions.
Across‐breed validation study confirms and identifies new loci associated with sexual precocity in Brahman and Nellore cattle
Authors: de Melo Thaise Pinto , Salinas Fortes Marina Rufino , Hayes Ben , de Albuquerque Lucia Galvão , Carvalheiro Roberto
Published: August 2019

The aim of this study was to identify candidate regions associated with sexual precocity in Bos indicus. Nellore and Brahman were set as validation and discovery populations, respectively. SNP selected in Brahman to validate in Nellore were from gene regions affecting reproductive traits (G1) and significant SNP (p ≤ 10–3) from a meta‐analysis (G2). In the validation population, early pregnancy (EP) and scrotal circumference (SC) were evaluated. To perform GWAS in validation population, we used regression and Bayes C. SNP with p ≤ 10–3 in regression and Bayes factor ≥3 in Bayes C were deemed significant. Significant SNP (for EP or SC) or SNP in their ±250 Kb vicinity region, which were in at least one discovery set (G1 or G2), were considered validated. SNP identified in both G1 and G2 were considered candidate. For EP, 145 SNP were validated in G1 and 41 in G2, and for SC, these numbers were 14 and 2. For EP, 21 candidate SNP were detected (G1 and G2). For SC, no candidate SNP were identified. Validated SNP and their vicinity region were located close to quantitative trait loci or genes related to reproductive traits and were enriched in gene ontology terms related to reproductive success. These are therefore strong candidate regions for sexual precocity in Nellore and Brahman.
Tracking linkage to care in an anonymous HIV testing context: A field assessment in Mozambique
Authors: Courtenay‐Quirk Cari , Geller Amanda L. , Duran Denise , Honwana Nely
Published: August 2019

Rationale

Effective human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention requires a coordinated continuum of services to foster early diagnosis and treatment. Early linkage to care (LTC) is critical, yet programmes differ in strategies to monitor LTC.

Methods

In 2014, we visited 23 HIV testing and care service delivery points in Mozambique to assess programme strategies for monitoring LTC. We interviewed key informants, reviewed forms, and matched records across service points to identify successful models and challenges.

Results

Forms most useful for tracking LTC included individual identifiers, eg, patient name, unique identifier (ie, National Health Identification Number [NID]), sex, and date of birth. The majority (67%) of records matched occurred in the presence of a unique NID. Key informants described challenges related to processes, staffing, and communication between service delivery points to confirm LTC.

Conclusions

While tracking clients from HIV testing to care is possible, programmes with insufficient tracking procedures are likely to underreport LTC. Adoption of additional patient identifiers in testing registers and standardized protocols may improve LTC programme monitoring and reduce underreporting.
A discussion of the ethics of clinical guidelines
Authors: Thomas Oliver P.
Published: August 2019

Clinical guidelines are an increasingly common part of medical practice. The desire to standardize practices may seem a noble one, but overzealous application can make guidelines seem restrictive, leading to resentment or, worse, disregard. This conception of guidelines as unbreakable rules can lead to comparisons with deontological duties. Or where guidelines restrict access to services, utilitarianism might seem a better fit. Here, clinical practice guidelines are examined in terms of these theories of normative ethics, and it is argued that in fact, the process of writing and implementing guidelines is more accurately modelled through the lens of virtue ethics.
Improvement of hyperuricemia in chronic hepatitis C patients receiving directly acting antiviral agents
Authors: Jang Tyng‐Yuan , Huang Ching‐I , Yeh Ming‐Lun , Liang Po‐Cheng , Tsai Pei‐Chien , Lin Yi‐Hung , Hsieh Ming‐Yen , Hou Nai‐Jen , Lin Zu‐Yau , Chen Shinn‐Cherng , Huang Jee‐Fu , Dai Chia‐Yen , Huang Chung‐Feng , Chuang Wan‐Long , Yu Ming‐Lung
Published: August 2019

Background and Aim

Hepatitis C virus eradication via the use of antivirals ameliorates metabolic profiles. The changes in serum uric acid (SUA) levels in chronic hepatitis C patients who receive antivirals are not well understood. We aimed to address this issue by comparing the SUA changes before and after the achievement of a sustained virological response (which is defined as hepatitis C virus RNA seronegativity at 12 weeks after the end of treatment).

Methods

Two hundred and thirteen sustained virological response patients who were treated by directly acting antivirals were consecutively enrolled. Pretreatment and post‐treatment SUA levels were compared. Hyperuricemia was defined as a uric acid level > 7.0 mg/dL in men and > 6.0 mg/dL in women.

Results

The SUA levels significantly decreased after treatment, as compared to the pretreatment levels (5.6 ± 1.5 vs 6.0 ± 1.7 mg/dL, respectively; P < 0.001). The proportion of hyperuricemia incidences significantly decreased after treatment (25.8% vs 35.7%, respectively; P = 0.001). The improvement was only observed in patients with a fibrosis‐4 index (FIB‐4) < 6.5 (25.7% vs 37.1%, P = 0.001) but not in those patients with a FIB‐4 ≧ 6.5 (26.3% vs 28.9%, P = 1.00). A multivariate analysis revealed that the factor that was associated with significantly decreased SUA levels was FIB‐4 < 6.5 (odds ratio [OR]/95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.22/1.04–9.95, P = 0.04) and estimated glomerular filtration rate < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (OR/CI: 4.34/1.94–9.73, P < 0.001). There existed a trend of a higher proportion of patients with significant SUA improvement along with the decrement of FIB‐4 (29.7%, 25%, and 10.5% in patients with FIB‐4 < 3.25, 3.25–6.5, and > 6.5, respectively; trend P = 0.03).

Conclusions

SUA levels were significantly decreased in chronic hepatitis C patients after viral eradication. The improvement was particularly enhanced in patients with mild liver disease.
Use of the Consultation Letter Rating Scale among Geriatric Medicine Postgraduate Trainees
Authors: Xu Victoria Y. Y. , Hamid Jemila , von Maltzahn Maia , Izukawa Terumi , Norris Mireille , Chau Vicky , Liu Barbara , Wong Camilla L.
Published: August 2019

OBJECTIVES

The implementation of competency‐based evaluations increases the emphasis on in‐training assessment. The Consultation Letter Rating Scale (CLRS), published by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, is a tool that assesses written‐communication competencies. This multisite project evaluated the tool's validity, reliability, feasibility, and acceptability for use in postgraduate geriatric medicine training.

METHODS

Geriatric medicine trainees provided consultation letters from the 2017‐2018 academic year. Geriatricians reviewed a standardized module and completed the tool for all the deidentified letters. The reviewers recorded the time used to complete the tool for each letter and completed a survey on content validity. Trainees completed a survey on the tool's usefulness. Responses were reviewed independently by two authors for thematic content. The unweighted and the weighted κ were used to measure interrater reliability.

RESULTS

A total of 10 of 11 (91%) eligible trainees each provided five letters that were reviewed independently by six geriatricians, leading to a total of 300 assessments. A very small portion (4% [N = 12]) of assessments was incomplete. An average of 4.82 minutes (standard deviation = 3.17) was used to complete the tool. There was high interrater agreement for overall scores, with a multiple‐rater weighted κ of 83% (95% confidence interval = 76%‐89%). The interrater agreement was lower for the individual components. Both raters and trainees found the comments more useful than the numerical ratings.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results support the use of the CLRS for facilitating feedback on the quality of consult letters to improve written‐communication competencies among geriatric medicine trainees. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:2157–2160, 2019
Cervical shear wave elastography as a predictor of preterm delivery during 18–24 weeks of pregnancy
Authors: Suthasmalee Sasiwan , Moungmaithong Sakita
Published: August 2019

Aim

The aim of this study was to compare shear wave cervical elasticity between term and preterm delivery group.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted in enrolled 158 pregnant women at 18–24 weeks of gestation who come for second trimester scan consecutively. Transvaginal ultrasonography for cervical length as well as cervical elasticity in five regions of interest was performed. Intraobserver and interobserver reproducibility were evaluated. Gestational age at deliveries was followed, and cervical shear wave elasticity between term and preterm group was compared.

Results

A total of 158 pregnant women were enrolled in this study while 120 pregnancies data were collected for subsequent analysis, 10 pregnancies spontaneously delivered during the preterm period and 110 pregnancies delivered at term. Intraobserver and interobserver reproducibility were high; however, cervical shear wave elasticity in both groups were not significantly different (external anterior lip 2.29 ± 0.66 and 2.45 ± 0.58 m/s,Pvalue 0.30, internal anterior lip 2.74 ± 0.96 and 2.80 ± 0.61 m/s,Pvalue 0.83). Nonsignificant correlations of cervical shear wave elasticity with gestational age and cervical length (r= −0.1 andr= 0.02, respectively) were demonstrated.

Conclusion

Cervical shear wave elasticity in preterm and term groups was not significantly different when measured at 18–24 weeks of gestation. There are nonsignificant correlations between cervical shear wave elasticity, gestational age and cervical length. Cervical shear wave elastography alone should not be used as a predictor for preterm delivery.
Patterns of Help‐Seeking Behavior Among Victims of Teen Dating Violence and Abuse: Variations Among Boys and Girls
Authors: Lachman Pamela , Zweig Janine , Dank Meredith , Yahner Jennifer
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

Despite the extensive research on rates of teen dating violence and abuse and its' consequences, less is known about help‐seeking behaviors among victims. The goals of this study were to document patterns of help‐seeking behaviors among teen victims of dating violence and abuse and examine sex differences related to such patterns.

METHODS

The study involved cross‐sectional surveys of 3745 dating youth from 10 middle and high schools in the northeastern United States, 59% of whom reported some kind of dating abuse victimization. We examined the characteristics of youth who reported any type of dating abuse victimization comparing youth who reported seeking help to youth who did not report seeking help following their victimization.

RESULTS

Only 9% of victims reported seeking help after their victimization experience. Help‐seeking differed significantly by sex; female victims were more likely to seek help than male victims, and the types of dating abuse that help‐seekers experienced also varied by sex. Overall, 17% of youth sought help from school counselors and 13% sought help from teachers.

CONCLUSIONS

Results suggest that help‐seeking behavior is very uncommon among victim populations, particularly if they are not part of specific dating violence prevention programs. In addition, we found female victims were nearly 2 times more likely to seek help than male victims. Given that few youth seek help on their own, schools might create more formalized reporting mechanisms to ensure such violence is addressed effectively and efficiently, and create peer and parental support networks to build awareness and create comfort for victims.
The E3 ubiquitin ligase CHIP in normal cell function and in disease conditions
Authors: Wang Tingyu , Wang Wenbo , Wang Qishan , Xie Rong , Landay Alan , Chen Di
Published: August 2019

In eukaryotic cells, ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation is an essential mechanism for regulating protein functions. For example, critical signaling proteins play their roles by controlling different cellular functions. Once a signaling protein has been activated, its activity needs to be quickly downregulated by different mechanisms, including ubiquitination/proteasome regulation. Failure to regulate the activity or expression levels of these proteins may cause human diseases. Protein ubiquitination involves a cascade of biochemical processes and requires three types of ubiquitin enzymes: E1 activating enzyme, E2 conjugating enzyme, and E3 ligase. Among these enzymes, E3 ubiquitin ligases play a specific role in recognizing specific protein substrates. There are several structurally diverse groups of E3 ubiquitin ligases in eukaryotic cells, and one type of these E3 ligases is the U‐box ubiquitin ligases. Carboxyl terminus of HSP70‐interacting protein (CHIP) is a member of a family of U‐box E3 ligases. It plays critical roles in multiple organs and tissues in the body. In this review article, we provide an update on some of the most recent discoveries about CHIP in normal physiological function and in disease.
The triangular nexus causality among economic growth, trade, FDI and Oil Price: time series analyses of Nigeria
Authors: Udemba Edmund N.
Published: August 2019

The central objective of this work was to test and determine the causality between the selected economic indicators such as trade, FDI, Oil Price and GDP in Nigeria and make a recommendation for a timely policy framework for the betterment of the Nigerian economy. Using Nigerian annual data of 1970–2018 with the application of Granger causality test, we found a unidirectional causality that runs from Oil Price to both FDI and trade and from FDI to trade. There was no causal effect transmitting from either trade to Oil Price or trade to FDI. Also, there was no transmission of causality from GDP growth to any of the selected indicators. Our findings expose the heavy influence of oil via price on the economic performance of Nigeria. This could justify the claim that there is a positive relationship between Oil Price and growth. Hence, supporting the findings that FDI is attracted by the availability of oil and the FDI will turn around influenced the rate of trade via trade openness. This will create avenue for a virtuous economic growth circle if policy implication is managed well.
Identification of a novel HLA‐A*11 allele, HLA‐A*11:333, in a Chinese individual
Authors: Li Zhen , Shao Chao‐Peng , Chen Zuo‐Wei
Published: August 2019

A*11:333 differs from A*11:01:01 by one nucleotide change at nucleotide 865 in exon 4 from G to A.
Blood group genotyping of blood donors: validation of a highly accurate routine method
Authors: Krog Grethe Risum , Rieneck Klaus , Clausen Frederik Banch , Steffensen Rudi , Dziegiel Morten Hanefeld
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

In the past century, blood group determination using serology has been the standard method. Now, molecular methods are gaining traction, which provide additional and easily accessible information. Here we designed and validated a high‐throughput extended genotyping setup.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We developed 35 competitive allele‐specific polymerase chain reaction assays for genotyping of blood donors. Samples from 1034 Danish blood donors were genotyped, and 45,314 red blood cell antigens and 6148 platelet antigens were predicted. Predicted phenotypes were compared with 16,119 serologic phenotypes.

RESULTS

We found 62 discrepancies of which 43 were due to serology. After exclusion of the discrepancies caused by serology, the accuracy of genotyping was 99.9%. Of 17 discrepancies caused by the genotype, three were incorrect antigen‐negative predictions and could potentially, as the solitary analysis, have caused an adverse transfusion reaction.

CONCLUSION

We have established a robust and highly accurate blood group genotyping system with a very high capacity for screening blood donors. The system represents a significant improvement over the former serotyping‐only procedure. Almost all new technology in medicine incurs increased costs, but the presented efficient genotyping system is a rare example of a significant qualitative and quantitative technologic progress that is also more cost‐efficient than previous technologies.
Income and Wealth Inequality in Malta
Authors: Georgakopoulos Ilias
Published: August 2019

This paper studies for the first time the distribution of income and wealth in Malta based on three waves of micro-level data from the Household Finance and Consumption Survey (HFCS). The focus of the analysis is to examine various socioeconomic aspects of income and wealth inequality and contributing factors, as well as determinants of the joint distribution of income and wealth. Results suggest that household main residence (HMR) is the most equalising factor of wealth inequality, while self-employment wealth is the most disequalising factor. The financing structure of HMR is particularly important to explain the position of a household in the wealth distribution. Furthermore, the age and education level of the reference person of a household, increases in household income and inheritance or gifts affect positively the probability of a household to be in a higher net wealth quintile.
Ultrasonographic evaluation of abdominal wall fat index, carotid intima-media thickness and plaque score in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome
Authors: Çetin Nurcan , Güneş Tatar İdil , Yüceege Melike , Ergun Onur , Hekimoğlu Baki
Published: August 2019

Aims: Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is strongly related with increased risk of cardiovascular diseases andvisceral obesity. Abdominal wall fat index (AFI) is an indicator of visceral fat accumulation determined by ultrasonography(US). Carotid intima-media thickness (C-IMT) and carotid plaque score (C-PS) are the indicators of cardiovascular risk. Theaim of this study was to investigate the relation between OSAS and AFI, C-IMT or C-PS.Materials and methods: One-hundred and four subjects (31 females, 73 males) between 23-73year-old, candidate for polysomnography (PSG) with suspect of OSAS and without other atherosclerotic risk factor, were evaluated by US. AFI, C-IMTmean and C-PS values were determined and the subjects were grouped according to their apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) values as follows: no OSAS (<5), mild OSAS (5-15), moderate OSAS (15-30) and severe OSAS (>30).Results: There was a statistically significant correlation between AFI and AHI (p=0.019). The C-IMTmean values of subjects with OSAS (AHI >5) were significantly higher than those without OSAS (AHI <5) (p=0.035). C-PS was not correlated with AHI (p=0.345) and also there was not a statistically significant difference between OSAS groups in terms of C-PS (p=0.775).Conclusions: This study revealed that AFI correlates with AHI and C-IMT increases in OSAS. The two parameters could be used as indicators of risk of metabolic disorders and atheroscleroticdiseases in subjects with sleep apnea in the future.
Optimal head rotation angle for safe right internal jugular vein catheterization using out-of-plane approach: an ultrasonography study
Authors: Vosylius Saulius , Sabestinaite Akvile , Stasiunaitis Raimundas
Published: August 2019

Aim: The most common complication following internal jugular vein catheterization is the puncture of the common carotidartery. We aimed to find an optimal head rotation angle for safe vein catheter insertion while minimizing the risk of arterypuncture.Materials and methods: Eighty-two patients admitted to the intensive care unit were included in the prospective study. Ultrasound examination of the neck vessels on the right side was performed in the neutral position and at a head rotation of 15°, 30°, 45° and 60° to the left. Internal jugular vein and common carotid artery puncture angle, overlapping angle of vein by artery and vein safe puncture angle were evaluated.Results: The internal jugular vein puncture angle increased with head rotation from the neutral position to 30° and 45° and was largest at 60° (p<0.001 for all). The overlapping angle increased significantly at 45° and 60° rotation compared with the neutral position (p<0.001 for all). The vein safe puncture angle was highest at 30° and significantly different from the neutral position and 60° (p=0.003 and p=0.013, respectively).Conclusions: When performing right internal jugular vein catheterization without ultrasound guidance by using an out-of-plane technique, the head should be rotated at 30°, because the overlapping angle increases with further head rotation and can increase the risk of artery puncture.
"Going the Extra Mile": A descriptive exploratory study of Primary Health Services based on the experiences of Pacific Primary Health Organisation Service managers and providers
Authors: Pack Margaret
Published: August 2019

INTRODUCTION: This exploratory study is part of a larger evaluation of the primary health care strategy (PHCS) in Aotearoa New Zealand, using a mixed methods research approach. The aims of this qualitative arm of the research were to explore the extent of use and satisfaction with the PHCS through the operation of Pacific-led Primary Health Organisations (PHOs) in relation to service provision and delivery from the service providers’ and managers’ perspectives.METHOD: The exploratory study was conducted using a case study design and in-depth interviews with service managers and health providers at six Pacific-led PHOs. A review of the literature on primary healthcare was conducted prior to undertaking the research. In this literature review, several themes were noted from the review of policy documents providing background to the development of primary healthcare in New Zealand. CONCLUSION: The themes from interviews suggest a core tension between the business model, Ministry reporting requirements, and more altruistic values of both managers and service providers in their delivery of services. Overall, there was a positive response to the lowered cost of healthcare from the providers and managers interviewed in the Pacific-led primary health services, mirroring the findings of the larger evaluation report of PHOs (Cumming et al., 2005). The availability of wrap-around, holistically based, accessible services delivered by culturally responsive health providers who were considered to “go the extra mile” for their clients was the predominant theme accounting for an increased uptake and use of the services. The implications for health social work are discussed.
"There is competition": Facing the reality of field education in New Zealand
Authors: Hay Kathryn
Published: August 2019

INTRODUCTION: Anecdotal evidence of increasing competition for field education placements has raised concerns about the availability of quality learning opportunities for students and so it was considered timely to examine stakeholder perspectives.METHOD: In late 2014, 15 tertiary educators from 11 tertiary institutions and 31 social work students from three Aotearoa New Zealand tertiary institutions engaged with the researcher in individual or focus group interviews on aspects of quality field education.FINDINGS: Overall, the tertiary educators revealed considerable pressure on them to secure quality student placements due to competition with other tertiary providers, limited placement opportunities in some locations, high workloads and inadequate funding. Students recognised these pressures but questioned whether the educators are adequately supported by the tertiary institution. Placement availability was also affected by organisations experiencing funding pressures, placement fatigue, limited space and physical resources, and high workloads.CONCLUSIONS: These qualitative findings raise questions for all the key stakeholders in field education: tertiary institutions, educators, social service organisations, the professional associations, the regulatory body and students. The findings from this study signal the need for a comprehensive, sector-wide examination of the social work field education context in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Integrated care in action: A practical guide for health, social care and housing support
Authors: Miller Robin , Brown Hilary , Mangan Catherine
Published: August 2019

Reviewed by Jane George, West Coast District Health Board, New Zealand CDHB.
Vulnerability and marginality in human services
Authors: Henrickson Mark , Fouché Christa
Published: August 2019

Reviewed by Justin Canty, Lecturer, Social Work, Western Sydney University.
Editorial
Authors: Collective Editorial
Published: August 2019

The editorial for issue 30(2).
Radical women in social work: A historical prespective from North America
Authors: Jennissen Therese , Lundy Colleen
Published: August 2019

INTRODUCTION: Many challenges that confront social workers today are similar to problems they have faced over the past century – inequality, poverty, unemployment, militarisation and armed conflict, and the challenges of refugee resettlement, to name a few. It is instructive for contemporary social workers to revisit this history and to determine if there are lessons to inform our current struggles.METHOD: This paper explores the issues faced and strategies employed by radical, politically active social workers, most of them women. These social workers had visions of social justice and were not afraid to challenge the status quo, often at very high personal costs. The radical social workers were expressly interested in social change that centred on social justice, women’s rights, anti-racism, international peace, and they worked in close alliance and solidarity with other progressive groups.CONCLUSIONS: This article highlights the work of five radical female social workers. Radical social workers were in the minority but they were extraordinarily active and made important contributions in the face of formidable challenges.
Mothers as active contributors to post-earthquake recovery in Christchurch
Authors: Jennings Angelina Terese , Stanley-Clarke Nicky , Yeung Polly
Published: August 2019

INTRODUCTION: An understanding of mothers as a subset of women who are active contributors to a recovery effort is crucial to building disaster resilience. This study explored the post-disaster experiences of mothers from the two Christchurch earthquakes in 2010 and 2011 to consider factors which both helped and hindered their recovery.METHOD: This research was a qualitative study involving semi-structured interviews with six married mothers who were present during the 2010 and 2011 Christchurch earthquakes. Interviews focused on understanding the personal, environmental and psychological impacts of the earthquakes. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.FINDINGS: Three key findings were established, highlighting: 1) Elements of resilience are essential for recovery; 2) mothers playing a constructive and proactive role in their community post-disaster; and 3) the importance of a sense of belonging to enhance post-disaster recovery.CONCLUSION: While participants were affected practically and psychologically by the earthquakes, core characteristics of resilience such as positivity, hope, flexibility and adaptability were portrayed in supporting their post-disaster recovery. These mothers played an active role in the recovery of their community and felt a clear sense of belonging which enhanced their recovery.
Family volence – through the lens of reflective practice
Authors: Krishnamurthi Amitha
Published: August 2019

By applying my cultural sense of self and incorporating a case study, this reflective work examines family violence and the compulsive and seductive aspects of so-called “victim blaming” which, I contend, operate as a defence against institutional anxieties experienced and borne by individual practitioners. In this reflective piece I consider family violence, and aspects of domination described above from my lived experience as an indigenous woman, and as a migrant from the Global South. I also incorporate a social work case study from an Aotearoa New Zealand context to further explore cultural aspects of family violence or domination.
Neoliberalism and social work with children and families in the UK: On-going challenges and critical possibilities
Authors: Rogowski Steve
Published: August 2019

AbstractINTRODUCTION: Neoliberalism, the belief that free market economies are the best way to achieve human well-being, continues to dominate economic, political and social life in the UK, Europe and the globalised world. In the UK the welfare state has gradually been dismantled and become more punitive, the market place has been introduced, and social work has been de-professionalised and transformed into a narrower, more restricted, role. Instead of relationship-based work, practitioners are largely concerned with completing bureaucracy speedily to ration resources and assess/manage risk. Moreover, in relation to children and families, parents need to be self-responsible and, if they fail, a punitive response awaits: being told to change their behaviour/lifestyle or face losing their children to adoption.APPROACH AND CONCLUSIONS: Drawing and building upon my previous work (for example, Rogowski, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2016), this article outlines the neoliberal changes and challenges to social work with children and families in the UK, arguing that critical practice is ever more necessary. Such practice entails working alongside children and families on the issues at the root of social injustice, notably growing inequality in the neoliberalised world. Importantly, examples of what such a practice might entail are highlighted.
Women in social work: Practice, policy and research
Authors: Beddoe Liz
Published: August 2019

Editorial for issue 30(3).
Kris Olsson’s Kilroy was Here
Authors: Jarldorn Michele
Published: August 2019

Clkassic book review of Olsson, K. (2005). Kilroy was here. Sydney, NSW: Bantam Books.
Nga Vaka o Kaiga Tapu
Authors: Enosa Rachel , Tino Pereira Fa’amatuainu , Taufa Seini , Clifford-Lidstone Gerardine , Filimoehala-Burling Akesa
Published: August 2019

When broken down by ethnicity, Pacific people are twice as likely to be offenders who have committed a serious crime against a family member; Pacific students are three times as likely as Aotearoa New Zealand European students to report witnessing adults hit children in their homes and five times more likely to die from child abuse or neglect (Pasefika Proud, 2016).Although there is no one single component that can be attributed to family violence, there are three contributing factors that are unique to the experiences of Pacific people inAotearoa New Zealand. These are social and economic inequities, the impact of migration on families, and identity and culture. An underlying concern of identity and culture is the urgent need to understand ethnic-specific perceptions, beliefs and practices with regard to relationships between family members, and the impact of violence on kinship wellbeing.
Noqu Vale: Community organisation professionals’ views on what works and what needs to change for Pasifika housing
Authors: Camaira Joanna , Mafile’o Tracie
Published: August 2019

INTRODUCTION: The shortage of suitable and affordable housing within Aotearoa New Zealand is creating vulnerability in communities and is a barrier encountered by community organisation professionals (COPs) working in the housing field. Pasifika peoples are particularly disadvantaged, experiencing higher levels of household overcrowding, being less likely to own their own home, and being more likely to be tenants of social housing than other ethnicities. Increasing numbers of Pasifika peoples affected by housing issues require immediate (emergency, crisis) or long-term community social housing support, in an already constrained housing system. While there continues to be significant literature exploring facets of Pasifika housing in AotearoaNew Zealand, there is a lack of research on COPs’ perspectives regarding Pasifika housing focused on the Wellington region. METHOD: This research takes an exploratory, qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews with three COPs based in the Wellington region. Interview transcripts were thematically analysed.  FINDINGS: Findings address “what’s working” and include: wrap-around services, collaboration, advocacy, and empowering families. COP perspectives on “what needs to change” include: quality and quantity of housing, affordability, and racism and discrimination. IMPLICATIONS: The implications are that a holistic and collaborative practice approach taken between community and government organisations, needs to be harnessed if outcomes for Pasifika housing are to improve.
Reviewing the benefits and challenges of overseas practice: Reflections upon coming home
Authors: Beddoe Liz , Bartley Allen
Published: August 2019

INTRODUCTION: Given the diversity of practice and understanding of social work across the globe and its distinctive shape in specific national settings, practitioners working in a new country encounter different community, professional and workplace cultures which may pose challenges. This current study contributes to a larger programme of work undertaken to address the transnational nature of the social work profession in Aotearoa New Zealand and elsewhere. METHOD: The study aim was to explore the experiences of Aotearoa New Zealand qualified social workers who have practised in another country and have returned home. Participants in an online survey were recruited via an invitation to all members of the Aotearoa New Zealand Association of Social Workers. The questionnaire was designed to obtain broad data about the experiences of social workers in their overseas employment and perceptions on their return home. FINDINGS: Many participants had layers of transnational experience having practised as social workers in multiple countries. Participants reported overall satisfaction with overseas experiences which had provided professional opportunities for learning and development, and better pay and conditions. Coming home presented new challenges and interesting perceptions of social work in Aotearoa. IMPLICATIONS: Adjustment to new practice locations and, as shown in this small exploratory study, returning “home” can be disruptive to professional perspectives. While overseas practice is enriching, it carries with it both relocation benefits and costs, confirming earlier research. Better employer recognition of the challenges of returning social workers, and the enhanced skills they bring home may offset any dislocation experienced.
bell hooks: The teacher, the feminist pedagogue, the film critic, the activist and most of all, the black feminist
Authors: Strumm Brianna
Published: August 2019

A classic book review of bell hooks collection of essays: Talking Back: Thinking Feminist, Thinking Black.
Women’s place-making through craft in post-earthquake Christchurch
Authors: Maidment Jane , Tudor Raewyn , Campbell Ada , Whittaker Karen
Published: August 2019

INTRODUCTION: There is little research on the role of creative arts and craft in disaster recovery. This article reports findings about the emergent role of crafting from research conducted after the 2010–2011 series of earthquakes in Christchurch and surrounding districts in Aotearoa New Zealand. In particular, the article focuses on the significance and differing interpretations of the notion of place expressed by participants through their craftwork, in this case led by women and mediated by the post-earthquake geographic and temporal context.METHOD: This qualitative research included nine individual interviews and five focus group interviews with crafters from Christchurch and surrounding districts. There were 35 participants in total, 33 were women. Applied thematic analysis was used to code the data and identify themes. These themes included connection to place, the symbolism of craft, the healing experience of craft groups and places for women. The notion of place was evident across all three themes.FINDINGS: The findings from the research demonstrate differing ways in which the significance of place was reflected in the craftwork. Participants interpreted the concept of place in descriptive, symbolic, and therapeutic ways.IMPLICATIONS: More understanding about the way creative endeavours like crafting can be used to help ameliorate the impact of natural disasters is needed. Social work practitioners are encouraged to explore place-based wellbeing during their work with service users and to include aspects of artistry, craft and creativity.
Defining social work in Aotearoa: Forty years of pioneering research and teaching at Massey University
Authors: Dale Michael , Mooney Hannah , O'Donoghue Kieran
Published: August 2019

Book review by Sonya Hunt.
Christianity and Climate Change Adaption: Sea-level Rise and Ritualising Village Relocation in Fiji
Authors: White Thomas Arthur John
Published: August 2019

Development studies are ambivalent about the relationship between climate change adaption and Pacific Christianity. Biblical belief about Noah’s covenant and the End Times are understood to undermine risk perception, while church membership is seen to threaten cross-denominational cooperation, hampering adaptive capacity. Yet the communicative reach and charismatic authority of Pacific churches remains the envy of development specialists working on climate change. This focus on belief and institutional reach, however, neglects how Christian ritual practice can orientate and stabilise faith communities. Drawing on fieldwork in rural Fiji investigating village migration due to coastal flooding from sea-level rise, this paper shows how ritual practice strengthens community resilience when responding to climate change. In Vunidogoloa, villagers employed the Old Testament myth of Exodus to (re)create ritual responses to vent the emotional/spiritual trauma of leaving their ancestral home. Whereas in the nearby village Vunisavisavi, such ritual responses have been lacking and village relocation remained problematic.
Questions to Help Understand Religion and Development in Vanuatu
Authors: Clarke Matthew
Published: August 2019

Across the Pacific, Christianity features prominently in both the modern history as well as the contemporary social-political experiences of these countries. In Vanuatu, self-professed Christian religious belief approaches one hundred per cent of the population. It is clear that religion in Vanuatu has important effects on development processes, social services, institutions, and social networks. Yet, despite this self-evident close integration, much more research is required to better understand the entanglements of Christianity and development. Drawing on previous research in Vanuatu, this article identifies seven key questions that require further research. These questions cover issues associated with gender, participation, leadership, theology, partnerships, and dynamics of religious change. It is proposed that these seven questions also have relevancy across the Pacific region. Holding greater knowledge of the intersection between religion and development will lead to more authentic engagement with religion and religious organisations and potentially better development outcomes for local communities.
Engaging with Churches to Address Development-related Challenges in Solomon Islands
Authors: Cassells Ross Macdonald
Published: August 2019

Solomon Islands churches, such as the United Church on Choiseul, have accrued extensive organisational networks, governance structures, and a local political legitimacy that frequently surpasses that of the state. Well-respected and very influential at village-level, this places such churches in a strong position to be agents for change. On Choiseul, however, Nukiki village and others, are facing significant development-related challenges which they, and the church, do not have the necessary skills to address. Outside assistance is needed to enhance local capacity, and this could be achieved if development agencies engaged in partnerships with the church. In discussing the potential for productive partnerships with churches, this paper focuses on the case of the United Church in Nukiki Village, Choiseul Province.
Christianity and Development in the Pacific: An Introduction
Authors: Fountain Philip , Troughton Geoffrey
Published: August 2019

Although a significant literature has arisen examining the intersections of Christianity and development in the Pacific, these themes have yet to receive the full attention they deserve. This special issue seeks to encourage further scholarship on these important themes. In this introduction we trace some of the entanglements between religion and development in Pacific history and suggest some productive future research trajectories.
Tentacled microbe hints at how simple cells became complex
Authors: Pennisi Elizabeth
Published: August 2019

A "gargantuan" effort grew archaea from deep-sea mud.
Response to Comment on “Impacts of historical warming on marine fisheries production”
Authors: Free Christopher M. , Thorson James T. , Pinsky Malin L. , Oken Kiva L. , Wiedenmann John , Jensen Olaf P.
Published: August 2019

Szuwalski argues that varying age structure can affect surplus production and that recruitment is a better metric of productivity. We explain how our null model controlled for age structure and other processes as explanations for the temperature-production relationship. Surplus production includes growth, recruitment, and other processes and provides a more complete description of food production impacts than does recruitment alone.
Using wild relatives to improve maize
Authors: Hake Sarah , Richardson Annis
Published: August 2019

Altering maize leaf angle increases yield under high-density planting
Stop blaming mental illness
Authors: Leshner Alan I.
Published: August 2019

The United States is experiencing a public health epidemic of mass shootings and other forms of gun violence. A convenient response seems to be blaming mental illness; after all, “who in their right mind would do this?” This is utterly wrong. Mental illnesses, certainly severe mental illnesses, are not the major cause of mass shootings. It also is dangerously stigmatizing to people who suffer from these devastating disorders and can subject them to inappropriate restrictions. According to the National Council for Behavioral Health, the best estimates are that individuals with mental illnesses are responsible for less than 4% of all violent crimes in the United States, and less than a third of people who commit mass shootings are diagnosably mentally ill. Moreover, a large majority of individuals with mental illnesses are not at high risk for committing violent acts. Continuing to blame mental illness distracts from finding the real causes of mass shootings and addressing them directly.