bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors influencing the implementation of mental health recovery into services: a systematic mixed studies review
Authors: Piat Myra , Wainwright Megan , Sofouli Eleni , Vachon Brigitte , Deslauriers Tania , Préfontaine Cassandra , Frati Francesca
Published: May 2021

Background

Countries around the world have committed in policy to transforming their mental health services towards a recovery orientation. How has mental health recovery been implemented into services for adults, and what factors influence the implementation of recovery-oriented services?

Methods

This systematic mixed studies review followed a convergent qualitative synthesis design and used the best-fit framework synthesis method. Librarians ran searches in Ovid- MEDLINE, Ovid-EMBASE, Ovid-PsycInfo, EBSCO-CINAHL Plus with Full Text, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses, Cochrane Library, and Scopus. Two reviewers independently screened studies for inclusion or exclusion using DistillerSR. Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods peer-reviewed studies published since 1998 were included if they reported a new effort to transform adult mental health services towards a recovery orientation, and reported findings related to implementation experience, process, or factors. Data was extracted in NVivo12 to the 38 constructs of the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). The synthesis included a within-case and a cross-case thematic analysis of data coded to each CFIR construct. Cases were types of recovery-oriented innovations.

Results

Seventy studies met our inclusion criteria. These were grouped into seven types of recovery-oriented innovations (cases) for within-case and cross-case synthesis. Themes illustrating common implementation factors across innovations are presented by CFIR domain: Intervention Characteristics (flexibility, relationship building, lived experience); Inner Setting (traditional biomedical vs. recovery-oriented approach, the importance of organizational and policy commitment to recovery-transformation, staff turnover, lack of resources to support personal recovery goals, information gaps about new roles and procedures, interpersonal relationships), Characteristics of Individuals (variability in knowledge about recovery, characteristics of recovery-oriented service providers); Process (the importance of planning, early and continuous engagement with stakeholders). Very little data from included studies was extracted to the outer setting domain, and therefore, we present only some initial observations and note that further research on outer setting implementation factors is needed.

Conclusion

The CFIR required some adaptation for use as an implementation framework in this review. The common implementation factors presented are an important starting point for stakeholders to consider when implementing recovery-oriented services.
Effect of community-based interventions targeting female sex workers along the HIV care cascade in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Atuhaire Lydia , Adetokunboh Olatunji , Shumba Constance , Nyasulu Peter S.
Published: May 2021

Background

Female sex workers are extremely vulnerable and highly susceptible to being infected with human immunodeficiency virus. As a result, community-based targeted interventions have been recommended as one of the models of care to improve access to HIV services and continued engagement in care. We conducted a systematic review to (1) assess the effect of FSW-targeted community interventions on the improvement of HIV services access along the treatment cascade and (2) describe community-based interventions that positively affect continuation in HIV care across the HIV treatment cascade for FSWs in sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods

We defined the 5 steps that make up the HIV care cascade and categorized them as outcomes, namely, HIV testing and diagnosis, linkage to care, receipt of ART, and achievement of viral suppression. We conducted a systematic search of randomized controlled trials, cohort, and cross-sectional studies done in sub-Saharan African countries and published from 2004 to 2020. The period was selected based on the time span within which ART was scaled up through widespread roll-out of comprehensive HIV programs in sub-Saharan Africa. We reviewed studies with data on the implementation of community interventions for any of the HIV care cascade stage. The data were analyzed using random effects meta-analysis where possible, and for the rest of the studies, data were synthesized using summary statistics.

Results

The significant impact of the community interventions was observed on HIV testing, HIV diagnosis, and ART use. However, for HIV testing and ART use, the improvement was not sustained for the entire period of implementation. There were minimal interventions that had impact on HIV diagnosis, with only one community service delivery model showing significance. Generally, the interventions that had reasonable impact are those that implemented targeted and comprehensive package of HIV services provided at one location, and with unique strategies specific to each cascade stage.

Conclusions

The evidence brought forward from this review shows that the effect of community-based interventions varies across the different stages of HIV care cascade. A broad package of interventions including a combination of behavioral, biomedical, and structural, designed with specific strategies, unique to each cascade stage appears to be more effective, although information on long-term treatment outcomes and the extent to which FSWs remain engaged in care is sparse. There is need to conduct a further research to deepen the assessment of the effectiveness of community-based interventions on HIV care cascade for FSWs. This will enhance identification of evidence-based optimal interventions that will guide effective allocation of scarce resources for strategies that would have a significant impact on HIV service delivery.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO CRD42020157623
Some Hermite–Hadamard and Opial dynamic inequalities on time scales
Authors: Mohammed Pshtiwan Othman , Ryoo Cheon Seoung , Kashuri Artion , Hamed Y. S. , Abualnaja Khadijah M.
Published: May 2021

In this article, we are interested in some well-known dynamic inequalities on time scales. For this reason, we will prove some new Hermite–Hadamard (H-H) and Opial dynamic inequalities on time scales. The main results here will be derived via the dynamic integration by parts and chain rule formulas on time scales. In addition, we will extend and unify the inequalities for the convex functions.
The effect of education based on health belief model on promoting preventive behaviors of hypertensive disease in staff of the Iran University of Medical Sciences
Authors: Azadi Nemam Ali , Ziapour Arash , Lebni Javad Yoosefi , Irandoost Seyed Fahim , Abbas Jaffar , Chaboksavar Fakhreddin
Published: May 2021

Background

Hypertension is one of the major causes of many diseases, such as heart attack, strokes, kidney failure, and many internal disorders. This presentresearch study aimed to investigate the impact of educational programs based on the health belief model to promote hypertension prevention behavior of Iran University of Medical Sciences staff.

Methods

This study has incorporated pretest-posttest quasi-experimental based on 128 staff members and randomly assigned the recruited and involved participants to an intervention (n = 64) and a control group (n = 64). The data collection tool was based on a questionnaire related to health belief model constructs based on 42 questions. The study interpreted the results using ANCOVA and robust ANCOVA as suitable approaches.

Results

ANCOVA showed improvement in the cues to participants’ action following educational interventional (p = 0.011). the robust ANCOVA specified that the intervention was successful for participants with low to moderate initial levels of knowledge, perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived barriers, and self-efficacy scores. The levels of these components did not change in participants with very high baseline scores. Compared to a control group, regardless of baseline score, the perceived benefits and practice (behavior) of participants at the intervention group were improved significantly (P <  0.05).

Conclusion

This current study specified that the education-based health belief model effectively promotes hypertension preventive behaviors among Iran University of Medical Sciences staff.
One-year intradialytic leg exercises with resistance bands and fat mass increase in elderly hemodialysis patients: a retrospective study
Authors: Kato Masahiro , Shibata Masanori , Asai Kazuaki , Harada Kumi , Ito Isao , Tawada Hisae , Nagai Kojiro , Taniguchi Shinkichi
Published: May 2021

Background

Intradialytic exercises are recommended to be available as a treatment for enhancing physical functioning. However, there have been few reports which evaluated the results of long-term mild intradialytic exercises in elderly patients. The purpose of this study is to investigate the changes in body weight, body composition, and laboratory data in elderly hemodialysis patients after 1-year intradialytic leg exercises with resistance bands.

Methods

A retrospective study. Twenty-one outpatients, aged 65 or older (mean ± SD, 75.2 ± 5.1 years), received intradialytic leg exercises with resistance bands for a year were analyzed. The values of dry weight, body composition, and laboratory data were collected from the year-ago period, at baseline and 1 year after baseline. Fat and muscle mass were evaluated by using a multi-frequency bioimpedance device.

Results

Physical performance changed and body weight increased after 1-year resistance band exercises. However, the participants gained fat mass, not muscle mass. Although the changes in biochemical data related to protein intake were equivocal, triglyceride levels increased significantly after 1-year exercises. An elevation in serum creatinine levels was observed, even if solute clearance increased significantly.

Conclusions

One-year intradialytic leg exercises with resistance bands may have a potential clinical benefit for body mass index even in elderly hemodialysis patients. However, optimal dietary modification is needed to achieve a balanced increase of muscle and fat mass. An increase of serum creatinine levels does not always mean muscle mass hypertrophy.
Rock-physics constrained seismic anisotropy parameter estimation
Authors: Yan Fuyong , Han De-Hua , Yao Qiuliang
Published: May 2021

Compared with isotropic media, at least two extra parameters are involved in common P-wave seismic data processing and interpretation for transversely isotropic media. Previous synthetic model testing has shown that it is challenging to estimate anisotropy parameters even using extremely low noise level seismic data from a simple geologic setting. Although theoretically independent, anisotropy parameters are not free variables for organic-rich mudrocks whose elastic properties are often approximated by transverse isotropy. One potential approach to improve the accuracy in the estimated anisotropy parameters is to consider the physical relationships between them during the inversion process. To test this proposition, we first modify a commonly used nonhyperbolic reflection moveout equation as a function of the interval anisotropy velocities so that rock-physics constraints could be effectively applied to each layer. The rock-physics constraints are established from data analysis of selected laboratory anisotropy measurement data. The laboratory data are then used to parameterize hundreds of 15-layer transverse isotropy models using a Monte Carlo simulation. The synthetic model testing indicates that the accuracy of the estimated anisotropy parameters can be improved if the relationships between the anisotropy parameters are considered during the inversion process.
Log-validated waveform inversion of reflection seismic data with wavelet phase and amplitude updating
Authors: Romahn Sergio , Innanen Kristopher A. , Margrave Gary F.
Published: May 2021

We have formulated an inversion approach for near-offset seismic reflection data based on full-waveform inversion (FWI) workflows, in which an element of standard seismic processing takes the place of each of the fundamental components of FWI. A motivation for using reflections in FWI is trying to update the model in deep zones in which the diving waves could not penetrate due to the large-offset limitation. The workflow is an iterative cycle of simulation, depth migration, and impedance inversion, and it is an outgrowth of an approach referred to as iterative modeling, migration, and inversion. Two-way wave operators (similar to those used in reverse time migration), which are part of the gradient calculation, are replaced with one-way wave operators; pseudo-Hessian preconditioning of the gradient is replaced with a deconvolution imaging condition; and well-log information to calibrate the update direction (i.e., model validation) replaces the standard line search (i.e., data validation). For land data applications, variations in the source wavelet are anticipated to be a large issue. To address this, we update the amplitude and phase of the simulated source wavelet during the inversion. The alternative workflow is referred to as log-validated waveform inversion (LVWI). The stabilization of LVWI is analyzed in a synthetic environment in which we examine the sensitivity to geologic complexity, well location, and log interval, each of which can impact the usefulness of local well-log information. Data from the Hussar experiment, a 2D land survey carried out in 2011 specifically to test waveform inversion procedures, are used to validate the approach. The Hussar data set is the framework for several experiments designed to analyze the effect of the wavelet update and the well-log calibration procedures. The results suggest that the implementation of wavelet updates and well calibration may provide an opportunity to mitigate cycle skipping and overcome potential local minima.
A contrario dip picking for borehole imaging
Authors: Costes Joris , Facciolo Gabriele , Grompone von Gioi Rafael , Kherroubi Josselin , Meinhardt-Llopis Enric , Morel Jean-Michel
Published: May 2021

We have described an algorithm to perform automatic dip picking on borehole images. One key element of our method is a statistical validation, based on the a contrario theory, which is used to decide whether each candidate dip is to be accepted or not. Our method also uses a randomized Hough transform, which greatly improves the processing speed, allowing for a real-time detection of dips during image visualization. In addition, the same algorithm can be applied at different scales to provide a multiresolution analysis of the structures. Our experiments determine that our algorithm produces reliable dip picking by an evaluation on three manually annotated boreholes: Our method detects from 60% to 90% of the dips annotated by an expert, depending on the complexity of the data.
Seismic characterization of fractured reservoirs with elastic impedance difference versus angle and azimuth: A low-frequency poroelasticity perspective
Authors: Pan Xinpeng , Zhang Pengfei , Zhang Guangzhi , Guo Zhenwei , Liu Jianxin
Published: May 2021

PP-wave azimuthal elastic impedance (EI) data inverted from azimuthal prestack seismic reflection data can be theoretically and practically used for fluid- and fracture-property discrimination in naturally porous and fluid-saturated fractured reservoirs within the exploration seismic frequency band. From the perspective of the low-frequency Biot-Gassmann theory, Russell’s fluid indicator can be stably applied to fluid identification in hard-rock fractured reservoirs. Based on the low-frequency anisotropic poroelasticity theory, we first derive an azimuthal PP-wave reflection coefficient and an azimuthal EI equation in terms of Russell’s fluid indicator (a combination of acoustic impedances and dry-rock velocity ratio without the effect of squirt flow in the seismic frequency range) and two fracture indicators (i.e., normal and tangential fracture weaknesses). Using azimuthal differences in EI data, we then develop a three-step inversion method of EI difference versus angle and azimuth. It can be used accurately to estimate the fluid and fracture indicators and characterize the sensitive properties of saturated fractured porous reservoirs. Noisy synthetic data are used to verify the stability and robustness of the proposed hierarchical impedance inversion approach. A real data set acquired over a gas-bearing fractured reservoir is also used to obtain the sensitive indicators of the fluid and fracture properties, which agree well with the well-log data. Thus, our hierarchical inversion approach provides a more straightforward and efficient manner to characterize the porous and fluid-saturated fractured reservoirs.
Influence of interface condition on reflection of elastic waves in fluid-saturated porous media
Authors: Qi Qiaomu , Cao Jun-Xin , Wang Xing-Jian , Gao Jiajia
Published: May 2021

The characteristics of P-wave reflection coefficients can be dependent on the properties of the interface separating the two dissimilar poroelastic media. To evaluate the influence of the interface condition, we have developed a general theoretical formulation of seismic reflection and transmission of waves at arbitrary incidence angles in fluid-saturated porous media. The formulation is derived based on the quasistatic Biot’s theory and incorporates a more general boundary condition for fluid pressure. Simple analytic expressions are obtained for reflection and transmission coefficients at normal incidence. The equations incorporate an interfacial impedance that can be used to effectively characterize the interface condition. Based on the new formulation, we study the coupled effects of dynamic fluid flow and the interface condition on the reflection and transmission coefficients. Two pertinent reflection scenarios in exploration geophysics are considered in the numerical analysis, i.e., a gas-water contact and a free fluid overlying a gas-saturated medium. We examine the corresponding P-wave reflection coefficient resulting from different interface conditions such as imperfect hydraulic contact, capillary pressure, and open- and sealed-pore interfaces. Our results reveal that the interface condition can affect the frequency dependence and amplitude-versus-angle signatures of the reflection coefficient.
Frequency-dependent AVO analysis: A potential seismic attribute for thin-bed identification
Authors: Zhao Zeyu , Kumar Dhananjay , Foster Douglas J. , Dralus Danica , Sen Mrinal K.
Published: May 2021

Identifying thinly bedded reservoirs is important in exploration, appraisal, and development. The thin beds that we are referring to are of meter scale or less. Conventional seismic attributes are not able to resolve thin-bed effects. A new frequency-dependent amplitude variation with offset (FAVO) seismic attribute is developed for the prediction of thin beds. It is based on seismic wave scattering theory for vertically inhomogeneous media, in which the seismic response from a laterally homogeneous interval is represented by the Born series. The Born series characterizes the P-P and P-SV wave reflections, transmissions, and interbed multiples within the target interval with different order terms. The newly derived attribute corresponds to the second-order term of the Born series, in which P-S wave reflection and transmission energy is taken into consideration, and it is called the second-order FAVO gradient attribute. In a thinly bedded interval where sand/shale interfaces are abundant, the P-SV wave mode conversions are numerous. This leads to a strong second-order FAVO gradient attribute response compared to that of a blocky sand, silt, or shale interval under the assumption that there is no significant rock- and fluid-property differences between the intervals. Therefore, the new seismic attribute has the potential to be a thin-bed interval indicator. We have adopted a strategy to estimate the new attribute using conventional P-wave seismic data. The attribute is extracted from seismic data at the frequency range at which the second-order scattering effect is the most prominent. Synthetic and field data examples from offshore Trinidad are studied to demonstrate the second-order scattering effect and the potential usage of the second-order FAVO attribute for thin-bed reservoir characterization.
‘Choose Psychiatry’ goes virtual: experiences and learning from the online 2020 National Psychiatry Summer School
Authors: Vinchenzo Patricia , Nabavi Nikki , Tracy Derek K.
Published: May 2021

Aims and method

COVID-19 has forced many educational events to go ‘virtual’. We report on the first online student-run National Psychiatry Summer School (NPSS). Evaluation of the online format and content was undertaken through survey feedback from almost 400 attendees.

Results

The NPSS positively affected attendees’ perceptions of psychiatry as a career choice. The virtual format was positively received, with benefits including breaking down traditional barriers of geography and cost.

Clinical implications

Post-COVID-19, a hybrid future of mixed virtual and face-to-face events is likely. Our work shows the viability of this and unique gains it might offer, and offers experiential learning on challenges encountered for others who wish to trial further virtual conferences.
µIVC-Useq: a microfluidic-assisted high-throughput functional screening in tandem with next-generation sequencing and artificial neural network to rapidly characterize RNA molecules
Authors: Cubi Roger , Bouhedda Farah , Collot Mayeul , Klymchenko Andrey S. , Ryckelynck Michael
Published: May 2021

The function of an RNA is intimately linked to its structure. Many approaches encompassing X-ray crystallography, NMR, structural probing, or in silico predictions have been developed to establish structural models, sometimes with a precision down to atomic resolution. Yet these models still require experimental validation through the preparation and functional assay of mutants, which can rapidly become time consuming and laborious. Such limitations can be overcome using high-throughput functional screenings that may not only help in validating the model, but also inform on the mutational robustness of a structural element and the extent to which a sequence can be modified without altering RNA function, an important set of information to assist RNA engineering. We introduced the microfluidic-assisted in vitro compartmentalization (µIVC), an efficient and cost-effective screening strategy in which reactions are performed in picoliter droplets at rates of several thousand per second. We later improved µIVC efficiency by using it in tandem with high-throughput sequencing, though a laborious bioinformatic step was still required at the end of the process. In the present work, we further increased the automation level of the pipeline by implementing an artificial neural network enabling unsupervised bioinformatic analysis. We demonstrate the efficiency of this “µIVC-Useq” technology by rapidly identifying a set of sequences readily accepted by a key domain of the light-up RNA aptamer SRB-2. This work not only shed some new light on the way this aptamer can be engineered, but it also allowed us to easily identify new variants with an up to 10-fold improved performance.
Opinie przedstawicieli łódzkiej branży turystycznej na temat głównych turystycznych aktów prawnych
Authors: Paprzycka Joanna
Published: May 2021

Celem pracy jest przedstawienie analizy opinii pracowników łódzkiej branży turystycznej na temat głównych turystycznych aktów prawnych, ze szczególnym odniesieniem do zmian dokonanych w ostatnich kilku latach w prawie branżowym. Metody badawcze zastosowane w opracowaniu to wywiad standaryzowany pogłębiony oraz obserwacja uczestnicząca. W badaniu zwrócono uwagę m.in. na ocenę dokonanych zmian oraz potrzebę dalszych uregulowań prawnych, nieprecyzyjność terminologiczną najważniejszych aktów prawnych, wciąż nierozwiązany w branży turystycznej problem „szarej strefy” czy ocenę respondentów funkcjonowania Turystycznego Funduszu Gwarancyjnego. W wyniku przedstawionej analizy autorka dostrzega duże rozbieżności w postrzeganiu głównych turystycznych aktów prawnych, modyfikowanych w ciągu ostatnich kilku lat.
Koncepcja idei Slow Movement na przykładzie organizacji targów konsumenckich
Authors: Skoczeń Klaudia
Published: May 2021

Obecnie targi są jedną z popularniejszych form promocji oraz dotarcia do klienta. Jednak, tak jak i w przypadku innych dziedzin życia, nie omijają ich wpływy nowych ruchów czy trendy. Jednym z takich aspektów jest idea Slow Movement, której główną myślą przewodnią jest zmniejszenie tempa życia i skupienie się nie na ilości, a jakości – jej wpływy można odnaleźć m.in. na krakowskich targach. Celem pracy była analiza rozwoju poszczególnych aspektów idei Slow Movement oraz wpływu, jaki wywierają one na obecne wydarzenia. Metodą, którą wykorzystano w badaniach, były wywiady. Badania dotyczyły okresu pandemii, która także wpłynęła na organizację targów. Ich wyniki potwierdziły znaczenie idei Slow Movement w branży spotkań dla organizatorów i uczestników.
Zmiany zachowań wolnoczasowych dotyczących rekreacji fizycznej osób młodych w obliczu pandemii ­­COVID-19
Authors: Szał Łukasz , Terlecka Weronika
Published: May 2021

Publikacja dotyka problemu rekreacji fizycznej ludzi młodych w okresie pandemii ­­COVID-19 i zmian, jakie w tym obszarze zaszły w jej trakcie. Opracowanie stanowi wycinek badań przeprowadzonych w grudniu 2020 r. w ramach projektu pt. „Zmiany w budżecie czasu wolnego i zachowaniach wolnoczasowych mieszkańców dużych miast w wyniku pandemii ­COVID-19”. W rozdziale, w oparciu o wypełniony przez respondentów kwestionariusz budżetu czasu wolnego, opracowano wyniki odnoszące się do tygodniowej ilości godzin poświęcanych aktywności fizycznej. Na podstawie wybranych pytań z wywiadów przeprowadzanych z tymi samymi respondentami przedstawiono ich odpowiedzi dotyczące zmian w podejmowaniu rekreacji ruchowej w trakcie pandemii.
Konsekwencje społeczne i ekonomiczne wydarzeń hybrydowych na przykładzie piątej edycji kongresu Open Eyes Economy Summit
Authors: Franczyk Małgorzata
Published: May 2021

Z uwagi na bardzo szybki rozwój branży spotkań oraz pandemię ­COVID-19 profesjonaliści zajmujący się organizacją spotkań starają się wdrażać technologię, aby wydarzenia mogły dalej się odbywać w celu wzbogacenia doświadczeń uczestników. Odpowiedzią na powyższe są wydarzenia hybrydowe, które łączą w sobie tradycyjne elementy spotkań z innowacyjnymi technologiami. Celem pracy jest zbadanie konsekwencji ekonomicznych i społecznych wspomnianych wydarzeń z perspektywy organizatora. Metodą badawczą zastosowaną w opracowaniu jest studium przypadku: analiza kongresu Open Eyes Economy Summit oraz wywiad z jego organizatorami. Z badań wynika, że ten sposób organizacji przynosi wiele wymiernych korzyści, przyczynia się do powstawania nowego trendu oraz upatruje się w nim przyszłość branży spotkań.
Δημόσια διοίκηση και διοίκηση επιχειρήσεων
Authors: Ρωσσίδης Ιωάννης
Published: May 2021

Η παρούσα διατριβή πραγματεύεται τη συμβολή των αρχών του Επιχειρησιακού Management στην μεταρρύθμιση της Δημόσιας Διοίκησης. Η δημόσια διοίκηση υπόκειται στην μετάλλαξη του “managerialism” όπως διαφαίνεται ως τάση στις περισσότερες δυτικές χώρες θέτοντας τη διοικητική αποτελεσματικότητα ως το κυρίαρχο ζήτημα στην επιστημονική έρευνα. Αντικείμενο της παρούσας μελέτης, αποτελεί η διερεύνηση των επιρροών της επιστήμης της διοίκησης επιχειρήσεων στη μεταρρύθμιση των δημοσίων οργανισμών. Η μελέτη που διενεργήθηκε βασίζεται στην ανάπτυξη της θεωρίας του Νέου Δημόσιου Management, εξετάζοντας την προοπτική αξιοποίησης εργαλείων και πρακτικών του επιχειρησιακού management από τον σύγχρονο δημόσιο τομέα. Στα πλαίσια της διενεργούμενης έρευνας επιχειρείται μια συγκριτική ανάλυση δημόσιου και ιδιωτικού τομέα από την οποία αντλούνται καλές πρακτικές εν είδει στρατηγικών εργαλείων διοίκησης για την μεταρρύθμιση του δημόσιου τομέα στα πρότυπα που ορίζονται από το διεθνές περιβάλλον.
A predictive model for daily cumulative COVID-19 cases in Ghana
Authors: Iddrisu Abdul-Karim , A. Amikiya Emmanuel , Otoo Dominic
Published: May 2021

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a pandemic that has affected the daily life, governments and economies of many countries all over the globe. Ghana is currently experiencing a surge in the number of cases with a corresponding increase in the cumulative confirmed cases and deaths. The surge in cases and deaths clearly shows that the preventive and management measures are ineffective and that policy makers lack a complete understanding of the dynamics of the disease. Most of the deaths in Ghana are due to lack of adequate health equipment and facilities for managing the disease. Knowledge of the number of cases in advance would aid policy makers in allocating sufficient resources for the effective management of the cases.

Methods: A predictive tool is necessary for the effective management and prevention of cases. This study presents a predictive tool that has the ability to accurately forecast the number of cumulative cases. The study applied polynomial and spline models on the COVID-19 data for Ghana, to develop a generalized additive model (GAM) that accurately captures the growth pattern of the cumulative cases.

Results: The spline model and the GAM provide accurate forecast values.

Conclusion: Cumulative cases of COVID-19 in Ghana are expected to continue to increase if appropriate preventive measures are not enforced. Vaccination against the virus is ongoing in Ghana, thus, future research would consider evaluating the impact of the vaccine.
Improving Analytical Tools for Auditing Reports on the Implementation of Key Indicators of the Development Strategy of Companies in the Information Technology Sector
Authors: Kazakova Nataliya , Shestakovskiy I.
Published: May 2021

The article proposes a methodological toolkit for assessing the strategy of companies in the digital economy, based on improved conceptual approaches to formalizing the strategy, and auditing the reliability of reports on the implementation of key indicators of the strategy as an integrated system of value-oriented information about the business and its environment. The proposed strategy audit methodology consists of four stages, considered on the example of a conditional information technology company. Its application makes it possible to assess the effectiveness of the strategy, in accordance with which the company has developed, to identify possible shortcomings in the process of developing and implementing strategic decisions.
Not Registered? Please Sign Up First: A Randomized Field Experiment on the Ex Ante Registration Request
Authors: Huang Ni , Mojumder Probal , Sun Tianshu , Lv Jinchi , Golden Joseph M.
Published: May 2021

Online commerce websites often request users to register in the online shopping process. Recognizing the challenges of user registration, many websites opt to delay their registration request until the end of the conversion funnel (i.e., ex post registration request). A new study in Information Systems Research explores an alternative approach by asking users to register with the website at the beginning of their shopping journey (i.e., ex ante registration request). The authors of the study, Ni Huang (University of Houston), Probal Mojumder (University of Southern California), Tianshu Sun (University of Southern California), Jinchi Lv (University of Southern California), and Joseph M. Golden (Collage.com), show that the ex ante request leads to an increased probability of user registration. Furthermore, the ex ante request leads to considerable increases in customer purchases in the long run and does not significantly influence sales in the short run. Further investigation into the long-term and short-term effects provides suggestive evidence on several potential mechanisms, such as firm-initiated interaction (e.g., email marketing campaigns) and screening of low-interest users (i.e., users with low initial valuations of the website and in a potentially disengaged state). This study provides managerial implications on the design of user-registration systems in e-commerce websites.
CPD article: Fractures of the femur
Authors: Sanchez Maria Dolores Porcel , Perry Karen L
Published: May 2021

Femoral fractures occur commonly in dogs and cats, accounting for 45% of all long bone fractures. Femoral fractures are classified based on anatomic locational and include fractures of the proximal epiphysis, proximal physeal fractures, subcapital fractures, fractures of the femoral neck, trochanteric fractures, subtrochanteric fractures, fractures of the femoral shaft, supracondylar fractures, distal physeal fractures, unicondylar fractures, bicondylar fractures and fractures affecting the femoral trochlea. In general, femoral fractures are not amenable to treatment with external coaptation, so surgical stabilisation or a salvage procedure is required. Selection of an implant system will depend on fracture configuration and location, and requires a thorough understanding of the forces to which the implant system will be subjected. Complications associated with stabilisation may include premature physeal closure, resorption of the femoral head or neck, malunion, non-union, altered coxofemoral development, implant failure, sciatic neurapraxia, quadriceps contracture, patellar luxation and infection. The complication rate can be substantially reduced by the use of meticulous surgical technique and appropriate implant selection with the prognosis for complete functional recovery remaining good to excellent, providing that an optimal healing environment is preserved.
Placements and portfolios: enhancing performance through experience and reflection
Authors: Best Catherine , Tymon Lucy
Published: May 2021

The theory–practice gap continues to be a problem in healthcare. Catherine Best and Lucy Tymon explore how practice placements and portfolios can help with this

The theory–practice gap remains prevalent in the healthcare profession; ultimately having the potential to impact negatively on patient care. The use of practice placements and portfolios can help to reduce this gap by supporting students to become self-regulating, self-directed learners able to take responsibility for achieving their defined learning outcomes, while reflecting critically on their experience and professional practice. A fundamental requirement, however, is the undivided commitment of the current nursing workforce to scaffold learning opportunities in high quality practice placements and to catalyse excellent support networks that promote effective collaboration. Such networks enable students to build confidence in their abilities to overcome the challenges they will undoubtedly face, during the often-difficult transition from student to registered nurse.
Mid- to long-term follow-up of combined small implants
Authors: Rossi Stefano M. P. , Perticarini Loris , Clocchiatti Susanna , Ghiara Matteo , Benazzo Francesco
Published: May 2021

Aims

In the last decade, interest in partial knee arthroplasties and bicruciate retaining total knee arthroplasties has increased. In addition, patient-related outcomes and functional results such as range of movement and ambulation may be more promising with less invasive procedures such as bicompartmental arthroplasty (BCA). The purpose of this study is to evaluate clinical and radiological outcomes after a third-generation patellofemoral arthroplasty (PFA) combined with a medial or lateral unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) at mid- to long-term follow-up.

Methods

A total of 57 procedures were performed. In 45 cases, a PFA was associated with a medial UKA and, in 12, with a lateral UKA. Patients were followed with validated patient-reported outcome measures (Oxford Knee Score (OKS), EuroQol five-dimension questionnaire (EQ-5D), EuroQoL Visual Analogue Scale (EQ-VAS)), the Knee Society Score (KSS), the Forgotten Joint Score (FJS), and radiological analysis.

Results

The mean follow-up was nine years (6 to 13). All scores significantly improved from preoperatively to final follow-up (mean and SD): OKS from 23.2 (8.1) to 42.5 (3.5), EQ-5D from 0.44 (0.25) to 0.815 (0.1), EQ-VAS from 46.7 (24.9) to 89.1 (9.8), KSS (Knee) from 51.4 (8.5) to 94.4 (4.2), and KSS (Function) from 48.7 (5.5) to 88.8 (5.2). The mean FJS at final follow-up was 79.2 (4.2). All failures involved the medial UKA + PFA group. Overall, survival rate was 91.5% for all the combined implants at ten years with 95% confidence intervals and 22 knees at risk.

Conclusion

Excellent clinical and radiological outcomes were achieved after a third-generation PFA combined with a medial or lateral UKA. BCA with unlinked partial knee prostheses showed a good survival rate at mid- to long-term follow-up. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(5):840–845.
Evaluating lower limb kinematics and pathology with dynamic CT
Authors: Buzzatti Luca , Keelson Benyameen , Vanlauwe Johan , Buls Nico , De Mey Johan , Vandemeulebroucke Jef , Cattrysse Erik , Scheerlinck Thierry
Published: May 2021

Evaluating musculoskeletal conditions of the lower limb and understanding the pathophysiology of complex bone kinematics is challenging. Static images do not take into account the dynamic component of relative bone motion and muscle activation. Fluoroscopy and dynamic MRI have important limitations. Dynamic CT (4D-CT) is an emerging alternative that combines high spatial and temporal resolution, with an increased availability in clinical practice. 4D-CT allows simultaneous visualization of bone morphology and joint kinematics. This unique combination makes it an ideal tool to evaluate functional disorders of the musculoskeletal system. In the lower limb, 4D-CT has been used to diagnose femoroacetabular impingement, patellofemoral, ankle and subtalar joint instability, or reduced range of motion. 4D-CT has also been used to demonstrate the effect of surgery, mainly on patellar instability. 4D-CT will need further research and validation before it can be widely used in clinical practice. We believe, however, it is here to stay, and will become a reference in the diagnosis of lower limb conditions and the evaluation of treatment options.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(5):822–827.
Clinical differences between central and peripheral chondrosarcomas
Authors: Laitinen Minna K. , Evans Scott , Stevenson Jonathan , Sumathi Vaiyapuri , Kask Gilber , Jeys Lee M. , Parry Michael C.
Published: May 2021

Aims

Chondrosarcoma is the second most common primary sarcoma of bone: conventional chondrosarcoma accounts for 85% of all cases. Conventional chondrosarcoma may be central or peripheral. Most studies group central and peripheral chondrosarcomas together, although there is growing evidence that their clinical behaviour and prognosis differ. The aims of this study were to analyze any differences in characteristics between central and peripheral chondrosarcomas and to investigate the incidence and role of different syndromes.

Methods

Data from two international tertiary referral sarcoma centres between January 1995 and December 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. The study population consisted of 714 patients with surgically treated conventional chondrosarcoma of the pelvis and limbs.

Results

In patients with Ollier’s disease and Mafucci’s syndrome, 12/20 (60%) and 2/5 (60%) of malignancies, respectively, were in the limbs, most frequently in the proximal humerus, proximal tibia, and in the hands and feet. In patients with hereditary multiple exostosis (HME), 20/29 (69.0%) of chondrosarcomas were in the pelvis and scapula, specifically in the ilium in 13/29 (44.8%) and the scapula in 3/29 (10.3%). In central chondrosarcoma, survival of patients with Ollier’s disease and non-syndromic patients was the same (p = 0.805). In peripheral chondrosarcoma, survival among HME patients was similar (p = 0.676) in patients with tumours of the pelvis and limbs.

Conclusion

Both central and peripheral chondrosarcoma have specific characteristics. HME is frequently seen in patients with a peripheral chondrosarcoma, in whom tumours are commonly located in the ilium and scapula. The incidence of Ollier’s disease is uncommon in patients with a central chondrosarcoma. Disease-specific survival is equal in different subtypes after adjustment for histological grade. The local recurrence-free survival is the same for different locations and subtypes after adjustment for surgical margin. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(5):984–990.
Two-year RSA migration results of symmetrical and asymmetrical tibial components in total knee arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Koster Lennard A. , Meinardi Joris E. , Kaptein Bart L. , Van der Linden - Van der Zwaag Enrike , Nelissen Rob G. H. H.
Published: May 2021

Aims

The objective of this study was to compare the two-year migration pattern and clinical outcomes of a total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with an asymmetrical tibial design (Persona PS) and a well-proven TKA with a symmetrical tibial design (NexGen LPS).

Methods

A randomized controlled radiostereometric analysis (RSA) trial was conducted including 75 cemented posterior-stabilized TKAs. Implant migration was measured with RSA. Maximum total point motion (MTPM), translations, rotations, clinical outcomes, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were assessed at one week postoperatively and at three, six, 12, and 24 months postoperatively.

Results

A linear mixed-effect model using RSA data of 31 asymmetrical and 38 symmetrical TKAs did not show a difference in mean MTPM migration pattern of the tibial or femoral components. Mean tibial component MTPM at two years postoperative of the asymmetrical TKA design was 0.93 mm and 1.00 mm for the symmetrical design. For the femoral component these values were 1.04 mm and 1.14 mm, respectively. No significant differences were observed in other migration parameters or in clinical and PROM measurements.

Conclusion

The TKA design with an asymmetrical tibial component has comparable component migration with the proven TKA with a symmetrical tibial component. This suggests the risk of long-term aseptic loosening of the two designs is comparable. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(5):855–863.
Can MRI be used as a safe and expedient option for calculating Spinal Instability Neoplastic Score for patients with metastatic spinal cord compression?
Authors: Hurley Patrick , Azzopardi Christine , Botchu Rajesh , Grainger Melvin , Gardner Adrian
Published: May 2021

Aims

The aim of this study was to assess the reliability of using MRI scans to calculate the Spinal Instability Neoplastic Score (SINS) in patients with metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC).

Methods

A total of 100 patients were retrospectively included in the study. The SINS score was calculated from each patient’s MRI and CT scans by two consultant musculoskeletal radiologists (reviewers 1 and 2) and one consultant spinal surgeon (reviewer 3). In order to avoid potential bias in the assessment, MRI scans were reviewed first. Bland-Altman analysis was used to identify the limits of agreement between the SINS scores from the MRI and CT scans for the three reviewers.

Results

The limit of agreement between the SINS score from the MRI and CT scans for the reviewers was -0.11 for reviewer 1 (95% CI 0.82 to -1.04), -0.12 for reviewer 2 (95% CI 1.24 to -1.48), and -0.37 for reviewer 3 (95% CI 2.35 to -3.09). The use of MRI tended to increase the score when compared with that using the CT scan. No patient having their score calculated from MRI scans would have been classified as stable rather than intermediate or unstable when calculated from CT scans, potentially leading to suboptimal care.

Conclusion

We found that MRI scans can be used to calculate the SINS score reliably, compared with the score from CT scans. The main difference between the scores derived from MRI and CT was in defining the type of bony lesion. This could be made easier by knowing the site of the primary tumour when calculating the score, or by using inverted T1-volumetric interpolated breath-hold examination MRI to assess the bone more reliably, similar to using CT. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(5):971–975.
Adolescent mid-shaft clavicular fracture displacement does not predict nonunion or inferior functional outcome at long-term follow-up
Authors: Ng Nathan , Nicholson Jamie A. , Chen Pengchi , Yapp Liam Z. , Gaston Mark S. , Robinson C. Mike
Published: May 2021

Aims

The aim of this study was to define the complications and long-term outcome following adolescent mid-shaft clavicular fracture.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed a consecutive series of 677 adolescent fractures in 671 patients presenting to our region (age 13 to 17 years) over a ten-year period (2009 to 2019). Long-term patient-reported outcomes (abbreviated version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) score and EuroQol five-dimension three-level (EQ-5D-3L) quality of life score) were undertaken at a mean of 6.4 years (1.2 to 11.3) following injury in severely displaced mid-shaft fractures (Edinburgh 2B) and angulated mid-shaft fractures (Edinburgh 2A2) at a minimum of one year post-injury. The median patient age was 14.8 years (interquartile range (IQR) 14.0 to 15.7) and 89% were male (n = 594/671).

Results

The majority of fractures were mid-shaft (n = 606) with angulation (Edinburgh 2A2, n = 241/606, 39.8%) or displacement (Edinburgh 2B1/2, n = 263/606, 43.4%). Only 7% of the displaced mid-shaft fractures underwent acute fixation (n = 18/263). The incidence of refracture over ten years following nonoperative management of mid-shaft fractures was 3.2% (n = 19/588) and all united without surgery. Fracture type, severity of angulation, or displacement were not associated with refracture. One nonunion occurred following nonoperative management in a displaced mid-shaft fracture (0.4%, n = 1/245). Of the angulated fractures, 61 had angulation > 30°, of which 68.9% (n = 42/61) completed outcome scores with a median QuickDASH of 0.0 (IQR 0.0 to 0.6), EQ-5D-3L 1.0 (1.0 to 1.0), and 98% satisfaction with shoulder function. For the displaced fractures, 127 had displacement beyond one cortical width of bone for which completed outcome scores were provided in 72.4% (n = 92/127). Of these 15 had undergone acute fixation. Following nonoperative treatment, the median QuickDASH was 0.0 (IQR 0.0 to 2.3), EQ-5D-3L 1.0 (1.0 to 1.0), and satisfaction with shoulder function was 95%. There were no significant differences in the patients’ demography or functional outcomes between operative and nonoperative treatments.

Conclusion

Nonoperative management of adolescent mid-shaft clavicle fractures results in excellent functional outcomes at long-term follow-up. Nonunion is exceptionally rare following nonoperative management and the relative indications for surgical intervention in adults do not appear to be applicable to adolescents. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(5):951–957.
Bidirectional planar-displacement waveguide tracker for high-concentration photovoltaics
Authors: Zeng Gui-Sheng , Hu Yu-Ting , Chen Sheng-Hui
Published: May 2021

A bidirectional planar-displacement waveguide tracker was devised to replace the traditional two-axis tracking system for high-concentration photovoltaics, with improved module thickness, optical field uniformity, and current matching. The concentrating magnification reaches 725 times, and the sun tracking angle is more than 170°, which is equivalent to 11.3 tracking hours per day. The module thickness is only 6.16 cm. This design enabled us to place the module flat on the ground, in which swing was not required. This will greatly improve the mechanical strength and the lifetime of the module and solve the development dilemma faced by III-V multijunction solar cells.