bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Estimating Nonraining Surface Parameters to Assist GPM Constellation Radiometer Precipitation Algorithms
Authors: Turk F. Joseph , Haddad Z. S. , You Y. 
Published: April 2016

AbstractThe joint National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) is a constellation mission, centered upon observations from the core satellite dual-frequency precipitation radar (DPR) and its companion passive microwave (MW) GPM Microwave Imager (GMI). One of the key challenges for GPM is how to link the information from the single DPR across all passive MW sensors in the constellation, to produce a globally consistent precipitation product. Commonly, the associated surface emissivity and environmental conditions at the satellite observation time are interpolated from ancillary data, such as global forecast models and emissivity climatology, and are used for radiative transfer simulations and cataloging/indexing the brightness temperature (TB) observations and simulations within a common MW precipitation retrieval framework.In this manuscript, the feasibility of an update to the surface emissivity state at or near the satellite observation time, regardless of surface type, is examined for purposes of assisting these algorithms with specification of the surface and environmental conditions. Since the constellation MW radiometers routinely observe many more nonprecipitating conditions than precipitating conditions, a principal component analysis is developed from the noncloud GMI–DPR observations as a means to characterize the emissivity state vector and to consistently track the surface and environmental conditions. The method is demonstrated and applied over known complex surface conditions to probabilistically separate cloud and cloud-free scenes. The ability of the method to globally identify “self-similar” surface locations from the TB observations without requiring any ancillary knowledge of geographical location or time is demonstrated.
Prescription errors in the National Health Services, time to change practice
Authors: Hamid Tahir , Harper Luke , Rose Samman , Petkar Sanjive , Fienman Richard , Athar Syed M , Cushley Michael 
Published: April 2016

Introduction Medication error is a major source of iatrogenic illness. Error in prescription is the most common form of avoidable medication error. We present our study, performed at two, UK, National Health Services Hospitals. Material and methods The prescription practice of junior doctor’s working on general medical and surgical wards in National Health Service District General and University Teaching Hospitals in the UK was reviewed. Practice was assessed against standard hospital prescription charts, developed in accordance with local pharmacy guidance. Results A total of 407 prescription charts were reviewed in both initial audit and re-audit one year later. In the District General Hospital, documentation of allergy, weight and capital-letter prescription was achieved in 31, 5 and 40% of charts, respectively. Forty-nine per cent of discontinued prescriptions were properly deleted and signed for. In re-audit significant improvement was noted in documentation of the patient’s name 100%, gender 54%, allergy status 51% and use of generic drug name 71%. Similarly, in the University Teaching Hospital, 82, 63 and 65% compliance was achieved in documentation of age, generic drug name prescription and capital-letter prescription, respectively. Prescription practice was reassessed one year later after recommendations and changes in the prescription practice, leading to significant improvement in documentation of unit number, generic drug name prescription, insulin prescription and documentation of the patient’s ward. Conclusion Prescription error remains an important, modifiable form of medical error, which may be rectified by introducing multidisciplinary assessment of practice, nationwide standardised prescription charts and revision of current prescribing clinical training.
The Otolaryngologist and the Hearing Aid Delivery System: Current Federal Regulations
Authors: Catlin Francis I. 
Published: April 2016

New proposed rules and regulations concerning trade practices for the hearing aid industry have been developed in response to political pressures from Congress and consumer groups. Revisions to the trade regulations proposed by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) include (1) more stringent limitations in advertising, (2) written permission to sell a hearing aid at home or in the buyer's place of business, and (3) the right of a buyer to cancel a hearing aid sale, rental, or lease within 30 days. Testimony on hearings regarding this rule are being reviewed by the FTC presiding officer.Food and Drug Administration national standards for the labeling and sale of hearing aids became effective Aug 15, 1977. A medical evaluation by a licensed physician is required before a hearing aid may be sold. Fully informed adults may request a waiver of this requirement for religious or personal beliefs, but a medical evaluation is mandatory for persons under 18 years of age. A User Instructional Brochure, which lists several conditions for which medical advice is advised, must be reviewed with the prospective buyer.In the recognition that some physicians may be dispensers of hearing aids, the Judicial Council of the American Medical Association has recommended that a physician may dispense hearing aids if it is in the best interest of the patient, but that a physician should not be encouraged to retail hearing aids in his office if other adequate community facilities exist.
Older Adults’ Digital Gameplay
Authors: Kaufman David , Sauvé Louise , Renaud Lise , Sixsmith Andrew , Mortenson Ben 
Published: April 2016

Background. Empirical evidence suggests that digital gameplay can enhance social interaction and improve cognition for older adults. However, if digital games are to be effectively used as interventions to address age-related challenges, it is important to explore older adults’ experiences in playing them. Aim. The purpose of this survey design study was to identify digital gameplay patterns, perceived socio-emotional and cognitive benefits, and difficulties encountered in the gameplay experiences of older adults. Method. Adults aged 55 or older, recruited from seniors’ centers and local shopping malls in a Canadian city, responded to a printed, mainly closed-ended questionnaire. Results. 463 respondents reported that they actively play digital games. Most played alone rather than with others, and most rated themselves as intermediate or expert players. Players self-reported cognitive benefits but few socio-emotional benefits and few difficulties. Conclusions. The results of this study show promise for the use of digital games to provide innovative and engaging activities for enhancing older adults’ aging processes. Significant associations were found between player skill level and reported benefits. Recommendations. To perceive these benefits, older adults need to play frequently enough to develop beyond a beginner level. Education, facilitation, and support may be needed to encourage older adults to realize socio-emotional benefits from digital gameplay.
Early Complications and Secondary Procedures in Transfibular Total Ankle Replacement
Authors: Tan Eric W. , Maccario Camilla , Talusan Paul G. , Schon Lew C. 
Published: April 2016

Background: A new transfibular total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) system has not been assessed for potential early complications. Methods: We retrospectively assessed prospectively collected data on the initial cohort of patients undergoing TAA with this implant. We evaluated visual analog scale (VAS) pain and function, range of motion, and early radiographic outcomes. Results: Twenty consecutive TAAs (19 patients) were treated with the implant from January 2013 through June 2014. Average patient age was 63.7 (range, 41-80) years, with an average follow-up of 18 (range, 12-27) months. No fibular nonunion or implant failure was found at 12 months postoperatively. One patient had asymptomatic mild tibial lucency. Four of 20 TAAs underwent additional surgery for anterior impingement (1 ankle), deep infection and symptomatic fibular hardware (1 ankle), and symptomatic fibular hardware (2 ankles). Conclusion: Of 20 ankles treated with a new transfibular arthroplasty system, no fibular nonunion, delayed union, or implant failure was noted at 12 months postoperatively. Two complications were resolved with secondary treatment, and 2 other ankles underwent secondary surgery for symptomatic fibular hardware with good outcome. The findings suggest that this total ankle system is safe and effective at short-term follow-up. Level of Evidence: Level IV, retrospective case series.
Influence of Hindfoot Malalignment on Hallux Valgus Operative Outcomes
Authors: Ginés-Cespedosa Alberto , Pérez-Prieto Daniel , Muñetón David , González-Lucena Gemma , Millán Angelica , de Zabala Santiago , Busquets Rosa 
Published: April 2016

Background: Hindfoot deformity has been described as a risk factor for poor hallux valgus (HV) surgery outcomes. However, there has been no study that demonstrates it. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the influence of hindfoot misalignment in HV surgery results. Methods: All patients operated on for HV during 2010 and 2011 at 3 university hospitals were included. The preoperative and 2-year postoperative radiologic data included the HV and the intermetatarsal (IM) angles, the naviculocuboid overlap (NC), the talonavicular coverage (TN) angle, the talus–first metatarsal (T-1MT) angle, as well as the calcaneal pitch (CP) angle. Additionally, the Short Form–36 questionnaire version 2.0 (SF-36) and the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, satisfaction and recurrence were also analyzed. A total of 207 met the inclusion criteria. There were 26 patients (12.6%) who could not be assessed at the 2-year follow-up. Patients were allocated to a varus, normal, or a valgus hindfoot tertile using the values for the CP, NC, TN, and T-1MT angles. Results: No significant differences ( P > .05) were found between the groups when the HV or IM angles, AOFAS, SF-36 Mental Composite Scale, SF-36 Physical Composite Scale, or satisfaction were compared. Similarly, no significant and strong correlations were observed ( P > .05, ρ < 0.3) between any of the mentioned hindfoot measures and the outcomes scales. Conclusion: No influence of hindfoot misalignment on HV surgery outcomes was found in the present study in terms of correction, pain, function, satisfaction, or quality of life. Patients with hindfoot misalignment did not obtain worse outcomes in HV surgery. Level of Evidence: Level II, prognostic, comparative study.
Interpreting children’s best interests: Needs, attachment and decision-making
Authors: Keddell Emily 
Published: April 2016

Summary Many decisions in the child welfare arena revolve around the concept of ‘children’s best interests’, but determining what they actually consist of is contestable and subject to conflicting criteria. This article describes the content of ‘children’s best interests’ discourses used by social workers and parents as part of decision-making rationales. Findings This study found that the construction of children’s ‘best interests’ was underpinned by concepts related to children’s needs. Needs were framed as emotional needs best met by family relationships, and theorised primarily using attachment theory. This resulted in decisions that tended to favour stability over change, as children’s distress on separation, indiscriminate affection, and difficult behaviours were interpreted as evidence of attachment problems that should lead to decisions to retain stable caregiving arrangements. The use of attachment theory was not straightforward, and illustrates the uneasy juxtapositions of conflicting discourses impacting on child welfare decision-making, particularly the influence of policy orientation. Applications These conflicts highlight the contested child welfare domain, and the contextualised interpretations required of attachment theories in decision-making contexts in order to make sound decisions for specific children. Implications for practice and education are discussed.
Eco-social work and community resilience: Insights from water activism in Canada
Authors: Case Robert A 
Published: April 2016

Summary Only recently has social work begun to grapple with its place in relation to environmental issues. While considerable progress has been made in bringing environmental considerations into the centre of our profession's scholarship and practice, this project is far from complete. Drawing on environmental literature and based on findings of a qualitative case study of water activism in one Canadian city, this paper argues that the concept of “community resilience” provides both a practical and a conceptual framework for advancing social work's engagement with issues of the natural environment and environmental justice through community praxis. Findings In Guelph, Ontario, Canada, water issues are the focal point of considerable community activism. The case study research reveals, however, that while water is the focus, much of this activism is driven by three broad social priorities that reflect ideas of community resilience and which suggest entry points for social work participation in community-based environmental initiatives: self-reliance and sustainability, localization and direct citizen participation, and community. Applications “Community resilience” is increasingly popular in environmental and community development fields as a conceptual framework for assessing and building the capacity of communities to support wellbeing in the face of environmental change, adversity and risk. While the concept of “resilience” is well established in social work, “community resilience” remains under-examined in social work literature. In this paper, the author draws attention to this arena of resilience thinking, highlighting its potential for the integration of considerations of the natural environment into social work scholarship, education, and practice.
Stent Grafts Provided Superior Primary Patency for Central Venous Stenosis Treatment in Comparison with Angioplasty and Bare Metal Stent: A Retrospective Single Center Study on 70 Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Quaretti Pietro , Galli Franco , Moramarco Lorenzo Paolo , Corti Riccardo , Leati Giovanni , Fiorina Ilaria , Tinelli Carmine , Montagna Giovanni , Maestri Marcello 
Published: April 2016

Purpose: To compare patency in dialysis patients following different endovascular treatment of symptomatic central venous stenosis. Materials and Methods: A 10-year retrospective evaluation in 70 patients (32 men) dialyzing through vascular access (33, 47%) and tunneled catheters (37, 53%) was made. Three cohorts were compared: angioplasty alone (22), bare metal stent (28), and stent graft (20). Patencies were described with Kaplan-Meier method, and Cox uni- and multivariate models were analyzed to find factors associated. Results: All patients had a favorable anatomical and clinical outcome. Restenosis occurred in 22 (31%) of 70 patients requiring 41 additional interventions; 34 of 70 patients died (median follow-up 19.4 months). Primary patency at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months was 100%, 100%, 100%, and 84% for stent graft versus 90%, 79%, 58%, and 43% for angioplasty ( P = .014) versus 84%, 80%, 75%, and 46% for bare-metal stent ( P = .062). The overall comparison was more favorable for stent graft ( P = .020) when the sites of lesions were matched. Patencies for angioplasty and bare-metal stents were equivalent ( P = .141). A lower risk of restenosis (hazard rate [HR] 0.20, confidence interval [CI] 0.06-0.7) and fewer reinterventions ( P < .01) were associated with stent graft, whereas age (HR 1.04, CI 1.001-1.08) and cardiovascular disease (HR 2.26, CI 1.06-4.84) influenced the overall survival. No difference in assisted primary patency was found. Conclusion: Stent graft seems to improve primary patency for central venous stenosis and requires fewer reinterventions in a dialysis population with a high prevalence of long-term catheters.
Family behaviors and type 2 diabetes: What to target and how to address in interventions for adults with low socioeconomic status
Authors: Mayberry Lindsay Satterwhite , Harper Kryseana J , Osborn Chandra Y 
Published: April 2016

Objectives Diabetes-specific family behaviors are associated with self-care and glycemic control among adults with type 2 diabetes. Formative research is needed to inform assessment of these behaviors and interventions to address obstructive family behaviors (sabotaging and nagging/arguing), particularly among racial/ethnic minorities and low-income adults who struggle most with self-care adherence. Methods We conducted a mixed-methods study with adults with type 2 diabetes at a Federally Qualified Health Center to better understand experiences with diabetes-specific family behaviors and willingness to engage family members in diabetes interventions. Participants completed a phone survey ( N = 53) and/or attended a focus group ( n = 15). Results Participants were 70% African American and had low socioeconomic status (96% annual income <US$20K, 51% uninsured). Although 62% lived with family members, only 48% lived with the person providing the most diabetes-specific support. Participants’ family living situations were diverse and multigenerational. Most (64%) experienced both supportive and obstructive family behaviors from the same person(s). Some participants (40%) said engaging family in interventions would positively affect all members; others (27%) did not want to involve family. Discussion Findings can inform the design and content of interventions targeting family involvement in adults’ type 2 diabetes, with implications for assessing family behaviors, intervention modalities, and who to engage.
Extension orthoses and the stiff proximal interphalangeal joint following hand trauma: A review of current clinical practice in the Australian context
Authors: Glasgow Celeste , Peters Susan 
Published: April 2016

Introduction Extension orthoses are frequently prescribed by hand therapists to treat fixed flexion deformity of the proximal interphalangeal joint. A wide variety of proximal interphalangeal joint extension orthoses exist, but there is limited research evidence to guide implementation in clinical practice. Consequently, effective management of fixed flexion deformity of the PIP joint remains a challenge. Method An electronic survey was distributed to members of the Australian Hand Therapy Association. The survey included two case scenarios, (including a fixed flexion deformity of 30° and 55°) and participants were asked to identify their preferred orthosis for each case. Responses to closed questions were analyzed descriptively. Thematic analysis for open-ended questions was completed by two experienced hand therapists. Results One hundred ninety-five therapists completed the electronic survey. Handmade capener (21.7%), pre-fabricated capener (22.2%), and static finger troughs (21.1%) were the preferred orthoses for treatment of contractures of 30°. Serial casts (60.9%) were the preferred choice for a contracture of 55°. Key themes influencing choice of orthosis reflected an evidence-based practice approach to clinical reasoning that combined use of available evidence with therapists’ experience and the needs of the patient. Therapists’ interpretation and application of research differed according to their unique situation. Conclusion Orthotic prescription is a multifaceted process that combines therapists’ interpretation of evidence with their experience and the needs of the patient. Further research is needed to evaluate and clarify current theories that are used to guide intervention.
Healing Environments
Authors: Schreuder Eliane , Lebesque Layla , Bottenheft Charelle 
Published: April 2016

Objective: The main aim of this research was to identify the impact of design characteristics (DCs) of a patient room on self-reported patient well-being. Background: This knowledge enables the construction of healing environments focusing on DCs that maximize well-being. Six themes were identified in literature that create healing environments: spatial comfort, safety and security, autonomy, sensory comfort, privacy, and social comfort. We wondered what themes and associated DCs should be prioritized if needed to maximize well-being. Method: The physical environment of patient rooms in four hospital locations was measured and patients who stayed in these rooms were asked to evaluate the room design on above mentioned themes and its contribution to their well-being. We used a machine-learning technique and regression analysis to find relations between the physical environment of a patient room and patient well-being. Results and Conclusions: We found that spatial comfort, safety and security, autonomy, and associated DCs have the strongest ability to influence patient’s self-reported well-being in a patient room. Privacy appears to have the smallest influence.
Breaking Cancer Bad News to Patients With Cancer: A Comprehensive Perspective of Patients, Their Relatives, and the Public—Example From a Middle Eastern Country
Authors: Zekri Jamal , Karim Syed Mustafa 
Published: April 2016

Purpose Empowering patients with cancer requires that they be continuously informed about their condition. In some Eastern cultures, this concept is often opposed by caregivers. We aim to compare the extent of disclosure desired by actual and presumed patients with cancer and their relatives in our practice. Methods Nine questions reflecting possible bad news communication to patients from diagnosis to the end of life were designed to investigate the extent of desired disclosure and were answered by 100 patients (cohort I) and 103 accompanying relatives (cohort II) in an outpatient setting. In addition, 103 public participants attending a family medicine clinic (cohort III) each answered the questions from the perspective of a presumed patient (cohort IIIA) and the perspective of a relative (cohort IIIB). The primary end point was affirmative response to six or more questions (AR ≥ 6), reflecting a preference to be informed of the majority (≥ 67%) of possible bad news. Results AR ≥ 6 was reported in 85% of cohort I and 52% of cohort II (χ2 P < .001). On multivariable analysis, AR ≥ 6 showed significant association with being a patient (in cohorts I and II) and having nonmetastatic disease (only in cohort I). In the public cohort, AR ≥ 6 was reported in 91% in cohort IIIA and 63% in cohort IIIB (χ2 P < .001). On multivariable analysis, AR ≥ 6 in cohort III was significantly associated with being a presumed patient and having at least a college education. Conclusion Patients desire disclosure of the majority of cancer-related bad news. This is in contrast to the views and requests of relatives. The public participants would also desire similar disclosure if they were to be diagnosed with cancer.