Stakeholder perspectives of a pilot multicomponent delirium prevention intervention for adult patients with advanced cancer in palliative care units: A behaviour change theory-based qualitative study

Background: Theory-based and qualitative evaluations in pilot trials of complex clinical interventions help to understand quantitative results, as well as inform the feasibility and design of subsequent effectiveness and implementation trials. Aim: To explore patient, family, clinician and volunteer (‘stakeholder’) perspectives of the feasibility and acceptability of a multicomponent non-pharmacological delirium prevention intervention for adult patients with advanced cancer in four Australian palliative care units that participated in a phase II trial, the ‘PRESERVE pilot study’. Design: A trial-embedded qualitative study via semi-structured interviews and directed content analysis using Michie’s Behaviour Change Wheel and the Theoretical Domains Framework. Setting/participants: Thirty-nine people involved in the trial: nurses (n = 17), physicians (n = 6), patients (n = 6), family caregivers (n = 4), physiotherapists (n = 3), a social worker, a pastoral care worker and a volunteer. Results: Participants’ perspectives aligned with the ‘capability’, ‘opportunity’ and ‘motivation’ domains of the applied frameworks. Of seven themes, three were around the alignment of the delirium prevention intervention with palliative care (intervention was considered routine care; intervention aligned with the compassionate and collaborative culture of palliative care; and differing views of palliative care priorities influenced perspectives of the intervention) and four were about study processes more directly related to adherence to the intervention (shared knowledge increased engagement with the intervention; impact of the intervention checklist on attention, delivery and documentation of the delirium prevention strategies; clinical roles and responsibilities; and addressing environmental barriers to delirium prevention). Conclusion: This theory-informed qualitative study identified multiple influences on the delivery and documentation of a pilot multicomponent non-pharmacological delirium prevention intervention in four palliative care units. Findings inform future definitive studies of delirium prevention in palliative care

Older persons’ and their caregivers’ perspectives and experiences of research participation with impaired decision-making capacity: A scoping review

Background and Objectives: Human research ethics statements support equitable inclusion of diverse groups. Yet older people are under-represented in clinical research, especially those with impaired decision-making capacity. The aim of this study was to identify perspectives and experiences of older persons and their caregivers of research participation with impaired decision-making capacity. Research Design and Methods: Scoping review of literature and online sources in January-February 2019 (updated June 2020) according to Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews. English-language peer-reviewed research articles and Australian online narratives were included. Data were tabulated and narratively synthesized. Results: From 4171 database records and 93 online resources, 22 articles (2000-2019, 82% United States, 16 first authors) and one YouTube webinar (2018) were initially included; updated searches yielded an additional article (2020) and YouTube webinar (2020). Studies were heterogeneous in terminology, methods and foci, with hypothetical scenarios, quantitative analyses and examination of proxy consent predominating. Participants (n=7331) were older persons (71%), caregivers of older persons with dementia/cognitive impairment (23%) and older persons with dementia/cognitive impairment (6%). Synthesis identified two themes: willingness to participate and decision-making approaches. Discussion and Implications: Research participation by older persons with dementia may be optimized through reducing risks and burdens and increasing benefits for participants, greater consumer input into study development, and shared and supported decision-making. Older persons’ and caregivers’ perspectives and experiences of research participation with impaired decision-making capacity require investigation in a greater range of countries and conditions other than dementia, and dissemination through more varied media

Retrospective evaluation of whole exome and genome mutation calls in 746 cancer samples

Funder: NCI U24CA211006Abstract: The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) curated consensus somatic mutation calls using whole exome sequencing (WES) and whole genome sequencing (WGS), respectively. Here, as part of the ICGC/TCGA Pan-Cancer Analysis of Whole Genomes (PCAWG) Consortium, which aggregated whole genome sequencing data from 2,658 cancers across 38 tumour types, we compare WES and WGS side-by-side from 746 TCGA samples, finding that ~80% of mutations overlap in covered exonic regions. We estimate that low variant allele fraction (VAF < 15%) and clonal heterogeneity contribute up to 68% of private WGS mutations and 71% of private WES mutations. We observe that ~30% of private WGS mutations trace to mutations identified by a single variant caller in WES consensus efforts. WGS captures both ~50% more variation in exonic regions and un-observed mutations in loci with variable GC-content. Together, our analysis highlights technological divergences between two reproducible somatic variant detection efforts

Reducing the environmental impact of surgery on a global scale: systematic review and co-prioritization with healthcare workers in 132 countries

Abstract Background Healthcare cannot achieve net-zero carbon without addressing operating theatres. The aim of this study was to prioritize feasible interventions to reduce the environmental impact of operating theatres. Methods This study adopted a four-phase Delphi consensus co-prioritization methodology. In phase 1, a systematic review of published interventions and global consultation of perioperative healthcare professionals were used to longlist interventions. In phase 2, iterative thematic analysis consolidated comparable interventions into a shortlist. In phase 3, the shortlist was co-prioritized based on patient and clinician views on acceptability, feasibility, and safety. In phase 4, ranked lists of interventions were presented by their relevance to high-income countries and low–middle-income countries. Results In phase 1, 43 interventions were identified, which had low uptake in practice according to 3042 professionals globally. In phase 2, a shortlist of 15 intervention domains was generated. In phase 3, interventions were deemed acceptable for more than 90 per cent of patients except for reducing general anaesthesia (84 per cent) and re-sterilization of ‘single-use’ consumables (86 per cent). In phase 4, the top three shortlisted interventions for high-income countries were: introducing recycling; reducing use of anaesthetic gases; and appropriate clinical waste processing. In phase 4, the top three shortlisted interventions for low–middle-income countries were: introducing reusable surgical devices; reducing use of consumables; and reducing the use of general anaesthesia. Conclusion This is a step toward environmentally sustainable operating environments with actionable interventions applicable to both high– and low–middle–income countries

A Vision for CPAs of the Future

Dwight D. Eisenhower once said, "Neither a wise man nor a brave man lies down on the tracks of history to wait for the train of the future to run over him." This is a perceptive statement made by President Eisenhower, and the Certified Public Accounting profession is taking his advice. The Certified Public Accounting profession is in need of reshaping as the millennium rapidly approaches. The profession faces many changes in the future, along with new and unanticipated problems. There are technological advancements which need to be made, along with a broadening of the scope of services. Currently, there is an effort to bring about these much needed changes within the profession. This project is being conducted by the America Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and has been entitled, "The CPA Vision Project".My thesis will take a brief look at the history of the Certified Public Accounting profession, what are CPAs, and what exactly CPAs do. One might be surprised that CPAs do not just sit in a corner and county beans all day. Also, I will explore in detail the changes that need to be made to CPAs can better perform in the future and better serve their clients or their respective employers. Before CPAs can change themselves, they need to evaluate where they are and where they want to be. Once the goals are determined, the CPA profession will need to develop a plan. This plan should be as simple as possible, but effective. It is a matter of sink or swim for the, "more than 18,000 mid to small size firms and more than 27,000 individually practicing CPAs" in the United States ("Enduring Values, Changing Competencies: A Road Map for CPAs" 1).Many of us do not like changes and we often resist change in our lives. Life may be uncertain, but one thing we can be certain of in our lives in change. However, many of us never think about what changes lie ahead. Sure, we cannot be certain of what will happen. Nevertheless, we can look at circumstances and plan ahead as best we can so we will be ready to face change. The Certified Public Accounting profession has recognized this need to look ahead, and is revamping itself for the 21st century.The "CPA Vision Project" is the means by which the Certified Public Accounting profession is attempting to revamp itself. This process involves conducting "Future Forums" at both the national and the state level. At these "Future Forums" CPAs met and discussed where the Certified Public Accounting profession needs to be in the coming century. Issues such as what types of services need to be offered, what type of values the profession needs to maintain or obtain, among other visions for the future were addressed.After these ideas were compiled, CPAs are going to need to implement these into their practices. These are the things which will keep the profession into the coming century. A very important factor is the issue of new services. It is not going to be feasible for CPAs of the future to perform the basic accounting services that they have over the years. There is a broad market for financial planning and consulting, along with other services. CPAs will be missing out on opportunities for growth and financial gains if they do not expand into these areas. "A Vision for CPAs of the Future" will hopefully enlighten readers as to what the future possibly holds for the Certified Public Accounting profession and what needs to be done in order for the profession to remain a step ahead of those who are not certified accountants. The Certified Public Accounting profession is going to have to have something to set them apart from the competition (i.e. accounting firms which do employ "Certified" accountants). Certified Public Accountants must remember that, "your future can be as dim as your blind spots, or as brilliant as your imagination" (The Project, The Process and The People: An Introduction"

Cost-effectiveness of clinical interventions for delirium: A systematic literature review of economic evaluations

Objective Little is known about the economic value of clinical interventions for delirium. This review aims to synthesise and appraise available economic evidence, including resource use, costs, and cost-effectiveness of interventions for reducing, preventing, and treating delirium. Methods Systematic review of published and grey literature on full and partial economic evaluations. Study quality was assessed using the Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards (CHEERS). Results Fourteen economic evaluations (43% full, 57% partial) across nine multicomponent and nonpharmacological intervention types met inclusion criteria. The intervention costs ranged between US$386 and$553 per person in inpatient settings. Multicomponent delirium prevention intervention and the Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP) reported statistically significant cost savings or cost offsets somewhere else in the health system. Cost savings related to inpatient, outpatient, and out-of-pocket costs ranged between $194 and$6022 per person. The average CHEERS score was 74% (±SD 10%). Conclusion Evidence on a joint distribution of costs and outcomes of delirium interventions was limited, varied and of generally low quality. Directed expansion of health economics towards the evaluation of delirium care is necessary to ensure effective implementation that meets patients\u27 needs and is cost-effective in achieving similar or better outcomes for the same or lower cost

Are custodial-based mothers and children's units evaluated, effective and aligned with a human rights-based approach? – A systematic review of the evidenceResearch in context

Summary: Background: Special considerations are warranted for incarcerated mothers and their children, as both experience substantial health and social disadvantage. Children residing in custodial settings are at risk of not having access to the equivalence of education, healthcare and socialisation commensurate to that of children living in the community. This systematic review describes the existing evidence regarding underpinning theories, accessibility, and the effectiveness of custody-based Mothers and children's units (M&Cs) globally. Methods: A systematic database search was conducted on May 1, 2023, of PsycINFO, Scopus, Sociology Ultimate and Web of Science (January 1, 2010, and May 1, 2023). Findings: Our systematic synthesis reveals evidence gaps related to best practice guidelines that align with a human right-based approach, and evaluations of the impact of the prison environment on mothers and their children. Interpretation: These findings support re-design of M&Cs using co-design to develop units that are evidence-based, robustly evaluated, and underpinned by the ‘best interest of the child’. Funding: This systematic review was conducted as part of a broader review into M&C programs commissioned and funded by Corrective Services NSW, Australia (CSNSW), a division of the Department of Communities and Justice, as part of the NSW Premier's Priority to Reduce Recidivism within the Women as Parents workstream. No funding was received for this review

Patient and carer experiences of pain care in an Australian regional comprehensive cancer care setting: a qualitative study

Introduction: Pain is a common and distressing symptom in people living with cancer that requires a patient-centred approach to management. Since 2010, the Australian Government has invested heavily in developing regional cancer centres to improve cancer outcomes. This study explored patient and carer experiences of care from a regional cancer centre with specific reference to cancer pain management.Methods: A qualitative approach was used with semi-structured telephone interviews. Participants were outpatients at a regional cancer centre in New South Wales who had reported worst pain of 2 or more on a 0–10 numerical rating scale, and their carers. Questions explored experiences of pain assessment and management, and perceptions of how these were affected by the regional setting. Researchers analysed data using a deductive approach, using Mead and Bower’s (2000) framework of factors influencing patient-centred care.Results: Eighteen telephone interviews were conducted with 13 patients and 5 carers. Participants perceived that living in a regional setting conferred advantages to the patient-centredness of care via influences at the levels of professional context, the doctor–patient relationship, and consultation. These influences included established and ongoing relationships with a smaller number of care providers who were members of the community, and heightened accessibility in terms of travel/parking, flexible appointments, and ample time spent with each patient. The first of these factors was also perceived to contribute to continuity of care between specialist and primary care providers. However, one negative case reported disagreement between providers and a difficulty accessing specialist pain services. Several participants also reported a preference, and unmet need, for non-pharmacological rather than pharmacological pain management.Conclusion: While much research has focused on lack of services and poorer outcomes for people with cancer in rural areas, the Australian regional setting may offer benefits to the patient-centredness of cancer pain management and continuity of care. More research is needed to better understand the benefits and trade-offs of cancer care in regional versus urban settings, and how each can learn from the other. An unmet need for non-pharmacological rather than pharmacological pain management is among the most consistent findings of qualitative studies of patient/carer preferences across settings

Parental Smoking in Pregnancy and the Risks of Adult-Onset Hypertension

Fetal exposure to parental smoking may lead to developmental adaptations and promote various diseases in later life. This study evaluated the associations of parental smoking during pregnancy with the risk of hypertension in the daughter in adulthood, and assessed whether these associations are explained by birth weight or body weight throughout life. We used data on 33,086 participants of the Nurses’ Health Study II and the Nurses’ Mothers’ Cohort. Cox proportional hazards models were used to examine the associations of maternal and paternal smoking during pregnancy with the nurse daughter, with self-reported physician-diagnosed hypertension from 1989 until 2007. Overall, 8,575 (25.9%) mothers and 18,874 (57.0%) fathers smoked during pregnancy. During follow-up, 7,825 incident cases of adult-onset hypertension were reported. Both maternal and paternal smoking of ≥15 cigarettes/day during pregnancy were associated with increased risks of hypertension (RR 1.19, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.29, and RR 1.18, 95% CI 1.12 to 1.25, respectively) in the age-adjusted models. Further adjustment for birth weight did not affect the effect estimates appreciably, while additional adjustment for body shape and weight until age 18, or current body mass index, attenuated the associations with both maternal and paternal smoking (RR 1.07, 95% CI 0.98 to 1.16, and RR 1.06, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.12, respectively). The associations of parental smoking during pregnancy with the risk of hypertension in the offspring were largely explained by body weight throughout life, suggesting that these associations may not reflect direct intrauterine mechanisms