Redefining Case Study

Abstract: In this paper the authors propose a more precise and encompass-ing definition of case study than is usually found. They support their defini-tion by clarifying that case study is neither a method nor a methodology nor a research design as suggested by others. They use a case study prototype of their own design to propose common properties of case study and demon-strate how these properties support their definition. Next, they present sev-eral living myths about case study and refute them in relation to their definition. Finally, they discuss the interplay between the terms case study and unit of analysis to further delineate their definition of case study. The target audiences for this paper include case study researchers, research de-sign and methods instructors, and graduate students interested in case study research

Phase III Randomized Pair Comparison of a Barrier Film vs. Standard Skin Care in Preventing Radiation Dermatitis in Postlumpectomy Patients with Breast Cancer Receiving Adjuvant Radiation Therapy

IntroductionPatients undergoing adjuvant radiotherapy to the breast often experience radiation dermatitisranging from mild erythema to moist desquamation. In post-lumpectomy patients, the axillaand inframammary fold are at an increased risk for friction dermatitis. Dermatitis can impactpatients’ quality-of-life and may require treatment break/cessation. Our objectives are to assessthe efficacy of 3M Cavilon Barrier Film (BF) in preventing and/or delaying the onset of gradetwodermatitis and reducing patient-reported sensation scores.MethodsA total of 55 patients were randomized to receive BF on the medial or lateral breast. BF wasapplied twice weekly during treatment. Skin toxicity was evaluated weekly by a blinded clinicalinvestigator using the Skin Toxicity Assessment Tool (STAT) and the modified RadiationTherapy Oncology Group Visual Assessment Score (RTOG VAS). On day one, baselinephotographs were taken; seven-to-ten days post-treatment, patients returned for photographs,the STAT/RTOG VAS, and patient-opinion questions in the form of the global questionnaire.ResultsThe paired analysis found BF did not significantly reduce dermatitis either during or posttreatment.However, the unpaired analysis found significantly reduced RTOG VAS on the lateralcompartment during treatment (BF:0.91 vs. Control:1.21, p = 0.0408). This difference resolvedpost-treatment. Additionally, BF was able to reduce pruritus (p = 0.047) on the medialcomponents and burning sensations on the lateral components (p = 0.035). There was nosignificant difference between the time-to-onset or proportion of patients who developedgrade-two dermatitis.ConclusionIn an unpaired analysis, BF significantly reduced dermatitis on the lateral compartment duringtreatment. Additionally, BF significantly reduced pruritus and burning sensations. A largerstudy using a more reliable scoring method is required to clarify the effect of BF on radiationassociatedskin toxicity

Chronic use of oral corticosteroids in severe asthmatics in the Belgian Severe Asthma Registry (BSAR)

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What makes an event a mega-event? Definitions and sizes

There is considerable ambiguity about what makes an event a mega-event. Intervening in this debate, this paper develops a definition and classification scheme for mega-events. On the basis of a review of existing definitions, it proposes four constitutive dimensions of mega-events: visitor attractiveness, mediated reach, costs and transformative impact. The paper develops indicators for each dimension and maps onto these four dimensions a sample of the latest editions of nine large events (Expo, Summer and Winter Olympics, Football World Cup, European Football Championship, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, Pan American Games, Universiade). From this, it develops a multi-dimensional, point-based classification scheme of large events according to size, distinguishing between major events, mega-events and the recently emerging class of giga-events. Concluding, it identifies the need for more systematic data on the size, costs and impacts of a broad range of large-scale events over time