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Alfaro-Díaz C, Svavarsdottir EK, Esandi N, Klinke ME, Canga-Armayor A. Effectiveness of Nursing Interventions for Patients With Cancer and their Family Members: A Systematic Review. JOURNAL OF FAMILY NURSING 2022; 28:95-114. [PMID: 35057657 DOI: 10.1177/10748407211068816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Cancer diagnosis poses enormous physical and psychosocial challenges for both the affected person and their families. This systematic review identifies the characteristics and effectiveness of nursing interventions offered to adult patients with cancer and their families. Five databases were searched, and 19 studies published from 2009 to 2020 were included. Interventions were categorized as follows: (a) interventions with supporting and cognitive components (n = 3), (b) interventions that included skills training for the caregiver (n = 3), (c) interventions to enhance care through managing symptoms (n = 8), (d) interventions focusing on the dyad or family-patient relationship (n = 4), and (e) interventions targeted to the patient's condition (n = 1). The results of this review offer an overview from which to carry out new studies and are useful for providing future directions within family nursing practice, taking into account the impact that the family has on the disease and the consequences the condition may bring to the whole family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Alfaro-Díaz
- Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
| | | | - Nuria Esandi
- Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Marianne E Klinke
- University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
- Landspitali-The National University Hospital of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Ana Canga-Armayor
- Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
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The BRIGHTLIGHT National Survey of the Impact of Specialist Teenage and Young Adult Cancer Care on Caregivers' Information and Support Needs. Cancer Nurs 2021; 44:235-243. [PMID: 31895170 DOI: 10.1097/ncc.0000000000000771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Teenage and young adult cancer services in England are centralized in 13 principal treatment centers (TYA-PTC). These "specialist services" are designed to support caregivers as well as young people. OBJECTIVES To evaluate whether caregivers of young people with cancer had fewer unmet information and support needs if they had all/some care in a TYA-PTC. METHODS Participants in a cohort study of young people with cancer nominated their main carer to complete the BRIGHTLIGHT Carer Questionnaire, completed 6 months after diagnosis. Comparisons were made according to where young people's care was delivered: all, some, or no care in a TYA-PTC. Principal components analysis reduced the questionnaire to 5 dimensions, which were used as dependent variables in subsequent regression analysis. RESULTS Four hundred seventy-six responses of 514 returned questionnaires (92%) were included in the analysis. The majority of caregivers were white, middle-aged, married/cohabiting mothers. Adjusted analysis indicated caregivers who had all/some care in a TYA-PTC had more satisfaction with support and also with services specifically provided for carers. Those who had some TYA-PTC care had greater satisfaction with information but less opportunity to be involved in decisions. CONCLUSIONS Caregivers of young people who had no TYA-PTC care have the most unmet information and support needs. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Nurses outside of the TYA-PTC need to be supported by the TYA-PTC in providing information/support for caregivers. When a young person is receiving care in multiple hospitals, nurses need to optimize opportunities for caregivers to be involved in decision making.
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Harrison R, Raman M, Walpola RL, Chauhan A, Sansom-Daly UM. Preparing for partnerships in cancer care: an explorative analysis of the role of family-based caregivers. BMC Health Serv Res 2021; 21:620. [PMID: 34187469 PMCID: PMC8240189 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-06611-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family-based 'informal' caregivers are critical to enable sustainable cancer care that produces optimal health outcomes but also gives rise to psychological burdens on caregivers. Evidence of psychosocial support for caregivers does not currently address the impacts of their role in providing clinical and health-related care for their loved ones. The present study sought to address this gap including with those from priority populations. METHODS Qualitative data was collected using focus group and interview methods. We purposively sampled caregivers identified as having a high burden of responsibility for providing clinical care including those from ethnic minority backgrounds, parental caregivers and those living rurally. Transcripts were subject to thematic analysis utilising a team-based approach. RESULTS Family-based caregivers included spouses (11), parents (7), children (1), siblings (1). Ten participants were from ethnic minority backgrounds and five participants were from regional or rural locations. Four resulting inter-related themes were; 1) Dual burden of providing clinical care and managing personal emotional distress; 2) Navigating healthcare partnership dynamics; 3) Developing a caregiving skillset, and 4) Unique supportive needs and barriers to access. These data provide evidence of the unique challenge of providing clinical care as part of family-based caregiving for a loved one with cancer, and the absence of support for caregivers to take up this role. CONCLUSION Our findings highlight the substantial contribution of family-based caregivers to the provision of cancer care in contemporary health systems. Inadequate support for caregivers is apparent with regard to their role in providing clinical aspects of care such as medication administration and management. Support programs to prepare caregivers to provide clinical care while building capacity to manage their stressors and emotions through this challenging period may be valuable towards sustainable, person-centred care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reema Harrison
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- School of Population Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Madhav Raman
- School of Population Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ramesh Lahiru Walpola
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Population Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ashfaq Chauhan
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Population Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ursula M Sansom-Daly
- School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Behavioural Sciences Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- Sydney Youth Cancer Service, Nelune Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, Australia
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'It's like trying to ice a cake that's not been baked': a qualitative exploration of the contextual factors associated with implementing an evidence-based information intervention for family carers at the end of life. Prim Health Care Res Dev 2020; 21:e52. [PMID: 33213603 PMCID: PMC7681137 DOI: 10.1017/s146342362000050x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To explore the introduction of an evidence-based information intervention – the ‘Caring for Someone with Cancer’ booklet – within home care and end-of-life care, to inform future implementation and practice development within this setting. Background: Family carers’ contribution is crucial to enable care and death of people at home. The ‘Caring for Someone with Cancer’ booklet received positive responses from family carers and District Nurses and is an evidence-based intervention designed to support carers to deliver basic nursing tasks. Further feasibility work was required to establish how it should be implemented. Little is known about how to successfully translate interventions into practice, particularly within home care settings and end-of-life care. Methods: Implementation of the ‘Caring for Someone with Cancer’ booklet, utilising a qualitative case study approach, in four home care sites. Semi-structured interviews, informed by Normalization Process Theory (NPT), were undertaken at implementation sites in May 2016–June 2017. Participants were generalist and specialist nurses, managers, and Healthcare Assistants (HCAs). A framework approach to analysis was adopted. Findings: Forty-five members of staff participated. Failed implementation was associated with organisational-level characteristics and conditions, including workforce composition and predictability of processes. Unstable work environments meant home care providers focused on short-term rather than long-term goals, precluding practice development. Staff’s perceptions of the time available to engage with and implement the intervention inhibited adoption, as many participants were “just getting through the day”. Implementation was successful in sites with explicit management support, including proactive implementation attempts by managers, which legitimatised the change process, and if all staff groups were engaged. To encourage uptake of evidence-based interventions in home care settings, practitioners should be given opportunities to critically reflect upon taken-for-granted practices. Future implementation should focus on work pertaining to the NPT construct ‘Collective Action’, including how staff interact and build confidence in new practices.
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Holland DE, Vanderboom CE, Mandrekar J, Borah BJ, Dose AM, Ingram CJ, Griffin JM. A technology-enhanced model of care for transitional palliative care versus attention control for adult family caregivers in rural or medically underserved areas: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials 2020; 21:895. [PMID: 33115524 PMCID: PMC7594268 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-020-04806-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Transitioning care from hospital to home is associated with risks of adverse events and poor continuity of care. These transitions are even more challenging when new approaches to care, such as palliative care, are introduced before discharge. Family caregivers (FCGs) are expected to navigate these transitions while also managing care. In addition to extensive caregiving responsibilities, FCGs often have their own health needs that can inhibit their ability to provide care. Those living in rural areas have even fewer resources to meet their self-care and caregiving needs. The purpose of this study is to test the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of an intervention to improve FCGs’ health and well-being. The intervention uses video visits to teach, guide, and counsel FCGs in rural areas during hospital-to-home transitions. The intervention is based on evidence of transitional and palliative care principles, which are individualized to improve continuity of care, provide caregiver support, enhance knowledge and skills, and attend to caregivers’ health needs. It aims to test whether usual care practices are similar to this technology-enhanced intervention in (1) caregiving skills (e.g., caregiving preparedness, communication with clinicians, and satisfaction with care), (2) FCG health outcomes (e.g., quality of life, burden, coping skills, depression), and (3) cost. We describe the rationale for targeting rural caregivers, the methods for the study and intervention, and the analysis plan to test the intervention’s effect. Methods The study uses a randomized controlled trial design, with FCGs assigned to the control condition or the caregiver intervention by computer-generated lists. The intervention period continues for 8 weeks after care recipients are discharged from the hospital. Data are collected at baseline, 2 weeks, 8 weeks, and 6 months. Time and monetary costs from a societal perspective are captured monthly. Discussion This study addresses 2 independent yet interrelated health care foci—transitional care and palliative care—by testing an intervention to extend palliative care practice and improve transition management for caregivers of seriously ill patients in rural areas. The comprehensive cost assessment will quantify the commitment and financial burden of FCGs. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03339271. Registered on 13 November 2017. Protocol version: 11. Supplementary information Supplementary information accompanies this paper at 10.1186/s13063-020-04806-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane E Holland
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Catherine E Vanderboom
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Jay Mandrekar
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Bijan J Borah
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.,The Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Ann Marie Dose
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Cory J Ingram
- Center for Palliative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Joan M Griffin
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA. .,The Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
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Duke S, Campling N, May CR, Lund S, Lunt N, Richardson A. Co-construction of the family-focused support conversation: a participatory learning and action research study to implement support for family members whose relatives are being discharged for end-of-life care at home or in a nursing home. BMC Palliat Care 2020; 19:146. [PMID: 32957952 PMCID: PMC7507823 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-020-00647-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many people move in and out of hospital in the last few weeks of life. These care transitions can be distressing for family members because they signify the deterioration and impending death of their ill relative and forthcoming family bereavement. Whilst there is evidence about psychosocial support for family members providing end-of-life care at home, there is limited evidence about how this can be provided in acute hospitals during care transitions. Consequently, family members report a lack of support from hospital-based healthcare professionals. METHODS The aim of the study was to implement research evidence for family support at the end-of-life in acute hospital care. Informed by Participatory Learning and Action Research and Normalization Process Theory (NPT) we co-designed a context-specific intervention, the Family-Focused Support Conversation, from a detailed review of research evidence. We undertook a pilot implementation in three acute hospital Trusts in England to assess the potential for the intervention to be used in clinical practice. Pilot implementation was undertaken during a three-month period by seven clinical co-researchers - nurses and occupational therapists in hospital specialist palliative care services. Implementation was evaluated through data comprised of reflective records of intervention delivery (n = 22), in-depth records of telephone implementation support meetings between research team members and co-researchers (n = 3), and in-depth evaluation meetings (n = 2). Data were qualitatively analysed using an NPT framework designed for intervention evaluation. RESULTS Clinical co-researchers readily incorporated the Family-Focused Support Conversation into their everyday work. The intervention changed family support from being solely patient-focused, providing information about patient needs, to family-focused, identifying family concerns about the significance and implications of discharge and facilitating family-focused care. Co-researchers reported an increase in family members' involvement in discharge decisions and end-of-life care planning. CONCLUSION The Family-Focused Support Conversation is a novel, evidenced-based and context specific intervention. Pilot implementation demonstrated the potential for the intervention to be used in acute hospitals to support family members during end-of-life care transitions. This subsequently informed a larger scale implementation study. TRIAL REGISTRATION n/a.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sue Duke
- School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, England.
| | - Natasha Campling
- School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, England
| | - Carl R May
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH, England
| | - Susi Lund
- School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, England
| | - Neil Lunt
- Department of Social Policy and Social Work, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, England
| | - Alison Richardson
- University Hospitals Southampton and School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, England
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Jadalla A, Ginex P, Coleman M, Vrabel M, Bevans M. Family Caregiver Strain and Burden: A Systematic Review of Evidence-Based Interventions When Caring for Patients With Cancer. Clin J Oncol Nurs 2020; 24:31-50. [DOI: 10.1188/20.cjon.31-50] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Scott D, Hudson P, Charnley K, Payne C, Westcott G. Development of an eHealth information resource for family carers supporting a person receiving palliative care on the island of Ireland. BMC Palliat Care 2019; 18:74. [PMID: 31470841 PMCID: PMC6717391 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-019-0457-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Many people receiving palliative care wish to die at home. Often, support from family or friends is key to ensuring that this wish is fulfilled. However, carers report feeling underprepared to undertake this role. This paper describes the process of developing a consensus and evidence based website to provide core information to help people support someone receiving palliative care on the island of Ireland. Methods The project comprised three phases: (1) a review of systematic reviews facilitated the identification of core information needs; (2) content was developed in collaboration with a Virtual Reference Group (VRG) comprising patients, carers and professionals; and, (3) subject experts within the project team worked with a web developer to précis the agreed content and ensure it was in a format that was appropriate for a website. Members of the VRG were then invited to test and approve the website before it was made available to the general public. Results Nineteen systematic reviews identified nine consensus areas of core information required by carers; a description of palliative care; prognosis and treatment of the condition; medication and pain management; personal care; specialist equipment; locally available support services; what to do in an emergency; nutrition; and, support for the carer. This information was shared with the VRG and used to develop website content. Conclusions We engaged with service users and professionals to develop an evidence-based website addressing the agreed core information needs of non-professional carers who wish to provide palliative care to a friend or relative.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Scott
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Medical Biology Centre, Queen's University Belfast, Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK.
| | - Peter Hudson
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Medical Biology Centre, Queen's University Belfast, Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Karen Charnley
- All Ireland Institute of Hospice and Palliative Care, Our Lady's Hospice and Care Services, Harold's Cross, Dublin 6, Ireland
| | - Cathy Payne
- All Ireland Institute of Hospice and Palliative Care, Our Lady's Hospice and Care Services, Harold's Cross, Dublin 6, Ireland
| | - Gareth Westcott
- All Ireland Institute of Hospice and Palliative Care, Our Lady's Hospice and Care Services, Harold's Cross, Dublin 6, Ireland
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Duggleby W, Tycholiz J, Holtslander L, Hudson P, Nekolaichuk C, Mirhosseini M, Parmar J, Chambers T, Alook A, Swindle J. A metasynthesis study of family caregivers' transition experiences caring for community-dwelling persons with advanced cancer at the end of life. Palliat Med 2017; 31:602-616. [PMID: 28618898 DOI: 10.1177/0269216316673548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family caregivers (broadly defined as family and friends) experience multiple concurrent transitions when caring for a person with advanced cancer. AIMS To (a) explore the transition experience of family caregivers caring for persons with advanced cancer living in the community, (b) describe potential triggers for transitions, (c) identify what influences this experience, and (d) develop a conceptual framework of their transition experience. DESIGN Sandelowski and Barroso's methodology for synthesizing qualitative research included (a) a comprehensive search of empirical literature, (b) quality appraisal of qualitative studies, (c) classification of studies, and (d) synthesis of the findings. DATA SOURCES Literature was sourced from six electronic data bases. Inclusion criteria were as follows: (a) published qualitative studies (and mixed-method designs) of the caregiving experience of family caregivers of community-living persons with advanced cancer at the end of life, (b) participants (caregivers and care recipients) of 18 years of age and above, (c) studies published in English in any country, and (d) studies published between 2004 and 2014. RESULTS A total of 72 studies were included in the metasynthesis. Family caregivers experience a "life transition" whereby their lives are permanently altered. The participants described the process of redefining normal which consisted of coming to terms with their situation and connecting with others. Outcomes of these processes were as follows: (a) maintaining a sense of personhood, (b) reframing hope, (c) maintaining self-efficacy, (d) finding meaning, and (e) preparing for the death of their care recipient. CONCLUSION The findings provide a framework to guide the development of supportive programs and future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Duggleby
- 1 Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Jamie Tycholiz
- 2 Strategic Planning and Policy Development, Alberta Health, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Lorraine Holtslander
- 3 College of Nursing, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.,4 University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Peter Hudson
- 5 Centre for Palliative Care, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia.,6 The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,7 Palliative Care, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Cheryl Nekolaichuk
- 8 Division of Palliative Care Medicine, Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Mehrnoush Mirhosseini
- 8 Division of Palliative Care Medicine, Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Jasneet Parmar
- 9 Department of Family Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.,10 Network of Excellence in Seniors' Health and Wellness, Covenant Health, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Thane Chambers
- 11 University of Alberta Libraries, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Angele Alook
- 12 Alberta Union of Provincial Employees, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Jennifer Swindle
- 1 Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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Thomas S, Dalton J, Harden M, Eastwood A, Parker G. Updated meta-review of evidence on support for carers. HEALTH SERVICES AND DELIVERY RESEARCH 2017. [DOI: 10.3310/hsdr05120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundPolicy and research interest in carers continues to grow. A previous meta-review, published in 2010, by Parkeret al.(Parker G, Arksey H, Harden M.Meta-review of International Evidence on Interventions to Support Carers. York: Social Policy Research Unit, University of York; 2010) found little compelling evidence of effectiveness about specific interventions and costs.ObjectiveTo update what is known about effective interventions to support carers of ill, disabled or older adults.DesignRapid meta-review.SettingAny relevant to the UK health and social care system.ParticipantsCarers (who provide support on an unpaid basis) of adults who are ill, disabled or older.InterventionsAny intervention primarily aimed at carers.Main outcome measuresAny direct outcome for carers.Data sourcesDatabase searches (including Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, MEDLINE, Applied Social Sciences Index and Abstracts and Social Care Online) for systematic reviews published from January 2009 to 2016.Review methodsWe used EndNote X7.4 (Thomson Reuters, CA, USA) to screen titles and abstracts. Final decisions on the inclusion of papers were made by two reviewers independently, using a Microsoft Excel®2013 spreadsheet (Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, WA, USA). We carried out a narrative synthesis structured by patient condition and by seven outcomes of interest. We assessed the quality of the included systematic reviews using established criteria. We invited a user group of carers to give their views on the overall findings of our review.ResultsSixty-one systematic reviews were included (27 of high quality, 25 of medium quality and nine of low quality). Patterns in the literature were similar to those in earlier work. The quality of reviews had improved, but primary studies remained limited in quality and quantity. Of the high-quality reviews, 14 focused on carers of people with dementia, four focused on carers of those with cancer, four focused on carers of people with stroke, three focused on carers of those at the end of life with various conditions and two focused on carers of people with mental health problems. Multicomponent interventions featured prominently, emphasising psychosocial or psychoeducational content, education and training. Multiple outcomes were explored, primarily in mental health, burden and stress, and well-being or quality of life. Negative effects following respite care were unsupported by our user group. As with earlier work, we found little evidence on intervention cost-effectiveness. No differences in review topics were found across high-, medium- and low-quality reviews.LimitationsThe nature of meta-reviews precludes definitive conclusions about intervention effectiveness, for whom and why. Many of the included reviews were small in size and authors generally relied on small numbers of studies to underpin their conclusions. The meta-review was restricted to English-language publications. Short timescales prevented any investigation of the overlap of primary studies, and growth in the evidence base since the original meta-review meant that post-protocol decisions were necessary.ConclusionsThere is no ‘one size fits all’ intervention to support carers. Potential exists for effective support in specific groups of carers. This includes shared learning, cognitive reframing, meditation and computer-delivered psychosocial support for carers of people with dementia, and psychosocial interventions, art therapy and counselling for carers of people with cancer. Counselling may also help carers of people with stroke. The effectiveness of respite care remains a paradox, given the apparent conflict between the empirical evidence and the views of carers.Future workMore good-quality, theory-based, primary research is warranted. Evidence is needed on the differential impact of interventions for various types of carers (including young carers and carers from minority groups), and on the effectiveness of constituent parts in multicomponent programmes. Further research triangulating qualitative and quantitative evidence on respite care is urgently required. The overlap of primary studies was not formally investigated in our review, and this warrants future evaluation.Study registrationThis study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42016033367.FundingThe National Institute for Health Research Health Services and Delivery Research programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sian Thomas
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Jane Dalton
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Melissa Harden
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Alison Eastwood
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Gillian Parker
- Social Policy Research Unit, University of York, York, UK
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Mahendran R, Tan JYS, Griva K, Lim HA, Ng HY, Chua J, Lim SE, Kua EH. A pilot, quasi-experimental, mixed methods investigation into the efficacy of a group psychotherapy intervention for caregivers of outpatients with cancer: the COPE study protocol. BMJ Open 2015; 5:e008527. [PMID: 26586322 PMCID: PMC4654340 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2015-008527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite the rising trend of cancer prevalence and increase in family caregiving, little attention has been paid to the efficacy of psychosocial interventions among Asian caregiver samples, particularly support groups, given the benefits that have been shown in studies on Western populations. This trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a pilot 4-week group psychotherapy for Singaporean family caregivers of patients receiving outpatient care. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Facilitated by a clinical psychologist, this intervention is primarily based on the brief integrative psychological therapy with a supportive-expressive intent. Participants will be recruited while they are accompanying their care recipients for outpatient consultations. Since this is a pilot study, a sample size of 120 participants is targeted on the basis of sample sizes of previous studies. The study adopts a quasi-experimental design, as participants are assigned the intervention or control arms based on their availability to attend the intervention. A mixed methods approach is used to evaluate the outcomes of the intervention. A self-administered battery of tests is completed at four time points: baseline, postintervention and follow-up at 1-month and 2-month postinterventions; semi-structured interviews are conducted at baseline and post-intervention. Primary outcomes are quality of life and anxious and depressive symptoms; secondary outcomes are stress and basic psychological needs. Analysis using analysis of covariance would be conducted to determine the effectiveness of the intervention. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study protocol has ethics approval from the National Healthcare Group Domain Specific Review Board (NHG DSRB Ref: 2013/00662). Written informed consent is obtained from every participant. Results will be disseminated through journals and conferences, and will be particularly relevant for clinicians intending to implement similar support groups to address the psychosocial concerns of caregivers, as well as for researchers seeking to refine the structure and evaluate the effectiveness of such programmes. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Current Controlled Trials NCT02120183 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT02120183).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rathi Mahendran
- Department of Psychological Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore
- Department of Psychological Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Joyce Yi Siang Tan
- Department of Psychological Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Konstadina Griva
- Department of Psychology, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Haikel Asyraf Lim
- Department of Psychological Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hui Ying Ng
- Department of Psychological Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore
| | - Joanne Chua
- Department of Psychological Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore
| | - Siew Eng Lim
- National University Cancer Institute, Singapore, National University Health System, Singapore
| | - Ee Heok Kua
- Department of Psychological Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore
- Department of Psychological Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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Development and evaluation of an intervention to support family caregivers of people with cancer to provide home-based care at the end of life: A feasibility study. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2015; 19:154-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2014.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2014] [Revised: 09/15/2014] [Accepted: 09/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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13
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Enhancing the experience of carers in the chemotherapy outpatient setting: an exploratory randomised controlled trial to test impact, acceptability and feasibility of a complex intervention co-designed by carers and staff. Support Care Cancer 2015; 23:3069-80. [DOI: 10.1007/s00520-015-2677-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2014] [Accepted: 02/22/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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14
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Cooke M. Review: Identifying the self-management behaviours performed by prostate cancer survivors: a systematic review of the evidence. J Res Nurs 2015. [DOI: 10.1177/1744987114524118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mary Cooke
- Lecturer, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, University of Manchester, UK
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Abstract
RÉSUMÉCette étude a examiné les corrélats de la prestation de soins de la fin de vie fournis par les enfants adultes à leurs parents âgés et le rôle du sexe des enfants adultes en soins familiaux dans la Chine rurale. Les données proviennent de cinq vagues de l'Étude longitudinale du bien-être des personnes âgées en milieu rural dans la province de l'Anhui, en Chine, pendant 12 ans, et d'une enquête post-mortalité. On a utilisé la modélisation linéaire hiérarchique . Les résultats ont montré que l'ordre de naissance des enfants adultes, la distance géographique antérieure, et l'échange du soutien intergénérationnel antérieur étaient significativement associés à la prestation de soins de famille de la fin de vie. Les enfants les plus âgés, par rapport à d'autres frères et sœurs, fourni les plus grand soins de fin de vie pour leurs parents. Les enfants qui cohabitent avec les parents plus âgés avant leur mort, par rapport à d'autres enfants des mêmes parents, ont offert les plus grands soins. Les enfants adultes qui avaient déjà échangé le soutien instrumental avec les parents âgés avant la mort, en particulier les fils, tendaient à fournir le plus grands soins en fin de vie, par rapport à ceux d'autres.
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What family caregivers learn when providing care at the end of life: a qualitative secondary analysis of multiple datasets. Palliat Support Care 2014; 13:425-33. [PMID: 24524561 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951513001168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although growing numbers of family members provide end-of-life care for dying persons, caregivers frequently report lacking essential information, knowledge, and skills. This analysis explicates what family members learn during the process of providing end-of-life care. METHOD Four qualitative interview studies of family caregivers to those at the end of life (n = 156) formed the basis of a secondary data analysis. RESULTS Thematic and cross-comparative analyses found three general kinds of learning that were described-knowledge about: (1) the situation and the illness (including what to expect), (2) how to provide care, and (3) how to access help. Learning gaps, preferences, and potential inequities were identified. Further, in some instances, participant talk about "learning" appears to reflect a meaning-making process that helps them accept their situation, as suggested by the phrase "I have had to learn." SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS Findings can inform the development of individualized educational programs and interventions for family caregivers.
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Cui J, Song L, Zhou L, Meng H, Zhao J. Needs of family caregivers of advanced cancer patients: a survey in Shanghai of China. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2014; 23:562-9. [DOI: 10.1111/ecc.12174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/20/2013] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J. Cui
- School of Nursing; Second Military Medical University; Shanghai China
| | - L.J. Song
- Department of Nursing; Shanghai Medical College; Shanghai China
| | - L.J. Zhou
- School of Nursing; Second Military Medical University; Shanghai China
| | - H. Meng
- Department of Health Statistics; Second Military Medical University; Shanghai China
| | - J.J. Zhao
- Department of Nursing; Changhai Hospital; Second Military Medical University; Shanghai China
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Ream E, Pedersen V, Oakley C, Richardson A, Taylor C, Verity R. Informal carers' experiences and needs when supporting patients through chemotherapy: a mixed method study. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2013; 22:797-806. [DOI: 10.1111/ecc.12083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E. Ream
- Florence Nightingale School of Nursing and Midwifery; King's College London; London UK
| | - V.H. Pedersen
- Florence Nightingale School of Nursing and Midwifery; King's College London; London UK
| | - C. Oakley
- Florence Nightingale School of Nursing and Midwifery; King's College London; London UK
| | - A. Richardson
- Southampton General Hospital and University of Southampton; Southampton Hampshire UK
| | - C. Taylor
- Florence Nightingale School of Nursing and Midwifery; King's College London; London UK
| | - R. Verity
- Florence Nightingale School of Nursing and Midwifery; King's College London; London UK
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Finding a wider horizon: Experiences of being a next-of-kin of a person suffering from colorectal cancer as told after having participated in a psychoeducational program. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2013; 17:324-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2012.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2011] [Revised: 08/29/2012] [Accepted: 09/02/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Regan TW, Lambert SD, Girgis A, Kelly B, Kayser K, Turner J. Do couple-based interventions make a difference for couples affected by cancer? A systematic review. BMC Cancer 2012; 12:279. [PMID: 22769228 PMCID: PMC3464780 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-12-279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2011] [Accepted: 06/21/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background With the growing recognition that patients and partners react to a cancer diagnosis as an interdependent system and increasing evidence that psychosocial interventions can be beneficial to both patients and partners, there has been a recent increase in the attention given to interventions that target couples. The aim of this systematic review was to identify existing couple-based interventions for patients with cancer and their partners and explore the efficacy of these interventions (including whether there is added value to target the couple versus individuals), the content and delivery of couple-based interventions, and to identify the key elements of couple-based interventions that promote improvement in adjustment to cancer diagnosis. Method A systematic review of the cancer literature was performed to identify experimental and quasi-experimental couple-based interventions published between 1990 and 2011. To be considered for this review, studies had to test the efficacy of a psychosocial intervention for couples affected by cancer. Studies were excluded if they were published in a language other than English or French, focused on pharmacological, exercise, or dietary components combined with psychosocial components, or did not assess the impact of the intervention on psychological distress (e.g., depression, anxiety) or quality of life. Data were extracted using a standardised data collection form, and were analysed independently by three reviewers. Results Of the 709 articles screened, 23 were included in this review. Couple-based interventions were most efficacious in improving couple communication, psychological distress, and relationship functioning. Interventions had a limited impact on physical distress and social adjustment. Most interventions focused on improving communication and increasing understanding of the cancer diagnosis within couples. Interventions were most often delivered by masters-level nurses or clinical psychologists. Although most were delivered in person, few were telephone-based. No difference in efficacy was noted based on mode of delivery. Factors associated with uptake and completion included symptom severity, available time and willingness to travel. Conclusion Given effect sizes of couple-based interventions are similar to those reported in recent meta-analyses of patient-only and caregiver-only interventions (~d=.35-.45), it appears couple-based interventions for patients with cancer and their partners may be at least as efficacious as patient-only and caregiver-only interventions. Despite evidence that couple-based interventions enhance psycho-social adjustment for both patients and partners, these interventions have not yet been widely adopted. Although more work is needed to facilitate translation to routine practice, evidence reviewed is promising in reducing distress and improving coping and adjustment to a cancer diagnosis or to cancer symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim W Regan
- Centre for Translational Neuroscience and Mental Health, Faculty of Health, School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia.
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Ross L, Petersen MA, Johnsen AT, Lundstrøm LH, Lund L, Groenvold M. Using mixed methods to assess how cancer patients' needs in relation to their relatives are met in the Danish health care system: a report from the population-based study "The Cancer Patient's World". Support Care Cancer 2012; 20:3211-20. [PMID: 22531878 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-012-1466-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2011] [Accepted: 04/02/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM The aims of this paper were to validate four items assessing how patients' needs regarding support to and from their relatives are met and to investigate patients' evaluation of this support. METHOD Items were validated by patient-observer agreement and cognitive interviews. Adequacy of support was assessed in a cross-sectional study of 1,490 Danish cancer patients; 147 of these also answered an open-ended question. RESULTS All items performed well in the validation. Only 4 % reported lack of support from their relatives, whereas 9 and 11 % had lacked support from the health care professionals regarding how to tell the relatives about the disease and regarding the relatives in general, respectively. Although the patients' expectations are not unequivocal, a large proportion (35 %) reported that the health care professionals had shown little interest in how the relatives were doing. This was most pronounced for female patients and patients sampled in urban areas. Compared to older patients, younger patients lacked more support with respect to the relatives in general and regarding how to tell them about the disease. Divorced patients were less satisfied than married patients on all measures. CONCLUSION While most patients felt well-supported by their relatives, the oldest, the divorced, and those without children may be a vulnerable group. Many patients reported that the health care staff showed insufficient interest in the well-being of the relatives. Thus, it may be beneficial for both the patient and the relatives if health care professionals acknowledge and support the relatives in fulfilling their important role as caregiver and companion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lone Ross
- The Research Unit, Department of Palliative Medicine, Bispebjerg Hospital, Bispebjerg Bakke 23, 2400 Copenhagen, Denmark.
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He Leow MQ, Wai Chi Chan S. Factors affecting caregiver burden of terminally ill adults in the home setting - A systematic review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 9:1883-1916. [PMID: 27820549 DOI: 10.11124/01938924-201109450-00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Background: Terminally ill people have complex physical and psychological needs. As a result, their caregivers may experience high levels of burden, and some caregivers are unable to cope with the burden. Thus, it is important to determine the various factors that may influence caregiver burden, so that healthcare professionals may implement strategies to reduce caregiver burden. In this review, "caregiver burden" was expanded to include "caregiver stress" and "caregiver strain", as the two terms were related to caregiver burden. OBJECTIVES The objective of this systematic review was to identify the factors that may influence caregiver burden of a terminally ill adult in the home setting. INCLUSION CRITERIA Types of participants: This review considered adult participants (above age 18) who were the main caregivers of a terminally ill adult in the home setting, and providing care for the terminally ill person at the point of participation in the study.Types of intervention: There was no specific intervention of interest for the study.Types of outcomes: The focus of study was the factors that affected caregiver burden of the terminally ill person.Types of studies: Quantitative studies such as randomised controlled trials (RCTs), controlled clinical trials (CCTs), interrupted time series (ITSs), controlled before after designs (CBAs), observational design (cohort, case-control), and descriptive surveys were included in the study. SEARCH STRATEGY This review was limited to papers in English and Mandarin. A literature search from the inception of the database to October 2010 was conducted using major electronic databases. The databases used were CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO (Ovid), Scopus, SpringerLink, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Mosby's Nursing Consult, Mednar: Deep web medical search, Proquest Dissertations and Theses and China Journal Net.Methodological quality: The quality of the potential studies was assessed by two independent reviewers using the critical appraisal checklists for descriptive/case studies from the JBI-MAStARI (Joanna Briggs Institute-Meta Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument). DATA EXTRACTION Quantitative data were extracted from included papers using standardised data extraction tools from the JBI-MAStARI. DATA SYNTHESIS Findings were presented in narrative form, as statistical pooling was not possible. RESULTS Seven studies were included in the review. All the studies used a cross-sectional descriptive survey for the collection of data. Four main factors that influenced caregivers' perception of caregiving burden were identified: 1. Caregiver characteristics, 2. Patient characteristics, 3. Social support, and 4. Caregivers' personal protective resources. CONCLUSION Caregiver characteristics, patient characteristics, social support, and attitude of caregiver towards the caregiving situation, were found to influence caregivers' perceived caregiving burden. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Additional support is required for caregivers who are employed, known to have financial difficulties, caring for patient indicating symptom distress, and caring for a patient at the terminal stage (Level III). IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH Future studies may attempt to develop a framework to identify factors that impact on caregiver burden. More studies on caregiver burden in males, caregiver burden of patients who were at the terminal stages of the various chronic illnesses should be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mabel Qi He Leow
- 1. SGNUH - A collaborating centre of Joanna Briggs Institute, Centre for Evidence Based Nursing; Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, National University of Singapore, Singapore National University Hospital (NUH)
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He Leow MQ, Wai Chi Chan S. Factors affecting caregiver burden of terminally ill adults in the home setting - A systematic review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011. [DOI: 10.11124/jbisrir-2011-104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
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