46 results
Approaches for enhancing the informativeness and quality of clinical trials: Innovations and principles for implementing multicenter trials from the Trial Innovation Network
- Karen Lane, Marisha E. Palm, Eve Marion, Marie T. Kay, Dixie Thompson, Mary Stroud, Helen Boyle, Shannon Hillery, Angeline Nanni, Meghan Hildreth, Sarah Nelson, Jeri S. Burr, Terri Edwards, Lori Poole, Salina P. Waddy, Sarah E. Dunsmore, Paul Harris, Consuelo Wilkins, Gordon R. Bernard, J. Michael Dean, Jamie Dwyer, Daniel K. Benjamin, Jr., Harry P. Selker, Daniel F. Hanley, Daniel E. Ford
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- Journal:
- Journal of Clinical and Translational Science / Volume 7 / Issue 1 / 2023
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 25 May 2023, e131
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One challenge for multisite clinical trials is ensuring that the conditions of an informative trial are incorporated into all aspects of trial planning and execution. The multicenter model can provide the potential for a more informative environment, but it can also place a trial at risk of becoming uninformative due to lack of rigor, quality control, or effective recruitment, resulting in premature discontinuation and/or non-publication. Key factors that support informativeness are having the right team and resources during study planning and implementation and adequate funding to support performance activities. This communication draws on the experience of the National Center for Advancing Translational Science (NCATS) Trial Innovation Network (TIN) to develop approaches for enhancing the informativeness of clinical trials. We distilled this information into three principles: (1) assemble a diverse team, (2) leverage existing processes and systems, and (3) carefully consider budgets and contracts. The TIN, comprised of NCATS, three Trial Innovation Centers, a Recruitment Innovation Center, and 60+ CTSA Program hubs, provides resources to investigators who are proposing multicenter collaborations. In addition to sharing principles that support the informativeness of clinical trials, we highlight TIN-developed resources relevant for multicenter trial initiation and conduct.
Impact of COVID-19 on mental health research: is this the breaking point?
- Oli Sparasci, Kamaldeep Bhui, Asit Biswas, Samuel Chamberlain, Bernadka Dubicka, Robert Dudas, Saeed Farooq, Tamsin Ford, Nusrat Husain, Ian Jones, Helen Killaspy, William Lee, Anne Lingford-Hughes, Ciaran Mulholland, Judy Rubinsztein, Rohit Shankar, Aditya Sharma, Lindsey Sinclair, James Stone, Allan Young
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- Journal:
- The British Journal of Psychiatry / Volume 220 / Issue 5 / May 2022
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 17 February 2022, pp. 254-256
- Print publication:
- May 2022
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There are many structural problems facing the UK at present, from a weakened National Health Service to deeply ingrained inequality. These challenges extend through society to clinical practice and have an impact on current mental health research, which was in a perilous state even before the coronavirus pandemic hit. In this editorial, a group of psychiatric researchers who currently sit on the Academic Faculty of the Royal College of Psychiatrists and represent the breadth of research in mental health from across the UK discuss the challenges faced in academic mental health research. They reflect on the need for additional investment in the specialty and ask whether this is a turning point for the future of mental health research.
Mapping UK mental health services for adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: national survey with comparison of reporting between three stakeholder groups
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- Anna Price, Astrid Janssens, Tamsin Newlove-Delgado, Helen Eke, Moli Paul, Kapil Sayal, Chris Hollis, Cornelius Ani, Susan Young, Susan Dunn-Morua, Philip Asherson, Stuart Logan, Tamsin Ford
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- Journal:
- BJPsych Open / Volume 6 / Issue 4 / July 2020
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 29 July 2020, e76
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Background
UK clinical guidelines recommend treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults by suitably qualified clinical teams. However, young people with ADHD attempting the transition from children's to adults’ services experience considerable difficulties in accessing care.
AimsTo map the mental health services in the UK for adults who have ADHD and compare the reports of key stakeholders (people with ADHD and their carers, health workers, service commissioners).
MethodA survey about the existence and extent of service provision for adults with ADHD was distributed online and via national organisations (e.g. Royal College of Psychiatrists, the ADHD Foundation). Freedom of information requests were sent to commissioners. Descriptive analysis was used to compare reports from the different stakeholders.
ResultsA total of 294 unique services were identified by 2686 respondents. Of these, 44 (15%) were dedicated adult ADHD services and 99 (34%) were generic adult mental health services. Only 12 dedicated services (27%) provided the full range of treatments recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Only half of the dedicated services (55%) and a minority of other services (7%) were reported by all stakeholder groups (P < 0.001, Fisher's exact test).
ConclusionsThere is geographical variation in the provision of NHS services for adults with ADHD across the UK, as well as limited availability of treatments in the available services. Differences between stakeholder reports raise questions about equitable access. With increasing numbers of young people with ADHD graduating from children's services, developing evidence-based accessible models of care for adults with ADHD remains an urgent policy and commissioning priority.
Transition between child and adult services for young people with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): findings from a British national surveillance study
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- Helen Eke, Tamsin Ford, Tamsin Newlove-Delgado, Anna Price, Susan Young, Cornelius Ani, Kapil Sayal, Richard M. Lynn, Moli Paul, Astrid Janssens
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- Journal:
- The British Journal of Psychiatry / Volume 217 / Issue 5 / November 2020
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 04 June 2019, pp. 616-622
- Print publication:
- November 2020
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Background
Optimal transition from child to adult services involves continuity, joint care, planning meetings and information transfer; commissioners and service providers therefore need data on how many people require that service. Although attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) frequently persists into adulthood, evidence is limited on these transitions.
AimsTo estimate the national incidence of young people taking medication for ADHD that require and complete transition, and to describe the proportion that experienced optimal transition.
MethodSurveillance over 12 months using the British Paediatric Surveillance Unit and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Surveillance System, including baseline notification and follow-up questionnaires.
ResultsQuestionnaire response was 79% at baseline and 82% at follow-up. For those aged 17–19, incident rate (range adjusted for non-response) of transition need was 202–511 per 100 000 people aged 17–19 per year, with successful transition of 38–96 per 100 000 people aged 17–19 per year. Eligible young people with ADHD were mostly male (77%) with a comorbid condition (62%). Half were referred to specialist adult ADHD and 25% to general adult mental health services; 64% had referral accepted but only 22% attended a first appointment. Only 6% met optimal transition criteria.
ConclusionsAs inclusion criteria required participants to be on medication, these estimates represent the lower limit of the transition need. Two critical points were apparent: referral acceptance and first appointment attendance. The low rate of successful transition and limited guideline adherence indicates significant need for commissioners and service providers to improve service transition experiences.
PP085 A Scoping Review Of Emergency Assessment And Referral Of Suspected Transient Ischemic Attack
- Chelsey Hampton, Bridie Evans, Khalid Ali, Jenna Bulger, Gary Ford, Chris Moore, Alison Porter, Alan Pryce, Tom Quinn, Anne Seagrove, Helen Snooks, Shirley Whitman, Nigel Rees, Matthew Jones
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- Journal:
- International Journal of Technology Assessment in Health Care / Volume 33 / Issue S1 / 2017
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 12 January 2018, pp. 110-111
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INTRODUCTION:
Patients who experience Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA) should be assessed and treated in a specialist clinic to reduce risk of further TIA or stroke. But referrals are often delayed. We aimed to identify published studies describing pathways for emergency assessment and referral of patients with suspected TIA at first medical contact: primary care; ambulance services; and emergency department.
METHODS:We conducted a scoping literature review. We searched four databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus). We screened studies for eligibility. We extracted and analysed data to describe setting, assessment and referral processes reported in primary research on referral of suspected TIA patients directly to specialist outpatient services.
RESULTS:We identified eight studies in nine papers from five countries: 1/9 randomized trial; 6/9 before-and-after designs; 2/9 descriptive account. Five pathways were used by family doctors and three by Emergency Department (ED) physicians. None were used by paramedics. Clinicians identified TIA patients using a checklist incorporating the ABCD2 tool to describe risk of further stroke, online decision support tool or clinical judgement. They referred to a specialist clinic, either directly or via a telephone helpline. Anti-platelet medication was often given, usually aspirin unless contraindicated. Some patients underwent neurological and blood tests before referral and discharge. Five studies reported reduced incident of stroke at 90 days, from 6–10 percent predicted rate to 1.2-2.1 percent actual rate. Between 44 percent and 83 percent of suspected TIA cases in these studies were directly referred to stroke clinics through the pathways.
CONCLUSIONS:Research literature has focused on assessment and referral by family doctors and ED physicians to reduce hospitalization of TIA patients. No pathways for paramedic use were reported. Since many suspected TIA patients present to ambulance services, effective pre-hospital assessment and referral pathways are needed. We will use review results to develop a paramedic referral pathway to test in a feasibility trial.
PP150 Rapid Analgesia For Prehospital Hip Disruption: A Feasibility Study
- Jenna Bulger, Alan Brown, Bridie Evans, Greg Fegan, Simon Ford, Katy Guy, Sian Jones, Leigh Keen, Ashrafunnesa Khanom, Ian Pallister, Nigel Rees, Ian Russell, Anne Seagrove, Helen Snooks
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- Journal:
- International Journal of Technology Assessment in Health Care / Volume 33 / Issue S1 / 2017
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 12 January 2018, pp. 140-141
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INTRODUCTION:
Adequate pain relief at the scene of injury and during transport to hospital is a major challenge in all acute traumas, especially for those with hip fractures, whose injuries are difficult to immobilize and long-term outcomes may be adversely affected by administration of opiate analgesics. Fascia Iliaca Compartment Block (FICB) is a procedure routinely undertaken by clinicians in emergency departments for hip fracture patients, but use by paramedics at the scene of emergency calls, is not yet evaluated (1).
METHODS:We undertook a randomized controlled feasibility trial using novel audited scratchcard randomization to allocate eligible patients to FICB or usual care. Paramedics are recruited and trained to assess patients for hip fracture and carry out FICB. We will follow up patients to assess accuracy of paramedic diagnosis, acceptability to patients and paramedics, compliance of paramedics and also measures of pain, side effects, time in hospital and quality of life in order to plan a full trial if appropriate. The primary outcome measure is health related quality of life, measured using Short Form (SF)-12 at 1 and 6 months. Interviews and focus groups will be used to understand acceptability of FICB to patients and paramedics. This study was funded by Health and Care Research Wales (1003).
RESULTS:We have developed:
• paramedic pathway to assess patients for hip fracture and FICB
• paramedic training package, delivered by Consultant Anaesthetist
• randomization scratchcards.
To date we have recruited nineteen paramedics; ten are fully trained and recruiting patients, the remainder are being trained. Fifty-four patients have been randomized and thirty-five have consented to follow-up. Thirteen 1-month and five 6-month follow-up questionnaires have been received.
CONCLUSIONS:This study will enable us to recommend whether to undertake a definitive multi-centre randomized controlled trial of FICB by paramedics for hip fracture to determine if the procedure is effective for patients and worthwhile for the National Health Service.
VP88 Transient Ischaemic Attack Referral (TIER) Intervention Development
- Chelsey Hampton, Nigel Rees, Khalid Ali, Richard Dewar, Lyn Evans, Gary Ford, Roger John, Chris Moore, Mike Obiako, Alison Porter, Tom Quinn, Jenna Bulger, Charlene Jones, Anne Seagrove, Helen Snooks
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- Journal:
- International Journal of Technology Assessment in Health Care / Volume 33 / Issue S1 / 2017
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 12 January 2018, pp. 189-190
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INTRODUCTION:
Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA) is a neurologic event with symptom resolution within 24 hours. Early specialist assessment of TIA reduces risk of stroke and death. National United Kingdom (UK) guidelines recommend patients with TIA are seen in specialist clinics within 24 hours (high risk) or seven days (low risk).
We aimed to develop a complex intervention for patients with low risk TIA presenting to the emergency ambulance service. The intervention is being tested in the TIER feasibility trial, in line with Medical Research Council (MRC) guidance on staged development and evaluation of complex interventions.
METHODS:We conducted three interrelated activities to produce the TIER intervention:
• Survey of UK Ambulance Services (n = 13) to gather information about TIA pathways already in use
• Scoping review of literature describing prehospital care of patients with TIA
• Synthesis of data and definition of intervention by specialist panel of: paramedics; Emergency Department (ED) and stroke consultants; service users; ambulance service managers.
RESULTS:The panel used results to define the TIER intervention, to include:
1. Protocol for paramedics to assess patients presenting with TIA and identify and refer low risk patients for prompt (< 7day) specialist review at TIA clinic
2. Patient Group Directive and information pack to allow paramedic administration of aspirin to patients left at home with referral to TIA clinic
3. Referral process via ambulance control room
4. Training package for paramedics
5. Agreement with TIA clinic service provider including rapid review of referred patients
CONCLUSIONS:We followed MRC guidance to develop a clinical intervention for assessment and referral of low risk TIA patients attended by emergency ambulance paramedic. We are testing feasibility of implementing and evaluating this intervention in the TIER feasibility trial which may lead to fully powered multicentre randomized controlled trial (RCT) if predefined progression criteria are met.
Mind how you cross the gap! Outcomes for young people who failed to make the transition from child to adult services: the TRACK study
- Zoebia Islam, Tamsin Ford, Tami Kramer, Moli Paul, Helen Parsons, Katherine Harley, Tim Weaver, Susan McLaren, Swaran P. Singh
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- Journal:
- BJPsych Bulletin / Volume 40 / Issue 3 / June 2016
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 02 January 2018, pp. 142-148
- Print publication:
- June 2016
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Aims and method
The Transitions of Care from Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services to Adult Mental Health Services (TRACK) study was a multistage, multicentre study of adolescents' transitions between child and adult mental health services undertaken in England. We conducted a secondary analysis of the TRACK study data to investigate healthcare provision for young people (n = 64) with ongoing mental health needs, who were not transferred from child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) to adult mental health services mental health services (AMHS).
ResultsThe most common outcomes were discharge to a general practitioner (GP; n =29) and ongoing care with CAMHS (n = 13), with little indication of use of third-sector organisations. Most of these young people had emotional/neurotic disorders (n = 31, 48.4%) and neurodevelopmental disorders (n = 15, 23.4%).
Clinical implicationsGPs and CAMHS are left with the responsibility for the continuing care of young people for whom no adult mental health service could be identified. GPs may not be able to offer the skilled ongoing care that these young people need. Equally, the inability to move them decreases the capacity of CAMHS to respond to new referrals and may leave some young people with only minimal support.
Diet-related practices and BMI are associated with diet quality in older adults
- Dara W Ford, Terryl J Hartman, Christopher Still, Craig Wood, Diane Mitchell, Pao Ying Hsiao, Regan Bailey, Helen Smiciklas-Wright, Donna L Coffman, Gordon L Jensen
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- Journal:
- Public Health Nutrition / Volume 17 / Issue 7 / July 2014
- Published online by Cambridge University Press:
- 02 July 2013, pp. 1565-1569
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Objective
To assess the association of diet-related practices and BMI with diet quality in rural adults aged ≥74 years.
DesignCross-sectional. Dietary quality was assessed by the twenty-five-item Dietary Screening Tool (DST). Diet-related practices were self-reported. Multivariate linear regression models were used to analyse associations of DST scores with BMI and diet-related practices after controlling for gender, age, education, smoking and self- v. proxy reporting.
SettingGeisinger Rural Aging Study (GRAS) in Pennsylvania, USA.
SubjectsA total of 4009 (1722 males, 2287 females; mean age 81·5 years) participants aged ≥74 years.
ResultsIndividuals with BMI < 18·5 kg/m2 had a significantly lower DST score (mean 55·8, 95 % CI 52·9, 58·7) than those individuals with BMI = 18·5–24·9 kg/m2 (mean 60·7, 95 % CI 60·1, 61·5; P = 0·001). Older adults with higher, more favourable DST scores were significantly more likely to be food sufficient, report eating breakfast, have no chewing difficulties and report no decline in intake in the previous 6 months.
ConclusionsThe DST may identify potential targets for improving diet quality in older adults including promotion of healthy BMI, breakfast consumption, improving dentition and identifying strategies to decrease concern about food sufficiency.
10 - Exhibiting archives
- Helen Forde, Jonathan Rhys-Lewis
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- Preserving Archives
- Published by:
- Facet
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- 09 June 2018
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- 31 March 2013, pp 159-174
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Summary
Introduction
Why put irreplaceable material at risk? The main answer to this is that exhibitions are a major way of promoting access to archival material and involving the public and staff in a topic of mutual interest. All the activities connected with exhibitions, such as the publication of catalogues, production of facsimiles for sale, group visits and publicity, are major concerns of those involved with outreach. For those involved with preservation the essential requirement is to match these needs with adequate security and preservation standards, while not inhibiting or dampening the enthusiasm and talent of colleagues. The crucial factors are collaboration and understanding; exhibitions involve planning and co-operating, compromise and change. Once others understand the concerns of all, the process becomes easier but communication in the first instance is vital. If the parameters relating to standards of exhibition are laid out at the very beginning much less can go wrong. This chapter covers:
• minimizing the associated risks
• policies, standards and guidelines for exhibitions
• managing the care of documents in exhibitions
• planning and preparing for an exhibition.
How can the overall risk be minimized?
The easiest way of minimizing the risk is to set out an exhibition policy and procedure with which everyone agrees. This may involve not only a simple statement of aims for internal use but also a more detailed policy and set of procedures for external loans. The organization will benefit from being very clear about what it will and will not display, outside borrowers will understand the limits of what can be borrowed and why, and staff will appreciate the concerns of other colleagues. Drawing up such a document may take some time, but plenty of examples are available to suggest the main headings. It is very unwise to wait until an exhibition is suggested; policies developed in a hurry under the pressure of a particular project are never satisfactory. Consider:
• the purposes of exhibiting archival material and the authority by which the archive does so
• the scope of exhibitions and the capacity of the organization to mount them
• whether the policy of the organization is to display originals or facsimiles
• the location – whether on the premises or elsewhere.
2 - Understanding archival materials and their characteristics
- Helen Forde, Jonathan Rhys-Lewis
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- Preserving Archives
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- Facet
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- 09 June 2018
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- 31 March 2013, pp 5-24
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Summary
Introduction
Archival materials are complex in their manufacture and use, and some understanding of their history and different characteristics is important for successful preservation. The chemistry involved is largely the preserve of conservators undertaking pure and applied research, but some basic knowledge, particularly of modern materials, is necessary. Paper and parchment constitute the vast majority of carriers – excluding magnetic materials and electronic media – in most archives in the UK and many other countries. Other materials, such as palm leaves or bark, are found elsewhere in the world, but are rare in Europe and are not covered here. Understanding the problems of different materials is one thing; finding the solutions is quite another and these will depend upon the circumstances in each archive. There are, however, two exceptions; these relate to nitrate-based and cellulose acetate-based film, both of which may deteriorate quickly, or in the worst case, self-combust or explode, if action is not taken upon discovery of degradation.
This chapter looks at the structure and manufacture of the materials most commonly found in UK and many other archives throughout the world, including:
• paper
• parchment
• inks
• photographic materials
• audiovisual materials
• optical materials
• tapes
• discs
• digital storage media.
Paper
Paper is the material most widely used for archives and therefore merits particular attention. The materials from which it is made have varied over time, resulting in more or less stability; this ref lects the common perception of paper as a disposable product, but in practice it is a remarkably resilient writing medium.
The development of paper
The Chinese invention of paper in AD105, as an alternative writing medium to silk or cloth, has traditionally been associated with ’i Lun, of Hunan province, although some recent discoveries suggest that it was being used at least a century earlier. Wadding has also been discovered in a tomb in Shanxi province but the structure provides no evidence of fibre beating, an essential operation which forms the hydrogen bondings which distinguish sheet paper from wadding.
In the Western world paper began to rival papyrus in the late eighth century AD, although Chinese paper makers are known to have been in Turkey as early as 648 and had passed on the art to the Arabs by the middle of the eighth century.
8 - Creating and using surrogates
- Helen Forde, Jonathan Rhys-Lewis
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- Preserving Archives
- Published by:
- Facet
- Published online:
- 09 June 2018
- Print publication:
- 31 March 2013, pp 123-138
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Summary
Introduction
Surrogates – the production of a user copy of the original – have a major role in preservation management, as they reduce the wear and tear on originals and in many cases enhance access. Developing a programme should therefore be an option for all archives, but it must be recognized that all interests, including those of the readers, should be taken into account. Policy decisions will have to be considered if surrogates are to be offered to readers; will it be obligatory to use them and are there copyright issues, especially if they are available online? These issues need to be debated and agreed by the archive, since they will undoubtedly be raised at some point by readers.
Debates about different methods, the reasons for copying, and the associated costs of creation and upkeep have ranged widely over the past 50 years. Until recently such discussions have been centred largely on copying for the purposes of preservation. Access issues, however, have always crept in, emphasizing the difficulty of isolating one from the other. The development of digital methods of copying information has given increasing prominence to access issues, leading to change and enlargement of archive and library access policies, plans and costs. These are issues which are likely to loom larger in the future. Preservation is no longer the main focus.
This chapter looks at:
• the different types of copies
• the preservation issues surrounding the creation of surrogates
• the changing policies of archives on copying
• the actions needed to ensure that original materials are treated appropriately if they are copied.
It does not describe the technical requirements or standards for equipment, which can be found in the appropriate manuals.
Copying archive material
Reformatting for preservation whether utilizing analog or digital technologies is a series of choices all affected by economics, legal or social conventions, and decisions about risk management.
(Bellinger, 2003)Decisions to copy, as Bellinger states, involve a host of choices, all of which require judgement about condition and access, and some of which may be controversial. Nevertheless, they must be made and priorities established; the alternative could be the total loss of information and therefore access to it. Risk management looms large in debates about copying.
2 - A conservation workshop
- from Appendices
- Helen Forde, Jonathan Rhys-Lewis
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- Preserving Archives
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- Facet
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- 09 June 2018
- Print publication:
- 31 March 2013, pp 231-236
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Summary
Establishing an in-house conservation workshop is a choice to be made by each archive, weighing up the advantages and disadvantages of outsourcing the work against the capital cost, employment costs and ongoing commitment of an in-house resource. Either way it will be a senior management decision, with the appropriate need for support. Quantifying the need for conservation work, following an appraisal of the general condition of the material (see Chapter 14) is essential before making any decisions.
If the decision is to establish a new workshop in-house an expert will be required to install and manage it. This is likely to be a senior conservator and appointing someone initially with the appropriate accreditation and skills will have major benefits for the project; planning a building programme and a conservation programme will be part of the job specification. Additional staff will be needed but the number will depend on the amount of work to be undertaken and the skills required; resources to meet these needs may only be possible when specified as part of an externally funded project. Conservators will contribute to preservation activities such as monitoring the conditions in the strongrooms and assisting with disaster control and can also run volunteer programmes for basic preservation work such as cleaning and dusting volumes or flattening large documents for protective boxing. Administrative assistance will be needed in large workshops as treatment records (including digital photographs) need to be kept; documents need to be checked in and out of the workshop and materials and equipment ordered and maintained. In smaller workshops, conservation staff will undertake these tasks.
Planning
Planning the installation project is a shared activity between the archivist, the conservator, the architect and the engineer; clearly it must fit within the overall business plan of the archive and adequate time must be allowed to plan the project properly. Visits to other institutions to view any new, or benchmark facilities are vital. Robust specifications, rigorously drawn up, tested and scrutinized are the basis of a successful project. The location of the workshop will depend on whether the facility is to be part of a new build for the whole organization or is to be an adaptation of a part of an existing building.
3 - Managing digital preservation
- Helen Forde, Jonathan Rhys-Lewis
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- Preserving Archives
- Published by:
- Facet
- Published online:
- 09 June 2018
- Print publication:
- 31 March 2013, pp 25-40
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Summary
Introduction
To the archivist the need to preserve selected digital information of long-term value is fairly self-evident, but to many of those involved in the creation of data the importance of strategies for preservation is not so obvious. Assumptions are made about the longevity of digital information which are quite unfounded, even when the evidence of the potential fragility of the medium is there for all to see. Archivists and records managers have to develop new approaches and engage earlier to ensure that serious loss of information does not take place in the context of rapidly rising use of the technology. Digital preservation is a much more stable technique than it was even ten years ago, but the discussions and debates surrounding it need to be translated into active strategies, adopted by all organizations with a concern for the future of their documentation.
This chapter looks at:
• why digital preservation is important
• why it is perceived as difficult
• what decisions are needed to ensure that the appropriate digital material is preserved over time
• who should be involved
• how to start and maintain the process.
This chapter does not deal with the technical aspects of digital preservation; advice on this is best sought from the national archives of the relevant country, such as The National Archives (TNA) or organizations such as Digital Preservation Coalition (DPC) in the UK, and in the USA, the National Digital Stewardship Alliance or the impressive guidance and developmental work carried out by the Library of Congress. The DPC is a consortium of library, archive and research organizations, brought together to pool ideas, promote best practice and publish research on digital preservation issues.
Why is digital preservation management important?
Digital preservation (the act of ensuring enduring access to electronic material) is rarely undertaken by the same person who deals with the more traditional forms of archive preservation. Increasingly, however, it is essential for all archivists to understand some of the management principles and strategies adopted to achieve it and the contribution that different professions can make to this. The most important point is that building preservation into any digital project at the outset is much easier, more efficient and vastly cheaper than attempting to preserve, or re-create the material at a later stage.
7 - Managing risks and avoiding disaster
- Helen Forde, Jonathan Rhys-Lewis
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- Book:
- Preserving Archives
- Published by:
- Facet
- Published online:
- 09 June 2018
- Print publication:
- 31 March 2013, pp 99-122
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Summary
Introduction
Disaster planning is truly not for the faint of heart.
(Wellheiser and Scott, 2002, iv)Avoiding disaster is an aspiration shared by many archives but disasters are adequately guarded against by few. Even after well over 20 years of publicity about the benefits of taking precautions, the value of risk assessment and the ultimate cost to an organization that suffers a disaster, embryo plans still lie unfinished, staff are still untrained and mutual help partnerships have not been forged. Articles, websites and manuals abound, but taking the first initiative still appears to be difficult in too many archives, as the above quotation hints. Little recognition is given by those in responsible positions to the long-term damage that could be caused by a disaster, not only to the documents in physical terms but also in terms of the effect on the staff, the users and the depositors. For businesses the result can be catastrophic; why should it be any different for archives?
This chapter includes:
• the reasons for developing disaster planning
• definitions
• responsibilities
• priorities for salvage
• development of a disaster control plan
• implementation of the plan
• insurance
• partnerships.
Why undertake an ‘operation-hope-not’?
The goals must be clear to all those involved, otherwise confusion will take over. They include:
• knowing, assessing and mitigating risk
• the maintenance of service
• avoiding or minimizing loss and damage to the holdings
• knowing who to call on for necessary assistance.
Recent experiences in many countries have emphasized the value of speedy recovery of information to those whose vital records have been in a disaster. But the success of these operations depends on the professional skills of those brought in to rescue the documentation. It must be remembered that a disaster is a disaster; it is not going to be cheap or easy to return to the previous status quo.
Flood disaster recovery, York, UK
Unprecedented flooding in the autumn of 2000 resulted in vital files being inundated but then rescued and air-dried at the Borthwick Institute of Historical Research, in order to allow the owners to resume business as fast as possible. The successful elements of the operation included
• a good understanding of the needs of the stricken organization
• adaptable planning and innovative solutions.
4 - Archive buildings and their characteristics
- Helen Forde, Jonathan Rhys-Lewis
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- Book:
- Preserving Archives
- Published by:
- Facet
- Published online:
- 09 June 2018
- Print publication:
- 31 March 2013, pp 41-58
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Summary
Introduction
Archive buildings are the first stage of protection for the materials kept within them and, as such, are crucial in ensuring survival. Archive buildings, of greater and lesser complexity, have been developed from this basic premise all over the world, adapted to differing climates and the needs of the archives themselves. The importance of understanding the need to build them in the right place, of constructing them in an appropriate way, and of employing experienced practitioners to minimize the threats posed to fragile materials, cannot be overestimated. Likewise, the issues surrounding the adaptation of buildings for use as archives must be appreciated and considered.
This chapter looks at:
• the ways in which archive buildings have developed internationally and in the UK in particular
• issues to consider before constructing an archive or adapting an old building
• how to get ideas over to an architect
• exterior and interior layouts and specifications.
How has the concept of archive buildings developed?
Continuity of custody in secure ownership constitutes the fundamental guarantee of archival authenticity. Hence, security has always been at the forefront of all decisions on the storage of archival material. This is obvious from the choice of storage places over time – for example, the Qumran caves in which the Dead Sea Scrolls (from 200 BC) were hidden, the massive bronze chests in the Forbidden Palace in Beijing in which documents of the Chinese dynasties were stored from the 15th century, and the construction of the Lyndon B. Johnson Museum and Library to house presidential papers of the 20th century. The concept that a building must also be attractive to users and staff is of more recent origin, and has been achievable partly as a result of applying modern technology, including electronic security. This change also mirrors the recognition that public archives are the documents of the people, who have a right to access information and to consult both historic and contemporary documents.
How did archive buildings develop in the UK?
Keeping the documents of the Crown, and subsequently of central government, safe was a major concern in the UK from the time of the Norman Conquest in 1066.
1 - Introducing archive preservation
- Helen Forde, Jonathan Rhys-Lewis
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- Book:
- Preserving Archives
- Published by:
- Facet
- Published online:
- 09 June 2018
- Print publication:
- 31 March 2013, pp 1-4
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Summary
Introduction
Preservation of archives is the means by which the survival of selected material is ensured for enduring access. Perceptions that archivists preserved materials just for the sake of it are out of date and incorrect, if indeed they were ever correct; preservation and access are two parts of the same mission. Without sustained preservation activity it would not be possible to satisfy the myriad of users worldwide who beat a path to the door of archives and record offices, or who search for information on the web. Using archives has become a popular pastime for young and old, whether they are researching family history, requesting information under Freedom of Information Acts or pursuing historical facts. This increasing trend is unlikely to reverse and more than ever organizations must ensure that the material will be available, not only to the current generation but also to those of the future. Organizations must, as a matter of policy, look beyond their immediate requirements and utilize strategies and techniques to ensure that the originals, or if that is impossible the information contained in them, will be available for as long as needed. This book is designed to give readers the tools to manage preservation issues; it is not a manual on how to cope with every eventuality as these differ widely and advice for one archive might be quite inappropriate for another. Alongside this is the key intention; to act as a lead and guide for the varying needs, questions and research of fellow professionals charged with the responsibility of preservation.
How has the relationship between conservation and
preservation developed?
Once, looking after documents was within the remit of all curatorial members of staff, many of whom no doubt undertook basic repairs to the best of their rather limited ability. In the 1950s and 1960s archive conservation began to develop as a distinct skill – one which, given their increasing responsibilities in other directions, curators were happy to cede to conservators. At that time conservation was a wide-reaching term embracing many aspects of what is now included under the umbrella of preservation. Since then, those employed as archive conservators have become specialists in the intervention techniques required to stabilize badly damaged material.
14 - Putting preservation into practice
- Helen Forde, Jonathan Rhys-Lewis
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- Book:
- Preserving Archives
- Published by:
- Facet
- Published online:
- 09 June 2018
- Print publication:
- 31 March 2013, pp 211-224
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Summary
Introduction
The previous chapters have covered many of the issues encountered by archives when trying to preserve their holdings, often against a background of increasingly tight budgets and the inexorable rise in expectations of public services. Those who oversee preservation programmes have to ensure that all the relevant issues over enhanced access are discussed, that the needs of the documents, in whatever format, are considered and costed and that the effect of improving services does not shackle future generations with mounting preservation or storage costs. They have to present well argued choices for preservation strategies, and they have to manage preservation in an environment which may be financially stringent, politically pressured or is developing strategically in other directions. How can it be done? This chapter covers
• choices and weighing up the options
• responsibilities
• policies and strategies
• benchmarking and preservation assessment
• costs and funding
• planning a programme over time.
Choices and options
Choosing the right preservation tactics at the right time does much to ensure success. Fortunately several options are available and no archive has to undertake all of them all the time. The choice may appear bewildering to those who are desperately trying to do anything but the trick lies in a measured approach, often spread over several years, matching the activity to the resources available at any one time. The result should be that the archive has a well embedded, coherent preservation programme which recognizes and mitigates risk while allowing as much access to the holdings as possible.
Details of how to develop such a strategy follow, but it is important to review the options available in particular circumstances. These have been discussed in previous chapters and may, or should, include in some cases:
• regular building maintenance
• dry, cool storage
• adequate storage space
• a boxing programme
• good security procedures
• conservation facilities, or a budget for conservation
• digital preservation arrangements
• a disaster control programme
• an integrated pest management programme
• a surrogacy programme
• document handling training for readers and staff.
Preface to the Second Edition
- Helen Forde, Jonathan Rhys-Lewis
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- Book:
- Preserving Archives
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- Facet
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- 09 June 2018
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- 31 March 2013, pp xiii-xiv
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Summary
Preserving Archives is a guide for all those with a responsibility for archival or special collections on the issues to be dealt with in developing successful preservation policies and strategies. While the chapters build up to implementation, they can also be read individually if required. Some archives will need advice on specific problems, others will require assistance with developing more general programmes. The reader can pick and choose as necessary; the notes and references, example boxes in the text and bibliography present further guidance for those who require more specific details.
The text is based on lectures given to successive cohorts of postgrad uate archive students in the UK, from those who have recently taken their first degree to those who are acquiring a professional qualification at a later stage in their careers. Preserving Archivesis intended to act as an aide-mémoire for them and their successors as students, as well as others who may need assistance in a particular situation. The book can be used as an overall guide or as a reference source for a particular area of practice. And it is not only for archivists: librarians and museum curators are also often faced with difficult decisions to make on preservation and much of what is included applies to paper-based materials held in other organizations. National and international examples are given and referred to, making comparisons possible and introducing the reader to a wider picture than just the UK. While there will clearly be national differences, many of the baseline and guiding principles will be evident in all forms of collection management and it is for the individual users to refer to their own national standards where appropriate.
The importance of understanding more traditional archival materials is underlined by its prime place at the beginning of the book, followed by the equally important topic of preserving digital material. The crucial role played by archival buildings, the security within them and the importance of good storage conditions for the archival materials are central to the text, followed by an emphasis on developing strategies to mitigate disasters. Clear guidance is given on how to manage and develop policies for the use of surrogates in both analogue and digital formats.
Bibliography
- Helen Forde, Jonathan Rhys-Lewis
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- Book:
- Preserving Archives
- Published by:
- Facet
- Published online:
- 09 June 2018
- Print publication:
- 31 March 2013, pp 249-256
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