bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The development of a lean six sigma and BIM framework for enhancing off-site manufacturing
Authors: McDermott Olivia , ODwyer Kevin , Noonan John , Trubetskaya Anna , Rosa Angelo
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study aims to improve a construction company's overall project delivery by utilising lean six sigma (LSS) methods combined with building information modelling (BIM) to design, modularise and manufacture various building elements in a controlled factory environment off-site.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study in a construction company utilised lean six sigma (LSS) methodology and BIM to identify non-value add waste in the construction process and improve sustainability.

Findings

An Irish-based construction company manufacturing modular pipe racks for the pharmaceutical industry utilised LSS to optimise and standardise their off-site manufacturing (OSM) partners process and leverage BIM to design skids which could be manufactured offsite and transported easily with minimal on-site installation and rework required. Productivity was improved, waste was reduced, less energy was consumed, defects were reduced and the project schedule for completion was reduced.

Research limitations/implications

The case study was carried out on one construction company and one construction product type. Further case studies would ensure more generalisability. However, the implementation was tested on a modular construction company, and the methods used indicate that the generic framework could be applied and customized to any offsite company.

Originality/value

This is one of the few studies on implementing offsite manufacturing (OSM) utilising LSS and BIM in an Irish construction company. The detailed quantitative benefits and cost savings calculations presented as well as the use of the LSM methods and BIM in designing an OSM process can be leveraged by other construction organisations to understand the benefits of OSM. This study can help demonstrate how LSS and BIM can aid the construction industry to be more environmentally friendly.
The relationship between auditing industry specialization and the relative derivatives use for earnings management: evidence from China
Authors: Hung Wen-Jye , Shu Pei-Gi , Wang Ya-Min , Chiang Tsui-Lin
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study investigates the effect of auditing industry specialization (AIS) on the relative derivatives use for earnings management.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample chosen in this study comprises 30,599 firm-year observations of Chinese public companies from 2005 to 2018. The sample is divided into two time periods (2005–2013 and 2014–2018) according to the year when IFRS 9 was implemented (IFRS 9, first discussed by the International Accounting Standards Board in March 2008, is based on an expected credit loss model for determining new and existing expected credit losses on financial assets. The definition was completed in July 2014 and implemented in 2018). AIS was gauged with respect to audit firms and individual auditors, and measured by market share in number and scale of clients. Linear regression is adopted to test hypotheses. Moreover, two-stage least square model (2SLS) is used to eliminate the concern of possible endogeneity.

Findings

When gauged with respect to client scale, the scale-based AIS constrained the level of derivatives use for earnings management in the first period (2005–2013) while increased the level in the second period (2014–2018). The findings sustain for the analysis of audit firms and that of individual auditors, and for different definitions of AIS.

Research limitations/implications

The positive AIS-IN relation after the adoption of IFRS 9 implies the sacrifice audit independence. This could be indebted to the government policy that favors local audit firms to be comparable to international Big 4 audit firms, and therefore results in competition among local auditors/audit firms in securing number rather than quality of clients.

Originality/value

The data of AIS in China are collected using a Python web crawler.
Sustainability advocacy antecedents: how social media content influences sustainable behaviours among Generation Z
Authors: Confetto Maria Giovanna , Covucci Claudia , Addeo Felice , Normando Mara
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The young members of Generation Z, who are hyperconnected and addicted to social media, are thought to be particularly sensitive to environmental and social concerns. This study aims to draw on a conceptual model that is based on the stimulus-organism-response paradigm. Exposure to sustainability content on social media is considered to be a stimulus that affects the development of sustainability advocacy among GenZers, who modify their lifestyles. Five hypotheses are developed and tested. The goal is to define the antecedents of sustainability advocacy.

Design/methodology/approach

A Web survey was distributed to 660 Italian members from Generation Z (aged between 14 and 25) to detect the frequencies of exposure to sustainability content on social media, sustainable habits, sustainable consumption behaviours and actions that are related to sustainability advocacy on social media. Correlation and multiple regression analyses were conducted to investigate the relationships between these factors.

Findings

The results show that exposure to sustainability content on social media affects both sustainable habits and sustainable consumption behaviour. These three factors influence the propensity to promote sustainability-related issues on social media and should, therefore, be considered to be antecedents of sustainability advocacy.

Practical implications

The study, which takes the social responsibilities of large companies into account, is conducive to understanding how brands can intervene in the soliciting processes of sustainability advocacy through social media to gain legitimacy and increase brand awareness.

Originality/value

This study is among the first to consider the use of social media for advocating sustainability among Generation Z, thus enriching academic research on this cohort.
The health information behaviors of people who inject drugs: a scoping review of the literature
Authors: Sullivan Margaret , Shaw George
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The United States of America is in the midst of an opioid crisis. However, little has been written within the domain of LIS (Library and Information Science) about the health information needs and behaviors of people who inject drugs. The purpose of this project is to conduct a scoping review of the current knowledge disseminated by LIS scholars and professionals regarding what information people who inject drugs have access to, need, how they interact with information and what dissemination methods may be most beneficial.

Design/methodology/approach

A scoping review of the literature was conducted with the additional inclusion criteria that the information needs be expressed from the insider perspective of this population instead of from the researcher.

Findings

In searching over a dozen databases, only seven articles were found that reflected the information behaviors of people who use drugs from the perspective of themselves. Only one article was from information science, two were from health informatics and one was from health communication, a closely linked field. These findings describe the information behaviors and needs of this population and speak to the need for more comprehensive research in this area in order to create targeted health information resources for this sensitive population.

Originality/value

There is little research in the domain of information science that has been conducted into the health information-seeking behaviors of people who inject drugs. Most of the work in this area is from the perspective of the researcher, not the person who injects drugs. This exploration into the literature on the information behavior of people that inject drugs from the perspective of themselves is unique.

Key messages

There is very little research that has been conducted into the health information-seeking behaviors of people who inject drugs.

Most of the work in this area is from the perspective of the researcher, not the person who injects drugs.

Only four such articles were found in the domain of LIS and seven, in total, between all academic domains.
Public subsidies for credit support, democracy and European female-led SMEs
Authors: Bonanno Graziella , Fiorino Nadia , Garzarelli Giampaolo , Rossi Stefania Patrizia Sonia
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The article investigates whether variety of democracy affects the probability to employ public subsidies for credit support by small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) led by female entrepreneurs.

Design/methodology/approach

Building on the literature on democracy and on gender differences, it leverages a large firm- and country-level dataset (SAFE) of 31 democracies in Europe (EU and non-EU) over the 2009–2014 period by using probit models and instrumental variable approaches.

Findings

Results from the different econometric techniques and samples suggest that variety of democracy affects female-led SMEs in using public subsidies for credit support. The evidence is robust to endogeneity concerns.

Research limitations/implications

The empirical evidence presents a time frame limitation. At the same time, SAFE is the only database that supplies information about the gender of firms and public subsidies for credit support, rendering it the only resource that allows the test of the hypothesis proposed. The article therefore offers insights for scholars to revisit our results in future studies that make use of datasets with a longer time span – when they will become available.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, the article is the first to study the effect of democracy on female entrepreneurial behavior in the use of public subsidies for credit support.
Individual residence and identity theft: how residential characteristics shape exposure and risk of offline and online identity theft victimization
Authors: Vanhee Alexander Joseph , McNealey Rachel
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of micro-level place on identity theft victimization. This study uses the 2016 Identity Theft Supplement (ITS) to investigate whether aspects of an individual’s residence affect their likelihood of becoming identity theft victims.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conduct logistic regressions of whether a respondent was an identity theft victim in the past year using the following variables as key predictors: number of housing units in a residence, whether the respondent operates a business out of their residence and if residence access is restricted.

Findings

The results suggest that location influences the likelihood of identity theft to a modest degree though some aspects of location (possibly those related to rewards perceptions) may be more relevant than others. Meanwhile, though location may influence initial target selection, whether someone is victimized may be more dependent on factors such as personal behavior.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this manuscript represents one of the first investigations into the relationship between microlevel place and the incidence of identity theft. Furthermore, it provides evidence that one does exist which bears further inquiry.
The effect of different periods of unconventional monetary policies on Japanese financial markets
Authors: Lau Wee-Yeap , Yip Tien-Ming
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine to what extent the Japanese financial markets are affected by the four periods of unconventional monetary policies (UMP) implemented by the Bank of Japan from 2013 to 2020.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the daily 10-year term spread as a proxy for monetary easing policy, this study uses four sub-sample periods from 2013 to 2020 to look into the effectiveness of UMP on the Japanese financial markets.

Findings

Our result shows that not all of the Bank of Japan's unconventional monetary policies are equally effective in influencing the Japanese financial markets. In particular, the QQE policy implemented from April 2013 to October 2014 effectively influenced the stock market, banking sector and foreign exchange market. However, the financial market impact of monetary policy is muted during the QQE expansion period. Likewise, the QQE with a negative interest rate policy influences only the banking sector. Finally, the QQE with its yield curve control policy effectively impacts the financial markets.

Research limitations/implications

This research can be expanded by studying the international spillover effect of the Bank of Japan's UMP on the financial markets in Asian countries.

Practical implications

The findings of this study enable investors to understand the causal relationship between the Bank of Japan's UMP and the financial market indicators, thereby helping them to position their portfolio investments. From the policy perspective, the finding is useful to inform the Bank of Japan on which policy is relatively effective in affecting the financial markets. In light of the empirical finding, the Bank of Japan should continue to pursue the QQE YCCP or revert to the initial QQE policy, as the two policies are relatively more effective than the QQE expansion and QQE NIRP in affecting the Japanese financial markets.

Social implications

The empirical finding highlights the importance of controlling for the impact of different QQE policies in the model. Future research may consider conducting sub-sample analysis to cater to the different QQE policy regimes. This approach provides a clearer picture and valid inferences on the financial market impact of each QQE policy.

Originality/value

This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the impact of Bank of Japan's QQE on the Japanese financial markets. For the market participants, the findings of this study suggest that investors should closely gauge the development of the unconventional monetary policies of the Bank of Japan because the monetary easing policy influences the decision-making process of commercial banks, pension funds, mutual funds, retail investors and other stakeholders in the financial markets. The policy twist will have future ramifications for their loan, investment and retirement fund portfolios.
Body characteristics, garment fit satisfaction and fit preferences of Ethiopian young adult female consumers
Authors: Bizuneh Berihun , Destaw Abrham
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess the body characteristics (body size, garment sizes worn, shape and body satisfaction) of Ethiopian young adult female consumers and their effects on garment fit satisfaction and fit preferences of ready-to-wear garments such as T-shirts, blouses/shirts, skirts and jeans trousers.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a structured questionnaire, 418 usable responses were collected from young female university students. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and multivariate ANOVA (MANOVA) were used to examine differences in garment fit satisfaction with the body characteristics of the respondents. Moreover, a multiple regression analysis was used to determine the effect of body characteristics and fit satisfaction on fit preferences in four of the ready-to-wear garments.

Findings

The body shapes of above half of the respondents were either bottom hourglass or spoon. The respondents were somewhat dissatisfied with the fit of the ready-to-wear garments, and above 70 per cent of them faced fit problems on average. BMI showed significant fit satisfaction differences in four of the garments, while garment sizes worn were significant only in skirts. However, no statistically significant difference was obtained with body shape. The effect of body characteristics and fit satisfaction on fit preferences was found significant in T-shirts and jeans trousers. The respondents preferred looser shirts and skirts irrespective of their body characteristics.

Originality/value

The paper is unique in comprehensively examining the relationship between body characteristics and garment fit satisfaction and their effects on fit preferences in selected garments in the context of female consumers in a developing country.
Volatility spillovers among Islamic countries and geopolitical risk
Authors: Oad Rajput Suresh Kumar , Memon Amjad Ali , Siyal Tariq Aziz , Bajaj Namarta Kumari
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to test for volatility spillovers among Islamic stock markets with the exogenous impact of geopolitical risk (GPR) to check the risk transmission among Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Indonesia and Turkey. Researchers test for both the symmetric and asymmetric risk transmission.

Design/methodology/approach

For the symmetric response of volatility, the study uses simple generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedastic (GARCH) and for the asymmetric response of volatility with the exogenous impact of GPR, the exponential GARCH models have been adopted.

Findings

The results suggest spillover effects exist from Turkey to Saudi Arabia, Indonesia to Malaysia and Saudi Arabia and Malaysia to Indonesia. The findings of volatility spillover from GPR to sample countries suggest that only Malaysia and Indonesia experience volatility spillovers from GPR.

Research limitations/implications

The present study is limited to the context of four countries and Islamic equities; the study contributes to the literature on volatility spillover, Islamic finance, GPR and asset pricing.

Practical implications

This study contributes to individual, institutional investors’ policymakers’ knowledge in determining security prices, trading plans, investment hedging and policy regulation.

Social implications

The extant literature disregards the GPR index to examine the volatility spillover effects among Islamic stock markets, which allow researchers to justify the mechanism of risk transmission due to GPR across the Islamic stock market.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first research of its type to look at volatility spillover and GPR transmission in Islamic stock markets.
Digital transformation in Vietnamese SMEs: managerial implications
Authors: Walsh John , Nguyen Trung Quang , Hoang Thinh
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the implementation of digital transformation in small and medium-sized enterprises in Vietnam.

Design/methodology/approach

The research features in-depth personal interviews with SME executives and managers.

Findings

The findings of this study may be summarized into five main areas: (1) multi-tasking role and scarcity of resources; (2) risk; (3) data-driven decision-making processes; (4) efficient communications; and (5) strategic issues. These categories emerged from the content analysis process.

Research limitations/implications

Qualitative research provides a good explanation for situations in actual firms but may not always be generalizable.

Practical implications

Means of overcoming problems with implementing digital transformation in Vietnamese SMEs are provided.

Originality/value

Most studies of Vietnamese companies focus on intensive manufacturing and membership in supply chains. Few studies consider the emergent service and technology sector.
Understanding medical service quality, system quality and information quality of Tele-Health for sustainable development in the Indian context
Authors: Rana Sushil , Tandon Urvashi , Kumar Harish
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to comprehend medical service quality, information quality and system quality toward actual use of Tele-Health in rural India. The study further validates the impact of the actual use of Tele-Health on sustainable development, thus providing implications to improve upon the Tele-Health penetration in India.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected from 326 healthcare practitioners practicing Tele-Health in North Indian states and Structural Equation Modeling was applied to validate the conceptual framework.

Findings

The results indicated that medical service quality, information quality and system quality influence Tele-Health behavioral intentions which in turn impact actual use and sustainable development. This research draws upon a conceptual framework to deepen our understanding of Tele-Health by providing an all-inclusive overview.

Originality/value

The massive topography of India with a prime rural populace instills the need for timely healthcare facilities. Tele-Health is a solution to all these problems but is at a nascent stage. Therefore, there is a vital need to study the factors which improve the penetration of Tele-Health in the Indian context. The model that emerged from the study may be validated by other Indian sub-continental countries so that Tele-Health may be implemented hassle-free.
Effects of cross-border E-commerce customs declaration ceiling increase on export performance under COVID-19 conditions
Authors: Aslan Caglayan , Derindag Omer Faruk , Parmaksiz Salih
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study examines the impact of raising the ceiling value of Electronic Commerce Custom Declarations (ECCD) on Turkey's export performance processed via ECCD during the COVID-19 period.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper examines the impact of the pandemic conditions on Cross-Border Electronic Commerce (ECCD) exports from Turkey to 47 countries over 42 months before and during the pandemic. An empirical analysis using the Pooled Mean Group (PMG) and Mean Group (MG), Panel Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) approach was conducted to identify the factors affecting export flows.

Findings

The findings suggest that raising the ceiling of the ECCD trade is a vital factor in increasing exports. and this result is robust after controlling for pandemic conditions. On the other hand, although the COVID-19 shock mitigates the export volume of ECCD in the short run, it changes by reversal and increases the export level in the long run. Additionally, the number of COVID-19 cases and deaths in Turkey have a significant and negative impact on export flows in the short run, while they have a positive and significant effect in the long run.

Practical implications

The results of this study have practical implications for policymakers, emphasizing the potential and significance of Cross-Border E-Commerce (CBEC) trade.

Originality/value

The study is a pioneering effort in the literature of CBEC to explore how changes in the upper limit on customs declarations can affect export flows, taking into account the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Leaders’ well-being – antecedent or consequence of authentic leadership?
Authors: Bolschakow Xenia , Rigotti Thomas , Otto Kathleen
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The benefits of authentic leadership for followers have been thoroughly researched, but the effects on leaders’ well-being remain unclear. To address this research gap, the authors hypothesized reciprocal relationships between authentic leadership and work engagement as well as emotional exhaustion.

Design/methodology/approach

The hypotheses were tested in a German sample with leaders from different work sectors using a cross-lagged panel design with a time lag of 14 months (N = 137 at T1; N = 217 at T2).

Findings

Well-being significantly predicted leaders’ engagement in authentic leadership at the second measurement point, whereas the reciprocal relationships were not significant.

Research limitations/implications

Drawing on the Conservation of Resources Theory, possible processes underlying the observed impact of leaders’ well-being on their leadership behavior are discussed. The present research provides evidence that well-being constitutes a crucial basic resource for leaders to engage in constructive leadership behaviors such as authentic leadership.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by uncovering the causal order linking authentic leadership and leaders’ health.
Impact of COVID‐19 state‐wide lockdown on older adult presentations to Queensland emergency departments
Authors: Eccleston Cassanne , Marsden Elizabeth , Craswell Alison , Sweeny Amy , Howell Naomi , Wallis Marianne , Crilly Julia ,   the COVERED‐COVID Study Investigators
Published: May 2023

Objective

To determine the impact of the COVID‐19 state‐wide lockdown on ED presentations for older adults in Queensland, Australia.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study pertaining to adults aged 70+ years who presented to Queensland public hospital EDs across three separate time periods; 11 March to 30 June 2018 and 2019 (pre‐pandemic average), 2020 (COVID‐19 state‐wide lockdown) and 2021 (post‐state‐wide lockdown). The primary outcome was change in presentation rates to ED. Secondary outcomes included change in triage category rates, length of stay (LOS), diagnosis and disposition.

Results

There was 380 854 older adult presentations. During the COVID‐19 state‐wide lockdown, ED presentation rates decreased by 12.5% (incidence rate ratio 0.875 [95% confidence interval 0.867–0.883]). All triage category presentation rates decreased, as did ED LOS and reasons for presentation, except sepsis and disorders of the nervous system. In the post‐state‐wide lockdown period a 22% (incidence rate ratio 1.22 [95% confidence interval 1.21–1.23]) increase in the presentation rate was observed and presentations in all triage categories increased. ED LOS increased to longer than pre‐pandemic (P < 0.001). Respiratory presentations increased by 346%. Patients who ‘did not wait’ increased by 212% and ED mortality rose by 42% compared to during the lockdown.

Conclusion

There was a significant decrease in presentation rates to EDs during the COVID‐19 state‐wide lockdown for the older population, followed by an increase in presentation rates, longer ED LOS, and an increased ED mortality rate, in the post‐state‐wide lockdown period. It is important to ensure older adults continue to seek appropriate, timely medical care, during a pandemic.
Polydrug use among patients on methadone medication treatment: Evidence from urine drug testing to inform patient safety
Authors: Saloner Brendan , Whitley Penn , Dawson Eric , Passik Steven , Gordon Adam J. , Stein Bradley D.
Published: May 2023

Aims

Patients in methadone medication treatment for opioid use disorder (M‐MOUD) typically have a complex history of opioid use, often in combination with other drugs. It is unknown how frequently M‐MOUD patients experience persistent substance or polysubstance use. We measured trends in illicit substance use in a large, multistate population of M‐MOUD patients and persistence of substance use in the first year of treatment.

Design

Retrospective cohort study of United States (US) M‐MOUD patients from 2017 to 2021, focused on urine drug specimens provided for testing to Millennium Health, a third‐party laboratory. Specimens were analyzed using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS). Generalized estimating equations (GEE) were used to estimate the average trends in positivity during time in treatment.

Setting

Specimens were obtained from clinics in 10 US states that provided at least 300 unique patients during the study period (Alaska, Arizona, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, Minnesota, New Mexico, Ohio, Virginia and Washington).

Participants

Patients with opioid use disorder receiving M‐MOUD (n = 16 386).

Measurements

Positivity rates for heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine.

Findings

From 2017 to 2021, yearly crude positivity rates for first collected specimens increased for fentanyl (13.1%–53.0%, P < 0.001), methamphetamine (10.6%–27.2%, P < 0.001) and cocaine (13.8%–19.5%, P < 0.001); for heroin positivity did not significantly change (6.9%–6.5%, P = 0.74). In regression models estimating patient trajectories from week 1 to week 52, marginal fentanyl positivity declined from 21.8% to 17.1% (incidence rate ratio [IRR] = 0.78, P < 0.001) and heroin positivity declined from 8.4% to 4.3% (IRR = 0.51, P < 0.001), but positivity for methamphetamine and cocaine did not significantly change, remaining at an average of 17.7% (IRR = 0.98, P = 0.53) and 9.2% (IRR = 0.96, P = 0.36), respectively.

Conclusions

Between 2017 and 2021, United States patients presenting to opioid treatment programs increasingly tested positive for fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine. Methadone medication treatment for opioid use disorder appears to remain an effective intervention for reducing illicit opioid use.
Surgical management of splenic flexure cancer: is there an optimal technique? A bi‐national registry analysis
Authors: Thungathurthi Kaushik , Antoniou Ellathios , Arachchi Asiri , Tay Yeng , Nguyen T. C. , Lim James , Chouhan Hanumant , Narasimhan Vignesh , Teoh William
Published: May 2023

Background

Splenic flexure tumours (SFC) are uncommon and present at more advanced disease stages. The optimal surgical technique for SFC remains controversial. We sought to compare the short‐term outcomes of a left hemicolectomy (LHC) versus an extended resection (subtotal colectomy, STC) for SFCs.

Methods

A retrospective analysis using the Binational Colorectal Cancer Audit (BCCA) registry was performed. All patients with SFC who underwent elective or emergency surgery for a SFC between 2010 and 2021 were included. Primary outcomes included short‐term inpatient complications. Secondary outcomes included survival outcomes.

Results

Six hundred and ninety‐nine patients underwent resections for SFCs. A LHC was more common, performed in 64.1%. Patients having a LHC were significantly older, with proportionally more LHCs done laparoscopically. Overall grade III/IV complications were similar between both operations. Prolonged ileus and return to theatre were significantly higher in patients undergoing a STC. On multivariate analysis, anastomotic leak and overall grade III/IV complications were not independently associated with the type of operation. There was no difference in medial survival based on type of operation. Higher tumour stage (Stage III/IV) were independently associated with worse survival.

Conclusion

Segmental and extended resections are both oncologically sound procedures for SFCs. Segmental resections are associated with lower rates of prolonged ileus.
Cross‐sectional study in Madagascar demonstrates efficacy of virtual mentoring and flipped classroom modifications of neonatal resuscitation programme Helping Babies Breathe
Authors: Abou‐Zamzam A. , McCaw J. , Niarison H. R. , Ravelojaona V. A. , Shilkofski N.
Published: May 2023

Aim

The Covid‐19 pandemic necessitated virtual adaptation of the neonatal resuscitation programme Helping Babies Breathe (HBB). This study assessed one such virtually mentored and flipped classroom modification in Madagascar.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was performed in September 2021 and May 2022. Healthcare providers were identified by local collaborating organisations. United States‐based master trainers collaborated with local trainers on virtually mentored trainings followed by independent trainings. Master trainers were available for consultation via Zoom during the virtual training. A flipped classroom modification and traditional didactic method were compared. Primary outcomes were knowledge and skill acquisition, evaluated by written assessments and objective structured clinical examinations.

Results

Overall, 97 providers completed the curriculum. Written assessment scores improved in both training models (traditional—74.8% vs 91.5%, p < 0.001; flipped classroom—89.7% vs 93.6%, p < 0.05). There was no significant difference among written assessment scores (92.8% vs 91.5%, p = 0.62) and significantly higher objective structured clinical examination scores (97.3% vs 89.5%, p < 0.001) for the independent training compared to the virtually mentored training.

Conclusion

The virtually mentored HBB training was followed by a successful independent training as measured by participant knowledge and skill acquisition, supporting the efficacy of virtual dissemination.
National participation levels in the 2017–2018 Australian thoroughbred racing season
Authors: Flash ML , Shrestha K , Stevenson MA , Gilkerson JR
Published: May 2023

Introduction

The social licence of the Australian thoroughbred (TB) industry relies on the general public's perception of how they manage the animal in their care.

Method

This study examines the horse, race and activity records for the 37,704 horses racing and training in Australia from 1 August 2017 to 31 July 2018. Three‐quarters (75%, n = 28,184) of TBs started in one of the 180, 933 race starts that occurred during the 2017–2018 Australian racing season.

Results

Horses participating in the 2017–2018 Australian racing season had a median age of 4 years, with geldings more likely to be aged 5 years and older. The majority of the TB racehorse population were geldings (51%, n = 19,210), with 44% (n = 16,617) females and only 5% (n = 1877) entire males. Horses aged 2 years were three times more likely to not start in a race in that year compared with older horses. At the end of the 2017–2018 racing season, 34% of the population had an inactive status recorded. Horses aged 2 years (median two starts) and 3 years (median five starts) had fewer starts than older horses (median seven starts). Eighty‐eight percent (n = 158,339) of race starts were over distances of 1700 metres or less. Race starts by horses aged 2 years (46%, 3264 of 7100) were more likely to have occurred at a metropolitan meeting compared with starts by older horses.

Conclusion

This study provides a national overview of the racing and training activities and TBs participating in the 2017–2018 Australian racing season.
Dyeing properties of polylactic acid fabric with disperse dyes of different structures using decamethylcyclopentasiloxane as non‐aqueous media
Authors: Fang Yinchun , Wu Jianguo , Ma Guojie , Wei Qufu
Published: May 2023

Polylactic acid (PLA) fibre, as a renewable and biodegradable synthetic polymer, is attracting increasing attention in the field of textiles. However, there are still some problems associated with PLA fibre dyeing, with a traditional water bath using disperse dyes restricting its industrialisation. Waterless dyeing, as a green and environmentally friendly dyeing method for PLA fibre, is expected to replace the traditional water bath dyeing method. However, the disperse dyes suitable for PLA fibre are different from those that are suitable for traditional poly(ethylene terephthalate) fibre. In the current study, the waterless dyeability of PLA fibre using disperse dyes with different chemical structures, and decamethylcyclopentasiloxane (D5) as the media, was investigated. First, the optimal dyeing process conditions of dye concentration, dyeing temperature, dyeing time and liquor ratio for PLA waterless dyeing were determined. The results indicated that the most suitable dyeing process conditions were: a dye concentration of 5%, dyeing temperature and time of 120°C and 40 minutes, respectively, and a liquor ratio of 1:10. Next, PLA was dyed with 10 disperse dyes with different structures using the determined optimum dyeing process conditions to compare their dyeing properties. The results showed that there were obvious differences in the K/S values for PLA dyed with dyes of different structures. The K/S values for PLA dyed with monoazo structure dyes were significantly higher than those for anthraquinones and heterocyclic structure dyes. Disperse dyes with a monoazo structure are suitable for PLA waterless dyeing. This study provides a research basis to develop suitable dyes for waterless dyeing PLA using D5 as the media.
An investigation on the respiratory mechanics of mechanically ventilated patients during spontaneous breathing trials with enhanced low‐level pressure support ventilation
Authors: Zhang Baozhu , Zhang Zhe , Qin Haiping , Jiang Zhenjie , Deng Qiuxue , Sun Qingwen , Wang Yingzhi , Zhou Jing , Lin Zhimin , He Weiqun , Hua Dongming , Xu Yuanda
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Low‐level pressure support ventilation (PSV) is most commonly adopted in spontaneous breathing trials (SBTs), and some have proposed setting the positive end‐expiratory pressure (PEEP) to 0 cmH2O in order to shorten the observation time of SBTs. This study aims to investigate the effects of two PSV protocols on the patients' respiratory mechanics.

Material and method

A prospective randomized self‐controlled crossover design was adopted in this study, which involved enrolling 30 difficult‐to‐wean patients who were admitted to the intensive care unit of the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University between July 2019 and September 2021. Patients were subjected to the S group (pressure support: 8 cmH2O, PEEP: 5 cmH2O) and S1 group (PS: 8 cmH2O, PEEP: 0 cmH2O) for 30 min in a random order, and respiratory mechanics indices were dynamically monitored via a four‐lumen multi‐functional catheter with an integrated gastric tube. Among the 30 enrolled patients, 27 were successfully weaned.

Result

The S group showed higher airway pressure (Paw), intragastric pressure (Pga) and airway pressure–time product (PTP) than the S1 group. The S group also showed a shorter inspiratory trigger delay, (93.80 ± 47.85) versus (137.33 ± 85.66) ms (P = 0.004); and fewer abnormal triggers, (0.97 ± 2.65) versus (2.67 ± 4.48) (P = 0.042) compared with the S1 group. Stratification based on the causes of mechanical ventilation revealed that under the S1 protocol, patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) had a longer inspiratory trigger delay compared to both post‐thoracic surgery (PTS) patients and patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome. Despite providing greater respiratory support, S group led to significant reductions in inspiratory trigger delay and less abnormal triggers compared to S1 group, especially among patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that the zero PEEP group was more likely to induce a higher number of patient–ventilator asynchronies in difficult‐to‐wean patients.
Electrophysiological correlates of attentional capture in joint action
Authors: Abbasi Hossein , Dötsch Dominik , Schubö Anna
Published: May 2023

In joint action, agents are assumed to represent their partner's task to optimize joint performance. However, the neurophysiological processes underlying the processing of the partner's task have not been widely investigated. Pairs of participants were asked to perform a joint version of a visual search task in either a cooperative or a competitive social context. During the task, one agent's neural activity was recorded using electroencephalography (EEG). The alpha‐lateralization index was calculated as [(contralateral − ipsilateral)/(contralateral + ipsilateral)] × 100 to examine attentional selection or suppression of the laterally presented stimulus. A negative alpha‐lateralization indicates lower alpha‐band power over the contralateral sites compared with the ipsilateral sites and was related to attentional selection. A positive alpha‐lateralization indicates higher alpha‐band power over the contralateral sites compared with the ipsilateral sites and was related to attentional suppression. Behavioural results showed impeded search performance when the partner target was present. Furthermore, EEG time‐frequency results showed that the partner target induced a negative parieto‐occipital alpha‐lateralization, indicating that it captured attention, when the agent target was absent. When the agent target was present, the parieto‐occipital alpha‐lateralization index was negative for laterally presented partner target in the cooperative and positive in the competitive social context, indicative of attentional capture in the cooperative condition and suppression of the partner target in the competitive condition. In sum, our study showed that humans tune their attentional processing towards a partner target in a joint action task. This attentional tuning was shown to be affected by social context and the presence of the agent's own target.
History of cerebrovascular disease but not dementia increases the risk for secondary vascular events during SARS‐CoV‐2 infection with presumed Omicron variant: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Mayer Christina , Woo Marcel S. , Brehm Thomas Theo , Heyer Andreas , Fischer Marlene , Fischbach Felix , Bal Lukas C. , Addo Marylyn M. , Kluge Stefan , Thomalla Götz , Schweingruber Nils , Schulze zur Wiesch Julian
Published: May 2023

Background and purpose

This study aimed to investigate if pre‐existing neurological conditions, such as dementia and a history of cerebrovascular disease, increase the risk of severe outcomes including death, intensive care unit (ICU) admission and vascular events in patients hospitalized with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection in 2022, when Omicron was the predominant variant.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted of all patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, confirmed by polymerase chain reaction test, admitted to the University Medical Center Hamburg‐Eppendorf from 20 December 2021 until 15 August 2022. In all, 1249 patients were included in the study. In‐hospital mortality was 3.8% and the ICU admission rate was 9.9%. Ninety‐three patients with chronic cerebrovascular disease and 36 patients with pre‐existing all‐cause dementia were identified and propensity score matching by age, sex, comorbidities, vaccination status and dexamethasone treatment was performed in a 1:4 ratio with patients without the respective precondition using nearest neighbor matching.

Results

Analysis revealed that neither pre‐existing cerebrovascular disease nor all‐cause dementia increased mortality or the risk for ICU admission. All‐cause dementia in the medical history also had no effect on vascular complications under investigation. In contrast, an increased odds ratio for both pulmonary artery embolism and secondary cerebrovascular events was observed in patients with pre‐existing chronic cerebrovascular disease and myocardial infarction in the medical history.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that patients with pre‐existing cerebrovascular disease and myocardial infarction in their medical history may be particularly susceptible to vascular complications following SARS‐CoV‐2 infection with presumed Omicron variant.
Associations between gut microbiota and Parkinson disease: A bidirectional Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Jiang Li , Li Jin‐chen , Tang Bei‐sha , Guo Ji‐feng
Published: May 2023

Background and purpose

Parkinson disease (PD)‐associated alterations in the gut microbiome have been observed in clinical and animal studies. However, it remains unclear whether this association reflects a causal effect in humans.

Methods

We performed two‐sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization using summary statistics from the international consortium MiBioGen (N = 18,340), the Framingham Heart Study (N = 2076), and the International Parkinson's Disease Genomics Consortium for PD (33,674 cases and 449,056 controls) and PD age at onset (17,996 cases).

Results

Twelve microbiota features presented suggestive associations with PD risk or age at onset. Genetically increased Bifidobacterium levels correlated with decreased PD risk (odds ratio = 0.77, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.60–0.99, p = 0.040). Conversely, high levels of five short‐chain fatty acid (SCFA)‐producing bacteria (LachnospiraceaeUCG010, RuminococcaceaeUCG002, Clostridium sensustricto1, Eubacterium hallii group, and Bacillales) correlated with increased PD risk, and three SCFA‐producing bacteria (Roseburia, RuminococcaceaeUCG002, and Erysipelatoclostridium) correlated with an earlier age at PD onset. Gut production of serotonin was associated with an earlier age at PD onset (beta = −0.64, 95% CI = −1.15 to −0.13, p = 0.013). In the reverse direction, genetic predisposition to PD was related to altered gut microbiota composition.

Conclusions

These results support a bidirectional relationship between gut microbiome dysbiosis and PD, and highlight the role of elevated endogenous SCFAs and serotonin in PD pathogenesis. Future clinical studies and experimental evidence are needed to explain the observed associations and to suggest new therapeutic approaches, such as dietary probiotic supplementation.
Incidental demyelination in magnetic resonance imaging and 10‐year risk of multiple sclerosis: A data lake cohort study
Authors: Maunula Anna , Martola Juha , Atula Sari , Laakso Sini M. , Tienari Pentti J.
Published: May 2023

Background and purpose

There is an absence of data from large population‐based cohort studies on the incidence of radiologically isolated syndrome (RIS). The incidence of RIS and the subsequent risk for multiple sclerosis (MS) were investigated.

Methods

A population‐based, retrospective cohort study was conducted using a data‐lake‐based analysis of digitalized radiology reports. All brain and spinal cord magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in people aged 16–70 during the years 2005–2010 (n = 102,224) were screened using optimized search terms to detect cases with RIS. The subjects with RIS were followed up until January 2022.

Results

The cumulative incidence of RIS was 0.03% when all MRI modalities were included and 0.06% when only brain MRI was included according to MAGNIMS 2018 recommendation criteria. With the Okuda 2009 criteria, the respective figures were 0.03% and 0.05% (86% concordance). The overall risk for MS after RIS was similar, 32% by using the MAGNIMS and 32% by using the Okuda definition of RIS. Individuals aged <35.5 years exhibited the most significant predisposition to MS (80%), whilst those >35.5 years had less than 10% risk of MS. MS diagnosed after RIS constituted 0.8% of the incident MS cases in the population during 2005–2010.

Conclusions

A population‐wide context was provided for the incidence of RIS and its relationship to MS. MAGNIMS recommendations were only slightly more sensitive to detect RIS compared to the Okuda criteria. RIS has a subtle effect on the overall incidence of MS, yet the risk for MS in individuals under the age of 35.5 years is substantial.
Long‐term risk of recurrent vascular events and mortality in young stroke patients: Insights from a multicenter study
Authors: Broman Jenna , Fandler‐Höfler Simon , von Sarnowski Bettina , Elmegiri Mohamed , Gattringer Thomas , Holbe Christine , von der Linden Julia , Malinowski Robert , Martola Juha , Pinter Daniela , Ropele Stefan , Schminke Ulf , Tatlisumak Turgut , Enzinger Christian , Putaala Jukka , Aarnio Karoliina
Published: May 2023

Background

Although the incidence of stroke in the young is rising, data on long‐term outcomes in these patients are scarce. We thus aimed to investigate the long‐term risk of recurrent vascular events and mortality in a multicenter study.

Methods

We followed 396 consecutive patients aged 18–55 years with ischemic stroke (IS) or transient ischemic attack (TIA) enrolled in three European centers during the period 2007–2010. A detailed outpatient clinical follow‐up assessment was performed between 2018 and 2020. When an in‐person follow‐up visit was not possible, outcome events were assessed using electronic records and registry data.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 11.8 (IQR 10.4–12.7) years, 89 (22.5%) patients experienced any recurrent vascular event, 62 (15.7%) had any cerebrovascular event, 34 (8.6%) had other vascular events, and 27 (6.8%) patients died. Cumulative 10‐year incidence rate per 1000 person‐years was 21.6 (95% CI 17.1–26.9) for any recurrent vascular event and 14.9 (95% CI 11.3–19.3) for any cerebrovascular event. The prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors increased over time, and 22 (13.5%) patients lacked any secondary preventive medication at the in‐person follow‐up. After adjustment for demographics and comorbidities, atrial fibrillation at baseline was found to be significantly associated with recurrent vascular events.

Conclusions

This multicenter study shows a considerable risk of recurrent vascular events in young IS and TIA patients. Further studies should investigate whether detailed individual risk assessment, modern secondary preventive strategies, and better patient adherence may reduce recurrence risk.