bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Artificial intelligence: an overview of research trends and future directions
Authors: Gursoy Dogan , Cai Ruiying
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to offer an overview of hospitality and tourism research on artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on the industry. More specifically, this study examines hospitality and tourism AI research trends in hospitality and tourism customer service experience creation and delivery, service failure and recovery, human resources and organizational behavior. Based on the review, this study identifies the challenges and opportunities and provides directions for future studies.

Design/methodology/approach

A narrative synthesis approach was used to review the hospitality and tourism research on AI and its impact on various aspects of the industry.

Findings

AI and AI applications in customer service experience creation and delivery and its possible effects on employees and organizations are viewed as a double-edged sword. Although the use of AI and AI applications offers various benefits, there are also serious concerns over the ethical use of AI, the replacement of human employees by AI-powered devices, discomfort among customers and employees and trust toward AI.

Originality/value

The paper offers an updated holistic overview of AI and its implications in different facets of the hospitality and tourism industry. Challenges and opportunities are discussed to foster future discussions on the use of AI among scholars and industry professionals.
Boosting heritage recommendations through awe and augmented reality
Authors: Nascimento Jorge , Loureiro Sandra Maria Correia
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Drawing on appraisal theories, this paper aims to attempt to demonstrate how augmented reality (AR) strengthens relationships in the cognitive-affective-conative mechanism to shape visitors' recommendation of awe-inspiring heritage experiences.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-method approach was undertaken. First, an exploratory pre-study (n = 98) analyzed the multidimensionality of awe appraisals, eliciting the most salient dimensions in tourism experiences for informing the main study. Subsequently, an on-site survey was used to examine the relationships in the cognitive-affective-conative sequence, based on 316 questionnaires collected at a highly acclaimed religious heritage equipped with a multisensory AR activity.

Findings

Two distinct appraisals underlined in the awe concept were elicited during the exploratory phase: altered emotions (aggregating positive self-transformative dimensions) and the need for accommodation. The survey results demonstrated that the influence of authenticity on recommendation is shaped by emotions. Altered emotions hold a central mediating role and are differentiated from other discrete emotions. AR and the need for accommodation are revealed as contingencies that regulate the mediated mechanism.

Practical implications

This paper provides the hospitality and tourism stakeholders with a better understanding of how immersive technologies can be used for boosting recommendations, by enhancing the emotional responses toward authenticity perceptions.

Originality/value

This study introduces a novel conceptual framework to broaden our understanding of how cognitive and affective mental processes are linked to visitors’ recommendations, and how AR amplifies the outcomes. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, it is the first research to distinguish and document the specific effects of two different types of awe appraisal.
Mining activities and housing price nexus: evidence from South Africa
Authors: Akinsomi Omokolade , Bangura Mustapha , Yacim Joseph
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Several studies have examined the impact of market fundamentals on house prices. However, the effect of economic sectors on housing prices is limited despite the existence of two-speed economies in some countries, such as South Africa. Therefore, this study aims to examine the impact of mining activities on house prices. This intends to understand the direction of house price spreads and their duration so policymakers can provide remediation to the housing market disturbance swiftly.

Design/methodology/approach

This study investigated the effect of mining activities on house prices in South Africa, using quarterly data from 2000Q1 to 2019Q1 and deploying an auto-regressive distributed lag model.

Findings

In the short run, we found that changes in mining activities, as measured by the contribution of this sector to gross domestic product, impact the housing price of mining towns directly after the first quarter and after the second quarter in the non-mining cities. Second, we found that inflationary pressure is instantaneous and impacts house prices in mining towns only in the short run but not in the long run, while increasing housing supply will help cushion house prices in both submarkets. This study extended the analysis by examining a possible spillover in house prices between mining and non-mining towns. This study found evidence of spillover in housing prices from mining towns to non-mining towns without any reciprocity. In the long run, a mortgage lending rate and housing supply are significant, while all the explanatory variables in the non-mining towns are insignificant.

Originality/value

These results reveal that enhanced mining activities will increase housing prices in mining towns after the first quarter, which is expected to spill over to non-mining towns in the next quarter. These findings will inform housing policymakers about stabilising the housing market in mining and non-mining towns. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to measure the contribution of mining to house price spillover.
Modelling employee retention in small and medium-sized enterprises and large enterprises in a dynamically changing business environment
Authors: Gelencsér Martin , Kőmüves Zsolt Sandor , Hollósy-Vadász Gábor , Szabó-Szentgróti Gábor
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the holistic context of organisational staff retention in small, medium and large organisations. It also aims to identify the factors affecting the retention of organisations of different sizes.

Design/methodology/approach

The study implements an empirical test of a model created during previous research with the participation of 511 employees. The responses to the online questionnaire and the modelling were analysed using the partial least squares structural equation modelling method. The models were tested for internal consistency reliability, convergent and discriminant validity, multicollinearity and model fit.

Findings

Two models were tested by organisation size, which revealed a total of 62 significant correlations between the latent variables tested. Identical correlations were present in both models in 22 cases. After testing the hypotheses, critical variables (nature of work, normative commitment, benefits, co-workers and organisational commitment) were identified that determine employees’ organisational commitment and intention to leave, regardless of the size of the organisation.

Research limitations/implications

As a result of this research, the models developed are suitable for identifying differences in organisational staffing levels, but there is as yet no empirical evidence on the use of the scales for homogeneous groups of employees.

Practical implications

The results show that employees’ normative commitment and organisational commitment are critical factors for retention. Of the satisfaction factors examined, the nature of work, benefits and co-workers have a significant impact on retention in organisations, so organisational retention measures should focus on improving satisfaction regarding these factors.

Social implications

The readers of the journal would appreciate the work, which highlights the significance of employee psychology and retention for organisational success.

Originality/value

The study is based on primary data and, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, is one of the few studies that take a holistic approach to organisational staff retention in the context of the moderating effect of organisational size. This study contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon of employee retention and in contrast to previous research, examines the combined effect of several factors.
Fostering the digital mindset to mitigate technostress: an empirical study of empowering individuals for using digital technologies
Authors: Valta Maximilian , Hildebrandt Yannick , Maier Christian
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Technostress reduces employees' work performance and increases their turnover intentions, such that technostress harms organizations' success. This paper investigates how the digital mindset of employees, reflecting their cognitive filter while using digital technologies, influences reactions to techno-stressors.

Design/methodology/approach

In this quantitative study, the authors conducted a survey among 151 employees who regularly use digital technologies and encounter various techno-stressors in their daily work. To build this research model and evaluate the influence of employees’ digital mindset on technostress, the authors followed arguments from the transactional model of stress. The authors evaluated our research model using the covariance-based structural equation model.

Findings

The study findings reveal that employees’ digital mindset influences technostress. Employees with high levels of digital mindset react with less adverse effects on perceived techno-stressors. Further, the authors find that employees with high levels of digital mindset perform well and are satisfied with their job. The authors contribute to technostress research by revealing that digital mindset buffers the adverse effects of techno-stressors. The authors also contribute to research on digital mindset by showing that it influences psychological and behavioral reactions to techno-stressors.

Originality/value

This study develops and empirically tests an integrated model of technostress to explain how digital mindset mitigates technostress. The study findings outline relevant research avenues for studies investigating employees’ characteristics and technostress.
How karmic beliefs and beliefs in a just world interact to trigger consumer’s pro-environmental consumption behavior: does gender matter?
Authors: Duong Cong Doanh , Doan Xuan Hau , Nguyen Thi Huyen , Dao Van Thanh , Nguyen Thi Phuong Thu
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Little is known about how religious-related beliefs (i.e. karmic beliefs and beliefs in a just world) might affect consumers to engage in more environmentally friendly behavior. Drawing on the justice motive theory, this study aims to explore the individual, complementary, congruent and incongruent impacts of karmic beliefs and belief in a just world on consumers’ proenvironmental consumption.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 736 consumers was recruited by means of a mall-intercept survey in the most populus cities in Vietnam. An advanced technique – polynomial regression with response surface analysis – was used to test the hypothesized model, whereas the PROCESS macro approach was used to estimate indirect effects.

Findings

The findings indicate that while karmic beliefs do not directly affect proenvironmental consumption, they can inspire environmentally friendly behaviors through belief in a just world. High levels of both beliefs enhance proenvironmental consumption, but imbalanced levels erode such behaviors. Importantly, the findings revealed gender differences concerning the role of religious beliefs in influencing proenvironmental consumption among male and female consumers.

Practical implications

The findings of this study offered several theoretical and managerial implications for proenvironmental consumption.

Originality/value

The research provides new insights into how religious beliefs (karmic beliefs and belief in a just world) affect, interact, balance and imbalance with each other to trigger proenvironmental consumption. The research also contributes to the sustainable consumption literature by indicating the mediation roles of belief in a just world and proenvironmental consumption intention in the relationship between beliefs in karma and actual proenvironmental consumption behavior, as well as offering empirical evidence about the gender differences regarding these relationships.
Transitioning from bachelor’s to master’s studies – examining study burnout, approaches to learning and experiences of the learning environment
Authors: Sjöblom Amanda , Inkinen Mikko , Salmela-Aro Katariina , Parpala Anna
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Transitions to and within university studies can be associated with heightened distress in students. This study focusses on the less studied transition from a bachelor’s to a master’s degree. During a master’s degree, study requirements and autonomy increase compared to bachelor’s studies. The present study examines how students’ experiences of study-related burnout, their approaches to learning and their experiences of the teaching and learning environment (TLE) change during this transition. Moreover, the study examines how approaches to learning and the TLE can affect study-related burnout.

Design/methodology/approach

Questionnaire data were collected from 335 university students across two timepoints (bachelor’s degree graduation and the second term of their master’s degree).

Findings

The results show that students’ overall experience of study-related burnout increases, as does their unreflective learning, characterised by struggling with a fragmented knowledge base. Interestingly, students’ experiences of the TLE seem to have an effect on study-related burnout in both master’s and bachelor’s degree programmes, irrespective of learning approaches. These effects are also dependent on the degree of context.

Originality/value

The study implies that students’ experiences of study-related burnout could be mitigated by developing TLE factors during both bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes. Practical implications are considered for degree programme development, higher education learning environments and student support.
Supply chain driven herding behavior during COVID-19: evidence of interdependence from India
Authors: Khan Adnan , Sindhwani Rohit , Atif Mohd , Varma Ashish
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to test the market anomaly of herding behavior driven by the response to supply chain disruptions in extreme market conditions such as those observed during COVID-19. The authors empirically test the response of the capital market participants for B2B firms, resulting in herding behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the event study approach based on the market model, the authors test the impact of supply chain disruptions and resultant herding behavior across six sectors and among different B2B firms. The authors used cumulative average abnormal returns (CAAR) and cross-sectional absolute deviation (CSAD) to examine the significance of herding behavior across sectors.

Findings

The event study results show a significant effect of COVID-19 due to supply chain disruptions across specific sectors. Herding was detected across the automotive and pharmaceutical sectors. The authors also provide evidence of sector-specific disruption impact and herding behavior based on the black swan event and social learning theory.

Originality/value

The authors examine the impact of COVID-19 on herding in the stock market of an emerging economy due to extreme market conditions. This is one of the first studies analyzing lockdown-driven supply chain disruptions and subsequent sector-specific herding behavior. Investors and regulators should take sector-specific responses that are sophisticated during extreme market conditions, such as a pandemic, and update their responses as the situation unfolds.
From hands off to hands on: the evolution of Bahrain's industrial policy during the 21st century
Authors: Al-Ubaydli Omar
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to address two fundamental questions: (1) How has Bahrain's industrial policy evolved during the 21st century? and (2) what factors contribute to this evolution?

Design/methodology/approach

Utilizing secondary data, this paper identifies key decision-makers responsible for economic policy in Bahrain and delineates the evolution of Bahrain's industrial policy throughout the 21st century. Subsequently, it employs a series of interviews with elite civil servants engaged in the formulation and implementation of Bahrain's economic policies to understand the reasons behind the observed changes.

Findings

Since assuming the role of Crown Prince in 1999, Sh. Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa has been the key economic decision-maker in Bahrain. During the 21st century, Bahrain has shifted away from decisions closely aligned with the Washington Consensus towards those more in line with classical industrial policy. Interviews reveal that the private sector's underperformance in job creation, coupled with fiscal pressures, has driven this departure from the Washington Consensus. Moreover, the early successes of the interventionist Saudi Vision 2030 and Bahrain's own success in technocratically managing the COVID-19 pandemic have accelerated this transition.

Practical implications

Insights into the determinants of Bahrain's industrial policy can guide policymakers in refining future strategies. Recognizing the positive role of intellectual developments in academic economics literature becomes crucial for informed decision-making.

Originality/value

This paper fills a gap in the existing literature by providing answers to its research questions, particularly considering the significant changes witnessed in Bahrain's industrial policy post-pandemic.
Linking consumer attitude with purchasing behavior via interpersonal influences: the role of corporate social responsibility
Authors: Qalati Sikandar Ali , Siddiqui Faiza , Yusheng Kong
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Consumer purchasing behavior (CPB) plays a crucial role within the hospitality sector, specifically in restaurants situated in China, as it directly impacts the performance and profitability of businesses. In this context, there is a need to assess the factors influencing CPB. Therefore, this research seeks to inspect the influence of consumer attitudes (CA) on interpersonal influences (II) and CPB. Additionally, seeks to explore the mediation of II and the moderation of corporate social responsibility (CSR).

Design/methodology/approach

This study utilized cross-sectional data obtained through online surveys. To analyze the data, structural equation modeling was employed.

Findings

The research unveils a substantial and positive association between CA, II and CPB. It also found that II partially mediates CA and CPB association. Moreover, CSR was identified as a moderator in the connection between CA and CPB.

Practical implications

The implications of this study are of great significance for companies operating in the hospitality industry. They indicate that cultivating favorable CA and promoting II, while considering CSR initiatives, can effectively augment overall purchasing behavior. As a result, it can contribute to the achievement of business success.

Originality/value

This study offers a unique perspective on the factors driving purchasing behavior, shedding light on how businesses can enhance their performance and profitability in this specific setting.
Can the consumer perception of corporate social responsibility be saved? An examination into the effects of corporate greenwashing on the consumer and financial market
Authors: Teichmann Fabian Maximilian Johannes , Wittmann Chiara , Boticiu Sonia Ruxandra , Sergi Bruno Sergio S
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the influence that the occurrence of greenwashing has on the consumer perception of corporate social responsibility (CSR).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper observed the market indication that a consistent undermining of authentic commitment to CSR taints consumer perception. Investigating how the motivations behind greenwashing contribute to the presentation of CSR was the first means of examining the market forces. Consumer orientation was used as a guiding principle to consider the short- and long-term perspective of a greenwasher.

Findings

Individual instances of greenwashing contribute to a collective deterioration of marketplace trust in the promises of CSR. The negative influence on CSR is not isolated to the greenwashing perpetrator but casts a wider effect. The consequences of greenwashing are not isolated but widely dispersed.

Originality/value

Whilst much of the literature focuses on the stigmatisation of individual firms, it is crucial to note how marketplace trust is eroded. In addition, the perception of CSR-related regulations is for example influenced but rarely recognised as a consequence of greenwashing behaviour.
Factors that determine Islamic entrepreneurial intention: an empirical investigation using two country samples
Authors: Ukil Minhajul Islam , Ukil Ehsanul Islam , Ullah Muhammad Shariat , Almashayekhi Abdullah
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Islam describes business as a legitimate means of halal income. However, little is known about what attracts people towards Islamic entrepreneurship or halalpreneurship. By applying the theory of planned behaviour, this study aims to contribute to this underexplored area by investigating the factors that affect Islamic entrepreneurial intention (IEI).

Design/methodology/approach

This study examined a mediation model using two country samples. First, the hypotheses were tested on a sample recruited from a high-income economy (i.e. Saudi Arabia) using structural equation modelling in AMOS V26. The authors then conducted a replication study to investigate the robustness of the findings using a sample recruited from a lower-middleincome economy (i.e. Bangladesh) and a different analysis technique, the PROCESS mediation model in SPSS V25.

Findings

The findings suggest that IEI depends on four antecedents, namely, attitude towards Islamic entrepreneurship, general entrepreneurial self-efficacy, Islamic entrepreneurial self-efficacy and perceived halal income. These antecedents also mediate the relationship between moral judgement and IEI.

Research limitations/implications

This study offers an empirical framework that captures several perspectives on the formation of IEI. The findings contribute to entrepreneurial intention and motivation research by suggesting factors that motivate individuals to engage in Islamic entrepreneurship.

Originality/value

The findings imply that the framework of IEI can withstand diverse socioeconomic contexts. A novel perspective of this study is that Muslims who are motivated by perceived halal income show greater interest in becoming Islamic entrepreneurs.
Are smartphone use and nature contact predictive of depression in a UK university population?
Authors: Dewar Ethan , Catling Jonathan
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The number of university students exhibiting mental health concerns have surged considerably in the past decade. Amongst a number of potential contributing factors, this study aims to assess the role of a broader societal phenomenon; the shift in emphasis in our interactions from the physical to the virtual environments. Specifically, a decrease in nature contact and a contrasting increase in smartphone use are identified as two pathways in which this shift may impact negatively on mental health. Previous research evidences both facets as consistent correlates of depression, although limited research extends these associations to the student population or attempts to establish an interaction between the two.

Design/methodology/approach

The current study recruited a sample of 380 first-year undergraduate students, via an online survey, to assess if problematic smartphone use (SAS-SV) and nature contact (NCQ) were significant predictors of depression (PHQ-9).

Findings

Nature contact frequency and smartphone use were significant predictors of depression.

Originality/value

This is the first study to concurrently assess the impact of smartphone use and nature contact in a student population.
Genetic argument and new knowledge creation in strategic management
Authors: Parkhe Arvind
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a framework of ideation pathways that organically extend the current stock of knowledge to generate new and useful knowledge. Although detailed, granular guidance is available in the strategy literature on all aspects of empirically testing theory, the other key aspect of theory development – theory generation – remains relatively neglected. The framework developed in this paper addresses this gap by proposing pathways for how new theory can be generated.

Design/methodology/approach

Grounded in two foundational principles in epistemology, the Genetic Argument and the open-endedness of knowledge, I offer a framework of distinct pathways that systematically lead to the creation of new knowledge.

Findings

Existing knowledge can be deepened (through introspection), broadened (through leverage) and rejuvenated (through innovation). These ideation pathways can unlock the vast, hidden potential of current knowledge in strategy.

Research limitations/implications

The novelty and doability of the framework can potentially inspire research on a broad, community-wide basis, engaging PhD students and management faculty, improving knowledge, democratizing scholarship and deepening the societal footprint of strategy research.

Originality/value

Knowledge is open-ended. The more we know, the more we appreciate how much we don’t know. But the lack of clear guidance on rigorous pathways along which new knowledge that advances both theory and practice can be created from prior knowledge has stymied strategy research. The paper’s framework systematically pulls together for the first time the disparate elements of transforming past learning into new knowledge in a coherent epistemological whole.
Do female political leaders make the environment greener? Evidence from the United States
Authors: Wu Allison
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study examines the effect of female governors (gender effect) on environmental performance in terms of state-level carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in United States.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used annual data from 1970 to 2020 to investigate the relationship between female political leadership and state-level CO2 emissions. Hypothesis was tested through ordinary least squares regression (OLS). The results of the study were also validated using propensity score matching and a difference-in-difference approach.

Findings

This study provides empirical insights into the relationship between female political leadership and state-level CO2 emissions. The findings indicate that female governors have a significant negative impact on state-level CO2 emissions per capita. These results suggest that female political leadership is associated with a reduction in CO2 emissions per capita at the state level. The results also show that states under the leadership of female governors experience lower levels of CO2 emissions than those with male governors, indicating female leadership’s potential to promote environmental sustainability.

Practical implications

The findings of this study have practical implications for policymakers, government officials, and other stakeholders involved in the formulation of strategies to promote environmental sustainability. This study highlights the significant role that female political leader play in mitigating CO2 emissions at the state level. It suggests that promoting female in political leadership positions can lead to more environmentally conscious policy decisions and actions, resulting in reduced CO2 emissions per capita. Policymakers should actively encourage women’s participation in leadership roles to utilize their potential contributions to advancing sustainability goals. Furthermore, organizations that focus on environmental issues should prioritize supporting and promoting female leaders who have demonstrated a commitment to environmental sustainability. Ultimately, this study highlights the need for female in political leadership as a potential strategy to address environmental challenges and advance a more sustainable future.

Originality/value

This study pioneers research on the links between female political leadership and state-level CO2 emissions. This study contributes to the literature by emphasizing the potential role of female political leaders in promoting environmental sustainability. Overall, this study enriches the social role and upper echelons theories literature through empirical evidence.
Market concentration and financial statement comparability: what is the role of state ownership? Evidence from SYS GMM and fsQCA
Authors: Thu Phung Anh , Huy Pham Quang
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the moderating role of state ownership variables on the relationship between market concentration (MC) and financial statement comparability (FSC) in Vietnam.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses data from the financial statements of 475 nonfinancial listed companies for the period from 2010 to 2019. This study uses both the system generalized method of moments and fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to consider the correlation and causal–effect relationships of the variables in the model.

Findings

The results show that MC has a positive relationship with FSC, and MC tends to exert a stronger impact on FSC for firms with higher state ownership. In addition, this study suggests that some combinations help improve FSC. This study has important implications for investors, managers and especially state-owned organizations when market power becomes fierce.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature on the comparability of financial statements in the context of developing countries that have not fully adopted International Financial Reporting Standards. Furthermore, this study applies the fsQCA method to complement the linear regression method.
Relationship between peak ground acceleration and damages indices for steel sheet pile quay wall in Bejaia-Algeria
Authors: Hermime Tassadit , Seghir Abdelghani , Gabi Smail
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is the dynamic analysis and seismic damage assessment of steel sheet pile quay wall with inelastic behavior underground motions using several accelerograms.

Design/methodology/approach

Finite element analysis is conducted using the Plaxis 2D software to generate the numerical model of quay wall. The extension of berth 25 at the port of Bejaia, located in northeastern Algeria, represents a case study. Incremental dynamic analyses are carried out to examine variation of the main response parameters under seismic excitations with increasing Peak ground acceleration (PGA) levels. Two global damage indices based on the safety factor and bending moment are introduced to assess the relationship between PGA and the damage levels.

Findings

The results obtained indicate that the sheet pile quay wall can safely withstand seismic loads up to PGAs of 0.35 g and that above 0.45 g, care should be taken with the risk of reaching the ultimate moment capacity of the steel sheet pile. However, for PGAs greater than 0.5 g, it was clearly demonstrated that the excessive deformations with material are likely to occur in the soil layers and in the structural elements.

Originality/value

The main contribution of the present work is a new double seismic damage index for a steel sheet pile supported quay wharf. The numerical modeling is first validated in the static case. Then, the results obtained by performing several incremental dynamic analyses are exploited to evaluate the degradation of the soil safety factor and the seismic capacity of the pile sheet wall. Computed values of the proposed damage indices of the considered quay wharf are a practical helping tool for decision-making regarding the seismic safety of the structure.
The impact of online learning during the pandemic on language and reading performance in English–French bilingual children
Authors: Abuosbeh Zein , Burchell Diana , Krenca Klaudia , Chen Xi
Published: April 2024

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic created a unique learning experience, characterised by school closures and a shift to online learning. Research suggests that online learning during the pandemic negatively impacted the reading development of elementary school children. However, little is known about the challenges of learning a second language (L2) remotely. Therefore, this study investigates the impact of online learning during the pandemic on language and reading development among French immersion (FI) students who learn French as an L2.

Methods

A total of 137 Grade 1 and Grade 2 students from two cohorts were included in the study. The in‐person cohort consisted of 72 students who attended school in person and were tested in person before the pandemic. The online cohort consisted of 65 students who received virtual instruction during the pandemic and were tested online. Measures of vocabulary, word reading accuracy and fluency, and phonological awareness were administered in English and French to both cohorts. Analyses of covariance (ANCOVAs) were carried out to assess the effects of cohort and grade on the measures, with guardian education as a covariate.

Results

Students in the in‐person cohort performed significantly better on French vocabulary and English word reading accuracy than students online. The cohort effect was not significant for other French and English measures. Grade 2 students significantly outperformed Grade 1 students in both English and French vocabulary and word reading.

Conclusions

The current results suggest that online learning may have had a moderately negative effect on French vocabulary but no impact on French phonological awareness or word reading. FI students' English skills were also largely unaffected. Therefore, FI students made progress on their language and literacy skills through online learning during the pandemic. The findings point to the importance of enhancing L2 vocabulary input during online learning.
Refining ambulance clinical response models: The impact on ambulance response and emergency department presentations
Authors: Nehme Emily , Smith Karen , Jones Colin , Cox Shelley , Cameron Peter , Nehme Ziad
Published: April 2024

Objective

The ambulance service in Victoria, Australia implemented a revised clinical response model (CRM) in 2016 which was designed to increase the diversion of low‐acuity Triple Zero (000) calls to secondary telephone triage and reduce emergency ambulance dispatches. The present study evaluates the influence of the revised CRM on emergency ambulance response times and ED presentations.

Methods

A retrospective study of emergency calls for ambulance between 1 January 2015 and 31 December 2018. Ambulance data were linked with ED presentations occurring up to 48 h after contact. Interrupted time series analyses were used to evaluate the impact of the revised CRM.

Results

A total of 2 365 529 calls were included. The proportion allocated a Code 1 (time‐critical, lights/sirens) dispatch decreased from 56.6 to 41.0% after implementation of the revised CRM. The proportion of calls not receiving an emergency ambulance increased from 10.4 to 19.6%. Interrupted time series analyses demonstrated an improvement in Code 1 cases attended within 15 min (Key Performance Indicator). However, for patients with out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest or requiring lights and sirens transport to hospital, there was no improvement in response time performance. By the end of the study period, there was also no difference in the proportion of callers presenting to ED when compared with the estimated proportion assuming the revised CRM had not been implemented.

Conclusion

The revised CRM was associated with improved Code 1 response time performance. However, there was no improvement in response times for high acuity patients, and no change in the proportion of callers presenting to ED.
Does being a leader make them stay? Short‐ and long‐term effects of supervisory responsibility on turnover intentions
Authors: Funk Stephanie
Published: April 2024

Employers want to avoid fluctuation, especially when qualified personnel is involved. This raises the question of whether promoting employees into leadership positions with supervisory responsibility helps to retain them. Based on social exchange theory, this article predicts that in the short run, employees have lower turnover intentions due to reciprocal feelings. In the long run, following human capital theory, supervisory responsibility increases an employee's turnover intentions due to the general skills acquired in the leadership position. This article argues that human resource management (HRM) practices that enhance an individual's internal career development counteract this long‐term turnover‐increasing effect by offering employees internal advancement opportunities. This study empirically tests these predictions using German linked employer‐employee data. The results support the predicted short‐term turnover‐reducing and the long‐term turnover‐increasing effect of supervisory responsibility. The results also reveal that for long‐term supervisors appraisal interviews and development plans, two examples of HRM practices, counteract the effect by reducing an employee's intention to quit.
Protective effects of sugarcane polyphenol against UV‐B‐induced photoaging in Balb/c mouse skin: Antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and anti‐glycosylation Effects
Authors: Wang Junru , Wang Min , Zhang Chengfeng , Li Wenhui , Zhang Tianyu , Zhou Yanv , Flavel Matthew , Xi Yu , Li He , Liu Xinqi
Published: April 2024

Although the benefits of sugarcane polyphenol (SP) are well documented, its function in preventing photoaging has not yet been investigated. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of SP in preventing ultraviolet (UV)‐B‐induced skin photoaging in Balb/c mice, as well as the underlying mechanism. Chlorogenic acid was determined to be the primary component of SP by using high‐performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry. SP and chlorogenic acid were orally administrated to mice for 56 days, and UV‐B radiation exposure was administered 14 days after SP and chlorogenic acid administration and lasted 42 days to cause photoaging. SP and chlorogenic acid administrations significantly alleviated the UV‐B‐induced mouse skin photoaging, as indicated by the decrease in epidermal thickness, increase in the collagen (COL) volume fraction, and elevation in type 1 and type 3 COL contents. Notably, both SP and chlorogenic acid effectively reversed the overexpression of matrix metalloproteinase induced by UV‐B exposure in the mouse skin. Furthermore, SP and chlorogenic acid reduced the expression of receptor for advanced glycosylation end products in the mice; amplified the activities of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase and catalase; reduced malondialdehyde levels; and decreased inflammatory cytokines interleukin 1β, interleukin 6, and tumor necrosis factor α levels. SP could be a prospective dietary supplement for anti‐photoaging applications due to its antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and anti‐glycosylation attributes, and chlorogenic acid might play a major role in these effects.

Practical Application

This study can provide a scientific basis for the practical application of sugarcane polyphenols. We expect that sugarcane polyphenols can be used in food and beverage products to provide flavor while combating skin aging.
Implementation of a quality improvement strategy to optimise the management of community acquired pneumonia in a rural health setting
Authors: Sally Carrington , Gabrielle Chau , Sidony Miller Waugh , Christopher Symmons , Justin Titmarsh , Avent Minyon L.
Published: April 2024

Problem

In Australia, inappropriate prescribing of antimicrobials is higher in rural and regional areas than in major city hospitals. Inappropriate prescribing is defined as the prescription of antimicrobial agents that do not adhere to guidelines in terms of type of antimicrobial chosen, dose and/or duration or are deemed unnecessary. A review of antimicrobial prescribing in a Queensland rural Hospital and Health Service (HHS) identified that respiratory infections were an area for potential improvement.

Setting

The study was performed in a rural HHS in Queensland.

Key Measures for Improvement

Appropriateness of antimicrobial prescribing for baseline and post‐implementation phases of the study was evaluated according to Therapeutic Guidelines: antibiotic recommendations for community acquired pneumonia (CAP).

Strategies for Change

Quality improvement strategy to implement a multifaceted package of interventions for CAP.

Effects of Change

Post‐implementation, overall appropriateness of antimicrobial prescribing improved and there was a decrease in duration of antimicrobial therapy.

Lessons Learnt

A quality improvement strategy to implement a multifaceted package of interventions for CAP has shown to be acceptable and effective in improving the antimicrobial prescribing in a rural setting. Our findings highlight the importance of utilising a multifaceted package of interventions which can be tailored to the prescribers and the patients at hand. It is also valuable to engage with local clinicians to promote the optimal management of common infections in the rural setting.
EAACI guidelines on environmental science for allergy and asthma: The impact of short‐term exposure to outdoor air pollutants on asthma‐related outcomes and recommendations for mitigation measures
Authors: Agache Ioana , Annesi‐Maesano Isabella , Cecchi Lorenzo , Biagioni Benedetta , Chung Kian Fan , Clot Bernard , D'Amato Gennaro , Damialis Athanasios , del Giacco Stefano , Dominguez‐Ortega Javier , Galàn Carmen , Gilles Stefanie , Holgate Stephen , Jeebhay Mohamed , Kazadzis Stelios , Nadeau Kari , Papadopoulos Nikolaos , Quirce Santiago , Sastre Joaquin , Tummon Fiona , Traidl‐Hoffmann Claudia , Walusiak‐Skorupa Jolanta , Jutel Marek , Akdis Cezmi A.
Published: April 2024

The EAACI Guidelines on the impact of short‐term exposure to outdoor pollutants on asthma‐related outcomes provide recommendations for prevention, patient care and mitigation in a framework supporting rational decisions for healthcare professionals and patients to individualize and improve asthma management and for policymakers and regulators as an evidence‐informed reference to help setting legally binding standards and goals for outdoor air quality at international, national and local levels. The Guideline was developed using the GRADE approach and evaluated outdoor pollutants referenced in the current Air Quality Guideline of the World Health Organization as single or mixed pollutants and outdoor pesticides. Short‐term exposure to all pollutants evaluated increases the risk of asthma‐related adverse outcomes, especially hospital admissions and emergency department visits (moderate certainty of evidence at specific lag days). There is limited evidence for the impact of traffic‐related air pollution and outdoor pesticides exposure as well as for the interventions to reduce emissions. Due to the quality of evidence, conditional recommendations were formulated for all pollutants and for the interventions reducing outdoor air pollution. Asthma management counselled by the current EAACI guidelines can improve asthma‐related outcomes but global measures for clean air are needed to achieve significant impact.
Targeting IL‐13 with tralokinumab normalizes type 2 inflammation in atopic dermatitis both early and at 2 years
Authors: Guttman‐Yassky Emma , Kabashima Kenji , Staumont‐Salle Delphine , Nahm Walter K. , Pauser Sylvia , Da Rosa Joel Correa , Martel Britta Cathrina , Madsen Daniel Elenius , Røpke Mads , Arlert Petra , Steffensen Louise , Blauvelt Andrew , Reich Kristian
Published: April 2024

Background

Tralokinumab is a monoclonal antibody that specifically neutralizes interleukin (IL)‐13, a key driver of skin inflammation and barrier abnormalities in atopic dermatitis (AD). This study evaluated early and 2‐year impacts of IL‐13 neutralization on skin and serum biomarkers following tralokinumab treatment in adults with moderate‐to‐severe AD.

Methods

Skin biopsies and blood samples were evaluated from a subset of patients enrolled in the Phase 3 ECZTRA 1 (NCT03131648) and the long‐term extension ECZTEND (NCT03587805) trials. Gene expression was assessed by RNA sequencing; protein expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry and immunoassay.

Results

Tralokinumab improved the transcriptomic profile of lesional skin by Week 4. Mean improvements in the expression of genes dysregulated in AD were 39% at Week 16 and 85% at 2 years with tralokinumab, with 15% worsening at Week 16 with placebo. At Week 16, tralokinumab significantly decreased type 2 serum biomarkers (CCL17/TARC, periostin, and IgE), reduced epidermal thickness versus placebo, and increased loricrin coverage versus baseline. Two years of tralokinumab treatment significantly reduced expression of genes in the Th2 (IL4R, IL31, CCL17, and CCL26), Th1 (IFNG), and Th17/Th22 (IL22, S100A7, S100A8, and S100A9) pathways as well as increased expression of epidermal differentiation and barrier genes (CLDN1 and LOR). Tralokinumab also shifted atherosclerosis signaling pathway genes (SELE, IL‐37, and S100A8) toward non‐lesional expression.

Conclusion

Tralokinumab treatment improved epidermal pathology, reduced systemic markers of type 2 inflammation, and shifted expression of key AD biomarkers in skin towards non‐lesional levels, further highlighting the key role of IL‐13 in the pathogenesis of AD.

Clinical Trial Registration

NCT03131648, NCT03587805.
Language development beyond the here‐and‐now: Iconicity and displacement in child‐directed communication
Authors: Motamedi Yasamin , Murgiano Margherita , Grzyb Beata , Gu Yan , Kewenig Viktor , Brieke Ricarda , Donnellan Ed , Marshall Chloe , Wonnacott Elizabeth , Perniss Pamela , Vigliocco Gabriella
Published: April 2024

Most language use is displaced, referring to past, future, or hypothetical events, posing the challenge of how children learn what words refer to when the referent is not physically available. One possibility is that iconic cues that imagistically evoke properties of absent referents support learning when referents are displaced. In an audio‐visual corpus of caregiver–child dyads, English‐speaking caregivers interacted with their children (N = 71, 24–58 months) in contexts in which the objects talked about were either familiar or unfamiliar to the child, and either physically present or displaced. The analysis of the range of vocal, manual, and looking behaviors caregivers produced suggests that caregivers used iconic cues especially in displaced contexts and for unfamiliar objects, using other cues when objects were present.