bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the clinical impact of resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta in patients with blunt trauma with hemorrhagic shock and coexisting traumatic brain injuries: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Hsu Chih-Po , Liao Chien-An , Wang Chia-Cheng , Huang Jen-Fu , Cheng Chi-Tung , Chen Szu-An , Tee Yu-San , Kuo Ling-Wei , Ou Yang Chun-Hsiang , Liao Chien-Hung , Fu Chih-Yuan
Published: June 2024

Background:

The impact of resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) on traumatic brain injuries remains uncertain, with potential outcomes ranging from neuroprotection to exacerbation of the injury. The study aimed to evaluate consciousness recovery in patients with blunt trauma, shock, and traumatic brain injuries.

Material and methods:

Data were obtained from the American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Improvement Program from 2017 to 2019. During the study period, 3 138 896 trauma registries were examined, and 16 016 adult patients with blunt trauma, shock, and traumatic brain injuries were included. Among these, 176 (1.1%) underwent REBOA. Comparisons were conducted between patients with and without REBOA after implementing 1:3 propensity score matching to mitigate disparities. The primary outcome was the highest Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score during admission. The secondary outcomes encompassed the volume of blood transfusion, the necessity for hemostatic interventions and therapeutic neurosurgery, and the mortality rate.

Results:

Through well-balanced propensity score matching, a notable difference in mortality rate was observed, with 59.7% in the REBOA group and 48.7% in the non-REBOA group (P=0.015). In the REBOA group, the median 4 h red blood cell transfusion was significantly higher (2800 ml [1500–4908] vs. 1300 ml [600–2500], P<0.001). The REBOA group required lesser hemorrhagic control surgeries (31.8 vs. 47.7%, P<0.001). The incidence of therapeutic neurosurgery was 5.1% in the REBOA group and 8.7% in the non-REBOA group (P=0.168). Among survivors in the REBOA group, the median highest GCS score during admission was significantly greater for both total (11 [8–14] vs. 9 [6–14], P=0.036) and motor components (6 [4–6] vs. 5 [4–6], P=0.037). The highest GCS score among the survivors with predominant pelvic injuries was not different between the two groups (11 [8–13] vs. 11 [7–14], P=0.750).

Conclusions:

Patients experiencing shock and traumatic brain injury have high mortality rates, necessitating swift resuscitation and prompt hemorrhagic control. The use of REBOA as an adjunct for bridging definitive hemorrhagic control may correlate with enhanced consciousness recovery.
Unregulated male sexual enhancement treatments: Perils and pitfalls for patients and providers
Authors: Jackson Kristopher J.
Published: June 2024

As the demand for “quick-fixes” and instant gratification intensifies among consumers of the US health care delivery system, health care providers remain essential to ensuring patients receive safe, evidenced-based care. Erectile dysfunction is a common health condition affecting as many as 42% of US men. As such, it is unsurprising that American health care consumers affected by erectile dysfunction (ED) may be tempted by “quick fixes” to ameliorate their symptoms—particularly if such fixes are perceived to be less embarrassing, more accessible, and/or more affordable. Although multiple therapies for the treatment of ED are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, unregulated and/or counterfeit treatments are abundantly available to health care consumers on the Internet and US retail settings. These unregulated treatments may take the form of over-the-counter supplements or tainted prescription medications from illegal Internet pharmacies. This clinical brief is a call to action for health care professionals to advocate for patient safety, educate patients, and champion evidence-based therapies approved for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
HER2/PI3K/AKT pathway in HER2-positive breast cancer: A review
Authors: Pan Linghui , Li Jinling , Xu Qi , Gao Zili , Yang Mao , Wu Xiaoping , Li Xuesen
Published: June 2024

Breast cancer is currently the most commonly occurring cancer globally. Among breast cancer cases, the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive breast cancer accounts for 15% to 20% and is a crucial focus in the treatment of breast cancer. Common HER2-targeted drugs approved for treating early and/or advanced breast cancer include trastuzumab and pertuzumab, which effectively improve patient prognosis. However, despite treatment, most patients with terminal HER2-positive breast cancer ultimately suffer death from the disease due to primary or acquired drug resistance. The prevalence of aberrantly activated the protein kinase B (AKT) signaling in HER2-positive breast cancer was already observed in previous studies. It is well known that p-AKT expression is linked to an unfavorable prognosis, and the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathway, as the most common mutated pathway in breast cancer, plays a major role in the mechanism of drug resistance. Therefore, in the current review, we summarize the molecular alterations present in HER2-positive breast cancer, elucidate the relationships between HER2 overexpression and alterations in the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and the pathways of the alterations in breast cancer, and summarize the resistant mechanism of drugs targeting the HER2–AKT pathway, which will provide an adjunctive therapeutic rationale for subsequent resistance to directed therapy in the future.
Heat Metrics and Maternal–Child Health Diagnoses in Emergency Departments in the United States
Authors: Oerther Sarah , Bultas Margaret
Published: June 2024

Objective:

To summarize current research on associations between heat metrics and emergency department discharge diagnoses for US pregnant women and children from birth to age 18 via a scoping review.

Background:

Climate change directly contributes to extreme weather conditions and environmental changes and indirectly affects health and the health care system. Pregnant women and children are believed to be more susceptible to extreme heat, but few empirical studies have been conducted evaluating effects of heat metrics on these populations.

Methods:

Ovid MEDLINE, CIHAHL, SCOPUS, Web of Science, JSTOR, and PsycINFO databases were searched using a combination of key words.

Results:

Twelve studies were selected for this review. In pregnant women, positive associations were found between mean daily temperature and multiple subtypes of pregnancy complications, including threatened or spontaneous abortion, renal diseases, infectious diseases, diabetes, and hypertension. In children, positive associations were found with all-cause diagnoses; asthma; dehydration; electrolyte disorders; heat-related illness; infection; endocrine, nutritional, and metabolic diseases; injury; and otitis media and external emergency department discharge diagnoses and temperature or heatwave versus non-heatwave.

Conclusion:

By tracking associations between maternal–child emergency department discharge diagnoses and various heat metrics, researchers can contribute to better clinical practices that promote environmental justice and climate resilience.
Evaluation of Automated Finger Compression for Capillary Refill Time Measurement in Pediatrics
Authors: Nickel Amanda J. , Jiang Shen , Napolitano Natalie , Donoghue Aaron , Nadkarni Vinay M. , Nishisaki Akira
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Early shock reversal is crucial to improve patient outcomes. Capillary refill time (CRT) is clinically important to identify and monitor shock in children but has issues with inconsistency. To minimize inconsistency, we evaluated a CRT monitoring system using an automated compression device. Our objective was to determine proper compression pressure in children.

Methods

Clinician force for CRT was collected during manual CRT measurement as a reference for automated compression in a previous study (12.9 N, 95% confidence interval, 12.5–13.4; n = 454). An automated compression device with a soft inflation bladder was fitted with a force sensor. We evaluated the effectiveness of the automated pressure to eliminate pulsatile blood flow from the distal phalange. Median and variance of CRT analysis at each pressure was compared.

Results

A comparison of pressures at 300 to 500 mm Hg on a simulated finger yielded a force of 5 to 10 N, and these pressures were subsequently used for automated compression for CRT. Automated compression was tested in 44 subjects (median age, 33 months; interquartile range [IQR], 14–56 months). At interim analysis of 17 subjects, there was significant difference in the waveform with residual pulsatile blood flow (9/50: 18% at 300 mm Hg, 5/50:10% at 400 mm Hg, 0/51: 0% at 500 mm Hg, P = 0.008). With subsequent enrollment of 27 subjects at 400 and 500 mm Hg, none had residual pulsatile blood flow. There was no difference in the CRT: median 1.8 (IQR, 1.06–2.875) in 400 mm Hg vs median 1.87 (IQR, 1.25–2.8325) in 500 mm Hg, P = 0.81. The variance of CRT was significantly larger in 400 mm Hg: 2.99 in 400 mm Hg vs. 1.35 in 500 mm Hg, P = 0.02, Levene's test. Intraclass correlation coefficient for automated CRT was 0.56 at 400 mm Hg and 0.78 at 500 mm Hg.

Conclusions

Using clinician CRT measurement data, we determined either 400 or 500 mm Hg is an appropriate pressure for automated CRT, although 500 mm Hg demonstrates superior consistency.
A Case Series Study Assessing an Equity-Focused Implementation of Self-Monitoring Blood Pressure Programs Using Telehealth
Authors: Greene Leah K. , Song Glory , Palma Ana V. , Santarelli Claire , Wetzel Caroline , Spillane Janet , Nielsen Victoria M.
Published: June 2024

Context:

Self-monitoring blood pressure (SMBP) programs are an evidence-based hypertension management intervention facilitated through telehealth. SMBP programs can provide a continuum of care beyond a clinical setting by facilitating hypertension management at home; however, equitable access to SMBP is a concern.

Objectives:

To evaluate the implementation of telehealth SMBP programs using an equity lens in 5 federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) in Massachusetts (MA).

Design:

A prospective case series study.

Setting:

Five FQHCs.

Participants:

The MA Department of Public Health (MDPH) selected 5 FQHCs to implement SMBP programs using telehealth. FQHCs were selected if their patient population experiences inequities due to social determinants of health and has higher rates of cardiovascular disease. Each of the 5 FQHCs reported data on patients enrolled in their SMBP programs totaling 241 patients examined in this study.

Intervention:

SMBP programs implemented through telehealth.

Main Outcome Measure:

Systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure.

Results:

Approximately 53.5% of SMBP participants experienced a decrease in blood pressure. The average blood pressure decreased from 146/87 to 136/81 mm Hg. Among all patients across the 5 FQHCs, the average blood pressure decreased by 10.06/5.34 mm Hg (P < .001). Blood pressure improved in all racial, ethnic, and language subgroups.

Conclusions:

Five MA FQHCs successfully implemented equitable telehealth SMBP programs. SMBP participants enrolled in the programs demonstrated notable improvements in their blood pressure at the conclusion of the program. A flexible, pragmatic study design that was adjusted to meet unique patient needs; engaging nonphysician team members, particularly community health workers; adapting health information technology; and partnerships with community-based organizations were critical facilitators to program success.
Using a Cohort-Based Quality Improvement Coaching Model to Optimize Chronic Disease Management for Federally Qualified Health Center Patients
Authors: Barragan Noel C. , Green Gabrielle , Cruz Gerardo , Pogosyan Sarine , Newman Deanna , Kuo Tony
Published: June 2024

Context:

In fall 2020, Community Clinic Association of Los Angeles County, in collaboration with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, launched a 3-year, cohort-based quality improvement (QI) coaching program to assist Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) in improving their clinical management of hypertension, high blood cholesterol, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease.

Program:

The QI program utilized a cohort-based coaching model in which 5 FQHCs were each assigned a practice transformation coach who provided them with guidance and support to monitor clinical quality measures. These measures were then used to facilitate changes and improvements in clinical workflows and approaches to patient care. To encourage peer learning and promote inter-organizational collaboration, the coaching team hosted quarterly cohort check-ins and an online group messaging board where the participating FQHCs could share lessons learned. Throughout the program, the FQHCs were provided trainings and resources to advance their clinical quality measures of choice.

Implementation:

To implement the program, each FQHC selected 2 clinical quality measures to focus on, completing a minimum of 1 Plan-Do-Study-Act cycle per year for each measure. Throughout, the coaches met regularly with FQHC staff to discuss progress, strategize on how best to address challenges encountered, and identify training or resource needs for their clinic sites.

Evaluation:

To drive implementation of QI interventions and monitor overall progress, the FQHCs reported quarterly on the clinical quality measures being addressed. By program's end, all 5 FQHCs reached their 10% improvement goals.

Discussion:

This QI coaching program allowed participating FQHCs to build new competencies and achieve measurable improvements in how they managed their patients' chronic diseases. This model of practice serves as a promising approach for achieving sustainable clinical improvements in these FQHCs.
The Power of Tailoring a Government-Funded Heart Health Program for Marginalized Women: Lessons from WISEWOMAN and Mujer Poderosa/Powerful Woman
Authors: Eggleston Molly M. , Schmidt Leigh Anne , Chaudhari Ashwini , Elias Thistle
Published: June 2024

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s DP18-1816 Well-Integrated Screening and Evaluation for Women Across the Nation (WISEWOMAN) award to the Pennsylvania Department of Health combats the leading cause of death in Pennsylvania, cardiovascular disease. Pennsylvania’s program (PA-WISE) includes an innovative approach to engage low-income women in cardiovascular disease prevention. PA-WISE collaborated with Latino Connection to pilot Mujer Poderosa/Powerful Woman (MP/PW), utilizing bilingual community health workers to engage, educate, and empower marginalized women to improve their health. Latino Connection discovered different approaches were needed by each community for engaging women and connecting with resources. MP/PW tailored outreach and intervention approaches to women’s needs and expectations, responding to differences in education levels, acculturation, immigration status, and levels of trust. The experiences of MP/PW provide lessons on the importance of having and maintaining flexibility in responding to women’s backgrounds and community characteristics and tailoring to meet the needs of marginalized women.
Increasing the Writing Capacity and Dissemination of Evaluation Findings Among US Public Health Practitioners Funded to Improve Cardiovascular Health
Authors: Scott Amber , Bostic Myles , Sreedhara Meera , McAtee Jennifer , Minaya-Junca Jasmin , Vaughan Marla
Published: June 2024

Context:

Contributing to the evidence base, by disseminating findings through written products such as journal articles, is a core competency for public health practitioners. Disseminating practice-based evidence that supports improving cardiovascular health is necessary for filling literature gaps, generating health policies and laws, and translating evidence-based strategies into practice. However, a gap exists in the dissemination of practice-based evidence in public health. Public health practitioners face various dissemination barriers (eg, lack of time and resources, staff turnover) which, more recently, were compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Program:

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention (DHDSP) partnered with the National Network of Public Health Institutes to implement a multimodal approach to build writing capacity among recipients funded by three DHDSP cooperative agreements. This project aimed to enhance public health practitioners’ capacity to translate and disseminate their evaluation findings.

Implementation:

Internal evaluation technical assistance expertise and external subject matter experts helped to implement this project and to develop tailored multimodal capacity-building activities. These activities included online peer-to-peer discussion posts, virtual writing workshops, resource documents, one-to-one writing coaching sessions, an online toolkit, and a supplemental issue in a peer-reviewed journal.

Evaluation:

Findings from an informal process evaluation demonstrate positive results. Most participants were engaged and satisfied with the project’s activities. Across eight workshops, participants reported increased knowledge (≥94%) and enhanced confidence in writing (≥98%). The majority of participants (83%) reported that disseminating evaluation findings improved program implementation. Notably, 30 abstracts were submitted for a journal supplement and 23 articles were submitted for consideration.

Discussion:

This multimodal approach serves as a promising model that enhances public health practitioners’ capacity to disseminate evaluation findings during times of evolving health needs.
Efficacy of audiovisual neurofeedback training for attention enhancement: a multimodal approach
Authors: Ather Maryam , Ejaz Osama , Rao Ahmad Zahid , Mujib Muhammad Danish , Raees Faryal , Qazi Saad Ahmed , Hasan Muhammad Abul
Published: June 2024

Attention is a cognitive process that involves focusing mental resources on specific stimuli and plays a fundamental role in perception, learning, memory, and decision-making. Neurofeedback (NF) is a useful technique for improving attention, providing real-time feedback on brain activity in the form of visual or auditory cues, and allowing users to learn to self-regulate their cognitive processes. This study compares the effectiveness of different cues in NF training for attention enhancement through a multimodal approach. We conducted neurological (Quantitative Electroencephalography), neuropsychological (Mindfulness Attention Awareness Scale-15), and behavioral (Stroop test) assessments before and after NF training on 36 healthy participants, divided into audiovisual (G1) and visual (G2) groups. Twelve NF training sessions were conducted on alternate days, each consisting of five subsessions, with pre- and post-NF baseline electroencephalographic evaluations using power spectral density. The pre-NF baseline was used for thresholding the NF session using the beta frequency band power. Two-way analysis of variance revealed a significant long-term effect of group (G1/G2) and state (before/after NF) on the behavioral and neuropsychological assessments, with G1 showing significantly higher Mindfulness Attention Awareness Scale-15 scores, higher Stroop scores, and lower Stroop reaction times for interaction effects. Moreover, unpaired t-tests to compare voxel-wise standardized low-resolution brain electromagnetic tomography images revealed higher activity of G1 in Brodmann area 40 due to NF training. Neurological assessments show that G1 had better improvement in immediate, short-, and long-term attention. The findings of this study offer a guide for the development of NF training protocols aimed at enhancing attention effectively.
A rare case of Aerococcus urinae native valve endocarditis
Authors: Goes Sofie Eva , Callebaut Kim , Pierard Denis , Wybo Ingrid , De Geyter Deborah , Muyldermans Astrid , Geers Jolien , Kerselaers Laura , Demuyser Thomas
Published: June 2024

Background

Aerococcus urinae, was initially considered a commensal of the urinary tract, but there is now increasing evidence for its involvement in urinary tract and systemic infections. A. urinae endocarditis has a high mortality rate and occurs mainly in patients with underlying conditions or presence of extraneous material.

Case presentation

This report handles the case of a 65 year old male with cardiac antecedents, who was admitted to the cardiology department after a syncope of unknown origin and diagnosed with severe mixed aortic valve disease and mitral valve sclerosis through the means of a transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). During hospitalisation, the patient progressively deteriorated with the development of shortness of breath and an inflammatory syndrome. Urinary laboratory analysis showed an A. urinae infection and blood cultures depicted A. urinae growth. Treatment with piperacillin/tazobactam was started empirically. Repeated TEE showed evidence for endocarditis with vegetation and perforation of the mitral valve that required an emergency surgery with mitral valve repair. After surgery, gentamicin and penicillin G were administered for 48 hours, followed by combined ceftriaxone/penicillin G treatment for 6 weeks. At first, flucloxacillin was also associated as the culture of the valve was negative. Finally, 16S rRNA polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on the valve tissue, confirmed the A. urinae endocarditis.

Conclusion

A. urinae is an underestimated cause of serious infections such as endocarditis. Urinary tract infections mainly in older men can be an entry point for this type of invasive infection.
Characterization of atypical BAR domain-containing proteins coded byToxoplasma gondii
Authors: Al-Qatabi Noha , Magdeleine Maud , Pagnotta Sophie , Leforestier Amélie , Degrouard Jéril , Arteni Ana Andreea , Lacas-Gervais Sandra , Gautier Romain , Drin Guillaume
Published: June 2024

Toxoplasma gondii, the causative agent of toxoplasmosis, infects cells and replicates insideviathe secretion of factors stored in specialized organelles (rhoptries, micronemes, dense granules) and the capture of host materials. The genesis of the secretory organelles and the processes of secretion and endocytosis depend on vesicular trafficking events whose molecular bases remain poorly known. Notably, there is no characterization of the BAR (Bin/Amphiphysin/Rvs) domain-containing proteins expressed byT. gondiiand other apicomplexans, although such proteins are known to play critical roles in vesicular trafficking in other eukaryotes. Here, by combining structural analyses within vitroassays and cellular observations, we have characterizedTgREMIND (REgulators of Membrane Interacting Domains), involved in the genesis of rhoptries and dense granules, andTgBAR2 found at the parasite cortex. We establish thatTgREMIND comprises an F-BAR domain that can bind curved neutral membranes with no strict phosphoinositide requirement and exert a membrane remodeling activity. Next, we establish thatTgREMIND contains a new structural domain called REMIND, which negatively regulates the membrane-binding capacities of the F-BAR domain. In parallel, we report thatTgBAR2 contains a BAR domain with an extremely basic membrane-binding interface able to deform anionic membranes into very narrow tubules. Our data show thatT. gondiicodes for two atypical BAR domain-containing proteins with very contrasting membrane-binding properties, allowing them to function in two distinct regions of the parasite trafficking system.
Drug resistance through ribosome splitting and rRNA disordering in mycobacteria
Authors: Majumdar Soneya , Kashyap Amuliya , Koripella Ravi K. , Sharma Manjuli R. , Hurst-Hess Kelley , Manjari Swati R. , Banavali Nilesh K. , Ghosh Pallavi , Agrawal Rajendra K.
Published: June 2024

Abstract

HflX is known to rescue stalled ribosomes and is implicated in antibiotic resistance in several bacteria. Here we present several high-resolution cryo-EM structures of mycobacterial HflX in complex with the ribosome and its 50S subunit, with and without antibiotics. These structures reveal a distinct mechanism for HflX- mediated ribosome splitting and antibiotic resistance in mycobacteria. In addition to dissociating ribosome into two subunits, mycobacterial HflX mediates persistent disordering of multiple 23S rRNA helices to generate an inactive pool of 50S subunits. Mycobacterial HflX also acts as an anti-association factor by binding to pre-dissociated 50S subunits. A mycobacteria-specific insertion in HflX reaches further into the peptidyl transferase center. The position of this insertion overlaps with ribosome-bound macrolides or lincosamide class of antibiotics. The extended conformation of insertion seen in the absence of these antibiotics retracts and adjusts around the bound antibiotics instead of physically displacing them. It therefore likely imparts antibiotic resistance by sequestration of the antibiotic- bound inactive 50S subunits.
Bañados-Silk-West phenomenon for near-fine-tuned particles with an external force: General classification of scenarios
Authors: Ovcharenko H. V. , Zaslavskii O. B.
Published: June 2024

If two particles moving toward a black hole collide in the vicinity of the horizon, the energy Ec.m. in the center-of-mass frame can grow indefinitely if one of the particles is fine-tuned. This is the Bañados-Silk-West (BSW) effect. One of the objections against this effect is that, for some types of horizon, fine-tuned particles cannot reach the horizon. However, this difficulty can be overcome if, instead of exact fine-tuning, one particle is nearly fine-tuned, with the value of small detuning being adjusted to the distance to the horizon. Such particles are called near-fine-tuned. We give classification of such particles and describe possible high-energy scenarios of collision in which they participate. We analyze the ranges of possible motion for each type of particle and determine under which condition such particles can reach the horizon. We analyze collision energy Ec.m. and determine under which conditions it may grow indefinitely. We also take into consideration the forces acting on particles and find when the BSW effect with nearly fine-tuned particles is possible with finite forces. We demonstrate that the BSW effect with particles under discussion is consistent with the principle of kinematic censorship. According to this principle, Ec.m. cannot be literally infinite in any event of collision (if no singularity is present), although it can be made as large as one likes.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Consumers' heterogeneous preference for organic ginger: a choice experiment
Authors: Liu Wei , Han Xiyan , Cao Xiuwei , Gao Zhifeng
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Due to ginger holds a special and indispensable place in Chinese cuisine, understanding consumers’ preferences for organic ginger is of significance, especially given the growing interest in organic food products and sustainable agriculture. This study thus examines Chinese consumers’ preference for fresh ginger and the sources of their preferences heterogeneity for organic ginger consumption.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is using choice experiment (CE) method and mixed logit (MXL) modeling with 1,312 valid samples. The participants are regular consumers who are 18 years old or above and had bought fresh ginger within the past 12 months.

Findings

The results show that consumers prefer organic product certification labeling ginger to conventional ginger, preferred to purchase ginger at wet markets to at supermarkets or online, and preferred either ginger with regional public brand or private brand to unbranded ginger. Results also indicate that age, education level, income, purchasing experience of organic and branded ginger, and cognition of ginger health benefits are the sources of heterogeneity in consumer preferences for organic ginger.

Originality/value

This study contributes to ginger growers, marketers and policy makers. This study tracks how consumers' preferences change under different attribute combinations, capture the complex preference structure of consumers, and help reveal the motivations behind consumers' preferences for organic ginger. These findings will be crucial for developing marketing strategies, promoting organic products, and meeting consumer needs.
Does awareness of SDGs influence tourists’ behavior? An examination of the determinants of sustainable travel behavior considering the UN2030 Agenda
Authors: Assaker Guy
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine a comprehensive model for the concurrent effects of tourists’ sustainability concerns, social norms, frugality and awareness of the UN’s sustainable development goals (SDGs) on sustainable travel behavior (STB), with sustainability in this case extending beyond the environmental to include economic and socio-cultural aspects as well.

Design/methodology/approach

The model is tested using a structural equation modeling technique based on data collected from 200 US respondents who traveled internationally in the past year.

Findings

Results reveal that all aforementioned variables, namely, sustainability concerns, social norms, frugality and SDG awareness, when considered together each positively influenced STB. However, SDG awareness did not accentuate tourists’ sustainability concerns associated with travel and tourism, as initially hypothesized.

Originality/value

Unlike previous studies that have mainly focused on the pro-environmental aspects of sustainability and failed to consider the aforementioned variables concurrently, the results from this study advance our understanding of the determinants of STB (more generally) while accounting specifically for the expected role of the UN SDG agenda.
Human capital and micro-business performance: the effective roles of bricolage and technology adoption in times of crises
Authors: Taleb Taleb S. T. , Hashim Norashidah , Ahmad Shuhymee , Abu Bakar Lily Julienti
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study develops and tests a model that explores how human capital impacts micro-business performance through the sequential mediation of new technology adoption and entrepreneurial bricolage.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 508 women entrepreneurs engaged in micro-businesses in Malaysia. This study used partial least squares structural equation modeling to test the hypotheses.

Findings

This study demonstrates the significant impact of human capital on micro-business performance. It establishes a sequential mediation model in which technology adoption and entrepreneurial bricolage mediate the nexus of human capital–micro-business performance.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to the theory by innovatively integrating human capital, new technology adoption, entrepreneurial bricolage, and microbusiness performance, drawing on the resource-based view and human capital theory. However, its cross-sectional nature limits causal inference, and focusing solely on women entrepreneurs in Malaysian micro-businesses may constrain novelty. Additionally, the reliance on self-reported data introduces bias, emphasizing the need for future research.

Practical implications

Fostering entrepreneurial bricolage and embracing technology adoption can enhance performance. Business managers can optimize strategies by promoting continuous learning, innovative problem-solving, and technological advancements.

Social implications

This study highlights the potential social and economic impacts of supporting women-owned micro-businesses in Malaysia. Policymakers can promote economic growth, employment, and community well-being by emphasizing innovation, human capital development, and technology adoption in Malaysia’s diverse ethnic contexts.

Originality/value

This study introduces a distinctive serial mediation framework to understand the impact of human capital on micro-business performance. It explores mediation dynamics, extends the knowledge of serial mediation in the human capital-performance relationship of microbusinesses, and contributes to the unexplored roles of technology adoption and entrepreneurial bricolage in Malaysian micro-businesses.
Effects of cognitive, affective and normative drivers of artificial intelligence ChatGPT on continuous use intention
Authors: Han Heesup , Kim Seongseop (Sam) , Hailu Tadesse Bekele , Al-Ansi Amr , Lee Jiyoung , Kim Jinkyung Jenny
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the interplay of cognitive, affective, and normative constituents for their potential acceptance or rejection of artificial intelligence (AI) and ChatGPTs in the hospitality and tourism context.

Design/methodology/approach

Using an advanced analytical approach (i.e. a fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis), the study tested hypotheses based on 474 responses from individuals who have used ChatGPT for hospitality and tourism information.

Findings

The study found multiple solutions, including cognitive, affective and normative drivers for strong and weak continuance intentions toward AI-based ChatGPT. Informativeness, one of the cognitive drivers, was found to be a necessary condition for achieving the desired outcome.

Originality/value

This research provides novel insights into the functionality of developing multiple configurations to predict complex travelers behaviors in the context of hospitality and tourism technology consumption.
Integrated healthcare system in India: a conceptual framework
Authors: Rautela Sonica , Panackal Nehajoan , Sharma Adya
Published: June 2024

Purpose

India has been on the pathway of improvement concerning healthcare and health outcomes of its population. However, India must overcome its unique challenges and cover a long journey ahead. This mandates a need for a high-quality, contemporary and community-based health system that promises consistent and quality healthcare, is trusted and valued by all its citizens, considers the changing population needs and should be affordable and accessible.

Design/methodology/approach

The study examines various dimensions and elements associated with the integrated healthcare system in India and uses input, process and output structural measures.

Findings

The present paper proposes an integrated, comprehensive healthcare system in India that endorses participation from diverse stakeholders such as the government, organizations, the community and individuals who can contribute uniquely. It also focuses on defined and measurable output that can make health a topic of social movement or “Jan Andolan” and create a sustainable and integrated care system.

Originality/value

The study is unique as it focuses on the role of stakeholders in health care. The research emphasized the involvement of the government, community, people and organizations in developing an integrated healthcare ecosystem that includes modern technology, skilled employees, enough finance, governance, efficient delivery platforms and top-tier infrastructure. The model’s output is focused on healthcare that is inexpensive, accessible, available, accountable and user-centered. This would gradually improve everyone’s health and well-being.
Home loans and Muslims – an Australian perspective
Authors: Jeffrey Reyaz , Pires Guilherme , Rosenberger III Philip J.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate how Australian Muslims make consumption-related decisions regarding the purchase of home loan products.

Design/methodology/approach

This exploratory research used in-depth semistructured interviews with community leaders from leading Muslim ethnic communities. Seventeen community leaders from the six largest Muslim community groups by country of birth and living in Melbourne and Sydney were selected for the interviews. The interview data was analyzed using NVivo 12.

Findings

The findings suggest that despite knowledge of and concern for Islamic tenets regarding the consumption of banking and financial products, including home loans, most Muslims viewed conventional home loans (CHL) as being permitted, essential or innocuous. Reasons for such views include the interpretation of Islamic tenets, limited awareness of available Islamic home loan offerings, convenience factors related to accessing CHL offerings, service quality levels, availability of technology-based services such as internet banking, and the influence of social groups and communities.

Research limitations/implications

This research helps marketers understand the attitudes, subjective norms (SN) and behavioral factors related to the Muslim consumption of home loans.

Practical implications

The findings of this research can facilitate the development of financial products and marketing strategies that better appeal to Muslims. Such loan products can improve the uptake of home loans (and, in effect, homeowners) by Muslims, potentially improving social and financial inclusion.

Social implications

This research helps marketers understand the attitudes, SNs and behavioral factors related to the Muslim consumption of home loans, which can facilitate the development of financial products and marketing strategies that better appeal to Muslims. Such loan products can improve the uptake of home loans (and, in effect, homeowners) by Muslims, potentially improving social and financial inclusion.

Originality/value

This qualitative study explores the drivers of Muslim consumers’ uptake of home loans in Australia. Drawing upon the theory of planned behavior and the literature, antecedents to attitude, SNs and perceived behavioral control that influence intention and behavior were investigated. It identifies factors influencing decision-making related to home loans by Australian Muslims, contributing to a theoretical framework to investigate Muslims’ consumption of financial products.
What is the value of green building features? An empirical analysis of green building development in Jakarta, Indonesia
Authors: Sidig Danar Sutopo , Ratri Citra Wulan , Wibowo Arie
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the influence of green feature adoption on building value within Jakarta, Indonesia’s market. It assesses the presence of green premiums or brown discounts through a supply-demand analysis, evaluates their impact on building values, and identifies factors influencing green features’ value reflection and development.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a qualitative approach to investigate the green feature reflection on building value in Jakarta, Indonesia. Data is gathered through questionnaires and semi-structured interviews with appraisers, the GBCI, and developers.

Findings

The study’s findings reveal a positive acceptance of green buildings in Jakarta’s market, with most appraisers recognising a higher perceived value in these sustainable structures. Factors contributing to this higher value perception encompass green building certifications, reduced operational costs, and increased appeal to potential tenants. Conversely, hindering factors include a lack of law enforcement and limited availability of market data.

Practical implications

The study highlights practical considerations for construction and real estate stakeholders on the factors influencing green building development. Supporting factors for green building development include sustainability training, compliance with green building standards, and incentives. Conversely, obstacles encompass enforcement challenges, stakeholder expertise deficits, and resistance to change.

Originality/value

This study is the first in Indonesia, magnifying its significance and potential impact. It pioneers exploring green building features’ influence on building value in Jakarta, presenting a unique contribution to the existing literature. This originality emphasises the imperative for sustainable development in the region and sets the stage for future research and policy initiatives.
Proactive insights into place management: spatiotemporal effects of street food activities in public spaces
Authors: Elshater Abeer , Abusaada Hisham
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the utilisation of street food to redefine place management in public spaces in Egypt. The study examines the spatiotemporal effects of this approach, considering the preferences of both vendors and consumers alongside contextual design factors.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, conducted in Cairo, Egypt, a spatial ethnographic approach was used to delve into the process of place management in areas hosting street food activities. Focus group interviews were conducted with a random sample of street food vendors and consumers.

Findings

The results of this case study confirm the significant impact of street food on its surroundings, emphasising the importance of the people–place relationship. Insights from group interviews shed light on essential questions regarding the timing, location and drivers of spatiotemporal effects around food activity areas, as well as the entities controlling these effects and their mechanisms. The findings underscore the necessity of harmoniously balancing the needs of vendors and consumers without detrimentally affecting the context.

Practical implications

The proactive insights gleaned from this study hold potential for replication in other cities, offering valuable insights into the roles and specialisations of actors involved in managing street food places. However, achieving a more comprehensive understanding of stereotypes and underlying themes is imperative.

Originality/value

This study contributes to filling a research gap by exploring strategies to integrate vendors’ and consumers’ preferences and designs into specific contexts. It provides proactive and preventive solutions to mitigate adverse spatiotemporal effects of street food activities within the studied context.
Save life! Optimization of dynamics for pharmaceutical distribution performance
Authors: Mwakyeja Benjamin , Kimario Honest F.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Optimization of dynamics determining distribution performance of pharmaceuticals is vital in realizing Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) number 3 which insists on provision of good health and well-being to the society. This study was designed at unfolding diverse factors that influence the distribution performance of pharmaceuticals in the Medical Stores Department (MSD) of Tanzania.

Design/methodology/approach

This study utilized cross-sectional survey strategy in gathering data from 67 staff members working in the MSD using census approach. A structured questionnaire facilitated the collection of quantitative data which were later analyzed using ordinal logistic regression.

Findings

The results disclosed that all variables of inventory management, information management system and facility location positively and significantly govern the distribution performance and henceforth rejection of the foreseen null hypothesis.

Research limitations/implications

This study realized dynamics inducing distribution performance of pharmaceuticals but did not cover the role of 3PLS and 4PLS in enhancing the same, and hence, an imminent study ought to seal this gap. Also, having grasped management information system is of strategic pillar, then it would sound imperative to analyze the application of artificial intelligence in distribution system performance.

Originality/value

This paper assimilates the concept of subaspects of supply chain management in footings of distribution management and that of pharmaceuticals and hence multidisciplinary value addition. Also, this study illustrates the applicability of strategic choice theory in strategic management in developing countries through pertinent choice of inventory management, information management system and facility location in triumphing SDGs.
Do OKRs help employees collaborate and innovate?
Authors: Rompho Nopadol , Truktrong Suthiporn
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to determine whether and how objectives and key results (OKRs) help employees collaborate and innovate.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 295 executives and operational staff from two types of organizations – large corporations and start-ups – that have adopted OKRs were interviewed. Content analysis was performed.

Findings

Based on the opinions of executives and operational staff from both large organizations and start-ups, OKRs encouraged employee collaboration and innovation.

Research limitations/implications

This study adopted a qualitative method; thus, the generalizability of the results might be limited. Therefore, more samples are required for statistical testing in future studies.

Practical implications

Managers can adopt OKRs and use them to encourage employee collaboration and innovation. OKRs should not be linked to employee compensation and clear and challenging goals should be set.

Originality/value

This study enhances the existing knowledge boundary, as to the best of the authors’ knowledge, no study has investigated the effect of OKRs on employee collaboration and innovation in two different types of organizations: large organizations and start-ups.
Do proactive HR managers make a difference in HR system use during a crisis?
Authors: Wunderlich Marie Freia , Løkke Ann-Kristina
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Based on trait activation theory and established HRM frameworks, this paper examines the effect of HR managers’ proactive personalities on their use of HRM systems in times of crisis. As ambiguity and uncertainty provide room for personal traits to unfold and HR managers gain influence in times of crisis, we hypothesise that highly proactive HR managers report more intense use of HR practices. We thereby explore a potential alternative to maximize the value derived from HRM in times of crisis and to contribute new insights about organisational and managerial crisis responses.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper draws on data from 269 HR managers collected during the first lockdown of the COVID-19 pandemic. Hypotheses are tested by partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and multi-group analysis.

Findings

We find that a proactive personality can indeed influence the use of HR practices given that the impact of the crisis is not extremely high. This holds for HR practices that require investments (e.g., time and effort) from the HR manager, e.g., information sharing or employee involvement practices. Interestingly, we find that top management support weakens this link.

Originality/value

By emphasising the importance of managerial personality, we add important nuances to HRM frameworks that account for the influence of organisational actors (i.e. managers and HR managers) on HR policies and practices.