bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Executive-Legislative Relations
Authors: Lee Don S.
Published: February 2024

This chapter outlines executive-legislative relations in East and Southeast Asian countries where presidents are popularly elected separately from legislators, namely Indonesia, Mongolia, the Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, and Timor-Leste. The chapter first examines two main types of presidential powers along the executive-legislative dimension—constitutional and partisan powers—and then discusses their influence in the context of cabinet formation. The statistical analysis shows that the political dynamics of executive-legislative relations—executive dominance or legislative control—have a powerful impact on cabinet appointment decisions, after controlling for several political and economic factors. The results suggest that greater presidential constitutional and or partisan powers lead to a greater number of non-partisan cabinet ministers, who are viewed as more loyal agents to presidents due to their tendency of less likely putting their individual political ambition above presidents’ policy agenda. The chapter concludes with a discussion of the implications of the main findings.
Sri Lanka
Authors: Welikala Asanga
Published: February 2024

Rapid economic development and the peaceful management of communal pluralism were the rationales for Sri Lanka’s 1978 Constitution when enacted. This chapter considers the Sri Lankan constitution’s performance over the last forty-five years and argues that the constitution has not reinforced the legitimacy of the Sri Lankan state in managing political conflict through democratization and minority accommodation, nor has it achieved sustained and consistent economic development by minimizing agency costs and maximizing public goods. The chapter goes on to argue that the form of semi-presidential government established by the 1978 Constitution promotes competitive authoritarianism and delegative democracy as the norm, which also makes the system prone to backsliding episodes.
Coercion and Foreign Policy
Authors: Machain Carla Martínez , Allen Susan Hannah
Published: February 2024

This chapter explores how scholars define coercion as a foreign policy action. By doing so, it addresses the difference between deterrence and compellence. The major distinctions and differences between these definitions depend on whether a threat is actually carried out or not as well as on whether the aim is to prevent the target from taking a given action or to force them to cease on-going behaviour. The chapter addresses the question of which actors actually are able to coerce: individuals, the state, a coalition of states, or a combination of these actors. In addition, the chapter examines when coercion is used, the range of coercive strategies that can be employed (ranging from military force to economic sanctions), and the conditions under which coercion succeeds.
Foreign Policy and Global Health
Authors: Worsnop Catherine Z. , Marion Summer
Published: February 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic clearly illustrates the centrality of politics to outbreak response. From state-level policies, to the World Health Organization (WHO) and other multilateral mechanisms emerging to govern the global response, political considerations shaped policy and outcomes during the pandemic. This chapter shows how foreign policy analysis (FPA) approaches can be used to shed light on key outcomes during the pandemic including border policy, WHO actions, and COVAX—the mechanism for global vaccine development and distribution. The chapter demonstrates both connections between FPA and traditional International Relations theory and the added value of FPA for explaining challenges in outbreak response. Furthermore, we make clear that FPA approaches can be applied beyond government decision-making to small-group decision-making within international organizations (IOs) as well as IO and non-state actor behaviour, and macro-level outcomes like the design of cooperative mechanisms like COVAX.
Foreign Policy and Climate Change
Authors: Harden Alexandra , Boyer Mark A.
Published: February 2024

There is an on-going disjuncture in the conceptualization and study of climate change that focuses too much attention on the global. That disjuncture produces the negative side-effects of shaping the popular discussion on climate-related problems, their veracity and severity as policy problems, and the solutions developed to tackle them on the ground. Moreover, given how climate change manifests itself physically and socio-politically, it creates an urgency for policy action to be taken at appropriate governmental levels relative to the problem. This chapter will explore how climate change fits squarely in the domain of foreign policy analysis as a field of study within both policy and scholarly circles, allowing analysis and policy to focus in the temporal places where action is needed.
Foreign Policy Analysis and Ontological Security Studies
Authors: Steele Brent
Published: February 2024

Ontological security is a sense of continuity and order in events, and involves both psychological and sociological features. Psychologist Ronald D. Laing developed ontological security as an approach to studying patients the 1960s. It was further conceptually articulated as a sociological approach via Anthony Giddens’s work throughout the 1980s and early 1990s. The approach was imported and increasingly utilized in International Relations in the mid-2000s, and now ‘ontological security studies’ (OSS) represents a growing research community in IR. This chapter examines the overlaps between FPA and OSS and offers a way forward for a more robust dialogue between the two research fields. Two themes in FPA scholarship, bureaucratic politics and the use of ‘history’ in decision-making, are conceptual areas that have already proven useful for bridging with ontological security. The chapter concludes by pointing to further ways to deepen the dialogue between FPA and OSS within existing academic practices.
Burns Biography, 1949–2019
Authors: Baraniuk Carol
Published: February 2024

This chapter, the third on the development of Burns’s biography, will discuss the principal book-length studies of the poet's life from the mid-twentieth century until the second decade of the twenty-first, showing how his progress and development in both personal and public roles have been portrayed. The essay will demonstrate how representations of the poet altered as cultural, social, and political attitudes and values changed over time, and as eighteenth-century life and manners grew increasingly distant from the experience of audiences. It will show that many biographers have supplied fresh reinterpretations of earlier scholarship, and will identify some innovative recent approaches and research. The essay will indicate the evolution of different traditions in Burns biography in this period, and consider what progress has been made towards a definitive evaluation of the poet’s life.
Catholics in Northern Ireland, 1921–1969
Authors: Elliott Marianne
Published: February 2024

Starting out with a discussion of the sectarian violence which accompanied partition and early failures in peaceful cooperation, this contribution looks at the grievance culture which characterized northern Catholicism thereafter. In many ways the position of Catholics in Northern Ireland had been preordained centuries earlier: a largely poor grouping, looking to the Catholic Church for leadership in a state which considered them ‘disloyal’. The religion itself was their politics and until the 1960s this deterred the development of anything like normal nationalist politics. A form of ghetto religious culture developed, enclosed, comforting, uncritical. Such a church was not well-prepared for the social and religious revolution of the welfare state and the reforms of Vatican II.
A New Start, 1000–630 BCE
Authors: Bietti Sestieri Anna Maria , Giardino Claudio
Published: February 2024

Late Italian protohistory is characterized by innovative scenarios, in which the decline of the Aegean presence, which had characterized the previous phases in various areas of the peninsula, and the establishment in its place of trade with the eastern Mediterranean are significant elements. During the initial phases of the final Bronze Age, the Italian peninsula is characterized by substantial cultural homogeneity, with the appearance of the proto-Villanovan archaeological facies. In the early Iron Age, processes of differentiation will develop, and the archaeological facies become more widespread. The common elements in both ceramic and metallic production will be examined in detail, region by region, in this chapter.
Latium and the Latini
Authors: Maras Daniele Federico
Published: February 2024

Ancient historians portrayed the Latins either as faithful allies or as rebels envious of Rome’s power. In reality, this situation was the end result of a long-lasting historical process that progressively transferred the Latins’ cultural, political, and religious identity to Rome. This chapter examines the reasons for—and the steps of—this process, highlighting the characteristics of the Latin communities and the formation of their common ethnic identity from their origins to the fourth century, with an overview of the main changes in the Hellenistic period. Special attention is given to settlement patterns in proto-historic Latium, the historical role of the Latin League, sanctuaries and religion, Latin rights, and colonies.
Greek Vases in Pre-Roman Italy
Authors: Tsingarida Athena
Published: February 2024

From the early Iron Age, there is a continuous and significant presence of Greek figure-decorated wares throughout the Italian peninsula, in both Greek colonial and non-Greek sites. Their shapes are often associated with feasting practices in the Greek world, and with the distinctive narrative scenes that adorn them; these vases seem to function as vehicles of cultural transfer that may have been either adopted or reinterpreted by Italic peoples. This chapter examines the complexity of attitudes toward this class of material, which is so essentially Greek. Through specific case studies related to shapes and iconographies, it takes into account a variety of archaeological contexts, points of reception, and purchasers in order to understand the wide range of functions and statuses attributed to these vessels. The different levels of interaction that might exist between potters, middlemen, and the local non-Greek clientele are also considered.
The Banquet
Authors: Menichetti Mauro
Published: February 2024

During the course of the Iron Age, necropoleis on the Italian peninsula testify to the rise of prestigious accoutrements for the ceremonial consumption of food and alcoholic drinks at banquets. Pre-Roman peoples had many close contacts from at least the Iron Age, but this did not result in an integrated culture prior to Roman unification; nevertheless, over time, and with profound differences dictated by diverse political, social, economic, and religious conditions, the landscape of ancient Italy became dotted with indigenous cult centers that signaled the emergence and identity assertion of different ethnic groups. In these centers we should imagine festive banquets that were organized in honor of deities, involving the communities of the surrounding territories. This chapter examines the growth of celebratory eating practices until the establishment of the Roman Empire.
Etruscan, Between Isolation and Linguistic Exchanges
Authors: Benelli Enrico
Published: February 2024

Despite the striking differences at all levels among the languages of ancient Italy, they seem to share a number of elements. Furthermore, there are a number of inscriptions whose linguistic attribution is problematic and can only be resolved through non-linguistic data. Research has focused primarily on the relationship between Etruscan and Latin, since these languages have the most extensive documentation, but here the relationship of Etruscan to the Sabellian languages and, of course, to Raetic—the language to which it is most closely related—is also examined. This chapter discusses the parallels between the languages of pre-Roman Italy, which are mainly elucidated by epigraphy.
Private Spaces in Pre-Roman Italy
Authors: Harari Maurizio
Published: February 2024

In early Iron Age Italy (1000–750 BCE), the most basic private space was the hut. In the seventh century, eastern influences brought about a profound transformation in the structure and functions of private spaces, initially in those of aristocratic families, and eventually in those of ordinary people. The previously dominant curvilinear plan was abandoned in favor of right-angled structures (often in the context of extensive settlements, now fully urbanized), and we see the consolidation (in terms of both structure and material) of the house, usually with stone foundations. A house, while fundamentally private, may also include areas for public activity. Its exterior may in turn be characterized by its relationship with other dwelling units. This chapter re-analyzes the available literary and archaeological sources in order to better understand the architectural evolution of private spaces in pre-Roman Italy.
The Samnites
Authors: La Regina Adriano
Published: February 2024

In the fourth century BCE, the Samnites were the only nation able to resist Roman expansion into central-southern Italy. This chapter seeks to elucidate their history by examining several issues in depth: the question of royalty in the Italic world; the path of a Samnite military commander to Roman citizenship, virtutis causa, for his heroic opposition to Hannibal; the nature of their settlements; a proposal for the reconstruction of the missing sections of Festus’s description of the vici; the design of their sanctuaries, and the brief flourishing of the temple-theater complex in central Italy; the cult of the Italic goddess Mefitis, and especially her connection to Isis; and, finally, the political structure of the Samnite communities, the Pentri in particular.
The Battle of Sentinum
Authors: Rosenstein Nathan
Published: February 2024

At the Battle of Sentinum in 295 BCE, the Romans defeated a coalition of Samnites, Gauls, Etruscans, and Umbrians in the decisive battle for preeminence in Italy. The allies’ defeat at Sentinum did not represent the last Italian effort to contain Roman power (or even the end of the Third Samnite War), but the result prevented them from ever again uniting in their opposition to Rome, allowing Rome to conquer a divided Italy. This chapter examines the growth of Roman power in the fourth century and the developments that led to the battle as well as its significance in shaping the future of Italy.
The Peoples and Landscapes of Protohistoric and Classical Italy
Authors: Attema Peter , Sevink Jan
Published: February 2024

The application of landscape archaeology has led to a new understanding of the relationships between Italic peoples, their environment, and the long-term processes of urbanization and state formation. By the final Bronze Age, complex settlement organizations and advanced ways of dividing up and working the land were in place across much of Italy; the pre-Roman Iron cultures built further on these geopolitical and socioeconomic foundations. This chapter discusses the impact on the landscape of land use and of exploitation of natural resources caused by the significantly increased human presence throughout Italy during the first millennium BCE, describing these in the broader context of climate change and other geological phenomena that occurred in this millennium.
Lupus Low Disease Activity State and organ damage in relation to quality of life in systemic lupus erythematosus: a cohort study with up to 11 years of follow-up
Authors: Parodis Ioannis , Haugli-Stephens Thomas , Dominicus Annica , Eek Daniel , Sjöwall Christopher
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Beyond prevention of organ damage, treatment goals in SLE include optimization of health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The Lupus Low Disease Activity State (LLDAS) has received increasing attention as a goal whenever remission cannot be achieved. How SLE disease activity, organ damage and LLDAS attainment relate to patient-reported outcomes (PROs) is not fully explored, which formed the scope of this investigation.

Methods

We included 327 patients with SLE from a tertiary referral centre. Longitudinal registrations of disease activity using SLEDAI-2K and physician global assessment (PhGA), organ damage using the SLICC/ACR damage index (SDI), pharmacotherapies, EQ-5D-3L data, as well as visual analogue scale (VAS) scores for fatigue, pain and overall SLE-related health state over a median follow-up time of 8.5 years were analysed.

Results

In the overall population, as well as subgroups of patients with recent-onset SLE and those with clinically active, autoantibody-positive disease, LLDAS attainment, lower PhGA and lower clinical SLEDAI-2K scores were associated with favourable HRQoL by EQ-5D-3L and VAS assessments, while increasing SDI scores were associated with poor PROs except for fatigue in the overall population. PROs were further enhanced by being in LLDAS sustainedly. In fully adjusted models of the entire study population, LLDAS attainment and lower disease activity were associated with favourable PROs, irrespective of SDI.

Conclusion

In one of the longest observational studies to date, we demonstrated that low disease activity and being sustainedly in LLDAS were coupled with favourable HRQoL, pain, fatigue and overall health experience, irrespective of organ damage.
Don't Judge a Book by Its Cover
Authors: Lopez Lois
Published: February 2024

Recognizing bias as the biggest hidden threat to patient safety
Adding Throat to Nasal Swabs Improves Accuracy of COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Testing
Authors: Rosenberg Karen
Published: February 2024

According to this study:
Simple Models Predict Need for High-Level Care in Adults with Probable Dementia
Authors: Rosenberg Karen
Published: February 2024

According to this study:
The Rising Use of E-Cigarettes: Unveiling the Health Risks and Controversies
Authors: Sheth Parth , Mehta Fena , Jangid Gurusha , Anamika F. N. U. , Singh Bhupinder , Kanagala Sai Gautham , Jain Rohit
Published: February 2024

The use of e-cigarettes has tremendously increased in recent times due to the widespread availability of e-cigarettes in diverse flavors, reduced cost compared to regular cigarettes, and misconception of being comparatively safe, which have led to around 2.55 million US middle and high school students smoking e-cigarettes. These devices use a nicotine-rich liquid, which is aerosolized electronically, producing vapors that may also include hazardous chemicals and heavy metals. E-cigarettes are associated with e-cigarette or vaping-associated lung injury, which presents as an acute respiratory ailment mirroring various pulmonary diseases. Additionally, it causes endothelial dysfunction, alters blood lipid profile by elevating circulating levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, increases sympathetic tone, and is found to correlate with arterial stiffening, hence negatively affecting respiratory, cardiovascular, and overall health. We aim to provide a comprehensive analysis of the data on e-cigarettes and their harmful effects on health in comparison to conventional cigarette use by highlighting the pathophysiology of e-cigarette-induced adverse effects and critically analyzing the data both in favor and against its use. Our review concludes that no matter how much nicotine an e-cigarette contains, evidence shows that using it increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, albeit maybe not as much as smoking regular tobacco. Nonetheless, it is crucial to note that the long-term effects of e-cigarette usage are still not fully understood, and existing data have provided opposing viewpoints.
Fractional CO2 laser for genitourinary syndrome of menopause: evaluating the evidence
Authors: Gunter Jen
Published: February 2024

The fractionated CO2 laser has been marketed to women for a variety of gynecologic symptoms and conditions, including the genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). The evidence has been limited, precluding conclusions regarding the efficacy and safety of the therapy. However, data from randomized, controlled trials evaluating this technology for GSM are now available. This Practice Pearl addresses the latest data concerning the use of the fractionated CO2 laser for the treatment of GSM.
Eligibility criteria for using menopausal hormone therapy in breast cancer survivors: a safety report based on a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Coronado Pluvio J. , Gómez Ana , Iglesias Eva , Fasero María , Baquedano Laura , Sánchez Sonia , Ramírez-Polo Isabel , de la Viuda Esther , Otero Borja , Llaneza Plácido , Mendoza Nicolás , Lubián Daniel M. ,   on behalf of the HMT Eligibility Criteria Group
Published: February 2024

Importance

Menopause hormone therapy (MHT) effectively alleviates menopausal symptoms. However, it is generally not recommended for breast cancer survivors, although the scientific evidence is scarce.

Objective

This study aimed to establish eligibility criteria for use of the MHT in breast cancer survivors based on a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature.

Evidence Review

We conducted exhaustive literature searches until June 2022 in MEDLINE, The Cochrane Library, and EMBASE, using a tailored strategy with a combination of controlled vocabulary and search terms related to breast cancer survivors and MHT. We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines and assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane and Risk of Bias in Non-randomized Studies - of Interventions tools. The quality of the evidence was graded according to grading quality of evidence and strength of recommendations criteria (A, high; B, moderate; C, low; and D, very low). We categorized MHT use into four levels: category 1 (no restrictions on use), category 2 (the benefits outweigh the risks), category 3 (the risks generally outweigh the benefits), and category 4 (MHT should not be used).

Findings

A total of 12 studies met the eligibility criteria. Analysis of the three randomized clinical trials using combined MHT or tibolone revealed no significant differences concerning tumor recurrence (relative risk [RR], 1.46; 95% CI, 0.99-2.24). A combined analysis of randomized clinical trials, prospective, and retrospective trials found no elevated risk of recurrence (RR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.54-1.33) or death (RR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.38-2.19). The eligibility criteria for patients with hormone receptor (HR)–positive tumors fell into categories 3B and 3C for combined MHT or estrogen alone and 4A for tibolone. For HR-negative tumors, the category was 2B and 2C.

Conclusions and Relevance

Our findings suggest that MHT could be a viable treatment alternative for breast cancer survivors experiencing menopausal symptoms, especially those with HR-negative tumors. Personalized management is recommended for each peri/postmenopausal woman facing a diminished quality of life because of menopause symptoms. Further randomized trials are needed before considering changes to current standards of care.
Prevalence and risk factors associated with diabetes mellitus among middle-aged women in southern Brazil: a population-based study
Authors: Oppermann Karen , Spritzer Poli M.
Published: February 2024

Objectives

To investigate prevalence and clinical factors associated with diabetes among middle-aged women.

Methods

In this cross-sectional population-based study, clinical and laboratory examinations were collected from 298 women. Participants wore a digital pedometer for 7 days to assess habitual physical activity. Abdominal computed tomography scans were performed to measure total fat area and visceral fat area.

Results

Mean age was 57.1 years (SD, 5.4 y); 78.7% of women were postmenopausal. The prevalence of diabetes was 17.1%. Women with diabetes were older (P = 0.02); worked fewer hours per week in the past month (P = 0.04); had an earlier age at menarche (P = 0.03); were more frequently inactive (P = 0.01); had higher body mass index (P = 0.01), higher waist circumference (P < 0.01), higher visceral (P < 0.01), and higher total fat (P < 0.01) but not subcutaneous fat (P = 0.14); and had higher systolic blood pressure (BP) (P < 0.01). There was a prevalence of 19.5% of current smoking, 32.5% of alcohol use, and 16.1% of current hormone therapy use, prevalence similar among the groups of women. There was a higher prevalence of metabolic syndrome (P < 0.01) and statin use (P < 0.01) in women with diabetes. A higher prevalence ratio of diabetes was associated with physical inactivity (prevalence ratio, 2.137; 95% CI, 1.056-4.325; P < 0.03). The odds of having diabetes increased by 12% for each year of earlier menarche and by 1.4% for each millimeter of mercury increase in systolic BP.

Conclusion

The prevalence of diabetes was 17.1%. Age, physical inactivity, early age at menarche, and systolic BP were independently associated with higher prevalence of diabetes in this unselected population of middle-aged women.
Short and long-term complications of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy: lifelong cardiovascular risks we cannot ignore
Authors: Saxon Cara E. , Bast Julia , Chou Josephine C.
Published: February 2024

Purpose of review

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) pose a significant threat to maternal cardiovascular health, with emerging research shedding light on the enduring risks beyond the gestational period. This review highlights updates regarding cardiovascular risks associated with HDP and their implications for long-term health.

Recent findings

Patients with a history of HDP are at an elevated risk of developing chronic hypertension, ischemic heart disease, stroke, valvular heart disease, and heart failure.

Not surprisingly, patients with HDP experience higher rates of maternal and fetal adverse events in the antepartum and immediate postpartum periods, with high readmission rates for cardiovascular complications. The high risk of chronic hypertension after a HDP then leads to the development of subclinical disease over 5–10 years with overt cardiovascular disease becoming most prevalent in the decades following pregnancy. Early hypertension management in the antepartum and postpartum periods has lifelong health benefits and highlights the need for seamless postpartum transitions with close blood pressure monitoring and cardiovascular risk mitigation.

HDP significantly increases the risk of short and long-term adverse cardiovascular events. Integrated healthcare models that assess and address postpartum cardiovascular risk are necessary to improve the cardiovascular health and longevity of those effected by HDP.
Integration of Total Worker Health® Training for Occupational Health and Safety Professionals With Efforts to Promote Worker Health, Safety, and Well-being in Mexico
Authors: Brown Carol E. , Jaramillo Diana , Tenney Liliana , Schwatka Natalie V. , Goering Madison G. , Villarreal Hernandez Karely , Shapiro David C. , Van Dyke Mike , Rice Serena , Barnoya Joaquin , Hernandez Avila Mauricio , Velasco Reyna Rebeca , Rivera Beltran Ricardo Alonso , Real Ornelas Gabriel Alejandro , Gorian Montealegre Claudia , Newman Lee S.
Published: February 2024

Objective

We sought to test whether a 2-week Total Worker Health (TWH) training mapped to TWH education competencies could be administered to a Mexican audience of occupational safety and health professionals and could lead to positive changes to knowledge and behaviors.

Methods

This study used robust program evaluation methods collected before and after each of the nine training days and at the end of the course.

Results

Overall course quality received a mean score of 4.6 (SD = 0.6) and 98.8% of participants agreed that their TWH knowledge increased. All participants intended to make at least one change to their professional practice, most frequently helping companies assess their organizational culture to support health, safety, and well-being.

Conclusions

This TWH training was well received and led to positive self-reported increase in knowledge and abilities to influence workers’ health, safety, and well-being.
Outcomes of Intracorporeal Continuous and Paracorporeal Pulsatile Ventricular Assist Devices in Pediatric Patients 10–30 kg
Authors: Lee Jacqueline , Shezad Muhammad F. , Zafar Farhan , Niebler Robert A. ,   on behalf of the ACTION Learning Network Investigators
Published: February 2024

Ventricular assist devices (VADs) have been increasingly implanted in pediatric patients. Paracorporeal VADs are generally chosen when intracorporeal continuous (IC) devices are too large. Superiority between IC and paracorporeal pulsatile (PP) devices remains unclear in smaller pediatric patients. Our study analyzes outcomes of IC and PP VADs in pediatric patients who could be considered for either of these options. Using the Advanced Cardiac Therapies Improving Outcomes Network (ACTION) database, we identified children between 10 and 30 kg who received a VAD between June 2018 and September 2021. Survival and stroke outcomes were analyzed based on VAD type. There were 41 patients in the IC group and 54 patients in the PP group. Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support (INTERMACS) profile at the time of implant was higher in the PP cohort (p < 0.02). The PP cohort was younger (p < 0.001) and smaller (p < 0.001) than the IC cohort. The diagnosis was similar between cohorts. Overall survival was similar between groups. Stroke was more common in the PP cohort, but did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.07). Discharge was possible only in the IC group, but the discharge rate was low (9.5%). Direct comparisons remain challenging given differences in INTERMACS profiles, age, and size.
Pancreatic Surgery in Children: Complex, Safe, and Effective
Authors: Fuchs Juri , Loos Martin , Kinny-Köster Benedict , Hackert Thilo , Schneider Martin , Mehrabi Arianeb , Berchtold Christoph , Al-Saeedi Mohammed , Müller Beat P. , Strobel Oliver , Feißt Manuel , Kessler Markus , Günther Patrick , Büchler Markus W.
Published: February 2024

Objective:

The aim of this study was to assess indications for and report outcomes of pancreatic surgery in pediatric patients.

Background:

Indications for pancreatic surgery in children are rare and data on surgical outcomes after pediatric pancreatic surgery are scarce.

Methods:

All children who underwent pancreatic surgery at a tertiary hospital specializing in pancreatic surgery between 2003 and 2022 were identified from a prospectively maintained database. Indications, surgical procedures, and perioperative as well as long-term outcomes were analyzed.

Results:

In total, 73 children with a mean age of 12.8 years (range: 4 mo to 18 y) underwent pancreatic surgery during the observation period. Indications included chronic pancreatitis (n=35), pancreatic tumors (n=27), and pancreatic trauma (n=11). Distal pancreatectomy was the most frequently performed procedure (n=23), followed by pancreatoduodenectomy (n=19), duodenum-preserving pancreatic head resection (n=10), segmental pancreatic resection (n=7), total pancreatectomy (n=3), and others (n=11). Postoperative morbidity occurred in 25 patients (34.2%), including 7 cases (9.6%) with major complications (Clavien-Dindo≥III). There was no postoperative (90-d) mortality. The 5-year overall survival was 90.5%. The 5-year event-free survival of patients with chronic pancreatitis was 85.7%, and 69.0% for patients with pancreatic tumors.

Conclusion:

This is the largest single-center study on pediatric pancreatic surgery in a Western population. Pediatric pancreatic surgery can be performed safely. Centralization in pancreatic centers with high expertise in surgery of adult and pediatric patients is important as it both affords the benefits of pancreatic surgery experience and ensures that surgical management is adapted to the specific needs of children.
Histopathological Features and Role of Allograft Kidney Biopsy Among Recipients With Prolonged Delayed Graft Function: A Review
Authors: Swanson Kurtis J. , Zhong Weixiong , Mandelbrot Didier A. , Parajuli Sandesh
Published: February 2024

Delayed graft function (DGF) is an early posttransplant complication predictive of adverse outcomes. This “acute kidney injury of transplantation” is often defined as allograft dysfunction requiring renal replacement within 7 d posttransplantation. DGF is an important area of study because it is emerging with efforts to expand the donor pool and address the supply-demand gap in kidney transplantation. DGF is often caused by severe kidney injury mechanisms because of multiple donors, recipients, and immunologic factors. The role of kidney biopsy, particularly in prolonged DGF, is an ongoing area of research and inquiry for clinicians and researchers alike to better define, manage, and predict outcomes of this early posttransplant event. This review aims to provide an in-depth, comprehensive summary of the literature to date on the histopathology of DGF and the role of kidney transplant biopsies in prolonged DGF.
Is knowledge management a missing link? Linking entrepreneurial competencies and sustainable performance of manufacturing SMEs
Authors: Al Koliby Ibraheem Saleh , Mehat Nurul Aini Binti , Al-Swidi Abdullah Kaid , Al-Hakimi Mohammed A.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

By combining relevant literature and using quantitative methodology, this study aims to look into the role of knowledge management (KM) as a mediator between entrepreneurial competencies (ECs) and the sustainable performance (SP) of manufacturing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Design/methodology/approach

The relationships in the proposed model were examined with data collected from 122 Malaysian SMEs using a cross-sectional technique and a standardized questionnaire and analyzed using structural equation modeling path analysis.

Findings

According to the findings, ECs have a positive and considerable impact on KM as well as the SP of manufacturing SMEs. Importantly, KM partially mediates between ECs and the SP of manufacturing SMEs.

Research limitations/implications

This research provides a theoretical contribution through the integration of ECs, KM and SP within a unified framework that takes into account the viewpoints of the resource-based view, the knowledge-based view and the triple bottom line. The results corroborate that ECs directly affect SP and indirectly through KM. Nevertheless, the study’s use of cross-sectional survey data makes it impossible to draw conclusions about causes. This is because ECs, KM and SP all have effects on time that this empirical framework cannot account for.

Practical implications

The findings of this research provide valuable insights for managers and decision-makers in SMEs, who are expected to show an increasing interest in adopting KM processes into their companies through which ECs can be translated into SP.

Social implications

By applying the proposed framework, SMEs can conduct their activities in ways that do not harm environmental and societal well-being while achieving appropriate economic performance at the same time.

Originality/value

As a result, the findings of this study can add to the literature on ECs and KM, as well as boost the chances of SME sustainability. Directions for future research are also provided in relation to a better understanding of the factors affecting the SP of SMEs.
Exploring the emotions and decision-making of consumers for elective healthcare and hedonic adaptation
Authors: Quintal Vanessa , Sood Abhinav , Phau Ian
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The paper aims to empirically test a framework to predict the desire and intention to engage with an elective health-care procedure and implement a methodology to test the anticipated positive and negative emotions in hedonic adaptation to an elective procedure.

Design/methodology/approach

Two studies in USA and Australia (N = 1,200) confirmed the psychometric properties of the key constructs under the chemical peel condition. Two further studies in the USA and Australia (N = 1,100) explored the research question and hypotheses in the adapted model of goal-directed behaviour under the Botox condition. A survey was self-administered to online panels who had previously engaged in such elective procedures.

Findings

The findings highlighted the pragmatic implications for communication and activation strategies to safeguard consumer interests and retain their loyalty.

Originality/value

From the authors’ best understanding, neither a methodology nor a theoretical framework exists to explore hedonic adaptation to recurring engagement with elective health care. A methodology and theoretical framework will highlight the mood states and factors that predict desire and intention to engage. This can advance the research on hedonic adaptation and decision-making and offer pragmatic suggestions for communication and activation strategies to safeguard consumer interests and retain their loyalty.
Research on dual robot collaboration method based on improved double ant colony algorithm
Authors: Jia Xiaohui , Tang Chunrui , Zhang Xiangbo , Liu Jinyue
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aims to propose an efficient dual-robot task collaboration strategy to address the issue of low work efficiency and inability to meet the production needs of a single robot during construction operations.

Design/methodology/approach

A hybrid task allocation method based on integer programming and auction algorithms, with the aim of achieving a balanced workload between two robots has been proposed. In addition, while ensuring reasonable workload allocation between the two robots, an improved dual ant colony algorithm was used to solve the dual traveling salesman problem, and the global path planning of the two robots was determined, resulting in an efficient and collision-free path for the dual robots to operate. Meanwhile, an improved fast Random tree rapidly-exploring random tree algorithm is introduced as a local obstacle avoidance strategy.

Findings

The proposed method combines randomization and iteration techniques to achieve an efficient task allocation strategy for two robots, ensuring the relative optimal global path of the two robots in cooperation and solving complex local obstacle avoidance problems.

Originality/value

This method is applied to the scene of steel bar tying in construction work, with the workload allocation and collaborative work between two robots as evaluation indicators. The experimental results show that this method can efficiently complete the steel bar banding operation, effectively reduce the interference between the two robots and minimize the interference of obstacles in the environment.
Does information environment affect information spillover between the CDS and stock markets in Korea?
Authors: Park Heewoo , Park Yuen Jung
Published: February 2024

This study analyzes the impact of the information environment (IE) and credit default swap (CDS) transaction costs on information transmission between the stock and CDS markets. Using the daily regression analysis on the Korean firm’s stock and CDS data from 2004 to 2023, the results show that companies with superior IE in the stock market exhibit a larger and more sensitive total information flow from the stock market to the CDS market. Companies with lower transaction costs in the CDS market demonstrate faster information flow. In the case of companies with superior IE, fundamental information is reflected in stock prices with high weight and thus the CDS spreads change reflecting information about stock prices. According to this study’s findings, the primary factor influencing the information flow from the stock market to the CDS market is the information environment of the company in the stock market, rather than transaction costs in the CDS market.
Unmasking company liability for corruption by associated persons
Authors: Abdul Raof Nurazlina , Abdul Aziz Norazlina , Omar Nadia , Md Amin @ Fahmy Wan Liza
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2009 (MACC Act) has introduced Section 17 A, which holds companies and their management accountable for bribery committed by their Associated Persons in the interest of the company. This study aims to explore the evolving concept of Associated Persons and corporate liability within this legal framework. It delves into three primary legal models of Associated Persons, particularly focusing on corrupt cases falling under Sections 17 A (1), 17 A (6) and 17 A (7) of the MACC Act. The study also investigates the extent of Associated Persons’ involvement in these cases that eventually led to company liability.

Design/methodology/approach

The study deployed thematic and comparative analyses to assess the legal framework and highlight the significance of Section 17 A of the MACC Act.

Findings

The study disclosed that, despite having corruption policies, there is still a possibility for Associated Persons to engage in corrupt activities. To ensure long-term business sustainability, it is crucial to implement effective mechanisms and a strong compliance culture.

Originality/value

This study suggests implementing a due diligence checklist and conducting risk assessments for companies as measures against corruption caused by Associated Persons. Corporate entities and legal professionals may benefit from the reported findings to better comprehend the corruption offences outlined in Section 17 A of the MACC Act.
Ethnography beyond the tribe: from immersion to “committed localism” in the study of relational work
Authors: Skovgaard-Smith Irene
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to propose a shift from the ideal of immersion to a practice of “committed localism” in the ethnographic study of relational work in the post-bureaucratic and service-based economy.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on ethnographic fieldwork following management consultancy projects in a hospital and a manufacturing company in Denmark. The approach was predicated on committed attention to the everyday of consultancy work activities and associated relational dynamics. This involved being present at the client sites, observing and listening in concrete situations of interaction and engaging in conversations with the multiple actors involved, both external consultants and members of client organisations.

Findings

The paper shows how “committed localism” was practiced in the ethnographic study of management consultancy as it is relationally accomplished in and through concrete situations of interaction between consultants and different actors in client organizations and the associated meaning production of the involved actors.

Originality/value

The paper develops the notion of “committed localism”, originally introduced by George Marcus, into a methodological concept to challenge the conventional ideal of immersion as the hallmark of “proper” ethnography. Such a shift is particularly pertinent for the ethnographic study of relational processes involving multiple actors occupying different positions in the temporary social spaces of contemporary workplaces.
The spillover effect of sudden environmental disasters on energy technology innovation: evidence from China
Authors: Liang Shan , Zhang Hui Ming
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Examine the effects of sudden environmental disasters on the advancement of both renewable and conventional energy technologies.

Design/methodology/approach

Utilizing panel data from 31 Chinese provinces spanning 2011 to 2022, the SEM (Spatial Error Model) dual fixed model is utilized to examine the impact of sudden environmental disasters on energy technologies.

Findings

The findings reveal that: (1) Sudden environmental disasters exert a markedly positive influence on the Innovation of Renewable Energy Technologies (IRET), while their impact on conventional energy technologies is positively non-significant. (2) Sudden environmental disasters not only significantly enhance innovation in local renewable energy technologies but also extend this positive influence to neighboring regions, demonstrating a spatial spillover phenomenon. (3) Research and Development (R&D) funding serves as a partial mediator in the relationship between sudden environmental disasters and renewable ETI. In contrast, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) exhibits a masking effect.

Originality/value

Consequently, the study advocates for intensified efforts in post-disaster reconstruction following abrupt environmental events, an elevation in the quality of foreign direct investments, and leveraging research funding to catalyze innovation in renewable energy technologies amid unforeseen environmental crises.
Risk factors for complications after emergency surgery for paediatric appendicitis: a national prospective observational cohort study
Authors: Sogbodjor L. A. , Razavi C. , Williams K. , Selman A. , Pereira S. M. Pinto , Davenport M. ,   CASAP investigators, Moonesinghe S. R.
Published: February 2024

Appendicectomy is a common procedure in children with a low risk of mortality, however, complication rates and risk factors are largely unknown. This study aimed to characterise the incidence and epidemiology of postoperative complications in children undergoing appendicectomy in the UK. This multicentre prospective observational cohort study, which included children aged 1–16 y who underwent surgery for suspected appendicitis, was conducted between November 2019 and January 2022. The primary outcome was 30‐day postoperative morbidity. Data collected included: patient characteristics; comorbidities; and physiological status. Multivariable regression analysis was used to identify independent risk factors for poor outcomes. Data from 2799 children recruited from 80 hospitals were analysed, of which 185 (7%) developed postoperative complications. Children from black and ‘other’ minority ethnic groups were at significantly higher risk of poor outcomes: OR (95%CI) 4.13 (1.87–9.08), p < 0.001 and 2.08 (1.12–3.87), p = 0.021, respectively. This finding was independent of socio‐economic status and type of appendicitis found on histology. Other risk factors for complications included: ASA physical status ≥ 3 (OR (95%CI) 4.05 (1.70–9.67), p = 0.002); raised C‐reactive protein (OR 95%CI 1.01 (1.00–1.01), p < 0.001); pyrexia (OR (95%CI) 1.77(1.20–2.63), p = 0.004); and peri‐operative oxygen supplementation (OR (95%CI) 4.20 (1.44–12.24), p = 0.009). In the UK NHS, which is a universally accessible healthcare system, ethnicity, but not socio‐economic status, was associated with an increased risk of postoperative complications in children having surgery for acute appendicitis. Further evaluations and interventions are required to address this health inequality in keeping with NHS and international priorities.