bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Second-chance employment as a “win-win-win”: an innovative stakeholder approach for hospitality practitioners
Authors: Pons Sydney , Quadri-Felitti Donna , Jolly Phillip M. , Tews Michael J.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Hiring employees with criminal records has become a heightened topic of conversation for hospitality practitioners. The labor shortage in the hospitality industry has increased consideration for individuals impacted by the justice system, bolstered by programming such as second-chance vocational training programs. However, hospitality practitioners with second-chance employment practices have had challenges managing the multiple stakeholder relationships to employ and retain justice-impacted employees. The purpose of this paper is to aid practitioners in the hospitality industry with an innovative and inclusive hiring practice with timely implications in the United States.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper will emphasize the correctional system actors, community-based partners, and justice-impacted employees as salient stakeholders in such hiring contexts. Employing a stakeholder theoretical perspective, we outline a stakeholder map for hospitality practitioners with fair chance hiring practices to better understand second-chance employees.

Findings

Organizations do not sit on the periphery of a community; they are interconnected with the community in many direct and indirect ways. Past research has yet to identify a relationship between stakeholder theory and second-chance employment when the stakeholders involved in this employee population are arguably extended. By providing a stakeholder mapping process second-chance employment context, the interwoven actors’ needs can be more holistically assessed.

Originality/value

In America, individuals with a criminal record are often a forgotten and stigmatized labor pool. With this paper, we aim to break down barriers of bias while encouraging the narrative toward true Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) hiring practices. Multiple stakeholder management is often an organizational challenge, and by providing this framework, we provide guidelines to practitioners while highlighting the opportunity for community leadership. To that end, we provide guidelines for hospitality practitioners intending to increase justice-involved employee retention through stakeholder relationship management.
Carbon neutral higher education institutions: a reality check, challenges and solutions
Authors: Ahonen Veronica Lucia , Woszczek Aleksandra , Baumeister Stefan , Helimo Ulla T. , Jackson Anne Kristiina , Kopsakangas-Savolainen Maria , Kääriä Juha , Lehtonen Tommi , Luoranen Mika , Pongrácz Eva , Soukka Risto , Vainio Veera , El Geneidy Sami
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Calculating an organization's carbon footprint is crucial for assessing and implementing emission reductions. Although Finnish higher education institutions (HEIs) aim for carbon neutrality by 2030, limited research exists on plans to reach a similar target in any country. This paper aims to address the shared and individual challenges Finnish HEIs have with carbon footprint calculations, reductions, resources and offsetting.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was targeted to sustainability experts in all 38 HEIs in Finland to identify key patterns and trends in the focus fields of the study. SWOT analysis was used to classify main strengths, opportunities, weaknesses and threats, based on which a series of policy recommendations was drafted.

Findings

Finnish HEIs are committed to carbon footprint tracking (97%, annually by 87%). The lack of standardization and the number of external stakeholders complicate accounting indirect emissions, impeding comparability and reliability. Only 39% had set separate emission reduction targets, suggesting a preference for carbon footprint over other environmental impact indicators. Insufficient monetary and human resources emerged in 23% of institutions, especially those smaller in size. Only 52% had clear offsetting plans, with shared concerns over trust and responsibility.

Originality/value

By including both research universities and universities of applied sciences, the findings provide an unprecedented outlook into the entire Finnish HEI sector. The policy recommendations guide HEIs both locally and globally on how to improve their transparency and scientific integrity, reflect on core successes and weaknesses and how they complete their objectives of education, research and social impact while promoting stronger sustainability.
Assessing factors influencing intentions to use cryptocurrency payments in the hospitality sector
Authors: Pillai Rajasshrie , Preet Raman , Sivathanu Brijesh , Rana Nripendra P.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The emergence of cryptocurrency has developed a new payment system that is changing how financial transactions happen in hospitality. Consumers/travelers have started experimenting with cryptocurrency payments in hotels and restaurants. However, extant research is lacking in understanding the consumer adoption intention of cryptocurrency payments. This study investigates the intention to use cryptocurrency payments in the hospitality industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The conceptual model in this study is based on the Behavioral Reasoning Theory, and it explores the motivating and deterring factors influencing the adoption of cryptocurrency payments in the hospitality industry. A quantitative survey was conducted among 1,080 consumers to examine and confirm the model, with data being analyzed through the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) method.

Findings

The outcome of this work showed that the “reasons for” positively influence and “reasons against” negatively influence consumers’ attitudes and use intentions. Consumers’ values of openness to change positively influence the “reasons for” and do not influence the “reasons against” and attitude toward the use of cryptocurrency payments.

Practical implications

This work contributes to practice by providing insights to customers (users/payee), hospitality managers (investors) and organizations/firms (receiving crypto payments) as well as to financial firms and the government.

Originality/value

This research contributes to cryptocurrency payment adoption and behavioral finance literature. The research uniquely provides the adoption and inhibiting factors for cryptocurrency payment in an integrated framework in the hospitality sector.
Do trade and foreign direct investment contribute to growth? A study of BIMSTEC nations
Authors: Arya Vandana , Verma Ravinder , Saini Vijender Pal
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The study examines the association between trade (exports and imports), foreign direct investment (FDI) and economic growth in the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) countries using data from 1991 to 2019.

Design/methodology/approach

Augmented Dickey–Fuller (ADF) and Phillips–Perron (PP) unit root tests were applied to check the stationary of the data while the Johansen cointegration test and Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) was used to analyze long-run and short-run relationships.

Findings

The results indicate a long-run relationship between trade, FDI and economic growth in all selected countries except Bhutan. Additionally, a bidirectional causality exists between gross domestic product (GDP) and FDI in India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka, while unidirectional causality from GDP to FDI is observed in Thailand. Moreover, a one-way causality from exports to GDP exists in Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka and Myanmar, whereas a bidirectional relationship exists in India and Thailand.

Practical implications

This paper will be highly beneficial for regulators and policymakers in the designated economies, aiding in the formulation of FDI and trade policies that promote economic progress and development.

Originality/value

Most previous studies examining the relationship between macroeconomic variables have focused on developed nations. This study is the first to explore the relationship between trade (exports and imports), FDI and economic growth in the BIMSTEC countries.
In smartness we trust: consumer experience, smart device personalization and privacy balance
Authors: Chan-Olmsted Sylvia , Chen Huan , Kim Hyehyun Julia
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Drawing on the personalization–privacy paradox and guided by means–end analysis, this study explores how consumers balance their concerns for privacy and the benefits of smart home device personalization and the role that trust plays in the process. More specifically, this study aims to investigate how perceptions of smart device personalization and privacy concerns are shaped by consumers’ experiences and the role of trust in the deliberation process.

Design/methodology/approach

In-depth interviews were conducted across diverse demographic groups of smart device users to shed light on the balancing act between personalization and privacy.

Findings

The study found that product experience, ownership type, perceived value of convenience and control and quality of life via “smart things” are key motivators for product usage. The benefits of tailored recommendations and high relevance are balanced against the risks of echo chamber effects and loss of control. The results also show the role of active involvement in the privacy calculus and trust level. The study points to the significance of an ecosystem-based service/business model in gaining consumer confidence when they balance between personalization and privacy.

Originality/value

Although many studies have explored trust, privacy concerns and personalization in an artificial intelligence (AI)-related context, few have addressed trust in the context of both smart devices and the personalization–privacy paradox. As such, this study adds to the existing literature by incorporating the concept of trust and addressing both privacy concerns and personalization in the AI context.
Reconstructive psychological assessment (RPA) applied to the analysis of digital behavioral residues in forensic contexts
Authors: Ceballos-Espinoza Francisco
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore advances in indirect personality assessment, with emphasis on the psychology of digital behavior based on the analysis of new technological devices and platforms for interpersonal relationships, identifying – along the way – those findings that may be useful to carry out a reconstructive psychological assessment (RPA) of applicability in the legal context.

Design/methodology/approach

Different fields of knowledge are explored, transferring the findings to the field of psychology of digital behavior, analyzing the publications that report findings on the analysis of new technological devices and platforms for interpersonal relationships and identifying – along the way – those findings that may result useful to carry out an RPA of applicability in the legal context.

Findings

The application of RPA represents a significant advance in the integration of criminal psychology and forensic technology in legal contexts, opening new fields of action for forensic psychology.

Originality/value

The article has transferred advances in computer science to the field of forensic psychology, with emphasis on the relevance of RPA (from the analysis of digital behavioral residues) in the interpretation of behavioral evidence for the indirect evaluation of the personality and within the judicial context (when the victim and/or accused are not included).
How does paradoxical leadership affect employee adaptive performance? A moderated mediation model
Authors: Tan Le , Hao Po , Gao Hanyu , Wojtczuk-Turek Agnieszka
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Drawing on the paradox perspective and the Job Demands-Resources Model (JD-R), we investigate how paradoxical leadership behavior (PLB) affects employee adaptive performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Conducted a multi-wave field study with a sample of 64 leaders and 224 subordinates (study 1), and a quasi-experiment involving 156 participants (study 2). The collected data were analyzed using ANOVA and HLM techniques.

Findings

Both studies reveal that (1) PLB exhibits a positive association with employee adaptive performance, (2) employee paradox mindset and role stress partly mediated the relationship between PLB and employee adaptive performance, (3) the indirect effects of PLB on employee adaptive performance through employee paradox mindset and role stress are moderated by employee gender-role identity (GRI).

Originality/value

This research developed a moderated mediation model to examine the potential impact of PLB on employee adaptive performance, which contributes to the literature by integrating the paradox perspective and emphasizing the effectiveness of combining “top-down” and “bottom-up” leadership approaches. Moreover, we elucidate the underlying mechanisms through which PLB facilitates employees in effectively managing work role tensions to enhance adaptive performance Finally, this study also extends the investigation of the contextual efficacy of PLB by incorporating GRI as a moderator.
Analysing the role of modern information technologies in HRM: management perspective and future agenda
Authors: Roul Jayashree , Mohapatra Lalita Mohan , Pradhan Ashok Kumar , Kamesh A.V.S.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The objective of this study is to analyse the integration of technology in Human Resources Management (HRM) with a special focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Internet of Things (IoT) and Big Data.

Design/methodology/approach

This study aims to contribute to the understanding of these trends by conducting a thorough bibliometric analysis using the Scopus database, encompassing research on HRM and Technology from 1991 to 2022. By employing citation analysis, co-citation analysis and co-word analysis, the study uncovers key patterns and trends in the field.

Findings

The findings indicate that AI, Big Data and ML are the focal points of research when exploring the intersection of Technology and HRM. These technologies offer promising prospects for enhancing Human Resource processes, such as Talent Acquisition, Performance Management and Employee Engagement.

Research limitations/implications

In our study, we showcase the practical implications that offer guidance for HR researchers and professionals, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding the adoption and implementation of Information Technology.

Practical implications

This research can provide valuable insights to HR managers on the use of cutting-edge technology in HRM. It aims to enhance the manager’s awareness of how technology-enabled HRM can improve HR performance.

Originality/value

This study adds to the existing body of knowledge on how Modern Technology empowers HRM. It also proposes a conceptual framework for the use of Modern Technology along with Strategic Management and Knowledge Management to improve Human Resource Performance.
Reliability analysis of various modeling techniques for the prediction of axial strain of FRP-confined concrete
Authors: Elhag Ahmed Babeker , Raza Ali , Kahla Nabil Ben , Arshad Muhammed
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The external confinement provided by the fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) sheets leads to an improvement in the axial compressive strength (CS) and strain of reinforced concrete structural members. Many studies have proposed analytical models to predict the axial CS of concrete structural members, but the predictions for the axial compressive strain still need more investigation because the previous strain models are not accurate enough. Moreover, the previous strain models were proposed using small and noisy databases using simple modeling techniques. Therefore, a rigorous approach is needed to propose a more accurate strain model and compare its predictions with the previous models.

Design/methodology/approach

The present work has endeavored to propose strain models for FRP-confined concrete members using three different techniques: analytical modeling, artificial neural network (ANN) modeling and finite element analysis (FEA) modeling based on a large database consisting of 570 sample points.

Findings

The assessment of the previous models using some statistical parameters revealed that the estimates of the newly recommended models were more accurate than the previous models. The estimates of the new models were validated using the experimental outcomes of compressive members confined with carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) wraps. The nonlinear FEA of the tested samples was performed using ABAQUS, and its estimates were equated with the calculations of the analytical and ANN models. The relative investigation of the estimates solidly substantiates the accuracy and applicability of the recommended analytical, ANN and FEA models for predicting the axial strain of CFRP-confined concrete compression members.

Originality/value

The research introduces innovative methods for understanding FRP confinement in concrete, presenting new models to estimate axial compressive strains. Utilizing a database of 570 experimental samples, the study employs ANNs and regression analysis to develop these models. Existing models for FRP-confined concrete's axial strains are also assessed using this database. Validation involves testing 18 cylindrical specimens confined with CFRP wraps and FE simulations using a concrete-damaged plastic (CDP) model. A comprehensive comparative analysis compares experimental results with estimates from ANNs, analytical and finite element models (FEMs), offering valuable insights and predictive tools for FRP confinement in concrete.
Anatomy of herd behavior in Ponzi schemes within the scope of marketing mix
Authors: Baltacı Alişan , Vural Aslı
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to empirically reveal how marketing mix elements are used in Ponzi schemes to trigger herd behavior. Thus, it was aimed to determine how Ponzi schemes use marketing tools to approach and persuade victims. Clarifying this issue is vital in identifying critical points in diagnosing and detecting Ponzi schemes and in de-marketing practices to be used against them.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, content analysis was used to analyze in-text expressions most practically. The population of this study is the Ponzi scheme cases that took place in Turkey between January 1, 2016, and May 31, 2023, which appeared in the press. The study sample consists of 44 cases accessible in terms of parameters, including the research subject in the research population.

Findings

In order to reach the widest audiences, Ponzi schemes have generally emerged in metropolitan cities that produce a significant portion of the country's gross national product. The minimum fee to enter these systems is usually between 40 and 50 USD. Although Ponzi Schemes appear to be a financial product, the product they claim to make money is usually intangible and complex. Furthermore, the system's return rate is always higher than the market rate. It is seen that other people influence people in their social and professional environments. Promotion in Ponzi schemes is carried out by word of mouth, social media, direct persuasion, introductory meetings and individual communication. When the herd behavior patterns in Ponzi are examined, it is seen that most of them are “Heuristic Simplification” and “Social Interaction.” As a result, it has been understood that marketing mix elements are used consciously and actively to trigger herd behavior in Ponzi schemes.

Research limitations/implications

The most important limitation of the study is that the data compiled about the cases are not standardized, and the newspaper reports did not provide some details at a sufficient level.

Originality/value

Using a qualitative method and an evidence-based interdisciplinary approach, this study reveals how marketing mix elements are used in Ponzi schemes, a type of financial fraud. In addition, the research is original in that no other study with similar content and scope was found in the literature.
Variation of root functional traits indicates flexible below‐ground economic strategies of the riparian tree species Populus fremontii
Authors: Schaefer Elena A. , Gehring Catherine A. , Phillips Richard P. , Gadrat Emma , Karst Justine
Published: August 2024

Plant‐mycorrhizal type has been suggested as an integrator of plant functional traits, yet most of what is known about these relationships comes from studies of different plant taxa, where the effects of mycorrhizal type cannot be isolated. In addition to affecting carbon‐nutrient exchanges, plants that associate with distinct mycorrhizal types often differ in several traits, with consequences for myriad below‐ground processes.

We used two common gardens planted with Populus fremontii, a tree species that can simultaneously associate with both arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) and ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi, to examine the degree to which mycorrhizal‐type dominance influences root traits and trait relationships across the root economic space.

While P. fremontii formed AM and ECM associations simultaneously, individuals displayed a dominant mycorrhizal type driven primarily by garden location. Trees in the low‐elevation garden, regardless of provenance, were colonized primarily by AM fungi, whereas trees in the high‐elevation garden were colonized primarily by ECM fungi. In root systems at the low‐elevation garden, AM colonization rates were negatively related to specific root length indicating trade‐off with investment in foraging roots. In contrast, root systems at the high‐elevation garden, ECM colonization was negatively related to root tissue density, demonstrating a potential trade‐off between resource acquisition and root growth/defence. All other root economic traits remained similar between mycorrhizal types.

While root traits varied little between AM‐ and ECM‐dominated trees (and gardens), their relationships with one another differed in each garden, suggesting unique strategies and trait trade‐offs in a single species. As global change continues to alter environments, species like P. fremontii, which experience a range of abiotic conditions, could signal how other tree species might modify root traits and strategies in response.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Connected Directors–Advisors and Mergers and Acquisitions Outcomes
Authors: Barbopoulos Leonidas G. , Dong Yizhe , Li Haoyu , Li Chang
Published: August 2024

We examine the impact of social ties between directors (directors or senior managers) of acquiring firms and their corresponding advisors on several mergers and acquisitions outcomes. The social ties between acquirers’ directors and their advisors are positively related to acquirers’ gains in the short and long run. This is due to lower takeover premia, lower advisory fees and shorter period to deal completion. This relation is more pronounced in deals involving inexperienced acquirers, targets in more opaque industries and targets recommended by advisors. We also find that acquirers are more likely to withdraw from deals with high premia if they hire a socially connected advisor. Identification is addressed by using instrumental variables, excluding deals that are prone to endogeneity and using the propensity score matching and the entropy balancing methods.
Safety first, but how? Examining the impact of safety leadership in frontline healthcare workers' safety performance during health crisis
Authors: Arboh Francisca , Dai Baozhen , Quansah Prince Ewudzie , Atingabilli Samuel , Drokow Emmanuel Kwateng , Addai‐Dansoh Stephen
Published: August 2024

With the high rates of health workers' mortality and morbidity during health crises such as the COVID‐19 pandemic, this study examined how safety leadership style could improve health workers safety performance with a mediating role of safety consciousness (SCC), and a moderating role of communication transparency (CT). Survey data from 582 health workers in Ghana's Greater Accra and Ashanti regions were gathered and analysed using structural equation modelling in SMART PLS 4. The findings show that safety leadership positively impacts safety performance. Additionally, safety leadership had a positive impact on affected consciousness. Again, SCC had a positive effect on performance. Furthermore, SCC mediated the positive relationship between safety leadership and safety performance. Finally, the SCC‐safety compliance was negatively moderated by CT, though it did not moderate the SCC‐safety participation relationship. This paper holds significance as it offers strategies to enhance the safety performance of frontline healthcare workers during health emergencies such as pandemics. The measures provided in the study potentially mitigate the risks of virus contraction and health workers during health emergencies.
Environmental technology and firm performance: The role of digital financial inclusion, information and communication technology, and education
Authors: Pang Fei , Ozturk Ilhan , Sohail Sidra
Published: August 2024

This research aims to determine how environmental technology (ET), digital financial inclusion (DFI), information and communication technology (ICT), and education affect a firm's performance in China from 1998 to 2020. We have employed the quantile autoregressive distributed lag model to estimate the variables' short‐ and long‐term relationship across various quantiles. In the context of non‐state‐owned enterprises (NSOE), the estimates of ET are positively significant in almost half of the quantiles in the long run, while in the short run, the estimates are insignificant. In the NSOE model, the DFI estimates are significant and positive at the highest quantiles only in the long run and almost at all quantiles in the short run. Likewise, the estimates of ET are positively significant in half quantiles in the long run and insignificant in the short run in terms of state‐owned enterprises (SOE). In the SOE model, the DFI estimates are significant and positive at the highest quantiles only in the long run and at medium and highest quantiles in the short run. ICT and educational development have a favorable impact on a firm's performance across all quantiles in the long run in SOE and NSOE models. However, in the short run, these variables have a favorable impact only at higher quantiles in SOE and NSOE. These findings imply that more ET, DFI, ICT, and education are crucial for improving the performance of state‐owned and non‐state‐owned firms.
Novel circular RNA hsa_circ_0036683 suppresses proliferation and migration by mediating the miR‐4664‐3p/CDK2AP2 axis in non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Liu Rui , Zhang Han , Xin Jiaxuan , Xie Shu‐yang , Jiao Fei , Li You‐Jie , Chu Meng‐yuan , Qiu Junming , Yan Yun‐fei
Published: August 2024

Background

The aim of the present study was to investigate the function of novel circular RNA hsa_circ_0036683 (circ‐36683) in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

RNA sequencing was used to screen out differentially expressed miRNAs. Expression levels of miR‐4664‐3p and circ‐36683 were evaluated in lung carcinoma cells and tissues by quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). The effects of miR‐4664‐3p and circ‐36683 on proliferation and migration were assessed using cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8), wound healing and transwell migration assays and xenograft experiments. The targeting relationship of circ‐36683/miR‐4664‐3p/CDK2AP2 was assessed by luciferase reporter assays, western blot, qRT‐PCR and argonaute2‐RNA immunoprecipitation (AGO2 RIP). Co‐immunoprecipitation (Co‐IP), 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine (EdU) staining and CCK‐8 were used to validate the indispensable role of CDK2AP2 in suppressing cell proliferation as a result of CDK2AP1 overexpression.

Results

By RNA sequencing, miR‐4664‐3p was screened out as an abnormally elevated miRNA in NSCLC tissues. Transfection of miR‐4664‐3p could promote cell proliferation, migration and xenograft tumor growth. As a target of miR‐4664‐3p, CDK2AP2 expression was downregulated by miR‐4664‐3p transfection and CDK2AP2 overexpression could abolish the proliferation promotion resulting from miR‐4664‐3p elevation. Circ‐36683, derived from back splicing of ABHD2 pre‐mRNA, was attenuated in NSCLC tissue and identified as a sponge of miR‐4664‐3p. The functional study revealed that circ‐36683 overexpression suppressed cell proliferation, migration and resulted in G0/G1 phase arrest. More importantly, the antioncogenic function of circ‐36683 was largely dependent on the miR‐4664‐3p/CDK2AP2 axis, through which circ‐36683 could upregulate the expression of p53/p21/p27 and downregulate the expression of CDK2/cyclin E1.

Conclusion

The present study revealed the antioncogenic role of circ‐36683 in suppressing cell proliferation and migration and highlighted that targeting the circ‐36683/miR‐4664‐3p/CDK2AP2 axis is a promising strategy for the intervention of NSCLC.
Helicopter emergency medical services in Iceland between 2018 and 2022–A retrospective study
Authors: Stefansson Sigurjon Orn , Magnusson Vidar , Sigurdsson Martin I.
Published: August 2024

Background

Helicopter emergency services (HEMS) are widely used to bring medical assistance to individuals that cannot be reached by other means or individuals that have time‐critical medical conditions, such as chest pain, stroke or severe trauma. It is a very expensive resource whose use and importance depends on local conditions. The aim of this study was to describe flight and patient characteristics in all HEMS flights done in Iceland, a geographically isolated, mountainous and sparsely populated country, over a 5‐year course.

Methods

This retrospective study included all individuals requiring HEMS transportation in Iceland during 2018–2022. The electronic database of the Icelandic Coast Guard was used to identify the individuals and register flight data. Electronic databases from Landspitali and Akureyri hospitals were used to collect clinical variables. Descriptive statistics was applied.

Results

The average number of HEMS transports was 3.5/10,000 inhabitants and the median [IQR] activation time and flight times were 30 min [20–42] and 40 min [26–62] respectively. The vast majority of patients were transported to Landspitali Hospital in Reykjavik. More than half of the transports were due to trauma, the most common medical transports were due to chest pain or cardiac arrests. Advanced medical therapy was provided for 66 (10%) of individuals during primary transports, 157 (24%) of individuals were admitted to intensive care, 188 (28%) needed surgery and 53 (7.9%) needed a coronary angiography.

Conclusion

In Iceland, the number of transports is lower but activation and flight times for HEMS flights are considerably longer than in other Nordic countries, likely due to geographical features and the structure of the service including utilizing helicopters both for HEMS and search and rescue operations. The transport times for some time‐sensitive conditions are not within standards set by international studies and guidelines.
The effect of government‐guided funds on target industries in development zones – Evidence from China
Authors: Xiao Fulong , Liang Zini , Lv Yongbin , Wang Wei
Published: August 2024

The interplay between state‐led interventions and market‐driven forces has gained unparalleled prominence. This paper examines China's strategic use of government‐guided funds (GGFs) and their consequential impact on its national high‐tech zones (NHZs). Through an analysis of 1599 annual observations from 123 NHZs spanning 2007–2019, we reveal a compelling correlation between GGF investments and augmented industrial activity. Our findings indicate that NHZs benefitting from GGF allocations evidenced a significant 5.5% surge in industrial activity. Two underlying mechanisms drive this relationship. The leverage mechanism portrays GGFs as attractors of private social capital to tech‐centric ventures within NHZs. Meanwhile, the guidance mechanism underscores NHZs' strategic clustering of high‐tech sectors, amplifying benefits from shared resources and knowledge. Empirical analysis affirms both mechanisms, showing NHZs with robust social capital magnetism and tech clustering derive pronounced gains from GGF interventions. Our results carry practical implications for both policymakers and academicians, offering a nuanced understanding of the symbiotic relationship between fiscal strategies and industrial growth.
Pregnancy and stomas: a 9‐year retrospective series at a major metropolitan hospital in Brisbane Queensland
Authors: Kelly Madeleine Louise , Fullerton Alexandra , Cao Amy Millicent Yesheng , Colbran Rachel , Kimble Rebecca , Clark David A.
Published: August 2024

Background

Over 42 000 Australians live with a stoma, and this number increases annually. Pregnancy in stoma patients is a rare but complex condition and there is limited published literature regarding surgical and obstetric complications in pregnant stoma patients. The aim of this paper was to review stoma outcomes, perinatal morbidity and mortality, and early postpartum period in pregnant stoma patients.

Methods

Data was retrospectively obtained on women of childbearing age, with a stoma, who had been pregnant and birthed in the last nine years at the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital between January 2014 to December 2022. Data recorded included patient demographics, type of stoma, indication for stoma, need for additional abdominal surgeries, method of conception, pregnancy complications, length of stay, neonatal outcomes and post pregnancy stomal complications.

Results

In total, there were 16 births from 13 mothers with stomas. Of 10 births to IBD patients, 40% experienced a serious stomal complication. Caesarean section (CS) rate was 90% for IBD and 83% for non‐IBD. In‐vitro fertilisation rates were 40% in IBD patients and 0% in non‐IBD patients. The average gestational age at delivery was 36 weeks in IBD and 35 weeks in non‐IBD patients. Neonates delivered to IBD mothers had a birth weight under 2500g in 40% of cases and in non IBD mothers at 33.3% (p = 0.62). Of the sixteen births there was five complications (31.25%) associated with the stoma either during pregnancy or during the sixty‐day postpartum period.

Conclusion

Pregnancy in stoma patients is a rare occurrence and appears to be associated with high rates of CS, preterm delivery, low birth weight and stomal complication.
Women's use of Swedish health care during the postpartum period in relation to maternal country of birth—A population‐based study
Authors: Berbres Malin , Hesselman Susanne , Ternström Elin , Schytt Erica
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Migrant women are a heterogenous group with both higher and lower risk for pregnancy complications and adverse birth outcomes compared with women in the receiving countries. This study aimed to investigate women's use of Swedish healthcare postpartum, in terms of hospital stay >48 h, readmission to hospital, and specialized out‐patient clinic visits, in relation to maternal country of birth.

Material and Methods

A population‐based register study including 278 219 primiparous and 367 776 multiparous women in Sweden (2014–2019) using data from Swedish Pregnancy Register, National Patient Register and Statistics Sweden. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to estimate associations between maternal country of birth and outcomes, adjusting for year of birth, maternal age, education, pre‐gestational hypertension and diabetes, and healthcare region, presented as crude and adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) with Swedish‐born women as reference.

Results

Subgroups of migrant women had higher odds of postpartum hospital stays > 48 h, particularly women from Eritrea (primiparous aOR 2.80, CI 2.49–3.15; multiparous aOR 2.78, CI 2.59–2.98), Somalia (primiparous aOR 2.61, CI 2.34–2.92; multiparous aOR 1.87, CI 1.79–1.97), and India (primiparous aOR 2.52, CI 2.14–2.97; multiparous aOR 2.61, CI 2.33–2.93), compared to Swedish‐born women. Primiparous women from Afghanistan (aOR 1.32, CI 1.08–1.6), Iraq (aOR 1.30, CI 1.16–1.46), and Iran (aOR 1.23, CI 1.04–1.45) had slightly higher odds of hospital readmission, along with multiparous women from India (aOR 1.34, CI 1.02–1.76) and Somalia (aOR 1.24, CI 1.11–1.38). Specialized out‐patient clinic visits were most common in primiparous women from Somalia (aOR 1.47, CI 1.35–1.59), Iran (aOR 1.31, CI 1.22–1.42) and Afghanistan (aOR 1.31, CI 1.18–1.46), and in multiparous women from Iran (aOR 1.30, CI 1.20–1.41) and Iraq (aOR 1.15, CI 1.11–1.20), however less common in women from some other countries.

Conclusions

The use of Swedish health care during the postpartum period varied among women, depending on their country of birth. Women from certain countries had particularly high odds of postpartum hospital stays exceeding 48 h, compared to Swedish‐born women, regardless of parity and pre‐gestational medical disorders. Further studies are needed to determine whether the individual needs of migrant women are being met during the postpartum period or not.
Cardiometabolic criteria as predictors and treatment targets of liver‐related events and cardiovascular events in metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease
Authors: Tamaki Nobuharu , Kimura Takefumi , Wakabayashi Shun‐Ichi , Umemura Takeji , Izumi Namiki , Loomba Rohit , Kurosaki Masayuki
Published: August 2024

Background

The diagnosis of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) requires at least one of five cardiometabolic criteria. It is unclear whether these criteria can be used as predictors and treatment targets for complications including liver‐related events and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE).

Aims

To investigate the relationship between cardiometabolic criteria and complications.

Methods

We conducted a nationwide, population‐based study of 979,352 patients with MASLD. We investigated relationships between a number of criteria at baseline and liver‐related events or MACE risks. In a separate longitudinal analysis, we included patients with five criteria at baseline and investigated the relationship between improving the criteria and the incidence of complications after 1 year.

Results

The cumulative incidence of MACE, but not liver‐related events, increased with increasing baseline cardiometabolic criteria. In the longitudinal study, multivariable analysis using patients with five criteria (no improvement) as the reference, adjusted hazard ratios (95% confidence interval) of MACE in patients with 4, 3, 2, and 0–1 criteria (1 to 4–5 criteria improvement) were 0.55 (0.52–0.58, p < 0.001), 0.20 (0.17–0.22, p < 0.001), 0.13 (0.11–0.16, p < 0.001), and 0.06 (0.02–0.3, p < 0.001), respectively. The risk of MACE decreased as the cardiometabolic criteria improved. There was no significant association between improvement of the criteria and liver‐related events.

Conclusions

Cardiometabolic criteria can be used as predictors and treatment targets for cardiovascular event risk in MASLD. Developing predictors and therapeutic targets for liver‐related events is a future challenge.
Model‐based comparisons of post‐treatment free IgE and FEV1 between omalizumab asthma dosing tables in the United States and European Union
Authors: Zhu Rui , Schoemaker Rik , Gautier Aurelie , Tian Xianbin , Sim Cheryl HooiMing , Omachi Theodore A. , Joshi Amita , Jin Jin , Owen Ryan
Published: August 2024

Aims

Omalizumab is an anti‐immunoglobulin E (IgE) monoclonal antibody that was first approved by the United States (US) Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of allergic asthma in 2003. The pivotal trials supporting the initial approval of omalizumab used dosing determined by patient's baseline IgE and body weight, with the goal of reducing the mean free IgE level to approximately 25 ng/mL or less. While the underlying parameters supporting the dosing table remained the same, subsequent studies and analyses have resulted in approved alternative versions of the dosing table, including the European Union (EU) asthma dosing table, which differs in weight bands and maximum allowable baseline IgE and omalizumab dose. In this study, we leveraged modelling and simulation approaches to predict and compare the free IgE reduction and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) improvement with omalizumab dosing based on the US and EU asthma dosing tables.

Methods

Previously established population pharmacokinetic‐IgE and IgE‐FEV1 models were used to predict and compare post‐treatment free IgE and FEV1 based on the US and EU dosing tables. Clinical trial simulations (with virtual asthma populations) and Monte Carlo simulations were performed to provide both breadth and depth in the comparisons.

Results

The US and EU asthma dosing tables were predicted to result in generally comparable free IgE suppression and FEV1 improvement.

Conclusions

Despite the similar free IgE and FEV1 outcomes from simulations, this has not been clinically validated with respect to the registrational endpoint of reduction in annualized asthma exacerbations.
Single gene mutations and prognosis in limited‐stage follicular lymphoma treated with radiation therapy
Authors: Hershenfeld Samantha A. , Tobin Josuha W.D. , Shelton Victoria , Calvente Lourdes , Lajkosz Katherine , Liu Ting , Brodtkorb Marianne , d'Amore Francesco Annibale , Ludvigsen Maja , Baetz Tara , LeBrun David , Johnson Nathalie , Crump Michael , Hong Michael , Kuruvilla John , Tremblay‐LeMay Rosemarie , MacManus Michael , Tsang Richard , Hodgson David C. , Gandhi Maher K. , Kridel Robert
Published: August 2024

Radiotherapy is routinely used for management of limited‐stage follicular lymphoma (FL), yet half of patients ultimately relapse. We hypothesized that the presence of specific gene mutations may predict outcomes. We performed targeted sequencing of a 69‐gene panel in 117 limited‐stage FL patients treated with radiotherapy and identified recurrently mutated genes. CREBBP was most frequently mutated, and mutated CREBBP was associated with inferior progression‐free survival, though not after false discovery rate adjustment. This association failed to validate in an independent cohort. We conclude that recurrent gene mutations do not predict outcomes in this setting. Alternative biomarkers may offer better prognostic insight.
Staff Perspectives: Why are adolescent inpatients secluded and what causes changes in rates of seclusion on a unit?
Authors: Yurtbasi Miriam K. , Gordon Michael , Pavlou Christine , Melvin Glenn
Published: August 2024

Background

The use of seclusion in Adolescent Inpatient Psychiatric Units is being heavily scrutinised due to its forceful nature and potential to cause harm. This study aimed to understand staff perspectives on reasons for seclusion in an Adolescent Inpatient Psychiatric Unit.

Method

A mixed methods approach that included the Attitudes to Seclusion Survey followed by a semi‐structured interview on the reasons for seclusion was used. We recruited 31 participants who worked on the unit of which 27 were involved in seclusion.

Results

The findings showed that the majority of staff view seclusion as undesirable and believe it should only be used out of necessity. However, there was disagreement among staff about the reasons why adolescents were secluded and whether those reasons were justified. Staff identified factors that contributed to increases in seclusion but also provided several ways in which seclusion could be reduced.

Conclusions

These findings highlight a need for precision on what constitutes justifiable use of seclusion to reduce the potential for misuse. It also shows opportunities exist for further reduction in seclusion through teamwork and communication.
Minimum Fascia‐Tumour Distance for Differentiating Deep Lobe From Superficial Lobe Benign Parotid Tumours: A Retrospective Study and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Lee Yi‐Chan , Tsai Yao‐Te , Tsai Ming‐Shao , Tseng Ti‐Yung , Chang Chih‐Chen , Chang Kai‐Ping
Published: August 2024

Background

This study was designed to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of the minimum fascia‐tumour distance (MFTD) in distinguishing deep‐lobe benign parotid tumours from superficial‐lobe tumours through both an original study and a meta‐analysis.

Methods

In this study, we performed a retrospective analysis of data from 91 patients who had been diagnosed with benign parotid tumours. The MFTD values were sourced from preoperative ultrasound examinations. The locations of these tumours were confirmed through surgical findings. We assessed the diagnostic accuracy of MFTD by utilising receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Additionally, we conducted a systematic review of the pertinent literature and performed a diagnostic meta‐analysis to ascertain the overall diagnostic efficacy of MFTD in identifying benign parotid tumours.

Results

Patients with tumours in the deep lobe had a significantly greater MFTD than patients with tumours in the superficial lobe. Using a cutoff value of 3.50 mm for MFTD, we found an AUC of 0.93, a sensitivity of 81.8%, and a specificity of 98.8%. Our meta‐analysis included seven studies covering a total of 1689 tumours. The pooled values for sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratio (OR) of MFTD were 81.0%, 89.0%, and 32.2, respectively. The AUC of the summarised ROC curve of MFTD was 0.90.

Conclusion

The MFTD demonstrated reliable diagnostic accuracy in identifying deep‐lobe benign parotid tumours and may be incorporated into standard evaluations before parotidectomy.
Primary Team Versus Local Recovery in Liver Transplantation in the Modern Era: A National Analysis of the United Network for Organ Sharing Database
Authors: Whitrock Jenna N. , Sisak Stephanie , Pratt Catherine G. , Delman Aaron M. , Price Adam D. , Wima Koffi , Shah Shimul A. , Quillin Ralph Cutler
Published: August 2024

Background

The implementation of acuity circles (AC) in 2020 and the COVID‐19 pandemic increased the use of local surgeons to recover livers for transplant; however, the impact on liver transplant (LT) outcomes is unknown.

Methods

Deceased donor adult LT recipients from the UNOS database were identified.  Recipients were grouped by donor surgeon: local versus primary recovery.  Patient and graft survival as well as trends in local recovery in the 2 years pre‐AC and post‐AC were assessed.

Results

The utilization of local recovery in LT increased from 22.3% to 37.9% post‐AC (p < 0.01).  LTs with local recovery had longer cold ischemia times (6.5 h [5.4–7.8] vs. 5.3 h [4.4–6.5], p < 0.01) and traveled further (210 miles [89–373] vs. 73 miles [11–196], p < 0.01) than those using primary recovery. Multivariate analyses revealed no differences in patient or graft survival between local and primary recovery, and between OPO and local surgeon. There was no difference in survival when comparing simultaneous liver–kidney, donation after circulatory death, MELD ≥ 30, or redo‐LT by recovery team.  Recovery and utilization rates were also noted to be higher post‐AC (51.4% vs. 48.6% pre‐AC, p < 0.01) as well as when OPO surgeons recovered the allografts (72.5% vs. 66.0%, p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Nearly 40% of LTs are performed using local recovery, and utilization rates and trends continue to change with changing organ‐sharing paradigms such as AC.  This practice appears safe with outcomes similar to recovery by the primary team in appropriately selected recipients and may lead to increased access and the ability to transplant more livers.