bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the role of dynamic capabilities to improve competitiveness and internationalization performance of organizations
Authors: Chaudhuri Ranjan , Chatterjee Sheshadri , Vrontis Demetris
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the role of dynamic capabilities for improvement of competitiveness of the organizations through enhancement of internationalization performance. The study would also try to assess if there is any moderating impact of leadership abilities of the entrepreneurs to impact internationalization performance of the organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

This study has reviewed various kinds of literature related to competitiveness, international marketing, dynamic capabilities, entrepreneurship and leadership support. This study also used a dynamic capability view to develop a research model. This model was validated using the partial least squares structural equation modeling technique to analyze data from 303 respondents from European and Asian organizations.

Findings

The study found that dynamic capabilities have considerable influence on the competitive international performance of organizations, and entrepreneurs’ leadership ability has a significantly moderator impact on the relationship between dynamic capabilities and international performance of organizations.

Research limitations/implications

The study uncovers the impacts of dynamic abilities on the competitiveness and internationalization performance of the organizations. This study also provided valuable insights about the importance of entrepreneurial leadership ability for improving the internationalization performance of the organizations. This study also highlighted the significance of investing on improving dynamic abilities of the organizations to improve their internationalization performance as well as their competitiveness.

Originality/value

This study has contributed to the prevailing literature on entrepreneurship, leadership capability, competitiveness and dynamic capabilities. Few studies have focused on how dynamic capabilities affect the competitiveness and international performance of organizations. Also, studies are scant to understand if the entrepreneur’s leadership ability has any moderating impact on the relationship between an organization’s dynamic capabilities and its international performance. Therefore, this study aims to investigate these gaps.
New frontiers of fun: sharing and supporting workplace fun in hybrid work
Authors: Plester Barbara , Lloyd Rhiannon
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Hybrid work is changing modern conceptions of work as workers move between their office space and alternate spaces such as a home office. Social aspects of work are therefore also changing, and this study aims to explore the implications arising for workplace fun when workspaces become dispersed.

Design/methodology/approach

We undertook ethnographic research into two different companies to explore in depth the concept of fun at work and how it is being adapted for hybrid work. Data were collected through full immersion into both companies and gathered using mixed qualitative methods comprising semi-structured interviews, participant observations and evidence from organizational online platforms. A structured coding system was used in the analysis with an interpretive approach.

Findings

Our themes include (1) artefacts, (2) organizing fun and space and (3) loss of fun and these provide the underpinning for our theoretical contribution.

Research limitations/implications

We had limited access to online channels and identified opportunities for future research to explore fun in online platforms including chat functions, meme, gifs and other places where workplace fun may be enacted.

Practical implications

Work has changed for workers and managers, and this impacts fun which needs to adapt to hybrid work models.

Social implications

Hybrid work is changing workplace social interactions, particularly, for fun and play. We depict how workers navigate the changing context of work and the significance of emerging elements of workplace fun and the implications for fun cultures.

Originality/value

Our contribution is in a re-theorization of workplace fun arguing that sharing and supporting the creation and promotion of fun among workers at all levels offers new opportunities for organizations that value a fun culture. Our theorization of workplace fun shows its adaptation to new hybrid work contexts that deemphasize co-location and physical presence. We outline the significance of artefacts and depict the variability of workplace fun in hybrid work.
Bridging pre-professional identities: the contribution of trustworthiness and academic socialisation to undergraduates’ employability
Authors: Farnese Maria Luisa , Spagnoli Paola , Scafuri Kovalchuk Liliya , Tomlinson Michael
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The evolving dynamics of the labour market make graduates’ future employability an important issue for higher education (HE) institutions, prompting universities to complement the conventional graduate skills approach with a wider focus on graduate forms of capital that may enhance their sense of employability. This study, adopting a capital perspective, explores whether and how teachers in HE, when acknowledged as knowledgeable trustworthy actors, may affect graduates’ employability. It investigates how they can mobilise undergraduate cultural capital through socialisation, and shape their pre-professional identity, paving the way for university-to-work transition.

Design/methodology/approach

To test the hypothesised model, a self-report online questionnaire was administered to a sample of 616 undergraduates attending different Italian universities. Multiple mediating models were tested using the SEM framework.

Findings

Results supported the tested model and showed that trust in knowledgeable HE teachers was associated with undergraduates’ perceived employability both directly and through both mediators (i.e. academic socialisation and identification with future professionality).

Research limitations/implications

This research explores a capital conceptualisation of graduate employability, identifying possible processes for implementing graduates’ capital across their academic experience and providing initial evidence of their interplay and contribution to transition into the labour market.

Originality/value

These findings provide empirical support to possible forms of capital that HE institutions may fulfil to enhance their undergraduate employability throughout their academic career, which serves as a liminal space allowing undergraduates to begin building a tentative professional identity.
Unpacking the role of transformational leadership and work engagement in the relationship between psychological capital and innovative work behavior
Authors: Alwali Abduljaleel
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to determine the effect of psychological capital (PsyCap) on innovative work behavior (IWB) by incorporating the mediating role of work engagement and examine the moderating role of transformational leadership in the relationship between PsyCap and IWB.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a correlational design, this research involved 270 nurses from seven public hospitals across Iraq, selected through purposive sampling. Data analysis was conducted using partial least squares structural equation modeling (SmartPLS 3).

Findings

The distinctness of the variables used in this study was confirmed by confirmatory factor analysis. The findings show that a PsyCap had a positive influence on IWB directly and indirectly through the mediating of work engagement, and transformational leadership positively moderates the relationship between a PsyCap and IWB in such a way that with high transformational leadership behavior, the relationship will be strengthened.

Originality/value

By focusing on Iraqi nurses, this study not only contributes to the existing literature on PsyCap and IWB but also underscores the unique contextual challenges faced by health-care professionals in conflict-affected areas. The findings emphasize the importance of nurturing leadership qualities to foster a resilient and innovative nursing workforce in such settings.
Utilizing computational methods for analysing media framing of organizational crises: The ‘Datalek’ scandal during the COVID‐19 pandemic in the Netherlands
Authors: Nguyen Dennis , Nguyen Sergül , Le Phuong Hoan , Oomen Tessa , Wang Yijing
Published: June 2024

Media framing of organizational crises is an important factor to consider in crisis communication since it can shape stakeholders' perceptions of organizations and discussions in the public sphere. This takes place in complex media ecologies where public communication happens at a large scale, both in the news and on social media. Here, computational methods offer new venues for analysing media framing in flux throughout the crisis life cycle. Especially methods for automated content analysis can quickly and efficiently reveal what media frames emerge in a crisis context and how they change over time across different channels and platforms. The present study showcases the benefits of such methodological approaches by critically exploring the example of the data breach at the national municipal health service in the Netherlands. Using computational methods for media frame analysis on news texts (N1 = 519) and social media postings (N2 = 2986), this article reconstructs how the incident was perceived throughout four crisis stages (build‐up, outbreak, chronic stage, termination). The article critically discusses the relevance of researching media framing empirically with emphasis on the benefits but also limitations of computational approaches. It concludes with some general pointers for crisis researchers interested in such methods as well as their implications for practitioners in the field.
Income inequality in the United States, 1975–2022
Authors: Hardy Bradley L. , Krause Elizabeth , Ziliak James P.
Published: June 2024

We examine trends in household disposable income inequality and potential mechanisms shaping inequality through changes to work, wages, earnings, marriage, and the tax and transfer system in the United States over the nearly five‐decade period from 1975 to 2022. Overall after‐tax and transfer income inequality increased more than 25 per cent since the mid‐1970s, and by as much as 50 per cent when comparing the 90th and 10th percentiles. While there has been substantial upgrading in formal education credentials among both men and women – an inequality‐reducing development – those with fewer credentials have increasingly been less likely to work and marry, each of which could result in higher inequality. The latter effects are exacerbated by those selecting into marriage and cohabitation being more likely to partner with those holding similar educational credentials and earning power. Moreover, the decline in work among the less skilled coincided with the transformation of the safety net to rewarding work. These demographic and policy changes have resulted in a pulling apart of the US income distribution.
Sociodemographic and health system factors associated with variations in hospitalization costs for rheumatic diseases in adults aged 45 years and older: A cross‐sectional study of provincial health accounts in Jiangsu Province, China
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Zheng Peiyao , Chen Mingsheng
Published: June 2024

Aim

To report the cost of hospitalization and the associated risk factors for rheumatic diseases in middle‐aged and elderly patients in China.

Methods

The study participants included inpatients from hospitals of various levels in the Jiangsu Province Health Account database in 2016. Participants were selected by using a multistage sampling method. Patients <45 years of age were excluded, and patients hospitalized for rheumatic diseases were identified according to the 10th edition of the International Classification of Diseases. Generalized linear models were used to analyze the sociodemographic characteristics related to the hospitalization costs of patients with rheumatic diseases.

Results

The study included 3696 patients. The average cost of hospitalization for patients with rheumatic diseases was USD 4038.63. Female sex, a long length of stay, age between 65 and 74 years, free medical care, not being covered by the Urban–Rural Residents Basic Medical Insurance, and a high hospital level were associated with high hospitalization costs.

Conclusion

This study examined hospitalization costs and relevant influencing factors in middle‐aged and elderly patients with rheumatic disease in China. Our findings are useful for further research on costs of disease and the economic evaluation of strategies to prevent rheumatic disease.
Ultrasound in anesthesiology in the Nordic countries—Protocol of an international survey on availability, frequency of use, operator training, and certification
Authors: Nielsen Martine S. , Grejs Anders M. , Nielsen Anders B. , Konge Lars , Brøchner Anne C.
Published: June 2024

Background

Over the past decade, ultrasound utilization has increased within anesthesia and intensive care medicine, enhancing patient safety and diagnostic accuracy. However, the frequency of ultrasound usage and operator training in the Nordic countries remain unclear. This project aims to perform a survey on ultrasound availability, daily clinical use, and how ultrasound skills are trained and assessed, among anesthesiologists.

Methods

This online cross‐sectional survey will include anesthesiologists from the Nordic countries. The survey will adhere to the CROSS checklist. Survey items will be developed based on a formative model with a conceptual model, consisting of three main parts, including demographics, ultrasound machines and use, and skills development and assessment. The clinical relevance of items will be secured by including anesthesiologists of various levels of experience in the development of the survey. Furthermore, experienced researchers in medical education will participate in the development, contributing with relevant medical educational perspectives. Data will be summarized using a non‐parametric descriptive approach. A chi‐squared test will examine relevant relationships between certain answers.

Results

Results will be published in a peer‐reviewed journal and presented at relevant scientific conferences and meetings.

Conclusion

This study may find a high availability of ultrasound machines and frequent use in the clinical departments. Despite this expected daily use of ultrasound, missing standardized structured skills acquisition and assessment could be uncovered. The results of this study may contribute to mapping various aspects of clinical ultrasound and skills development for further use in research.
A Tailored Virtual Program for Alcohol Use Disorder Treatment Among Liver Transplant Candidates and Recipients Is Feasible and Associated With Lower Post‐Transplant Relapse
Authors: Goswami Arpita , Weinberg Ethan , Coraluzzi Lynda , Bittermann Therese , Nahas Jonathan , Addis Senayish , Weinrieb Robert , Serper Marina
Published: June 2024

Background

Alcohol‐associated liver disease (ALD) is a leading indication for liver transplant (LT) in the United States. Rates of early liver transplant (ELT) with less than 6 months of sobriety have increased substantially. Patients who receive ELT commonly have alcohol‐associated hepatitis (AH) and are often too ill to complete an intensive outpatient program (IOP) for alcohol use disorder (AUD) prior to LT. ELT recipients feel alienated from traditional IOPs.

Methods

We implemented Total Recovery‐LT, a tailored virtual outpatient IOP specific for patients under evaluation or waitlisted for LT who were too ill to attend community‐based alcohol treatment programs. The 12‐week program consisted of weekly group and individual counseling delivered by a master's level Certified Addiction Counselor trained in the basics of LT.  Treatment consisted of 12‐Step Facilitation, Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. We report on program design, implementation, feasibility and early outcomes.

Results

From March 2021 to September 2022, 42 patients (36% female, 23 in LT evaluation, 19 post‐transplant) enrolled across five cohorts with 76% (32/42) completing the program. Alcohol relapse was more common among noncompleters versus those who completed the program (8/10, 80% vs. 7/32, 22%, p = 0.002). History of trauma or post‐traumatic stress symptoms were associated with lower likelihood of completion. Patients’ desire for continued engagement after completion led to the creation of a monthly alumni group.

Conclusions

Our integrated IOP model for patients with high‐risk AUD in LT evaluation or post‐transplant is well‐received by patients and could be considered a model for LT programs.
A case of superficial acral fibromyxoma masquerading as squamous cell carcinoma of the thumb: A case report
Authors: Magtulis Nadra S. , Guevara Bryan Edgar K.
Published: June 2024

A wide spectrum of tumors may affect the periungual spaces of the digits. Superficial acral fibromyxoma (SAF) is a rare, benign soft tissue tumor with diverse clinical presentations. We present a case of a 55‐year‐old woman with a 2‐year history of a solitary periungual tumor on the left thumb, subjected to multiple episodes of trauma. Initially suspected to be a periungual squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) based on clinical and dermoscopic features, the tumor was confirmed to be a CD34− SAF through histopathology and immunohistochemistry. Although CD34 immunoreactivity is common in SAF, one‐third of these tumors, including this case, do not stain for this marker. Periungual SCC considered a “great mimicker of nail tumors,” may resemble other benign nail tumors such as SAF. The patient underwent complete surgical excision with primary closure, resulting in no recurrence after 1 year. This case highlights SAF as an underrecognized benign entity that may manifest with features suspicious of malignancy, potentially leading to unnecessarily aggressive interventions. Recognizing SAF through accurate biopsy techniques and thorough histopathologic evaluation, even in the absence of CD34 reactivity, is crucial for appropriate treatment and preservation of hand function and appearance.
Association of body adiposity with left ventricular concentric remodeling and diastolic dysfunction
Authors: Cho In‐Jeong , Lee Sang‐Eun , Pyun Wook Bum
Published: June 2024

Background

Obesity is a significant risk factor for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). In this study, we explore the relationships between body mass index (BMI) and adipose tissue compartments such as visceral adipose tissue (VAT), subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), and epicardial adipose tissue (EAT), with respect to left ventricular (LV) structure and function in subjects with preserved LV systolic function.

Methods

Between January and December 2020, this retrospective study included 749 participants who exhibited preserved LV systolic function and underwent transthoracic echocardiography along with abdominal computed tomography. LV structural and functional variables as well as EAT, VAT, and SAT thickness were evaluated using echocardiography and computed tomography.

Results

SAT decreased, while VAT and EAT progressively increased with age. There were significant correlations between BMI and various adipose tissues, with the strongest correlation observed with SAT (r = .491, p < .001) compared to VAT (r = .371, p < .001) or EAT (r = .135, p < .001). However, EAT demonstrated the most substantial association with decreased LV end‐diastolic dimension, LV end‐systolic dimension, and septal mitral annular velocity and increased relative wall thickness (all p < .05), while VAT and SAT did not show significant associations with LV remodeling and functional parameters after adjusting for clinical variables.

Conclusion

EAT is the most critical adipose tissue influencing LV geometric and functional changes, compared with VAT or SAT. Thick EAT is associated small LV chamber size, concentric remodeling, and relaxation abnormalities.
Misinformation, consumer risk perceptions, and markets: The impact of an information shock on vaping and smoking cessation
Authors: Jin Lawrence , Kenkel Don , Lovenheim Michael , Mathios Alan , Wang Hua
Published: June 2024

We study the impact of an information shock created by an outbreak of lung injuries apparently related to e‐cigarettes. We use data from multiple sources: surveys of risk perceptions conducted before, during, and after the outbreak; an in‐depth survey on risk perceptions and vaping and smoking behavior; and national aggregate time‐series sales data. We find that after the outbreak, consumer perceptions of the riskiness of e‐cigarettes sharply increased. From our estimated e‐cigarette demand models, we conclude that the information shock reduced e‐cigarette demand and the use of e‐cigarettes for smoking cessation by about 30 percent.
Cerebrospinal fluid and blood neurofilament light chain levels in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal degeneration: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Verde Federico , Licaj Sara , Soranna Davide , Ticozzi Nicola , Silani Vincenzo , Zambon Antonella
Published: June 2024

Background and purpose

Neurofilament light chain (NFL) has been shown to be increased in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and, to a lesser extent, in frontotemporal dementia (FTD). A meta‐analysis of NFL in ALS and FTD was performed.

Methods

Available studies comparing cerebrospinal fluid and blood NFL levels in ALS versus neurologically healthy controls (NHCs), other neurological diseases (ONDs) and ALS mimics, as well as in FTD and related entities (behavioural variant of FTD and frontotemporal lobar degeneration syndromes) versus NHCs, ONDs and other dementias were evaluated.

Results

In ALS, both cerebrospinal fluid and blood levels of NFL were higher compared to other categories. In FTD, behavioural variant of FTD and frontotemporal lobar degeneration syndromes, NFL levels were consistently higher compared to NHCs; however, several comparisons with ONDs and other dementias did not demonstrate significant differences.

Discussion

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is characterized by higher NFL levels compared to most other conditions. In contrast, NFL is not as good at discriminating FTD from other dementias.
Evolution of “invasion syndrome” in invasive goldenrod is not constrained by genetic trade‐offs
Authors: Rigby Laura C. , Hall Matthew D. , Monro Keyne , Uesugi Akane
Published: June 2024

A suite of plant traits is thought to make weed populations highly invasive, including vigorous growth and reproduction, superior competitive ability, and high dispersal ability. Using a breeding design and a common garden experiment, we tested whether such an “invasion syndrome” has evolved in an invasive range of Solidago altissima, and whether the evolution is likely to be genetically constrained. We found an overall shift in invasive phenotypes between native North American and invasive Japanese populations. The invasive populations were taller and produced more leaves, suggesting a superior ability to exploit limited resources. The populations also produced more allelopathic compounds that can suppress competitor growth. Finally, invasive populations produced more seeds, which are smaller and are released from a greater height, indicating a potential for superior dispersal ability than the native populations. Quantitative genetics analyses found a large amount of additive genetic variation in most focal traits across native and invasive populations, with no systematic differences in its magnitude between the ranges. Genetic covariances among three traits representing invasion strategies (leaf mass, polyacetylene concentration and seed size) were small. The R metric, which measures the effect of genetic covariances on the rate of adaptation, indicated that the covariance neither constrains nor accelerates concerted evolution of these traits. The results suggest that the invasion syndrome in S. altissima has evolved in the novel range due to ample additive genetic variation, and relatively free from genetic trade‐offs.
The effect of implementing a dialysis start unit on modality decision among patients with unplanned start kidney replacement therapy
Authors: Goldman Shira , Bargman Joanne M. , Lok Charmaine E. , Gozdzik Anna , Perl Jeffrey , Chan Christopher T.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Many individuals start dialysis in an acute setting with suboptimal pre‐dialysis education. These individuals are often treated with central venous catheter insertion and initiation of in‐center hemodialysis and only a minority will transfer to a home‐based therapy. The dialysis start unit is a program performing in‐center hemodialysis in a separate space while providing support and education on chronic kidney disease and treatment options in the initial weeks of kidney replacement therapy. We aimed to assess the uptake of home dialysis therapies between 2013 and 2021 among patients who started acute inpatient hemodialysis at University Health Network, Toronto and underwent dialysis at the dialysis start unit.

Methods

This is a retrospective observational cohort study based on prospectively collected data. Patients' demographics were obtained from electronic charts. In the dialysis start unit, all patients received dialysis modality education by a nurse educator, dedicated home dialysis nurses, and the allied health care team.

Findings

During 2013–2021, 122 patients were dialyzed in the dialysis start unit and included in the study. Among those patients, 68 patients ultimately chose home dialysis (57 peritoneal dialysis and 11 home hemodialysis). Fifty‐four patients continued in‐center hemodialysis. Patients adopting home dialysis were less likely to have diabetes and hypertension as the etiology of kidney failure and more likely to have glomerulonephritis or vasculitis.

Discussion

Dialysis modality education is implementable in advanced chronic kidney disease. Individualized education and care after unplanned start dialysis can potentially enhance home dialysis choice and utilization.
Estimating sampling biases in citizen science datasets
Authors: Backstrom Louis J. , Callaghan Corey T. , Worthington Hannah , Fuller Richard A. , Johnston Alison
Published: June 2024

The rise of citizen science (also called community science) has led to vast quantities of species observation data collected by members of the public. Citizen science data tend to be unevenly distributed across space and time, but the treatment of sampling bias varies between studies, and interactions between different biases are often overlooked. We present a method for conceptualizing and estimating spatial and temporal sampling biases, and interactions between them. We use this method to estimate sampling biases in an example ornithological citizen science dataset from eBird in Brisbane City, Australia. We then explore the effects of these sampling biases on subsequent model inference of population trends, using both a simulation study and an application of the same trend models to the Brisbane eBird dataset. We find varying levels of sampling bias in the Brisbane eBird dataset across temporal and spatial scales, and evidence for interactions between biases. Several of the sampling biases we identified differ from those described in the literature for other datasets, with protected areas being undersampled in the city, and only limited seasonal sampling bias. We demonstrate variable performance of trend models under different sampling bias scenarios, with more complex biases being associated with typically poorer trend estimates. Sampling biases are important to consider when analysing ecological datasets, and analysts can use this method to ensure that any biologically relevant sampling biases are detected and given due consideration during analysis. With appropriate model specification, the effects of sampling biases can be reduced to yield reliable information about biodiversity.
Targeting social welfare for people with severe mental illness: A review of policies in China and a call for further action
Authors: Yu Yue‐Hui , Xu Bo
Published: June 2024

Severe mental illness (SMI) has long been a focus of public health attention. Due to stigma, people with SMI face strong social discrimination and are one of the most vulnerable groups in a society. Building a sound social welfare system is of paramount importance to address their vulnerabilities. China has accumulated a large body of policy practice, but there is still a lack of critical review in this area. Drawing on the framework developed by WHO, this article provides a comprehensive review of China's policy progress in addressing the health care, rehabilitation, life support and social participation needs of people with SMI, as well as the collaborative governance system and detailed policy arrangements. This review raises a number of policy‐related issues for further consideration, such as strengthening community mental health services, improving life support for people with SMI, and reconciling the values of public safety and patients' rights.
Did employers abandon collective bargaining? A comparative analysis of the weakening of collective bargaining in the OECD
Authors: Visser Jelle
Published: June 2024

The paper takes up two questions. Do we observe, universally in the advanced capitalist world, the weakening of collective bargaining? Have employers everywhere and always tried to achieve this outcome and abandoned structures and policies that sustain collective bargaining? For answering the first question, the paper proposes three indicators—bargaining coverage, centralisation and control, measuring the incidence of collective agreements across workers and workplaces, the degree to which these agreements are bound by rules set by agents at higher levels, and whether these rules are enforced. For answering the second question the paper proposes a model that considers the relative strength of organised labour versus capital, the coordinating capacities of employers and the inheritance of past investments in collective bargaining. The analysis covers 32 Member States of the OECD with annual data on unions, employers and collective bargaining from 1980 to 2019.
Challenges in developing information and communication technology (ICT) use for rural e‐governance: An ecology perspective
Authors: Shou Minghuan , Jia Furong , Yu Jie , Wu Yi
Published: June 2024

The utilisation of information and communication technology (ICT) has a profound impact on e‐governance across countries, albeit, with limited attention to rural areas. The existing literature on this topic either examines the positive effects of ICT use on e‐governance at the individual level or from the urban–rural dichotomy perspective. Meanwhile, the majority of studies are conducted within an urban context, but they scarcely focus on identifying the challenges in developing rural e‐governance. As such, we contend that an ecology perspective is necessary to identify the specific distinctions of ICT use on e‐governance in various rural ecosystems. To this end, we employ various empirical specifications, namely a fixed‐effects model and an instrumental variable approach, to provide evidence of distinct influences of ICT use on e‐governance. As follows, we adopt a qualitative research approach to gather evidence on the differentiations of ICT use on rural e‐governance within diverse ecosystems. Subsequently, we have identified five crucial obstacles encountered by rural ecosystems in Western China while attempting to develop e‐governance. Furthermore, we delineate an all‐encompassing internal‐external strategy to overcome these challenges.
Evaluating input‐ and output‐specific inefficiency in courts of justice. An empirical study of Polish district courts
Authors: Kapelko Magdalena
Published: June 2024

Efficient judicial systems are acknowledged to benefit economic growth, firm competition, entrepreneurship, and financial market development. The goal of this paper is to measure the relative technical inefficiency of Polish district courts for the period 2017–2021 in civil, criminal, and family cases. Unlike other papers on justice (in)efficiency, this study uses input‐specific and output‐specific production models combined with the Data Envelopment Analysis technique. This approach allows for assessment of the contributions of specific inputs and outputs to overall court inefficiency. The results show considerable differences in inefficiencies with regard to courts’ specific inputs and outputs and the types of cases being processed. The evidence shows that the greatest inefficiency is found among court workers (i.e., other judicial staff and judges), while among judges, it is civil judges, with this result being robust to the model's specification. According to the results, the year 2020 marked a clear increase in the inefficiency of almost all variables, which can be attributed to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic and restrictions on the functioning of the courts. Finally, the results also highlight a heterogeneity among courts depending on their geographical location and size, with courts related to the largest cities and those of large size tending to be the most inefficient.
‘Walk Buds’: A walking intervention to increase physical activity, physical fitness, and emotional wellbeing, in 9–13 year old children with intellectual disabilities. Results of a clustered randomised feasibility trial
Authors: Mullhall Peter , Taggart Laurence , McDermott Gary , Slater Paul , Fitzpatrick Ben , Murphy Marie H. , Hassiotis Angela , Johnston Anne
Published: June 2024

Background

Children with intellectual disability are less physically active and more sedentary than typically developing peers. To date no studies have tested the feasibility of a school‐based walking intervention for children with Intellectual Disability.

Method

A clustered randomised controlled trial (cRCT), with an embedded process evaluation, was used to test the feasibility of a school‐based walking intervention. Eight schools (n = 161 pupils aged 9–13 years) were randomised into either an intervention arm or an ‘exercise as usual’ arm. Measures included physical activity, physical fitness and emotional wellbeing. Baseline and 3‐month follow‐up data were collected.

Results

The ‘Walk Buds’ intervention was found to be acceptable to teaching staff and pupils, with an uptake rate of the walking sessions offered of 84%.

Conclusion

A number of challenges were experienced, relating to the COVID‐19 pandemic, and difficulties collecting accelerometer data. Barriers, facilitators and required changes identified through the mixed methods process evaluation are discussed.
Association between baseline blood pressure variability and left heart function following short‐term extreme cold exposure
Authors: Chen Renzheng , Yang Qian , Wang Yabin , Fang Yan , Cao Feng
Published: June 2024

Extreme cold exposure has been widely considered as a cardiac stress and may result in cardiac function decompensation. This study was to examine the risk factors that contribute to changes in cardiovascular indicators of cardiac function following extreme cold exposure and to provide valuable insights into the preservation of cardiac function and the cardiac adaptation that occur in real‐world cold environment. Seventy subjects were exposed to cold outside (Mohe, mean temperature −17 to −34°C) for one day, and were monitored by a 24‐h ambulatory blood pressure device and underwent echocardiography examination before and after extreme cold exposure. After exposure to extreme cold, 41 subjects exhibited an increase in ejection fraction (EF), while 29 subjects experienced a decrease. Subjects with elevated EF had lower baseline coefficients of variation (CV) in blood pressure compared to those in the EF decrease group. Additionally, the average real variability (ARV) of blood pressure was also significantly lower in the EF increase group. Multivariate regression analysis indicated that both baseline CV and ARV of blood pressure were independent risk factors for EF decrease, and both indicators proved effective for prognostic evaluation. Correlation analysis revealed a correlation between baseline blood pressure CV and ARV, as well as EF variation after exposure to extreme cold environment. Our research clearly indicated that baseline cardiovascular indicators were closely associated with the changes in EF after extreme cold exposure. Furthermore, baseline blood pressure variability could effectively predict alterations in left cardiac functions when individuals were exposed to extreme cold environment.
Executive functioning and treatment outcome among adolescents undergoing cognitive‐behavioral therapy for binge‐eating disorder
Authors: Goldschmidt Andrea B. , Jeong Kwonho , Yu Lan , Egbert Amy H. , Schmidt Ricarda , Hilbert Anja
Published: June 2024

Background

Cognitive‐behavioral therapy (CBT) is an evidence‐supported treatment for adolescents with binge‐eating disorder (BED). Executive dysfunctions, which are associated with binge eating and elevated body weight in youth, may undermine CBT outcomes by making it difficult for youth to engage with or adhere to treatment, including recalling and/or implementing intervention strategies in real‐world contexts.

Methods

We assessed 73 adolescents [82.2% female; Mage = 15.0 ± 2.5 year; M baseline standardized body mass index (zBMI) = 1.9 ± 1.0 kg/m2] with BED at baseline, posttreatment, 6‐, 12‐, and 24‐month follow‐up. Linear mixed models examined the effects of baseline executive functioning (EF) on loss of control (LOC) eating and weight change following CBT. Linear and logistic regressions probed associations between EF, attendance, and attrition.

Results

More impulsive decision‐making, as reflected in higher baseline scores on the Iowa Gambling Task, predicted better attendance (β = .07; p = .019) and more frequent LOC eating following treatment (β = .12; p = .017). Lower cognitive flexibility, as reflected in lower baseline T‐scores on the Comprehensive Trail Making Test complex sequencing index, predicted higher zBMI following treatment (β = −.03; p = .003). Inhibition, concentration, attention, and parent‐reported EF behavior symptoms were not associated with outcome, attendance, or attrition.

Conclusions

More impulsive decision‐making and lower cognitive flexibility were associated with suboptimal response to CBT for BED, although findings should be interpreted with caution in light of the sample size and waitlist control design. Future research should examine whether strengthening EF could improve eating and weight outcomes among adolescents with BED who have lower pre‐treatment EF.
Comparative effectiveness of eHealth interventions on the exercise endurance and quality of life of patients with COPD: A systematic review and network meta‐analysis
Authors: Chang Hui , Zhou Jia , Chen Yundi , Wang Xiuhong , Wang Zhiwen
Published: June 2024

Aims

To compare the effectiveness of different types of eHealth interventions in improving exercise endurance and quality of life in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients.

Background

COPD is a chronic airway disease characterized by persistent respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation. eHealth interventions have been accepted and recognized by healthcare professionals and COPD patients as an effective alternative to pulmonary rehabilitation. However, it is not clear which eHealth interventions are effective and preferred for exercise endurance and quality of life in COPD patients.

Design

A systematic review and network meta‐analysis based on PRISMA‐NMA.

Methods

We searched nine electronic databases to identify randomized controlled trials addressing the effect of eHealth interventions on the exercise endurance and quality of life of COPD patients from their inception to 30 October 2022. First, a random‐effects model was chosen to conduct a traditional meta‐analysis to directly investigate the efficacy of different eHealth interventions. Next, a network meta‐analysis was performed to evaluate the relative efficacy of the eHealth interventions for COPD. The quality of the data was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool.

Results

Fifty‐one studies containing six eHealth interventions (telemonitoring, application [APP], web‐based interventions, phone calls, virtual reality and combined interventions [≥two types]) were included in the final analysis. Network meta‐analysis showed that telemonitoring, APP, web‐based interventions and combined interventions improved exercise endurance in COPD patients, with telemonitoring being the most effective. Web‐based interventions and apps are effective in improving the quality of life, and web‐based interventions are the most effective.

Conclusions

This study confirms that eHealth interventions can improve exercise endurance and quality of life in COPD patients. In the future, healthcare professionals can promote the use of telemedicine in COPD patients to enhance their exercise endurance and quality of life according to their individual needs.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

This evidence suggests that eHealth interventions can improve exercise endurance and quality of life in COPD patients. Therefore, in the future, eHealth interventions could be used to maximize their effectiveness in improving exercise endurance and quality of life in COPD patients.
Parents' Perceptions of Schools' COVID‐19 Mitigation Strategies: A Phenomenological Study
Authors: Dinh Janny , Edwards Lorece V. , Calderon Gabriela , Klein Lauren M. , Wang June , Marrero Natalie , Johnson Sara B. , Hager Erin R.
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

At the onset of the COVID‐19 pandemic, schools closed across the United States. Given the impact of virtual learning and lost access to school resources, schools eventually reopened with COVID‐19 mitigation protocols in place. This qualitative study sought to understand parental perceptions of school‐based COVID‐19 mitigation strategies.

METHODS

Using a phenomenology approach, nine focus groups were completed with 40 parents of children in grades K‐8 representing eight Maryland counties. Based on acceptance of masking policies (as indicated on a survey), parents were sorted into 2 groups—lower and higher masking acceptance. A thematic analysis was conducted for each group and themes were compared between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

The main themes were related to parents' general sentiments regarding COVID‐19, compliance, pandemic‐related changes over time, changes in personal opinions, and in‐person learning. Both groups described challenges related to inconsistent COVID‐19 mitigation policies and practices, the challenges of rapid and frequent changes in guidelines during the pandemic, and the benefits of in‐person learning.

CONCLUSIONS

Parents of elementary and middle school children, regardless of general acceptance of masking policies, shared concerns about implementation and guidance regarding school‐based mitigation strategies.
Baseline Sociodemographic Characteristics and Mental Health Status of Primary Caregivers and Children Attending Schools on the Navajo Nation During COVID‐19
Authors: Archuleta Shannon , Allison‐Burbank Joshuaa D. , Ingalls Allison , Begay Renae , Begaye Vanessa , Howe Lacey , Tsosie Alicia , Keryte Angelina Phoebe , Haroz Emily E.
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Despite historical and contemporary trauma, American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN; Indigenous) communities responded with resilience to the COVID‐19 pandemic. However, AIANs experienced disproportionate rates of infection, hospitalization, death, and reduced life expectancy. School closures exacerbated disparities, leading to learning loss, economic instability, and mental health challenges among AIAN youth.

METHODS

The Project SafeSchools cohort study employed a comprehensive longitudinal convergent mixed‐methods approach, integrating community‐based participatory research principles. The study enrolled Navajo Nation caregivers whose children were eligible to attend local reservation‐based schools. We conducted an analysis of caregiver self‐report baseline data collected between August 2021 and May 2022.

RESULTS

A total of 242 caregivers completed at least part of the baseline assessment and were included in data analysis. Caregivers were primarily female (88.7%), non‐Hispanic (97%), and Indigenous (97%). Most caregivers were in their late 30s (mean age 38), with varying educational backgrounds and employment statuses. Children were evenly split between males and females and distributed across different age groups. Most children attended school at baseline in various formats, including in‐person, hybrid, and online‐only settings. Caregivers reported a range of psychosocial and behavioral risks, including general mental distress, depressive symptoms, and anxiety for themselves and their children. Furthermore, caregivers and children exhibited various protective factors, such as strong cultural identity, resilience, and academic self‐efficacy.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the higher rates of mental health distress among participating caregivers and children compared to national averages. Despite these challenges, cultural protective factors remained strong and should guide future crisis response efforts.
Cross‐sectional study examining the association between diet quality and the prevalence of anxiety and depression in UK undergraduate students
Authors: Myrissa Kyriaki , Court Catherine , Kelaiditi Eirini
Published: June 2024

The prevalence of mental health issues among UK undergraduate students is growing, and poor diet quality appears to be a risk factor for poor mental health although with limited research in this area. Therefore, the objective of this study was to examine the cross‐sectional associations between diet quality and common mental disorders (CMD) such as depression and anxiety in UK undergraduate students. A cross‐sectional survey consisting of demographic information and validated questionnaires (the Short‐Form Food Frequency Questionnaire [SFFFQ] and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale [HADS]) was conducted to measure diet quality and anxiety and depression in young adults in 44 UK‐based universities. Multiple regression analysis adjusting for confounding factors was used to assess the associations between them. Undergraduate university students (n = 202, 67% female) with a mean age of 20.9 ± 3.6 years and a mean body mass index (n = 170) of 22.6 ± 3.2 kg/m2 took part in the study. Prevalence of anxiety was high, with 40% of the sample having an anxiety score in the severe range (≥12 points) while the prevalence of depression was lower, with 6% of the population having a depression score in the severe range (≥12 points). Diet quality was significantly higher for females than males (p = 0.034) and was poor for 38% of the sample, being more common in males compared to females, although not significantly so (43% and 36%, respectively). Diet quality was inversely associated with anxiety (β = −0.427; p = 0.029) and was more likely to be associated with anxiety in females than males (β = 0.743; p = 0.043). No significant relationship between diet quality and depression was found. Better self‐reported health, father's qualification and smoking status were also associated with less anxiety and depression. This research supports other research suggesting that UK universities should explore whether the implementation of dietary interventions and improving the food environment would be a cost‐effective option to reduce the high prevalence of anxiety among students.