bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Why and when does performance pressure encourage employee expediency? A moderated mediation model
Authors: Khan Abdul Gaffar , Mahmood Monowar , Islam Mohammad Shariful , Li Yan , Hwang Ha Jin
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Employee expediency is a ubiquitous, unethical phenomenon in the workplace that is largely underresearched. Based on the tenets of conservation of resources (COR) theory, this study investigates the influence of excessive performance pressure on employees' expedient behaviour via moral disengagement. It further examines the moderating role of employees' moral identity in the relationship between performance pressure and employee expediency.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected using a multi-wave paper-and-pencil survey amongst 388 sales associates working in pharmaceutical manufacturing companies in Bangladesh. A series of hierarchical regression analyses and bootstrapping techniques of the PROCESS macro were conducted to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The findings reveal that performance pressure significantly and positively affects employees' expediency. Additionally, moral disengagement partially mediates the positive relationship between performance pressure and employee expediency. Furthermore, moral identity moderates the direct effect of performance pressure on moral disengagement and the indirect effect of performance pressure on employee expediency through moral disengagement.

Practical implications

Managers are advised to consider the compatibility of economic and moral principles when defining performance targets or evaluating staff performance, as immoral behaviours harm organisations in the long run. Additionally, managers should emphasise candidates with high levels of sensitive moral qualities, such as integrity and moral behaviour, and their abilities should be given preference when hiring new employees, e.g. moral reasoning.

Originality/value

This pioneering study investigates the underlying psychological mechanisms and moral characteristics to unravel the association between performance pressure and employee expediency using the lens of COR theory. The study identified the moral consequences of performance pressure and mitigating strategies to reduce employee expedient behaviour.
“I would like to visit a bone chapel, but …”: facilitators, constraints, motivators and death anxiety
Authors: Carvalho Maria Amélia Machado
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The study aims to understand the relationship between facilitating, demoting, motivating factors and visit intention; and to clarify the role of death anxiety before visiting a dark exhibition.

Design/methodology/approach

Partial least squares structural equation modeling was adopted to analyze data from 426 potential visitors to the Capuchin Crypt in Rome (Italy).

Findings

Results demonstrate that dark fascination, prestige, reflection on death and mortality and interpersonal facilitators are the main drivers of visit intention, and structural constraints are the main demoting factors. Contrary to expectations, intrapersonal constraints have a positive influence on motivators and indirectly on visit intention, and death anxiety has mixed results.

Research limitations/implications

Data collection from only one dark exhibition requires that the generalization of the results must be done with care.

Practical implications

Conclusions enabled a better understanding of pre-trip tourist behavior, providing valuable suggestions for the communication strategy of Destination Management Organizations (DMOs) and site managers.

Originality/value

The study adopts a consolidated and empirical approach to studying facilitators, motivators, constraints and visit intention, as well as the effect of death anxiety. To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first study to develop a comprehensive investigation of these four constructs, whether at the darker or the lighter end of the dark tourism spectrum. Consequently, it offers a better understanding of lighter dark attractions, which allows DMOs and others to improve the communication of their tourism products.
Efficient knowledge distillation for remote sensing image classification: a CNN-based approach
Authors: Song Huaxiang , Wei Chai , Yong Zhou
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The paper aims to tackle the classification of Remote Sensing Images (RSIs), which presents a significant challenge for computer algorithms due to the inherent characteristics of clustered ground objects and noisy backgrounds. Recent research typically leverages larger volume models to achieve advanced performance. However, the operating environments of remote sensing commonly cannot provide unconstrained computational and storage resources. It requires lightweight algorithms with exceptional generalization capabilities.

Design/methodology/approach

This study introduces an efficient knowledge distillation (KD) method to build a lightweight yet precise convolutional neural network (CNN) classifier. This method also aims to substantially decrease the training time expenses commonly linked with traditional KD techniques. This approach entails extensive alterations to both the model training framework and the distillation process, each tailored to the unique characteristics of RSIs. In particular, this study establishes a robust ensemble teacher by independently training two CNN models using a customized, efficient training algorithm. Following this, this study modifies a KD loss function to mitigate the suppression of non-target category predictions, which are essential for capturing the inter- and intra-similarity of RSIs.

Findings

This study validated the student model, termed KD-enhanced network (KDE-Net), obtained through the KD process on three benchmark RSI data sets. The KDE-Net surpasses 42 other state-of-the-art methods in the literature published from 2020 to 2023. Compared to the top-ranked method’s performance on the challenging NWPU45 data set, KDE-Net demonstrated a noticeable 0.4% increase in overall accuracy with a significant 88% reduction in parameters. Meanwhile, this study’s reformed KD framework significantly enhances the knowledge transfer speed by at least three times.

Originality/value

This study illustrates that the logit-based KD technique can effectively develop lightweight CNN classifiers for RSI classification without substantial sacrifices in computation and storage costs. Compared to neural architecture search or other methods aiming to provide lightweight solutions, this study’s KDE-Net, based on the inherent characteristics of RSIs, is currently more efficient in constructing accurate yet lightweight classifiers for RSI classification.
Firm characteristics and the adoption of data analytics in performance management: a critical analysis of EU enterprises
Authors: Kiu Chun Tung Thomas , Chan Jin Hooi
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the factors influencing the adoption of data analytics in performance management. By examining the role of organizational and environmental contexts, this study contributes to the existing literature by proposing a novel and detailed technology-organization-environment (TOE) model for the complex interplay between firm characteristics and the adoption of data analytics. The results offer valuable insights and practical implications for organizations seeking to leverage data analytics for effective performance management.

Design/methodology/approach

The research draws upon a data set encompassing over 21,869 companies operating across all European Union member states. A multilevel logistic regression model was developed to evaluate the influence of organizational and environmental factors on the likelihood of adopting performance analytics in organizations.

Findings

The findings indicate that the lack of awareness of the benefits of data analytics and its practical application to address specific business challenges is a significant barrier to its adoption. Organizational contexts, such as variable-pay systems, employee training, hierarchical structures and frequency of monetary rewards, also influence the adoption of data analytics.

Research limitations/implications

The study informs managers about the strategic role of data analytics capabilities in performance management for improved business intelligence and driving data culture.

Practical implications

The study helps managers understand the strategic role of data analytics capabilities in performance management, leading to improved business intelligence and fostering a data-driven culture in five key areas: structural alignment, strategic decision-making, resource allocation, performance improvement and change management.

Originality/value

The study advances the TOE theory, making it a more detailed and complete framework, particularly applicable to the adoption of performance analytics. It identifies the main factors of adoption that play a crucial role in this process.
Foreign agricultural investment and sustainable development in India: a granger causality analyses
Authors: Bhat Mohd Nadeem , Naeem Mohd Hammad
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The study aims to find the synchronization between foreign agriculture investment (FAI) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to agriculture as classified by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). The study tries to find such an association in India over 2 decades from 2001.

Design/methodology/approach

The Toda-Yamamoto Granger using the M-Wald test for the non-causality procedure is applied to find the synchronization. Stationarity is tested using the Augmented Dickey-Fuller, Phillips-Perron and Kwiatkowski, Phillips, Schmidt and Shin (KPSS) tests. The Johanson methodology with MacKinnon-Haug-Michelis P-value is employed for the Cointegration test.

Findings

The empirical results indicate that the FAI Granger cause SDG2 “Zero hunger” and “Overall sustainability”, but SDG13 “Climate Change”, SDG6 “Clean water and sanitation”, SDG12 “Responsible production and consumption” and SDG15 “Life on Land” granger cause global investments. Notwithstanding, SDG5 “Gender equality” and SDG14 “Life below water” found no-way causality with FAI.

Practical implications

Host governments should prioritize sector-level sustainable development, notably agricultural SDGs, to attract global investments. Foreign agriculture investment is influenced differently by various SDGs; thus, policymakers should concentrate on specific agricultural SDGs to enhance the flow of capital into the agriculture sector. Global investors should take sustainability into account while framing foreign investment plans, and the supra-national organization may consider global agricultural investments while addressing the problems related to global food security.

Originality/value

The distinguishing feature of the study is that SDGs classified by the FAO from a global investment perspective have not been studied so far.
Inverse two-stage data envelopment analysis with interval measures for resource planning
Authors: Zibaei Vishghaei Yasaman , Kordrostami Sohrab , Amirteimoori Alireza , Shokri Soheil
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Assessing inputs and outputs is a significant aspect of taking decisions while there are complex and multistage processes in many examinations. Due to the presence of interval performance measures in various real-world studies, the purpose of this study is to address the changes of interval inputs of two-stage processes for the perturbations of interval outputs of two-stage systems, given that the overall efficiency scores are maintained.

Design/methodology/approach

Actually, an interval inverse two-stage data envelopment analysis (DEA) model is proposed to plan resources. To illustrate, an interval two-stage network DEA model with external interval inputs and outputs and also its inverse problem are suggested to estimate the upper and lower bounds of the entire efficiency and the stages efficiency along with the variations of interval inputs.

Findings

An example from the literature and a real case study of the banking industry are applied to demonstrate the introduced approach. The results show the proposed approach is suitable to estimate the resources of two-stage systems when interval measures are presented.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, there is no study to estimate the fluctuation of imprecise inputs related to network structures for the changes of imprecise outputs while the interval efficiency of network processes is maintained. Accordingly, this paper considers the resource planning problem when there are imprecise and interval measures in two-stage networks.
Role of Industry 4.0 tools in organizational performance of the IT sector
Authors: Islam Abeera , Naseem Afshan
Published: December 2023

Purpose

In the contemporary period, numerous businesses undergo significant adjustments, such as evaluating critical components of the corporate operations and relying on technology to keep operations running while conforming to an ever-changing set of norms and new tactics. The present study aims to (1) explore the relationship between Industry 4.0 (I4.0) tools and their impact on organizational performance and (2) find evidence supporting the moderating role of remote working and organizational agility (OA) in enhancing organizational performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed the quantitative research method, and the data were collected from individuals working in different Asian IT firms using the previously established questionnaire. The data were examined using SPSS v22. Different statistical tests have been performed to find the relationship among constructs.

Findings

This study uncovers that I4.0 tools impact organizational performance, especially in the IT sector, with a particular emphasis on the moderating influence of remote work and OA. I4.0 tools encompass pivotal components such as artificial intelligence (AI), big data (BD), cloud computing (CC) and Internet of Things (IoT) indeed augment organizational performance. It can be referenced that I4.0 tools play the role of a driving force that equips organizations with the knowledge to augment their performance.

Practical implications

Companies should encourage remote work and use I4.0 technology to support and manage it. Enabling people to work from any location, lowering the requirement for physical infrastructure and enabling a more flexible and responsive organizational structure can increase OA. In conclusion, firms in Asia may increase the performance and agility using I4.0 technology. Organizations may innovate by putting money into these technologies, encouraging remote work and creating an innovative culture.

Social implications

In this dynamic and technologically advanced environment, every industry is forced to look for latest tools, i.e. I4.0, tools to augment the performance. It has been concluded that I4.0 tools are “better practices” for boosting organizational performance; hence, the findings benefit firms working in the IT sector. The verdicts of this research can assist organizations in making decisions regarding the implementation of I4.0 tools.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, no specific study could be found in which the relationship among these constructs had been investigated earlier in the IT sector. This research work acts as value addition to the literature as it illustrates technological advancements may increase organizational performance, especially in Asia. This research work adds to the body of knowledge by amplifying the effect of latest technologies on organizational performance, via remote work and OA.
Academic embeddedness and college of business student outcomes
Authors: Burch Tyler , Tocher Neil , Murphy Greg
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the potentially important effects of academic embeddedness on college of business student retention and performance as well as the mediating effects of self-efficacy on the academic embeddedness student outcomes relationships. Improvements in student retention and performance reduce costs for students and universities and lead to higher incomes for graduates.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered from students in an entry-level business course at a public university in a rural western state. Approximately 45% of the students were female, and the average age of participants was 20 years old. A survey was administered midsemester to gather data on academic embeddedness and self-efficacy. Retention was indicated by a student enrolling in a business course in a subsequent semester. Performance was measured using end-of-semester course grades. Logistic and linear regression as well as mediation analysis were used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

Academic embeddedness was found to positively predict both retention and performance, while self-efficacy was found to positively mediate the academic embeddedness retention relationship. The direct effect of embeddedness on performance was not found when controlling for self-efficacy.

Practical implications

Student retention and performance are important to both students and academic administrators. The findings of this study suggest that retention and performance can both be improved by focusing on factors that more strongly embed students to their colleges.

Originality/value

Embeddedness has been found to have high predictive validity in the employment context. This is one of the first studies to consider the effects of embeddedness in the academic context.
The taphonomic impact of scavenger guilds in peri‐urban and rural regions of central and southern Alberta. Part I – Identification of forensically relevant vertebrate scavengers
Authors: Forbes Shari L. , Kjorlien Yvonne , Watson Christopher J.
Published: December 2023

As a body decomposes in an outdoor environment, numerous taphonomic agents can act on the process of human decomposition. It is important to understand the impact of these agents as they can vary the rate of soft and hard tissue loss which may alter postmortem interval estimations. One taphonomic factor which has not been extensively investigated in many regions of the world, including Canada, are vertebrate scavengers. The current study aimed to identify scavenger guilds in the peri‐urban and rural regions of two major cities in Alberta (Calgary and Edmonton) where human remains are frequently located. Vertebrate scavenger activity was recorded continuously using cellular and noncellular trail cameras. Images were analyzed to determine how the scavenging profiles (i.e., scavenger species, arrival time, and feeding behavior) impacted the loss of soft and hard tissue. We identified a range of mammalian and avian scavengers and found that coyote and black‐billed magpie were the predominant scavengers recorded at the Edmonton peri‐urban and rural sites, and the Calgary peri‐urban sites. In contrast, when a site was within bear territory such as the Calgary rural sites, black and grizzly bears were the predominant scavengers. At all sites, the large mammalian scavengers were responsible for most soft tissue loss and subsequent hard tissue dispersal. None of the scavengers demonstrated a clear preference for open versus closed sites. This taphonomic information is important to consider when searching for human remains at these locations or in other North American regions with comparable scavenger guilds.
Psychiatric disorders and management of sexual offenders in the prison psychiatric consultation unit of Marseille
Authors: Bernardi Noémie , Delteil Clémence , Kania Éric , Giravalli Pascale , Tuchtan Lucile , Guay Jean‐Pierre , Piercecchi Marie‐Dominique , Bartoli Christophe , Guivarch Jokthan
Published: December 2023

Since 2017, complaints of sexual violence have increased in France. At the same time, the management of sexual offenders has been at the center of international public health policies. The prevalence of mental disorders among sexual offenders is an essential field of research. There are some published studies on the prevalence of psychiatric disorders in sexual offenders in detention, but there are few recent published studies among French individuals who were detained. Our objectives were to determine the prevalence of psychiatric disorders among persons detained for sexual offenses and the level of care received according to their diagnosis. For this purpose, we carried out a retrospective observational study from January 2017 to October 2021 of all adult sexual offenders, whether accused or convicted, who were seen in the psychiatric consultation unit of Les Baumettes prison, Marseille, France. The primary outcome measure was the psychiatric diagnosis entered in the medical records. One hundred forty‐two patients were included in analysis. All patients were men, and the majority (n = 97, 68.3%) of these patients presented with at least one psychiatric disorder, principally a personality disorder (31.7%). 10.6% presented with a schizophrenic disorder, 4.9% a bipolar disorder, 3.5% a depressive disorder, 5.6% pedophilic paraphilia, and 25.4% an addictive disorder. Their management and comorbid addictions were analyzed in subgroups for each psychiatric disorder. Patients appeared to receive an appropriate level of care for their diagnosed disorder. It seems important to develop structured assessment of recidivism risk for better management of sexual offenders.
The burden and prognostic significance of suspected sepsis in the prehospital setting: A state‐wide population‐based cohort study
Authors: Chatoor Richard , Sekhar Praba , Mahony Emily , Nehme Emily , Cox Shelley , Cudini Daniel , Shao Jeffrey , Smith Karen , Anderson David , Nehme Ziad , Udy Andrew
Published: December 2023

Objective

Despite high in‐hospital mortality, the epidemiology of prehospital suspected sepsis presentations is not well described. This retrospective cohort study aimed to quantify the burden of such presentations, and to determine whether such a diagnosis was independently associated with longer‐term mortality.

Methods

Retrospective, observational population‐based cohort study examining all adult prehospital presentations in Victoria, between January 2015 and June 2019, who required subsequent in‐hospital assessment. Linked data were extracted from clinical and administrative datasets. Demographics, illness severity, prehospital treatment and mortality were compared between prehospital suspected sepsis and non‐sepsis patients. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the adjusted association between prehospital assessment (suspected sepsis vs non‐sepsis) and 6‐month mortality.

Results

A total of 1 218 047 patients were included. The age‐adjusted incidence rate of prehospital suspected sepsis was 65 cases per 100 000 person‐years. Those with prehospital suspected sepsis were older (74 vs 62 years), more frequently male (55% vs 47%), with greater physiological derangement. Intravenous cannulas were more often inserted prehospital (60% vs 29%). Crude in‐hospital mortality was 6.5‐fold higher in the prehospital suspected sepsis group (11.8% vs 1.8%), and by 6 months, 22.6% had died. After adjustment for demographics, illness severity, comorbidity, treatment and hospital location, a diagnosis of prehospital suspected sepsis was associated with a 35% higher likelihood of 6‐month mortality (OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.29–1.41).

Conclusions

The burden of prehospital suspected sepsis in the Australian setting is significant, with paramedics identifying patients at high‐risk of poor longer‐term outcomes. This implies the need to consider improved care pathways for this highly vulnerable group.
Ultrasound findings of the sternoclavicular and shoulder joints in patients on maintenance hemodialysis
Authors: Zhai Lin , Wang Siyu , Xue Fei , Yao Ying
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Ultrasonographic examination of joints is a non‐invasive method to detect and monitor Dialysis‐associated amyloidosis (DRA).

Methods

An ultrasonographic examination of the sternoclavicular (SC) and shoulder joints was performed in patients on maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) and those with normal renal function in the control group. The maximum distance (D) of SC, the rotator cuff thickness (RCs), and the echogenic pads (EPs) of the shoulder were evaluated.

Results

Compared with the control group, the MHD group had a higher D of SC, a higher proportion of RCs ≥8 mm, and a higher proportion of EPs positive. Adjust for age and Kt/V, the D of SC was positively related to dialysis vintage, standardized coefficients β = 0.329, p = 0.004. A significant positive correlation existed between the D of SC and the RCs.

Conclusion

In addition to the shoulder joint, the sternoclavicular is a suitable site for ultrasonographic detection of DRA.
A comparison of rural and regional work locations and speciality choices between graduates from the University of Wollongong and all Australian medical schools using the Medical Schools Outcomes Database
Authors: Cortie Colin H. , Garne David , Parker‐Newlyn Lyndal , Ivers Rowena G. , Mullan Judy , Mansfield Kylie J. , Bonney Andrew
Published: December 2023

Introduction

The shortfall in medical workers in rural and remote Australia has led to health discrepancies in these regions. The University of Wollongong’s medical program was designed to encourage graduates to work in these regions to address this shortfall.

Objective

To compare rural and regional locations of work and choices of speciality between University of Wollongong's graduates and graduates from all Australian universities.

Design

We conducted a longitudinal analysis on data available from the Medical Schools Outcome database, with graduate exit surveys linked to registrations of location and speciality. Rural and remote locations were identified as MM2‐7 regions using the Modified Monash Model. In total, 716 graduates from the University of Wollongong and 26 915 graduates from all Australian medical schools completed the MSOD exit survey in 2010‐2021 and registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency in 2022. The main outcome was the relative likelihood (relative risk) of cohorts working in rural and regional areas and of cohorts choosing general practice as their speciality.

Findings

University of Wollongong's medical graduates were 1.51 times or 51% more likely to work in regional or rural areas (RR 1.51, 95% CI 1.34 to 1.71, p < 0.0001). Respondents who were 10 or more years post graduation were 1.57 times or 57% more likely to specialise in general practice than all other Australian medical graduates (RR 1.57 95% CI: 1.40 to 1.79, p < 0.0001).

Discussion

The University of Wollongong's medical school is producing graduates to meet Australia's rural health workforce needs. This may be due to a higher intake of rural students, and a higher percentage of students taking rural placements.

Conclusions

Rural health workforce needs can be addressed through rural‐focussed education strategies.
Flow‐based basophil activation test in immediate drug hypersensitivity. An EAACI task force position paper
Authors: Mayorga C. , Çelik G. E. , Pascal M. , Hoffmann H. J. , Eberlein B. , Torres M. J. , Brockow K. , Garvey L. H. , Barbaud A. , Madrigal‐Burgaleta R. , Caubet J. C. , Ebo D. G.
Published: December 2023

Diagnosing immediate drug hypersensitivity reactions (IDHRs) can pose a significant challenge and there is an urgent need for safe and reliable tests. Evidence has emerged that the basophil activation test (BAT), an in vitro assay that mirrors the in vivo response, can be a complementary test for many drugs. In this position paper, members of Task Force (TF) “Basophil activation test in the evaluation of Drug Hypersensitivity Reactions” from the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) present the data from a survey about the use and utility of BAT in IDHRs in Europe. The survey results indicate that there is a great interest for using BAT especially for diagnosing IDHRs. However, there are still main needs, mainly in the standardization of the protocols. Subsequently consensus‐based recommendations were formulated for: (i) Technical aspects of BAT in IDHRs including type of sample, management of drugs, flow cytometry protocols, interpretation of the results; and (ii) Drug‐specific aspects that should be taken into account when performing BAT in relation to betalactams, neuromuscular blocking agents, fluoroquinolones, chlorhexidine, opioids, radio contrast media, chemotherapeutics, biological agents, nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, COVID vaccine, and excipients. Moreover, aspects in the evaluation of pediatric population have also been considered. All this indicates that BAT offers the clinician and laboratory a complementary tool for a safe diagnostic for IDHRs, although its place in the diagnostic algorithm depends on the drug class and patient population (phenotype, geography, and age). The standardization of BAT is important for generalizing this method beyond the individual laboratory.
Peering into the unknown world of amphisbaenians (Squamata, Amphisbaenia): A summary of the life history of Amphisbaena alba
Authors: Jared Carlos , de Barros Filho José Duarte , Jared Simone G. S. , Alexandre César , Mailho‐Fontana Pedro Luiz , Almeida‐Santos Selma M. , Antoniazzi Marta Maria
Published: December 2023

Capturing data on the life of fossorial vertebrates is difficult since access to the subterranean environment is made unfeasible by its density and opacity. Collecting specimens is only possible through excavation work, causing damage or even death to the specimens. Due to the obstacles of in situ studies, the scarce information comes from reports obtained indirectly, mainly through specimens preserved in museums. Considering the adaptations to fossoriality, investments in studying these groups could be very enlightening since they would contribute enormously to the knowledge of the evolutionary strategies developed throughout the colonisation of the subterranean world. Amphisbaena alba is the species of Amphisbaenia with the broadest geographic distribution in the world. It occupies virtually all countries in South America except for Chile and southern Argentina. This study, carried out over the last 36 years, aims to provide data on the biology and behaviour of A. alba in captivity and in the field. Our main objective is to provide subsidies to expand the knowledge of the life history of this species and, by extension, of amphisbaenians in general.
Postoperative recurrence detection using individualized circulating tumor DNA in upper tract urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Tamura Daichi , Abe Masakazu , Hiraki Hayato , Sasaki Noriyuki , Yashima‐Abo Akiko , Ikarashi Daiki , Kato Renpei , Kato Yoichiro , Maekawa Shigekatsu , Kanehira Mitsugu , Takata Ryo , Maejima Kazuhiro , Sasagawa Shota , Fujita Masashi , Suzuki Yutaka , Nakagawa Hidewaki , Iwaya Takeshi , Nishizuka Satoshi S. , Obara Wataru
Published: December 2023

Biomarkers that could detect the postoperative recurrence of upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) have not been established. In this prospective study, we aim to evaluate the utility of individualized circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) monitoring using digital PCR (dPCR) as a tumor recurrence biomarker for UTUC in the perioperative period. Twenty‐three patients who underwent radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) were included. In each patient, whole exome sequencing by next‐generation sequencing and TERT promoter sequencing of tumor DNA were carried out. Case‐specific gene mutations were selected from sequencing analysis to examine ctDNA by dPCR analysis. We also prospectively collected plasma and urine ctDNA from each patient. The longitudinal variant allele frequencies of ctDNA during the perioperative period were plotted. Case‐specific gene mutations were detected in 22 cases (96%) from ctDNA in the preoperative samples. Frequently detected genes were TERT (39%), FGFR3 (26%), TP53 (22%), and HRAS (13%). In all cases, we obtained plasma and urine samples for 241 time points and undertook individualized ctDNA monitoring for 2 years after RNU. Ten patients with intravesical recurrence had case‐specific ctDNA detected in urine at the time of recurrence. The mean lead time of urinary ctDNA in intravesical recurrence was 60 days (range, 0–202 days). Two patients with distal metastasis had case‐specific ctDNA in plasma at the time of metastasis. In UTUC, tumor‐specific gene mutations can be monitored postoperatively as ctDNA in plasma and urine. Individualized ctDNA might be a minimally invasive biomarker for the early detection of postoperative recurrence.
And what about today? Burden and support needs of adolescent childhood cancer survivors in long‐term follow‐up care—A qualitative content analysis
Authors: Winzig Jana , Inhestern Laura , Sigmund Désirée , Paul Verena , Hail Lesley‐Ann , Rutkowski Stefan , Escherich Gabriele , Bergelt Corinna
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Childhood cancer affects approximately 2000 children annually in Germany, and there is an increasing number of long‐term childhood cancer survivors. Due to developmental tasks, adolescent survivors in long‐term follow‐up (LTFU) care may face specific challenges and perceive different burden due to their disease. The current study explored (a) the impact of cancer and burden regarding survivorship and (b) supportive needs of adolescent childhood cancer survivors in LTFU care.

Methods

Semistructured qualitative interviews were conducted with 18 adolescent childhood cancer survivors in LTFU care aged 14–18 years (average age 16.4 years). Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using content analysis.

Results

Based on the exploratory research questions, two key categories were generated: (1) The impact and burden on survivors' lives during LTFU care and (2) support needs of adolescent childhood cancer survivors in LTFU care. The four subcategories that emerged regarding the impact and burden on survivors' lives during LTFU care were (1) physical consequences, (2) cognitive impairments, (3) difficulties in social interactions, and (4) psychosocial burden. Additionally, two subcategories, (1) practical and (2) emotional support needs of adolescent childhood cancer survivors were identified.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that childhood cancer influences adolescent survivors' life in a negative way even many years after the end of treatment. Furthermore, parents seem to play a crucial role in the survivorship experience of childhood cancer survivors, as they remain keep responsible for most cancer‐related concerns even during LTFU care, causing adolescents to persist in the child role. A family systemic approach to care is suggested to facilitate development‐specific tasks and to enable adolescents to become autonomous adults. Still, the question remains as to who in the health care system could take over the family systemic tasks.
Association between socioeconomic status and traumatic dental injury in permanent teeth: A systematic review with meta‐analysis
Authors: Comim Letícia Donato , Marquezan Patrícia Kolling , Knorst Jessica Klöckner , Zanatta Fabrício Batistin , Zenkner Julio Eduardo do Amaral , Alves Luana Severo
Published: December 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to systematically review observational studies assessing the association between socioeconomic status (SES) and traumatic dental injuries (TDI) in permanent dentition.

Methods

Electronic searches were performed in PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, LILACS, CINAHL, COCHANE Library and ScoINDEX databases for articles published up to February 2023. Two independent reviewers performed the search and critical appraisal of the studies. The inclusion criteria were observational studies that evaluated the association between individual‐level socioeconomic indicators and TDI (clinically examined) in permanent teeth. Quality assessment of included articles was conducted using the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale. Global meta‐analysis was performed with all studies and different subgroup analysis based on socioeconomic indicators (household income, educational level or any other indicator), age (children, early adolescents, late adolescents or young adults) and economic classification of the country (high, upper‐middle or lower‐middle). A random‐effects model was used to estimate pooled prevalence ratios (PR) and respective 95% confidence intervals (CI) for each study.

Results

The search strategy retrieved 11 315 publications. According to eligibility criteria, 17 articles were included in the meta‐analysis. Individuals with low SES were 17% more likely to have TDI (PR 1.17; 95% CI 1.05–1.30). The subgroup analysis also revealed that the indicator (household income, PR 1.16; 95% CI 1.00–1.34) and the economic classification of the country (upper‐middle, PR 1.19; 95% CI 1.07–1.33) influenced the association of SES with TDI occurrence.

Conclusions

Individuals with lower SES were more likely to present with TDI in permanent dentition than those with higher SES.
Blood regulator of G protein signalling 1 as a potential prognostic biomarker in surgical nonsmall cell lung cancer patients: Correlation with clinical features and survival
Authors: Wang Liping , Zhang Hui , Gu Xinliang , Wang Ying
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Regulator of G protein signalling 1 (RGS1) closely regulates malignant phenotypes and tumour immunity in several cancers, while its clinical value in nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is by far rarely reported. Consequently, this study aimed to explore the linkage of blood RGS1 with clinical features and prognosis in surgical NSCLC patients.

Methods

Two‐hundred and ten surgical NSCLC patients were consecutively enrolled in this study, whose RGS1 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells was determined before treatment via reverse transcriptional‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Additionally, the blood RGS1 was also collected from 30 healthy controls (HCs).

Results

Blood RGS1 was increased in NSCLC patients compared with HCs (P < 0.001). Elevated blood RGS1 was related to lymph node (LYN) metastasis (P = 0.001), higher tumour‐nodes‐metastasis (TNM) stage (P = 0.004), neoadjuvant chemotherapy administration (P = 0.044), shortened accumulative disease‐free survival (DFS) (P = 0.008) and overall survival (OS) (P = 0.013) in NSCLC patients. A multivariate Cox's regression analysis showed that blood RGS1 high expression could independently reflect shortened DFS (hazard ratio = 1.499, P = 0.023), whereas it could not independently predict OS (P > 0.050). Furthermore, blood RGS1 high expression was associated with shortened OS (P = 0.020) in patients with neoadjuvant therapy and with worse DFS (P = 0.028) and OS (P = 0.026) in patients with adjuvant therapy, while blood RGS1 was not linked with DFS or OS in patients without neoadjuvant or adjuvant therapy (all P > 0.050).

Conclusion

Elevated blood RGS1 correlates with LYN metastasis, neoadjuvant chemotherapy administration, worse DFS and OS, which might serve as a useful prognostic biomarker for surgical NSCLC patients.
Recurrent and metastatic cellular cutaneous fibrous histiocytoma: A case report and literature review
Authors: Fuentes‐Sánchez Jorge , Pena‐Burgos Eva Manuela , Tapia‐Viñe Mar , Ortiz‐Cruz Eduardo José , Pozo‐Kreilinger José Juan
Published: December 2023

Cutaneous fibrous histiocytoma (FH) is considered a benign dermal tumor. The cellular variant is rare and poorly documented. Besides presenting a high risk of local recurrence, it has a low but serious metastatic potential. We present a case of metastatic cellular FH and also review the literature on this tumor, given its unusual metastatic development. A 47‐year‐old male patient presented with a lesion in the anterior surface of the right thigh, which has been present since adolescence but had grown during last year. Anatomopathological evaluation revealed a cellular FH, and the lesion was completely removed. Six months later, tumor recurrence with multiple compartment muscle involvement and pulmonary metastasis were detected. Both lesions were completely resected and after 3 years of follow‐up, the patient is asymptomatic and free of the disease. We conclude that FH should be carefully sampled to detect variants with high local recurrence rates or with some metastatic risk such as the cellular one. We recommend wide surgical resection and a close follow‐up including chest x‐rays or thorax computed tomography (CT) in all cellular FH cases with local recurrence.
Assoziation zwischen chronischer Nierenerkrankung und dem Risiko für bullöses Pemphigoid: eine nationale bevölkerungsbasierte Kohortenstudie
Authors: Yu Wen‐Ting , Ma Sheng‐Hsiang , Wu Chun‐Ying , Chen Yen‐Ling , Chang Yun‐Ting , Wu Chen‐Yi
Published: December 2023

Hintergrund

Studien haben gezeigt, dass das bullöse Pemphigoid (BP) auch bei Patienten mit chronischer Nierenerkrankung (CKD, chronic kidney disease) auftritt. Unklar ist, wie hoch das BP‐Risiko bei CKD‐Patienten ist.

Zielsetzung

Es sollte untersucht werden, ob eine CKD das BP‐Risiko erhöht.

Methodik

Die Studienteilnehmer wurden für den Zeitraum von 2007 bis 2018 aus der nationalen Datenbank der taiwanesischen Krankenversicherung rekrutiert. Insgesamt wurden 637 664 neu diagnostizierte Patienten mit CKD sowie 637 664 nach Alter, Geschlecht und Komorbidität übereinstimmende Kontrollpersonen ohne CKD in die Untersuchung aufgenommen. Zur Bewertung des BP‐Risikos kam ein Modell für konkurrierende Risiken zum Einsatz.

Ergebnisse

Nach Adjustierung für Alter, Geschlecht und Komorbidität im multivariaten Modell zeigte sich die CKD als signifikanter Risikofaktor für BP (adjustierte Hazard Ratio [aHR]: 1,29; 95%‐Konfidenzintervall [KI]: 1,17–1,42; p < 0,001). CKD‐Patienten wurden in die Gruppen dialysepflichtig und nicht‐dialysepflichtig unterteilt und mit den Patienten ohne CKD verglichen. Es zeigte sich, dass dialysepflichtige CKD‐Patienten das höchste BP‐Risiko aufwiesen (aHR 1,75; 95%‐KI 1,51–2,03), gefolgt von nicht‐dialysepflichtigen CKD‐Patienten (aHR 1,20; 95%‐KI 1,08–1,32).

Limitationen

Detaillierte Laborbefunde zur Einschätzung des CKD‐Schweregrads fehlten.

Schlussfolgerungen

Im Vergleich zu Personen ohne CKD hatten Patienten mit CKD ein 1,3‐fach erhöhtes BP‐Risiko. Bei Patienten mit dialysepflichtiger CKD war das Risiko 1,8‐fach erhöht.
Use of mouthguards in Latin American field hockey athletes during the ODESUR 2022 Games
Authors: Opazo‐Garcia Catalina , Cardozo‐Sanchez Christian , Moya‐Salazar Jeel , Gómez‐Fett María Elena , Edwards‐Toro Francisca , Gálvez‐Bravo Francisca , Elgue‐Idoyaga Nora , Contreras‐Pulache Hans
Published: December 2023

Background/Aims

Athletes are susceptible to oral injuries. To reduce the incidence and severity of oral trauma, a custom‐made mouthguard, a device positioned in the mouth to prevent damage to teeth and surrounding structures, is recommended. In field hockey, according to the international rules of this sport, using mouthguards is not mandatory, but it is recommended to wear them at all times while practicing this discipline. We aimed to determine characteristics and differences regarding mouthguard usage among field hockey players from different countries participating in the XII ODESUR Games.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study that included 78 voluntary hockey athletes that met the inclusion criteria. The questionnaire used was validated by Panam Sports, collecting information on the type of mouthguard (custom‐made or prefabricated), and the time of use of the mouthguard (range of 5 years).

Results

Of the total number of athletes, 96% used mouthguards, of which 64% were custom‐made type, and 32% were prefabricated (p < .001). Custom‐made mouthguards were used by 100%, 89%, and 64% of athletes in Argentina, Chile, and Peru, respectively, while only 40% of athletes in Paraguay and Uruguay used them. It has also been observed that more than 50% of the individuals have not controlled and replaced their intraoral devices for more than 10 years.

Conclusions

Our results reveal a problem with a public health dimension and thus invite the standardization of guidelines with an educational approach to promoting and adopting good sports practices. This report is the first on using mouthguards in high‐performance athletes during an international multisport event.
The current challenges faced by people with hemophilia B
Authors: Miesbach Wolfgang , von Drygalski Annette , Smith Clive , Sivamurthy Krupa , Pinachyan Karen , Bensen‐Kennedy Debbie , Drelich Douglass , Kulkarni Roshni
Published: December 2023

Hemophilia B (HB) is a rare, hereditary disease caused by a defect in the gene encoding factor IX (FIX) and leads to varying degrees of coagulation deficiency. The prevailing treatment for people with HB (PWHB) is FIX replacement product. The advent of recombinant coagulation products ushered in a new era of safety, efficacy, and improved availability compared with plasma‐derived products. For people with severe HB, lifelong prophylaxis with a FIX replacement product is standard of care. Development of extended half‐life FIX replacement products has allowed for advancements in the care of these PWHB. Nonetheless, lifelong need for periodic dosing and complex surveillance protocols pose substantive challenges in terms of access, adherence, and healthcare resource utilization. Further, some PWHB on prophylactic regimens continue to experience breakthrough bleeds and joint damage, and subpopulations of PWHB, including women, those with mild‐to‐moderate HB, and those with inhibitors to FIX, experience additional unique difficulties. This review summarizes the current challenges faced by PWHB, including the unique subpopulations; identifying the need for improved awareness, personalized care strategies, and new therapeutic options for severe HB, which may provide future solutions for some of the remaining unmet needs of PWHB.
For a war yet to end: Shootouts and the production of tranquillity in massive Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Cavalcanti Mariana
Published: December 2023

This paper explores the possibility of reading Rio's gun battles, or tiroteios, as events that produce meaning, order, and opportunities for profit and extraction, rather than as episodes of chaos and disorder. Shootouts in Rio are recurring incidents entwined with the particular historical trajectory of Rio's informal and illicit markets of different sorts – drugs, weapons, infrastructure, and security. I attempt to show how this intertwining, over time, has produced this atmosphere of war that spreads well beyond the sites where shootouts frequently occur. In the concluding section I discuss how ongoing, citizen‐based efforts at quantifying shootouts produce accumulated knowledge and maps that show us that this overarching structure allows the milícias to advance their territories over areas of the city that were free of these militarised spatial routines. I conclude by suggesting that this war ‘yet to end’ produces a constellation that fosters the continuity of Rio's shootouts.