bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fear of COVID-19 and green bank service purchase intention: the mediating effect of customer empowerment and customers’ perceived value of digital service transactions
Authors: Sakaya Ansgar J.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The paper intends to show the role of fear of COVID-19 and the relevance of customer empowerment (CU_EMP) and customers’ perceived value of digital service transactions (CU_PV_DST) in promoting green bank service purchase intention (GBS_PI), despite the antagonistic impacts brought in other sectors and the relevance of customer empowerment (CU_EMP) and customers’ perceived value of digital service transactions (CU_PV_DST) as important mediating variables of the relation.

Design/methodology/approach

The structured questionnaire helped collect survey data from 323 small business people. The model relationship was assessed through EFA, CFA by SPSS-AMOS and SEM using bootstrapping procedures in Smart-PLS.

Findings

The findings of this study show that there is a significant effect of fear of COVID-19 pandemic (F_COVID-19P) on CU_EMP and GBS_PI. CU_EMP influences GBS_PI, whereas F_COVID-19P influences GBS_PI indirectly via CU_EMP. Furthermore, there is a substantial effect of F_COVID-19P on CU_PV_DST and GBS_PI. Thus, F_COVID-19P significantly influences GBS_PI indirectly via CU_PV_DST.

Practical implications

Capitalizing on the COVID-19 wave by empowering customers technologically, improving the legal framework and increasing the perceived value of green service by using an innovative mechanism. In addition, fostering cultural change and emphasizing altruistic values through green advertisements have been explored in this study.

Social implications

Green services are healthier for smart/green economy and are health-protective for coping with health risks.

Originality/value

This study helps in understanding the theories used in this context by linking them to F_COVID-19P with CU_EMP, CU_PV_DST and GBS_PI and contributes to the literature of both. Furthermore, this is the only study that has used SEM to study this kind of interrelation.
Effect of typo-morphological analysis and place understanding on the nature of intervention within historic settings: the case of Amman, Jordan
Authors: Daher Rami Farouk
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of different levels of place understanding (primarily typo-morphological analysis) on the nature of interventions within historic urban setting and buildings within the City of Amman.

Design/methodology/approach

The research methodology depended on an extensive thematic survey and analysis. The typo-morphological analysis addressed several of Amman's residential hills and their connections with the downtown area. The thematic place survey tool included different units of analysis (e.g. buildings, public spaces, streets and sloped lands between streets) and addressed the values of these various buildings and spaces, their typology, typo-morphology and relation to the urban context, nature of change and transformations over time to mention a few. The extensive survey also included semi-structured interviews about these buildings addressing their emergence, historic context and values.

Findings

The paper presents an architectural typology for Amman's architecture and its relationship with the city's morphology stressing the specificity of Amman's historic core and residential hills. The paper also discusses the effect of this level of place understanding on the nature and levels of interventions within historic settings and buildings.

Research limitations/implications

This level of place understanding (typo-morphological analysis) can have a positive impact on the practice of architectural and urban conservation by informing the nature of interventions within historic urban setting and buildings within the city. More specifically, this level of place understanding can, first, inform the development of urban and heritage guidelines within conservation areas in one of Amman's residential neighborhoods (Weibdeh) and, second, inform the nature of interventions to existing historic buildings based on respect of building typology.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the disciplines of architectural and urban conservation illustrating how place understanding can inform practices of heritage conservation and future policies and strategies concerning new intervention within such heritage places.
Race, ethnicity, and discrimination at work: a new analysis of legal protections and gaps in all 193 UN countries
Authors: Heymann Jody , Varvaro-Toney Sheleana , Raub Amy , Kabir Firooz , Sprague Aleta
Published: February 2023

Purpose

While only one aspect of fulfilling equal rights, effectively addressing workplace discrimination is integral to creating economies, and countries, that allow for everyone's full and equal participation.

Design/methodology/approach

Labor, anti-discrimination, and other relevant pieces of legislation were identified through the International Labor Organization's NATLEX database, supplemented with legislation identified through country websites. For each country, two researchers independently coded legislation and answered questions about key policy features. Systematic quality checks and outlier verifications were conducted.

Findings

More than 1 in 5 countries do not explicitly prohibit racial discrimination in employment. 54 countries fail to prohibit unequal pay based on race. 107 countries prohibit racial and/or ethnic discrimination but do not explicitly require employers to take preventive measures against discrimination. The gaps are even larger with respect to multiple and intersectional discrimination. 112 countries fail to prohibit discrimination based on both migration status and race and/or ethnicity; 103 fail to do so for foreign national origin and race and/or ethnicity.

Practical implications

Both recent and decades-old international treaties and agreements require every country globally to uphold equal rights regardless of race. However, specific national legislation that operationalizes these commitments and prohibits discrimination in the workplace is essential to their impact. This research highlights progress and gaps that must be addressed.

Originality/value

This is the first study to measure legal protections against employment discrimination based on race and ethnicity in all 193 UN countries. This study also examines protection in all countries from discrimination on the basis of characteristics that have been used in a number of settings as a proxy for racial/ethnic discrimination and exclusion, including SES, migration status, and religion.
The effect of full-time culture on quality and safety of care – a literature review
Authors: Magerøy Malin Rosell , Wiig Siri
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to increase knowledge and understanding of the relationship between full-time-culture and the outcome for quality and safety of care.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a literature review with a qualitatively oriented thematic analysis concerning quality or safety outcomes for patients, or patients and staff when introducing a full-time culture.

Findings

Identified factors that could have a positive or negative impact on quality and patient safety when introducing full-time culture were length of shift, fatigue/burnout, autonomy/empowerment and system/structure. Working shifts over 12 h or more than 40 h a week is associated with increased adverse events and errors, lower quality patient care, less attention to safety concerns and more care left undone. Long shifts give healthcare personnel more flexibility and better quality-time off, but there is also an association between long shifts and fatigue or burnout. Having a choice and flexibility around shift patterns is a predictor of increased wellbeing and health.

Originality/value

A major challenge across healthcare services is having enough qualified personnel to handle the increasing number of patients. One of the measures to get enough qualified personnel for the expected tasks is to increase the number of full-time employees and move towards a full-time culture. It is argued that full-time culture will have a positive effect on work environment, efficiency and quality due to a better allocation of work tasks, predictable work schedule, reduced sick leave, and continuity in treatment and care. There is limited research on how the introduction of full-time culture will affect the quality and safety for patients and staff, and few studies have been focusing on the relationship between longer shift, work schedule, and quality and safety of care.
Is digital transformation equally attractive to all manufacturers? Contextualizing the operational and customer benefits of smart manufacturing
Authors: Opazo-Basáez Marco , Vendrell-Herrero Ferran , Bustinza Oscar F. , Vaillant Yancy , Marić Josip
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The implementation of Smart Manufacturing (SM) is deemed a key enabler in the enhancement of manufacturing competitiveness and performance. Nevertheless, SM's repercussion on consumer perceptions and the contextualization of SM's performance-enhancement effects remain undetermined and have yet to be clarified. This study analyzes the effect of SM on operational and customer performance. Moreover, this study explores how these relationships change depending on a firm's geography of production (i.e. national/local vs transnational operations) and the relational arrangement adopted (i.e. service-oriented vs transaction-oriented manufacturers).

Design/methodology/approach

This research surveys 351 Spanish manufacturing firms operating in an SM environment. The theoretical framework comprises a Multiple-Indicators Multiple-Causes (MIMIC) model and is tested using a Generalized Structural Equations Model.

Findings

The results obtained substantiate the positive effect of SM implementation on both of the performance measures analyzed (i.e. operational and customer focused). Moreover, the study reveals that while geography of production moderates the effect on a firm's operational performance, relational arrangement also does so in terms of customer performance.

Originality/value

This research clearly differentiates the benefits of SM depending on business context. In this regard, transnational production firms tend to gain in operational performance while service-oriented manufacturers gain in customer performance.
The cultural acceptance of digital food shopping: conceptualisation, scale development and validation
Authors: Thomas-Francois Kimberly , Somogyi Simon , Zolfaghari Alireza
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an alternative framework that will assist in understanding the adoption of digital food shopping. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has exacerbated the demand for digital shopping, but the adoption of digital shopping for food has not accelerated as fast as in other product categories. This study considered the role of socio-cultural factors to understand the reason for slow adoption of digital technology to access food. A cultural framework that can be used to investigate socio-cultural factors in this context was lacking, however, this paper provides a discussion of social and cultural factors and developed measurement scales to assist in understanding cultural change acceptance in consumers' adoption of digital technology to purchase food.

Design/methodology/approach

Using Hayes' process analysis, this paper investigated how cultural acceptance – mediated by consumer affection and appeal and measuring the moderated effects of digital trust (DT) – determined the eventual impact on consumer intention to adopt digital food retailing. This paper also considered moderated mediation with parallel mediations (consumer affection and appeal, digital convenience (DC) and consumer digital readiness) interacting with DT and consumer learning.

Findings

The authors found that cultural acceptance of digital technology (CADT) is an antecedent to the adoption of digital shopping for food, but this is also mediated by consumers' appeal and affection for digital technology and consumers' digital readiness.

Practical implications

This study also indicates that DT influences consumer appeal and affection (CAA), especially amongst female consumers.

Originality/value

The paper represents an empirical investigation of a new conceptual framework that considers socio-cultural factors to understand consumers' use of digital technology in food shopping which has been an existing knowledge gap in current literature.
Student and teacher experiences of online synchronous learning
Authors: Mallon Sharon , Richards Chris , Rixon Andy
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic brought about rapid changes in higher education (HE) pedagogies, with universities adding online options to their core face to face offering. The use of technology to facilitate learning has been a mainstay in traditional distance education settings. The paper aims to understand student and teacher experience of synchronous online learning in HE to develop practice and assist those newly coming to online teaching.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a ‘rapid review’ of articles related to this topic over the last 21 years. Thematic analysis of the 61 studies identified for inclusion were; Use of technology, planned pedagogy, comparison of synchronous and asynchronous learning, relationships online, teacher and student attitudes, COVID-19 reflections.

Findings

This study’s findings show many studies examined the transition from classroom to online learning, rather than the experience of being online. Building a community of learning, with interaction between all parties, was central to success in the development of an approach to online synchronous teaching.

Research limitations/implications

Few of the early papers included here expressly explored student and teacher experiences of synchronous learning. Instead, they broadly discussed blended learning, or compared functionality and effectiveness of online teaching, with traditional in person or offline/asynchronous alternatives. An additional drawback was that educators were frequently involved in studies which investigated the experiences of their own students.

Originality/value

This study is one of the few to focus on the experience of staff and students in the online synchronous environment. The results show there is scope to achieve improvement in online learning, through research focussed on how students, lecturers and institutional administrators adapt to the new normal.
A data-driven LQG method for linear time-varying systems to monitor the controller performance in the batch process
Authors: Chen Ming , Xie Lie
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The flexibility of batch process enables its wide application in fine-chemical, pharmaceutical and semi-conductor industries, whilst its complexity necessitates control performance monitoring to ensure high operation efficiency. This paper proposes a data-driven approach to carry out controller performance monitoring within batch based on linear quadratic Gaussian (LQG) method.

Design/methodology/approach

A linear time-varying LQG method is proposed to obtain the joint covariance benchmark for the stochastic part of batch process input/output. From historical golden operation batch, linear time-varying (LTV) system and noise models are identified based on generalized observer Markov parameters realization.

Findings

Open/closed loop input and output data are applied to identify the process model as well as the disturbance model, both in Markov parameter form. Then the optimal covariance of joint input and output can be obtained by the LQG method. The Hotelling's Tˆ2 control chart can be established to monitor the controller.

Originality/value

(1) An observer Markov parameter approach to identify the time-varying process and noise models from both open and closed loop data, (2) a linear time-varying LQG optimal control law to obtain the optimal benchmark covariance of joint input and output and (3) a joint input and output multivariate control chart based on Hotelling's T2 statistic for controller performance monitoring.
How do slum dwellers influence policies affecting their lives? Perspectives from Ghanaian slums
Authors: Nkrumah Agyabeng Anthony , Bawole Justice Nyigmah , Ahenkan Albert , Mensah James Kwame , Preko Alexander
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The study examined the influence of slums on policies affecting the slums' lives in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory qualitative approach based on in-depth interviews (IDIs) was used to select 24 respondents using purposive and snowball sampling techniques.

Findings

The findings show that slum dwellers have an adequate understanding of policies that affect the dwellers' lives. Furthermore, slum dwellers use statutory, technological, media and right-to-vote-based strategies to influence government policies. This also indicates that implemented policies do not align with realities in the slums

Research limitations/implications

The outcome of this study cannot be generalised to represent the whole population of slums due to the inherent limitations associated with a qualitative design

Social implications

This study uncovers context-specific strategies through which slum residents influence policies. The study concedes that policy actors involve the slums in policies that affect their livelihoods

Originality/value

The results are unique not only to developing countries, but are also useful to other economies with similar characteristics.
Dantrolene and ryanodine receptors in COVID‐19: The daunting task and neglected warden
Authors: Alkazmi Luay , Al‐kuraishy Hayder M. , Al‐Gareeb Ali I. , El‐Bouseary Maisra M. , Ahmed Eman A. , Batiha Gaber El‐Saber
Published: February 2023

Dantrolene (DTN) is a ryanodine receptor (RyR) antagonist that inhibits Ca2+ release from stores in the sarcoplasmic reticulum. DTN is mainly used in the management of malignant hyperthermia. RyRs are highly expressed in immune cells and are involved in different viral infections, including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), because Ca2+ is necessary for viral replication, maturation and release. DTN can inhibit the proliferation of SARS‐CoV‐2, indicating its potential role in reducing entry and pathogenesis of SARS‐CoV‐2. DTN may increase clearance of SARS‐CoV‐2 and promote coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) recovery by shortening the period of infection. DTN inhibits N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) mediated platelets aggregations and thrombosis. Therefore, DTN may inhibit thrombosis and coagulopathy in COVID‐19 through suppression of platelet NMDA receptors. Moreover, DTN has a neuroprotective effect against SARS‐CoV‐2 infection‐induced brain injury through modulation of NMDA receptors, which are involved in excitotoxicity, neuronal injury and the development of neuropsychiatric disorders. In conclusion, DTN by inhibiting RyRs may attenuate inflammatory disorders in SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and associated cardio‐pulmonary complications. Therefore, DNT could be a promising drug therapy against COVID‐19. Preclinical and clinical studies are warranted in this regards.
Paired stable carbon and oxygen isotope analyses of human enamel for forensic human geolocation: An exploratory study
Authors: Ueda Momoko , Bell Lynne S.
Published: February 2023

Stable carbon isotope analysis has proven utility for reconstructing dietary information in humans in past populations. The usefulness of stable carbon for forensic geolocation has been little investigated, largely because of the globalization of the human diet seemingly rendering it inconsequential. This study queried this assumption at a country‐wide level on a known sample group. Stable carbon isotope values were obtained from human enamel with known biographical and geographical information to determine whether stable carbon, when paired with stable oxygen isotope values, could differentiate Canadians from non‐Canadians. Samples originating outside of Canada were separated into three regions, and a linear discriminant analysis was used to generate discriminant functions that best separate the regions according to the stable carbon and oxygen isotope values. The results revealed two functions, where the first function explained 92.1% and the second 7.9% of the variance. Although some overlap in stable carbon and oxygen values was observed for individuals from both the United States and Canada, differences were observed between those from Canada and other geographical regions. This study demonstrated that pairing the dietary isotope carbon with the geolocator stable oxygen isotope, produced an interesting separation geographically, one that might well be helpful when attempting a geolocation query on unknown human remains.
Public support for second look sentencing: Is there a Shawshank redemption effect?
Authors: Hannan Kellie R. , Cullen Francis T. , Graham Amanda , Jonson Cheryl Lero , Pickett Justin T. , Haner Murat , Sloan Melissa M.
Published: February 2023

Research Summary

Washington, DC has implemented second look sentencing. After serving a minimum of 15 years in prison, those convicted of a serious offense committed while under the age of 25 years can petition a judge to take a “second look” and potentially release them from incarceration. To examine both global and specific support for second look sentencing, we embedded experiments in a 2021 MTurk survey and in a follow‐up 2022 YouGov survey. Two key findings emerged. First, regardless of whether a crime was committed under 18 years or under 25 years of age, a majority of the public supported second look sentencing. Opposition to the policy was low, even for petitioners convicted of murder. Second, as revealed by vignette ratings, respondents were more likely to support release when a petitioner “signaled” their reform (e.g., completed a rehabilitation program, received a recommendation from the warden) and had the support of the victim (or their family).

Policy Implications

The critique of mass imprisonment has broadened from a focus on the level of incarceration to the inordinate length of sentences being served by some prisoners. Policies are being proposed to reconsider these long sentences and to provide opportunities for earned release. Second look sentencing in DC is one of these reforms. Our research suggests that many members of the public believe in a “Shawshank redemption” effect—that those committing serious crimes as a teenager or young adult can mature into a “different person” and warrant a second look, with the possibility of early release if they have earned it. A key issue is likely to be how much weight is accorded to the preference of victims or their families in any release decision.
Rapid culture‐independent loop‐mediated isothermal amplification detection of antimicrobial resistance markers from environmental water samples
Authors: Hassan Marwa M. , van Vliet Arnoud H. M. , Higgins Owen , Burke Liam P. , Chueiri Alexandra , O'Connor Louise , Morris Dearbháile , Smith Terry J. , La Ragione Roberto M.
Published: February 2023

Environmental water is considered one of the main vehicles for the transmission of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), posing an increasing threat to humans and animals health. Continuous efforts are being made to eliminate AMR; however, the detection of AMR pathogens from water samples often requires at least one culture step, which is time‐consuming and can limit sensitivity. In this study, we employed comparative genomics to identify the prevalence of AMR genes within among: Escherichia coli, Klebsiella, Salmonella enterica and Acinetobacter, using publicly available genomes. The mcr‐1, blaKPC (KPC‐1 to KPC‐4 alleles), blaOXA‐48, blaOXA‐23 and blaVIM (VIM‐1 and VIM‐2 alleles) genes are of great medical and veterinary significance, thus were selected as targets for the development of isothermal loop‐mediated amplification (LAMP) detection assays. We also developed a rapid and sensitive sample preparation method for an integrated culture‐independent LAMP‐based detection from water samples. The developed assays successfully detected the five AMR gene markers from pond water within 1 h and were 100% sensitive and specific with a detection limit of 0.0625 μg/mL and 10 cfu/mL for genomic DNA and spiked bacterial cells, respectively. The integrated detection can be easily implemented in resource‐limited areas to enhance One Health AMR surveillances and improve diagnostics.
Measurement that matters: A systematic review and modified Delphi of multidisciplinary colorectal cancer quality indicators
Authors: Donnelly Candice , Or Michelle , Toh James , Thevaraja Mathushan , Janssen Anna , Shaw Tim , Pathma‐Nathan Nimalan , Harnett Paul , Chiew Kim‐Lin , Vinod Shalini , Sundaresan Puma
Published: February 2023

Aim

To develop a priority set of quality indicators (QIs) for use by colorectal cancer (CRC) multidisciplinary teams (MDTs).

Methods

The review search strategy was executed in four databases from 2009–August 2019. Two reviewers screened abstracts/manuscripts. Candidate QIs and characteristics were extracted using a tailored abstraction tool and assessed for scientific soundness. To prioritize candidate indicators, a modified Delphi consensus process was conducted. Consensus was sought over two rounds; (1) multidisciplinary expert workshops to identify relevance to Australian CRC MDTs, and (2) an online survey to prioritize QIs by clinical importance.

Results

A total of 93 unique QIs were extracted from 118 studies and categorized into domains of care within the CRC patient pathway. Approximately half the QIs involved more than one discipline (52.7%). One‐third of QIs related to surgery of primary CRC (31.2%). QIs on supportive care (6%) and neoadjuvant therapy (6%) were limited. In the Delphi Round 1, workshop participants (n = 12) assessed 93 QIs and produced consensus on retaining 49 QIs including six new QIs. In Round 2, survey participants (n = 44) rated QIs and prioritized a final 26 QIs across all domains of care and disciplines with a concordance level > 80%. Participants represented all MDT disciplines, predominantly surgical (32%), radiation (23%) and medical (20%) oncology, and nursing (18%), across six Australian states, with an even spread of experience level.

Conclusion

This study identified a large number of existing CRC QIs and prioritized the most clinically relevant QIs for use by Australian MDTs to measure and monitor their performance.
Feasibility of virtual reality‐delivered pain psychology therapy for cancer‐related neuropathic pain: a pilot randomised controlled trial
Authors: Chuan A. , Hatty M. , Shelley M. , Lan A. , Chow H. , Dai E. , Haider S. , Bogdanovych A. , Chua W.
Published: February 2023

Virtual reality‐delivered psychological therapies have recently been investigated as non‐pharmacological management for acute and chronic pain. However, no virtual reality pain therapy software existed that met the needs of cancer patients with neuropathic pain. We created a bespoke virtual reality‐delivered pain therapy software programme to help cancer patients manage neuropathic pain incorporating guided visualisation and progressive muscle relaxation techniques, whilst minimising the risk of cybersickness in this vulnerable patient population. This randomised controlled pilot study evaluated the feasibility, acceptability, recruitment rates and risk of cybersickness of this pain therapy software programme. Clinical outcomes including opioid consumption, pain severity, pain interference and global quality of life scores were secondary aims. Of 87 eligible cancer patients with neuropathic pain, 39 were recruited (47%), allocated to either the intervention (20 patients, virtual reality pain therapy software programme) or control (19 patients, viewing virtual reality videos). Four patients withdrew before the 3‐month follow‐up (all in the control group). Pre‐existing dizziness (Spearman ρ 0.37, p = 0.02) and pre‐existing nausea (Spearman ρ 0.81, p < 0.001) were significantly associated with risk of cybersickness in both groups. Patients in the intervention group reported less cybersickness, as well as tolerated and completed all therapy sessions. At 1‐ and 3‐month follow‐up, there were trends in the intervention group towards reductions in: oral morphine equivalent daily dose opioid consumption (−8 mg and −4 mg; vs. control: 0 mg and +15 mg respectively); modified Brief Pain Inventory pain severity (−0.4, −0.8; vs. control +0.4, −0.3); and pain interference (−0.9, −1.8; vs. control −0.2, −0.3) scores. The global quality of life subscale from the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire‐C30 was not significantly changed between groups at 1 and 3 months (intervention: −5, −8; vs. control: +3, +4). This newly created virtual reality‐delivered pain therapy software programme was shown to be feasible and acceptable to cancer patients with neuropathic pain. These results will aid the design of a definitive multicentre randomised controlled trial.
How we handled our son's birth at the limits of viability after an unexpected pregnancy
Authors: Berken Dirk‐Jan , van Dam Hiske
Published: February 2023

In this paper, Dirk‐Jan and Hiske, the parents of an infant born at 24 weeks of gestation, provide an insight into their experiences of their sons's birth and making decisions at the limit of viability. They were faced with the risk of an extremely premature birth at 22 weeks of gestation. The delivery miraculously stalled, and the limit of viability moved closer. The couple received prenatal counselling about the treatment options after birth, which were initiating intensive care treatment or comfort care. Together with physicians, they made the decision to initiate intensive care treatment if the infant was born in the grey zone. Different values were considered important in their lives during the decision‐making process.
Patient experience of follow‐up after surgery for kidney cancer: a focus group study
Authors: Harrison Hannah , Stewart Grant D. , Usher‐Smith Juliet A.
Published: February 2023

Objective

To explore patient experience of follow‐up care after kidney cancer surgery and to develop recommendations for best practice.

Methods

We conducted two focus groups, including 14 participants with experience of kidney cancer follow‐up after surgery, to elicit patient views on current follow‐up care. Thematic analysis was used to identify unifying themes to describe the patient experience of follow‐up, and the results were then used to develop a set of recommendations for best practice.

Results

We identified six themes (feelings of abandonment; uncertainty about the plan; anxiety about appointments; variation in care; a need for information; and a need for emotional support) that described current patient experience and areas in which current care could be improved. In particular, while most of the participants felt that their physical needs had been met, many had struggled with unmet emotional needs and a lack of information and resources. This was especially noted in the period immediately following surgery, when feelings of abandonment were common, and around follow‐up scans and routine appointments, which were a source of anxiety. Our participants also described concerns about the lack of consistency between different hospitals and centres around the United Kingdom, with differences in the content and quality of follow‐up care. Based on the results, we developed a list of recommendations to address some of the challenges described through relatively minor changes to the care pathway.

Conclusions

We identified gaps and variability in current follow‐up care after kidney cancer surgery, and have developed a set of recommendations that, if implemented, would improve the follow‐up care experience for these patients.
Mass gatherings contributed to early COVID‐19 mortality: Evidence from US sports
Authors: Ahammer Alexander , Halla Martin , Lackner Mario
Published: February 2023

Social distancing is important to slow the community spread of infectious disease, but it creates enormous economic and social cost. Thus, it is important to quantify the benefits of different measures. We study the ban of mass gatherings, an intervention with comparably low cost. We exploit exogenous variation in the number of National Basketball Association and National Hockey League games, which arises due to the leagues' predetermined schedules, and the sudden suspension of the 2019–2020 seasons. We find that, among clusters of counties that are adjacent to sports venues, each additional mass gathering increased the cumulative number of COVID‐19 deaths by 10.3%.
Fetal anomaly diagnosis and termination of pregnancy
Authors: Graf William D. , Cohen Bruce H. , Kalsner Louisa , Pearl Phillip L. , Sarnat Harvey B. , Epstein Leon G. ,   the Ethics Committee of the Child Neurology Society
Published: February 2023

The aim of this review was to discuss bioethics in prenatal diagnosis and health care after recent legislative and judicial changes affecting reproductive rights, such as the repeal of ‘Roe v. Wade’ in the United States. We recognize that abortion involves particular moralities that are not universal or shared by all cultures, groups, and individuals. We reviewed the historical aspects of embryology and personhood, fetal morbidity and mortality, and parental options for prenatal diagnostic testing. We examined relevant ethical issues including informed consent, the emergence of fetal pain, reproductive autonomy, the fiduciary responsibilities of pregnant mothers, and the obligations of physicians caring for the maternal–fetal dyad. The code of medical ethics includes respect for decisional privacy and the protection of information shared in confidence. When a fetal anomaly is diagnosed, pregnant mothers must be informed about the risks, burdens, and alternatives in either continuing or terminating the pregnancy. Parental choice should include the right to refuse testing, the informed choice not to know about certain genetic test results, and the right to make informed decisions about the best interests of the future child. In the diagnosis and care of fetal anomalies, moral dilemmas arise. Before fetal viability, the mother's autonomy, sense of beneficence, and personal values should be trusted and respected. Perinatal palliative care should be available to pregnant mothers whose anomalous fetus is carried to birth.
A phase I study of selinexor combined with weekly carfilzomib and dexamethasone in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma
Authors: Derman Benjamin A , Chari Ajai , Zonder Jeffrey , Major Ajay , Stefka Andrew T , Jiang Ken , Karrison Theodore , Jasielec Jagoda , Jakubowiak Andrzej
Published: February 2023

We performed a phase I study of weekly selinexor, carfilzomib, and dexamethasone (wSKd) in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (MM). The primary objective was to identify the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of wSKd. Secondary endpoints included overall response rate (ORR), progression‐free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). Prior exposure/refractoriness to carfilzomib was permitted. Thirty patients were enrolled; 26 (87%) had triple‐class exposed disease and 6 (20%) received chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T‐cell therapy. Dose level 2 (carfilzomib 70 mg/m2 Intravenous [IV] on Days 1, 8, and 15; selinexor 100 mg PO on Days 1, 8, 15, 22; dexamethasone 40 mg on Days 1, 8, 15, 22 of 28‐day cycles) was chosen as the MTD, with no DLTs having occurred. The most common hematologic adverse events (AE) were thrombocytopenia (83%), anemia (70%), lymphopenia (50%), and neutropenia (50%). The most common nonhematologic AE were fatigue (70%), nausea (70%), diarrhea (53%), and anorexia (47%). The ORR was 21/30 (70%) overall and 18/23 (78%) at the MTD. At a median follow‐up of 12.3 months, the median PFS was 5.3 months and median OS 23.3 months. Responses were similar in carfilzomib naïve and exposed patients. Long‐term efficacy of wSKd is modest; wSKd could be employed as a bridging strategy to immunotherapies.
Mutational profile, outcomes, and impact of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in adult patients with acute myeloid leukemia and inconclusive cytogenetic analysis
Authors: Vasudevan Nampoothiri Ram , Tang Kenny , Schuh Andre , Lam Wilson , Maze Dawn , Michelis Fotios V. , Chan Steven , Gupta Vikas , Kim Dennis , Kumar Rajat , Lipton Jeffrey Howard , Mattsson Jonas , Minden Mark , Schimmer Aaron , Sibai Hassan , Viswabandya Auro , Yee Karen , Murphy Tracy , Law Arjun D.
Published: February 2023

Background

Inconclusive cytogenetic analysis (IC) at baseline has been reported as a predictor of poor prognosis in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The mutational profile in this group of patients, and its impact on outcomes have not been reported.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed adult patients (≥18 years) with newly diagnosed AML treated with intensive induction chemotherapy between 2015 and 2019. Patients with any documented cytogenetic abnormalities were excluded. Targeted next generation sequencing (NGS) was performed in all patients. Baseline characteristics, mutation profile, and outcomes were compared between patients with normal cytogenetics(NC) and those with IC.

Results

Sixty‐one patients (males 39.3%; median age 59 years) had IC at diagnosis. The proportion of patients with mutations in genes with proven prognostic impact were not different between AML patients with IC and NC. AML patients with NC were more likely to harbor the prognostically favorable NPM1mut/FLT3‐ITDwt mutational combination conferring “favorable” risk status. As a result, a larger proportion of patients in the IC group underwent allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo HCT; 54.1% vs. 39.6%; p = .02). The 2‐year RFS (55.9% vs. 58.5%; p = .29) and OS (61.9% vs. 66.9%; p = .48) were similar in IC and NC patients. There was no difference in survival of patients who underwent allo HCT when compared with patients who did not (p = .99).

Conclusions

Inconclusive cytogenetic analysis may not be an independent prognostic indicator in AML. In such patients, molecular abnormalities detected through NGS or whole genome sequencing are more likely to be informative.
A novel quantitative explanation for the fracture mechanism of sandstone containing a circular inclusion
Authors: Zhang Kai , Zhang Ke , Bao Rui , Fan Wenchen , Xie Jianbin
Published: February 2023

In this study, uniaxial compressive tests combined with the digital image correlation (DIC) method are used to investigate the mechanical properties, fracture process, and failure pattern of sandstone containing a circular inclusion. A DIC‐based methodology is proposed to quantitatively explain the crack initiation and propagation mechanism. The identification criterion of crack type is presented based on the nature of cracks and the development trends of relative displacement. Three crack types, including tensile cracks, tensile–shear cracks, and shear cracks, with different cracking mechanisms are identified. The inhibitory effect of the inclusions on crack initiation and propagation is revealed. The inclusion–matrix debonding mechanism is further investigated, and it is found that the inclusion interface consists of tensile concentration zones on the left/right sides and compressive concentration zones on the top/bottom sides. The tensile concentration zone is the main reason for debonding of the inclusions from the sandstone matrix.
The effect of charcoal production on carbon cycling in African biomes
Authors: Sakala Dabwiso , Olin Stefan , Santos Maria J.
Published: February 2023

Using biomass for charcoal production in sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA) may change carbon stock dynamics and lead to irreversible changes in the carbon balance, yet we have little understanding of whether these dynamics vary by biome in this region. Currently, charcoal production contributes up to 7% of yearly deforestation in tropical regions, with carbon emissions corresponding to 71.2 million tonnes of CO2 and 1.3 million tonnes of CH4. With a projected increased demand for charcoal in the coming decades, even low harvest rates may throw the carbon budget off‐balance due to legacy effects. Here, we parameterized the dynamic global vegetation model LPJ‐GUESS for six SSA biomes and examined the effect of charcoal production on net ecosystem exchange (NEE), carbon stock sizes and recovery time for tropical rain forest, montane forest, moist savanna, dry savanna, temperate grassland and semi‐desert. Under historical charcoal regimes, tropical rain forests and montane forests transitioned from net carbon sinks to net sources, that is, mean cumulative NEE from −3.56 ± 2.59 kg C/m2 to 2.46 ± 3.43 kg C/m2 and −2.73 ± 2.80 kg C/m2 to 1.87 ± 4.94 kg C/m2 respectively. Varying charcoal production intensities resulted in tropical rain forests showing at least two times higher carbon losses than the other biomes. Biome recovery time varied by carbon stock, with tropical and montane forests taking about 10 times longer than the fast recovery observed for semi‐desert and temperate grasslands. Our findings show that high biomass biomes are disproportionately affected by biomass harvesting for charcoal, and even low harvesting rates strongly affect vegetation and litter carbon and their contribution to the carbon budget. Therefore, the prolonged biome recoveries imply that current charcoal production practices in SSA are not sustainable, especially in tropical rain forests and montane forests, where we observe longer recovery for vegetation and litter carbon stocks.
Health and quality of life of patients with haemophilia: A national study of 124 Danish men
Authors: Schnohr Christina , Ekholm Ola , Poulsen Lone Hvitfeldt , Lehrmann Lars , Andersen Terkel , Funding Eva , Holm Karen Binger , Bjorner Jakob Bue
Published: February 2023

Purpose

In the past decades, haemophilia treatment has greatly improved the health of persons with haemophilia (PWH). This study compares PWH to the general population on social conditions and health.

Methods

In December 2021, all Danes with moderate or severe haemophilia A or B, or von Willebrands disease type 3 were invited to participate in an online self‐report survey concerning sociodemographic factors, self‐rated health, teeth status, chronic health conditions, symptoms and loneliness. This study compares responses from the 124 adult male PWH with responses from a male general population sample (N = 4849). Analyses used logistic regression, controlling for age and highest completed education.

Results

Fewer PWH were in the oldest age group (65‐84 years). Controlling for age, no significant differences were found regarding cohabitation status or education. Fewer PWH were employed (OR = .48, [.33‐.71])—particularly in the 45–64 age group. PWH were less likely to report good health (OR = .49, [.31‐.77]). The odds of joint disease was much higher (OR = 13.00, [8.37‐20.28]). Also, hypertension (OR = 2.25, [1.13‐5.65]) and previous stroke (OR = 2.51, [1.44‐3.50]) were more frequent. PWH were more likely to report pain in the arms/hands/legs/hips (OR = 2.94, [1.92‐4.52]), but less likely to report pain in the head/neck/shoulder (OR = .66, [.45‐.96]).

Conclusion

The disease burden of haemophilia has improved so PWH resembles the general population in areas such as marriage and education. However, even for young PWH, the disease still imposes a significant burden from hemophilia arthropathy and pain in extremities and joints. Middle‐aged PWH also have poorer levels of employment than same‐aged peers.
Unpacking the circular economy: A problematizing review
Authors: Dzhengiz Tulin , Miller Elizabeth M. , Ovaska Jukka‐Pekka , Patala Samuli
Published: February 2023

Transitioning to a circular economy (CE) model has been proposed to solve many grand environmental challenges. While research on CE has been extensively reviewed, less is known about the implicit underlying assumptions of this work. Understanding these assumptions is critical as they typically go unchallenged yet play a significant role in shaping research fields. In this paper we conduct a problematizing review to critically analyse and make explicit the in‐house, root metaphor and ideological assumptions that inform the framing of CE. Firstly, we demonstrate various in‐house assumptions about CE, such as an emphasis on the business case for CE and the relationship between CE and corporate sustainability. Secondly, root metaphor assumptions include circularity and industrial relationships resembling biological metabolisms. Finally, the dominant ideological assumptions‐neoliberalism and ecological modernization‐guide scholarly thinking about growth, consumption and profit maximization. Based on our analysis and drawing on the ongoing CE debates within broader environmental studies, we suggest new agendas for future research. We contribute to the growing literature on CE in business, management and organization studies by identifying assumptions that may be misleading or limiting for future CE research, as well as to the conversations on grand challenges by discussing the implications of how challenges and solutions are framed.
Systematic review of the effectiveness of nurse‐led care in reducing glycated haemoglobin in adults with Type 1 or 2 diabetes
Authors: Holloway Danielle , James Steven , Ekinci Elif , Craft Judy
Published: February 2023

Background

Type 1 and 2 diabetes care, especially within primary health‐care settings, has traditionally involved doctor‐led clinics. However, with increasing chronic disease burden, there is scope for nurses to expand their role in assisting diabetes self‐management.

Aims

This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of nurse‐led care in reducing glycated haemoglobin in adults with Type 1 or 2 diabetes.

Methods

Methodology from the Joanna Briggs Institute Method for Systematic Review Research and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed, including identifying publications, assessing study quality, summarizing evidence and interpreting findings. The search strategy involved using the Medical Subject Headings and keyword variations when searching MEDLINE (Ovid), Scopus, PubMed and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) databases. Inclusion criteria were samples with Type 1 or 2 diabetes, mean age of ≥18 years, English language studies and publication date of January 2011–December 2021.

Results

Overall, 34 articles from 16 countries met inclusion criteria. Though not always clinically significant, results indicated that nurse‐led care had beneficial impacts on glycated haemoglobin values, with reductions from 0.03% to 2.0%. This was evident when nurses received formal training, used treatment algorithms, had limited medical support, utilized technology and offered defined culturally sensitive and appropriate diabetes care.

Conclusions

Findings support nurse‐led Type 1 and 2 diabetes care. Although further research is required, changes may necessitate increased recognition of nurse‐led care and funding. Nurse‐led care models should differ according to health‐care settings.
Les plateformes de travail numérique et l‘évolution de la main‐d‘œuvre en ligne en Fédération de Russie: une analyse sur dix ans
Authors: SHEVCHUK Andrey , STREBKOV Denis
Published: February 2023

Les auteurs décrivent l'évolution du marché du travail indépendant en ligne en Fédération de Russie et dans l'espace postsoviétique. Les données proviennent d'une enquête originale, adressée à quatre reprises, entre 2009 et 2019, aux utilisateurs d'une grande plateforme d'intermédiation en langue russe, axée sur les métiers créatifs et l'économie du savoir. Plusieurs tendances se dégagent: expansion de l'aire de recrutement; diversification des spécialisations; féminisation, vieillissement et qualification de la main‐d'œuvre; péjoration de l'adéquation profil‐tâches; consolidation des parcours indépendants en ligne, plateformisation et formalisation. Les auteurs commentent ces évolutions et formulent des recommandations d'action en vue du développement futur du secteur en Fédération de Russie.