bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pediatric Emergency Medicine Physicians’ Perspectives of Concussion in Young Children
Authors: Levine Deborah A. , Gombar Julia , Lis Taylor , Orr-Gaucher Nathalie , Dupont Dominique , Hanson Janice , Beauchamp Miriam H.
Published: December 2024

Objective:

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) during early childhood (before 6 years) is prevalent, accounting for rising rates of emergency department visits. These injuries may lead to postconcussive symptoms, which may be subtle and difficult to diagnose in young children. Inadequate discharge counseling may lead to prolonged duration of symptoms and possible developmental delays. We aimed to explore pediatric emergency medicine (PEM) physicians' perspectives on “concussion” terminology, diagnosis, and management, specifically in a young child with mild TBI.

Methods:

We conducted semistructured interviews using open-ended questions involving a hypothetical scenario. We recruited currently practicing PEM physicians by a snowball sampling method. A research team recorded, transcribed, and analyzed the interviews. Using social constructionism as the philosophical framework, we developed and refined codes and derived themes until reaching thematic saturation. Peer debriefing with an expert collaborator aided with revisions of themes.

Results:

A single PEM researcher interviewed 13 participants. Three primary themes emerged. Our first theme identified the role of guidelines and tools in the diagnostic workup. Most participants utilized a clinical prediction tool for neuroimaging but no clinical symptom scales. Our second theme described the difficulties and inconsistencies in the approach to diagnosis of concussion, largely due to young age, lack of verbal skills and unreliable examinations. Our last theme focused on the difficulty in providing clear discharge instructions to parents. Many participants described difficulty providing activity restrictions, instead allowing self-modulation, and lack of counseling for educational tasks.

Conclusions:

Variability exists among PEM physicians in diagnosis and management of concussions in young children. Discomfort with lack of reliability of symptoms and underappreciation of typical early childhood characteristics may account for findings. Educational initiatives, age-appropriate clinical tools and treatment-guided outcomes research are needed to guide PEM physicians in the care of young children with head injuries.
Timing of Renal Replacement Therapy in Burn Patients With Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Heng Xue , Li Haisheng
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is common in severe burns with high mortality. Previous studies confirmed the renal replacement therapy (RRT) as an effective strategy in burn patients. However, the optimal timing of RRT initiation with AKI is rarely investigated.

Methods

We conducted a single-center, retrospective cohort study at a large burn center in Chongqing, China, from 2010 to 2020. Patients were grouped into early (initiated at Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes stage 1 or 2 of AKI) and delayed RRT (initiated at Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes stage 3 of AKI). The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. The secondary outcomes included renal function recovery, length of stay, and RRT-related complications.

Results

Of the included 79 patients, 42 and 37 were in early and delayed RRT group, respectively. The mean burn area was 68.82%. The in-hospital mortality tended to be higher in the early group (42.86%) than in the delayed group (29.73%, P = 0.227), although the difference was not statistically significant. The rate of partial remission of renal function at 48 hours after RRT discontinuation was significantly higher in the delayed group (78.26%) than early group (36.84%, P = 0.003). Furthermore, multivariable Cox and logistic regression analysis found that interval from AKI occurrence to RRT initiation was protective factors for 90-day mortality (hazard ratio 0.514, 95% confidence interval 0.349–0.756, P = 0.001), but fluid overload, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome were risk factors for mortality. Subgroup analysis revealed that patients with stage 1 or 2 AKI who received RRT within 24 hours after AKI had the lowest survival rate. In contrast, patients with stage 3 AKI who received RRT beyond 24 hours after AKI had the highest survival rate. The delayed group had higher rate of bleeding and lower rate of catheter-related infection than the early group.

Conclusions

Delayed initiation of RRT seemed to have similar survival benefits to early RRT initiation in burn patients with AKI, needing further confirmation by large randomized clinical study in future.
Progression of Pilot Trials to Completed Randomized Controlled Trials in Plastic Surgery
Authors: Chen Andrew T. , Behroozian Tara , Levit Tal , Quadri Faisal , Kim Patrick J. , Gallo Lucas , Chen Jeslyn , Zhou Ted , Cohen Dalya , Dunn Emily , Thoma Achilles
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Well-designed pilot trials are essential in determining feasibility prior to initiating definitive randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and their implementation into clinical practice. The primary outcome of this study was to identify the number of pilot or feasibility studies in Plastic Surgery that progressed to a definitive RCT. Secondary outcomes included a) number of pilot studies expressing feasibility statements and outcomes and b) reporting quality.

Methods

MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and clinicaltrials.gov were searched for all pilot RCTs and definitive RCTs in plastic surgery between 2012–2023. Pilot trials were matched to definitive RCTs by keyword, author, and citation report. Feasibility outcomes were presented using descriptive statistics. Reporting quality was evaluated using the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials 2010 randomized pilot and feasibility trials extension.

Results

Among 11,540 and 6035 citations screened in 2 separate literature searches, 171 pilot studies and 779 definitive RCTS were included, respectively. Ten (5.8%) pilot studies were associated with a completed RCT, 4 (2.3%) were in progress, and 2 (1.2%) were stopped. For studies that did not progress to a definitive RCT, “inadequate funding” (n = 11, 41.4%) was the most cited reason followed by “insufficient efficacy to justify study progression” (n = 5, 17.3%). The average reporting adherence to the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials items was 65.6% (SD 16). Fifty (29.2%) pilot RCTs reported a feasibility statement and 30 (17.5%) reported feasibility outcomes.

Conclusions

Few pilot trials in plastic surgery progressed to a definitive RCT, and most did not present feasibility statements or outcomes. Pilot studies should precede RCTs and include clear feasibility statements and outcomes.
Minimizing Omental Bleeding Risk Following Sleeve Gastrectomy: Assessing the Double-line Sealing Technique
Authors: Dalkiliç Muhammed Said , Gençtürk Mehmet , Yilmaz Merih , Erdem Hasan , Şişik Abdullah
Published: December 2024

Objective:

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has become the most commonly performed bariatric procedure due to its technical simplicity and effectiveness. While stapler line reinforcement has significantly reduced hemorrhagic complications, postoperative bleeding remains a concern, particularly from omentum or unidentified sources. The LigaSure device, known for sealing vessels successfully up to 7 mm in diameter, may face challenges in obese patients due to excessive omental fat. This study introduces a double-sealing technique as a simple solution aimed at reducing postoperative bleeding related to patient-specific factors.

Methods:

This study conducts a retrospective analysis to evaluate the double-line omental sealing technique in LSG, an intervention aimed at reducing the incidence of postoperative bleeding. We compared outcomes from 222 patients using the double-line sealing (DLS) technique and 297 patients with standard dissection. DLS technique involves creating 2 adjacent rows of seals on the omentum during dissection, aiming to minimize bleeding risks. Patient demographics, including age, sex, body mass index, and comorbidities, were examined, alongside operative time, length of hospital stay, and instances of reoperation. Special attention was given to identifying cases of severe postoperative bleeding, primarily determined by the need for blood transfusion.

Results:

No demographic differences emerged between the groups. The study group, which utilized DLS, demonstrated a significantly lower incidence of intraperitoneal severe bleeding (0.45%) compared with the control group (3%). Reoperations were significantly reduced, with only 2 cases (0.67%) in the control group and none in the DLS group. It also correlates with reduced length of hospital stay but increased operative time.

Conclusions:

DLS in LSG shows promise in reducing severe postoperative bleeding. Despite these positive initial findings, further studies with larger sample sizes are recommended to fully ascertain the efficacy and safety of this technique.
Practice of Electroconvulsive Therapy in Catalonia in 2022
Authors: Gil-Badenes Joaquín , Alemany Carlo , Iglesias Maria , de Arriba Aida , Foguet-Boreu Quintí , Hernández-Ribas Rosa , Carrión Maria Isabel , Alcoverro Oscar , Aguilar Ortiz Salvatore , Torrent Aurora , Bassa Adriana , Ros Laura , Bergé Dani , Giménez-Palomo Anna , Urretavizcaya Mikel , Martinez-Amoros Erika
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The practice of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) exhibits variability across various domains, both between regions, and between centers within the same region. The ECT Working Group of the Catalan Society of Psychiatry conducted a comprehensive survey in Catalonia, Spain, to assess the current status of those variables essential in the clinical practice of ECT.

Materials and Methods

The survey comprised 50 items, including various question types such as multiple-choice, numerical response, and open-ended questions. It was administered to the 20 public hospitals that currently provide ECT in Catalonia during the year 2022. Information was gathered on 4 main areas: Organization of the ECT Unit, Specific Technique of ECT Application, Strategies and Organization of the Therapeutic Plan, and Epidemiological Data, Training, and Healthcare Resource Management.

Results

Some notable findings include an application rate of 1.1 per 10,000 inhabitants, major depression diagnosis as the primary indication for ECT in 80% of the centers, and the ability to perform maintenance ECT in 100% of centers.

Conclusions

Following the survey and analysis, 3 main findings emerged: minimal variation in ECT application rates compared to the previous decade, increased complexity in current ECT practices with a focus on quality and patient safety, and identified areas for improvement in resource management and the necessity for a well-trained and stable multidisciplinary team.
Mapping self-avoiding walk on obstacle-ridden lattice onto chelation of heavy metal ions: Monte Carlo study
Authors: Blavatska Viktoria , Ilnytskyi Jaroslav , Lähderanta Erkki
Published: December 2024

Self-avoiding walk (SAW) represents a linear polymer chain on a large scale, neglecting its chemical details and emphasizing the role of its conformational statistics. The role of the latter is important in the formation of agglomerates and complexes involving polymers and organic or inorganic particles, such as polymer-stabilized colloidal suspensions, microemulsions, or micellar solutions. When such particles can be adsorbed on a polymer of considerably larger dimensions than themselves, this setup may represent the chelation of heavy metal ions by polymeric chelants. We consider the SAW of the length N on a cubic lattice ridden by randomly distributed obstacles of the concentration p interpreted as ions. The SAW monomers can bind to the obstacles with variable binding energy ɛ mimicking the formation of the chelation bond. Pruned-enriched Rosenbluth method (PERM) Monte Carlo (MC) algorithm is applied to simulate system behavior. We focus on several relevant properties related to the chelation efficiency and strength, as functions of the variables set {p,N,ɛ}. The results are interpreted in terms of conformational freedom, excluded volume effects, and loop formation for the SAW, and the tendencies being predicted are in agreement with some experimental data.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Coherent dressing of ground-state spin in a thermal atomic ensemble
Authors: Jia Xin , Liu Weixin , Xiao Shengxian , Zhang Zimo , Huang Bin , Wang Tao , Chen Bing , Shen Heng
Published: December 2024

Dressed states are eigenstates of the full Hamiltonian which also includes the interaction of the atoms with the driving field. From this point of view, photons of the field interacting with the atom externally induce quantum coherence, and thus modify the inherent properties of atomic system, such as Mollow triplets in the resonance fluorescence spectrum. Because of the rigorous requirement on the ratio of driving strength to the intrinsic linewidth, the associated demonstrations in neutral atoms are restricted to optical dressing in a cavity quantum electrodynamics system and microwave dressing in the Rydberg excitation. Here, we report the realization of coherent dressing of a ground state driven by a radio-frequency magnetic field in an antirelaxation coated warm vapor cell. We reveal the properties of the radio-frequency dressed states, a linear scaling in the resonance splitting, and the improved resonance linewidth. Such a system is robust to the variation of detection frequency and atom number and is able to determine the driving frequency. It thus may emerge as a unique and versatile tool in quantum metrology, for instance, rf atomic magnetometry in a large detection frequency range.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
The cost of coeliac condition: economic availability of gluten-free foods for patients with celiac disease in the Czech Republic
Authors: Vychová Helena
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study examines the economic availability of gluten-free foods for people with coeliac condition in the Czech Republic, focusing on the price differences between gluten-free and gluten-containing products.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive price survey was carried out, analysing almost 7,000 products from different categories. Statistical analysis using IBM SPSS Statistics software was used to calculate average prices and test the significance of price differences between the two groups of products.

Findings

The results show that most gluten-free products are more expensive than their gluten-containing counterparts, with significant price differences between product categories, particularly in bakery products. This economic burden is a barrier to adherence to a gluten-free diet, which is essential for the management of celiac disease.

Practical implications

Policymakers, healthcare providers and other members of the public can use these findings to develop the policies needed to promote the accessibility of gluten-free products.

Originality/value

This research provides unique insights into the economic availability of gluten-free foods for people with coeliac disease in the Czech Republic, a topic that has not been extensively studied in this specific context. While literature exists on the pricing of gluten-free products in other countries, our comprehensive price survey highlights significant price differences between gluten-free and gluten-containing products in the Czech market. The data reflect current market conditions and highlight the economic burden for people with celiac disease, contributing to the discourse on public health and dietary accessibility in the Czech Republic.
Blockchain barriers in hospitals: a stakeholder theoretic perspective
Authors: Prashar Anupama , Sunder M Vijaya
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Grounded in stakeholder theory, this study aims to examine the barriers to blockchain adoption in hospitals in developing countries. It also aimed to explore the interrelationships among these barriers and investigate how the perceptions of clinical and non-clinical professionals in the healthcare industry differ regarding these barriers.

Design/methodology/approach

The study context was hospitals in India and proceeded in three phases. First, barriers affecting blockchain application in healthcare were shortlisted using a systematic literature review. In the second phase, a multi-round Delphi study with clinical and non-clinical healthcare experts was conducted to screen and validate the barriers identified in the first phase. Finally, the barriers were ranked and categorized into causal and effect groups using the Grey-DEMATEL technique in the last phase of the study.

Findings

The findings reveal variance in the viewpoints of clinical and non-clinical professionals regarding influential barriers. Overall, the most significant causal barriers were a shortage of IT skills and a lack of standards for patient data management standards in Indian hospitals. Additionally, the study identified the lack of a well-defined strategy for blockchain infrastructure deployment and limited support from hospital management as effect barriers.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first attempt to use the integrated Delphi-DEMATEL approach to explore blockchain adoption barriers in hospitals from the expert’s point of view.
An investigation of machine learning strategies for electric motor anomaly detection using vibration and audio signals
Authors: Folz Klaus Jürgen , Gomes Herbert Martins
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The objective of this article is to evaluate and compare the performance of two machine learning (ML) algorithms, i.e. support vector machines (SVMs) and random forests (RFs), when classifying seven states of operation of an electric motor using the Mel-frequency cepstral coefficients (MFCCs) as extracted representative features.

Design/methodology/approach

The extracted MFCCs are calculated using the motor’s vibration and audio signals separately.

Findings

After the training, the SVM model obtained a mean accuracy of 100% for the MFCCs obtained from database vibration signals and 69.6% for the database of audio signals.

Research limitations/implications

The ML strategies and results reported are limited to the well-known data for industrial electric motors used in the evaluations, although it was performed tests and cross-validations with unseen data and the information from the confusion matrix.

Practical implications

The success of these methodologies in defect classification, where the RF presented a mean accuracy of 99.15% for the vibration signals and 63.82% for the audio signal, enables the use of this ML and extracted features as a predictive tool for failure and anomaly detection, lifetime predictions and online real-time monitoring.

Originality/value

It is the first time that the MFCCs are being used for anomaly detection in vibration and audio signals for electrical motors, as this extracted feature is usually used for human speech identification in the literature.
Application and prospect of machine learning techniques in cost estimation of building projects
Authors: Wang Rui , Salleh Hafez , Lyu Jun , Abdul-Samad Zulkiflee , Radzuan Nabilah Filzah Mohd , Wen Kok Ching
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Machine learning (ML) technologies are increasingly being applied in building cost estimation as an advanced method to overcome the challenge of insufficient data and subjective effects of experts. To address the gap of lacking a review of ML applications in building cost estimation, this research aimed to conduct a systematic literature review to provide a robust reference and suggest development pathways for creating novel ML-based building cost prediction models, ultimately enhancing construction project management capabilities.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review according to preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) was adopted using quantitative bibliographic analysis and qualitative narrative synthesis based on the 70 screened publications from Web of Science (WOS) and Scopus databases. The VOSviewer software was used to prepare the thematic focus from the bibliographic data garnered.

Findings

Based on the results of a bibliographic analysis, current research hotspots and future trends in the application of ML to building cost estimation have been identified. Additionally, the mechanisms behind existing ML models and other key points were analyzed using narrative synthesis. Importantly, the weaknesses of current applications were highlighted and recommendations for future development were made. These recommendations included defining the availability of building attributes, increasing the application of emerging ML algorithms and models to various aspects of building cost estimation and addressing the lack of public databases.

Research limitations/implications

The findings are instrumental in aiding project management professionals in grasping current trends in ML for cost estimation and in promoting its adoption in real-world industries. The insights and recommendations can be utilized by researchers to refine ML-based cost estimation models, thereby enhancing construction project management. Additionally, policymakers can leverage the findings to advocate for industry standards, which will elevate technical proficiency and ensure consistency.

Originality/value

Compared to previous research, the findings revealed research hotspots and future trends in the application of ML cost estimation models in only building projects. Additionally, the analysis of the establishment mechanisms of existing ML models and other key points, along with the developed recommendations, were more beneficial for developing improved ML-based cost estimation models, thereby enhancing project management capabilities.
Mobile security awareness of university students in Hong Kong: demographics and education
Authors: Li Kwun Hung , Chiu Dickson K.W. , Kong Elaine W.S. , Ho Kevin K.W.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This research investigates mobile security awareness among university students in Hong Kong, who increasingly rely on mobile devices for their daily activities and academic needs. This research seeks to inform targeted educational strategies and policies to enhance mobile security practices among young adults, particularly in regions similar to Hong Kong, where mobile usage is extensively integrated into everyday life.

Design/methodology/approach

Utilizing an online survey, this research assessed the mobile security awareness of 407 university students from Hong Kong. The Mann-Whitney U-test and other statistical methods were employed to analyze differences in security awareness based on demographic factors such as IT background, gender, educational level and participation in mobile security courses.

Findings

The research revealed a generally high level of mobile security awareness compared to similar research in other regions. It also highlighted that despite no significant difference in awareness between genders, students from IT-related fields or those who participated in mobile security courses exhibit higher awareness levels. These findings underscore the impact of focused education and training on enhancing mobile security awareness.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the limited but growing body of literature on mobile security awareness from the end-user perspective, particularly among university students in the Asia Pacific region. It offers valuable insights for governments, educators and corporate policymakers worldwide, providing a basis for integrating mobile security education into broader academic and professional training programs.
How did South Korean multiplexes survive the pandemic?: A dynamic capabilities perspective
Authors: Park Ji Hyon
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The film industry is going through a period of upheaval and crisis. This study aims to examine the movie theater industry’s survival strategies by analyzing South Korean multiplex management strategies during the pandemic from a dynamic capabilities perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

This study conducted a case study to analyze the management strategies of South Korean multiplexes using Teece's (2007) proposed components of sensing, seizing and transforming. Data was collected from business reports, websites, publications, news releases and interviews beginning in January 2020, when COVID-19 began to spread in South Korea, until June 2023.

Findings

South Korean multiplex theaters’ sensing capabilities have enabled companies to understand the changing demands of consumers and respond quickly. The seizing capability also enabled the development of distinctive business models, and the transforming capability contributed to equipping growth engines from a long-term perspective.

Originality/value

This study confirmed that the dynamic capabilities perspective and the three components conceptualized by Teece (2007) can explain the strategic choices of firms during acute crises such as pandemics. Additionally, these findings have practical implications for global film industry stakeholders.
Mumpreneurs’ decision-making when facing uncertainty and competing goals
Authors: Ameen Nisreen , Hoelscher Vera , Hughes Mathew
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study examines the decision-making processes and coping mechanisms of mumpreneurs (entrepreneurs who are mothers) as they navigate complex environments characterized by uncertainty and competing goals that are heightened by their circumstances and marginalization.

Design/methodology/approach

In-depth interviews were conducted with 26 female entrepreneurs in the United Kingdom who are raising young children.

Findings

The research develops a new framework based on regulatory focus theory. It uncovers multiple layers of uncertainty facing mumpreneurs, including traditional business-focused uncertainties such as global crises, market volatility and financial risks, but including uncertainties derived from the challenge of balancing business growth with family responsibilities. Despite these complexities, mumpreneurs pursue multiple competing goals related to their businesses, families and societal contributions. The study identifies four key coping and decision-making mechanisms employed by mumpreneurs in complex environments: intuition, adaptability, confidence and a dynamic interplay between promotion and prevention regulatory focus.

Originality/value

This study contributes to entrepreneurship literature by providing a nuanced understanding of how mumpreneurs are required to navigate uncertainty and competing demands and the key coping and decision-making mechanisms they use to achieve this. It challenges the binary view of regulatory focus theory and offers insights into the unique stress dynamics experienced by mother entrepreneurs. The findings underscore the need for tailored support systems, including coaching and mentoring programs for mumpreneurs with young children. Moreover, the research highlights the importance of policy interventions, such as increased childcare subsidies, to support parental entrepreneurship and advance gender equality goals.
Sustainable energy consumption in African higher institutions of learning: the nexus of top management commitment and institutional pressures
Authors: Arinaitwe Alice , Aikiriza Fiona Apofia , Kakooza John Bosco , Bagire Vincent
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the nexus of top management commitment and institutional pressures towards enhancing sustainable energy consumption in African Higher Institutions of Learning.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a structured questionnaire survey, cross-sectional data collected from 64 higher institutions of learning registered with the Uganda National Council for Higher Education were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS).

Findings

The findings revealed that top management commitment and institutional pressures individually associate with sustainable energy consumption. Top management commitment does not cause variations in sustainable energy consumption. However, when top management commitment coalesces with institutional pressures, they significantly predict sustainable energy consumption.

Research limitations/implications

The current study focuses on Higher Institutions of Learning in Uganda. Hence caution should be taken before generalization of findings. This study therefore sets ground for future studies to investigate sustainable energy consumption in other institutions.

Originality/value

This study tests the efficacy of top management commitment and institutional pressures on sustainable energy consumption using evidence from African Higher Institutions of Learning. It provides new directions for study in such a nascent area of critical national dimension as sustainability and climate change issues top the global agenda.
Circular economy, methane capture, and climate education in US HEIs
Authors: Mullis Charles S. , Finley-Brook Mary
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the involvement of US colleges and universities in methane capture projects in the waste sector and their related educational initiatives aiming to build circular economies and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors compiled a subset of 22 “early adopting” institutions – those that received media attention for solid or liquid waste methane capture projects from 1999 to the present. The authors included all cases found within a reasonable number of queries. The institutions fell into two groups: (1) schools directly involved in gas capture projects, and (2) schools that purchased third-party offsets tied to landfill gas (LFG) projects. The authors assessed transparency and accountability, which the authors determined as fundamental to GHG mitigation and climate education. The authors expanded on five innovative cases from our subset to illustrate pathways to improve equity and circularity in waste flows.

Findings

US higher education institutions (HEIs) can measure and educate more transparently about waste streams. While institutions using LFG offsets range in size, curriculum and geography, there were few methane capture projects supplying energy directly to campuses. Although HEIs generally rely on third-party providers for waste management, cases demonstrate how universities can play a role in methane use, and be incubators for climate action and related employment.

Practical implications

Illustrative cases demonstrate the educational and institutional benefits from methane use.

Social implications

HEIs can generate pathways of a “just” transition to a fossil-free circular economy.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is one of the first comparative studies examining waste sector methane capture and the potential for high-impact educational practices and sustainability training in US HEIs.
Post-Implementation challenges of the Outcome-Based budgeting model in budgetary practices: a Malaysian perspective
Authors: Mohd Gharib Nurul Shuhada , Isa Che Ruhana , Saleh Zakiah
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the challenges in post-implementing the Outcome-Based Budgeting (OBB) model in budgetary practices in Malaysian Government agencies, in the context of government official’s perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative methodology by collecting data from eight budget experts within federal government agencies through semi-structured interviews was used. Purposive sampling was used to select informants based on their relevant experiences and roles in the OBB model and associated budgetary processes. Data analysis involved thematic analysis using ATLAS.ti software, with member checking to enhance credibility.

Findings

Sustainability, innovation characteristics, organisational dynamics, individual capabilities and social context are identified as critical factors influencing the successful post-implementation of the OBB model in Malaysian federal government agencies. Organisational dynamics, encompassing policy control and Budget Review Officers role, as well as social factors, such as the presence of an OBB champion and broader buy-in, significantly impact the model’s effectiveness. These findings underscore the complex interplay of factors shaping the post-implementation phase of OBB in the Malaysian budgetary context.

Research limitations/implications

This study is constrained by its qualitative methodology and focus on the Federal Government of Malaysia, limiting the generalisability of findings. Future research using quantitative or mixed methods, expanded to include other government entities and comparative analysis across government levels is recommended to enhance understanding of OBB implementation challenges.

Practical implications

This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge on Performance-based budgeting (PBB) implementation, particularly in developing countries. By identifying critical success factors and barriers, it offers valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners seeking to improve public financial management. The study’s focus on Malaysia’s OBB experience provides timely and relevant information for addressing challenges in budgetary practices. Additionally, the research offers practical guidance for organisations navigating change management and building capacity for PBB implementation.

Originality/value

The study’s originality lies in its focus on the post-implementation challenges of the OBB within Malaysian Government agencies, which are largely under-studied. By using the Diffusion of Innovation theory, the study systematically investigates the interplay of sustainability, innovation characteristics, organisational dynamics, individual capabilities and social context in shaping OBB outcomes. Identifying sustainability and organisational dynamics as critical success factors contributes to the ongoing discourse on public sector budgeting reforms, particularly in developing country contexts.
Data-driven monitoring of powder build-up for condition-based maintenance in semiconductor manufacturing facility
Authors: Kim Chanyoung , Sim Hye Eun , Hong Sang Jeen
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Semiconductor fabrication facilities often suffer from undesired particle introduction into process chambers in vacuum systems. Ideally, it is unusual to observe particles formed in the exhaust pumping line inside the chamber, but non-volatile compound products at relatively low temperatures jeopardize the vacuum pumping system, gas scrubber and the wafer-in-process. This study proposes a monitoring system for constructing a complete condition-based maintenance system for diagnosing the powder build-up within exhaust pipes used in the semiconductor manufacturing industry. This system includes ultrasonic sensors and machine learning.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing ultrasonic sensors, physical and data-driven models are established. The time- or frequency-domain data acquired by the monitoring system are converted into cepstrums for modeling the powder layer thickness using machine learning.

Findings

The algorithms used in the proposed system successfully classified the thicknesses with an average accuracy of above 97%, and feature importance analysis identified the quefrency that varied with the thickness of the powder layer.

Practical implications

The limitation of this research lies within the lab environment. It is unfortunate that the suggested method has not been evaluated in actual semiconductor manufacturing facilities, as powder build-up may take more than a few months to be called the facility maintenance. However, the submitted paper is still valid in academic and engineering aspects to be utilized in industry.

Originality/value

We modeled the system using data acquired by an ultrasonic sensor, and we constructed a data-driven model that was trained using cepstral data to replace the physical models that monitor thickness. We are the first to use ultrasound and machine learning to estimate the thickness of powder in the exhaust vacuum pumping line.
Feed-in tariffs in scaling up solar and wind energy to shield nations from fossil fuel dependence
Authors: Jose Anu K , Patra Biswajit
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The study attempts to understand how feed-in-tariffs (FITs), government expenditures and environmental quality can impact solar and wind energy consumption (SWC) of nations and can act as a shield against global energy tensions by reducing fossil fuel dependence.

Design/methodology/approach

Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and non-OECD countries are compared based on the effectiveness of total governmental expenditures, mean FITs and carbon emissions in influencing SWC and fossil fuel dependence over the period 2000–2019. Fixed-effects panel data regression and bootstrapped panel quantile regression are used in estimations.

Findings

FITs and government expenditures boosted SWC in OECD countries, while they were not very effective in non-OECD. Unlike OECD nations, total government expenditures were also not influential in reducing fossil fuel dependence in non-OECD countries. Countries with higher carbon emissions had lower SWC and higher fossil fuel dependence, showing lesser environmental concerns and energy crisis vulnerabilities.

Research limitations/implications

There is a need for more renewable energy financing programs and governmental expenditures to promote SWC in non-OECD nations. The detrimental effect of carbon emissions on SWC and the positive effect on fossil fuel dependence show the lack of efforts in high carbon-emitting countries in adopting cleaner technologies.

Originality/value

The unique contribution of the study lies in the comparative analysis of the effectiveness of renewable energy financing for country groups and exploring the effects on renewables and fossil fuels simultaneously. An analysis of higher carbon emissions leading to an emission loop by increasing fossil fuel dependence also provides novelty to the study.
Invasive Amaranthus retroflexus obtains a competitive advantage over native A. tricolor under the addition of A. retroflexus leaf litter
Authors: Li Chuang , Li Yue , Xu Zhongyi , Zhu Mawei , Wei Yuqing , Xu Zhelun , Zhong Shanshan , Wang Congyan , Du Daolin
Published: December 2024

There is a scarcity of research examining the influences of the addition of leaf litter from invasive plants on their own growth performance, particularly in the context of their own competitive advantage when co‐cultured with native plants. This study aimed to examine the influences of the addition of a gradient of the invasive plant Amaranthus retroflexus L. leaf litter (ARLL) on its competitive advantage. An indoor planting experiment was conducted to analyze the competitive advantage of A. retroflexus with three forms of incubation conditions, that is, A. retroflexus in the monoculture, A. tricolor L. in the monoculture, and A. retroflexus co‐cultured with A. tricolor. The addition of a low amount of ARLL was found to significantly enhance the competitive ability to obtain sunlight of both Amaranthus plants. The leaf photosynthetic capacity of A. tricolor and the growth competitiveness of A. retroflexus were found to be greater in the co‐culture than in the monoculture. The competitive ability to obtain sunlight, the relative competitive intensity, and relative dominance of A. retroflexus were found to be stronger than those of A. tricolor regardless of the amount of ARLL and the form of incubation condition. Consequently, A. retroflexus can obtain a competitive advantage over A. tricolor under the addition of a gradient of ARLL. Accordingly, the stronger competitive advantage of A. retroflexus may facilitate its invasion process.
Case Report: A Ticking Time Bomb: Femoral Artery Aneurysm as a Complication of Behcet's Disease in Adolescents
Authors: Li Chen , Wang Yuwei , Jin Di , Guo Jingyan , Lin Zhimin , Fu Jingyuan , Li Sheng‐Guang
Published: December 2024

Behcet's disease is a rare, chronic inflammatory disorder that can affect various organs, with large vessel involvement being particularly uncommon. This case report discusses a 17‐year‐old male with Behcet's disease who presented with a rapidly enlarging, painful mass in the right groin region, later diagnosed as a femoral artery aneurysm. The patient underwent successful surgical intervention and was subsequently managed with immunosuppressive therapy to prevent relapse.
Pino's Pizza: An Instructional Case*
Authors: Kenno Staci A. , Sainty Barbara J. , Mancini Daniel
Published: December 2024

This case asks students to prepare a report addressing a number of strategic and operational issues at Pino's Pizza, a small chain of pizzerias in the Niagara Region of Ontario. Pino's son, Mario, is taking over the business and has several new ideas that he wants to explore. He has asked for help in assessing various expansion opportunities, introducing new products, changing the current delivery method, and developing a better information system. Students must obtain an understanding of Pino's current vision and mission, strategic position, and financial situation before analyzing the strategic fit and quantitative and qualitative implications of the alternatives under consideration. These strategic alternatives include franchising the Pino's Pizza name, opening a new sit‐down restaurant, and entering into a new partnership with a local winery. Mario is also considering offering gluten‐free pizza, outsourcing pizza delivery, and designing a new computer system to ensure adequate controls. The case will enable students to integrate a number of issues faced by a small business seeking growth through evaluating strategic and operational issues and providing supported recommendations.
Defying decline: Very low chytrid prevalence in tadpoles, yet high infection in adults in a naturally recovering frog species
Authors: Crawford‐Ash J. , Erens J. , Martel A. , Noble D.W.A. , Pasmans F. , Scheele B.C.
Published: December 2024

Amphibian chytrid fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), is associated with declines in ~500 amphibian species globally. Decades after initial disease outbreaks, the trajectory of impacted species varies substantially; while some species continue to decline, there are instances of natural recovery, such as the whistling tree frog, Litoria verreauxii, in south‐eastern Australia. The decline and subsequent recovery of this species have been quantified through repeated surveys of historically occupied sites over the past 30 years; however, the underlying mechanisms driving this recovery remain unknown. In this study, we investigate the potential factors facilitating the recovery of L. verreauxii by examining Bd prevalence and intensity in both adults and tadpoles. Specifically, we addressed the following hypotheses: (1) Bd prevalence in tadpoles would be lower compared to adults at the same breeding sites, (2) Bd prevalence in tadpoles would decrease over the spring breeding season due to the increasing availability of warm water microhabitats where tadpoles could potentially avoid or clear Bd infections and (3) there would be a negative correlation between Bd prevalence in tadpoles and the abundance and diversity of microfauna, which may consume Bd zoospores. Our findings indicate that tadpole infection prevalence remained consistently low at 1.36% (95% CI: 0.6–2.47%) throughout our spring sampling period, across different developmental stages. Adults had moderate to high prevalence within the same ponds at 50.53% (95% CI: 43.19–57.84%). No effect of temperature or microfauna diversity and abundance was apparent. While the mechanisms driving the recovery of this species remain unknown, low infection prevalence in tadpoles is likely a key component to the species' recovery. Our results emphasize the need for comprehensive investigations in Bd dynamics across all life history stages within recovering and declining amphibian species.
Are assisted reproductive technology pregnancies more likely to be exposed to teratogenic medication? A whole‐population study
Authors: Kemp‐Casey Anna , Hart Roger , Milne Elizabeth , Bower Carol , Walls Melanie L. , Yovich John L. , Burton Peter , Liu Yanhe , Barblett Hamish , Hansen Michele
Published: December 2024

Background

Assisted reproductive technology (ART) pregnancies are at greater risk of birth defects than non‐ART pregnancies. Teratogenic medication exposure is a potential cause of birth defects that has not been compared between ART and non‐ART pregnancies.

Aims

To determine whether the prevalence of exposure to teratogenic medicines during pregnancy varies by conception method (ART and three non‐ART groups: ovulation induction (OI), subfertile untreated, and fertile naturally conceiving).

Materials and Methods

We linked state and commonwealth datasets for all live and stillbirths (≥20 weeks) in Western Australia with a conception date ≥1 July 2012 and date of birth ≤31 December 2014. We calculated the prevalence of exposure to teratogenic medicines (Therapeutic Goods Association Category D/X) across conception groups for the: (i) first trimester, and (ii) second and third trimesters.

Results

We identified 2041 ART, 590 OI, 2063 subfertile and 52 987 fertile pregnancies (57 681). The overall prevalence of exposure to Category D/X medicines was 0.8% in the first trimester, and 0.7% in the second and third trimesters. Category X medicines exposure was <0.5% for all conception groups and trimesters. The first trimesters of ART and OI pregnancies were more often exposed to Category D medicines than subfertile and fertile pregnancies, (ART = 4.9%, OI = 2.0% vs subfertile = 1.3%, fertile = 0.6%) as were later trimesters (ART = 3.4%, OI = 1.4% vs subfertile = 0.9%, fertile = 0.6%).

Conclusions

The overall prevalence of exposure to teratogenic medicines is low; however, exposure was greatest in pregnancies arising from ART and may be a modest contributing factor to the higher rate of birth defects observed among ART babies.
Congenital absence of vas deferens: Anatomical and embryological inputs from a series of autopsies reported in Europe throughout the 18th and 19th century
Authors: Bendayan Marion , Boitrelle Florence , Maurens‐Hamdi Safouane
Published: December 2024

Congenital absence of the vas deferens (CAVD) is a syndrome with a heterogeneous presentation: bilateral (CBAVD) or unilateral (CUAVD), complete or partial and associated or not with other anomalies of the male urogenital system. A turning point came in 1968 when CBAVD was associated with cystic fibrosis and its CFTR gene mutations. Genetic studies then revealed that a minority of CBAVD but a majority of CUAVD are CFTR‐independent. In the literature, reference is classically made to two sources from the 18th and 19th century: Hunter and Reverdin. This scarcity prompted us to look for additional observations of CAVD. By a meticulous bibliographical search, we identified a corpus of 10 European observations (8 CUAVD and 2 CBAVD) some of them richly illustrated. They were collected between 1755 and 1876 throughout adult men autopsies. We also provided their primary and unambiguous sources. Analysis of the reported data revealed some interesting facts: both CBAVD cases were unlikely linked to cystic fibrosis and half of CUAVD cases were associated with an ipsilateral kidney absence, suggesting a CFTR‐independent pathophysiology. Moreover, the anatomical details of the anomalies raise interesting embryological questions we have tried to address in the light of current data. This work made it possible to identify new historical sources dealing with male genital tract pathologies. It sheds light on the origins of andrology and opens up interesting prospects for research and education in the field.