bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptation to warming and high CO2 influences diatom response norms and multi-trait variations across CO2 gradients
Authors: Peng Baoyi , Ye Mengcheng , Li Jingyao , Zhang Hao , Xu Leyao , Jia Yuan , Wang Yi Peng , Huang Bin , Liu Fangzhou , Liu Peixuan , Lin Jiamin , Wu Fenghuang , Xia Jianrong , Jin Peng
Published: December 2024

Understanding how phytoplankton response to elevated CO2 and/or warming through long-term genotypic adaptation is critical for predicting future phytoplankton distribution and community structure. In this study, we conducted a 4.5-year experimental evolution with the model marine diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum Bohlin under four environmental regimes: ambient conditions, high CO2, warming, and combined high CO2 + warming. Following this long-term adaptation, we exposed the populations to a broad CO2 gradient in a short-term (7-day) experiment, assessing their multi-trait responses. Our results demonstrate that P. tricornutum Bohlin populations adapted to different regimes exhibit significant multi-trait variation across CO2 gradients. Notably, the variability driven by long-term adaptation exceeded that induced by short-term CO2 changes. Furthermore, both long-term adaptation and short-term CO2 exposure altered trait co-variations, highlighting the complex interplay between environmental history and immediate conditions. This study emphasizes the importance to assess long-term genetic changes in marine phytoplankton under global change, as short-term experiments alone may underestimate their capacity for adaptation and the broader implications for marine ecosystems under future climate scenarios.
Psychological and interpersonal dimensions of sexual function and dysfunction: recommendations from the fifth international consultation on sexual medicine (ICSM 2024)
Authors: Brotto Lori A , Atallah Sandrine , Carvalho Joana , Gordon Elisabeth , Pascoal Patrícia M , Reda Mona , Stephenson Kyle R , Tavares Inês M
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Sexual health concerns are common and significantly impact quality of life, but many people do not seek treatment due to embarrassment and other barriers. A biopsychosocial model of assessment and treatment acknowledges the biological, psychological, and social contributors to sexual difficulties and suggests that all these domains should be evaluated.

Objectives

This paper provides an overview of the major psychological factors contributing to sexual difficulties and offer an evidence-based approach for primary care clinicians to assess and treat these issues.

Methods

A comprehensive literature review was undertaken focusing on articles published since the last consultation in 2016. The study findings were synthesized, critiqued, authors assigned a Grading of Recommendation as Weak or Strong following a year-long process of discussions among the committee. When a particular well-established psychological practice was not evaluated in the literature, we assigned an expert opinion recommendation.

Results

Since the 2015 ICSM, there have been a number of high-quality trials of psychological treatments addressing sexual dysfunctions, as well as meta-analyses and systematic reviews. In some domains, there is strong evidence of psychological treatment, and primary care providers should be aware of such approaches and refer when appropriate.

Conclusions

This paper offers a practical guide for primary care clinicians to understand the psychological factors underlying sexual dysfunction and outlining what approaches may be appropriate for this clinician, and when the patient should be referred to a specialist. We emphasize an evidence-based approach to managing sexual dysfunctions in primary care, allowing for timely interventions. A comprehensive evaluation of biopsychosocial factors is recommended to personalize psychological interventions to overall context, including chronic diseases, mental health issues, and relationship conflicts. The initial assessment is key to developing an individualized intervention plan, which may include psychoeducation, referral for cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, or couple therapy, and consideration of medical or digital health interventions.
The Relationship Between Cognitive Dysfunction and Self-Reported Clinical Outcomes in Long COVID
Authors: Rozanski Gabriela , Fiorentino Arianna , Hamilton Bradley W. , Ren Ivy , McSweeney Courtney , Tabacof Laura , Wood Jamie , Cortes Mar , Putrino David
Published: December 2024

Purpose:

Long COVID (LC) is an ongoing public health crisis due to the persistent and debilitating symptoms that many individuals develop after surviving an acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. Neurocognitive impairments associated with LC are prevalent and difficult to treat. This study describes the clinical characteristics and outcomes from a cohort of patients with LC and examines how cognitive dysfunction is related to various other health domains such as function, neuropsychiatric issues, and quality of life.

Methods:

Retrospective cross-sectional analyses were conducted using self-reported data collected by online survey: demographic information, questions about symptoms, perceived deficits, functional limitations, and other measures of well-being from various standardized instruments. The relationship between cognitive dysfunction and these variables was assessed by Spearman correlations and chi-square tests.

Results:

The sample included 427 subjects: 29.7% male, median 45 (14–89) years old. Based on normative cutoff, a large majority (72.4%) presented with cognitive dysfunction, which was significantly associated to fatigue (P < .001), disability (P < .001), reduced employment (P < .001), and difficulty in usual activities (P < .001).

Conclusions:

These findings align with and expand on previous studies investigating the negative impact of LC. Impaired cognition seems linked to adverse effects and daily functioning but causality cannot be determined without further research. Ongoing efforts are needed for identifying feasible and effective treatment options that may improve management of this complex condition.
Beyond the Clinic: Virtual Care as the Future of Long COVID Rehabilitation
Authors: Anderson Meaghan , Bauer Naomi
Published: December 2024

Background and Purpose:

As a result of COVID-19 infection, millions of individuals are now affected by Long COVID, and this number continues to increase. These individuals experience a multitude of symptoms and limitations that make accessing conventional rehabilitative care challenging. The traditional model of in-person physical therapy presents unique challenges for these individuals. Providing physical therapy virtually allows more individuals with Long COVID to receive physical therapy who otherwise would not be able to tolerate it or have access. The purpose of this paper is to outline the case for virtual care to become the preferred option for rehabilitation of individuals with Long COVID.
Protective effect of Camellia nitidissima Chi on γ rays radiation-induced hematopoietic and gastrointestinal damage
Authors: Wang Zhiyun , Shang Haihua , Gou Wenfeng , Xu Feifei , Hou Yue , Liu Gaiting , Ren Zhonghao , Li Yiliang , Tian Yuhua , Li Wei , Wang Yuefei , Hou Wenbin
Published: December 2024

Objective:

Camellia nitidissima Chi, a Chinese medicine commonly used by ethnic minorities in Guangxi, China, is beneficial for clearing heat, detoxifying, inducing diuresis, and suppressing swelling. It has various pharmacological properties, including antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant. However, its potential application in radioprotection remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to determine whether Camellia nitidissima Chi has radioprotective effects against radiation-induced gastrointestinal and hematopoietic damage.

Methods:

The 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical and 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) techniques were used to assess the ability of Camellia nitidissima Chi to scavenge free radicals. We conducted a 30-day survival rate experiment to evaluate the radioprotective capabilities of Camellia nitidissima Chi. Additionally, we developed models of radiation-induced intestinal and hematopoietic damage. Alterations in the white blood cell (WBC) count, total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), glutathione (GSH), and protein expression linked to apoptosis were observed.

Results:

Camellia nitidissima Chi scavenged 84.72% and 93.47% of DPPH and ABTS, had a certain radiation protection potential, and increased the survival rate of mice to over 90%. Moreover, following exposure, Camellia nitidissima Chi enhanced WBC, T-SOD, and GSH levels. Camellia nitidissima Chi increased B-cell lymphoma-extra large (BCL-XL) expression and suppressed Bcl-2 associated X protein (BAX) expression, providing radioprotection to cells.

Conclusions:

Camellia nitidissima Chi has a strong antioxidant ability; it can improve the survival rate of mice after lethal dose irradiation and protect against radiation-induced hematopoietic and gastrointestinal damage. These findings can serve as a guide for using Chinese medicines for radioprotection.
Foveal Avascular Zone development by OCTA: weighing the influence of Gestational Age and neonatal early growth independently of Retinopathy of Prematurity
Authors: Campo-Gesto Ana , Rodríguez-Fernández Carmen Antía , Baltazar Sara T. , Concheiro-Guisán Ana
Published: December 2024

Purpose:

Focusing the premature birth and its potential complications, this study analyzes Foveal Avascular Zone (FAZ) measured by Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography (OCTA) and its correlation with the severity of prematurity and neonatal growth.

Methods:

A cross-sectional comparative study was performed, involving 71 children school-age with history of prematurity and a full-term children control group. Several variables from the neonatal period were collected, such as Gestational Age (GA), Birth Weight (BW), initial Weight Gain (WG) and Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP). OCTA scans determined FAZ perimeter, circularity, and area on both Superficial Capillary Plexus (SCP) and Deep Capillary Plexus (DCP).

Results:

A positive correlation between GA and FAZ area and perimeter was identified, with a smaller FAZ (p<0.001) in preterm children. Furthermore, scatter plots showed a rising trend for all FAZ values based on GA and BW. Thus, children with greater WG during the first 15 days of life had a larger FAZ (p<0.05). GA was also predictive (p<0.001) for FAZ area and perimeter, while the ROP stage was a better predictor (p<0.0232) for its circularity.

Conclusions:

OCTA finds discrepancies in FAZ between premature and full-term children, with GA and neonatal growth having a greater influence than ROP itself.
Endocrinologic Dysfunctions and Neuropsychiatric Sequelae in Pediatric Patients With a History of Central Nervous System Infection (ENDLESS): A Prospective Monocentric Study
Authors: Sodero Giorgio , Cipolla Clelia , Camporesi Anna , Martino Laura , Costa Simonetta , Cannioto Zemira , Frassanito Paolo , Tamburrini Gianpiero , Veredice Chiara , Maggio Luca , Munblt Daniel , Raffaelli Francesca , Piastra Marco , Zampino Giuseppe , Valentini Piero , Buonsenso Danilo
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

Central nervous system (CNS) infections represent some of the most critical pediatric health challenges, characterized by high mortality rates and a notable risk of long-term complications. Despite their significance, standardized guidelines for endocrinological follow-up of CNS infection survivors are lacking, leading to reliance on the expertise of individual centers and clinicians.

Materials and Methods:

Prospective monocentric observational study conducted at the Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli in Rome, Italy. It included patients with a history of CNS infection, admitted to various pediatric departments of the hospital. The participants were selected based on a coded diagnosis of CNS infection and had completed their follow-up at the Pediatric Endocrinology Day Hospital after October 2019.

Results:

Eighty participants were included, comprising 53 patients with a prior CNS infection and 27 healthy controls, with a median age of 7.4 years (range 3.6–12.3 years). Endocrinologic alterations were detected in 13 patients, with 8 cases in those who had meningitis, 4 in encephalitis survivors, and 1 in a patient with a cerebral abscess. Patients with a history of CNS infections were shorter compared with healthy controls (P = 0.027). Moreover, those who had meningitis exhibited an increased risk of developing epilepsy (P = 0.01), neurosensory disabilities (P = 0.034) and the need for ventriculoperitoneal shunt insertion (P = 0.006). Patients with bacterial CNS infections were more prone to neurosensory and endocrine dysfunctions compared to those with viral or other infections. Significant differences were observed in hormone levels between previously infected patients and controls, specifically in TSH (P < 0.001), ACTH (P = <0.001), and cortisol (P = 0.019). IGF-1 levels were considerably lower in the infection group, both in absolute terms and when adjusted for sex and age (P < 0.001). The regression analysis suggested that the reduction in IGF-1 was more pronounced the earlier the CNS infection occurred, irrespective of infection type.

Conclusions:

Our study found several endocrinologic imbalances in children who survived CNS infections.
Changes in Emergency Department Practices After Implementation of a Standardized Heavy Menstrual Bleeding Guideline
Authors: Isaacson Erin E. , Isa Rabab S. , Monge Maria C. , Pike Jordyn , Compton Sarah , Afriyie-Gray Akua , Salazar Christina
Published: December 2024

Objective

The aim of the study is to assess the effect of an emergency department (ED) standardized clinical guideline for adolescent heavy menstrual bleeding on the rate of return ED visits and ED provider history-taking and management of this condition.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study. Patients less than 18 years old presenting to a single academic children's hospital ED between 2010 and 2020 with a chief complaint of heavy menstrual bleeding were included. Patient demographics were collected, along with a 10-point scale of provider documentation of specific medical and menstrual history components and required laboratory workup. Planned treatment plans were collected, as well as hospital admissions and return ED visits (within 3 weeks).

Results

Total number of patients was 267 (n = 106 pre- and n = 161 post-), with similar distribution of age ranges between groups (14.6 [2.2] and 14.5 [2.0], P = 0.73). On the 10-point scale of required history and laboratory evaluations, postimplementation patients received 1.9 more points than the precohort (P < 0.001). Age (−0.22 [95% confidence interval {CI} −0.36 to −0.08]) and evaluation by a trainee physician (0.75, [95% CI 0.09 to 1.41]) were also associated with significant differences in point totals. Documentation of outpatient follow-up with primary care physician or an adolescent medicine/gynecology specialist significantly increased (50% and 90% P < 0.001). Implementation was associated with a decrease in ED return visits in multivariate analysis (odds ratio 0.27, [95% CI 0.08 to 0.92], P = 0.036).

Conclusions

Implementation of a clinical guideline pathway improved provider documentation and history taking, increased referrals to specialist care, and significantly decreased return ED visits within 3 weeks for heavy menstrual bleeding complaints.
Improved Adherence to Lipid Screening in the Pediatric Cardiology Clinic: A Quality Improvement Project
Authors: Magnan Rachel A. , Murphy Thomas , Rosenthal Lauren , Prasad Aparna , Chelliah Anjali , Kaufman Stuart , Timchak Donna , McPhillips Lindsey , Siddiqui Saira
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

Lipid screening identifies at-risk patients to facilitate cardiovascular risk reduction. National pediatric guidelines recommend universal lipid screening between 9–11 and 17–21 years of age. We aimed to improve adherence to lipid screening for all age-appropriate outpatient pediatric cardiology visits from a baseline of 35% to 90% between November 2021 and July 2023.

Methods:

All outpatient visits for patients 9–11 and 17–21 years were included. Chart review and an Epic electronic health record report identified patients screened, lipid test results, and need for further testing. A P-chart was generated. After establishing a baseline for 8 weeks, interventions, including an Epic dot phrase, group and individual feedback, and Epic best practice alert (BPA), were incorporated via plan-do-study-act cycles. Balancing measures included anonymous provider surveys on visit length and experience.

Results:

More than 1,700 patient visits were included. At baseline, 35% of all age-appropriate patients were screened. The Epic dot phrase prompted a positive shift with a new mean of 59% screened. Another change occurred after the BPA alert, with an increase in screening to 84%. Lipid screening prompted by this initiative found that 38% of those with testing results in Epic had abnormal results requiring follow-up. Providers did not report a significant change in visit length due to screening.

Conclusions:

Quality improvement interventions improved adherence to universal lipid screening guidelines. The Epic dot phrase and BPA facilitated positive shifts. These simple interventions can be spread to other practices to improve adherence to lipid screening and other guidelines.
Evidence for spinal disinhibition as a pain-generating mechanism in fibromyalgia syndrome
Authors: Marshall Anne , Burgess Jamie , Goebel Andreas , Frank Bernhard , Alam Uazman , Marshall Andrew
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

Pain phenomenology in patients with fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) shows considerable overlap with neuropathic pain. Altered neural processing leading to symptoms of neuropathic pain can occur at the level of the spinal cord, and 1 potential mechanism is spinal disinhibition. A biomarker of spinal disinhibition is impaired H-reflex rate-dependent depression (HRDD).

Objectives:

This study investigated whether patients with FMS exhibit evidence of spinal disinhibition.

Methods:

Thirty-one individuals with FMS and 20 healthy volunteers underwent testing of Hoffman reflex including HRDD, along with assessment of clinical signs and symptoms, pressure pain thresholds, temporal summation of pain (wind-up), and conditioned pain modulation (CPM). Small nerve fibre structure was quantified using intraepidermal nerve fibre density and corneal confocal microscopy.

Results:

Patients with FMS had significantly impaired HRDD at 1 Hz (P = 0.026) and 3 Hz (P = 0.011) and greater wind-up ratio (P = 0.008) compared with healthy controls. Patients with the most impaired HRDD also had the most inefficient CPM but HRDD was not associated with wind-up. Both HRDD and CPM were most impaired in patients with a shorter duration of disease.

Conclusion:

We demonstrate for the first time that people with FMS show evidence of spinal disinhibition, which is most dominant in shorter duration of disease and may represent a putative mechanism of pain generation in FMS. Identifying people with impairment of central pain processing at an early stage may provide opportunities for targeted mechanistically directed interventions. Longitudinal studies are warranted to tease out the precise contribution of these mechanisms.
Diagnostic Value of the Color Doppler Ultrasound Standardized Semiquantitative Score Combined With Sound Touch Elastography in Liver Fibrosis in Patients With Chronic Hepatitis B: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Wu Yali , Dai Huiying , Li Dan , Li Li , Ou Liang
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic value of standardized semiquantitative scoring of color Doppler ultrasound combined with liver stiffness measurement (LSM) of sound touch elastography (STE) in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients, providing a reference for the liver fibrosis diagnosis.

Methods

We performed ultrasound and STE on CHB patients, with liver biopsies as the benchmark. We compared the differences in ultrasound standardized semiquantitative scoring and LSM among patients with different stages of liver fibrosis, and evaluated the diagnostic efficacy of significant liver fibrosis using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and the area under the ROC curve alone or in combination.

Results

The total scores of ultrasound semiquantitative scoring and LSM showed statistically significant differences among patients with different stages of liver fibrosis (P < 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in the total scores of S0 and S1 stages or in the LSM values (P > 0.05). However, the total scores and LSM values for patients at stages S2 and S3 were both higher than those at stage S0, and increased with the severity of fibrosis staging, with statistically significant differences (P < 0.05). The results of the ROC curve analysis showed that the combined diagnosis of significant liver fibrosis with ultrasound standardized semiquantitative scoring and STE had an area under the curve of 0.807, which was significantly greater than using ultrasound standardized semiquantitative scoring (0.694, P < 0.05) or shear wave elastography alone (0.706, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Color Doppler ultrasound with standardized semiquantitative scoring combined with STE examination can detect significant liver fibrosis (≥S2) in CHB patients.
FDG PET/CT in a Case of Gardner Syndrome
Authors: Shan Lili , Dong Aisheng , Han Yan
Published: December 2024

Gardner syndrome is characterized by multiple intestinal polyps and extraintestinal lesions. We describe FDG PET/CT findings of the extraintestinal lesions in a patient with Gardner syndrome. FDG PET/CT showed 2 hypermetabolic desmoid tumors in the abdominal wall, sclerotic areas with multifocal activity in the maxilla and mandible, multiple osteomas in the bilateral parietal, left frontal, sphenoid and ethmoid bones, an impacted tooth in the right maxilla, and bone islands in the T2 and T5 vertebral bodies. Extraintestinal involvements in Gardner syndrome can precede intestinal polyposis. Therefore, familiarity with FDG PET/CT findings of extraintestinal manifestations is helpful for early diagnosis.
Aesthetic Approaches to Zygomatic Fracture Management: Achieving Optimal Outcomes With Minimal Scarring
Authors: Saponaro Gianmarco , Moro Alessandro , Todaro Mattia , Gasparini Giulio , Perquoti Federico , Ascani Giuliano , D’Amato Giuseppe
Published: December 2024

The zygomaticomaxillary complex is integral to facial aesthetics and is frequently involved in facial fractures. These injuries often necessitate surgical intervention, with open reduction and internal fixation being the standard treatment. This article presents a novel philosophy for managing zygomatic fractures, emphasizing the “Scarless Surgery” technique. The authors' approach prioritizes minimal osteosynthesis material and fixation points while utilizing the least visible surgical access. For isolated zygomatic arch fractures, an intraoral technique is preferred, whereas the frontozygomatic suture is approached through an upper eyelid crease for optimal aesthetic outcomes. The zygomaticomaxillary buttress is accessed through a vestibular mucosal incision and the infraorbital rim benefits from a transconjunctival approach. The findings suggest that fewer fixation points can still yield satisfactory stability and cosmetic results, aligning with literature supporting the efficacy of 1 and 2-point fixations. This modern technique not only minimizes visible scarring but also conforms to the contemporary push for minimally invasive surgical methods. The authors' experience and the existing literature support the efficacy of this approach, reinforcing its viability as a standard practice in the surgical management of facial trauma.
Measuring Residents' Competence in Chest Tube Insertion on Thiel-Embalmed Bodies
Authors: De Mol Leander , Van Herzeele Isabelle , Van de Voorde Patrick , Vanommeslaeghe Hanne , Konge Lars , Desender Liesbeth , Willaert Wouter
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Chest tube insertions (CTIs) have a high complication rate, prompting the training of technical skills in simulated settings. However, assessment tools require validity evidence prior to their implementation. This study aimed to collect validity evidence for assessment of technical skills in CTI on Thiel-embalmed human bodies.

Methods

Invitations were sent to residents and staff from the departments of surgery, pulmonology, and emergency medicine. Participants were familiarized with the Thiel body and the supplied equipment. Standardized clinical context and instructions were provided. All participants performed 2 CTIs and were assessed with the Assessment for Competence in Chest Tube InsertiON (ACTION) tool, consisting of a 17-item rating scale and a 16-item error checklist. Live and post hoc video-based assessments by 2 raters were performed. Generalizability analysis was performed to evaluate reliability. Mean scores and errors were compared using a mixed-model repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). A pass/fail score was determined using the contrasting groups' method.

Results

Ten novices and 8 experienced participants completed the study. The Generalizability coefficients were moderate for the rating scale (0.75), and low for the error checklist (0.4). Novices scored lower on the rating scale?? (44±6.7/68 vs 50.8 ± 5.7/68, P = 0.024), but did not commit significantly more errors (1.6 ± 1.1/16 vs 1.0 ± 0.6/16, P = 0.066). A pass/fail score of 47/68 was established.

Conclusion

The rating scale in the Assessment for Competence in Chest Tube InsertiON tool has a robust validity argument for use on Thiel-embalmed bodies, allowing it to be used in simulation-based mastery learning curricula. In contrast, its error checklist has insufficient reliability and validity to be used for summative assessment.
Sacral Neuromodulation Reprogramming Rates: Understanding Office-Based Requirement
Authors: Query Helen , Morgan Tyler , Klausner Adam P. , Burkett Linda S.
Published: December 2024

Importance

Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) is a procedure with the advantage of reprogramming for discomfort or inadequate symptom control.

Objectives

The aims of this study were to investigate the rates of office-based SNM programming in a large multisite cohort and to examine differences based on implantation indication.

Study Design

The TriNetX database was utilized for retrospective cohort comparison using International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, and Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes. Cohort selection included female adults with a diagnosis of urinary retention, urgency urinary incontinence, and/or fecal incontinence (FI) at time of implantation. The primary outcome was the rate of SNM reprogramming CPT per individual from 6 weeks to 5 years postimplantation. Secondary outcomes included demographic comparisons, incidence, and survival curves for patients with SNM reprogramming identified with CPT codes. Further comparisons were completed between implantation diagnoses of grouped urinary (urgency and retention) versus fecal indications.

Results

A total of 9,501 patients meet inclusion criteria with a mean of age 62.1 ± 14.9 years (range, 18–90). Office-based SNM reprogramming was identified in 31.5%. The probability of never having reprogramming at 5 years was 52.5%. The mean number of reprogramming sessions was 2.5 ± 2.1. Approximately half (48%) of the patients with FI also had a diagnosis of urgency urinary incontinence, and approximately 25% had urinary retention. The probability of never having reprogramming was 55% and higher in patients with a fecal incontinence indication than those with only urinary indications at 50%, P < 0.001.

Conclusions

Office-based SNM reprogramming occurs in 31.5% of patients with implants, and rates are likely underreported. Patients with any FI diagnosis have a higher risk of requiring reprogramming.
The effects of capital grants to subnational governments under fiscal stress: evidence from the Spanish regions
Authors: Lago-Peñas Santiago , Vaquero García Alberto , Cadaval Sampedro María , Sanchez-Fernandez Patricio
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the impact of capital grants on the fiscal choices of Spanish regional governments from 1984 to 2021.

Design/methodology/approach

After running a battery of tests to verify the integration order of variables, joint cointegration and causality direction, the authors estimate a series of vector autoregressive models.

Findings

The results show that capital grants were highly effective until 2007, boosting capital expenditure and generating a significant crowding-in effect on capital expenditure in the long run. Then, the authors specifically analyze structural changes due to the deep impact of the Great Recession in Spain since 2008. However, the crowding-in effect still holds. Conditionality and matching rates are relevant elements of a sound definition of grant programs to subcentral governments.

Originality/value

The findings contribute significantly to the existing literature on fiscal federalism and regional economics.
Scale development and validation of green country image: focusing on Chinese consumers
Authors: Lee You-Kyung , Li Yi , Liu Yu
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to develop and validate a new scale for measuring green country image (GCI). The current country image (CI) concept is recognized as limited in capturing the complexities of consumer perceptions today. By building a GCI scale, this study can provide a more nuanced understanding of how consumers evaluate a country’s image beyond traditional measures. This scale will be a valuable tool for international marketers to develop effective strategies in the 21st century’s dynamic global business landscape.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts a mixed-methods approach to develop and validate a new scale for measuring GCI. This approach leverages the strengths of both qualitative and quantitative methods to gain a comprehensive understanding of the concept and develop a reliable measurement tool.

Findings

A reliable and valid scale was developed to measure the six dimensions of GCI: social green country image (SOGCI), economic green country image (ECGCI), environmental green country image (ENGCI), technological green country image (TEGCI), leadership green country image (LEGCI) and people green country image (PEGCI). In results, the new GCI scale is a six-dimensional, 23-item, five-point scale. An important finding was that these six factors were statistically significant reflective scales.

Originality/value

By developing a validated GCI scale, this study offers valuable insights for international marketers navigating the evolving consumer perceptions of importing countries. This novel scale empowers the international marketers to tailor strategies and target specific markets based on GCI. The mixed-methods approach strengthens the GCI scale’s robustness, making it a significant contribution to both academic research and international marketing practice.
Resilience in maritime chokepoint disruption and its implications
Authors: Lim Hoong Keat , Chiu Sai Hoi
Published: December 2024

Purpose

With global attention on the increasing disruptions in primary maritime chokepoints, such as the Suez Canal Blockage incident that happened in March 2021, it has come to our realization that disruptions in maritime chokepoints may be detrimental to all maritime stakeholders. This research project aims to study and verify the factors of disruptions and their implications on maritime chokepoints from the industrial players’ perspective. Information contained in this report should interest maritime professionals from fleet ownership and management, and commercial freight owners of the tramp and liner shipping.

Design/methodology/approach

This research project uses questionnaire surveys and semi-structured interviews to collect primary data targeted at professionals and industrial players from the maritime industry. Qualitative and quantitative assessments are applied in data analysis. Secondary information via credible industry and news reports, research papers and other related literature and materials are gathered to support and add on to the analysis in the discussion section.

Findings

Our literature review has categorized maritime chokepoint disruptions into (1) chokepoint risk, (2) maritime security and (3) ship loss risk. The information and data from primary research not only complemented our research and affirmed that chokepoint risk as the primary concern for our interviewed maritime professionals, but at the same time covered the research gap for the lack of information in those new emerging chokepoint disruption factors, for example increased vessel size, cyber-security and the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings from the primary and secondary research reflected the implications of chokepoint disruptions as economic losses from operations and market loss. Although primary research reflected slight effectiveness in combating emergencies faced by maritime chokepoint disruptions through proactive strategies, they still serve the merit in raising awareness for the maritime industry. Nevertheless, the findings highlighted the importance of having reactive strategies to engage in volatility faced during such disruptive events.

Originality/value

This empirical research study provides fresh insights into the new emerging factors of maritime chokepoint disruptions and their implications via the perspective from the industrial players in the maritime industry.
Biases and investment decision: an analysis of demographics using PLS-MGA
Authors: Raj Gargi
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate how biases among retail investors – such as mental accounting, overconfidence and herd behaviour – affect their investment choices, while also examining how demographics, specifically, age, gender and income moderate these effects.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses quantitative method for collecting data through questionnaire from 385 Indian investors investing actively in stock market. The relationship was tested using partial least squares structural equation modelling through SmartPLS 4.0. To analyse the moderating role of demographics, multi-group analysis with percentile bootstrapping approach was performed.

Findings

The results reveal the varying effect of each bias on investment decision. The evidence proves the presence of herd behaviour, overconfidence and mental accounting while making investment decisions. Furthermore, age and gender was found to be moderating the effect of biases and investment decision of Indian investors. Also, the results imply that female investors are more prone to herd behaviour compared to their male counterparts.

Research limitations/implications

The study confirms that investors often deviate from complete rationality, with their investment decisions constrained by available resources, information and cognitive processing abilities, consistent with the theory of bounded rationality. The findings offer practical insights for financial advisors, educators, investors, government agencies and regulators to enhance investment decision-making practices.

Originality/value

This study offers new perspectives on the impact of behavioural biases on investment decisions. Particularly, the study enhances the understanding of investment patterns and contributes to the behavioural finance literature by addressing the interplay between demographics and investor behaviour in a rapidly growing economy.
Understanding BallotLoafing at work: examining employee loafing during political elections
Authors: Salehzadeh Reza , Esmailian Hassan , Javani Maliheh
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Given the concept of loafing at work and its IT equivalent, cyberloafing, we propose the concept of BallotLoafing to metaphorically describe a similar phenomenon occurring during political elections. BallotLoafing describes how employees’ attention can become absorbed by discussions, debates or following news related to an election, shifting focus away from work tasks. This study aims to investigate the effects of attitude, subjective norm and perceived behavioral control on employees’ intention to engage in BallotLoafing behaviors through the lens of the theory of planned behavior. Additionally, the research explores the moderating role of political belief in the relationship between these variables.

Design/methodology/approach

The statistical population of this research was the employees of public organizations in Isfahan, Iran. We conducted a two-wave lagged survey. The data were collected during the 2024 elections for the 12th convocation of the Islamic Parliament of Iran. This study used structural equation modeling to examine the proposed model.

Findings

Employees’ attitude, subjective norm and perceived behavioral control positively impacted employees’ intention to engage in BallotLoafing. In addition, behavioral intention positively impacted actual BallotLoafing behaviors. Finally, the results showed that the political belief did not play a moderating role in the relationship between these variables.

Practical implications

Managing or reducing BallotLoafing involves addressing the key factors that influence such behavior: attitudes, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control.

Originality/value

This research introduces a novel concept: BallotLoafing, which captures employee distraction during elections.
Demystifying the efficiency in managing the working capital through the lens of sustainability
Authors: Karki Uttam , Seth Himanshu , Bhatia Vaneet
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to scrutinize the role of environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance and its indicators in achieving working capital management (WCM) efficiency.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a sample comprising 520 firm-year observations from Indian listed firms for the period from 2017 to 2021, the current study estimates WCM efficiency using the Banker, Charnes and Cooper (BCC) input-oriented model of data envelopment analysis (DEA). In addition, this study performs baseline, robustness and heterogeneity tests to examine the effect of ESG performance and its components on WCM efficiency.

Findings

Our findings show that firms with high ESG performance better manage short-term liquidity. Also, environmental performance (EP), social performance (SP) and governance performance (GP) highlight a similar positive association with WCM efficiency. As per the heterogeneity test results, both high- and low-sustainable firms showcase the necessity of ESG performance to achieve efficiency in managing their working capital.

Practical implications

The findings emphasize the need for managers and policymakers to integrate sustainable practices with financial strategies, enhancing both short-term stability and long-term sustainability goals and thereby guiding effective policy and governance enhancements.

Originality/value

We attempt to adjudicate the role of sustainability on WCM efficiency from an emerging country perspective, which has not yet been explored. Our study also makes a methodological contribution by pioneering the DEA in the context of ESG and working capital.
Comprehending the role of soft skills in current work scenarios in the engineering domain
Authors: Pandey Aayushi , Dhand Shivani , Kaswan Mahender Singh , Chhibber Priyanka , Garza-Reyes Jose Arturo , Manzoor Mehnaz
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To investigate the transformative impact of soft skills on the career pathways of experts and students in the engineering domain.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts a comprehensive approach, combining a review of existing literature with primary data to analyse quantitative and qualitative empirical investigations. Data from 40 participants, who are engineering students and professionals, is analysed using descriptive statistics and advanced software tools like ATLAS.ti and Jamovi.

Findings

The findings underscore the indispensable nature of soft skills in elevating employability, emphasising the urgent need for mandatory soft skills education for engineering students and professionals. The research identifies the top five soft skills engineers need: communication, teamwork, time management, leadership and problem-solving.

Practical implications

The research contributes to understanding soft skills’ pivotal role in engineering professions, providing valuable insights for professionals and organisations aiming to enhance performance and competitiveness in the industry. The study advocates for a holistic approach that recognises the symbiotic relationship between technical proficiency and soft skills in shaping the success of engineering graduates in the 21st-century workforce.

Originality/value

The study recognises the current job market demands and asserts that engineers must combine technical expertise with soft skills to succeed in the technology-driven yet people-centric engineering profession.
Measuring the efficacy of community consultation in a pediatric exception from informed consent trial
Authors: Johnson Ann R. , Riches Naomi O. , VanBuren John M. , Corona Ana E. , Jacobsen Kammy , Yang Shu , Shah Manish I. ,   Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network (PECARN) PediDOSE Study Investigators
Published: December 2024

Background

Community consultation activities are required by the Food and Drug Administration prior to conducting research using exception from informed consent (EFIC) for emergency research and aim to provide additional participant protections. However, it is difficult for institutional review boards (IRBs) to assess the efficacy of such activities. In this study, our primary aim was to evaluate the efficacy of the PediDOSE trial's consultation activities by answering key questions about whether consultation efforts reached a relevant community and if the perspectives of the consulted community coincided with those of parents actually enrolled in the study.

Methods

Qualitative findings of semistructured interview data collected during community consultation efforts were compared with interview responses from parents of children enrolled in the PediDOSE trial to identify common themes.

Results

Most themes were identified in both groups, but additional themes emerged with parents of enrolled participants that may be important for future study teams and IRBs to consider. Even with an overrepresentation of White and non‐Hispanic/Latino participants in the community consultations compared to those who were enrolled in the EFIC study there was common overlap of themes.

Conclusions

Parent interviews added to our understanding beyond the themes identified in the consultation interviews. The theme of therapeutic misconception was not found in the consultation interviews, possibly due to the child's emergency medical care being theoretical. With modest accommodations, collection of additional demographic and follow‐up interview data can successfully assess key elements of community consultation efficacy for EFIC trials.
High‐flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy for children with bronchiolitis: Implementation of a national guideline
Authors: Beckeringh Nike , Linssen Rosalie S. N. , Kapitein Berber , van Woensel Job B. M. , Plötz Frans B. ,   Pediatric Research and Evaluation Network (PREN) Amsterdam study group
Published: December 2024

Aim

High flow nasal cannula (HFNC) therapy is a form of respiratory support used in children with bronchiolitis. A national guideline for the use of HFNC was published in The Netherlands in 2020. We studied the implementation and use of this guideline.

Methods

We performed a multicentre observational study amongst all hospitals in the North‐West part of The Netherlands referring to the same paediatric intensive care unit (PICU). This study consisted of two parts: a comparison of local HFNC protocols to the national guideline and a survey about the use of HFNC amongst paediatricians in the participating centres.

Results

We observed considerable variations between the local protocols and the national protocol, especially regarding criteria to initiate HFNC treatment and weaning practices. Survey results showed that expectations of HFNC widely varied, while the clinical use of HFNC deviated from both the national guideline as well as local protocols, especially for weaning practices and the use of pCO2 as a parameter for initiation and evaluation of the effect of HFNC.

Conclusion

Implementation of the national guideline for HFNC therapy in bronchiolitis was inefficacious, leading to non‐uniform clinical practice.
Finnish nationwide controlled register study found increased inpatient infections in children with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome
Authors: Wahrmann Sakari , Kainulainen Leena , Lempainen Johanna , Kytö Ville
Published: December 2024

Aim

Studies on treating infections in children with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11.2DS) have been limited. We characterised inpatient infections and outpatient antibiotic treatment.

Methods

Children born during 2005–2018 were eligible for this national Finnish retrospective register‐based study. We recruited 98 children (54% male) with DiGeorge or velocardiofacial syndrome. The 980 matched controls had a benign murmur diagnosed before 1 year of age. The cumulative incidence of infections and antibiotic prescriptions and total prescriptions were measured.

Results

The median age for 22q11.2DS diagnoses was under 1 year of age (range 0–14 years), with a median follow‐up time of 9 years for diagnoses and 11 years for prescriptions. Children with 22q11.2DS had significantly higher hospitalisation rates than the controls for any infection (68.1% vs. 30.5%), gastroenteritis (16.8% vs. 4.0%), pneumonia (23.4% vs. 4.3%), severe bacterial infections, excluding pneumonia or pyelonephritis (15.0% vs. 4.1%) and viral wheezing (23.2% vs. 9.1%). Outpatient antibiotic prescriptions were similar, but the children with 22q11.2DS received them earlier than the controls, with a hazard ratio of 3.29 for ages 0–5 years and 1.84 for the entire follow‐up.

Conclusion

Children with 22q11.2DS had significantly more infections requiring hospitalisation than controls without the syndrome.
Unicentric Castleman disease complicated with bronchiolitis obliterans: A single‐centre retrospective study from China
Authors: Liu Yan‐ting , Zhen Jun‐feng , Gao Yu‐han , Li Si‐yuan , Dang Yue , Xu Hao‐Yi , Zhang Lu , Li Jian
Published: December 2024

Bronchiolitis obliterans (BO) is a rare and life‐threatening complication of unicentric Castleman disease (UCD), which is considered the leading cause of death in UCD. However, few studies focused on the characteristics of UCD patients complicated with BO. This single‐centre, retrospective study of 281 patients diagnosed with UCD identified 18 patients (6.4%) with BO. UCD‐BO patients had a significantly lower age at UCD diagnosis than the UCD without BO group. 94.4% of UCD‐BO patients had deep lymph nodes involvement and 83.3% of them had paraneoplastic pemphigus, which were both significantly higher than UCD without BO. Median forced expiratory volume in 1 s of predicted was 20.9% (10%–41.9%) and 83.3% patients had severe BO. All patients underwent complete resection for UCD. 61.1% patients developed BO after surgery. UCD‐BO patients had a poorer overall survival than UCD without BO. Among severe BO, 11 patients did not receive lung transplantation and two of them died, with 62.5% (95% CI, 20.8%–100%) of estimated 5‐year overall survival. Four patients underwent lung transplantation and they all survived. UCD‐BO patients had distinct clinical identity. Complete resection could neither alleviate BO nor prevent BO progression. Lung transplantation is a vital treatment for improving prognosis for patients with severe BO.