bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Efficiency and Optimal size of Italian Public Hospitals: Results from Data Envelopment Analysis
Authors: Giancotti Monica , Rotundo Giorgia , Pipitone Vito , Mauro Marianna 
Published: August 2023

Background: One of the major issues discussed in the literature about hospital efficiency is the impact of hospital size on technical efficiency. Many studies have observed that in some cases, hospital technical inefficiency is correlated with an incorrect size. This paper addresses this topic. In particular, we attempt to identify an optimal size of hospitals in terms of beds.
Methods: The study is organized as follow: first, we performed the Data Envelopment Analysis in order to calculate the technical and scale efficiency scores for a sample of 41 Italian public hospitals during the period 2010-2013; second, we investigated the impact of size on hospital efficiency, identifying the magnitudes of input reductions needed to make inefficient public hospitals efficient. Finally, we calculated the most productive scale size for each hospital in the sample. According to these results, through an overall observation, we attempted to identify an optimal size for hospitals in terms of beds.
Results: Most of the hospitals were inefficient and most of the inefficiency was the results of the presence of waste in terms of input resources. During the period considered, we found that inputs could be reduced by 22% on average. Economies of scale were found around 200 beds for 20.000 discharges per year.
Conclusions: The identification of an optimal size of hospitals in terms of beds still requires further efforts in the literature. However, this study contributes to support hospital managers in resource allocation choices through a quantitative approach.
Veterinarians are reluctant to recommend virtual consultations to a fellow veterinarian
Authors: Sigesmund Debbie , Coe Jason B. , Khosa Deep , Moore Irene C. 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
To explore veterinarians’ use of virtual veterinarian-client-patient consultations before and during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and examine veterinarians’ attitudes toward virtual consultations.

SAMPLE
135 companion animal veterinarians in Canada, the US, and Europe.

METHODS
An anonymous online survey was distributed to gather participating veterinarians’ use of information and communication technologies and their perception of virtual consultations’ effect on patient care, client communication, and their own well-being. Willingness to recommend virtual consultations was evaluated using the Net Promoter Score. Multivariable logistic regression explored factors associated with willingness to recommend virtual consultations.

RESULTS
Percentage of participating veterinarians using the telephone and videoconferencing increased significantly (P < .001) from before (83.6% and 3.0%, respectively) to during the COVID-19 pandemic (97.0% and 22.4%, respectively). Participants were significantly less confident (P < .001) about their ability to reach a diagnosis using a virtual consultation as compared to a hands-on patient examination. Participants perceived client communication to be more challenging during virtual as compared to face-to-face consultations, particularly for building rapport and expressing empathy. Participants were extremely unwilling to recommend virtual consultations (Net Promoter Score = –41.4) with 21.6% (24/111) promoters and 63.1% (70/111) detractors. Confidence doing a virtual patient examination and comfort using videoconferencing technology were both positively associated (P < .05) with willingness to recommend virtual consultations.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE
Veterinary practices and organizations interested in encouraging virtual veterinarian-client-patient consultations likely need to prioritize veterinarians’ acceptance as an initial focus. The veterinary profession would benefit from further research and education to inform virtual veterinary care.
Computed tomographic features and surgical treatment of equine mandibular aneurysmal bone cysts with β-tricalcium phosphate in a multicenter case series
Authors: Spoormakers Tijn J. , Heim Corsin , Vermunt Lian , Fürst Anton , Rovel Tibor 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
To describe clinical and imaging features and surgical treatment of equine mandibular aneurysmal bone cysts (ABCs) with β-tricalcium phosphate (TCP).

ANIMALS
3 horses (cases 1, 2, and 3) and 1 pony (case 4) with histologically confirmed ABC.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION
All cases had mandibular swelling with intact adjacent skin. Cases 1 to 3 had a body condition score of 3/5 and case 4 had 2/5 and showed quidding during mastication and, at oral examination, large interdental spaces and loose elements adjacent to the swelling. Radiography or CT was performed in all cases. In cases 1, 3, and 4, an expansile septate cystic space-occupying lesion with mass effect on the adjacent cortices and teeth was seen without compact bone destruction. Case 2 showed a heterogeneous osteolytic mass with multifocal cortical lysis and interruption. Case 4 had severe dental abnormalities of deciduous and precursors of permanent teeth. ABCs were surgically treated and filled with only TCP (case 3) or in combination with autologous bone marrow (cases 1, 2, and 4).

RESULTS
Cases 1 through 3 showed an uneventful reduction in ABC size with increased opacity/attenuation. In case 4, a surgical site infection occurred. After removal of TCP remnants, the ABC healed satisfactorily, but remaining dental abnormalities necessitated dietary adjustments to maintain an acceptable body condition score.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE
Treatment of ABCs with TCP had a favorable outcome and good long-term prognosis. In young specimens, the expansile effect on the development and eruption of neighboring teeth can influence and determine final functionality of the diseased dental quadrant.
Long-term success rate of entropion surgery is equivalent in juvenile and adult dogs
Authors: Lavallée Geneviève , Curto Elizabeth M. , Gratzek Ann T. 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
To compare long-term outcomes of lower lid entropion surgery performed in juvenile dogs versus adult dogs and evaluate the success rate of temporary tacking procedures in dogs < 1 year of age.

ANIMALS
116 client-owned dogs.

METHODS
A retrospective study was performed evaluating dogs younger than 3 years old diagnosed with primary lower lid entropion between 2010 and 2020. Recurrence of entropion following temporary tacking sutures was evaluated. Surgical outcomes were evaluated of entropion surgery in dogs < and > 1 year of age.

RESULTS
44 dogs with entropion (71 eyes) had a temporary tacking procedure. The entropion resolved in 36.6% of eyes, requiring no further therapy. The median age of dogs successfully treated with a temporary tacking procedure was younger than those that failed. Forty-seven dogs (75 eyes) had entropion surgery at maturity, and 52 dogs (79 eyes) were juvenile. Twenty-seven dogs had temporary tacking procedure prior to surgery, accounting for the difference in number. There was no statistically significant difference in the recurrence rate of entropion between eyes of adult (6/75 [8%]) and juvenile dogs (10/79 [12.7%]) following surgery.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE
Entropion surgery in juvenile dogs is not associated with a higher risk of recurrence and need not be delayed until dogs are older than 1 year of age.
Prognostic Value of CYP1A2 (rs2069514 and rs762551) Polymorphisms in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Bozkurt I , Gözler T , Yüksel I , Ulucan K , Tarhan KN 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
The aim of the study was to examine the genotype-allele determination of CYP1A2 rs2069514 and rs762551 polymorphisms in patients with mild and severe COVID-19 and to determine their effectiveness as prognostic criteria in COVID-19. The study consists of 60 patients who were hospitalized in intensive care or outpatient treatment due to COVID-19 in Istanbul NP Brain Hospital between 2020–2021. Genotyping was conducted by Real-Time PCR. Age (p<0.001); chronic disease (p=0.002); cardiovascular disease (p=0.004); respiratory distress (p<0.001); neurological disease (p=0.004); fatigue (p=0.048); loss of taste and smell (p=0.003); nausea/vomiting (p=0.026); intubated (p<0.001); ground glass image (p<0.001) and CYP1A2 genotypes (p<0.001) showed a statistically significant difference between patients with and without intensive care admission. According to multivariate logistic regression analysis, CYP1A2 *1A/*1C + *1C/*1C genotypes (OR:5.23 95% CI: 1.22–22.36; p=0.025), chronic disease (OR:4.68 95% CI:1.14–19.15; p=0.032) or patients at 65 years or older (OR:5.17, 95%CI:1.26–21.14; p=0.022) increased the risk of admission to the intensive care unit. According to our results, we strongly suggest considering the CYP1A2 rs2069514 and rs762551 polymorphisms as important predictors of Intensive Care Unit admission in patients with COVID-19, and we also suggest that genotype results will guide clinicians for the benefit and the efficiency of the treatment.
Entrepreneurial Learning in Higher Education: Perceptions, Realities and Collaborative Work from the Stakeholder Point of View
Authors: Marques Ana Paula , Couto Ana Isabel , Rocha Paula 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
In recent years, Portuguese universities have diversified their strategies for the promotion of entrepreneurial education among (under/post) graduates, both through formal education and non- formal and informal activities. Indeed, Higher Education Institutions can provide entrepreneurial learning opportunities for students, stimulating new attitudes and behaviours towards entrepreneurship. In terms of non-formal and informal learning, various types of activity are of particular significance, and include entrepreneurship promotion and skills-based training, as well as monitoring of the development of ideas and projects. These activities are undertaken by various higher education stakeholders and key-actors, who contribute to the construction of an entrepreneurial ecosystem, and increase entrepreneurial spirit in (under/post) graduates. The research reported here is based on the main findings gathered from the ongoing project “Entrepreneurial Learning, Cooperation and the Labour Market: Good Practices in Higher Education (POAT-FSE)”, focusing particularly on the results of a survey questionnaire completed by a diverse sample of entities linked to Portuguese public Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and working to promote non-formal and informal entrepreneurial activities, as well as a set of case studies carried out regarding examples of best practice in Portuguese Higher Education. In doing so, this paper aims to highlight the importance of non-formal and informal learning, and to contribute to reflection on the added value of inter-organizational cooperation and collaborative work.
Design of a Conceptual Model for Improving Company Performance Based on Lean Management Applying the Viable System Model (VSM)
Authors: García Sergio Gallego , Reyes Rayco Rodríguez , García Manuel García 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Designing, changing and adapting organizations to secure viability is challenging for companies. Researchers often fail to holistically design or transform organizations. Thus, the aim of this study is to propose a holistic approach how organizations can be designed, changed or managed considering also its implications to production management following lean management principles. Hereby the Viable System Model was applied. This structure can be applied to any kind of structured organization and for its management with goals to be achieved in modern society; however focus of the research is the cluster of manufacturing and assembly companies. Goal of the developed organizational model is to be able to react to all potential company environments by taking decisions regarding organization and production management functions correctly and in the right moment based on the needed information. To ensure this, standardized communication channels were defined. In conclusion this proposed approach enables companies to have internal mechanisms to secure viability and also in production to reduce necessary stocks, lead times, manpower allocation and leads to an increase of the service level to the final customer.
Effectiveness of Active Confinement Techniques with Steel Ribbons: Masonry Buildings
Authors: Ferretti Elena 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
In the present paper, we analyzed the main advantages of the active confinement techniques with a particular focus on the CAM system, which is an Italian reinforcement technique with pre-tensioned stainless-steel ribbons. Italian seismic codes classify the CAM system as belonging to the strengthening category of “horizontal and vertical ties”. Therefore, we compared the CAM system to the reinforcement techniques with horizontal and vertical ties in order to understand the actual similarities and possible differences between them. Moreover, we offered a deep analysis of the main critical issues of the CAM system, distinguishing between geometrical and mechanical weak-points. In particular, we analyzed the strengthening mechanism of the CAM system, still poorly understood, by performing a static analysis in the Mohr/Coulomb plane. Finally, we provided suggestions for future developments.
Decision Support Opportunities in the Green Supply Chain Coordination
Authors: Metszosy Gabriella , Faludi Tamás 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
In the 21st century, major changes have taken place in supply chain management. First of all, some new type of supply chains has appeared beside the traditional supply chains. The growing level of pollution, the decreasing level of non-renewable sources indicate changes in the business life. Companies find some alternate solutions to protect the environment – use renewable sources, integrate recycling processes, use the inverse logistics etc. So companies are getting to be eco-conscious, we are called them as ‘green companies’. If these green companies are in one supply chain, we are called as ‘green supply chain’. The coordination of supply chains – whether if traditional or green– is one of the most important research topics in this century. The number of chain members is growing; the cooperation is getting to be more difficult. That is why contracts could be a good solution for this problem, because they define a framework for the parties to manage their relationships. Contracts work well, if the right type is chosen according to the nature of the relationship. But in the case of a green supply chain, there are other influencing factors. Green companies are able to accept higher prices to get higher quality products. In the paper, we analyse how these factors influence the decision-makers to choose between the contracts; we use the AHP decision-making method.
The Flypaper Effect Phenomenon: Evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Tasri Ansharullah 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
One of the implementations of autonomy policy is fiscal decentralization. The State gives chance to every local government for improving its fiscal ability. Original Local Government Revenue (PAD) is fiscal potency owned local government to improve local government independence to promote welfare to society. To accelerate fiscal independence of local government equally, the central government sends transfer funds in the form of General Allocation Funds (DAU) which aims to comply local government expenditure that has not fulfilled. However, problems faced is local government expenditure management still much more affected by DAU rather than PAD. It indicates that local government still depends on central government to comply expenditure called flypaper effect. This research aims to analyze the effect of PAD and DAU on local government expenditure by identifying whether occurs flypaper on provincial government in Indonesia. The method used in this research is analysis regression of panel data with Generalized Least Square (GLS). Data used is panel data from 34 provinces in Indonesia between 2008 and 2017. Based on results estimation, PAD and DAU positively and significantly affect local government expenditure. However, the DAU more affects local government expenditure compared with PAD. This exhibits that flypaper effect phenomenon occurred on provincial government in Indonesia which local government expenditure response more affected by DAU than PAD. It is happening due to the provincial government still relies on central government to comply its expenditure illustrated with high DAU transfers. This research concludes that decentralization policy in Indonesia is not effective yet. Thus, the government needs to adjust decentralization policy in order to improve regional fiscal independence.
Career Options and Entrepreneurial Potential among Female Graduates: Motivations, Obstacles and Realities
Authors: Marques Ana Paula 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
The objective of this paper is to contribute for a better understanding of the perceived motivations, obstacles and self-employment realities in the advanced technology sectors and knowledge intensive-business. In terms of public policies in economic and business, promoting female entrepreneurship emerges as a factor of mobilization of women for active economic life, as well as a strategy to support business initiatives, particularly as factor conducive to the promotion of equality between men and women. However, according to a recent study on the promotion of innovative women and entrepreneurship, one of the main obstacles that explains the lower participation of women in entrepreneurial activities of an innovative nature are related to educational choices pursued in formal education systems and the persistence of traditional stereotypes about women, science and innovation. Also, in comparison to men, women not only possess a lack positive attitudes about their own personal capacities or inclinations for starting businesses, but also have less personal contact with entrepreneurs. Empirical results are based on a case study project centred on a Portuguese University and the potential of entrepreneurship among graduates who have completed their course between 2002 and 2008. Drawing upon information-rich evidence from in-depth interviews, insights are presented in order to highlight an important relationship between the entrepreneurial intention and the social origin, field of education and gender of the graduates.
Labour Resilience and Vulnerable Groups in Times of Crisis: A Comparative Study in Eleven European Countries
Authors: Martínez-Molina Sandra , Cotanda Elisa Valía , Ferrer Jorge Garcés 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
The financial crisis which hit the world economies in 2008 has had a negative effect across the spectrum of European economies. These impacts have been felt through the fall in economic activity and also by the deterioration of the labour market indicators. However, not all European markets have been hit with the same severity and intensity, causing territorial differences. But, beyond this, the crisis has had a clear impact on the labour force by exacerbating work inequality. Consequently, the concept of labour emerges through the adaptation of labour markets and the different results obtained amongst the collectives who make up the labour force. The present research has the dual goal of both describing and comparing the labour shock caused by the economic crisis in eleven European countries, establishing differences in employment outcomes of youth (15-24yrs of age), older (55-64yrs of age) and migrants workers by comparing key labour market indicators obtained from official statistical sources. Moreover, it reveals a documented analysis of various national reports describing the employment position of these groups. The results show similarities in the labour vulnerability patterns among countries in each of the groups studied. The analysis highlights the existence of certain factors linked to labour resilience of each group including economic, social, occupational, demographic and political factors. The results of this research are under the INSPIRES project, which has been funded by the Seventh Framework Programme of the European Commission.
Identifying Resilient and Non-Resilient Labour Conditions in Europe Using Qualitative Comparative Analysis
Authors: Martínez-Molina Sandra , Pavía Paula Sabater , Ferrer Jorge Garcés 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Based on the concept of labour market resilience, this paper is aimed to determine the combination of initial conditions behind resilient and non-resilient labour markets after the financial crisis in 2008 in Europe. We start from the assumption that some initial conditions in 2007 are crucial to achieve a specific labour result when a shock appears. In this sense, the effect of temporary employment in cyclical sectors, labour market flexibility, the level of education among the workforce, and the expenditure on Labour Market Policies (LMP) have been tested using crisp-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (csQCA) in 25 European countries. Whilst our results do not explain labour market resilience in its entirety, we have found a model explaining 85% of the non-resilient cases. These findings suggest that the different levels of initial conditions may have prompted dissimilar labour adjustments with varying success rates in dealing with the job losses.
Effects of Adverse Drug Reactions and Adverse Drug Events in Hospital Admission Rates and Re-Hospitalization of Patients
Authors: Balidemaj Festina 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background: ADRs and ADEs have a great potential to hospitalize and/or re-hospitalize patients. According to McDonnell and Jacobs, one ADR or ADE could lead a patient to a hospital length of stay of an average of 6.1 days. This can lead to lost days of work, a longer recovery time and even economic implications.
Methods: A thorough evaluation of the relevant extracted literature has been analyzed thoroughly in order to find out how ADRs and ADEs impact the levels of hospitalization and re-hospitalization of patients and whether strategies, such as reporting systems, can aide in decreasing their overall occurrence.
Results: As the level of hospital admissions/re-hospitalizations due to ADRs and ADEs depends on different factors, such as age and location, the data is separated in the following categories: pediatric population, general adult populations and geriatric population. Where data were available, location has been specified within each category as well. Conclusion: ADR and ADE-related hospital admission and readmission rates are age-group related, elderly being at the highest risk. However, these rates are not dependent on whether a country is developed or developing. Also, there are strategies that can be utilized by healthcare providers in order to decrease these rates in the future, such as to provide medication reviews and follow-ups.