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The evolution of re-exporting hubs, entrepôts, is explored in this paper by looking at trade patterns of merchandise re-exports over the last 20 years through three key economies (Hong Kong, Singapore, and the United States), and their inter- and intra-regional linkages. The growth of re-exports of intermediate goods during this period suggests that these economies are playing an increasingly important role in global value chains (GVCs) by acting as hubs in regional supply chains. Findings also indicate that high volumes of intermediate goods that are re-exported appear in sectors in which GVCs have a strong presence, as in the case of semiconductors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of global value chains (GVCs) and their economic impact on countries, industries, and firms has been much discussed in the business and economics literature. This introductory paper reviews and highlights some of the key topics covered in GVC literature, aiming to give readers a comprehensive overview of the relevant material to enhance their understanding of GVC research. It has three sections: the first section explains key concepts, describes the characteristics of GVCs, and briefly discusses the factors behind recent GVC developments. The second section summarizes major GVC analytical approaches commonly used in the business and economics literature. The final section highlights the economic impact of GVCs in four important areas: competitiveness, economic development, labor markets, and trade costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Evidence suggests empathy, an essential component of holistic patientcare, may be declining amongst medical students and residents. Yet there are only a few qualitative studies, mostly from West, exploring this phenomenon. Objective: This is a qualitative study of the learning environments of a tertiary care hospital of Pakistan, aimed to understand how junior doctors perceive and develop empathy and articulate the challenges faced by them. Methods: This case study adopted constructivist theoretical perspectives and was conducted from January 2019 to June 2019. Data was gathered from three focus group discussions and analyzed by thematic analysis. Patterns were identified and reported to generate codes, basic and organizing themes. Results: The participants were cognizant of empathy and its significance in patient management. Seniors as role models, first-hand knowledge of patients’ plights, active involvement in patient care and witnessing illnesses in dear ones were facets positively influencing empathy. Salient hindrances included enormous work load, gender bias, past negative experiences, language and literacy barriers. Some participants felt like devising their own strategies to cope with workload and providing empathetic care. There is pivotal role of workplace based learning; enabling junior doctors to handle multi-dimensional doctor-patient relationship. Conclusion: Clinical environments are significant for junior doctors’ grooming in attainment of empathetic patient care. Exhibiting empathy may be different in eastern and western diaspora. Faculty development could promote refined understanding of empathy and strategies to convey empathetic patientcare ensuring safe medical practice.