Benefits Of Membership Research Articles

IEEE Computer Society Member Benefits

IEEE Computer Society Member Benefits

Does CFO Board Membership Benefit Shareholders? The Case of Corporate Acquisitions

Does CFO Board Membership Benefit Shareholders? The Case of Corporate Acquisitions

A primer on formulary structures and strategies.

Formularies are a tool for managing costs, optimizing patient access, and improving overall health outcomes. The general goal of formularies is to provide access to appropriate therapy while promoting effective resource utilization, which allows the managed care pharmacy organization to operate sustainably. Traditional formulary strategies have included open and closed formularies as well as tiered formularies. However, other formulary structures have emerged in support of the focus on product value. The formulary development process is primarily driven by the pharmacy and therapeutics (P&T) committee and value committee within an organization. Key considerations such as member population, regional differences, regulatory/compliance implications, and benefit design strategies may influence payers to create a customized formulary to provide additional value to their members while managing costs. With the rise of high-cost and specialty products, formularies continue to serve as an important tool for managed care pharmacy organizations. Ongoing trends, such as biosimilars, prescription digital therapeutics, and addressing health equity, will shape future strategy and management of formularies.

Stability analysis of supply chain members time delay decisions considering corporate social responsibility

The strategic decisions of the manufacturer and the retailer directly affect the stability of the supply chain system. The delay and incompleteness of the market information greatly increase the complexity and variability of the decision-making process. In order to solve this problem, by using the nonlinear dynamics theory, this paper constructs a discrete dynamic model with a time delay. The sufficient conditions for the existence and the local asymptotic stability are obtained. The delayed threshold provides a helpful judgment basis for the supply chain members’ decisions and the system stability. In addition, the manufacturer’s quality strategy is divided into the static and dynamic cases. Based on these cases, the influence of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and decision-making adjustment speed on system stability is discussed. The results show that when a dynamic quality strategy is adopted, the increase in CSR preference can effectively restrain the destabilized system and improve the benefits of supply chain members.

Diagnosis of the Development of Energy Cooperatives in Poland—A Case Study of a Renewable Energy Cooperative in the Upper Silesian Region

Renewable energy sources (RESs) offer key transformative potential from a societal point of view due to their modularity and ability to generate energy at the local level, allowing for the development of grassroots democratic and participatory initiatives. The paper aims to share insights into the processes of creating RES cooperatives in Poland. One of the first cooperatives to be established in the Upper Silesian region in Poland was the energy cooperative (EC) “Our Energy”. This study presents an in-depth empirical analysis of a community-based renewable energy cooperative. The study employed a case study methodology, including a SWOT analysis framework, to describe the research subject and identify its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Key findings indicate that members benefit from stable energy prices and full recovery of the energy produced, and the cooperative is at the forefront of energy-sharing practices that minimize costs through direct transactions with the local municipality. The strategic goals of the EC focus on expanding membership, increasing the number of photovoltaic installations, implementing energy balancing, combating energy poverty, and reducing emissions. Challenges such as financial constraints and a lack of real-time monitoring of energy distribution are acknowledged, and carbon footprint reduction innovations and stakeholder engagement are highlighted as forward-looking approaches. The study highlights the role of cooperatives as a model for community-led sustainable energy initiatives. However, the study acknowledges the limitations of its small sample size, suggesting the need for broader research to understand the impact of collaborative energy on decarbonization. Future research directions are proposed, focusing on the long-term sustainability and socioeconomic impacts of energy cooperatives. This study contributes to the scholarly discourse on renewable energy cooperatives by offering insight into their potential to bridge the gap between energy producers and consumers and support sustainable community development. The main novelty of this paper lies in its detailed examination of a specific renewable energy cooperative, incorporating SWOT analysis, stakeholder perspectives, quantitative assessments, and a forward-thinking approach. This multifaceted analysis contributes to the existing literature on renewable energy initiatives, providing a valuable reference for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners in the field.

Research on the Advantages of Short Video and the Way to Revive Long Video

Short video is one of the fastest growing industries at present, and the spread of short video on social media is very large. Long videos not only provide more selectivity, but also change the way humans watch videos. However, in the face of massive content competition, it becomes more difficult to attract viewers, leading to more people choosing to watch short videos. This paper explores the advantages of short video in modern communication, and proposes the revival of long video. Short videos are popular for their concise and clear features, which grab viewers' attention in a fast-paced society. They are easily shared and disseminated across various platforms, expanding the reach of information. Moreover, short videos provide a rich audio-visual experience, making communication more lively and interesting. On the other hand, long videos face challenges such as the dominance of short video platforms, rising membership fees, and copyright restrictions. To revive long videos, platforms can open up copyrights, reduce fees, and improve member benefits. Creators should focus on producing premium content with appealing themes, while the government can promote the import of foreign films to enrich viewing options. Viewers can use their free time to watch long-form videos in theaters or on TV. By addressing these challenges and promoting quality content, long-form videos can thrive alongside short-form videos in the modern media landscape.

The Passing of the "Other" European Dream: A Note on Eastern European Expectations of the Economic Benefits of European Union Membership

The Passing of the "Other" European Dream: A Note on Eastern European Expectations of the Economic Benefits of European Union Membership

Assessing the benefits of eurozone membership: Sovereign debt classification and economic impact in small and developing countries

This study is focused on the benefits received by countries that are part of the eurozone. The data from 28 member states of the European Union (EU), as well as Balkan countries, have been used to analyse the benefits of staying in the eurozone for the period of 2001–2021. This study first checked for the stationarity of the variables using the augmented Dickey-Fuller test, the interpretation of R2, and linear regression, as well as fixed and random models, taking into consideration that it deals with macroeconomic and fiscal data. The research hypothesis is substantiated through analysis, revealing that a country’s inclusion in the eurozone positively affects its sovereign rating, positioning it 1.19 notches higher than those outside the eurozone. This finding aligns with the observations made by Martinez et al. (2022), who emphasize the positive implications of investor perceptions regarding government debt, providing easier access to financing and contributing to economic stability. Specifically examining the Europrim’s impact before the COVID-19 pandemic, the study demonstrates that Balkan countries adopting the euro are positioned 9.22 places higher in sovereign debt classification. Similarly, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, these countries are listed 1.52 places above those not using the euro in sovereign debt ranking. This insight contributes to the ongoing discussion about the advantages of being part of the eurozone, especially in the context of economic and fiscal dynamics.

Taking on the Challenge: A Case Study on a Community Health Club for Noncommunicable Disease Control.

From 2013 to 2021, the University of the Philippines Community Health and Development Program (UP CHDP) was in partnership with Cavite and its five municipalities of Alfonso, Mendez, Indang, General Emilio Aguinaldo, and Amadeo (AMIGA). They aimed to improve the control of hypertension and diabetes through interventions such as the organization of community health clubs, as recommended by the Department of Health in 2016. Currently there is limited information on the experiences and outcomes related to this strategy. Data on this can help the community and public health institutions in understanding and maximizing the benefits of organizing community health clubs for noncommunicable disease control. This study aimed to determine a community health club's membership profile, its organization and maintenance processes, and the benefits, challenges, and enabling factors experienced. This case study-mixed method was done in 2020 on the Challengers Health Club in Alfonso, Cavite. Group interviews of the club officers and barangay health workers were conducted to explore the club processes, their perceived benefits, challenges, and enabling factors. Health records were reviewed to determine the club's membership profile. The community health club showed an increase in membership since it was established. Most members are elderly, female, non-smoker, and hypertensive. There was increase in proportion of members with controlled hypertension after two years. However, this was not observed among those with diabetes. Perceived benefits for members were free, regular, and accessible services, improved knowledge and better control of their condition, and opportunity to socialize with others. Enabling factors were partnership with UP, teamwork and dedication of club leaders, effective management, and community support. The limited funding and supply of medicines, discontinuation of deployment of UP partners, and the COVID-19 pandemic were the challenges identified by the club. This study described the experiences of a community health club established to control hypertension and diabetes. Benefits of this intervention were reported despite the challenges they encountered because of the support mechanisms that were in place.

BONUS EPISODE: Making the Most of Psi Chi

First, discover opportunities open to all, including nonmembers, that will help you connect with the field of psychology and become more familiar with Psi Chi. Second, find out who all is eligible to join Psi Chi so that you can take your experience to the next level. And third, explore some key membership benefits—including a few newer ones that might surprise even seasoned members.

Nurse Practitioner Communities of Practice: An Exploratory Study

Background: The flexibility and value of the Nurse Practitioner (NP) role has been recognized as providing significant benefits for patient groups internationally since the 1960s, and nationally since 2000. At the time of this study, approximately 400 NPs were endorsed to deliver care across diverse clinical and geographic Victorian locations. However, little was known about the supportive requirements to meet their networking and mentoring needs. The aim of this study was to determine the NPs’ degree of membership and engagement and perceived provision of mentorship with NP Communities of Practice (CoP). Methods: An exploratory prospective cross-sectional multi-site study using an online survey was used to collect data. A total of 182 participants responded to the survey. Findings: NPs depend on each other to learn what they need to learn to transition to the NP role in clinical and non-clinical aspects of the role. While the benefits of NP CoP membership proved instrumental in facilitating transformational leadership knowledge, the Victorian NP CoP reinforced that there was room for improvement in the manner in which the groups were not only set up but also how they continued to meet the cohort’s contemporary needs. Most participants reported associated membership benefits such as support, networking, as well as being able to undertake educational opportunities. Further, a small number found NP CoP membership contributed to their sense of belonging, effectively decreasing their sense of professional isolation. To a lesser degree, mentorship and information sharing were reported. Conclusion: Participants identified the NP CoP as collegial, supportive environments which nurtured and facilitated transition to the NP role. By including educational, leadership, networking, and mentoring opportunities, the Victorian NP CoP decreased professional isolation for both neophyte and experienced NPs. However, the NP CoP did not meet all member’s needs.

ALTERNATIVE PATHS TO AN AGE-FRIENDLY COMMUNITY

Abstract While the age-friendly community movement has seen tremendous progress in the past decade, with over 700 U.S. member communities in the Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities (NAFSC), many more U.S. communities have not yet joined the network. Joining NAFSC can spur activity to improve local conditions for older residents, as well as allow communities access to informational resources and contacts from peer communities that have undertaken similar initiatives. A better understanding of the barriers preventing communities from joining NAFSC, the hesitancy about joining, and the age-friendly work being done outside of NAFSC is critical to extending age-friendly work nationally. The present study explored factors that inhibit communities from joining NAFSC. We conducted 12 semi-structured virtual interviews with community leaders in Maine and Massachusetts whose communities are not NAFSC members but are actively working on aging-related issues. Participants were recruited through the researchers’ professional networks. We intentionally cultivated diversity of community size during recruitment. Transcripts and interview notes were coded thematically. Resulting themes included a lack of knowledge/misconceptions about what joining NAFSC requires, a perception that there are few benefits to joining, political concerns, insufficient personnel capacity, other financial priorities (e.g., children’s programming, COVID relief), and a desire to retain local control over aging-related initiatives. Recommendations include clearer communication of NAFSC membership requirements and benefits, additional technical assistance to communities, and loosening of reporting requirements for small communities.

A systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis based on member subscription services in retailing

As consumers’ willingness to experience member subscription services has been increasing, merchants are launching membership programs to boost retention and draw in new consumers. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) could be aided by member subscription services, which also have the potential to expand revenue streams through a paid membership system. In this study, we use VOSviewer and four-question framework to review the research on member subscription services in retailing. A bibliometric analysis of 131 articles is conducted to characterize the research hotspots and distribution of journals. This study categorizes member subscription services into five types according to the membership benefits. Demographics, social awareness, cost consciousness and perceptual features are four aspects of target consumers. Further, we find that willingness to join member, when using membership benefits, satisfaction with retailers and loyalty are four membership journey stages that affect consumer decision. We also explore the research on optimal strategy for service providers in three scenarios: operating as a new entrant, changing operational strategy and optimizing existing business strategy. This study offers management implications for practitioners and strategy makers to develop membership systems.

Serbia between East and West: ontological security, vicarious identity and the problem of sanctions against Russia

ABSTRACT Why did Serbia not impose sanctions against Russia following its aggression on Ukraine in February 2022? As a state seeking membership of the European Union (EU), Serbia’s reluctance to join the sanction regime is puzzling. This paper draws from the ontological security literature to show how Serbia, as a political community, is divided between East and West, that is, between a vicarious attachment to Moscow and a relationship with Brussels driven primarily by the prospect of joining the benefits of membership of the EU. The problem of sanctions brought to the fore the conflicted identity of Serbia, showing how Belgrade’s hedging in foreign policy reflects not only an attempt to extract concessions and advantages from both partners – the EU and Russia – but more fundamentally its efforts to come to terms with its liminal, ontologically insecure position within the international system.

Social anxiety, behavioural activation and depression risk in older men: protection through Men's Shed membership.

Reducing rates of depressive symptoms in older adults is a public health priority. Men's Sheds are a community organisation that may protect against depressive symptoms in older men. It is currently unclear how social anxiety and behavioural activation may relate to depressive symptoms for Men's Shed members. We employed a cross-sectional design to explore whether the relationships between social anxiety, behavioural activation and depressive symptoms were contingent upon Shed social network quality in a sample of 164 Men's Shed members. Conditional effects analysis found social anxiety (B = -0.08, p < 0.01) and behavioural activation's (B = 0.02, p < 0.001) relationships with depression to be contingent on Shed social network quality. Additionally, we found evidence for a conditional effect of social anxiety on the relationship between behavioural activation and depression (B = -0.03, p < 0.01) such that this relationship was stronger for those with higher levels of social anxiety. Our findings suggest that a strong social network within a Men's Shed weakens the association between social anxiety and depression, that the relationship between behavioural activation and depression is stronger in those with poorer Shed social networks, and that the relationship between behavioural activation and depression may be stronger for those with higher levels of social anxiety. We suggest that our findings contribute to increasing quantitative support for the mental health benefits of Men's Shed membership, highlight the potential importance of Shed social network quality and explore how social anxiety may affect the mental health outcomes for members.

Eksplorasi Parenting Self Efficacy terhadap Resiliensi Ibu dari Anak dengan Autism Spectrum Disorders

Abstract Background. The presence of an ASD child in the family has an impact on their daily life. The many difficulties and obstacles to raising ASD children will bring about a sense of confidence and the ability to rise from these difficulties. This study aims to find out in more detail the difficulties experienced by mothers when raising children and how parenting self-efficacy affects the resilience of mothers with ASD children. Methods Of Study. This type of research is phenomenological research and the data analysis method used is thematic analysis techniques by conducting interviews with 7 mothers of ASD children. Data collection tool in the form of informed consent and interview protocol. Result. Based on the thematic data analysis, 3 themes have been obtained: (1) Parenting self-efficacy for mothers with ASD children (2) Resilience for mothers with ASD children (3) Parenting self-efficacy for the resilience of mothers with ASD children. The three major themes are supported by the presence of sub-themes in them. Conclusion. The importance of parenting self-efficacy which affects resilience has a positive impact on the lives of mothers with ASD children. So that it will bring joy to the mother and increase the resilience of the mother in caring for children with ASD. Benefits for family members and children with ASD will also be felt if the mother has both abilities. Life in the family will be better and prosperous even with the presence of an ASD child. Keywords: ASD mother, parenting self efficacy, resilience

Assessing the e-health literacy level and its predictors in heart patients: A Case Study in a Heart Hospital Center in Iran.

eHealth literacy has many benefits for patients and community members, including the direct impact on improving the quality of patient education and reducing direct and indirect healthcare costs. Benefiting from eHealth literacy in patients with cardiovascular diseases can effectively provide healthcare services and manage these patients. This study aimed to evaluate eHealth literacy level and its factors affecting patients with cardiovascular diseases in a Heart Center Hospital. This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2022. A valid and reliable questionnaire has been used for data gathering. From 147 distributed questionnaires among patients with cardiovascular diseases at Madani Heart Center Hospital in Khorramabad city, finally, 86 questionnaires have been collected completely. Data analyses were done using IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 22 descriptive and analytical tests such as one-way ANOVA, independent sample t-test, and Spearman correlation coefficient based on the study objectives. The study showed that heart patients' eHealth literacy status is moderate (3.38 out of 5). The awareness of the availability of resources on the Internet had the highest score (3.79). The importance of using the Internet to obtain health information (r = 0.62, P < 0.001) and the ability to use the Internet (r = 0.62, P < 0.001) had the most significant relationship with eHealth literacy among patients with cardiovascular diseases. It is suggested that by increasing the level of Internet skills, expanding the use of the Internet for health-related services, using the Internet to make accurate health decisions among patients, extending the use of the Internet to access health resources, and reducing the patient's level of concern about their health status to improve the level of eHealth literacy of cardiovascular patients.

IEEE Computer Society Member Benefits

IEEE Computer Society Member Benefits

The Unique Strategy in Digital Cooperatives to Increase Benefit for Members

The focus of this research is to analyze the uniqueness of the strategy in the cooperative business to increase profits for its members. This research is qualitative and descriptive. This research was conducted on 10 healthy cooperatives that have used digital applications in their daily operations registered in department of cooperatives and SMEs. The purpose of cooperatives is to prosper members and provide benefits either directly or indirectly. Some of the cooperative business uniqueness, namely: open and voluntary membership, democratic management system and the distribution of residual income is carried out fairly according to the business services of each member.From the results of study, the obstacles that occured in the implementation of digital cooperatives were: low capital provided by members, the lack of technology understanding in human resources, weak soft and hard skills, the existence of strong competition with other businesses, low interest in young people towards cooperative business, the low quality of the cooperative business planning.Revitalization is urgently needed so that cooperatives do not get worse. The authors suggested that cooperatives needed to develop the right strategy in order to survive in the storm of economic competition. The governmenthad to provide financial assistance for human resource development and provide training for cooperative employees. In addition, it is necessary to revamp the digital business comprehension for young people as new generation so that they can focus more on developing cooperative businesses for giving nation economic contribution.

Social Benefits of Cooperatives - An Economic Perspective

Abstract Why and how are cooperatives beneficial to society? The answer is simple: first and foremost, because they are useful for the members. Cooperatives enable them to cooperate and operate economically. Members benefit because they can pool resources, save on transaction costs and hold their own against companies with market power. The purpose and democratic governance protect against exploitation, even in the face of the high opportunity cost of terminating membership. What should the state do? Cooperatives should be supported by structuring their legal form in a way that is appropriate to their purpose and practical. Financial support for cooperatives is recommended if external effects are internalized or more targeted alternative redistribution instruments do not exist.