Case Study Research Articles

Pharmaceutical innovativeness index: methodological approach for assessing the value of medicines – a case study of oncology drugs

ABSTRACT Background We propose a framework to assess the value of pharmaceutical innovations, with explicit clinical and methodological parameters, based on the therapeutic value and health needs. Research design and methods The study was based on the adaptation of health technology assessment methods documented in the literature, which was applied to a sample of oncological drugs. Difficulties and issues during the application of those tools were identified and addressed to develop a new framework with new and revised domains and clear classification criterion for each domain. Scores were assigned to each level and domain according to their relevance to generate the final score of innovativeness. Results The Pharmaceutical Innovation Index (PII) includes four domains, two related to clinical and social dimensions – Therapeutic Need and Added Therapeutic Value – and other two about methodological features – Study Design and Quality (risk of bias). The scores combined after assigned to each domain results Index of the Innovativeness of the medicines represents the degree of pharmaceutical innovation. Conclusion This work proposes a transparent methodology with well-defined criteria and script; the algorithm developed with authors’ weightings and criteria may be switched to best adjust to other applications, perspective or clinical indications, while keeping the transparency and objectiveness.

The Influence of Affective Factors on Middle School Students’ English Learning

This paper explores the key role of affective factors in junior high school students’ English learning, firstly emphasizing the importance of the three affective factors of motivation, interest and anxiety on learning outcomes. Subsequently, it elaborates on the concepts of the three and how these affective factors specifically affect junior high school students’ English learning process, aiming to construct a clear theoretical framework for readers. By combining real case studies, the paper provides an in-depth analysis of the problems encountered by a student in the process of English learning, identifies the affective factors behind them, and proposes targeted strategies to solve them, aiming to share the practical experience with English educators and to promote mutual learning and teaching. Finally, the key points of the whole paper are summarized and expectations are placed on the further application of affective education in English language teaching in the future.

Raising Digital Security Awareness in the FinTech Sector: Case Studies and Defense Mechanisms

Raising Digital Security Awareness in the FinTech Sector: Case Studies and Defense Mechanisms

Folding Imperfections: Mixed Methods Insight Into the Limits of Curriculum Change for the Trinidad and Tobago Primary School Curriculum Rewrite

We theorize on the limits of curriculum change in countries of the Caribbean and Global South using integrated evidence derived from a qualitatively driven, mixed methods evaluation (MME) of the Primary School Curriculum Rewrite (PCR) in Trinidad and Tobago. We use a folding metaphor and implementation science to explain how an imperfect system might produce a flawed curriculum product that misdirects sensemaking and generates resistance during curriculum change. The formative process evaluation consisted of two complete research projects, with the second qualitative project prioritized. Project 1 was a quantitative survey of 454 teachers in 58 schools. Project 2 was a multiple case study of subjectivities-in-action in 9 schools of varied implementation outcomes. Findings from Project 1 showed mostly acceptable implementation outcomes and small associations between antecedents and outcomes. However, findings from Project 2 suggested that 6 of 9 schools were classified as nonusers, defined as implementing institutions with most teachers still exploring or installing the new curriculum or reverting to the old curriculum. In the thematic, cross-case analysis, participants at the various sites identified curriculum imperfections, inadequate training, and work intensification as core barriers to change. To achieve curriculum change, Caribbean countries such as Trinidad and Tobago will require improved systems for curriculum engineering.

Evaluation of pre-service teachers' views on STEM education

This study aimed to evaluate pre-service science teachers' views on STEM education. Data were collected at the end of each activity and the end of the training with evaluation sheets. The collected data were analyzed with the content analysis method and interpreted with percentage and frequency values. The research method is a case study. Participants received four weeks of practical training, including STEM activities. Based on the data collected, it was determined that teacher candidates did not have a negative perception of STEM activities, that they had difficulty in activities that required handcraft, and that it contributed positively to their interdisciplinary perspectives. They also stated that the training was enjoyable and creative; developed imagination and handicraft skills; increased productivity, self-confidence, design skills, problem-solving skills, and group work; provided practical thinking; ensured permanent learning and field cooperation; and contributed to analytical thinking. Most of the participants stated that they did not find STEM education at their universities sufficient, would apply STEM activities to their students when they became teachers, and wanted to improve themselves in STEM education. Participants stated that they most needed development in the subject of academic knowledge, utilization of technology, handcraft and creativity. In addition, it was determined that positive perceptions and opinions about STEM education were observed.

From tradition to technological advancement: embracing blockchain technology in family businesses

PurposeDespite the rapid advancement of blockchain technology across various sectors, scholarly research on its application within family businesses remains significantly underdeveloped. This study aims to address this gap by examining the application of blockchain technology within family businesses to identify key application domains, benefits and implementation challenges.Design/methodology/approachThe study employs a conceptual approach, drawing on existing literature on family businesses and blockchain technology. This review aimed to identify the unique characteristics of family businesses, their challenges and the distinctive features of blockchain technology that can potentially be mapped to each other. Based on the literature review, we develop a conceptual framework exploring blockchain technology applications in family businesses. Real-world case studies of family businesses that have implemented blockchain technology were identified to provide practical insights and implementation challenges.FindingsBlockchain technology possesses transformative potential for family businesses across several critical domains. It includes enhancing trust and transparency in operations, improving governance and decision-making and facilitating succession planning and intergenerational wealth management. Case study evidence illustrates the tangible benefits of blockchain, including enhanced supply chain transparency, optimized business processes, increased customer trust and resultant business sustainability. Blockchain technology implementation challenges include data privacy concerns, integration with legacy systems, regulatory uncertainty and change management issues.Research limitations/implicationsThis study is limited by its reliance on existing literature and case studies. It may not capture the full spectrum of challenges and opportunities associated with blockchain applications in family businesses. Future research should focus on longitudinal and empirical research to provide a deeper understanding of the impact of blockchain technology application in family businesses.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the literature by exploring the intersection of family businesses and blockchain technology, an area that has received limited academic attention. It identifies potential application domains of blockchain technology in family businesses and develops a conceptual framework based on existing literature. Through case studies, the research provides practical insights and valuable lessons for family businesses considering blockchain implementation. It also addresses key considerations and challenges, providing a clear roadmap for blockchain technology integration in family businesses. The study lays the groundwork for further research and exploration in blockchain technology and family businesses.

The Study of Augmented Reality Typhoon Resilience Education for Elementary Special Education Students: A Case Study in Taiwan

The Study of Augmented Reality Typhoon Resilience Education for Elementary Special Education Students: A Case Study in Taiwan

Innovations in Azure Networking: A Case Study

Innovations in Azure Networking: A Case Study

Using Performance Improvement Methods to Evaluate Processes for Writing Multiple-Choice Test Questions in the Postlicensure Clinical Environment: A Case Study.

This article is the last of a four-part series to guide educators on the construction and evaluation of multiple-choice test items in the post-licensure environment. Previous articles in this series described the problem and the mechanics of test item construction and evaluation. A replicable strategy for evaluating the organizational process for constructing multiple-choice test questions is provided. Steps taken to create change are described; work tools are provided. Guidance and training are needed to create multiple-choice test questions. Many educators have not had training in item construction. Educators welcomed training. Personalized mentorship resulted in improvement. Asynchronous learning alone was helpful and well received and improved self-perceived knowledge, yet fell short of achieving competence. Voluntary training may not be adequate to assure enculturation of best practices without accountability standards and monitoring. Future research is indicated to assess the situation and provide national standards for adoption within health care organizations. [J Contin Educ Nurs. 202x;5x(x):xx-xx.].

Protean career orientation: relationship to turnover intentions and moderating roles of current organizational career growth and future organizational career growth

Purpose This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings Researchers from China found that the relationship of “protean career orientation” (PCO) to turnover intentions was negative when current organizational career growth (OCG) was high, and it was positive when OCG was low. They also established that future career growth prospects weakened the link between PCO and turnover intentions. Originality/value The briefing saves busy executives, strategists and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.

Conformational dependence of chemical shifts in the proline rich region of TAU protein.

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) is an important method for structure elucidation of proteins, as it is an easily accessible and well understood method. To characterize intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) using computational models it is often necessary to analyze and integrate calculated observables with measurements derived from solution NMR experiments. In this case study, we investigate whether and which chemical shifts of the proline-rich region of Tau protein (residues 210-240) offer information about the conformational state to distinguish two different microscopic conformers. Using multiple computational methods, the chemical shifts of these two conformationally distinct structures are calculated. The different methods are compared regarding their ability to compute chemical shifts that are sensitive to conformational change. The analysis of the data shows significant differences between the available methods and gives suggestions for an improved pathway for ensemble reweighting. Nevertheless, the variation in the chemical shifts which are predicted for configurations that are commonly considered to belong to the same conformation is such that this obscures a comparison between distinct conformations. Conformational sensitivity is found for up to ∼26% of calculated chemical shifts. It is found to be unrelated to the atom element and has a minor relationship with the change in the corresponding ϕ dihedral angle.

Competency development opportunities and OCB: the fully mediating role of subjective career success

Purpose This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings In a study of 353 working professionals in Malaysia, researchers found no significant direct link between perceived opportunities for competency development (POCD) and organizational citizenship behaviors (OCBs). But the authors did establish that subjective career success (SCS) fully mediated this effect. Originality/value The briefing saves busy executives, strategists and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.

Reframing the Conservation: A Case Study in using 3D Imaging Technology to Restore Carved Wooden Elements on a Painting Frame

Reframing the Conservation: A Case Study in using 3D Imaging Technology to Restore Carved Wooden Elements on a Painting Frame

Investigating the links between civil war, peace and foreign direct investment: a case study of Sri Lanka’s tourism sector

ABSTRACT It is often assumed that civil wars impede foreign direct investment (FDI). Peace is therefore typically considered important for countries to attract FDI. However, scholarly evidence is inconsistent and has uncovered a complicated relationship between conflict and FDI. While studies have tended to focus on the extractive industries, this article investigates how conflict and peace can impact FDI in the tourism industry. Using Sri Lanka as a case study, the evidence suggests that the country’s civil war (1983–2009) inhibited inward flows of tourism FDI. Since the conflict ended, the tourism sector and tourism FDI rapidly expanded. However, the areas most affected by the conflict have seen limited growth in tourism and tourism FDI. High levels of militarisation – including military involvement in tourism – have stymied tourism in these areas. This suggests a more complicated relationship between FDI, civil war and peace than is typically recognised in the current scholarship.

УПРАВЛЕНИЕ КОМАНДОЙ ВНУТРИКОРПОРАТИВНОГО СТАРТАПА: ПРОЦЕССНОЕ ИССЛЕДОВАНИЕ ДИНАМИКИ РАЗВИТИЯ

Innovative development of the Russian economy is impossible without increasing the efficiency of small innovative enterprises (startups), including those created within companies. The problems of managing internal startups and especially startup teams have been relatively poorly studied by modern science. The high dynamics of startups causes high variability and intensive transformations in team management practices. To create a highper formance startup team, it is necessary to understand the internal logic of change in the parameters of teams and team management. The article studies the dynamics of changes in team characteristics and team management within the startup development process. The research methodology is based on process research and case studies. The work investigates the dynamics of the startup team a cloud gaming service. The startup was organized within one company but was then sold to a large IT corporation. The article examines certain characteristics of the team in their development including management methodologies, team composition, communications, culture, motivation, operational and strategic planning pro cedures.

Résister pour mieux savourer : forme de vie hors norme d’un fast-food de Las Vegas

Since the early 2000s, post-structural semiotics of the Greimasian tradition have gained considerable strength in the analysis of social practices. The objective of this contribution is to present and implement these new tools and proposals from contemporary semiotics through a case study: the analysis of the customer experience of a Las Vegas fast-food restaurant, where junk food and other nonconformist practices are set up as a system. The analysis will focus on both the activities performed in the restaurant and the intimate experience of food intake. Semiotics of practices, narrative semiotics, and tensive semiotics will be applied to this end, as well as to postulate that the customers of the restaurant unwillingly come to manifest an insolent and individualistic form of life. More generally, this article aims to show how contemporary post-Greimasian semiotics can serve as a methodological framework for the analysis of social practices of any kind.

Analysis of the influencing factors of the cost of village prefabricated housing in rural revitalization: a southern Shaanxi case study

PurposeUnder the rural revitalization, the effect of China's implementation of rural prefabricated housing is not obvious. Cost has become the biggest obstacle to its development. Therefore, it is necessary to study the factors influencing the cost of prefabricated buildings in villages and clarify the focus of cost control.Design/methodology/approachThis paper focuses on the whole process of prefabricated housing construction in villages in China and uses grounded theory to identify and screen out 27 related factors that affect the construction cost of prefabricated buildings. A system dynamics model is used to dynamically analyze the influencing factors. The engineering examples in rural areas of southern Shaanxi are simulated. Finally, five key factors that influence cost are obtained. Based on this, cost control countermeasures are proposed for rural prefabricated housing in southern Shaanxi.FindingsThe results show that: the key factors affecting the cost of prefabricated buildings in villages include the selection of production methods, the degree of design standardization, the quality of construction personnel, the level of construction technology and the circulation cycle of molds. The cost of prefabricated housing in villages can be controlled through five aspects: mass production of components, design exchange and feasibility analysis, improvement of employee professionalism, strict selection of construction schemes and technologies and improvement of mold turnover rate.Research limitations/implicationsThe system dynamics model applied in this paper is based on the idealized state. The system boundary is narrow and has a certain subjectivity. It needs further detailed research to make it closer to the engineering practice. In addition, this paper applies the rural engineering example in southern Shaanxi to carry out a single case study, and the universality of the research results needs to be further tested. There are many village construction projects and building types, so the research results can be further enriched through large sample research.Practical implicationsRural construction is an important step in the implementation of rural revitalization. Exploring the factors that affect the key costs of prefabricated buildings in villages and towns in view of the particularity of rural areas will help provide a reference for their cost control and help the rural development of prefabricated houses.Social implicationsThe research results of this paper can provide a reference for the development of prefabricated buildings in other rural revitalization areas.Originality/valueDifferent from the traditional research on urban prefabricated buildings, this paper focuses on rural areas and explores the core factors affecting the cost of prefabricated buildings from the micro level. This study establishes a system dynamics model suitable for the cost control of prefabricated housing at the village level and provides methods for its cost control. Based on the identified key factors affecting costs, cost control measures were proposed for prefabricated housing tailored to the unique characteristics of villages.

Adaptative water quality management in water distribution systems by optimizing control valves and chlorination booster stations

ABSTRACT Good water quality in a water distribution system (WDS) can be reached by using flow control valves (FCV) to reduce water residence time (WRT), and chlorine booster stations to maintain acceptable free residual chlorine concentrations (FRCC). The research developed a cost-effective, adaptative approach for managing FCV and chlorine booster stations, while maintaining acceptable pressure and FRCC ranges. The methodology is applied to a real full-scale case study considering three optimization formulations: 1) FCV operation, 2) chlorine booster station operation, and 3) combining them in an adaptive management strategy. Results revealed that chlorine booster stations individually or combined with FCV enhanced water quality significantly at an acceptable cost, while FCV optimization alone or combined with chlorine booster stations reduced WRT by, at most, 3.8%. Chlorine booster stations were thus more effective than FCV in this case study. This formulation can be applied to other WDS to improve water quality cost-effectively.

Transport disadvantage and social inclusion: Exploring the role of smartphone use for transport purposes

The link between transport disadvantage and social exclusion is now firmly-established. Smartphones emerge as an integral part of daily life with a strong potential to influence this link by improving people’s capacity to access transport information and availability, and enabling direct connections with others in society. However, the role of smartphone use for transport purposes in influencing people’s daily mobility and quality of life remains under-studied, in part impeding a more concrete discourse on how it can be better evaluated and considered in policymaking. This study seeks to shed light on the above issue through probing into the interrelationships among smartphone use, transport disadvantage and social inclusion, and their relation to subjective well-being. Using Beijing as a case study, we tested a series of hypotheses through structural equation models (SEM). Our findings highlighted potentially bidirectional interactions between smartphone use and transport disadvantage. By and large, smartphone use for both normal purposes and new modes can help mitigate transport disadvantage, and this may further stimulate more smartphone use as a proactive solution. Furthermore, the link between smartphone use for new modes and transport cost, and their consequent effect on social inclusion and subjective well-being were found to vary between low- and high-income groups. Findings suggest that smartphones and smart apps should be carefully integrated in policymaking to reduce the risk for people of being socially excluded due to a lack of transport options and improve subjective well-being.

Synthetic pulse wave dataset for analysis of vascular ageing in elderly patients

This paper presents a methodology to generate synthetic pulse wave database. Each virtual subject is generated with the help of one-dimensional hemodynamics model of systemic circulation with lumped model of the left heart. This paper describes and compares two parameter optimization methods: unscented Kalman filter and Bayesian optimization. As a case study, an experiment is conducted to predict cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI) values for real individuals with a machine learning algorithm trained on a synthetic population. The average error of 6.5 % is achieved.