Confirmatory Factor Analysis Modeling Research Articles

Longitudinal invariance of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 among patients receiving pharmacotherapy for major depressive disorder: A secondary analysis of clinical trial data.

Comparing self-reported symptom scores across time requires longitudinal measurement invariance (LMI), a psychometric property that means the measure is functioning identically across all time points. Despite its prominence as a measure of depression symptom severity in both research and health care, LMI has yet to be firmly established for the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 depression module (PHQ-9), particularly over the course of antidepressant pharmacotherapy. Accordingly, the objective of this study was to assess for LMI of the PHQ-9 during pharmacotherapy for major depressive disorder. This was a secondary analysis of data collected during a randomized controlled trial. A total of 1,944 veterans began antidepressant monotherapy and completed the PHQ-9 six times over 24 weeks of treatment. LMI was assessed using a series of four confirmatory factor analysis models that included all six time points, with estimated parameters increasingly constrained across models to test for different aspects of invariance. Root-mean-square error of approximation of the chi-square difference test values below 0.06 indicated the presence of LMI. Exploratory LMI analyses were also performed for separate sex, age, and race subgroups. Root-mean-square error of approximation of the chi-square difference test showed minimal change in model fits during invariance testing (≤ 0.06 for all steps), supporting full LMI for the PHQ-9. LMI was also supported for all tested veteran subgroups. As such, PHQ-9 sum scores can be compared across extended pharmacotherapy treatment durations. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

The ethos brief index-validation of a brief questionnaire to evaluate wellness based on a holistic perspective in patients with restless legs syndrome.

The aim of this study was to validate the Ethos Brief Index (EBI) in patients with Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). A cross-sectional design, including 788 subjects with RLS (65% women, 70.8 years, SD 11.3) from the Swedish RLS Association, was used. A postal survey was sent out to collect data regarding socio demographics, comorbidities, and RLS-related treatment data. Questionnaires included were EBI, the Restless Legs Syndrome-6 Scale (RLS-6), Restless Legs Syndrome-Quality of Life questionnaire (RLSQoL), the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). The validity and reliability of the EBI were investigated using Rasch and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) models. Measurement invariance, unidimensionality, and differential item functioning (DIF) across age and gender groups, as well as insomnia, daytime sleepiness, RLS-related QoL and RLS severity were assessed. The results supported the unidimensionality of the EBI in the CFA (i.e., explaining 61.5% of the variance) and the Rasch model. The reliability of the EBI was confirmed using composite reliability and Cronbach's alpha. No DIF was identified for gender, age, insomnia, daytime sleepiness, RLS severity or RLS-related QoL. The EBI showed good validity and reliability and operated equivalently for male and female patients with RLS. Accordingly, healthcare professionals can use the EBI as a psychometrically sound tool to explore and identify patient-centered problems related to the whole life situation.

An evaluation of outpatient satisfaction based on the national standard questionnaire: a satisfaction survey conducted in a tertiary hospital in Shenyang, China

BackgroundPatient satisfaction survey serves as a pivotal tool in evaluating the quality of healthcare services. China’s nationwide standard patient satisfaction measurement tool was introduced in 2019. This study aimed to assess the model fit of the national standard outpatient satisfaction questionnaire in a tertiary hospital and evaluate the outpatient satisfaction levels using this tool.MethodA cross-sectional survey using the national outpatient satisfaction questionnaire was conducted via message links to all hospital outpatients who registered between April and July 2022. The data collected underwent descriptive analysis, comparative analysis, and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA).ResultsA total of 6,012 valid responses were received and analyzed during this period, with 52.9% of the participants being women. The confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) model showed a good fit and identified doctor communication as having a positive effect and environmental factors as having a negative effect on outpatients’ satisfaction, with standardized regression weights of 0.46 and 0.42, respectively. Despite the remarkably high satisfaction levels, patients’ recommendation for using the services of this hospital surpassed the overall evaluation and total satisfaction scores.ConclusionA disparity was identified between the expectations and real experiences of outpatients, leading to some extent of dissatisfaction. To enhance satisfaction levels, the hospital should improve the communication skills of all clinical staff, simplify the environment layout for first-time visitors, and manage patient overloads.

Negative Brand Experiences and Purchase Intention of Green Wall Coating Brands: The Mediating Effect of Brand Identity

The purpose of this study was 1) to explore the impact of consumers' negative experiences with green wall coating brands on the brand identity of wall paint, 2) to analyze the effects of brand identity with green wall coating brands on purchase intentions, and 3) to test the mediating effect of green brand identity. Utilizing a quantitative research approach and simple random sampling technique, this study engaged 402 Chinese respondents aged 18 and older, all of whom had relevant purchase experiences with green wall coating products. The data collected were subjected to Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to assess model fit, as well as to establish the validity and reliability of the variables used in the study. The findings of this research revealed that all four dimensions of negative brand experience, which include negative functional experience (β =-0.189), negative emotional experience (β=-0.308), negative cognitive experience (β=-0.444), and negative social value experience (β=-0.134), have a negative impact on green brand identity. Additionally, the study confirmed a positive relationship between green brand identity and the intention to purchase green wall coating brands (β=0.655). Finally, the study established that green brand identity acts as a partial mediator between negative brand experiences (negative functional experience, negative emotional experience, negative cognitive experience, and social value negative experience) and the purchase intention of green wall coating brands (β3a=-0.124; β3b=-0.054; β3c=-0.126; β3d=-0.050). In light of these findings, this research provides specific and practical recommendations and improvement strategies for businesses within the green wall coating industry. These insights are aimed at enhancing their services and bolstering their competitive advantage.

What Causes Finnish Family Farmers Feel Successful? The Role of Resources and Entrepreneurial Characteristics

This study investigates the influences of resources and entrepreneurial characteristics on perceived success in familyfarms using the Resource-Based Theory and Entrepreneurial Orientation perspectives. Resources and entrepreneurial orientation are used to identify success perceptions. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling were applied to the survey data of 805 Finnish family farmers. Family farmers rate their skills as good, and their abilities of proactiveness and self-realization success as high. The results suggest that both resources and entrepreneurial orientation affect the perceived success of family farmers, although the role of entrepreneurial orientation is relatively small. Co-variability between resources and entrepreneurial orientation is positive, addressingthe change towards the same direction. This study promotes the understanding of the family perspective and its role in the successful use of resources and entrepreneurial capabilities in farming and offers a developed construct for family farm business research.

The psychometric properties of the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale on a Zimbabwean population

Orientation: Work engagement has been found to be related to positive job attitudes such as job involvement, job satisfaction, organisational commitment, and low turnover intention.Research purpose: The primary goal of this study was to test the psychometric properties of the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES) on a Zimbabwean sample.Motivation for the study: The UWES is a widely used measure of work engagement. Therefore, there is a need to assess the reliability and construct validity of the UWES in a Zimbabwean sample owing to the paucity of studies on its psychometric properties in this setting.Research approach/design and method: A cross-sectional survey research design was employed (N = 304). A non-probability sample of 304 participants from selected security organisations was studied. The UWES was used to measure work engagement, and its reliability was evaluated using SPSS. Construct validity was assessed through confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) using LISREL.Main findings: Moderately high levels of reliability were found for the UWES subscales. A poor model fit with the data was found for first-order measurement models through CFA.Practical/managerial implications: The UWES demonstrated a reasonable fit for the 9-item scale CFA model tested in this study. Moderately high reliability coefficients were recorded for all the subscales of the UWES.Contribution/value-add: The study promotes the use of reliable and valid instruments in Zimbabwe by confirming the psychometric properties of the UWES.

Impact of Customer Relationship Management Dimensions on Customer Retention through Customer Satisfaction: A Customer Perspective of Balkan Transition Economies

One of the main challenges of service providers is the retaining of the acquired customers. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) has proved to be an effective tool in reaching this objective. Many researchers tested the effect of CRM on customer retention (CR), but most of the studies were focused on developed economies and were analyzed from a business perspective. The literature review highlights the lack of studies that examine the impact of CRM on CR from a customer perspective and that are focused on transition economies, especially in Balkan developing countries. Considering this, our paper aims to develop a model that proves the impact of CRM on CR, focused on three Balkan countries (Kosovo, Albania, and North Macedonia). Data was collected using an electronic questionnaire from a sample that consists of 764 residents of the three above-mentioned Balkan countries, all customers of the services sector. The research model shows the impact of three CRM dimensions (key customer focus - KCF, technology-based CRM - TCRM, and CRM knowledge management – KM) on customer retention through customer satisfaction (CS). The model fit and research hypotheses were tested using Confirmatory Factor Analysis and Structural Equation Model. Findings show a positive impact of KCF, TCRM, and KM on CS, which as a result positively affects CR as well. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.

Inventive leadership styles and their impact for achieving sustainable development goals in education at secondary schools: a case study from Multan, Pakistan

Globally, as we progress toward a more sustainable future, the sustainable development goals (SDGs) must be incorporated into various sectors, including education. This article explores the significant impact of inventive leadership styles on SDGs in education at the secondary school level in Pakistan. Based on this study, four hypotheses were developed using leadership variables such as empowerment of leadership, inspiring learners, resilient visions, and lead transformation. A quantitative survey method was utilized in this study. The researchers selected convenient sampling to collect data from 288 teachers, including heads of schools and administrators from 89 institutions. The data collection process included using a survey questionnaire to collect data on leadership styles and their relationship regarding SDGs within the field of education. In order to analyze the given data, two software programs were used, namely SPSS and Smart PLS 4.0. Several statistical methods were used to examine the collected data, such as confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM), which were implemented to confirm the measurement model. Additionally, path analysis was conducted to determine the relationship between independent and dependent variables. The findings revealed that overall leadership styles have a great positive impact on SDGs in education. Based on results, it has been found that it would be beneficial if leaders/teachers enhance their struggle using inventive leadership styles for achieving SDGs, fostering transformative education, and ensuring that learners and societies benefit from a more equitable and resilient future. Additionally, the need for more resources, resistance to change, and a need for leaders’/teachers’ professional development have been identified as potential obstacles. To overcome these challenges, a collaborative approach among stakeholders, policy support, and innovative practices are recommended.

Are Consumers Equally Willing to Pay More for Brands That Aim for Sustainability, Positive Societal Contribution, and Inclusivity as for Brands That Are Perceived as Exclusive? Generational, Gender, and Country Differences

This study explores consumer preferences for brands that emphasize sustainability and inclusivity, and for brands perceived as exclusive and trendy. Consumer data obtained via a large-scale survey involving 24,798 participants across 20 countries and one special administrative region (SAR) are used to understand how willingness to pay (WTP) for these brand types varies globally, accounting for demographic factors like generation, gender, and country. A substantial body of literature highlights growing consumer interest in brands that stand for sustainability and inclusivity, challenging traditional notions that luxury and exclusivity primarily drive brand value. Despite persistent skepticism among some business executives about consumers’ actual versus claimed willingness to spend more for sustainable and inclusive brands, academics and commercial researchers increasingly signal a shift in purchasing behavior that is influenced by socio-ecological factors. This research aims to provide empirical data on consumer WTP across different demographics and countries/regions, thereby contributing to academic discussions and offering insights for managerial decision making. The study frames its investigation around four research questions, to explore how consumers’ WTP for exclusive and inclusive brands varies across generations, genders, and countries/regions. It employs a robust methodological approach, using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM) to analyze the data. This ensures that the constructs of brand inclusiveness and exclusivity are comparable across diverse cultural contexts. Significant gender, generational, and country/region differences are observed. When comparing generations, the findings indicate that GenZ consumers have a higher WTP for sustainable/inclusive brands (compared to older, GenX, and Baby Boomer generations). Similar patterns are found when considering WTP for exclusive, on-trend brands. In terms of gender, women are observed to have a higher WTP for sustainable/inclusive brands, but a lower WTP for exclusive, on-trend brands compared to men. Finally, compared to consumers originating from certain European countries, we find that consumers living in certain Asian countries/regions have a significantly higher WTP for inclusive and sustainable brands, as well as for exclusive/on-trend brands. The study underscores the complexities of consumer behavior in the global market, highlighting the coexistence of traditional preferences for exclusive, trendy brands and preferences for brands that embrace sustainability and inclusivity.

Predictors of Marital Satisfaction Among Reproductive-Age Women Based on Personality Traits: A Study in Iran.

Marital satisfaction is a complex phenomenon influenced by a variety of factors, including personality traits, communication, conflict resolution, and economic stability. This study aims to examine the relationship between personality and marital satisfaction among reproductive-age women, exploring how these factors interplay and contribute to the overall dynamics of marital relationships. A cross-sectional study was conducted among reproductive-age women to assess marital satisfaction and personality traits using established assessment tools. The demographic data were collected through a structured questionnaire, and the relationship between personality traits and marital satisfaction was analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Regression models were used to identify significant predictors of marital satisfaction, and the fit of the CFA model was evaluated using various indicators. The mean age of the participants was 33.7 (±8.09) years, while the mean age of their husbands was 38.3 (±9.27) years. The results showed that conscientiousness and agreeableness had significant positive associations with marital satisfaction. Communication and conflict resolution emerged as key components of marital satisfaction, with standardized coefficients of 0.894 and 0.818, respectively. Financial management was also found to be strongly related to marital satisfaction, indicating the importance of economic stability in maintaining marital harmony. The study underscores the significance of personality traits, communication, conflict resolution, and financial management in shaping marital satisfaction among reproductive-age women. The results suggest that interventions targeting improved communication and effective conflict-resolution strategies can enhance marital satisfaction. Additionally, addressing financial stressors and promoting economic stability could lead to better marital outcomes. These findings align with previous research, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to understanding and improving marital satisfaction. Further research is recommended to explore these relationships in different cultural contexts and with broader demographic groups.

Study on Australian Working Holiday Experience, Place Attachment, Revisit Behavior, and Spending Power

Abstract This study aimed to explore the effects of Australian working holiday experiences on place attachment, repeat visitation behavior, and consumption. Based on social exchange theory, place attachment theory, and destination image theory, five research hypotheses were proposed. A total of 462 valid questionnaires were collected and analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling. The empirical results indicated that Australian working holiday experiences have a significant positive impact on place dependence and place identity. In addition, place dependence and place identity have a significant positive impact on repeat visitation behavior, and repeat visitation behavior has a positive impact on consumption. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for the Australian government and tourism industry to enhance the place attachment and identity of working holidaymakers, thus increasing their intention to revisit and consumption. Therefore, the Taiwan youth working holiday program in Australia has a substantial contribution to the development of Australian tourism economy. JEL classification numbers: Z30; Z32. Keywords: Australian working holiday experiences, Place attachment, Revisiting behavior, Spending power.

Unveiling connections between organizational dimensions, employee performance and boundary-spanning behaviors: a study on perceived organizational support and perceived supervisory support

Purpose This study aims to examine the influence of perceived organizational support (POS) on boundary-spanning behaviors (BSBs) among frontline employees in the hospitality industry. It also considered perceived supervisory support (PSS) as a moderating factor within a conceptual model. Design/methodology/approach Data were gathered from 651 full-time hospitality employees across 12 hotels in China. The analysis of the data used confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling. Findings The findings revealed that POS influences hospitality boundary spanners’ BSBs, specifically external representation (ER), internal influence (II) and service delivery (SD). In addition, PSS moderates the relationship between POS and these frontline employees’ behaviors. Practical implications This study offers practical strategies for hospitality professionals to enhance frontline employees’ BSBs and foster supportive workplaces that drive employee excellence. These strategies encompass cultivating a supportive organizational culture, implementing supportive measures, fostering a sense of belonging among employees and ensuring supervisors’ well-being and competence in supporting their teams during daily interactions. These actions effectively motivate customer-contact employees to excel in their performance. Originality/value Fostering a helpful attitude in frontline employees is crucial for service firms’ success. Hospitality organizations must provide support to achieve this. Few studies have explored how organizational support contributes positively to the BSBs of customer-contact employees. This study goes beyond oversimplification and delves into the nuanced interplay between perceived support (POS and PSS) and hospitality frontline employees’ BSBs, focusing on ER, II and SD. The moderated mediating model enhances the understanding of support dynamics in the organizational context.

Do EnvironmentallawsandGreen AwarenessPromote Sustainability in Higher Education:A policy guildine for Sustainble Development Goals

The purpose of this study is to investigate how green awareness (GA) and environmental laws (EL) can enhance group sustainability (CS) within HEIs. The objective is to recognize successful techniques for HEIs to add to the Assembled Countries Practical Improvement Objectives (SDGs). The specialists utilized a quantitative methodology, gathering information from 500 agents across different Pakistani HEIs through purposive testing. The legalization of the measurement model and the testing of confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM) were carried out with the help of the research hypotheses and IBM SPSS AMOS software. Ecological regulations straightforwardly influence maintainability execution, and their adequacy is fundamentally improved by the degree of green mindfulness inside the establishment, addressing that the outcomes uncovered significant direct impacts of EL and GA on CS, with EL's effect being interceded by GA. The consideration investigated that all component loadings outclassed the suggested edge, supporting the consistency and legitimacy of the ideas. The model reveals a good deal of the variation in CS. With R2 values, model-fit indices also suggested that the operational model was a good fit for the data. Cultivate green attention to accomplish further and seriously persevering through supportability results yet effective discoveries feature the necessity for HEIs with not just compliance to ecological regulations but the formation of partnerships to promote initiatives aimed at sustainability. The improvement of inclusive sustainability policies that are in line with environmental standards and the incorporation of sustainability into programs are two of the policy recommendations. HEIs' contributions to the SDGs are enhanced by their essential role in proceeding with global sustainability efforts and their strategies as a whole.

Validation of the Malay version of the recovery-stress questionnaire for athletes: Application of confirmatory factor analysis and exploratory structural equation modeling

The Recovery-Stress Questionnaire for Athletes (RESTQ-Sport-52) is a tool developed to measure the frequency of stress associated through recovery activities with strong theoretical foundations. The study aims to examine the psychometric properties of the Malay version of RESTQ-Sport-52 using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM). A cross-sectional study with purposive sampling method was employed. There were 617 undergraduate university students in Malaysia participated in the study with mean age of 20 years old (SD = 1.5). The majority of the participants were female (66.1 %), Malay (76 %) and participated in at least one sport or exercise. The RESTQ-Sport-52-M consisted of 52 items with two main sections; (1) general stress and recovery scales and (2) sport-specific stress and recovery scales. Mplus 8.3 was used to perform the CFA and ESEM analysis to examine the construct validity and reliability of RESTQ-Sport-52-M. For measurement model assessment using CFA, the final model of general-stress/recovery and sport-specific stress/recovery indicated a fit based on several fit indices. However, in the measurement model assessment using ESEM, the fit indices for model of general-stress/recovery (CFI = 0.935, SRMR = 0.037, RMSEA = 0.045) and sport-stress/recovery (CFI = 0.923, SRMR = 0.036, RMSEA = 0.044) were generally improved. The construct reliability for measurement models of RESTQ-Sport-52-M ranged from 0.76 to 0.89. The ESEM approach yielded a better fit indices compared to the CFA approach for both scales. The RESTQ-Sport-52-M (50 items) were considered a more valid and reliable questionnaire to measure recovery and stress in sports for Malaysian sample.

Psychological Factors Influencing Consumer Intentions to Consume Cultured Meat, Fish and Dairy

This study investigates the structure of factors that influence consumer intentions to both try and to consume cultured proteins, and their intentions to substitute vegan, vegetarian and omnivore diets with these alternative protein sources. Comprehensive survey data (N=3,862) was collected from three Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, and Norway) and analysed using confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling. Theoretically, this article draws from behavioural models of environmental psychology, identity theory, and attitude theory. Results indicate that beliefs about the necessity of an industry producing cultured proteins and impacts of cultured proteins on the global economy are significant predictors of consumer intentions. Moreover, participants who exhibited high levels of general and food innovativeness were more likely to express positive intentions to consume cultured proteins. Social norms influenced consumer intentions: Individuals surrounded by positive attitudes and intentions toward cultured proteins within their social networks were more inclined to want to consume these products. The predictor variables in the final model accounted for between 39% and 66% of the variance in the different cultured proteins related intentions. Understanding consumer intentions better can inform targeted communication strategies aimed at promoting the advantages of cultured proteins and facilitating its adoption.

The Chronic Time Pressure Inventory: further assessment of factorial structure and validity.

Chronic time pressure represents a prevalent concern within modern society, and effective measurement is crucial for research advancement. The Chronic Time Pressure Inventory (CTPI) has thus far demonstrated adequate psychometric properties. However, only two studies have examined the measure and evidence of its validity is limited. Accordingly, the current investigation, via two independent studies, assessed the factorial composition and validity (convergent/discriminant) of the CTPI. Study 1 (N = 398) examined competing factorial models and validity in relation to the Big Five personality traits (Extraversion, Agreeableness, Conscientiousness, Neuroticism, Openness). Study 2 (N = 358) replicated the analysis of factor structure and assessed validity in comparison with five time perspectives (Past Negative, Present Fatalistic, Future, Past Positive, Present Hedonistic). Participants across both studies completed standardized self-report measures capturing the variables. Comparison of confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and exploratory structural equation modelling (ESEM) factor solutions indicated that an ESEM bifactor model provided the strongest data-model fit. This included a general chronic time pressure component alongside specific subfactors of Feeling Harried and Cognitive Awareness of Time Shortage. All scale items reflected the general factor; however, some items loaded weakly on the intended specific factor. The CTPI is thus a robust indicator of chronic time pressure but needs refinement as a measure of the specific factors. Convergent/discriminant validity analyses inferred that the CTPI captured chronic time pressure as a related, but distinct, construct to perceived stress, and evidenced a relationship with theoretically associated constructs (Big Five personality traits and time perspective). Overall, the CTPI is a sound measure of chronic time pressure and has the potential to further cohesive research efforts on the contribution of this construct to various life domains.

The Mental Game of Golf: Understanding Relationships Between Self-Efficacy, Fear of Failure, Competitive State Anxiety, and Flow.

Our purpose in this study was to investigate the relationship between self-efficacy, fear of failure, competitive state anxiety, and flow among elite golfers. We surveyed 375 elite golfers (N = 375; male = 187, female = 188) who were registered with the Korean Sports and Olympic Committee, and we analyzed their survey responses using descriptive statistics, confirmatory factor analysis, correlation analysis, and structural equation modelling. As expected, we found golf self-efficacy (GSE) to be significantly related to fear of failure (FOF). We also found FOF and competitive state anxiety (CSA) significantly related to flow. Finally, we verified a suspected hierarchical or mediating effect in these relationships such that we verified predictive relationships of flow as follows: GSE→FOF→CSA→Flow. These golfers' self-efficacy had a buffering effect of lowering their FOF and CSA in the pathway toward flow. A suggested implication of these findings is that to enhance a golfer's performance by minimizing interfering psychological factors, it is essential to boost their self-efficacy.

Development and Testing of the Relational and Structural Components of Innovativeness Across Academia and Practice for Healthcare Progress Scale.

Using data from 5 academic-practice sites across the United States, researchers developed and validated a scale to measure conditions that enable healthcare innovations. Academic-practice partnerships are a catalyst for innovation and healthcare development. However, limited theoretically grounded evidence exists to provide strategic direction for healthcare innovation across practice and academia. Phase 1 of the analytical strategy involved scale development using 16 subject matter experts. Phase 2 involved pilot testing the scale. The final Innovativeness Across Academia and Practice for Healthcare Progress Scale (IA-APHPS) consisted of 7 domains: 3 relational domains, 2 structural domains, and 2 impact domains. The confirmatory factor analysis model fits well with a comparative fit index of 0.92 and a root-mean-square error of approximation of 0.06 (n = 477). As the 1st validated scale of healthcare innovation, the IA-APHPS allows nurses to use a diagnostic tool to facilitate innovative processes and outputs across academic-practice partnerships.

Impact of Internet of Things (IoT) on Enhancing Transparency and Efficiency in Bangladesh's Agri-food Supply Chain

Background: The agri-food supply chain in Bangladesh is crucial for the nation's sustenance and economic stability but faces challenges like lack of transparency, inefficiencies, and information asymmetry. The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies offers transformative potential, enhancing the Transparent Physical and Information Flow (PHF) and thereby influencing the Transparency in the Agri-food Supply Chain (TASC). Objective: This study aims to investigate the impact of IoT integration on PHF and its subsequent effect on TASC in Bangladesh, framed around two core hypotheses: the significant influence of IoT on PHF and the consequent impact of an IoT-enhanced PHF on TASC. Methods: Employing a comprehensive methodological framework, the study utilized IBM SPSS for exploratory factor analysis and IBM AMOS for confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM) to assess the relationships between IoT technologies, PHF, and TASC. The analysis was based on data collected from 400 respondents in Bangladesh's agriculture sector. Results and Conclusion: The findings validate both hypotheses, demonstrating a significant and positive impact of IoT technologies on PHF and, subsequently, on TASC. The results highlight the crucial role of IoT in enhancing supply chain transparency and operational efficiency. Implications of the Research: This research provides empirical evidence on the effectiveness of IoT technologies in addressing transparency issues within the agri-food supply chain. It underscores the potential of IoT to foster improved decision-making, efficiency, and consumer trust in the agricultural sector, particularly in developing contexts like Bangladesh. Originality/Value: This study contributes original insights into the role of IoT technologies in enhancing the agri-food supply chain's transparency and efficiency. By focusing on the context of Bangladesh, it offers valuable implications for policymakers, industry practitioners, and researchers, emphasizing the transformative potential of IoT in agricultural supply chain management.

Assessing complex PTSD and PTSD: validation of the German version of the International Trauma Interview (ITI)

ABSTRACT Background: With the introduction of the ICD-11 into clinical practice, the reliable distinction between Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) becomes paramount. The semi-structured clinician-administered International Trauma Interview (ITI) aims to close this gap in clinical and research settings. Objective: This study investigated the psychometric properties of the German version of the ITI among trauma-exposed clinical samples from Switzerland and Germany. Method: Participants were 143 civilian and 100 military participants, aged M = 40.3 years, of whom 53.5% were male. Indicators of reliability and validity (latent structure, internal reliability, inter-rater agreement, convergent and discriminant validity) were evaluated. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and partial correlation analysis were conducted separately for civilian and military participants. Results: Prevalence of PTSD was 30% (civilian) and 33% (military) and prevalence of CPTSD was 53% (civilians) and 21% (military). Satisfactory internal consistency and inter-rater agreement were found. In the military sample, a parsimonious first-order six-factor model was preferred over a second-order two-factor CFA model of ITI PTSD and Disturbances in Self-Organization (DSO). Model fit was excellent among military participants but no solution was supported among civilian participants. Overall, convergent validity was supported by positive correlations of ITI PTSD and DSO with DSM-5 PTSD. Discriminant validity for PTSD symptoms was confirmed among civilians but low in the military sample. Conclusions: The German ITI has shown potential as a clinician-administered diagnostic tool for assessing ICD-11 PTSD and CPTSD in primary care. However, further exploration of its latent structure and discriminant validity are indicated.