Expert Interviews Research Articles

"It's a Slippery Slope": Antecedents of Female-Perpetrated Sexual Abuse of Adolescents in Australian Educational Settings.

Sexual victimization of students endures-especially in secondary schools-and women's perpetration in this setting is increasingly recognized. Nonetheless, our understanding of this population and contemporary cases remains limited, and research in the Australian context is lacking. This study contributes to the evidence base and represents the first Australian study of its kind. We draw on (1) legal documents (N = 19) describing 18 established cases of female-perpetrated sexual abuse against 20 adolescent students (aged 13-17 inclusive) and (2) semi-structured expert interviews with professionals possessing specialized experience of female-perpetrated cases involving adolescent students (N = 8). These data are integrated in a reflexive thematic analysis to identify the personal, contextual, and situational antecedents of female-perpetrated cases thereby exploring the 'why' and 'how' of their perpetration. Taken together, the results indicate a key interaction between individual emotional and relational needs, environmental opportunities, and contextual tolerance. Practical implications for targeting and disrupting these dynamics are discussed.

Development and Psychometric Evaluation of the Sexual Life Quality Evaluation Tool for Patients With Coronary Heart Disease.

Patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) will have a series of sexual problems, and their sexual life quality can be affected. However, a standardised evaluation tool for patients with CHD was lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to develop a sexual life quality questionnaire for patients with CHD and to evaluate its psychometric properties. Based on previous phenomenological studies, literature analysis and group discussion, questionnaire items were formed. After two rounds of expert consultation and pre-survey, the questionnaire items were modified. Items were screened by item analysis. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were used to explore and confirm the structure of the questionnaire. Content validity and criterion validity were evaluated using the expert consultation and correlation analysis, respectively. The questionnaire reliability was evaluated using internal consistency, split half reliability, and test-retest reliability. The sexual life quality questionnaire of patients with CHD was developed, which included two versions: male version and female version. The male version of the questionnaire contains 3 dimensions and 20 items, while the female version contains 3 dimensions and 17 items. After reliability and validity test, the two versions of the questionnaire have good reliability and validity. In this study, the sexual life quality questionnaire of patients with CHD was developed and its psychometric properties were confirmed, which can be used to evaluate the sexual life quality of patients with CHD. The development of a sexual life quality evaluation tool for patients with coronary heart disease to provide objective and quantitative tools for clinical staff to evaluate patients' sexual life status. Patients were invited to participate in a questionnaire survey for this study.

The development of an intradisciplinary staff training intervention on the optimal management of behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia: A qualitative study

Introduction: Behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSDs) are a group of highly prevalent symptoms in residents with a neurocognitive disorder (NCD), including agitation and depressive symptoms. Caregiving staff often mention knowledge and skills deficits regarding optimal BPSD management. While several staff trainings on BPSDs management exist internationally, their transferability to other clinical contexts is limited, owing to methodological challenges. Therefore, to address this implementation gap, there is a strong need for trainings based on high-quality research to strengthen existing evidence, ensure feasibility and reproducibility. Methods: This qualitative study, part of a larger research project, occurred in 2022 on a long-term care (LTC) center unit and an alternate level of care (ALT) hospital unit located in the Province of Quebec, Canada. This study aimed to: 1) evaluate the needs and perceptions of staff caregivers regarding BPSD management, 2) identify the training content and modalities to prioritize according to experts, 3) develop an intradisciplinary training on BPSD management, and 4) pretest the preliminarily version of the training. Objectives one and two were evaluated using focus groups and objective four using individual cognitive interviews. Qualitative interview data was audio-recorded with participants’ consent, transcribed verbatim, and thematically content analyzed using an established method. Results: Overall, thirteen caregivers participated in objective one (8 from the LTC unit, and 6 from the ALT unit). The main staff training need identified on each site was the management of resident’s aggressive behaviours. Staff verbalized a preference for a virtual training. Objective 2 involved a panel of eight experts. Experts recommended the use of an online training platform, and certain training models and indicators. Based on caregivers and experts’ input, five interactive online staff training capsules lasting from 20-25 minutes each and an algorithm guiding the evaluation and management of BPSDs were created. The training capsules and the algorithm were iteratively improved following cognitive interviews with 4 caregivers from the participating sites. Conclusion: An interactive virtual staff training on BPSD management was created based on staff and expert consultation. The next step in investigation will be to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of the training.

Reshaping Knowledge Flow: The Impact of Ecollaboration Platforms in It-Project Knowledge Transfer

This research embarks on an in-depth exploration of the transformative dynamics initiated by eCollaboration platforms in the field of IT project management, with a particular focus on knowledge transfer processes. The study delves into the intricacies of knowledge transfer, encompassing both its intra-project dynamics and its transfer from projects to project-based organisations (PBOs). The overall aim is to unravel the impact of eCollaboration platforms on this complex process and to provide insights into the evolving landscape of knowledge management in the context of IT projects. Methodologically, the study adopts a qualitative content analysis approach. Recognising the paradigmatic aspects that might limit insights for proponents of the quantitative paradigm, the chosen approach facilitates an in-depth exploration of the multifaceted nature of knowledge transfer within IT project management. The study involves a cohort of eleven project managers in Austria, with meticulous interviews conducted and recorded to ensure a comprehensive data collection process. The subsequent data analysis involves a systematic evaluation of the accumulated information derived from these expert interviews. This comprehensive analysis integrates both quantitative and qualitative components, providing a nuanced understanding of how eCollaboration platforms influence knowledge transfer within the complex landscape of IT projects. The research findings provide valuable insights into the evolving dynamics of knowledge transfer in the context of IT project management. By examining the impact of eCollaboration platforms on this process, the study contributes to a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities that arise in the area of knowledge management in IT projects. These findings have practical implications for project managers and organisations seeking to optimise knowledge transfer processes within their projects and project-based organisations. Ultimately, this research serves as a timely exploration of the transformative potential of eCollaboration platforms to reshape the flow of knowledge within IT project management. It paves the way for improved collaboration and knowledge sharing in the digital age and offers a critical perspective on the evolving landscape of IT project management practices.

Use of telemediated caregiver coaching to increase access to naturalistic developmental behavioral interventions within a statewide early intervention system.

Many families seek access to evidence-based therapy to support their child's learning. Naturalistic developmental behavioral intervention is a set of practices that use a child's natural motivation and interest to teach skills in everyday routines. Many families find naturalistic developmental behavioral interventions appealing and they have been proven to be effective. However, families may not be able to enroll in naturalistic developmental behavioral intervention-based programs due to the limited availability of trained service providers. Telehealth is the use of technology to engage with care providers, including doctors and therapists. Telehealth is an effective tool for improving access to services, especially for people in rural and underserved communities. Telehealth offers a way for providers to connect with families but it does not address the low numbers of trained providers. In this article, we share a statewide model developed to increase access to naturalistic developmental behavioral interventions for families while increasing training opportunities for early intervention providers. Through this model, expert consultants worked with caregivers and providers via telehealth for a brief series of visits. During these visits, consultants taught caregivers and providers strategies based in naturalistic developmental behavioral interventions. Feedback from caregivers and providers, along with improvement in child skills, show that this model was effective and acceptable.

Alzheimer's dementia in people with Down syndrome : Results of guideline-assisted expert interviews on healthcare deficits in the diagnostics and treatment as well as solution approaches

People with Down syndrome have agenetically increased risk of developing early onset Alzheimer's dementia. An interview study with healthcare providers, patient representatives and employees in residential and work facilities was conducted to identify deficits in the healthcare process and approaches to overcoming them. In this study 14 semi-structured interviews were conducted and analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Alack of knowledge and experience on the part of medical service providers in dealing with and providing medical care for people with Down syndrome was identified as akey challenge. In addition, the diagnosis of dementia in people with Down syndrome is difficult for various reasons (including lack of appropriate diagnostic tools in standard care and lack of time or financial resources). Doubts were expressed about the efficacy of antidementia medications and the reasons for the increased use of sedatives were discussed. Attentive observation of behavior and involvement of caregivers, regular review and reduction of polypharmacy and the use of alternative behavior modification techniques were mentioned as possible solutions. The identified deficits in the medical care of the target population and the approaches to solving them will be incorporated into the development of health policy recommendations in order to optimize the care situation of those affected in the long term.

Smart retrofitting for office buildings: Comparison of decision-making criteria between developing and developed regions

Given the constantly evolving nature of modern infrastructure, retrofitting existing buildings with state-of-the-art smart technologies presents a pivotal opportunity, enabling promising advancements in sustainability, efficiency and adaptability. Focusing on Hong Kong and Sri Lanka, which are developed and developing regions respectively, this study investigates the decision-making criteria for selecting smart systems as retrofits for office buildings. Using the analytic network process (ANP), 24 expert interviews were conducted in Hong Kong and Sri Lanka to determine the importance weights of the decision-making criteria. The findings show varied importance weights for each criterion between the two regions, with Hong Kong emphasizing upfront financial considerations, specifically 'investment cost' while Sri Lanka emphasizing long-term operational sustainability, specifically 'recurring operation, maintenance and repair cost.' Despite these differences, there are similarities in the importance of core criteria such as 'reliability of retrofit option' and 'ability to increase returns.' The lack of focus on user-centric issues in Hong Kong and implementation of retrofit projects in Sri Lanka underscore the need for decision-makers to prioritize these aspects in future projects. The principal contribution of this study is in offering insights from a thorough analysis of the importance weights of the essential criteria in making decisions regarding smart retrofitting (SR). It is also beneficial to various stakeholders, including building owners and facility managers. The cross-region study approach, enabling the investigation on both developed and developing regions, further serves as a foundation for future research aiming to explore and analyze the influence of regional difference in decision-making for SR.

Construction 4.0 implementation for performance improvement: an innovation management perspective

Purpose The emergence of Construction 4.0 technologies provides an impetus for radical change and rejuvenates the interest of stakeholders in addressing long-standing performance issues in the construction sector. However, construction firms struggle to implement Construction 4.0 technologies for performance measurement and improvement. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to develop a conceptual model of innovation management for implementing Construction 4.0 that guides and facilitates the strategic transformation of construction firms. Design/methodology/approach A conceptual model of innovation management is presented, and the findings are synthesised based on a literature review, 20 semi-structured interviews, two focus group discussions, three workshops, expert consultation and observations on three digitally-enabled projects. Data were inductively analysed using thematic analysis. Findings The analysis of empirical data revealed: (i) Four scenarios that could lead the industry to different futures, based on the extent of research and development, and the extent of integration/collaboration; (ii) Construction 4.0 capability stages for a sustained implementation route; (iii) Possible business model configurations derived from servitisation strategies; and (iv) Skills management challenges for organisations. Research limitations/implications First, the empirical data was only collected in the UK with its unique industry context, which may limit the applicability of the results. Second, most of the research data comes from the private sector, without the views of public sector organisations. Third, the model needs to be further validated with specific data-driven use cases to address productivity and sustainability issues. Practical implications Successful Construction 4.0 transformation requires a concerted effort of stakeholders, including those in the supply chain, technology companies, innovation networks and government. Although a stakeholder’s action would depend on others’ actions, each stakeholder should undertake action that can influence the factors within their control (such as the extent of collaboration and investment) and the outcomes. Originality/value The conceptual model brings together and establishes the relationships between the scenarios, Construction 4.0 capability stages, business models and skills management. It provides the first step that guides the fuzzy front-end of Construction 4.0 implementation, underpins the transformation to the desired future and builds long-term innovation capabilities.

Psychometric evaluation of the Chinese version of the Nursing Student Contributions to Clinical Settings scale and analysis of factors influencing nurses' perceptions of nursing students' contributions: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundMost medical organizations accept many nursing students each year who gain clinical practice skills under the supervision of clinical nurses. However, there are no assessment tools to measure the contributions nursing students make to the clinical setting during clinical practicum. This study aimed to translate the 'Nursing Student Contributions to Clinical Settings' scale into Chinese and test its reliability and validity from the perspective of Chinese clinical nurses. And to explore whether nurses' personal and professional characteristics are related to nurses' perception of nursing students' contributions to the clinical settings.MethodsThe original scale was translated into Chinese following the Brislin translation model. A convenience sample of 935 clinical nurses was selected from January to March 2024 for the survey. The content validity of the scale was assessed by expert consultation and content validity index. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were performed to assess the construct validity of the scale. The reliability of the scale was measured using internal consistency, split-half reliability, and test–retest reliability. The measurement quality of the scales was assessed according to the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments. One-way analysis of variance was used to identify variables related to students’ contributions.ResultsThe content validity index of the scale was 0.983. Exploratory factor analysis supported a one-factor structure, and the cumulative variance contribution was 71.177%. Confirmatory factor analysis showed that the model fit indicators were all within the acceptable range. The McDonald's Omega coefficient and Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the scale were 0.983. Nurses perceive that nursing students' contribution to the clinical settings is influenced by nurses' personal characteristics, professional characteristics, and the hospital environment.ConclusionThe Chinese version of the Nursing Student Contributions to Clinical Settings scale has good reliability and validity and can effectively and reliably measure the contributions of Chinese nursing students to clinical settings.

A maturity assessment methodology for ISO 13485 implementation in the medical devices industry

PurposeThis study aims to develop a novel diagnostic methodology for implementing ISO13485:2016 and test its applicability to improve quality management systems (QMS) in the medical devices industry context.Design/methodology/approachFirst, a literature review on the topic was conducted. Second, insights gained from the literature and expert interviews were employed to develop the new maturity assessment methodology. Subsequently, the methodology was tested on a medical device manufacturer. Next, based on the evaluation of the intervention, actions were recommended to improve the QMS.FindingsResearch findings have developed a maturity assessment methodology comprising 52 certifiable requirements structured into four macro-requirements derived from ISO 13485:2016. Findings show that the methodology is valuable for aiding QMS implementation, and the diagnosed maturity levels corresponded with the company’s empirical perceptions of the requirement’s maturity.Practical implicationsEmpirical evidence validates the significance and practical utility of the proposed methodology, as evidenced by the company’s attainment of FDA (US Food and Drug Administration) approval after the intervention. Findings suggest that the methodology could be replicated within the medical products industry or adapted to assess other QMS, leveraging the organizational alignment with the international regulations of the sector and the ISO 9000 requirements.Originality/valueThe developed methodology fills existing gaps in both literature and practice within the medical devices industry, providing a valuable contribution by addressing the limited research on diagnostic methodologies designed for ISO 13485:2016 implementation. The article assists medical device enterprises in addressing QMS maturity levels as a metric for evaluating QMS requirements, which is an underexplored avenue in existing QMS evaluation approaches.

Implementing data governance in financial systems: Strategies for ensuring compliance and security in multi-source data integration projects

This study explores the complexities of implementing data governance within financial systems, focusing on strategies to ensure compliance and security in multi-source data integration projects. The primary aim was to identify challenges and establish a comprehensive framework to enhance data integrity, confidentiality, and regulatory adherence in the financial sector. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research included an extensive literature review, case studies, and expert interviews to gain insights into current practices, challenges, and emerging trends in data governance. Key findings reveal that while multi-source data integration offers significant opportunities for enhanced decision-making, it also presents substantial risks, including data breaches and regulatory non-compliance. The study underscores the pivotal role of data governance frameworks in mitigating these risks through the establishment of clear data policies, the implementation of robust cybersecurity measures, and the promotion of a compliance-focused organizational culture. Additionally, the analysis highlights the necessity for harmonized global data privacy laws to address the diverse regulatory environments that financial institutions operate within. The research concludes that effective data governance is crucial for financial institutions to safeguard their data assets, ensure regulatory compliance, and maintain stakeholder trust. Recommendations include the adoption of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and blockchain to enhance data governance capabilities, the provision of ongoing employee training to foster a culture of compliance, and the implementation of dynamic compliance monitoring systems to keep pace with evolving regulatory demands. By embracing these strategies, financial institutions can develop a resilient data governance framework that not only ensures compliance and security but also drives operational excellence, competitive advantage, and sustained trust in the increasingly digital financial landscape. Keywords: Data Governance, Financial Systems, Multi-Source Data Integration, Regulatory Compliance, Cybersecurity, Data Privacy.

The Correlation Between Homesickness and Academic Achievement in Mathematics: Implications for Psychological Well-Being of Secondary School Students

This study examined the correlation between homesickness and academic achievement in mathematics among secondary school students, focusing on its implications for psychological well-being. A correlational research design was employed, involving a sample of 50 secondary school students from Awka South Local Government Area, Anambra State. Data were collected using Scale for Psychological Impact of Homesickness (SPIH) and the Mathematics Achievement Scale (MAS). Validity was ensured through expert consultations and Principal Component Analysis. Reliability was established with Kuder-Richardson formula 21 (K-R21) and Cronbach’s Alpha, yielding α = 0.89 for SPIH and α = 0.86 for MAS. Data were analyzed using SPSS, including non-parametric tests and normality assessments. The Spearman's rho correlation analysis revealed a significant, albeit weak, negative relationship between homesickness and academic achievement, indicating that higher levels of homesickness are associated with lower mathematics performance. Further analysis using the Mann-Whitney U test highlighted significant differences in homesickness levels and academic achievement between boarder and non-boarder students. These findings underscore the importance of addressing emotional challenges in educational settings. The study advocates for the implementation of comprehensive support systems, including counseling and resilience-building programs, to mitigate the impact of homesickness on academic performance. The results emphasize the need for schools to foster supportive environments that enhance students' psychological well-being and academic success. Future research should explore additional factors influencing this relationship to develop targeted interventions..

Financial Barriers to Reducing Nitrogen Pollution in Dutch Dairy Farms

SummaryNitrogen fertiliser boosts agricultural yields, but its excessive use destabilises ecosystems. That is why Dutch policy makers want to reduce nitrogen pollution on dairy farms. Cleaner technologies and structural changes could reduce farm emissions. We benchmarked farms, organised an expert consultation, and reviewed the literature to determine the degree to which the lack of available internal and external finance is a barrier to reducing nitrogen pollution. Although the average dairy farm in our sample can finance these investments, a significant share of farmers cannot. We find that investments vastly drain the currently accessible finances available to dairy farmers. Subsidies to reduce the price of investments and measures to increase farm net cash flows could mitigate this problem, while equity funds or preferential interest rate systems would be ineffective. Farm management is not bound by access to finance. Our findings suggest that improved management could vastly reduce the accumulation of nitrogen surplus on farms. Interestingly, we estimate that this can be achieved while increasing profits. The wide‐scale adoption of best practices can be facilitated by establishing and financing advisory services and peer learning programmes to spread knowledge and awareness.

Network-Based Modeling of Lean Implementation Strategies and Planning in Prefabricated Construction

Abstract: Prefabricated construction (PC) is increasingly promoted in the construction sector for its potential benefits, including reduced resource assumption and improved quality. Accordingly, Lean methods are popularly applied to PC projects for optimizing operational processes and enhancing their performance in line with strategic objectives. A key factor in effectively implementing Lean to improve strategic control is developing specific strategies and planning that consider their complex interactions. Thus, this paper aims to propose a quantitative network-based model by integrating Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) and Matrix Impact Cross-Reference Multiplication Applied to a Classification (MICMAC) under complex network theory to develop a Lean implementation framework for effective strategy formulation. Specifically, 17 Lean implementation strategies for PC in the context of the Chinese prefabrication industry were identified via an extensive literature review and expert interviews. Then, ISM-MICMAC quantitatively identifies the direct and indirect relationships among strategies, while subsequent analysis of Topological Structure Weight (TSW) and Structural Degree Weight (SDW), as complex network parameters, is used to evaluate the importance of each strategy. The findings show that the strategic planning for Lean implementation in PC consists of four levels, i.e., foundation, organizational, technical, and control. Selecting appropriate Lean tools and technologies is crucial for PC implementation, which must be built on a top-level management team and foster a Lean culture. Moreover, it involves building a standardized system of processes and activities, enhancing both internal and external collaboration, and continuously improving processes in response to changes. On one hand, this in-depth network-based analysis offers practical insights for PC stakeholders, particularly in China, on Lean implementation in line with PC performance and strategic control and objectives. On the other hand, the network-based model can be future-implemented globally. Additionally, this study expands the current body of knowledge on Lean in PC by exploring the interrelationships of Lean implementation strategies.

Study on the index system for field epidemiological investigations of viral respiratory infectious diseases

The study used the Delphi method to conduct two rounds of expert consultations involving 23 experts nationwide, aiming to establish the comprehensive index system for field epidemiological investigations of viral respiratory infectious diseases and determine the weights assigned to each index through the hierarchical analysis. Both rounds of consultation witnessed a 100% participation rate among all experts, with a coefficient of authority (Cr) reaching 0.89. The Kendall's W coefficients for assessing the importance and feasibility in both rounds were 0.108, 0.234, 0.439 and 0.427, respectively. Finally, an index system consisting of seven first-level indicators, 18 second-level indicators, and 36 third-level indicators was constructed for the technical guidelines governing field epidemiological investigations into viral respiratory infectious diseases, and the weight of each indicator was established. The index system constructed in this study has a high degree of scientificity, reliability and operability, but it still needs to be further adjusted and improved in combination with the epidemiological characteristics of viral respiratory infectious diseases.

Enhancing older care services: a comprehensive internet + community home indicator system

ObjectiveConstructing a demand-oriented Internet + community home care service indicator system, starting from the actual needs of the elderly, and quantifying the demand into specific service contents that can be provided, so as to realize the effective supply of services. It aims to provide a theoretical basis for the government to formulate relevant aging policies and provide a reference basis for promoting the innovation and development of the Internet + elderly care model.MethodsBased on existence needs, relationship needs and growth needs abbreviated as “Existence, Relatedness, Growth (ERG)” demand theory, through the discussion in the group meeting, form the expert consultation questionnaire of the demand-oriented Internet + community home care service indicator system, select experts in related fields to conduct two rounds of Delphi expert consultation, summarize the experts’ opinions to determine the indicator system items, and use the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method to construct the judgment matrix to derive the weighting coefficients of the indicators, and establish the ultimate demand-oriented Internet + community home care service indicator system.ResultsThe effective recovery rates for the two rounds of expert consoulation questionnaires were 100%, with expert authority coefficients of 0.852 and 0.868, respectively. The Kendall coefficients for the second round of expert views varied from 0.226 to 0.431, with coefficients of variation for all indexes less than 0.25.The finalized demand-oriented Internet + community home care service indicator system includes 3 first-level indicators, 10 s-level indicators, and 46 third-level indicators. The consistency ratios of indicator judgment matrices at all levels are less than 0.10, suggesting that the hierarchical analysis findings are consistent, implying that the weight coefficient distribution is appropriate.ConclusionThe demand-oriented Internet + community home care service Indicator System, which was created through expert consultation and AHP method, has reasonable content and is more dependable as an evaluation tool for reliably assessing demand for elderly servic.

Estimating the impact range of circular economy actions for buildings on basic material demand in the European Union: A combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches

A circular economy in buildings can contribute to reduce the demand for emission-intensive basic materials and thus, to achieve the climate targets of the European Union. However, quantifying the impact on material demand is challenged by the unpredictability of the future. We combined qualitative and quantitative approaches to improve the understanding of such future developments. In detail, expert interviews were conducted to identify influencing factors and to collect estimates for modelling prospective material demand. The results indicate that the adaption is driven by existing and new policies, climate change as well as demographics. This is contrasted by barriers, such as the economic non-viability, the limited availability of substitutes, and the mismatch of supply and demand as well as building regulations. Moreover, the type of influencing factor reflects the maturity of individual strategies related to a circular economy. The estimated impact of circular economy actions on annual material demand for buildings varies between −42 % and +25 % in 2050 compared to a reference development. However, there are not only differences between but also within individual actions. In brief, the maturity of the circular economy actions is reflected by the range of impact on material demand. The novel combination of the qualitative influencing factors and the quantitative modelling results reveals an interrelationship between the drivers and barriers and the impact on material demand. This underlines that the prospective exploitation of these potentials can be actively influenced by adapting the policy framework conditions. This is particularly relevant for less renowned circular economy strategies and actions that are characterized by high potential and high unpredictability. The presented results lay the foundation for a more systematic consideration of material reduction potentials related to a circular economy in prospective scenarios of buildings in the European Union.

Gambling Industry Strategies to Influence the Reform of State Online Monopolies

The aim of this qualitative study was to investigate the strategies used by the gambling industry to influence the reforming of the state online monopoly into a licensing system in Sweden in 2019, and to weaken state online monopoly in Finland. Methodologically, this study used primary data from 9 expert interviews in both countries and secondary data from prior literature, which were analyzed using thematic content analysis. The results identified five main political strategies used by the gambling industry: (1) Information, through lobbying politicians; (2) Constituency Building, through forming an alliance with interest groups; (3) Policy Substitution, through promoting alternative policies and self-regulation; (4) Legal Infringements; and (5) Regulatory Redundancy. The study concluded that the involvement of the gambling industry in policy-making influenced the change of the state online monopoly into a licensing system in Sweden in 2019 and is weakening the state online monopoly in Finland.

A Study of Hong Kong's Insurance Industry Based on the New Development Pattern Model

Against the backdrop of global economic changes and China's economic restructuring, the potential of Hong Kong's insurance industry as an investment channel is gaining increasing attention. This thesis aims to explore the opportunities and challenges of Hong Kong's insurance industry under the new development pattern. Through a combination of quantitative and qualitative analyses, it examines the historical data and future trends of Hong Kong's insurance market and conducts a study based on first-hand information obtained through data surveys and expert interviews, exploring the specific impacts of the new development pattern on the insurance industry, and incorporating the development of the Greater Bay Area into the research framework. Hong Kong's insurance industry harbours a wealth of investment opportunities in terms of expanding market size, product diversification, and policy support, but it also faces challenges such as intensifying market competition and international uncertainty. The study recommends that investors should focus on long-term trends to optimise their investment strategies and address market risks.

Vállalati energiahatékonyság a gyakorlatban. Egy magyarországi kismintás elemzés tanulságai

Achieving the EU’s climate neutrality target requires each Member State to reduce its energy consumption. Member States, including Hungary, are paying particular attention to encouraging businesses to modernise their energy consumption. Our research focuses on the results of energy efficiency measures implemented by large companies with more than 1,000 employees, based on the company energy efficiency reports available online between 2017 and 2021. Our research also incorporates results from four interviews conducted with companies and two interviews conducted with energy efficiency experts. The sample of 24 companies obtained through data reduction is not representative, but the analysis shows that the most commonly implemented measures in the 5 years analysed were raising employee awareness and lighting upgrades. The four company and two expert interviews confirmed that companies prefer energy efficiency investments that pay off in the short to medium term. By ownership structure, there were differences in the type of measures implemented. The main driver for energy efficiency measures is cost reduction, complemented by sustainability considerations such as reducing carbon emissions.