Favorable Perceptions Research Articles

Do Adverse Opinions on Internal Control over Financial Reporting Lead to Changes in Reporting Format?

SYNOPSIS This study examines whether the format of audit reports on financial statements and internal control over financial reporting (ICFR) changes in response to the disclosure of one or more material weaknesses in ICFR. The results indicate that (1) reporting format changes are more likely when adverse opinions are issued on ICFR and (2) formats are more likely to change from a combined report to separate reports than vice versa. Supplemental analysis reveals that format changes to separate reports do not result in more favorable market perceptions but do result in marginally lower levels of auditor dismissal/change. These findings indicate that auditors have incentives to acquiesce to client requests to change reporting formats, even though such changes do not result in more favorable market perceptions. Data Availability: Data are available from public resources noted in the text. JEL Classifications: M41; M42.

Cheers to local! Exploring consumer ethnocentrism in the context of regional wines

PurposeExtending the Attitudes-Behavior-Context (ABC) theoretical framework by incorporating consumer expertise as an antecedent, the study investigates the intricate relationship between consumer attitudes toward locally produced goods (wine) and purchasing behavior, examined within the context of consumer ethnocentrism.Design/methodology/approachThe study employed an online survey of Texas wine consumers (N = 895). To investigate consumer attitudes towards local wine, the data were first subjected to descriptive analyses, namely means comparison and chi-square tests. Subsequently, path analysis was employed to explore the hypothesized relationships within the proposed model.FindingsWhile consumers with higher wine knowledge are less likely to choose local wines for various consumption occasions, consumers who are highly involved with wine tend to exhibit more favorable perceptions. Taste emerged as the strongest driver of purchase intent. Consumer ethnocentrism plays a critical role, boosting purchase intent for those with positive general attitudes and considering local wines for various occasions. However, this effect disappears when perceptions of the taste of regional wines are unfavorable, highlighting once again the critical role of taste in purchase decisions, even for ethnocentric consumers.Originality/valueThis study expands the ABC framework by incorporating consumer expertise with a product as a new antecedent, thereby broadening its applicability to consumer behavior research within an ethnocentric context.

To Whom Thou Art Bound: Bicultural Identity Integration Moderates the Influence of Conspiracy Beliefs on Chinese Americans’ Ingroup Bias

Endorsing conspiracy beliefs about an outgroup typically fosters ingroup bias. However, the response of bicultural individuals to conspiracy theories about one of their ingroups remains understudied. We posited that bicultural individuals’ display of ingroup bias in such situations hinges on their levels of bicultural identity integration (BII). Two studies involving Chinese American participants revealed that conspiracy beliefs about China were associated with lower Chinese ingroup bias among those with higher BII levels. In Study 1, high BII Chinese Americans who endorsed conspiracy theories about China reported less favorable perceptions of the Chinese ingroup, but not among low BII Chinese Americans. Study 2 replicated findings in Study 1 in that high (vs. low) BII Chinese Americans with higher conspiracy beliefs about China were less willing to allocate monetary resources to a fictitious Chinese charity and reported lower Chinese patriotism. This research contributes to the identity integration literature by illustrating how bicultural individuals with varying BII levels respond differently to geopolitical tensions in the context of conspiracy beliefs.

Assessing the impact of jigsaw technique for cooperative learning in undergraduate medical education: merits, challenges, and forward prospects

BackgroundJigsaw method is a structured cooperative-learning technique that lays the groundwork towards achieving collective competence, which forms the core of effective clinical practice. It promotes deep learning and effectively enhances team-work among students, hence creating a more inclusive environment.ObjectivePresent study was designed to introduce jigsaw model of cooperative learning to early-year undergraduate medical students, measure its effectiveness on their academic performance, and evaluate the perspectives of both students and faculty members regarding the same.MethodsIt was a mixed method research, involving eighty second-year undergraduate medical students. The jigsaw cooperative learning approach was introduced in two themes within neurosciences module. Students were divided into two equal groups, with one group experiencing typical small-group discussions (SGDs) in first theme and other group exposed to jigsaw approach. The groups were then reversed for second theme. Following the activity, an assessment comprising multiple-choice-questions was conducted to evaluate the impact of jigsaw technique on students’ academic performance, with scores from both groups compared. Student perspectives were gathered through self-designed and validated questionnaire, while faculty perceptions were obtained through focus group discussions. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS v22, while thematic analysis was performed for qualitative data.ResultsThe students of jigsaw group displayed significantly higher median assessment score percentage compared to control group (p = 0.003). Moreover, a significantly greater number of students achieved scores ≥ 60% in jigsaw group compared to control group (p = 0.006). The questionnaire responses indicated a favorable perception of this technique among students, in terms of acceptance, positive interdependence, improvement of interpersonal skills, and comparison with typical SGDs. This technique was also well-perceived within the educational context by faculty members.ConclusionThe jigsaw method is associated with higher levels of academic performance among students when compared to typical small-group discussion. The students and faculty perceived this technique to be an effective cooperative learning strategy in terms of enhanced student engagement, active participation, and a sense of inclusivity.

A study on immunization practices of mothers with children under five years of age in government district hospital Kalaburagi

Background: Vaccines are the most powerful, safe and cost-effective interventions to prevent major illnesses that contribute to child mortality in the country. Negative parental perceptions of vaccination are also an important barrier to childhood vaccination.so this study was taken up to determine the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of mothers with children under five years of age, which will help the policy makers in implementing the immunization programme in a better way, to achieve >85% coverage. Methods: A semi structured pre-validated questionnaire designed to assess the KAP about vaccination was administered to 360 mothers fulfilling the inclusion criteria. The KAP data between fully immunized and partially immunized/unimmunized children was compared. Results: In our study, out of 360 children, 183 (50.8%) children were fully immunized, 155 (43.1%) children were partially immunized and 22 (6.1%) children were seen unimmunized. Mothers were the main decision makers regarding vaccination of their children. Majority, 183 (50.3%) mothers identified vaccine preventable disease as polio. On comparing the KAP data between mothers of fully immunized children and mothers of partially immunized/unimmunized children, mothers of fully immunized children found to have favourable knowledge, attitudes, perceptions and practices towards vaccination. Conclusions: We found significant lacunae in the KAP of mothers towards childhood vaccination, especially among mothers of partially immunized and unimmunized children.so, health education is also an essential component that can go a long way in improving the prevailing scenario of immunization in our country.

Older Adults' Acceptance of a Virtual Reality Group Intervention in Nursing Homes: Pre-Post Study Under Naturalistic Conditions.

Virtual reality (VR) group activities can act as interventions against inactivity and lack of meaningful activities in nursing homes. The acceptance of VR among older adults has been explored from different perspectives. However, research on the impact of older adults' individual characteristics on the acceptance of VR group activities in nursing homes is necessary. This study investigates the impact of individual characteristics (eg, psychosocial capacities) on VR acceptance among older adults in nursing homes, as well as this group's perceptions of VR after participating in a VR intervention. In this pre-post study conducted in nursing homes, we applied a VR group intervention with 113 older adult participants. These participants were categorized into two groups based on their naturalistic choice to join the intervention: a higher VR acceptance group (n=90) and a lower VR acceptance group (n=23). We compared the two groups with respect to their sociodemographic characteristics, psychosocial capacities, and attitudes toward new technologies. Additionally, we examined the participants' perceptions of VR. The results show that those with lower acceptance of VR initially reported higher capacities in organizing daily activities and stronger interpersonal relationships compared to older adults with higher VR acceptance. The VR group activity might hold limited significance for the latter group, but it offers the chance to activate older adults with lower proactivity. Openness to new technology was associated with a favorable perception of VR. After the VR intervention, the acceptance of VR remained high. This study investigates the acceptance of VR group events as meaningful activities for older adults in nursing homes under naturalistic conditions. The results indicate that the VR group intervention effectively addressed low proactivity and interpersonal relationship issues among older adults in nursing homes. Older adults should be encouraged to experience VR if the opportunity to participate is offered, potentially facilitated by caregivers or trusted individuals.

Primary care team member’s perceptions of credentialed and privileged clinic pharmacists and impact on clinic workload in a pediatric primary care network

BackgroundPharmacists provide increased access to care, vaccinations, and medication management for patients. Credentialing and privileging of pharmacists allow pharmacists to practice at the top of their licenses and elevate pharmacy practice. ObjectiveThe primary objective of this study was to assess the perception of health care team members of credentialed and privileged pharmacists working in a pediatric primary care network (PCN) before and after implementation of pharmacist privileges. The secondary objective was to determine team members’ perceptions on the amount of time spent refilling medications, resolving medication access issues, and ordering vaccines before and after implementation of pharmacist privileges. MethodsThis was a prospective pre-post study using surveys to capture health care team members’ perceptions of credentialed and privileged ambulatory care pharmacists. Surveyed participants included attending physicians, advanced practice nurses, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, medical assistants, and patient care assistants. Summary statistics are reported as frequencies and percentages. Statistical analysis was conducted using SAS version 9.4. ResultsFifty-eight preprivileging and 56 postprivileging surveys were distributed. The return rate was 79.3% (n = 46) for preprivileging and 80.4% (n = 45) for postprivileging surveys. More than 90% of respondents had a favorable perception of credentialed and privileged pharmacists in the clinic. There was a significant difference in the perception of the amount of time spent on medication access issues after pharmacist privileges were implemented (P = 0.0296). ConclusionCredentialed and privileged pharmacists in a pediatric PCN are viewed favorably by clinic team members and can have a positive impact on clinic workload.

The Role of Country Origin and Product Knowledge in Wuling Electric Car Purchase Decision in Indonesia

In today's competitive marketing landscape, understanding factors influencing consumer purchase decisions is crucial. This study examines the impact of country-of-origin image and product knowledge on the purchasing decisions for Wuling electric vehicles in Indonesia. Employing a descriptive quantitative approach with a sample of 104 respondents, the research uses literature reviews and questionnaires to gather data. Multiple linear regression analysis reveals that both country-of-origin image and product knowledge significantly affect purchasing decisions, with positive coefficients indicating their substantial influence. Specifically, a favorable perception of China's technological advancements and product quality, alongside strong product knowledge, plays a vital role in shaping consumer choices. The findings suggest that Wuling should focus on enhancing its country image and leveraging social media to increase brand awareness. Future research could expand to include additional variables and countries for a broader understanding of purchase decision factors

Analysis of Gout Remission Definitions in a Randomized Controlled Trial of Colchicine Prophylaxis for People With Gout Initiating Allopurinol.

To investigate (1) the effect of colchicine prophylaxis on gout remission when commencing urate-lowering therapy (ULT), and (2) illness perceptions of people in remission using 2 definitions of gout remission. Data from a 12-month double-blind placebo-controlled trial of 200 people with gout commencing allopurinol were analyzed. Participants were randomly assigned to prophylaxis with 0.5 mg daily colchicine or placebo for 6 months, followed by 6 months of additional follow-up. Gout remission was assessed using the 2016 preliminary definition or simplified definition without patient-reported outcomes. Illness perceptions were assessed using a gout-specific version of the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire. In the first 6 months, few participants were in remission according to either the 2016 preliminary definition (3% for colchicine and 4% for placebo) or the simplified definition (7% for colchicine and 12% for placebo). In the second 6 months, after study drug (colchicine or placebo) discontinuation, fewer participants in the colchicine group than in the placebo group were in remission according to the 2016 preliminary definition (4% vs 14%, P = 0.03), and the simplified definition (14% vs 28%, P = 0.02). Participants fulfilling remission using either definition had more favorable perceptions about their gout symptoms and illness concerns, as well as consequences, when using the simplified definition. Using either definition, 6 months of colchicine prophylaxis when initiating ULT does not provide an advantage in the fulfillment of gout remission. People fulfilling either definition report fewer symptoms, less concern about their gout, and, when using the simplified definition, are less affected by gout.

Caregiver perceptions of complementary feeding in rural and urban Indonesia: A qualitative comparative study

ObjectiveTo explore caregivers’ perspectives on complementary feeding in rural and urban areas of Central Java, Indonesia. DesignA qualitative comparative study using in-depth interviews. We applied thematic analysis to identify themes and subthemes and presented representative quotes. SettingRural and urban villages in Central Java Province, Indonesia. Participants46 mothers and grandmothers of 6- to 23-month-old children. FindingsWe identified five themes: 1) timing of food introduction, 2) types of complementary foods, 3) meal preparations, 4) complementary food benefits, and 5) expectations toward complementary foods. While caregivers in urban areas had more favourable perceptions of complementary feeding, some misperceptions existed regarding complementary feeding in both areas. These misconceptions included the age of complementary food introduction, the delay in introducing animal-source foods, and the emphasis on any food the child preferred as long as they ate rather than on healthy food choices. Key conclusionsThere were similarities and differences in complementary feeding perspectives between caregivers in rural and urban areas. Therefore, policymakers and public health workers should design interventions to enhance complementary feeding practices by addressing the contextual issues in specific settings.

Evaluating the Role of Objective Structured Clinical Examination as a Summative Assessment Tool in Undergraduate and Postgraduate Psychiatry Residents.

The Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) is the gold standard and universal format to assess medical students' clinical competence in a comprehensive, reliable, and valid manner. OSCE is gaining global popularity for assessing medical students in various specialties. Our country uses it in multiple disciplines, but its application in psychiatry remains limited. OSCE is a resource-demanding assessment method that can face numerous challenges. A comprehensive assessment of perceptions regarding OSCE can help identify areas that need improvement. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess the perceptions of students and examiners toward OSCE in psychiatry. This study aims to evaluate the role of Objective Structured Clinical Examination as a summative assessment tool in assessing competency in undergraduate (as part of their ward leaving examinations in psychiatry) and postgraduate psychiatry residents (as part of their six-monthly assessments) and analyze the perceptions of students as well as of the faculty members regarding OSCE. Six MD students and 49 MBBS students took the OSCE as part of their ward-level exams in psychiatry. In the presence of four faculty members of the psychiatry department, students completed their six-month summative exams. The OSCE was held at separate times for UG and PG students. UG and PG students utilized different stations (PG students had a harder level). A 10-item questionnaire was given to examiners and students at the end of the OSCE to get their opinions regarding the OSCE. Furthermore, data gathered from the faculty through an open-ended questionnaire was compiled and displayed thematically. Since the Likert scale survey generated ordinal data, the statistical analysis was conducted using the median, interquartile range (IQR), and chi-square test. The chi-square test was used to compare the variables. A P-value of less than 0.05 was deemed statistically noteworthy. Four faculty members and fifty-five students in all answered the questionnaire. Regarding the OSCE's characteristics, validity, reliability, and transparency, the majority of students expressed positive opinions. In a similar vein, most examiners had positive perceptions pertaining to OSCE's administration, structure, and procedures. Certain areas, such as "improved confidence in teaching clinical skills" and "improved confidence in giving students structured feedback," were also emphasized by thematic analysis of faculty members. In general, both students and examiners had extremely favorable perceptions of and embraced the OSCE. Improved faculty orientation and student preparation for the OSCE may help allay anxiety and overcome hesitation related to the exam.

Biophysics indicators as the sustainable strategy for river pollution control (case study in Jangkok River, Mataram City, West Nusa Tenggara)

Background: Sungai Jangkok is one of those considered heavily polluted in NTB. The Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) value has exceeded the standard for Class II water quality, and according to the Family Biotic Index (FBI) value, the river falls under the category of heavy organic pollution. The research objective is to realize sustainable management of the Jangkok Watershed in accordance with its river functions by implementing pollution control strategies. Methods: Data collection was conducted using questionnaires and interviews with the public and stakeholders (government and NGOs). Water quality data was obtained from DLHK NTB and DLH Mataram City, and sampling was carried out using the composite sample technique. The methods employed were STORET, QUAL2Kw, logistic regression, and SWOT. Findings: The research findings indicate that, in general, the Jangkok River in Mataram City falls into the heavily polluted category from 2015 to 2022, with an average STORET score of -79.25. Moreover, the pollution loads of BOD, COD, and TSS entering the river have exceeded the pollution carrying capacity. The condition is influenced by several factors, including the less favorable perception of pollution status (67%) and the usefulness of the river (59%) by the community. Additionally, the persistent behavior of littering and/or defecating in the river (23%), inadequate preventive practices (59%), insufficient wastewater disposal facilities (40%), and improper waste management (58%) are contributing factors. Moreover, the existence of houses backing up to the river (59%) also plays a role in the current condition. Some of the causes are the lack of synergy across administrative regions between stakeholders, the absence of law enforcement for the community, dependency on government budget for work programs, and the lack of incentives. Conclusion: The conclusion of this research suggests that the most effective strategy for taking is to develop a program for reducing pollutant loads that is integrated across districts and cities, integrated across agencies with various levels of authority, integrated with the community, and in accordance with the river's actual conditions and the socioeconomic community. Novelty/Originality of this Study: This study provides a novel approach by integrating quantitative water quality modeling (QUAL2Kw) with community behavior analysis to develop a sustainable and comprehensive strategy for controlling river pollution in the Jangkok watershed, Mataram City.

Sensory evaluation and chemical composition of Solanum nigrum and Solanum torvum herbal tea and spice.

Herbal teas are ingested for various purposes and by diverse populations across the globe. There is a growing recognition among individuals of the advantages associated with the use of this beverage, leading to a heightened demand for the manufacture of herbal tea derived from therapeutic plants. Spices on the other hand add flavour to food but could pose harm if it is high in phytates and oxalates. The objective of this study was to develop natural spices and herbal tea with health beneficial properties using Solanum nigrum and Solanum torvum berries. Herbal tea samples from S. nigrum were prepared by sorting berries, maceration, divided into two (fermenting at 18 °C and non-fermenting) and dried at 60 °C for 12 h in a hot oven. Spices from S. torvum and S. nigrum were prepared by removing the berries from the stalk, freeze-drying and smooth milling into fine powder. In addition, antinutrient, phytochemical and sensory evaluation studies were conducted on these spices and herbal teas. A nine-point hedonic scale was utilized for the purpose of conducting a consumer acceptability sensory evaluation test using 101 untrained panelists. Data was then analyzed by t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the level of significance (p < 0.05) was assessed using Tukey's and Dunnett's multiple comparison tests. The panellists expressed a favourable perception towards Solanum nigrum unripe unfermented green herbal tea (6.65 ± 2.08) as compared to the other formulated teas due to the components working together in a way that produces a nice tea sample. Both Solanum nigrum and Solanum torvum spices contained various levels of catechins, saponins, flavonoids, oxalates, phytates and tannins comparable to literature. The herbal tea samples exhibited a range of catechin content, varying from 0.255 to 0.756 mg/g. The antioxidant activity of the various herbal tea samples ranged from 66.37 ± 0.24 to 78.53 ± 0.18 µg/mL GAE as determined by the DPPH free radical assay Fermented black herbal teas recorded higher total phenols (2.80 ± 0.09d), total flavonoids (21.84 ± 1.84c) and showed greater antioxidant activity (78.53 ± 0.18a) as compared to the unfermented green herbal teas. The process of fermentation resulted in a decrease in pH from 7.22 to 6.53 within a period of 12 h. The Total Titratable Acidity (TTA) grew as the fermentation period progressed, whereas the Total Soluble Solids (TSS) decreased. Phytates were the least antinutrients among the two Solanum species accounting for 0.02 mg/100 g and 0.03 mg/100 g in S. torvum berries (STBs) and (S. nigrum berries) SNBs respectively.

Perception study of urban green spaces in Singapore urban parks: Spatio-temporal evaluation and the relationship with land cover

In the current era of increasing urbanization, urban green spaces play a crucial role in enhancing human well-being. However, quantifying public perceptions from text data at spatio-temporal scales remains challenging, and the relationship between urban green space perception and spatial-physical attributes requires further exploration. This study systematically examines public perceptions of urban green spaces within Singapore's urban parks from 2018 to 2022. Utilizing Twitter data, it applies large language models to conduct textual content analysis related to urban green space. The findings reveal a positive trend, with individuals expressing favorable perceptions and satisfaction towards urban green spaces in Singapore. Specifically, this study demonstrates that people's perceptions of urban green spaces are influenced by vegetation density. Higher vegetation density heightens people's awareness of spatial presence, while shrub and grassland may lead to neglect of urban green spaces as individuals focus more on themselves. Additionally, due to the spatial heterogeneity of the area, there is no clear correlation between all land covers and public satisfaction with urban green spaces in Singapore. The results also indicate a significant decrease in public perception in 2020, followed by a subsequent recovery. This fluctuation is attributed to the substantial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, suggesting that external socio-political, economic, and public health events can impact public green space needs and spatial perceptions. In conclusion, this study contributes to the understanding of urban green spaces by effectively analyzing textual content extracted from social media data using large language models. The insights gained contribute valuable to the following discussions regarding the planning and design of urban green spaces and urban parks.

The value of the master of accountancy: student and employer perceptions

ABSTRACT The accounting industry is experiencing a pivotal point in history as there is projected to be a shortage of skilled entrants in the labor market. Companies look to higher education institutions as the primary source for providing well-trained entrants. Yet, enrollment in Master of Accountancy (MAcc) programs has declined in the last decade. Why are accounting undergraduate students choosing not to pursue the MAcc? While there is much conjecture, there is a deficiency of research to support these theories and a lack of investigation into graduate education in accounting. This study utilizes Reger and Rozell’s (2023) [The master of accountancy: Understanding factors influencing intentions and behaviors toward accounting graduate education. Journal of Theoretical Accounting Research, 19(1), 101–128] adapted framework from the Theory of Reasoned Action (Fishbien & Ajzen, 1975) [Belief, attitude, intention, and behavior: An introduction to theory and research. Addison-Wesley] to examine MAcc program stakeholders’ career expectations, attitudes, perceived KSAs, and intentions toward MAcc programs and degrees. The results indicate generally favorable perspectives of MAcc programs and degrees from stakeholders, with career expectations and positive attitudes being determinants of intentions. However, the data indicates a disconnect between the perspectives of students and employers, as employers have less favorable perceptions toward the degree. The findings provide situational awareness to higher education leaders so they may develop dynamic strategies and principled program positioning to lead their programs through a new era in the industry.

Empowering and educating the next generation of pharmacists through children’s books: A quality assurance initiative

ObjectiveThe objective of this quality assurance initiative was to internally measure children’s perceptions of the book, “All Aboard the Rx-Express!” and knowledge gained from its content. MethodsThis pharmacy-focused children’s book was read to elementary-age youth at a rural, Pennsylvania elementary school in the Spring of 2022. A brief, optional, anonymous prepost survey was administered to the youth before and after the reading to measure the book’s impact on third through fifth graders’ perceptions and knowledge of the pharmacy profession. Descriptive statistics, chi squared analysis, independent samples t-tests, and one sample proportions tests were used to analyze survey responses. ResultsOne hundred ninety-one students participated in the presurvey to assess baseline knowledge about the pharmacy profession before the book was read. One hundred eighty-five students answered the postsurvey. Prepost respondent demographics were collected in aggregate and were not significantly different between the pre- and postcohorts. Survey results demonstrated an increase in all questions that asked about students’ perceptions of pharmacists and the profession, and students reported favorable perceptions of the book itself. ConclusionEarly interventions such as this can increase elementary-age youth’s perceptions and knowledge of the roles of pharmacists. Future work in early intervention will be needed to increase interest in the profession and admissions to pharmacy schools.

Assessing pet owners' willingness to embrace insects in pet food.

Alternative diets for pets have gained attention in recent years due to concerns about sustainability and environmental impact. One emerging option is the inclusion of edible insects in pet food. This study aimed to survey dog (DO) and cat (CO) owners regarding their willingness to feed insect-based pet food (IBPF) to their pets and to identify potential motivating factors. A total of 435 valid responses were evaluated, with 66% being DO and 58% CO. Of those, 24% owned both dogs and cats. About half of DO (52%) and 62% of CO were positive about IBPF. CO had a higher acceptance of IBPF than DO (p < 0.05). Moreover, both DO and CO showed a significant increase in acceptance if IBPF has been proven to provide sustainable and nutritional benefits (p < 0.01). CO adhering to a specific diet themselves showed a significantly higher acceptance of IBPF (p < 0.05), however it was independent of the type of diet. Additionally, 32% of DO and 34% of CO reported prior experience with eating edible insects themselves, and a positive entomophagy experience increased DO's (p = 0.108) and CO's (p < 0.01) acceptance of IBPF. Furthermore, the interest in entomophagy resulted in increased acceptance of IBPF by both DO and CO who had not yet tried insects (p < 0.01). In conclusion, pet owners demonstrated a favourable perception of IBPF and showed a willingness to incorporate these products into their pets' diets. CO displayed a more positive perception compared to DO, suggesting a beneficial focus on the feline niche. To enhance overall acceptance, emphasizing sustainability and conducting further research to establish the nutritional benefits of IBPF are crucial. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for pet food manufacturers and marketers to develop strategies and products aligned with the preferences and needs of pet owners.

Do COVID-19 related primary emotions affect risk perceptions, efficacy beliefs, and information seeking and behavior? Examining emotions as audience segments

IntroductionPrimary emotions among the populace during global health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, provide valuable insights. Guided by appraisal theories of emotions, this study explores emotional segmentation by mapping primary emotions related to COVID-19 and investigating their impact on cognitive and behavioral outcomes, including risk perceptions, efficacy beliefs, behavioral intentions, prevention behaviors, and information seeking/avoidance.MethodsStudy 1 surveyed young adults (N = 1,368) to investigate their emotions about COVID-19 and examine the effect of these emotions on risk perceptions, efficacy beliefs, and behavioral intentions regarding mask-wearing and physical distancing. Study 2 replicated Study 1 with a quota-based national sample of U.S. adults (N = 8,454) and further tested the effect of primary emotions on preventive behaviors and information seeking/avoidance.ResultsResults indicated that most people experienced negative emotions, such as sadness, anger, and anxiety. These emotions were associated with varying levels of risk perceptions, efficacy beliefs, behavioral intentions, actual behaviors, and information seeking/avoidance. Notably, across both studies, anxious individuals demonstrated more favorable health-related perceptions and behavioral outcomes compared to those experiencing anger.DiscussionThese findings offer insights into the emotional experiences of individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic and highlight the significant impact of these emotions on risk perceptions and health-related behaviors. Understanding these emotional responses can inform public health strategies and communication efforts during health crises.

PERCEPTION ON SEMESTER SYSTEM BY COLLEGE TEACHERS OF MIZORAM

The present study was conducted on 221 undergraduate college teachers selected randomly from the undergraduate colleges affiliated to the Mizoram University to find out their perception towards semester system with respect to their teaching experience. Self constructed perception scale revealing the overall perception on semester system and their perception towards five components of semester system - general observation, course of study, evaluation, method of teaching and choice based credit system was administered. The perception scale consists 57 items especially for college teachers. The data collected were analyzed through using mean, sd, percentage as well as t test. The study revealed that most of college teachers had neutral perception on the semester system, yet there were more teachers who had satisfying perception than those who had unsatisfactory perception. The study also revealed that short experienced teachers had a more favourable perception on semester system than the long experienced teachers.

Student’s Perception On The Use Flipped Classroom In Learning English at The Second Grade Of SMPN 2 X Koto

This research aimed to investigate the students’ perceptions of the flipped classroom approach in learning English at SMPN 2 X Koto Tanah Datar. The flipped classroom model, which reversed traditional in-class activities and homework, introduced new content at home through videos or readings, and dedicated class time to interactive, hands-on activities. This method sought to enhance student engagement, promote active learning, and provide opportunities for personalized instruction and immediate feedback. The study employed a descriptive quantitative method, focusing on second-grade students. Data were collected using a questionnaire that was distributed to 64 students, who were selected through purposive sampling. The questionnaire aimed to gauge students' perceptions of various aspects of the flipped classroom, including self-directed learning, collaboration, responsibility, learning performance, flexibility, and student satisfaction. The population for this study consisted of all second-grade students at SMPN 2 X Koto for the academic year 2021/2022, totaling 95 students across three classes. The sample was selected using purposive sampling, focusing on classes VIII.1 and VIII.2, to ensure participants had the specific attributes necessary for the research. Based on the findings and analysis, it can be concluded that students at SMPN 2 X Koto Tanah Datar have a highly favorable perception of the Flipped Classroom approach in learning English. The study, which involved 95 second-grade students, revealed positive responses across various aspects such as autonomy in learning, collaboration, responsibility, learning performance, flexibility, individualized experiences, interactions, and overall satisfaction. With an average score of 81.41%, categorized as "Very Good" by Arikunto's criteria, the Flipped Classroom methodology is well-received and deemed beneficial for English education at SMPN 2 X Koto Tanah Datar.