Practical Implications Research Articles

Navigating challenges and shaping futures through mental health nursing in the United Kingdom.

WHAT IS KNOWN ON THE SUBJECT?: Mental health nurses in the UK play a critical role in providing care, advocating for patients and navigating the complexities associated with mental health challenges. Acknowledging and supporting the efforts of mental health nurses is essential for advancing mental health care, promoting inclusivity and fostering community resilience amidst ongoing challenges within existing health care organisations. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS TO EXISTING KNOWLEDGE?: Highlights the integral role of mental health nurses in the UK's health system as both care providers and advocates, underpinning the importance of addressing the growing demand for mental health services Introduces innovative digital tools like the 'Hub of Hope' and the potential of social prescribing as effective strategies for improving access to mental health care and support. Emphasises the need for enhanced support and recognition of mental health nurses to ensure the sustainable advancement of mental health services and the well-being of communities. WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE?: Mental health nurses should integrate innovative digital tools like the 'Hub of Hope' into their practice to improve signposting and access to mental health resources for individuals in need. There is a critical need for ongoing education and support for mental health nurses within practice settings to maintain their well-being and enhance their ability to provide holistic care despite increasing clinical demands. Advocacy for increased investment in mental health resources and support for research activities lead by mental health nurses is essential to address current service gaps and promote the development of more effective interventions.

Short breaks and micro vacations: scale development and validation of micro vacation motivation

Purpose In view of the rapid growth of micro vacation trend in post-pandemic era, this study aims to identify the underlying motivational factors for micro vacation by developing and validating a measurement scale, while explore the influence of micro vacation motivation on travel intention. Design/methodology/approach This research adopts mixed methods. Nine dimensions with 38 items are initially yielded through extensive literature review and in-depth interview (n = 22). Expert panel review filters the scale into eight dimensions with 35 items. Principal component analysis (n = 376) purifies the measures into a 35-item and seven-dimension scale, further confirmed by confirmatory factor analysis (n = 616). Nomological validity test (n = 694) proved the positive effect of micro vacation motivation on travel intention. Findings The results present a measurement scale of micro vacation motivation and reveals its seven dimensions: self-presentation, spiritual satisfaction, bonding, convenience, sense of rituals, place attachment and perceived risk. All the motivational factors positively influence travel intention for a micro vacation. Practical implications Through profound comprehension of micro vacationers’ travel motivation, destination marketers and tourism providers can better design their products based on vacationers’ needs while stimulate potential market’s visiting intention by diverse marketing activities. Originality/value This study enriches the literature of micro vacation tourism and deepens the knowledge of travel motivation, filling the research gap of tourists’ motivation in micro vacation market.

Sexually transmitted infections among at-risk women in Ecuador: implications for global prevalence and testing practices for STIs detected only at the anorectum in female sex workers

ObjectivesAnorectal sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG), present treatment challenges, potentially increase antibiotic resistance selection and if undetected may facilitate onward transmission. However,...

Evaluation of Water Displacement Method in Estimating Mandibular Ramus Autograft Volume

Objective: This study aims to identify the most reliable method for measuring graft volumes comparable to those harvested from the ramus region using 3D-printed models. Methods: Using a cross-sectional design in an in vitro setting, CBCT images from 20 individuals who met the inclusion criteria for ramus grafting were examined. Volumetric evaluations were conducted on these images, and 3D-printed graft models were created. Two blinded raters assessed the graft volumes using the displacement method (with beakers of 10 cc, 25 cc, 50 cc capacity and a 100 cc biopsy cup) and the overflow liquid method (with beakers of 10 cc, 25 cc, and 50 cc capacity). The intraclass correlation coefficient and t tests were applied for statistical validation of intra- and inter-rater reliability. Results: High levels of both intra- and interrater reliability were observed, particularly for the 10 cc rise and overflow methods. These methods exhibited not only exceptionally high ICC values but also statistically meaningful p values. Furthermore, most of these methods strongly correlated and agreed with the CBCT measurements, except for the 50 cc overflow method, which showed significant divergence. Conclusion: The findings of this study validate the 10 cc beaker methods for reliable 3D printed ramus graft volume measurement and recommend a narrow-diameter syringe for optimal accuracy. These findings have crucial implications for both clinical practice and future research.

Unpacking publics’ disengagement and information behaviors: Roles of psychological distance, feasibility and desirability in an environmental sustainability issue

Despite the prominence of global environmental challenges, promoting publics’ engagement with issues related to environmental sustainability has proven difficult. Publics have perceived them as distant issues that do not have imminent impact requiring immediate actions. However, publics’ disengagement has in turn accelerated environmental deterioration. Applying construal level theory, this study explores factors that cause publics’ disengagement but also ways to promote information behaviors in an environmental sustainability issue. An online survey was conducted of a nationally representative sample of 507 Australians in November 2022. Using food waste as an issue that negatively affects environmental sustainability, structural equation modeling was conducted to test the effects of the dynamics of psychological distance, feasibility, and desirability on publics’ disengagement, information seeking and information forwarding. When individuals consider food waste a distant issue, they also consider it to be undesirable and infeasible to act upon, with the result that they disengage. However, this study finds that while psychological distance is negatively associated with desirability and feasibility, it is positively associated with information seeking and forwarding. We find, in particular, that desirability positively contributes to information seeking and forwarding. However, feasibility is negatively associated with information seeking and forwarding. Implications for public relations theory and practice are discussed (203 words).

Child welfare workers’ understanding of gender, sexual orientation and sexual health in assessments of youths with a problematic substance use

ABSTRACT The use of alcohol or illicit substances by youths may be related to sexual motives and experiences. Accordingly, child welfare workers need to address young people’s sexuality in their investigative work. In this study, we have examined the significance of different social categories, namely gender and sexual orientation, when child welfare workers assess young people with a substance use and their related sexual health. Fifteen child welfare workers were recruited through a strategic sampling to participate in semi-structured interviews, which were analysed using thematic content analysis. The results consist of three sub-themes: Sexually vulnerable girls; Boys as perpetrators; and Unseen LGBTQ+ youth. Together, these sub-themes constitute an overarching theme where the heterosexual matrix appears to be the interpretative framework when investigating a problematic substance use. The suggested implications for practice include education in sexual and reproductive health and rights for child welfare workers aiming to achieve an equitable assessment process for all youth with a problematic substance use.

Decoding Generation Z's habits: the augmented reality shift from gimmick to utility in omni-digital shopping

Purpose Building on technology acceptance and learning transfer theories, this study aims to evaluate the integration of mobile augmented reality (MAR) in omnichannel retailing touchpoints for Generation Z (or Gen Z)'s apparel shopping, assessing how habitual augmented reality (AR) use in nonretailing contexts impacts Gen Z's motivations, acceptance and use of MAR shopping apps. Design/methodology/approach A total of 562 participants downloaded a footwear MAR app and completed a survey. Data were analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis and multivariate regression to explore moderated mediation effects. Findings The study reveals a paradigm shift: Gen Z's habitual use of AR in social media (e.g. Snapchat and TikTok face filters) significantly influences their intent to use MAR in shopping, overshadowing hedonic motivations. This marks a transition from AR as a gimmick to a practical utility in omnichannel touchpoints, with performance expectancy emerging as a critical mediator in adopting MAR for utilitarian purposes. Research limitations/implications This study highlights how Gen Z consumers’ tech habits influence their pragmatic view of MAR, urging re-exploration of the main constructs of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2) model. Practical implications Findings suggest Gen Z values practicality over fun in MAR shopping apps, guiding marketers to emphasize tangible benefits for this demographic. Originality/value This research underscores the evolving perception of AR in retail among mobile natives, highlighting the shift from novelty to habitual utility. It offers strategic insights for integrating AR into omnichannel strategies, catering to the utilitarian expectations of Gen Z in the digital retail landscape.

Empowering entrepreneurs: bridging the attitude-intention-behaviour gap through dynamic entrepreneurship education

Purpose By adopting the theory of planned behaviour, this study aims to provide insights into how entrepreneurial education (EE) contributes to the entrepreneurial process, especially entrepreneurial behaviour (EB). Design/methodology/approach The research used a sample of 2,566 students from 16 universities in Vietnam. The conceptual framework’s coefficient paths underwent testing using structural equation modeling, and the mediation effects were determined using the PROCESS bootstrapping method. Findings The study revealed that EE directly influences EB in Vietnam, despite having no direct effect on entrepreneurial intention (EI). In addition, EE indirectly influences EI and EB through enhancing attitude towards entrepreneurship and perceived behavioural control. Practical implications These findings suggest that policymakers should consider the value of investing in EE programmes as a means of promoting EB. Offering students opportunities to engage in real-life entrepreneurial activities, such as business plan competitions, internships with local start-ups and access to mentorship from established entrepreneurs, can play a pivotal role in their translating knowledge into action. This practical approach can significantly contribute to the development of an entrepreneurial ecosystem in Vietnam. Originality/value While many studies have investigated the influence of EE on EIs, there is a lack of research on the behavioural outcomes of such education. Furthermore, the findings regarding the EE–EI relationship are inconsistent. Therefore, this study provides valuable insights into how EE can foster the intention and behaviour to engage in entrepreneurship.

Does the chairman’s political and royal authority matter? Evidence from ESG disclosure in Gulf Cooperation Council

Purpose This study aims to explore the influence of the chairman’s political and royal authority on environmental, social and governance (ESG) disclosure within the context of nonfinancial companies listed in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Design/methodology/approach The authors adopt a mixed-methods approach, analyzing a data set of 262 nonfinancial GCC companies from 2016 to 2021. The authors use content analysis to collect the ESG disclosure data based on the ESG Disclosure Guidance provided by the GCC Financial Markets Committee. Quantitative methods are applied to investigate the effect of the chairman’s political and royal authority on ESG disclosure. The credibility of the findings is fortified through rigorous robustness and endogeneity tests. Findings Consistent with the resource-based view and servant leadership theory, the authors found a positive impact of the chairman’s political and royal authority on ESG disclosure. Practical implications The findings of this study insight investors to consider the complex relationship between political affiliations and governance practices to align investments with sustainability and ethical criteria, thereby improving investment strategies in these contexts. This research offers a solid foundation for regulatory craft governance frameworks that acknowledge and incorporate the unique influence of royal family members and politically connected individuals within corporate boards. Originality/value This study enhances the discourse on ESG disclosure by focusing on the underrepresented GCC region. This research breaks new ground by focusing on the impact of the chairman’s political and royal authority on ESG disclosure. In addition, it addresses previous methodological limitations by incorporating more comprehensive ESG data for the GCC market.

Deep learning ensemble approach with explainable AI for lung and colon cancer classification using advanced hyperparameter tuning

Lung and colon cancers are leading contributors to cancer-related fatalities globally, distinguished by unique histopathological traits discernible through medical imaging. Effective classification of these cancers is critical for accurate diagnosis and treatment. This study addresses critical challenges in the diagnostic imaging of lung and colon cancers, which are among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Recognizing the limitations of existing diagnostic methods, which often suffer from overfitting and poor generalizability, our research introduces a novel deep learning framework that synergistically combines the Xception and MobileNet architectures. This innovative ensemble model aims to enhance feature extraction, improve model robustness, and reduce overfitting.Our methodology involves training the hybrid model on a comprehensive dataset of histopathological images, followed by validation against a balanced test set. The results demonstrate an impressive classification accuracy of 99.44%, with perfect precision and recall in identifying certain cancerous and non-cancerous tissues, marking a significant improvement over traditional approach.The practical implications of these findings are profound. By integrating Gradient-weighted Class Activation Mapping (Grad-CAM), the model offers enhanced interpretability, allowing clinicians to visualize the diagnostic reasoning process. This transparency is vital for clinical acceptance and enables more personalized, accurate treatment planning. Our study not only pushes the boundaries of medical imaging technology but also sets the stage for future research aimed at expanding these techniques to other types of cancer diagnostics.

Masking and mediating effects: mediating mechanisms of occupational stigma and job meaningfulness among Chinese takeaway riders

PurposeThis paper expects to analyze the connection between occupational stigma and job meaningfulness among Chinese takeaway riders, the mediating role of occupational identity and relative deprivation, and the moderating effect of job stress based on resource conservation theory.Design/methodology/approachThe sample was derived from 371 takeaway riders across China. PLS-SEM was mainly utilized for the data analysis.FindingsThe findings of the study indicated a significant negative correlation between occupational stigma and job meaningfulness. Furthermore, it is worth noting that relative deprivation and occupational identity served as mediators and masks, respectively, in the relationship between occupational stigma and job meaningfulness. Furthermore, job stress amplifies the association between occupational stigma and occupational identity. Additionally, job stress diminishes the connection between occupational stigma and relative deprivation.Originality/valueThis study proposes a positive correlation between occupational stigma and occupational identity in the Chinese context. It also enriches the empirical research based on resource conservation theory. Furthermore, it holds practical implications for takeaway riders in China, offering insights to bolster their job meaningfulness.

Unpacking the black box between market culture and innovation performance: the role of absorptive capacity and resistance to change

PurposeThis study aims to investigate the relationship between market culture and innovation performance and to reveal the role of absorptive capacity and resistance to change by building on the resource-based view.Design/methodology/approachData was gathered from 222 firm managers of manufacturing firms by using the survey method. Structural equation modeling and PROCESS macro were used to analyze the data.FindingsThe results indicate that market culture is positively related to innovation performance and absorptive capacity mediates this relationship. It is also found that resistance to change negatively moderates the relationship between market culture and innovation performance, but it has no moderating effect on the relationship between absorptive capacity and innovation performance.Originality/valuePrevious research examining the association between market culture and innovation performance is scarce and provides contradictory findings. This indicates that there is an underlying mechanism of this association neglected before. This study is an attempt to reconcile contradictory findings and enlighten the fuzzy areas of this relationship. Accordingly, this study focuses on absorptive capacity as a mediator and proves its role empirically. Moreover, this study is the first to examine the role of resistance to change and demonstrates its buffer role in the market culture-innovation performance link. It is also revealed that resistance to change does not moderate the relationship between absorptive capacity and innovation performance. The findings elucidate the underlying mechanism of the relationship between market culture and innovation performance, reconcile contradictory findings of extant research, expand the current knowledge, and provide practical implications.

Managers’ sociocognitive conflicts in collaborative learning

ABSTRACT Despite extensive research on collaborative learning and sociocognitive conflict, its impact on executive education and managers’ learning is less understood. This study addresses this gap by identifying the manifestations and topics of verbalised sociocognitive conflicts and reflective collaborative discussions in managers’ collaborative small-group learning settings. The research material comprises approximately 40.5 hours of video recordings from three separate small groups. This video material was analysed qualitatively using thematic analysis, guided by prior collaborative learning research, focusing on the role of sociocognitive conflict. Various forms of challenging as manifestations of verbalised sociocognitive conflicts were identified in the small-group setting at both the group and structural and individual and peer levels. The study demonstrates how managers’ discussions evolve from sociocognitive conflict to reflective conversations fostering collaborative learning, highlighting the crucial role of these conflicts in managers’ learning. Theoretical implications provide insights into how sociocognitive conflict evolves into collaborative learning in managers’ education, suggesting insights for further research. This study has practical implications for developing collaborative learning and executive education for managers by leveraging sociocognitive conflicts.

Two is better than one

Purpose This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings This paper identified that ambidextrous leadership has a positive impact on innovative behavior of employees as well as the importance of employee voice in promoting these innovative behaviors. Originality/value The briefing saves busy executives, strategists and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.

Shifting sands: the use of marketing communication strategies in corporate social responsibility disclosure in the United Arab Emirates

Purpose This study aims to investigate the evolution of sustainability reporting in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) against a backdrop of changing legislation. It uses qualitative content analysis within the corporate social responsibility (CSR) communication framework proposed by Kotler and Lee (2005) to investigate how corporations in the UAE disclosed information on their CSR activities in 2018 and 2023. Design/methodology/approach The authors refer to the CSR communication framework proposed by Kotler and Lee (2005), which puts forward a set of marketing communication strategies that can be used to promote a corporation. The authors identify the strategies used by the top 14 companies operating in the UAE in their CSR disclosure in the fall of 2018 and the spring of 2023, respectively. The authors note any changes that have occurred over time and differences between the distinct business sectors. Findings The findings indicate a continuing reliance on the marketing communication strategies associated with corporate philanthropy, cause promotion and being a good corporate citizen. All of the corporations in the study showed evidence of engaging in an increasing diversity of CSR initiatives and a corresponding diversity in the marketing communication strategies they used to promote them. Practical implications Corporations wishing to promote themselves through their CSR activities and build a positive reputation would do well to select a diverse set of CSR activities communicated in a variety of ways. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first longitudinal, comparative study examining the CSR marketing strategies of the top corporations in the UAE. As such, it contributes to the ongoing debate on CSR in the Middle East in general and to understanding more about the approach as well as the changes in approach to CSR in a Muslim-majority Middle-eastern and secular developing economy, the impact of CSR legislation and government regulation on CSR disclosures in different business sectors and the promotional opportunities afforded by effective CSR disclosure within the UAE in particular.

A study on substance abuse awareness and usage trends within the construction sector

Purpose To address safety risks, worker well-being concerns and productivity losses in construction due to substance misuse, this study aims to explore awareness and usage levels of various substances among Nigerian construction professionals. The findings aim to inform targeted interventions and policy development to tackle these industry-specific challenges. Design/methodology/approach A comprehensive literature review identified several substances and intoxicants commonly used in construction, which informed the development of a well-structured questionnaire. This questionnaire was distributed to both construction professionals and nonprofessionals. The Shapiro-Wilk test assessed the normality of awareness and utilization scores for each substance, while the Kruskal-Wallis H-test explored significant differences in awareness and usage scores among different respondent groups. Findings Despite reporting low awareness of substances commonly used in construction, a significant proportion (over 60%) of respondents admitted to using several of these substances in their construction activities. This highlights a concerning disconnect, with more than half (62.5%) exceeding a predefined threshold (3.5) for significant substance use. Ten out of the 16 substances surveyed fell into this category, indicating a widespread issue within the industry. Practical implications The findings of this study highlight the need for increased education and awareness programs about the dangers of substance misuse in the construction industry. Construction companies should implement regular training sessions and workshops to educate workers on the risks associated with substance use. Additionally, there should be stricter enforcement of substance use policies and routine substance testing to deter misuse. These measures can enhance safety, improve worker well-being and boost overall productivity in the construction industry. Originality/value The insights from this study can inform the development of international policies and best practices for substance use prevention and worker well-being in the construction industry. Sharing these findings with international organizations, policymakers and industry stakeholders can help create broader guidelines and frameworks adaptable for implementation in various countries.

Global resurgence: private asset reconstruction companies as legal catalysts for financial stability in India and beyond

Purpose This study aims to transcend geographical boundaries and provide insights into innovative strategies used by Indian Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs) in managing distressed assets. The study examines the origins, evolution, challenges and opportunities faced by ARCs to derive lessons that can be universally applicable and serve as a valuable blueprint for global investors and institutions seeking effective strategies in managing distressed assets. From a legal and compliance angle, this opens up many perspectives that would help plug loopholes and grey zones within the legal ambit for organisations and institutions. Design/methodology/approach The study invokes a critical review of existing literature, news, discussions and publicly available information from reliable sources such as the central bank’s websites to develop the viewpoints and provide recommendations. Findings ARCs face challenges, recovering only 19.15% of distressed assets in 2022. Despite constraints like funding, governance issues and regulatory hurdles, there is a substantial opportunity for investors in the Rs. 9.6 lakh crore non-performing assets. The study suggests strategic assessments by banks, emphasises ARCs’ roles in specific sectors and calls for regulatory adjustments. With diverse investors and favourable regulations, this evolving landscape offers significant global opportunities for policymakers and investors in distressed assets. Practical implications This study serves as a valuable guide for shaping resilient policies, fostering cross-border collaborations and optimising distressed asset management strategies on a global scale. Originality/value This study breaks new ground by examining the private ARCs sector within an emerging economy’s dynamics, presenting insights relevant to global distressed markets. This study serves as a unique resource for those navigating the complexities of distressed markets globally, providing insights that can inform strategies, policies and academic discussions in the broader financial landscape.

Homeostasis and self-regulation

ABSTRACT Homeostasis, a self-regulating process that aims for stability, is presented to be the most fundamental regulatory principle of the psyche. Stability, or avoiding the extremes, is crucial for survival. The mind operates on different layers of homeostasis. Freud’s three phylogenetic layers and regulating principles, namely nirvana, constancy, and psychic structure, are reviewed here. The self-image and its identity of perception form the core of the structure. In a clinical context, a cure that deviates too much from the self-image is perceived as threatening stability. The therapeutic relationship is an ideal setting for fostering the ego’s mentalization capacity and the development of psychic structure. This paper demonstrates how mentalization and autonomous self-regulation challenge pathologic homeostatic regulation through clinical examples. The defensive resistance to cure, with its intriguing deep unconscious phylogenetic roots in homeostatic regulation, underscores the practical implications of these theoretical viewpoints in a clinical setting.

Interconnectedness between Islamic and conventional banks: a multilayer network view

Purpose This study aims to examine information (stock return, volatility and extreme risk) spillovers and interconnectedness within dual-banking systems. Design/methodology/approach Using multilayer information spillover networks, this paper conduct a deep analysis of contagion dynamics among 24 Islamic and 46 conventional banks from 2006 to 2022. Findings The findings show the network’s rapid response to financial shocks. Through cross-sector analysis, this paper identify information spillovers between and within Islamic and conventional banking systems. Furthermore, this research illustrates distinct roles played by Islamic and conventional banks within the multilayer network structure, contingent upon the nature of the financial shock. Practical implications Understanding the differential roles of Islamic and conventional banks in information transmission can aid policymakers and financial institutions in devising more effective risk management strategies, thereby enhancing financial stability within dual-banking systems. Originality/value This study contributes to the literature by emphasizing the necessity of examining contagion mechanisms beyond traditional single-layer network structures, shedding light on the shadow dynamics of information transmission in dual-banking systems.

The remote revolution: assessing the impact of working from home on finance professionals

The aim of this study is to investigate how remote work affects job performance. It suggests that factors such as the work environment, employee productivity, and work-life balance play a role in mediating this impact. The study also explores how remote work influences employee performance through these variables. The findings of this research have practical implications for businesses looking to evaluate the effectiveness of their remote work policies, especially during the ongoing coronavirus crisis. One distinctive feature of this study is its questionnaire, which has been specifically designed to capture the effects of COVID-19. Data were collected through an online survey distributed to workers in Syria. The survey, which utilized a Likert scale, was sent via email to around 2650 employees and was also shared on social media platforms. A total of 300 respondents took part in the survey. To address the research questions, structural equation modelling was employed in this study. The results indicated that remote work resulted in increased enjoyment, satisfaction, and motivation among employees, ultimately improving job performance. It is worth noting that while this research focuses on examining these benefits within the context of Syria, there is potential for external validity among other countries affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.