Individual Resources Research Articles

Coping with old-age poverty – the role of agency and different forms of societal support

Abstract Across Europe, there is a substantial but varying number of older people struggling to make ends meet. We examine how older people with a low income make use of their individual resources and those that are available from their family and community as well as public support (in cash and in kind) when coping with poverty. This article is based on the experience of old-age poverty, drawing on 59 life-course interviews with low-income older people in Norway, Germany, Estonia, Hungary, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom. We introduce a typology of coping strategies with two main dimensions: the capacity for agency and the capacity for transformation. We show that coping strategies vary not only based on individual factors and appropriate social policy support, but also on further societal support provided by civil society, families or social networks that supplements or compensates for gaps in social policy provision.

The role of the nursing work environment, head nurse leadership and presenteeism in job embeddedness among new nurses: a cross-sectional multicentre study

BackgroundThe retention of new nurses has become a major challenge for medical institutions. Job embeddedness has been seen as a valuable lens for examining nurse turnover, but greater details about job embeddedness are rarely disclosed, especially among new nurses. This study aimed to reveal how the nursing work environment, head nurse leadership and presenteeism shape job embeddedness in this population from the perspective of conservation of resources (COR) theory.MethodA cross-sectional multicentre study involving 436 participants from 10 cities and 33 hospitals was conducted over 4 months. Samples were selected using a two-stage convenience sampling method. A sequential multiple mediation model performed with SPSS-PROCESS was used to analyse the relationships among the nursing work environment, head nurse leadership, presenteeism and job embeddedness.ResultsThe nursing work environment not only directly affects the job embeddedness of new nurses (β = 0.480, p < 0.001) but also indirectly affects it through the sequential multiple mediating effects of head nurse leadership and presenteeism (R2 = 0.535, F = 82.160, p < 0.001).ConclusionsNew nurses’ job embeddedness needs to be improved. These results suggest that preserving adequate resources for new nurses, such as work environment resources, head nurse leadership resources, and individual productivity resources, is an effective way to shape their job embeddedness. In addition, when a certain resource is insufficient, fully considering the principles of investment and buffering between resources and providing reciprocal, alternative, or buffer resources in a timely manner are necessary to improve new nurses’ job embeddedness.Large language modelsLarge language models (LLMs), such as ChatGPT, were not used during the writing of this article. An expert native English speaker performed language revision.

How sustainable is resilience? A mixed-methods study on the COVID-19-pandemic as a challenge to resilience resources of older adults who previously recovered from depression

Objectives Despite expanding knowledge about the internal and external resources that contribute to resilience among individuals who have experienced depression, the long-term accessibility and protectiveness of these resources across different stressors is unknown. We investigated whether and how the resilience resources of individuals who previously recovered from late-life depression remained protective during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods We used a sequential explanatory mixed methods design. Quantitative data were derived from two psychiatric case-control cohorts and included twelve repeated measures during the COVID-19 pandemic (n = 465, aged ≥ 60). Qualitative data included two sequential interviews held in 2020 (n = 25) and 2021 (n = 19). We used thematic analysis to determine the protective resources after depression and during the COVID-19 pandemic and linear mixed models to examine the effect of these resources on change in depressive symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results While resources of ‘Taking agency’, ‘Need for rest’, ‘Managing thought processes’ and ‘Learning from depression’ remained accessible and protective during the pandemic, ‘Social support’ and ‘Engaging in activities’ did not. ‘Negotiating with lockdown measures’, ‘changing social contact’ and ‘changing activities’ were compensating strategies. Quantitative data confirmed the protectiveness of social contact, social cohesion, sense of mastery, physical activity, staying active and entertained and not following the media. Conclusion Many of the resources that previously helped to recover from depression also helped to maintain good mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Where accessibility and protectiveness declined, compensatory strategies or new resources were used. Hence, the sustainability of resilience is enabled through adaptation and compensation processes.

A qualitative investigation on the resilience of parents of children with autism spectrum disorder in Macau

Parenting a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be more stressful and discouraging than parenting a child with typical development, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to unpack the factors and processes contributing to resilience among parents of children with ASD and the difficulties they faced during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns in a City in China (Macau SAR). We conducted individual, in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 16 parents of 13 children with ASD (11 mothers and 5 fathers; Mage = 42.36 years; 12 boys and 1 girl; Mage = 8.08 years). Data was analyzed using a qualitative thematic analysis approach. Overall, the results revealed several noteworthy themes: stressors, mental health, marital relationships, individual resources, social support, coping strategies, and resilience. The findings of this study deepen our understanding of the challenges that parents of children with ASD face, by identifying factors and processes contributing to resilience during the lockdowns enforced during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is especially relevant in a city like Mainland China where there is a dearth of various support resources for families that have children with special needs. Limitations, implications, and future directions are discussed.

Exploring promotion factors of resilience among emergency nurses: a qualitative study in Shanghai, China

ObjectiveTo qualitatively explore the factors that enhance resilience among emergency nurses (ENs).DesignThis study is an exploratory qualitative investigation. Semistructured in-depth interviews were used for data collection, while qualitative content analysis...

Ayurvedic Herbal Medicines: A Literature Review of Their Applications in Female Reproductive Health.

Ayurveda, an ancient holistic and personalized healing system originating from the Indian subcontinent, has been gaining increasing attention as a complementary and alternative medical practice for treating various health conditions, including those related to women's reproductive well-being. This comprehensive literature review examines a wide array of experimental and clinical studies exploring the diverse facets of Ayurvedic interventions in addressing issues such as menstrual irregularities, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), infertility, and menopausal symptoms. The paper specifically focuses on discussing the available data regarding the efficacy of Tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum), ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), ginger (Zingiber officinale), cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum), turmeric (Curcuma longa), and Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), which have traditionally been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. The synthesis of literature not only highlights the potential benefits of these Ayurvedic interventions, but also critically assesses the methodological rigor of existing studies, identifying research gaps, and proposing directions for future investigations. While acknowledging the need for further rigorous research and clinical trials, the review emphasizes the benefits of collaborative and integrative healthcare. This review aims to serve as a valuable resource for healthcare practitioners, researchers, and individuals seeking holistic and natural alternatives for female reproductive health management.

The Effect of Digital Mental Health Literacy Interventions on Mental Health: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Accelerated by technological advancements and the recent global pandemic, there is burgeoning interest in digital mental health literacy (DMHL) interventions that can positively affect mental health. However, existing work remains inconclusive regarding the effectiveness of DMHL interventions. This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the components and modes of DMHL interventions, their moderating factors, and their long-term impacts on mental health literacy and mental health. We used a random-effects model to conduct meta-analyses and meta-regressions on moderating effects of DMHL interventions on mental health. Using 144 interventions with 206 effect sizes, we found a moderate effect of DMHL interventions in enhancing distal mental health outcomes (standardized mean difference=0.42, 95% CI -0.10 to 0.73; P<.001) and a large effect in increasing proximal mental health literacy outcomes (standardized mean difference=0.65, 95% CI 0.59-0.74; P<.001). Uptake of DMHL interventions was comparable with that of control conditions, and uptake of DMHL interventions did not moderate the effects on both proximal mental health literacy outcomes and distal mental health outcomes. DMHL interventions were as effective as face-to-face interventions and did not differ by platform type or dosage. DMHL plus interventions (DMHL psychoeducation coupled with other active treatment) produced large effects in bolstering mental health, were more effective than DMHL only interventions (self-help DMHL psychoeducation), and were comparable with non-DMHL interventions (treatment as usual). DMHL interventions demonstrated positive effects on mental health that were sustained over follow-up assessments and were most effective in enhancing the mental health of emerging and older adults. For theory building, our review and meta-analysis found that DMHL interventions are as effective as face-to-face interventions. DMHL interventions confer optimal effects on mental health when DMHL psychoeducation is combined with informal, nonprofessional active treatment components such as skills training and peer support, which demonstrate comparable effectiveness with that of treatment as usual (client-professional interactions and therapies). These effects, which did not differ by platform type or dosage, were sustained over time. Additionally, most DMHL interventions are found in Western cultural contexts, especially in high-income countries (Global North) such as Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom, and limited research is conducted in low-income countries in Asia and in South American and African countries. Most of the DMHL studies did not report information on the racial or ethnic makeup of the samples. Future work on DMHL interventions that target racial or ethnic minority groups, particularly the design, adoption, and evaluation of the effects of culturally adaptive DMHL interventions on uptake and mental health functioning, is needed. Such evidence can drive the adoption and implementation of DMHL interventions at scale, which represents a key foundation for practice-changing impact in the provision of mental health resources for individuals and the community. PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD42023363995; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023363995.

Sustainable Energy Transitions in Uganda: Influential Determinants of the Renewable Energy Landscape

This comprehensive review explores Uganda's journey towards sustainable energy transitions, emphasizing the pivotal factors influencing their evolution and acceptance. A thorough examination of the current state of Uganda's renewable energy sector is presented, shedding light on both the driving forces propelling its growth and the formidable challenges it confronts. The paper meticulously dissects the intricate interplay between governmental policies, technological advancements, financial mechanisms, and societal awareness, illuminating the dynamic landscape within which Uganda's sustainable energy initiatives unfold. Furthermore, an exploration of the socioeconomic and environmental implications of these transitions is undertaken, recognizing their profound impact on livelihoods, economies, and the ecological equilibrium. In addition to its analytical depth, this paper proffers a set of insightful and pragmatic recommendations, articulating a strategic roadmap aimed at accelerating progress towards a more sustainable, resilient, and environmentally conscious energy future in Uganda. By synthesizing robust research with actionable guidance, this review stands as an invaluable resource for policymakers, stakeholders, and individuals with a vested interest in Uganda's sustainable energy trajectory. It not only elucidates the current landscape but also provides a forward-looking perspective, positioning itself as a catalyst for positive change in the realm of sustainable energy. Keywords: Sustainable Energy, Renewable Energy, Energy Transition, Uganda, Policy, Socio-Economic Impacts, Environmental Sustainability, Renewable Scenario

Immersive sensory evaluation: Practical use of virtual reality sensory booth

Sensory booths enhanced with VR technology have displayed promising potential for improving sensory evaluation, perception research, and educational experiences. However, there remains an insufficient of data on VR's utilization in sensory science. In our research, we designed a virtual sensory booth (SB) utilizing Virtual Reality (VR) to complement sensory analysis and foster applications in the field of sensory science. The experiment involved the utilization of diverse sensory methods and product samples for examination within the virtual SB, which was compared to the traditional SB. A total of forty-three participants took part in the study to scrutinize the implications of the virtual SB. The results of a post-VR questionnaire demonstrated the participants' positive reception of the virtual SB. The study's findings suggest that the virtual SB could serve as a valuable resource for sensory scientists and individuals keen on exploring the emerging opportunities offered by VR. Notably, the virtual SB has proven to have potential applications, particularly within the food industry, with a special focus on sensory science.•Virtualized SB incorporating VR technology is a promising sensory evaluation and perception studies approach.•Virtual SB intends to use various sensory methods in VR applications for sensory analysis.•The creation of new VR-based technological solutions for sensory analysis can serve as a supplement to traditional sensory analysis.

A Call to Action: How Social Work Programs Can Respond to Student Food Insecurity.

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated student food insecurity on college campuses and exposed the vulnerability of institutions with no food emergency response. During the COVID-19 pandemic and for years to come, the need for social work to lead efforts on college campuses to address student food insecurity is even greater. The need will continue to be significant for social workers in higher education to support students with basic needs, including resources for food, housing, childcare, and transportation. As has been true after other pandemics and economic downturns, professionally trained social workers are critical to brokering resources for individuals in crisis. This article critically examines the role of social work education in addressing the issue of student food insecurity. Through a conceptual lens, it explores the many dimensions of this problem and highlights vital contributions that social work can make within a higher education setting to alleviate food insecurity, enhance student well-being, and promote equitable opportunities for academic success.

Effects of gender equality and social costs of failure on early-stage entrepreneurship activity

PurposeIn this study, we question: how do the social costs of failure interact with gendered institutions to affect the early stage entrepreneurship activity? We address this question by employing the institutional theory and a unique dataset of 286,989 entrepreneurs across 35 countries.Design/methodology/approachTo test our hypotheses, we use a multilevel modeling analysis that nests individual entrepreneurs within the countries. To capture individual and country-level variables, we constructed a unique dataset that combines data from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM), European Flash Barometer (EUFB), World Bank Development Indicator (WDI), World Bank Doing Business Report (WBDB) and World Economic Forum (WEF).FindingsOur analysis confirms that higher levels of the country-level gender equality positively correlate with the early-stage entrepreneurship activity of women. Moreover, we find that this positive relationship is amplified in institutional environments with high social costs of failure, suggesting that societal intolerance for failure can exacerbate the negative effect of gender inequality on the participation of women in entrepreneurship.Research limitations/implicationsOur research contributes to academic interest on the role of legitimacy in women entrepreneurship and is of particular interest to international business scholars, seeking a better understanding of multidimensional construction of institutional frameworks across countries. In this study, we set out to address an important research question: how do the social costs of failure interact with gendered institutions to affect entrepreneurship activity? Our study provides a comprehensive portrait of gendered institutions by including the framework conditions of education, healthcare and political power. We found that in societies with gender equality, the likelihood of individuals engaging in the early-stage entrepreneurship activity is higher and that the positive relationship is strengthened in national environments with high social costs of failure.Practical implicationsOur study findings underscore the need for government policies addressing global gender gaps in economic empowerment. In particular, policies assisting women in obtaining education in high-growth industries like information technology or providing funding to women-dominated industries may foster activity for women seeking to do business in such industries. Such policies connect the early-stage entrepreneurship activities with gender equality concerns and initiatives.Social implicationsRegarding the social costs of failure construct, specifically, prior studies generally focus narrowly on the context of failed entrepreneurs. We cast a wider net on men and women entrepreneurs’ entry decisions (irrespective of prior experience with business failure) and provide new views on the effects of social costs of failure on entrepreneurial ecosystems. We also extend the research on the legitimacy of women as entrepreneurs with the gender equality construct.Originality/valueUnlike previous studies, which often focus on the “3Ms” of market, money and management, our research adopts a more holistic perspective. We recognize that the opportunities and challenges faced by entrepreneurs are shaped not only by individual skills and resources but also by the broader macroenvironment. By incorporating the framework conditions of education, healthcare and political power, alongside the intricate interplay of social costs and norms, our study paints a comprehensive picture of the landscape of female entrepreneurship.

Social capital and career adaptability: the mediating role of psychological capital

PurposeThis study’s main objective is to determine the extent to which social capital and psychological capital can explain differences in career adaptability among higher education students.Design/methodology/approachThe study employed a quantitative approach, utilizing a survey research design. Data were gathered using an online questionnaire completed by 384 fourth-year undergraduate agricultural students in Iran. The inverse square root and multistage sampling methods were used to determine the sample size. The partial least squares-structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) method examined the associations between latent variables.FindingsThe results suggest that social and psychological capital significantly influence the career adaptability of agricultural students, highlighting their significance in enhancing career adaptability. Moreover, psychological capital positively mediates the relationship between social capital and career adaptability.Practical implicationsAgricultural higher education institutions must focus on developing students' social and psychological capital to cultivate career adaptability in agricultural students. Agricultural higher education institutions, for example, should help students develop soft skills.Originality/valueThis study offers novel insights into the significance of individual resources, such as social and psychological capital, in enhancing the career adaptability of students. In addition, the key contribution of this study is the researchers' empirical evidence that multiple career resources are interconnected (social capital, career adaptability, and psychological capital).

Librarians’ views of the readiness of university libraries in Indonesia to adopt virtual and augmented reality

PurposeThis study aims to determine the extent of virtual reality (VR)/augmented reality (AR) adoption in university libraries in Indonesia and identify librarians’ views of library readiness. The assessment centers on two crucial dimensions: library readiness, gauged by commitment and efficacy, and librarian readiness, appraised through cognitive and affective aspects.Design/methodology/approachThe research features a survey-based quantitative method. A sample of 259 librarians from university libraries, all members of the Indonesian Higher Education Library Forum, responded to the online survey.FindingsIndonesian university libraries, especially in Central Java, express strong interest in VR/AR despite low current adoption. Librarians believe in their commitment and efficacy for adoption, with improvements needed in budget procurement and human resources. Librarians are optimistic about innovating academic activities with VR/AR, despite concerns about collaboration, data governance and human resource insecurity. The research underscores the simultaneous influence of librarians’ and libraries’ readiness on VR/AR adoption, emphasizing their interconnectedness and mutual support within library management.Practical implicationsThere are practical implications for library institutions in Indonesia in terms of understanding the attendant opportunities and challenges when preparing organizational ecosystems. These findings provide a broad overview of VR/AR adoption in university libraries in Indonesia and contribute to understanding the specific needs and interests of universities in Indonesia considering adopting VR/AR. In addition to preparing adequate infrastructure, libraries should ensure the availability of adequate human resources.Originality/valueIn the Indonesian context, this study, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, makes the first attempt to examine the librarian’s view as part of library management to face the dilemmas that may arise during the adoption of VR/AR despite university libraries’ commitment and efficacy to enable this technology. This research also identifies librarians’ cognitive and affective readiness as individual characteristics and resources able to influence adequate adoption.

The influence of entrepreneurs’ multi-country resources and mobility on transnational entrepreneurship survivability

Abstract This study examines the role of entrepreneurs’ multi-country resources and mobility in achieving transnational entrepreneurship survivability. Outlined by the Forms of Capital model through the context of transnational entrepreneurship, this research provides a layer of understanding on the individual-opportunity-venture nexus in entrepreneurship through to exploring the way individual resources contribute towards venture survivability in a dynamic environment. The findings indicate that there are four core configurations associated with long-term entrepreneurial survivability, with geographical mobility is present as the necessary condition in achieving the outcome of interest. Theory-wise, this study speaks to the discourse of individual-opportunity-venture nexus through the configurations revealed from the findings. Practice-wise, the configurations will be useful for transnational entrepreneurs and policymakers interested in developing policies to encourage transnational venture sustainability.

When doubts take over: a longitudinal study on emerging disengagement in the PhD process

The purpose of the present investigation is to shed light on the intraindividual (i.e., within-person) process of distancing from the goal of obtaining a PhD. Based on the motivational theory of action crisis, we assume that a lack of both individual (here: self-directed career management) and external (here: social support) resources may fuel doubts concerning PhD completion. An action crisis, in turn, is proposed to undermine the subsequent motivation to engage in proactive behavior and seek out social support. We analyzed five waves of longitudinal self-report data (NT1 = 2011 PhD students, 61.7% men; half-year intervals) with the random-intercept cross-lagged panel model. This method allows to separate between-person from within-person effects. As expected, we found intraindividual increases in self-directed career management and perceived social support to reduce the development of an action crisis, and vice versa. Practical implications on how to avoid a loss spiral in the PhD process are discussed.

Why can some countries perform better in resolving some social problems: A comparative study

This study explores the rationale why some countries fare better in resolving social problems such as poverty and the COVID-19 pandemic. The simple model introduces the term of resident viability and points out that the solution to a social problem with a large ratio of nonviable to viable residents requires the mobilisation of more societal resources, and the affordable price ratio of societal to individual resources is determined by country characteristics such as the cultural background, political regime, ideology towards the free-market mechanism, government efficiency and social trust. This study also makes between-country comparisons and conducts preliminary regression analyses with cross-country data, and all the results are consistent with the model predictions on the relationship between country characteristics and country performances in fighting poverty and handling the COVID-19 pandemic.

Updating standardized unit costs from a societal perspective for health economic evaluation

The aim of this work was to update the 2015 unit costs (UC) for the monetary valuation of health-related resource use from a societal perspective for the years 2019 and 2020 in Germany. The update follows the methodology of Bock et al. 2015. Based on the newly established care levels, UC for care degree 1 to 5 are now provided. To account for change in price trends during the Covid-19 pandemic, average growth rates in UC are shown from 2011-2019 and compared to 2019-2020. Updates of UC for the outpatient medical sector, remedies and aids, hospitals, (in)formal care services, and rehabilitation for 2019 and 2020 are provided. The updated UC can be used as reference values for the monetary valuation of individual resource use in health economic evaluations in Germany.

Faecal incontinence-a comprehensive review.

Faecal incontinence (FI) is a distressing and often stigmatizing condition characterised as the recurrent involuntary passage of liquid or solid faeces. The reported prevalence of FI exhibits considerable variation, ranging from 7 to 15% in the general population, with higher rates reported among older adults and women. This review explores the pathophysiology mechanisms, the diagnostic modalities and the efficiency of treatment options up to date. A review of the literature was conducted to identify the pathophysiological pathways, investigation and treatment modalities. This review provides an in-depth exploration of the intricate physiological processes that maintain continence in humans. It then guides the reader through a detailed examination of diagnostic procedures and a thorough analysis of the available treatment choices, including their associated success rates. This review is an ideal resource for individuals with a general medical background and colorectal surgeons who lack specialized knowledge in pelvic floor disorders, as it offers a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms, diagnosis, and treatment of faecal incontinence (FI).

Exploring Stress Factors and Coping Strategies in Italian Teachers after COVID-19: Evidence from Qualitative Data

Teaching is a mentally and physically demanding profession that can be a source of stress and burnout. The COVID-19 pandemic put further pressure on teachers who had to face sudden challenges, such as online teaching and difficulties in holding students’ attention in virtual environments. Research has demonstrated that the negative effects of stress factors on teachers’ wellbeing can be modulated by coping strategies. This work explores the main sources of stress that jeopardized Italian teachers’ wellbeing after the COVID-19 pandemic and the coping strategies that they adopted. Eighty-six teachers, belonging to five school institutes located in Northern Italy, took part in three semi-structured group interviews, where their perceptions about wellbeing at school and occupational stress experiences were explored. Furthermore, they completed a survey with questions about recent stressful life events and the coping strategies that they had adopted in the last month. A thematic analysis revealed stressors related to four themes: adverse work conditions, a lack of support (from both school administrators and families), precariousness, and a demanding school system. A total of 22% of teachers experienced stressful events in the last month (e.g., health problems and loss), and 30% reported that they had adopted coping strategies, especially emotion-focused ones. The findings may drive educational policies to enhance protective factors for teachers’ professional wellbeing at school by reinforcing their individual resources and coping strategies, which can help them deal with challenging situations.

Wartime (im)mobilities: effects of aspirations-capabilities on displaced Ukrainians in Canada and Germany and their viewpoints on those who remain in Ukraine

ABSTRACT In war times, what differentiates those who manage to flee from those who remain behind? Based on 468 qualitative interview and survey responses with displaced Ukrainians’ in Canada and Germany, and the aspirations-capabilities framework, we identify how macro-level policies and individual resources and aspirations combine to shape wartime (im)mobility outcomes. Canada and Germany have relaxed their entry-stay policies to facilitate the displaced populations’ arrival while Ukraine has implemented exit restrictions for conscript men aged 18–60 and, by extension, for the family members who decide to stay with them in Ukraine. Accordingly, individuals with high pre-war migration aspirations and capital have arrived in Canada, those with mid-ranging aspirations and capital have arrived in Germany, and those with high aspirations to be with the draftees have remained in Ukraine. We make a threefold contribution to forced migration studies. We argue that war acts as an amplifier of preexisting migration aspirations for some individuals, that wartime exit restriction is a distinct example of macro-level emigration policies, and that a proactive-stay-aspirations component extends the aspirations-capabilities framework’s conceptual range.