Positive Rate Research Articles

Retail Karma: How Our Shopping Sins Influence Evaluation of Service Failures

Abstract Consumers have an intuitive belief in “karma” which dictates that bad (good) actions lead to bad (good) outcomes. Consequently, consumers perceive a causal connection between their own wrongdoing toward a company and a subsequent service failure that they experience in their interactions with another company. Eight experiments employing different contexts consistently show that consumers who have previously wronged a company (compared to those in a control group) evaluate another unrelated company more positively in response to a service failure by this company. We argue that this more positive evaluation is due to the greater blame consumers assign to themselves as dictated by the “karmic beliefs” held by consumers whereby the subsequent poor service by a different firm is seen as a karmic payback for their own prior transgression. The proposed effect is mitigated when a person’s karmic belief is reduced. We also examine a number of alternative explanations (e.g., negative experiences, moral balancing, and immanent justice reasoning) and find that our observed effect is more consistent with a karma-based account.

È un complimento?, Ist das ein Kompliment für dich?. Implicit Compliments in Italian and German Social Networks

Compliment is one of the most widely studied speech acts, as the extensive literature devoted to this topic shows. However, researches mainly focus on formulaic complimenting, probably because explicit compliments are far more frequent than the implicit ones. The present contribution aims to investigate implicit compliments, i.e., those where hearers «need to infer the corresponding implicature for their interpretation» (MAÍZ-ARÉVALO, 2012, p. 983; cf. also BOYLE, 2000), in a corpus of digital exchanges in Italian and German social networking sites, Instagram and WhatsApp. Firstly, the study examines and compares, from both a qualitative and quantitative point of view, the linguistic patterns used to express implicit compliments in the two languages; then, through a detailed analysis of the reactions of compliments’ addressees it explores how these speech acts are perceived by Italian and German social network users and what response types are mainly used by the complimented person in order to react to the implicit positive evaluation.

Effectiveness of Online Interactive Education in Dental Radiology

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of an interactive education approach in oral and maxillofacial radiology for dentists, utilizing the online interactive educational program Mentimeter. Seven continuing education sessions for dentists in oral and maxillofacial radiology were conducted employing Mentimeter. Following these sessions, surveys gauged participants' responses to the learning method and its effectiveness. The questionnaire comprised 20 questions categorized into convenience, active learning, academic achievement, time management, and lecture quality. Among about 300 participants, 222 responded to the survey, with 74 (33.3%) having prior experience in similar education. Across categories of active learning, academic achievement, and lecture quality, participants consistently rated the method with an average score exceeding 4 out of 5, indicating a highly positive response. Statistically significant gender differences were observed in 9 out of 20 questions, with female respondents providing more positive evaluations than males. Respondents without prior similar education reported enhanced focus and understanding compared to those with experience. No statistically significant differences were observed in other survey questions. In the realm of continuing education in oral and maxillofacial radiology for dentists, the interactive educational program Mentimeter emerges as an effective tool, fostering positive academic achievements through active learning.

The structure and correlates of vegan stereotypes

Previous research suggests that people hold both positive and negative stereotypes of vegans, but little is known about the specific content of those stereotypes. In two studies (total N = 2,027), we identified the structure of meat-eaters’ stereotypes of vegans and developed a scale to measure them. Stereotypes of vegans assorted into three positive (compassionate, healthy, and self-disciplined) and three negative (unconventional, condescending, and unhealthy) dimensions. Meat-eaters perceived vegans more positively when they understood their motivations for their diet, were familiar with vegans, and shared their concerns for the environment. In contrast, meat-eaters who perceived vegans more negatively were more conservative, had a strong meat-eating identity, and were highly motivated to eat meat. Whereas most attitudes predicted overall positive and negative evaluations of vegans, some predicted specific stereotypes of vegans. This model and scale provide a foundation for vegan stereotype research and for improving intergroup relations between meat-eaters and vegans.

How rarity and exclusivity influence types of perceived value for luxury

The purpose of this study is to investigate how exclusivity and rarity (natural versus virtual) influence consumers’ perceived value (functional, social and emotional) for luxury. Data were collected through an online panel. Luxury product categories including bags, wines, shoes and jewellery were selected as research stimuli. Structural equation modelling was used to test the hypotheses. Results showed that perceived natural rarity was a positive and significant predictor for all three types of consumers’ perceived value and across all four product categories. Perceived virtual rarity was a positive and significant predictor only for perceived functional value. Perceived exclusivity did not show any significant effects on value across all categories. This study is the first to provide theoretical support that exclusivity and rarity may have different functions in luxury marketing implementations. It provides updated empirical evidence showing traditional marketing tactic, such as natural rarity, still receive positive social and emotional evaluations among contemporary consumers.

Development and Validation of an Algorithm Model for Predicting Heat Sink Effects during Pulmonary Thermal Ablation

The aim of this study was to develop an algorithm model to predict the heat sink effect during thermal ablation of lung tumors and to assist doctors in the formulation and adjustment of surgical protocols. The heat sink effect is an important factor affecting the therapeutic effect of tumor thermal ablation. At present, there is no algorithm model to predict the intraoperative heat sink effect automatically, which needs to be measured manually, which lacks accuracy and consumes time. To construct a segmentation model based on a convolutional neural network that can automatically identify and segment pulmonary nodules and vascular structure and measure the distance between the nodule and vascular. First, the classical Faster RCNN model was used as the nodule detection network. After obtaining the bounding box of pulmonary nodules, the VSPP-NET model was used to segment nodules in the bounding box. The distance from the nodule to the vasculature was measured after the surrounding vasculature was segmented by the VSPP-NET model. The lung CT images of 392 patients with pulmonary nodules were used as the training data for the algorithm. 68 cases were used as algorithm validation data, 29 as nodule algorithm test data, and 80 as vascular algorithm test data. We compared the heat sink effect of 29 cases of data with the results of the algorithm model and expert segmentation and compared the difference between the two results. In pulmonary CT image vasculature segmentation, the recall and precision of the algorithm model reached >0.88 and >0.78, respectively. The average time for automatic segmentation of each image model is 29 seconds, and the average time for manual segmentation is 158 seconds. The output image of the model shows that the results of nodule segmentation and nodule distance measurement are satisfactory. In terms of heat sink effect prediction, the positive rate of the algorithm group was 28.3%, and that of the expert group was 32.1%, with no significant difference between the two groups (p=0.687). The algorithm model developed in this study shows good performance in predicting the heat sink effect during pulmonary thermal ablation. It can improve the speed and accuracy of nodule and vessel segmentation, save ablation planning time, reduce the interference of human factors, and provide more reference information for surgeons to make ablation plans to improve the ablation effect.

Generative Artificial Intelligence Image Tools among Future Designers: A Usability, User Experience, and Emotional Analysis

Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) image tools hold the promise of revolutionizing a designer’s creative process. The increasing supply of this type of tool leads us to consider whether they suit future design professionals. This study aims to unveil if three GenAI image tools—Midjourney 5.2, DreamStudio beta, and Adobe Firefly 2—meet future designers’ expectations. Do these tools have good Usability, show sufficient User Experience (UX), induce positive emotions, and provide satisfactory results? A literature review was performed, and a quantitative empirical study based on a multidimensional analysis was executed to answer the research questions. Sixty users used the GenAI image tools and then responded to a holistic evaluation framework. The results showed that while the GenAI image tools received favorable ratings for Usability, they fell short in achieving high scores, indicating room for improvement. None of the platforms received a positive evaluation in all UX scales, highlighting areas for enhancement. The benchmark comparison revealed that all platforms, except for Adobe Firefly’s Efficiency scale, require enhancements in pragmatic and hedonic qualities. Despite inducing neutral to above-average positive emotions and minimal negative emotions, the overall satisfaction was moderate, with Midjourney aligning more closely with user expectations. This study emphasizes the need for significant improvements in Usability, positive emotional resonance, and result satisfaction, even more so in UX, so that GenAI image tools can meet future designers’ expectations.

Application of entertainment virtual technology based on network information resources in piano teaching

With the rapid development of digital technology, e-learning and robot technology are gradually applied in various fields. As an innovative form of traditional piano education, digital piano teaching is faced with the challenge of how to improve the learning effect and add interest. The purpose of this study is to explore the application of e-learning and virtual robot technology in digital piano teaching, so as to provide an effective teaching method and improve the learning experience and effectiveness of learners. This paper uses e-learning platform and virtual technology software to create a virtual piano learning environment. Through robotics, interaction with learners is achieved to simulate a real piano teacher. Design appropriate teaching content and assessment methods to ensure that learners can fully understand and master relevant knowledge and skills. The results show that the digital piano teaching method using e-learning and robot virtual technology can effectively improve learners' interest and participation, improve their piano playing skills and music understanding ability. Learners give positive evaluation to this new teaching method, and think that it is highly practical and innovative.

Using Natural Language Processing for a Computer-Aided Rapid Assessment of the Human Condition in Terms of Anorexia Nervosa

This paper demonstrates how natural language processing methods can support the computer-aided rapid assessment of young adults suffering from anorexia nervosa. We applied natural language processing and machine learning techniques to develop methods that classified body image notes into four categories (sick/healthy, past tense, irony, and sentiment) and analyzed personal vocabulary. The datasets consisted of notes from 115 anorexic patients, 85 healthy participants, and 50 participants with head and neck cancer. To evaluate the usefulness of the proposed approach, we interviewed ten professional psychologists who were experts in eating disorders, eight direct (first contact) staff, and fourteen school counselors and school psychologists. The developed tools correctly differentiated the individuals suffering from anorexia nervosa, which was reflected in the linguistic profile and the results of the machine learning classification of the body image notes. The developed tool also received a positive evaluation from the psychologists specializing in treating eating disorders, school psychologists, and nurses. The obtained results indicate the potential of using natural language processing techniques for the computer-aided rapid assessment of a person’s condition in terms of anorexia nervosa. This method could be applied as both a screening tool and for the regular monitoring of people at risk of eating disorders.

Exploring the Dynamics of Airline Service Attribute Quality: Identifying Satisfiers and Dissatisfiers

This study seeks to explore the link between the attributes of airline service quality and overall satisfaction. While previous research has suggested a direct connection, this work proposes that attribute quality can have varying effects on satisfaction or dissatisfaction. The analysis involved consumer data from online reviews and aligns with Herzberg, Mausner, and Snyderman’s two-factor theory. It found that certain service attributes such as cleanliness, food and beverages, and in-flight entertainment impact positive ratings as satisfying factors. On the other hand, customer service and check-in/boarding affect negative ratings as dissatisfying factors. Additionally, the study also considered individual features and types of airline products to enhance understanding of these relationships within the airline industry marketplace.

BI-REAL: A 12-session DBT skills group intervention adapted for bipolar disorder – A feasibility randomised pilot trial

International guidelines endorse psychological treatment for Bipolar Disorder (BD); however, the absence of a recognised gold-standard intervention requires further research. A Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) skills group intervention with 12 sessions was developed. This pilot randomised controlled trial (RCT) aims to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and outcomes variance of Bi-REAL – Respond Effectively, Assertively, and Live mindfully, tailored for individuals with BD, in preparation for a future RCT. Methods52 participants (female = 62.7 %; mean age = 43.2 ± 11.1) with BD were randomised by blocks to either the experimental group (EG; n = 26; Bi-REAL + Treatment as Usual, TAU) receiving 12 weekly 90-minutes sessions, or the control group (CG; n = 26, TAU). Feasibility and acceptability were assessed with a multimethod approach (qualitative interviews, semi-structured clinical interviews and a battery of self-report questionnaires – candidate main outcomes Bipolar Recovery Questionnaire (BRQ) and brief Quality of Life for Bipolar Disorder (QoL.BD)). All participants were evaluated at baseline (T0), post-intervention (T1) and 3-month follow-up (T2). ResultsAcceptability was supported by participants' positive feedback and ratings of the sessions and programme overall, as well as the treatment attendance (86.25 % of sessions attended). The trial overall retention rate was 74.5 %, with CG having a higher dropout rate across the 3-timepoints (42.31 %). A significant Time × Group interaction effect was found for BRQ and QoL.BD favouring the intervention group (p < .05). LimitationsThe assessors were not blind at T1 (only at T2). Recruitment plan was impacted due to COVID-19 restrictions and replication is questionable. High attrition rates in the CG. ConclusionsThe acceptability of Bi-REAL was sustained, and subsequent feasibility testing will be necessary to establish whether the retention rates of the overall trial improve and if feasibility is confirmed, before progressing to a definitive trial.

Perceptions and experiences of undergraduate medical students regarding social accountability: a cross-sectional study at a Subsaharan African medical school

BackgroundMedical schools are called to be socially accountable by medical education and healthcare system stakeholders. Social accountability is a feature of excellent medical education. Medical students are essential to the development of socially accountable medical schools. Therefore, understanding the perceptions and experiences of medical students regarding social accountability is critical for efforts to improve social accountability practices and outcomes.MethodsThis cross-sectional online questionnaire-based survey used Google Forms and involved medical students in their fourth and fifth years of study at the Makerere University School of Medicine. The survey was conducted between September 2022 and October 2023. We used a study questionnaire and a validated toolkit designed by students as part of The Training for Health Equity Collaborative to gauge a school’s progress towards social accountability in medical schools to collect data on demographics, perceptions and experiences and evaluate social accountability.ResultsOut of 555 eligible medical students, 426 responded to the online questionnaire. The response rate was 77%. The mean age of the students was 25.24 ± 4.4 years. Almost three fourths of the students were male (71.3%), and slightly less than two thirds were in their fourth year of study (65%). Almost half of the students (48.1%%) evaluated the school as doing well with regard to social accountability. The evaluation items referring to community-based research and positive impact on the community had the highest mean scores. Only 6 (3.6%) students who reported hearing of social accountability had a clear understanding of social accountability. Students receiving career guidance in secondary school was associated with evaluating social accountability in the medical school as strong (p-0.003).ConclusionsMedical students evaluated the medical school favorably forsocial accountability despite lacking a clear understanding of social accountability. Receiving career guidance in secondary school was significantly associated with a positive evaluation of social accountability.

“Being an informal caregiver – strengthening resources”: mixed methods evaluation of a psychoeducational intervention supporting informal caregivers in palliative care

BackgroundInformal caregivers are key support for patients with progressive incurable diseases. However, their own needs often remain unmet. Therefore, we developed, manualised and implemented the intervention “Being an informal caregiver – strengthening resources” aiming to support and empower informal caregivers by addressing relevant information-related, physical, psychological and social needs.MethodsIn this pilot study, we evaluated the acceptance and experiences with this psychoeducational intervention. The study was conducted over two years (2019-2021). Informal caregivers were recruited from the University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf and the metropolitan region of Hamburg, Germany. The intervention was aimed at adult persons who identified themselves as an informal caregiver to an adult patient with a progressive incurable cancer and non-cancer disease. For the evaluation we used a mixed methods approach, combining a longitudinal questionnaire survey (pre-intervention, after each module, 3-months follow-up) and semi-structured interviews post-intervention. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and a paired t-Test, interviews were analysed based on the qualitative content analysis according to Mayring. Results were triangulated using a convergent triangulation design.ResultsOf 31 informal caregivers who received the intervention, 25 returned the follow-up questionnaire and 20 informal caregivers were interviewed. Triangulated results showed a high satisfaction with the implementation of the intervention. Of a broad range of subjective benefits, gaining knowledge, self-awareness and self-efficacy were most apparent. Informal caregivers reported improved preparedness, awareness of own needs as well as confidence regarding handling own emotions and interacting with the ill person. However, implementing the learned skills into daily life can be challenging due to internal and external factors. Motivations and challenges for participating as well as potential for improvement were identified.ConclusionsThis pilot study showed an overall positive evaluation and several subjective benefits of the psychoeducational intervention “Being an informal caregiver – strengthening resources”. Further research is needed to measure the efficacy of this intervention on informal caregivers’ outcomes. Therefore, a multicentre randomized prospective study is planned.

Impact of training on knowledge, confidence and attitude amongst community health volunteers in the provision of community-based palliative care in rural Kenya

ObjectivesExisting literature suggests multiple potential roles for community health volunteers (CHVs) in the provision of palliative care (PC) in low- and middle-income countries. In Kenya the role of CHV in the provision of PC has not been reported. The objective of this study was to assess knowledge, confidence, attitude, and clinical practice of community health volunteers after attending a novel palliative care (PC) training program.MethodsA total of 105 CHVs participated in a 3-day in person training followed by a 1-month in person and telephone observation period of the palliative care activities in the community. Structured questionnaires were used pre- and post-training to assess knowledge acquisition, impact on practice, and content delivery. A mixed method study design was conducted 12-month post training to assess impact on clinical practice.ResultsImmediately after training, CHV provided positive ratings on relevance and content delivery. In the month following training, CHVs evaluated 1,443 patients, referred 154, and conducted 110 and 129 tele consults with the patients and PC providers respectively. The follow up survey at 12 months revealed improved knowledge and confidence in various domains of palliative care including symptom and spiritual assessment and provision of basic nursing and bereavement care. Focus group discussions revealed the CHVs ability to interpret symptoms, make referrals, improved communication/ interpersonal relationships, spiritual intervention, patient comfort measures and health care practices as newly learned and practiced skills.ConclusionsWe noted improved knowledge, new skills and change in practice after CHVs participation in a novel training curriculum. CHVs can make important contributions to the PC work force and be first line PC providers in the community as part of larger hub and spoke care model.

Job quality in the Saudi Arabian banking sector: Implications for employee performance and organizational outcomes

Within the Saudi Arabian banking sector, the quality of work life emerges as a crucial determinant shaping employee performance. This research delves into the nuanced impacts of diverse job quality facets on employee efficacy within this domain. Employing a stratified random sampling methodology, 500 institutions were selected, yielding a 49.6% response rate, or 248 completed surveys, with the active engagement of senior management. Utilizing a quantitative paradigm, the study harnessed descriptive statistics and structural equation modeling (SEM) to elucidate the interplay between job quality dimensions and performance outcomes. The analysis revealed that elements like compensation structures, work-life equilibrium, and growth opportunities substantially influenced employee productivity. In contrast, most job quality facets garnered positive evaluations, and aspects related to wage and compensation exhibited room for enhancement. The research accentuates the imperative of elevating job quality benchmarks within the banking sector to augment employee contentment and performance metrics. This study’s insights advocate for stakeholders and policymakers to champion job quality as a pivotal driver for optimizing organizational effectiveness.

Are All Soldiers Ready for Resilience Training? An Initial Examination of Individual Readiness to Change

AbstractEmployees in high-risk occupations like the military are often provided resilience training as a way to improve mental health and performance. This training typically reflects a one-size-fits-all model, even though employees likely differ in their readiness to receive resilience training. Borrowing from the readiness to change literature, the present study examined whether employees could be categorized in terms of their readiness to receive resilience training and whether this categorization was related to perceptions of the utility of resilience training, as well as self-reported resilience and mental health symptoms. Data were collected with an anonymous survey of 1,751 U.S. soldiers in a brigade combat team. Survey items assessed readiness for resilience training, self-reported resilience, mental health symptoms, and perceptions of unit-based resilience training. Following a factor analysis that identified three categories underlying readiness for resilience training (pre-contemplation, contemplation, and action), a finite mixture analysis resulted in the identification of four classes: receptive (71%), resistant (16%), engaged (9%), and disconnected (4%). In a sub-set of the sample (n = 1054) who reported participating in unit-based resilience training, those in the engaged class reported the most positive evaluations of the program. Relative to the other three classes, soldiers in the engaged class also reported the highest level of resilience and fewest mental health symptoms. Thus, those least receptive to resilience training may have been those who needed it most. These results can be used to tailor resilience interventions by matching intervention approach to the individual’s level of readiness to receive the training.

“I Feel Qatari Today […] I Feel Disabled Today, […] I Feel Like a Migrant Worker Today…”: On Sport, Leadership, and Moral Legitimacy

This study examines the public’s perceptions of a speech delivered by FIFA’s president in a press conference one day before the Qatar 2022 FIFA Men’s World Cup. In total, 34,714 publicly available user responses were collected from news media YouTube channels in North America, Europe, and Asia, as well as from Twitter hashtags related to the press conference. This user-generated content was analyzed using sentiment analysis to determine the degree of positivity or negativity, followed by qualitative thematic analysis to identify specific factors influencing public perceptions of Infantino’s speech, including both positive and negative aspects. The results suggested that FIFA’s communication was “debated” due to questions and challenges posed by the public. It is noted, however, that the magnitude of negative and positive evaluations varied according to the medium used and the region. Negative evaluations related to ‘hypocrisy’, ‘lack of transparency’, and ‘diplomatic hedging’, whereas positive evaluations related to ‘symbolic communication’, ‘activist governance’, and ‘cultural appropriateness’. Using the public as a resource for institutional evaluation, this research contributes to the scholarship of sport management by analyzing the impact of communication on an organization’s moral legitimacy.

Potenzial der Mini-Kiwi (Actinidia arguta) für die Herstellung von Fruchtaufstrich. Ein erster Einblick

Hardy kiwifruits represent an unexplored agricultural resource for South Tyrol which could be of particular interest to the region by contributing to agricultural biodiversity and the valorisation of minor crops in the area. The main limitation of this crop is its short shelf-life as a fresh raw material, which is related to its intrinsic perishability. Processing hardy kiwis into canned products could be a valid strategy for encouraging the production and spread of this crop throughout the territory, enabling food products derived from it to be available all year round. This study evaluated the suitability of hardy kiwifruits for processing into spreads. Results indicate that no pectin needs to be added to ensure that the fruit spread has a pleasant texture, and browning over time occurred slowly, despite the preserve not being stabilised with antioxidant agents, suggesting that the shelf-life of such a preserve might be quite long. Finally, from a preliminary sensory evaluation, consumers rated the preserve positively with regard to its texture, sweetness and flavour, and it obtained a positive overall evaluation from an organoleptic point of view, indicating that this crop has potential for use in the production of fruit spreads.

Tasting and labeling meat substitute products can affect consumers’ product evaluations and preferences

Moving towards plant-based diets and reducing meat consumption is key to achieving the Paris climate targets. One option for reducing meat consumption is replacing meat products with substitutes. In two field experiments, we tested how labeling and tasting experiences with substitutes affected omnivores’ evaluations of such products and investigated the latter’s stated and revealed preferences regarding the consumption of meat substitutes and reduction of meat consumption. In our first experiment, we randomly labeled meat substitutes vegetarian or meat products, finding that this labeling resulted in more positive evaluations of the effects of the product on the environment, animal welfare, and health. However, labeling did not directly affect the assessment of the products’ taste or participants’ stated and revealed preferences regarding modifications to their food consumption. Nevertheless, we find evidence that vegetarian labeling indirectly affects the intention to consume more meat substitutes by enhancing climate and health-related product evaluations (i.e., significant mediation effects). Our second experiment shows that tasting meat substitutes results in a more positive assessment of the product’s taste and texture than not tasting them. However, tasting did not directly affect the perceived effect of meat substitutes on health, the environment, and animal welfare, nor stated and revealed preferences. In contrast, we find strong indirect effects of the tasting experience on stated and revealed preferences regarding consuming more meat substitutes and plant-based dishes mediated by improvements in product taste and texture evaluations (i.e., significant mediation effects). The theoretical and policy implications of these findings are discussed.

Exploring Metschnikowia pulcherrima as a Co-Fermenter with Saccharomyces cerevisiae: Influence on Wine Aroma during Fermentation and Ageing

Non-Saccharomyces yeasts, particularly Metschnikowia pulcherrima, are considered alternatives to SO2 in winemaking, combating specific microorganisms. The sensory profile of the wine is contingent upon the type of yeast, the fermentation conditions, and the concentration and mode of application with Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains (whether pure or used in mixed/sequential co-fermentation). This study assessed the aroma in red wines produced with S. cerevisiae (Sc) and M. pulcherrima (Mp, non-Sc), incorporating variations in the method of addition and the inclusion or exclusion of SO2. The enological parameters of the wines were slightly affected. Volatile compounds were analysed in the wines through gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) at three moments: at the end of malolactic fermentation (MLF) and after 6 and 9 months of bottle ageing. Sequential fermentation of Sc and Mp reduced the concentration of most identified alcohols and acids, which is favourable, as these compounds can yield undesirable aromas at high concentrations. Regardless of the yeast mixture and Mp dose, a majority of the acetate esters and ethyl esters were quantified at concentrations above their perception thresholds, thus enhancing the sensory quality of the wines. Sensory analysis of wines showed generally positive evaluations. Using non-Saccharomyces as an alternative to SO2 improves the aromatic profile of wines.