Qualitative Approach Research Articles

Comparative study of social studies curriculum in scandinavian countries in developing students' social skills

Social skills play a central role in shaping individuals who are able to adapt and contribute to society. This article analyzes the comparative social studies curriculum in Scandinavian countries (Denmark, Norway and Sweden), focusing on how students’ social skills are developed through their approach to learning. The research method used is a qualitative approach with an emphasis on document analysis and uses a horizontal descriptive approach in the context of comparative education. The results of the comparison found that Denmark emphasizes the integration of social skills in practical learning and research projects, Norway through an integrated approach with its contemporary issues while Sweden applies innovation through technology and community involvement. The comparison between the three countries revealed similarities, differences, as well as challenges and successes in the development of students’ social skills. The conclusions of this analysis provide a foundation for recommending best practices and improvements in social studies curriculum, which can be applied globally to enhance students’ social skills development in this modern era.

Microlevel analysis of how itinerant immigrant entrepreneurs underwrite local economic development in an African city

ABSTRACT Itinerant merchants are actively involved in various economic activities within and around African cities, albeit on a small scale. However, there remains a gap in understanding their contribution to host cities’ local economic development (LED). This research aims to fill this gap by examining how itinerant immigrant retailers support LED in host cities, using Wa in Ghana. Recognising their role is essential for informing location-specific development plans to boost local economies. Employing a qualitative research approach, we interviewed 52 participants, including itinerant immigrants, city residents, and officials from relevant state agencies. Thematic analysis using NVivo version 11 was employed to analyse the responses. Itinerant merchants play a crucial role in local economies by creating employment opportunities, providing income sources for residents, ensuring convenient access to goods and services, and contributing to market diversification. We discuss how these insights could inform LED policies and planning in sub-Saharan Africa.

Exploring the Internal Influence Mechanism of Group Safety Behavior of Construction Workers: Qualitative Method Approach

Exploring the Internal Influence Mechanism of Group Safety Behavior of Construction Workers: Qualitative Method Approach

The most optimal school recruitment strategies for school-based obesity prevention and health promotion research in the United States: A systematic review with Delphi study.

This systematic review with the Delphi study aimed to identify effective and resource-efficient (optimal) strategies for recruiting schools into health promotion interventions in the United States. A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Library, and CINAHL (EBSCO). A total of 116 interventions reported in 160 articles were included. Most school-based interventions did not report data regarding school recruitment duration (81%), target school size (63%), and school recruitment strategies (78%). Further, no details were provided regarding the reasons for declining to participate despite being eligible. For the Delphi, responses from 23 researchers in school-based clinical trials were collected. A qualitative descriptive approach was used for coding responses and collapsed into higher-order categories based on school recruitment strategies. Delphi participants reported that (1) creating new or leveraging pre-existing partnerships, (2) intervention champion, (3) minimal school disruptions, (4) working with open mind/flexibility, and (5) transparent communication are the most optimal school recruitment strategies. Staff time and travel were the most frequently reported costs for implementing those strategies. The overall trend in school-based obesity prevention intervention studies illustrates the importance of a better understanding school recruitment. Improved reporting can allow researchers to budget their time and resources better and provide greater confidence in reaching their target school size.

Development of artificial intelligence-based teaching factory in vocational high schools in Central Java Province

The objective of this study is to examine and assess the progress of utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) in teaching factory learning to enhance the digital skills of vocational high school (SMK) students in the province of Central Java. This study employed a qualitative approach utilizing metaethnography, as well as a quantitative approach employing Aiken’s V formula and strength, weakness, opportunity, threat (SWOT) analysis to identify and analyze the issues that arise. The present study examines the locations of SMKN 2 Purbalingga and SMKS Telkom in Central Java. Furthermore, relevant documentation was also utilized as a source of data. The research findings indicate that the implementation of AI in teaching manufacturing learning has effectively facilitated the development of an online learning management system. This system is characterized by its organized and integrated approach inside the online learning management system. The administration of teaching materials may be conducted autonomously and facilitated by the utilization of diverse information and communication technology or e-learning functionalities, including chat, email, blogs, and social media platforms. The creation of new enterprises within the domain of AI. It is imperative for educational institutions to align their policies with the demands and requirements of the business.

The effect of hardness on bending value in manufacturing brake pads from shell and palm fiber

Motorbikes are one of the primary needs for many people because they are more effectively used to carry out community activities than public transportation. Because motorbikes are used so frequently, the braking system is one of the parts that must be updated. Brake pads are motorbike equipment that function to slow and stop the vehicle comfortably. The research aims to determine the characteristics of brake linings and the optimal composition of brake linings that are good for use. Brake pads are a component of motorcycle vehicles that are useful for slowing down and stopping the speed of the vehicle comfortably. The purpose of this study is to find out how the characteristics of palm shells and fibers if used as material for making brake linings. The method used is direct experimentation with a qualitative approach. The results obtained are the characteristics of brake pads made from filler palm shell powder and palm fiber with polyurethane matrix have a hard texture, solid brown, if viewed from the surface of the brake lining is a little rough because the fiber is too long. The test results showed the best hardness value of 91 R and the best bending test with a value of 10.21 kgf/mm2

Future workforce skills for hospitality and tourism business in Thailand

Currently, the hospitality and tourism industry in Thailand is at a state of great flux. This, therefore, calls for a highly competent and versatile workforce to deal with this situation. For this paper, we shall attempt at providing an overview of the current skill set from the current workforce involved in the hospitality and tourism industry in Thailand. We also attempt to identify the prevailing opinions of the managerial personnel on different work aspects, which include the perception of the skills that Thai workers possess. Moreover, the paper looks at what the managers would want and hope for in the future workforce, and the strategies applied to develop such skills in workers soon. This qualitative research approach is employed to dig deep into the minds of key decision makers in Thailand by way of in-depth, one-on-one, or small group interviews to document and consolidate the insights and viewpoints of distinguished executives and top-level decision makers belonging to prestigious hotel and tourism conglomerates in Thailand. The findings of our research unmistakably indicate that the hospitality industry in the country is doubtless in a growth and prosperous period, where it successfully meets various and constantly changing preferences among tourists coming for different purposes. With the tourism industry in Thailand mushrooming, it is vital to establish what has contributed to such success. With more and more people globe-trotting and with tourists pouring in droves into Thailand, the need for a skilled workforce within the hospitality industries is at an all-time high. It therefore becomes relevant during these times of change to identify the skillset of the personnel at work within this vibrant industry. Deep inside the minds of managerial professionals, we can gain a clear insight into how they perceive the current workforce. By conducting comprehensive interviews on an individual and small group basis, we hope to capture the capability and strengths of the Thai workforce with a great degree of subtlety. Second, we also attempt to find out what aspirations and expectations the managers have from the future workforce. The resulting skills and competencies will have to be identified as the industry continues to evolve, but by exploring strategies utilized to develop such skilled labor, we expose the preparations being made for the workforce of tomorrow. Our qualitative research methodology enables us to interact directly with key decision-makers in the industry. We have thus gathered much information and opinion by involving those senior executives and senior-level decision makers of reputed hotel and tourism conglomerates. Their valuable insights helped us to closely look into the current scenario and aspects which still needed to be improved. Our findings clearly revealed that the hospitality industry in Thailand is one of the fastest growing and most successful sectors. It has satisfactorily adapted to the increasing and changing tastes and preferences of the tourists coming from different parts of the world. On the other hand, innovation and high-quality service have allowed this industry to satisfactorily address the needs and desires of its guests. Conclusion Our study puts light on the change which the hospitality and tourism industry of Thailand is experiencing at present. The following sections provide a broad outline of the skillset of the workforce, based on in-depth interviews with managerial professionals. We have taken a closer look at what industry leaders expect and/or hope for in the future workforce, and how they are developing the skills necessary to meet those expectations. This research supports the notion that the hospitality industry is increasing its growth to meet the demands of a multifaceted global customer base.

PERAN KELOMPOK TANI DAN PENGGUNAAN SARANA PRODUKSI PADA KEGIATAN USAHATANI JAGUNG DI DESA KOMBA-KOMBA KECAMATAN KABANGKA KABUPATEN MUNA

The issues encountered in maize farming activities in Komba-Komba Village can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the knowledge and expertise of farmers in this area remain limited. Secondly, the role of farmer groups is not yet fully realised. Thirdly, the utilisation of production resources, including seeds, fertilisers and pesticides, is not optimised. The objective of this study was to ascertain the utilisation of production facilities and the function of farmer groups in maize farming activities in Komba-Komba Village, Kabangka Subdistrict, Muna Regency. The research informants were selected purposefully, with specific criteria in mind. Consequently, the research informants totaled 13 individuals, comprising farmer group administrators, specifically two farmer group leaders, two secretaries, two treasurers, six farmer group members, and the village head. Data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and document analysis using interview guides. This study focuses on the utilization of production facilities and the role of farmer groups in maize farming. The research employs a qualitative descriptive analysis approach to data analysis, comprising three stages: data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The findings indicate that farmer groups in Komba-Komba Village serve as a conduit for collaboration in maize farming activities. This is evidenced by the presence of groups that engage in joint efforts between the farmer group leaders and members during the farming process. Furthermore, the role of farmer groups has not been as effective as the function of farmer groups. In terms of production facilities, farmers in Komba-Komba Village provide these for maize farming activities, including seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides, using their own capital.

Factors restraining youth involvement in fish farming business: Case study of Kamuthanga Village, Kenya

Fish farming serves as one of the important strategies for reducing unemployment and improving the standard of living for many households. However, in many African countries, including Kenya, a large number of young people tend to pursue administrative and white-collar jobs, resulting in a noticeable lack of youth participation in the fish farming sector. This trend underscores the challenge of attracting youth to agricultural enterprises like fish farming, despite its promising opportunities. This study explored the factors limiting youth participation in the fish farming business, targeting some individuals aged 18-35 in Kamuthanga village. The research follows a qualitative case study approach, with twenty-six (26) individuals interviewed. The study is grounded in the anthropological entrepreneurship theory, utilizing triangulation to ensure a holistic understanding. In-depth interviews and key informant interviews were employed to capture perceptions regarding barriers to youth involvement. The data was gathered through focus group discussions and in-depth interviews and analyzed using Qualitative Data Analysis (QDA) Miner Lite software. Data organization, coding, and theme development were conducted systematically to align with the study’s objectives. The findings revealed several challenges hindering youth involvement in fish farming, including the semi-arid conditions of Kamuthanga village, which lead to water scarcity; limited access to capital; insufficient technical knowledge; inadequate support structures; and some cultural barriers. These findings shed light on the critical factors that must be addressed to foster greater youth involvement in fish farming and ultimately unlock its potential for economic development and unemployment reduction in Kamuthanga village.

Analysis of politeness strategies in kῖmwῖmbῖ (E531) condolence messages

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the politeness strategies used by condolers in expressing condolence in Kῖmwῖmbῖ. Death is a natural part of human life. Regardless of its cause, it is usually very painful and therefore, losing a loved one causes deep feelings of loss and sorrow not only to the family of the deceased but also to friends and relatives. The main purpose of expressing condolence is to convey sympathy or compassion to the bereaved. Yule (2017) argues that in linguistic politeness, face is the most important concept and claims that a person’s face in pragmatics is their public self-image. In expressing condolence, condolers threaten the face of the bereaved but also employ politeness strategies to formulate messages in order to save the bereaved’s face. The study adopted the qualitative and quantitative research approaches and used Brown and Levinson (1978) Politeness Theory. Politeness theory focuses on ‘saving face’ which is a key aspect in politeness. The study was conducted in Chogoria Division, Maara Subcounty, Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya. Purposive sampling was used to sample twenty condolence messages for analysis. A guiding card was used to categorize the condolence utterances with politeness strategies. The data was analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively providing explanation of these politeness strategies and giving their frequencies and percentages in tables. It was established that the four politeness strategies proposed in the politeness theory are used in expressing condolence in Kῖmwῖmbῖ, with positive politeness strategy being the most used. The findings add to the existing knowledge in pragmatics, especially on politeness and burial discourse. Similarly, the study provides data which can be used to compare with other languages hence aiding in generalizing conclusions of condolence speech act.

Productivity and Quality of Facilities and Infrastructure as Support for RRI Tolitoli Broadcasting

This research aims to answer the basic problems faced by Radio Republik Indonesia (RRI) Tolitoli in increasing the productivity and quality of broadcasting facilities and infrastructure. Using a qualitative approach and descriptive research methods, this research was conducted at the Republic of Indonesia Radio Public Broadcasting Institute (LPP RRI) Tolitoli over a three-month period. Primary data was obtained through direct observation and in-depth interviews with six informants selected purposively. The research results show that RRI Tolitoli faces a number of challenges in increasing productivity and broadcast quality, especially related to poor infrastructure conditions. Through analysis of productivity and quality variables, research findings highlight the need for improvements in technical and managerial aspects. Although RRI Tolitoli has demonstrated a strong commitment to providing quality broadcasting services, there is still room for significant improvement in terms of technical infrastructure and resource management. The recommendations resulting from this research can become the basis for continuous improvement efforts in public broadcasting in Indonesia, with the main aim of meeting public demands for broadcasting that is informative, high quality and has a positive impact.

Communication with Health Personnel and Human Rights: A Perspective from People with Mental Disorders

AbstractMental health care has focused on participation, which, in addition to improving recovery processes, constitutes a tool to defend the human rights of people with mental disorders. For this participation, communication is a fundamental element. The objective of the present research was to analyzed the perception of the human rights and communication with healthcare personnel in care processes, from leaders of mutual aid groups or support groups in various contexts of Colombia. It is expected that the generated information can contribute to the evaluation of the quality of mental health services from a human rights and health participation perspective, in contexts similar to the one being analyzed. A qualitative approach has been used, which takes information from six leaders of support groups for mental health, in four regions of Colombia. Said information was analyzed through a thematic analysis, contrasting with the vision of the researchers and with the current theory. It is found that the subject of communication was made up of categories such as Previous ineffective treatments and Perception of a violation of dignity. Communication barriers are pointed out, such as attitudes of mental health professionals, but the influence that the health system and social and political barriers can have on the same communication is recognized. From the perception of leaders of mental health support groups, it is concluded that it is necessary to improve aspects of communication in health personnel. In addition, clinical mental health care could also be a space for the promotion of human rights.

SUPPORTING AND INHIBITING FACTORS IN DEVELOPING GASTRONOMIC POTENTIAL AS A TOURIST ATTRACTION IN SUKOREJO TOURISM VILLAGE, SRAGEN REGENCY, CENTRAL JAVA

This research aims to determine the supporting and inhibiting factors in developing the potential of gastronomy as a tourist attraction in the Sukorejo Tourism Village. The research method used is a qualitative approach with data collection techniques through interviews, observation and documentation. The research informants consisted of managers and culinary activists in the village. The research results show that the supporting factors in developing the potential of gastronomy as a tourist attraction are destination readiness, carrying capacity, cultural attractions, agro-tourism attractions, while low public awareness about the potential and benefits of tourism, skills in processing derivative products can hinder the development of gastronomic potential and tourist attractions in addition to There are also budget limitations which can hinder the realization of tourism projects, most recently the lack of communication and community involvement creates synchronization between destination development and support from the village government. This research concludes that an emphasis on natural, culinary, cultural, agrotourism and accommodation attractions, coupled with support and expectations from the community, is the key to realizing the development of this village's gastronomic potential as an attractive and sustainable tourist destination

Analysis of Islamic Religious Education in Responding to the Challenges of Globalization

Globalization brings significant changes in various aspects of life, including education. In schools, Islamic Religious Education faces substantial challenges in the face of current globalization, which often affects local cultural values and identity. This journal aims to analyze how Islamic Religious Education can adapt and respond to the challenges of globalization in schools. This research uses a qualitative approach with literature study methods and in-depth interviews with educators and educational practitioners. The results of the analysis show that P.A.I. in schools needs to integrate global values while maintaining the basic principles of Islamic teachings. The proposed strategy includes adjusting the curriculum to include international issues with an Islamic perspective, training educators to face global challenges, and developing relevant learning media. It is hoped that these findings can guide the development of educational policies and practices that are more responsive to the challenges of globalization while still maintaining the integrity of Islamic values.

Sistem Pengelolaan dan Pengembangan Wakaf secara Produktif di Pondok Pesantren Al-Uswah Kuala Kabupaten Langkat: Studi Analisis Menurut Undang-Undang No. 41 Tahun 2004 tentang Wakaf

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to determine the productive waqf management and development system at the Al-Uswah Kuala Islamic Boarding School, Langkat Regency, and also to find out the forms of productive waqf management and development at the Al-Uswah Kuala Islamic Boarding School, Langkat Regency. This type of research includes empirical research with a qualitative approach. The subject of this study involved the Chairperson of the Al-Uswah Kuala Islamic Boarding School Foundation, Nazhir Waqf, and the Community, with a qualitative descriptive research analysis. The results of the research conducted show that the waqf management and development system productively at the Al-Uswah Kuala Islamic Boarding School, Langkat Regency is carried out by administering and collecting data on waqf assets, then recording them in a notarial deed so that they have permanent legal force, and carrying out maximum supervision so that the utilization Waqf assets are in accordance with their function and main objective, which is to develop Islamic education as a place to nurture true Muslims. Then, the productive management and development of waqf at the Al-Uswah Kuala Islamic Boarding School in Langkat Regency is carried out in two forms, namely the physical form in which waqf assets are developed by adding and constructing various buildings needed in the educational process at the institution. Apart from that, it is also being developed in the form of waqf management policies especially for the needs of the students, for example providing free tuition fees for orphans and high achieving students so as to help the Muslim community (santri's parents). While the form of waqf assets is distributed to the surrounding community in the form of donations such as groceries and so on at certain moments. So that the productive management and development of waqf assets is in accordance with Law no. 41 of 2004 concerning Waqf. Keywords: Management, Development, Productive Waqf.

AI-driven innovations for enhancing mental health care in Tanzania: opportunities and challenges

Purpose This study aims to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance mental health care in Tanzania, focusing on its potential to enhance mental health services and address challenges in a low-resource setting. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative case study approach was used, with data collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions involving key stakeholders in mental health and AI, including policymakers, technical experts, health-care providers and patient advocacy groups. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes related to the opportunities and barriers to AI integration in mental health care. Findings This study identified several benefits of AI in mental health care, including improved diagnostic accuracy, personalised treatment and the potential for real-time monitoring of patients. However, significant barriers to AI adoption remain, such as infrastructure limitations, data privacy concerns and the need for training and resources to effectively integrate AI into mental health services. Originality/value This study contributes to the growing literature on AI in health care by focusing on its application in mental health care in Tanzania, a low-resource setting. The research provides valuable insights into how AI can bridge gaps in mental health service delivery, particularly in underserved regions, while highlighting the challenges that must be addressed for successful implementation.

Relationship between Student-Teachers’ Academic Interaction and Academic Self-Esteem in Public Secondary Schools in Nakuru County, Kenya

The learners’ academic self-esteem and academic interaction shape the learning environment of students. The purpose of this study was to examine students’ academic interaction and academic self-esteem relationships in public secondary schools in Nakuru County, Kenya. Correlational research design and both quantitative and qualitative research approaches were used in the study. The population of the study comprised 23,309 that is 11,938 boys and 11,371 girls form three students from 294 public secondary schools in Nakuru County. A total of 29 public secondary schools and 378 form three students were selected using stratified random sampling. The study used purposive sampling to sample 29 class teachers from the selected public secondary schools in Nakuru County. The total sample size for this study was therefore 407 respondents. The study used closed-ended questionnaires to collect data from students and interview schedule to collect data from class teachers. To ensure content validity of the research instruments, the researcher developed questionnaires and an interview schedule in line with the objectives of the study in consultation with experts on counseling and educational foundations. To test the reliability of the questionnaire, a pilot study was done on one secondary school that was not part of the actual study. Cronbach’s Alpha test of internal consistency was established whereby the items had reliability coefficients of 0.871 (for the student-teacher academic interactions tool) and 0.873 (for student academic self-esteem tool) which were considered acceptable. Quantitative data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24 while qualitative data was analyzed using NVivo version 12. The study established that there was a statistically significant relationship between student-teachers’ academic interaction and academic self-esteem in public secondary schools in Nakuru County, Kenya. The study recommends Kenyan teachers training institutions to advance teaching methods that seeks to improve student-teachers’ academic interaction and academic self-esteem for better academic achievement.

Exploring the link between foresight and artificial intelligence methods to strengthen collective future-building in contexts of social instability

Purpose The study explores the connection between foresight and Artificial Intelligence (AI) methods in a community within an environment of social instability in Colombia. It aims to contribute to research on aligning these methods for future-shaping, with the goal of enhancing shared governance, peer learning and collective learning among traditional decision-makers and local communities in emerging countries. The study seeks to foster a community of social actors who are likely to engage constructively in strategic dialogues. To enhancing shared governance and learning a hybrid model is synthesized, combining foresight and computational intelligence. Design/methodology/approach The case study explores the integration of computational intelligence and foresight through Gaston Bachelard's (Bachelard, 1936) phenomenology concept of ante-perception. The mathematical representation of the cone of scenarios provides a structured way to explore multiple future pathways, allowing communities to visualize and compare different trajectories and make informed decisions amid uncertainty. The model facilitates critical reflections on present assumptions, deepening insights into future scenarios. Ante-perception challenges traditional approaches to foresight by encouraging a break from established experiences, allowing for novel insights into possible futures. When enriched by computational intelligence, this reflective process is further strengthened by quantitative approach scenario modeling. Findings This research develops and tests a proposal that includes the logic and methods for constructing a mathematical representation of the cone of scenarios. This process, which is interactive and deliberative, is driven by anticipation and combines qualitative and quantitative approaches within a context of high uncertainty. By combining the critical reflection facilitated by ante-perception with the predictive power of computational intelligence, the model allows communities to transcend established thought patterns and explore innovative future possibilities. This integrative approach helps them envision and work toward social self-transformation. Research limitations/implications The article aims to identify the creation of scenarios in contexts of high uncertainty, to respond to the needs of communities in emerging countries to manage change. Practical implications This article explores a novel approach to using foresight for address collective intelligence by developing a shared future vision in high-uncertainty contexts within local communities in emerging countries. The application of the hybrid model demonstrates that foresight is a key innovative social tool for developing long-term strategic reflection and planning for territories. Social implications In developing long-term reflective processes, explaining phenomena, mechanisms and correlations requires the use of value judgments. This set of value judgments requires a representation that facilitates their treatment, helps to account for their behavior during the inference process to form a shared future vision. Consequently, ensuring the recognition of the opinions of local communities through participatory discussion spaces and their subsequent refinement, from a technical perspective, aims to illustrate the development of this social construction process. While similarities exist, differences add value through a transfer process, often subconscious. This process stimulates collective learning and builds capacities as knowledge is developed through inquiry, evaluation, interpretation and generalization. Originality/value This research provides a unique hybrid model that fosters collective learning and engagement by integrating local community perspectives with advanced computational intelligence methods. By facilitating both reflective and quantitative approach future-shaping, it offers a practical framework for addressing uncertainty while empowering communities to shape their own futures. It underscores the importance of recognizing local community views through bottom-up participatory discussions, thereby widening the stakeholder community to active engagement in addressing broader societal issues. The case study focuses on community collaboration in Puerto Gaitán, a Colombian municipality.

Impact of a qualitative assessment approach for neonatal abstinence syndrome management: experience of a European reference center

BackgroundThe management of infants at risk of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) remains challenging. In 2000 Maternidade Bissaya Barreto implemented a strategy based on the qualitative assessment of neonates and in 2018 the Eat, Sleep, Console (ESC) approach, a tool based on similar concepts, was created. The aim is to assess the efficacy of a qualitative assessment of infants at risk, compare it with the ESC approach and report temporal trends of NAS in a European hospital.MethodsRetrospective cohort study of all infants of mothers with a history of drug abuse during pregnancy admitted to a tertiary European centre between January 2010 and December 2021. The therapeutical decision was guided by a qualitative assessment of the newborn’s well-being. The ESC approach was retrospectively determined. Pharmacologic treatment was used as a last resort. The clinical outcomes and therapeutic strategies employed were evaluated. Statistical association was evaluated. The incidence rate per 1000 births was calculated and temporal trend differences were identified.ResultsA total of 79 neonates at risk were included, of whom 40 (50.6%) developed NAS. Consolability was the most affected criterion (35.0%), followed by feeding difficulties (12.5%). Sleep was affected less frequently (5.0%). Overall, 37.5% of infants failed to meet at least one of the criteria. All neonates with a positive ESC failed the qualitative assessment (p = 1.000) After optimization of nonpharmacologic measures, drug therapy was still necessary in four cases (10.0% of infants with the syndrome). The incidence rate of NAS decreased from 3.9 per 1000 births in 2010 to 0.0 per 1000 births in 2021 (p = 0.025).ConclusionThe qualitative assessment of the infant based on the ability to feed, sleep and be consoled correctly identified neonates at risk and led to a significant reduction in the use of drug therapy. The incidence rate of NAS decreased during the study period.

Genuine small talk, rapport, and negotiation outcomes in B2B relationship

Purpose Small talk is often regarded as important in business interactions, yet the effect of genuine engagement on B2B communication remains underexplored. Hence, the purpose of this study is to explore the concept of genuine small talk, contextualize its key dimensions and examine how it contributes to building rapport and mediates negotiation outcomes in B2B relationships. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a qualitative abductive research approach for this exploratory investigation as it allows for an in-depth examination of the complex relational dynamics inherent in B2B communication. Data were collected through semistructured interviews with 35 industry professionals from diverse sectors, ensuring a diverse understanding of the phenomenon across different B2B contexts. Findings The study identifies eight core dimensions of genuine small talk in B2B interactions: empathy, curiosity, adaptability, active listening, a nonjudgmental disposition, respect for boundaries, positivity and humility. These dimensions collectively contribute to the development of rapport. The findings also highlight that rapport, fostered through genuine small talk, plays a mediating role in achieving favorable negotiation outcomes. Originality/value This study adds to the B2B marketing literature by advancing the understanding of genuine small talk and its strategic importance in building rapport and improving negotiation outcomes.