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Studies remain controversial concerning how enjoyment, anxiety, and boredom relate to foreign language learning (FLL) achievement. There is an inadequacy of synthesis of factors addressing the debate on emotion correlations in the empirical results. Underpinned by the control-value theory (CVT) of achievement emotions, a meta-analysis is conducted to evaluate the correlation between language achievement and three emotions, namely enjoyment, anxiety, and boredom, as classified within CVT's three-dimensional taxonomy, and to explore potential moderating factors that could influence the correlation. The researchers examined 34 international studies with 83 effect sizes on the strength of the association between achievement and the three emotions. Then, moderating effects of education level, cultural backgrounds, and instruments, i.e., the Achievement Emotions Questionnaire (AEQ), the Foreign Language Enjoyment Scale (FLES), the Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety Scale (FLCAS), and Foreign Language Learning Boredom Scale (FLLBS), were analyzed. Meta-analytic results show that FLL achievement correlates with enjoyment with a medium positive effect and correlates with anxiety and boredom with a medium negative effect. Notably, the association with enjoyment is the strongest, while that with boredom is the weakest. In subgroup analyses, it is found that participants' cultural backgrounds have a moderating effect on anxiety, and emotion instruments have a moderating effect on enjoyment and anxiety. The findings provide significant implications for emotion research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The immune system and neuroinflammation are now well established in the aetiology of neurodegeneration. Previous studies of transcriptomic and gene association studies have highlighted the potential of the 2′–5′ oligoadenylate synthetase 1 (OAS1) to play a role in Alzheimer's disease. OAS1 is a viral response gene, interferon-induced, dsRNA activated enzyme, which binds RNase L to degrade dsRNA, and has been associated with COVID-19 response. This study explores whether a viral defence gene could play a vital role in neurodegeneration pathology. The genotyping of five SNPs across the OAS1 locus was conducted in the Brains for Dementia Research (BDR) Cohort for association with AD. RNA-sequencing data were explored for differences in OAS1 gene expression between phenotypes and genotypes. Finally, levels of dsRNA were measured in control cell lines, prior to and after exposure to amyloid oligomers and in cells harbouring a dementia-relevant mutation. No association of any of the OAS1 SNPs investigated were associated with the AD phenotype in the BDR cohort. However, gene expression data supported the previous observation that the minor allele haplotype was associated with higher levels of the OAS1 gene expression and the presence of an alternative transcript. Further to this, the presence of endogenous dsRNA was found to increase with exposure to amyloid oligomers and in the cell line with a dementia-relevant mutation. The data presented here suggest further exploration of the OAS1 gene in relation to dementia is warranted. Investigations of whether carriers of the protective OAS1 haplotype lower dsRNA presence and in turn lower inflammation and cell death are required to support the role of the gene as a moderator of neurodegeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Childhood maltreatment (CM) is a risk factor for developing and maintaining depression. It is unclear whether CM influences the effect of treatments for depression. This study examined CM's predictor and moderator effect in Behavioral Activation (BA) and Metacognitive Therapy (MCT). CM was analyzed in a trial comparing a six months treatment program of either BA or MCT for 122 outpatients with major depressive disorder (MDD). Depression was assessed by the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD-24). CM was assessed using the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ). Linear mixed models showed no predictor or moderator effects for the CTQ total score (all p >.58) but revealed a moderator effect for 'sexual abuse' on the reduction of depressive symptoms (β = 10.98, SE = 4.48, p =.015) indicating that patients with experiences of childhood sexual abuse benefited more from BA. There also was a predictor effect for 'physical neglect' (β = −3.35, SE = 1.70, p =.049): patients without the experience of physical neglect benefited more from treatment regardless of condition. Exploratory analyses indicated no predictor or moderator effects for the onset or persistence of depression, comorbid anxiety disorders or Cluster-C PDs (all p >.28). Limitations include small sample sizes for some of the subsamples. Childhood sexual abuse seems to moderate treatment effectiveness in a sample of severely affected outpatients with MDD treated with MCT or BA. If confirmed in further trials, a history of sexual abuse might guide the choice between MCT and BA. German Clinical Trials Register DRKS-ID: DRKS00011536 (retrospectively registered on February 13, 2017, without changes to the study protocol). • Childhood maltreatment is common in patients with major depressive disorder. • The impact of childhood maltreatment on treatment outcomes is unclear. • Patients who were sexually abused in childhood benefited more from BA, patients without such experiences more from MCT. • Patients without experience of childhood physical neglect benefited more from treatment regardless of condition. • Knowing which type of therapy is best for which patient may help improve treatment in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Learning analytics has received increasing attention in the field of education. However, few studies have investigated the overall impact of learning analytics interventions on learning achievements. This study aims to close this research gap and examine the sizes of the overall effects of learning analytics interventions on learning achievements according to research conducted from 2012 to 2021. In total, 33 empirical studies including 3098 participants were synthesized in the present meta-analysis. The findings revealed that learning analytics interventions had a large effect size on learning achievements. Furthermore, the impacts of 13 moderator variables were analyzed in depth. The results indicated that sample levels, learning domains, learning approaches, learning analytics technologies, and learning analytics metrics significantly moderated the effectiveness of learning analytics interventions. These findings and their implications for the use of learning analytics interventions were discussed in depth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Supply chain performance (SCP) is impacted by complexity brought about by static and dynamic drivers. This study aims to investigate the effects of supply chain complexity (SCC) on SCP and ascertain whether additive manufacturing best practices have moderating effects on this relationship. Methods: Using data from 29 Ethiopian footwear industries and 205 respondents, the relationship established in the theoretical framework was validated using structural equation modelling (SEM). Results: The study's findings provided several important insights. First, upstream supply chain complexity (USSCC), midstream supply chain complexity (MSSCC), and downstream supply chain complexity (DSSCC) negatively affect SCP. Second, additive manufacturing best practices have significant moderation effects between supply chain complexity and supply chain performance. Third, the negative impacts of USSCC and MSSCC on SCP are reduced at a higher level of additive manufacturing adaptation. The findings of this study also revealed that the effects of DSSCC on SCP have no difference at both low and high levels of additive manufacturing best practices. Conclusions: This work offers the first empirical investigation to which the detrimental effects of SCC on SCP are mitigated or improved through the moderating role of additive manufacturing best practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artykuł prezentuje rzadko poruszaną kwestię w badaniach nad grupami religijnymi, jakimi są problemy wewnętrzne, z którymi mierzą się wspólnoty katolickie w czasie funkcjonowania i podejmowanej działalności. W artykule zaprezentowane zostały trudności związane z hierarchią, organizacją wewnętrzną, wątpliwościami religijnymi oraz relacjami pomiędzy członkami konkretnej wspólnoty religijnej. Wnioski zostały przygotowane w oparciu o wypowiedzi osób świeckich odpowiedzialnych za wspólnotę „Ruch Światło-Życie”. W badaniu zastosowano metodologię badań jakościowych. Materiał badawczy uzyskano za pomocą techniki wywiadu swobodnego mało ukierunkowanego. Wnioski z przeprowadzonego badania mogą dostarczyć nową perspektywę w patrzeniu na wspólnotę religijną, a co za tym idzie, wskazać nowy, do tej pory niepopularny problem związany z działalnością grup i ruchów religijnych, możliwy do rozwinięcia w przyszłych badaniach.

Background: Mindfulness‐based cognitive therapy (MBCT) is effective in reducing depressive symptoms in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). Understanding for whom and how MBCT works may allow for improvements in treatment allocation and effectiveness. In this study, our aim was to investigate depressive rumination, content‐independent perseverative thinking, mindfulness skills, and self‐compassion as potential moderators and mediators of MBCT. Methods: In this non‐randomized controlled trial, patients with persistent (n = 53) or recurrent MDD with (n = 31) or without (n = 51) a current depressive episode were assigned to an intervention (MBCT plus treatment as usual [TAU], n = 94) or control group (TAU only, n = 40) based on the time between the date of inclusion and the start of MBCT. Assessments were carried out before, halfway, and after 8 weeks of MBCT + TAU or TAU. Latent growth models were employed to examine moderation, while cross‐lagged structural equation models were used to assess the mediating effects of several possible mediators of MBCT‐induced change in depressive symptoms and overall functional impairment. Results: MBCT + TAU was more effective in reducing depressive symptoms (and overall functional impairment than TAU with a medium [d = −0.54] and small [d = 0.44] effect size, respectively). Higher baseline levels of rumination and perseverative thinking and lower levels of self‐compassion moderated the effect of MBCT on depressive symptoms and overall functional impairment. Task‐based negative intrusive thoughts moderated the effects of MBCT on overall functional impairment. No mediators were established, particularly due to a lack of effect of MBCT on all assessed mediators at mid‐treatment. For interpretative purposes, a sample split (based on Johnson–Newman values) showed moderate‐to‐large effects in depressive symptom reduction for those with high rumination, high perseverative thinking, and low self‐compassion, while negative‐to‐small nonsignificant effects were found for the opposite traits. Conclusion: In the future, MBCT allocation based on levels of rumination and self‐compassion might lead to a more efficient reduction in depressive symptoms. Directions for mediation analysis within the context of MBCT for depression are discussed. Preregistration: This study was initially preregistered in the Dutch National Trial Register (NL7842). However, due to the NTR no longer being available since June 2022, the trial was reregistered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05802966, dd 09‐Apr‐2023). The statistical analysis plan was adjusted after the start of the trial but before the finalization of data collection (NCT05802966; ClinicalTrials.gov). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A carbamate surfactant was synthesized using octadecanol polyoxyethylene ether(AEO) and isocyanatoethyl methacrylate(IEM) as functional monomers. Subsequently, active-carbamate-surfactant-modified PER nanomicrospheres were prepared through two-phase aqueous dispersion polymerization, utilizing acrylamide (AM), 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid (AMPS), and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) as raw materials. The microstructures and properties of the nanomicrospheres were characterized and examined using infrared spectroscopy, nanolaser particle size analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy, rheometry, rotating drop ultra-low interfacial tensiometry, and core-driven experiments. The results revealed that the synthesized PER nanomicrospheres exhibit a uniform particle size distribution, with an average particle size of 336 nm. Furthermore, the nanomicrospheres exhibit a thermal decomposition temperature of 278℃, demonstrating good thermal stability. The nanomicrospheres also exhibit favorable expansion and viscoelastic properties. Upon the injection of 3wt.% of the PER nanomicrospheres into a non-homogeneous core, the blocking rate (η) reaches 90.32%, while the recovery rate increases by 30.2%. This improvement is attributed to the unique structural design of the nanomicrospheres, allowing them to form a thin film at the three-phase oil–water-rock interface and promoting oil emulsification and stripping. Overall, the PER nanomicrospheres effectively control fluid dynamics within reservoirs, mitigate the loss of oil and gas resources, enhance the economic benefits of oil and gas fields, and thus demonstrate good application prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How do play and playfulness contribute to adult mental health? We evaluated empirical evidence from 20 psychological interventions through a lens emphasizing playfulness in participants and playing processes as a putative change agent. We found (1) preliminary evidence supporting play as a causal agent of positive changes in adult mental health, likely via two mechanisms—as a mediator and as a medium, and (2) limited, unclear evidence surrounding the moderating effect of participant playfulness on intervention effectiveness. Our findings highlight the need for more rigorous quantitative assessment of play-related processes and health outcomes, and a clearer trait-state distinction when examining playfulness as an intervention outcome. We call for greater theoretical integration and a more holistic, developmentally-sensitive approach, emphasizing understanding boundary-crossing change mechanisms to harness play's transformative, therapeutic power for improving adult health and wellbeing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is a pervasive public health problem that causes debilitating complications across the life course. One opportunity for preventing the onset of obesity is to focus on its social determinants. Socioeconomic status (SES), which includes factors such as income, educational attainment, occupational prestige, and access to resources, is a key determinant of obesity. In this scoping mini-review, we summarized review articles and meta-analyses of the SES-obesity association. From the 1980s to the present, cross-sectional studies have demonstrated a persistent socioeconomic gradient in obesity in which the association is negative in developed countries and positive in developing countries. Longitudinal studies have revealed the bidirectionality of the SES-obesity association; some studies demonstrate that socioeconomic adversity precedes the onset of obesity, while others provide evidence of reverse causality. While earlier studies relied on anthropometric assessments of weight and height to define obesity, the use of modern technologies like dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry and bioelectrical impedance have demonstrated that the socioeconomic gradient in obesity is robust across multiple indicators of body composition, including direct measures of lean and fat mass. More recently, examination of mediators and moderators of the SES-obesity association have highlighted causal pathways and potential intervention targets, with a focus on health behaviors, environmental conditions, psychological factors, and biological processes. We describe current gaps in knowledge and propose opportunities for future innovation to reduce the burden of obesity and related socioeconomic disparities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe treatment field of boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) is a n-γ mixed field. In the Osaka University BNCT project, a material-filtered radio-photoluminescence glass dosimeter (RPLGD) was proposed for the simultaneous measurement of neutron and gamma-ray doses. In this study, to validate the material-filtered RPLGD, various types of n-γ mixed fields are designed by irradiating different moderator assemblies with a D-D neutron source at the OKTAVIAN facility, Osaka University, Japan. The n-γ mixed fields are classified into fast neutron–, epithermal neutron–, or thermal neutron–dominated fields and a gamma-ray-only field with the specific characteristics as follows: (1) the dose ratios of gamma ray to neutron are 1.0% to 977.0% for the fast neutron–dominated field, 5.0% to 921.1% for the epithermal neutron–dominated field, 0.7% to 946.3% for the thermal neutron–dominated field, and 11880.6% for the gamma-ray-only field; (2) the proportions of fast, epithermal, and thermal neutron doses to total neutron dose are 98.4% to 100.0% for the fast neutron–dominated field, 74.0% to 85.4% for the epithermal neutron–dominated field, and 90.1% to 90.8% for the thermal neutron–dominated field, respectively; and (3) the maximum gamma-ray energy is up to 12 MeV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urethane surfactants (REQ) were synthesized with octadecanol ethoxylate (AEO) and isocyanate methacrylate (IEM). Subsequently, reactive-carbamate-surfactant-modified nanomicrospheres (PER) were prepared via two-phase aqueous dispersion polymerization using acrylamide (AM), 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid (AMPS) and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA). The microstructures and properties of the nanomicrospheres were characterized and examined via infrared spectroscopy, nano-laser particle size analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and in-house simulated exfoliation experiments. The results showed that the synthesized PER nanomicrospheres had a uniform particle size distribution, with an average size of 336 nm. The thermal decomposition temperature of the nanomicrospheres was 278 °C, and the nanomicrospheres had good thermal stability. At the same time, the nanomicrospheres maintained good swelling properties at mineralization < 10,000 mg/L and temperature < 90 °C. Under the condition of certain permeability, the blocking rate and drag coefficient gradually increased with increasing polymer microsphere concentration. Furthermore, at certain polymer microsphere concentrations, the blocking rate and drag coefficient gradually decreased with increasing core permeability. The experimental results indicate that nanomicrospheres used in the artificial core simulation drive have a better ability to drive oil recovery. Compared with AM microspheres (without REQ modification), nanomicrospheres exert a more considerable effect on recovery improvement. Compared with the water drive stage, the final recovery rate after the drive increases by 23.53%. This improvement is attributed to the unique structural design of the nanorods, which can form a thin film at the oil–water–rock interface and promote oil emulsification and stripping. In conclusion, PER nanomicrospheres can effectively control the fluid dynamics within the reservoir, reduce the loss of oil and gas resources, and improve the economic benefits of oil and gas fields, giving them a good application prospect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multisite cluster randomized trials (MCRTs), in which, the intermediate-level clusters (e.g., classrooms) are randomly assigned to the treatment or control condition within each site (e.g., school), are among the most commonly used experimental designs across a broad range of disciplines. MCRTs often align with the theory that programs are delivered at a cluster-level (e.g., teacher professional development) and provide opportunities to explore treatment effect heterogeneity across sites. In designing experimental studies, a critical step is the statistical power analysis and sample size determination. However, the statistical tools for power analysis of moderator effects in three-level MCRTs are not available. In this study, we derived formulas for calculating the statistical power and the minimum detectable effect size difference (MDESD) with confidence intervals for investigating the effects of various moderators in three-level MCRTs. We considered the levels of the moderators (level-1, −2, and −3), the scales of the moderators (binary and continuous), and random and nonrandomly varying slopes of the (moderated) treatment effects. We validated our formulas through Monte Carlo simulations. Finally, we conclude with directions for future work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of the thermalized flux calculation that incorporate radiative capture reactions in the presence and absence of polyethylene blocks that form an enclosure for a deuteron-deuteron (D-D) neutron generator are presented. This method can be used to measure the moderated neutron flux component in a mixture of moderated and primary neutron spectra. Using 20-cm-thick polyethylene blocks to surround a D-D neutron generator, the moderation of primary neutrons was investigated using nine indium foils. In this paper, the relationship between the moderated neutron flux and the radiative capture rates in the presence and absence of polyethylene blocks is derived. This is compared to a MCNP simulation and a calculation of modulated flux that ignore the primary neutron components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to explore the complex relationship between social engagement and depressive symptoms among older adults in China, focusing particularly on the moderating role of marital status. This study used data from the latest Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS). The analysis used the latent class analysis to delineate personality clusters and hierarchical linear regression, supplemented by the PROCESS macro, to investigate the effects of social engagement and marital status on depressive symptoms. The analysis encompassed 7,789 respondents (mean age: 82.53 [ s = 11.20] years), with 54% female. The personality analysis categorized participants into four clusters, with the majority (77.60%) classified as Confident Idealists, who exhibited the lowest levels of depressive symptoms. Hierarchical linear regression analysis yielded several significant findings: Higher levels of social engagement were significantly associated with fewer depressive symptoms (t = –7.932, P < 0.001, B = –0.463). Marital status was a significant factor; married individuals reported fewer depressive symptoms compared to their unmarried counterparts (t = –6.368, P < 0.001, B = –0.750). There was a significant moderating effect of marital status on the relationship between social engagement and depressive symptoms (t = –2.092, P = 0.037, B = –0.217). This study demonstrates that, among Chinese older adults, both social engagement and marital status significantly influence depressive symptoms. Higher social engagement, particularly in other activities like doing household chores, gardening, reading newspapers or books, and playing cards or Mahjong, is associated with fewer depressive symptoms, especially among married individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After decades of research and debates about whether perfectionism is healthy or unhealthy, the Model of Excellencism and Perfectionism (MEP) recently differentiated between people striving for high standards (excellence strivers) and those pursuing perfectionistic standards (perfection strivers). In this study, we devised and tested an interpretational framework of nine scenarios to help determine whether perfectionism is beneficial, unneeded, or harmful by comparing the outcomes of excellence and perfection strivers. In a cross-sectional study with university students (N = 271; Study 1), we found that perfection strivers savor positive school events less and have greater dropout intentions than excellence strivers. In a prospective/longitudinal design with college-aged athletes (N = 296; Study 2), perfectionism was associated with higher athletic achievement. However, perfection strivers who failed to attain their goals experienced lower savoring and enjoyment than excellence strivers. Our findings highlighted the value of our interpretational scenarios as a hub to facilitate the comparison of MEP findings, while showing how to test MEP hypotheses with five popular statistical analyses. Furthermore, the MEP Shiny App is a valuable contribution to expedite the process of comparing the outcomes of excellence and perfection strivers. Overall, this research forged a substantive-methodological pathway that strengthens and enhances the practicality of the MEP. Plain language summary: Many people aspire to achieve excellence without ever trying to attain perfection. Excellence and perfection are different endpoints that set the tone for distinct aiming, striving, phenomenological experiences, and outcomes. A recent theory introduced the concept of excellencism in order to differentiate individuals striving for high yet flexible standards (referred to as excellence strivers) from those who relentlessly and inflexibly chase perfection (known as perfection strivers). In the current research, our overarching goal was to enhance theory with a new framework that would make it easier for researchers to use the Model of Excellencism and Perfectionism (MEP). To achieve our goal, we conducted two studies with cross-sectional and longitudinal methods with university students (Study 1, N = 271) and college-aged athletes (Study 2, N = 296). We created the online MEP Shiny App (https://model-of-excellencism-and-perfectionism.shinyapps.io/Shiny%5fVersion2/) to simplify the process of testing and interpreting the differences between excellence and perfection strivers. Our findings underscored the importance of separating excellencism and perfectionism. In Study 1, perfection strivers savored positive school events less and had greater dropout intentions than excellence strivers. In Study 2, perfectionism was associated with higher goal attainment in sports. However, perfection strivers who failed to attain their goals experienced less savoring and enjoyment than excellence strivers. The positive sports experiences of perfection strivers depended on whether or not they attained their goals. Perfectionism is tricky and can be interpreted as a double-edged sword. It can be seen as beneficial, unneeded, or harmful depending on which outcomes and contexts researchers are looking at. Our findings highlighted the value of our newly proposed interpretational scenarios to make the MEP more accessible to other researchers and practitioners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite the wide‐ranging negative consequences of nonsuicidal self‐injury (NSSI), there are few evidence‐based treatments for NSSI among adolescents and little is known about what treatments that work best for whom. The objective of this study was to investigate moderators (i.e., for whom a specific treatment works) and predictors (i.e., factors associated with treatment outcome independent of treatment type) of treatment outcome in a randomized clinical trial comparing internet‐delivered emotion regulation individual therapy for adolescents (IERITA) plus treatment as usual (TAU) to TAU alone. Methods: Adolescents (N = 166; mean [SD] age = 15.0 [1.2] years) with NSSI disorder were randomized to IERITA plus TAU (n = 84) or TAU‐only (n = 82). Adolescent emotion regulation difficulties, suicidality, NSSI frequency, depressive symptoms, sleep difficulties, global functioning, and age, and parental invalidation, were measured pre‐treatment and investigated as moderators and predictors of treatment outcome (i.e., NSSI frequency during treatment and for 4 weeks post‐treatment). A zero‐inflated negative binomial generalized linear mixed effects regression model was used to estimate the rate of NSSI change as a function of both treatment condition and moderator/predictor. Results: No significant moderators of treatment outcome were found. Parental invalidation was a significant predictor of treatment outcome regardless of treatment condition, such that high levels of parental invalidation pre‐treatment were associated with a less favorable NSSI frequency. Conclusions: We did not find evidence of a differential treatment effect as a function of any of the examined client factors. Future research should investigate moderation in larger samples and with sufficient statistical power to detect moderation effects of smaller magnitude. Results suggest that parental invalidation may have a negative impact on treatment response and highlight the importance of further investigating parental invalidation in the context of NSSI treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine the linear and non-linear relationship between capital structure (CS) and firm performance (FP) and the moderating and mediating roles of agency costs in the CS-FP nexus. Design/methodology/approach: This study used static and quadratic panel data regression models to examine the linear and non-linear relationships and structured equation models to analyze the mediating effect of agency costs in the CS-FP nexus of 38 listed non-financial Mauritian firms from 2009 to 2019. Findings: Leverage has a significant negative effect on FP supporting the pecking order theory. Agency costs are significantly and positively associated with FP. There is a strong non-linear relationship between leverage and FP supporting the trade-off and agency cost theories. Agency costs are an important moderator and mediator in the CS-FP nexus. Overall, the sensitivity analyses showed that the results were robust. Practical implications: Firms need to carefully consider the levels and types of debt and equity in their CS involving the use of dynamic strategies to adjust CS in response to changing economic conditions and FP. The moderating effect of agency costs may guide firms in optimizing CS and may contribute to corporate governance discussions, emphasizing the importance of aligning interests to foster sustainable business practices. Originality/value: This study adds to the extant literature by providing new evidence on the non-linear relationship between leverage and FP and the moderating and mediating roles of agency costs in the CS-FP nexus in emerging capital markets, where such studies are rare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The present work aimed to identify the impact of accrual-based earnings management on the cost of equity (KE) through corporate social responsibility (CSR) as a moderating variable on European Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) companies. Design/methodology/approach: The authors used data from a sample of 366 European firms over the 2012–2022 period. The data were collected from the Thomson Reuters Asset 4 and I/B/E/S database and analyzed using STATA 17 as a statistical software package. Findings: As expected, the results showed a negative relationship between accruals, CSR and KE. Moreover, they suggest that the moderating variable negatively affects the relationship between accruals and the KE. Practical implications: The results are pertinent to stakeholders and investors, who would pressure companies to enhance the quality of disclosed information and mitigate risks facing the company. Originality/value: The main contribution lies in examining the relationship between accruals and KE through CSR in the European ESG context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Given the increasing stress levels among medical students due to the impact of COVID-19, it is crucial to effectively reduce their stress levels for their future development. To better understand medical students’ stress coping, this study investigated how their emotional intelligence is related to stress coping and whether this relationship is moderated by gender differences. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted. A random sample of 744 medical students from Hebei Province, China, was investigated via an emotional intelligence scale and stress coping questionnaire from March–May 2023. The response rate was 93%. SPSS and Mplus statistical software were used for the data analysis. Results The self-emotional appraisal of medical students had a significant negative effect on avoidant coping (β = -0.173, CI 95% = [-0.243, -0.099], p

Purpose – This study aims to investigate the technology usage behaviour of the tourists in line with the modified unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model. Design/methodology/approach – Data were collected from a survey of 265 tourists using the random sampling technique. Partial least squares-based structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) technique was used to analyze the data. Findings – The findings revealed that performance expectancy, hedonic motivation and habit significantly influence the behavioural intention of tourists to use information and communication technology (ICT), while effort expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions do not have a significant influence. However, actual ICT usage behaviour largely depends on the behavioural intention of the tourists, and their habits, while the facilitating conditions do not have any influence in this case. Practical implications – The findings uncover the core factors influencing tourists' actual ICT use behaviour that can assist the concerned stakeholders in designing tourism planning and sales. The study results also offer pathways for the world's tourism industry for a healthy recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Originality/value – The findings have made robust contributions by extending the existing UTAUT-based literature by adding two new moderators in the relationship between behavioural intention and actual ICT usage behaviour.

Abstract This study investigated the early impact of a community-based food intervention, the Good Food Junction (GFJ), a full-service grocery store (September 2012 – January 2016) in a former food desert in Saskatoon, Canada. The hypothesis tested was that frequent shopping at the GFJ improved food security and selected health-related outcomes among shoppers, and the impact was moderated by socioeconomic factors. Longitudinal data were collected from 156 GFJ shoppers, on three occasions: 12-, 18-, and 24-months post-opening. Participants were grouped into three categories based on the frequency of shopping at the GFJ: low, moderate, and high. A generalized estimating equations approach was used for model building; moderating effects were tested. Participants were predominantly female, Indigenous, low-income, and had high school or some post-secondary education. The GFJ use was associated with household food security (OR for high and moderate frequency shoppers reporting less than a high school education were 1.81 and 1.06, respectively), and mental health (OR for high and moderate frequency shoppers reporting high income were 2.82 and 0.87, respectively) exhibiting a dose-response relationship, and indicated that these outcomes were significantly moderated by participants’ socioeconomic factors. Shopping at the GFJ had a positive effect on food security and mental health, but to varying levels for those with low incomes, with less than high school or high school or better levels of education.

Background: Drug addiction is a significant public health concern, and aggression is common among people with drug addiction. Despite mounting evidence showing that the Dark Triad is a risk factor for aggression, the mediating and moderating mechanisms underlying this relationship are less known. This study tested the mediation effect of self-control in the association between the Dark Triad and aggression and whether this mediation was moderated by physical exercise. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in two compulsory drug rehabilitation centers in Nanning, China. A convenience sample of 564 drug abstainers completed a questionnaire to assess their Dark Triad, self-control, aggression, and physical exercise levels. Mediation and moderation analyses were carried out in SPSS macro-PROCESS. Results: Self-control partially mediated the positive association between the Dark Triad and aggression. Physical exercise moderated the indirect effect of the Dark Triad on aggression via self-control, with the effect decreasing with the increase in physical exercise levels. Conclusions: This study offers fresh insights into the underlying mediating and moderating mechanisms between the Dark Triad and aggression. The findings provide important practical implications for future intervention and prevention programs to address aggression among drug abstainers, which may be realized through strengthening self-control and physical exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Extending working lives due to labour market and pension regulations makes maintaining and promoting work ability necessary. The coronavirus pandemic has shown that employees in low-skilled jobs (no qualification required) contribute significantly to society and the economy. Research on these employees has been neglected in Germany for many decades despite demanding working conditions. Therefore, we investigate the relationship between low-skilled jobs and work ability. Moreover, we explore this relationship's variation by psychosocial work demands and resources. Methods: We use two waves of the German Study on Mental Health at Work (S-MGA). We calculate Ordinary-Least-Squares (OLS) regression models with pooled data (n = 6,050) to analyse the relationship between job requirement level and work ability. We also explore the contribution of job demands and resources on this relationship with interaction models. We use the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ), to assess psychosocial work demands and resources. Results: Employees performing low-skilled jobs report significantly less work ability than those in medium- or high-skilled jobs. Interaction models show significantly greater work ability for employees in medium- and high-skilled jobs with high influence on their work (amount or tasks). Unexpectedly, employees in low-skilled jobs have lower work ability with more influence on their work. Furthermore, high role clarity, describing responsibility, authority and work goals, is associated with lower levels of work ability among employees in low-skilled jobs. Conclusions: The moderating effect of role clarity on the work ability of employees in low-skilled jobs can possibly be attributed to skills mismatch and limited responsibility, as well as a lack of self-perceived collective purpose of the job. The moderation of the influence on work dimension supports results of previous studies. Too much job autonomy can have negative effects under certain circumstances and is therefore perceived as a job demand in some studies. Consequently, mechanisms concerning psychosocial work demands and resources must be investigated in further studies with different theoretical approaches. The imbalance of job demands and resources shows that employers should invest in preserving the work ability to prevent early exit from the labour market in an aging society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Given the increasing stress levels among medical students due to the impact of COVID-19, it is crucial to effectively reduce their stress levels for their future development. To better understand medical students' stress coping, this study investigated how their emotional intelligence is related to stress coping and whether this relationship is moderated by gender differences. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted. A random sample of 744 medical students from Hebei Province, China, was investigated via an emotional intelligence scale and stress coping questionnaire from March–May 2023. The response rate was 93%. SPSS and Mplus statistical software were used for the data analysis. Results: The self-emotional appraisal of medical students had a significant negative effect on avoidant coping (β = -0.173, CI 95% = [-0.243, -0.099], p <.001). However, the other dimensions of emotional intelligence (others' emotional appraisal, use of emotion, and regulation of emotion) had a significant positive impact on the active coping of female medical students (β = 0.146, CI 95% = [0.082,0.214], p <.001; β = 0.235, CI 95% = [0.167,0.304], p <.001; β = 0.165, CI 95% = [0.084,0.247], p <.001). In contrast to those of female medical students, other dimensions of emotional intelligence had a significant positive impact on the avoidant coping of male medical students (β = -0.161, CI 95% = [-0.284, -0.062]; p < 0.01; β = 0.126, CI 95% = [0.043,0.246], p < 0.001; β = 0.159, CI 95% = [0.054,0.277], p < 0.05; β = -0.221, CI 95% = [-0.363, -0.129], p < 0.001). Moreover, the use of emotion had a significant positive impact on the active coping of male medical students (β = 0.272, CI 95% = [0.182,0.382], p <.001). Furthermore, gender differences had a moderating effect on the relationship between emotional intelligence dimensions and stress coping (β = 0.178; CI 95% = [0.068,0.292]; p < 0.05). Others' emotional appraisal has a greater impact on female students' active coping. In addition, with increasing regulation of emotion ability, female medical students reduce avoidant coping (β = 0.169, CI 95% = [0.002,0.326]; p < 0.05). Conclusions: The current study revealed that gender is a significant moderator of the relationship between medical students' emotional intelligence and stress coping. These findings may help medical colleges focus on gender differences when improving medical students' ability to cope with stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid development of internet technology has enabled organizations to implement flexible work arrangements (FWA) on a large scale. The COVID-19 global pandemic has further intensified this trend, making FWA a vital aspect of HRM to maintain organizational operations. Therefore, it is imperative to understand the causes of FWA utilization and implement effective strategies to achieve optimal outcomes. We propose a framework for FWA utilization antecedents based on the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model and test it using meta-analysis. Drawing on 104 studies (108 independent samples) with 1,034,603 participants, we examine the relationship between FWA utilization and its job-related antecedents. Our findings generally support the expected relationships across two categories of FWA antecedents, namely job resources and job demands. We also identify demographics and masculinity/femininity culture as moderators that influence these relationships. Finally, we discuss the theoretical and practical implications to guide HR managers in developing effective FWA strategies that meet the needs of both employees and organizations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The educational platform is rapidly moving towards implementing a Professional Learning Community (PLC) to add value and foster collaboration among teachers, aiming to enhance student achievement in an academic and positive manner. This study delves into the examination and evaluation of potential influences, specifically exploring whether demographic characteristics such as work experience act as moderators in the relationship between Context, and Process evaluation toward Product evaluation in implementing PLC among teachers. The study employs a quantitative method, and as groundwork for the analytical framework, Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with AMOS 24.0 was adopted to test the significance of the concerned variables. The research involved 480 teachers from secondary schools in the state of Selangor, selected through a stratified random sampling technique. Participants actively completed a comprehensive questionnaire assessing their perspectives on work experience toward implementing PLC. The findings reveals that significant interaction effect of work experience serves as a moderator in the relationship between Context and Process evaluation concerning Product evaluation. Moreover, the study highlights the pivotal role of teachers' work experience in moderating effects within the product evaluation aspect of PLC implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the relationships among hotel employees' resilience, job satisfaction, and work engagement. It also explores the mediating role of job satisfaction and the moderating role of hotel employees' work experience. The hypotheses are examined using data collected from 454 employees working in 4- and 5-star hotels in major cities in Thailand, including Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket. Findings highlight the significant effect of resilience on the job satisfaction and work engagement of employees. Job satisfaction is confirmed as a mediator, while work experience is a moderator that increases the influence of resilience on the job satisfaction of senior hotel employees. The discussions and implications of the research findings are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Though the relationship between mobile learning and academic achievement has increasingly gained attention by some researchers, the meta-analysis studies have yet to definitively conclude the overall impact of mobile learning on academic achievement. In order to synthesize the findings of 22 meta-analyses that are directly pertinent to the research question, encompassing papers that have been published, we examine to what extent publication year, subject category, and grade level moderate the influences of mobile learning on academic achievement as well as the moderating effect of methodological quality of first-order meta-analyses. There is the positive overall effect with significance (g =.665 p <.001, 95% CI =.443–.887) of mobile learning on students' academic achievement compared to traditional learning. Moreover, the results confirmed that meta-analyses published in 2019–2020 had a significantly larger effect size than the ones published in 2014–2018, and the results were stable regardless of subject category, grade level, and methodological quality of first-order meta-analyses. Finally, insight and limitations were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This study investigated the early impact of a community-based food intervention, the Good Food Junction (GFJ), a full-service grocery store (September 2012 – January 2016) in a former food desert in Saskatoon, Canada. The hypothesis tested was that frequent shopping at the GFJ improved food security and selected health-related outcomes among shoppers, and the impact was moderated by socioeconomic factors. Longitudinal data were collected from 156 GFJ shoppers, on three occasions: 12-, 18-, and 24-months post-opening. Participants were grouped into three categories based on the frequency of shopping at the GFJ: low, moderate, and high. A generalized estimating equations approach was used for model building; moderating effects were tested. Participants were predominantly female, Indigenous, low-income, and had high school or some post-secondary education. The GFJ use was associated with household food security (OR for high and moderate frequency shoppers reporting less than a high school education were 1.81 and 1.06, respectively), and mental health (OR for high and moderate frequency shoppers reporting high income were 2.82 and 0.87, respectively) exhibiting a dose-response relationship, and indicated that these outcomes were significantly moderated by participants' socioeconomic factors. Shopping at the GFJ had a positive effect on food security and mental health, but to varying levels for those with low incomes, with less than high school or high school or better levels of education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Trait impulsivity and trait rumination appear to uniquely contribute to problem gambling. However, only a limited number of studies have investigated their relationship with each other, and no study has tested whether their interplay could explain problem gambling. In this study, we aimed to examine these associations, especially focusing on the putative moderator role of gender. Methods: The present study utilized data from the first wave of the Budapest Longitudinal Study, representatively surveying young adults. The final, weighted sample consisted of N = 1202 (649 men; mean age = 28.04 years; SD = 4.31) participants who reported gambling in the past year. Gambling severity was assessed by the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI), trait impulsivity was measured by Barratt Impulsiveness Scale short form (BIS-R-10), while rumination was assessed by the short version of Ruminative Response Scale (RRS). Results: Multiple linear regression analysis showed significant positive association between impulsivity and problematic gambling, and we found that both trait rumination and gender moderated this association, even after controlling for depressed mood, age, level of education, and subjective relative wealth. For men, when the level of trait rumination was high, higher levels of trait impulsivity were associated with an increase in gambling problems. However, these associations were not found among women. Conclusions: Our results suggested that the interplay of trait rumination and trait impulsivity might contribute to problem gambling, potentially by the impulsive desire to alleviate negative mood states. Our results also revealed that these associations could be stronger among men than in women.

This systematic review aimed to synthesize evidence on predictors and moderators of treatment outcomes in internet- and mobile-based interventions (IMIs) for depression, informing personalized care. A systematic search across PubMed, PsycInfo, and Cochrane yielded 33,002 results. Two reviewers independently performed screening, data extraction, risk of bias assessment, and methodological quality evaluation. Fifty-eight single studies (m = 466 analyses) focusing on baseline-predictors (59.7 %, m = 278), process-predictors (16.5 %, m = 77), and moderators (21.9 %, m = 102), and six individual patient data meta-analyses (m = 93) were included. Only 24.0 % (m = 112/466) of analyses in single studies and 15.1 % (m = 14/93) in individual patient data meta-analyses were significant. Evidence from single studies was rated as insufficient for all variable categories with only 2 out of 40 categories showing >50 % significant results. Baseline depression severity had the strongest predictive value with higher scores linked to better outcomes followed by variables indicative for the course-of-change. Other frequently analyzed and potentially relevant variables with significant results were adherence, age, educational level, ethnicity, relationship status, treatment history, and behavioral variables. More high quality quantitative studies with sufficient power are essential to validate and expand findings, identifying predictors and moderators specifically relevant in IMIs to explain differential treatment effects.

In the era of banking 5.0, providing electronic banking service value to the users is a key to maintaining customer satisfaction which results in high customer retention. So far, a wider utilization of e-banking services such as internet banking (e.g., cardless ATM and smartphone banking) and e-banking cards with microchip sensors (e.g., master, credit, and visa cards) by many users persuades banks to develop and promote e-banking service value to the users. Thus, banks must continue promoting their e-banking service value to their customers, and this requires all banks to evolve and update their current e-banking services constantly. This research aims to explore how e-banking service value is developed by constructing an integrative framework consisting of perceived risk (financial and performance risk), convenience (access and transaction), perceived quality, and perceived quality with the e-banking experience as a moderator. Researchers collected data from 700 Cambodian e-banking users via a survey questionnaire to accomplish this objective. In addition, this study employed a path analysis method to analyze the data. Results showed that perceived quality was significantly influenced by transaction convenience, access convenience, and performance risk, except financial risk. Next, the perceived value was significantly influenced by perceived quality, financial risk, transaction convenience, performance risk, and access convenience. Finally, e-banking experience significantly moderated the relationship between perceived quality and perceived value.

Using data from 1721 participants in a community-based randomized control trial of digital cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia compared with patient education, we employed linear mixed modelling analyses to examine whether chronotype moderated the benefits of digital cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia on self-reported levels of insomnia severity, fatigue and psychological distress. Baseline self-ratings on the reduced version of the Horne-Östberg Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire were used to categorize the sample into three chronotypes: morning type (n = 345; 20%); intermediate type (n = 843; 49%); and evening type (n = 524; 30%). Insomnia Severity Index, Chalder Fatigue Questionnaire, and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale were assessed pre- and post-intervention (9 weeks). For individuals with self-reported morning or intermediate chronotypes, digital cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia was superior to patient education on all ratings (Insomnia Severity Index, Chalder Fatigue Questionnaire, and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) at follow-up (p-values ≤ 0.05). For individuals with self-reported evening chronotype, digital cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia was superior to patient education for Insomnia Severity Index and Chalder Fatigue Questionnaire, but not on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (p = 0.139). There were significant differences in the treatment effects between the three chronotypes on the Insomnia Severity Index (p = 0.023) estimated difference between evening and morning type of -1.70, 95% confidence interval: -2.96 to -0.45, p = 0.008, and estimated difference between evening and intermediate type -1.53, 95% confidence interval: -3.04 to -0.03, p = 0.046. There were no significant differences in the treatment effects between the three chronotypes on the Chalder Fatigue Questionnaire (p = 0.488) or the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (p = 0.536). We conclude that self-reported chronotype moderates the effects of digital cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia on insomnia severity, but not on psychological distress or fatigue.

While negative life events (NLEs) have been linked to an increased risk of sleep disturbance among adolescents, the mechanisms of this impact still lack further examination. The current study aimed to explore whether intolerance of uncertainty (IU), a dispositional transdiagnostic vulnerability factor for psychopathology, could act as a mediator and/or moderator in the link from NLEs to sleep disturbance. A longitudinal nested subsample of 54,240 Chinese adolescents (aged 9–19) were surveyed at baseline (Timepoint 1) and six months later (Timepoint 2). They completed questionnaires to assess their IU, NLEs, sleep disturbance and sociodemographic characteristics. Mediation and moderation analyses were conducted to test our hypotheses. Upon adjusting for covariates, IU was found to mediate the relationship between NLEs and residual changes in sleep disturbance over a six-month period, with the mediation effect accounting for 31.8%. Additionally, the moderating role of IU in this relationship was also identified, suggesting that a high level of IU exacerbated the effect of NLEs on sleep disturbance. In conclusion, our findings shed light on the dual roles of IU in the link from NLEs to sleep disturbance, holding significant practical implications for preventing and intervening in sleep disturbance among adolescents. To mitigate the risk of sleep disturbance among adolescents experiencing NLEs, timely assessments of IU and tailored interventions to enhance uncertainty tolerance are necessary. • IU could magnify the effects of NLEs on sleep disturbance. • NLEs could strengthen IU, thereby doing harm to sleep. • The dual roles of IU need attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Digital interventions show promise as an effective prevention or self‐management option for eating disorders (EDs). However, it remains unclear how, for whom, and through what mechanisms they work in this population, as a synthesis of outcome predictors, moderators, and mediators is lacking. This systematic review synthesized empirical research investigating predictors, mediators, and moderators of response to digital interventions for EDs. Method: Six databases were searched (PROSPERO CRD42022295565) for studies that assessed predictors, moderators, or mediators of response (i.e., uptake, drop‐out, engagement, and symptom level change) to a digital prevention or treatment program for EDs. Variables were grouped into several overarching categories (demographic, symptom severity, psychological, etc.) and were synthesized qualitatively across samples without a formally diagnosed ED (typically prevention‐focused) and samples with a formally diagnosed ED (typically treatment‐focused). Results: Eighty‐six studies were included. For studies recruiting samples without a formal diagnosis (n = 70 studies), most predictors explored were statistically unrelated to outcome, although participant age, baseline symptom severity, confidence to change, motivation, and program engagement showed preliminary evidence of prognostic potential. No robust moderators or mediators were identified. Few studies recruiting samples with a formal diagnosis emerged (n = 16), of which no reliable predictors, moderators, or mediators were identified. Discussion: It remains unclear how, for whom, and under what circumstances digital programs targeting EDs work. We offer several recommendations for future research with the aim of advancing understanding of client characteristics and intervention elements that signal success from this intervention modality. Public Significance: Digital interventions have shown potential as an effective, scalable, and accessible intervention option for EDs. However, responsiveness varies, so advancing understanding of predictors, mediators, and moderators of outcome to digital interventions for EDs is needed. Such knowledge is important for enabling safe and efficient treatment matching, and for informing future development of effective digital interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the 2008 financial crisis, central banks (such as the Fed) adopted a quantitative easing (QE) policy to stimulate their countries' economies and overcome severe economic and financial recessions. However, apart from stimulating the economy by issuing a substantial amount of currency to purchase long-term bonds and suppress interest rates, QE policy also contributed to a boom in the real estate and construction sectors. Therefore, this study employs data envelopment analysis to measure the business performance (BP) of construction companies, and explore the impact of QE policy on the BP of construction companies, between 2004 and 2015, using hierarchical regression. We also examine the moderating role of the debt ratio on the relationship. Focused on publicly listed construction companies in Taiwan, this research reveals three encouraging findings. Firstly, QE policy indeed enhanced the BP of Taiwanese construction companies. Secondly, performance improvements in construction companies due to QE policy show a time-diminishing trend, suggesting the importance of seizing the initial policy benefits of QE implementation. Lastly, construction companies with appropriate financial leverage may exhibit better BP. These findings can provide valuable insights for relevant government entities and decision-makers in the industry for policy and investment decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractMultisite trials that randomize individuals (e.g., students) within sites (e.g., schools) or clusters (e.g., teachers/classrooms) within sites (e.g., schools) are commonly used for program evaluation because they provide opportunities to learn about treatment effects as well as their heterogeneity across sites and subgroups (defined by moderating variables). Despite the rich opportunities they present, a critical step in ensuring those opportunities is identifying the sample size that provides sufficient power to detect the desired effects if they exist. Although a strong literature base for conducting power analyses for the moderator effects in multisite trials already exists, software for power analysis of moderator effects is not readily available in an accessible platform. The purpose of this tutorial paper is to provide practical guidance on implementing power analyses of moderator effects in multisite individual and cluster randomized trials. We conceptually motivate, describe, and demonstrate the calculation of statistical power and minimum detectable effect size difference (MDESD) using highly accessible software. We conclude by outlining guidelines on power analysis of moderator effects in multisite individual randomized trials (MIRTs) and multisite cluster randomized trials (MCRTs). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]