Showing papers by "Georgia College & State University published in 2021"

Effects of Internal–External Congruence-Based CSR Positioning: An Attribution Theory Approach

Abstract: Although corporate social responsibility (CSR) appears to be mutually beneficial for companies and consumers, the modern marketplace has left both parties in vulnerable positions. Consumers are increasingly subjected to incongruent CSR messages such as greenwashing, while companies are trapped in a strategic positioning dilemma with regard to how to most effectively and ethically approach CSR communication. This has led some companies to instead adopt a strategically silent approach, such as greenhushing. To capture this CSR positioning dilemma and test the positioning effects on consumers’ attributions, this study applies attribution theory to conceptualize four distinct CSR positions (uniform, discreet, washing, and apathetic) which reflect varying combinations of congruence or incongruence between a company’s external CSR communication and its actual internal CSR actions. Using an online experiment, the effects of the CSR positions on consumer attributions for intrinsic and extrinsic CSR motivations and purchase intentions were tested across three CSR domains: environmental; labor; and lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) inclusion. Overall, the findings attest to the significant effect of internal–external congruence-based CSR positioning on how consumers respond to CSR communication. Importantly, the results indicate that discreet positioning is perceived similarly to uniform positioning, while misleading and unethical tactics such as CSR-washing are sure to backfire. Theoretical and managerial implications are discussed.

Eating disorder symptoms among adolescent boys and girls in Iran.

Abstract: Objective: Few studies of eating disorder (ED) symptoms among young people in Iran have been conducted. This cross-sectional study examined ED symptoms, assessed by the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q). Method: Adolescent boys (n = 498) and girls (n = 607) aged 12–19 years, recruited from schools in four different regions of Iran, completed a survey that included the EDE-Q. ED symptoms, namely, EDE-Q global scores and the occurrence of specific ED behaviors, were compared between boys and girls. Results: Girls had higher global scores and were more likely to report regular extreme dietary restriction than boys (16.6 vs. 12.0%). The effect sizes for these differences were small. The regular occurrence of other behaviors (girls vs. boys—binge eating: 21.1 vs. 18.8%; self-induced vomiting: 3.3 vs. 5.4%; laxative misuse: 6.1 vs. 7.6%; excessive exercise: 5.3 vs. 4.4%) did not significantly differ by gender. Twelve percent of boys and 12.9% of girls met criteria for an operational definition of "probable ED case." Conclusion: ED symptoms appear to be relatively common among Iranian adolescent boys and girls. Programs designed to reduce the occurrence and adverse impact of these symptoms may therefore be increasingly important.

The second wave of earthworm invasions in North America: biology, environmental impacts, management and control of invasive jumping worms

Abstract: The invasion of jumping worms, a small group of pheretimoid earthworm species from Asia, has increasingly become an ecological, environmental and conservation issue in forest ecosystems and urban-suburban landscapes around the world. Their presence is often noticed due to their high abundance, distinctive “jumping” behavior, and prominent granular casts on the soil surface. Although they are known to affect soil carbon dynamics and nutrient availability, no single paper has summarized their profound impacts on soil biodiversity, plant community, and animals of all trophic groups that rely on soil and the leaf litter layer for habitat, food, and shelter. In this study, we summarize the biology, invasion, and ecological impacts of invasive jumping worms across North America. We highlight potential impacts of this second wave of earthworm invasion, contrast them with the preceding European earthworm invasion in temperate forests in North America, and identify annual life cycle, reproductive and cocoon survival strategies, casting behavior and co-invasion dynamics as the key factors that contribute to their successful invasion and distinct ecological impacts. We then suggest potential management and control strategies for practitioners and policy makers, underscore the importance of coordinated community science projects in tracking the spread, and identify knowledge gaps that need to be addressed to understand and control the invasion.

A Reexamination of the Herpetofauna of Oaxaca, Mexico: Composition Update, Physiographic Distribution, and Conservation Commentary

Abstract: A substantial number of changes to the composition of the herpetofauna of the Mexican state of Oaxaca, including taxonomic additions and deletions, have occurred in the five years since our original assessment of this region. These changes now establish a herpetofauna of 480 species for the state. A number of taxonomic and nomenclatural changes involving the Oaxacan herpetofauna also are discussed. Updated patterns of physiographic distribution, endemism, and conservation status of the members of the state herpetofauna are examined.

Drinking Water Quality and Provision in Six Low-Income, Peri-Urban Communities of Lusaka, Zambia.

Abstract: Lusaka, Zambia, is a rapidly growing city located on a vulnerable karstic dolomite aquifer that provides most of the city's drinking water. Over 65% of residents live in peri-urban communities with inadequate sanitation leading to widespread groundwater contamination and the spread of waterborne diseases such as cholera. To fill the water service gap, Water Trusts were created: public/private partnerships designed to provide clean water to peri-urban community residents. Water Trusts extract groundwater via boreholes, treat it with chlorine, and distribute it to residents via public kiosks. We investigated the efficacy of drinking water provision to residents in six of Lusaka's peri-urban communities with Water Trusts. Water samples were collected from Water Trust boreholes and kiosks, privately owned boreholes, and shallow wells during four sampling efforts. To assess potential risk to human health, water samples were analyzed for Escherichia coli (E. coli) and nitrate. Shallow wells were significantly more contaminated with E. coli than Water Trust boreholes, kiosks, and private boreholes (Tukey-adjusted p values of 9.9 × 10-6). Shallow wells and private boreholes had significantly higher nitrate-N concentrations (mean of 29.6 mg/L) than the Water Trust boreholes and kiosks (mean of 8.8 mg/L) (p value = 1.1 × 10-4). In 2016, a questionnaire was distributed to Water Trust managers to assess their ability to meet demands. In the six communities studied, Water Trusts served only about 60% of their residents. Water Trusts provide a much safer alternative to shallow wells with respect to nitrate and E. coli, but they struggle to keep pace with growing demand.

Fossil Dennstaedtiaceae and Hymenophyllaceae from the Early Eocene of the Pacific Northwest

Abstract: Premise of research. Newly recognized compression fossils of fertile leptosporangiate ferns assignable to Dennstaedtia Bernh. (Dennstaedtiaceae) and Hymenophyllum Sm. (Hymenophyllaceae) are describ...

B Corps’ Social Media Communications during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Through the Lens of the Triple Bottom Line

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic and rising demand for transparency has heightened the importance of sustainability communications on social media to generate deeper stakeholder engagement. Although B Corporations (B Corps), businesses committed to the triple bottom line (TBL), could serve as a catalyst for sustainable development, little is known about how they communicate on social media during a crisis. Therefore, we examined social media communications of B Corps to (1) identify salient topics and themes, (2) analyze how these themes align with the TBL, and (3) evaluate social media performance against industry benchmarks. We focused on the apparel, footwear, and accessories (AFA) sectors in the U.S. and chose Twitter, a platform known for crisis communication. Using a qualitative method, we found four topics and 21 underlying themes. Topics related to social/environmental issues and COVID-19 were most dominant, followed by product/brand promotions. Further classification of specific themes and cases from a TBL perspective demonstrated that, overall, B Corps in the AFA sectors leveraged various approaches to promote balance between each TBL dimension. Lastly, although collectively B Corps exceeded some of the Twitter industry benchmarks, at an individual level, most brands had room for improvement to build a stronger community and promote synergy among the three pillars of the TBL.

15 years of Galactic surveys and hard X-ray Background measurements

Abstract: The INTEGRAL hard X-ray surveys have proven to be of fundamental importance. INTEGRAL has mapped the Galactic plane with its large field of view and excellent sensitivity. Such hard X-ray snapshots of the whole Milky Way on a time scale of a year are beyond the capabilities of past and current narrow-FOV grazing incidence X-ray telescopes. By expanding the INTEGRAL X-ray survey into shorter timescales, a productive search for transient X-ray emitters was made possible. In more than fifteen years of operation, the INTEGRAL observatory has given us a sharper view of the hard X-ray sky, and provided the triggers for many follow-up campaigns from radio frequencies to gamma-rays. In addition to conducting a census of hard X-ray sources across the entire sky, INTEGRAL has carried out, through Earth occultation maneuvers, unique observations of the large-scale cosmic X-ray background, which will without question be included in the annals of X-ray astronomy as one of the mission's most salient contribution to our understanding of the hard X-ray sky.

The validation of a Farsi version of the Clinical Impairment Assessment (F-CIA) among Iranian adolescent boys and girls

Abstract: Although some studies have been conducted to examine general psychosocial impairment in Iran, there is no research to date on clinical impairment secondary to disordered eating in Iranian adolescents. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the Farsi version of the Clinical Impairment Assessment (F-CIA) among Iranian adolescents. A total of 1112 adolescents (ageM [SD] = 15.55 [1.59], body mass index [zBMI] M [SD] = – 0.00 [1.0]; 54.6% girls) were recruited from four cities (Tehran [Capital], Tabriz [North-Western], Kurdistan [West], and Rasht [North]) in Iran. After translation and back-translation procedures, the F-CIA, Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q), and Beck Depression Inventory-Second Edition (BDI-II) were administered to adolescents. We used confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), measurement invariance, independent samples t tests, Pearson correlation, chi-square tests, and internal consistency to test validity and reliability. CFA indicated that F-CIA demonstrated good fit to the data and supported a three-factor model. The scale was invariant across gender and zBMI. The F-CIA had good internal consistency (αs = 0.76–0.93) and positive associations (rs = 0.13–0.62; p < 0.001) with zBMI, disordered eating symptoms, and binge/purge symptoms. We found no gender differences across mean scores on the F-CIA, but adolescents with higher zBMI reported higher scores on the F-CIA relative to those with lower zBMIs. Finally, adolescents scoring above CIA cutoffs reported higher zBMI, disordered eating outcomes, and depression. Findings suggested that the F-CIA is a reliable and valid measure of clinical eating disorder-related impairment in Iranian adolescents. III; Evidence obtained from well-designed observational study, including case–control design for relevant aspects of the study.

African American participation in cancer clinical trials.

Abstract: Background According to the Food and Drug Administration, African Americans (AAs) have been habitually underrepresented in cancer clinical trials (CCTs). This under-enrolment has contributed to cancer disparities despite the implementation of policies to improve AA accrual. This systematic review aimed to determine (1) Why AAs are participating in CCT at lower rates compared to other ethnic/racial groups and (2) Are there any tools that have definitively improved AA participation or addressed the barriers associated with their lack of participation. Methods Searches were carried out in PubMed, Project MUSE and EBSCO which were confined to four databases (BASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL and MEDLINE). Literature published between 2010 and 2020 were filtered with the inclusion and exclusion criteria and then a mixed methods appraisal tool was used to check the quality of the articles. Studies were separated into two categories to extract and synthesise data based on the emerging themes. Results Frequent reasons for a lack of participation involved provider related issues, family concerns, health literacy and trust among others. Interventions cited as successful in improving AA participation or addressing a barrier often revolved around community-based participatory research and educational CCT videos/tools. Recommendations/conclusion Educating AA patients about the biomedical research process, addressing concerns about CCTs, building trust with community members and improving communication with healthcare providers could improve AA participation in CCTs. Future interventions should consider the effect of diversified healthcare teams in addressing trust deficit in CCTs among AAs. Healthcare practitioners seeking to consent AA into CCTs and biomedical research could consider incorporating cultural competence into their practice for effective interaction with this population and to address their questions about biomedical research.

Improving Social Justice in COVID-19 Health Research: Interim Guidelines for Reporting Health Equity in Observational Studies.

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the global imperative to address health inequities. Observational studies are a valuable source of evidence for real-world effects and impacts of implementing COVID-19 policies on the redistribution of inequities. We assembled a diverse global multi-disciplinary team to develop interim guidance for improving transparency in reporting health equity in COVID-19 observational studies. We identified 14 areas in the STROBE (Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology) checklist that need additional detail to encourage transparent reporting of health equity. We searched for examples of COVID-19 observational studies that analysed and reported health equity analysis across one or more social determinants of health. We engaged with Indigenous stakeholders and others groups experiencing health inequities to co-produce this guidance and to bring an intersectional lens. Taking health equity and social determinants of health into account contributes to the clinical and epidemiological understanding of the disease, identifying specific needs and supporting decision-making processes. Stakeholders are encouraged to consider using this guidance on observational research to help provide evidence to close the inequitable gaps in health outcomes.

The political economy of Vermont’s anti-fracking movement

Abstract: In 2012, Vermont became the first state in the US to ban hydraulic fracturing for natural gas and oil production despite having zero known natural gas reserves. We evaluate the role of legislator and median voter characteristics on Vermont General Assembly voting outcomes on Act 152, which essentially bans fracking in the state. Using a double-selection post-Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator approach, we find evidence that campaign donations and being a member of the Democratic Party are positively related to voting to ban fracking. Median voter characteristics appear not to play an essential role in shaping legislator voting behaviour, corroborating the theory of expressive voting on the decision to ban fracking in Vermont.

Psychosocial impact of covid-19 on students at institutions of higher learning.

Abstract: Students at higher institutions of learning are more susceptible to psychosocial problems compared to the general public. These may further be exacerbated by the measures put in place to curb the spread of COVID-19. This mixed methods study examined the factors associated with the psychosocial impact of COVID-19 on students' financial stability, interpersonal relationships and worries related to achieving academic milestones. Data comprised of a series of closed and open-ended questions collected via Qualtrics from students in the United States and Africa (Central and West). The quantitative data were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages and chi-square, while the qualitative data was analyzed using thematic content analysis. More than 90% of the students resided in the United States, 72.5% were females and 78.4% were undergraduates. Financial hardship was experienced by 26.4% of the students, 55.8% indicated that COVID-19 negatively affected their relationship with friends and over 40% worried over delays in achieving academic milestones. Continent of residence, employment status and financial hardship were significantly associated with the negative impact of COVID-19 on one or more of the students' relationships and with worries about achieving academic milestones. Qualitative data support the findings that financial hardship contributed to experience of psychological distress by students. It also revealed negative (compromised relationships - broken or fractured relationships and loneliness) and positive (bonding) impact of COVID-19 on interpersonal relationships. School administrators should provide students with resources to access economic relief packages and tele-counseling services to help meet their financial and psychosocial support needs amidst COVID-19.

Investigating the effects of nitrogen deposition and substrates on the microbiome and mycobiome of the millipede Cherokia georgiana georgiana (Diplopoda: Polydesmida)

Abstract: Millipedes are ubiquitous soil invertebrates that play major roles in physical and chemical processes in soil. Despite their importance to soil ecology and their presumed interactions with soil microorganisms, little is known about how millipedes influence and are influenced by soil microbes. Furthermore, it is not fully understood how these millipede-microbe interactions are influenced by available soil nitrogen, which is predicted to increase over the foreseeable future with increased anthropogenic production. Here, using the millipede Cherokia georgiana georgiana as a model and using a manipulative mesocosm and metabarcoding approach, we examine (1) the impacts of millipedes on soil microbial communities (fungi and bacteria) with varying nitrogen addition levels, and (2) the temporal impacts of nitrogen on millipede fecal communities (fungi and bacteria). This research demonstrates that millipede presence strongly alters soil communities and that alterations in nitrogen levels do not impact millipede gut communities. This work also provides the first evidence suggesting that millipede gut communities are predominantly derived from soils rather than leaf litter, though both contribute to gut composition. This work advances our current poor understanding of millipede-soil interactions and provides a framework for further investigations to disentangle the interactive effects of substrate, nitrogen, and time to better understand ecological impacts of these interactions.

Peace in the Home is Peace in the Nation: Redemption after the Liberian Civil Wars

Abstract: Elma Shaw’s 2008 novel, Redemption Road: The Quest for Peace and Justice in Liberia, provides an important model for thinking through creative possibilities for individual and collective justice in...

The Longitudinal Impact of Standardized Patient Encounters during Professional Education on Athletic Training Professional Practice.

Abstract: Inquiry into the use of standardized patients (SPs) is growing in athletic training education; however, the impact of these SP encounters has not been examined beyond professional education. To understand how SP encounters during professional education benefited clinicians in their current clinical practice and in their transition to practice. Consensual qualitative research. Individual phone interviews. Thirteen professionals (7 women, 6 men; mean age = 28.15 ± 6.04 years) with postprofessional experience averaging 3.5 years (3.69 ± 1.43 years) participated in this study. Participant practice settings included college/university (4), high school (7), outpatient clinic (1), and military (1). Interviews were conducted until data saturation occurred. Data were collected via semistructured interviews, which were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Using a consensual qualitative research design, data were independently analyzed by a 3-person team, who independently coded the data and compared ideas until consensus was reached. Trustworthiness was established through member checks. Two themes emerged from the findings that described the participants' perceptions of how they felt using SPs in the ATP facilitated their growth as a health care professional: (1) personal growth/development and (2) professional growth/development. Participants specifically noted that these encounters enhanced confidence, critical thinking, interpersonal communication, and patient rapport and aided in transition to practice. Athletic training professionals who experienced SPs during professional education revealed an increase in perceived confidence in clinical and interpersonal skills as they transitioned to independent practice. Additionally, participants highlighted that SP encounters should continue throughout the athletic training curriculum. Future research should involve participants from postbaccalaureate programs, as well as postprofessional and residency programs.

Intentional suspected suicide exposures by poisoning among adolescents from 2009 to 2018 reported to the Georgia Poison Center and compared nationally.

Abstract: This retrospective chart review aimed to report the incidence and characteristics of intentional suspected suicide among 13- to 19-year-olds reported to the Georgia Poison Center (GPC) and compared nationally from 2009 to 2018 Of the 19 733 cases reported to the GPC, 749% were females The total number of cases more than doubled from 2009 to 2018, increasing annually by 10% Majority (901%) of the cases occurred in the home, and 604% of the cases resulted in either no effect or minor effect More than half (665%) of the cases involved only one substance Pharmaceuticals made up 945% of the substances used, with analgesics accounting for 4210% and antidepressants at 2077% A significant difference was found in substances used between males and females (P < 001) Females were more likely to use analgesics (4517% vs 3290%), and males were more likely to use sedatives/hypnotics/antipsychotics (2045% vs 1358%) While the majority of the GPC patients were females, the GPC was more likely to have fewer female patients (747% vs 757%) and more male patients (253% vs 243%) than other poison centers Intentional suspected suicide exposures by poisoning are on the rise and higher among females, demonstrating a need for strengthened intervention and prevention strategies

The Efficacy of Comprehensive School Health Course in Changing Pre-Service Teachers’ Attitudes and Reactions Toward Weight-Related Teasing:

Abstract: Teachers view overt expressions of weight stigma, such as weight-related teasing, as troublesome but are often ill-prepared to address instances of weight-related teasing when they arise in the cla...

Highs and Lows of Cannabis Decriminalization: Twitter Analysis and Ethical and Regulatory Implications for Retailing and Marketing

Abstract: Abstract We examined public reactions to the U.S. House vote to decriminalize cannabis at the federal level. Using Twitter data, we analyzed public sentiment, top hashtags used, and underlying themes in the discourse. Users with a wide range of profiles were engaged in this chatter, predominantly expressing positive sentiment with various thematic hashtags. The conversations were centered around five major topics: commentary on the House vote, legalization impediment in the Senate, expungement of marijuana-related criminal records, medical use of marijuana, and social and economic impact of the bill. We discussed ethical and regulatory implications for retailing and marketing.

Integrating a problem-solving intervention with routine care to improve psychosocial functioning among mothers of children with sickle cell disease: A randomized controlled trial.

Abstract: Objective To assess the feasibility of a problem-solving skills training intervention in improving psychological outcomes in mothers of infants with sickle cell disease (SCD). Design and methods This parallel randomized controlled trial recruited 64 babies with SCD, 6 to 12 months of age, and their mothers. Baseline measurements assessed mothers’ coping and problem-solving skills, depression, and parental stress before random assignment to intervention or control groups (n = 32 each). Problem-solving skills intervention was delivered through 6 monthly sessions, when babies attended for routine penicillin prophylaxis. All measurements were repeated for both groups at the end of the intervention period. Intention to treat analysis used repeated measures mixed models with the restricted estimation maximum likelihood approach. Results The problem-solving intervention had no significant effect on mothers’ problem-solving skills (adjusted treatment effect: -1.69 points (95% CI:-5.62 to 2.25)), coping behaviours (adjusted treatment effect: 0.65 points (95% CI:- -7.13 to 8.41)) or depressive symptoms (adjusted treatment effect: -0.41 (95% CI: -6.00 to 5.19)). It reduced mothers’ level of difficulty in managing stressful events by 9.5 points (95% CI (-16.86 to -2.16); effect size: 0.21 SD). In the subgroup of mothers at risk of depression (n = 31 at baseline), the intervention reduced depression scores with treatment effect of 10.4 points (95%CI: -18.83 to -1.88; effect size: 0.67 SD). Conclusion This problem-solving skills intervention study suggests feasibility and possible efficacy in improving some maternal outcomes. Further refinement and culturally appropriate adaptations of the intervention could lead to stronger effects.