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Exploring Effective Leadership Qualities of Rural Hospital CEOs: A Qualitative Investigation
Full text linkABSTRACT
Exploring Effective Leadership Qualities of Rural Hospital CEOs:
A Qualitative Investigation
By: Karl Hittle
University of the Incarnate Word, 2024
Competent healthcare executives who successfully lead the healthcare delivery systems in small communities are limited in number despite the tremendous need for their expertise. Information describing the specific characteristics of successful Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) for rural medical centers is lacking in the current body of literature. This study investigates the leadership characteristics of successful rural hospital CEOs using information gleaned from those who have proven to be successful in this critical section of the healthcare industry. A qualitative phenomenological approach to the investigation was used with the intentional selection of ten subjects using face-to-face interviews. Interview questions were designed to solicit in-depth, personal responses from those hospital CEOs in Texas who have achieved success and are recognized as successful amongst their peers. Using the MAXQDA software (VERBI Software, 2022), interview data were coded and condensed into three themes that revealed the characteristics the participants believed to be important for success in their roles. Those themes include Authenticity Personally and Professionally, Approachable and Accessible, and Integrity Builds Trust and Credibility. This study will provide valuable insights for hospital CEOs and hospital board members seeking the development or recruitment of a CEO to lead their organization. It may also serve as a resource for healthcare leaders in general who seek enhancement of their leadership effectiveness
Effects of Meat Attachment and Social Normative Messaging on Consumer Acceptance of a Blended Plant-Forward Sausage Patty
Full text linkOBJECTIVE, The consumption of red and processed meat in the U.S. diet is rooted in psychological and social determinants. While meat alternatives (e.g., Beyond Beef) have recently entered the food and beverage market, they are not well received by consumers. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of meat attachment and social normative messages on consumer acceptance of a blended, plant-forward meat product. METHODS. Seventy-one university students (Age: M = 22.14; Gender: Female = 52) between the ages of 18-30 years and without food allergies were recruited. This study utilized a 2 (between-subjects; social normative messages) x 2 (within-subjects, form of sausage patty) mixed design. Subjects were randomly assigned to view and critique a brief 30-second video with or without descriptive social normative messages. All participants evaluated the appearance, texture, flavor, aroma, and juiciness of a full-meat breakfast sausage patty (100% meat) and a plant-forward patty (50% meat, 50% texture vegetable protein), then completed the meat attachment questionnaire (MAQ). RESULTS. Participants preferred the appearance (+0.72, p \u3c .001), aroma (+0.38, p \u3c .001), flavor (+0.54, p \u3c .001), and juiciness (+0.35, p = .039) of the full meat patty compared to the plant-forward patty, with no identifiable difference between texture (+.02, p = .204) and overall acceptance (-.04, p = .79), regardless of the exposure to social normative messages. Although controlling for meat attachment affected the evaluation of patty appearance, this was not the case for sensory characteristics (p = .004, η2 = .119). Lastly, sensory evaluations seemed to depend on the form of sausage patty and exposure to normative messages for appearance (p = .043, η2 = .059). and texture (p = .014, η2 = .086). Yet, outcomes were contradictory and somewhat against predictions. CONCLUSION. Blended, plant-forward, meat alternatives could be an effective means to reduce meat consumption, especially when considering the texture and overall acceptance of the product. Future studies and development of plant-forward goods should seek to include varying proportions of textured vegetable protein. Further, the effect of descriptive social messages and meat attachment on consumer evaluations is not clear. More stringent and focused normative message exposures and a diverse subject pool are required to elucidate any possible effects on the sensory evaluation of food products
Entrepreneurship Education: Understanding the Lived Entrepreneurial Experience of Community College Students in South Texas
Full text linkEntrepreneurship education (EE) is a hot topic and has gained the attention and interest of scholars in the United States and globally. Despite the growth of EE, scholars have been marginalizing the impact of EE at the community college level and there is a dearth of studies in this area (Liguori et al. 2019; Mars & Ginter 2012). Therefore, I conducted this study to bridge this indicated gap and contribute to the EE literature through exploring the entrepreneurial learning and practical experiences of community college student entrepreneurs.
The purpose of this qualitative narrative inquiry was to better understand the lived entrepreneurial learning and practical experiences of 2-year community college students who have completed entrepreneurship training bootcamps and started their businesses in South Texas. In addition, I explored and narrated the participants’ training bootcamps experience and its impact on their entrepreneurial journeys based on the Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT).
I used a narrative inquiry design to explore the entrepreneurial learning and practical experiences of community college student entrepreneurs. Narrative inquiry is a common qualitative research approach (Merriam & Tisdell, 2015) and researchers use it to make meaning of human experiences (Clandinin & Connelly, 2000; Merriam & Tisdell, 2015). Therefore, using a narrative inquiry was an appropriate approach and it served the purpose of this study (Lichtman, 2012; Merriam & Tisdell, 2015).
I used a triangulation strategy to collect data from four participants, which enabled me to incorporate a variety of data collection methods (Creswell, 2002; Merriam & Tisdell, 2015; Tracy, 2010). I used in-depth semi-structured interviews as the primary method; additional methods were incorporated to collect rich data such as: (a) artifacts, (b) interview observation notes, (c) post-interview conversations, (d) follow-up questions via email, and (e) member checking.
I presented the findings in two forms, which are narratives (stories of student entrepreneurs) and thematic analysis. Four major themes emerged from the analyzed data which are: (a) entrepreneurial self-efficacy, (b) entrepreneurial outcome expectations, (c) entrepreneurial learning journey, and (d) social support. Part of the findings of this study was a significant positive impact of entrepreneurship training bootcamps on participant entrepreneurial learning and practical experiences. Finally, in this study I present the impact model of the entrepreneurship training bootcamps based on SCCT.
I conclude from my study’s findings that the staff of the entrepreneurship training bootcamps incorporated a variety of educational approaches, techniques, and tools (e.g., hiring mentors and teaching important business concepts) to provide student entrepreneurs with a holistic and optimal entrepreneurial learning experience. These findings reveal a significant positive impact of the entrepreneurship training programs and its staff on the participants’ entrepreneurial learning and practical experiences. I emphasize, as one of the most influential factors, the important role that mentors played in student entrepreneurs learning and practical experiences. I indicate, in addition, several limitations, the lack of consistency regarding the information about the entrepreneurship training program, and limited access to data and statistics about community college entrepreneurship programs. Furthermore, because my study was based on a small local entrepreneurship training program, generalization from the study is not intended; but the study does provide a larger picture of the experiences of student entrepreneurs. In this light, I suggest for future research further exploration of the entrepreneurial experiences of student entrepreneurs using a larger sample, diverse groups, and different entrepreneurship training programs
Entrepreneurship Education: Understanding the Lived Entrepreneurial Experiences of Community College Students in South Texas
Full text linkEntrepreneurship education (EE) is a hot topic and has gained the attention and interest of scholars in the United States and globally. Despite the growth of EE, scholars have been marginalizing the impact of EE at the community college level and there is a dearth of studies in this area (Liguori et al. 2019; Mars & Ginter 2012). Therefore, I conducted this study to bridge this indicated gap and contribute to the EE literature through exploring the entrepreneurial learning and practical experiences of community college student entrepreneurs.
The purpose of this qualitative narrative inquiry was to better understand the lived entrepreneurial learning and practical experiences of 2-year community college students who have completed entrepreneurship training bootcamps and started their businesses in South Texas. In addition, I explored and narrated the participants’ training bootcamps experience and its impact on their entrepreneurial journeys based on the Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT).
I used a narrative inquiry design to explore the entrepreneurial learning and practical experiences of community college student entrepreneurs. Narrative inquiry is a common qualitative research approach (Merriam & Tisdell, 2015) and researchers use it to make meaning of human experiences (Clandinin & Connelly, 2000; Merriam & Tisdell, 2015). Therefore, using a narrative inquiry was an appropriate approach and it served the purpose of this study (Lichtman, 2012; Merriam & Tisdell, 2015).
I used a triangulation strategy to collect data from four participants, which enabled me to incorporate a variety of data collection methods (Creswell, 2014; Merriam & Tisdell, 2015; Tracy, 2010). I used in-depth semi-structured interviews as the primary method; additional methods were incorporated to collect rich data such as: (a) artifacts, (b) interview observation notes, (c) post-interview conversations, (d) follow-up questions via email, and (e) member checking.
I presented the findings in two forms, which are narratives (stories of student entrepreneurs) and thematic analysis. Four major themes emerged from the analyzed data which are: (a) entrepreneurial self-efficacy, (b) entrepreneurial outcome expectations, (c) entrepreneurial learning journey, and (d) social support. Part of the findings of this study was a significant positive impact of entrepreneurship training bootcamps on participant entrepreneurial learning and practical experiences. Finally, in this study I present the impact model of the entrepreneurship training bootcamps based on SCCT.
I conclude from my study’s findings that the staff of the entrepreneurship training bootcamps incorporated a variety of educational approaches, techniques, and tools (e.g., hiring mentors and teaching important business concepts) to provide student entrepreneurs with a holistic and optimal entrepreneurial learning experience. These findings reveal a significant positive impact of the entrepreneurship training programs and its staff on the participants’ entrepreneurial learning and practical experiences. I emphasize, as one of the most influential factors, the important role that mentors played in student entrepreneurs learning and practical experiences. I indicate, in addition, several limitations, the lack of consistency regarding the information about the entrepreneurship training program, and limited access to data and statistics about community college entrepreneurship programs. Furthermore, because my study was based on a small local entrepreneurship training program, generalization from the study is not intended; but the study does provide a larger picture of the experiences of student entrepreneurs. In this light, I suggest for future research further exploration of the entrepreneurial experiences of student entrepreneurs using a larger sample, diverse groups, and different entrepreneurship training programs
Decentralization Implementation in Saudi Arabian Educational System: A Qualitative Study
Full text linkResearch Focus. In the unique context of Saudi Arabian high schools, this qualitative study aimed to understand how decentralization, a significant reform initiative, was experienced by principals and teachers. It explored their perspectives, challenges, and successes and actively sought their recommendations for enhancing decentralization\u27s implementation. By focusing on the voices of these key stakeholders, the study aimed to provide practical guidance to inform future reforms and improve education quality for Saudi high school students.
Research Methods. This qualitative study employed an interpretive design to explore the experiences and perspectives of high school principals and teachers in Saudi Arabia regarding decentralization implementation. Data collection involved in-depth semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of participants who had direct experience with decentralization. The study was conducted in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where decentralization reforms were implemented. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the interview data, identifying recurring themes and patterns within participants\u27 narratives. This approach allowed for an in-depth examination of participants\u27 insights and recommendations regarding decentralization, providing a rich understanding of their experiences and the challenges they faced. The research design aimed to capture the nuanced and context-specific aspects of decentralization implementation within the Saudi high school system.
Research Results/Findings. The study\u27s findings shed light on the multifaceted experiences of high school principals and teachers with decentralization implementation in Saudi Arabian high schools. Participants shared their perceptions, challenges, and successes in navigating the decentralization process. The main findings revealed that while decentralization was seen as a positive step toward school autonomy, it also presented challenges related to decision-making, resource allocation, and communication among stakeholders. Participants emphasized the importance of effective leadership, professional development, and clear communication in successful decentralization implementation. Moreover, the study unveiled valuable recommendations from participants on enhancing the decentralization process for improved educational outcomes. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of decentralization in the Saudi high school context and provide insights for educational policymakers and practitioners.
Conclusions From Research. Based on the research findings, it is evident that decentralization in Saudi Arabian high schools is a complex and multifaceted process. High school principals and teachers perceive both advantages and challenges associated with decentralization. Effective leadership, professional development, and clear communication emerge as key factors in successful implementation. The study\u27s recommendations emphasize the importance of ongoing support and training for educators and the need for clear communication channels to enhance the decentralization process. These insights have significant implications for educational policymakers and practitioners in Saudi Arabia. The study underscores the importance of considering the perspectives and recommendations of those directly involved in the educational process when implementing decentralization reforms. Ultimately, this research contributes to a more nuanced understanding of decentralization in the Saudi high school context and offers practical guidance for improving the quality of education in the region
Financial Self-Efficacy Among Puerto Rican Women in the United States: An Ethnographic Action-Based Research Study
Full text linkThe purpose of this ethnographic action research study was to better understand the financial self-efficacy of Puerto Rican women in the United States. There is a gap in the literature in identifying the relationship between middle-class Puerto Rican women and financial literacy. In a pilot study, four major findings emerged from the survey about Puerto Rican women and their relationship with finances: (a) as children, mothers taught them to save, and as adults, they rely on the male figures in their families; (b) the traditional education systems did not provide financial education; (c) the childhood culture of poverty and scarcity shaped their need for financial security as adults; and (d) as adults, the struggle still exists to find financial guidance. There is a paucity of literature written to understand the financial self-efficacy of Puerto Rican women. This study had the following primary research question: What is the financial self-efficacy among Puerto Rican women? Fourteen codes were identified through the course of the five weeks: discussions about money, financial struggles, generational wealth, parental roles, family, never giving up, faith, health, parental influence, accounts for life events, credit as a tool, learning by trial and error, investing encouraged by employment, and financial self-efficacy. The codes were then synthesized into four categories: culture, family, perseverance, and education as power. The categories were further synthesized into three emerging themes: Lo Cotidiano, Financial Self-Efficacy, and Financial Cultural Humility
Exploring the Drivers of Innovation in the United States
No full textThe goal of this quantitative study was to explore the relationships between various aspects of innovation in the United States to understand how innovation is driven in a state economy. The 2020 State New Economy Index from the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF) and the accompanying paper written by Atkinson and Foote (2021) served as the foundation for this study. In this dissertation, Pearson correlations and multiple linear regressions were used to demonstrate the relationships between variables relevant to education and technology and the presence of growing companies in a state. The results revealed a relationship between education and the presence of specialized jobs that was stronger than a relationship between technology, education, and the presence of growing companies. This provides opportunities for universities and companies to work together, but not with fast growth as the goal for companies. Instead, universities can focus more on training their students to become future entrepreneurs by having programs that are designed to prepare them to open their own businesses. Additionally, people in companies that work with the universities can mentor these students as they begin their careers
Transport of The Fluorescent Substrate ASP+ by Organic Cation Transporter-3 in Human Corneal Epithelial Cells
Full text linkABSTRACT
Organic cation transporter-3 (OCT3) is expressed abundantly throughout the body, but little is known about the presence of these transporters within the eye and, more specifically, the cornea epithelium. An extensive library of compounds interacts with OCT3, including the fluorescent molecule ASP+ and metformin. Metformin is an OCT3 substrate and antidiabetic medication that can lower the risk of eye-related diseases like keratopathy and retinopathy linked to hyperglycemia. Utilizing high throughput microplate assays in a human cornea epithelial cell line (HCE-S), the time-dependent saturation of ASP+ uptake and the competition of ASP+ uptake by corticosterone (CORT), a known selective inhibitor of OCT3 was evaluated. The hypothesis is that OCT3 is present and functional in human corneal epithelial HCE-S cells. The specific aims are to determine the functionality of OCT3 using saturation and competition assays that provide uptake capacity, transporter kinetics, and potency information. Saturation (Bmax and Kd) and competition (IC50) data help to establish the expression and function of OCT3 in HCE-S cells as a model to understand better the transporter’s function in the human cornea epithelial cells. The findings suggest OCT3 is robustly expressed in HCE-S cells and can function to transport ASP+. At baseline (25 mM glucose levels), the HCE-S cell line expresses transporters like OCT3 (and likely other isoforms) that can bind and transport the fluorescent substrate ASP+, which can be blocked by CORT and decynium22 (D22). The ASP+ saturation assay and time trial 30-minute uptake experiments are better for uptake capacity and affinity (Bmax ≅ 1100 RFU; Kd ≅ 272 µM). CORT competition assay using higher glucose levels may potentially decrease the potency of CORT to inhibit ASP+ uptake in HCE-S cells (IC50 ≅ 283 µM (baseline); ≅1717 µM (50 mM glucose, 24 hrs.). Our results also imply that other non-OCT3 transporters are present in this endogenous cell model capable of ASP+ uptake, as evidenced by our non-specific binding measurements using a non-selective inhibitor, D22. The next stage of competition experiments will use metformin to confirm that OCT3 is active in the HCE-S cell line. This work has future implications for establishing corneal cells as a new model to study OCT3 activity, test the pharmacological characteristics of ligands, and develop alternate administration routes for metformin (e.g., as eye drops)
Unlocking the Nexus: Ownership Structures, Nursing Staff, and Quality of Care in Nursing Homes - A Quantitative Study
Full text linkThrough its comprehensive examination, this quantitative study provides a thorough assessment of the association between nursing home overall quality rating, nursing home ownership structures, RN staffing, and the impact that RN staffing has on long-stay quality measures. This study examined the secondary Minimum Data Set assessments from Texas nursing homes (N=1,062). This data set was obtained from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Provider (CMS) Information website. The first linear analyses indicated there is no statistically significant association between nursing homes with better organizational structures and overall quality ratings. The second linear analysis indicated that there is a statistically significant association between the overall quality rating of nursing home ownership with the profit incentive and the overall quality rating of government or non-profit-owned nursing homes, and finally, the multivariate response to the third research question found that RN staffing has a statistically significant effect on the success of specific quality measures. These findings, which add to the framework of the literature, may also help policymakers develop and implement Medicaid and Medicare RN staffing regulations to improve the quality of care for a vulnerable population segment