Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Cultivating learning and social interaction in an international classroom through small group work; a quasi-experimental study

Globalisation demands graduates to be culturally adept: cross-cultural experiences within an international classroom are an important part of contemporary higher education agendas (Kimmel & Volet, 2012; Montgomery, 2009; Rienties, Johan, & Jindal-Snape, 2014). The opportunities for learning from other cultures is noted as one of the reasons for international students studying abroad (Merrick, 2004). Patterson, Carrillo, and Salinas (2012) documented that cross-cultural learning could bring a number of advantages for both host-national and international students, such as understanding and appreciation of the world, ability to think critically, integrate multiple perspectives, acquiring global knowledge and hence to be able to work effectively in a global world. While studying abroad is increasingly common (Brisset, Safdar, Lewis, & Sabatier, 2010; Montgomery, 2009), research consistently suggests that international students continue to face a number of transitional challenges (Rienties, Beausaert, Grohnert, Niemantsverdriet, & Kommers, 2012; Ye, 2006; Zhou, Jindal-Snape, Topping, & Todman, 2008).
Climate change impacts on the Water Highway project in Morocco

Abstract. The hydrology of Morocco is characterized by significant spatial variability. Precipitation follows a sharp gradient, decreasing from the north to the south. In order to redistribute the available water, a project has been proposed to transfer 860×106 m3 yr−1 from the wet north to the arid southern regions, namely the “Water Highway” project. The present study aims to address the viability of the project after accounting for the impacts of climate change in the watersheds located in the north. We perform regional climate model (RCM) simulations over the study region using boundary conditions from five different global circulation models (GCMs) and assuming two different emissions scenarios – RCP4.5 (with mitigation) and RCP8.5 (business as usual). The impact on precipitation and temperature are assessed, and the decrease in the available water quantity is estimated. Under RCP8.5, the project is likely not feasible. However, under the RCP4.5, a rescaled version of this project may be feasible depending on how much water is allocated to satisfy the local water demand in the north.
Effects of perceived diversity on perceived organizational performance

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate the association between constructs of employee perception of diversity (EPD) and perceived organizational performance (POP) through components of organizational justice over different hierarchal levels and also across the private and public healthcare sector organizations. Additionally, this study also examines whether employees from diverse backgrounds vary in their perceptions regarding diversity in healthcare sector of Pakistan. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected from primary sources, that is medical, paramedical and administrative staff (different designations) of both public and private hospitals for analyzing the results. The overall population consisted of 250 respondents and the hypotheses were tested using two-way ANOVA and CAUSALMED procedures. The data were collected during the course of three months in different time slots from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Statistical Analysis Software was used to analyze the data. Findings Findings indicate that regardless of their gender or categories, employees recognize diversity positively, but their responses have significant difference over the hierarchal levels. Furthermore, it is found that EPD is positively linked to the POP, and the relationship gets stronger in the presence of perceived organizational justice (POJ). Research limitations/implications The study was confined to the healthcare sector, so further studies can be conducted in other sectors. The present study checked the impact of POJ, but other important reasonable factors that can intervene in the relationship between perceived diversity and POP can be studied, such as organizational commitment. Practical implications First of all, it is dispensable for the organizations to ensure the positive perception of these initiatives from employees to implement the diversity programs. Second, the management must ensure the presence of all groups of employees to get the right responses for the diversity management initiatives. Third, the healthcare industry of Pakistan needs to be assessed in the context of current study and diversity initiatives should be taken in hiring and retention of the employees. Originality/value The presence of employees of healthcare industry across the sector over hierarchal levels will absolutely add value to the existing knowledge on diversity, diversity management, management theory and practice.
Community-driven informal adult environmental learning: Using theory as a lens to identify steps toward concientización

Abstract This article examines community-driven adult environmental learning in a volunteer watershed stewards program. We look for evidence of elements that portray steps toward “concientización”—the process of individuals and communities directing their own learning in nonhierarchical ways. Leveraging two theories from the learning sciences and community development research, affinity spaces and the Asset-Based Community Development model, we trace participants’ development toward concientización. Data collected through interviews with watershed stewards speaks to parts of these theories that in turn signal elements of concientización. Our findings point to the importance of providing communities with support that is flexible and easy to use for identifying and leveraging the resources in their community. We call for a new framework to understand how to help learners access community-driven environmental learning experiences and supporting resources at opportune times.
Fibre architecture modification to improve the tensile properties of flax-reinforced composites

As far as the tensile properties of natural fibres as reinforcements for composites are concerned, flax fibres will stay at the top-end. However, an efficient conversion of fibre properties into their corresponding composite properties has been a challenge, due to the fibre damages through the conventional textile methods utilised to process flax. These techniques impart disadvantageous features onto fibres at both micro- and meso-scale level, which in turn degrade the mechanical performances of flax fibre-reinforced composites (FFRC). Undulation of fibre is one of those detrimental features, which occurs during traditional fibre extraction from plant and fabric manufacturing routes. The undulation or waviness causes micro-compressive defects or ‘kink-bands’ in elementary flax fibres, which significantly undermines the performances of FFRC. Manufacturing flax fabric with minimal undulation could diminish the micro-compressive defects up to a substantial extent. In this research, nonwoven flax tapes of highly aligned flax fibres, blended with a small proportion of polylactic acid have been manufactured deploying a novel technique. Composites reinforced from those nonwoven tapes have been compared with composites reinforced with woven Hopsack fabrics and warp knitted unidirectional fabrics from flax, comprising undulating fibres. The composites reinforced with the highly aligned tapes have shown 33% higher fibre-bundle strength, and 57% higher fibre-bundle stiffness in comparison with the composites reinforced with Hopsack fabric. The results have been discussed in the light of fibre undulation, elementary fibre individualisation, homogeneity of fibre distribution, extent of resin rich areas and impregnation of the fibre lumens.
The prediction of the professionalization of teachers based on the role of professional leadership of managers by mediating trust and cooperation among teachers

Objectives: The current research aims to predict the professionalization of teachers based on the role of professional leadership of managers by mediating trust and cooperation among teachers in the city of Babol, Mazandaran, Iran.Methods: The purpose of the current study is applicable, and according to its data collection method it has a descriptive-correlational research design. The statistical population of the study includes all teachers of the first and second grade in both the primary and high schools (N=3100) in the city of Babol in the school year of 2018-19 that a sample of 200 teachers (Female=115 and Male=85) were chosen using stratified random sampling method. All of the participants completed the surveys: professional leadership of managers, professionalization of teachers, trust and cooperation among teachers. To test the reliability of these tools, Cronbach's alpha was applied. Then, data were analyzed through correlation and path analysis using SPSS and LISREL software.Results: The findings indicated that there is a positive significant relationship between the professionalization of teachers and the professional leadership of managers. Professional leadership of managers has a direct and significant effect on the professionalization of teachers. In addition, professional leadership of managers by mediating trust and cooperation among teachers has an indirect and significant effect on the professionalization of teachers.Conclusions: The results of this research indicate the importance of the professional leadership role of managers in the professional development of teachers.
Opinions related to play concept of children in early childhood

The aim of this study was to determine the play perceptions of children in early childhood. The study group consisted of four children (two preschoolers and two first graders) aged between 72 and 86 months. The study, designed in line with qualitative research approach, employed the phenomenological design. The data in the study were collected by means of photographs, drawing writing technique and semi-structured interview technique. In the analysis of the data, thematic and content analysis technique was used. The participants’ perceptions of play are explained under three themes. In this regard, the perception of play has been examined under the themes of “Structural Features of Play” including concepts such as competition, happening in a certain time and place, existence of rules, existence of action, performing individually or in group, focus on fun rather than learning; “Affective Features of Play” including concepts such as its inducing happiness/excitement and “Play in terms of Ethical Features” referring to features of sportsmanship and obedience to authority. In the study, it was found that while the pre-school children stated that they should have a toy to play, the elementary school 1st grade students stated that they do not need a toy to play. While the pre-school children argued that it was possible to play both inside and outside the school, the first grade students emphasized that play is not possible inside the class.
Technology-Enhanced Learning and Teaching Methodologies through Audiovisual Media

Contemporary rapid advancements in science and technology have brought about and continue to convey change in all sectors of everyday life. Education as one of the institutions of utmost importance is directly and indirectly affected by these changes and needs to redefine its role to keep pace. Nowadays, information and communications technologies (ICTs), in which audiovisual media technologies are encompassed, are omnipresent in all educational levels and disciplines, including media studies. New approaches in traditional teaching methodologies, which demand many skills and abilities by the educators, are reformulated through utilization of audiovisual media technologies, aiming at administering enriched outcomes that support the objectives that are set, especially in the field of media studies, where audiovisual media technologies are an integral part and even inherent in many of the courses (journalism, radio, television, social media, public relations, communication). The purpose of this paper is to summarize, through a theory and bibliographic review, the various implementations of audiovisual media as the educational techniques and tools that will provide technology-enhanced learning. As this paper is an investigation of the effects of audiovisual media in technology-enhanced learning and teaching methodologies, the contribution to the discipline of media studies is straightforward.
Morpho-anatomical analysis of Viola tineorum and V. ucriana (Violaceae) endemic to the mountains around Palermo (NW-Sicily

Colombo, P., Spadaro, V. & Raimondo, F. M. : Morpho-anatomical analysis of Viola tineorum and V. ucriana (Violaceae) endemic to the mountains around Palermo (NW-Sicily). — Bocconea 21: 233-247. 2007. — ISSN 1120-4060. Viola sect. Melanium is represented in Sicily by six species. Two of them, originally described as varieties of Viola nebrodensis, were later transferred at the species rank and named V. tineorum and V. ucriana. The study of micromorphological characteristics gives additional evidence agreeing with the independent specific status of V. tineourum and V. ucriana, that are confined to two very restricted areas south of Palermo: Rocca Busambra and Monte Pizzuta respectively.
Characteristics Contributing to Low- and Minimum-Wage Labour in Germany

Abstract In this article we examine the correlation between characteristics of individuals, companies, and industries involved in low-wage labour in Germany and the risks workers face of earning hourly wages that are below the minimum-wage or low-wage thresholds. To identify these characteristics, we use the Structure of Earnings Survey (SES) 2014. The SES is a mandatory survey of companies which provides information on wages and working hours from about 1 million jobs and nearly 70,000 companies from all industries. This data allows us to present the first systematic analysis of the interaction of individual-, company-, and industry-level factors on minimum- and low-wage working in Germany. Using a descriptive analysis, we first give an overview of typical low-paying jobs, companies, and industries. Second, we use random intercept-only models to estimate the explanatory power of the individual, company, and industry levels. One main finding is that the influence of individual characteristics on wage levels is often overstated: Less than 25 % of the differences in the employment situation regarding being employed in minimum-wage or low-wage jobs can be attributed to the individual level. Third, we performed logistic and linear regression estimations to assess the risks of having a minimum- or low-wage job and the distance between a worker’s actual earnings and the minimum- or low-wage thresholds. Our findings allow us to conclude that several determinants related to individuals appear to suggest a high low-wage incidence, but in fact lose their explanatory power once controls are added for factors relating to the companies or industries that employ these individuals.
Deep integration in the Eurasian Economic Union: what are the benefits of successful implementation or wider liberalization?

ABSTRACT What are the potential gains to the members of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) of successful deep integration through the reduction of time in trade costs, the reduction of non-tariff barriers in goods and the liberalization of barriers against foreign suppliers of services? We estimate that if the EAEU were to effectively implement its objectives for trade cost reduction, it would lead to welfare gains as a percent of consumption of 0.8% for Russia, 1.7% for Kazakhstan, 3.1% for Armenia and 4.8% for Belarus. If these deep integration measures were partially extended to third countries, the welfare gains would increase to 3.6% for Russia, 4.5% for Armenia, 6.3% for Kazakhstan and 7.2% for Belarus. We estimate that the right to legally work in the Russian Federation for Armenians is approximately of equal value to Armenia as the combined aspects of the reduction of trade costs, including spillovers. We identify the external region and reforms that are most important for each member country regarding reforms and spillovers; this may inform lobbying positions of the member governments. Our innovative model, that includes imperfect competition and foreign direct investment, produces important differences compared with a perfect competition model.
A Cross-national Study of Environmental Performance and Culture: Implications of the Findings and Strategies

Abstract The study investigates the impact of culture on environmental performance across 78 countries. The article explores the possible relationship with two datasets of international indices: (a) the six dimensional index of national culture proposed by Hofstede and (b) the environmental performance index (EPI) published by Yale Center for Environmental Law and Policy. It is widely established that population and economic development of a country play significant role in the improvement of environmental performance. In our study, we examine the impact of population growth rate and per-capita gross domestic product (GDP) on environmental performance using structure equation modelling. The results show that environmental performance is significantly influenced by the culture of the country. Per-capita GDP and population growth rate have a positive and negative relationships on the environmental performance. By measuring the cultural dimensions and their impact on global environmental performance, countries could identify the favouring cultural dimensions and design appropriate strategy to optimize the environmental performance. The article proposes the practical implication of results and strategies to improve environmental performance. The study is among the first in studying the cultural dynamics on environment and identify its favourable and adverse relationships for an optimum strategy.
Sexually Transmitted Infections, Public Health, and Ethics

Sexually transmitted infection (STI) control is a core function of public health systems. “Control” refers to public health activities, such as surveillance and contact tracing, focused on preventing and treating STIs, including HIV. Control activities can curtail infection, but they also raise two important types of ethical concerns. The first is how to balance respect for individual liberties with maximizing population sexual health. The harm principle is one approach to navigating these trade-offs. The second is the ethical imperative to address disparities in STI disease outcomes, along with underlying disparities in access to STI information, prevention, and treatment. Both types of disparities map onto other cross-cutting issues of social justice, including poverty, gender, sexual orientation, race, and age. A human rights approach highlights inequalities and underlying structural determinants of health, with the goal of interrupting STI transmission and preventing future infection.
TECHNICAL EFFICIENCY OF RICE FARMING DURING RAINY AND DRY SEASONS IN NGAWI DISTRICT OF EAST JAVA PROVINCE, INDONESIA

The Aims of this study is to analyze the level of technical efficiency of rice farming in the rainy and dry seasons in Ngawi Regency, East Java Province. And compare the level of technical efficiency in the rainy and dry seasons. Respondents in this study were 88 rice farmers. Data analysis method used is Data envelopment analysis to obtain the level of technical efficiency of farmers and the average difference test (t test) to compare the level of technical efficiency in the rainy season and dry season. Tobit regression to analysis factors that influence technical efficiency. The results show that in the dry season farmers have higher technical efficiency than the rainy season. Similarly, the results of the average difference test (t test) show that the dry season has a higher average value of technical efficiency compared to the rainy season with a significant level of 1%. Field schools, farmers group, distance of plants, seed quality and season have a significant effect on the technical efficiency. This implies that there needs to be an increase in knowledge related to rice farming in the rainy season so that it can improve the technical efficiency and productivity of rice farming in the rainy season.
Voluntary Adoption of Audit Committees, Ownership Structure and Firm Performance: Evidence from Taiwan

ABSTRACT Based on exogenous policy in corporate governance reform, this study examines how the voluntary adoption of audit committees affects firm performance and risk. We use a self-selection model to investigate the effect of voluntary adoption of audit committees on Tobin’s Q, return on assets, and idiosyncratic risk. Our results show that Taiwanese listed firms, especially those that are family controlled, have better performance and lower risk when they voluntarily adopt audit committees. Our results suggest that voluntary adoption of audit committees can reduce agency conflict and asymmetric information.
On the way to self-employment: the dynamics of career mobility

Abstract This qualitative study offers empirically-based explanations of the dynamics of career mobility trajectories to self-employment, a popular phenomenon in real life but less so in the literature. Embedded in the career ecosystem of an emerging-economy country, we investigate the mobility dynamics of people in different stages of their self-employment career. We conducted in-depth interviews with 35 individuals who opted for entrepreneurship or self-employed careers, and deploy the interpretive phenomenology to explore the dynamics of career mobility of self-employment. The results demonstrate different patterns of mobility between self- and paid employment during individuals’ career sequences. The different push and pull forces that influence mobility are identified and explained. The study advances the theories of career and entrepreneurship literature by not only illustrating the mobility dynamics of self-employment as a stage of one’s career but by also exploring the dynamic mechanisms of the mobility, drawing on the career ecosystem framework.
Understanding Post-study Migration Plans of International Students through the Lens of Family Business Strategies: Evidence from Thailand-to-China Students

International education and onward mobility of international graduates often involve strategies of economic units. This paper contributes to this line of research by examining how post-study migration plans of international students can be geared toward achieving strategic goals of family businesses. Based on survey data among Thais studying in Chinese universities, we find that those with a family business background show a clear intention of short-term sojourn; however, when they are at elite universities or graduate schools, or have ethnic-language links with the host country, chances of leaving immediately upon graduation increase significantly. We argue that their particular mobility patterns may involve business-oriented families’ efforts to balance the two strategic goals across borders: succession and internationalization. The present paper calls for a closer look into the particular situations of families to deepen the understanding of international student mobility.