bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anti-Angiogenic and Oxidant Effects of Monosodium Glutamate at Different Concentrations in Chorioallantoic Membrane Model
Authors: SÖZEN Mehmet Enes , SAVAŞ Hasan Basri , AKKAYA Özgür , KARAHAN Oğuz
Published: April 2023

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavor-enhancing food additive. MSG exposure is rising day by day because of the high commercial food consumption. MSG exposure causes damage to various tissues and organs. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of MSG on angiogenesis and oxidant-antioxidant balance. Three different concentrations of MSG (10-4 M, 10-5 M, and 10-6 M), control, and the bevacizumab (10-6 M) were prepared and placed on the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) of the embryos. Albumen was taken from the embryos before and after the experiment. Angiogenesis was investigated through the window that was opened on the eggshell. Angiogenesis was found to be normal in the control and 10-6 M MSG group (average score: 0.3). Anti-angiogenic effects were moderate in the 10-5 M MSG group (average score: 0.5) and in the 10-4 M MSG group (average score: 0.7), and strong in the bevacizumab group (average score: 1.1). According to our results, MSG shows anti-angiogenic properties in higher doses. MSG increased oxidative stress. According to the results of our research, it is seen that MSG inhibits angiogenesis in a dose-dependent manner in the CAM model and may cause an increase in oxidative damage by disrupting the oxidant-antioxidant balance. Since no previous study has been found in the literature regarding the effects of MSG on angiogenesis and oxidant-antioxidant balance in the CAM model, we think our results will fill an important gap in the literature.
Image Morphing Techniques: A Review
Authors: Aloraibi Alyaa Qusay
Published: April 2023

Nowadays image morphing has become one of the important techniques in applications that require a graphical representation of objects. Morphing tools have become very well known among users who work on multimedia applications such as art effects, virtual games, photo morphing, and social media, in addition to scientific and academic fields. There are many algorithms to apply morphing operations, including the basic and improved techniques, which share some essential stages, but vary in the algorithm details and the produced image qualities. Morphing techniques, in general, are based on image features and changing them through a warping process to produce another image or mixing two images to produce a new combined image. This paper provides an overview of different morphing techniques explaining how they work and discuss their features in some terms such as the morph visual quality, technical efficiency, and complexity, which can assist the researcher in the image morphing field to compare and identify morphing techniques that suit their working area.
The challenges that basic stage EFL students face in online listening comprehension from their teachers' perspectives in Jordan
Authors: Yousef Rawan
Published: April 2023

This study explored the challenges that Basic Stage EFL students encountered in online listening comprehension from their teachers' perspectives during the Corona Virus pandemic. It included (161) EFL teachers from public schools in Jordan who were randomly selected from Marka Directorate of Education in Amman during the first semester of the academic year 2021/2022. A special questionnaire was developed for data collection.  The results indicated that teachers regardless of their experience and gender confirmed a set of challenges that face EFL students in online listening comprehension. The results also revealed that the students’ domain of these challenges received the highest mean score. Based on the study’s results, the researcher proposed some recommendations to overcome online listening comprehension challenges.
Self-reported Symptoms of Anxiety in a Sample of Public versus Private Secondary School Students in a District in Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Fakunmoju Sunday B.
Published: April 2023

Few studies have examined the symptoms of anxiety among students in Nigeria. This article describes the prevalence, severity, and gender differences in symptoms of anxiety, as well as factors that engender fear and anxiety among public versus private secondary school students in Nigeria. A convenience sample of 502 students from three private and five public secondary schools in southwest Nigeria completed a questionnaire and anxiety scale in the classroom. Findings show that symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (n = 104, 20.7%) and fear of physical injury (n = 60, 12%) were the most and least frequently reported, respectively. Similarly, public school students were more likely than private school students to report symptoms of anxiety. From the qualitative responses, fear and anxiety about the future and academic pressure (n = 27, 24.3%) emerged as the major thing students were really afraid of. More female and public-school students reported being anxious about many things than their male and private school counterparts. Identifying symptoms of anxiety among students is critical to determining educational policies for improving their educational outcomes. Understanding school differences in symptoms of anxiety may help bridge the gap in learning outcomes among students in private and public schools.
Governance of territorial human capital: An attempt to develop a composite index in the SEMCs and the EACs
Authors: Mazzaourou Abdeljalil , Chakir Kamal
Published: April 2023

In neo-classical studies, we often speak of the concept of human capital. It is considered as a full-fledged component in the economic growth equation and is a barometer of the governance of countries vis-à-vis this component. As such, it has been the subject of much theoretical and empirical research. However, several approaches have been used to measure the territorial human capital stock in a country at a given time, which often biases the results obtained. Typically, we see measures that neglect the health dimension. In this essay, we have established a composite and synthetic indicator of macro-economic measures of territorial human capital integrating not only the educational dimension but also the health dimension in two groups of countries, in this case the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean Countries and the Emerging Asian Countries.
The Canon of Lekë Dukagjini, a monumental work of the spiritual culture on dhe Albanian people (History, name, codification)
Authors: Muhadri Besim , Kamberi Kamber
Published: April 2023

The Canon of Lekë Dukagjini, known among Albanians as the Canon of the Mountains, or the Canon of Lekë, etc., is among the monumental works of the spiritual, and customary cultural heritage of the Albanians. Preserved over the centuries as an unwritten document, but strictly implemented, it undoubtedly represents an interesting and very important aspect, which has aroused the interest of scholars, both foreign and Albanian. The Canon of Lekë Dukagjini, was compiled and codified in the first part of the twentieth century, by Shtjefën Gjeçovi, and it was published as a book in 1933. In my paper I address issues related to the name, but also the authorship of this important document, where scholars are divided into two parts: One part who think that the Canon belongs to Lekë Dukagjini, a prince of the XV century, while the other part go even further, thinking that it belongs to the time of Alexander the Great. The work in question is also considered as evidence of the culture of the European Renaissance and a unique work with a humanistic spirit. While examining some of the most essential problems and norms of the Canon, which in many cases have a moral, religious and legal character, I conclude that all these (problems and norms) take the roots of the Albanian Canon deep in antiquity, while, in the absence of a national state for all Albanian lands and the relevant state laws of the nation, the Canon emerges as a means of protection of provincial and inter-provincial ties and as an expression of national consciousness. The purpose of this paper is to approximate the truth of the antiquity of the Canon as well as its authorship, as it survived for centuries as an unwritten but applied document. Methodology: Research method and synthesis method.
Post-covid Tourist Satisfaction in the Hospitality industry: Reflections from Jordan
Authors: Bader Malek , Al Rousan Ramzi , Khasawneh Nermin , Niyas KK Mohammed
Published: April 2023

This study sets out to investigate the effects of COVID-19 on the tourism industry in Jordan by studying the satisfaction of tourists after the lockdown. This study focuses on three main areas that may influence tourists' satisfaction. The tourist satisfaction study was conducted using a questionnaire designed and distributed among tourists who used the services. Other than that, all the tourist guides from the six travel agencies involved in this study were interviewed for cross-checking purposes. There was a shift in the satisfaction level after the pandemic's peak. The three main areas that determine satisfaction are services provided by travel agencies, facilities for tourists at their destinations, and accommodations. The findings suggested the tourists demanded proper COVID-19 standard operating procedures in addition to the basic requirements of the services provided. Data will inform stakeholders on the preparation of services provided for the post-COVID-19 tourism industry.
Social Media Rebranding Strategies for Expanding Audience Reach on Higher Education Institution Promotions and Admissions
Authors: Ulfa Marwa , Hariyati Farida , Akbari Deni
Published: April 2023

This study investigates social media rebranding strategies for expanding audience reach in higher education institution promotions and admissions, focusing on computer-mediated communication (CMC) in private universities. UhamkaTV is a case study to understand CMC's role in adapting to the evolving social media environment. The research delves into rebranding efforts, including alterations in usernames, logos, and content types and their effect on audience engagement and reach. Emphasis is placed on the significance of ongoing analysis and evaluation to identify urgent concerns such as a decline in followers, interactions, and content reach. The results indicate that these efforts led to a more cohesive brand image, increased audience interaction, and improved promotion of academic programs. Furthermore, researchers found that effective internal communication and coordination are crucial for successfully implementing rebranding strategies. This study offers valuable insights for higher education institutions seeking to optimize their social media presence, drive admissions, and adapt to the rapidly changing digital landscape. By rebranding and diversifying content, institutions can enhance their audience reach and engagement, ultimately fostering growth in their admissions numbers.
The application of Langgeh rights law in buying and selling of agricultural land in West Aceh Regency
Authors: Nila Nila Trisna , Arfriani Maifizar  , Ilka Sandela  , Adella Yuana
Published: April 2023

The Government of Aceh is granted the option to investigate and execute several policies to protect and promote customary law, one of which is the Langgeh right, under Law Number 44 of 1999 respecting the Privileges of the Province of the Special Area of Aceh. The Langgeh right is a right that grows in the values of customary law in Aceh Province, but its application has decreased, so it is important to conduct a study to determine the implementation of Langgeh rights in buying and selling agricultural land in West Aceh Regency, as well as efforts to keep Langgeh rights alive in the people of West Aceh. The empirical legal research method was applied, with a descriptive approach. According to field research, not all people in West Aceh Regency use Langgeh rights when buying and selling agricultural land, particularly in Panton Reu Sub District, Woyla Sub District, and Pantee Ceureumin Sub District. This is due to the Aceh Traditional Council's lack of role as an institution empowered to support the development of customs in the West Aceh Regency. The issues that are not optimal in the application of Langgeh Rights in people's lives are a lack of budget and a lack of outreach and legal guidance. The Aceh Traditional Council can make efforts to ensure the availability of the budget included in the DIPA by the West Aceh Government in terms of fostering and supervising customs and traditions in West Aceh Regency, conducting outreach, training for traditional leaders, counselling to society, and publishing books on Langgeh rights.
Review of Ethics Codes for Environmental Robots
Authors: Kim Seonkoo
Published: April 2023

Like robo-fish or conservation drones, environmental robots are those that can carry out jobs for environmental research, engineering, and protection. While the term “environmental robots” can branch into robots-in-ecology, robots-for-ecology, and ecobots, each with differing purposes and ethical concerns, their overall objective is directed towards protecting and enhancing the environmental health on Earth. Though there is a huge potential for the application of environmental robots, this concept itself is relatively new, and thus there is a lack of study done on the ethical aspects of environmental robots. In past literature, researchers often focused on ‘specific’ types or products (e.g., robofish, Treebot, etc.), but there were relatively few surveys of the overall category of environmental robots. Therefore, in recent years, scholars have pointed out the need to consider wider “ethical, practical and sociopolitical concerns'' surrounding environmental robots. This paper has aimed to develop more reliable guidelines that are specific to environmental robots, considering their unique roles and characteristics. First, this paper has identified three main areas in which potential ethical issues may arise: the manufacturing of environmental robots, their operation abilities in nature and direct impact onsite, and expected or unexpected long-term consequences on ecosystems through their continued usage. Based on these three areas, the paper then built a broader guideline for the kinds of issues future ethics codes must address. Lastly, the paper systematically reviewed existing ethics codes for generic robots to suggest areas that have clear gaps or areas that are already sufficient to be applied for environmental robots. Human modification of ecosystems has been a key factor for the rapid population growth during the recent millennia, and environmental robots are growing to become the next key for this growth. However, we must proceed with attention to the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of these robots, as their positive potential for the environment may backfire and cause grave ethical concerns. Therefore, this research seeks to ultimately provide a reliable set of guidelines for future developers and manufacturers of robots associated with service in the environment.
Mathematics Anxiety, Resiliency, and Chemistry Performance of Grade 9 Students
Authors: Ledesma Jembee , Linaugo Joji
Published: April 2023

While Mathematics is a necessary component of Science, many students enter scientific courses with minimal arithmetic skills. This descriptive-correlational study examined the relationship between Grade 9  students' Mathematics anxiety and resiliency to their academic achievement in Chemistry. Data was collected from the 302 participants drawn from the total population of 1,394. A three-part, fully adopted questionnaire was used. Descriptive scores were analyzed and interpreted using mean and standard deviation. To test for significant differences in the aspects of the dependent variables, Mann-Whitney U was used, and Spearman's rho correlation was used to test for significant relationships. Results of the study revealed that the level of Mathematics anxiety of the Grade 9  students was on the "average". On the other hand, the level of Mathematics resiliency of the Grade 9  students was “high”. The study also reflected that Grade 9 students were proficient in Chemistry. Mathematics anxiety and resiliency do not correlate with Grade 9 students’ academic achievement in Chemistry. Anxiety and resiliency of Grade 9 students towards Mathematics do not affect their ability to acquire knowledge in Chemistry. Student experience of Mathematics anxiety is not closely related to their academic achievements. It is recommended that schools provide opportunities for students to cultivate more positive attitudes toward Mathematics.
Factors Affecting the Decision to Work at Ampera 2 Tak Restaurant Branch Veteran Bintaro, South Jakarta
Authors: Asmaniati Fetty , Amrullah Amrullah
Published: April 2023

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of employee age, wages, and work discipline on the decision to work at Ampera 2 Tak Cabang Veteran Bintaro Restaurant. This research is a quantitative descriptive study with multiple analysis methods using SPSS software. The population and sample in this study consisted of 32 employees at Ampera 2 Tak Cabang Veteran Bintaro Restaurant, with a saturated sampling technique used. Data were collected using a questionnaire using the Likert scale with a range of values from 1 to 5. The results of the study showed that employee age, wages, and work discipline have a significant impact on the decision to work. Employee age has a significant impact on the decision to work because the majority of employees at Ampera 2 Tak Cabang Veteran Bintaro Restaurant are young and productive, thus they have high creativity in completing their tasks and have a high sense of responsibility towards assigned tasks. Wages also have a significant impact on the decision to work because the wages given by Ampera 2 Tak Cabang Veteran Bintaro Restaurant can meet the financial needs of employees. Work discipline also has a significant impact on the decision to work, because employees who are disciplined in carrying out their tasks can use their time and energy more effectively to complete their assigned tasks.
The COVID Retirement Boom and Personal Finance: How can we save and protect?
Authors: Ahn Hoseok
Published: April 2023

Granting periodic income payments to retirees, the Social Security system is undoubtedly an essential part of American retirement financing. Indeed, 90% of American retirees receive Social Security and 57% of its beneficiaries depend on it as the major source of income. While Social Security is indispensable to American retirement financing, retirees ought not to be unduly dependent on it, as current demographic changes imperil the institution’s regulation. Over the last decade, the United States retirement population increase rate has been 33.79%, approximately seven times that of the labor force population. This pattern jeopardizes the Social Security system by raising its cost disproportionately to its income. Thus, if such a demographic trend continues, the Social Security System will no longer be able to provide retirees with income. Confronting the possibility of systemic failure of the Social Security system, I will argue in this paper that retirees must take responsibility for their own finances and voluntarily produce income through investing in two asset classes – REITs and bond ladders. My research will discuss two advisable investment plans: REITs and bond ladders. Each method will be evaluated on its safety, periodicity of income, and consistency in the income quantity. Furthermore, for each method, I will examine its upsides and downsides. This research discusses the transfer of financial responsibility from the Social Security system to individual retirees. It proposes retirement plans that the members of our community can practice to produce income.
Factors Affecting the Gender Mainstreaming in Nigeria's Government Sector
Authors: Makuachukwu Ifeoma
Published: April 2023

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of traditional practices, gender roles, religious practices and community perception on women in gender mainstreaming process in recruitment in Nigeria

Methodology: The study adopted a desktop methodology Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low-cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.

Results: The results revealed that there exist conceptual and contextual gaps relating to the study on factors affecting the gender mainstreaming in Nigeria’s government sector. Preliminary empirical review reveals that gender roles have a positive and significant influence on gender mainstreaming process in recruitment in Nigeria.

Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social constructionism theory and feminist theory may be used to categorize the key work design factors which may relate to gender mainstreaming factors that are important to this study.  The results of this research will form the basis for further research to explain how culture, gender roles and community perception on women influence the gender mainstreaming process in recruitment.
Sexual Gender-Based Violence Policy Implementation in India
Authors: Ganguly Saral
Published: April 2023

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the implementation of Sexual Gender-Based Violence policy in India.

Methodology: The study adopted a desktop methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low-cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.

Results: The results revealed that there exist conceptual and contextual gaps relating to the study on implementation of sexual gender-based violence policy in India. Preliminary empirical review reveals that there was a lack of commitment to eliminate Sexual Gender- Based Violence by all stakeholders.

Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Resource theory may be used to categorize the key work design factors which may relate to implementation of Sexual Gender-Based Violence policy in India. The results of this research will form the basis for further research to explain the significance of implementation of gender based violence policy in India.
Awareness of the Attendants of Primary Health Care Centers about Screening Investigations
Authors: Mitwalli Jawaher Saleh , Sharaf Nuha Tariq , Bamookrah Kholoud Mohammed , Badokhon Amerah Hassan , Albauomi Rayan Mohammed , Alobaid Sadah Qamous , Alamri Manal Hamed
Published: April 2023

Purpose: Screening investigations are group of tests designed to the risks of subsequent disease or early detection of diseases in apparently healthy individuals. Seeking for screening tests is influenced by awareness of the individuals about its importance. The current study aimed at estimating the level of awareness about screening investigations among attendants of the primary health care centers.

Methodology: Through a cross-sectional design, 389 attendants were randomly selected form four primary health care centers in Jeddah governorate, they responded to a predesigned questionnaire including items reflecting awareness of the respondents about the importance and types of screening investigations in the primary health care centers. Data entry and statistical analysis were done using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version (26). The awareness scores were tested for normality using Shapiro Wilk’s test, accordingly, for testing significance in difference between two subgroups. Independent sample t test was used, and ANOVA test was used for more than two groups. To detect significant factors predicting the level of awareness, linear logistic regression was used. Statistical significance was set at P-value <0.05 and confidence interval of (95%).

Findings: Out of all interviewed participants (n=389), females formed two thirds (68.9%), and the great majorities were Saudis (87.4%) and most of the respondents had university qualifications (79.9%). The overall awareness score accounted for 3.82±0.48 that corresponds to 76.4%. The majority were aware that checking blood pressure 368(94.6%) and blood sugar 343(88.2%) are among the recommended routine medical checkup for individuals. Almost one third undergone previous routine medical checkup (36.7%). The awareness score was significantly higher among females (3.87±0.49), Saudis (3.85±0.48) and highly educated individuals (3.87±0.48) p<0.05.

Recommendations: The attendants of the primary health care centers have a good level of awareness about the importance.  Types of routine screening investigation, nevertheless, their utilization of these services is suboptimal. The level of awareness was found to be higher in females and highly educated individuals. It is recommended that health education should be provided to the attendants of the primary health care centers focusing on males and the low educated individuals.
Engineering Game Theory of Green Hydrogen towards Energy Transition using Shariah Jurisprudence Developmental Framework based on Ethical Decision-making from Philosophy of Technology
Authors: Llarena Zharama M
Published: April 2023

Purpose: This paper is designed to address problems on commercial laws and illustrate sustainable development modellings of ethical decision-making and shariah jurisprudence method to interpret the statutory laws for renewable energies and develop an equation for exhibition of its economic impacts along with the 2050 planning of storage capacity for renewable power percentage of energy transition in relation to service of electricity demands.

Methodology: Hamburg to Rotterdam Rules are legal instruments of commercial transactions pertaining to transportation laws of goods under agreements. Meanwhile, statutory interpretation serves as an illustration of legislative framework formulated for public welfare and safety, in harmony with constitutional laws. Electricity regulations are statutory laws for reflexive judgement of the laws of thermodynamics pertaining to mass conservation, momentum theorem, and energy equation concerning economics of the business environment.

Findings: Green hydrogen is a technical product of concession for renewable energies. The paradigm shift to solar power is a form of energy transition to target carbon emission towards zero level through reduction of greenhouse gases. Sustainable development is a monetary framework of business innovations and marketing of goods and services. However, there are apparent limitations on these contract laws, hence, issues can be raised concerning environmental laws of business transactions pertaining to technological services.

Recommendation: If green economy is the 2050 plan of energy transition, the pressure relative to viscosity of hydrogen power of solar energy must be developed congruent to Ideal Gas Law, exhibiting relativity to Euler and Lorenz number in connection with thermal conductivity and its resistance akin to viscosity.
How Transformative Operations and Ubuntu Values Impact Organization Performance in Turbulent Environments: A Literature Review
Authors: Bukusi Allan D M
Published: April 2023

Purpose: The purpose of this paper was to provide organization leaders and managers with an understanding of transformative operations as a practical approach to successfully navigate chaotic business environments in Africa.

Methodology: The researcher conducted a review of available academic literature, journals, research findings, authoritative policy documents, library books and online business publications related to emergent transformative leadership theory, ubuntu values, organization performance and environmental turbulence in the business context. The author used a thematic analysis of text, qualitative interpretivism of published information and grounded theory to develop a conceptual framework to guide future research in the field.

Findings: The author examined modern societal and scholarly calls for transformative leadership as a suitable model to address the volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous conditions of a chaotic global environment in the 21st century. The literature and empirical research review suggest that implementing transformative operations, alongside practicing ubuntu values, equips organizations to navigate a strategic path through turbulent conditions. These approaches secure a business organization’s survival, sustainability, profitability and market leadership. The author proposes that leading organization performance in an evolving environment is neither a linear process nor a simple planning routine. Rather, it is a transcendent approach to navigating immediate, disruptive, short, medium and long-term challenges to arrive at desired goals. In the process, organizations change, adapt, innovate and transform themselves in order to thrive in the face of evolving environmental conditions.  The study proposes a conceptual model for further empirical research on the impact of transformative operations on organization performance.

Recommendations: The study recommend leaders and managers to 1) adopt transformative operations as a strategy to successfully navigate environmental turbulence, 2) to harness the free social energy available in the ubuntu philosophy to leverage institutional performance in public and private business in Africa, 3) use environmental mapping to configure and navigate surrounding force fields, 4) adopt additional performance measures, alongside financial results, to provide a wholistic picture of business success. And finally, the study invite researchers to conduct empirical tests to evaluate the efficacy of the conceptual framework.
Tax Payers’ Attitudes and Demographic Analysis of SMEs Operators in River and Akwa-Iboms States – Nigeria
Authors: Beredugo Sunny Biobele , Ekpo Bassey Okon
Published: April 2023

The study focused on taxpayers’ attitude and demographic analyses of SMEs operators in Rivers and Akwa-Ibom States – Nigeria. It was motivated by the need for Nigerian tax authority to create a well-planned and comprehensive approach to enhance favourable tax attitude in order to deal with the problem of tax evasion; coupled with the lag in sufficient empirical works on tax payers’ attitudes in Nigeria.The objectives of the study were to examine the differential effect of gender, age differences, marital status and educational level on tax payers’ attitudes in Nigeria. Survey research design was adopted. The study was limited to SMEs operators in Rivers and Akwa-Ibom States. From a population of 28,585 SMEs operators, a sample size of 1150 was used. ANOVA was used to test the hypothesis. The findings show that: there is no significant difference on the effect of genders, age differences and marital status on tax payers’ attitudes in Nigeria. However, there is a significant difference on the effect of educational level on tax payers’ attitudes in Nigeria. It was therefore recommended that tax authority should always consider the educational stratification of SMEs operators before developing approaches to instigate favourable tax compliance; and SMEs Operators with high compliance track records should be celebrated by tax authority and they should be encouraged to engage in word-of-mouth communication to communicate to others on the benefits of tax payment
FROM JUNGLES AND RIVERS: ANIMAL TROPES IN MALAYSIAN INDIGENOUS LITERATURE IN ENGLISH
Authors: Abdullah ‘Izzat Najmi , Zainal Zainor Izat , Toh Haw Ching Florence , Bahar Ida Baizura
Published: April 2023

Recent developments in the local literary arts scene have seen the emergence of publications on folktales and fables of Malaysian indigenous people in English. Central to these publications is the presence of animals, whether as symbols, voices, or characters. Nonetheless, critical reaction to this presence has been sparse at best. As animals are paradoxically recognised as central to indigenous societies and their literatures yet marginalized in relation to human concerns, analysing texts to see how these animals function in literature, what they teach us about animals and what they reveal about humans and our relationships to animals seem critically crucial. Tapping into the field of animal studies, this paper investigates animal tropes in Malaysian indigenous folktales in English. To this end, folktale collections from such as Heidi Munan’s Sarawak Folktales (2017), Lim Boo Liat and Jefri Dylan Ong’s Orang Asli Animal Tales (2016), Clifford Sather’s Apai Alui Becomes A Shaman and Other Iban Comic Tales (2001), Robert Sulis Ridu, Ritikos Jitab and Jonas Noeb’s King Siliman and Other Bidayuh Folk Tales (2001), and Jayl Langub’s Suket: Penan Folk Stories (2001) are examined. Using Mario Ortiz Robles’s framework of animal tropes, this research found that the majority of these animal tropes are anthropomorphized or shown as possessing human capacities, such as conversing, dancing, working, and interacting with others, indicating Malaysian literary animals as literary, cultural endeavours which largely involve a projection of humanity.
UNCOVERING THE SOCIAL MEDIA USE AND CONCERNS DURING THE CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK
Authors: Mohd Nazri Syahida
Published: April 2023

The coronavirus (COVID-19) began in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China, in which the pandemic has spread worldwide. Before the outbreak, Malaysia'’s government implemented precautionary measures by enforcing the Movement Control Orders (MCO). Social media sites that focus on a photo-based usage are currently a vital part of young people's lives. COVID-19 has enormously affected people's mental health, such as anxiety, fear, hopelessness, and sleep deprivation. Social media became a reliable way of seeking resources, especially for university students during the pandemic. This concept paper builds upon various insights from many researchers on social media within the period of the COVID-19 pandemic. The researcher first presents background on social media and COVID-19 pandemic. Next, based on prior literature, she provides the logical reasons for using social media during this unprecedented time. Additionally, the researcher discusses the conceptual framework explaining why individuals consume social media during these challenging times, including the Uses and Gratifications Theory (UGT), given the recent growth of studies on this research question. Finally, the researcher offers discussion and recommendations for future research in this range.
USING TEACHER-STUDENT COLLABORATIVE ASSESSMENT TO DEVELOP CHINESE EFL LEARNERS’ WRITING
Authors: Xiaomeng Zeng , Ravindran Latha
Published: April 2023

Peer feedback is increasingly used in higher education. However, in China, peer feedback is not widely used in EFL writing classes. Distrust of students’ ability to provide comments and teachers’ fear of losing power are two frequently discussed reasons. For the lack of peer feedback, the study used teacher-student collaborative assessment (TSCA), a native classroom assessment proposed by Chinese researchers involving peer feedback supported by teachers, to find how it affects peer feedback quality and EFL writing performance. The study used a quantitative method and conducted a quasi-experiment. In the experimental group, 45 freshmen took TSCA after each writing task, while in the control group, 57 freshmen only received the teacher’s analysis of the writing sample. After the training of five weeks, participants in the experimental group showed significant improvement in the quality of their peer feedback and EFL writing than participants in the control group. Based on the findings, the study proposes a blended TSCA for better adaption to Chinese EFL writing teaching in higher education, i.e., with limited EFL teaching time and a large class. This also shows a middle way to provide feedback from teacher-centered transmission to student-centered process based on the sociocultural context of China.
THE CURRENT STRATEGIES FOR EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION IN THE MALAYSIAN CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY
Authors: Christian Ohueri Chukwuka , Habil Hadina , Chuin Liew San
Published: April 2023

Effective communication is a fundamental factor for high productivity and successful delivery of construction projects. However, the disjointed nature of construction activities, the emergence of more advanced communication technology, and the involvement of workers from various disciplines and background makes effective communication a hassle in the construction industry. Despite the enormous studies on enhancing communication in the construction context, the issue of ineffective communication persists, thereby contributing to site accidents and project delays. cost overrun, disputes, and low labour productivity. Therefore, this study investigates the current strategies for effective communication in the construction industry, particularly in emerging countries like Malaysia. Twenty professionals including construction managers, site supervisors, construction labourers, and language professors were interviewed. The interviewees were selected via the convenient sampling technique and the In-depth interview data was analysed using thematic content analysis. The findings reveal that the root causes of ineffective communication in the construction industry are low literacy level of construction workers, poor management and supervision, lack of technical knowledge, the complexity of the construction industry, and the language barrier. Additionally, the strategies for effective communication in the Malaysian construction industry were established and categorized into 3: Technological Based Strategies, Integrated Process Strategies, and Human Engagement Strategies. The research output provides construction experts with a novel approach that can guide the construction workforce to effectively communicate using various communication mediums, thereby increasing productivity and profits.
DEVELOPMENT OF A MOBILE WEB APPLICATION FOR LEARNING THAI AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE
Authors: Rattanakhemakorn Jintana
Published: April 2023

One of the technological advances of the modern age is the mobile phone, as it enables free access to a wide variety of applications (apps) and language learning tools, which help students develop their language abilities in and out of the classroom. The purpose of this study was to develop a mobile web application (mobile web app) designed specifically for learning Thai as a foreign language and to examine whether the use of the mobile web app assists Thai language learning. The participants in the study consisted of 22 international undergraduates with multi-cultural backgrounds at an international college in the northeastern region of Thailand. The research instruments used in this study were a set of questionnaires and ‘Let’s Learn Thai’ web application designed by the researcher. Participants were assigned to use the ‘Let’s Learn Thai’ web app to study the same unit they had learned in class each week, and the experiment took place over the course of 6 weeks. Data was collected through online questionnaires in order to assess students’ perceptions of their use of the web app. Based on the statistics generated through SPSS, the results showed that participants had positive attitudes toward the web app, and it was convenient and helpful for them to learn and review Thai lessons at any time. Regarding additional comments and suggestions, the participants stated that more lessons and various learning activities and exercises should be provided so that the students can get more practice.
Quantitative ABCD Analysis of Integrating Corporate Social Responsibilities with Green Banking Practices by Banks from Customers’ Attraction and Retention Perspectives in Selected Indian Banks
Authors: Nandini Prabhu G.
Published: April 2023

Purpose: The ABCD (Advantages, Benefits, Constraints, and Disadvantages) analysis framework evaluates a notion or idea's applicability in a certain circumstance. It examines the effectiveness of a concept or strategy as well as the qualities of the individual, the system, and the environment. It was also investigated for any characteristics that might be relevant to the constitution. Each component of the major characteristic of CSR activities and green banking services and its impact on attracting and retention of customers is given an appropriate score or weighting in the quantitative analysis utilizing ABCD analysis.
Design: The ABCD analytical framework determines the proper score weighting that is assigned to all the significant constituents under each variable by analysing empirical data, the efficacy of CSR activities and green banking services to retain customers. The results of a focus group evaluation are then used to calculate each construct's overall score.
Findings: Using the ABCD analysis framework, a business model, concept, product, strategy, or system is examined and assessed. This method of analysis is widely used by academics in a wide range of disciplines. According to a quantitative ABCD study, the benefits factors have a substantial influence on the success of CSR and green banking services. The ABCD study supports the notion or belief that CSR inbound activities to promote green banking practises.
Originality/Value: Before discussing what is being done regarding determinant issues, key attributes, factor analysis, and elementary analysis based on crucial constituent elements of CSR activities and green banking practises to retain customers, this paper begins by reviewing prior research using the ABCD analysis framework.
Paper Type: Empirical analysis.
Improving Expressive Language Skills Using Characterized Hand Puppets
Authors: Ristiyani Dwi , Mulyono Rahmat
Published: April 2023

There are four language skills, namely, listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Kindergarten-aged children only need to hear and speak correctly and according to their age development. According to  Departemen Pendidikan Nasional (2003), the fiction of language development for early childhood is as a means of communication with the environment, as a tool for developing children's innate, actual abilities, as a tool for developing children's expression, and as a tool for expressing feelings and thoughts to others. This study aimed to improve early childhood expressive language skills using character hand puppets in group B1 TK ABA Wonosari IV  as many as 15 children. Data collection through observation and documentation. The results showed an increase in indicators in the pre-cycle conditions of 13% and 60% in the first and 93% in the second cycles. The power analysis results concluded that using character hand puppet media could improve expressive language in group B1 TK ABA Wonosari IV. The researcher suggests that teachers use character puppet media to improve children's expressive language skills.
Obstáculos ao processo psicanalítico
Authors: Mendonça António
Published: April 2023

O autor desenvolve uma reflexão teórica e clínica sobre os obstáculos ao processo psicanalítico, salientando a interação dinâmica entre as partes construtivas e destrutivas da mente, quer na formação da personalidade, quer no desenrolar do processo psicanalítico, e seguindo uma linha conceptual que começa em Freud e que continua em Melanie Klein, Wilfred Bion, Herbert Rosenfeld, Donald Meltzer, John Steiner, André Green, Otto Kernberg e Christopher Bollas. Reflete também na evolução dos diferentes paradigmas da psicanálise, destacando tanto as novas conceções teóricas e clínicas que implicam reposicionamentos na atividade do psicanalista, como o modo como este deverá adaptar a sua prática clínica às transformações do setting, a fim de manter e reforçar a identidade analítica.
40 anos de primeiras entrevistas no Instituto de Psicanálise
Authors: Coimbra Alexandra , Duarte Silva Ana Catarina , Prata Duarte Isabel
Published: April 2023

No Instituto de Psicanálise, realizam-se entrevistas de triagem desde 1977. Como em Institutos congéneres, houve nos últimos anos uma diminuição dos pedidos e dos encaminhamentos para psicanálise com aumento da orientação para psicoterapia psicanalítica. As pessoas que chegam à procura de alívio para o seu sofrimento muitas vezes não têm, no momento, condições internas ou externas para realizar um processo psicanalítico. No entanto, alguns casos encaminhados para psicoterapia evoluem para uma psicanálise, pelo desenvolvimento que este encontro terapêutico suscitou. A primeira entrevista desencadeia ansiedades em ambos os participantes, uma «tempestade emocional» (Bion, 1979) que resulta do encontro entre duas pessoas que se desconhecem e que vão contactar com aspetos muito íntimos da díade. As indicações para psicanálise e os critérios de analisabilidade já estiveram no centro dos trabalhos sobre o tema. Atualmente, tem-se desenvolvido o interesse por questões como «a transformação da primeira entrevista numa experiência analítica» (Crick, 2014) e a «criação do paciente analítico» (Levine, 2010). Neste artigo, as autoras abordam os processos envolvidos nas primeiras entrevistas e apresentam uma síntese histórica das entrevistas de triagem nos 40 anos do Instituto de Psicanálise, refletindo na sua experiência de realização de triagens e apresentando algumas propostas para caminhos futuros.
Dificuldades no ensino de psicanálise em universidades
Authors: Moura Oliveira Marcos , Veloso Lauro Take Tomo
Published: April 2023

O presente trabalho traz uma compreensão alternativa à questão do ensino da psicanálise nas universidades, percorrendo as ideias de Freud em seu artigo direcionado ao tema no periódico médico de Budapeste, publicado a convite de Ferenczi, o primeiro professor universitário de psicanálise. No decorrer do texto, abordamos os dois pontos de vista especificados por Freud, o da psicanálise e o da universidade, levantando como hipótese a dificuldade da ausência de algo que compense o efeito de uma análise didática no contexto universitário. Através do diálogo Freud-Ferenczi, a investigação propõe a presença do professor-analista como meio de suavizar a má distribuição do tripé (formação teórica, análise do analista e supervisão) decorrente da impossibilidade de uma análise «didática» na universidade, oportunizando através do professor-analista um apoio ao «tripé manco».
Variações psicanalíticas sobre a solidão
Authors: Salem Pedro
Published: April 2023

No artigo, parte-se do princípio de que o sentimento de solidão possui uma grande relevância na experiência subjetiva dos indivíduos, constituindo uma importante fonte de sofrimento psíquico. São examinados, inicialmente, autores que sugerem o aumento de sua prevalência nas últimas décadas, cujas causas seriam de ordem política, económica e social. Ainda que durante um longo período o tema da solidão tenha tido pouca expressão na literatura psicanalítica, desde os anos cinquenta do século passado essa tendência alterou-se, quando se tornou objeto mais frequente de investigação clínica e conceitual. Após explorar de forma sucinta parte dessa bibliografia levando em conta a polissemia do termo, o artigo procura descrever três formas prevalentes de solidão. Com base em ideias de Klein, Ferenczi e Winnicott, propõe-se descrever variações deste sentimento, que são denominadas pelo autor, respetivamente, de solidão paranoide, solidão traumática e solidão narcísica. Tal desenvolvimento é acompanhado por três vinhetas clínicas que procuram ilustrá-las.