bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green Human Resources Management: Review from Theory to Empirical Research
Authors:   University of Economics and Law, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, Phan Duc Dung , Nguyen Huu Huynh
Published: June 2024

This study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of green human resource management by examining, analyzing, and synthesizing findings from 109 empirical studies conducted worldwide. These studies were pub lished between 2017 and July 2023. The findings of this study revealed that the examination of green human resource management predominantly revolves around two perspectives: business assessment and employee assessment. When viewed from a business perspective, research in green human resource management encompasses the following categories of factors: (i) Environmental impact; (ii) Business operations impact; and (iii) Corporate efficiency impact. On the other hand, when approached from the employee perspective, it focuses on factors such as: (i) Employee environmental behavior; (ii) Employee performance; (iii) Miscellaneous factors. Quantitative research methods were commonly employed in these studies, with a primary focus on surveying employees. The findings from this research play acrucial role in providing future researchers with a comprehensive overviewof the green human resource management field. Furthermore, we suggest potential avenues for future research in this area.
The impact of capital structure on financial performance - an empirical study at hotel firms in Hanoi
Authors:   Hanoi University of Industry, Vietnam, Truong Thanh Hang , Dang Thu Ha
Published: June 2024

The article examines the impact of capital structure (CS) on financial performance (FP) of hotel firms. A sample size of 72 of 3 - 5 star hotel firms in Hanoi city, Vietnam in a period of 3 years from 2016 to 2019 has been taken to analyze. Firm FP is measured by ROA, ROE, ROS. The study which applies quantitative methods along with the support of EVIEWS software points out a statistical significance relationship. Firstly, the CS has a contrariwise impact on ROA but no effect on ROE and ROS. Secondly, among control variables (asset structure, expenditure ratio, revenue), the expenditure ratio is the only one showing a contrariwise impact on ROS and the rest has no statistical significance.
Assessment of English for Banking and Finance Program at Faculty of Foreign Languages, Banking Academy of Vietnam - from the students’ perspective
Authors:   Banking Academy of Vietnam, Can Thuy Lien , Tran Thi Khanh Hoa
Published: June 2024

Nowadays, the program assessment has become a necessary and important activity at every higher educational institution to collect opinions from relevant parties such as employers, experts, lecturers, students... for continuous improvement. It’s not an exception for Faculty of Foreign Languages, Banking Academy of Vietnam (BAV). The article presents the assessment of the students from K24, 23, and 22 (alumni) on its main program in 7 aspects: (i) program objectives; (ii) program content; (iii) soft skills; (iv) lecturers and teaching activities; (v)students’ learning outcome assessment; (vi) materials and facilities for learning; (vii) consultancy and supports given to students. The research uses quantitative research methods to survey 7 factors and evaluate the program with a questionnaire as a research instrument sent to 241 students in 2 forms including online via google form and directly via paper survey distributed in class from March 10th to March 19th, 2024. All the factors related to lecturers, facilities, learning materials, program objectives, and program content are of good assessments However, the criteria related to LMS, website and consultancy, supports given to students from the student affairs department still need to be further improved. Based on those findings, some recommendations have been made to improve the program for better and better training quality.
PROVIDING FOOD SECURITY IN ROMANIA. CHALLENGES AND FINANCING
Authors:   Institute of Agricultural Economics, Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania, ALEXANDRI Cecilia , LUCA Lucian ,   Institute of Agricultural Economics, Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania, LEONTE Marie-Jacqeline ,   Institute of Agricultural Economics, Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania
Published: June 2024

In the current geopolitical context, food security has become once again a very important target. The paper presents Romania’s current situation, analysed on the basis of GFSI (Global Food Security Index) developed by Economist Intelligence Unit/ Economist Impact (EIU). The guarantee of an objective analysis is to examine the Romanian food security situation based on the interpretation of indicators that are recognised at international level. Food security in Romania is challenged by the current socio-economic context like in many other EU member states. The major challenge is the European strategies aiming at a greener agriculture according to the European Green Deal. This is reflected in the way the agricultural sector is financed, meaning a greener CAP budget
THE EDUCATION SYSTEM IN THE ROMANIAN RURAL AREA. DEVELOPMENTS AND TRENDS IN THE POST ACCESSION PERIOD
Authors:   Institute of Agricultural Economics, Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania, BUCUR Sorinel Ionel
Published: June 2024

Known for its role in the development of a country, in people’s behavior and way of thinking, education holds an important position in the society. In other words, education is the basis for supporting culture, individual training, and also for the evolution of humanity. In Romania, the educational system has experienced important structural changes, both at national and local (regional) level. The structural changes have been manifested with different intensities by areas of residence, by urban and rural areas respectively. In this context, the present approach aims to carry out a diagnosis analysis of the education system in the Romanian rural area in the post-accession period.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE AGRICULTURAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES FINANCED IN THE PERIOD 2023-2027 IN FOUR EUROPEAN UNION'S MEMBER STATES
Authors:   Institute of Agricultural Economics, Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania, LEONTE Marie-Jacqeline-Cosette
Published: June 2024

The paper briefly presents an analysis of the priorities regarding the agricultural and environmental policies within the National Strategic Plans (NSP) 2023-2027. The four selected countries are: Romania, Bulgaria, Hungary and Poland. Due to the fact that the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) has allocation on specific measures, it allows us to compare each element of the EU budget in the selected countries.
Velocity-Dependent Potential for nn-αn-αα Scattering
Authors:   Department of Physics, National Institute of Technology, Jamshedpur, 831014, India, SWAIN B. , LAHA S. ,   Department of Physics, National Institute of Technology, Jamshedpur, 831014, India, KHIRALI B. ,   Department of Physics, National Institute of Technology, Jamshedpur, 831014, India, LAHA U. ,   Department of Physics, National Institute of Technology, Jamshedpur, 831014, India
Published: June 2024

An energy momentum-dependent potential is considered to study
nucleon-nucleon, nucleon-nucleus and nucleus-nucleus elastic scattering by
exploiting the variable phase method to potential scattering. The velocity dependent
potential, equivalent to Graz separable potential, has the ability to reproduce the
correct nature and numerical values of the NN phase parameters up to 400 MeV.
Also it works equally well for alpha-nucleon and alpha-alpha systems up to few
higher partial waves. Our results are in close conformity with the previous
theoretical and experimental data. For alpha-alpha scattering we have treated only
s-wave case.
GPE - a Compact Gamma-Ray Polarimeter with Energy Reconstruction Capability
Authors:   Extreme Light Infrastructure – Nuclear Physics (ELI-NP), Horia Hulubei National Institute for
Physics and Nuclear Engineering, 30 Reactorului street, RO-077125 Magurele, Romania, CUCOANES A. S. , CUCIUC M. ,   Extreme Light Infrastructure – Nuclear Physics (ELI-NP), Horia Hulubei National Institute for
Physics and Nuclear Engineering, 30 Reactorului street, RO-077125 Magurele, Romania, ARAI Y. ,   Institute of Particle and Nuclear Studies, High Energy Accelerator Research Organization (KEK),
1-1 Oho, Tsukuba 305-0801, Japan, HOMMA K. ,   Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Hiroshima University,
Kagamiyama, Higashi-Hiroshima, 739-8526, Japan, NAKAMIYA Y. ,   Extreme Light Infrastructure – Nuclear Physics (ELI-NP), Horia Hulubei National Institute for
Physics and Nuclear Engineering, 30 Reactorului street, RO-077125 Magurele, Romania, TESILEANU O. ,   Extreme Light Infrastructure – Nuclear Physics (ELI-NP), Horia Hulubei National Institute for
Physics and Nuclear Engineering, 30 Reactorului street, RO-077125 Magurele, Romania
Published: June 2024

We present here the design, expected parameters and performance
tests of a compact detector, based on INTPIX4 sensing device, developed in the
framework of the Extreme Light Infrastructure – Nuclear Physics (ELI-NP) project,
capable of measuring both polarization and energy of gamma rays, in the high energy
range above 1 GeV. The detector, based on electron-positron pair creation in the BetheHeitler process, has been tested with cosmogenic muons and will allow unique
experiments at the ELI-NP facility.
Phenomenological Aspects of a Unified Theory of Gravity and Matter
Authors:   Horia Hulubei National Institute of Physics and Nuclear Engineering,
30 Reactorului, PO Box MG-6, Bucharest-Magurele, Romania, JORA RENATA , MITRA-KIRTLEY SUDIPA ,   Rose Hulman Institute of Technology, Terre Haute IN 47803, United States
Published: June 2024

In this work we analyze a few of the phenomenological implications
of a theory of gravity and matter (Y theory of fields) introduced and described in
previous works. We show that the laws of elastic collisions and of electromagnetism
can be derived directly as gravitational effects and in first orders they are conformal
to the status-quo. However there are small experimental deviations from the actual
knowledge in the presence of an external gravitational field. These are within reach of
our experimental capability.
Spin-1 Antiferromagnetic Heisenberg Model Including Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya Interaction
Authors:   Department of Physics, Erciyes University, 38038 Kayseri, Turkiye, ALBAYRAK E.
Published: June 2024

The spin-1 antiferromagnetic Heisenberg model was investigated by
the introduction of spin operators on a square lattice in terms of a mean-field approximation (MFA). The bilinear exchange interaction parameters Jx and Jz, the crystal field
interactions Dx and Dz, and the external magnetic field components Hx and Hz along
the x- and z-axes were all incorporated in the model Hamiltonian. The effects of the
Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction (DMI), ∆m, were also included along the y-axis,
i.e. containing the spin components only along the x- and z-axis. Various phases of the
model, including ferromagnetic (FM), antiferromagnetic (AFM), and random (R) were
identified by studying the thermal variations of the order-parameters, susceptibilities,
specific heats, and free energy of the sublattices. The second-order phase transition temperatures between these phases were identified, in addition to the existence of first-order
phase transitions. Numerous critical points, including the three-phase coexistence, were
observed on the phase diagrams. The reentrant behavior was also seen for appropriate
values of the system parameters.
Optimized Model for Heat Transfer and Entropy Generation in Micro-Heat Exchanger Induced by Walls Injection Using Design of Experiments
Authors:   1. UR22ES12: Modeling Optimization and Augmented Engineering, Dep. of Computer Sciences, ISLAIB, University of Jendouba, Béja 9000, Tunisia 2. Higher Institute of Human Sciences, University of Jendouba, Jendouba, Tunisia, FERHI MOKHTAR , DJEBALI RIDHA ,   UR22ES12: Modeling Optimization and Augmented Engineering, Dep. of Computer Sciences, ISLAIB, University of Jendouba, Béja 9000, Tunisia
Published: June 2024

The improvement of heat transfer in MEMS remains today a major challenge because its importance in many engineering applications and industry. The objective of this paper is to analyze heat transfer and irreversibility in micro flows. The case of heated horizontal microchannel filled with nanoliquid in the slip flow regime is investigated by means of the LBM method. The slip velocity and the temperature jump conditions are applied to lower and upper walls. The flow is induced by wall injection. The effects of quadratic combination of several design factors such as Reynolds number (Re), Knudsen number (Kn), volume fraction (Vf) and nanoparticles diameter (Dp) on heat transfer enhancement and volumetric entropy generation were reported and a polynomial regression for the interaction between these parameters is determinate based on response surface methodology.
rOpenSci News Digest, June 2024
Authors:   The rOpenSci Team
Published: June 2024

Dear rOpenSci friends, it’s time for our monthly news roundup!
SPİRİDON MİHAYLOVİÇ MİHAYLOV’UN DERLEDİĞİ BİLMECELER VE 19. YÜZYILIN ORTALARINDA TARİHÎ TURI LEHÇESİ
Authors: Eriş Karaoğlan Bahar
Published: June 2024

S. M. Mihaylov dil bilincinin ve milli bilincin henüz kazanılmadığı 19. yüzyılın ikinci yarısında bilinçli bir davranışla kültür ve dil ögelerini araştırma, derleme çalışmalarına girişmiştir. Kendisini bir milyon Çeremis ve Çuvaş içinden çıkan tek yazar olarak niteleyen S. M. Mihaylov, çocukluğundan itibaren Çuvaşçayı bilen daha sonra da Mari ve Rus dillerini de öğrenmiş çok yönlü bir aydındır. Yazımıza konu olan bilmeceler de S. M. Mihaylov’un derlemelerini yayımladığı Çuvaş Konuşmaları ve Hikâyeleri [ Çuvaş razgovor i skazki] adlı kitabında yer alan bilmecelerdir. Devrim öncesi Çuvaş yazılı diline ait lehçe materyalleri içinde yer alan S. M. Mihaylov’un bilmeceleri, tarihî Turı lehçesinin özelliklerini taşıması bakımında Çuvaşçanın dil tarihi içinde önemli bir yere sahiptir. Bu sebeple yazımızda bilmeceler liste halinde verilmiş ses bilgisi, biçim bilgisi, söz varlığı açısından değerlendirilmelerde bulunulmuş ve 19. Yüzyılın ikinci yarısındaki Çuvaşçaya özgü dil özellikleri gösterilmek istenmiştir. Ayrıca tarihî Çuvaşça ile yazıya geçirilmiş, Çuvaşların halk kültürünü de yansıtan bilmeceler genel okuyucuya sunulmak istenmiştir.
A comparison of cepstral and spectral features using recurrent neural network for spoken language identification
Authors: Thukroo Irshad Ahmad , Bashir Rumaan , Giri Kaiser Javeed
Published: June 2024

Spoken language identification is the process of confirming labels regarding the language of an audio slice regardless of various features such as length, ambiance, duration, topic or message, age, gender, region, emotions, etc. Language identification systems are of great significance in the domain of natural language processing, more specifically multi-lingual machine translation, language recognition, and automatic routing of voice calls to particular nodes speaking or knowing a particular language. In his paper, we are comparing results based on various cepstral and spectral feature techniques such as Mel-frequency Cepstral Coefficients (MFCC), Relative spectral-perceptual linear prediction coefficients (RASTA-PLP), and spectral features (roll-off, flatness, centroid, bandwidth, and contrast) in the process of spoken language identification using Recurrent Neural Network-Long Short Term Memory (RNN-LSTM) as a procedure of sequence learning. The system or model has been implemented in six different languages, which contain Ladakhi and the five official languages of Jammu and Kashmir (Union Territory). The dataset used in experimentation consists of TV audio recordings for Kashmiri, Urdu, Dogri, and Ladakhi languages. It also consists of standard corpora IIIT-H and VoxForge containing English and Hindi audio data. Pre-processing of the dataset is done by slicing different types of noise with the use of the Spectral Noise Gate (SNG) and then slicing into audio bursts of 5 seconds duration. The performance is evaluated using standard metrics like F1 score, recall, precision, and accuracy. The experimental results showed that using spectral features, MFCC and RASTA-PLP achieved an average accuracy of 76%, 83%, and 78%, respectively. Therefore, MFCC proved to be the most convenient feature to be exploited in language identification using a recurrent neural network long short-term memory classifier.
Identifying voices using convolution neural network models AlexNet and ResNet
Authors: Luluh Abdulaziz Alhowaish , Anandhavalli Muniasamy
Published: June 2024

Deep learning (DL) techniques which implement deep neural networks became popular due to the increase of high-performance computing facilities. DL achieves higher power and flexibility due to its ability to process many features when it deals with unstructured data. DL algorithm passes the data through several layers; each layer is capable of extracting features progressively and passes it to the next layer. Initial layers extract low-level features, and succeeding layers combine features to form a complete representation. This research attempts to utilize DL techniques for identifying sounds. The development in DL models has extensively covered classification and verification of objects through images. However, there have not been any notable findings concerning identification and verification of the voice of an individual from different other individuals using DL techniques. Hence, the proposed research aims to develop DL techniques capable of isolating the voice of an individual from a group of other sounds and classify them based on the use of convolutional neural networks models AlexNet and ResNet, that are used in voice identification. We achieved the classification accuracy of ResNet and AlexNet model for the problem of voice identification is 97.2039 % and 65.95% respectively, in which ResNet model achieves the best result.
Exploring interest and familiarity in science skills across teacher training stages
Authors: Ortega-Torres Enric , Sandemetrio Esther Gamero
Published: June 2024

Skills in scientific processes are part of scientific literacy and constitute a very important component of science teaching. However, there are few studies that determine how key factors in scientific literacy change throughout the educational process. This research examines how familiarity and interest in science processes evolve throughout the education of future teachers. The study involved 200 students from different educational stages: 41 students from secondary education; 67 students from high school; 69 students from bachelor’s degree in education; and 23 students from the secondary education master’s program from different educational centers in the Valencian community. Data collection instruments included a validated closed-question questionnaire, as well as a discussion group with a representative group of students aimed at better understanding the quantitative data, thus combining quantitative and qualitative methods of data analysis. Overall, it is observed that familiarity and interest in science processes improve throughout the educational stages. Based on these results, the need for a change in science education from an early age is suggested to improve students’ understanding and contextualization of science in their daily lives.
Inclusive Participation in Integrated Watershed Development Programmes: Insights from Bundelkhand, Central India
Authors: Kasala Kavitha , Ravula Padmaja , Chakraborty Ananya
Published: June 2024

Watershed Development Programmes (WDP) in India primarily focus on improving ecological landscapes in semi-arid regions, despite policy guidelines that call attention to improving community-level participation. Local level hierarchies based on caste and gender inhibit equal participation for all in decision-making, access, and distribution of programme benefits. This paper presents evidence from drought-affected rural Bundelkhand, in Central India to critically examine how participation is practiced at the ground level. We find that systemic efforts are needed to make participation meaningful for all and to achieve the twin goals of social and environmental development through WDP.
El juego como recurso educativo para la enseñanza del idioma inglés
Authors: Espinoza Estupiñan Ivana , Mendez Duran Jesús Heriberto
Published: June 2024

La integración de las TIC ha facilitado el desarrollo de numerosas tareas y procesos, convirtiéndose así en un elemento indispensable en la sociedad actual. En educación, las TIC se manifestaron en metodologías de enseñanza innovadoras y alteraciones en el proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje. El currículo en inglés del Ministerio de Educación ecuatoriano (2016) describe la necesidad de preparar a los ecuatorianos para enfrentar los desafíos de un mundo globalizado. La gamificación tiene un impacto significativo en la educación; La investigación sobre el uso de diferentes plataformas para aumentar el vocabulario y la motivación sigue creciendo, particularmente en América Latina. El objetivo general es analizar el juego como recurso educativo para la enseñanza de la lengua inglesa. La investigación se desarrolló con un enfoque cualitativo y un método descriptivo porque queríamos conocer la realidad tal y como es. Fue bibliográfica porque era necesario contar con fuentes secundarias de alto impacto para desarrollar la investigación. Se concluyó que el uso de este método tiene un efecto significativo en los estudiantes durante el proceso de aprendizaje, donde el ambiente de aprendizaje hace que los estudiantes se sientan cómodos, el aprendizaje se vuelve divertido, aumenta el interés de los estudiantes por aprender, facilita la comprensión del material y reduce la ansiedad de los estudiantes.
Innovative Product Design for Clay Dogs
Authors: Su Hongen , Phanthabutr Saowaluck
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims: With the development of social modernization, the inheritance and development of "clay dogs" are facing a great impact. Combining "clay dogs" with modern design theory and market demand, and applying it to the design of cultural and creative products can promote the cultural inheritance and protection of "clay dogs". The combination of "clay dogs" with modern design theory and market demand, applied to the design of cultural and creative products, can promote the cultural inheritance and protection of "clay dogs". The purpose of this study is to explore the potential of clay dog culture in cultural and creative product design, reveal its rich cultural and artistic connotation and put forward corresponding design methods and strategies to deeply apply clay dog culture in cultural and creative product design.
Materials and methods: This paper uses three research methods: literature research method, field research method, and practice design to explore the design transformation and application of "clay dog" in cultural and creative products by taking the visual elements of "clay dog" as an entry point.
Results: The thesis mainly obtained three results, the first analyzed the characteristics and artistic charm of clay dog culture, revealing its unique value in cultural creative product design. Secondly, the shape, pattern, color, material, and composition of clay dogs are extracted, and thirdly, these elements are combined with modern design to create culturally creative products with both market competitiveness and artistic infectivity.
Conclusion: The research underscores the distinctive cultural significance of clay dog art, showcasing its intrinsic value in shaping cultural creative products. By dissecting and merging key elements with modern design principles, the thesis highlights the creation of culturally resonant products that seamlessly blend market appeal with artistic allure.
The Effect of Basketball Activity on Developing the Mental Health of University Students in Shenzhen
Authors: Zhang Ciwan , Siriphan Chanchai
Published: June 2024

Background and Aimes: The importance and status of basketball in China cannot be ignored, and its impact on the mental health of university students is also positive. By participating in basketball, university students can release stress, cultivate teamwork awareness and social skills, and enhance self-confidence and self-esteem, thereby improving their psychological state and promoting the development of mental health. Therefore, in-depth research on the impact of basketball on the mental health of university students is of great significance for promoting mental health education and promoting the comprehensive development of university students. The objectives of this study are as follows: To survey the mental health of university students in Shenzhen， to modify the basketball activity to develop the mental health of university students in Shenzhen， and to compare the difference in mental health before and after basketball activity participation.
Methodology: Shenzhen University selected a school to carry out campus basketball activities and randomly distributed questionnaires to 200 male and female college students aged 18-22. The tools used included a basketball court, sports equipment, an SCL-90 scale questionnaire, and SPSS21.0 software. This section provides a comparative analysis of mental health scores before and after the basketball intervention, using SPSS21.0 software. The t-test is employed for statistical comparison to understand the intervention's impact. The focus is on total scores, individual item scores, and factor scores, with specific attention to symptom domains.
Results: These findings are critical for evaluating the intervention's effectiveness in improving mental health. The investigation culminated in substantial evidence supporting the effectiveness of the intervention program. Statistically significant improvements were observed across various psychological health metrics, including total scores and individual item scores for anxiety, depression, somatization, and interpersonal sensitivity. The decline in scores from pre-intervention to post-intervention periods substantiates the positive impact of the intervention on the psychological well-being of the participants.
Conclusion: the comprehensive analysis of data underscores the intervention program's significant positive influence on diverse psychological health indicators. The observed statistically significant improvements in anxiety, depression, somatization, and interpersonal sensitivity collectively validate the program's efficacy in enhancing participants' overall mental well-being.
Penerapan Voluntary Disclosure Dalam Meningkatkan Kepatuhan Wajib Pajak
Authors: Amelia Lestari  , Nabilah Ifawani  , A.Dwy Juasnita
Published: June 2024

This research aims to examine voluntary disclosure in increasing taxpayer compliance. The method used as an analytical tool is a metasynthesis of a number of findings in qualitative research regarding voluntary disclosure in increasing tax compliance. The results of this research explain that the voluntary disclosure program is able to increase taxpayer compliance through several benefits that will be obtained or felt by taxpayers when participating in the voluntary disclosure program. These benefits are in the form of taxpayers being guaranteed to be free from administrative sanctions and data protection that the disclosed asset data cannot be used as a basis for investigation, inquiry or criminal prosecution against the taxpayer. This is what will encourage taxpayers to participate in the voluntary disclosure program by voluntarily disclosing tax obligations that have not been fulfilled.
Unleashing the power of artificial intelligence in Islamic banking: A case study of Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI)
Authors: Hamadou Issa , Yumna Aimatul , Hamadou Hawaou , Jallow Mamadou Salieu
Published: June 2024

This research examines the challenges and opportunities of AI integration in Islamic banks through a case study of Bank Syariah Indonesia. A qualitative method was applied using an interview approach. Four experts from the IT division of Bank Syariah Indonesia were interviewed. The results suggest that AI applications offer potential benefits such as automation, improved decision-making and efficiency, customer recommendations, and enhanced customer experience. However, the challenges of AI integration include implementation costs, cyber security risks, Shariah compliance, and ethical issues. The research recommends that stakeholders in Islamic banks invest more in cybersecurity and educate their customers about the importance and usage of AI technology. Additionally, the research suggests that the government implements policies related to the ethical regulation of AI technology. Future research should provide comparative analysis and use a mixed-method approach to better understand the challenges and opportunities of AI integration in Islamic banks.
Histórias de mulheres artesãs da comunidade quilombola lagoa dos anjos, candiba, bahia: luta, resistência e compartilhamento de saberes-fazeres
Authors: Ataide Costa Naydson Manoel
Published: June 2024

Este texto é parte da pesquisa de mestrado desenvolvida com um grupo de mulheres artesãs vinculadas à Associação dos Trabalhadores Rurais da Agricultura Familiar e Artesanatos Quilombo Lagoa dos Anjos no município de Candiba – Bahia. Foi um estudo de abordagem qualitativa e, neste texto, traz-se histórias de luta, resistência e compartilhamentos de sabres-fazeres de oito mulheres artesãs, a partir da realização de entrevistas individuais e em grupo. O estudo evidencia histórias de vida de mulheres artesãs, mães, filhas, esposas, trabalhadoras do campo que, entre o cuidar da casa, da família, da roça, tecem, pintam, estudam, bordam, unem pontos, produzem, compartilham saberes-fazeres e constroem práticas sociais individuais e coletivas nos seus cotidianos.
The Absurdity of Acehnese Identity Politics in the Post-Peace Democracy Process
Authors: . Alfian , Abdullah Taufik , . Nazaruddin
Published: June 2024

Through a qualitative approach, this paper refers to a theoretical approach based on empirical phenomena regarding strengthening Aceh's identity politics in the post-peace democracy process. First, the constructivism approach explains that GAM can institutionalize itself democratically through political parties and even emerge as a new post-peace political elite. Second, the instrumentalism approach explains that GAM's political identity or ideology is increasingly integrative or blends with the awareness of Indonesian nationalism. Third, the provincialism approach shows that the Helsinki MoU agreement under Law Number 11 of 2006 concerning the Government of Aceh has not become a new way of crystallizing identity politics as necessary in a pluralistic Indonesian order. In this preference, empirically, the demoralization of GAM's ideology has not entirely disappeared because political identity in the frame of GAM's doctrine has become the main attraction in strengthening its existence so that it continues to survive. Local parties that should maintain Aceh's identity politics as a mandate for peace agreement seem disoriented. The reality of democracy has not substantially sided with the people. GAM combatants could present themselves as political identities in consolidating electoral democracy. Local parties, especially the Aceh Party as GAM identities, experienced delegitimization in electability during three periods of contestation. Still, political identity was more associated with the formation or hegemony of power. Identity politics is more than just affirming plurality, culture, customs, language, values, and depictions of religiously coded instruments as primary protectors; on the contrary, in principle, the benefits of democracy and peace lead to the consolidation of local political systems. The central Government's commitment to finalizing several regulations is considered inconsistent, so the form of Aceh's identity politics seems even more absurd.
Identification of Dimensions of the Innovation Model in the National Steel Industry by Integrating Thematic Analysis and Delphi Method
Authors: Mahmoudi Naser , Mohamadi Dariush , Danesh Shakib Masoumeh
Published: June 2024

Objective: This study aims to explore and design development policies for the social security retirement system using a futures research approach, identifying potential future scenarios and formulating strategic responses. Methods: Utilizing a meta-synthesis of existing literature, expert surveys, and scenario analysis, the study systematically identifies key components, challenges, and opportunities within the retirement system, integrating futures research methodologies to project possible future states and policy implications. Findings: The study reveals a comprehensive set of governance, social, cultural, economic, and technological factors that are pivotal in shaping the future of the social security retirement system. It also outlines several potential future scenarios, ranging from optimistic to pessimistic, with corresponding strategic actions and policies designed to address the identified challenges and leverage opportunities. Conclusion: The research concludes that a holistic and adaptive approach to policy design, incorporating futures research, is essential for the sustainable development of the social security retirement system. It emphasizes the need for continuous reform, innovation, and stakeholder engagement to navigate the complexities of future societal and economic landscapes.
Identification and Presentation of a Self-Discrepancy Model Based on Individual Differences and Its Impact on Luxury Goods Consumers' Behavior
Authors: Najafi Sepideh , Zakipour Mehdi , Amiri Majd Mojtaba
Published: June 2024

Objective: The objective of this study is to identify and present a self-discrepancy model based on individual differences and to analyze its impact on the behavior of luxury goods consumers in Qazvin, Iran. Methodology: This study employed a mixed-methods approach, comprising both qualitative and quantitative research. Initially, a comprehensive literature review was conducted to define key variables and their interrelationships. This was followed by in-depth interviews with experts in consumer behavior and psychology to refine the conceptual model and develop the research questionnaire. The quantitative phase involved surveying luxury goods consumers in Qazvin using the developed questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) with the aid of SMART-PLS 3 software to test the proposed hypotheses. Findings: The findings indicate that self-discrepancy significantly influences luxury consumption behaviors, with consumers using luxury goods to bridge the gap between their actual and ideal selves. Individual differences such as personality traits, demographic factors, and cultural background were found to significantly impact luxury consumption. Digital media and influencers were identified as crucial factors shaping consumer attitudes and purchase intentions. Additionally, religiosity and cultural norms were found to either constrain or motivate luxury consumption. Socio-economic factors like income and education levels were also significant determinants, with higher income and education correlating with increased luxury consumption. Conclusion: The study highlights the complex interplay between self-discrepancy, individual differences, and socio-cultural factors in driving luxury consumption behaviors. It provides a comprehensive model that integrates these elements, offering valuable insights for luxury brand marketers to develop targeted and effective strategies. The findings suggest that marketers should emphasize the social and self-enhancement benefits of luxury goods, leverage digital media and influencers, and tailor their messages to resonate with local cultural values and norms. Future research should expand the scope to include more diverse samples and explore specific luxury categories in greater detail.
Prediction of Social Anxiety based on Rumination, Self-Focused Attention, and Social Intimacy in Women
Authors: Ebrahimpour Khartoomi Fatemeh , Ghanbari Azam , Kazemian Tarhan Nastaran
Published: June 2024

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the predictive relationships between social anxiety and the psychological constructs of rumination, self-focused attention, and social intimacy among women. Specifically, it sought to determine how these variables influence the levels of social anxiety in a female population. Methods and Materials: A cross-sectional design was utilized, with a sample size of 350 female participants determined by Morgan and Krejcie's table. Standardized measurement tools were employed, including the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS) for social anxiety, the Ruminative Responses Scale (RRS) for rumination, the Self-Focused Attention Scale (SFAS) for self-focused attention, and the Miller Social Intimacy Scale (MSIS) for social intimacy. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple linear regression, conducted using SPSS version 27. Findings: Descriptive statistics showed mean scores of 45.23 (SD = 11.56) for social anxiety, 52.14 (SD = 12.75) for rumination, 30.56 (SD = 8.49) for self-focused attention, and 40.85 (SD = 9.22) for social intimacy. Pearson correlations revealed significant relationships between social anxiety and rumination (r = 0.61, p < 0.001), self-focused attention (r = 0.58, p < 0.001), and social intimacy (r = -0.49, p < 0.001). The regression model was highly significant (F = 320.77, p < 0.001), explaining 65% of the variance in social anxiety (R² = 0.65, R² adjusted = 0.64). Conclusion: The study confirmed that rumination and self-focused attention significantly predict social anxiety, with social intimacy showing a protective effect. These findings underscore the importance of addressing cognitive patterns and enhancing interpersonal relationships in interventions aimed at reducing social anxiety among women.
Examining the Effectiveness of Positive Thinking Focused on Improving Marital Relationships on Irrational Beliefs and Dyadic Coping in Women with Marital Conflict with Their Spouses
Authors: Aliasghari Ali , Khademi Ali , Rezaei Ghazalhajin Elham
Published: June 2024

Objective: This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of positive thinking focused on improving marital relationships on irrational beliefs and dyadic coping in women experiencing marital conflict with their spouses. Materials and Methods: The present study is a quasi-experimental design with pre-test, post-test, and control groups. The statistical population comprised women experiencing marital conflict with their spouses in Ardabil in 2022. The sample size was 30 participants, divided into experimental (15 participants) and control (15 participants) groups. The pre-test was administered, followed by the implementation of positive thinking training focused on improving marital relationships for the experimental group. Subsequently, post-tests were conducted for both groups. Data were collected using the Sanaei Marital Conflict Questionnaire, the Irrational Beliefs Questionnaire, and the Dyadic Coping Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS software (version 26) and multivariate covariance analysis. Findings: The results indicated significant differences in irrational beliefs and dyadic coping in women experiencing marital conflict with their spouses between the experimental group and the control group in the post-test phase (P < 0.01). Conclusion: Therefore, positive thinking interventions focused on improving marital relationships can be utilized to reduce irrational beliefs and enhance dyadic coping in women experiencing marital conflict with their spouses.
The Impact of Life Skills Training on Self-Efficacy and Marital Satisfaction among Women Attending a Community Center
Authors: Rezaei Khoramabadi Masoumeh , Amirkhanloo Adel
Published: June 2024

Objective: Marriage and marital satisfaction constitute a significant area of human life that requires adaptation. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of life skills training on self-efficacy and marital satisfaction among women attending a community center in Sari. Methods and Materials: This was a quasi-experimental study utilizing a pre-test and post-test design with a control group. The population consisted of all women attending the community center in Sari in the year 2023. A total of 40 individuals (20 in the experimental group and 20 in the control group) were selected through non-random voluntary sampling and randomly assigned to the two groups. To collect data, three standardized questionnaires were used: the Olson et al. (1990) Marital Satisfaction Scale, and the General Self-Efficacy Scale by Sherer et al. (1982). The life skills training program was conducted over 10 sessions for the experimental group, while the control group received no training or intervention during this period. Pre-tests and post-tests were conducted for both groups, and data analysis was performed using univariate analysis of variance with the SPSS-16 software. Findings: Data analysis revealed that life skills training significantly improved self-efficacy (p < .01) and marital satisfaction (p < .01) among the women. Conclusion: It can be concluded that life skills training is a suitable strategy for enhancing marital satisfaction and self-efficacy among women, and can be effectively used as a method to increase these outcomes in women.
Preservice Teachers' Professional Learning Values (PLVs) in West Kalimantan Province
Authors:   IKIP PGRI Pontianak, Irwan Dedi , Putra Muhammad Iqbal Ripo
Published: June 2024

This study emphasizes the importance of teachers’ understanding and implementation of professional learning (PL). PL requires teachers to continuously learn in order to increase their professional capacity, and such capacity improvement has been correlated with pupils' enhanced learning quality. The present study explores the preservice teachers' level of Professional Learning Values (PLVs) in West Kalimantan. This study adopted a quantitative approach employing a self-evaluation questionnaire for preservice teachers. The data were analysed through factor analysis, descriptive statistics, and correlation. The results showed that two factors underlie West Kalimantan preservice teachers' PLVs: Research and Evaluation Orientation (REO) and Collaborative and Social Capital Development Orientation (CSCD). Additionally, descriptive statistics results found that preservice teachers consider the REO factor highly. However, a contradictory result came from the same data analysis, in which the preservice teachers did not consider PL practices in CSCD to be important. The data analysis found no correlation between preservice teachers' gender, academic competence, semester, and status of their place of origin (developed and underdeveloped) and their PLVs. Further research is needed to find out what variables have influenced preservice teachers’ PLVs. These findings, patterns, and levels of preservice teachers' Professional Learning Values (PLVs) in West Kalimantan can be used as reflection materials and stimuli to enhance the professional learning of preservice teachers and in-service teachers. Moreover, these findings can be the groundwork for developing strategic steps to enhance preservice teachers' professional learning quality in West Kalimantan. The findings of this research describe which practice of PL which is less valued by teachers. In light of such findings, the future research could develop PLV improvement, by prioritising each aspect which teachers less valued.
English Proficiency and Academic Achievement: Can Students’ Grades in English Courses Predict Their Academic Achievement?
Authors:   Walailak University, Waluyo Budi , Panmei Benjamin
Published: June 2024

Research into the relationship between English proficiency and academic achievement was built upon the concern of the academic success of international students studying in English-speaking countries, raising the question if such a relationship exists in domestic EFL learners studying at a university in their home country. This study, therefore, expands the exploration to the investigation among EFL learners in a non-English speaking country, i.e., Thailand by considering the variables at a micro-level across general English courses involving course grade and academic achievement–grade point average (GPA). The analysis involved the data of 2,150 students studying six different English courses from various academic majors. These results revealed significant correlations and strong predictive powers of students’ grades in English courses on their GPAs across a year of study and proficiency. The findings sustain the argument that although various factors affect students’ academic achievement, English proficiency seems to have predictive power. Nowadays English-medium instruction (EMI) has attracted a myriad of interests from universities in non-English-speaking countries. Therefore, the findings of this study suggest that improving students’ English proficiency would lead them to obtaining better academic
Learning English Changed My Life
Authors:   Payap University, Zhang Liyan
Published: June 2024

The article Learning English Changed My Life by Liyan Zhang was written in the International College-English Communication (IEC) 494 Senior Seminar course that I (Professor Shizhou Yang) taught at Payap University in Thailand in 2020. The main objective of the course was to prepare the seniors in English communication BA program “for work experience or senior project” (Course syllabus). Inspired by Transnational literacy autobiographies as translingual writing (Canagarajah, 2020), which included a clear course design, and building on my previous experiment of teaching literacy autobiographical writing to my graduate students in China, I imagined the Senior Seminar to be a catalyst for similar researching and writing explorations. Except this time, I wanted my students to write with an end goal of “submission to MEXTESOL Journal as non-refereed articles” (Course syllabus). There was some flexibility added, though. For instance, I allowed some students to research their internship experiences. I also provided the option for them to only submit their literacy autobiographies for an in-house publication at the end of the semester. During the 15 weeks of class, the students learned about the autoethnography research method, read and discussed recent publications on language, literacy, and identity, told stories, asked questions, collected self-related data, and based on our cultural analysis of the data, drafted their own literacy autobiographies. Toward the end of the semester, we shifted our focus to peer review and revision to make the literacy autobiographies more narrative, more autoethnographic, and academic. I was impressed by my students’ literacy autobiographies. They showed me that, through autoethnographically oriented literacy autobiography projects, literacy education can be made relevant, critical, imaginative, and liberating even in an English-medium environment in Asia. Liyan was one of the two students who submitted their literacy autobiographies to MEXTESOL Journal. She cherished this opportunity to be mentored by an MJ reviewer, and as evidenced by her current literacy autobiography, her writing has taken strides. I hope the readers will find that an important story of language learning is not just a mechanical skill, but impactful on the learners’ life trajectories— an important point for ELT professionals to bear in mind.