bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ranking of Countries according to the Index of Economic Freedom with Multicriteria Decision making Methods
Authors: Atan Murat , Atan Sibel , Gökmen Şahika
Published: March 2024

Every investor wants to conduct their economic or commercial activity in a country with ease. Economic freedom refers to the public limitations that individual or institutional investors must abide by in order to conduct their business. Individual or institutional investors have the chance to produce, consume, and invest more in nations with high levels of economic freedom. If a nation has a high level of economic freedom, it means that institutions and norms are founded and that the economy runs under free market circumstances. Individual or institutional investors are protected and their legal rights are upheld by the public authorities. In this study, the level of tariffs in the country, the presence of restrictions on foreign investments and capital, the black market situation, the taxation system in the country, the presence and importance of the public sector in the economy, the inflation in the country, the country's inflation, and the country's level of tariffs are all taken into account on a country-by-country basis. The study was conducted by the Heritage Foundation, which has its headquarters in the United States since 1996. Independence of the banking and financial sectors, controls on the prices of products and services and employee wages, regulation and regulation, investor property rights, etc. The data of the "Economic Freedom Index", which consists of fourteen basic criteria including all stages, were examined. This index consists of ten and includes these criteria. With this study, entropy-weighted multi-qualified benefit for the criteria and weights determined in the index calculated by the Heritage Foundation. It aims to provide a fresh option by ranking the "Economic Freedom Index" for all the study's participating nations using the MAUT approach. Keywords: multi-criteria decision making, economic freedom index, entropy, MAUT
La colección patrimonial del Chaco a 40 años de la creación del Museo Provincial de Bellas Artes
Authors: Geat Andrea
Published: March 2024

Este artículo refiere a cuestiones históricas e institucionales de las artes plásticas en el Chaco desde la reconstrucción de los primeros ámbitos de sociabilidad, exhibición y circulación de arte, hasta la creación del Museo Provincial de Bellas Artes “René Brusau” (Chaco, Argentina). El trabajo pretende dar a conocer las circunstancias de creación del museo, su influencia e impacto en el campo artístico chaqueño y la conformación de su colección patrimonial durante las cuatro décadas de vida institucional. Por su carácter provincial, el museo tuvo como misión fundacional el desarrollo de la investigación, las políticas de conservación y difusión del patrimonio del Chaco y de toda la actividad artística de la región. A partir del análisis del corpus documental, el objetivo del trabajo fue examinar las condiciones que promovieron la creación del museo, analizar la dinámica de conformación y los procesos de patrimonialización de lacolección artística en el contexto de las políticas de gestión cultural.
La identificación botánica en fuentes documentales jesuíticas desde una perspectiva etnobotánica histórica: el caso del “Paraguay Natural Ilustrado” (1772) de José Sánchez Labrador
Authors: Stampella Pablo César
Published: March 2024

En el presente trabajo se discuten algunos aspectos metodológicos relacionados a la identificación de las plantas en un documento histórico jesuítico. El mismo está constituido por la segunda parte (Botánica) del “Paraguay Natural Ilustrado” de José Sánchez Labrador (S. J.). Empleando el enfoque etnobotánico histórico, y partiendo de tres situaciones diferentes del autor frente a las plantas, se pretende problematizar aquellos aspectos a tener en cuenta al momento de identificar las plantas de esta obra enciclopédica publicada en 1772, en Ravenna (Italia). En la primera de ellas, Sánchez Labrador se posiciona como “etnobotánico”, relevando conocimientos indígenas sobre plantas prácticamente desconocidas para el “mundo occidental”. En otra situación, se realza el rol del jesuita como experimentador, poniendo en juego sus sentidos y su propio cuerpo al sentir reacciones muchas veces indeseadas. Finalmente, se explora sus aportes como “constructor” de categorías etnotaxonómicas y complejos vegetales a partir de la similitud (morfológica, organoléptica, etc.) entre plantas nativas y aquellas tratadas en las obras de escritores antiguosy en enciclopedias europeas de los siglos XVII y XVIII.
Objective Assessment of Rupture Parameters in Intact and Acute Post-Cystorrhaphy Cadaveric Bladders
Authors: Towers Geoffrey D. , Zoorob Dani G. , Maxwell Rose A. , Reid Ashley N. , Yaklic Jerome L. , Massengill Jason C.
Published: March 2024

Background: Certain procedures, particularly those used to treat symptoms of bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis (BPS/IC), involve filling the bladder to or over its capacity for visualization and/or relief of symptoms. Rarely, if excessive pressure or volume is used, bladders may rupture causing significant harm to the patient. The purpose of this study was to identify baseline data for pressure and volume when hydrodistention is attempted in explanted cadaveric bladders, as well as determine bladder rupture pressure changes in the acute post-cystorrhaphy state. Methods: Eight explanted cadaveric bladders were filled using a systematic digital pump system. Intravesical pressure and volume were monitored during the filling phase until rupture. A two-layer cystorrhaphy was performed followed by bladder refilling to point of rupture. The pressure-volume correlations were developed for the explanted bladders, pre and post rupture. Results: The mean intact bladder rupture volume was 1186.3 mL ± 356.1 (range 450.0–1550.0) and mean pressure of 103.4 cm H2O ± 45.9 (range 59.0–190.0). The mean bladder rupture volume following repair was 1051.9 mL ± 251.3 (range 500.0–1300.0) while the mean pressure dropped to 53.1 cm H2O ± 44.0 (range 18.0–149.0). Compliance was noted to decrease significantly with a 54% drop in maximal pressure immediately prior to repeat rupture. Location of the initial rupture site did not have an impact on volume or pressures achieved. The weakest point post-cystorrhaphy consistently involved the original cystotomy site. Conclusions: This study provides ex-vivo bladder parameters that may guide providers in distention and post-rupture cases. Repeat rupture pressure (maximal bladder pressure achieved) and bladder compliance were noted to be significantly lower immediately post-cystorrhaphy.
The first data on freshwater lichens of the Mongun-Taiga massif (Republic of Tuva)
Authors: Yakovchenko L. S. , Mongush Ch. B. , Storozhenko Yu. V. , Davydov E. A.
Published: March 2024

The first data of a special study of freshwater lichens of the Mongun-Taiga massif are presented. The annotated list includes 23 species from 15 genera and 9 families. All species are new to the Mongun Taiga massif. Among them, Porpidia hydrophila and Staurothele areolata are new to the Republic of Tyva, Verrucaria praetermissa is a new record for Siberia. Data on the distribution and ecology of species are presented, and for representatives of Verrucaria, morphological features of the studied samples and differences from morphologically similar species are additionally discussed.
Managerial competencies of structuring the economic bases of modern entrepreneurship
Authors: Uspaeva Milana , Gachaev Ahmed
Published: March 2024

The structure of the economic security system in research is often highlighted by excessive detail or allocation of elements that indirectly relate to the economic security system of the enterprise. The object of the economic security system of the enterprise as a whole is the stable economic condition of the enterprise now and in the future.
Innovative formation of economic environments for global business development
Authors: Uspaeva Milana , Gachaev Ahmed
Published: March 2024

A new paradigm of economic growth is being formed in the world economy based on the use of innovations and knowledge as the main economic resources, and scientific and technological progress (STP) is changing the scale and structure of production, exerting a powerful influence on the state of the economy. The growing role of STP in socio-economic progress is successfully reflected in modern economic theory.
Teaching mode of music according to the standards of higher professional education in colleges and universities in China
Authors: Cheng Chang , Li Guang
Published: March 2024

The article explores the teaching methods of music and training a future music teacher in the system of professional music education in the historical and cultural context at universities and colleges in China.
Preliminary analysis on the Guangzhou City image in the bargeboards of Pearl River and Guangzhou City scenery map in Qing dynasty
Authors: Lingjie Chen
Published: March 2024

The bargeboards of Pearl River and Guangzhou City Scenery Map are the excellent cultural heritage preserved intact by Guangdong province, which have been hailed as the “Riverside Scene at Qingming Festival of Guangzhou” and constituted the precious materials for studying the Guangdong city image in the 18th century. By means of physical research, document literature consultation and verifying every detail of the bargeboards, the spatial arrangement, architecture, and shipping of Guangzhou city as well as the epochal characteristics and formative arts of figures in the bargeboards of Pearl River and Guangzhou City Scenery Map were probed in this paper.
History of Romain Rolland’s communication with Russian intellectuals
Authors: Yihan Wang
Published: March 2024

Romain Rolland in the process of realizing his ideal through writing always paid attention to the Russian intelligentsia. Based on Rolland's literary creation and various historical materials, this paper attempts to outline the historical track of Rolland's contacts with the Russian intelligentsia, so as to clarify the role of Russian culture in his literary creation and ideological formation.
Formation and development of diagnostic methods of diseases of the circulatory system
Authors: Egorova Angelina , Lepkova Natalia , Kalinin Sergey , Bobrik Maria
Published: March 2024

The article is devoted to the development of diagnostic methods of diseases of the circulatory system. Modern cardiac surgical methods of treatment of coronary artery disease can eliminate angina attacks in the patient, prevent the development of myocardial infarction, improve the quality and prolong life expectancy due to the restoration of coronary blood supply in the stenosed CA.
Nomadic pastoralism and interaction zones (the case of pre-Soviet Kyrgyz pastoralism)
Authors: Isakov Baktybek , Urmanbetova Zhyldyz
Published: March 2024

This paper re-conceptualizes the four-seasonal cycling tradition of pre-Soviet Kyrgyz pastoralism, reconsidering the existing archival and oral materials. It argues that the summer quarters (zhailoo) in nomadic cycling were “core contact zones” for whole clan-based Kyrgyz community in pre-Soviet time whereas, the other winter, spring and autumn quarters remained in the margins. In addition, since all small and large nomadic groups from different regions were interacting in summer quarter, practicing the common language, ceremonies and traditions, this quarter also was preventing the emergence of different languages or dialects, social and cultural differences among Kyrgyz nomadic groups.
Damgalama (Stigma) Düzeyini Tespit Etmeye Yönelik Yapılan Ölçek Geliştirme ve Uyarlama Çalışmalarının Metodolojik İncelenmesi
Authors: Önal Özgür , Özek Birsel , Tekinkuş Caner , Arısoy Azime
Published: March 2024

Bu çalışmada Türkiye’de damgalamaya yönelik geliştirilmiş ve uyarlanmış ölçeklerin geliştirilme ve uyarlanma aşamalarına uygunluğu açısından incelenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Bu çalışmada ölçek geliştirme kapsamında hazırlanmış 27 araştırma irdelendi. İncelenen ölçeklerin örneklem büyüklüğü 95-1100 kişi arasında değişmektedir. Ölçeklerin çoğunluğu üç faktörlüdür (%40,7) ve madde sayıları 9-53 arasında değişmektedir. Ölçeklerin cevaplarında kullanılan likert tipi, çoğunda beşlidir (%51,8). Ölçeklerin 10 tanesinde kapsam geçerliliğinden bahsedilmemiştir. Çalışmaların tamamında açıklayıcı faktör analizine yer verilmiştir fakat doğrulayıcı faktör analizine 4 çalışmada değinilmemiştir. Test tekrar test yöntemi korelasyonları 6 çalışmada 0,70 in üzerinde bulunmuştur. Ayrıca 8 tane çalışmada da paralel test yöntemi kullanılmıştır. Cronbach’s alfa katsayısı tüm ölçeklerde 0,710-0,965 arasında değişmektedir. Ayrıca bazı çalışmalarda iç tutarlılığın belirleyicilerinden Spearman-Brown (13 ölçek) ve Guttman (7 ölçek) test iki yarıya bölünme analizleri gerçekleştirilmiştir. Kaiser-meyer-olkin (KMO) katsayısı ve Bartlett’in küresellik testi bir çalışma dışındaki tüm ölçeklerde ölçülmüştür. Sonuç olarak genel olarak ölçekler geçerlilik ve güvenilirlik açısından bazı yeterlilikleri gerçekleştirse de standartların arttırılmasına ihtiyaç vardır.
Cycle Route Uptake and Scenario Estimation (CRUSE): an approach for developing strategic cycle network planning tools
Authors: Lovelace Robin , Talbot Joey , Vidal-Tortosa Eugeni , Mahfouz Hussein , Brick Elaine , Wright Peter , O'Toole Gary , Brennan Dan , Meade Suzanne
Published: March 2024

This paper describes an approach for developing strategic cycle network planning tools. Based on our experience developing and deploying the Cycle Route Uptake and Scenario Estimation (CRUSE) Tool for Ireland, we outline the underlying methods, including disaggregation of origin-destination data, incorporation of additional trip purposes, routing, scenario generation, and development of an intuitive user interface that has been tested and used by practitioners. Commissioned and used by Transport Infrastructure Ireland, CRUSE provides estimates of current and potential future cycling levels under ‘snapshot’ scenarios to inform investment decisions. The publicly available results at https://cruse.bike/ enable planners, engineers, and other stakeholders to make more evidence-based decisions. CRUSE goes beyond previous work by: modeling networks at high spatial resolution; simulating multiple trip purposes (social, shopping, personal utility, recreational, and cycle touring) in addition to using official origin-destination data; and providing estimates of ‘quietness’ (a proxy for cyclist comfort and route preference) at the route segment level. Three network types — ‘Fastest’, ‘Balanced’, and ‘Quietest’ — help plan both arterial and residential cycle networks. Workshops and unstructured interviews with stakeholders show that the tool is already being used in practice to inform urban, inter-urban, and rural network planning. The approach is flexible and open-source, allowing the underlying ideas and code to be adapted, supporting effective cycling policies and interventions internationally.
The role of surface and structural similarities in the retrieval of dynamic perceptually rich events.
Authors: Raynal Lucas , Sander Emmanuel
Published: March 2024

Whereas most studies on analogical retrieval have resorted to written narratives as experimental stimuli, less is known about the ability to extract structures from dynamic and perceptually rich events to retrieve analog experiences. The current study is aimed at bridging this gap by assessing the role of surface and structural similarities in the retrieval of video clips of daily-life interactions as a proxy for real-life events. In Experiment 1, we presented participants with a video clip sharing either surface similarities, structural similarities or that was unrelated to video clips that had been previously watched. The results showed that the retrieval of an initial video was more likely to be elicited when it was cued by structural rather than surface similarities. Experiment 1B confirmed that the surface cues manipulated in the current study were strong enough to drive substantial retrievals when the competing structural match was neutralized. The pattern of results obtained in Experiment 1A remained unchanged with the introduction of a greater number of unrelated video clips within the initial set. The findings extend previous works by showing that structurally-based retrievals still prevail when dealing with dynamic and perceptually rich events akin to those encountered in daily-life.
A General Model-Implied Simulation-Based Power Estimation Method for Correctly and Misspecfied Models: Applications to Nonlinear and Linear Structural Equation Models
Authors: Irmer Julien Patrick , Klein Andreas , Schermelleh-Engel Karin
Published: March 2024

Closed-form power estimation is only available for limited classes of models, requiring correct model specification for most applications. Simulation is used in other scenarios, but a general framework in computing required sample sizes for given power rates is still missing. We propose a new model-implied simulation-based power estimation (MSPE) method that makes use of the asymptotic normality property of estimates of a wide class of estimators, the M-estimators, and we give a theoretical justification for the approach. M-estimators include maximum-likelihood estimates and least squares estimates, but also limited information estimators and estimators used for misspecified models, hence, the new power modeling method is widely applicable. We highlight its performance in linear and nonlinear structural equation models (SEM) for correctly specified models and models under distributional misspecification. Simulation results suggest that the new power modeling method is unbiased and shows good performance with regard to root mean squared error and Type I error rates for the predicted required sample sizes and predicted power rates. Alternative approaches, such as the na ̈ıve approach of selecting a discrete selection of sample sizes with linear interpolation of power or simple logistic regression approaches, showed poor performance. The MSPE appears to be a valuable tool to estimate power for models without an (asymptotic) analytical power estimation.Keywords: simulation, power, normality of parameter estimates, model misspecification, distributional misspecification, SEM, moderation
FAST EDGE MACHINE LEARNING FOR ADVERSARIAL ROBUST DISTILLATION
Authors: Maheronnaghsh Mohammad Javad , Rohban Mohammad Hossein
Published: March 2024

Edge machine learning (Edge ML) offers solutions for deploying ML models directly on resource-constrained edge devices. However, ensuring adversarial robustness remains a challenge. This paper presents an accessible approach for adversarial robust distillation (ARD) based in the limited confines of Google Colab.Our goal is enabling fast yet robust knowledge transfer to student models suited for edge devices. Extensive experiments are conducted distilling from a WideResNet34 teacher to MobileNetV2 student using limited computational resources. The efficacy of ARD is evaluated under settings with only 1 GPU (T4 GPU) and 13GB RAM for up to 6 hours a day.Notably, competitive adversarial robustness is attained using very few gradient attack steps. This improves training efficiency crucial for edge ML. Appropriately balancing hyperparameters also allows robust accuracy over 50% using just 1 attack step. Overall, the presented approach advances the feasibility of performing robust distillation effectively even with accessibility constraints.The democratized and reproducible method on Google Colab serves as a launchpad for those aiming to reap the advantages of edge intelligence. By sharing models protected against adversarial threats, this work propels broader adoption of trustworthy ML at society’s technological edges.
Old but Gold or New and Shiny? Comparing Tree Ensembles for Ordinal Prediction with a Classic Parametric Approach
Authors: Buczak Philip , Horn Daniel , Pauly Markus
Published: March 2024

There is a long tradition of modeling ordinal response data with parametric models such as the proportional odds model. With the advent of machine learning (ML), however, the classical stream of parametric models has been increasingly challenged by a more recent stream of tree ensemble (TE) methods extending popular ML algorithms such as random forest to ordinal response data. Despite selective efforts, the current literature lacks an encompassing comparison between the two methodological streams. In this work, we fill this gap by investigating under which circumstances a proportional odds model is competitive with TE methods regarding its predictive performance, and when TE should be preferred. Additionally, we study whether the optimization of the numeric scores assigned to ordinal response categories, as in Ordinal Forest (OF; Hornung, 2019), is worth the associated computational burden. To this end, we further contribute to the literature by proposing the Ordinal Score Optimization Algorithm (OSOA). Similar, to OF, OSOA optimizes the numeric scores assigned to the ordinal response categories, but aims to enhance the optimization procedure used in OF by employing a non-linear optimization algorithm. Our comparison results show that while TE approaches outperformed the proportional odds model in the presence of strong non-linear effects, the latter was competitive for small sample sizes even under medium non-linear effects. Regarding the TE methods, only subtle differences emerged between the individual methods, showing that the benefit of score optimization was situational. We analyze potential reasons for the mixed benefits of score optimization to motivate further methodological research. Based on our results, we derive practical recommendations for researchers and practitioners.
Accurate and efficient data-driven psychiatric assessment using machine learning
Authors: Konishcheva Kseniia , Leventhal Bennett , Koyama Maki , Panda Sambit , Vogelstein Joshua T. , Milham Michael , Lindner Ariel , Klein Arno
Published: March 2024

BackgroundAccurate assessment of mental disorders and learning disabilities is essential for timely intervention. Machine learning and feature selection techniques have demonstrated potential in improving the accuracy and efficiency of mental health assessments. However, limited research has explored the use of large transdiagnostic datasets containing a vast number of items (exceeding 1000), as well as the application of these techniques in developing quick, question-based learning disability assessments. The goals of this study are to apply machine learning and feature selection techniques to a large transdiagnostic dataset featuring a high number of input items, and to create a tool for the streamlined creation of efficient and effective assessment using existing datasets.MethodsThis study leverages the Healthy Brain Network (HBN) dataset to develop a tool for creation of efficient and effective machine learning-based assessment of mental disorders and learning disabilities. Feature selection algorithms were applied to identify parsimonious item subsets. Modular architecture ensures straightforward application to other datasets. ResultsMachine learning models trained on the HBN data exhibited improved performance over existing assessments. Using only non-proprietary assessments did not significantly impact model performance. DiscussionThis study demonstrates the feasibility of using existing large-scale datasets for creating accurate and efficient assessments for mental disorders and learning disabilities. The performance values of the machine learning models provide estimates of the performance of the new assessments in a population similar to HBN. The trained models can be used in a new population after validation and acquiring consent of the authors of the original assessments. The modular architecture of the developed tool ensures seamless application to diverse clinical and research contexts.
Spatial Affective Interaction (SAI): A Framework for Research on Affective Processing by Manual Interactions with Digital Objects
Authors: Torres Sergio Cervera , Ruiz-Fernandez Susana , Gerjets Peter
Published: March 2024

This work introduces the Spatial Affective Interaction (SAI) framework within Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), linking embodied interaction with affective computing. It proposes a novel approach to understanding how manual interactions with digital objects, particularly through touch-based interfaces, influence users' affective experiences. The framework integrates spatial affective biases based on space-valence associations, action-goal representations linked to approach-avoidance mechanisms, and visuospatial biases related to hand proximity to visual stimuli. It investigates the role of direct contact with digital objects in shaping affective meaning, addressing three research questions: the influence of spatial axes on affective evaluations, the activation of action-goal representations during manual interactions, and the impact of hand proximity on the perceived valence of digital objects. The SAI framework aims to refine the methodology of affective HCI research and extend its applicability beyond touch interfaces to immersive technologies like Virtual Reality.
Malaysian Students’ Perceptions towards Using Peer Feedback to Cultivate Evaluative Judgement of Argumentative Writing
Authors: xie xiao , Nimehchisalem Vahid , Yong Mei Fung , Yap Ngee Thai
Published: March 2024

Although peer feedback is a prevailing practice to promote evaluative judgement, its influence on the development of this higher-order cognitive ability has not yet been adequately explored. Specifically, there is a dearth of research that examines the benefit of providing and receiving peer feedback in developing students’ understanding of assessment standards of writing. The purpose of this study is to explore students’ perceptions of how different feedback roles influenced their three types of evaluative judgement of ESL argumentative writing, namely hard, soft and dynamic evaluative judgement. During five weeks, 24 undergraduate students enrolled in an English argumentative writing course at a Malaysian public university were randomly assigned to three distinct peer feedback roles, namely feedback provider, feedback receiver, or feedback outsider, to participate in the peer feedback activities. Thematic analysis of pre- and post-intervention surveys indicated that different feedback roles varied in facilitating the development of evaluative judgement. Despite the limitation of domain-specific knowledge, strategically integrating peer feedback into writing course design afforded students opportunities to cultivate the three types of evaluative judgement. This study translates the theoretical framework of evaluative judgement into identifiable goals within the course of English argumentative writing and sheds light on the cognitive mechanisms inherent in different feedback roles, which enables educators and researchers to better dissect peer feedback curriculum design and student-centred assessment activity.
Challenges and Benefits of Developing CEFR for Languages-Aligned Writing Assessments for Thai EFL Learners: A Case Study on Yala Rajabhat University Test of English Proficiency
Authors: Jeh-do Koleeyoh , Yossiri Varavejbhisis , Hayeesani Muhammadsukree , Vongsvivut Smith , Paramal Nurulhusna
Published: March 2024

This research aims to explore the development of the local standardized tests, Yala Rajabhat University Test of English Proficiency or YRU-TEP, tailored to specific regions, and explore the test aligning with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages compared to another standardized test, English Discoveries. This study focuses on the context of Thai English as a foreign language learners’ context. To write the test items, Can-Do statements were employed as the expert panel discussed and agreed on the objectives of each skill assessed in each item. In contrast, each item was evaluated through the Index of Item Objective Congruence by the experts. Three hundred experimental groups of test takers have been involved through purposive random sampling. To explore if the YRU-TEP aligns with the CEFR proficiency levels, another standardized test, English Discoveries developed by the ETS has been employed. The experimental test takers took both tests, and the scores were calculated following the cutoff scores to see if they were equivalent. The results showed that 98.67% of the scores had equally the same CEFR levels. However, challenges exist in implementing CEFR-aligned writing assessments in this context. Addressing these challenges involves adapting CEFR to the Thai context, ensuring cultural relevance, refining assessment criteria, and effective resource management. This endeavor contributes to standardizing language proficiency assessment practices and enhancing the quality of EFL education, especially in the case of local tests like the YRU-TEP.
An Investigation of How Foundation Learners Perceive Their Use of Learning Strategies
Authors: Akahsah Namirah Mohd , Azizun Najwa , Vijayan Bharathi , Musa Hariati Ibrahim @ , Saleh Muhammad Ridhwan , Rahmat Noor Hanim
Published: March 2024

Transitioning from school to higher education institutions, learners may face many challenges, especially in coping with the new cultures of tertiary education. Learners entering universities come from a broad spectrum of diverse backgrounds, including various types of public and private secondary schools such as Full Boarding Schools, Vocational Colleges and Technical High Schools, Government-Aided Religious Schools, National Religious Secondary Schools, Sports Schools, Art Schools, The Royal Military Academy, MARA Junior Colleges of Science (MRSM), and many other private schools. Thus, it is pivotal that learning styles and strategies are redesigned to adapt to the demands of university education. The present study aims to discover the perception of learning strategy utilization among foundation studies learners. This quantitative research explores the relationship among cognitive, metacognitive self-regulation, and resource management as components of learning strategies as propounded by Wenden and Rubin (1987). A purposive sample of 297 participants, randomly selected among learners at the Centre of Foundation Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA, responded to the survey. The survey utilized a 5-point Likert scale which comprises four sections. The results indicate that the three components of learning strategies positively correlate with one another. In addition, it is also found that metacognitive self-regulation positively influences learners by guiding them in supervising their learning process and resolving their confusion by referring back to their reading materials and seeking help from their peers. This finding is crucial to aid educators in employing suitable learning strategies for foundation learners to prepare them for their degree studies.
Griselda in terra verde. Gli affreschi di Roccabianca dei Rossi di San Secondo
Authors: Micheli Federica
Published: March 2024

Questo studio affronta l'enigmatico ciclo di affreschi caratterizzato dalla novella di Griselda sulle pareti laterali e da una volta recante costellazioni, pianeti e segni zodiacali. Gli affreschi, un tempo ubicati nella torre sud-ovest del castello di Roccabianca, in provincia di Parma, sono stati staccati alla fine del XIX secolo e oggi sono stabilmente allestiti nel Museo del Castello Sforzesco. Il seguente studio si pone l'obiettivo di analizzare gli aspetti problematici del ciclo, a partire dalla committenza del condottiero Pier Maria Rossi alla metà del XV secolo, proseguendo con le questioni del tema scelto e della datazione, al fine di proporre una interpretazione alternativa del ciclo pittorico.
A Decadal Examination of Community of Inquiry and Blended Learning in EFL/ESL Development: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tabassum Zinat A , Saad Mohd Rashid Mohd
Published: March 2024

The rising trend of blended learning, combining online and traditional classroom learning, shows its efficacy for teaching English as a foreign or second language. Utilizing the community of inquiry framework, it aims to establish effective online learning environments and merge them with blended learning to teach English to non-native speakers. The significance of this research lies in evaluating how this integration affects English teaching as a foreign or second language. The main research question, covering the last decade, investigates this approach’s specific challenges and long-term impacts on language learning. This study uses PRISMA guidelines to analyze Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar data. It includes a manual selection of highly cited studies for a systematic review methodology. Through a theoretical lens, it assesses predictors and outcomes and identifies trends in English as a foreign or second language oral instruction. The findings highlight the dimensions of knowledge, research methodologies, effectiveness, skill enhancement, and obstacles in integrating the community of inquiry with blended learning. Conclusively, the study offers recommendations to improve instructional quality and support the development of students, educators, and stakeholders for the continued growth of this pedagogical integration.
Using Infographics as An Educational Technology Tool in EFL Writing: University of Baghdad Case Study
Authors: Issa Farah Muayad
Published: March 2024

Infographics have the capability to organize and display information in a way that is easy for viewers to retrieve and make observations. While infographics have been successful in various fields, their potential benefits in composition writing have not been explored. The primary objective of this study is to investigate the perspectives of Iraqi EFL students who used infographics as an educational technology tool in composition writing, and to identify how gender influences students’ performance when using infographics in EFL writing classes. The significance of this study lies in its integration of infographics as an educational technology tool for teaching writing, aligning with the current trend of technology integration in education and meeting the demands of the 21st century. A pre-tests, post-tests, and questionnaires have been used to collect data. The questionnaire consisted of 28 close-ended items structured on a Likert rating scale, with responses ranging from Strongly Agree to Strongly Disagree. The responses were analyzed using Google Sheets and SPSS software for quantitative analysis. The conclusions indicate that a significant proportion of students consider using infographics to promote cooperative learning and teamwork. Furthermore, these results showed significant gender differences, with female students using infographics more frequently than male students. This demonstrates the substantial interest among women in utilizing technology in learning, highlighting the potential for investment in English language skills development and educational technology. Finally, it is recommended to incorporate infographics into teaching practices across disciplines to enhance students’ learning experiences and foster essential skills required in the 21st century.
English Language Awareness of Distance and Face-to-Face Learners in Turkish Higher Education
Authors: Kuluşaklı Emine , Genç Gülten
Published: March 2024

The main aim of the current study is to explore the profiles of language awareness of distance and face-to-face EFL learners. The study sheds light on the need to consider the effects of language awareness in distance and face-to-face education as language awareness is essential in foreign language learning in both education types and needs to be improved to make learners know much about how to use English. The main question addressed by the research is whether there are any differences between the language awareness of distance and face-to-face EFL learners regarding course type, gender, and age. The context of the study is Türkiye, where English is taught as a foreign language in higher education institutions. The study uses a survey method and includes 157 language learners distance and 225 face-to-face, 382 learners attending a state university in Türkiye. The study’s results unveiled significant differences between distance and face-to-face language learners regarding language awareness. There was an apparent disparity between distance-learning and face-to-face approaches in linguistic awareness and communicative awareness, as the face-to-face learning group scored significantly higher in these dimensions. While distance and face-to-face learners had close scores in the dimensions of cultural awareness and metacognitive awareness, the findings revealed that face-to-face learners scored somewhat higher, which helps to explain how the physical classroom setting may have some influence on learners’ cultural sensitivity and metacognitive awareness. The results suggested that distance education learners should improve their consciousness about language and have the necessary instruction to enhance their language awareness.
Enhancing Translation Competence: Investigating Summarization Impact on English/French to Arabic Translation.
Authors: Ismail Ismail Abdulwahhab
Published: March 2024

The training of oral and written summarization is embedded in Cognitive Apprenticeship Theory (CAT). This study examines how this form of intervention can improve the long-term reading comprehension skills of students at the Intermediate level; under a program to train translators in English/French into Arabic. It assesses the effectiveness of individual learning and cooperative study methods. One group was given personalized learning, another collaborative; both were split further into spoken and written groups. The 120 students in this cohort all came from the translation studies department at Al-Noor University College (all under age 23). During the six sessions, a delayed post-test used summarization and cooperation scales. The results obtained from one-way ANOVA clarify the impact of summarization training, with verbal groups performing better than written and control learning. In the delayed post-test, groups engaged in collaborative learning notably improved. According to survey results, questions about teacher and student feedback offer mainly positive evaluations of summarization strategies and collaborative learning in translation studies. This study stresses the advanced reading skills in translation studies students gained through summarization training or collaborative learning. This study investigates if there are significant differences in the delayed improvement of reading skills among Translation Department students due to different patterns of summarization training, individually and collaboratively. It also investigates whether there is a significant difference in the delayed effects on reading skills between collaborative and individual approaches, as well as summarizing strategies perception among teachers and students working in Translation Departments.
Privacy Calculus: Theory, studies, and new perspectives
Authors: Dienlin Tobias
Published: March 2024

The privacy calculus states that before disclosing personal information online, people engage in a rudimentary tradeoff by comparing expected benefits with anticipated costs. If benefits exceed costs, people are more likely to self-disclose. In this chapter I present the privacy calculus’ theoretical underpinnings and empirical implementations. Focusing on the privacy paradox, I discuss how the privacy calculus is challenged from other perspectives. I counter these critiques by adopting a meta-position, building on general psychological models of behavior and a philosophy of science perspective. In asking which of the two competing models (i.e., privacy calculus vs. privacy paradox) seems more likely in light of the available data, I introduce a Bayesian approach to the discussion. I also briefly discuss the privacy calculus from a political perspective: Although behavior is (at least somewhat) rational on the level of the individual, the situation is different on the societal level. I end with a new take on the privacy calculus, namely a probabilistic privacy calculus model. I argue that it is more fruitful to pursue the perspective of the privacy calculus instead of the privacy paradox, acknowledging relevant limitations and outlining promising paths for future research.
Strength-Based Parenting Scale Adaptation and Validation for Adolescents in Eastern Culture
Authors: Hardani Rika , Setiyawati Diana , Fajar Susetyo Yuli
Published: March 2024

Parenting has long been identified as a potential factor that affects children and adolescents' ability to cope with stress. Strength-based parenting is a parenting approach that strives to develop and nurture children's positive states, processes, and qualities. This paper presents the adaptation and validation of the Strength-Based Parenting scale for Adolescents in eastern culture. Two studies were conducted for this paper. The first study consisted of the translation process and a pilot study. The translation process used a back-translation process and followed WHO guidelines for scale adaptation. It was then piloted to 150 adolescents. The second study involved 582 adolescents in calculating the reliability and validity of the adapted scale. Cronbach's alpha is used to confirm scale reliability, and Confirmatory Factor Analysis is conducted to confirm the validity of the adapted scale. Findings of the first study found that in the pilot stage, the adapted scale had a value of Cronbach alpha α= 0.94, 95% [CI = 0.922, 0.951]. Meanwhile in the second study, with a larger number of participants, the Cronbach value was α= 0.94, 95% [CI = 0.935, 0.948]. The EFA test found two factors, the same as the original SBP scale. Statistical analysis of the Strength-Based Parenting scale that has been adapted and validated shows a good fit. It is appropriate for measuring adolescents in eastern cultures, including Indonesian and Malay.
Transporter Mobile Application
Authors: Tajul Anuar Ahmad Faiz , Zakaria Noor Azura
Published: March 2024

Transporter is a popular service within the IIUM community. It is an e-hailing service operated by the community itself. It is hosted on the Telegram app, which is available on Android, iOS, and desktop computers. However, there are various downsides related to handling user registration, transportation requests, and efficiency. To address these shortcomings, a transporter application was created as a mobile app. This project intends to create a mobile application employing the agile method and FlutterFlow, a low-code platform built on top of Flutter, an open-source development framework. At the same time, it improves on the current IIUM transporter system while retaining the features that make it so popular among the community.
Managing the digitalization of Russian families: development prospects
Authors: Vdovina Margarita Vladimirovna
Published: March 2024

The problem of digitalization of various institutions of modern society is relevant. Undoubtedly, this process has to be regulated through appropriate socio-political decisions and management methods. Professional intervention in the digitalization of people's private lives should be particularly subtle and scientifically justified. The methods used to analyze state statistics, a review of Internet materials and an analysis of scientific publications allow the proposed study to identify some prospects for the management development in the field of digitalization of Russian families. It it revealed that Russian households have the material and technical prerequisites for this, as well as research materials in the field of family well-being (digital well-being and established digital interaction are its basis).
Комплаенс-менеджмент и управление рисками кибербезопасности в системе школьного образования: теоретический обзор
Authors: Жилбаев Ж.О.
Published: March 2024

Риск потери персональных данных или кражи важных личных и организационных данных делает кибербезопасность главной проблемой, с которой сталкиваются организации, особенно школы. Целью данной статьи является теоретический обзор исследований в области комплаенс-менеджмента в управлении рисками кибербезопасности в школьной среде, проведенных в период с 2019 по 2023 год, включенных в международную базу данных Google Scholar. С помощью описательной методологии представлены значимые данные для определения рисков кибербезопасности школьной среды и механизмов комплаенс-менеджмента системы школьного образования в области кибербезопасности, которые применяются в школах. Анализ данных показал, что в качестве основных рисков кибербезопасности в школе являются социальная инженерия; фишинг; скимминг; угрозы, связанные с технологиями; утечка / потеря данных; нарушения конфиденциальности; угрозы, связанные с домогательствами; инсайдерство; мошенничество с целью компроментации; захват учетной записи; вторжения в онлайн-классы и школьные собрания; недостаточный уровень обеспечения политики безопасности; недостаточная подготовка учителей в сфере кибербезопасности. Школами предпринимаются шаги для предотвращения подобных инцидентов, одним из которых является комплаенс-менеджмент кибербезопасности, включающий механизмы стандартизации процесса кибербезопасности, внедрение политики кибербезопасности в школе, самооценка и оценка мер кибербезопасности. Одним из важнейших механизмов обеспечения соответствия требований кибербезопасности в системе школьного образования является обучение процессу и инструментам кибербезопасности учителей, сотрудников, администрации школы, родителей.
Education in the VUCA world through formation hard and soft skills in students
Authors: Iskhakbayeva T.G.
Published: March 2024

The article is devoted to the actual problem of developing the professionalism of future teachers-psychologists through the formation of hard and soft skills. The authors attach  importance to the formation of these skills, calling them a necessity in the modern world. The authors conducted a theoretical analysis of psychological and pedagogical literature on the topic of the study. The article touches on an equally relevant topic, to which they also paid great attention – education in the VUCA world. The relationship of the formation of hard and soft skills and adaptation in the VUCA world was carried out, the main components of the world of transformations were determined: Vision, Understanding, Clarity, Agility.  he authors conducted a survey among students of the educational program 6B01101 ‒ Pedagogy and Psychology, the basis of the study was the pedagogical faculty of the Karaganda Buketov University. The article presents the results of an empirical study conducted by the authors. The results of the study allowed the authors to conclude that it is necessary to form not only theoretical knowledge, but also practical skills that will contribute to the creation and development of a competitive and competent society of teachers in the modern VUCA world.
ChatGPT as the linguo-creative resource for teaching English language
Authors: Nauryzbayeva A.B.
Published: March 2024

This scientific article explores the potential of ChatGPT, a language model based on AI, as a linguo-creative resource for teaching English language in Kazakhstan. The authors conducted a mixed-methods study that included semi-structured interviews with 25 language teachers and learners, as well as an online survey that received 250 responses. The study aimed to provide a contextual understanding of the potential use of ChatGPT in language education in Kazakhstan. The authors analyzed the data using thematic analysis and descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. The results of the study showed several benefits and challenges associated with using ChatGPT, potential applications of ChatGPT in language education in Kazakhstan, and positive perceptions of language teachers and learners towards AI-powered tools in language education. The mixed-methods approach provided a more nuanced and comprehensive analysis of the potential use of ChatGPT in the context of Kazakhstan and contributes to the growing body of knowledge on the use of AI-powered tools in language education in diverse cultural and linguistic settings. The findings of the study can provide insights for language teachers and educators of Kazakhstan and other countries on the use of ChatGPT and other AI-powered tools for language learning and teaching.