bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Landslide Rapid Impact Assessment at Hydro Dam via THyCAS and UAS
Authors: Mohamad Sharom Muhammad Akmal Asraf , Mohamad Sharom Muhammad Akmal Asraf , Kamarulzaman Mohd Syazuan , Mat Azmi Mohamad Zulkhaibri
Published: November 2024

The TNB Hydro Catchment Area Surveillance (THyCAS) is a web-based geographic information system (GIS) used to monitor hydropower dam catchment areas in Peninsular Malaysia. It can also be used for landslide rapid impact assessment by monitoring the surrounding landslide area. However, during the rainy season, satellite images are unable to provide the information required by users due to full cloud cover. Therefore, an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) is used to provide the data required by THyCAS by mapping the surrounding area affected by landslides and uploading the processed data in THyCAS. Thus, the user can get the required information regarding the landslide incident. Furthermore, with UAS Full Motion Video (FMV) data, the location of the collapsed power transmission towers can be acquired. In addition, any information on land changes that could jeopardise the surrounding dam area is gathered. Therefore, with the information from the rapid impact assessment provided by THyCAS and UAS data, a preliminary risk assessment plan can be established and implemented by the relevant parties. The results obtained from the rapid assessment can also be used as additional information to find out the actual cause of landslides in the area.
IRAN AND TALIBAN: FROM ENMITY TO PRAGMATISM
Authors: Basheleishvili Miranda
Published: November 2024

The Taliban’s seizure of the reins of power in Afghanistan has a significant impact on regional and international political processes. During years negotiations between US and regional States with Taliban was aimed at involvement of the moderate part of Taliban in the political life of the country. Taliban’s return to power went dramatically differently from the planned agreement. Along with the accelerated withdrawal of the international coalition forces, Taliban conquered almost all the provinces of the country without a fight. They took the presidential palace and returned to power. The new reality created in Afghanistan led regional and international actors to change their positions more or less. The Iranian government is actively involved in the ongoing events in neighboring Afghanistan. After the Taliban’s takeover of Kabul, Iran has adopted a flexible policy toward the group, the elements of which are non-confrontation, pragmatism, necessary cooperation and opposition to rapid recognition. During the Taliban’s first reign in power Iran was among the group’s key adversaries. Iran and Taliban were almost led into war in 1998 following the killing Iranian diplomats and journalist by the group after the capture of Mazar-e-sharif. In 2001 Iran supported the overthrow of the Taliban by the US-led international coalition. Iran is concerned about the presence of ISIS on its eastern border and Tehran’s major reason in relation with Taliban is to counter the threat posed by IS-K. Taliban’s current cabinet largely excludes minorities and Iran supports the formation of an inclusive government in Afghanistan with the participation of all ethno-religious groups. Tehran seems to be supporting the National Resistance Front led by Ahmad Massoud. After Taliban’s return to power negotiations were held between Taliban and Ahmad Massoud in Tehran. There is a problem of refugees – Iran already hosts about 3, 5 million of Afghans. They are not popular in Iran, they are suspected of terrorism. Islamic Republic’s harsh behavior has stirred controversy in Afghanistan, protests erupted outside the Iranian consulate in Herat. The issue of drug trafficking is not a new problem. The Taliban officially banned the production and export of opium, but it has continued. The water problem also has important influence on Iran-Afghanistan relations. For years Iran has accused Afghanistan of violating 1973 water-sharing treaty. This problem is relevant under the Taliban. In early 2022 Protesters in Iran’s southeast attacked Afghan trucks due to the alleged lack of water. Iran’s relations with the Taliban became more conciliatory in past decades. Nowadays Tehran is trying to maintain balance in bilateral relations with the group. The Continuation of the current pragmatic relations between Iran and Taliban depends on the way the Taliban decides to rule. The strengthening of radical elements within Taliban’s ranks makes serious confrontation with Iran possible on ideological grounds.
THE ROLE OF THE TUNISIAN ARMED FORCES DURING THE ‘ARAB SPRING’ AND IN THE PROCESS OF THE FORMATION OF THE NEW AUTOCRACY
Authors: Gureshidze Simon
Published: November 2024

Tunisia was the birthplace of “the Arab Spring” and the first country were the Islamists won the elections, which led to the activation of moderate, radical or extremist Islamist forces in the Middle East, both in politics and beyond it, following the example of Syria. That is why, in addition to other factors, special attention is paid to the role of the Tunisian armed forces at the first stages of the "Arab uprising" and in the political processes in post-revolutionary Tunisia, the motivations that led to changes in their positions in the political arena and the differences between the interests of the Tunisian, Egyptian and Syrian armed forces are also the main focus of the article.
NOTES ON LITERATURE TRANSLATED FROM PERSIAN ATTESTED IN THE 19THE CENTURY MANUSCRIPT (A-1448)
Authors:   George Sanikidze, Dundua Natia
Published: November 2024

The manuscript preserved at the Korneli Kekelidze Georgian National Centre of Manuscripts is a collection compiled by Taras Alexi-Meskhishvili (1793–1874). This manuscript includes a list of books translated from Persian, Greek, Armenian, Russian, Latin, and Italian into Georgian, which were known in 19th-century Georgia. Some of these texts were likely housed in the library of the Kvatakhevi Monastery. This paper analyzes the works translated from Persian that are documented in the manuscript. These include: *Kilila and Damana,* *Amirnasariani* (also known as "The Story of Amirnasar"), *Ayat,* *Jāmiʿ-i ʿAbbāsī,* *Omanian,* *Char Darvish,* *Stories or Tales History,* *Stories History,* *Rostomiani,* *Baamiani,* *Baramiani,* *Karamaniani (large),* *Karamaniani (short),* *Timsariani,* *History of Mir,* *History of Farad Shikhini,* and *History of Firmaghan.* The study of these manuscripts highlights which Persian works were known in 19th-century Georgia. The paper also provides additional information about some of these texts, including details on when they were translated, who the translator was, and which works were considered original compositions versus translations.
CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES OF IRANIANS IN TBILISI (TURN OF 19TH-20TH CENTURIES)
Authors: Alexidze Marina
Published: November 2024

In the nineteenth century, the charitable activities of the Iranians were mainly carried out on the initiative and efforts of the Iranian consulate in Tbilisi and its consul generals. Welfare work that aimed at helping poor Iranian residents of the city has two major directions, health care and education. Initially, the charity was occasional, caused by particular challenges. Examples of such charity were the construction of hospitals for Iranians in Tbilisi during epidemics of pestilence in 1878/79 and cholera in the 1890s. Both foundations were initiated by consul generals, Mirza Mahmud Khan Ala al-Molk and Mirza Reza Khan Arfa ad-Dowleh respectively, and supported by wealthy Iranians. The situation changed in the early twentieth century when the welfare work among Iranians in Tbilisi became better organized and the first charitable associations were established. In 1904, the Society for the Assistance of Indigent Iranians was founded and in 1905, the charitable society of Tbilissian Iranians known as Etefaq-e Iranian (Alliance of Iranians). In 1907, the latter opened a madrasa in the Muslim district of Tbilisi. Among the Iranians of Tbilisi, the descendants of the political emigrant Qajar Prince Bahman Mirza were distinguished for their charitable activity. General Amir Qasem Mirza was elected a honourable member of the charitable organization of the Muslims of the Caucasus while his wife Gouhar Khanum established and led the charitable society of muslim women. By the efforts efforts and financial support of the members of the Bahman Mirza’s family members Muslim primary schools in Tbilisi and other regions were opened, where the study for the poor families’ children was free of charge. The contribution of Bahman Mirza’s son, general Amir Qasem Mirza (1853-1920) and his family’s members in establishing such educational institution was extremely important. Women of the Bahman Mirza’s family were distinguished by the high degree of the emancipation even among Muslims of Tbilisi. Majority of them wore European clothes and they appeared in public places without chador. Probably, in this sense the circle to which Qajars belonged, played an important role. There were families of the famous writer and public figure Mirza Fatali Akhundov and the merchant of the first guild Aqa Alesker Ismailov. Bahman Mirza’s family had marriage alliance with them. Two sisters of Akhundov and three daughters of Ismailov were Qajar princesses. It is not surprising that Aqa Alesker Ismailov’s daughter and the wife of Qasem Mirza Qajar Gouhar Khanum was the founder and Chairwomen of the ‘Muslim women charitable organization’, established in 1910. The WW1 and the political-social crisis connected with it caused the decline of the charitable activities. The situation worsened by the Russian revolution and the emigration of rich people, among them Iranians, from Tbilisi. After the war the charitable organizations resumed their activities.
THE CHANGING IDEOLOGY OF THE PEOPLE'S MOJAHEDIN ORGANIZATION OF IRAN
Authors: Kelbakiani Niko
Published: November 2024

The People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran, or Mojahedin-e Khalq Organization (MKO), is one of few Iranian political organizations that was founded prior to the 1979 Iranian Revolution and still exists today. However, the organization has experienced lots of change in its ideology and list of political allies in its almost 60-year-old history. At the same time, the MKO has mostly stayed loyal to its main political goal – to topple the ruling regime in Iran, whether it be the Shah's government or the Islamic Republic. The shifts in the MKO's ideology and activities ca be explained with extensive repressions against the group by the Shah's regime as well as the Islamic Republic, which killed thousands of members of this group; the organization ending up under the leadership of Massoud Rajavi and then his wife Maryam Rajavi; and the geopolitical changes that dramatically altered the list of the MKO's political allies.
GEORGIANS IN SAFAVID IRAN: ABOUT SOME PERSIAN AND ARABIC INSCRIPTIONS OF THE SEVENTEENTH CENTURY RELATED TO THE REPRESETATIVES OF THE UNDILADZE FAMILY
Authors: Beradze Grigol , Alexidze Marina , Mosiashvili Tamar
Published: November 2024

The paper discusses a number of Persian and Arabic inscriptions related to Allahverdi Khan (d. 1613) and his eldest son and successor Imamquli Khan (d. 1632), the most famous and influential representatives of the Undiladze family of Georgian gholams, who occupied key positions and played an important role in the military-political and administrative arena of Safavid Iran during the reign of Shah ‘Abbas I (r. 1587-1629). Reference is, in particular, to the following epigraphic materials from the first quarter of the seventeenth century: Arabic and Persian inscriptions (dated 1021 and 1022 AH) from the domed mausoleum of Allahverdi Khan in Mashhad; Arabic inscription (dated 1031 AH) on the north exterior entrance portal of the Jame‘-e ‘Atiq Mosque of Shiraz; Persian and Arabic inscriptions (dated 1032 and 1033 AH) from the Imamzadegan-e Hefdah-Tan in Golpayegan; Persian inscriptions on Portuguese cannons taken as spoils of war by the Iranians under the command of Imamquli Khan during the capture of Hormuz in 1622. These inscriptions provide quite valuable additional material for the study of various aspects of the history of the Undiladze family. The authors are most grateful to Prof. Naufomi Abe (University of Tokyo, Japan), Prof Jose Francisco Cutillas Ferrer (University of Alicante, Spain), Prof. May Farhat (Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, Lebanon), and Dr. Maka Natadze (Embassy of Georgia in the Islamic Republic of Iran), for their generous help with some of the references.
ON THE AUTHORSHIP OF THE PERSIAN QASID DEDICATED TO NAPOLEON
Authors:   George Sanikidze, Natchkebia Irène , Nakhutsrishvili Nikoloz
Published: November 2024

This article focuses on a Persian qasida consisting of 19 bayts (verses) praising Napoléon. Written in nasta’liq calligraphy, the manuscript is held in the catalog of Persian and Turkish manuscripts at the University Library of Languages and Civilizations in Paris. It is not signed or dated, and was established by Dr. Francis Richard in March 2014, for which we thank him. The qasida is organized into three rows: the first and second contain six bayts each, while the third contains seven. Although the title suggests that it primarily praises Napoleon, the content indicates that it equally concerns both Napoleon and Fath-Ali Shah, the king of Persia. This raises questions about the title, especially since the original has none. The first bayt identifies the territories of the two rulers: Napoleon as the West and Fath-Ali Shah as the East, both depicted as powerful figures. The text describes their strengths, diplomatic relations, and common enemies like Russia and England. Notably, Napoleon is compared to a fierce monster in relation to his Egyptian expedition, while Fath-Ali Shah is depicted as a lion, linking the Qajar dynasty to Persia’s former glory. The qasida portrays both rulers as "magnificent sovereigns" and "impartial judges," with Napoleon mentioned first. The work showcases rich metaphors typical of Oriental poetry, highlighting the author’s familiarity with Persian literature. To understand the authorship, we look at Franco-Persian diplomatic relations in the early 19th century. Jean-François Xavier Rousseau, the French consul in Baghdad, supported the idea of incorporating Persia into an expedition against India. At Napoleon’s request, Rousseau was to travel to Tehran as ambassador, with his son prepared to prove his linguistic abilities. The Rousseau family, settled in Persia since the early 18th century, contributed to this knowledge. Jacques Rousseau accompanied an embassy to Persia in 1705 and married there. His son Jean-François, fluent in multiple Eastern languages, had a deep appreciation for Persian literature. In 1802, he expressed pride in his son’s progress in Persian and Turkish, showcasing the family's dedication to mastering these languages.
THE MONUMENTAL KŪFIC INSCRIPTION DATED SHA‘BĀN AH 147 (3-31 OCTOBER 764) FROM TIFLĪS AND ITS HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE
Authors: Paghava Irakli , Dzneladze Merab , Topuridze Irakli
Published: November 2024

A monumental Kūfic inscription discovered during the archeological excavations in Tbilisi (ancient Tiflīs) in 2012 is re-published and discussed by the authors. The inscription was carved on a lengthy sandstone inserted horizontally into the ancient city wall at the Dighomi gate (107 / 34 cm; the inscription proper being 98.5 / 15.5 per cm). Only three bottom lines of the 6-line (?) incription are legible. The authors read it almost entirely. The top line mentions his victory, while the bottom one comprises the date, which happens to be sha‘bān [AH] year 147 (3-31 October 764). The archeological context favours the idea that the quadra was of secondary use. Nevertheless, it indicates the Arab presence in Tiflīs already in AH 147, in contrast to al-Ṭabarī’s statement, that the Arabs regained the city only in AH 148, after the Khazar invaders had evacuated it. Moreover, this lapidary inscription refutes the hypothesis that the Arab administration was introduced in Georgia only in the 770s.
METRE OF TALYSHI FOLKLORE COUPLETS
Authors: karamzadeh Haftkhani Yaser
Published: November 2024

One of the most important features of Talyshi folklore couplets is their poetic metre. This poetic metre has caused music and a special effect to be present in these poems. This article tries to provide a picture of the metre of this poetry format, which is, of course, the most widely used poetry format by examining the metre of Talyshi folklore couplets. In this article, first the subject of the syllable (part) and its Scansion and then the Scansion of the elements of a Talyshi poetry sample has been addressed. In the following, the explanations about the metre of the Talyshi poem, and the metre of the couplet format is analyzed. The present study shows that the folklore couplets recorded in South Talysh are divided into two parts of 11 syllables and 7 syllables, which the first case (11 syllables) is much more and more impressive. This article has been written with the help of library resources and analytical methods and the sample of folklore poems used in it is also the result of the author's field research studies.
THE STATUS OF THE SEE OF ROME IN THE FIRST MILLENIUM OF THE EASTERN CHRISTIANITY
Authors: Tinikashvili David
Published: November 2024

In the first millennium of the Christendom, the primacy of the Roman Pope in jurisdictional terms was not acknowledged by all. Although Eastern churches regarded the Roman pope as primus inter pares (first among the equals). Clement's epistle to the Church of Corinth is considered to be the first case from which the responsibility of the Roman See for other churches can be seen. The epistle urges the members of the Corinthian church to peace and order. In this epistle sent from Rome, a strong, authoritative and caring voice is clearly felt. It is also necessary to analyze the letters sent in the opposite direction (from the East to Rome). For example, Ignatius of Antioch's letter to the Romans, unlike the rest of his letters, does not contain an exhortation or recommendation to guard against heresies, but only praise of the Roman Church who is "teaching others". In the words of Irenaeus Lyon, "due to the supreme authority of the Roman Church, it is necessary that all churches, or Christians everywhere, agree (convenire) with it, because here the apostolic tradition has always been preserved by all". It is also known that there was a difference of opinion between Polycarp of Smyrna and Pope Aniketus on the issue of celebration of the Easter. An agreement was not reached, but they have immediately reconciled, because they did not want to argue with each other about this issue. Both sides peacefully continued to follow their own different traditions. Later on a conflict with Rome also arose over the issue of the baptism of heretics. In the Church of Rome, heretics were not rebaptized. But in the North African church, during the time of Cyprian of Carthage, the rebaptism of heretics was necessary. During the controversy, Cyprian says that no bishop had more power than another one. However, Cyprian is "obviously in a defensive position" when confronting Rome. The Holy Father noted that he does not intend to impose his opinion on others, nor does he want to sever ties with Pope Stephen. According to researchers, in general, "Cyprian was imbued with deep respect for the Roman Church". For Cyprian, the Roman Cathedral is the basis and guarantee of the unity of the Church. That is why, when he faced certain destructive forces in his own church, he was always ready to turn to Rome, which he considered "the source of episcopal unity (principalem unde unitas sacerdotalis)". Thus, such historical cases assist us to understand that in the early centuries the Roman pope did not have final and comprehensive power (as a monarch) over the rest of the churches. However, it is undeniable that the Roman See had exceptional authority, prestige and influence on the whole Christendom.
Surami In Georgian Language Literary Works Of Israel
Authors:   George Sanikidze, Guledani Lali
Published: November 2024

Surami was a significant city in Kartli during ancient times, located on an important trade caravan route mentioned by Greek historians of the 4th and 3rd centuries BC. Its central location in Georgia facilitated its development. In the 18th century, Surami was home to Georgians, Armenians, and Jews, with the latter primarily living near the Surami fortress and engaging in trade and crafts. The Jewish community played a key role in the urban development of Surami, especially during a period of globalization when trade relationships intensified and the agrarian economy began to shift toward commerce. As economic ties grew, the Jewish population expanded, contributing to urbanization in relatively peaceful conditions. This coexistence with Georgians shaped a unique identity for the Surami Jew, who often embodied elements of both cultures. After migrating to Israel, many Surami Jews retained fond memories of their hometown, and this nostalgia inspired their work. Izolda Krikheli, a notable figure in Georgian émigré literature, captured the Jewish experience in Surami in her book *Surami: Dream and Reality*. She portrays the shared suffering of Jews and Georgians and highlights the contributions of Surami-born Jews to Georgia’s reconstruction. Her writing reflects a deep connection to both Israel and Surami, showcasing the cultural ties that remain strong.
Reporting Practices and Use of Quantitative Methods in Canadian Journal Articles in Psychology
Authors: Counsell Alyssa , Harlow Lisa L.
Published: November 2024

With recent focus on the state of research in psychology, it is essential to assess the nature of the statistical methods and analyses used and reported by psychological researchers. To that end, we investigated the prevalence of different statistical procedures and the nature of statistical reporting practices in recent articles from the 4 major Canadian psychology journals. The majority of authors evaluated their research hypotheses through the use of analysis of variance, t tests, and multiple regression. Multivariate approaches were less common. Null hypothesis significance testing remains a popular strategy, but the majority of authors reported a standardized or unstandardized effect size measure alongside their significance test results. Confidence intervals on effect sizes were infrequently employed. Many authors provided minimal details about their statistical analyses and less than a third of the articles presented on data complications such as missing data and violations of statistical assumptions. Strengths of and areas needing improvement for reporting quantitative results are highlighted. The article concludes with recommendations for how researchers and reviewers can improve comprehension and transparency in statistical reporting.
Equivalence tests for comparing correlation and regression coefficients
Authors: Counsell Alyssa , Cribbie Robert A
Published: November 2024

Equivalence tests are an alternative to traditional difference‐based tests for demonstrating a lack of association between two variables. While there are several recent studies investigating equivalence tests for comparing means, little research has been conducted on equivalence methods for evaluating the equivalence or similarity of two correlation coefficients or two regression coefficients. The current project proposes novel tests for evaluating the equivalence of two regression or correlation coefficients derived from the two one‐sided tests (TOST) method (Schuirmann, 1987, J. Pharmacokinet. Biopharm, 15, 657) and an equivalence test by Anderson and Hauck (1983, Stat. Commun., 12, 2663). A simulation study was used to evaluate the performance of these tests and compare them with the common, yet inappropriate, method of assessing equivalence using non‐rejection of the null hypothesis in difference tests. Results demonstrate that equivalence tests have more accurate probabilities of declaring equivalence than difference-based tests. However, equivalence tests require large sample sizes to ensure adequate power. We recommend the Anderson–Hauck equivalence test over the TOST method for comparing correlation or regression coefficients.
Evaluating equivalence testing methods for measurement invariance
Authors: Counsell Alyssa , Cribbie Robert A. , Flora David B.
Published: November 2024

Measurement Invariance (MI) is often concluded from a nonsignificant chi-square difference test. Researchers have also proposed using change in goodness-of-fit indices (ΔGOFs) instead. Both of these commonly used methods for testing MI have important limitations. To combat these issues, To combat these issues, it was proposed using an equivalence test (EQ) to replace the chi-square difference test commonly used to test MI. Due to concerns with the EQ's power, and adjusted version (EQ-A) was created, but provides little evaluation of either procedure. The current study evaluated the Type I error and power of both the EQ and EQ-A, and compared their performance to that of the traditional chi-square difference test and https://:0/https://:0/ΔGOFs. The EQ was the only procedure that maintained empirical error rates below the nominal alpha level. Results also highlight that the EQ requires larger sample sizes than traditional difference-based approaches or using equivalence bounds based on larger than conventional RMSEA values (e.g., > .05) to ensure adequate power rates. We do not recommend the proposed adjustment (EQ-A) over the EQ.
Increasing literacy in quantitative methods: The key to the future of Canadian psychology.
Authors: Counsell Alyssa , Cribbie Robert A. , Harlow Lisa L.
Published: November 2024

 

Quantitative methods (QM) dominate empirical research in psychology. Unfortunately most researchers in psychology receive inadequate training in QM. This creates a challenge for researchers who require advanced statistical methods to appropriately analyze their data. Many of the recent concerns about research quality, replicability, and reporting practices are directly tied to the problematic use of QM. As such, improving quantitative literacy in psychology is an

important step towards eliminating these concerns. The current paper will include two main sections that discuss quantitative challenges and opportunities. The first section discusses training and resources for students and present descriptive results on the number of quantitative courses required and available to graduate students in Canadian psychology departments. In the second section, we discuss ways of improving quantitative literacy for faculty, esearchers, and clinicians. This includes a strong focus on the importance of collaboration. The paper concludes with practical recommendations for improving quantitative skills and literacy for students and researchers in Canada.
Students attitudes toward learning statistics with R
Authors: Counsell Alyssa , Cribbie Robert A.
Published: November 2024

Statistics play an important role in psychology, but statistics modules are notoriously unpopular amongst psychology students. We examined attitudes toward statistics and attitudes toward the statistical software package R in both undergraduate and postgraduate students across the duration of a statistics module. Participants’ responses were analysed using both quantitative and qualitative techniques. Results demonstrated that, on average, students in introductory level modules held neutral (not negative) attitudes, but students at higher study levels held somewhat positive attitudes towards R and statistics. While not all students enjoyed learning R, our findings demonstrate that many students enjoyed statistics or R, most students found statistics/R valuable and they generally reported feeling competent using software by the end of their module. These results challenge the argument that R is not suitable for undergraduate psychology students. Consequently, benefits, challenges, and implications of teaching R to psychology students are discussed. 
Testing for negligible interaction: A coherent and robust approach
Authors: Ragoonanan Chantal , Counsell Alyssa , Cribbie Robert A.
Published: November 2024

Researchers often want to demonstrate a lack of interaction between two categorical predictors on an outcome. To justify a lack of interaction, researchers typically accept the null hypothesis of no interaction from a conventional analysis of variance (ANOVA). This method is inappropriate as failure to reject the null hypothesis does not provide statistical evidence to support a lack of interaction. This study proposes a bootstrap-based intersection–union test for negligible interaction that provides coherent decisions between the omnibus test and post hoc interaction contrast tests and is robust to violations of the normality and variance homogeneity assumptions. Further, a multiple comparison strategy for testing interaction contrasts following a non-significant omnibus test is proposed. Our simulation study compared the Type I error control, omnibus power and per-contrast power of the proposed approach to the non-centrality-based negligible interaction test of Cheng and Shao (2007, Statistica Sinica, 17, 1441). For 2 × 2 designs, the empirical Type I error rates of the Cheng and Shao test were very close to the nominal α level when the normality and variance homogeneity assumptions were satisfied; however, only our proposed bootstrapping approach was satisfactory under non-normality and/or variance heterogeneity. In general a × b designs, although the omnibus Cheng and Shao test, as expected, is the most powerful, it is not robust to assumption violation and results in incoherent omnibus and interaction contrast decisions that are not possible with the intersection–union approach.
Decolonizing Policy Research as Restorative Research Justice: Applying an Indigenous Policy Research Framework (IPRF)
Authors: Ahmed Binish
Published: November 2024

What is required to decolonize policy research in doing knowledge production about Indigenous peoples? Policy studies has been complicit in maintaining a central methodological policy research problem: the ongoing prevalence of hegemonic imperial and colonial knowledge production practices in relation to Indigenous peoples. This problem persists through policy researchers producing anti-Indigenous genocidal native-place-invisibilization in scholarship. Ambiguous relationality is another mechanism through which elimination of the natives takes place in research – it is when researchers deliberately/unintentionally omit naming and visiblizing their positionality in relation to the native-places the researchers are working with. Undoing harms emerging from native-place-invisibilization and ambiguous relationality requires a ‘grounded normativity’ oriented native place consciousness, naming and visibilization of the native place(s) the researchers work on/with, respecting sovereign Indigenous research jurisdictions, and applying an Indigenous Policy Research Framework (IPRF). Decolonization as a solution to the policy problem being tackled in this paper looks like counter-hegemonic radical redistribution of power back to the community when conducting Indigenous policy research. The IPRF approach is formulated using a literature review methodology and consists of guiding questions and principles to help steward the processes of decolonizing policy research. The aim is to support the emergence of radically restorative research justice practices and repair historically harmful relations between knowledge-producing systems/institutions and the Indigenous communities about whom the knowledge production is done.

https://doi.org/
Defining Anti-Kashmiri Racism
Authors: Ahmed Binish
Published: November 2024

Binish Ahmed provides clarity into the ways anti-Kashmiri racism (AKR) functions to dehumanize, discriminate against, and erase Kashmiris and their narratives. 
Data from an International Multi-Centre Study of Statistics and Mathematics Anxieties and Related Variables in University Students (the SMARVUS Dataset)
Authors: Terry Jenny , Ross Robert M. , Nagy Tamás , Salgado Mauricio , Garrido-Vásquez Patricia , Sarfo Jacob O , Cooper Susan , Buttner Anke C , Lima Tiago J. S. , Öztürk Ibrahim , Akay Nazli , Santos Flavia H , Artemenko Christina , Copping Lee T , Elsherif Mahmoud M. , Milovanović Ilija , Cribbie Robert A. , Drushlyak Marina G , Swainston Katherine , Shou Yiyun , Leongómez Juan David , Palena Nicola , Abidin Fitri A. , Reyes-Rodríguez Maria F , He Yunfeng , Abraham Juneman , Vatakis Argiro , Jankowsky Kristin , Schmidt Stephanie N. L. , Grimm Elise , Gonzalez Desiree , Schmid Philipp , Ferreira Roberto A. , Rozgonjuk Dmitri , Özhan Neslihan , O’Connor Patrick A. , Zsidó András N. , Stiglic Gregor , Rhodes Darren , Rodríguez Cristina , Ropovik Ivan , Enea Violeta , Nurwanti Ratri , Estudillo Alejandro J. , Beribisky Nataly , Himawan Karel , Geven Linda M , H. van Hoogmoed Anne , Bret Amélie , Chapman Jodie E. , Alter Udi , Flack Zoe M , Hanna Donncha , Soltanlou Mojtaba , Banik Gabriel , Adamkovič Matúš , van der Ven Sanne H. G. , Mosbacher Jochen A. , Şen Hilal H. , Anderson Joel R. , Batashvili Michael , De Groot Kristel , O. Parker Matthew , Helmy Mai , Ostroha Mariia M , Gilligan-Lee Katie A. , Egara Felix O. , Barwood Martin J. , Thomas Karuna , McMahon Grace , Griffin Siobhán M. , Nuerk Hans-Christoph , Counsell Alyssa , Lindemann Oliver , Van Rooy Dirk , Wege Theresa E , Lewis Joanna E , Aczel Balazs , Monaghan Conal , Al-Hoorie Ali H , Huber Julia F , Yapan Saadet , Garrido Vásquez Mauricio E. , Callea Antonino , Ergiyen Tolga , Clay James M. , Mertens Gaetan , Topçu Feyza , Tutlu Merve G , Täht Karin , Mikkor Kristel , Caso Letizia , Karner Alexander , Storm Maxine M. C. , Daroczy Gabriella , Zein Rizqy Amelia , Greco Andrea , Buchanan Erin M. , Schmid Katharina , Below Additional Authors Listed
Published: November 2024

This large, international dataset contains survey responses from N = 12,570 students from 100 universities in 35 countries, collected in 21 languages. We measured anxieties (statistics, mathematics, test, trait, social interaction, performance, creativity, intolerance of uncertainty, and fear of negative evaluation), self-efficacy, persistence, and the cognitive reflection test, and collected demographics, previous mathematics grades, self-reported and official statistics grades, and statistics module details. Data reuse potential is broad, including testing links between anxieties and statistics/mathematics education factors, and examining instruments’ psychometric properties across different languages and contexts. Data and metadata are stored on the Open Science Framework website [https://osf.io/mhg94/].
Psychometric evaluation of the Students' Attitudes toward Statistics and Technology Scale (SASTSc)
Authors: Counsell Alyssa , Rovetti Joseph , Buchanan Erin
Published: November 2024

The current study sought to evaluate the SASTSc in two samples of students taking a statistics course that incorporates statistical software. The SASTSc was given at two time points, once at the beginning of the semester and then again at the end of the semester. Our evaluation included examining competing factor analytic models, examining convergent validity, test-retest reliability, and assessing internal consistency. Our results in both samples replicate the scale’s proposed factor structure; however, not all items were useful and we propose some changes to the wording of items to improve the scale. Data, analysis scripts, and results are publicly available at https://osf. io/rv64m/? view_only= 6dfbf883f0d841b69c238773cee6e62e.
Comparing Means under Heteroscedasticity and Nonnormality: Further Exploring Robust Means Modeling Further Exploring Robust Means Modeling
Authors: Counsell Alyssa , Philip Chalmers R. , Cribbie Robert A.
Published: November 2024

Comparing the means of independent groups is a concern when the assumptions of normal-ity and variance homogeneity are violated. Robust means modeling (RMM) was proposed as an alternative to ANOVA-type procedures when the assumptions of normality and vari-ance homogeneity are violated. The purpose of this study is to compare the Type I error and power rates of RMM to the trimmed Welch procedure. A Monte Carlo study was used to investigate RMM and the trimmed Welch procedure under several conditions of nonnor-mality and variance heterogeneity. The results suggest that the trimmed Welch provides a better balance of Type I error control and power than RMM
Psychometric Evaluations of Eight Attitudes Toward Quantitative Methods Measures
Authors: Kunicki Zachary J. , Counsell Alyssa , Harlow Lisa L.
Published: November 2024

Student attitudes and abilities are both important when predicting success in a quantitative methods course (Harlow, Burkholder, & Morrow, 2002; McCutchen, Jones, Carbonneau, & Mueller, 2016). It is, therefore, essential to have reliable and valid ways of measuring student attitudes towards quantitative methods so instructors can best tailor their lessons to meet the needs of their classrooms. Unfortunately, many existing measures are difficult for instructors to access, have limited evidence for validity, or do not tap into constructs of interest related to quantitative attitudes. The purpose of this study was to validate eight brief quantitative attitudes measures: Quantitative Attitudes, Quantitative Anxiety, Quantitative Usefulness, Quantitative Influences, Quantitative Success Factors, Quantitative Hindrances, Quantitative Self-Confidence, and Quantitative Self-Efficacy. All eight measures showed evidence for dimensionality, reliability, and validity. These measures provide instructors with brief measures of different attitudinal domains which may be useful for research, quick in-classroom assessments, and tailoring of lessons to promote student success within the quantitative methods classroom. All measures are included in the appendix and available for download at https://osf.io/6uydk/ . 
The VSSL scale: A brief instructor tool for assessing students' perceived value of software to learning statistics
Authors: Alter Udi , Dang Carmen , Kunicki Zachary J. , Counsell Alyssa
Published: November 2024

The biggest difference in statistical training from previous decades is the increased use of software. However, little research examines how software impacts learning statistics. Assessing the value of software to statistical learning demands appropriate, valid, and reliable measures. The present study expands the arsenal of tools by reporting on the psychometric properties of the Value of Software to Statistical Learning (VSSL) scale in an undergraduate student sample. We propose a brief measure with strong psychometric support to assess students' perceived value of software in an educational setting. We provide data from a course using SPSS, given its wide use and popularity in the social sciences. However, the VSSL is adaptable to any statistical software, and we provide instructions for customizing it to suit alternative packages. Recommendations for administering, scoring, and interpreting the VSSL are provided to aid statistics instructors and education researchers understand how software influences students' statistical learning.
Kashmir: If People You Know That Exist, Don’t Exist Anymore, Do They Still Exist?
Authors: Ahmed Binish
Published: November 2024

Binish Ahmed uses an Indigeninist, embodied methodological approach for policy analysis of the unilateral dissolution of Article 370, pertaining to Jammu and Kashmir, by the Indian state on August 5, 2019. 

The author addresses the conditions under which these constitutional and policy changes were made by the settler-colonial Indian state. This consisted of a siege on fundamental human rights of the Kashmiri people, which included a complete communication blockade on Kashmiris, as decisions about them were made by the colonial regime.  
IUCN Red List of Ecosystems, Mangroves of the Tropical Southwestern Atlantic
Authors: C. Ximenes Arimatéa , M. P. Tognella Monica , S. Reis-Neto Armando , F. Bezerra Moises , Gomes Soares Mário Luiz , D. Ward Raymond , Sean McGregor , Suarez Ena
Published: November 2024

The “Mangroves of the Tropical Southwestern Atlantic” (TSA) is a regional ecosystem subgroup (level 4 unit of the IUCN Global Ecosystem Typology). It includes the marine ecoregions of Eastern Brazil, Northeastern Brazil, including the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago and Rocas Atoll. The TSA mangroves had a mapped extent of 1719.7 km2 in 2020, representing 1.2% of the global mangrove area. The flora is characterized by four true mangrove species: Rhizophora mangle, Avicennia schaueriana, A. germinans and Laguncularia racemosa. They provide essential biological functions such as supplying food resources to nearby settlements, including fish, crabs, mussels, and prawns, as well as timber and coastal defence. Furthermore, these environments promote ecological interactions with adjacent coral reefs. The climate ranges from humid to semi-arid along the Brazilian coast, which influences the diversity of geological environments and forest structures in the mangrove ecosystem. Despite their ecological and socio-economic importance, mangroves are at risk from conversion to aquaculture, salt panning, coastal infrastructure development, and oil pollution. Mangroves have also been significantly impacted by two recent major disasters: the 2015 collapse of the Mariana dam, which released a vast quantity of iron mining waste, and an extensive soil spill along the Brazilian northeast coast in 2019. As of today, the TSA mangrove ecosystem area has undergone a net loss of -3.7% since 1996. If this trend continues an overall change of -6.7% is projected over the next 50 years. Furthermore, under a high sea level rise scenario (IPCC RCP8.5) ≈10.5% of the TSA mangrove area would be submerged by 2060. Moreover, 2.2% of the province’s mangrove ecosystem is undergoing degradation, with the potential to increase to 6.6% within a 50-year period, based on a vegetation index decay analysis. Overall, the Tropical Southwestern Atlantic mangrove ecosystem is assessed as Least Concern (LC).
Determinants of Bilateral Cooperation of Small States in Contemporary International Relations: From the Neorealist Perspective of Politics and Security – A Case Study: Serbia and North Macedonia
Authors:   Institute for International Politics and Economics in Belgrade, Jelisavac Trošić Sanja , Arnaudov Mitko ,   Institute for International Politics and Economics in Belgrade
Published: November 2024

Bilateral relations of small states represent a very limited ﬁeld in academic debates and research within the science of international relations. In fact, there is a lack of research and relevant debates on what the determinants and factors of bilateral relations are between small states and how much those factors contribute to promoting it on one hand, while, on the other, how much same factors condition that cooperation, and, ﬁnally, how much small states independently determine and deﬁne their bilateral relations in their foreign policy activities. In this paper, using the example of bilateral relations between Serbia and North Macedonia in the period of the last ten years, the authors will try to answer the following main research question: What is the basis of the bilateral cooperation between Serbia and North Macedonia and what is its perspective? On those grounds, they will also answer the following questions: To what extent is this cooperation conditioned by internal political circumstances in either country; to what extent is this cooperation determined by regional circumstances; how much is it inﬂuenced by the so-called “major actors” in international relations; and, ﬁnally, to what extent is it actually a consequence of the sovereign decisions of the authorities in Belgrade and Skopje? With this methodological order of research questions, from the general to the individual in the theoretical sense through the prism of realists and structural realists, the authors will establish the perspective of bilateral relations between small states within the framework of the actual circumstances of international relations.
The Main Security Challenges and Threats in the Western Balkans and Possible Model for Solving Them in the Process of European Integration
Authors:   University of Donja Gorica, Tahirović Mehmedin
Published: November 2024

In a narrower sense, within the geo-political jargon of the European Union, the term “Western Balkans” is used alongside the term “Southeast Europe”. The Western Balkans encompasses the former Yugoslav countries of Serbia, Montenegro, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, and Kosovo, excluding Slovenia but including Albania. After the dissolution of the former Yugoslavia, objective reasons emerged that prompted the need for new forms of cooperation between the new and existing countries in order to promote reconciliation and stabilise the Western Balkans. NATO and the EU played a predominant role in this process, along with certain Member States of these international organisations. The aggression by Russia against Ukraine on 24th February 2022, the situation in the Middle East, and the complexity of relations between China and the United States regarding Taiwan have compelled all European countries to recognise that these conﬂicts pose an immediate threat to European security. Analysing the foreign policy aspects and their impact on regional security, it is essential to highlight that the Western Balkans is characterised by weak governance, a fragile civil society, and geopolitical disputes. These internal and regional factors make the region highly susceptible to local and external disinformation campaigns. On the other hand, China represents a signiﬁcant global partner for Serbia, and it is important to point out that since 2016, investments from China have been accelerating and also that in the period from 2016 to 2023, about 96% of the total investments were made, a total of 5.3 billion euros, and that in each of those years, China was among the ﬁve most important investors in Serbia (Politika, 7th May 2024). As the most inﬂuential state economically and politically in the Western Balkans, Serbia has the potential to inﬂuence other countries in the region toward alternative centres of power. The latest NATO Strategic Concept, adopted in Madrid in 2022, emphasises the strategic importance of the Western Balkans and the Black Sea region for the Alliance, and NATO has expressed its readiness to continue supporting the Euro-Atlantic aspirations of interested countries in these regions. The Berlin Process (BP) is an intergovernmental initiative aimed at connecting the Western Balkan countries (WB6) with the European Union and facilitating the development of mutual relations based on European values. The focus of the process lies in high-level cooperation between WB6 ofﬁcials and their EU partners. It also involves EU institutions, international ﬁnancial institutions, civil society, youth, and businesses in the region. One of the signiﬁcant advantages of the Berlin Process is the ﬁnancing of planned and assumed commitments from EU funds, unlike most other initiatives where states ﬁnance their participation from their own budgets.