Comparative Approach Research Articles

Designing historical empathy learning experiences: a pedagogical tool for history teachers

This article explores the pedagogies that history teachers use to foster historical empathy, drawing from interviews with secondary school history teachers in Canada. The findings highlight that historical empathy is nurtured by teachers over time using a variety of different teaching approaches and activities, tasks and projects. The article begins by examining the pedagogical choices that teachers make when designing and implementing historical empathy lessons, categorised as implicit, thematic, student-centred, scaffolded and comparative approaches. Next, consideration is given to the types of learning experiences that teachers use to develop historical empathy, and some of the opportunities and challenges involved. These learning experiences include role plays and simulations, first- and third-person writing tasks, experiential learning and virtual reality, and collaborative and project-based learning. The perspectives shared by the teachers in this study contributed towards the development of a research-informed pedagogical tool to guide the future design of learning experiences that foster historical empathy, which may be applied by teachers across educational jurisdictions, and adapted for various grade levels.

Research on the Differences Between the Laws Designed to Protect Brands and Traditional Trademark Laws

Brand protection is an important and challenging issue in the contemporary market, as brands are valuable and influential intangible assets that create and sustain competitive advantage. However, there is a lack of a clear and comprehensive legal category that can adequately address the diverse and complex aspects of brand protection. This paper aims to explore how a law designed to protect brands might differ from traditional trademark law, which mainly focuses on the registration and protection of distinctive signs that identify the source and quality of goods or services. The paper adopts a qualitative and comparative approach, using online sources, such as web articles, research papers, and guides, as well as examples of famous brands and cases, to illustrate and analyze the possible ways, characteristics, challenges, and benefits of brand protection. The paper concludes that brand protection is a useful or viable legal category that recognizes and respects the value and importance of brands as intangible assets that create and sustain competitive advantage in the market, adapts and innovates to changing market trends, consumer preferences, and competitive forces, and harmonizes and cooperates with the existing trademark laws and standards across different countries and regions.

RSM versus ANN for modeling and optimization of magnetic adsorbent based on montmorillonite and CoFe2O4

A highly resourceful, environmentally benign, and recyclable magnetic montmorillonite composite (MMT/CF) was obtained through a simple one-step hydrothermal method and exhibited excellent Pb (II) removal. The as-synthesized adsorbent was then characterized by XRD, SEM–EDX, FTIR, BET, and TGA-DTA. The operating parameters including adsorbent dosage, initial Pb (II) concentration, solution pH, and time were studied. Also, a comparative approach was formed between response surface methodology (RSM) and artificial neural network (ANN) to optimize and model the removal efficiency of Pb (II) by MMT/CF. The results indicated that the ANN model was more precise and quite trusted optimization tool than RSM in consideration of its higher correlation coefficient (R2 = 0.998) and lower prediction errors (RMSE = 0.851 and ADD = 0.505). Langmuir isotherm provided the best fit to the experimental data, and the maximum adsorption capacity was 101.01 mg/g. Additionally, the kinetic studies showed that the pseudo-second-order model fitted well with the experimental data. The magnetic MMT/CF composite possesses high adsorption capacity and is suitable for reuse. Therefore, this study shows that MMT/CF composite can be a potential adsorbent in Pb (II) uptake from aqueous media.

CREATIVITY OF C. JUNG IN THE ASPECT OF PERSONALITY SELF REALIZATION IN COMPARISON WITH THE VEDIC CONCEPT

Relevance. The problem of self-realization of a person at the moment is one of the cardinal problems of our time. The purpose of the study is to analyze the methodological foundations of the study of the problem of self-realization of the individual in the works of Carl Jung. A comparative analysis of his work in comparison with Indian religious and philosophical thought is carried out. Methodology. In this study, the main methodological principle is comparative analysis. In the work, in addition to the comparative method, the methods of the unity of the historical, and logical and the descent from the abstract to the concrete are used, which are important for understanding the subject of research. The research also made use of general scientific methods: analysis, synthesis, abstraction. Results. In the opinion of the author, C. Jung's concept of the collective unconscious is difficult to understand without drawing parallels with the understanding of the concepts of Brahman and Atman in Indian philosophy, where through the connection of the individual soul (Atman) with the Absolute God (Brahman) a state of enlightenment (omniscient) is achieved. The use of a comparative approach allows us to assert that Carl Jung's work was significantly influenced by his fascination with Eastern philosophy, especially Indian philosophy. Appropriate parallels can be drawn between Jung's teaching and Indian religious-philosophical thought concerning the self-realization of the individual, which passes into God-realization. C. Jung, considering himself a god-like being, founded the Psychology Club, which acted like an Indian religious community led by a charismatic personality, where higher knowledge was obtained through a system of yogic practice, by achieving enlightenment. Similar to the Indian religious-philosophical tradition, he shared the concept of karma and reincarnation.

Women and Nationality Laws in the GCC States Gender Discrimination and Violation of Constitutional Rights

The paper reviews the situation of a number of GCC states where women married to non-national husbands find themselves and their children in a unique and un-justiciable position. The paper systematically reviews constitutional provisions for equality, and looks at the case law in these states that promise gender equality for all before the law. But it notes that a major exception in all GCC states is that of the right of women married to non-national men, to pass nationality to their children. The objectives of this article rest on proving that nationality laws of the GCC States appertaining to the practice of not allowing national women married to foreign men to pass nationality to their children is breaching a constitution rules. The study adopted a comparative and analytical approach, where the relevant data have been analyzed; this includes constitutional laws, nationality laws, case law of the high courts in the GCC States as well as books and articles. This study has shown that although all GCC States have declared in their constitutions that rights and freedoms are ensured and guaranteed, in practice, the story is different: the right of gender equality and right of litigation are being violated. This study has demonstrated that rules on acquisition of nationality in the GCC States involves clear discrimination against national women. Such a situation undoubtedly beaches the constitutional provisions of equality, and therefore should be amended. In a situation of developing human rights awareness in the GCC states, this paper explores how there appears to be an exception, in the form of nationality rights for women and children. The paper reviews the situation of a number of GCC states where women married to non-national husbands find themselves and their children in a unique and un-justiciable position. The paper systematically reviews constitutional provisions for equality, and looks at the case law in these states that promise gender equality for all before the law. But it notes that a major exception in all GCC states is that of the right of women married to non-national men, to pass nationality to their children. The paper asks if this anomaly is still justified in the 21st century. The objectives of this article rest on proving that nationality laws of the GCC States appertaining to the practice of not allowing national women married to foreign men to pass nationality to their children is breaching a constitution rules. The study adopted a comparative and analytical approach, where the relevant data have been analyzed; this includes constitutional laws, nationality laws, case law of the high courts in the GCC States as well as books and articles. This study has shown that although all GCC States have declared in their constitutions that rights and freedoms are ensured and guaranteed, in practice, the story is different: the right of gender equality and right of litigation are being violated. This study has demonstrated that rules on acquisition of nationality in the GCC States involves clear discrimination against national women. Such a situation undoubtedly beaches the constitutional provisions of equality, and therefore should be amended.

A Comparative Analysis of the Level of Direct Commercial and Financial Relations: A Case Study of the Two Sides of the Taiwan Straits in the Past Ten Years

This research conducts a comprehensive analysis of the direct commercial and financial relations between Taiwan and mainland China over the past ten years, aiming to understand the depth, trends, and impacts of economic ties. The study employs a comparative analysis approach to leverage data from reputable sources such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank, and official reports from Taiwan and China. The analysis of trade patterns reveals a consistent increase in volumes, showcasing a maturing economic relationship marked by the diversification of traded goods. Cross-Strait investments, particularly in critical sectors like technology and finance, highlight strategic collaborations and sector-specific interdependence. Financial relationships, examined through IMF reports and national financial institutions, demonstrate a deepening integration of banking ties despite geopolitical complexities. The study employs theoretical frameworks such as Complex Interdependence Theory and Political Economy Theory to interpret findings. The data analysis includes time-series analysis techniques to identify seasonality, trends, and cyclical patterns, providing insights for policymakers and businesses. The study's significance lies in its contribution to understanding the multifaceted nature of cross-Strait economic relations, emphasizing the endurance of economic interactions despite political complexities. The findings provide a nuanced foundation for improved bilateral relations, offering policymakers insights for strategic adjustments and fostering sustainable economic collaboration. In conclusion, this research contributes to the academic discourse on Taiwan-China economic relations by providing a detailed and empirically supported analysis. It addresses the intricacies of trade, investments, and financial collaborations, shedding light on the dynamics shaping the economic ties between these two entities.

Differentiated disintegration in the Economic Community of West African States, the Eurasian Economic Community and the European Union: a comparative regionalism approach

ABSTRACT The United Kingdom’s withdrawal from the European Union has sparked interest in voluntary withdrawals from regional organisations (RO). While Brexit is a well-researched subject, other exits from ROs around the globe have been somewhat neglected. We still know relatively little about states’ motivations to leave and how such exits play out in the short and long run. This article addresses both gaps. First, it conceptualises withdrawals from ROs as differentiated disintegration to better grasp the pre- and post-exit dynamics. Second, it puts forth three factor groups explaining states’ reasoning composed of (i) geopolitical and geoeconomic conditions, (ii) intra-regional tensions and (iii) domestic factors. Third, it applies this framework to Uzbekistan’s exit from the EurAsEC, Mauritania’s departure from ECOWAS and the UK’s withdrawal from the EU. Despite great differences in the regional setup and level of institutionalisation, we find that strong parallels can be drawn between all three cases.

Fitness Levels of Elementary School Students Based on Gender and Race in Indonesia: Are There Differences?

This research aimed to determine differences in physical fitness levels based on Race and Gender in Indonesia. It used a comparative quantitative approach. The samples in this research were elementary school students in three provinces: Sumsel, DIY, and NTT. They were selected using cluster random sampling and yielded 254 people. Then, the samples were clustered to equalize numbers based on students’ gender and regional race (South Sumatra, DIY, & NTT). After this process, the remaining 132 people were taken. Students’ physical fitness data were collected using the Indonesian Physical Fitness Test (TKJI). The data were then analyzed using the parametric Two-Way ANOVA statistics. The results of the Two-Way ANOVA test showed that the race factor variable had a value of Sig. 0.00 < 0.05. This value indicates a significant difference in the TKJI test scores between races in the three provinces: South Sumatra, DIY, and NTT. In the gender factor variable, the Sig. 0.001 < 0.05, meaning a significant difference was also found in the TKJI test scores between male and female students. Furthermore, for the combined race and gender factor variables, the Sig 0.485 > 0.05. Since the Sig value was greater, there is no influence or interaction between the race and gender factors in the three provinces in determining the results of the students' TKJI scores. Differences in physical fitness in terms of race can be caused by differences in physical activity, socioeconomic status, and social factors, such as racial discrimination and interpersonal racial discrimination. These differences can manifest as emotional stress due to increased psychological stress and increased risk of unhealthy behavior, including activities. In addition, the difference in physical fitness was also found between genders. The results show that men have a better level of physical fitness than women. One of the reasons is possibly due to increased fat mass associated with growth and puberty in girls. In addition, boys are often more active than girls. Keywords: Physical fitness, Student, Race, Gender

Horse equipment of the Pazyryk culture of Mongolia

In this date 50 burial structures of the Pazyryk culture were excavated in the western region of the Mongolian Altai Mountains between 2005 and 2018. This research focused on examining the riding horse equipment unearthed from these structures. The significance of this study lies in it’s ability to provide a comprehensive overview of a specific aspect of the Pazyryk culture in the Mongolian Altai region, achieved through comparative analysis with riding horse equipment discovered in adjacent regions. This comparative approach offers valuable insights into the regional variations and cultural nuances within the broader context of the Pazyryk culture. Furthermore, this research serves as a foundation for future investigations aiming to elucidate the broader significance of the documented artifacts and materials. Specifically, it has the potential to contribute significantly to the understanding of ancient nomadic horse culture. By building upon this groundwork, scholars can further explore and interpret the multifaceted aspects of horserelated practices, technologies, and symbolism prevalent among the ancient nomadic societies inhabiting the Eurasian steppes.

Analysis of the presence of anti-viral innate immune pathways in the Australian Haliotis laevigata

Our understanding of the specificities of innate immune protection against viral pathogens in non-model invertebrate species is limited, and comparative immunological approaches may offer opportunities to protect aquaculturally significant species such as abalone, against viral threats. Haliotid herpesvirus (HaHV-1) is a re-emerging viral pathogen of abalone, and has a high mortality rate in the dominant wild and farmed species in Australia, the Australian greenlip abalone (Haliotis laevigata), the blacklip (Haliotis rubra) and a hybrid of the two. To gain a better understanding of the anti-viral immune system counterparts of Australian abalone, gene mining strategies and domain analysis of the recently released H. laevigata draft genome was performed, with comparisons made to the better studied mollusc, the oyster (Crassostrea gigas). Significant divergence in members of the TLR, cytosolic RNA/DNA and RNA interference signalling pathways was observed between the two molluscs, with the oyster more closely reflecting that of the mammalian immune response. Interestingly, a homolog for the anti-viral RNA sensing adaptor protein Mitochondrial anti-viral-signalling protein was absent in H. laevigata, as well as the 4 other abalone protein databases currently available, despite the presence of a RIG-I homolog. Additionally, STING, a member of the dsDNA sensing pathway was absent in H. laevigata, as well as 2 other abalone species, however is present in the oyster genome, and two additional abalone species (Haliotis rufescens, Haliotis discus hannai).This work provides a better understanding of the key features of the abalone anti-viral innate immune signalling system and may provide much needed information towards the development of anti-viral strategies in these animals.

Comparative study: perceptions of multiple education stakeholders on children with disabilities and goals of special education in Oman and the Philippines

PurposeThis comparative study explored the perceptions of educational stakeholders in Oman and the Philippines concerning children with disabilities and the goals of special education. Stakeholders' perspectives can influence their professional behaviours and attitudes, which, in turn, can profoundly impact children with disabilities who already face numerous challenges. Hence, comprehending the viewpoints of these stakeholders is vital for fostering socially just education for individuals with disabilities.Design/methodology/approachThis study employed a qualitative comparative case study approach with a horizontal comparison strategy, and both convenience and purposeful sampling techniques were used for participant selection. The study involved 53 participants from both countries, including policymakers, teacher educators, in-service teachers and student teachers from general and special education domains. Data were gathered through individual interviews and themes were subsequently discerned via data analysis.FindingsDespite the different cultural and historical contexts and distinct roles of stakeholders in both countries, the results indicate more parallels than disparities in their perceptions. The primary congruence underscored in this research was imperative to critically assess the language and ideology surrounding the goals of special education, such as mainstreaming and normalisation.Originality/valueAlthough numerous studies have probed the perceptions of various educational stakeholders concerning children with disabilities and educational goals, there is limited research that encompasses the perspectives of the seven distinct stakeholder groups. The consistency of language usage across both countries and among all stakeholders underscores the need for a rigorous cross-country examination involving all educational participants.

Retinol-binding protein 4 as a promising serum biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of hepatocellular Carcinoma

BackgroundThe prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is universally poor. Early diagnosis plays a pivotal role in determining the outcome of HCC. MethodsWe employed a comparative proteomics approach to identify potential biomarkers and validated the application of retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) as a biomarker for HCC. RBP4 protein expression was examined in liver tissues from 80 HCC patients through immunohistochemical analysis. Serum RBP4 concentrations were measured by ELISA in a cohort comprising 290 HCC patients, matched 202 chronic hepatitis B patients and 269 healthy controls. Survival data were collected from HCC patients. The diagnostic and prognostic values of RBP4 were evaluated using receiver operating curve (ROC) analysis. ResultsThe validation results demonstrated a significant reduction in RBP4 levels in both liver tissues and serum samples from HCC patients. ROC analysis of the diagnostic value of RBP4 revealed an AUC of 0.879 (95 % CI: 0.854∼0.903) for HCC. When combined with AFP, the AUC increased to 0.919, with a sensitivity of 87.9 % and specificity of 80 %. Survival analysis revealed significantly reduced overall survival time in individuals with low-expression of RBP4 compared to those with high-expression. The joint prognostic model exhibited an AUC of 0.926 (95 % CI: 0.888∼0.964), which was significantly higher than that of AFP alone (AUC=0.809; P <0.0001). ConclusionsRBP4 shows a great potential as a biomarker with appreciable diagnostic value, complementing the AFP in HCC diagnosis. Additionally, it holds promise as a prognostic biomarker that, when integrated into a combined prognostic model, could greatly improve HCC prognosis efficiency.

Race and Religion in Everyday Life: Antisemitism, Islamophobia, and Christian Privilege Among Female Converts in the Netherlands

Abstract This article analyzes how the intersections of race and religion impact the experiences of women converting to Judaism, Christianity, or Islam in the Netherlands. It builds on the innovative historical and philosophical work by scholars who call attention to the intersections of race and religion. In ethnographic studies of female converts such entanglements of race and religion have primarily been noted in the case of white converts in Islam. However, research into race and racialization among Christian and Jewish female converts is rare, and a comparative approach even rarer. A bottom-up comparative approach, I argue, has the potential to critically examine not only the positions of religio-racialized minorities, but also the mechanisms of religious/racial hegemony at work in Western Europe. The article thus explores how becoming a religious minority impacts one’s sense of belonging to the nation and how processes of racialization, specifically antisemitism and Islamophobia, impact the conversion process.

Comparative Probiogenomics Analysis of Limosilactobacillus fermentum 3872.

Limosilactobacillus fermentum is an important member of the lactic acid bacteria group and holds immense potential for probiotic properties in human health and relevant industries. In this study, a comparative probiogenomic approach was applied to analyze the genome sequence of L. fermentum 3872, which was extracted from a commercially available yogurt sample, along with 20 different publicly available strains. Results indicate that the genome size of the characterized L. fermentum 3892 strain is 2,057,839bp, with a single- and circular-type chromosome possessing a G + C content of 51.69%. The genome of L. fermentum 3892 strain comprises a total of 2120 open reading frames (ORFs), two genes encoding rRNAs, and 53 genes encoding tRNAs. Upon comparative probiogenomic analysis, two plasmid sequences were detected among the study strains, including one for the L. fermentum 3872 genome, which was found between position 1,288,203 and 1,289,237 with an identity of 80.98. The whole-genome alignment revealed 2223 identical sites and a pairwise identity of 98.9%, indicating a significant difference of 1.1% among genome strains. Comparison of amino acid encoding genes among strains included in this study suggests that the strain 3872 exhibited the highest degree of amino acids present, including glutamine, glutamate, aspartate, asparagine, lysine, threonine, methionine, and cysteine. The comparative antibiotic resistome profiling revealed that strain 3872 exhibited a high resistant capacity only to ciprofloxacin antibiotics as compared to other strains. This study provides a genomic-based evaluation approach for comparative probiotic strain analysis in commercial foods and their significance to human health.

Database construction and comparative genomics analysis of genes involved in nutritional metabolic diseases in fish

Nutritional metabolic diseases in fish frequently arise in the setting of intensive aquaculture. The etiology and pathogenesis of these conditions involve energy metabolic disorders influenced by both internal genetic factors and external environmental conditions. The exploration of genes associated with nutritional and metabolic disorder has sparked considerable interest within both the aquaculture scientific community and the industry. High-throughput sequencing technology offers researchers extensive genetic information. Effectively mining, analyzing, and securely storing this data is crucial, especially for advancing disease prevention and treatment strategies. Presently, the exploration and application of gene databases concerning nutritional and metabolic disorders in fish are at a nascent stag. Therefore, this study focused on the model organism zebrafish and five primary economic fish species as the subjects of investigation. Using information from KEGG, OMIM, and existing literature, a novel gene database associated with nutritional metabolic diseases in fish was meticulously constructed. This database encompassed 4583 genes for Danio rerio, 6287 for Cyprinus carpio, 3289 for Takifugu rubripes, 3548 for Larimichthys crocea, 3816 for Oreochromis niloticus, and 5708 for Oncorhynchus mykiss. Through a comparative systems biology approach, we discerned a relatively high conservation of genes linked to nutritional metabolic diseases across these fish species, with over 54.9 % of genes being conserved throughout all six species. Additionally, the analysis pinpointed the existence of 13 species-specific genes within the genomes of large yellow croaker, tilapia, and rainbow trout. These genes exhibit the potential to serve as novel candidate targets for addressing nutritional metabolic diseases.

Priorities for contraceptive method and service delivery attributes among adolescent girls and young women in Kenya: a qualitative study

IntroductionDespite increasing global commitment to meeting the family planning needs of adolescent girls and young women (AGYW), there is limited research on how they prioritize contraceptive method and service delivery characteristics. In this qualitative study, we examine the specific elements that drive the contraceptive choices of Kenyan AGYW, and apply our findings to the development of attributes and levels for a discrete choice experiment (DCE).MethodsOur four-stage approach included data collection, data reduction, removing inappropriate attributes, and optimizing wording. Between June-October 2021, we conducted in-depth interviews with 30 sexually-active 15–24 year-old AGYW in Kisumu county, Kenya who were non-pregnant and desired to delay pregnancy. Interviews focused on priorities for contraceptive attributes, how AGYW make trade-offs between among these attributes, and the influences of preferences on contraceptive choice. Translated transcripts were qualitatively coded and analyzed with a constant comparative approach to identify key concepts. We developed and iteratively revised a list of attributes and levels, and pre-tested draft DCE choice tasks using cognitive interviews with an additional 15 AGYW to optimize comprehension and relevance.ResultsIn-depth interview participants' median age was 18, 70% were current students, and 93% had a primary sexual partner. AGYW named a variety of priorities and preferences related to choosing and accessing contraceptive methods, which we distilled into six key themes: side effects; effectiveness; user control; privacy; source of services; and cost. Bleeding pattern was top of mind for participants; amenorrhea was generally considered an intolerable side effect. Many participants felt more strongly about privacy than effectiveness, though some prioritized duration of use and minimizing chance of pregnancy above other contraceptive characteristics. Most AGYW preferred a clinic setting for access, as they desired contraceptive counseling from a provider, but pharmacies were considered preferable for reasons of privacy. We selected, refined, and pre-tested 7 DCE attributes, each with 2–4 levels.ConclusionsIdentifying AGYW preferences for contraceptive method and service delivery characteristics is essential to developing innovative strategies to meet their unique SRH needs. DCE methods may provide valuable quantitative perspectives to guide and tailor contraceptive counseling and service delivery interventions for AGYW who want to use contraception.

Legal Certainty Principle in Judicial Activism Decision of the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Indonesia Case Number 143/PUU-XXI/2023

Judicial activism in the petition for Law Number 143/PUU-XXI/2023 concerning the term of office of regional heads / deputy regional heads can present the principles of legal certainty and substantive justice. The Petitioners in the case felt that they suffered constitutional losses due to a legal vacuum where the legislators failed to regulate the calculation of the term of office of regional heads elected in 2018 but inaugurated in 2019. As a result, the applicants experienced a cut in the term of office and could not run the full term of office for 5 (five) years. The type of research is normative, with a statutory approach, conceptual approach and comparative approach. The results showed that judicial activism carried out by the Constitutional Court could find substantive differences between Petition Number 143/PUU-XXI/2023 and Petition Number 62/PUU-XXI/2023, and the court could find a legal vacuum and restore the constitutional losses of the petitioners.

Whistleblowing and interpretation, addressing organizational challenges: a conceptual reflection from Nigeria

Purpose This study aims to explore the effect of whistleblowing and interpretation among practitioners in the Nigerian economy. The research puts a premium on understanding the relevance and critical issues in its practices and developing an improved model for the effective practice of whistleblowing and interpretation in Nigeria. Design/methodology/approach This study adopted a conceptual approach, relying on extant literature to understand the management of whistleblowing incidents and identify the managers’ and other stakeholders’ responsibility in the whistleblowing process. It applied systems dynamics conceptual modelling and presented an improvement approach to addressing the complexities associated with whistleblowing and interpretation among Nigerian organizations. Findings This study contributed to the extant literature by developing a model for proper management of whistleblowing in the Nigerian context and enhancing the robust practice of whistleblowing and interpretation in Nigeria. The findings highlighted critical factors such as managers’ skills development, legal system support, institutional stakeholders’ function and ethical balance as key factors to effective whistleblowing management and interpretation. This implies that the act of identifying and developing responses to an emerging case of whistleblowing requires a process of developing underpinning assumptions, engagement and consideration of stakeholders’ interests while driving the sustenance of organizational focus. Originality/value This study emphasized the departure from absolute best practice to developing idea approaches that reflect stakeholders’ interests and the context of whistleblowing and interpretation. While the study acknowledges limitations in the sole focus on the Nigerian private sector and the Nigerian economic background, it recommends further exploration of whistleblowing and its interpretation on a comparative approach, to improving the current understanding of the topic.

Relational Skills and Corporate Productivity in a Comparative Size Class Perspective

AbstractDrawing on insights from various fields within game theory literature, such as strategic interactions, social dilemmas, gift exchange, and procedural utility, we argue that corporate social responsibility (CSR) and relational skills—whether between firms, employers and workers, among workers themselves, or with stakeholders—are associated with positive effects on productivity. We test this hypothesis using a comparative approach across small, medium, and large Italian firms, leveraging data from the 2019 CSR survey conducted by the Italian Statistical Institute (ISTAT). Our analysis reveals that firm size plays a crucial role in the impact of relational skills on added value per worker, even after controlling for relevant factors. Key components of relational skills identified in our study include corporate policies focusing on workers' well-being, prioritizing teamwork attitudes in recruitment, supporting initiatives within the local productive network, and involving stakeholders in CSR initiatives. Our findings indicate that stakeholder engagement positively impacts all firm sizes, while worker well-being is particularly significant for small and medium firms, local network initiatives for medium and large firms, and teamwork for medium-sized firms. Instrumental variable estimates find evidence of a causal link beyond these correlations. We conclude that firm size exhibits an inverse U-shaped effect on the impact of teamwork skills, reduces the influence of gift exchange mechanisms, and strengthens the effects of investments in the local productive environment on added value per worker.

RUSSIAN TRADE COOPERATION: FORMING A STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP IN THE CONTEXT OF SANCTIONS

Under the conditions of sanctions confrontation transformation of trade and economic relations in the world arena is inevitable. This article analyzes the process of Russian formation of strategic trade cooperation within the global economic system in the context of the evolution of the geography of international trade in 2022–2023. The methodology is based on comparative and statistical approaches. The study shows the growing importance of strategic partnership with China, India and Turkey against the background of the slowdown in trade relations between Russia and the European Union after February 2022. The author's opinion is that the concentration of major commodity flows in a rather narrow group of states has several negative consequences. As the analysis has shown, there is a need to rethink the strategy of Russia's international economic cooperation in the direction of diversification of its economic ties. The purpose of the study is to develop recommendations to support domestic non-resource nonenergy exports (NRE) as a source of sustainable development of trade relations in the direction of friendly countries in the new economic reality. The article identified the most important partner countries for Russian non-resource non-energy exports (China, Kazakhstan, Turkey, Belarus, Uzbekistan and Egypt), which at the same time have the highest indicator of unrealized export potential. Based on the results of the research, it was developed recommendations how to expand the geography of Russian non-resource non-energy exports in the direction of identified strategic partners in the conditions of the sanctions.