Related Issues Research Articles

Evaluating Teachers’ Performances: Travails of School Heads in the New Normal

This study explored the lived experiences, challenges encountered, coping mechanisms and insights of public elementary school heads on evaluating teachers in schools using the RPMS-IPCRF in the new normal. The participants were coming from DepEd Region XI, Division of Davao City, specifically in the schools of Paquibato District. There were eight (8) school heads who participated in the study, and were purposely selected. This study made use of a phenomenological approach to extract the ideas from the participants. The virtual in- depth interview was employed to gather significant information with regard to their respective lived experiences. Using the thematic analysis, the following themes emerged pertaining to their lived experiences: evaluation for performance improvement, evaluation as a difficult task, teachers providing outstanding educational services, and hurdling evaluation challenges. Further, there were also three (3) subthemes that emerged on the challenges experienced by the participants. These are the lack of RPMS-IPCRF orientations, unattainable key results areas, and rater-ratee relationship issues. The coping mechanisms of participants on the challenges they experienced were: RPMS-IPCRF re-orientations, team building for strengthening relationships, and regular coaching and monitoring. The educational management insights drawn from the participants were the importance of LAC sessions in schools and the value of rater-ratee collaborations. Thus, it is crucial to provide effective evaluation strategy training to school heads with additional support and continual professional development endeavors to boost their effectiveness and foster desirable management and evaluation skills amidst the pandemic.

The effects of the paramedics’ field work on their mental status in Jeddah

ABSTRACT Background: Paramedics are continuously exposed to stressful events, making them liable to mental disorders. This study assesses the health of paramedics in Jeddah, focusing on their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Methods: This cross-sectional study included fieldwork paramedics in Jeddah through an online survey distributed on social media. With a response rate of 86.09%, 192 complete responses were analyzed. Outcomes included mental health, mood and somatic effect, self-esteem, and sleep. Results: Most participants were males (83.85%), married (50%), non-heavy smokers (51.04%), and non-alcohol drinkers (51.04%). A significant number reported health-related work or daily life difficulties, with 62.5%–67.18% attributing these to physical and emotional issues, respectively. Over half rated their mental health as poor or somewhat poor, impacting their relationships significantly. Additionally, 70.31% frequently felt anger, and many faced limitations in physical activities. About 14.58% had a prior mental illness diagnosis, with nearly a quarter on medication, and 61.98% had recently sought psychiatric help. Sleep deprivation affected 61.98%, with 38.53% reporting poor sleep quality. Conclusions: The findings highlight the negative impact on paramedics’ mental health, showing a substantial diagnosis rate of mental disorders, activity limitations, negative mood, and relationship issues. Despite significant sleep problems, a positive aspect is their proactive psychiatric help-seeking behavior.

Matrix representation of the graph model for conflict resolution based on intuitionistic preferences with applications to trans-regional water resource conflicts in the Lancang–Mekong River Basin

With the continual growth in global demand for water resources, the governance of trans-regional water resources has become an important field of cooperation between countries, and conflicts caused by competition for water resources have become a focal issue in international relations. The root causes of trans-regional water resource conflicts include unclear ownership of water resources and the limited rationality of the parties involved. The water rights trading model has proven to play a stabilizing role in resolving trans-regional water resource conflicts versus the traditional negotiation model. To demonstrate the rationality and theoretical strength of the water rights trading model in allocating trans-regional water resources in uncertain environments, this paper proposes a novel matrix representation of intuitionistic stability definitions through a graph model for conflict resolution (GMCR). First, decision-makers’ (DMs’) intuitionistic preferences, unilateral movements, and intuitionistic unilateral improvements in a GMCR with two DMs are represented in a matrix. The joint unilateral movements and joint intuitionistic unilateral improvements for a coalition in a GMCR with multiple DMs are also represented. Next, according to the logical forms of intuitionistic stability definitions, four stability definitions in a GMCR with intuitionistic preferences were redefined to enable matrix representations of graph models with either two DMs or multiple DMs. Finally, we analyzed the state transitions and strategies of all stakeholders in trans-regional water resource conflicts in the Lancang-Mekong River Basin within the intuitionistic graph model. The contributions of this paper are twofold. First, in terms of theoretical research, this article enriches and develops the GMCR and proposes a set of definitions of matrix intuitionistic stability. Second, in terms of practical application, the intuitionistic stability analysis results can provide a reference for water rights trading to solve trans-regional water resource conflicts in uncertain environments and transform trans-regional water resource governance systems.

A Complex Condition; Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A Review of its Recent Advanced Treatment

Abstract: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine and metabolic disorder affecting women worldwide. It refers to a condition that often has ‘poly’ liquid containing sacks around ovaries. It affects reproductive-aged females, giving rise to menstrual and related reproductive issues. PCOS is marked by hormonal imbalance, often resulting in hyperandrogenism. Women with PCOS might experience abnormal insulin activity and complications such as acne, mood swings, hirsutism, obesity, and infertility. The disease is linked with severe clinical ailments such as type 2 diabetes (T2DM), cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), and cancer. A faulty lifestyle, neuroendocrine factors, genetic causes, and androgen exposures often cause PCOS. The approach of society towards physiological problems such as PCOS in women is that it must be under the veil that is the ultimate barrier to the early diagnosis of PCOS. Thus, this review summarizes the causes, symptoms, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and possible treatment (medical, herbal, and lifestyle improvement, acupuncture, and bariatric surgery) related to PCOS.

The Life/Blood of a Management Scholar: What a Cancer Diagnosis Taught Me About the Profession

After receiving a diagnosis of a rare form of blood cancer in my mid 30s, in the midst of my first year working full-time as an assistant professor, I reflect on the ways such a life-altering event gave me a new vantage point on my own career as a management scholar. I highlight ways that both a) the nature of the cancer treatment I had to receive and b) being forced to mentally face prospects of a reduced life expectancy, had the unforeseen value of giving me specific insights on effective ways to conduct research in our field, while still appreciating deeper issues of personal values and relationships. I specifically utilize the conceptual framework of the ‘protean’ career in my narrative essay to elucidate important truths about the nature of management scholarship which I propose all my colleagues should personally consider as they pursue their own career goals.

Pedagogy and ICT in Crisis Situations or the Games and Issues of a Win-Win Relationship

"Let a micro-processor never become a micro-professor". This allegation by Francis Meynard (1989) certainly reflects the relationship of complementarity or conflict that may exist between teaching and digital technology. In fact, the present research is interested in the presumed or proven problematic between pedagogy and Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). In a more subtle but demonstrative way, the aim is to study the tangible and/or alleged contributions of ICTs in the various teaching-learning methods of secondary school learners in priority education zones (PEZ), in a crisis situation. Three data collection tools allow us to carry out this work, namely non-participant observation, the semi- directed interview and finally the documentary exploitation. The results that emanate from this work reveal a triptych: firstly, convergent as well as divergent characteristics of the two notional approaches in these places, secondly, an incapacity of ICTs for a conjunctural pedagogy, and thirdly, a rigorous conditioning of ICTs for an improved and continuous pedagogy in a crisis situation in PEZs.

Sociopsychological factors of drug abuse among young females in Bangladesh and gender-specific vulnerabilities: Aligning with SDG 3 and SDG 5.

Drug consumption among young women in Bangladesh is increasing day by day. The research aims to analyze the factors influencing young females to take drugs in Bangladesh. This exploratory study was carried out using a qualitative research method. Primary data were collected via in-depth interviews. Seventeen addicted young women from Bangladesh were chosen for this study by a snowball sampling technique. The data from the interviews were thoroughly examined. Intimate relationships with family and friends have the greatest impact on women's drug use. Aligning with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5 and SDG target 3.5, the study underscores the critical need for gender-sensitive approaches to address the unique vulnerabilities faced by young women. The findings revealed several factors that significantly impacted drug consumption among young women in Bangladesh, including the influence of social groups and peers, family-related issues, inadequate awareness and education on drugs, the ready availability of drugs, and psychological factors such as stress and curiosity. Additionally, women who use drugs often face severe social stigma and gender-based violence, which deters them from seeking help and exacerbates their addiction. Limited access to health services due to economic and societal constraints further hinders their ability to receive proper care and support. Implementing strategies that address these gender-specific factors will not only help mitigate drug abuse but also contribute to improved public health outcomes and advance sustainable development.

Normative and Security Challenges of Transborder Ethnic Kinship in Africa: The Case of Ethiopia

Abstract This article extends the study of securitization of cross-border ethnicity beyond its conventional European focus, by analyzing ongoing security challenges surrounding ethnic Somalis in Ethiopia and their relationship to neighboring Somalia. In methodological terms, it looks beyond the irredentist prism through which this case is usually considered, applying newer conceptual and normative frameworks on cross-border ethnicity developed in a European context and assessing their applicability to Africa. Applying Brubaker's “triadic nexus' concept to the Ethiopian case, I discuss how the conclusion of the Ethiopia-Somalia war and Somalia's collapse as an external kin state did not end the securitization of cross-border Somali kinship, but merely repackaged it in new forms. In this regard, the article highlights a continued need to ensure the human security of Somalis in Ethiopia by recognizing and accommodating them as a cross-border ethnic group. From the standpoint of contemporary norms on the regulation of minority issues in interstate relations, the federalization model adopted by Ethiopia after 1991 seems to provide a promising foundation. Thus far, however, the hegemonic nature of the federal project has failed to grant Somalis an appropriate measure of internal self-determination.

From Empirical Problem-Solving to Theoretical Problem-Finding Perspectives on the Cognitive Sciences

AbstractMeta-theoretical perspectives on the research problems and activities of (cognitive) scientists often emphasize empirical problems and problem-solving as the main aspects that account for scientific progress. While certainly useful to shed light on issues of theory-observation relationships, these conceptual analyses typically begin when empirical problems are already there for researchers to solve. As a result, the role of theoretical problems and problem-finding remain comparatively obscure. How do the scientific problems of Cognitive Science arise, and what do they comprise, empirically and theoretically? Here, we attempt to understand the research activities that lead to adequate explanations through a broader conception of the problems researchers must attend to and how they come about. To this end, we bring theoretical problems and problem-finding out of obscurity to paint a more integrative picture of how these complement empirical problems and problem-solving to advance cognitive science.

The Moderating Effect of Gender Role in Relationship Between Emotional Divorce and Marital Satisfaction: Comparison of Partial Least Square (PLS) and Consistent Partial Least Square Methods (PlSc) Methods.

Emotional divorce refers to a state of emotional disengagement from one's spouse, which can lead to marital dissatisfaction. Gender role conflict is a predictor of marital dissatisfaction and ultimately, divorce. The literature suggests that rigid adherence to traditional gender roles may contribute to emotional divorce. In this article, the authors aim to investigate the moderating effect of gender roles in the relationship between emotional divorce and marital satisfaction by using two multivariate methods in statistical analysis. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 539 women aged 18-65 years. The standard questionnaires used include 1) Bem Sex Role Inventory (Short form), 2) Gutman's Emotional Divorce Questionnaire, and 3) Evaluation and Nurturing Relationship Issues, Communication and Happiness (ENRICH) Marital Satisfaction (EMS) Scale. To achieve the purpose of the study, PLS and PLSc methods have been used. The mean age and time of marriage were 33.88 ± 6.6 and 13.03 ± 7.29 years. There is a significant negative relationship between emotional divorce and marital satisfaction. The gender role of most participants in the study has been androgenic and feminine, which has increased the moderating effect of this relationship. Also, when there is a common (reflective) factor model, Consistent Partial Least Square is more likely to provide a better fit than Partial Least Square. The results showed that higher women's marital satisfaction would be associated with lower emotional divorce. On the other hand, the role of gender is a mediating factor in marital satisfaction and emotional divorce. Having good male and female characteristics can have a positive impact on marital satisfaction, so increasing couples' knowledge of gender roles and trying to reduce traditional extreme roles can help increase marital satisfaction and reduce emotional divorce.

Love Unites Us in Our Differences, Faith Determines Our Path: Individual Decision-Making in Interfaith Dating Relationships

The purpose of this research is to describe the decision-making dynamics of individuals in interfaith dating relationships. The study employs a qualitative methodology with a phenomenological approach. Three participants were involved in semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to understand the unique experiences of each individual. The results identified 13 main themes in the decision-making process: relationship motives, environmental response, negative emotions, challenges and issues, coping strategies, social support, romantic belief, commitment, understanding, religiosity, compromise, hope, and relationship satisfaction. The decision-making dynamics are divided into three main stages: pre-dating, dating, and relationship continuation. Each stage highlights the importance of understanding, adjustment, and effective coping strategies to face challenges and build a strong and harmonious relationship despite religious differences.

Doubting love: identification and stigma towards relationship obsessive-compulsive disorder

ABSTRACT Objective Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a clinically heterogeneous condition with a variety of symptom dimensions. The aim of this study was to assess the ability of university students and the lay public to identify a lesser-known theme of obsessive-compulsive symptoms known as relationship obsessive-compulsive disorder (ROCD) and to examine factors that impact identification and stigma of this symptom subtype. Method A total of 258 participants (M = 24.1 years, SD = 7.61) completed an online survey. A series of clinical vignettes depicted hypothetical characters with ROCD, varied by symptom presentation (partner-focused, relationship-centred) and gender (female, male), as well as a contamination OCD vignette for comparison purposes. Results As expected, participants showed significantly higher misidentification rates for ROCD (88.3%) compared to the contamination vignettes (28.7%). ROCD was most often misidentified as relationship issues and worry. Although partner-focused ROCD was not misidentified more frequently than relationship-centred ROCD, partner-focused vignettes were significantly more stigmatised than relationship-centred vignettes as predicted (with the male, partner-focused vignette most stigmatised). Conclusions High levels of misidentification of ROCD may contribute to the existing lag between OCD symptom onset and proper treatment, emphasising the need for greater education and media focus on the heterogeneity of OCD.

Enhancing Student Performance through Fuzzy MCDM: Evaluating Family Concern, Study Environment, and other Key Factors

Abstract: In this study, the Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) was utilized to evaluate factors affecting student wellbeing and performance. The criteria assessed included C1 - Family Concern, C2 - Environment of Study, C3 - Resources, C4 - Time Management, and C5 - Lecturer Concern. A survey was administered to students at United College of Arts and Science in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India, to gather numerical data. Pairwise comparison matrices were created based on the survey responses to assess the relative importance of each criterion. The FAHP analysis revealed that Family Concern (C1) has the greatest impact on student outcomes, highlighting the crucial role of family support in student success and well-being. The findings suggest that educators and parents should prioritize addressing family-related issues and consider implementing additional supportive measures, such as yoga and sports activities, to further improve student performance and overall wellbeing

Interventions for Remarried Families

Remarried families become widespread as a type of family that differs from first marriages both developmentally and structurally. Due to its developmental and structural differences, both the quality and continuity of this families emerge as areas that need to be studied. To offer effective interventions to remarried families, researchers and practitioners in the field of mental health should have access to knowledge on this subject. The literature on remarried families emphasizes biological, non-biological and co-parenting related issues. The expectations, knowledge and perceptions of both the married couple, the children and the surrounding social environment of the remarried family is another important issue. Communication, problem solving, and conflict management can be an important tool in strengthening relationships and preventing negative experiences for families established through remarriage. It is seen that the interventions that deal with the mentioned characteristics of families formed through remarriage are given in the form of group practices, adopting a preventive approach, supported by practices that point to skill acquisition in addition to providing information. Programs offered for families formed through remarriage share commonalities such as remarried family development, parenting skills, communication and problem-solving skills. The effectiveness of interventions for remarriage has been tested by various studies conducted since the late 1970s. While testing the effectiveness of such interventions, it is seen that different outcome variables such as family integrity, dyadic satisfaction, relationship quality, marital continuity, conflict level, stress level and behavioral disorders experienced by family members are considered. Research findings show that interventions for remarriage are effective.

Ailing Empires: The Morphine Issue in Sino-foreign Relations at the Dawn of the Twentieth Century

Ailing Empires: The Morphine Issue in Sino-foreign Relations at the Dawn of the Twentieth Century

The Impact of Decree 70/2023 on Labor Regulation and Industrial Relations in Argentina: A Legal and Economic Analysis

Decree 70/2023, issued by the Argentine government, addresses critical issues in labor and industrial relations amidst ongoing economic and social challenges. This study evaluates the decree’s impact on labor regulations, focusing on minimum wage standards, protection against unfair dismissal, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, both qualitative and quantitative analyses were conducted. Qualitative methods included legal document reviews and expert interviews, while quantitative methods involved assessing changes in wage levels, unemployment, and productivity. Key findings indicate that the decree’s increase in minimum wage aims to enhance worker welfare and stimulate economic growth, but poses challenges for employers, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises. Stricter procedures and improved compensation for layoffs are expected to reduce job insecurity and foster fairer employment practices, though these measures may raise operational costs and administrative burdens for businesses. Additionally, the new dispute resolution mechanisms, which emphasize mediation and arbitration, are designed to resolve conflicts more efficiently and transparently. However, consistent implementation and oversight remain critical challenges. The study concludes that while Decree 70/2023 represents a significant step towards better labor conditions and industrial relations in Argentina, its success will depend on rigorous enforcement and stakeholder cooperation. Further research should focus on the long-term effects of these regulations on Argentina’s labor market and economic stability, as well as continuous evaluation to refine these policies for optimal outcomes.

To Break or Not to Break?: Understanding the Motivations and Consequences of Taking Breaks in Romantic Relationships

Studies have been performed on how individuals experience romantic breakups and consequences of breakups, but there is a gap regarding temporary breakups, referred to as “taking a break.” Therefore, the goal of this study is to examine how and why individuals take breaks (i.e., temporary breakups) in romantic relationships and the consequences of doing so. This qualitative study involved participants (N = 69; 81.6% female) completing individual interviews. Two primary investigators conducted reflexive thematic analyses following Braun & Clarke’s (2002) six step approach. There were four themes for how people take breaks, including communication with partner during the break, whether or not they discussed boundaries, interpersonal behaviors, and whether the decision was mutual. People took breaks due to time issues, stress, issues with partner, interpersonal reasons, relationship issues, and a desire to breakup. Participants reported positive and negative changes as a result of the temporary breakup, while also determining if they should stay together. Results reveal similarities to breakup experiences, but are different due to the hope of improving the relationship after the break.

Decoding love signs: The role of perceived relational red flags in mate selection criteria among Filipino young adults

Abuse and infidelity are common relational conflicts in the Philippines. The prevalence of this growing social problem among Filipinos has also been observed in their calls regarding these warning signs in a romantic partner. Hence, this study explores how these issues influence young adults’ mate preferences by examining their lived romantic experiences. Utilizing criterion purposive sampling, ten diverse stories of heterosexuals were evaluated through semi-structured in-depth interviews and interpretative phenomenological analysis to understand the complexity of experiential meanings of participants who have had long-term relationships with their previous ex-lovers and are currently engaged in committed relationships. Participants denoted relational red flags encompassing emotional distance, deception, emotional labor, destruction, and emotional manipulation. These turbulent behavioral patterns deliberately cause the deterioration of their previous relationship while they consider the dimensions of warmth, competence, and attractiveness when choosing an ideal mate. These preferences mentioned are similar to the desirable qualities of their current partners. Findings also assert that relational red flags were perceived as the diametric bases for mate selection, non-negotiable deal breakers, and a lesson to captivate dealmakers. Considering the rising numbers of reported domestic violence victims, including psychological abuse in relationships, this research has compelling implications for Gender and Development and Anti-Violence Against Women. Further, it is also pertinent to counseling psychology practices, especially in the current status and emerging development of Couples Therapy, which primarily handles relationship issues during the pre-marital stage.

NeuralCODE: Neural Compartmental Ordinary Differential Equations Model with AutoML for Interpretable Epidemic Forecasting

In order to prevent the re-emergence of an epidemic, predicting its trend while gaining insight into the intrinsic factors affecting it is a key issue in urban governance. Traditional SIR-like compartment models provide insight into the explanatory parameters of an outbreak, and the vast majority of existing deep learning models can predict the course of an outbreak well, but neither performs well in the other’s domain. Simultaneously, studying the commonalities and diversities in the causes of outbreaks among different countrywide regions is also a way to interrupt outbreaks. To address the issues of outbreak intrinsic relationships and prediction, we propose the Neural Compartmental Ordinary Differential Equations (NeuralCODE) model to study the relationship between population movements and outbreak development in different regions. Furthermore, to incorporate the commonalities and diversities in causes among different regions into the prediction and intrinsic inquiry problem, we propose an AutoML framework. Our results found that simply using the NeuralCODE algorithm could obtain better prediction and insight capabilities within different regions. With the introduction of AutoML, it became possible to explore the factors inherent in the epidemic’s development across regions and further improve the original algorithm’s predictive performance.

Association of Socioeconomic Status and Reasons for Companion Animal Relinquishment.

It is important to understand the reasons for companion animal relinquishment to help reduce the financial and ethical problems arising from too many dogs and cats in shelters. This study investigates the socioeconomic factors and reasons behind companion animal relinquishment in Australia, utilizing data from five animal shelters, over a five-year period (Financial Year 2018/19 to 2022/23). Descriptive statistics reveal that the median Index of Relative Socio-Economic Advantage and Disadvantage (IRSAD) decile of companion animal guardians who relinquished their companion animal was decile 4 out of 10, indicating that they live in areas of lower-than-average socioeconomic status. Cats accounted for 59.4% and dogs for 40.6% of all relinquishments, with more relinquishments from lower socioeconomic deciles (1-5) (cats: 62.6%, dogs: 65.8%). The median age of relinquished cats was 5 months and dogs 16 months, with human factor-related issues (e.g., Housing, Financial Constraints, Human Healthcare) cited in 86% of cases. Descriptive analysis for the five financial years shows a declining trend in numbers of relinquishments, with housing issues (31.2%) identified as the primary reason, followed by ownership decisions (16.2%), financial constraints (11.2%), and human health issues (10.4%). Comparing the reasons for relinquishment between lower (decile 1-5) and higher (decile 6-10) socioeconomic status demonstrated that financial difficulties were a more common reason in lower vs. higher socioeconomic groups, while human health and family-related issues are more common in higher vs. lower socioeconomic groups. These findings highlight the critical role of socioeconomic factors in understanding why people relinquish their companion animals, which can inform targeted interventions to support companion animal welfare across different socioeconomic backgrounds.