Strong Commitment Research Articles

Sustainable Supply Chain Management and Green Logistics Practice Analysis: Case Study of Wahaha and Patagonia

In globalization and digitization, supply chains have become key for companies to gain competitive advantages and achieve sustainable development. This study provides a detailed analysis of the sustainable supply chain management practices of China's leading food and beverage company, Wahaha, and the American outdoor brand, Patagonia. It explores their successes in green production, logistics, packaging, and environmental governance. The research finds that Wahaha has achieved efficient resource utilization and cost reduction through digital and intelligent transformation, enhanced recycling, and the use of clean energy. On the other hand, Patagonia maintains a strong environmental commitment by using organic cotton and recycled materials, supporting environmental projects, and promoting a green supply chain. Despite their different strategies, both companies have achieved significant sustainable supply chain management results, offering valuable insights for other businesses. Future research should include different regions and industries, explore the challenges and solutions in sustainable development, and optimize evaluation systems through quantitative analysis and model building to enhance practical application value.

Increasing Sales for Kalitengah Village SMEs Through Effective Digital Marketing Seminars

Kuliah Kerja Nyata (KKN) is a pivotal intramural activity that integrates education with community service, aimed at fostering the Three Higher Dharma. General Background: In the context of Indonesia's economic landscape, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are vital for local economic development but often lack effective marketing strategies. Specific Background: This study addresses the gap in digital marketing knowledge among SMEs in Kalitengah, Tanggulangin, particularly within the Muhammadiyah Branch community. Knowledge Gap: Despite the potential benefits of digital marketing, many SMEs remain unaware of its effective implementation, leading to limited economic growth. Aims: This research aims to evaluate the impact of digital marketing seminars on the growth and sustainability of local SMEs. Results: A survey of 30 SMEs participating in a seminar revealed a 90% participation rate, demonstrating high engagement. Post-seminar analysis indicated significant improvements in marketing strategies and business performance. Novelty: This study contributes new insights into the relationship between digital marketing education and SME development in rural Indonesia. Implications: The findings underscore the necessity of ongoing digital training for SMEs, suggesting that enhanced marketing capabilities can significantly improve the economic resilience of local communities, thereby supporting broader economic development objectives. Highlights: Impact of Digital Marketing: The seminar significantly improved marketing strategies and business performance for local SMEs in Kalitengah. High Engagement: A 90% participation rate indicates strong interest and commitment from the community towards enhancing their business skills. Ongoing Education: The study emphasizes the necessity for continuous digital marketing training to foster economic resilience in rural areas. Keywords: Kuliah Kerja Nyata, Digital Marketing, SMEs, Community Development, Muhammadiyah.

Singing songs for a secular society? The elusive politics of cultural activism in contemporary Bangladesh

Abstract In Bangladesh, many secularists pursue their political goals through cultural activism. While committed to achieving a secular, progressive, and non-communal society, they often refrain from explicitly articulating their politics due to the sensitivity of their goals. Instead, cultural performances allow them to instantiate and embody a secular ethos with transformative potential, expressed through distinct cultural genres that become recognized as secular aesthetics. While activists consider culture to be a morally superior and ‘purer’ way to promote their political aims than party politics, which they perceive as ‘dirty’ and corrupt, cultural traditions are hardly neutral ground from which to enact secular aspirations. This article explores the ethical struggles that emerge from this position to illuminate what it means to act politically while trying to avoid politics, and why people might choose comparatively elusive forms of political engagement despite their strong commitment to a cause. Attending to less tangible forms of politics encourages us to rethink the role of political messages and visibility in social movements by highlighting the significant role, as well as contradictory implications, of aesthetics, embodiment, and gestures in political action. Conversely, the elusive politics of cultural activism underlines the need to go beyond analysing national discourses to understand the contested nature of secularism in Bangladesh.

Breastfeeding Behaviors by Race/Ethnicity and Foreign-Born Status in the United States: An Analysis of the U.S. National Survey of Children's Health.

Objective: The foreign-born population is growing in the United States, but no nationally representative statistics of breastfeeding behavior disaggregated by race/ethnicity and foreign-born status have been published in recent years. This study examines breastfeeding initiation, any breastfeeding, and exclusive breastfeeding at 3 and 6 months among foreign-born and U.S.-born Non-Hispanic (NH) Black, NH White, and Hispanic women in the United States. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study utilizing years 2021 and 2022 of the National Survey of Children's Health. Sample children identified as NH White, NH Black, and Hispanic who were 6 months to 5 years old and residing with their biological or adoptive mother were included (n = 27,818). Results: Foreign-born women in all racial/ethnic groups (NH Black, NH White, and Hispanic) had significantly higher odds of any breastfeeding at 6 months relative to U.S.-born NH White women. However, they did not have significantly different odds of exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months relative to U.S.-born NH White women. U.S.-born Hispanic women had rates of exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months (23.2%) that were much closer to U.S.-born NH Black women (23.4%) than to foreign-born Hispanic women (29.4%) or U.S.-born White women (32.1%). Conclusions: The large percentage of foreign-born women who reported some breastfeeding at 6 months indicates a strong commitment to breastfeeding and may be a leverage point for future exclusive breastfeeding interventions among this group. U.S.-born Hispanic women appear to be struggling with exclusive breastfeeding and may need additional interventions.

Shaping the Future of Nuclear Deterrence: Adapting to New Challenges and Opportunities

Extended nuclear deterrence provided by nuclear weapons is indispensable for maintaining stability among great powers. Despite ongoing efforts to scale back nuclear weapon roles and engage in multilateral initiatives, achieving complete global nuclear disarmament in the foreseeable future remains improbable. The United States relies on a robust nuclear deterrent to ensure national security and firmly reassure its allies and partners of this strong commitment to security. Former President Obama underscored the aspiration for a world free of nuclear weapons; nonetheless, until such a goal is feasible, the U.S. maintains its obligation to uphold a formidable and responsive nuclear deterrent. This paper prompts contemplation on deterrence’s pivotal role in averting conflicts among major powers and safeguarding strategic stability. It underscores the dual purpose of strategic deterrence: preventing aggression while promoting global nuclear stability. Looking ahead, it is imperative to intensify engagement with other nuclear-armed states and vigorously pursue multilateral efforts to constrain, diminish, and ultimately eradicate nuclear weapons worldwide. Nevertheless, pragmatic realities necessitate the ongoing upkeep of a potent deterrent capability to thwart potential threats and advance toward a future characterized by enduring global peace and security.

Exploring the Transformative Aftereffects of Religious Experiences on Pilgrims Along the Camino de Santiago in Spain.

This study examines religious experiences (REs) and their transformative aftereffects (TAs) among pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago. Analyzing 32 travelogue testimonies and survey data from 501 participants, it identifies three key dimensions of post-RE transformations: heightened Unity and Love, a strong commitment to the Apostolic Mission, and expanded Spirituality, Wisdom, and Detachment. Pilgrims report a shift toward greater love, unity with nature, and sharing insights, as well as increased spirituality and reduced materialism. The study finds significant correlations between TAs and individuals prioritizing their relationship with God and regular religious practices, highlighting REs' impact on societal values and beliefs.

Perbandingan Sustainability Report antara Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) dan Bank Mandiri Berdasarkan Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Tahun 2022-2023

This research aims to determine the comparison of sustainability reports between Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) and Bank Mandiri based on global reporting initiative (GRI) 2022-2023 or to what extent are these two banks committed to implementing GRI standards in presenting transparent and accountable sustainability information? This research uses comparative qualitative descriptive research. By collecting data using secondary data obtained from sustainability reports published by BSI and Bank Mandiri 2022-2023 which can be accessed on their respective websites. This research shows that both banks have a strong commitment to economic, environmental and social performance, although with different approaches and scales. Bank Mandiri has a higher operating scale and numbers, while BSI shows consistent growth and focuses on social and environmental aspects in line with sharia financial principles. This research provides insights into best practices and areas of improvement in sustainability reporting in the banking industry.

8076 Advancing Career Development of Physician-Scientists Engaged in Diabetes Research: Insights into the National K12 DiabDocs Program

Abstract Disclosure: K.D. Dasani: None. F.K. Bishop: None. S.H. Golden: None. L.M. Laffel: None. R.G. Mirmira: None. A.K. Steck: None. S.M. Willi: None. D.M. Maahs: None. L.A. DiMeglio: None. Background: In July 2022 the NIH established a multi-center National K12 “Diabetes-Docs: Physician-Scientist Career Development Program” (DiabDocs) to support mentored research experiences and tailored career development training for cohorts of physician scientists focused on diabetes research. DiabDocs scholars are board-certified or board-eligible physicians with training in pediatric or adult endocrinology or in another area tied to diabetes research and care. The program addresses the shortage of physicians engaged in diabetes research and is open to scholars at any eligible institution in the United States. Methods: The DiabDocs program was implemented by two multi-center Program Directors (MPD), in collaboration with an Executive Leadership Committee (ELC) comprised of experienced basic science and clinical/translational physician-scientists. Additional faculty from 19 different institutions have engaged in advisory and reviewer roles. The program solicits Letters of Intent (LOIs) annually from interested candidates followed by invitations for full applications; a program retreat features educational workshops and diversity training; and a Study Section selects Scholars. Currently, the program is in its third recruitment cycle for additional scholars to start Summer 2024. Additional career development programming is available through a series of interactive webinars. The program also has a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, including a “DiabDiversity” program to support in-person engagement in DiabDocs experiences by under-represented in medicine trainees. Results: After two successful recruitment cycles in 2022-2023 that reviewed 24 LOIs, 11 scholars were selected. The funded scholars (6 Adult and 5 Pediatric Endocrinologists) include 3 individuals self-identifying as underrepresented in medicine and 7 females. For the 2023 application cycle, 24 LOIs were received (11 from Adult and 9 from Pediatric Endocrinology, 2 in combined Pediatric/Adult Endocrinology, and 2 from other specialties). Conclusions: The DiabDocs program aims to identify, recruit, and support outstanding early career physician scientists. The program provides a national network with resources for protected research time, career development programs, and national mentorship to develop cohorts of skilled professionals contributing to the advancement of diabetes research. Presentation: 6/2/2024

Peran Pelatihan SDM dan Locus of Control terhadap Kepuasan Kerja dan Implikasinya terhadap Produktivitas Kerja Aparatur Desa di Kabupaten Lebak

In order to effectively navigate the changing landscape of modern work, it is crucial for human resources to possess dependable, autonomous, and proficient skills in carrying out their primary responsibilities and functions as employees. This includes demonstrating a strong commitment and a strong work ethic that aligns with their job requirements, ultimately leading to optimal work productivity. Work productivity is a cognitive disposition that consistently enhances existing conditions. An enhanced conviction in one's ability to perform a task more effectively than previously. The objective of this study is to assess and examine the impact of HR training, locus of control, and job satisfaction on work productivity, as well as the impact of HR training and locus of control on job satisfaction. This study employs a quantitative descriptive research methodology. The descriptive approach in research seeks to quantify and measure existent phenomena. Quantitative data analysis is employed to compute the statistical outcomes of Structural Equation Modeling-Partial Least Square (SEM-PLS) with the objective of testing the hypothesis. The hypothesis test results indicate that HR training does not have a substantial impact on work productivity. However, Locus of Control has a notable beneficial influence on work productivity and job satisfaction. HR training does not have any impact on job satisfaction, while Locus of Control has a notable positive influence on job satisfaction. Additionally, it is seen that work productivity is significantly improved by HR training. The findings indicate that HR training does not have a discernible impact on productivity and work satisfaction. Work productivity is significantly enhanced by job happiness. The impact of Locus of Control on the productivity and job satisfaction of Village Officials in Lebak Regency is notably good.

Agile Bureaucracy in the Digital Age

In providing public services, the bureaucracy faces challenges of disruption, rapid technological developments, and demands for fast, efficient, and flexible services while it struggles with procedural problems and hierarchy. After bureaucratic reform efforts in Indonesia have been conducted for many years, the apparatus readiness in the local government context to provide fast and responsive services in the digitalisation era and unpredictable situations like pandemics is unexamined. While researchers focus on the use of agile government concept in local government, the assessment of adaptive governance and its implications, and the use of information technology communication in the public sector, in this paper, the authors assess agile bureaucracy in service delivery through digital public services. The results show the software maturity in local bureaus, characterised by their ability to understand user needs for digitalised service and qualified infrastructure tools to support governance. However, agencies face the challenge of weak collaboration with minimal coordination among departments and weak responsibility and adaptability to hinder digital service delivery processes. This article highlights that in adopting the agile concept, bureaucracy requires technological support and the leaders' strong commitment. Moreover, the bureaucracy needs to build a broad and coordinated partnership ecosystem, and the main points are adapting quickly and responsively to problems.

Comparative Analysis of Green Building Hospitals in Karawang and Pemalang

This study aims to analyze and compare the application of the green building concept in two hospitals in Indonesia, namely Permata Keluarga Karawang Hospital and Dr. M. Ashari Pemalang Regional General Hospital (RSUD). Using descriptive qualitative methods and case study approaches, data were collected through observation, interviews, documentation, and measurements in the field. The results show that both hospitals have applied green building principles in various aspects such as energy efficiency, environmental management, and B3 waste management. Permata Keluarga Karawang Hospital excels in the use of energy-saving technology and waste management, while Dr. M. Ashari Pemalang Hospital stands out in staff involvement and environmental management. However, there are still several aspects that need to be improved by both hospitals, such as bicycle parking facilities and rainwater intake systems, to achieve more optimal green building standards. In conclusion, both hospitals have shown a strong commitment to environmental sustainability through the implementation of the green building concept, but further improvements are still needed to achieve more optimal results.

Stronger commitment and faster action against antimicrobial resistance.

Stronger commitment and faster action against antimicrobial resistance.

The role of voluntary green behavior and green performance in promoting sustainability in the hospitality industry

This study aims to explore how green training, green commitment, and green information management affect green performance in 5-star hotels in Medan City, focusing specifically on voluntary green behavior. The study's participants included 331 employees from seven 5-star hotels in Medan City: JW Marriott Hotel, Aryaduta Hotel, Grand Mercure, Cambridge Hotel, Grand City Hall Medan, Hotel Danau Toba International, and Adimulia Hotel. Each of these hotels has been in operation for more than five years. Data was collected through a questionnaire and analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM). The findings confirm that green training, green commitment, and green knowledge management play important roles in promoting sustainable practices in the hotel industry. Investing in employee training to build knowledge and skills, showing strong management commitment to sustainability, and implementing effective knowledge management are key to creating a work environment that supports sustainability and environmental responsibility. The managerial implications suggest that hotels should focus on developing policies and programs that encourage sustainable practices. This includes improving education and training, strengthening organizational commitment, and adopting effective knowledge management practices. By doing so, hotels can enhance their sustainability performance and strengthen their reputation and competitiveness in an increasingly eco-conscious market.

The Exploration of EFL Preservice Teachers’ Self-Perceived Importance of Assessment Literacy

It is fundamental for language teachers to assess their students’ performance. Therefore, they should be familiar with various forms of assessments because teaching and assessing languages are closely related and have a great deal to do with one another. This study examined EFL preservice teachers’ perceptions of assessment literacy at a medium-sized university in South Korea, employing a survey questionnaire of self-perceived language assessment. The survey results reveal significant variability in the confidence levels of EFL preservice teachers across six domains of assessment literacy, with the highest confidence in preventing cheating and the lowest in constructing tests for advanced learners. Challenges in communicating assessment results, particularly with parents, indicate a need for professional development in communication strategies. While ethical practices and digital assessment literacy show strong commitment and proficiency, areas like avoiding "teaching to the test" and designing online tests require further training to ensure comprehensive assessment capabilities. Such an investigation in this study will assist in spreading the significance of assessment literacy and its results on teaching and learning. The implication of the study is expected to improve the policies and practices in the field of education.

Towards appropriate training for Moroccan laboratory professionals: Identifying QMS needs

Abstract Background Professional development plays a key role in improving laboratory quality management by enhancing staff skills and knowledge to implement and maintain the quality management system (QMS). This research aims to identify and prioritize continuing training needs for Moroccan laboratory professionals in QMS and to formulate recommendations for suitable training programs. Methods The present research is a cross-sectional, quantitative study conducted among a larger group of laboratory professionals from September 2021 to May 2023. The data collection tool was a self-administered questionnaire. Statistical data analysis was performed by IBM SPSS version 22.0 software calculating Chi-square. Results A total of 478 people participated in the study. Participants’ training needs on various topics related to quality in medical laboratories ranged from 68.20% to 84.52%, covering several subjects such as quality tools (82.01%), continuous improvement (83.68%), ISO 9001 (83.26%), and ISO 15189 (79.71%). Conclusions The results indicate a favorable trend toward continuing training in QMS. These suggestions should be considered when formulating future training programs to foster strong commitment and continuous improvement of skills, thereby improving the quality of healthcare provision and guaranteeing patient safety.

Examining the roles and relationships of actors in community health systems in Nigeria through the lens of the expanded health systems framework

BackgroundCommunity health system (CHS) exists through the actions and activities of different actors within and outside communities. However, these actors, their roles and their relationships with one another have not...

Teaching posterior composite restorations: A survey of dental schools in Palestine

AimThis study aimed to assess different aspects of teaching posterior composite restorations in two dental schools in Palestine. Materials and methodsA questionnaire was emailed to the heads of the operative and conservative dentistry departments to collect detailed information on the teaching practices related to posterior composite restorations. The questionnaire comprised 22 questions structured to collect information on the time dedicated to teaching the topic, competency assessments, future plans for allocating time for each restoration type, relevant indications and contraindications, specific materials and techniques utilized in the application, and fees charged for posterior restorations. The gathered responses were collated in Excel and analyzed. ResultsBoth dental schools allocated similar teaching times to posterior composites and amalgam in their preclinical operative dentistry courses. However, there was a greater emphasis on composites in the clinical course than in the preclinical course at both institutions. Despite these differences, both institutions expressed a shared intention to allocate more time to teaching posterior composites while reducing the emphasis on teaching amalgam procedures. Consistency was observed across competency testing, cavity design preferences, and contraindications, with both schools favoring slot-type cavities. Furthermore, uniformity was noted in the management of operatively exposed dentin and matrix techniques, although variations existed in moisture isolation. Notably, both schools taught circumferential and sectional metal matrices but did not teach clear sectional matrices or use of bulk-fill composites. Additionally, the adhesive and light-curing practices remained consistent across both institutions. ConclusionThe findings of this study indicate that the teaching of posterior composite restorations is consistent across both Palestinian dental schools. Their curricula are aligned with contemporary international practices, demonstrating a strong commitment to modern operative dentistry and adherence to global standards. These findings offer valuable insights for educators and researchers and emphasize the need for ongoing adaptations to maintain high clinical standards.

The Role of Teachers as Philosophers in Madrasah Education: Qualitative Analysis of Teaching Practices at MAS Babul Khairat

This research analyzes the role of teachers as philosophers at MAS Babul Khairat, the teaching practices implemented, and the challenges faced. The findings show that teachers at this madrasah not only function as academic teachers but also as moral and intellectual mentors who integrate Islamic values ​​in teaching. They use a variety of innovative methods, such as discussions, group projects, and problem-based approaches, to encourage students' critical and reflective thinking. In addition, teachers act as role models in everyday behavior, which helps students understand and apply ethical values ​​in their lives. However, the research also identified a number of challenges faced by teachers, including limited resources, high workloads, lack of ongoing professional training, and pressure to meet high academic standards. These challenges highlight the need for greater support from schools and government, including restructuring teacher duties, increasing educational resources, and ongoing professional training. With adequate support, teachers at MAS Babul Khairat can continue to develop effective and innovative teaching practices, and better play their role as philosophers. This research confirms that with strong commitment and the right support, teachers can create a learning environment that is conducive to students' intellectual, moral and spiritual development.

Non-single dating app use and the cognitive and psychological mechanisms of infidelity: gender differences

The increasing prevalence of dating apps has reshaped the dynamics of romantic relationships, with many users already in committed partnerships. However, the link between encountering a large pool of potential alternatives and predicting current relationship outcomes, particularly infidelity and possible gender differences, has not been fully explored. Drawing on the investment model framework, this study examines the cognitive and psychological mechanisms underlying online and offline infidelity tendencies among dating app users in relationships. Data from non-single dating app users in Taiwan reveal a positive relationship between the quantity and quality of alternatives, suggesting that exposure to many profiles may prompt users to rely on heuristics and focus on distinctive characteristics to quickly assess potential alternatives. Furthermore, having many choices may satisfy the need for short-term encounters. The quality of alternatives is positively linked to partner choice regret, which negatively impacts commitment. Gender differences emerge, with males showing a higher likelihood of infidelity due to partner choice regrets, particularly in offline contexts. Despite maintaining a strong commitment to their primary partner, males exhibit a greater inclination towards offline infidelity, highlighting a scenario where commitment and infidelity may coexist for male dating app users. Theoretical implications of digital matchmaking in contemporary relationships are discussed.

Influence of Learning Commitment and Parental Involvement on Self-regulated Learning of Senior High School Students

This study investigated the influence of learning commitment and parental involvement on the self-regulated learning of senior high school students of Biñan Integrated National High School, SY 2021-2022. A descriptive correlational research design sought to establish findings to be used as a foundation for a self-regulated learning model that can be adopted in the advent of face-to-face learning in the new normal. The findings indicated that the students indicated a strong learning commitment, a high level of parental involvement, and a high level of self-regulated learning. As significant relationships between variables were regressed, the resulting model revealed that learning commitment, as an individual predictor, has the most substantial positive influence on all dimensions of self-regulated learning. The combined effect of parental involvement negated the influence of learning commitment on dimensions of self-regulated learning in terms of environment structuring, task strategies and help-seeking strategies. Coordinating time and vitality through self-regulated learning will result in a more compelling and fulfilling encounter, which may boost self-efficacy and inspiration. The study provides an adoptable model to optimize self-regulated learning, which is a skill set that may be taught and may be able to assist students in setting specific goals for themselves and evaluating their progress. Students who can self-regulate are more proactive and less reactive in their learning.