Support Agencies Research Articles

The Design Impact of Wood Processing Industry Sector on the Socio-Psychological Well-Being of Individuals of a Country

The paper focuses on the impact of design in the wood processing industry as an important factor of digitalization and the socio-psychological well-being of individuals. The main focus in our paper is the importance of design in the enterprises of the woodworking industry as a main factor for improving and increasing the socio-psychological well-being of individuals in Kosovo. We have provided the data from the Ministry of Industry, Entrepreneurship and Trade, Industry Department, of the Republic of Kosovo related to the number of enterprises operating in the sector of the wood processing industry, with the main focus on the furniture sub-sector from 2017-2020 (Industry, 2020). In addition, our paper is also based on the primary data, provided by the Ministry of Industry, Entrepreneurship and Trade, Industry Department, of the Republic of Kosovo, related to the current mastery skills on design computer programs of employees of the furniture sub-sector, as well as the level of importance of these skills in the furniture sub-sector of Kosovo. Based on the primary data, we also have analyzed the impact of Covid-19 on the socio-psychological aspects of individuals in the furniture sub-sector. In the focus of the primary analysis, we`ve took into survey 62 firms of the wood industry in Kosovo including all types of businesses: the micro-businesses, small and medium enterprises in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry, Entrepreneurship and Trade, Industry Department, and in collaboration with the Investment and Enterprise Support Agency in Kosovo (KIESA) (Industry, 2020). In addition, through comparative statistical analysis expressed in percentage (%) we’ve analyzed the increase and the decrease of the number of enterprises and employees of the wood industry sub-sector of Kosovo from 2017-2020 (Industry, 2020). Definitely we based on some suggestions that should be taken through the government policies with aim for the development of the wood processing industry and the digitization of the furniture sub-sector, with aim to promote a socio-psychological well-being of individuals. Received: 6 August 2024 / Accepted: 31 October 2024 / Published: 05 November 2024

Movie Review “Hana,” Resilience and Empowerment of Papuan Women in the Face of Systemic Injustice

ABSTRACT The review of the film HANA examines the resilience and empowerment of Hana Kristina Agasar, a young Papuan lady confronting systematic injustice. The video highlights obstacles faced by indigenous Papuan women, especially in school and employment, as a result of persistent racial discrimination. Hana’s narrative, rooted in socio-economic challenges , underscores both individual and communal hardship. Her perseverance in pursuing a better life demonstrates personal emwerment, self-efficacy, and community support. The review shows how oppression can be confronted through agency and societal support, utilizing resilience, empowerment, and cultural identity. Hana’s narrative symbolizes Papua’s broader struggle for justice and equality.

Enhanced prediction of extreme fire weather conditions in spring using the Hot-Dry-Windy Index in Alberta, Canada

Background Fire weather indices forecast fire behaviour and provide valuable information for wildland fire prevention, preparedness, and suppression. However, these indices do not directly account for atmospheric conditions aloft. The province of Alberta, Canada has experienced extreme fire weather conditions during spring for decades, leading to the continued occurrence of disastrous wildland fires. Aims We examined the Hot-Dry-Windy Index (HDWI) and spread days over the first 4 days of 80 large wildland fires that started in May 1990–2019 in Alberta. Methods HDWI values were calculated using ERA5 reanalysis data from the 1000, 975 and 950 hPa levels. Differences between HDWI distributions on spread days and non-spread days were examined using permutation tests. Initial Spread Index was also examined as it is considered an important Fire Weather Index System value for wildland fire spread during spring in Alberta. Key results Higher median HDWI values were observed on spread days than non-spread days, where median Initial Spread Index values showed little to no difference. Conclusions This analysis suggests that HDWI can contribute to the prediction of significant spring wildland fire spread in Alberta. Implications Forecasted HDWI and HDWI climatologies may provide additional decision support for wildland fire management agencies.

Implementation of Regional Regulation Number 13 of 2002 Concerning the Prohibition of the Alcoholic Beverages Circulation in Malinau Regency

Regional Regulation Number 13 of 2002 concerning the Prohibition of the Circulation of Alcoholic Beverages in Malinau Regency is a guideline in the implementation of programs and policies to maintain and protect every citizen, especially the residents of Malinau Regency in order to avoid the use of alcoholic beverages and abuse in the social life of the community. The purpose of the research is to find out the Implementation of Regional Regulation Number 13 of 2002 concerning the Prohibition of the Circulation of Alcoholic Beverages in Malinau Regency, and to find out the obstacles and find solutions to overcome the obstacles faced by the Malinau Regency Regional Government in enforcing the regional regulations. This study uses qualitative descriptive research, to find out the population in this study is to use a sample to find out the extent of the implementation of the local regulation on the prohibition of alcoholic beverages in the community whether it has been fully implemented. This research instrument uses library study methods and field research which includes observation, interviews and documentation techniques. Method for Data Analysis in this study uses qualitative data analysis of an interactive model consisting of data collection, data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawn. The results of the study illustrate that the problems faced in the implementation of Regional Regulation Number 13 of 2002 concerning the Prohibition of the Circulation of Alcoholic Beverages in Malinau Regency such as the lack of socialization carried out by the Regional Government to the community, the absence of financial support for agencies or implementing agencies in the context of socialization and implementers that are very lacking compared to the area of the area which is not in accordance with the number of implementers or implementers that exist. In addition, it is necessary to improve bureaucratic reform so that the purpose and implementation of the prohibition regulation can be more optimal.

Agency support for at-risk families: service provision, challenges and effective elements for intervention

ABSTRACT There is an urgent need to locate effective interventions for parents involved with child protection services (CPS), Oranga Tamariki in Aotearoa New Zealand. This article describes a qualitative research study that sought to understand: (1) the nature of service provision to families; (2) workers’ perceptions of challenges and effective treatment components in delivering intervention; and (3) effective practices for working with Māori. Participants were staff members working within NGOs, providing interventions to families with ongoing Oranga Tamariki involvement. Data comprised responses to semi-structured interviews (n = 9), interpreted using thematic analysis. Findings highlighted that all participants worked within family homes to deliver intervention, and drew on Te Whare Tapa Whā. Challenges included ongoing child maltreatment concerns and participants’ sense of responsibility for keeping children safe whilst being unable to do so adequately within their non-mandated roles. Perceived effective elements were: strong relationships, transparency, and having courageous conversations when needed. For indigenous clients, self-determination and the effects of colonisation were of prime importance. Themes highlighted responsive practice, with a pragmatic understanding that family priorities may not always align with professional views. This is consistent with international findings regarding challenges in delivering parenting interventions and identifies potential essential components for effective practice. HIGHLIGHTS Practitioners’ perceptions of essential elements to effective practice included: strong relationships, honesty, reciprocity, and directness regarding child protection concerns. Effective practices seen to be particular to working with Māori families were trusting, reciprocal relationships and ensuring self-determination and autonomy. Ethical tensions and a sense of complicity and helplessness at times were described, with ongoing child protection concerns evident during intervention for some families. Practitioners took a holistic approach to their work, expressing non-judgment, sympathy for, and understanding of the complex circumstantial and personal challenges faced by Oranga Tamariki-involved parents. Glossary of Māori terms: awhi: embrace, cherish; kaimahi: staff members; kanohi ki te kanohi: face to face; karakia: blessing; kaupapa Māori: Māori approach; kete: basket; kōrero: to speak; mana: prestige; manaakitanga: hospitality; mana whenua: people with rights over the land; marae: meeting house; Pākehā: New Zealander of European descent; pepeha: introduction; pēpi: baby; pono: true; pōwhiri: welcome ceremony; tamariki: children; tangata: people; tika: correct; tikanga: custom; tutū: mischevious; waiata: song; whakapapa: genealogy; whānau: family; whanaungatanga: relationship; whare: house.

Living and learning in the retail sector: transactions of young adults’ life course experiences and workplace learning opportunities

This paper seeks to bridge the existing knowledge gap between workplace learning and life course studies by investigating how young adults in the retail industry identify, pursue, and actualise learning opportunities in their workplaces. It considers the elements from their life course that either facilitate or impede these learning opportunities. The study contributes to workplace learning and life course studies by constructing a nuanced understanding of young adults’ agency in navigating their learning and development within the work context. The research is based on an exploratory single case study of young adults working in the Danish retail sector, specifically in non-specialised food handling. Learning biography vignettes (LBV) serves as the empirical foundation for analysis. The findings highlight the complex interplay between personal life events, social support, work environments, and individual agency in shaping the learning and development trajectories of young adults. The research underscores the need for workplaces to be supportive and flexible, providing a range of learning opportunities. It is vital that these environments recognise individual agency and cater to both the personal and professional growth needs of young adults.

A place of encounter: Health and social care workers’ perspectives on public gathering spaces for people using drugs

Background: The use of drugs is an escalating concern, with significant implications for the health and daily functionality for individuals. It has proven challenging to provide accessible health and social services. In the context of addressing substance use issues in urban areas, public gathering places for individuals who use drugs play a multifaceted role, serving as sites of belonging, support and potential illicit activity. This qualitative study explores the experiences of healthcare and social workers regarding a public gathering place, referred to as “the Bench”, in a medium-sized Norwegian city. Methods: A qualitative research design consisting of semi-structured focus group interviews and individual interviews with 13 participants representing various support agencies. Results: The analysis resulted in four thematic areas: (1) belonging and a gateway to support and services; (2) balancing user autonomy at the Bench and systems support; (3) the role of a centralised location; and (4) the preventive role of support workers at the Bench. Conclusion: While the Bench fosters a sense of community and provides access to vital services, concerns about illicit activities persist due to its visibility. Nevertheless, its central location facilitates outreach efforts and ensures easy access to support services. The study underscores the preventive role of healthcare and social workers in stabilising the environment and mitigating conflicts. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of central locations for public gathering places, emphasising the proximity to low-threshold services. The Bench represents a crucial venue for establishing relationships and providing assistance to individuals who use drugs, contributing to harm reduction efforts in the community.

Evaluating young people's listening practices: a public health issue

Listening to music through headphones or earphones has become commonplace with the development of new technologies. If this listening is prolonged over long periods and at high noise levels, it exposes young people to risks to their hearing systems. The WHO (2021) indicates that one person in four is expected to have hearing problems by 2050, and 1.1 billion young people worldwide could be at risk of hearing loss due to dangerous listening habits. Three French organizations (Le RIF, Bruitparif and CidB) have joined forces, with the support of the regional health agency of Ile de France, to coordinate their hearing risk prevention campaign and carry out a study ahead of the campaign to find out about listening practices using headphones or earphones, concert attendance and the precautions taken by teenagers to protect themselves from hearing risks. The results, based on a sample of 2,685 teenagers (secondary school), will provide a snapshot of practices so that prevention messages can be adapted during awareness campaigns.

The Model of Nursing Administration and Quality of Working Life Management of Nurses after COVID-19 Pandemics, in Thailand

The research results showed that 1) Conditions and guidelines the nursing administration and quality of working life in during and after the pandemics COVID-19 were explored and found that executives understood their personnel and emphasized that relevant personnel must perform their duties according to the measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Problems found included insufficient personnel for the work and overlapping roles. Factors that supported personnel to manage their work quality after the COVID-19 outbreak included teamwork, participation in planning and solving work safety issues, having time for work and family, and job satisfaction. The guidelines for operations after the COVID-19 outbreak should include changes to the work system, building morale, participation, teamwork, and job satisfaction. Good time management could affect the quality of life of nurses. 2) In the study of measurement model, it was found that all sub-component latent variables were suitable as the observed variables of each main component, and all main components were suitable as the observed variables of the nursing administration model and the management of working life quality of nurses after the COVID-19 outbreak. When checking the consistency of the measurement model, the measurement model was consistent with the empirical data, thus confirming the development of the nursing administration model and the management of working life quality of nurses after the COVID-19 outbreak in Thailand, by the linear structural component analysis method. 3) the model of nursing administration and quality of working life management of nurses after the COVID-19 pandemic in Thailand or SWAP FECT MODEL; it was found that all experts confirmed that the model was a model with practical steps, consisting of 2 main components, 10 sub-components, and 66 indicators. The main components of nursing administration in the VUCA model had 3 sub-components: transparency, empowerment of subordinates, and collaboration. The main components of management of working life quality had 7 sub-components: agency support, work safety, work participation, work satisfaction, well-being, self-development, and free time management. There were 3 steps of good management: 1. Inputs 2. Processes and 3. Outputs.

Accurate determination of three new antihypertensive drugs illegally added to food using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry

Effective strategies are required to address food safety issues related to the illegal addition of antihypertensive drugs to food and claims of antihypertensive function. In this study, a novel ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-triple-quadrupole mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) method was developed for the simultaneous determination of three antihypertensive drugs (azilsartan, candesartan cilexetil, and lacidipine) in 12 food matrices (pressed candies, solid beverages, alternative teas, tea drinks, biscuits, jellies, mixed liquors, oral liquids, medicinal teas, tablets, hard capsules, and soft capsules). Initially, mass spectrometry parameters, such as the collision energies of the three antihypertensive drugs, were optimized. Subsequently, the response intensities and chromatographic separation conditions of the three drugs in different mobile phases were compared. In addition, to enhance the recoveries, various extraction solvents and purification methods, including solid-phase extraction (SPE) columns and the QuEChERS technique, were investigated. In the developed method, sample determination involved three steps. First, the sample was extracted using 0.2% (v/v) formic acid in acetonitrile and then filtered using high-speed centrifugation, in addition, the extracted solution of alternative tea and medicinal tea was purified using the QuEChERS technique. Second, the supernatant was diluted with water, and filtered through a 0.22 μm polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) membrane. Finally, the analytes were separated on an Agilent Eclipse Plus RRHD C18 column (50 mm×2.1 mm, 1.8 μm) using a 5 mmol/L ammonium formate aqueous solution and acetonitrile as the mobile phases under gradient elution conditions and then detected using UHPLC-MS/MS with positive electrospray ionization (ESI) in the multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. Quantitative analysis was performed using a matrix-matched external standard method. Methodological validation showed good linear relationships for all three antihypertensive drugs in the investigated concentration ranges, with correlation coefficients (r2) greater than 0.996. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) of lacidipine were 0.02 mg/kg and 0.04 mg/kg, respectively, whereas those of the other two drugs were 0.01 mg/kg and 0.02 mg/kg, respectively. In the 12 food matrices, the average recoveries of the drugs ranged from 86.6% to 107.5% with relative standard deviations (RSDs) of 1.1%-10.9% (n=6) at low, medium, and high spiked levels. Furthermore, this method was successfully applied to the analysis of real food samples. Overall, the newly developed method is simple, rapid, sensitive, accurate, and suitable for the qualitative and quantitative determination of antihypertensive drugs in different food matrices. This work could provide technical support for food safety agencies in implementing measures against the illegal addition of antihypertensive drugs to food.

What Makes Bureaucracies Politically Resilient? Evidence from Brazil’s Covid‐19 Vaccination Campaign

This article sheds new light on the drivers of bureaucratic resilience in the face of presidential attacks, an understudied but politically salient topic. Scholars have long shown how political advocacy can protect bureaucracies from presidential attacks on policy regulation. We argue, however, that advocacy is insufficient to defend bureaucracies against attacks on policy implementation, which occurs largely outside the formal political arena. Through a case study of Brazil’s successful Covid‐19 vaccination campaign, we call attention to two additional forms of support for agencies under attack–resource provision and social activism–that come into play during the implementation phase of policy. In conjunction with political advocacy, resource provision and social activism bolster bureaucracies under attack by filling in where other forms of support fall short.

Social sustainability: employment of former-offenders by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Czech Republic

Purpose The purpose of this study is to examine the recruitment practice of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Czech Republic to learn whether it encourages or discourages former offenders from attempting to attain work after release. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative approach was taken to understand the perspective of SME company owners and decision-makers within the Czech Republic. In all, 25 semi-structured interviews were conducted which examined the current recruitment practice and individual attitudes towards employing former offenders. Findings Through a change of employer perception, working with support agencies and amending recruitment practice, opportunities can be created for former offenders in the workplace to assist their rehabilitation. This would assist with overcoming employer attitudes which have little sense of responsibility to helping former offenders with reintegration through employment. Recruitment practices focus heavily on past accomplishments and the existence of a criminal record which can disincentivise former offenders from applying for work because of their stigmatised identity. Prior experience with offenders can lead to a change of attitude and offers a vector for changing employer attitudes. In combination with linkage to agencies which work with former offenders, small businesses could amend their recruitment practice and provide support for former offenders on their rehabilitation journey. Research limitations/implications This study is based on a limited sample size, only 25 responses, and the need for translation from English to Czech could have led to a loss of nuance in the responses gathered. With asynchronous interviews also being used, some brief responses limited the insight which could have been gained. Practical implications The findings of this study highlight areas of practice which can be amended to better attract former offenders, being future-focused rather than past-focused. Social implications Enhancing employment opportunities for former offenders would be a major enhancer for their reintegration efforts and lower the associated social costs to society. Originality/value Prior research has been conducted into the offender experience, with recruiter/owner receiving far less attention. Most prior studies have been quantitative in nature, with few using a qualitative approach.

Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Southeast Asia: The Role of Geographical Indications

The Southeast Asian economies have been highly proactive in developing Geographical Indicators (GIs) within their jurisdictions. For instance, Thailand developed its “One Tambon One Product” (OTOP) project to support community co-operatives in tambons (sub-districts) and villages throughout Thailand. The aim was to increase village incomes and preserve local wisdom. This followed Japan's One Village One Product (OVOP) program. This was followed by its “One Province, One GI” to encourage each of its 76 provinces and Bangkok to develop at least one GI product. The aim was to increase village incomes and preserve local wisdom. Subsequently, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR) established its One District One Product (ODOP) program. In addition, local communities throughout most of the eleven Southeast Asian Nations, often with the support of external development agencies, have protected their products using GIs or Trademark legislation. The number of domestic GIs registered within the eleven Southeast Asian nations as of April 2024 was Cambodia with seven, Indonesia with 127, Lao PDR with six, Malaysia with 79, Thailand with 194, and Vietnam with 94. These cover both agricultural and non-agricultural products, with the majority in each jurisdiction being the agricultural sector. This paper outlines the legislative framework of GI protection of products from the above jurisdictions and how the legislation has provided a framework for local entrepreneurs and communities to develop and protect local products, thus improving the quality of life of those local communities, whether as producers or providers of labour. Cambodia and Lao PDR have also followed a different path to registering GIs as they are parties to the World Intellectual Property Organisation’s Geneva Act, which provides a one-stop shop for registering GIs. Products protected by the relevant legislation include agricultural products, products derived from agricultural products, cooked food, handicrafts, and woven cloth, including associated designs and pottery methods and designs. Three examples are provided in detail: Kampot Pepper – Producers return to ancestral lands after 40 years of civil war and unrest; Bolaven Coffee – International development agencies support small landholders to form a co-operative to support the development of their community; and Mak Mao Berry Juice – One man’s 30-year passion to commercialise a local product.

Using natural language processing approaches to characterize professional experiences of child welfare workers

High turnover rates among child welfare workers, including caseworkers and supervisors, are associated with negative attitudes and perceptions about work (NAPW). Our study aimed to (a) explore how child welfare workers’ demographic characteristics, professional attributes, and their work narratives are related to NAPW and (b) extract themes from these narratives to understand their professional needs and concerns. In 2022, a statewide online survey was administered to active child welfare caseworkers and supervisors in a large Midwestern state. This survey, combining standardized scales and an open-ended question about work experiences, yielded numeric (N = 551 survey respondents) and text data (N = 2,193 words). We analyzed the numeric data using general linear modeling and the text data using natural language processing (NLP) techniques. Results showed that workers associated with higher NAPW were female, younger, from racial and ethnic minority backgrounds, less tenured, and more likely to be employed in public agencies and to work longer hours. They are predominantly caseworkers rather than supervisors. Worker role and agency affiliation had the largest effect sizes. NLP analysis showed that workers with more NAPW frequently used third-person pronouns and emotionally negative language, suggesting a disconnection from colleagues and job dissatisfaction. Caseworkers often used first-person singular pronouns, indicating feelings of isolation. Two key themes emerged: a) the need for better agency support during home visits and b) concerns over traumatic experiences and ineffective trauma-informed practices. The findings suggest that future interventions should prioritize the well-being of caseworkers in public agencies and consider language patterns in workers’ narratives to understand their vulnerability to NAPW.

Educator perceptions of the complex needs of young people in Pupil Referral Units: An exploratory qualitative analysis

Background Alternative education provision such as Pupil Referral Units support young people who have been excluded from mainstream school settings and often from disadvantaged backgrounds. However, there is limited research to date exploring educators’ perceptions of the complex needs of young people in PRUs, and the extent to which PRUs as currently configured can meet such needs. Methods Between March 2019 and October 2020 twenty-two participants holding various educational roles from five different Pupil Referral Units across London and Southeast England were interviewed. The interviews aimed to explore the participants’ experiences of working with students in PRU’s and examine some of the challenges that they might encounter. Semi-structured interviews were analysed using Reflexive thematic analysis. Results The three identified themes and their sub-themes highlighted the complex needs of these young people and identified significant barriers to effective service provision. The first theme ‘Complexities of PRU population’ highlighted the challenges that young people in PRUs face and perceived systemic short falls in addressing such complexity. The second theme ‘Challenges of the PRU environment’ highlights the frustrations that educators experience when it comes to providing adequate support to young people in PRU’s, the absence of agency support, and the uncertainty that these educational settings can bring. The third theme ‘Peer Group Influences’ highlights the impact of peer groups from beyond the classroom on engagement within the classroom. Conclusions Despite the clear complex needs of young people in PRUs, staff reported feeling ill-equipped to support these individuals and lacked access to effective inter-agency support. Participants reported that pupils’ mental health difficulties were exacerbated by exclusion and reintegration practices, an over-zealous focus on educational outcomes and the impact of gang influences on their school lives. Implications include more specific mental health training for staff working in PRU’s, improved inter-agency working and the incorporation of trauma-informed approaches in educational practice.

Contribution of Responsive Governance to Personal Security of Crime Victims in Kenya

This study explored the critical role of responsive governance in enhancing the efficacy of victim assistance programs, with a particular focus on Kenya’s criminal justice system. By examining Kenya's low ranking on the World Justice Project's Rule of Law Index and comparing it with other nations such as the U.S., U.K., Germany, and Nigeria, the study highlights significant gaps in the protection of crime victims' rights. Employing a mixed-methods approach, this study investigated how governance impacts victim support by analyzing data from surveys and interviews with victims, government officials, law enforcement, and advocacy groups in Nairobi. The research identified the key principles for successful victim support, including inclusivity, transparency, accountability, and flexibility. It underscores the need for victim-centered approaches that prioritize accessibility, empathy, respect, confidentiality, and empowerment. The findings reveal both successes and challenges in current programs, with issues such as inadequate funding and limited collaboration affecting service delivery. The study advocates for the establishment of a Victim Support Agency (VSA) in Kenya to centralize victim support, enhance transparency, and foster effective stakeholder collaboration. The study recommends a holistic, coordinated, and well-funded approach that includes continuous improvement of victim support programs to address the existing gaps and advance justice and support for crime victims.

NATO Support and Procurement Agency: a Powerful Instrument of Collaborative Logistics

The paper evaluates the level of cooperation between the Ministry of Defence and the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) in the field of procurement of military equipment. In the practical part, the results of the research on the level of participation of Czech-based suppliers in NSPA activities between 2018 and 2022 are presented. Pareto analysis comparing the participation of the Czech and international companies in contracts implemented by NSPA in terms of their subject, quantity and financial value is used. Qualitative case studies from three different areas illustrate in which NSPA projects the Czech Republic has already been involved in and which benefits and risks are associated with this cooperation for the MoD. Positives and drawbacks in the process of acquiring military equipment in-house and opportunities and threats that may arise from the acquisition of military equipment through the NSPA are summarised in the form of the SWOT analysis. Finally, recommendations are presented on how to improve the cooperation between the MoD and the NSPA in the field of acquisition.

Understanding EFL teacher identity and identity tensions in a Chinese university context

AbstractIn the past few decades, teacher identity has been a popular topic in the field of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teaching. As a construct that is socially constructed, teacher identity is influenced by situational contexts and is not fixed but multifaceted. While many studies have examined pre‐service and novice teachers’ identities, relatively fewer paid attention to experienced language teachers’ identities and the conflicts they may encounter. This study investigates one seasoned EFL teacher's multiple identities and the tensions that existed in her identity in a Chinese university setting. Data included a semi‐structured interview, class recordings, a stimulated recall, and artifacts such as the teacher's materials for classroom teaching. Findings demonstrated that the teacher practiced three sub‐identities in her teaching, namely, an English language teacher, a guide, and an academic advisor. Additionally, tensions within her identity as an English educator were identified, consisting of the popularity of technology‐driven tools in students’ English learning activities and the need to conduct research while not possessing sufficient research skills. The pedagogical insights generated underscored the importance of teachers’ agency and institutional support in resolving the tensions to facilitate experienced language teachers’ ongoing professional development and identity construction.

Predictors of high hospital admission and criminal reoffending in adults experiencing homelessness: a retrospective cohort study

ObjectivesTo examine the costs and predictors of high hospital use and criminal reoffending in adults experiencing homelessness. ApproachRetrospective cohort study of 2,140 adults who attended homeless hostel clinics in New South Wales, Australia using linked clinic, health, criminal offence, and mortality data from 1 July 2008 to 30 June 2021. Multivariable logistic regression examined predictors of high all-cause hospital use (≥4 emergency department presentations in 12 months) and predictors of recidivism. ResultsThere were 27,466 hospitalisations at a total cost of AUD$548.2 million. Twenty-seven percent of the cohort had high hospital use. Factors associated with high use were age ≥45 years, female (AOR: 1.52; 95%CI 1.05-2.22), presence of a mental disorder, substance use disorder (AOR: 1.36; 95%CI: 1.03-1.82), or being homeless for >1 year (AOR: 1.31; 95%CI: 1.06-1.62). There were 1,646 (76.9%) adults who had contact with the criminal justice system. Most (75.3%) reoffended within 24 months after index offence, and reoffenders were more likely to be younger, have a personality disorder (AOR: 1.31; 95% CI: 1.04-1.67), substance use disorder (AOR: 1.60; 95%CI 1.14-2.23), and had a previous charge dismissed on mental health grounds (AOR: 1.79; 95% CI: 1.31-2.46). Reoffenders more likely to have a principal theft-related offence (AOR: 1.85; 95%CI: 1.29-2.66). Total court finalisation costs were AUD$11.3 million. ConclusionsThe high use of hospital and criminal justice services lends support to strategies to develop models of supported housing with a focus on integrated care, mental health support, improved referral pathways, and better coordination with community-based support agencies.

The Influence of Government Agency Support and Social Media on Sustainable Competitive Advantage is Mediated by Entrepreneurial

The aim of this research is to determine the impact of support from government agencies and social media on the sustainable competitive advantage of SMEs in North Lombok Regency and to explore the role of entrepreneurial orientation as a mediator in the relationship between support from government agencies, social media and sustainable competitive advantage. The sample in this research is. SMEs in North Lombok Regency amounted to 100 respondents using a simple random sampling method. This research uses the PLS (Partial Least Squares) analysis method. The results of this research show that the variables of government agency support and social media have a significant positive effect on the variables of sustainable competitive advantage and entrepreneurial orientation. The entrepreneurial orientation variable has a significant positive effect on the sustainable competitive advantage variable. Entrepreneurial orientation and social media variables play a partial mediator role between government support and sustainable competitive advantage.