Forgetting: Its Meaning in the Zhuangzi’s Philosophy of Self-Cultivation - Bai, Ziqiang (Religions, 2025)
The significance of forgetting in the Zhuangzi and its methodological significance for living a good life in particular has long been recognized by Zhuangzian scholars. However, with regard to what is really meant by forgetting, scholars are still far from reaching some clear consensus. Thus, with the aim of clarifying what is meant by forgetting in the Zhuangzi, I propose a wholistic understanding of forgetting in terms of the Zhuangzian conception of human self-cultivation. On the one hand, it involves an analysis of how forgetting is used negatively in the Zhuangzi to characterize and explain human fallenness. On the other hand, it also entails a careful analysis of all positive uses of forgetting in the text to mean our elimination of chengxin, orientation to the Dao, and fitness with all things in harmony.

Right Turn Only? Review of God is an Englishman: Christianity and the Creation of England. Bijan Omrani £25; 394 pages; Forum Books. - Percy, Martyn (Journal of Anglican Studies, 2025)

The Solution to Hardy’s Paradox - Arraut, Ivan (Condensed Matter, 2025)
By using both the weak-value formulation as well as the standard probabilistic approach, we analyze Hardy’s experiment introducing a complex and dimensionless parameter (ϵ), which eliminates the assumption of complete annihilation when both the electron and the positron departing from a common origin cross the intersection point P. We then find that the paradox does not exist for all the possible values taken by the parameter. The apparent paradox only appears when ϵ=1, which is just a singular value. In this paper we demonstrate that this particular value is forbidden inside the scenario proposed by the experiment.

The Importance of Being Earnest - Percy, Martyn (Journal of Anglican Studies, 2025)

Electrifying the Skies: Battery Electric Aircraft and Their Role in Advancing Regional Integration - Lampo, Alessandro (INTI Journal, 2025)
The aviation sector is transforming as electrification emerges as a promising technology. Adopting battery-electric aircraft (BEA) - aircraft that solely rely on rechargeable onboard batteries - is a sustainable alternative to conventional aviation that could change short-haul regional travel habits for business and leisure travellers. This study examines the factors influencing individuals’ public acceptance in China's Greater Bay Area (GBA) context. Given the limited research, a qualitative methodology grounded in the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) examines the underlying factors influencing behavioural intentions (attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioural control, and perceived risks). The findings indicate that participants recognise the technology's environmental benefits and potential to enhance regional connectivity; however, they still have concerns about safety, infrastructure, and operations. The respondents’ perceived ease of access, information available, and endorsements from reputable sources also have essential roles in influencing broader acceptance. Addressing these factors with appropriate communication efforts is vital for promoting trust and accelerating technology acceptance and use. Although exploratory, this study offers insights to develop strategies for infrastructure readiness, build public confidence, and endorse sustainable aviation. The research is conducted within the GBA context. Still, the findings also apply to regions with fragmented geographies or developing transportation networks, thus contributing to global environmental sustainability and advancing regional integration goals.

A Company-Based View on Sustainable Packaging Orientation - Duarte, Paulo; Ribeiro, Maria Inês; Silva, Susana C.; Pinhal, Rúben; Estima, Ana (Sustainability, 2025)
This study aims to understand how companies address and integrate sustainability challenges in packaging design, as well as the motivations and processes that influence managers’ decisions when adopting sustainable practices. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with managers from five major Portuguese companies to gather qualitative data on the motivations and processes related to sustainable packaging strategies and actions. The list of questions was developed based on the literature review, from which the dimensions to be analyzed were identified. The results indicate that several factors influence companies’ decisions regarding sustainability in packaging. Despite some factors being beyond the control of companies, the interviews reveal that companies possess the necessary knowledge and are committed to adopting more sustainable packaging.

High variability in aggression and habituation to the mirror assay in ornamental Siamese fighting fish Betta splendens - Silva, Melina Coelho da; Canário, Adelino V. M.; Hubbard, Peter C.; Cardoso, Sara D.; Gonçalves, David (acta ethologica, 2025)
Understanding consistent inter-individual variability in animal behaviour, known as personality traits, is essential for exploring the mechanisms and evolutionary consequences of behavioural diversity. Aggressive behaviour influences survival, resource acquisition, and reproduction, so clarifying individual differences can enhance our understanding of ecological dynamics and improve experimental design accuracy in behavioural studies. In this study, ornamental male Betta splendens, a model organism for aggression research, were analysed for intra- and inter-individual variability in aggressive responses to their mirror image-a standard method for assessing aggression in fish-once per week, and their consistency was evaluated over three consecutive weeks There were significant differences in aggressive behaviour across individuals, with coefficients of variation ranging from 29 to 60%. While most fish exhibited the full suite of aggressive displays, some showed no aggressive behaviour, while others only displayed threat behaviours but did not advance to the attacks. The consistency of individual threat and attack behaviours varied, but repeatability was high overall (intra-class correlation coefficients >= 0.5), indicating that individual fish have different levels of aggression. There was habituation to the mirror assay, with aggression decreasing significantly by the second week, though the degree of habituation, a form of learning, varied among individuals in some behaviours. Air-breathing frequency correlated positively with aggression behaviours and can be considered an indicator to infer aggression level in this species. These results indicate that inter-individual variation in aggressive behaviour and habituation to repeated testing using the mirror assay should be considered in aggression studies using B. splendens and potentially in other species.

Uneasy Allies: Sino-American Relations at the Grassroots, 1937-1949. Edited by Zach Fredman and Judd C. Kinzley - Roberts, Priscilla (Journal of Social History, 2025)
This anthology has been skillfully edited by two excellent young scholars of the impact of grassroots and non-formal transnational interactions upon Sino-American relations during the late 1930s and 1940s, years when first war with Japan and then an internecine civil war consumed China. The collection highlights “a motley array of Chinese and Americans who have long flown under the radar,” neglected by the official narrative of dealings between China and the United States which, according to the authors, has focused primarily upon a rather restricted cast of characters, most of them high-level official figures (3). The authors also deliberately draw upon both Western and Chinese sources, utilizing archival and printed materials from repositories in Taiwan, mainland China, North America, and beyond. The selection of individuals and enterprises featured in this fascinating collection is undoubtedly eclectic, ranging from Herbert Yardley, an expert cryptographer who spent 1938 to 1940 in China, training young Chinese codebreakers to decipher Japanese codes, to Lieutenant Colonel Arthur Evans, who took advantage of his military position in Taiwan following the Japanese surrender to appropriate and sell a small fortune in confiscated gold. Along the way, one encounters Chinese, British, and American guerrilla operatives in World War II South China; Gong Peng, the young Chinese spokeswoman for the Communists in Chongqing, the wartime capital, who enchanted and won over to her cause a wide swathe of Western journalists and diplomats; Gu Gengyu of Sichuan, who gained control of China’s lucrative hog-bristle production during the 1940s, selling in bulk to the United States government; and General Haydon Boatner, righthand man to Joseph W. Stilwell, the U.S. commander in the World War II China-Burma-India theater.

"MACAU’S STRATEGIES FOR IMPLEMENTING MART CITY POLICY: A STUDY OF THE STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF MACAU CITIZENS (2025)
This dissertation explores how smart city strategies are being used in Macau, focusing on what everyday citizens think about them. It explores both the positive aspects and the problems with how these policies are being put into action. While the Macau government has introduced several digital services. For example, the Macau One Account, electronic payments, and smart transport systems. There are many people who feel there’s a gap between technology and how well it actually includes everyone. The research is based on a close look at government plans (like the Macau SAR Five- Year Plan 2016–2020) and interviews with people from different age groups. Using a method of analyzing themes in the data, the study found that younger and middle- aged people generally find these tools useful and convenient. However, older adults often struggle because they aren’t as comfortable with smart city services and don’t get enough support. Also, even though the government says it welcomes public input, most people said they weren’t really involved in decisions, showing that the process is mostly top-down. The study points out some big challenges, like digital inequality, lack of public participation, and a mismatch between what policies aim for and what people actually need in daily life. It suggests making smart city planning more inclusive by offering digital tools in multiple languages, involving citizens in budgeting decisions, and providing digital training for those who need it. Overall, it argues that smart city development should focus more on fairness, access, and building public trust to truly improve urban life in a lasting and meaningful way.

A FINANCIAL VALUATION OF FORD MOTOR COMPANY - Brito, Martins De; Ermickson, Staline (2025)
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is an American car manufacturer and one of the leading automobile manufacturers with over a century of history in the auto industry. The Company is headquartered in the United States, in Dearborn, Michigan. However, it has operations in over 125 countries around the world, including Europe, Africa, Asia, and South America, offering a wide range of vehicles under the Ford and Lincoln brands. The Company has demonstrated resilience and adaptability in response to shifts according to consumer preferences, technology advancements, and government regulations. The company has been investing constantly to restructure and position itself and remain competitive. Therefore, finding strategies to boost sales and get high returns from invested capital is a must for the company to keep its market share, even though this is still a challenge due to the nature of the automotive industry, which brings intense competition from both traditional and new entrants, particularly EV manufacturers. In this study the focus is not only to estimate the intrinsic value of Ford Motor Company as of 31, December 2023, but also to analyze essential aspects of the company including SWOT, PESTEL, and Porter’s five forces analysis to get a framework of internal and external environment of the company which enables us to identify strategic opportunities, competitive advantage, vulnerabilities, and threats of the Company. After understanding the dynamics of the company and the economic overview, which are crucial to predict the impact of key assumptions when evaluating the company’s intrinsic value. For the second part of our study, the attention goes to the financial analysis of both historical and forecasted financial statements that are extremely important to apply for the Discounted Cash Flow valuation methods and later to perform a sensitivity analysis to understand the Company’s financial performance. Therefore, Ford Motor Company’s intrinsic value from the three discounted cash flow models leads us to conclude that the Ford stock’s price is currently undervalued, and it is expected to grow in the future.

澳門教育碩士生學習體驗與課程期望之質性探究 - Chan, Chio U. (2025)
本研究採用質性研究法，旨在探討澳門教育碩士二年級學生的學習體驗、影響學習體驗的主要因素、學習過程中所面對的挑戰與困難，以及學生對課程優化的建議與期望。研究透過半結構式深度訪談十位教育碩士生，並加以整理與分析，以深入回應研究問題並歸納研究結論。研究結果顯示： （一）受訪學生普遍肯定課程對其專業知識和實務能力的提升作用，但指出理論與實踐之間存在明顯落差，特別是在統計分析與研究方法教學方面的支援不足。此外，積極的師生互動與同儕合作有助提升學習動機與成效，惟小組合作中常見的角色衝突、任務分配不均及教師指導不足等情況亦對學習體驗造成負面影響。 （二）影響學生學習體驗的關鍵因素包括：師資專業素質、院校資源配套、同儕互動質量及時間管理壓力。教師教學策略與專業水準對學習成效有直接影響，學生偏好案例導向與互動性強的教學形式。而院校資源方面，如數據庫使用受限、設施老化等問題亦限制了學生的學術發展。在職學生則面臨工作與學業角色衝突，影響學習的持續性與專注度。 （三）受訪學生普遍面臨理論與實踐銜接困難、學術能力落差、時間壓力與團隊協作挑戰等問題。跨專業學生對學術論文與與研究設計的掌握不足，需要更有系統的研究方法訓練。隨機分組亦導致成員能力不均，降低了合作效率。部份學生在資源使用與情緒管理方面亦顯得較為薄弱，進一步削弱其學習投入。課程定位與職業發展期望之間的落差對學習動機構成不利影響。 （四）學生建議課程可加強案例教學與實踐機會，增設研究方法進階訓練，並優化評價設計。採用更多元的評估形式。同時，應明確學術型與專業型課程的培訓目標，建立清晰的課程命名與專業認證制度，以提高學歷認受性及學生未來的就業競爭力。 最後，根據研究結果，本文提出若干針對澳門教育碩士課程之優化建議。並指出未來可延伸之研究方向，以持續深化對本澳教育碩士學習體驗的理解與關注。 This study adopted a qualitative research approach to explore the learning experiences of second-year Master of Education students in Macao. It investigated the factors that influenced their learning experiences, the challenges and difficulties encountered during their studies, and their expectations for curriculum improvement. Through semi-structured in-depth interviews with ten Master of Education students, the collected data was organized and analyzed to thoroughly address the research questions and summarize the research findings. The results indicate that: 1. Findings indicated that while participants generally affirmed the programme’s contribution to enhancing their professional knowledge and practical skills, they also identified a clear imbalance between theoretical instruction and practical application, particularly in the area of statistical analysis and research methodology. Positive student-teacher interactions and peer collaboration were seen to support motivation and learning outcomes. However, issues such as role conflict in group works, unequal task distribution, and insufficient teacher guidance negatively impacted their overall experience. 2. Key factors influencing students’ learning experiences included teacher quality, institutional support, peer relationships, and stress related to time management. Teaching strategies and educator’s expertise were found to directly affect course quality, with participants favouring case-based and interactive teaching approaches. However, limited access to databases and outdated facilities were seen as barriers to academic development. Working students also faced a conflict of roles between their professional responsibilities and academic commitments, which hindered their ability to maintain engagement. 3. Challenges commonly reported included difficulties bridging theory and practice, gaps in academic preparedness, time pressures, and team collaboration issues. Cross-disciplinary students often lacked a strong foundation in academic writing and research design and expressed a need for more structured research training. Random group allocation was seen to reduce group effectiveness. Additionally, some participants demonstrated limited capacity for resource use and emotional regulation, and this affected their learning engagement. Misalignment between course orientation and career expectations was also a factor in the decline in motivation. 4. Participants recommended increasing opportunities for case-based learning and hands-on experience, as well as enhancing research training and diversifying assessment methods. They also suggested clearer distinctions between academic and professional degree pathways and the establishment of a standardised course naming and a professional accreditation framework to improve recognition and employment competitiveness. Based on the findings, this study proposed several recommendations for improving the Master of Education curriculum in Macao. Future research directions are also suggested that may deepen an understanding of and support the development of postgraduate learning experiences within the local context.

澳門融合學校小學教師對語言治療了解 及對校本語言治療的看法 - Chao, Ho Wan (2025)
Objectives: Appropriate support services have an important impact on inclusive students. If there is sufficient and appropriate support in school, it will help improve the learning, social interaction and social adaptation of inclusive students. The Macau SAR government has proposed to promote school-based therapy services in the future. This policy will help improve the appropriateness of school support for inclusive students. Language is the basis of learning, so the implementation of school-based speech language therapy services will inevitably help support the learning needs of inclusive students with language disorders in school. However, a deeper understanding of the current situation is needed in order to formulate an appropriate implementation plan. This study aims to understand the current front-line primary school teachers' understanding of the work of speech language therapists, characteristics of related impairments, difficulties in implementation, suggestions for school-based speech language therapy, so as to serve as reference information for future implementation plans. Method: This study conducted semi-structured interviews with 8 current primary school teachers from inclusive schools with different backgrounds. The interviews were recorded in the form of audio recordings, transcribed verbatim, and then coded and organized according to the research questions. Combined with the support of literature review, implementation suggestions were given for the school-based speech language therapy. Conclusion and limitations: The results show that teachers who studied special education and educational psychology have a higher understanding of the scope of speech language therapy than teachers who studied general education. Most teachers believe that the work scope of speech language therapists is mainly in oral expression, communication skills, and articulation correction. The interviewees all pointed out that there is currently no communication channel and direct contact point between teachers and speech therapists. The current difficulties related to speech language therapy include multiple aspects: teachers, parents and policies, such as teachers' lack of understanding of related impairments, low social acceptance, and lack of transparency of school information. The study also summarized government policies, school resources, environment and other factors that affect the effectiveness of speech language therapy, including evaluation process and waiting time for the evaluation, school support for government policies, parents and teachers' understanding and acceptance of speech language therapy, etc. The interviewees all agreed that there is a need to provide school-based speech language therapy services to solve the current difficulties in implementation, and also provided a number of implementation suggestions as a reference for the Macau SAR government in implementing relevant policies. However, the number of respondents was small, and it is suggested that a larger-scale study should be conducted. In addition to considering the number of samples, different stakeholders should also be included as respondents to formulate a well-balanced implementation guideline for promoting school-based treatment services from a more neutral perspective, so as to improve the teaching quality of students with special learning needs. 目的：合適的支援服務對融合生有著重要的影響，若在校內有足夠且適宜的支援，有助提升融合生的學習、社交、以及其適應社會的能力；澳門特區政府提出未來致力於推行校本治療服務，此政策有助提升在校支援對融合生的適切性；其中語言為學習的基礎，故校本語言治療服務的推行必然有助支援伴隨語言障礙融合生校內之學習需要。然而，在推行前需要對現況有更深入的了解，以便制定合宜的落實方案，是次研究旨在了解目前前線教師對語言治療師工作的認識、對相關障礙的了解、與語言治療相關的支援及溝通、實行上面對的困境、對校本語言治療的想法及推行建議，以作為日後推行計劃的參考資訊。 方法：是次研究透過與 8位不同背景現職融合學校小學教師進行半結構性訪談，訪談以錄音形式記錄，以逐字稿形式轉錄後，再根據探研究問題進行編碼及整理，結合了文獻回顧的支持，為日後落實校本語言治療給予落實建議。 結論及限制：結果顯示修讀特殊教育系、教育心理學系的教師對語言治療工作範疇的認識較修讀一般教育系的教師為高；大部分教師認為語言治療師的工作範疇主要在口語表達、溝通能力，以及構音糾正等面向，可見對語言治療師工作了解不透徹；受訪者均指出現時教師與語言治療師處於零溝通、零接觸的狀況，現時與語言治療相關的困境包括多個面向：教師、家長及政策，例如教師對相關的障礙認識不足、社會接納度低、校內資訊不透明等；研究亦歸納了政府政策、校內資源、環境等多項影響語言治療成效的因素，包括評估流程及輪候時長、校方對政府政策的支持度、家長及教師對語言治療的認識及接受程度等；受訪教師均一致認為有需要提供校本語言治療服務，以解決現時實行上的困境，亦對推行校本語言治療服務提供多項落實建議，以作為澳門特區政府在推行相關政策的參考資料；然而是次受訪人數太少，建議進行更大型的研究，除了人數的考量，亦可加入不同持份者作為受訪對象，以更中立的角度研判並平衡各持份者對推行校本治療服務的實施方針，以提升有特殊學習需要學生的教學品質。

EXPLORING MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS’ EXPERIENCE IN INTERACTING WITH ADULTS WITH INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY IN MACAU - Cheang, Chon Kit (2025)
This qualitative study explored the experiences of 15 Mental Health Professionals in Macau who interact with adults with intellectual disabilities (ID), aiming to understand how these interactions shape perceptions, relationships, and service practices. Using a phenomenological approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with professionals from government-funded NGOs, including social workers, therapists, and healthcare providers. Data were analysed through thematic analysis, yielding seven key themes: (1) New perception of Service Users with ID (e.g., shifting from deficit-based to strength-based perceptions), (2) bidirectional personal transformations in professionals (e.g., increased patience, resilience, irritable), (3) Relationship Dynamics and Emotional Connections (e.g., familial, collegial, or mentor-like relationships), (4) A professional core service share by the perceived role (5) development of best practices emphasizing rapport and knee observations, (6) creation of safe worry-free spaces fostering mutual emotional support, (7) and Needs to be fulfilled in aging services, learning and community integration. Practical implications highlight the need for the addition of course structures related to people with intellectual disabilities in relevant occupational college courses, expanded staffing ratios, and policy reforms to address care gaps related to aging. By revealing the mutual influence of professional service-user relationships, where interactions foster staff growth and client empowerment, this study contributes to the global discussion on disability support, while providing actionable recommendations for Macau’s upcoming Ten-Year Rehabilitation Plan in 2026-2036. The findings hold value for policymakers, service providers, and educators seeking strategies to enhance workforce well-being and service quality in intellectual disability service.

INNOVATIVE USE OF GAMIFICATION FOR CHILDREN'S ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION IN MACAU :THE CASE STUDY OF “ I MACAU ” - Chen, Si Yu (2025)
With the rapid development of mobile network, APP has become an important platform for children to acquire knowledge, entertainment and learning. Environmental education APPs have great potential to cultivate children's environmental awareness with the feature of “edutainment” and “fun”, as well as to stimulate their interest in learning and change their behavioral habits. Starting from children's UI and UX design, we use creative and child-friendly design to enhance the attractiveness of the product and the user's adhesion. Through quantitative research, we investigate the market and user needs, and analyze competitors. Through qualitative research, we analyze the content of the product using educational psychology as a starting point. The main motivation of this study is to enhance children's interest in environmental protection and their sense of social responsibility through game- based teaching, in view of the environmental problems in Macao and the world.

ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION ASSESSMENT WITH SEMANTIC NETWORK ANALYSIS: EXAMPLE FROM A UNIVERSITY IN THE GUANGDONG PROVINCE - Chen, Zi Jie (2025)
This study explores how to effectively evaluate the efficiency of environmental education (EE) among college students in Guangdong Province by comparing two complementary methods: (1) traditional statistical analysis of structured questionnaires using chi-square tests, and (2) semantic network analysis (SNA) of open-ended responses. The structured questionnaire assessed students' environmental knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and education needs using multiple-choice and Likert-scale items. An open-ended question was included to capture students’ understanding of ""environmental protection"" in their own words, which was then analyzed through semantic network modeling. The study collected 225 valid responses from students at Guangdong University of Science and Technology. Chi-square tests revealed significant differences between first-year students and those in later years in their knowledge of environmental issues (e.g., χ², p < 0.05 across 35 indicators), but no significant differences were observed based on gender or place of residence. Semantic network analysis, using centrality, density, and clustering coefficients, showed similar cognitive divergences between academic years but confirmed no meaningful structural differences in conceptual associations across gender or residence groups. For instance, the semantic network of first-year students had lower density (0.031) and fewer central nodes than that of senior students, indicating a simpler understanding of environmental concepts. The convergence of results from both methods validates the use of semantic network analysis as a complementary, quantitative tool for evaluating students’ cognitive structures and discourse in environmental education. This integrated approach offers a richer and more nuanced perspective than traditional surveys alone. The findings suggest that environmental education efforts should focus more on advancing conceptual depth as students progress through university. Curriculum designers can use semantic analysis as an innovative diagnostic tool to improve the cognitive and discourse-based effectiveness of environmental education programs.

心智圖教學對小學四年級學生中文閱讀能力的成效 - Cheong, Lai Ian (2025)
This study aims to explore the effectiveness of mind mapping instruction on Primary 4 students’ Chinese reading ability. Using a pre-and post-test quasi-experimental design with a control group, two classes of fourth-grade students from a girls' school in Macao participated in the study, with one class as the experimental group (n = 25) receiving mind mapping reading instruction, and the other as the control group (n = 16) receiving general reading instruction. Both groups received instruction for about four weeks, with approximately three sessions per week for a total of 11 sessions of 40 minutes each (i.e., 440 minutes in total). The first five sessions focused on narrative texts, and the next five sessions focused on expository texts, with the last session as a summary session. Both groups took the pre-tests using the narrative text from PIRLS (2021) and the expository text from the A3 version of the Reading Comprehension Growth Test, and the post-tests using the narrative text from PIRLS (2016) and the expository text from the A2 version of the Reading Comprehension Growth Test. The experimental group also completed the form regarding their post-instruction feedback for mind mapping instruction. Mann-Whitney tests found that general reading instruction did not significantly improve Grade 4 students’ Chinese reading ability, whereas mind mapping instruction significantly improved Grade 4 students’ Chinese reading ability, with moderate effect sizes (rank-biserial correlation of 0.70 [narrative text] and 0.57 [expository text]). Multiple regression analysis showed that the experimental group scored 0.11-unit higher on the post-test scores of narrative text reading than the control group after controlling their pre-test scores on narrative text reading; the experimental group scored 0.13-unit higher on the post-test scores of expository text reading than the control group after controlling their pre-test scores on expository text reading. In addition, 19 (76%) students in the experimental group gave positive feedback for the mind mapping reading instruction. Recommendations for Chinese teachers, schools’ initiatives at advancing reading instruction, and the government’s endeavor at teacher training related to mind mapping instruction. Limitations of the current study and future research directions were also discussed. 本研究者旨在探究心智圖教學對提升小學四年級學生中文閱讀能力的成效。採用有對照組的前後測準實驗研究設計，選取澳門某女校四年級兩個班級的學生作為研究對象，一個班級作為實驗組（n = 25）接受心智圖閱讀教學，另一個班級作為對照組（n = 16）接受一般閱讀教學。兩組均接受為期大約4週的教學，每週大約3節課，共11節，每節課40分鐘，總共440分鐘;首5節進行記敘文教學，後5節進行說明文教學，最段1節進行教學總結。兩組在接受相應的閱讀教學前，均接受了PIRLS（2021）的文藝性文章和《閱讀理解成長測驗》A3版本的說明文閱讀測驗;在完成教學後，均接受了PIRLS（2016）的文藝性文章和《閱讀理解成長測驗》A2版本的說明文閱讀測驗。實驗組在完成心智圖教學後也填寫了《對心智圖教學的反饋問卷》。Mann-Whitney檢驗發現，一般閱讀教學沒有顯著提升四年級學生中文閱讀能力；心智圖閱讀教學顯著提升四年級學生中文閱讀能力，效應值達到中等程度（rank-biserial correlation為0.70[記敘文]和0.57[說明文]）。多重回歸分析表明，控制了記敘文閱讀前測分數之後，接受心智圖閱讀教學的學生在記敘文後測分數上會比接受一般閱讀教學的學生高0.11個單位；控制了說明文閱讀前測分數之後，接受心智圖教學的學生在說明文後測分數上會比接受一般閱讀教學的學生高0.13個單位。此外，19名（76%）接受心智圖教學的學生對心智圖教學給出正向的反饋，認為心智圖能幫助她們提升閱讀能力、分析和統整文章內容、歸納文章重點、增強對文章的記憶，以及提升閱讀的趣味性。研究者針對中文老師、學校閱讀教學的推動以及政府在心智圖教學培訓方面，提出相應的建議；對本研究的不足之處和未來研究的方向也給出了建議。

本澳長者生命自主與生活品質之相關探討 - Ho, Sut Ieng (2025)
With continuous advancements in technology leading to extended lifespans, a question arises: Are we adequately prepared to face and accept death when it eventually comes? What factors prompt us to proactively plan our end-of-life arrangements? These are important issues that merit understanding and attention. Therefore, this study aims to explore the current status and related factors between life autonomy and quality of life among the elderly in Macau. This study adopts a mixed-methods approach, primarily utilizing convenience sampling and snowball sampling. Data were collected through both online and offline methods using questionnaires. The questionnaire consists of three main sections: 1) demographic background information of respondents, 2) the Good Death Inventory (GDI), and 3) the World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF Taiwan Version. A total of 512 questionnaires were collected, with 480 valid responses, accounting for approximately 94% of the total. Among the respondents, 61.1% were female, the majority had primary school education, 51.6% were married, but only 36.5% lived with their partners. Nearly 60% of participants rated their physical condition as average, 60% had chronic illnesses, though the prevalence of severe chronic diseases was low. Over 50% of participants had no religious beliefs and did not participate in any elderly services. The results show that 60% of participants exhibited moderate or above levels of attitudes toward a good death and quality of life. Analysis using one-way ANOVA and T-tests revealed significant differences in attitudes toward a good death across all demographic variables. Participants who were ""older,"" had ""lower education levels,"" were ""single"" or ""cohabiting,"" ""lived with friends,"" had ""no religious beliefs"" or were ""Catholic,"" had ""poor physical condition,"" ""did not receive elderly services,"" or participated in ""elderly daycare centers"" displayed poorer attitudes toward a good death. Additionally, participants considered ""anticipating future conditions,"" ""seeing desired people,"" ""natural death,"" ""living in a peaceful environment,"" and ""independent living"" as key aspects of a good death. Regarding quality of life, differences were observed across various demographic variables. In overall quality of life, participants who were ""older,"" ""never educated,"" ""single"" or ""cohabiting,"" ""lived with friends,"" had ""poor physical condition,"" or were ""using home support services"" reported poorer quality of life. In the physical health domain, those who were ""older,"" ""never educated,"" ""cohabiting,"" had ""poor physical condition,"" or were ""using home support services"" had lower quality of life. In the psychological health domain, those who were ""older,"" ""never educated,"" ""cohabiting,"" ""lived with friends,"" were ""Catholic,"" had ""poor physical condition,"" or were ""using home support services"" had poorer quality of life. In the social relationships domain, those who were ""older,"" ""single"" or ""cohabiting,"" ""lived with friends,"" had ""poor physical condition,"" or ""did not receive elderly services"" had poorer quality of life. In the environmental domain, those who were ""older,"" ""never educated,"" ""cohabiting,"" ""lived with friends,"" had ""poor physical condition,"" or were ""using home support services"" had poorer quality of life. Across the four domains (excluding overall quality of life), participants scored highest to lowest in the following order: physical health > social relationships > environment > psychological health, indicating that psychological health was the weakest domain. A positive correlation of varying degrees was found between attitudes toward a good death and different domains of quality of life, meaning that better quality of life was associated with better attitudes toward a good death. However, only the ""environmental"" and ""social relationships"" domains of quality of life showed a linear relationship with the Good Death Inventory, indicating that these domains are predictive of attitudes toward a good death, though their explanatory power is limited.

澳門中學教師面對融合學生的教學困擾與融合教育專業知能關係之研究 - Ieong, Ao; Un, Kuok (2025)
This study aims to investigate the current status of teaching difficulties and professional competencies among secondary school teachers working with students with special educational needs (SEN) in inclusive classrooms in Macao. It examines differences in teachers' teaching difficulties and professional competencies across various demographic variables. Furthermore, it explores the relationship between teachers' professional competencies and their teaching difficulties, as well as identifying the predictive factors influencing both aspects. A questionnaire survey method was employed, collecting 171 valid responses. Data analysis methods included descriptive statistics, independent samples t-tests, one-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation, and linear regression analysis. Key findings include: • Teachers reported a moderately low level of teaching difficulties related to inclusive education. • Teachers reported a moderately high level of professional competencies in inclusive education. • Significant differences in teaching difficulties were observed based on teachers' gender and participation in inclusive education training courses. • Significant differences in professional competencies were observed based on teachers' years of experience in inclusive education and their participation in inclusive education training courses, seminars and workshops. • A low negative correlation was found between teachers' teaching difficulties and their professional competencies. • Teachers' professional competencies significantly predict their teaching difficulties. • Gender significantly predicted teaching difficulties in inclusive education contexts. Based on these findings, relevant recommendations are provided. 本研究旨在瞭解澳⾨融合教育學校中學教師⾯對融合學⽣的教學困擾及融 合教育專業知能的現況與相關性，並分析不同背景變項下澳⾨中學教師的教學困 擾及融合教育專業知能之差異、融合教育專業知能對教學困擾的預測⼒，以及背 景因素對教學困擾的預測⼒。 本研究採⽤問卷調查法，回收有效問卷171份。問卷數據以描述性統計、獨 ⽴樣本T檢驗、單因⼦變異數分析、⽪爾遜積差相關、線性迴歸分析進⾏分析。 研究結果歸納如下： ⼀、 澳⾨中學教師融合教育教學困擾屬「中等偏低」程度。 ⼆、 澳⾨中學教師融合教育專業知能屬「中等偏⾼」程度。 三、 不同性別及融合教育課程進修的澳⾨中學教師融合教育教學困擾有顯著差 異。 四、 不同融合教育年資、融合教育課程進修及講座、⼯作坊參與的澳⾨中學教師 融合教育專業知能有顯著差異。 五、 澳⾨中學教師融合教育教學困擾與專業知能呈「低度負相關」。 六、 澳⾨中學教師的整體融合教育專業知能對融合教育教學困擾具微弱預測⼒。 七、 「性別」對融合教育教學困擾具微弱預測⼒。 本研究最後根據研究結果提出相關建議。

EXPLORING BIODIVERSITY IN MACAU’S URBAN WETLAND ECOSYSTEMS THROUGH E-DNA ANALYSIS - Kei, Leong Mei (2025)
Macau’s rapid urban development has significantly altered its natural landscapes, leading to the degradation and fragmentation of wetland ecosystems. Although diminished in size, these urban wetlands continue to deliver vital ecological services and sustain a range of biodiversity. Conventional methods for biodiversity assessment are often labor-intensive and unsuitable for regular monitoring in urban environments. This study utilized environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding as a non-invasive and effective approach to survey biodiversity in 2 coastal and 7 freshwater urban wetlands in Macau. Environmental DNA was extracted from water samples collected from these nine representative wetland sites and analyzed using metabarcoding techniques to detect fish species. Three genetic markers were targeted to enhance taxonomic resolution, which included COI (mlCOIintF/LoboR1, 313 bp), 12S (miFish-U, 170 bp) and 18S (V4, 400 bp). Bioinformatic pipelines were used to process sequencing data, identify taxa, and compute biodiversity indices, providing a comprehensive snapshot of aquatic biodiversity in Macau’s urban wetlands. A total of 90 fish species were detected, including native species, migrants, and invasive taxa. Beta diversity analysis shows site and season together explained 50% of the variation in community composition (PERMANOVA R² = 0.50, p = 0.001), shaped by environmental gradients and seasonal turnover. These results highlight eDNA metabarcoding as an effective tool for biodiversity monitoring in urban wetlands and emphasize the need to preserve habitat diversity and management strategies in Macau.

適應體育體適能課程對特殊教育學生 動作技能之影響－以澳門某校特教班為例 - Kuok, Chan Heng (2025)
This study took 14 students with mild intellectual disabilities from a special education class in a Macao school as the research objects. Using the comparative method of experimental group and control group, it explored the influence of adaptive physical education fitness courses on the motor skills of special education students. The experimental group received a 12-week adaptive physical education fitness course, while the control group carried out traditional physical education teaching. The study adopted the motor skills assessment scale compiled by Liu Yijun to conduct pre-tests and post-tests on the two groups of students, and used SPSS software for statistical analysis. The results showed that the adaptive physical education fitness course had significant effects on improving most physical fitness and motor ability indicators of special education students. The experimental group showed significant differences (p<0.05) in the pre-test and post-test scores of 11 indicators, including BMI, sit-and-reach, one-minute knee flexion sit-ups, two-minute step test, etc. The traditional course only showed significant effects in the standing long jump project, and the differences in other indicators between the pre-test and post-test did not reach the statistical significance level. In addition, the experimental group was significantly better than the control group in the total manipulative movements and throwing indicators (p<0.05). The study indicates that adaptive physical education fitness courses can effectively improve the physical fitness and motor skills of special education students. Based on this, it is suggested to increase the class hours of healthy physical fitness, expand opportunities for diversified sports participation, integrate technological elements into innovative teaching methods, and incorporate interdisciplinary integration into daily teaching, providing new ideas and practical directions for physical education teaching in special education. 本研究以澳門某學校特殊教育班的 14 名輕度智能障礙學生為研究對象，採用實驗組與控制組對比的研究方法，探討適應體育體適能課程對特殊教育學生動作技能的影響。實驗組接受為期 12 週的適應體育體適能課程，控制組則進行傳統體育教學。研究採用劉怡君編制的動作技能評估量表，對兩組學生進行前測與後測，並運用 SPSS 軟體進行統計分析。 結果顯示：適應體育體適能課程在改善特殊教育學生的多數體適能和動作能力指標上具有顯著成效。實驗組在 BMI、坐姿體前屈、一分鐘屈膝仰臥起坐、兩分鐘登台階等 11 項指標上前後測分數差異顯著（p<0.05）。而傳統課程僅在立定跳遠項目上呈現顯著效果，其餘指標前後測差異均未達統計學顯著水準。此外，實驗組在操縱性動作總量與投擲指標上明顯優於對照組（p<0.05）。 研究表明，適應體育體適能課程能夠有效提升特殊教育學生的身體素質和動作技能。據此建議：增加健康體適能課時、拓展多元運動參與機會、創新教學方法融入科技元素以及跨學科融合滲透日常教學，為特殊教育體育教學提供了新的思路和實踐方向。

以家庭為中心之「回應式互動」技巧對提升語言發展遲緩幼兒語言能力的實驗研究 - Lai, Ut Tong (2025)
Language delay is an important issue that affects the early communication and learning abilities of young children. In recent years, there has been a great deal of interest in the family-centered intervention model, which emphasizes the teaching of Responsive Interaction Strategies to parents in order to optimize the family language environment. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of this model of intervention for children with language delays and to understand the factors that contribute to their language progress. This study adopted a Mixed Methods Research Design, which combined quantitative experiments with qualitative interviews to analyze the effectiveness of the intervention and parents' perceptions of the family-centered model. The study was conducted with 10 children with speech and language delays aged between 2 and 3 years old. The subjects were randomly divided into experimental and control groups, and received the family-centered ""responsive interaction"" technique and the clinician-directed approach ""direct instruction"" respectively. The 12-week study consisted of a pre-test, an intervention period and a post-test. The quantitative study was conducted using the long version of the Macao contonese language screening scale for preschool children (MacCLASS-P), together with the Chinese Child Development Inventory(Cantonese version) to standardize the children's language comprehension and expression skills. Both the experimental and control groups received weekly 45-minute interventions during the intervention period, with the experimental group receiving a family-centered “responsive interaction” technique, where the therapist taught the parents the relevant skills and provided them with opportunities for practice, and the control group receiving clinician-directed approach ""direct instruction"". The control group received the clinician-directed approach ""direct instruction"". The qualitative study involved semi-structured interviews with the parents of the experimental group to investigate the experience of using the techniques and the changes in their children's language. The quantitative results showed that the experimental group made significantly more progress than the control group in overall language comprehension and expressive skills, but did not achieve significant differences in grammatical comprehension and pragmatics. The qualitative data further reflected that parents generally recognized the usefulness of the “responsive interaction” skills in facilitating children's progress from single words to complete sentences. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that the family-centered “responsive interaction” intervention model was effective in improving the language comprehension and expression of children with language delays, and that parental involvement strengthened the children's categorization and motivation in language learning. 語言發展遲緩是影響幼兒早期溝通與學習能力的重要議題，近年來，以家庭為中心的介入模式備受關注，強調透過教導家長「回應式互動」技巧（Responsive Interaction Strategies）來優化家庭語言環境。本研究旨在探討此模式對語言遲緩幼兒的介入成效，並了解造成其語言能力進步的因素。 本研究採用混合方法研究設計（Mixed Methods Research Design），將量化實驗與質性訪談相結合，以分析介入效果及家長對以家庭為中心模式的看法。本次研究對象為十名年齡介乎2至3歲的語言遲緩幼兒。受試者隨機分為實驗組及控制組，分別接受以家庭為中心的「回應式互動」技巧和以治療師主導的「直接教學法」介入。共十二週的研究包含前測、介入期與後測三部分。 量化研究採用《澳門粵語學前語言篩查測驗》長版，並配合《漢語溝通發展量表（廣東話版）》對幼兒語言理解和表達能力作標準化測量。實驗組及控制組幼兒在介入期均接受每週45分鐘介入，其中實驗組接受以治療師為主導的「直接教學法」並結合以家庭為中心的「回應式互動」技巧介入，治療師在堂上教授家長相關技巧和給予實踐機會；而控制組則接受以治療師為主導的「直接教學法」。質性研究則針對實驗組家長進行半結構式訪談，探討技巧應用經驗與幼兒語言變化。 從量化結果顯示，實驗組在整體的語言理解和表達能力的進步幅度皆顯著優於控制組，惟語法理解和語用並未達至顯著差異。質性資料則進一步反映家長普遍認同技巧實用性，促進幼兒從單詞進階至完整句子表達。 綜合而言，本研究證實以家庭為中心的「回應式互動」介入模式能有效提升語言遲緩幼兒的語言理解和表達能力，且家長參與強化了幼兒在語言學習的類化與積極性。

子女由普通生轉為融合生的過程中澳門小學家長的經歷及感受之質性研究 - Lam, Choi I. (2025)
In Macau, inclusive students refer to students with special educational needs who can receive education alongside their peers in regular classes with minimal special education support. With the advancement of inclusive education policies, an increasing number of students with special educational needs are placed in regular classrooms. However, whether parents are willing to transition their children from regular students to inclusive students plays a key role in the practice of inclusive education. This study aims to explore the experiences and feelings of parents at a Catholic primary school in Macau during the process of their children transitioning from regular to inclusive students. The research questions include: What is the psychological journey of parents during the transition of their children from regular to inclusive students? What factors facilitate or hinder parental decision-making? What are parents’ feelings and thoughts after their children became inclusive students? The researcher employed a qualitative research method using semi-structured one-on-one interviews with six parents (all mothers) and analyzed the interview data using grounded theory. The findings reveal that parents' psychological journey involves a dynamic shift from recognizing their children's difficulties, experiencing doubt and resistance, to accepting assessment and identity confirmation. The decision-making process is influenced by multiple factors, including family support, support from teachers or professionals, the ‘inclusive student’ label, and public information about inclusive education. The study also found that parents generally found that their children's academic performance improved after becoming inclusive students, and that the family atmosphere became more harmonious than before. However, they also had concerns about their children's social skills and future transition to secondary school after becoming inclusive students. They hope that schools and educational authorities can provide more publicity, resources, and support to better implement inclusive education, such as enhancing teacher professional training, offering educational resources, and improving public understanding of inclusive education and inclusive students. Overall, despite the challenges of the transition process, parents demonstrate their own adaptation and growth throughout this journey. 在澳門融合生是指只需要小量的特殊教育支持就能在普通班與同班同學一 起接受教育的有特殊教育需要的學生。隨著融合教育政策的推進，越來越多有特 殊教育需要的學生被安置於普通班中。然而，家長是否願意讓子女由普通生轉為 融合生，是融合教育實踐中的關鍵環節。本研究旨在探討澳門某天主教小學家長 在子女由普通生轉為融合生過程中的經歷與感受。研究問題包括：將子女從普通 生轉為融合生的過程中，家長的心理歷程是怎樣的？有哪些因素會促進或阻礙家 長的決策？將子女從普通生轉為融合生之後，家長的感受和想法是怎樣的？研究 者採用半結構化一對一訪談的質性研究方法對六位家長（均為母親）進行深入訪 談，並採用扎根理論進行訪談數據分析。研究發現家長的心理歷程經歷了從覺察 子女的困難、懷疑與抗拒，到接受評估與身份確認的動態轉變。決策過程受多重 因素影響，包括家庭支持、教師或專業人員的支持、“融合生”標籤、融合教育 的公共資訊等。研究也發現，家長在子女成為融合生後普遍認為子女的成績有所 進步，家庭氣氛比以往更加和諧，但同時對子女的社交能力和未來升中學的問題 有擔憂。她們普遍希望學校及教育當局能提供更多宣傳、資源和支持，以更好地 實施融合教育，例如提升教師專業培訓、加強輔助教學資源、提升公眾對融合教 育和融合生的正確認識。整體而言，儘管轉變過程充滿挑戰，但家長在這個過程 中呈現了自身的適應與成長。

了解照顧者與幼兒互動對語言發展的影響：澳門的社會工作研究 - Lam, Fong Chan (2025)
This study explored the influence of Macao caregivers' interaction with young children on language development, and analyzed the family language environment,sociolect-cultural influence and the current language development support system from the perspective of social work. A qualitative research method was used to analyze the interaction pattern and the progress of language development through in-depth interview and observation. The study found that the overuse of electronics, caregiver interaction and multilingual environment affected language development to different degrees, and made suggestions on how social workers should intervene and improve the support system for language development.

ABUNDANCE AND DISTRIBUTION OF MICROPLASTICS IN THE COASTAL ENVIRONMENTS OF MACAO: ANALYSIS OF MANGROVE AND NON-MANGROVE AREAS - Lam, Hao Cheng (2025)
The pervasive presence of microplastics in the environment constitues a significant challenge for internationalntern conservation efforts. Since the increase in anthropogentic activities and inadequate plastic waste management over all years, Macao coastal ecosystems have been greatly impacted. Therefore, it is essential to assess the presence and characteristics of microplastics in both waters and sediments along the coastlines of Macao particularly focusing on mangrove and non-mangrove areas. This evaluation aims to gather data on the sources, transport mechanisms, and ecological impacts of microplastics in Macao's coastal waters. A recent local report has indicated that Macao's water sources are not completely free from contamination. This has become a significant concern, as coastal and wastewater sources are heavily polluted with microplastic particles. Macao has been referred to as one of the world's most pressing plastic ocean pollution areas, with one of the highest rates of such pollution globally. Microplastics, however, are not the only plastic pollutant found, as nanoplastics have been found in shore waters, harming ocean ecosystems and becoming incorporated into the food chain. This research was used to quantitatively estimate the density and occurrence of microplastics in Macao coastal ecosystems in mangrove and non-mangrove areas (Taipa Mangroves Wetland, Cotai Ecological Reserve, Coloane Village Wetland) and Hac Sa beach. The results show that the non-mangrove site has a density of microplastics at 267.98 pieces/kg, which has the lowest of all the sampling stations, and Taipa Mangroves Wetland, with the highest concentration of microplastics within the forest among the sampling stations in the mangrove zone of Macau. This research can also provide useful information for environmental conservation and management plans.

Perspectives for the School Management: A Qualitative Study of EFL Teacher's Self‐Efficacy and its Related Factors - Lam, Stacy M. I.; Kuok, A. C. H.; Baker‐Malungu, Laurie; Negreiros, Joao G. M. (Psychology in the Schools, 2025)
As societies globalize, mastery of a second language or multiple languages has become an important index to enhance interaction in the society, in that English is a widely used medium of communication globally. For engagement in international business, commerce, science, technology, and governance, the benefits of an efficacious English language teaching force to facilitate the English acquisition process of students in classrooms around the world is highly valued. The objective of the research was to investigate the possible factors (internal and organizational) related to EFL teacher's self-efficacy in Macao (Chinese Medium Instruction context) via qualitative approach. As evidenced through the EFL teachers' interviews, teachers' experience, as well as some external factors in term of working environment, organizational socialization, and work engagement can be possible factors positively related to their self-efficacy. Recommendations for the school management and educational department to enhance and sustain the efficacy of EFL teachers were discussed.

A STUDY ON THE ATTITUDES OF SECONDARY SCHOOL TEACHERS TOWARDS INCLUSIVE EDUCATION AT A SCHOOL NOT PARTICIPATING IN INCLUSIVE EDUCATION PROGRAM IN MACAU - Lao, Nim Teng (2025)
This study focuses on the field of inclusive education using qualitative methods, conducting semi-structured interviews with eight secondary school teachers in a school in Macau that is not participating in inclusive education programs. Employing ecological systems theory, it explores their understanding, perceptions, willingness toward inclusive education, the challenges they face, and their suggestions. The findings reveal that interactions among various systemic levels shape teachers' attitudes. At the macrosystem, limited societal understanding and prevalent public prejudices against students with special needs influence teachers' perceptions and acceptance. The exosystem highlights a lack of professional training and policy support, undermining teachers' capabilities and confidence. Communication barriers between teachers, parents, and colleagues within the mesosystem hinder the exchange of information about students with special needs. At the microsystem, teachers' personal perceptions and experiences mold their attitudes, where stereotypes and negative experiences impact their approach and, consequently, student learning. To address these challenges, teachers suggest that Macau should establish bachelor's degree programs, enhance teacher training, and increase societal advocacy. Additionally, schools should create teams focused on inclusive education and ensure the provision of necessary resources. Based on these insights, this study suggests that school should build inclusive education teams and provide school-based training programs, and the government should improve the practicality of teacher training and enhance public and parental understanding of inclusive education, to facilitate its effective implementation by teachers. 本研究聚焦於融合教育領域，採用質性研究方法，透過半結構式訪談收集 八位澳門非參與融合教育計劃學校中學教師的見解，並以生態系統理論為框 架，探討他們對融合教育的認知、看法、實施意願和挑戰，以及他們的建議。 研究發現，各系統間相互的影響形成了教師的態度。在宏觀系統上，社會 對融合教育的認識不足、大眾對融合生的偏見會影響教師對融合生的看法和接 納程度。在外部系統中，教師感受到專業培訓和政策支持的缺失，削弱了他們 實施融合教育的能力和信心。而在中間系統，教師與家長及同事的溝通上出現 障礙，使得教師在獲取融合生信息方面遭遇挑戰。微觀系統中，教師的認知和 經驗進一步塑造了他們的態度，他們雖認識到融合生有特殊需求，但對融合生 的刻板印象影響着學生的發展。此外，失敗的經驗、工作壓力也對他們的態度 造成負面影響，繼而影響到學生的學習。受訪教師提出，高等院校應設立學士 學位，政府應加開教師培訓，同時加強社會宣導，學校亦應建立融合教育小組 和提供適當的設備，以改善現存的問題。 基於上述發現，本研究建議學校成立融合教育小組和提供校本培訓，並呼 籲政府加強教師培訓的實用性、提高家長和公眾對融合教育的宣導，以協助教 師有效實施融合教育。

初探疫情前中後不同類型家長（單親及雙親）的親子互動體驗變化 - Lao, Sin Mei (2025)
This study explores the changes in the parent-child interaction experience of different types of parents (single parents and two parents) before, during and after the epidemic. The study adopted qualitative research methods and conducted in-depth interviews with 10 families (5 single-parent families and 5 two-parent families), and analyzed from three levels: educational support, interaction model and emotional support.Research has found that the epidemic has not only changed families' lifestyles, but also affected the pattern and quality of parent-child interaction.Especially during the shutdown of work and school, the time parents spend with their children has increased sharply from the original 2-3 hours to 12-14 hours.This abnormal lifestyle has brought unprecedented challenges and opportunities to the parent-child relationship. The research results show that 14 important themes emerged from the interviews, and there are significant differences between single-parent parents and dual-parent parents in facing the impact of the epidemic.In terms of educational support, two-parent families can provide more comprehensive educational support through the division of labor and cooperation between parents.The father is mostly responsible for tutoring in math and science subjects, while the mother focuses on tutoring in Chinese subjects.In contrast, although single parents face resource constraints, they are often able to develop more innovative educational strategies, such as making good use of community resources and establishing mutual aid networks.In terms of interaction patterns, two-parent families tend to optimize the quality of interaction through role division, while single-parent families focus more on improving the effect of a single interaction.At the level of emotional support, the support methods of two-parent families have experienced a transformation from division of labor and collaboration to overall integration, while single-parent families have developed more direct and in-depth emotional connection strategies. Research has found that both single-parent and two-parent families can maintain the development of parent-child relationships through different strategies and adaptations. Some good interactive habits formed during the epidemic, such as regular in-depth conversations and joint participation in housework, are still retained and developed by many families after the epidemic.This suggests that crises may also be an opportunity to promote the optimization of family relationships.The research results not only help understand the unique needs of different types of families, but also provide an empirical basis for formulating differentiated family support policies.Based on the research findings, it is recommended that the government and social service agencies should pay more attention to the diversity of families when formulating policies and provide more targeted support services for different types of families. 本研究探討疫情前中後不同類型家長（單親及雙親）的親子互動體驗變化。研究採用質性研究方法，通過深度訪談10個家庭（5個單親家庭和5個雙親家庭），從教育支援、互動模式和情感支援三個層面進行分析。研究發現，疫情不僅改變了家庭的生活方式，更影響了親子互動的模式和品質。尢其是在停工停學期間，家長和子女的相處時間從原來的2-3小時急增至12-14小時，這種非常態的生活方式為親子關係帶來了前所未有的挑戰和機遇。 研究結果顯示，在訪談中得出14個重要主題，單親家長和雙親家長在面對疫情衝擊時呈現出顯著差異。在教育支援方面，雙親家庭能夠通過父母分工合作的方式提供更全面的教育支援，父親多負責數理科目輔導，母親則專注於語文學科輔導。相比之下，單親家長雖然面臨資源限制，但往往能發展出更具創新性的教育策略，如善用社區資源、建立互助網絡等。在互動模式方面，雙親家庭傾向於通過角色分工來優化互動質量，而單親家庭則更注重提升單次互動的效果。在情感支援層面，雙親家庭的支援方式經歷了從分工協作到整體融合的轉變，而單親家庭則發展出更直接和深入的情感連結策略。 研究發現，無論是單親還是雙親家庭，都能通過不同的策略和適應方式維持親子關係的發展。疫情期間形成的一些良好互動習慣，如定期深度對話、共同參與家務等，在疫情後仍被許多家庭保留和發展。這表明危機也可能成為推動家庭關係優化的契機。研究結果不僅有助於理解不同類型家庭的獨特需求，也為制定差異化的家庭支援政策提供了實證基礎。基於研究發現，建議政府和社會服務機構在制定政策時應更加注重家庭的多樣性，為不同類型的家庭提供更有針對性的支援服務。

STRESS LEVELS AMONG MAINSTREAM SCHOOL TEACHER IN MACAO WORKING WITH STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS: A QUANTITATIVE STUDY - Lei, U. Teng (2025)
This study investigates the stress levels experienced by mainstream schoolteachers in Macao when working with students with special educational needs (SEN). Using a quantitative research approach, the study examines the current conditions faced by these educators. ""Mainstream schools"" in this context refer to private school not participating in the government’s inclusive education program. The research employed a questionnaire survey targeting kindergarten, primary, and secondary school teachers across Macao’s mainstream schools. Data were collected using a self-designed instrument, the Macao Mainstream Teachers’ Stress Questionnaire in Working with SEN Students, through via snowball sampling. A total of 92 valid responses were received. Statistical analyses—including one-sample t-tests, independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and structural equation modeling (SEM)— were conducted, obtaining the following results: 1. Macao mainstream schoolteachers reported moderate-to-high stress levels when working with SEN students, with the ""student behavioral issues"" representing the most significant stress domain. 2. No significant differences in overall stress or subscale scores were observed across teachers’ gender, teaching experience, educational qualifications, or teaching stages（kindergarten/primary/secondary 3. Teachers with different professional backgrounds exhibited significant differences in overall stress, student-related issues, curriculum and teaching , and professional competence, but not in support systems. 4. Significant differences in support systems were found among teachers holding different roles or teaching different student types, though no disparities emerged in other dimensions. 5. Student-related issues, professional competence, and support systems with a notable directional influence with curriculum and teaching. Also significant correlations were identified between Professional competence and support systems. Based on these findings, the study proposes actionable recommendations for educational authorities, school administrators, frontline teachers, and future researchers. 本研究主要探討澳門普通學校教師在面對有特殊教育需要學生時的壓力情 況，透過量性研究的方法，了解澳門普通學校教師的實際情況。普通學校是指沒 有參與政府融合教育計劃的私立學校。 本研究採用問卷調查法，以全澳普通學校的中、小、幼教師為研究對象，以 自編的「澳門普通教師在面對有特殊教育需要學生時的壓力調查問卷」為研究工 具蒐集數據。研究採用滾雪球方式填答，共收回有效問卷91 份。使用單一樣本 t 檢定、獨立樣本t 檢定、單因子等級變異數據分析、單因子變異數據分析、驗證性因子分析、構建結構方程模型統計方法，進行資料處理分析，獲得結果如下： 一、 澳門普通學校教師在面對有特殊教育需要學生時壓力現況呈「中等程度」， 其中「學生問題」層面的壓力相對最大。 二、 不同性別、服務年資、最高學歷、任教學段在整體教師壓力及各層面上沒有顯著差異。 三、 不同專業背景教師在「整體壓力」、「學生問題」、「課程教學」、「專業能力」上有顯著差異。而在「支持系統」上沒有顯著差異。 四、 擔任不冋職務及教授不同學生類型的教師在「支持系統」上有顯著差異。 而在其他層面上沒有顯著差異。 五、 「學生問題」、「專業能力」及「支持系統」與「課程教學」呈預測效應。 「專業能力」與「支持系統」呈顯著相關。 最後，本研究根據研究成果提出具體建議，供教育相關部門、學校行政、前線教師及未來研究者參考應用。

VERTICAL EXTENSION NATURE INTEGRATED HIGH RISE MIXED-USE BUILDING - Liang, Yi (2025)
This dissertation investigates how to alleviate the shortage of green space in high-density urban areas. It explores a design approach that integrates green plants into high-rise mixed-use buildings, especially the green plants growing on vertical space and building facade of a high-rise building. To develop specific design principles and design methods, this study conducts a literature review and case studies in the following two ways. First, this study explores three key themes that are regarded as design concepts in my graduation project, namely vertical greenery, sky garden, and low-carbon design. Based on these themes, this study further explores the implied design principles, which include (1) balancing ecology and aesthetics, (2) ensuring spatial equity, and (3) sustainability. Secondly, super high-rise buildings, mixed-use buildings, and nature-integrated buildings are three typological cases that are analyzed in this study. Based on an analysis of these cases, this study develops the following design methods that apply to my graduation project: (1) double-skin facade system, (2) structural symbiosis, (3) hierarchical sky gardens, and (4) three-dimensional green network. To better understand how to increase green space in high-density urban areas, this study develops an architectural design scheme in Zone D of Macau’s new town. 本论文旨在研究如何缓解高密度城市区域的绿地短缺问题。它探索了一种将绿色植物融入高层综合用途建筑的设计方法，尤其关注在高层建筑的垂直空间和建筑外立面上生长的绿色植物。 为了形成具体的设计原则和设计方法，本研究通过以下两种方式开展了文献综述与案例研究。首先，本研究探讨了三个关键主题，这些主题被视为本人毕业设计中的设计理念，即垂直绿化、空中花园和低碳设计。基于这些主题，本研究进一步挖掘了其中隐含的设计原则，包括：（1）平衡生态与美学；（2）保障空间公平；（3）可持续性。其次，本研究对超高层建筑、综合用途建筑和自然融合型建筑这三类典型案例进行了分析。在案例分析的基础上，本研究总结出适用于本人毕业设计的以下设计方法：（1）双层表皮系统；（2）结构共生；（3）层级化空中花园；（4）三维绿色网络。为了更深入地理解如何在高密度城市区域增加绿地，本研究在澳门新城 D 区规划了一个建筑设计方案。

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF A PICTURE CARD EXCHANGE COMMUNICATION SYSTEM TRANINING ON THE COMMUNICATION BEHAVIOR OF NON-VERBAL STUDENT WITH RETT SYNDROME. - Lio, Ka Ian (2025)
本研究旨在圖卡兌換溝通系統訓練對無口語能力的雷特氏症學生溝通行爲之學習成效，此研究會以單一個案研究的A-B設計進行，以一位高中的雷特氏症學生為研究對象，以圖卡兌換溝通系統（Picture Exchange Communication System，簡稱 PECS）的第一階段和第二階段作為研究目標。由研究者及助理員一同記錄個案在進行研究時的結果，經過研究結果顯示： 一.圖卡交換溝通系統（PECS）階段一對雷特氏症狀的學生具有學習之成效。 二.圖卡交換溝通系統（PECS）階段二對雷特氏症狀的學生具有學習之成效。 本研究綜合上述結果，提出對教導雷特氏症學生溝通行爲教學提供相關建議。 This study aims to investigate the learning outcomes of Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) training on the communication behaviors of non-verbal students with Rett Syndrome. The research will adopt a single-case A-B design, focusing on a high school student with Rett Syndrome. The first and second phases of PECS will be set as the research objectives. The researcher and assistant will jointly record the case's performance during the study. The results show that:. Results show: 1.PECS Stage 1 is effective for students with Rett syndrome. 2.PECS Stage 2 also shows effectiveness for these students. Based on these findings, the study offers relevant suggestions for teaching communication behaviors to students with Rett syndrome.

EXPLORING THE SPATIAL DISTRIBUTIONS OF HEAVY METALS FROM ROAD DUST IN MACAO - Liu, Yu Yang (2025)
Road dust contains a variety of heavy metals and is a widely used indicator for monitoring pollution and assessing environmental and health risks in urban ecosystems. In this study, road dust was collected from 8 representative areas in Macao. The spatial distribution of heavy metal content in road dust in Macao was determined by extracting the heavy metal content in each sample. Heavy metals in road dust are mainly found on busy roads, and the production of these heavy metals mainly comes from the particles worn off in the work of transportation vehicles, such as tires, brake pads, road dust, and emissions from exhaust pipes, These heavy metal particles scattered on the road will remain on the road surface for a long period and cause environmental pollution. This sampling was also collected when there was no rainfall in Macao for more than 7 days, which also ensured that the heavy metal content in road dust distributed in time and space was as close to accurate data as possible. At the same time, in this collection of road dust regulations, the sampling is strictly followed by recording the area, traffic flow, weather, humidity, and other factors. The addition of a large statistical analysis of variables helped to correlate the elements studied with several local sources of pollution: from local industrial plants and related activities, pavement modifications, power plants, road traffic, and the resuspension of particulate matter (RPM). Our findings suggest that combining chemical and isotopic monitoring of road dust may help implement more effective environmental management measures to reduce its adverse effects on ecosystems and human health. This study analyzed the temporal and spatial distribution of heavy metals in road dust from different locations in Macao, revealing the current situation of heavy metal pollution and its potential threat to human health. The results show that heavy metals primarily originated from human activities such as transportation emissions, industrial activities, and road construction. Through detailed analysis of the sampling points in G 1-G8, it was found that the concentration of heavy metals varied significantly in different areas, especially in areas with heavy traffic flow, in which the heavy metal content was generally higher.

MONITORING AND EVALUATION OF THE QUALITY OF RAINWATER HARVESTED FROM ROOFTOPS FOR REUSE AND SUSTAINABLE APPLICATION IN MACAO - Lu, Xiao Yu (2025)
Macao, a densely urbanized region with limited freshwater resources, faces significant challenges in water security, relying on over 90% of raw water imports from the Mainland. This study investigates the quality of rainwater harvested from three representative rooftop types (blue metal, concrete, and green garden roofs) to establish a scientific basis for sustainable reuse. The research reveals distinct water quality patterns and first-flush effects across roof materials through field sampling and laboratory standard of parameters, including organic matter, turbidity, and nutrients. Key findings show that green roofs exhibit the highest pollutant concentrations (e.g., COD: 52.27 ± 26.00 mg/L and conductivity: 525.75 ± 203.60 μS/cm) due to vegetation decomposition and soil leaching. In contrast, blue steel tile roofs yield relatively cleaner runoff but with pronounced initial pollutant surges. Concrete roofs produce alkaline runoff (pH up to 8.63) due to cement mineral dissolution. Statistical analysis confirms conductivity and turbidity as robust predictors of dissolved pollutants, with significant correlations to other parameters, enabling rapid water quality assessment. The study further evaluates the first flush effect; recommendations include material-specific collection strategies, IoT-integrated smart monitoring systems, and policy incentives for green roof adoption to balance ecological benefits with water quality management. This research addresses critical gaps in Macao's rainwater management, providing a sustainable urban water resource optimization framework.

INTERACTIVE PRODUCT DESIGN FOR ORGANIC PACKAGING： THE STUDY CASE OF ECOZEN - Ma, Jing Fei (2025)
With the rapid development of the food delivery industry, the burden of single-use packaging on the environment has become increasingly severe, highlighting the need for sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives. This paper proposes an innovative solution based on interactive product design for organic packaging, integrating organic takeaway boxes with a mobile app platform to enable the repeated use of personal organic food containers. This study explores the selection of organic packaging materials, product structural design, app functionality planning, and the construction of the courier-based recycling process. Through prototype design, user research, and data analysis, the feasibility and environmental benefits of this solution are demonstrated. The research findings provide a new design perspective for the circular economy in food packaging, contributing to the promotion of green consumption and sustainable development.

正向學習環境中教師對同儕合作與師生關係之影響﹕個案研究 - Ng, Ka Man (2025)

A STUDY ON THE ENGLISH LEARNING OUTCOMES AND MOTIVATION OF FIRST-GRADE PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENTS USING DIGITAL GAME-BASED LEARNING: A CASE STUDY OF THE WORDWALL DIGITAL GAME PLATFORM - Ng, Weng I. (2025)
This study explores the influence of digital game-based learning on the English learning outcomes and learning motivation of first-grade primary school students in a private girls' school in Macau. The researcher used the Wordwall digital game platform as the medium and conducted teaching experiments using the quasi-experimental research method. Two classes were divided into the experimental group (n=24) and the control group (n=21) according to the convenient sampling method. The digital game-based learning method was integrated into the teaching materials and school-based self-compiled content. The experimental group implemented the digital game-based learning method for 8 weeks. Using the Wordwall game platform once a week, and 20 minutes each time, the control group maintained the traditional didactic teaching method. The research tools included a self-compiled learning effectiveness test and a learning motivation scale. The total score of the learning effectiveness test was 40 points, and the total score of the learning motivation scale was 120 points. Data analysis was conducted using paired sample t-tests and independent sample t-tests. The research results show that: (1) The score of the experimental group in the post-test of learning outcomes was slightly higher than the control group, indicating that the digital game-based learning method has a positive impact on students' learning outcomes. (2) In terms of learning motivation, the post-test score of the experimental group was slightly higher than the pre-test score, while the control group showed the opposite, indicating that the digital game-based learning method has a positive impact on students' learning motivation. According to the research results, it is suggested that the following can be revised in future studies including (1) expand the scope of research samples and objects, (2) extend the time of teaching experiments, (3) adopt diversified assessment tools, (4) consider teaching environment and teacher factors, (5) conduct learning analysis for individual differences, and (6) carry out cross-disciplinary integration and teaching mode innovation. Exploring the impact of digital game-based learning on students' learning outcomes and motivation from more diverse perspectives. 本研究旨在探討數位遊戲式學習對澳門某私立女校小學一年級學生的英語學習成效和學習動機之影響。研究者以Wordwall數位遊戲平台為媒介，並透過準實驗研究法來進行教學實驗，將兩個班級按方便取樣的方式分為實驗組（n=24）和控制組（n=21），把數位遊戲式學習法融入教材和校本自編內容當中，實驗組實施為期8週的數位遊戲式學習法，每週使用Wordwall遊戲平台1次，每次使用時間為20分鐘；控制組則維持傳統講述法教學，研究工具包含自編的學習成效測驗卷和學習動機量表，學習成效測驗卷的總分為40分，學習動機量表的總分為120分，並以配對樣本t檢定與獨立樣本t檢定進行數據分析。 研究結果顯示：（1）在學習成效方面，實驗組的後測得分稍微高於控制組，顯示數位遊戲式學習法對學生的學習成效具正面影響。（2）在學習動機方面，實驗組的後測分數稍微高於前測分數，控制組則相反，顯示數位遊戲式學習法對學生的學習動機具正面影響。 根據研究結果顯示，建議未來的研究可擴大研究樣本和對象範圍、延長教學實驗的時間、採用多元化的評量工具、考慮教學環境和教師因素、針對個別化差異進行學習分析、進行跨領域整合和教學模式創新，以更多元的角度探討數位遊戲式學習對學生學習成效和學習動機的影響。

Collaborative Partnerships for Driving Social Innovation: A Search for an Effective Collaboration Model for Cambodia - Pov, Srey Phoum (2025)
This study investigates the key challenges and success factors influencing collaborative partnerships for social innovation in Cambodia, aiming to develop an effective partnership model tailored to the local context. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research synthesizes findings from a survey of 109 organizations across various sectors—including private companies, government agencies, NGOs, and academic institutions—and an extensive review of relevant literature. The study identifies critical obstacles such as trust deficits, communication breakdowns, resource constraints, organizational misalignments, and cultural differences that impede effective collaboration. Conversely, it highlights essential success elements, including open communication, shared goals, mutual trust, clear roles, ongoing engagement, and capacity building. The findings suggest that addressing systemic barriers while fostering trust and shared understanding are vital for sustainable social innovation in Cambodia. Based on these insights, the research proposes a practical collaborative partnership model emphasizing transparency, joint planning, flexibility, and stakeholder empowerment. The study contributes valuable theoretical frameworks and actionable strategies for practitioners, policymakers, and scholars seeking to enhance social innovation through effective collaboration in Cambodia and similar developing contexts.

澳門特殊教育教師職業成就感現狀調查研究 - Pun, Lai Ieng (2025)
The Administrative Regulation No. 29/2020 on the Special Education System has been officially implemented since September 2021. The promulgation and enforcement of this important regulation mark that Macao's special education cause has entered a new era of development. In the overall system of special education, the teaching staff has always played a vital role. Their professional literacy, teaching status, and career feelings directly affect the quality and effectiveness of special education, and further concern the growth and future development of special students. This study focuses on the group of special education teachers in Macao, with the core goal of in-depth exploring various situations in their career. Specifically, it mainly revolves around teachers' current status, including their actual feelings in the teaching process, faced difficulties and challenges, as well as their demands and expectations for professional development. Meanwhile, it emphasizes the analysis of the current situation of teachers' professional achievement motivation, understanding the inner satisfaction and achievement gained in special education work, and further explores various factors affecting teachers' professional achievement motivation, such as the school management environment, parents' cooperation degree, society's cognition and support for special education, and teachers' own professional growth background. This study adopts qualitative research methods and semi-structured interviews, uses Grounded Theory three-level coding to carefully and deeply interpret teachers' statements, so as to extract core information and key themes. On this basis, it summarizes and draws research conclusions: Social perception shows obvious polarization in the public's cognition of special education teachers;School environment indicates that the working environment has an important impact on teachers' professional achievement motivation. The lack of effective communication and collaboration mechanisms among colleagues, and even interpersonal conflicts, lead to teachers' difficulty in obtaining good interpersonal support and cooperative atmosphere at work, reducing their work enthusiasm and achievement motivation; Personal development shows that teachers generally lack clear plans and specific schemes for career planning, thus hindering long-term career development. This study further proposes a series of practical countermeasures and suggestions, aiming to improve the professional achievement motivation of special education teachers in Macao from multiple aspects, including school management, educational policy formulation, social support system construction, and teachers' own professional development, so as to provide solid talent support and guarantee for the sustainable development of Macao's special education cause. It ensures that every special student can obtain sufficient growth and development opportunities in a high-quality educational environment, better integrate into society, and realize their own value and potential. 《特殊教育制度》第29/2020號行政法規自2021年9月起正式落地實施，這一重要法規的頒布與執行，標誌著澳門特殊教育事業踏入了一個全新的發展時期。在特殊教育的整體體系中，教師隊伍始終扮演著至關重要的角色，其專業素養、教學狀態以及職業感受等各個方面，均直接影響著特殊教育的質量與成效，進而關乎特殊學生的成長與未來發展。 本研究將目光聚焦於澳門特殊教育教師群體，以深入探究其在職業生涯中的多種情況為核心目標。具體而言，主要圍繞教師自身當下的狀態，包括其在教學過程中的實際感受、面臨的困難與挑戰，以及在專業發展方面的訴求與期望；同時著重對教師職業成就感的現狀進行剖析，了解在特殊教育工作過程中收穫的內心滿足感及成就感；並進一步挖掘影響教師職業成就感的各類因素，如學校管理環境、家長配合程度、社會對特殊教育的認知與支持力度，以及教師自身的專業成長背景等多個層面。本研究採用質性研究方法和半結構訪談法，運用紮根理論三級編碼對教師們的言辭進行細緻拆解與深入解讀，從而提取出核心資訊與關鍵主題，並在此基礎上進行歸納總結，最終得出的研究結論，社會評價：大眾對特殊教育教師的認知呈現出明顯的兩極分化。學校環境： 工作環境方面對教師職業成就感產生重要影響。同事之間缺乏有效的溝通協作機制，甚至存在人際衝突，導致教師在工作中難以獲得良好的人際支持與合作氛圍，降低其工作積極性與成就感。個人發展： 教師在職業生涯規劃方面普遍缺乏明確的打算與具體的計劃，從而對長期職業發展產生了一定的阻礙。 本研究進一步提出了一系列切實可行的對策與建議，旨在從學校管理、教育政策制定、社會支持體系建設以及教師自身專業發展等多個方面著手，提升澳門特殊教育教師的職業成就感，為澳門特殊教育事業的可持續發展提供堅實的人才支撐和保障。確保每位特殊學生都能在優質的教育環境中獲得充分成長與發展的機會，更好地融入社會，實現自身價值與潛能。

IMPROVEMENT OF FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT IN SINGING TEACHING IN JUNIOR MIDDLE SCHOOLS IN MACAU - Qi, Zi Xiang (2025)
Formative assessment has long been recognised as a valuable educational measurement tool; however, its application in music education in Asia, particularly in Macau, remains underexplored. This study investigated the implementation of formative assessment in Macau and the factors that influence its application. A convergent mixed-methods research approach was adopted, utilising questionnaires, interviews and observations. Initially, teacher questionnaires, interviews and classroom observations were used to comprehensively understand how teachers implement formative assessment in singing teaching within junior middle schools in Macau. This approach identified the strengths and weaknesses of the practices while drawing insights from existing literature. Additional teacher questionnaires and interviews were used to explore the factors shaping teachers’ approaches to formative assessment. To provide a holistic perspective, student questionnaires and interviews were used to examine students’ experiences and perceptions of formative assessment in singing instruction. The findings indicate that a) teachers use all five formative assessment strategies outlined by Thompson and Wiliam (2007) with varying frequencies; b) teachers prioritise skill goals and technical accuracy over expressive qualities; c) performance assessment is common in singing classes, while questioning is more typical in other settings; d) teachers prefer teacher-directed assessments over student-directed ones (self and peer assessment); e) strengths include effective teacher demonstrations, frequent descriptive feedback, self-recording, reflective questions and constructive peer feedback, while weaknesses comprise infrequent use of assessment tools, application of multiple evaluative feedback types and low specificity in some descriptive feedback and misuse of self and peer ratings; f) both personal (teacher attitude, self-efficacy and subjective norms) and contextual (school environment, student challenges and public performances) factors hinder formative assessment implementation; and g) students value strategies like teacher demonstration, descriptive feedback and self-recording but devalue others such as evaluative feedback, self-rating, peer rating and peer feedback. Expert interviews were conducted to address the identified weaknesses and formulate targeted recommendations for stakeholders, aiming to enhance the effectiveness of formative assessment in singing teaching in Macau junior middle schools.

澳門非高等教育教師效能感與抗逆力關係之研究 - Sam, Wai Chi (2025)
Teacher efficacy and resilience are critical factors influencing educational quality and student development. Teacher efficacy refers to teachers' beliefs in their capability to manage classrooms, implement instructional strategies, and engage students effectively. Resilience, on the other hand, denotes teachers' ability to adapt and respond positively to stress and challenges. This study aims to examine the current status of teacher efficacy and resilience among non-tertiary education teachers in Macao and to explore their differences and interrelations across various demographic variables. The target population comprised non-tertiary teaching staff in the 2024/2025 academic year. A questionnaire survey was conducted using the Teachers' Sense of Efficacy Scale （TSES） and the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale （CD-RISC）, via the Tencent Questionnaire platform, with 125 valid responses collected from Macao non-tertiary teachers. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, independent sample t-tests, and one-way ANOVA to assess differences in teacher efficacy and resilience across demographic groups. Structural equation modeling was employed to test the predictive effect of resilience on teacher efficacy. In total, eleven demographic variables were collected, including gender, age, marital status, highest educational qualification, teacher training background, years of service (including the current academic year), school type, school size, main teaching level, primary job role, and religious belief. Given the focus and scope of the study, and with reference to commonly explored variables in related literature, gender, age, and years of service (including the current academic year) were selected for detailed analysis to examine differences in teacher efficacy and resilience. Other demographic variables were also subjected to preliminary statistical examination; however, the results did not show significant differences. Findings revealed a significant positive correlation between resilience and teacher efficacy, with resilience shown to be a significant predictor. While most background variables showed no significant impact, age was found to significantly affect teacher efficacy. This study provides empirical evidence on the connection between teacher efficacy and resilience in Macao's educational context, offering insights for the development of teacher support systems and professional growth strategies. 教師效能感與抗逆力對教育品質與學生發展具有關鍵影響。前者反映教師對自身教學能力的信念，影響其教學策略、班級經營與學生互動；後者則指教師面對壓力與挑戰時的適應與調節能力。本研究旨在探討澳門非高等教育教師的教師 效能感與抗逆力之現況，並分析不同背景變項下兩者之差異與關聯。 本研究以2024/2025學年非高等教育教學人員作研究對象，採用問卷調查法， 分別運用「教師效能感量表」（TSES）與「抗逆力量表」（CD-RISC）在「騰訊問 卷」平台進行線上問卷調查，對125名澳門非高等教育教師進行測量。數據分析方面，除採用描述性統計外，亦運用獨立樣本T 檢驗與單因子變異數分析，探討 背景變項在教師效能感與抗逆力上的差異；並透過結構方程模型進一步檢驗抗逆力對教師效能感的預測作用。 本研究共蒐集十一項背景變項，包括性別、年齡、婚姻狀況、最高學歷、師資培訓背景、服務年資（含本學年）、學校類別、學校規模、主要任教階段、主 要擔任職務及宗教信仰。考量到篇幅安排及研究焦點在於教師效能感與抗逆力的關係上，參照文獻中較常探討之變項，本研究選擇針對性別、年齡與服務年資（含 本學年）進行詳細分析，作為探討教師效能感與抗逆力差異情形之依據。其餘背景變項亦曾進行初步統計檢視，惟分析結果未呈現顯著差異。 研究結果顯示，大部分背景變項對教師效能感與抗逆力皆無顯著影響，惟年齡對教師效能感具有顯著差異。教師抗逆力與教師效能感之關係呈正相關，且抗逆力具預測效能感之作用。 本研究藉了解澳門教師效能感與抗逆力之間的關聯，為澳門教育環境下教師支持系統與專業發展策略提供參考。

澳門長期線上教學融合教育資源教師的工作壓力與之因應之研究 - Tang, Ieng I. (2025)
This study aims to explore the work stress and coping strategies of inclusive education resource teachers in Macau primary schools during long-term online courses. Based on the findings, the study seeks to understand the characteristics of work stress and coping mechanisms among primary school resource teachers, providing recommendations for future practices and references for relevant educational authorities. The research methodology involved interviewing seven primary school resource teachers, with interview data analyzed through thematic analysis. The findings revealed six sources of work stress for resource teachers in long-term online courses: First, parental and Societal Expectation Stress: Pressure from parental supervision, passive cooperation, and challenges in teaching innovation exacerbate psychological burdens, impacting online teaching effectiveness and teacher-student interaction quality. Second, technological Adaptation and Resource Limitations: Teachers face technological challenges, financial burdens, and environmental disruptions, affecting online teaching quality and efficiency. Third, workload and Career Development Stress: Online teaching intensifies dual responsibilities, peer competition, and salary inequity, worsening occupational stress and job dissatisfaction. Fourth, student Learning Outcomes and Behavior: Students’ technological inadequacies, lack of focus, low cooperation, difficulty in receiving feedback, and emotional issues increase teaching burdens and hinder online interaction effectiveness. Fifth, personal Health and Work-Life Balance: Online teaching exacerbates physical and mental strain, including physical fatigue, role conflict, and pandemic-related anxiety, undermining teaching stability and occupational security. Sixth, policy and Institutional Constraints: Ambiguous policies and poor course arrangements during the pandemic heighten decision-making pressure and psychological strain, diminishing teaching efficacy. In response to these stressors, teachers adopted tailored coping strategies. Finally, based on the findings, this study proposes recommendations for educational authorities, schools, primary school resource teachers, personal well-being, and future research. 本研究旨在探討澳門小學長期線上教學融合教育資源教師的工作壓力和因應的方式，並根據研究結果，了解小學資源教師的工作壓力與因應特性，以作為未來實務之建議及相關教育單位參考。在研究方法上，共訪談七位小學資源教師，並透過主題分析法分析訪談資料。研究結果發現小學資源教師的長期線上教學工作壓力來源有六個：（1）家長與社會期望壓力：家長監督壓力、消極合作與教學創新挑戰加劇教師心理負擔，影響線上教學成效與師生互動品質；（2）技術適應與資源限制：教師面臨技術挑戰、經濟負擔與環境干擾，影響線上教學品質與效能；（3）工作負擔與職業發展壓力：線上教學加重教師雙重任務、同儕競爭與薪資失衡，加劇職業壓力與工作不滿；（4）學生學習效果與行為：學生技術與專注力不足、配合度低、回饋難掌握及情緒問題，加劇教師教學負擔，影響線上互動成效；（5）個人健康與生活平衡：線上教學致教師身心負荷加劇，其中包括生理疲勞、角色衝突與疫情焦慮，衝擊教學穩定性與職業安全感；（6）政策與制度限制：疫情間政策模糊與課程安排失當，加劇教師決策壓力與心理負荷，影響教學效能。而針對疫情期間不同的壓力源，教師採取相對應的壓力因應方式。最後，本研究根據研究結果對教育主管機關、學校單位、小學資源教師、生活方面及未來進行之研究，提出相關建議。

Financial Valuation of Starbucks Ltd. - Vong, Ho Kio (2025)
Financial Valuation of Starbucks Ltd.

CHANGES IN THE CONCEPT OF “HYGIENE” IN THE LATE QING DYNASTY – TAKING MACAU AS AN EXAMPLE - Wong, Si Nga (2025)
“Hygiene”, a “concept” discussed throughout this thesis, is now regarded as a necessary means to ""protect life"". It is generally believed that hygiene has a certain relationship to infectious diseases, and its definition is based on modern Western “hygiene” theory. In fact, the concept of “hygiene” also existed in ancient China, but the definition of “hygiene” differed from that in the West. In order to better distinguish between the two, the following thesis uses the word “wei sheng” for the traditional Chinese concept of “hygiene”. Its meaning refers to how people prevent diseases in their daily lives, including eating habits, daily life, and so forth, in order to achieve the related ideal of longevity, an interpretation that differs from the current definition of hygiene introduced from the West. This thesis will explain the difference between the two. In addition, this thesis uses Macau as a case study and example. As a place that was once colonized by Western countries, Macau has been particularly directly influenced by these modern ideas. Among them, the Western concept of “hygiene” was spread and implemented with the Portuguese management of Macau, especially in the construction of hospitals and measures taken in response to multiple plagues in the 19th century. How did the Chinese in Macau view these Western concepts? What changes did they prompt in Macau? This thesis will mainly discuss four questions. How did hygiene concepts change in China during the late Qing Dynasty? Taking Macau as an example, how did the Chinese view these changes? Did they prompt any conflicts between cultures? What was the relationship between changes in hygiene concepts and measures implemented to handle plagues and epidemics?

Effects of Microplastics on Kandelia obovata: Investigating Stress and Responses for Conservation and Management - Wong, Weng In (2025)
Mangrove resilience to anoxic conditions primarily occurs through adaptations in their root systems. Notably, increased root growth of existing pneumatophores in response to plastic suffocation has been observed in mangroves and can serve as a proxy to assess tree stress. The objective of this study is to determine the impact of varying levels of microplastic pollution on the morphological characteristics of mangrove plants. Fresh Kandelia obovata seedlings were collected from the Cotai Ecological Reserve, cultivated for 27 weeks, and subsequently exposed to polyethylene (PE) particles of 600 μm, 150 μm, and 13 μm in size at concentrations of 5% and 10% (w/w). The wet weight of the plant samples was measured at the beginning and end of the experiment, and morphological characteristics were recorded weekly. Morphological parameters including germination rate, number of leaves, root morphology, and survival rate, as well as environmental conditions (temperature and humidity), were evaluated to determine the influence of microplastic size, concentration, and environmental factors on plant development. Results indicate that smaller microplastics (13 μm) adversely affected the germination rate, leaf production, and survival of K. obovata. Furthermore, a higher concentration (10% w/w) of medium-sized microplastics (150 μm) led to a lower survival rate compared to the lower concentration group. These findings shows the negative impact of microplastic pollution on mangrove species and highlight the importance of addressing plastic contamination for effective mangrove conservation.

澳門教師對融合教育培訓看法之探究 - Wu, Ho I. (2025)
The essence of education, which is 'to foster goodness and rectify the lost,' profoundly reveals that it is about promoting students' strengths and compensating for their shortcomings. The core concept of inclusive education follows this vein, emphasizing acceptance and integration to ensure that every student can learn and grow in the same educational environment, and providing the most appropriate teaching based on the characteristics of the students. However, teachers face many challenges in implementing inclusive education, including a lack of professional knowledge, scarce resources, etc. This study conducted in-depth interviews with frontline teachers in Macau, collecting views on inclusive education from teachers who have never received inclusive education training and those who have received different types of training, elucidating the difficulties they encounter in teaching practice, and their views on the existing training system, in order to further improve teacher training in inclusive education. The results show that most teachers have a positive attitude towards inclusive education and agree with its concept and value, but teachers who have never received and those who have received professional inclusive education training still face many difficulties in actual teaching. Therefore, teachers have expressed the need for inclusive education training to better cope with the challenges in inclusive education. Based on the interview results, two specific suggestions were made for the current inclusive education training: one is to increase targeted short-term training courses and establish a feedback mechanism; the other is to enhance the localization of the curriculum to make the training content more in line with Macau's educational environment and actual needs. This study aims to propose specific plans to optimize inclusive education training by analyzing teachers' actual needs and suggestions, in the hope of enhancing teachers' professional competence and further promoting the development and practice of inclusive education. “教也者，長善而救其失者也”，深刻揭示教育的本質，即發揚學生的優點並彌補其不足。融合教育的核心理念與此一脈相承，強調通過接納與共融，確保每位學生都能在同一教育環境中共同學習與成長，並根據其特質提供最適合的教學。然而，教師在實施融合教育的過程中面臨諸多挑戰，包括專業知識不足、資源匱乏等問題。本研究通過對澳門前線教師進行深度訪談，收集未曾接受融合教育培訓和接受不同融合教育培訓的教師對融合教育的看法、闡述其在教學實踐中遇到的困難，以及對現有培訓體系的看法，以期能夠進一步完善融合教育的師資培訓。 研究結果顯示，大部分教師對融合教育持正面態度，認同其理念與價值，但未曾接受和已接受融合教育培訓的教師，在實際教學中仍面臨諸多困難。因此，教師表達對融合教育培訓的需求，以更好地應對融合教育中的挑戰。 基於訪談的結果，對現行的融合教育培訓提出兩方面的具體建議：一是增加具針對性的短期培訓課程，並建立反饋機制；二是加強課程的本土化，使培訓內容更貼合澳門的教育環境與實際需求。 本研究旨在通過分析教師的實際需求與建議，提出優化融合教育培訓的具體方案，以期能夠提升教師的專業素養，並進一步推動融合教育的發展與實踐。

ANALYSIS OF MICROBIAL CONTAMINATION IN RAINWATER COLLECTION SYSTEMS WITH DIFFERENT ROOF MATERIALS IN MACAO - Xie, Xin Ran (2025)
This study examined the microbial contamination characteristics of three different roof materials (green roof, metal roof, and concrete roof) during rainfall events. Through runoff samples collected from multiple rainfall events in the experimental rainwater collection system model, the pollution characteristics of total colony-forming units, Escherichia coli, and total coliforms were analyzed in combination with water quality parameters such as pH, turbidity, chemical oxygen demand (COD), and electrical conductivity. The study using the Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test and found that the microbial contamination load of initial rainwater was significantly higher than that of subsequent runoff. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare the differences in microbial contamination caused by different roof materials. The results show that the metal roof performed the best in terms of microbial control, while the green roof had the poorest microbial control efficiency. The Spearman correlation analysis revealed that turbidity and conductivity were significantly positively correlated with microbial contamination, confirming that pollutants and nutrient ions are core factors driving microbial proliferation. Moreover, the metal roof exhibited outstanding disinfection efficacy under direct sunlight (microbial survival rate 0.00003% - 0.0004%), its high reflectivity and thermal conductivity working in synergy with UV radiation to destroy microbial DNA, while under shaded conditions, the sterilization efficiency decreased by approximately 100 times. The study suggests that metal roofs should be prioritized for use in water quality-sensitive scenarios. Green roofs need to be equipped with initial rainwater retention and substrate antibacterial improvement, and concrete roofs can enhance their antibacterial ability through hydrophobic surface treatment. The study provides a scientific basis for improving the design of rainwater collection systems in Macau, enriching the research cases of roof runoff pollution in tropical coastal cities, and is of great significance for improving the urban rainwater management system and protecting water environmental quality. 本研究考察了三种不同屋顶材料（绿色屋顶、金属屋顶和混凝土屋顶）在降雨期间的微生物污染特征。通过在实验雨水收集系统模型中多次降雨事件所采集的径流样本，结合 pH 值、浊度、化学需氧量（COD）和电导率等水质参数，对总菌落形成单位、大肠杆菌和总大肠菌群的污染特征进行了分析。研究采用威尔科克森符号秩检验，发现初期雨水的微生物污染负荷显著高于后续径流。采用曼 - 惠特尼 U 检验比较了不同屋顶材料造成的微生物污染差异。结果表明，金属屋顶在微生物控制方面表现最佳，而绿色屋顶的微生物控制效率最差。斯皮尔曼相关性分析表明，浊度和电导率与微生物污染显著正相关，这证实了污染物和营养离子是驱动微生物增殖的核心因素。此外，金属屋顶在阳光直射下表现出卓越的消毒效果（微生物存活率 0.00003% - 0.0004%），其高反射率和热导率与紫外线辐射协同作用，破坏微生物 DNA，而在遮阴条件下，其杀菌效率降低约 100 倍。该研究建议，在水质敏感的场景中应优先使用金属屋顶。绿色屋顶需要配备初期雨水截留装置和基质抗菌改进措施，而混凝土屋顶可通过疏水表面处理来增强其抗菌能力。该研究为澳门雨水收集系统的设计改进提供了科学依据，丰富了热带沿海城市屋顶径流污染的研究案例，对于完善城市雨水管理系统和保护水环境质量具有重要意义。

"DREAM-EATINGTAPIR” ADREAMDETECTIONAROMATHERAPY INTELLIGENTDIFFUSER - Xu, Ying (2025)
With the cross development of neuroscience and artificial intelligence, the bio signal-based environmental adaptive technology has become a research frontier in the field of smart home. In this paper, we propose a smart aromatherapy machine system that can combine brainwave (EEG) monitoring and AI-driven, aiming to achieve dynamic optimisation of the home environment through real-time EEG signal analysis. The study first builds a multimodal data acquisition module to extract the characteristic frequency bands such as α-wave and β-wave to identify the user's relaxation, concentration or fatigue state. Secondly, a lightweight deep learning model is designed to classify EEG signals in real-time and ensure low-latency interaction through edge computing architecture. The system dynamically regulates the aromatherapy machine based on the classification results. Users can self-select a theme in the system according to their preferences or emotions, and then the aromatherapy device releases the corresponding aroma according to the selected theme to help the user fall asleep more easily. During sleep, the system continuously tracks the user's sleep dynamics through an integrated sleep monitoring application, which transmits the data to the device. At the same time, the system collects and analyses detailed data on sleep quality, dream activity and scent adjustment to generate a comprehensive report that is sent to the user's smartphone. This innovative design not only enhances the user experience, but also provides a scientific basis for assessing individual sleep conditions. Current research shows that aromatherapy has a positive effect on improving sleep quality and relieving anxiety symptoms. However, there is still a lack of research on the dynamic adjustment of fragrance based on real-time sleep data. This study aims to fill this gap by developing a system that enables personalised fragrance release based on user preferences and real-time sleep monitoring data, providing users with an unprecedented sleep experience.

INDOOR AIR QUALITY(IAQ) ASSESSMENT IN SEVERAL SITES IN MACAO - Ye, Wen Long (2025)
Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a critical public health concern given that individuals spend approximately 90% of their time in enclosed environments. Poor IAQ has been linked to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular conditions, and cognitive impairment, while improvements in air quality have demonstrated measurable benefits, including enhanced workplace productivity (2 to 7 times greater efficiency) and reduced prevalence of asthma and allergies. This study investigates IAQ across diverse occupational settings in Macao, employing a combination of environmental sampling and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) exposure model to assess health risks associated with prolonged indoor exposure. Field sampling was conducted in five representative workplaces (restaurants, student dormitories, auto repair shops, offices, and parking security rooms), and particulate matter was collected from air conditioning filters to detect heavy metal content in the samples. Subsequently, we applied the PMF model to analyze the pollution sources and the US EPA exposure model to assess health risks and evaluate the carcinogenic risks in the five representative workplaces. The forward matrix factorization (PMF) model identified six major pollution sources: traffic emissions (23.8%, Zn/Sb), building materials (21.6%, Al/Ti), cooking activities (18.5%, Na/Ca), chemicals (15.2%, Ag/B), electronic devices (12.3%, Tl), and outdoor activities (8.6%, Co/Ni). The health risk assessment using the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) exposure model showed that the overall non-carcinogenic risk (HI = 6.16×10^-6) and carcinogenic risk (6.57×10^-9) were below the safety threshold, indicating that its direct health hazard was minimal. However, nickel and chromium were identified as the main contributors to potential long-term risks.This study is currently only a preliminary exploratory study and provides a basis for subsequent research.These findings underscore the necessity for site-specific IAQ management strategies, such as enhanced mechanical ventilation, air filtration upgrades, and occupancy regulations. The study provides policymakers with evidence-based insights to mitigate health risks in high-exposure environments while establishing a framework for future IAQ monitoring in urban settings.

DESIGNING FOR SAFETY: A USER INTERFACE STUDY ON PERSONAL SECURITY APPLICATION FOR WOMEN’S URBAN COMMUTES IN CHINA. - Yi, Qing Xi (2025)
Against the backdrop of the current rapid social and economic development, the scope and duration of urban women's travel activities have expanded significantly. Consequently, personal safety issues, especially violent incidents encountered during travel, have become increasingly prominent. This study focuses on the field of UI design, specifically the development of applications for women's safety, aiming to address the crucial issue of how to customize applications to meet women's safety needs. Although various safety applications already exist in the market, those specifically designed for women are scarce. To this end, we employed a quantitative research method, conducting an in-depth exploration of urban women aged between 18 and 65 through questionnaires, case analyses, and literature reviews. This research aims to design a mobile application specifically targeting urban women aged 18 to 65, with the goal of enhancing their safety and autonomy during travel. The main objective of the study is to use technological means to assist women's travel safety, while emphasizing that technological solutions should be part of a comprehensive approach that includes legal, educational, and other measures to improve women's sense of security. Through function optimization and intelligent design, a user-friendly and efficient interface will be created, enabling women to take immediate action and obtain necessary help and support when facing potential threats. Future work will focus on function optimization and intelligence enhancement, establishing a user feedback loop, and conducting long-term follow-up research, in order to continuously improve and refine the application and further safeguard women's travel safety.

MOND formulation emerging from general relativity - Arraut, Ivan (Modern Physics Letters A, 2025)
In this paper, we demonstrate that the effects of Dark-Matter, partially in the way proposed by the Modified Newtonian Dynamics (MOND), emerge naturally from the standard theory of General Relativity (without any modification) under a new proposed vacuum solution. There is a family of metric solutions able to reproduce the galaxy rotation curves and the relevant scales where the Dark-Matter effects are supposed to appear in a galaxy. This family of solutions deviate from the standard spherically symmetric solution. The proposed formulation, being relativistic by nature, opens the scenario where we can test the relativistic effects attributed to Dark-Matter and having relevance in cosmology. Among such effects, we have gravitational lensing, effects on the CMB scenario and effects on the formation of galaxies.

Personal Story and Public Identity as Axis of Value Response: Lessons on Literacy and Morality from John Henry Newman (1801-1890) and Ma Xiangbo (1840-1939) - Law, Cyril (2025)
In the hype of multi-/inter-disciplinarity, is the voi-ce or voices of theistic religions and the attendant philosophical moral awareness (etymologically bet-ter rendered as conscientização in Portuguese) still meant to be heard? Can classical tales of saints and sinners remain part of the canon of public literacy? How existential is the threat of “organised religions” or otherwise established ecclesiastical structures posed to society when they are accused of attempting to fight proxy crusades against humanitarian enlightenment under the guise of religious literature? Are tenets pro-pounded by scholars like Gavin D’Costa in Theology and the Public Square (2005) to be politely bracketed when discussing perennial values? Values that respon-sible media strive to propagate, particularly the value of human dignity eulogised by the life exemplars of great figures in times of existential crises of whatever magnitude. With these questions in mind, this article will hearken back to the stories of two “grandees” in the Roman Catholic tradition who left their marks on the pages of the development of modern English and Chinese literacy. Newman’s Apologia pro vita sua(1865) is just but one of the tactical devises for his defense of creedal integrity, while Ma Xiangbo engaged in catholicising the Chinese national ethos through educational literacy for close to half a century. We shall phenomenologically draw inspirations from their parallel vision and experience on what lends power to the medium of words and deeds in shaping informed public conscience in regard to the core values of truth, good, and beauty.

Assessing critical thinking disposition through text analysis in traditional Chinese: An empirical study of tourism and gaming undergraduates in Macao - Lam, Carlos Siu; Liu, Yong; Zhang, Yinghong; Wu, Hao (Frontiers in Education, 2025)
Critical thinking disposition (CTD) is increasingly recognized as an important trait in education, reflecting the inclination and habits necessary for addressing complex challenges in today's world. This study assessed the CTD of students enrolled in a tourism and gaming management programme, focusing on two key dimensions: Analyticity and Open-Mindedness. This study was conducted at a university in Macao and involved 65 participants. The students were presented with an article relevant to their major, written in Traditional Chinese, and were asked to provide their opinions on each statement in the article. A rubric was designed to analyze their responses and assess their Analyticity and Open-Mindedness within the CTD framework. The results demonstrated high reliability (Cronbach's α = 0.91) and revealed an association between Analyticity and Open-Mindedness. Using Python programming, the study analyzed the frequency of parts of speech (POS) in students' responses, introducing a novel approach for evaluating CTD in Traditional Chinese. Regression modeling showed that parallel and adversative conjunctions significantly predicted Analyticity, while the frequency of conjunction use varied across Open-Mindedness classifications. These findings highlighted an innovative and objective method for assessing CTD through text analysis, offering promising applications for educational research in Traditional Chinese-speaking contexts.

Assessing critical thinking disposition through text analysis in traditional Chinese: An empirical study of tourism and gaming undergraduates in Macao - Siu Lam, Carlos; Liu, Yong; Zhang, Yinghong; Wu, Hao (Frontiers in Education, 2025)
Critical thinking disposition (CTD) is increasingly recognized as an important trait in education, reflecting the inclination and habits necessary for addressing complex challenges in today's world. This study assessed the CTD of students enrolled in a tourism and gaming management programme, focusing on two key dimensions: Analyticity and Open-Mindedness. This study was conducted at a university in Macao and involved 65 participants. The students were presented with an article relevant to their major, written in Traditional Chinese, and were asked to provide their opinions on each statement in the article. A rubric was designed to analyze their responses and assess their Analyticity and Open-Mindedness within the CTD framework. The results demonstrated high reliability (Cronbach's α = 0.91) and revealed an association between Analyticity and Open-Mindedness. Using Python programming, the study analyzed the frequency of parts of speech (POS) in students' responses, introducing a novel approach for evaluating CTD in Traditional Chinese. Regression modeling showed that parallel and adversative conjunctions significantly predicted Analyticity, while the frequency of conjunction use varied across Open-Mindedness classifications. These findings highlighted an innovative and objective method for assessing CTD through text analysis, offering promising applications for educational research in Traditional Chinese-speaking contexts.
Keywords: critical thinking disposition; educational assessment; text analysis; tourism and gaming education; traditional Chinese

Cord blood cytokines/chemokines linked to delays in toddlers exposed to SARS-CoV-2 prenatally - Kehdi, Renata Castro; Silva, Maria Francilene Souza; Cavalcante, Letícia Régia Lima; Fiorenza, Natália Gindri; Viana, Marylane; Leite, Isabel Bessa; Silva, Bruno Riccelli dos Santos; Assis, Débora Ferreira de; Cortez, Paulo Cesar; Bezerra, Deniele Lós; Motta, Pedro Crosara; Lobo Marques, Joao Alexandre; et al. (Pediatric Research, 2025)
Background: Maternal infections are linked to neurodevelopmental impairments, highlighting the need to investigate SARS-CoV-2-induced immune activation. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of maternal infection on neurodevelopment and investigate whether cytokine and chemokine profiles predict delays at 24 months. Methods: Conducted in Brazil (January 2021–March 2022), this follow-up study included 18 SARS-CoV-2 positive pregnant women at 35–37 weeks’ gestation, 15 umbilical cord blood samples, and blood samples from 15 children at 6 months and 14 at 24 months. Developmental delay was defined using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition, with scores below 90 in cognitive, communication, or motor domains. Results: At 6 months, 33.3% of infants exhibited cognitive delays, 20% communication delays, and 40% motor delays, increasing to 35.71%, 64.29%, and 57.14% at 24 months, respectively. Elevated interferon-gamma and tumor necrosis factor-alpha in cord blood correlated with cognitive delays, while interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, IL-17, and IL-1β were associated with motor delays. Increased C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 10 and other cytokines were associated with communication delays. Conclusion: Maternal SARS-CoV-2 may impact infant neurodevelopment, as early cytokine elevations correlate with delays, highlighting the importance of early monitoring and interventions to reduce long-term effects. Impact: Prenatal SARS-COV-2 infection in pregnant women is linked to developmental delays in toddlers, with cytokine and chemokine changes associated with neurodevelopmental outcomes at 24 months. This study shows the long-term impact of maternal SARS-COV-2 infection on child development, highlighting inflammatory markers like IFN-γ, TNFα, IL-6, IL-8, IL-17, IL-1β, and CXCL10. Identifying specific cytokines correlating with cognitive, communication, and motor delays suggests potential biomarkers for early intervention. Conducted in Fortaleza, Brazil, the study emphasizes understanding local epidemiological impacts on child development, especially in regions with high infection rates. (Figure presented.)

Non-thermodynamic Black Hole Evaporation - Arraut, Ivan; Mehta, Abhishek Kumar (arXiv, 2025)
In this paper, we investigate black hole evaporation from the path integral perspective. We demonstrate that besides the standard thermodynamic modes, there are non-thermodynamic modes of black hole evaporation which contain remnants. The pure thermodynamic process is recovered when the Gauss-Bonnet action is involved. This scenario opens a new window for analyzing the process of black-hole evaporation.
Keywords: High Energy Physics - Theory

Analyzing Consumer Responses to Warwashing Amidst the Russia–Ukraine Conflict: A Comparative Study of Portuguese and Danish Perspectives - Silva, Susana C.; Duarte, Paulo; Kanne, Benjamin (Progress in International Business Research, 2025)
The ongoing Russia–Ukraine conflict has had significant repercussions for businesses, with many scaling back operations in Russia due to international sanctions. However, some companies continue operating there while making superficial gestures to appear supportive of the oppressed side (a practice known as ‘warwashing’). These actions conflict with profit motives and contribute to consumer skepticism and potential boycotts. This study examines how Portuguese and Danish consumers respond to warwashing, aiming to assess if cultural differences influence reactions. A quantitative survey, including nine questions based on literature and key differences between the two countries, was conducted using a deductive approach. Results were analyzed via JMP statistical software, with paired t-tests applied. Findings reveal a significant difference in reactions between Portuguese and Danish consumers, with Danish consumers showing a heightened response, engaging more frequently in impactful actions. This aligns with Hofstede’s cultural model, which portrays Danes as more open to change and expecting transparency. Boycott theory is also supported, suggesting that Danes are more inclined to boycott products and services, while Portuguese consumers show less faith in the effectiveness of such actions. This cross-country comparison reaffirms Hofstede’s Cultural Value Dimensions, providing insight into real-world cultural differences. Additionally, the study highlights the concept of collective action, where individuals avoid certain products or services as a form of protest, revealing variations in the prevalence of this behaviour across different societies.

A study on the architectural features and value of modern Catholic churches in Macau - Wu, Yao; Wu, Yonglan; Pinheiro, Francisco; Miao, Mingrui (Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering, 2025)
The study of Catholic churches in Macau is of significant importance for both architectural heritage conservation and the transmission of cultural values. As religious structures, these churches serve as tangible representations of religious ideology and spiritual essence, thereby embodying the core principles of cultural expression. This paper aims to critically examine the Catholic churches of Macau, exploring their intrinsic values through an architectural research framework that emphasizes three key morphological elements: spatial characteristics, stylistic features, and structural composition. By contextualizing the historical background and architectural attributes, this study sheds light on the multifaceted significance of Catholic church construction in modern Macau, while offering a comprehensive analysis of the intersection, fusion, and coexistence of Eastern and Western cultural influences in this unique locale. Through this investigation, the paper uncovers a range of compelling cultural phenomena, providing insights that may serve as valuable reference points for future practices in architectural heritage conservation in Macau.

METAVERSE MARKETING: HOW THE METAVERSE WILL SHAPE THE DEVELOPMENT OF TOURISM AND PRACTICE,THE CASE STUDY OF MACAU (2025)
"The advent of the metaverse heralds a new era of unparalleled potential within digital ecosystems, significantly transforming industries such as tourism. This study explores the profound changes in tourism marketing induced by the metaverse, particularly through a focused examination of Macau's strategic initiatives. Predicated on the belief that immersive technologies like Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are driving a marketing paradigm shift, this research clarifies the theoretical foundations and practical impacts of metaverse marketing in enhancing the tourism experience. Employing mixed-methods research combining qualitative and quantitative approaches, the analysis showcases Macau's utilization of metaverse marketing to bolster value creation and competitive positioning in the tourism sector. Findings indicate that metaverse marketing profoundly influences consumer behavior, highlighting nuanced consumer journeys within the virtual tourism market. Macau's case illustrates the success of its meta-universe initiatives and benchmarks them against global practices to extract sustainable competitive advantages and strategic insights. The study aggregates the marketing experiences of metaverse practitioners, revealing transformative effects on stakeholders ranging from revelant industries. It notes that while metaverse marketing provides some convenience for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in tourism, it lacks long-term effectiveness. Commending Macau's innovative approach in the meta-universe, the research outlines directions for future efforts and contributes to the burgeoning literature on metaverse marketing, offering actionable recommendations and underscoring the imperative for ongoing innovation in this dynamic digital realm."

THE IMPACT OF ESG-LINKED EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION ON GREEN INVESTMENT IN CHINESE LISTED COMPANIES (2025)
Against the backdrop of a deepening global concept of sustainable development, environmental, social and governance (ESG) elements have gradually risen to become key components of corporate strategic choices. Within the framework of China's ‘dual-carbon’ strategic goal, green investment, as a key path to promote sustainable development, has attracted widespread attention for its intrinsic driving mechanism. This study selects a sample of Chinese A-share listed companies between 2019 and 2023, and systematically analyses the impact of ESG-linked executive compensation on corporate green investment and its mechanism of action. By establishing a multiple regression model and applying the mediation effect and moderating effect analysis method, the following empirical results are obtained: First, ESG-linked executive compensation has a significant positive impact on green investment; Second, Environmental awareness plays a partially mediating role in the relationship between ESG-linked executive compensation and green investment, suggesting that ESG-linked executive compensation not only acts directly on investment decisions, but also indirectly promotes green investment by enhancing corporate environmental awareness; Third, the nature of enterprise ownership and industry characteristics have a significant moderating effect on this effect, compared with private enterprises, ESG-linked executive compensation promotes green investment in state-owned enterprises more obviously; at the same time, the sensitivity of high-pollution industries to ESG-linked executive compensation is higher than that of low-pollution industries, which suggests that ESG-linked executive compensation has a stronger ‘corrective’ effect in industries facing higher environmental risks. To ensure the robustness of the findings, the study was validated by replacing the dependent variable (EPI for environmental investment), replacing the empirical model (Tobit model), and dealing with endogeneity issues (lag analysis and propensity score matching method), all of which yielded results consistent with the underlying research hypotheses.

THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL INNOVATION THROUGH INCUBATION IN CHINA: IMPLEMENTING SDG 8 DECENT JOB AND 17 COLLABORATION NETWORK - Abdullah, Abubakar Sadik (2025)
This study explores the influence of social innovation facilitated through incubation programs on advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 8 Decent Work and SDG 17 Partnerships. Employing a qualitative research approach, the investigation involved analyzing the perspectives of 9 participants from Epark Incubation, representing diverse enterprise. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to examine how social innovation within these incubation initiatives contributes to value co creation and supports the achievement of these SDGs. Out of the initial participants, nine were successfully interviewed, providing rich insights that addressed the core research questions. The qualitative data reveal that the provision of cost-reduction platforms to incubators plays a crucial role in fostering sustainability, which subsequently leads to job creation. This underscores the effectiveness of cost-efficient support mechanisms and providing training through a mentorship in driving decent work and economic growth (SDG 8). Findings also emphasize the importance of digital training, including artificial intelligence (AI) skills, and the enhancement of resource pools to strengthen networks among incubates enterprises. Moreover, the research identifies significant challenges such as funding gaps, cultural frictions, and regulatory barriers. To address these issues, it recommends integrating digital training aligned with current technological trends and navigating policy environments to facilitate easier access to funding for the incubatees. Establishing structured communication frameworks-through workshops, seminars, and benchmarking-can also help mitigate cultural frictions. 3 Looking ahead, the study suggests that future research should focus on diversifying funding sources beyond traditional capital, particularly for technology-driven incubator. Exploring impact investment models, developing crowdfunding platforms tailored for social enterprises, and advocating for government incentives to support social innovation are vital strategies. While the training-to-placement model has demonstrated effectiveness, scaling these programs and adapting them to emerging skill gaps is essential to maintain relevance in a rapidly evolving digital economy.

A Financial Valuation of Nike, Inc. - Almeida, Melissa Sofia Barbosa (2025)
This research focuses on Nike, Inc., an American multinational corporation and global leader in the design, marketing, and sale of athletic footwear, apparel, and equipment. The study executes a financial valuation of Nike with the objective of estimating its intrinsic value and comparing it with the market value as of May 31st, 2023. The analysis combines a review of the company's overall strategic positioning in the industry and its historical financial performance. The methodology involved the reorganization of financial statements, the calculation of key financial metrics (NOPLAT, FCF, ROIC), the estimation of the cost of capital (WACC) using CAPM, and the application of valuation models based on discounted cash flows (Enterprise DCF, APV, DEP). The results imply that, as of May 31st, 2023, Nike's estimated intrinsic value was between $54.94 and $59.23 per share. Comparing this to the market price of $105.26 on the same date, the analysis concludes that Nike shares were significantly overvalued. The sensitivity analysis highlighted the vulnerability of the valuation to changes in the market risk premium and the perpetual growth rate. It is concluded that, despite Nike's strong market position, effective management of external risks, and maintenance of financial discipline are crucial to its future value.

PIXELS OF PERCEPTION: THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF AI-GENERATED IMAGERY - Caldeira, Jorge Gomes Wilson (2025)
Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the way we operate as a society. Generative AI models are especially known for being used to generate synthetic artifacts, such as texts, music, and images. This doctoral thesis explores generative AI's ability to create accurate images from prompt text. Our work aims to prove how generative AI tools are creating images that are remarkably similar in appearance as those created by humans. In addition to the theoretical contributions, this thesis explores broader secondary open questions about generative AI: what implications arise for the perception of what is virtual and non-virtual in our contemporary visual landscape? How does the new nature of interaction with generative AI change human-machine communication? Generative AI tools saw a series of breakthroughs these last years, which led to models that generate texts and images that are increasingly more difficult to distinguish from human- made creative content. As of 2022, Open AI developed and released ChatGPT, a chatbot enabling human users to converse, ask questions, explain concepts, and create new text-based content. However, the capabilities of generative AI went far beyond text generation. For example, gen AI models, Midjourney and DALL-E 3, are specifically designed to create images based on text prompts. These images are artificially created, meaning every screen pixel was produced using AI. Throughout this research, we explore new concepts of creative content generation, perception of virtual and non-virtual, memory, and trustworthiness in our contemporary imagery. Using an interdisciplinary methodological framework, this thesis engages with the creation of synthetic imagery as an opportunity for an infinite source of creativity or a detrimental disruption of contemporary visual culture.

Exploring the Perceived Inclusion of Filipino Domestic Workers in Macao - Chan, Hang Wai (2025)
Inclusiveness has become a critical topic nowadays, serving as a benchmark of a nation and community’s level of civilization. As a core component of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), inclusiveness underscores its global significance in fostering equitable and justice societies. The changing dynamics of Macao households, characterized by both parents working or engaging in shift work, along with an increasingly aging population, have led to a growing reliance on domestic workers. As a result, these domestic workers often develop deep relationships with the children under their care, becoming integral members of the households. According to statistics from the Labour Affairs Bureau in Macao (2024), Filipino non-resident workers comprise the second-largest ethnic group, totaling 30,267 individuals. Of this group, 48% (14,604 individuals) are engaged in domestic work, highlighting their substantial presence in the sector. This study aims to investigate the experiences of the largest migrant working group in the region—female Filipino domestic workers—focusing on their experiences of inclusiveness within both the workplace and the Macao community. Utilizing a quantitative research methodology, the study conducts interviews with 10 female Filipino domestic workers in Macao. These interviews provide valuable insights into their lived experiences, illuminating their perceptions of inclusion within their employed families and society. Additionally, the research examines whether existing laws and regulations facilitate their inclusion in Macao. The results of this study revealed eight key themes and two new models of Perceived Inclusiveness in Domestic Workplace and Community , contributing to a deeper understanding of the inclusiveness experience of Filipino domestic workers in Macao.

MAIN POSITIVE ASPECTS AND CONCERNS ABOUT YOUTH IN MACAO: A QUANTITATIVE CONTENT ANALYSIS OF MULTIPLE PERSPECTIVES - Chan, Pui Ian (2025)
The present research aimed to assess and compare the perspectives of teachers, parents, and youth regarding the main positive aspects and concerns they have about youth in Macao, namely: (1 and 2) What are the main positive aspects/concerns Macao teachers, parents, and youth focus on? And (2 and 3) How aligned are teachers, parents, and youth in Macao regarding the positive aspects/concerns? We applied a quantitative methodology based on a quantitative content analysis of open-ended questions included in the Macao validation (Simões et al., Unpublished report) of the Achenbach System of Empirically Based Assessment (Achenbach, 1991; “what are your concerns regarding your child/your student/yourself”, and “what are the most positive aspects about your child/your student/yourself”). We found alignment regarding positive aspects, with youth, parents and teachers focusing on personality, abilities, and attitudes, and parents additionally on independence. Regarding concerns, there was less alignment. All mentioned academic performance and interpersonal relationships, but parents and teachers also mentioned health, morality, attitudes, and teachers’ class engagement concerns. Teachers and youths mentioned future planning, while only the youth mentioned school activities and facilities, their abilities and character and class rules and assignments. These categories are aligned with development models, including ecological systems theory (Bronfenbrenner, 1994), social learning theory and social cognitive learning theory (Bandura, 1977, 1986), moral development perspectives (Mead, 1928; Gilligan 1933), self-determination theory (Deci & Ryan, 2000) and positive youth development perspectives (e.g., Lerner, 2005). The main practical implications are that (1) youth should have a greater awareness of their physical and mental health; (2) parents should build up a support system to enhance autonomy (3) schools play a crucial role in promoting students’ health by creating a supportive environment; (4) counsellors should promote re-connection between youth and their parents or teachers; and (5) decision-makers should invest in mental health education awareness to diminish the stigma, de-emphasise education strategies based on standardised testing, and address broader social and economic inequalities to reduce disparities and academic pressure among youths, parents and teachers.

GENDER MAINSTREAMING IN CAREER DEVELOPMENT WITHIN THE PUBLIC SECTOR: A CASE STUDY OF THE MACAO PUBLIC SECURITY POLICE FORCE - Chan, Wai Kit (2025)
This dissertation investigates the implementation of gender mainstreaming in career development in the Macao Public Security Police Force, specifically how the institutional policies and socio-cultural contexts interact within and influence careers in a traditionally structured organization. The study utilizes the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) to explore the impact of Attitude, Subjective Norms and Perceived Behavioral Control in influencing career development outcomes. Adopting a qualitative approach, utilizing policy analysis with in-depth interviews to identify gaps in academic studies and assess the effectiveness. Findings demonstrate that while some progress is observed, highly entrenched biases and traditional views of roles remain present and pose significant challenges. Police officers throughout the organization expressed a desire for reducing structural barriers, and enhancing support for employee work-life balance to benefit all personnel. By analyzing the local conditions in Macao and reflecting on relevant global practices in gender mainstreaming, this study concludes that sustainable equality in the workplace requires a balance of institutional and cultural factors, including organizational policies, workplace norms, gender stereotypes and societal expectations. In essence, the study contributes to the multidimensional discussion on how we can all leverage positive practices and offers valuable advice on improving workplace equality.

澳門幼稚園教師和資源教師合作現況調查 - Che, Ka Sin (2025)
This study examines the collaboration between kindergarten teachers and resource teachers in Macau's inclusive early childhood education settings, focusing on the extent of their collaboration, challenges, satisfaction, support needs, and suggestions for improvement regarding collabroation. The study surveyed 53 kindergarten teachers and 15 resource teachers from inclusive kindergartens in Macau. Key findings are: (1) Over 60% of kindergarten teachers and all resource teachers had collaborative experience, and both parties reported they primarily used the ""one teaching, one assisting"" co-teaching model; (2) Over 70% of kindergarten teachers reported less than 30 minutes of weekly discussion time with resource teachers, while 40% of resource teachers reported about one hour per week for discussion with kindergarten teachers ; (3) Both groups identified communication as the main challenge; (4) Primary collaboration areas included case information exchange and teaching strategy discussions; (5) Overall satisfaction was above average, with highest satisfaction in ""positive attitude"" and lowest in ""support system;"" (6) Teachers expressed high support need for professional training and parent training; and (7) Both groups emphasized the key to improve collaboration relates to enhanced communication and more professional training and development. Based on these findings, recommendations were offered with a focus on establishing comprehensive support networks and communication platforms at policy, school, and teacher levels. 本研究旨在探討澳門幼稚園教師與資源教師在學前融合教育環境中的合作現況，包括合作程度、合作中遇到的狀況、合作滿意度、對合作的支援需求、以及對合作的建議。研究採用問卷調查法，研究對象包括澳門參與融合教育計劃的幼稚園中的53名幼稚園教師和15名資源教師。結果顯示，(1) 6成以上幼稚園教師與資源教師有合作經驗;資源教師全部都有與幼稚園教師合作的經驗，雙方教師都認為開展最多的合作教學類型是「一人教學，一人協助」;（2）雙方合作時間有限，7成以上的幼稚園教師表示每週與資源教師討論時間少於30分鐘，而有4成資源教師表示每週討論時間約1小時;(3)雙方教師表示合作時最大的困難是溝通協調;(4)最主要的合作領域是交流個案的基本情況和討論學生的教學策略;(5)兩組教師對合作的整體滿意度高於中等程度，其中「正面態度」維度滿意度最高，「支援系統」維度滿意度最低;(6)教師對專業培訓和家長培訓的支援需求較高;(7)雙方教師都認為「加強溝通」和「增加教師培訓與專業發展」是改善合作的關鍵。根據這些研究結果，筆者建議從政策、學校及教師三個層面著手，建立完善支援網絡、多元交流平臺，並持續提升教師專業能力。

FINANCIAL VALUATION OF PROCTER & GAMBLE CORP. - Chen, Yan Tong (2025)
Procter & Gamble (P&G) was founded in 1837 and is headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA. It is one of the giants of global consumer goods companies. The company has a high reputation in the daily chemical market, with factories and branches in over 80 countries worldwide. Its products from over 300 brands are sold in over 160 countries and regions, including shampoo, hair care, skincare products, cosmetics, baby care products, women's hygiene products, pharmaceuticals, fabrics, home care, personal cleaning products, etc. However, in the context of globalization and the global pandemic, maintaining a competitive advantage in the industry for a long time remains a huge challenge. The article analyzes P&G 's financial data and draws conclusions that will help evaluate its value and future positioning. A comparison between the intrinsic values from three valuation models as of December 31, 2023, will provide valuable information for investors and serve as a reference for the operation and development of other similar companies.

EXPLORING PERCEPTIONS OF ADOLESCENTS’ MENTAL HEALTH: A QUALITATIVE STUDY WITH EDUCATORS, SOCIAL WORKERS, AND MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS IN MACAU - Cheong, Wai Teng (2025)
As suicide and medical consultation rates among local adolescents in Macau rise, their mental health becomes increasingly concerning, highlighting a lack of relevant local research. This qualitative study examines the perspectives of adult helping professionals in Macau regarding adolescents' mental health. It involved semi-structured interviews with 12 professionals, including social workers, teachers, counselors, and psychotherapists. The analysis of the interview data revealed six significant themes impacting the mental health of young people: adult sensitivity to adolescents, excessive online information, the influence of peers or significant others, negative self-image and life experiences, and family and socio-cultural factors. The study's findings highlight the protective role of adult sensitivity to adolescents, the prevalence of excessive online information, the influence of peers and significant others, negative self-image and life experiences, and negative socio-cultural factors in Macau. The study underscores the societal demand for success, the need for family-friendly policies, limited public knowledge about mental health, and the protective impact of adult sensitivity on adolescents' mental health. Recommendations include that the government prioritize adolescents' needs, foster multiple abilities, enhance teachers' understanding of mental health and treatment methods, strengthen the workforce, optimize family-friendly policies, value parent-child time, and integrate emotional education courses into the educational system to boost public awareness of mental health. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners committed to improving the mental health of Macau's youth.

"SPIRITUALITY’S IMPACT ON WORK ENGAGEMENT AND WELL-BEING AMONG RELIGIOUS SISTERS: A CASE STUDY OF COPING STRATEGIES AND SUBJECTIVE WELL-BEING IN THE WORKPLACE" - CHERROPIHTUN (2025)
Spiritual beliefs enhance work engagement because religious and spiritual perspectives influence how individuals perceive their daily circumstances and organize their activities, impacting their overall happiness and satisfaction with life and reinforcing their meaning in the workplace. This study examines the impact of spirituality on work engagement and wellbeing among religious sisters, focusing on their unique workplace dynamics and coping strategies. Recognizing that work serves not only as a means of survival but also as a source of social, organizational, and spiritual experiences that create meaning, happiness, and a sense of purpose. Moreover, research indicates that spirituality plays a significant role in enhancing well-being, leading to higher levels of work engagement, life satisfaction, and flourishing. This research aims to fill a gap in existing literature about the well-being of religious workers and offer insights that benefit both individuals and organizations. Understanding how spirituality, work engagement, and well-being interact can help organizations and contribute to personal overall well-being. This study has adopted qualitative research as the research as methodology. Semi-structured interviews allow for an in-depth exploration of personal experiences and perceptions, providing flexibility for participants to elaborate on their thoughts. Thematic analysis was then applied to each interview to identify and interpret key themes emerging from the data, facilitating a comprehensive analysis of the participants’ insights (Braun & Clarke, 2006). Thematic analysis revealed several key findings: spirituality serves as a source of resilience, provides a sense of purpose, and fosters strong community ties, all of V which significantly enhance subjective well-being. The findings highlight that high levels of subjective well-being are linked to active engagement in spiritual practices and supportive community relationships. The findings suggest that religious organizations should create tailored support programs that address the specific needs of individual religious sisters, including mental health resources, opportunities for spiritual growth, peer support groups, and regular retreats. This research contributes to the understanding of the unique challenges faced by religious sisters and underscores the importance of integrating spirituality into workplace practices, offering valuable insights for religious communities and policymakers.

Regulatory Sandboxes in the Financial Sector in Macao - Chio, U. Ian Rowena (2025)

EXPLORING MACAU CULTURAL HERITAGE THROUGH PATUÁ LANGUAGE WITH THEATRE GROUP DÓCI PAPIAÇÁM - Choi, Kit I. (2025)
Macanese Patuá, a Creole language of Macau, also known as "Dóci Língu di Macau", crafted by Macanese people with different cultural backgrounds such as Portuguese, Malay, Cantonese, English, and Spanish, has been forgotten over time and is almost unknown to local new generations. This research aims to explore the historical and social relevance of Patuá, emphasising its rise, evolution, and fall in Macau society. In addition, the study will use a Macanese theatre group as a case study, Dóci Papiaçám di Macau, created by creole Macanese thespians who speak Patuá and wish to continue to use the language and promote their cultural heritage. They offer yearly public performances of Patuá theatre around May. The ensemble integrates multilingual features into performances, humorously interpreting cultural differences and societal themes, earning local acclaim and support, effectively advocating for Macanese Patuá through art.

The Relationship of Parenting Styles on Mental Health: Looking at the Mediation of Resilience among University Students in Macao - Fong, Hio Wa (2025)
The suicide rate has been increasing these decades. A good mental health could prevent people from committing suicide. Parents are the ones whom we spend most of the time with. How parents treat us does have an impact on both our development and mental health. However, some people can always see the positive side of things and expect things to turn out well. Therefore, the present study aims to examine if resilience would mediate the relationship between parenting styles and mental health in bachelor students. A cross-sectional research method was used in this study. Data were collected through Google Forms. The sample consists of 110 Bachelor students in Macau, with 46 males (42%) and 64 females (58%). According to the findings of the study, the mediating role of resilience in the relationships between parenting styles and mental health were found to be not significant. However, bachelor students who perceived their mothers as authoritative parenting style were found to have better mental health. While higher resilience was found to have less impact on the mental health of bachelor students. This study has pointed out the importance of different parenting styles on bachelor students' mental health and further proves the positive influence of resilience towards mental health. There is a need to cultivate the resilience of bachelor students to help them better equip themselves for stressful situations and cope with crises. Workshops or interventions are also needed for parents to teach them better parenting skills and knowledge, so that the mental health of their children could be enhanced by that.

L'ORÉAL'S INTERNATIONAL STRATEGY: THE SUCCESS AND CHALLENGES OF LANCÔME BRAND IN THE CHINESE MARKET - Guan, Xin Tong (2025)
his study analyzes the effectiveness of Lancôme's localization strategy in the Chinese market, and explores how international brands can win recognition and achieve sustainable development in a highly competitive market. Against the backdrop of a fast-growing Chinese cosmetics market that is facing the challenges of rising local brands, shifting consumer preferences, and digital marketing, the study employs the Howard Sheth model, combined with in-depth interviews with 16 female consumers, to analyze their purchasing decisions and feedback on localization strategies. The study finds that Lancôme's technological attributes and social media communication have significantly improved brand perception, but the issues of cultural adaptation and price sensitivity still need to be optimized. Consumers generally perceive its high-end technology positioning as contradictory to local needs, and suggest differentiated pricing, deepening of local cultural elements, and emotional marketing to enhance affinity. The conclusion suggests that international brands need to find a balance between ""high-end technology"" and ""local affinity"", and respond to the complex challenges of the market through flexible pricing, in-depth localization and upgrading of the omni-channel experience.

Western Fast Food Market Satisfaction Survey in Macau: the case of Jollibee - Hong, Xiao Yang (2025)
This dissertation investigates consumer satisfaction with the Philippine fast food chain Jollibee in the highly competitive and multicultural Macau market. The study adopts a mixed method approach, combining semi-structured interviews with ten consumers (residents and non-local tourists) to analyze the important factors driving satisfaction. The results show that service quality, especially employee efficiency and the organization of events (such as birthday parties), has a significant impact on satisfaction. However, language barriers and cultural differences when ordering food pose challenges to non-local customers. Although Jollibee's core products (especially fried chicken) are appreciated by many respondents for their taste and freshness, the menu lacks diversity. It is not localized enough to meet Macau's unique Chinese-Portuguese fusion dining preferences fully. Price sensitivity is very significant, and Jollibee is often considered by customers to be more expensive than competitors such as McDonald's, which affects their value perception. Therefore, promotional strategies, especially experiential activities, should show effectiveness and cultural resonance. Finally, the study proposed suggestions on improving service quality, menu localization, strategic pricing, and culturally sensitive promotions to improve Jollibee’s positioning in the Macau market and provide a reference for other Western fast food brands to develop in the Macau market.

TO EXPLORE THE EXPERIENCE OF MACAU YOUNG PEOPLE PERCEPTION OF USING FOUL LANGUAGE - Iun, Keng In (2025)
Foul language is a common phenomenon in our daily lives. In the modern time, it is no longer a novelty in using foul language. However, the subjective impression of foul language as uncultured or rude is no longer rare. With the popularity of people speaking foul language in their daily life, especially we are witnessing more and more young people in Macau using foul language to communicate in different context. This study aims to explore the experiences of Macau youth in using foul language. This study adopts semi-structured interviews with study participants, and analyze what they understand and perceive as foul language in different certain situations in the context of Macau. Findings of this study indicate that foul language plays a role in emotional expression and relationship building, which are essential element of counselling service. Even with this factor, participants still felt that the use of foul language was more effective only when the client used than in other situations.

Ecosystem services from nature-based solutions: Assessment and valuation of mangroves in macao - Jiang, Tao Sheng (2025)
Nature-based Solutions (NbS) offer a sustainable approach to mitigating climate change and biodiversity loss while delivering socio-economic benefits. This study examines mangroves as a key NbS in Macao, assessing their ecosystem services and economic valuation through a hedonic pricing model. Despite their limited spatial coverage, Macao's mangroves provide critical services, including coastal protection, carbon sequestration, and habitat provision, yet face threats from invasive species and urbanization. The research employs a hedonic pricing model to analyze the relationship between property prices and proximity to mangrove ecosystems in Macao Peninsula, Taipa, and Coloane. Results demonstrate a statistically significant negative correlation, indicating that residential properties closer to mangrove areas command higher prices, reflecting the premium placed on ecological amenities. The model explains 65.0% of price variation, underscoring mangroves' influence on real estate values. This study contributes a novel valuation framework for mangrove ecosystem services in high-density coastal cities, integrating ecological and economic perspectives. The findings support evidence-based policy recommendations for mangrove conservation and sustainable urban development. Future research should expand the model to incorporate additional variables and longitudinal data to enhance predictive accuracy and applicability across diverse coastal regions. Biodiversity assessment and conservation planning in highly urbanized environments. 基于自然的解决方案（NbS）为缓解气候变化和生物多样性丧失提供了一种可持续的方法，同时还能带来社会经济利益。本研究以澳门的红树林为例，探讨其作为关键的基于自然的解决方案的作用，通过享乐定价模型评估其生态系统服务和经济价值。尽管澳门红树林的分布面积有限，但它们提供了重要的服务，包括海岸保护、碳封存和栖息地提供，然而却面临着外来物种入侵和城市化的威胁。 研究采用享乐定价模型，分析澳门半岛、氹仔和路环地区房产价格与红树林生态系统距离之间的关系。结果表明，两者之间存在显著的负相关关系，即靠近红树林区域的住宅价格更高，这反映了人们对生态设施的重视。该模型解释了 65.0%的价格差异，突显了红树林对房地产价值的影响。 本研究为高密度沿海城市的红树林生态系统服务提供了一种新的估值框架，将生态和经济视角相结合。这些发现为红树林保护和可持续城市发展提供了基于证据的政策建议。未来的研究应扩展该模型，纳入更多变量和纵向数据，以提高预测的准确性和在不同沿海地区的适用性。在高度城市化环境中进行生物多样性评估和保护规划。

RECREATING THE 1990S LAI CHI VUN SHIPYARDS: VR APPLCATION IN HERITAGE CONSEVATION - Kong, Wai Peng (2025)
The shipbuilding industry in Macau, a significant cultural and economic pillar for over 150 years, faces challenges of fading memory and structural decay, particularly at the Lai Chi Vun Shipyards, a site protected under Macau’s Cultural Heritage Protection Law. This study adopts virtual reality (VR) technology to digitally reconstruct the 1990s shipyards, offering users an immersive exploration of historical structures and traditional shipbuilding practices. The VR prototype was evaluated in two distinct settings—outdoors at Song Veng Shipyard and indoors in a study room at the University of Saint Joseph (USJ) in Macau—using a combination of user recruitment, task-based interactions, and data collection through questionnaires, interviews, and observations. Results revealed that users appreciated the cultural significance and visual authenticity of the VR experience but identified limitations such as physical discomfort, text-heavy content, and a lack of interactivity. Outdoor settings generally provided a more positive experience, while indoor conditions exacerbated cybersickness symptoms. Recommendations for future iterations include enhancing interactivity, incorporating multisensory elements, and improving ergonomic design to maximize educational and cultural impact. This study highlights the potential of VR as a tool for preserving and promoting Macau’s maritime heritage while addressing key areas for refinement.

我城的集體記憶：澳門民間藝文活動如何形塑地方認同 - Lei, Cheok Ieng (2025)

A STUDY OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF SMART POLICING IN MACAU: AN ASSESSMENT OF ITS ADOPTION AND CHALLENGES - Leong, Sio Mui (2025)
This dissertation examines the implementation of smart policing in Macau, focusing on the adoption and challenges of facial recognition technology within the Macau Urban Electronic Surveillance System. As Macau pursues its smart city ambitions, the integration of advanced technologies into law enforcement has become a central strategy for enhancing public safety and operational efficiency. However, the actual acceptance and use of these technologies by frontline police officers remain underexplored. The study adopts a mixed-methods approach. documentary analysis of government policies and strategic documents provides an overview of Macau’s smart policing initiatives and the legal and infrastructural frameworks supporting them. The core of the research is a quantitative survey of Macau police officers who have direct experience with the facial recognition system. The survey is structured around the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), with additional attention to compatibility and perceived legal knowledge. The results reveal that performance expectancy and perceived legal knowledge are the strongest factors influencing officers’ adoption of facial recognition while effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions and compatibility are less influential. Practical challenges were discovered through the Macau police officers.

澳門普通學校教師特教專業知能與融合教育態度之關係混合研究 - Lio, Hang Io (2025)
This study investigates the relationship between special education professional competence and inclusive education attitudes among general school teachers in Macao, aiming to understand how these factors influence the development of inclusive education in the region. 310 valid questionnaires were collected from local general school teachers through surveys incorporating 14 background variables, analyzed using statistical methods including independent samples t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and ordinal one-way ANOVA. Qualitative interviews further supplemented the findings. The results show: 1. General school teachers in Macao demonstrated a relateively high level of ""overall special education competence"" and its five dimensions: ""general special education knowledge,"" ""curriculum design competence,"" ""instructional design competence,"" ""assessment competence,"" and ""classroom management competence."" 2. Teachers showed positive ""overall inclusive education attitudes"" across three dimensions: ""cognitive,"" ""emotion,"" and ""behavior."" 3. Nine background variables showed significant differences in special education competence: ""age,"" ""teaching experience,"" ""special education experience,"" ""participation in inclusive education courses offered by the Education and Youth Affairs Bureau (EYAB),"" ""participation in EYAB workshops/seminars,"" ""pre-teaching relevant experience,"" ""level of support from special education professionals,"" ""frequency of colleague communication regarding inclusive students,"" and ""number of inclusive students in the class with the highest inclusion rate."" 4. Five variables show significant differences in attitudes toward inclusive education: ""age,"" ""teaching experience,"" ""special education experience,"" ""pre-teaching relevant experience,"" and ""frequency of colleague communication on inclusive student issues."" Part of the qualitative interview results are consistent with the quantitative results. Additionally, Pearson Correlation Analysis was conducted, revealing a positive correlation between special education professional competence and attitudes toward inclusive education. Qualitative findings revealed additional insights: 1. Teachers identified five influencing variable for special education competence: ""gender,"" ""educational background,"" ""professional specialization,"" ""job position,"" and ""teaching stage."" 2. Teachers identified four variables impacted inclusive education attitudes: ""educational background,"" ""professional specialization,"" ""job roles,"" and ""number of inclusive students in the class with highest inclusion rate."" 3. ""Personality traits"" was a critical factor in teachers’ inclusive education attitudes: teachers with more positive, open, and patient dispositions showed stronger inclusive education attitudes. 4. ""Teacher-student relationship"" positively influenced both competence and attitudes, with better relationships correlating with higher proficiency and more favorable attitudes. Qualitative data primarily served to support and enrich the quantitative findings. 本研究以澳門普通學校教師為研究對象，探討教師在融合教育中的特教專業知能及融合教育態度之相關情況，並瞭解特教專業知能及融合教育態度對澳門融合教育發展之影響，從而由受訪者提供可提升相關因素的建議。研究一共收集了310位本澳普通學校教師的資料，14個背景變項，使用獨立樣本t檢定，單因子變異數分析、單因子等級變異數分析進行統計。結果顯示： 1）本澳普通教師在「整體特教專業知能」及其「一般特教知能」、「課程設計知能」、「教學設計知能」、「課程評核知能」及「班級經營知能」五大層面也屬於較好程度。 2）本澳普通教師在「整體融合教育態度」及其「認知」、「情感」及「行為」三大層面也屬於較好程度。 3）「年齡」、「教學年資」、「特教年資」、「修讀教青局所舉辦融合教育課程進修」、「修讀教青局所舉辦有關的講座/工作坊」、「任教前相關經驗」、「特殊教育專業人員的支援程度」、「就融合生問題而與同事溝通時間頻率」及「任教班級中最多融合生的班級之融合生人數」等九個背景變項在特教專業知能中呈顯著差異。 4）「年齡」、「教學年資」、「特教年資」、「任教前相關經驗」及「就融合生問題而與同事溝通時間頻率」等五個背景變項在融合教育態度中呈顯著差異。 而質性訪談有部分結果與量化結果相似，因此質性能解釋量化的情形。此外，亦通過獨立皮爾遜積差相關分析進行統計。結果顯示：特教專業知能與融合教育態度相互呈正相關。 再者，在質性訪談結果中有不同的發現，結果顯示： 1）本澳普通學校教師認為「性別」、「學歷」、「專業背景」、「擔任職務」、「任教階段」等五個背景變項在特教專業知能中有影響。 2）本澳普通學校教師認為「學歷」、「專業背景」、「擔任職務」、「任教班級中最多融合生的班級之融合生人數」等四個背景變項在融合教育態度中有影響。 3） 「人格特質」是影響教師融合教育態度的其中一個決定性因素，越正面積極、開放性態度越高及越有耐性，在融合教育態度上越正面。 4） 「師生關係」可能是影響教師特教專業知能及融合教育態度的其中一個決定性因素，即師生關係越好，特教專業知能及融合教育態度越好。 而質性所得出之結果主要是用來支撐及補充量化研究的結果之發現。

Sustainable Tourism Practices in Macau from Operators Perspective: Challenges and Opportunities - Lok, Pou Ieng (2025)
This dissertation investigates the challenges and opportunities for implementing sustainable tourism practices in Macau from the perspective of tourism operators. With Macau's economy heavily reliant on its vibrant tourism industry, particularly the gaming sector, the rapid growth has led to significant environmental and social impacts, raising concerns about long-term sustainability. This study aims to identify the barriers preventing operators from fully embracing sustainability, such as high implementation costs, a perceived lack of robust governmental support, and insufficient knowledge among stakeholders. Concurrently, it explores the potential avenues for sustainable tourism development, including enhanced collaboration, improved financial incentives, and strengthened environmental legislation. Through qualitative interviews, the research provides a comprehensive understanding of the current landscape. The findings reveal that while operators acknowledge the importance of sustainability, practical and policy-related hurdles persist. The study concludes with actionable recommendations for policymakers and tourism operators to foster a more sustainable and resilient tourism sector in Macau, capable of withstanding global shocks and ensuring long-term prosperity without compromising its unique cultural and natural assets. 本論文調查了實施的挑戰和機遇 從旅遊經營者的角度看澳門的可持續旅遊實踐。 隨著 澳門的經濟嚴重依賴其充滿活力的旅遊業，特別是 遊戲行業的快速增長給環境和社會帶來了重大影響， 引起對長期可持續性的擔憂。 這項研究旨在確定障礙 阻止運營商充分接受可持續性，例如高實施率 成本，被認為缺乏強大的政府支援，以及知識不足 在利益相關者中。 同時，它探索了可持續的潛在途徑 旅遊業發展，包括加強合作，改善財政激勵措施， 並加強了環境立法。 透過定性訪談， 研究提供了對當前格局的全面瞭解。 這 調查結果顯示，雖然運營商承認可持續性的重要性， 實際和政策相關的障礙持續存在。 這項研究以可操作的結論 對決策者和旅遊經營者的建議，以促進更可持續的 澳門有彈性的旅遊業，能夠抵禦全球衝擊和 在不損害其獨特的文化和自然的情況下確保長期繁榮資產

MANAGEMENT ADJUSTMENTS FOR PREFABRICATED COMPONENT USING IN FIT-OUT WORKS: CASE ANALYSIS AND RECOMMENDATIONS - Ma, He (2025)
The purpose of this thesis is to assess how the use of prefabricated components alters management practices in fit-out projects and to propose effective adjustments based on real-world evidence. Focusing on the renovation of the Venetian Cotai Arena in Macau, conducted between January and October 2024, this study aims to help project managers anticipate and overcome the unique challenges introduced by prefabrication, especially in areas such as supply chain coordination, cost control, quality assurance, workforce management, and communication. Driven by rising labor costs and growing quality demands in Hong Kong, Macau, and Mainland China, prefabricated construction has emerged as a promising yet complex solution for interior fit-out projects. Despite its theoretical advantages—such as time efficiency and standardized quality—this research finds that practical management issues can offset these benefits if not properly addressed. The study adopts a qualitative case study approach, drawing on stakeholder interviews, internal meeting records, and dynamic cost analysis to investigate management failures and derive actionable insights. The findings reveal that delays in prefabricated material production and delivery were the root cause of construction inefficiencies. These delays disrupted work sequencing, led to labor idle time, and triggered costly overtime during final phases. Inadequate supplier capacity and outdated production processes contributed to this problem, while poor quality control caused dimensional mismatches and on-site rework. Cost analysis confirmed that rework expenses reached over MOP 22 million, while material and labor costs also significantly exceeded the original budget. Labor inefficiencies—driven by untrained workers and uncoordinated instructions—added further financial and scheduling pressures. Warehouse mismanagement and unclear material labeling further delayed installation work and increased operational overheads. The study concludes that prefabrication success is contingent not only on technical design but also on the implementation of proactive management strategies, including early supplier engagement, accurate production planning, effective logistics labeling, and structured site-level authority. This thesis contributes practical guidance for future projects by demonstrating how targeted management adjustments—based on real case data—can reduce cost overruns, improve coordination, and increase overall project efficiency when using prefabricated components.

FINANCIAL VALUATION OF MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL - Ng, Chi Long (2025)
Marriott International, Inc. (Marriott) is a worldwide company that operates, franchises, and licenses a diverse portfolio of hotels, residential properties, timeshares, and other lodging options across various brands, catering to multiple price levels and service standards. Currently, Marriott operates in the U.S. & Canada segment and the international segment, including Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific, the Caribbean, and Latin America. The major business segment is the U.S. & Canada, representing 80% of the consolidated net sales in 2023. To pioneer the development in the industry, Marriott has to expand its international operations to diversify geographic revenue streams and reduce dependence on the U.S. & Canada markets. Maintaining its competitive advantage is a constant challenge due to the intense competition in the global hospitality industry and the sector’s sensitivity to economic, political, and social changes. Understanding how these factors affect both the industry and Marriott is crucial for accurately assessing Marriott’s intrinsic value and its future positioning. Comparing the intrinsic value derived from three valuation models with Marriott’s market share price as of December 31, 2023, will offer valuable insights for investors.

COMPUTERIZED EMOTIONS CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM BASED ON FACIAL EXPRESSION RECOGNITION USING IMAGE PROCESSING AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TECHNIQUES - Qian, Cheng (2025)
Facial expression recognition is a key topic in computer vision, playing a crucial role in non-verbal communication. With the rapid development of artificial intelligence, significant progress has been made in improving recognition accuracy and generalization abilities. Traditional methods often suffer from low precision and poor generalization, while deep learning models have substantially advanced the field. However, deploying deep and complex models on different platforms remains challenging due to their high computational demands and frameworks. Hence, developing an efficient, real-time, and lightweight facial expression recognition system is critical. This study focuses on creating an efficient, accurate, and lightweight real-time facial expression recognition system with an emphasis on cross-platform deployment. It integrates various deep learning and optimization techniques to demonstrate flexibility across platforms. In this context, this study evaluates the performance of 10 advanced CNN models (VGG16, VGG19, ResNet50, etc.) on the facial expression dataset FER2013. YOLOv8 combined with ResNet50 achieved 70.56% accuracy on FER2013, outperforming YOLOv8 alone by 2.1%. Multi-module fusion models (MobileFaceNet, IR50, HyViT, SE) achieved an accuracy of 92.58% and 74.8% on the RAF-DB and FER2013 datasets, respectively, showing superior performance in ablation experiments. Given the significant impact of data quality on model performance, this study performed data cleaning on the FER2013 dataset, resulting in a 3.25% accuracy improvement for the YOLOv8 + ResNet50 model, which reached 73.81%. The high-resolution RAF-DB dataset, with fewer errors, led to improved performance, achieving 92.56% accuracy with the fusion model. A multi-purpose facial expression recognition system, VISTA, was developed using Python and PyQt5. The system supports multiple data formats and provides real-time emotional feedback, thus enhancing its usability for both research and practical applications. Furthermore, the fusion model was quantized using the OpenVINO toolkit, reducing its parameters by 75% while maintaining an accuracy of 91.17%. Inference speed was improved, and XGrad-CAM was employed to enhance model interpretability, revealing that the YOLOv8 + ResNet50 combination more effectively captured facial features. Finally, the high-performance model was successfully deployed on Intel CPUs, NVIDIA GPUs, and embedded devices Raspberry Pi 4B, demonstrating the portability and flexibility of the VISTA system across various platforms. This research provides promising solutions for applications in human-computer interaction, affective computing, and real-time emotional analysis, with significant advancements made in improving system real-time performance, accuracy, and cross-platform deployment capabilities. It contributes to the development of facial expression recognition technology and lays the foundation for its widespread future applications in fields such as smart healthcare, business analytics, education, and mental health.

Nature exposure and well-being in Macao - Sazonova, Anastasiia (2025)
This dissertation investigated the impact of nature exposure, namely access to green elements, and time spent outdoors on well-being, specifically experiences of positive and negative affect and flourishing, in Macao. Drawing on existing literature, the study proposes the following hypotheses: H1: Access to green elements has a positive relationship with positive affect. H2: Time spent outdoors moderates the relationship between access to green elements and positive affect, in that more time spent outdoors will strengthen the relationship. H3: Access to green elements has a negative relationship with negative affect. H4: Time spent outdoors moderates the relationship between access to green elements and negative affect, in that more time spent outdoors will weaken the relationship. A quantitative methodology utilising cross-sectional self-response questionnaires was employed for data collection. The measures used were pre-validated and translated into Chinese through a rigorous translation and back translation process. The final sample consisted of 740 participants from different industries in Macao. The results highlight the significance of integrating natural elements in daily life to promote flourishing and positive affect. The implications of these findings, both in theoretical and practical terms, are thoroughly discussed. The findings offer valuable insights for the implementation of the biophilic practices by counsellors, educators, health professionals, urban planners, employers and other decision makers.

FACTORS INFLUENCING THE PROGRESSION OF FEMALE EMPLOYEES IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR IN MACAU - Sun, Weng Hong (2025)
This research examines aspects that influence career development for women in the public sector in Macau. The combination of local customs and what remains from Portuguese rule in Macau has led to a special society that influences how gender is dealt with in public institutions. While nations promise gender equality, women do not hold many leadership positions in their government agencies. To conduct this study, qualitative research using semi-structured interviews was performed with 12 female public sector staff, some in leadership positions and some aiming for them. Analysis of interview data shows that cultural norms, organizational structures and new technological trends together block women from advancing at work. It appears that strong cultural habits about gender keep valuing women’s domestic duties over professional goals, supporting the belief that top management should be mostly male. Women in these sectors which are largely male, are doubted about their ability to lead. Organizational barriers, including opaque promotion practices, gender-biased recruitment, lack of mentorship, and limited access to gender-sensitive leadership development programs, further impede women's career advancement. Even though work-life balance policies exist in the handbook, managers often ignore them and consider them a hindrance for women hoping to move ahead.In parallel, the study explores how digital transformation—the so-called "Internet+" era— offers both opportunities and challenges for women in the public sector. Although digital tools improve skills and career paths, poor training often keeps women from gaining from these resources. The impact of digitalization brings out more gender inequality, because women find it harder to access major leadership roles in high-tech sectors. To tackle these different problems, the dissertation recommends strategies such as running gender-focused mentorship programs, making sure work-life balance policies are properly enforced, increasing transparency during promotions and launching digital skill training just for female employees. Equally importantly, it stresses the need for shifts in cultural values together with new policies, encouraging campaigns to raise awareness and welcoming new leadership models opposed to patriarchy. The research, by considering Macau’s special setting, helps advance the debate on gender equity in governance and provides useful tips for supporting inclusive leadership paths in societies with similar characteristics.

The Social Impact of Media Communication in Large-Scale Sports Events – A Case Study of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games - Takashi, Suda (2025)
The Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games established themselves as a unique worldwide sports event, which took place in 2021 without spectators after a year-long delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The media became the sole information distributor about the Games because there were no live spectators present at the events. Academic research about the Paralympic movement showed substantial growth since the London 2012 as media attention alongside public interest expanded. Research about the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics faces limited availability because of immigration and infection control measures combined with spectator restrictions. There is insufficient research about the social consequences of the Paralympic media coverage especially from the viewpoint of people with disabilities. This study analysed the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics through qualitative methods to understand media communication effects on Tokyo and Aichi Prefecture residents with disabilities. Four main themes emerged through reflexive thematic analysis of semi-structured interview dataset which included: 1) the duality of the media, 2) the suspension between the medical and social models, 3) Japanese culture and the human rights movement, and 4) Paralympian decoded. By comparing with previous research on media perception among Japanese non-disabled people, this study revealed that people with disabilities viewed the Paralympic media coverage with both critical and objective perspectives by acknowledging its benefits and challenges. People with disabilities demonstrated little optimism regarding how the media could improve public disability awareness. The study also revealed that Paralympians carry diverse and widely recognised social meanings within disability communities and that a fundamental mismatch exists between disability goals and mainstream media representations, which tend to simplify disability into one-dimensional categories. This study established a social framework that recognised and respected the diverse differences within the disability population, rather than using reductionist classification systems.

突破選擇困難：澳門35-40歲成年人對決策的體驗及對社工的啟示 - Tam, Kuai San (2025)
As individuals reach 35, they often find that others no longer view them as young. Various theories of adult development suggest that the shift into middle age officially begins at 40. This stage is seen as a transitional period leading toward middle age, commonly referred to in our context as the ""35-year threshold"" or ""35-year crisis."" Therefore, the transformations and significant decisions faced by those aged 35 to 40 deserve attention to better understand the support necessary for a smooth transition into middle age. Research on those in the 35 to 40 age bracket is limited in many regions. This study seeks to identify the needs of early adults within this age group in our area, utilizing qualitative methods. By conducting in-depth interviews about the life experience of the interviewees and starting up writing the stories with the dimension of phenomenological pedagogy, we aim to capture participants' subjective experiences, shedding light on the psychological aspects of their decision-making during pivotal life events. In total, 20 participants aged 35 to 40 from our region were invited to contribute to this study. After three months of interviews and five months of analysis, the research identified four key factors influencing their decision-making attitudes toward major life events: a primary focus on family considerations, a perceived urgency to enact changes before turning 40, a pursuit of stability, and a desire for self-actualization while letting go of rigid expectations. Additionally, based on participants’ insights regarding support systems for Macau adults in this age group, five recommendations were proposed: enhancing family welfare policies, regular reviews of housing policies, promoting life education and diversified development for youth, addressing workplace stress and fostering continuous professional development, and increasing awareness of mental health. These measures aim to provide better support for individuals navigating life transitions or challenges. In summary, the insights gathered from participants provide important implications for adults, government bodies, and social workers regarding the services needed. This research underscores the essential support services for those aged 35 to 40 and suggests the creation of more customized programs and resources. 當踏入35歲後在別人眼裡已不再年輕，在許多成人發展理論定義上則認為踏入40歲後才算中年階段，35歲後正要開始步向中年的過渡時期，國內更稱為「35歲門檻」及「35歲危機」，所以35至40歲這個年齡階段的生活遇到的轉變和重大事件決策歷程，從而了解那些支援能讓這個年齡階段能順利過渡至中年階段，亦是值得進行探討及研究。 不同地區亦較少對35至40歲這個年齡人士進行研究，本研究為了解本澳35至40歲成年早期人士的需要，研究會採用質性研究，以深度訪談了解受訪者在研究題目當中有關的生活體驗，並以教育現象學作分析，期望從受訪者主觀表述其經驗，以了解35至40歲成年人士對於生活中重大事件的決策深層心理意涵與其真實想法。 本次研究共邀請20位本澳35至40歲之成年人士為對象，經過3個月的訪談及歷時5個月進行探討及總結，研究分析得出這個年齡階段之人士，他們面對重大事件作出決策取態的結果有以下四大重要元素：本澳35至40歲成年早期人士首先以家庭角度出發，其次認為時間不多需要在40歲前作出轉變並且追求穩定的生活，追求自我價值及放下執着。 另外，從受訪者提及如何支援本澳35至40歲之成年人的生活，共歸納出五項建議：完善家庭福利措施、定期檢視房屋政策、青年生命教育及多元發展、在職人士壓力及持續進修發展、促進心理健康的關注，讓他們能更有支援的情況下應對生活的轉變或挑戰。 最後，從各位受訪者的建議中整理及歸納，為成年人、政府相關單位及社會工作者在服務提供相關啟示，更能補充35至40歲這個年齡階段人士的生活所需之服務，以及作出更合意的支援方案與服務資訊作參考。

CONSUMER PERCEPTIONS OF BEVS IN MACAU: A PERCEPTION STUDY OF TESLA VEHICLE OWNERS - Tang, KeRui (2025)
This study examines consumer perceptions of all-electric vehicles in Macau, focusing on Tesla owners. As the Macau Special Administrative Region (MSAR) pursues its long-term carbon reduction strategy, adopting BEV is a key step towards sustainable urban mobility. However, consumer attitudes and behavioral responses to BEV in Macau's unique high-density urban environment remain underexplored. This study adopts the extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT-2) model with the addition of the “technological show-off” (TS) dimension to explore how Tesla owners perceive the challenges and opportunities of adopting BEV. This study used a qualitative methodology to conduct in-depth interviews with ten Tesla owners in Macau through semi-structured interviews and unstructured quantitative assessments. Data were analyzed across multiple UTAUT-2 dimensions, including Performance Expectancy, Effort Expectancy, Social Influence, Facilitating Conditions, Hedonic Motivation, Price Value, Habit, and the added factor of Technology Show-Off. The findings suggest that Tesla owners in Macau value their vehicles' convenience, efficiency, and technological sophistication, with a particular focus on Autopilot, acceleration, and low maintenance costs. However, issues such as limited charging infrastructure, service accessibility, and technology learning curve remain. Social status and identity are influential factors, especially in a compact and socially connected urban environment like Macau. By examining the experiences of EV users, this study fills a gap in the existing literature. It provides practical insights for policymakers and manufacturers aiming to accelerate the diffusion of BEVs. The study concludes that consumer perceptions are critical for practical benefits and emotional fulfillment for the continued growth of the electric vehicle market in Macau and similar regions.

EXPLORING COPING STRATEGIES FAMILY MEMBERS OF PROBLEM GAMBLERS IN MACAU – A QUALITATIVE STUDY - Wong, Hio Fong (2025)
Legalizing gambling has brought numerous advantages to Macau, including employment opportunities, economic growth, improved quality of life, and accelerated urban development. While these macro-level benefits are evident, the industry has also significantly impacted local families and communities. In particular, the initial discovery of a family member's gambling problem inflicts immeasurable harm on the household, and the coping strategies adopted by affected family members critically influence their relationships with the gambler and the overall trajectory of the family unit. This qualitative study, conducted in collaboration between the University of Saint Joseph (USJ) and SKH 24-hour online gambling counseling service (SKH-24H), employed semi-structured interviews to explore the coping strategies of family members of problem gamblers. Nine participants were interviewed, and thematic analysis revealed eight key coping strategies: (1) Bailing out The Problem Gambler, (2) Maintaining Status Quo of the Family, (3) Help Seeking in Macau Community, (4) Coping by Self-Regulation, (5) Coping by Engagement, (6) Coping by Withdrawal, (7) Tolerance and (8) Seeking Psychiatric Consultations. The study aims to enhance the understanding of local gambling counseling professionals regarding the coping strategy employed by Macau families dealing with problem gamblers. By aligning intervention strategies with the lived experiences of these families, the findings can inform more effective, family-focused approaches to service delivery. Furthermore, the research provides insights for government agencies into the real-world challenges faced by families affected by problem gambling, offering evidence-based recommendations for evaluating and revising existing regulations to mitigate the adverse effects of the gambling industry on Macau's households. "

An Empirical Assessment of Public Servants' Integrity in the Public Sector of Macao - Wong, Hio Nam (2025)
This study provides an empirical assessment of public servants’ integrity in Macao’s public sector, exploring how integrity is perceived, practiced, and promoted amid Macao’s unique administrative and socio-cultural context. Drawing on in-depth, semi-structured interviews with ten public servants from diverse departments and hierarchical levels, the research adopts a qualitative approach guided by the Theory of Public Service Motivation (PSM). The findings reveal that integrity fundamentally prioritizes public interest above personal gain, grounded in honesty, self-discipline, and ethical commitment. While organizational missions and formal codes offer guidance, individual values, professional ethics, and personal motivation are central to upholding integrity. Key enablers include mission-driven values, ethical leadership, supportive organizational culture, non-monetary incentives, and recognition. However, integrity is undermined by inconsistent ethics training, weak supervision, ineffective reporting mechanisms, and cultural factors such as close social networks and fear of retaliation. The effectiveness of mechanisms, such as internal regulations, anti-corruption agencies, and ethics training, varies across departments, often hindered by procedural gaps and societal norms. The study concludes that sustaining integrity in Macao’s public sector requires strengthening ethics education, enhancing leadership and culture, improving internal systems, and addressing systemic and societal risks. Limitations include the small, non-generalizable sample and focus on qualitative insights. Recommendations are targeted at policymakers, the supervisory institution, the Commission Against Corruption (CCAC), and institutional leaders for future reforms.

A PHILOSOPHICAL COMPARISON OF THE AESTHETICS OF FRENCH NOUVELLE CUISINE AND KAISEKI CUISINE - Wong, Lok Io (2025)
This dissertation conducts a comparison of French Nouvelle Cuisine and Japanese Kaiseki Cuisine, exploring the similarities and differences of both cuisines and reflecting how cultural values, philosophical aspects, and historical influences have shaped contemporary dining experiences. In the examination of both cuisines, it takes into consideration aspects such as sensory experience, plating, and their underlying philosophical principles to demonstrate the interaction between aesthetics and culture particularly in relation to the culinary arts. French nouvelle cuisine was influenced by the Enlightenment, and this type of Western cuisine highlights a focus on texture and balance in flavor, emphasizing freshness, innovation, and intellectual artistry. Kaiseki cuisine inherited the tradition of the Japanese tea ceremony and is essentially rooted in Zen Buddhism. Some of the core aesthetic concepts in Kaiseki cuisine include seasonality, simplicity, and the aesthetic concept of wabi-sabi, emphasizing how humans should live in harmony with nature. As these two types of cuisines are compared, there will also be a comparison of Immanuel Kant’s aesthetics and how it is related to French nouvelle cuisine, as representative of a Western philosophical view and this will be compared to Japanese aesthetics in general and, in particular, the views on aesthetics of the Japanese philosopher Daisetsu Teitaro Suzuki, as representative of an Eastern philosophical view and its relation to culinary arts.

In-vehicle interface design for passengers experience optimization of Level 4 autonomous vehicles - Wu, Jun Ting (2025)
This research focuses on the design of the in-vehicle interactive interface of L4 autonomous driving vehicles, aiming to explore how to improve the passengers experience by optimizing the interface interaction mode. With the development of autonomous driving technology, the shortcomings of existing interface design in transparent feedback, emotional adaptation and multi-modal interaction support have become the main obstacles affecting user trust and satisfaction. Based on user research and prototype design, the study proposed an interface design scheme that combines transparent feedback with emotional perception, focusing on real-time display of vehicle behaviour logic and dynamic adaptation to passenger emotional state. In user testing, the system showed some improvements in trust enhancement and ease of use, especially in response to complex road conditions and emergencies. Although this research has provided some preliminary results through innovative design, there are still limitations in technical implementation and scope of application. Future research will focus on sample diversification and accuracy improvement of emotional perception technology to further improve the design scheme and expand its application scenarios.

EMPLOYEE INCENTIVE MECHANISM IN ENTERPRISES: A CASE STUDY OF GF COMPANY - Yang, Jia Zheng (2025)
This dissertation investigates the effectiveness and shortcomings of employee incentive mechanisms at GF Advertising Company, with a specific focus on the motivation of staff. Amid rapid changes in the advertising and printing materials industry, employee satisfaction and retention have become increasingly critical. However, the company’s current incentive system—characterized by an overreliance on material rewards and lack of development opportunities—has struggled to meet employees’ evolving needs. To explore this issue, the study adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining a quantitative survey of 115 employees with qualitative interviews of 7 selected staff members. The research draws upon Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory to analyze employee motivation and satisfaction. The findings reveal key challenges in four areas: insufficient economic incentives, weak organizational environment support, underdeveloped career growth mechanisms, and ineffective work-related motivation. Based on the results, the dissertation proposes a multi-layered, localized incentive model that incorporates both intrinsic and extrinsic motivators. Recommendations include optimizing communication platforms, strengthening team culture, refining promotion pathways, and diversifying reward structures to better align with employee expectations. The study concludes that a strategic and human-centered incentive mechanism not only improves employee engagement but also enhances organizational performance. Future research could further expand the sample scope and explore long-term impacts of different incentive models across companies and regions.

HOUSEHOLD FOOD WASTE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT IN DONGGUAN: RECOMMENDATIONS FROM REGIONAL PERSPECTIVES - Ye, Ru Qi (2025)
With the steady growth of the global population and the acceleration of the urbanization process, the carbon footprint generated by the food production system and thus by food waste (40 % of food is wasted globally) has a significant impact on the environment and for sustainable development. Dongguan, as a new first-tier city in China, has attracted many internal migrants from China to work and settle down. A large proportion of the city's waste is composed of organic waste, and household food waste is an important part of it. This may be due to the fact that families purchase too much food, set aside excessive amounts, or fail to consume the food before it spoils, resulting in a waste of resources that comes along with significant environmental impacts, especially in the form of greenhouse gas emissions. This research adopted the method of questionnaire survey. The questionnaire aims to gain an in-depth understanding of the food waste perception and situation in Dongguan’s household sector and its families. By covering questions in three aspects: the demographic information of the respondents, their views and perceptions of local food waste, and their behavioral habits, the questionnaire investigates the current situation and local challenges of household food waste in families (such as the situation of leftover dishes, the proportion of food waste in household garbage, etc.), analyzes the causes of waste (factors in links such as purchasing, cooking, and storing), explores the wider public's awareness and attitudes towards food waste (degree of attention, views on reduction measures, environmental awareness, etc.), and clarifies the behavioral habits of dealing with leftover food (handling methods, willingness to purchase discounted food, etc.), and analyzes the relationship between demographic characteristics and food waste, so as to provide a basis for formulating targeted strategies. The survey results show that there exists a significant degree of food waste in Dongguan households. The public's awareness and behavioral habits regarding food waste vary greatly, and there is much room for improvement and enhancement. It is urgent to strengthen publicity and education work, which will help improve the public's understanding of the harm of food waste and enhance their environmental awareness. The research finds that although the Dongguan Municipal Government attaches great importance to the problem of food waste, the current policies mainly focus on the catering industry. In terms of the governance of food waste at the family level, relevant measures still need to be further strengthened. This study analyzes the factors affecting household food waste generation and comprehensively reviews and evaluates relevant policies aimed at mitigating food waste in Dongguan. On this basis, this study provides preliminary suggestions for policymakers and government departments on regional and national level, aiming to point out the direction for future related research and work planning.

Application of Deep Learning Techniques for Air Quality Prediction: A Case Study in Macau - Lei, Thomas; Cai, Jianxiu; Cheng, Wan-Hee; Kurniawan, Tonni Agustiono; Molla, Altaf Hossain; Nadzir, Mohd Shahrul Mohd; Kong, Steven Soon-Kai; Chen, L.-W. Antony (Processes, 2025)
To better inform the public about ambient air quality and associated health risks and prevent cardiovascular and chronic respiratory diseases in Macau, the local government authorities apply the Air Quality Index (AQI) for air quality management within its jurisdiction. The application of AQI requires first determining the sub-indices for several pollutants, including respirable suspended particulates (PM10), fine suspended particulates (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and carbon monoxide (CO). Accurate prediction of AQI is crucial in providing early warnings to the public before pollution episodes occur. To improve AQI prediction accuracy, deep learning methods such as artificial neural networks (ANNs) and long short-term memory (LSTM) models were applied to forecast the six pollutants commonly found in the AQI. The data for this study was accessed from the Macau High-Density Residential Air Quality Monitoring Station (AQMS), which is located in an area with high traffic and high population density near a 24 h land border-crossing facility connecting Zhuhai and Macau. The novelty of this work lies in its potential to enhance operational AQI forecasting for Macau. The ANN and LSTM models were run five times, with average pollutant forecasts obtained for each model. Results demonstrated that both models accurately predicted pollutant concentrations of the upcoming 24 h, with PM10 and CO showing the highest predictive accuracy, reflected in high Pearson Correlation Coefficient (PCC) between 0.84 and 0.87 and Kendall’s Tau Coefficient (KTC) between 0.66 and 0.70 values and low Mean Bias (MB) between 0.06 and 0.10, Mean Fractional Bias (MFB) between 0.09 and 0.11, Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) between 0.14 and 0.21, and Mean Absolute Error (MAE) between 0.11 and 0.17. Overall, the LSTM model consistently delivered the highest PCC (0.87) and KTC (0.70) values and the lowest MB (0.06), MFB (0.09), RMSE (0.14), and MAE (0.11) across all six pollutants, with the lowest SD (0.01), indicating greater precision and reliability. As a result, the study concludes that the LSTM model outperforms the ANN model in forecasting air pollutants in Macau, offering a more accurate and consistent prediction tool for local air quality management.

Industrial heritage tourism in Macau: reinventing the Iec Long firecracker factory - Zuev, Denis; Hannam, Kevin; Zhao, Jethro (Tourism Geographies, 2025)
Macau is a Special Administrative Region (SAR) located in the south of the People’s Republic of China (PRC). Settled by the Portuguese it was the last European colony in Asia. Over the centuries as a maritime city Macau saw its fortunes coming as trade boomed in the 16–17th centuries; however, with the establishment of Hong Kong as a port city the importance of Macau decreased. The authorities resorted to gaming and tourism as key sources of tax revenues eventually in 2000s becoming ‘Las Vegas’ of Asia. As the pandemic hit China and the rest of the world, Macau was isolated, gaming revenues declined temporarily and the Macau authorities decided to diversify its offer of tourist attractions. Although Macau has already been recognised as a UNESCO heritage site with a well-preserved historic core since 2005, two new attractions were developed to help reposition Macau as a city with a rich cultural history. The two new sites that opened in 2023 were the long abandoned Iec Long firecracker factory (益隆炮竹厂) in Taipa and dilapidated Lai Chi Vun shipyards in Coloane. Iec Long firecracker factory is unique, as it blends an interface with nature (green space dominated by the century old trees), a public space and interpretative displays of how the industrial activities were performed. In this paper we use mixed methods approach to provide a ‘thick description’ of Iec Long firecracker factory as an interplay of affective and material elements. Drawing on the existing literature we further advance how assemblage thinking can contribute to analysis of industrial heritage sites as tourist attractions. Additionally, drawing on the first-hand empirical data and the context of ongoing urban revitalization in Macau we scrutinise heritage-tourism dichotomy and demonstrate how we can better understand the meanings of heritage co-created from below.

Solving the dark energy problem via symmetry constraints - Arraut, Ivan (The European Physical Journal C, 2025)
We derive the vacuum energy from the zero-point quantum fluctuations after imposing a natural constraint emerging from the rotational symmetry inside the de-Sitter metric. The constraint imposes a maximum azimuthal angle for each frequency mode emerging from the vacuum. In this way, the shorter the wavelength of the mode, the larger will be its suppression. The same result is derived subsequently by using the Friedmann–Lemaitre–Robertson–Walker (FLRW) metric. We then make a physical interpretation of the physical effects from the perspective of pair creations over the vacuum, where the mentioned constraint emerges, limiting then the maximum angle which each pair generated from the vacuum can rotate with respect to each other during their short existence.

CUSTOM PROCEDURES ON TRADE IN MACAO CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES - Cheang, Hon Meng (2025)
This dissertation examines the customs procedures governing trade in Macao, a Special Administrative Region of China, focusing on their role in facilitating trade within the Greater Bay Area. Adopting a qualitative approach, the study conducts in-depth interviews with stakeholders, including local businesses, customs officials, and trade experts, to identify factors affecting the efficiency and transparency of customs processes, such as clearance, licensing, and declarations. The research is significant as it enriches the theoretical framework of trade facilitation in Macao, where literature is scarce, and provides practical insights for customs authorities and traders. Findings reveal bureaucratic complexities, technological gaps, and documentation burdens, particularly impacting small and medium enterprises. Three additional factors influencing trade efficiency—regional integration, stakeholder coordination, and policy alignment—are identified. The study recommends streamlined licensing, enhanced digital systems, and SME-focused training to foster sustainable trade development. These insights offer actionable guidance for policymakers and practitioners to strengthen Macao’s position as a regional trade hub.

EXPLORING ENTREPRENEURIAL PERCEPTION AND CHALLENGES OF AFRICAN STUDENTS ABROAD: THE CASE OF MACAU. - Fati, Mamadu (2025)
This paper explores the entrepreneurial perception and challenges of African students from Portuguese-speaking countries (PSC) in Macau, adopting a qualitative research method and conducting in-depth interviews with ten students from this geographic area to understand their Perceptions and challenges towards the entrepreneurial field. This study is significant because it enriches the theoretical guidance framework. Moreover, it helps future researchers utilize valuable data for their research in the field with many samples. The insights obtained from this paper might inform policymakers and universities about the necessary framework to support international students, especially African students from Portuguese-speaking countries, in a way that can encourage them to pursue entrepreneurial opportunities. In-depth interviewing is the primary method for data collection. The thematic content analysis (TCA) An approach is utilized to analyze the data from interview transcripts. Existing research illustrated students from this geographic area's entrepreneurial perception and challenges, as well as their aspirations and intentions as planned after their study. From the point of view of the researcher's interview with his sources, the researcher discovered that there is no opportunity for them to pursue an entrepreneurial career in Macau, which means that, after their study, they will return to their motherland. III In conclusion, based on the findings, understanding the entrepreneurial perception and challenges Students from this geographic area can help to provide support from the local Government and Universities, based on their field of study in a way they can have the opportunity to explore practical experience in a working environment for their personal and professional development.

Vasotocin and oxytocin modulation of the endocrine and behavioral response to an aggressive challenge in male Siamese fighting fish - Fusani, Bianca; Ramos, Andreia; Cardoso, Sara D.; Gonçalves, David (Hormones and Behavior, 2025)
Aggressive behavior is an adaptive trait present across all taxa. However, the neuroendocrine mechanisms regulating it, particularly in fish, are not well understood. Oxytocin (OXT) and arginine vasotocin (VT) are known modulators of aggression, but their actions remain controversial. This study tested the possible modulation of endocrine and behavioral responses to an aggression challenge by these nonapeptides in Siamese fighting fish, Betta splendens, a species known for its intrinsic aggressiveness. Male B. splendens were injected with different dosages of either Manning compound or L-368,899, VT and OXT receptor antagonists respectively, and were exposed to a mirror challenge for 30 min. While all fish displayed high levels of aggression toward their mirror image, no differences were observed between control-injected and treatment fish. However, blocking VT inhibited the post-fight increase in plasma levels of the androgen 11-ketotestosterone (KT). To further investigate this result, testis tissue from males was incubated with and without VT and Manning compound, and KT levels were measured after 180 min. Results showed a direct effect of VT on in vitro KT secretion, indicating the presence of VT receptors in the testes of this species. Overall, the study does not support a modulatory role of VT or OXT in aggressive behavior, although VT might be implicated in the regulation of peripheral androgen response to aggression in B. splendens.

EXPLORING THE FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE CAREER DECISION- MAKING AMONG HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS: A CASE STUDY COMPARING PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SCHOOLING IN VIETNAM - Ho, Thi Huyen (2025)
The rising number of students working in different fields after graduation has prompted the Ministry of Education and Training in Vietnam to emphasize the establishment of school counselling focused on career orientation to help students make a right career choice and to enhance workforce quality in response to the labor market. Career orientation is crucial for providing guidance, information, and clarity to assist individuals in career decision-making. This research aims to identify factors influencing career decision-making among high school students in Vietnam. This qualitative study uses semi-structured interviews with a convenience sample of grade 12 students from a public high school in Nghe An Province and a private high school in Dak Nong Province, Vietnam, to explore the factors influencing their career decision-making. This study identified how different factors influence the career choice of students, including individual, family, school, peers, and social trends. Two major influencing factors in career decision-making among the grade 12 students are: 1) academic performance and 2) family socioeconomic status. The results also show the differences among the factors between the public and private schooling, in which students in private school tend to have greater autonomy in their career decision-making, influenced by family aspirations, supportive educational resources and share openly with peers about career choices, while in public school students often prioritize job security and financial concerns due to limited exposure and guidance. This study contributed important information for students to make their career decisions seriously, stressing the role of school in career orientation in providing career information, career programs, and school counselling services to avoid the common situation of “too many chiefs, not enough Indians.

CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS’ PARTICIPATION IN EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES IN MACAU: ASSOCIATION WITH ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT AND MENTAL HEALTH - Hou, Weng Ka (2025)
This study amid rising academic pressures and youth mental health concerns, this study investigates how extracurricular activities (PECA) shape academic and psychological outcomes in Macau—a high-stakes educational context. Focusing on 6–18-year-olds, it examines two dimensions: activity type (sports, academic, cultural and artistic) and number of activities, addressing gaps in age-specific and cross- informant analyses within East Asian settings. Using the Achenbach System (ASEBA) in Macau, data from parents and adolescents were analyzed via ANOVA and independent t-tests. ANOVA revealed optimal academic performance (F[3, 456] = 12.34, p < 0.001) and fewer behavioral issues in students with 3 PECA. T-tests showed sports reduced adolescent self- reported depression (t[210] = -3.21, p = 0.002), while academic activities boosted parent-reported grades (t[198] = 4.57, p < 0.001). Cultural activities had limited mental health impacts but enhanced language/math skills. This study underscores the importance of extracurricular activities (PECA) in Macau’s unique cultural and academic context, by validating the ""optimal balance"" hypothesis, it suggests that participating in three well-chosen activities—spanning sports, arts, and academics—yields the best outcomes. The findings emphasize the need for culturally sensitive and developmentally appropriate PECA programs tailored to Macau’s students. This research provides valuable insights into optimizing PECA types and quantities, fostering academic success, emotional resilience, and personal growth, while supporting the holistic development of well-rounded young citizens.

Valuation of Estee Lauder - Huang, Zhi Ting (2025)
The Estée Lauder Companies (EL)is a global leader in prestige beauty. They build consumer-beloved brands that manufacture, market, and sell exemplary skin care, makeup, fragrance, and hair care products, and serve as a steward of luxury and prestige brands globally. Today Estée Lauder's skin care, makeup and fragrance products is sold in more than 150 countries worldwide. But sustaining its competitive advantage represents an everyday challenge, due to the fierce competition that characterizes the beauty and cosmetics industry worldwide. Therefore, the thesis analyzed the financial statements of Estée Lauder Companies for the past five years (2019-2023) and forecast the business performance for the next decade (2024-2033). After that, it will calculate the intrinsic value of Estée Lauder as of December 31, 2023, and compare it with the stock market price on that day. This comparative analysis is helpful for judging whether the market price of the company's stocks truly reflects its actual value. Another objective is to explore and analyze the internal and external factors influencing the company and its future strategic planning, thereby providing important information for the sensitivity analysis of stock prices. Through this analysis, the potential impact that these factors and strategies may have on the future price of stocks can be reflected, providing an important basis for investors' decision-making. 雅诗兰黛公司（EL）是全球高端美妆领域的领导者。他们打造深受消费者喜爱的品牌，生产、营销和销售卓越的护肤品、彩妆、香水和护发产品，并在全球范围内担任奢侈品和高端品牌的守护者。如今，雅诗兰黛的护肤品、彩妆和香水产品在全球 150 多个国家销售。 但要保持其竞争优势是一项日常挑战，因为全球美容和化妆品行业竞争激烈。因此，本文分析了雅诗兰黛公司过去五年（2019 - 2023 年）的财务报表，并预测了未来十年（2024 - 2033 年）的业务表现。之后，将计算截至 2023 年 12 月 31 日雅诗兰黛的内在价值，并将其与当天的股票市场价格进行比较。这种比较分析有助于判断该公司股票的市场价格是否真正反映了其实际价值。另一个目标是探索和分析影响公司及其未来战略规划的内部和外部因素，从而为股票价格的敏感性分析提供重要信息。通过这种分析，可以反映出这些因素和策略可能对股票未来价格产生的潜在影响，为投资者的决策提供重要依据。

CONSUMER PERCEPTIONS OF ELECTRIC AIRCRAFT: INVESTIGATING THE DRIVERS OF ACCEPTANCE AND ADOPTION - Ke, Wanchun (2025)
This study investigates and analyzes the behavioral intentions of consumers in Guangdong region towards All-Electric Aircraft (AEA) within the theoretical framework of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), and uses Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) and SmartPLS to analyze the collected data. According to the existing literature, TPB and SEM have not been used to evaluate the electric aviation market in Guangdong region. The purpose of this study is exploratory, adopting a quantitative research method. Structured questionnaires are distributed to approximately 100 consumers in Guangdong to explore their overall cognition of electric aircraft, the factors influencing such cognition, and their willingness to use electric aircraft. The study finds that consumers’ attitude, subjective norm, and environmental concern have a positive impact on their adoption of the new AEA technology, while perceived behavioral control and perceived risk are found to have no effect on consumers. The results of this study provide valuable insights for airlines, aircraft manufacturers, and policymakers. By understanding consumers’ concerns and preferences, airlines can formulate more effective marketing strategies to promote electric aircraft. Aircraft manufacturers can utilize these findings to improve the design and performance of electric aircraft and address consumers’ concerns. Policymakers can formulate relevant policies to support the development and adoption of electric aircraft and promote the sustainable development of the aviation industry.

EXPLORING CURRENT SITUATION AND CHALLENGES OF THE ANNUAL TRAINING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS IN MACAO - Lei, Lai Si (2025)
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the discrepancy between the current situation of primary school teachers' participation in ‘professional development activities’ and the professional development objectives in the law in the light of the implementation of the current Private Framework law and the operation of the Cultura n.º 88/2018, and to examine the effectiveness of the Cultura n.º 88/2018. In order to achieve this research objective, this study adopted qualitative interviews with two school managers, six primary school general teachers, and one legislator, and then summarised the findings using thematic analysis. It was found that the respondents generally believed that the number of professional training courses offered by DESJ had increased after the Secretary's Directive was issued, which was helpful to school-based training and to teachers in catching up with the number of hours of training, and that the practicality of the training courses had increased to a certain extent based on the different positions of the workplace. On the other hand, due to the different job positions, there were different views and opinions on the practicality and coverage of the training programmes. It was also found that the general concern of the respondents on ‘Quadro geral do pessoal docente das escolas particulares do ensino não superior’ and ‘Despacho do Secretário para os Assuntos Sociais e Cultura n.º 88/2018’ was more inclined to the situation of the hourly allowances and activity enrolment in the professional development provisions, and they were not concerned about the relevant laws and regulations that support the purpose of professional development. Meanwhile, the study found that the majority of primary school teachers are still at the stage of solving teaching challenges in their ‘professional development process’. The study found that the top-down management decision-making model is not only the key to hindering the ‘professional development process’, but also the cyclical factor that makes it difficult to improve the current situation and the difficulties of teachers in teaching, so this paper tries to summarise the findings and make suggestions on the way forward from different perspectives and ways. Therefore, this paper also tries to summarise and suggest a pathway from different perspectives and approaches. This paper consists of six chapters, which are divided into four parts, namely, Background, Literature, Interviews and Analysis, and Conclusion and Recommendations. It will be researched and investigated at both macro and micro levels, and finally, through the combination of macro and micro perspectives, it will be summarized to give feasible and operational recommendations. In the first part of the development of education in Macau from a more macroscopic viewpoint in the Introduction, Background of the Study, and the law of Macau education introduction. 1. Historical background (Brief historical background of the development of education in Macao)Political perspectives (comparison of the differences between the professions political environments) 2. Industry Views and Reactions (Newspaper) 3. Reality situation (‘Quadro geral do pessoal docente das escolas particulares do ensino não superior’ and ‘Despacho do Secretário para os Assuntos Sociais e Cultura n.º 88/2018’) 4. Legal perspectives (restrictions and impacts on education under the current legal system) The second part explores the definition of professional development in education with different literatures, including the comparison of the differences of the profession in different political environments, as well as the Macao situation in comparison with it, the definition and the development path. It analyses the legislative background of the ‘Quadro geral do pessoal docente das escolas particulares do ensino não superior’ and ‘Despacho do Secretário para os Assuntos Sociais e Cultura n.º 88/2018’, and the comparative analysis of the meaning of the ‘Order of the Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture No. 88/2018’. The third part of the interviews and analyses examines the current situation of the annual professional development training for primary school teachers in Macao after the implementation of ‘Quadro geral do pessoal docente das escolas particulares do ensino não superior’. ‘Despacho do Secretário para os Assuntos Sociais e Cultura n.º 88/2018’ after the introduction of the current situation and challenges to the professional development of frontline stakeholders, and even to the actual teaching or management operations. A qualitative research methodology was adopted and subdivided into three sections: 1. In-depth interviews were conducted with a total of eight stakeholders at different levels, including six serving senior elementary school teachers and two school managers. Also a current member of the Legislative Assembly. 2. Collected and excerpted a total of nine elementary school teacher dissertation studies from St. John's University. 3. Summarize and analyze the interviews and excerpts, presenting in an objective and microcosmic manner and actual situations faced by teachers under the Macao's political system relevant laws and regulations, and to respond to and substantiate the points made in Part I of the literature review. The fourth part, Conclusions and Recommendations, finally combines the literature review, interviews and analysis, and integrates both macro and micro perspectives, as well as borrowing and citing existing legal and philosophical perspectives, to compile legal, feasible and practical suggestions on pathways that may be able to break through the challenges, improve the situation of teachers, and help to promote the professional development of teachers. "本研究旨在探究不同背景的小學教師囿於現行《私框》法律的實施，以及《88/2018司長批示》運作下參與「專業發展活動」的現況與法律中的專業發展目標之差異情形，以及檢視《88/2018司長批示》成效。為達此研究目的，本研究採用質性訪談2位學校管理層、6位小學普通教師、1位立法者，再以主題分析法歸納研究結果，發現受訪者中普遍認為司長批示出台之後，教青局的專業培訓課程數量有所增加，這對於校本培訓以及教師追趕培訓時數上有一定幫助，另一方面，基於工作崗位不同的關係，對培訓課程的實用性、涵蓋範圍等各有不同見解和意見，並發現受訪者中普遍對《私框》和批示的關注點，較為傾向於對專業發展條文中的時數津貼與活動報名的情況，且對於輔助專業發展目的的相關法律法規並不關心。同時透過研究發現，現時大部分小學普通教師在「專業發展進程」中仍停留在解決教學挑戰階段，研究發現由上而下的管理決定模式，既是當前教師認為妨礙「專業發展進程」的重要關鍵，也是難以改善現況，造成教師教學困難的循環因素，故本文亦嘗試以不同之角度和方式給予總結和路徑建議。 本文共六章，主要分為四個部分，分別為背景探討、文獻探討、訪談及分析以及總結和建議。並將會分別透過宏觀和微觀兩個層面去作研究和探討，並最終以宏觀與微觀兩個角度結合，透過總結歸納，給出可行和具操作性的路徑建議。 本文首先會採取以下四種角度，分別在緒論、研究背景、前題導讀中，以較為宏觀視角去剖析本澳教育發展的輪廓： 1. 大致歷史脈落（本澳教育發展歷史背景簡述） 2. 業界意見及反應（新聞報章） 3. 現實狀況 （《基力》、《課框》的影響） 4. 法律觀點（現行法律制度下對教育的限制和影響） 而第二部分則以不同文獻探討教育專業發展之定義，包括不同政治環境下專業的差異對比，以及與之對比澳門狀況，定義和發展路徑。分析《非高等教育私立學校教學人員制度框架》簡稱《私框》的立法背景、《第88/ 2018號社會文化司司長批示》簡稱《88/ 2018司長批示》的內涵對比分析。 第三部分訪談及分析，研究澳門小學教師年度專業發展培訓在《非高等教育私立學校教學人員制度框架》簡稱《私框》實施後的現況，《第88/ 2018號社會文化司司長批示》簡稱《88/ 2018司長批示》出台後對前線持份者的專業發展、乃至實際教學或管理操作的現況和挑戰。則採用質性研究法，並細分為三個環節： 1. 分別對六名現職資深小學教師、兩名學校管理層等共八名不同位階的持份者，以及現任立法會議員作深度訪談。 2. 收集及節錄共九份聖若大學小學教師論文研究。 3. 對訪談及節錄作總結和分析，以客觀和微觀方式呈現教師在澳門的政治體制和相關法律法規下所面臨的實際狀況，對應和證實第一部分文獻探討中所得出的觀點。 第四部分總結和建議，最終結合文獻探討、訪談及分析，結合宏觀與微觀兩個角度，並借用和引用現行法律、哲學等角度，整理出有可能可以突破挑戰、改善教師處境、有助推動教師專業發展的合法、可行和具操作性的路徑建議。"

PAWMATCHPRO: INTERACTIVE APPLICATION FOR PET ADOPTION IN MACAO - Lin, Wei Hui (2025)
This study systematically analyzes the needs and preferences of pet adopters in Macao through questionnaires, in-depth interviews and data analysis, in view of the problems such as information asymmetry, complex adoption process and lack of knowledge about pet health care. Based on this, a pet adoption app has been designed, integrating pet information display, intelligent matching recommendations, simplified adoption procedures, pet health management, community interaction and sharing, as well as educational resource integration. The app not only provides rich pet adoption information and convenient adoption processes but also uses smart algorithms to recommend the most suitable pets for users, enhancing the accuracy of adoption matches. At the same time, the built-in pet health management module and community interaction features effectively enhance users' awareness and participation in pet health care. Experimental validation shows that this application significantly improves pet adoption efficiency, enhances user satisfaction, and promotes pet welfare. This study not only provides an innovative technical solution for pet adoption in Macao but also offers valuable references for the design and development of pet adoption applications in other regions.

THE IMPACT OF ONLINE REVIEWS QUALITY ON TOURISM INTENTION IN THE CONTEXT OF RED BOOK: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF DESTINATION IMAGE IN MACAO - Liu, Cui Feng (2025)
This study focuses on the influence of online review quality on tourism intention, with destination image as a mediating variable, in the context of the rapid rise of internet content platforms like Red Book and Douyin. The platforms like Red Book and Douyin play an important role in shaping travel behavior, as potential travelers frequently rely on user-generated content (UGC) to find information about travel destinations, plan their trips, and form perceptions of destinations. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature and the application of structural equation modeling (SEM), the study reveals that the cognitive and affective image of destination are significantly influenced by the quality of online reviews, which in turn impacts overall destination image and tourism intention. The findings demonstrate that higher-quality online reviews — those that are timely, sufficient，helpful, and credible — not only enhance the cognitive understanding of destinations but also evoke stronger emotional connections, ultimately fostering a higher likelihood of travel intention. Moreover, the study highlights the mediating role of destination image during the process where online review quality influences tourism intention. These results offer critical insights for destination marketing organizations (DMOs) in conducting tourism marketing to attract tourists by strategically enhancing the quality and authenticity of online reviews. The study also identifies limitations in sample selection and mediating variables, providing directions for future research in the fields of online content, destination image, and tourism behavior.

EXPLORATORY ANALYSIS OF STOCK MARKET PREDICTION USING AUTOREGRESSIVE AND MACHINE LEARNING ALGORITHMS - Luo, Wen Hao (2025)
"This study addresses the challenges of multidimensional nonlinearity and multifactorial influences in stock market prediction by proposing a dual-channel deep learning framework based on BERT+BiGRU+Attention (BBA), which integrates investor sentiment analysis with temporal trading data dynamics. Leveraging crawled data from platforms such as East Money Stock Bar, we analyze 30,000 investor comments on Tsingtao Brewery (600600) and corresponding trading records (2010- 2021). Key innovations include: A domain-specific financial sentiment lexicon enhanced by BERT for contextual text vectorization, coupled with BiGRU-based temporal feature extraction and attention-driven keyword focus.Test the rise and fall pages of stocks using stock reviews"

自閉症兒童自傷行為的功能行為評估與行為干預 - Ng Cen, Juana (2025)
The incidence of self-injurious behavior (SIB) in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) ranges from 35% to 60%. Common types of SIB include head-banging, hair-pulling, arm-biting, eye-poking, skin-scratching and other behaviors. Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) and function-based behavioral interventions have been shown to reduce SIB in children with ASD. However, there is limited research on this subject in Macao. This study applies a single-subject alternating treatment design to conduct an FBA on the self-injurious behavior of a child with ASD in Macao, followed by the implementation of a function-based behavioral intervention, aiming to effectively reduce the frequency or intensity of SIB in children with ASD. Based on the results of this study, the conclusions are as follows: a) Based on the Functional Behavior Assessment, the main functions of self-injurious behavior in the child with ASD are identified as escape from task demands and access to tangible items; b) Function-based intervention strategies (such as functional communication training, FCT) significantly reduce the occurrence of SIB in children with ASD. In this case study, the frequency of SIB markedly decreased, and the improvement was maintained even after the intervention was withdrawn; c) Based on the results of FCT, both independent communication behaviors (picture cards and the speech-generating device BigMac) effectively reduced the child’s SIB. However, the child learned to use the BigMac as an alternative communication behavior more quickly, and there was no occurrence of self-injurious behavior while using BigMac, whereas SIB occasionally occurred when using picture cards; d) Function-based intervention strategies demonstrate a good social validity, with the child’s teachers expressing agreement with the research’s implementation process and outcomes. 自閉症譜系障礙（Autism Spectrum Disorder，ASD）兒童自傷行為的發生率高達35%-60%，常見的類型包括撞頭、拉頭髮、咬手臂、戳眼睛及抓皮膚等。功能行為評估和基於功能的行為干預有助於降低自閉症兒童的自傷行為，然而，澳門相關的研究較少。本研究採用單一被試交替處理設計對1名澳門自閉症兒童的自傷行為開展功能行為評估，並制定相應的基於功能的行為干預。研究結果顯示：a) 基於功能行為評估，可以確定該自閉症兒童自傷行為的主要功能為逃避任務及獲得實物；b) 採用基於行為功能的干預策略（即功能性溝通訓練），可以有效降低該自閉症兒童自傷行為的頻率，且在撤銷干預後仍能維持改善效果；c) 根據功能性溝通訓練的結果，學習兩種獨立溝通行為（圖卡和言語生成設備BigMac）均有助於減少該兒童的自傷行為，但相對而言，他更快學會使用BigMac這個替代溝通行為，而且在使用BigMac的實驗時段中完全沒有出現自傷行為，而使用圖卡時會出現自傷行為；d) 基於行為功能的干預策略具有良好的社會效度，該自閉症兒童的教師對研究的實施過程及成效表示認同。

EXAMINING MENTAL HEALTH, RESILIENCE, AND COPING STRATEGIES AMONG VIETNAMESE MIGRANT WORKERS IN MACAU - Tran, Thi Ha (2025)
Vietnamese migrant workers in Macao encounter numerous difficulties that significantly impact both their mental well-being and overall health. Daily life can be challenging due to language barriers, cultural differences, workplace stress, and financial hardships. Through an exploratory quantitative approach, this study examines these challenges in greater detail, collecting data from 268 participants, the majority of whom—93.7%—are women. Psychological assessment tools were employed to evaluate resilience, coping strategies, coping mechanisms, and levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. The findings indicate that despite working full-time, many participants receive low wages, live in inadequate conditions, and have limited access to healthcare services. A significant portion of Vietnamese migrant workers send money home to support their families, creating substantial financial pressure. Long working hours, difficulties in communication, and job-related insecurities contribute to mental distress. However, rather than seeking professional counselling, most individuals rely on informal social networks for emotional support. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the pressing need for more robust support systems, enhanced mental health resources, and improved workplace policies to aid in the social integration and well-being maintenance of these workers. Furthermore, it encourages future research to incorporate a greater number of male participants and qualitative data in order to gain a more thorough understanding of their experiences.

CAREGIVERS TO PEOPLE LIVING WITH DEMENTIA IN SINGAPORE: PROCESSES AND EXPERIENCES - Xu, Si Min (2025)
Dementia is a progressive cognitive disease affecting 55 million people worldwide. Each of these 55 million people needs at least one caregiver to support them as dementia progresses. By exploring home-based caregiving as a process, I attempt to highlight how a bioecological approach to study caregivers could shed some light on issues currently unidentified by extant caregiving studies. A bioecological approach also shows the systemic implications to caregivers’ human development due to the proximal processes between the care recipient and the caregiver. Nine Singaporean Chinese caregivers with at least three years of dementia caregiving experience were interviewed and analysed using thematic analysis. Research findings reveal three major themes of (a) human development with subthemes of self-growth and self-preservation, (b) proximal processes between caregiver and care recipient with subthemes of rollercoaster of emotions, meaning-making and adaptive behaviours and (c) bioecological effects of dementia caregiving with subthemes of role engulfment and support from others. By using a bioecological approach, this study moves beyond conventional themes frequently explored in extant caregiver literature, such as caregiver burdens and gains. The findings from these studies extend beyond Singaporean and Asian caregivers with relevance to caregivers worldwide, as dementia is a global healthcare condition with common challenges faced by caregivers worldwide. My research findings shed light on how the caregiver’s systemic interactions with principal persons such as the care recipient’s spouse, siblings and helpers play crucial roles in sustaining the caregiver’s wellbeing and enable them to carry on caregiving. This study advocates that caregivers continue their caregiving journey because of systemic support from principal persons and the relationship with the care recipient. The implications of these research findings are discussed from a microsystemic perspective, focusing on the individual caregiver, and mesosystemic, exosystemic and macrosystemic perspectives, focusing on society, community and government policies. Taking a systemic approach, practical suggestions include counselling support and psychotherapeutic interventions for caregivers throughout their caregiving journey to improve personal happiness, more proactive and microsystemic support from grassroots and public agencies focusing on the early days of a caregiver’s journey to improve caregiver visibility, reduce feelings of isolation and provide support. Increasing the profile of caregivers in the public domain could also promote a sense of visibility and recognition of individual caregivers. By helping caregivers, society could keep people living with dementia in family-level care and reduce public healthcare costs and reliance on formal institutions.

DESIGNING INNOVATIVE APPLICATION INTERFACES FOR CHINESE CULTURAL PRODUCTS: STRATEGIES TO ATTRACT USERS, STREAMLINE ORDERING, AND PROMOTE EXPORTS THROUGH INTERFACE INNOVATION - Yang, Ruo Ting (2025)
Against the backdrop of globalization and thriving cultural trade, the export of Chinese cultural products faces a dual challenge of expanding international markets and enhancing competitiveness. This Dissertation focuses on designing an innovative digital platform interface aimed at effectively integrating cultural connotations with modern technology, meeting the needs of international users, and promoting the dissemination and trading of cultural products. By analyzing the Strategies to Attract Users, Streamline Ordering, and Promote Exports through Interface Innovation, cross-cultural interface design strategies are proposed. The core functions of the platform include cultural product display, online transactions, user interaction, and multilingual support, and the information architecture has been optimized to adapt to different cultural backgrounds. Visual design incorporates traditional Chinese colors and cultural symbols, while also considering the visual adaptability of global users. The study used prototype tools to build interfaces and optimized them through usability testing. The achievements not only provide practical interface design solutions for the export of cultural products, which are expected to improve the display effect and sales conversion rate in the international market, but also provide theoretical references for the development of digital cultural platforms, and help promote the dissemination and exchange of Chinese culture on a global scale.

FACTORS AFFECTING EMPLOYEE RETENTION IN SUPERMARKETS: A CASE STUDY OF THE SUPERMARKET INDUSTRY IN MACAO - Zheng, Mei Hua (2025)
This paper focuses on the Macao supermarket industry as a research subject, employing a qualitative methodology that includes in-depth interviews with human resource managers and operational store managers to identify the factors influencing employee retention. The primary data collection method utilized is in-depth interviewing, complemented by thematic content analysis (TCA) to interpret the insights gathered from the interview transcripts. While existing literature has identified eight key factors affecting employee retention in the supermarket sector, this study uncovers three additional factors that significantly impact retention within the context of Macao's unique market environment. Supermarkets are vital to Macao’s economic development, with 26 distinct brands operating in 175 stores. However, these establishments face profitability challenges attributed to rising voluntary employee turnover. Grounded in Herzberg’s two-factor theory of motivation, this qualitative multiple-case study aims to explore the strategies employed by supermarket managers to mitigate voluntary employee turnover and enhance workforce stability. The findings will contribute to a deeper understanding of retention dynamics in the supermarket industry and provide actionable insights for improving employee engagement and satisfaction.

The impact of providing non-human identity cues about sales agents on consumer responses: the role of social presence and speciesism activation - Cicco, Roberta De; Elmashhara, Maher Georges; Silva, Susana C.; Hammerschmidt, Maik (European Journal of Marketing, 2025)
Purpose – This work investigates how different strategies for providing cues about the non-human identity of a sales agent influence consumers’ perceptions and purchase-related outcomes, and how a social interaction style shapes these responses. Additionally, the authors explore the role of consumers’speciesism against non-human entities in eliciting unfavourable responses to the disclosure of the agent’s artificial nature. Design/methodology/approach – Three experimental studies were conducted using real chatbot interactions. Study 1 investigates how non-human identity cues impact consumer trust and, subsequently, attitude towards the firm and intention to purchase the product offered. Study 2 tests these effects across different levels of social presence. Study 3 examines consumer responses to different non-human identity disclosure strategies, considering speciesism’s moderating role. Findings – Study 1 proves that disclosing (vs not disclosing) the artificial nature of a sales agent leads to a decline in trust towards the firm, which in turn negatively influences both attitude towards the firm and purchase intention. This finding reveals discrimination against disclosed (vs non-disclosed) artificial sales agents despite identical, flawless performance. However, Study 2 proves that the negative effects vanish when perceived social presence is high. Study 3 underlines that high speciesism leads to a trust decline if non-human identity cues are presented during the interaction but not if presented earlier in the journey before the interaction. Research limitations/implications – The study highlights the negative effects of disclosure on important, firm-related outcomes. These insights advance current literature by showing that disclosing cues about the non-human nature of a sales agent can undermine psychological and behavioural responses–even when the disclosed agent performs just as effectively as its undisclosed counterpart. This result is noteworthy, as most prior research has linked aversive reactions to artificial agents with situations in which algorithms underperform, whereas this study examines agents that function flawlessly. Furthermore, the study reveals that these adverse effects are driven by speciesism–prejudices against non-human entities–offering a novel explanation for consumers’ negative responses. Practical implications – The findings stress that transparency about the artificial nature of sales agents is penalised by customers and comes at a high cost for business-relevant outcomes. However, by transforming an artificial agent into a social actor through subtle design modifications, firms can overcome the unfavourable prejudice against artificial agents. By creating a social appearance, firms can harness the potential of automated sales services–even when disclosure of the agent’s artificial identity is required. As firms may soon be obliged to disclose the artificial identity of their sales agents, the critical question shifts from whether to disclose to how to disclose in order to mitigate negative consequences. Finally, we offer guidance on targeting the right consumers with artificial agents–specifically, those with lower levels of speciesism-related prejudices. Originality/value – This work addresses pressing issues for managers concerned with the implementation of artificial sales agents. Results extend knowledge on speciesism towards digital agents, inform which consumers are particularly prone to respond negatively to such agents, and present levers for designing chat-based social interactions that prevent non-human-related prejudices that could undermine the effectiveness of conversational technologies.

Managing Aquaculture Noise: Impacts on Fish Hearing, Welfare, and Mitigation Strategies - Duan, Shanshan; Vasconcelos, Raquel; Wu, Lele; Li, Xin; Sun, Wen; Li, Xian (Reviews in Aquaculture, 2025)
ABSTRACT As intensive aquaculture continues to develop, substantial investments have been made in equipment to sustain high‐density farming. However, this has resulted in elevated noise levels within these aquaculture environments, particularly below 2000 Hz, matching the hearing range of most cultured fish species. Fish under noise conditions may experience hearing loss and physiological stress, which can negatively affect their growth, foraging efficiency, reproductive success, and increase their susceptibility to diseases. These adverse effects compromise the welfare of cultured fish, potentially decreasing production quality and increasing mortality rates. Despite these notable effects, the understanding and management of noise conditions in aquaculture systems lag behind other environmental parameters in terms of recognition and control. In this review, we cover the fundamentals of fish auditory systems, the hearing range of key cultured fish species, and the most common noise sources and levels prevalent in current intensive aquaculture systems. Additionally, we examine recent discoveries on the effects of anthropogenic noise on fish hearing, physiological responses, and behavior. Finally, we provide strategies for noise monitoring and management in the aquaculture industry, while also highlighting open questions for future research. Our goal is to assist researchers and practitioners in comprehending underwater noise and its effects on cultured fish species, providing a valuable resource for promoting the healthy and sustainable development of intensive aquaculture.

LOVE, OBSESSION AND DESTRUCTION: THE PHILOSOPHICAL CONNOTATION OF LILIAN LEE’S NOVEL ROUGE - Chan, Siu Mo (2025)
This dissertation focuses on the novel Rouge by the Hong Kong-based writer Lilian Lee, which is a fantasy novel that proclaims feminism by deploying a love tragedy, describing the social context and atmosphere of Hong Kong in the 1930s and 1980s, and the living and afterlife experiences of the courtesan Fleur. Rouge was first published in 1984 and subsequently adapted into a film in 1988, which won several awards at film festivals. The novel Rouge can be regarded as Lilian Lee’s most representative work and a significant cultural symbol of Hong Kong in the 1990s. Love is a universal human experience that has a significant impact on our lives, relationships, and our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Consequently, philosophers have long sought to gain insight into its nature, origins and role in human existence, which makes the exploration of love a core focus of philosophical inquiry. This research will examine how the novel Rouge explores the interplay between authentic love and ego love, and will also investigate the causes that led to Fleur’s tragedy.

AN EXPLORATION OF PARENTS' PERSPECTIVES AND REASONS FOR PROVIDING ELECTRONIC DEVICES FOR YOUNG CHILDREN IN MACAO - Chio, Chong Leng (2025)
This qualitative study explores parental perspectives and decision-making processes regarding young children's engagement with electronic devices in Macao. Data was collected through semi- structured, in-depth interviews with 15 parents of young children. The researcher analysed the interview contents and synthesized the findings with relevant literature and theoretical support, resulting in the following key insights: 1. Parental attitudes towards children's use of electronic devices were found to be distinctly polarised. Parents with a more open attitude viewed electronic devices as an inevitable part of modern life, suggesting that excessive restrictions might hinder children's development. In contrast, parents with a more conservative perspective emphasised the developmental risks of early exposure. Three primary factors influenced parental attitudes; the parents’ level of professional knowledge in education, their own usage habits, and their sense of parental self-efficacy. Additionally, parental behaviours had a modelling effect on children's usage patterns, directly correlating with the stringency of their management strategies. 2. Regarding child development, parents generally recognised the educational value of electronic devices, particularly the ability of multimedia interactivity to enhance learning engagement and facilitate knowledge acquisition. However, they also expressed concerns about the potential risks in three developmental domains: physiological development (e.g., visual eye strain, sedentary behaviour), psychological development (e.g., addiction, reduced social interaction), and cognitive development (e.g., diminished attention span, fewer opportunities for practical learning). Parents with professional knowledge of child development tended to adopt more comprehensive assessment perspectives and balanced usage strategies. 3. The study identified three primary contexts in which parents provided electronic devices to their children: first, as a response to parenting stress, where parents used devices to gain brief respite or manage household tasks; second, as behavioural management tools, using devices for reward and punishment mechanisms, such as encouraging good behaviour, boosting learning motivation, or soothing children in specific situations (e.g., during illness or mealtime); and third, as influenced by external environmental factors, including caregiving differences (e.g., grandparents, domestic helpers), the technological emphasis in educational settings, and peer influence on children's social interactions. III 4. In terms of management strategies, parents predominantly employed three approaches: restrictive mediation, focusing on controlling screen time and filtering content; technical mediation, involving the use of device security settings and application restrictions; and alternative activity planning, such as encouraging children to engage in constructive play and artistic activities. However, the study revealed that parents less frequently utilised active educational mediation (e.g., discussing content, sharing experiences) and co-viewing strategies (e.g., joint parent-child usage, interactive learning). Based on these findings, the researcher provides recommendations for parents, schools, educators, and government agencies to establish a more comprehensive and supportive framework for young children's use of electronic devices and related services. 本研究採用質性研究方法，探討澳門家長對幼兒使用電子產品的觀點及決策因由，透過半 結構式深度訪談，收集 15 位育有幼兒之家長的經驗與看法。研究者根據訪談內容進行分析 討論，並輔以相關文獻和理論支持，歸納出以下研究結果: (一) 家長對幼兒使用電子產品的態度呈現明顯的兩極分化:持開放態度的家長視其為時代 趨勢，認為過度限制可能阻礙幼兒發展;持保守態度的家長則強調提早接觸電子產品可能帶 來發展風險。研究發現，家長的態度主要受三個因素影響:教育專業知識水平、個人使用習 慣，以及親職效能感。此外，家長的行為會通過示範效應影響幼兒的使用模式，並直接關係 到其管理策略的嚴格程度。 (二) 在幼兒發展方面，家長普遍認同電子產品的教育價值，尤其是其多媒體互動特性能提 升學習投入度及知識獲取。然而，家長同時關注其潛在風險，這些風險主要集中在三個層 面:生理發展(如視力損害、久坐問題)、心理發展(如沉迷、社交互動)、認知發展(如 專注力、實踐機會)。研究發現，具備幼兒發展專業知識的家長更傾向採取全面的評估視角 和均衡的使用策略。 (三) 家長提供電子產品予幼兒的三個主要情境包括:首先是因應育兒壓力，家長表示會透 過電子產品獲得短暫休息及處理家務的時間。其次是行為管理工具，家長運用電子產品進行 獎懲，包括鼓勵良好行為、提升學習動機，以及在特定情境下(如幼兒不適或進食)作為安 撫工具。第三是受外在環境因素的影響，主要來自三方面:替代照顧者(如祖父母、家傭) 的管教差異、教育環境的科技化趨勢，以及同儕使用經驗對幼兒社交需求的影響。 (四) 在管理策略方面，家長主要採取三種調解方式:限制性調解，著重於使用時間管控與 內容篩選;技術性調解，運用設備安全管理功能與應用程式限制;替代活動規劃，包括引導 幼兒參與建構性遊戲與藝術創作等。研究發現，家長較少採用具教育意義的指導性調解(如 內容討論、經驗分享)和社交共賞(如親子共同使用、互動學習)策略。 基於上述研究發現，研究者分別對家長，學校及教師、以及政府部門提出建議，期望建立 更適切且全面的幼兒電子產品使用框架及相關支援服務。

FINANCIAL VALUATION OF AMAZON - Deng, Xu Feng (2025)
Amazon is a global leader in e-commerce and cloud computing that has continually proven that it can diversify its business model well beyond being just one of the world's largest online retailers. Study its financial results, strategic initiatives by SWOT Analysis, and access its market positioning in industry by using PESTEL Analysis and Porter’s Five Forces Analysis. In order to ascertain the intrinsic value and assess the future prospects of Amazon, the study then utilizes several financial models, Enterprise Discounted Cash Flow (EDCF), Adjusted Present Value (APV) and Discounted Economic Profit (DEP). The study presents Amazon is potentially overvalued (December 31, 2024).

Investigating the Premium Market in Macau Casinos: Regulation, Practice, and Challenges - Ho, Hong Wai (2025)
This study investigates the regulatory-operational dynamics of the premium market in Macau casinos using a constructivist grounded theory approach. Qualitative in-depth interviews were conducted with 25 participants from three stakeholder groups. The grounded theory analysis identifies seven core categories illustrating the impact of the new regulatory system on the premium direct and premium mass segments in casinos. These categories include regulatory changes and operational challenges, decline of gaming promoters, premiumization of the gaming market, new player retention strategies, cross-border player acquisition risks, presence of unauthorized agents in casinos, and non-gaming development amid international competition. These insights highlight four major regulatory impacts on the industry themes and operational trends, i.e., industry regularization, market premiumization, product diversification, and criminal fragmentation. This study also identifies specific regulatory mechanisms and operational management in premium gaming, such as premium player identification, enhanced operational procedures, multi-tiered market segmentation, and the provision of personalized services. Additionally, stakeholder perceptions of the new gaming regulatory system are explored, with casino and expert groups considering it necessary and junket participants finding it restrictive. From these findings, a conceptual model structured around regulatory functions, compliance, and improvement is developed to provide a theoretical regulatory framework that aligns with the characteristics of the gaming industry in Macau and possibly other gaming jurisdictions.

A Phenomenological Study of Social Participation of Men in Female Social Service Organisation - Ho, I. Lam (2025)
Today, gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls have become one of the sustainable development goals jointly regarded by the international community. As society's understanding of gender gradually becomes more diverse and open, more and more people are beginning to pay attention to men's needs. Although society generally recognizes gender equality and pays attention to the development of women, relatively little attention is paid to the development and needs of men. Men also have needs and expectations, and are influenced by society's traditional expectations in their willingness to participate in associations. This study outlines the phenomenon that men’s participation in community services is generally lower than that of women, and cites data from Hong Kong, Taiwan, Macau and other places to support this view. Although gender equality is a global concern, there are relatively few protection policies and services specifically for men in Macau and surrounding areas. In the context of pursuing gender equality, men's rights and needs should not be ignored. Therefore, this study aims to explore men's motivations for participating in women's group social services. It uses qualitative research and a phenomenological approach to 15 invited respondents. Interview samples were collected through in-depth interviews. Different findings were obtained from the research results through the use of description and inductive analysis through the life stories of the interviewees. The research concluded that service can not only meet their personal needs and experience the achievement of development tasks, but also found the key experience factors, that is, the four major motivations for men to participate in clubs, including personal service spirit, personal life needs, maintenance Social relationships and personal interests and preferences and six elements of continuous participation, including contrast in values, tangible experience, feeling changed, having challenges and growth, improving horizons and knowledge, and feeling a sense of belonging. The study also obtained four suggestions from the interviewees for social services and their expected experiences. This study also inspired social workers to formulate comprehensive and targeted men's policies, not only to respond to the diverse needs of the men's group, but also to It is the key to promoting comprehensive, coordinated and sustainable development of society. 現今性別平等與增強婦女和女童的權能，已成為國際社會共同視為持續發展目標之一。隨著社會對兩性的認知逐漸變得多元及開放，越來越多人士開始關注男士的需要。儘管社會普遍認同性別平等並關注婦女發展情況，但對男士的發展和需求關注相對不足。男士同樣有需求和期望，並且受社會傳統的期望影響參與社團的意願。 本研究概述了社團服務中男性參與度普遍低於女性的現象，並引用了香港、臺灣及澳門等地的數據來支撐這一觀點。儘管性別平等是全球關注的議題，但在澳門及周邊地區，專門針對男性的保護政策和服務相對較少。在追求性別平等的背景下，男士的權益和需求不應被忽視，因此本研究旨在探討男士參與婦女團體社會服務的動機，採用質性研究，以現象學方式，向受邀的 15 位受訪樣本，透過深度訪談蒐集資料。藉著受訪者闡述生活故事，運用描述及歸納分析，從研究結果中得到不同的發現。研究結論得出，服務既滿足到他們的個人需要，以及體 驗到發展任務的達成，另外找到了關鍵體驗的因素，即男士參與社團的四個動機，包括個人服務精神、個人生活需要、維繫社會關係、個人興趣與喜好以及六個持續參與元素，包括 價值觀的反差、切實之體驗、感受到改變、.有挑戰和成長、提升視野知識以及感覺歸屬感。 研究也得到了受訪者對社會服務的四個建議，以及他們期望的體驗，這樣研究同時啟發了社會工作者如何制定全面且有針對性的男士政策，不僅是回應男士群體多元化需求，更是推動社會全面、協調、可持續發展的關鍵所在。

ANALYSES OF THE PERCEPTION OF THE IMPACT OF PERSONAL DATA PROTECTION LAW ON SMES OPERATING IN MACAO - Kuan, Su Cheng (2025)
Macao is a small city, and most businesses operating in Macao are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). With personal data protection gaining increasing global attention, what impact does personal data protection law have on the operations of SMEs in Macao? What is the perception of the impact of the Personal Data Protection Law on the operation of Macao's SMEs? This thesis aims to make a corresponding analysis. The article examines Macao's current business environment and enterprise models, integrates data collected from SME surveys, and considers Macao's economic development trajectory before and after its return to China. It analyzes Macao's connections with Portuguese-speaking countries, the European Union, and the cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, which the Chinese government is actively developing. By studying the characteristics of personal data protection legal systems in various countries and regions and their influence on Macao, the paper provides recommendations for enhancing SMEs' awareness of personal data protection and leveraging personal data protection laws to improve business operations in Macao. 澳門是一個細小的城市，在澳門做生意的企業大多是中小企業，個人資料保護在全球日益受到重視，究竟個人資料保護法對澳門中小企營運又帶來甚麼影響 ? 澳門中小企營運過程中，對個人資料保護法影響認知有多少? 本篇論文將會作出相應分析，文章透過分析澳門現時具體營商環境及企業模式，結合透過中小企問卷調查搜集獲得之資料，以及澳門在回歸後，前後經濟發展歷程中與葡語系國家、歐盟、以及與現時中國政府大力發展之大灣區城市之聯系，分析各國家及地區的個人資料保護法律制度之特色以及對澳門之影響，最後就澳門中小企未來就加強中小企個人資料保護意識以及善用個人資料保護法律營商作出建議。

Managing the Performance of the Facility Management for Improvement of the Hotel Operations - Kuong, Chi Chun (2025)
Management of people” and “enhancement of the system” are the focused aspects for improvement of the business operations in this thesis. A case study was carried out in the Facility Management department of a five-star hotel. A list of questionnaire was delivered to about 50% employees of the FM department for the purpose of identifying the awareness of the Organizational Culture. The result indicate that the “Work Process” and “Organization Climate” are the higher score elements than the “Leadership Style” and “Organization Value”. The results tell the management that people are reluctant to change the present work process and the leadership is not effective in the organization. The above issues represent the employees’ behavior and attitude which can affect the employees’ performance as well as the company’s operational efficiency. Suitable management techniques are applied to analyze the employees’ needs and group the people into passive and active attitude, then the appropriate motivation schemes are proposed aiming to improve the overall performance of different groups of employees. The latest technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and 5G mobile communications are proposed for enhancement of the current FM systems aiming for the improvement on fast response, operational cost saving , carbon neutralization and comfort to customers. The proposed system enhancement also considers the minimal investment, so the system enhancement is mainly executed by software upgrade on the core system and replacement of the Smart Sensing devices. The hardware of core equipment can be re-used. AI technology is the future trend of operational improvement, it will be considered as the next step when AI become mature and standardized.

THE NATURE OF HOLISTIC CONSCIOUSNESS IN HERMETIC PHILOSOPHY - Wong, Enia (2025)
This thesis explores the nature of holistic consciousness in Hermetic philosophy, drawing on the classical text of The Emerald Tablet and The Corpus Hermeticum attributed to Hermes Trismegistus. Central to this ancient philosophy from Hellenistic Alexandria is the “as above, so below” principle, highlighting the interconnectedness of all things. Hermetic philosophy views harmony as the balance and interconnection of all elements in the universe. Sound, tied to the divine word, is vital for this harmony and understanding of creation and divine wisdom. This thesis focuses on the relationship between human, cosmic, and divine consciousness. Through divinization, humans can align with cosmic consciousness, realizing their divine nature by transcending physical limitations. Furthermore, we will review Hermetic philosophy in light of contemporary challenges, such as materialism which has caused environmental, social and mental health crises. Hermetic philosophy’s holistic approach and emphasis on interconnectedness can counteract social atomization caused by digital technology. Hermetic philosophy having a scientific-rational basis, can be aligned with contemporary ideas like the holographic universe theory. Self-reflection, meditation, nature engagement, and inner dialogue are all proven methods for cultivating holistic consciousness, as advocated in Hermetic philosophy. We can better understand the universe by integrating Hermetic wisdom with science. 這篇論文探討赫爾墨斯哲學中整體意識的性質，參考了赫爾墨斯·特里斯梅吉斯圖斯所屬的古典文本《翡翠石板》和《赫爾墨斯文集》。這一源自希臘化亞歷山大的古老哲學的核心原則是「上如是下」，強調所有事物之間的相互連結。 赫爾墨斯哲學視和諧為宇宙中所有元素的平衡與相互關聯。聲音與神聖之語相連，對於這種和諧及對創造與神聖智慧的理解至關重要。這篇論文專注於人類、宇宙與神聖意識之間的關係。透過神化，人類能夠與宇宙意識對齊，超越身體的限制，實現其神聖本質。 此外，我們將審視赫爾墨斯哲學在當代挑戰下的意義，例如物質主義所導致的環境、社會和心理健康危機。赫爾墨斯哲學的整體方法和對相互連結的強調，可以對抗數位科技所造成的社會原子化現象。 赫爾墨斯哲學具科學理性基礎，能與當代觀念如全息宇宙理論相結合。自我反思、冥想、與自然的互動及內心對話，都是培養整體意識的有效方法，正如赫爾墨斯哲學所提倡的。我們可以通過將赫爾墨斯智慧與科學相結合，更深入地理解宇宙。

Chinese Traditional Festival Culture and Customs of Game Design - Xie, Wan Ting (2025)
This board game is designed around China's major traditional festivals (such as the Spring Festival, Dragon Boat Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival, etc.) and their customs, with the aim of allowing players to experience and learn about China's rich cultural traditions through gameplay. The goal of the game is to earn points by completing festival tasks, answering questions about customs, and collecting festival items, with the highest scorer ultimately winning. The gameplay design includes elements like festival task cards, customs quizzes, and festival item collection to enhance interactivity and fun. Players will assume different roles in the game, using cards, maps, and festival-themed objects to gain a deeper understanding of the history and customs of each festival. Educational Value: This board game is not only entertaining but also helps players learn about traditional Chinese culture in a relaxed setting, enhancing cultural identity. It is suitable for family gatherings, friends' meetups, and educational settings, particularly for players interested in Chinese culture.

Financial Valuation of Caterpillar Inc. - Zeng, Fanxin (2025)
Caterpillar, one of the world's most recognised industrial brands, is a leading global manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, as well as diesel and natural gas engines and industrial gas turbines. Currently, Caterpillar operates in North America, Asia Pacific, EAME region and Latin America, with operations in North America accounting for approximately 47% of the company's net revenue in 2022. Caterpillar has been able to win customers' trust and achieve stable business growth through reliable products, advanced technology, user-friendly services and differentiated service solutions. Post-coronavirus, it can be seen that the industry in which Caterpillar operates is vulnerable to changes in the economic and social environment. In addition, the industry is becoming increasingly competitive, especially with the rise of emerging players, such as construction equipment manufacturers in China, who are entering the markets of developing countries with cost-effective products. In addition to that, such as the traditional machinery manufacturing companies in Europe and Japan, their products are not only highly intelligent, but also motorised equipment technology is quite reliable. It is a tough challenge to maintain a competitive edge. Understanding the impact of these changes on the industry and the company helps in assessing the intrinsic value of Caterpillar and its future positioning. Comparing the intrinsic value derived from the three valuation models to the company's market share price as of 31 December 2022 will provide valuable information to investors.

Modeling PM10 Emissions in Quarry and Mining Operations: Insights from AERMOD Applications in Malaysia - Khan, Md Munir Hayet; Kurniawan, Tonni Agustiono; Chandra, Indra; Lei, Thomas (Atmosphere, 2025)
PM10 emissions have been a significant concern in rock crushing and quarry operations (study site #1) and iron ore mining projects (study site #2) in certain regions of Malaysia, posing fears to the health and well-being of nearby communities with severe air pollution. To address this issue, it is crucial to develop effective mitigation strategies to reduce dust particle emissions like PM10 in the ambient air. The AERMOD model was applied to predict PM10 emissions during quarry operations and iron ore mining projects, both with and without control measures. The results indicated that PM10 emissions were reduced when control measures were implemented. The modeling result shows the mean PM10 concentration with and without control measures in study site #1 is 74.85 µg/m3 and 20,557.69 µg/m3, respectively. In comparison, the average PM10 concentration with and without control measures in study site #2 is 53.95 µg/m3 and 135.69 µg/m3. Therefore, the control measure has successfully reduced the PM10 concentrations by 99.90% and 60.24% in study sites #1 and #2, respectively, and ensures the air quality complies with the Malaysian Ambient Air Quality Guidelines (MAAQG) 24 h threshold limits at 100 µg/m3. In addition, the AERMOD modeling results showed that mitigation measures performed better in rock crushing and quarry operations than in iron ore mining projects in this case study.

Real-time emotion recognition based on facial expressions using artificial intelligence techniques - A review and future directions - Cheng, Qian; Lobo Marques, Joao Alexandre; de Alexandria, Auzuir Ripardo (2025)

Local Equivalence of the Black–Scholes and Merton–Garman Equations - Arraut, Ivan (2025)
It has been previously demonstrated that stochastic volatility emerges as the gauge field necessary to restore local symmetry under changes in stock prices in the Black–Scholes (BS) equation. When this occurs, a Merton–Garman-like equation emerges. From the perspective of manifolds, this means that the Black–Scholes and Merton–Garman (MG) equations can be considered locally equivalent. In this scenario, the MG Hamiltonian is a special case of a more general Hamiltonian, here referred to as the gauge Hamiltonian. We then show that the gauge character of volatility implies a specific functional relationship between stock prices and volatility. The connection between stock prices and volatility is a powerful tool for improving volatility estimations in the stock market, which is a key ingredient for investors to make good decisions. Finally, we define an extended version of the martingale condition, defined for the gauge Hamiltonian.

NiCo-layered double hydroxide coating on nitrogen/oxygen co-doped carbon nanocage composite for high-performance supercapacitor electrode - Li, Changgang; Tan, Xiang; Hu, Weijie; Tan, Xiaoen; Xie, Wenyu; Liu, Zhisen (Ionics, 2025)
Nickel–cobalt-layered double hydroxide (NiCo-LDH) has received considerable attention in the field of supercapacitor; however, the low conductivity and structural instability limit its practical applications. In this paper, a facile strategy for the fabrication of NiCo-layered double hydroxide (NiCo-LDH) coating on nitrogen/oxygen co-doped carbon nanocages (NOCN) was proposed in this paper. This multicomponent nanocomposite, NiCo-LDH@NOCN, has a high specific capacitance of 1842 F g−1 at 1 A g−1, a remarkable rate capability of 68.1% increasing the current density to 30 A g−1, and excellent cycling stability of 72.1% after 1000 cycles. Furthermore, an asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) composed of NiCo-LDH@NOCN as a positive electrode and NOCN as a negative electrode was fabricated. The ASC shows a superior energy density of 31.6 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 700 W kg−1, which suggests the great practical application potential of supercapacitor.

Vehicle to Grid: Technology, Charging Station, Power Transmission, Communication Standards, Techno-Economic Analysis, Challenges, and Recommendations - Biswas, Parag; Rashid, Abdur; Habib, A. K. M. Ahasan; Mahmud, Md; Motakabber, S. M. A.; Hossain, Sagar; Rokonuzzaman, Md; Molla, Altaf Hossain; Harun, Zambri; Khan, Md Munir Hayet; Cheng, Wan-Hee; Lei, Thomas (World Electric Vehicle Journal, 2025)
Electric vehicles (EVs) must be used as the primary mode of transportation as part of the gradual transition to more environmentally friendly clean energy technology and cleaner power sources. Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology has the potential to improve electricity demand, control load variability, and improve the sustainability of smart grids. The operation and principles of V2G and its varieties, the present classifications and types of EVs sold on the market, applicable policies for V2G and business strategy, implementation challenges, and current problem-solving techniques have not been thoroughly examined. This paper exposes the research gap in the V2G area and more accurately portrays the present difficulties and future potential in V2G deployment globally. The investigation starts by discussing the advantages of the V2G system and the necessary regulations and commercial representations implemented in the last decade, followed by a description of the V2G technology, charging communication standards, issues related to V2G and EV batteries, and potential solutions. A few major issues were brought to light by this investigation, including the lack of a transparent business model for V2G, the absence of stakeholder involvement and government subsidies, the excessive strain that V2G places on EV batteries, the lack of adequate bidirectional charging and standards, the introduction of harmonic voltage and current into the grid, and the potential for unethical and unscheduled V2G practices. The results of recent studies and publications from international organizations were altered to offer potential answers to these research constraints and, in some cases, to highlight the need for further investigation. V2G holds enormous potential, but the plan first needs a lot of financing, teamwork, and technological development.

ARTeFACTo 2024 Macao : 4th International Conference on Digital Creation in Arts, Media, and Technology | Creative Digital Intelligence | Conference Proceedings (ARTeFACTo 2024 Macao : 4th International Conference on Digital Creation in Arts, Media, and Technology, 2025)
ARTeFACTo is a transdisciplinary studies journal and conference centered around the concept of digital media and computer artifacts, which were the genesis of its name. It aims to give visibility to all digital media and technology-based artifacts, creators, or contributors from a transdisciplinary, humanistic, and holistic perspective of integration and composition. The main objective is constructing and disseminating knowledge through descriptions of artistic practice, authorship or co-authorship (including the narration and description of other works), and graphic data (images, diagrams, animations, drawings, sketches). The Journal is open to international contributions from all those studying digital media/computer artifacts, embracing their conceptualization, design, creative and research processes, computational implementation, exhibition and fruition, and role in today’s information and knowledge society. Also welcomed are articles fostering the establishment of the conceptual foundations of an artifact theory in the digital media world. Accepted articles shall be original (in compliance with the standards of conduct of the COPE – Code of Conduct and Good Practices) in Portuguese and English, with a mandatory abstract in English. The Conference has the same goals as the Journal but provides a specific floor for the concrete exhibition of artifacts along with their presentation and discussion. All submissions will be evaluated by peer review, including two advisors from the Scientific Council. All feedback will be sent to the authors, indicating their approval, refusal of publication, or requests for correction or recast. The authors will be notified of the publication once the entire selection process has been completed. ARTeFACTo is a joint project between Artech International and Universidade Aberta.

A Possible Solution to the Black Hole Information Paradox - Arraut, Ivan (AppliedMath, 2025)
The information paradox suggests that the black hole loses information when it emits radiation. In this way, the spectrum of radiation corresponds to a mixed (non-pure) quantum state even if the internal state generating the black hole is expected to be pure in essence. In this paper we propose an argument solving this paradox by developing an understanding of the process by which spontaneous symmetry breaks when a black hole selects one of the many possible ground states and emits radiation as a consequence of it. Here, the particle operator number is the order parameter. This mechanism explains the connection between the density matrix, corresponding to the pure state describing the black hole state, and the density matrix describing the spectrum of radiation (mixed quantum state). From this perspective, we can recover black hole information from the superposition principle, applied to the different possible order parameters (particle number operators).
Keywords: Hawking radiation; black holes; information paradox; spontaneous symmetry breaking

EXPLORING THE DIFFICULTIES AND CHALLENGES FACED BY REGULAR PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS IN MACAO WHEN DEALING WITH INCLUSIVE STUDENTS IN THE CLASSROOM - Lam, Mei In (2025)
This study aims to explore the difficulties and challenges faced by regular primary school teachers in Macao when dealing with inclusive students in the classroom. As the concept of inclusive education deepens, the number of inclusive students in Macao has been increasing, but the growth of schools participating in inclusive education has been slow, posing more challenges for regular primary school teachers. This research adopts a mixed-method approach, combining classroom observations and in-depth interviews to comprehensively understand the issues teachers face. The study conducted structured observations of 15 lessons, covering 5 grade levels and 5 subjects, and carried out in-depth interviews with 7 teachers. The findings reveal: (1) Inclusive students generally experience difficulties in classroom participation, task completion, and independent learning; (2) Teachers generally lack sufficient professional knowledge and skills to effectively address the needs of inclusive students; (3) Schools lack resources and support, including adaptive curriculum arrangements and assessment methods for inclusive students; (4) There are contradictions between current educational policies and practical needs, such as the no-retention policy for grades 1-4, which may lead to missing the best intervention timing for inclusive students. Based on the research results, this paper proposes recommendations including strengthening teacher professional development, optimizing school resource allocation, improving educational policies, reinforcing early identification and intervention mechanisms, and promoting home-school cooperation. These findings and suggestions provide important references for policy-making and practical improvements in inclusive education in Macao. 本研究旨在探討澳門普通小學教師在課堂應對融合學生時所面臨的困難及挑戰。隨著融合教育理念的普及，澳門融合學生數量不斷增加，但參與融合教育的學校數量增長緩慢，使得普通小學教師面臨更多挑戰。本研究採用混合研究方法，結合課堂觀察和深度訪談，以全面了解教師面臨的問題。 研究對15節課進行了結構化觀察，涵蓋5個年級和5個學科，並對7位教師進行了深度訪談。研究發現：（一、）融合學生在課堂參與、任務完成和自主學習等方面普遍存在困難；（二、）教師普遍缺乏足夠的專業知識和技能來有效應對融合學生；（三、）學校資源和支援不足，缺乏針對融合學生的適應性課程安排和評核方式；（四、）現行教育政策與實際需求之間存在矛盾，如一至四年級不留級制度可能導致錯過融合學生最佳干預時機。 基於研究結果，本文提出了加強教師專業發展、優化學校資源配置、完善教育政策、強化早期識別和干預機制，以及促進家校合作等建議。這些發現和建議為澳門融合教育的政策制定和實踐改進提供了重要參考。

National Competitive Advantage and Ikea's Entry into the China Market - Riquito, Nikola Mullerova (2025)
Ikea’s entry into the China market and how its become successful in the foreign country

THE IMPACT OF TRANSGENERATIONAL SUCCESSION ON ENTERPRISE PERFORMANCE IN CHINESE FAMILY BUSINESS - Zou, Zhuo Neng (2025)
As an important part of the global economy, family business have made a lot of contributions to the world economy. With the deepening of China's reform and opening up, the scale and volume of family business have increased dramatically in the national economy. In recent years, more and more family-owned enterprises have entered the list of “Top 500 Chinese Enterprises” and become an important part of the national economy. As a special enterprise organization, family business has certain characteristics. Most of the Chinese family business were founded in the early stage of China's reform and opening up, and now more and more family business are facing the problem that the founders need to leave the family business due to their advanced age. How to ensure the smooth succession of family business and avoid conflicts and contradictions in the process of succession is an important challenge faced by many family business. How to ensure that family business can continue to develop and maintain a high performance status is of great significance to the founders and their successors, as well as to the Chinese economy. Therefore, this research examines how the characteristics of successors affect enterprise performance based on the context of intergenerational succession in family business. This research is based on a multi-case study in which in-depth interviews were conducted with the founders and successors of five cases, which led to the conclusion that five successor characteristics have an impact on enterprise performance. They are inclusiveness, forward thinking, sociable and good communication, sense of social responsibility and sense of family mission. This finding has significant implications for the training of successors and the management of the succession process in Chinese family business. This study is conducive to the discovery of the mechanism of successor characteristics on enterprise performance as well as to make a realistic contribution to the research on the outcomes of family business in China.

Application of Multiple Deep Learning Architectures for Emotion Classification Based on Facial Expressions - Qian, Cheng; Lobo Marques, Joao Alexandre; Alexandria, Auzuir Ripardo de; Fong, Simon James (Sensors, 2025)
Facial expression recognition (FER) is essential for discerning human emotions and is applied extensively in big data analytics, healthcare, security, and user experience enhancement. This study presents a comprehensive evaluation of ten state-of-the-art deep learning models—VGG16, VGG19, ResNet50, ResNet101, DenseNet, GoogLeNet V1, MobileNet V1, EfficientNet V2, ShuffleNet V2, and RepVGG—on the task of facial expression recognition using the FER2013 dataset. Key performance metrics, including test accuracy, training time, and weight file size, were analyzed to assess the learning efficiency, generalization capabilities, and architectural innovations of each model. EfficientNet V2 and ResNet50 emerged as top performers, achieving high accuracy and stable convergence using compound scaling and residual connections, enabling them to capture complex emotional features with minimal overfitting. DenseNet, GoogLeNet V1, and RepVGG also demonstrated strong performance, leveraging dense connectivity, inception modules, and re-parameterization techniques, though they exhibited slower initial convergence. In contrast, lightweight models such as MobileNet V1 and ShuffleNet V2, while excelling in computational efficiency, faced limitations in accuracy, particularly in challenging emotion categories like “fear” and “disgust”. The results highlight the critical trade-offs between computational efficiency and predictive accuracy, emphasizing the importance of selecting appropriate architecture based on application-specific requirements. This research contributes to ongoing advancements in deep learning, particularly in domains such as facial expression recognition, where capturing subtle and complex patterns is essential for high-performance outcomes.

Bioprospecting Bioactive Peptides in Halobatrachus didactylus Body Mucus: From In Silico Insights to Essential In Vitro Validation - Cunha, Marta Fernandez; Coscueta, Ezequiel R.; Brassesco, María Emilia; Almada, Frederico; Gonçalves, David; Pintado, Maria Manuela (Marine Drugs, 2025)
Fish body mucus plays a protective role, especially in Halobatrachus didactylus, which inhabits intertidal zones vulnerable to anthropogenic contaminants. In silico predicted bioactive peptides were identified in its body mucus, namely, EDNSELGQETPTLR (HdKTLR), DPPNPKNL (HdKNL), PAPPPPPP (HdPPP), VYPFPGPLPN (HdVLPN), and PFPGPLPN (HdLPN). These peptides were studied in vitro for bioactivities and aggregation behavior under different ionic strengths and pH values. Size exclusion chromatography revealed significant peptide aggregation at 344 mM and 700 mM ionic strengths at pH 7.0, decreasing at pH 3.0 and pH 5.0. Although none exhibited antimicrobial properties, they inhibited Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm formation. Notably, HdVLPN demonstrated potential antioxidant activity (ORAC: 1.560 mu mol TE/mu mol of peptide; ABTS: 1.755 mu mol TE/mu mol of peptide) as well as HdLPN (ORAC: 0.195 mu mol TE/mu mol of peptide; ABTS: 0.128 mu mol TE/mu mol of peptide). Antioxidant activity decreased at pH 5.0 and pH 3.0. Interactions between the peptides and mucus synergistically enhanced antioxidant effects. HdVLPN and HdLPN were non-toxic to Caco-2 and HaCaT cells at 100 mu g of peptide/mL. HdPPP showed potential antihypertensive and antidiabetic effects, with IC50 values of 557 mu g of peptide/mL for ACE inhibition and 1700 mu g of peptide/mL for alpha-glucosidase inhibition. This study highlights the importance of validating peptide bioactivities in vitro, considering their native environment (mucus), and bioprospecting novel bioactive molecules while promoting species conservation.

A Novel Improvement of Feature Selection for Dynamic Hand Gesture Identification Based on Double Machine Learning - Yan, Keyue; Lam, Chi-Fai; Fong, Simon; Lobo Marques, Joao Alexandre; Millham, Richard Charles; Mohammed, Sabah (Sensors, 2025)
Causal machine learning is an approach that combines causal inference and machine learning to understand and utilize causal relationships in data. In current research and applications, traditional machine learning and deep learning models always focus on prediction and pattern recognition. In contrast, causal machine learning goes a step further by revealing causal relationships between different variables. We explore a novel concept called Double Machine Learning that embraces causal machine learning in this research. The core goal is to select independent variables from a gesture identification problem that are causally related to final gesture results. This selection allows us to classify and analyze gestures more efficiently, thereby improving models’ performance and interpretability. Compared to commonly used feature selection methods such as Variance Threshold, Select From Model, Principal Component Analysis, Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator, Artificial Neural Network, and TabNet, Double Machine Learning methods focus more on causal relationships between variables rather than correlations. Our research shows that variables selected using the Double Machine Learning method perform well under different classification models, with final results significantly better than those of traditional methods. This novel Double Machine Learning-based approach offers researchers a valuable perspective for feature selection and model construction. It enhances the model’s ability to uncover causal relationships within complex data. Variables with causal significance can be more informative than those with only correlative significance, thus improving overall prediction performance and reliability.

EXPLORING EXPERIENCES AND PERCEPTIONS OF THE HELPING RELATIONSHIPS IN MACAU - Choi Hoi, Ana (2025)
This study aims to become a conduit of a missing conversation wherein our front line help-givers can express their experiences. Through a series of semi-structured questions, and theoretical analyses, the themes regarding the Experience and Perception of Helping Relationships in Macau. Findings include difficulties and challenges that the helping profession in Macau encounters in different settings related to role ambiguity and public understanding of the profession. Stigma around a person considered to be a “problem” as well as stigma related to nomenclature of mental illnesses. Factors that enable and facilitate a helping relationship were identified. Trust, sincerity, listening and positive regard were mentioned. Due to Macau’s multi-cultural background, an enabling agent to facilitate a helping relationship was identified – language. As a qualitative enquiry medium for reflection and discovery, this study hopes to bring forward the unique experiences of eleven helping professionals with a spectrum of background to provide richness and newness to the current body of literature.

Man in a Hurry: Murray MacLehose and Colonial Autonomy in Hong Kong Ray Yep. Hong Kong: Hong Kong University Press, 2024. xi + 202 pp. HK$295.00 (hbk). ISBN 9898888842926 - Roberts, Priscilla (The China Quarterly, 2025)

The role of environmental concern and technology show-off on electric vehicles adoption: the case of Macau - Lampo, Alessandro; Silva, Susana C.; Duarte, Paulo (International Journal of Emerging Markets, 2025)
Purpose Research on battery electric vehicles (BEVs) has typically considered environmental concern a key determinant of behavioral intention that leads individuals to prefer electric vehicles. This paper challenges this assumption and argues that technology frameworks may require new variables to capture consumers' preferences. A UTAUT2-based study has been developed to assess the role of environmental concern in the BEVs context and put forward the technology show-off (TS) concept to explain the technology's acceptance. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative and cross-sectional look at behavioral intention is adopted. The study uses structural equation modeling to analyze a sample of 236 Macau residents to determine the relevance of the factors behind the choice to adopt BEVs. Findings The findings indicate that environmental concern and price may be relevant to explain behavioral intention to adopt the BEVs technology. Furthermore, the UTAUT2 framework seems to benefit from adding new variables, with TS playing a pertinent role in explaining technology acceptance. Social implications The findings show that environmental concern fails to build an argument for the shift to full electric mobility and promote the desired behavioral change toward adopting BEVs. Herein lies the necessity to consider new variables that can better describe the characteristics of modern society. Originality/value This paper proposes the TS construct, combining visibility and trialability as significant determinants of behavioral intention to use technology. The study also stresses the need to reconsider the role of environmental concerns' impact on consumer decision-making.

A grounded theory study of Chinese female spouses of problem gamblers in Hong Kong: emergence of a multiple-paradigm coping model - Kwan, Edward Wood Kai; Jackson, Alun C.; Tse, Samson (Asia Pacific Journal of Counselling and Psychotherapy, 2025)

Is masculinity ruining the male skincare market? Comprehensive insights on consumer behavior in cosmetics - Duarte, Paulo; Silva, Susana; Carvalho, Maria Joana (Journal of Consumer Marketing, 2025)
This paper aims to investigate the factors influencing men’s purchase intentions for skincare products, particularly focusing on the evolving attitudes toward masculinity, grooming and self-care. The study seeks to identify dimensions such as self-image, health concerns, masculinity and perceptions regarding skincare, along with the impact of social media use on men’s skincare purchase intentions.,The research uses an online questionnaire to gather data from 178 valid responses. The collected data is analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling.,The results reveal that men’s skin health concerns significantly impact their purchase intention for skincare products. Self-image concerns and perceptions regarding skincare also emerge as influential determinants in shaping men’s purchasing decisions. Conversely, health concerns and social media platform use do not directly influence skincare purchase intention. Notably, self-image completely mediates the relationship between men’s social media usage and their intention to purchase skincare products.,The data is based on responses from an online questionnaire, which may introduce biases. In addition, the research focuses on specific personal variables and social media use, potentially overlooking other influential factors.,By recognizing the importance of men’s skin health concerns, self-image and perceptions regarding skincare, cosmetic companies can tailor marketing strategies to effectively target key dimensions to enhance sales of skincare products among men.,In a broader societal context, this research contributes to the ongoing evolution of attitudes. By identifying influential factors in men’s skincare purchase intention, the study sheds light on changing societal norms and perceptions. Acknowledging these shifts can lead to a more inclusive understanding of masculinity and contribute to breaking traditional stereotypes related to men’s grooming practices.,This research contributes to the understanding of men’s skincare purchase intention by exploring dimensions such as self-image, health concerns, masculinity and perceptions regarding skincare, in conjunction with the impact of social media use. The findings provide valuable insights, expanding on previous studies on men’s attitudes toward skincare products. The identification of self-image as a complete mediator is a novel contribution.

Exploring freshwater soundscapes of tropical marshland habitats in Southeast Asia: insights into auditory sensory adaptation of wild Siamese fighting fish Betta splendens - Ramos, Andreia; Gonçalves, David; Vasconcelos, Raquel (PeerJ, 2025)
While soundscapes shape the structure and function of auditory systems over evolutionary timescales, there is limited information regarding the adaptation of wild fish populations to their natural acoustic environments. This is particularly relevant for freshwater ecosystems, which are extremely diverse and face escalating pressures from human activities and associated noise pollution. The Siamese fighting fish Betta splendens is one of the most important cultured species in the global ornamental fish market and is increasingly recognized as a model organism for genetics and behavioural studies. This air-breathing species (Anabantoidei), characterized by the presence of a suprabranchial labyrinth organ that enhances auditory sensitivity, is native to Southeast Asia and inhabits low flow freshwater ecosystems that are increasingly threatened due to habitat destruction and pollution. We characterized the underwater soundscape, along with various ecological parameters, across five marshland habitats of B. splendens, from lentic waterbodies to small canals near a lake in Chiang Rai province (Thailand). All habitats exhibited common traits of low dissolved oxygen and dense herbaceous vegetation. Soundscapes were relatively quiet with Sound Pressure Level (SPL) around 102-105 dB re 1 mu Pa and most spectral energy below 1,000 Hz. Sound recordings captured diverse biological sounds, including potential fish vocalizations, but primarily insect sounds. Hearing thresholds were determined using auditory evoked potential (AEP) recordings, revealing best hearing range within 100-400 Hz. Males exhibited lower hearing thresholds than females at 400 and 600 Hz. This low-frequency tuning highlights the potential susceptibility of B. splendens to anthropogenic noise activities. This study provides first characterization of the auditory sensitivity and natural soundscape of B. splendens, establishing an important ground for future hearing research in this species. The information provided on the auditory sensory adaptation of B. splendens emphasizes the importance of preserving quiet soundscapes from lentic freshwater ecosystems.

Beyond the myth: understanding women's impulsive retail footwear shopping - Duarte, Paulo; Silva, Susana C.; Magro, Margarida; Dias, Joana Carmo (International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management, 2025)
Purpose This research focuses on common misconceptions about the factors driving women to purchase footwear impulsively. Its primary objective is to explore how emotional and social triggers specifically influence women's purchasing decisions, contrasting with the traditionally rational consumer models. Design/methodology/approach An online questionnaire was administered to a sample of women, yielding 199 useable responses. Findings The findings reveal the key determinants of women's impulsive retail footwear purchases, which include self-regulation, hedonic motivations and the influence of the retail store environment. This research challenges the prevailing assumption that women's passion for shopping is driven solely by inherent characteristics and suggests that external factors substantially shape their impulsive buying behaviour. In summary, the stereotypical portrayal of women as compulsive retail footwear shoppers may result more from external stimuli and environmental factors rather than an intrinsic trait. Originality/value This study improves the existing knowledge of women’s impulsive buying behaviour by unveiling the determinants of women's impulsive footwear purchases and assessing whether prevailing stereotypes hold true.

The shifting landscape of Chinese student mobility to Thailand - Lertpusit, Sivarin; Ge, Rochelle; Ho, Kong Chong (Asian Population Studies, 2025)
This paper examines the evolving trends in Chinese student mobility to Thailand, highlighting three distinct phases shaped by changes in the higher education: the dominance of Thai language programmes (1990–2010), the rise of business and international programmes (2010–2020), and the increasing preference for graduate studies (2020 onwards). By analysing the economic, cultural, and institutional factors facilitating these shifts, this paper positions Thailand as an emerging alternative study destination for Chinese students. It highlights the significance of this migration within the context of Thailand’s declining fertility rate and labour shortages, focusing on how Thai universities have adapted through active recruitment strategies targeting Chinese students. This paper also addresses the push and pull factors underpinning this migration and the pursuit of alternative educational pathways among Chinese youth. Additionally, it explores the strategic role of Sino-Thai collaborations under the BRI and their broader implications for educational mobility and economic ties.

Action research on circular economy strategies in fashion retail - Silva, Susana C.; Neiva, Carolina Rocha; Dias, Joana Carmo (International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management, 2025)
Purpose The aim of this study is to explore the role and impact of action research in the adoption of circular economy strategies by a fashion retail brand. This exploration is motivated by the need to address the underutilization of action research in management studies, despite its potential to foster a deep understanding of organizational processes and to drive positive transformations. The study seeks to illustrate how action research can contribute to the practical implementation of sustainability initiatives, specifically within the context of new environmental legislation and growing demands for sustainable practices in retailing. Design/methodology/approach This research employs an action research methodology, particularly suited to the retail field, where understanding and influencing organizational processes are key. Through a detailed case study of a fashion retail brand, the study illustrates how action research facilitates the adoption of circular economy strategies. Findings The findings of this study underscore the effectiveness of action research in implementing circular economy strategies within the fashion retail industry. Specifically, it highlights how this approach has led to the successful reduction of waste and reintegration of products into their lifecycle. Originality/value The originality of this study lies in its thorough application of action research to measure and refine the outcomes of circular economy strategies in retailing. This novel approach provides substantial insights into the potential of the circular economy to drive practical innovations in business practices within retail.

Adaptive Block Sparse Backtracking-Based Channel Estimation for Massive MIMO-OTFS Systems - Wang, Han; Chen, Qiulin; Wang, Xianpeng; Du, George; Li, Xingwang; Nallanathan, Arumugam (IEEE Internet of Things Journal, 2025)
—Orthogonal time frequency space (OTFS) modulation, combined with massive multiple-input–multiple-output (MIMO) technology, offers robust performance in high-mobility environments and high-user densities by capturing the full diversity of the wireless channel and effectively utilizing spatial multiplexing. This article introduces an adaptive block sparse backtracking (ABSB) algorithm designed to enhance channel estimation in OTFS with massive MIMO (massive MIMO-OTFS) systems. The proposed ABSB algorithm features dynamic block size adjustment based on the residual signal, improving its adaptability to the varying sparsity structure of the channel. Additionally, the algorithm extends the selection range of related block atoms to increase redundancy, reducing the risk of underfitting. Comprehensive simulation results demonstrate that the ABSB algorithm significantly outperforms traditional pilot-based methods in terms of channel estimation accuracy. It also surpasses the block orthogonal matching pursuit (BOMP) method as well as other classical compressed sensing methods. Specifically, the ABSB algorithm achieves up to a 20% reduction in estimation error compared to some of these traditional methods. The enhanced adaptability and robustness of the ABSB algorithm make it a promising solution for channel estimation in massive MIMO-OTFS systems, paving the way for more reliable and efficient next-generation wireless communications.

Adoption of Artifical Intelligence to Support and Improve Project Management Area - Research Landscape, Stakeholders Perception Analysis and Framework Proposition - Cao, Wei (2025)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being applied in different areas of Administration and Management including finance, e-commerce, etc. Project Management (PM) is one area that may benefit from the use of AI to support project managers in making more accurate predictions, more quickly, such as deadline adjustments and cost updates, while at the same time helping with some of repetitive tasks of PM by relieving managers from these processes. Nevertheless, multiple aspects are still in consideration to allow AI to be widely adopted in PM, including lack of validated systems, including aspects of quality and prevalence, trust from users, market and specialists, and how the government will play a role to support the wider adoption of AI tools. This research explores the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Project Management and its potential to enhance four aspects: service quality, trust, prevalence, and government support. The proposed methodology employs a systematic literature review (SLR) combining with a quantitative survey to assess the current state of AI in project management. The SLR covers scholarly articles from 2016 to 2021, focusing on AI's impact on project management across various industries. The survey, conducted among 200 professionals, gathers insights into AI's perceived benefits and challenges in project management. The research findings indicate a positive inclination towards AI in project management, with respondents recognizing its potential to improve efficiency, support data-driven decisions, and enhance risk management. However, the study also reveals concerns regarding data quality, privacy, and the need for ethical considerations in AI applications. Most respondents agree on the necessity of government support to foster AI adoption and the importance of establishing trust in AI systems through transparency and security measures. The thesis concludes with recommendations for practitioners and policymakers to effectively leverage AI in project management. It proposes a framework including the development of training programs, the establishment of quality standards for AI services, and the promotion of public-private partnerships to drive innovation. The study emphasizes the importance of a multi-faceted approach to AI integration, considering technological, organizational, and ethical dimensions.

TEACHER’S PERCEPTIONS ON DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY IN RELATION TO THE IMPACT OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC SITUATION IN MACAU EDUCATION - Chow, Ian U. (2025)
This dissertation investigates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on teachers' perceptions of digital technology in education, particularly in the context of Macau. As traditional classrooms transitioned to online and blended learning environments in March 2020, the necessity for teachers to adapt and utilize technology became paramount. This study explores how future educators' experiences with e-learning during this crisis have shaped their views on the benefits and challenges of various instructional methods, including online, face-to-face, and blended learning. Utilizing a quantitative research methodology, data were collected from a sample of 30 primary teachers through structured surveys. Findings reveal a significant shift in attitudes towards digital tools, with many educators reporting increased confidence in their digital literacy and recognizing the importance of technology in modern education. The research further elucidates the factors influencing teachers' preparedness for digital instruction and the effectiveness of their internship experiences during the pandemic. The implications of this study underscore the critical role of teacher training programs in enhancing digital literacy and pedagogical skills, ensuring that future educators are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of contemporary educational environments. This dissertation contributes to the growing body of literature on technology integration in education and emphasizes the need for ongoing professional development to support teachers in leveraging digital tools effectively.

The Effectiveness of Dance Movement Therapy on Emotion Identification of Facial Expressions in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders: An EEG study - Chui, Ngou Cheng (2025)
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is receiving growing attention as the number of diagnoses continues to rise. However, there is a lack of resources focused on investigating interventions that could improve the quality of life for individuals with ASD. People with ASD often encounter difficulties in social interactions, and their challenges in recognizing emotions further hinder their ability to understand social cues and build relationships. This emotional recognition deficit is thought to be influenced by observed brain abnormalities in the frontal lobe for people with ASD. Given these significant factors, it is crucial to explore potential interventions. The present study utilized Dance Movement Therapy (DMT) as an intervention for individuals with ASD and assessed their emotional recognition abilities, complemented by EEG recordings to explore the efficacy of DMT. A total of 12 one-hour DMT sessions were conducted with the experimental group (n=6), while the control group (n=5) received no intervention. Participants were presented with the Revised Version of the Averaged Karolinska Directed Emotional Faces (AKDEF), which included 36 images (excluding neutral images and full left and right profiles) at four intervals: pre-therapy (T1), after the 4th session (T2), after the 8th session (T3), and post-therapy (T4), while task for control group was present in two-week intervals. EEG band power for alpha and beta frequencies in the frontal lobe was recorded using the EMOTIV EPOC X at the AF4, F4, F3, and AF3 sites. Results indicated that the experimental group demonstrated a significant improvement in accuracy on emotional recognition tasks compared to the control group, although no significant differences were found between trials. In contrast, EEG signal analysis revealed significant differences between trials in both groups. A comparison of the correlation between emotional recognition tasks and EEG band power highlighted intriguing contrasts, suggesting potential insights into the learning effects. The experimental group exhibited peak performance at T2, followed by a decline at T3 and T4; while the control group showed a decrease at T2, an increase at T3, and another decrease at T4. It is proposed that the learning observed in the experimental group at T2, following four sessions of DMT, enhanced their ability to perform the emotional recognition tasks, resulting a subsequent decrease in alpha and beta power at T3 and T4, suggesting that less effort was needed during image perception and. In contrast, the control group struggled to learn, which may indicate that learning was not occurred for the controls. This relationship has not been explicitly explored in current research, and further investigations are recommended. Nonetheless, the findings indicate that DMT is effective to some extent in enhancing emotional recognition skills among individuals with ASD, suggesting its potential utility for social services to consider in their offerings. Future studies would benefit from incorporating a larger sample size or employing clinical EEG recording devices to further refine the results.

Unveiling the power of supplier-country image on B2B customers' perceptions: Beyond the product’s beauty - Crespo, Cátia Fernandes; Crespo, Nuno Fernandes; Silva, Susana C. (International Business Review, 2025)

Counterfeit Opportunities in Luxury Fashion - Gasulla-Tortajada, Elena; Duarte, Paulo; Silva, Susana C. (2025)
Counterfeiting in luxury fashion presents unique opportunities for brands. While it negatively impacts them by diluting exclusivity, it also affects consumer psychology in unexpectedly positive ways. Authentic consumers may feel pride in being copied, enhancing their perceived status by owning something only a few can possess. Additionally, counterfeits act as free marketing tools, increasing brand awareness on a scale not otherwise accessible, especially for niche or inconspicuous luxury brands. Moreover, counterfeiting offers an opportunity for differentiation through sustainability. Counterfeiters, focused on low-cost production, often cannot commit to sustainable and ethical standards. Luxury brands can leverage this by emphasizing their commitment to sustainability, distancing themselves from counterfeits. Strategically, this allows brands to attract consumers who previously purchased counterfeits, converting them into loyal customers of authentic products. This chapter explores how luxury fashion brands can leverage these dual dynamics to strengthen their market position.

是來時路，亦是前行燈：澳門教師的使命與歸屬 - Ge, Rochelle (2025)

Criminal Jurisdiction of Cross-Border Cybercrimes between Macao and China - Ieong, Weng Mui (2025)
With the rapid development of Internet technology and the acceleration of globalization, cross-border cybercrime has become a global challenge, and its complexity and severity are increasingly prominent. Cyberspace is unbounded, anonymous and real-time, which provides unprecedented convenience for criminals, enabling them to easily cross-national borders and commit a series of criminal acts that seriously endanger national security, social stability and citizens' rights and interests, including online fraud, online gambling, online money laundering and infringement of intellectual property rights. These crimes not only destroy the order of cyberspace, but also pose new challenges to the legal system and jurisdiction of the real world. As two closely linked economies, Macao and China enjoy the convenience brought by the Internet, but they are also deeply troubled by cross-border cybercrimes. Although the two places belong to the same sovereign country, there are significant differences in legal systems, judicial systems and law enforcement practice, which may lead to conflicts and differences in the jurisdiction, investigation, prosecution and trial of cases. These legal conflicts not only affect the fairness of cases, but also hinder the effective cooperation between Macao and China in combating cross-border cybercrimes, posing a serious threat to maintain social stability and protecting citizens' rights and interests in the two places. Therefore, it is not only of great theoretical significance, but also of far-reaching practical significance to study the criminal jurisdiction over cross-border cybercrimes between Macao and China. From a theoretical point of view, the criminal jurisdiction of cross-border cybercrime involves many disciplines such as constitutional law, criminal law, criminal procedure law, and also the application of the Basic Law of Macao, which is a complex research topic. With the continuous innovation of Internet technology, the applicability of the traditional criminal jurisdiction principle in cross-border cybercrimes is seriously challenged. How to re-examine and define the criminal jurisdiction of cross-border cybercrimes in the new era and how to coordinate the jurisdiction conflicts between different jurisdictions have become urgent problems in current legal research. From a practical point of view, cross-border cybercrime has seriously endangered the social stability and economic development of Macao and China. Criminals use the Internet to engage in cross-border gambling, cross-border fraud, spread network viruses and other criminal activities, which not only bring huge economic losses and psychological trauma to the victims, but also seriously undermine the social atmosphere and market order. Therefore, it is of great significance to strengthen the crackdown on cross-border cybercrimes and improve the criminal jurisdiction system of cross-border cybercrimes for maintaining the stability of the society and promoting healthy economic development in both places.

Study on User Acceptance of Resident Behavior for E-Government Services in Macao: Macao One Account Study - Kuok, Chi Hou (2025)
This dissertation investigates the key factors influencing citizens to adopt e-government services in Macao, focusing on the Macao One Account platform. Using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) framework, the study examines factors such as Performance Expectancy, Effort Expectancy, Social Influence, and Facilitating Conditions, with additional factors including Trust and Perceived Risk. This study is essential to provide a guideline for adopting e-government services effectively, helping policymakers and government entities optimize digital platforms for improved service delivery and user engagement. The research employed a quantitative methodology. The survey data was collected through an online survey in Google Forms distributed to Macao residents who use the Macao One Account platform. The responses of the 126 respondents were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods to identify trends and relationships between the key constructs. The findings reflect that performance expectations, effort expectations, trust, and facilitating conditions are the most influential drivers, with social influence playing a more moderate role. Perceived risk is low, indicating minimal concerns about security or privacy. Usability is an important driver, as most respondents find the platform easy to learn and use. Additionally, the users’ attitudes to the e-government platform could be affected by their trust in the government; reducing risk and increasing confidence can improve the platform's reliability to users. This study shows the need to improve the e-government platform by focusing on users. It includes making it easier to use, building trust with strong data protection, and making it accessible to all citizens. These results give ideas for adopting e-government in Macao and offer simple steps for policymakers to create more inclusive digital services.

探討澳門普小教師在課堂應對融合學生時所面對的困難及挑戰 - Lam, Mei In (2025)
This study aims to explore the difficulties and challenges faced by regular primary school teachers in Macao when dealing with inclusive students in the classroom. As the concept of inclusive education deepens, the number of inclusive students in Macao has been increasing, but the growth of schools participating in inclusive education has been slow, posing more challenges for regular primary school teachers. This research adopts a mixed-method approach, combining classroom observations and in-depth interviews to comprehensively understand the issues teachers face. The study conducted structured observations of 15 lessons, covering 5 grade levels and 5 subjects, and carried out in-depth interviews with 7 teachers. The findings reveal: (1) Inclusive students generally experience difficulties in classroom participation, task completion, and independent learning; (2) Teachers generally lack sufficient professional knowledge and skills to effectively address the needs of inclusive students; (3) Schools lack resources and support, including adaptive curriculum arrangements and assessment methods for inclusive students; (4) There are contradictions between current educational policies and practical needs, such as the no-retention policy for grades 1-4, which may lead to missing the best intervention timing for inclusive students. Based on the research results, this paper proposes recommendations including strengthening teacher professional development, optimizing school resource allocation, improving educational policies, reinforcing early identification and intervention mechanisms, and promoting home-school cooperation. These findings and suggestions provide important references for policy-making and practical improvements in inclusive education in Macao. 本研究旨在探討澳門普通小學教師在課堂應對融合學生時所面臨的困難及挑戰。隨著融合教育理念的普及，澳門融合學生數量不斷增加，但參與融合教育的學校數量增長緩慢，使得普通小學教師面臨更多挑戰。本研究採用混合研究方法，結合課堂觀察和深度訪談，以全面了解教師面臨的問題。 研究對15節課進行了結構化觀察，涵蓋5個年級和5個學科，並對7位教師進行了深度訪談。研究發現：（一、）融合學生在課堂參與、任務完成和自主學習等方面普遍存在困難；（二、）教師普遍缺乏足夠的專業知識和技能來有效應對融合學生；（三、）學校資源和支援不足，缺乏針對融合學生的適應性課程安排和評核方式；（四、）現行教育政策與實際需求之間存在矛盾，如一至四年級不留級制度可能導致錯過融合學生最佳干預時機。 基於研究結果，本文提出了加強教師專業發展、優化學校資源配置、完善教育政策、強化早期識別和干預機制，以及促進家校合作等建議。這些發現和建議為澳門融合教育的政策制定和實踐改進提供了重要參考。 關鍵詞：融合教育，普通小學教師，融合學生，澳門

Interdisciplinary Teaching Design and Practice Research Combining Mathematics and Programming: A Case Study of Fourth Grade Mathematics Topics - Lao, Si Man (2025)
本研究旨在探討跨學科教學方法在數學教育中的應用效果,特別聚焦於編 程與數學課程的整合。探討結合數學與編程的跨學科教學設計對小學四年級學 生的影響,旨在提升學生的數學和編程學習的成效。研究採用 5E 教學模式, 將 Scratch 3.0 編程活動融入數學課程,並進行實驗以評估其成效。研究對象為 澳門一所學校兩個四年級普通班級(A 班和 B 班)的學生,分為實驗組和對照 組。研究採用交叉設計,進行兩次實驗:實驗一以 A 班為實驗組、B 班為對照 組,進行《旋轉對稱圖形》單元的跨學科教學;實驗二則互換角色,以 B 班為 實驗組、A 班為對照組,進行《可以被 3 整除的數》單元的跨學科教學。研究 使用數學單元測驗卷、數學學習動機量表,以及學生的數學測驗成績和編程學 習動機量表作為評估工具。 研究結果顯示: 一、數學成績提升:實驗組學生的數學成績顯著高於對照組。 二、數學學習動機增強:實驗組學生在數學興趣和自我效能感方面均有顯 著提升。 三、編程學習動機提升:實驗組在編程社會價值、感知編程效用、編程興 趣和自我效能方面均有顯著的提升。 結論指出,實施編程活動融入數學科的跨學科教學,提升學生的數學成 績、數學和編程的學習動機。建議應推廣此類跨學科教學,並加強教師培訓及 教學資源開發,以提高學生的學習動機和成效。未來研究可擴大樣本範圍,探 討長期效果及多學科整合的影響。 This study investigates the impact of interdisciplinary teaching design integrating mathematics and programming on fourth-grade elementary school students, aiming to enhance their learning outcomes in both subjects. The research employs the 5E instructional model, incorporating Scratch 3.0 programming into the mathematics curriculum, and conducts experiments to evaluate its effectiveness. The study subjects are two regular fourth-grade classes (Class A and Class B) from a school in Macau, divided into experimental and control groups. A crossover design is used, conducting two experiments: in Experiment 1, Class A serves as the experimental group and Class B as the control group for the "Rotational Symmetry Figures" unit; in Experiment 2, the roles are reversed, with Class B as the experimental group and Class A as the control group for the "Numbers Divisible by 3" unit. The study uses mathematics learning motivation and programming learning motivation scales as assessment tools. Major research findings are as follows: 1. Improved mathematics performance: The experimental group's mathematics scores were significantly higher than the control group's. 2. Enhanced mathematics learning motivation: The experimental group showed significant improvements in mathematics interest and self-efficacy. 3. Increased programming learning motivation: The experimental group demonstrated significant improvements in programming social value, perceived programming utility, programming interest, and self-efficacy. The conclusion indicates that the 5E instructional model effectively promotes the integration of mathematics and programming, enhancing students' learning outcomes. It is recommended that educational institutions promote such interdisciplinary teaching and strengthen teacher training and teaching resource development to improve students' learning motivation and effectiveness. Future research could expand the sample size to explore long-term effects and the impact of multi-disciplinary integration.

Exploring the Dual Edges of Macao's Economic Diversification A Study of the Strengths and Limitations of the Policy - Lei, Iat Cheong (2025)
This study aims to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the dual effects of Macao's economic diversification policy, with the intention of exploring its role in fostering economic sustainability. By thoroughly examining Macao's economy, which has traditionally been heavily reliant on the gaming and tourism industries, the study uncovers the implementation effects of the economic diversification policy, the challenges it encounters, and its potential influence on the economy's future trajectory. The research utilizes a mixed-methodology approach, integrating extensive quantitative data analysis with qualitative interviews to ensure the comprehensiveness and systematic nature of the findings. The study's outcomes underscore the beneficial effects of Macao's economic diversification policy in stimulating the growth of new industries, bolstering economic resilience, and attracting foreign investment. However, the policy also faces challenges such as skill shortages, uneven resource distribution, and the impact on traditional economic pillar industries. The research indicates that despite certain progress, Macao's economic diversification process still needs to overcome various internal and external obstacles. In response to the research findings, this study proposes a series of targeted recommendations, including strengthening the connection between education and industry, optimizing resource allocation strategies, stimulating innovation and entrepreneurship, and promoting the collaborative development of traditional and emerging industries. These suggestions aim to assist the Macao government in effectively addressing current challenges and laying a solid foundation for the long-term development of Macao's economy.

Unlocking Sustainable Talents 培育永續人才：如何共同建設更好的生態，以滿足日益增長的金齡人士 - Lei, Weng Chi (Florence) (2025)
本書由36 位不同界別的領袖、專家和學者，分享與人口老齡化相關的精闢觀察與洞見，探索創新永續的生活和經濟模式，包括相關的政策、黃金時代經濟的發展、中國安老服務的新視野、醫康養老新發展、智齡科技的應用、永續人才和社區發展等議題，為業界提供參考，亦為45 歲以上的黃金一代應對未來退休生活提供啟發。 「我們的生活越來越受創新技術的影響，我們的社會也更加重視綠色生活和可持續發展。科技和綠色生活方式必須融入智齡產品和服務中。」 —— 陳茂波 香港特別行政區財政司司長 「我們的共同目標是在老齡化世界中不讓任何人掉隊。」 —— 威廉•史密斯博士 聯合國紐約總部老年事務非政府組織委員會主席 「我們深信人口老化為全球帶來嶄新的機遇。中、老年人是唯一正在不斷增長的人力資源，也是創新產品和服務的龐大消費群體。」 —— 容蔡美碧 黃金時代基金會創會主席

Digital and Sustainable Trade Facilitation in ASEAN Countries - Lei, Weng Chi (Florence); Toshevska-Trpchevska, Katerina; Stojkoski, Viktor (Asia-Pacific Conference on Economics & Finance, 2025)
The pandemic exposed weaknesses in the global trade system, making it clear that climate actions are the priority in the recovery. International organizations are urging countries to seize this opportunity and integrate climate-friendly trade and investment rules to promote sustainable development. Trade is recognized as a powerful tool for tackling climate change, offering economies ways to both reduce emissions and adapt to environmental changes. In this paper, we investigate the digital and sustainable trade facilitation measures implemented in ASEAN countries, namely Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. We use a well-established trade model, the gravity model, to assess the impacts of trade facilitation efforts, particularly those that leverage digital technologies and promote sustainability. The data for this analysis comes from the UN Global Survey on digital and sustainable trade facilitation in 2017, 2019, and 2021. The results show that trade facilitation measures are crucial to increasing trade among the ASEAN countries. Measures of transparency of trade procedures, trade formality alleviation, and cross-border paperless trade have significant positive impacts on bilateral trade between ASEAN countries.

The Impact of the Understanding of Reproductive Rights on Career Planning and Gender Equality Attitudes Among Macau Residents Aged 25-34 - Lou, Weng Si (2025)
本研究旨在探討澳門 25-34 歲年齡層個人對生育權的認知與理解,以及這 些觀點對其生涯規劃和性別平等態度的影響。澳門作為一個快速發展的特別行 政區,關於生殖權的討論仍然較為缺乏,這使得本研究特別重要,因為它有助 於填補這一領域的知識空白。本研究採用質性研究方法,通過有目的抽樣,對 20 名年齡在 25-34 歲之間的澳門居民進行半結構訪談,並以詮釋學方法分析數 據。 研究發現如下: 1. 男性參與者更關注個人角色和責任,並反思社會期望和文化價值觀。 2. 女性參與者則更關注社會期望與個人自主權的衝突,並關心性別平等和 個人權利。 這些差異突顯了性別角色和社會責任在男性和女性身上的不同詮釋,並反映 了社會、文化和個人因素對於性別觀點的塑造作用。研究結果對於推動澳門的 性別平等政策和生殖權利保障具有重要意義,並為後續研究提供了實證基礎。 This study aims to explore the awareness and understanding of reproductive rights among individuals aged 25-34 in Macau, as well as the impact of these views on their career planning and attitudes towards gender equality. As a rapidly developing Special Administrative Region, Macau still lacks extensive discussion on reproductive rights, making this research particularly important as it helps to fill the knowledge gap in this field. The study employs qualitative research methods, using purposive sampling to conduct semi-structured interviews with 20 Macau residents aged 25-34, and analyzes the data using hermeneutic methods. The findings of the study are as follows: 1. Male participants are more concerned with individual roles and responsibilities, and they reflect on societal expectations and cultural values. 2. Female participants are more focused on the conflict between societal expectations and personal autonomy, and they are concerned with gender equality and individual rights. These differences highlight the varying interpretations of gender roles and social responsibilities between men and women and reflect the influence of social, cultural, and personal factors on gender perspectives. The research results have significant implications for promoting gender equality policies and reproductive rights protection in Macau, providing an empirical basis for subsequent studies.

Law and Development Research Network - MACHVA, ALMEIDA ZACARIAS; Rafael, Angelo; MAY, YDUAN DE OLIVEIRA (2025)
Este livro é resultado do I International Meeting da Law and Development Research Network (LDRN) ou Rede de Pesquisa Direito e Desenvolvimento. As temáticas do encontro internacional foram os objetivos do desenvolvimento sustentável, o desenvolvimento e a inclusão socioeconômicos. O evento foi organizado pelo grupo de pesquisa Direito e Sociedade Econômica (DISE), que completa uma década, orientado à pesquisa e à solução de problemas socioeconômicos sob a ótica jurídica. Está vinculado ao Programa de Pós-Graduação em Direito da Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense (PPGD/UNESC), localizado em Criciúma, Santa Catarina, Brasil. O evento contou com o apoio institucional da Universidade São José (USJ, Macau-China), da Universidade Eduardo Mondlane (UEM, Moçambique) e da UNESC. Participaram do comitê científico Prof. Dr. Almeida Zacarias Machava (UEM); Prof. Dr. Ângelo Patrício Rafael (USJ); Prof. Dra. Camila Villard Duran, ESSCA School of Management, França; Prof. Dr. Fernando de Magalhães Furlan, UNICEPLAC, Brasil; e Prof. Dra. Rúbia Carneiro Neves, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brasil. A coordenação-geral coube ao Prof. Dr. Yduan de Oliveira May, UNESC, coordenador do DISE e da LDRN. Cumprimenta-se o Prof. Dr. Ansoumane Douty Diakité (USJ) pelo prefácio, no qual discorre com generosidade suas impressões das atividades da LDRN e a ordenação temática deste livro.

PERCEPTIONS OF CO-TEACHING AMONG PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOL TEACHERS: A CASE STUDY OF AN INCLUSIVE SCHOOL IN MACAU - Marinho, Gomes Vasconcelos Pinto Ana Teresa (2025)
The study aimed to analyze teachers' perceptions of co-teaching within an inclusive educational environment, focusing on the challenges they face, the tools and resources available, and how these factors contribute to promoting inclusion. Conducted with 16 primary and secondary school teachers from an inclusive school in Macau, the research utilized in-depth semi- structured interviews to gather qualitative data on their experiences and perceptions. Overall, the findings highlight co-teaching as a powerful strategy in educational settings, particularly for enhancing students’ learning outcomes. Teachers reported positive views on co-teaching, recognizing its potential to promote collaboration and support diverse learners effectively. Nevertheless, cultural factors significantly influenced teachers’ attitudes toward inclusion. The study revealed that teachers varied cultural and professional backgrounds lead to different perspectives on inclusive practices. This complexity highlights the need for culturally responsive approaches in teacher training and professional development. Despite the positive perceptions of co-teaching, teachers encountered several challenges, namely inconsistent school practices, lack of institutional support from school administration and leadership and inadequate training opportunities. This study suggests that addressing these challenges is crucial for the successful implementation of co-teaching approaches, namely policy adjustments by stakeholders to support co-teaching initiatives, effective allocation of resources for teachers, professional development for school leaders to enhance their ability to foster a collaborative environment, and ongoing training focused on co-teaching methodologies for teachers.

Predicting consumer ad preferences: Leveraging a machine learning approach for EDA and FEA neurophysiological metrics - Marques, João Alexandre Lobo; Neto, Andreia C.; Silva, Susana C.; Bigne, Enrique (Psychology & Marketing, 2025)
This research unveils to predict consumer ad preferences by detecting seven basic emotions, attention and engagement triggered by advertising through the analysis of two specific physiological monitoring tools, electrodermal activity (EDA), and Facial Expression Analysis (FEA), applied to video advertising, offering a twofold contribution of significant value. First, to identify the most relevant physiological features for consumer preference prediction. We integrated a statistical module encompassing inferential and exploratory analysis tools, which identified emotions such as Joy, Disgust, and Surprise, enabling the statistical differentiation of preferences concerning various advertisements. Second, we present an artificial intelligence (AI) system founded on machine learning techniques, encompassing k-Nearest Neighbors, Support Vector Machine, and Random Forest (RF). Our findings show that the RF technique emerged as the top performer, boasting an 81% Accuracy, 84% Precision, 79% Recall, and an F1-score of 81% in predicting consumer preferences. In addition, our research proposes an eXplainable AI module based on feature importance, which discerned Attention, Engagement, Joy, and Disgust as the four most pivotal features influencing consumer ad preference prediction. The results indicate that computerized intelligent systems based on EDA and FEA data can be used to predict consumer ad preferences based on videos and effectively used as supporting tools for marketing specialists.
Keywords: advertising; consumer ad preferences; consumer neuroscience; emotions; explainable artificial intelligence; machine learning

Study of the Regulatory Framework of Aviation Reform in the Macau Special Administrative Region: Analyzing the Balance between Protection and Liberalization - Melo, Loi da Silva e; Man, I. (2025)
This dissertation studies the regulatory framework of aviation reform in the Macau Special Administrative Region, focus on the balance between protecting local businesses and promoting market liberalization. The study explores how Macau, as a highly autonomous local administrative region in China with a relatively small economy, can effectively reform its aviation industry while safeguarding local interests in the face of open market competition. The importance of this study lies in its analysis of Macau's aviation sector reforms. As Macau seeks to diversify its economy and strengthen its position as a member of the Greater Bay Area initiative, the aviation industry presents both opportunities and challenges. This research contributes to the broader discussion of how small jurisdictions with special political status can participate in regional economic integration while maintaining their distinct advantages and protecting local interests. The research uses Doctrinal Legal Research and Comparative Legal Research methodologies, utilizing documentary analysis and comparative study methods. This research examines the legal framework of the aviation industry in Macau and the challenges it is currently facing. A comprehensive review of international aviation laws, bilateral air service agreements, and domestic regulations provides the foundation for analyze. The study also conducts a comparative analyze with Hong Kong's aviation framework, offering alternative regulatory approaches for a similar Special Administrative Region of China. Several interesting findings emerged from this research. First, the study identified a fundamental tension between Macau's stated open skies policy and its practical implementation, particularly in limitations of its current concession-based system and the underutilization of international traffic rights. Second, the analysis highlights how the current concession-based system has created a monopolistic market structure that hinders competition and innovation, exacerbated by outdated legislation. Third, the comparative analysis with Hong Kong highlights the importance of a clear legal framework and rules in balancing market liberalization with local industry protection, areas where Macau's current regulations show deficiencies. The concluding thought based on these findings is that Macau's aviation industry reform requires a careful approach that gradually introduces competitive elements while maintaining protections for local enterprises. The study suggests that successful reform will depend on establishing a comprehensive legal framework, implementing a flexible multi-tiered licensing system, enhancing regulatory oversight, and developing mechanisms for regional integration. These reforms must be tailored to Macau's unique circumstances, considering its small market size, political status, and strategic position within the Greater Bay Area.

FROM ARTISANAL TRADITIONS TO THE DIGITAL EXPERIENCE: REIMAGINING TEXTILES TRADITIONS THROUGH ARTISTIC CREATION AND IMMERSIVE TECHNOLOGIES - Pereira, S. (Pereira; Fernandes-Marcos, Adérito (2025)
This article explores the intersection between traditional textile craftsmanship and digital innovation through the Hands series, a project that integrates tangible and virtual artefacts. Grounded in post-digital aesthetics, Hands examines the rematerialisation of textile heritage by combining traditional techniques with immersive technologies such as augmented reality and digital modelling. The project questions the physical and digital dichotomy, proposing new ways of experiencing textile art beyond its material constraints. By incorporating multisensory elements and interactivity, Hands redefines the engagement between spectators and artefacts, expanding the narrative potential of textile traditions in contemporary artistic practice. This study critically analyses how post-digital textile aesthetics can serve as a bridge between preservation and innovation, fostering an enriched sensory experience. The discussion highlights the challenges and opportunities of integrating emerging technologies into artistic processes, reinforcing the relevance of sensory engagement in digital art contexts.

Consumer Responses to Warwashing Amidst the Russia-Ukraine Conflict: A Comparative Study of Portuguese and Danish Perspectives - Silva, Susana C. (2025)

Understanding virtual influencers as brand endorsers: A conceptual framework for evaluating the traits of virtual influencers and an agenda for future research - Silva, Susana C.; Fernandes, Beatriz Pineda; Dias, Joana Carmo (Journal of Digital & Social Media Marketing, 2025)
Over the last few years, brands have increasingly looked to influencer marketing to promote their products. More recently, a new approach has emerged, leveraging artificial intelligence to create virtual influencers. Despite the growing importance of virtual brand ambassadors, academic research on virtual influencers remains fragmented, with limited discussion regarding the ideal characteristics of such agents. This paper addresses this gap in the literature and identifies the conditions necessary for virtual influencers to deliver positive outcomes. Based on existing literature, we identify eight essential attributes that significantly influence the effectiveness of virtual influencers. We also propose an agenda for future research and present a conceptual model to elucidate virtual influencer dynamics. This research enhances our understanding of virtual influencers’ role and impact in contemporary brand promotion, providing valuable insights for scholars and practitioners.

Heavy metal accumulation in paddy plants and health risks: Insights from southern peninsular Malaysia and global research trends - Teoh, Yan Ji; Cheng, Wan Hee; Wider, Walton; Krishnan, Kumar; Yap, Chee Kong; Chen, Qijin; Jiang, Leilei; Lei, Thomas; Tanee, Tawatchai; Sudmoon, Runglawan; Lee, Shiou Yih (Asian Journal of Agriculture and Biology, 2025)
This current study assessed the toxicity of selected heavy metals in paddy and sediments of non-major production sites in Southern Peninsular Malaysia, complemented by bibliometric analysis of research trends and health implications of rice contamination. Paddy (grains, stems, roots) and soil samples were collected from seven selected sites in the Southern parts of Peninsular Malaysia and analyzed for their heavy metals content. The health risk assessments were conducted based on estimated daily intake, and the Web of Science database was used for bibliometric analysis. The results indicated elevated levels of manganese, Mn (0.4 ± 0.07), especially in the roots, compared to other heavy metals. Generally, the heavy metal levels in paddy grains were below FAO/WHO’s tolerable daily intake levels, indicating minimal non-carcinogenic risks to both adults and children. The bibliometric analysis indicated a significant increase in related publications, reflecting growing academic interest. This study highlights the potential of non-major sites to produce rice with lower contamination levels, provides insights into research trends, and identifies future investigation areas, especially for major production sites and post-COVID-19 periods. Therefore, this study offers a robust scientific context, identifies research gaps, benchmarks findings, and guides future research directions, ensuring an in-depth perception on heavy metal contamination and its health risks. © This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License. (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Study on the Implementation of Low-Carbon Policies in Macao - Wong, Mio San (2025)
As a special administrative region of China, Macau, despite its small size and limited resources, has been actively promoting low-carbon development to address the global climate change challenge. In recent years, Macao has provided important support for achieving the goal of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality by formulating a series of policies, such as energy management, promotion of green buildings and optimization of waste treatment. However, despite the clarity of the policy framework, its actual implementation and effectiveness still need to be systematically reviewed. This study uses a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods, interviews and questionnaires to gain an in-depth understanding of the social acceptance and public participation of policies, and quantitative data to analyze the implementation effects of policies, with a view to revealing the advantages and disadvantages of low-carbon policies in Macao. The research results will systematically evaluate the effectiveness of low-carbon policies in Macao from multiple levels. On the one hand, quantitative data will provide a clear empirical basis for the progress of low-carbon policies; On the other hand, qualitative research will reveal key social and technological barriers to policy implementation, helping to understand the impact of public attitudes and behaviour on policy effectiveness. These results can not only provide reference for Macao's future low-carbon policy adjustment, but also provide experience for other similar cities to cope with similar challenges in low-carbon development. The importance of this study lies in its dual contribution to academia and practice. At the academic level, this study has enriched the theoretical research on low-carbon city development, especially the special challenges of carbon emission reduction in resource-limited cities. At the practical level, the results of this study can directly provide policy makers with specific suggestions for improving low-carbon policies, such as resource allocation, technology introduction and public awareness. Through these analyses, the study hopes to provide a practical roadmap for Macao to achieve its goal of carbon neutrality, as well as a valuable reference for the low-carbon development of similar cities around the world.

The Future of Digital Banking in Macau: Developing a Theoretical Model of User Willingness for Digital Banking Services - Lin, Jing-ying; Lobo Marques, Joao Alexandre; Neto, Andreia (Proceedings of the 2024 15th International Conference on E-business, Management and Economics, 2024)
In the wave of digital transformation, Chinese banks have prioritized digital banking services as key strategic goals, aiming to revolutionize the mobile banking experience. This study aims to assess the factors influencing the willingness to use the various financial and contextual services offered through digital banking. Specifically, it is proposed a model based on users' perceptions of mobile banking scenarios and examines how the development of digital banking services influences users' willingness to use them. The study involved qualitative in-depth interviews with 12 mobile banking users, with the interview content analyzed using Nvivo qualitative analysis software. The data analysis identified 9 core coding categories: Financial Professionalism, Security, Marketing Stimulation, Innovative Products, Use Experience, Strong Relationship, Trust, Perceived Usefulness, and Willingness to Use. These categories were further refined to construct a theoretical model of user willingness in digital banking services, drawing from the optimized Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The findings provide valuable insights for the banking industry in Macau, aiding in understanding customer needs and supporting the positive development of mobile finance and contextual digital banking services in the region.

Unveiling retail omnichannel challenges: developing an omnichannel obstacles scale - Radomska, Joanna; Kawa, Arkadiusz; Hajdas, Monika; Klimas, Patrycja; Silva, Susana C. (International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management, 2024)
Purpose Retail omnichannel implementation faces barriers hindering accurate and efficient integration across marketing channels. Our desk examination identified a need for a broader perspective in investigating these barriers, moving away from a dominant, narrow approach. This research aims to develop a comprehensive set of items to measure retail omnichannel obstacles, refine the scale and assess its reliability and validity for a robust measurement tool. Design/methodology/approach Our approach combines quantitative and qualitative methods, using data from primary and secondary sources to create and validate the omnichannel obstacles scale. Findings This study emphasises the inclusive nature of retail functional areas, departing from prior literature that examined them in isolation. Instead of focussing on separate domains where retail omnichannel obstacles may arise, we adopt a holistic perspective by integrating previously disconnected elements. Originality/value We assert that challenges in retail omnichannel operations encompass three distinct dimensions: operational efficiency, channel inefficiency, and strategy and organisational culture within retailing. In our final validated measurement model, we consolidate the channel inefficiency dimension and refine the omnichannel obstacles scale to emphasise two areas of consideration.

Unveiling retail omnichannel challenges: developing an omnichannel obstacles scale - Radomska, Joanna; Kawa, Arkadiusz; Hajdas, Monika; Klimas, Patrycja; Silva, Susana C. (International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management, 2024)
Purpose Retail omnichannel implementation faces barriers hindering accurate and efficient integration across marketing channels. Our desk examination identified a need for a broader perspective in investigating these barriers, moving away from a dominant, narrow approach. This research aims to develop a comprehensive set of items to measure retail omnichannel obstacles, refine the scale and assess its reliability and validity for a robust measurement tool. Design/methodology/approach Our approach combines quantitative and qualitative methods, using data from primary and secondary sources to create and validate the omnichannel obstacles scale. Findings This study emphasises the inclusive nature of retail functional areas, departing from prior literature that examined them in isolation. Instead of focussing on separate domains where retail omnichannel obstacles may arise, we adopt a holistic perspective by integrating previously disconnected elements. Originality/value We assert that challenges in retail omnichannel operations encompass three distinct dimensions: operational efficiency, channel inefficiency, and strategy and organisational culture within retailing. In our final validated measurement model, we consolidate the channel inefficiency dimension and refine the omnichannel obstacles scale to emphasise two areas of consideration.

REGIONAL TRADE AGREEMENTS: TOOL TO PROMOTE CLIMATE – SMART AND SUSTAINABLE TRADE - Toshevska-Trpchevska, Katerina; Lei, Weng Chi (Florence); Kocev, Ljuben; Tonovska, Jasna (InterEULawEast: Journal for the International and European Law, Economics and Market Integrations, 2024)

Macau Cultural Tapestry: Unravelling a City’s Visual Identity Through Its Patterns and Textures—Digital Archive and Mapping - Martins, Filipa; Seck, Mamadú; Pinheiro, Francisco; Estadieu, Gerald (Springer Series in Design and Innovation, 2024)

Chromosome-level genome assembly of the highly-polymorphic peacock blenny (Salaria pavo) - Cardoso, Sara D.; Jiang, Chunxi; Sun, Lina; Zhang, Libin; Gonçalves, David (Scientific Data, 2024)
The peacock blenny Salaria pavo is notorious for its extreme male sexual polymorphism, with large males defending nests and younger reproductive males mimicking the appearance and behavior of females to parasitically fertilize eggs. The lack of a reference genome has, to date, limited the understanding of the genetic basis of the species phenotypic plasticity. Here, we present the first reference genome assembly of the peacock blenny using PacBio HiFi long-reads and Hi-C sequencing data. The final assembly of the S. pavo genome spanned 735.90 Mbp, with a contig N50 of 3.69 Mbp and a scaffold N50 of 31.87 Mbp. A total of 98.77% of the assembly was anchored to 24 chromosomes. In total, 24,008 protein-coding genes were annotated, and 99.0% of BUSCO genes were fully represented. Comparative analyses with closely related species showed that 86.2% of these genes were assigned to orthogroups. This high-quality genome of S. pavo will be a valuable resource for future research on this species’ reproductive plasticity and evolutionary history.

Empowering Luxury: How Cause-Related Marketing Influences Gen Z and Millennials' Post-Purchase Guilt in China's High-End Retail Landscape - Dias, Joana Carmo; Silva, Susana; Martins, Carla; Casais, Beatriz (European Journal of Applied Business and Management, 2024)
Purpose: This study explores the emotional impact of post-purchase guilt on younger consumers in the Chinese luxury retail market, with a specific focus on the role of Cause-related Marketing (CrM) in mitigating negative emotions across luxury and non-luxury product categories.Design/Methodology/Approach: A quantitative experimental design was utilized, involving 326 respondents exposed to different advertising scenarios. The study tested the impact of CrM on post-purchase guilt in both luxury (high-priced) and non-luxury (moderately priced) product conditions, using a 2 × 2 factorial design. The data were analyzed using ANCOVA to assess the effects of CrM campaigns across conditions.Findings: The results demonstrate that CrM effectively reduces post-purchase guilt across both luxury and non-luxury product categories, providing a moral justification for purchases by linking them to a positive social cause. However, contrary to expectations, the impact of CrM was not significantly stronger in the luxury context compared to non-luxury. This suggests that CrM's influence on post-purchase guilt operates uniformly, regardless of product type.Originality: This research enhances understanding Millennial and Gen Z consumer behavior in the Chinese luxury market. The findings offer actionable insights for luxury brands, highlighting the effectiveness of CrM in addressing guilt-related concerns, thereby informing marketing strategies aimed at younger generations.Keywords: post-purchase guilt, Millennials, Gen Z, Chinese luxury retail industry, cause-related marketing.Acknowledgments: The first author would like to thank CEGE – Research Centre in Management and Economics, funded by The Multiannual Funding Programme of R&D Centres of FCT – Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia under the project UIDB/00731/2020. The fourth author would like to thank COMEGI funded by FCT – Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia under the project UIDB/04005/2020.DOI: https://doi.org/10.58869/EJABM10(3)/06

Consumers' Perception of Electric Aviation in Macao: An Exploratory Study Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior - Lampo, Alessandro (ICIBE '24, 2024)
Battery Electric Aircraft (BEA) technology is gaining attention due to the potential to reduce carbon emissions and noise pollution, contributing to global environmental sustainability. Grounded in the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), this paper explores the determinants of attitude, social norm, behavioural control, and perceived risks related to the intention of Macau residents to use electric aeroplanes within the Greater Bay Area (GBA). This research uses a quantitative approach. Data is collected through structured surveys distributed to potential adopters. To assess the relationships between the determinants in our model, Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) is employed. The findings reveal that a favourable attitude and perceived behavioural control positively influence individuals’ intentions to adopt electric aeroplanes. However, perceived risks strongly impact adoption intentions, suggesting that addressing safety and reliability concerns is essential for promoting the technology within the region. The implications of this research extend beyond academic interests, as Macau’s unique position within the GBA offers the opportunity for electric aeroplanes’ adoption. Further, the reduced carbon emissions and noise pollution align with the city’s objectives and create a harmonious balance between economic prosperity and environmental preservation for future generations. This study offers important insights for integrating advanced computing technologies into BEA systems to enhance electric aeroplanes’ operational efficiency and safety to support their adoption. It also provides a path for policymakers and industry stakeholders toward sustainable economic development and integration of Macau within the GBA.

Optimizing Fetal Health Status Detection Using Quantum Intelligent Deep-Learning Methods on Cardiotocographic Data - Al-Razgan, Muna; Ali, Yasser A.; Neira-Molina, Harold; Ma, Hauwei; Du, George; Ain, Qurat Ul (SPIN, 2024)
This work compares the performance of different algorithms — quantum Fourier transform, Gaussian–Newton method, hyperfast, metropolis-adjusted Langevin algorithm, and nonparametric classification and regression trees — for the classification of fetal health states from FHR signals. In the conducted research, the effectiveness of each algorithm was measured using confusion matrices, which gave information about class precision, recall, and total accuracy in three classes: Normal, Suspect, and Pathological. The QFT algorithm gives an overall accuracy of 90%, where it is highly reliable in recognizing Normal (94% F1-score) and Pathological states (91% F1-score), but performs poorly regarding the Suspect cases, at 58% F1-score. On the other hand, using the GNM method gives an accuracy of 88%, whereby it performed well on Normal cases, at 93% F1-score, and poor performance with Suspect, at 50% F1-score, and Pathological classifications, at 82% F1-score. The hyperfast algorithm yielded an accuracy of 89%, thus performing well on Normal classifications with an F1-score of 93%, but less well on the Suspect states with an F1-score of 56%. The MALA algorithm outperformed all other algorithms tested in this study, giving an overall accuracy of 91% and adequately classifying Normal, Suspect, and Pathological states with corresponding F1-scores of 94%, 63%, and 90%, respectively; therefore, the algorithm is quite robust and reliable for fetal health monitoring. The NCART algorithm achieved an accuracy of 89%, thus showing great capability for classification in Normal cases with 94% F1-score and in Pathological cases with 88% F1-score; this is moderate for Suspect cases with 53% F1-score. Overall, while all algorithms exhibit potential for fetal health classification, MALA stands out as the most effective, offering reliable classification across all health states. These findings highlight the need for further refinement, particularly in enhancing the detection of Suspect conditions, to ensure comprehensive and accurate fetal health monitoring.

Exploring a model for ensuring language learner autonomy via technological buttressing - Baker-Malungu, Laurie (Applying Technology to Language and Translation, 2024)
Having navigated up to two years of online course delivery worldwide as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. Education systems are now in a better position to leverage the benefits of technology in facilitating the language acquisition process more effectively. Regardless of the student population served, there is no longer a concern as to whether students have access to facilities necessary for online delivery as the smartphone has become a standard household necessity. This conceptual literature review introduces a potential model for second language instruction utilizing a flipped classroom approach based on evidence gained through empirical research interpreted through the lens of present reality. Technology enables learners to explore the form and structure of language through the use of online autonomous learning units with no limitation of time or accessibility, while scheduled classroom engagement allows opportunity for authentic language practice and refinement. The implications of this study add value to second and foreign language instruction, providing language teachers with a pragmatic approach to enhance their instructional delivery. © 2025 selection and editorial matter, Leung Sze Ming and Chan Sin-wai; individual chapters, the contributors.

From Semi-democracy to Autocracy - Correia, Sérgio de Almeida (Asia-Pacific Journal on Human Rights and the Law, 2024)
Abstract Under the agreement signed with Portugal, which defined the terms of the handover to China, Macau became a Special Administrative Region on 20 December 1999. China undertook to maintain the way of life, the rights and freedoms of the residents and the essence of the laws previously in force, and guarantee the inapplicability of the socialist system. Events in Hong Kong since 2019 and the concerns of the Central Government have led to changes in the national security law and electoral laws which, among other things, have imposed political screening on candidates for the Legislative Assembly and Chief Executive, which can lead to their exclusion without appeal, while criminalising calls for blank votes, null votes, and abstentions. This article answers the question of whether these changes are compatible with the guarantees provided, the Luso-Chinese Joint Declaration and Macau’s Basic Law.

Trans-EffNet: A Hybrid Model for Brain Tumor Detection Using EfficientNet and Transformer Encoder - Nizamani, Abdul Haseeb; Chen, Zhigang; Nizamani, Ahsan Ahmed; Bhatti, Mughair Aslam; Ma, Hauwei; Du, George (2024 IEEE Smart World Congress (SWC), 2024)
Accurate classification of brain tumors from MRI is critical for effective diagnosis and treatment. In this study, we introduce Trans-EffNet, a hybrid model combining pre-trained EfficientNet architectures with a transformer encoder to enhance brain tumor classification accuracy. By leveraging EfficientNet's deep CNN capabilities for localized feature extraction and the transformer encoder for capturing global contextual relationships, our model improves the identification of intricate tumor characteristics. Fine-tuned with ImageNet-derived weights and utilizing extensive data augmentation, Trans-EffNet was validated on both multi-class and binary datasets. Trans-EffNetB1 achieved 99.49 % accuracy on the multi-class dataset, while Trans-EffNetB2 recorded 99.83 % accuracy on the binary dataset, with perfect precision, recall, and F1-Score. These results underscore Trans-EffNet's robustness and potential as a significant advancement in brain tumor detection and classification.

Exploring TikTok's impact on Macau’s youth culture and behavior - Ma, Man Hei (2024)
This proposed study looks into the popular TikTok app and its impact on the identity formation and expression of young people. It investigates how TikTok enables young individuals to create, share, and consume diverse and authentic content that reflects their interests, values, and experiences. People on the app can work together, take part in trends, and interact with others. Also, the paper dives into how TikTok gives people a place to chase their dreams and find out what other possibilities their lives could hold. It indicates how TikTok can have some good and bad effects on young generations in terms of culture and personal development. These youngsters could be the ones leading in the future. However, we also need to think about the possible dangers TikTok could pose to young people. This includes the chance that they come across something damaging, feel like they have to live up to hard-to-reach standards, have their private information leaked, or fall victim to someone with bad intentions. Because of these risks, it's very important to teach youngsters how to use TikTok in a way that's safe and responsible. The dissertation highlights the need for responsible usage, awareness of potential challenges, and the development of strategies to support the safe and healthy engagement of young people with TikTok and similar platforms.

Curipod's Artificial Intelligence Assistant in the Proofreading Process - Moura, Adelina; Tchiang, Isabel (Advances in Educational Technologies and Instructional Design, 2024)
The use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in writing and proofreading is beginning to develop. Studies show that AI tools can positively influence students' writing and proofreading skills. This study presents the perceptions of vocational education students regarding the assessments and suggestions for improvement provided by the AI assistant Curipod and followed by students in the proofreading phase. It centres on a case study, with data collected using a survey with open and closed questions, participant observation, and an interview. The students positively perceived the feedback they received from the AI assistant on their initial text and consider that it helped them to revise and improve the final versions of the texts written on paper and digitally. The students are interested in using tools like these in writing revision activities, as they see the potential they have for the classroom and autonomous learning.

Doctor Bone: treinamento de redes neurais para auxílio na identificação da idade óssea - Barbosa, Rodrigo Lages; Martins, Heitor de Castro Teixeira e; Barbosa, Felipe Cassiano; da Costa, Beatriz Torres; Matela, Rolf Freitas; Neto, José Fernando Rodrigues Ferreira; Fontes, Yuri Nekan Soares; Lobo Marques, Joao Alexandre; Duarte, João Batista Furlan; Neto, Joel Sotero da Cunha (2024)
Objetivo: Explorar a aplicação de inteligência artificial (IA) na predição da idade óssea a partir de imagens de raios-X. Método: Utilizou-se a Metodologia Interdisciplinar para o Desenvolvimento de Tecnologias em Saúde (MIDTS) para desenvolver uma ferramenta de predição. O treinamento foi realizado com redes neurais convolucionais (CNNs) usando um conjunto de dados de 14.036 imagens de raios-X. Resultados: A ferramenta alcançou um coeficiente de determinação (R²) de 0,94807 e um Erro Médio Absoluto (MAE) de 6,97, destacando sua precisão e potencial de aplicação clínica. Conclusão: O projeto demonstrou grande potencial para aprimorar a predição da idade óssea, com possibilidades de evolução conforme a base de dados aumenta e a IA se torna mais sofisticada.

Identification of mild cognitive impairment using multimodal 3D imaging data and graph convolutional networks - Liang, Shengbin; Chen, Tingting; Ma, Jinfeng; Ren, Shuanglong; Lu, Xixi; Du, George (Physics in Medicine & Biology, 2024)
Abstract Objective. Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a precursor stage of dementia characterized by mild cognitive decline in one or more cognitive domains, without meeting the criteria for dementia. MCI is considered a prodromal form of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Early identification of MCI is crucial for both intervention and prevention of AD. To accurately identify MCI, a novel multimodal 3D imaging data integration graph convolutional network (GCN) model is designed in this paper. Approach. The proposed model utilizes 3D-VGGNet to extract three-dimensional features from multimodal imaging data (such as structural magnetic resonance imaging and fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography), which are then fused into feature vectors as the node features of a population graph. Non-imaging features of participants are combined with the multimodal imaging data to construct a population sparse graph. Additionally, in order to optimize the connectivity of the graph, we employed the pairwise attribute estimation （PAE） method to compute the edge weights based on non-imaging data, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the graph structure. Subsequently, a population-based GCN integrates the structural and functional features of different modal images into the features of each participant for MCI classification. Main results. Experiments on the AD Neuroimaging Initiative demonstrated accuracies of 98.57%, 96.03%, and 96.83% for the normal controls (NC)-early MCI (EMCI), NC-late MCI (LMCI), and EMCI-LMCI classification tasks, respectively. The AUC, specificity, sensitivity, and F1-score are also superior to state-of-the-art models, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed model. Furthermore, the proposed model is applied to the ABIDE dataset for autism diagnosis, achieving an accuracy of 91.43% and outperforming the state-of-the-art models, indicating excellent generalization capabilities of the proposed model. Significance. This study demonstrate s the proposed model’s ability to integrate multimodal imaging data and its excellent ability to recognize MCI. This will help achieve early warning for AD and intelligent diagnosis of other brain neurodegenerative diseases.

Optimization of Energy Storage Systems with Renewable Energy Generation and Consumption Data - Filho, Edmilson Moreira Lima; Silveira, Aêdo Braga; Ferreira, Alexandre Marques; Lobo Marques, Joao Alexandre; Batista, Josias Guimarães; Guimarães, Glendo De Freitas; Alexandria, Auzuir Ripardo De; Rodrigues, Joel José Puga Coelho (2024 IEEE 7th Student Conference on Electric Machines and Systems (SCEMS), 2024)
This work provides a comprehensive systematic review of optimization techniques using artificial intelligence (AI) for energy storage systems within renewable energy setups. The primary goals are to evaluate the latest technologies employed in forecasting models for renewable energy generation, load forecasting, and energy storage systems, alongside their construction parameters and optimization methods. The review highlights the progress achieved, identifies current challenges, and explores future research directions. Despite the extensive application of machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) in renewable energy generation, consumption patterns, and storage optimization, few studies integrate these three aspects simultaneously, underscoring the significance of this work. The review encompasses studies from Web of Science, Scopus, and Science Direct up to December 2023, including works scheduled for publication in 2024. Each study related to renewable energy storage was individually analyzed to assess its objectives, methodology, and results. The findings reveal useful insights for developing AI models aimed at optimizing storage systems. However, critical areas need further exploration, such as real-time forecasting, long-term storage predictions, hybrid neural networks for demand-based generation forecasting, and the evaluation of various storage scales and battery technologies. The review also notes a significant gap in research on large-scale storage systems in Brazil and Latin America. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the need for continued research and the development of new algorithms to address existing limitations in the field.

Artificial Intelligence and Deep Learning in Stock Prediction: A Bibliometric Review - Chin, Yang Lin; Lobo Marques, Joao Alexandre; Lin, Kun Chan (20th European Conference on Management Leadership and Governance, 2024)
Artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning (DL) are advancing in stock market prediction, attracting the attention of researchers in computer science and finance. This bibliometric review analyzes 525 articles published from 1991 to 2024 in Scopus-indexed journals, utilizing VOSviewer software to identify key research trends, influential contributors, and burgeoning themes. The bibliometric analysis encompasses a performance analysis of the most prominent scientific contributors and a network analysis of scientific mapping, which includes co-authorship, co-occurrence, citation, bibliographical coupling, and co-citation analyses enabled by the VOSviewer software. Among the 693 countries, significant hubs of knowledge production include China, the US, India, and the UK, highlighting the global relevance of the field. Various AI and DL technologies are increasingly employed in stock price predictions, with artificial neural networks (ANN) and other methods such as long short-term memory (LSTM), Random Forest, Sentiment Analysis, Support Vector Machine/Regression (SVM/SVR), among the 1399 keyword counts in publications. Influential studies such as LeBaron (1999) and Moghaddam (2016) have shaped foundational research in 8159 citations. This review offers original insights into the bibliometric landscape of AI and DL applications in finance by mapping global knowledge production and identifying critical AI methods advancing stock market prediction. It enables finance professionals to learn about technological developments and trends to enhance decision-making and gain market advantage.

Using Machine Learning CART Decision Trees for Predicting the Causes of Delays in Projects from the Construction Industry - Lobo Marques, Joao Alexandre; Chun, Fung Ka; Riccelli, Bruno (2024)
Construction projects are complex endeavours, with potential obstacles that can cause delays which can have particularly profound implications potentially impacting on company's financial health, business continuity and reputation. It is becoming increasingly recognised that delays are context-specific and multifaceted, requiring more industry-oriented perceptions. This work proposes the exploratory use of Machine Learning based on Classification and Regression Trees (CART) Decision Trees (DT) to assess the predictive analysis of these approaches, considering surveys (primary data) collected from 100 specialists with different backgrounds and experiences in the construction industry. Survey responses are discussed, followed by the CART DTs, which are used as predictor for clarifying underneath relationship among different variables in a project environment. The major issue presented is related to Project Design, with "The firm is not allowed to apply for an extension of contract period", with two possible predictors, firstly, as the main factor it is found "Mistakes, inconsistencies, and ambiguities in specification and drawing", while other aspect highlights "Poor site supervision and management by the contractor". The results indicate that the correct use of Artificial Intelligence techniques with relevant data are potential tools to support the analysis of scenarios and avoidance of project delays in Project Management.

Turning up the heat: Effects of temperature on agonistic acoustic communication in the two-spotted goby (Pomatoschistus flavescens) - Penim, Jorge; Beauchaud, Marilyn; Millot, Morgane; Faria, Ana M.; Vieira, Manuel; Fonseca, Paulo J.; Vasconcelos, Raquel; Amorim, M. Clara P. (Marine Environmental Research, 2024)

Afterword: Safeguarding – The Future of Risk and Responsibility - Percy, Martyn (Journal of Anglican Studies, 2024)

Speaking Truth to Power Structures: Integrity and Identity in Ecclesiology - Percy, Martyn (Journal of Anglican Studies, 2024)
Abstract Speaking truth ought to be normative in churches, and yet when it does, the foundations and structures of power are often shaken to the core. This paper explores the issues of identity and integrity in ecclesiology and is concerned with the ethical paradigms and moral frameworks that need to be in place if churches are to be places where honesty and truthfulness can be normative. Churches often fail as institutions because they presume they can conduct their affairs as organizations might. Churches become anger-averse, resisting the voices and experiences of victims, in order that the flow of power and its structures are unimpeded. At that point, churches become inherently committed to re-abusing victims and are unable to hear their pain and protests, which only leads to the perpetration of further abuse.

A STUDY ON THE PROFESSIONAL AWARENESS AND ATTITUDES OF THE POST 90S NEW GENERATION EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION TEACHERS IN MACAU INCLUSIVE EDUCATION - Tam, Ho Ieng (2024)
With the rise of the awareness of human rights, students with special educational needs (SEN) are receiving more attention. As many mainstream schools adopt inclusive education, society is focusing on teachers' professional awareness and attitudes toward inclusive education. This study examines the professional awareness and attitudes of post-90s early childhood teachers in Macau regarding inclusive education, aiming to improve policies and training programs. The research employs both qualitative and quantitative methods to explore teachers' views on inclusive education. The qualitative research consists of semi- structured interviews to understand teachers' readiness, attitudes, and the challenges they face in implementing inclusive education. The quantitative aspect uses a questionnaire adapted from the ""Survey on Equal Learning Opportunities for Students with Special Educational Needs under the Hong Kong Inclusive Education System,"" tailored for Macau. By combining interview findings and data, the study analyzes and summarizes the results. The results indicate that the professional awareness of inclusive education among post-90s early childhood teachers in Macau is at a relatively low to moderate level, and their willingness to engage in inclusive education is not high. Factors influencing teachers' willingness to implement inclusive education include a lack of professional knowledge (such as development history, relevant regulations, and guidance methods), insufficient resources, and unclear attitudes from schools toward the implementation of inclusive education. 隨著人權意識的掘起，特殊教育需要學生(SEN 學生)的學習受到關注， 澳門的融合教育逐漸受到關注，許多主流學校開始實施融合教育。就著學校教 育的轉型，教師對融合教育的知識和開展的態度受到社會所關注。因此，是次 研究以質量結合的方式進行調查，為廣泛地、深入地暸解澳門 90 後新生代幼兒 教師在融合教育方面的專業認知和態度，從而對澳門融合教育政策和教師課程 提出建議，促進融合教育的發展。 質性研究以半結構性的深度訪談暸解教師對實施融合教育的預備度和態 度，並探討當中的影響因素和教師在教學中的困擾與需求。量化的研究則參考 了《香港融合教育制度下有特殊教育需要學生的平等學習機會調查》的教師問 卷，向澳門 90 後新生代幼兒教師對融合教育認知和態度作調查。研究透過結合 訪談資料與數據，對研究問題作分析、討論與歸納，並撰寫出研究結果。 研究結果指出澳門 90 後新生代幼兒教師的融合教育專業認知處中等偏低的 水平，同時對融合教育開展的意願不高。而影響教師融合教育開展意願的因素 包括教師缺乏融合教育專業知識(如:發展歷史、相關法規和輔導方式)、資 源不足和學校對融合教育開展的態度不明確。

Beyond the myth: understanding women's impulsive retail footwear shopping - Duarte, Paulo; Silva, Susana C.; Magro, Margarida; Dias, Joana Carmo (International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management, 2024)
This research focuses on common misconceptions about the factors driving women to purchase footwear impulsively. Its primary objective is to explore how emotional and social triggers specifically influence women's purchasing decisions, contrasting with the traditionally rational consumer models.,An online questionnaire was administered to a sample of women, yielding 199 useable responses.,The findings reveal the key determinants of women's impulsive retail footwear purchases, which include self-regulation, hedonic motivations and the influence of the retail store environment. This research challenges the prevailing assumption that women's passion for shopping is driven solely by inherent characteristics and suggests that external factors substantially shape their impulsive buying behaviour. In summary, the stereotypical portrayal of women as compulsive retail footwear shoppers may result more from external stimuli and environmental factors rather than an intrinsic trait.,This study improves the existing knowledge of women’s impulsive buying behaviour by unveiling the determinants of women's impulsive footwear purchases and assessing whether prevailing stereotypes hold true.

Habermas, Honneth, Critical Theory, and Ideology Critique for Transformative Mixed Methods Research - Morrison, Keith (Journal of Mixed Methods Studies, 2024)
This article sets a theoretical foundation to transformative mixed methods research that is rooted in the critical theory of Habermas and Honneth. This addresses Habermas’s knowledge-constitutive interests and communicative action for redressing societal pathologies, and Honneth’s work on (mis)recognition, (dis)respect, and social justice. In doing so, the article argues for broadening the scope and embrace of mixed methods research, to go beyond being empirical research only or largely, and to include theorisation, critical theoretical discourse and its analysis, and ideology critique, as legitimate methods for (transformative) mixed methods research. The article makes a case for these methods as constituting important research methods in themselves in the portfolio of mixed methods research, moving the boundaries of mixed methods research beyond solely empirical studies, and providing emancipatory lenses and consciousness-raising in recognising that transformation takes many forms.

Sharing towards cohesive community: the role of social capital in sharing economy - Lai, Michael (ResearchGate, 2024)
PDF | Purpose Whilst the majority of academic studies have focused on the for-profit business-to-consumer type of sharing economy, the community-based... | Find, read and cite all the research you need on ResearchGate

Impact of Education on Green Fintech Adoption: Evidence From the New Sub-Center of Beijing - Lei, Weng Chi; An, Boyang (Journal of Global Business Research and Practice, 2024)

Assessment of the post-acute COVID-19 syndrome cardiovascular effect through ECG analysis - Ribeiro, Pedro; de Souza, Clarice Cristina Cunha; Camerino, Cristine Mayara Cavalcante; Pordeus, Daniel; Leite, Camila Ferreira; Lobo Marques, Joao Alexandre; Madeiro, João Paulo; Rodrigues, Pedro Miguel (2024)
Introduction: SARS-CoV-2, a virus responsible for the emergence of the life-threatening disease known as COVID-19, exhibits a diverse range of clinical manifestations. The spectrum of symptoms varies widely, encompassing mild to severe presentations, while a considerable portion of the population remains asymptomatic. COVID-19, primarily a respiratory virus, has been linked to cardiovascular complications in some patients. Notably, cardiac issues can also arise after recovery, contributing to post-acute COVID-19 syndrome, a significant concern for patient health. The present study intends to evaluate the post-acute COVID-19 syndrome cardiovascular effect through ECG by comparing patients affected with cardiac diseases without COVID-19 diagnosis report (class 1) and patients with cardiac pathologies who present post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (class 2). Methods: From 2 body positions, a total of 10 non-linear features, extracted every 1 second under a multi-band analysis performed by Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT), have been compressed by 6 statistical metrics to serve as inputs for an individual feature analysis by the means of Mann-Whitney U-test and XROC classification. Results and Discussion: 480 Mann-Whitney U-test statistical analyses and XROC discrimination approaches have been done. The percentage of statistical analysis with significant differences (p<0.05) was 30.42% (146 out of 480). The best overall results were obtained by approximating the feature Energy, with the data compressor Kurtosis in the body position Down. Those results were 83.33% of Accuracy, 83.33% of Sensitivity, 83.33% of Specificity and 87.50% of AUC. Conclusions: The results show that the applied methodology can be a way to show changes in cardiac behaviour provoked by post-acute COVID-19 syndrome.

Understanding the dynamics of customer satisfaction and repurchase intentions in the era of platform service supply chain – a case study of Foodpanda in Pakistan - Choudhary, Waliha; Waqar Haider, Syed; Raza, Aamir; Silva, Susana C.; Carmo Dias, Joana (Journal of Foodservice Business Research, 2024)