The influence of socialiration tactics and causality orientations on eross-evltuaal adjustment - Bilugan, Marifi Lagan (University of Saint Joseph, 2011)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Couselling and Psychotherapy (MCP); University of Saint Joseph

SENIOR LEARNERS, ANDRAGOGY, GERAGOGY, AND SYNTHETIC PHONICS: A CASE STUDY - Bhroin, Aine Ni (University of Saint Joseph, 2023)
Although there is a substantial body of research on the second language acquisition of adults, there is little specific research on the learning experiences of senior and very senior adults. This thesis investigates and discovers the experience of being a senior from a traditional Confucian Heritage Culture aged between 55 and 75 years old, learning English as a foreign language through various interventions, including, the introduction of an adapted version of synthetic phonics to improve pronunciation, alongside the use of andragogical and geragogical principles to accommodate and encourage the development of agency and self-directed learning. This research adopted a case study methodology to investigate the lived experiences of seniors, and investigated the participants’ subjective constructions of the situation, learning experiences, challenges, circumstances, needs, and wants with regard to the situation. Therefore, an open and exploratory case study design was selected to understand the participants and report the findings. Furthermore, this thesis identifies the challenges faced by senior and very senior learners who are post-work and post-family rearing to make recommendations from the findings to complement, enhance and empower their learning
Keywords: ANDRAGOGY; GERAGOGY; SENIORS; SYNTHETIC PHONICS; Thesis and Dissertations PhD in Education (D-SE); University of Saint Joseph

Classification of COVID-19 CT Scans Using Convolutional Neural Networks and Transformers - Bernardo Gois, Francisco Nauber; Lobo Marques, Joao Alexandre; Fong, Simon James (Computerized Systems for Diagnosis and Treatment of COVID-19, 2023)
COVID-19 is a respiratory disorder caused by CoronaVirus and SARS (SARS-CoV2). WHO declared COVID-19 a global pandemic in March 2020 and several nations’ healthcare systems were on the verge of collapsing. With that, became crucial to screen COVID-19-positive patients to maximize limited resources. NAATs and antigen tests are utilized to diagnose COVID-19 infections. NAATs reliably detect SARS-CoV-2 and seldom produce false-negative results. Because of its specificity and sensitivity, RT-PCR can be considered the gold standard for COVID-19 diagnosis. This test’s complex gear is pricey and time-consuming, using skilled specialists to collect throat or nasal mucus samples. These tests require laboratory facilities and a machine for detection and analysis. Deep learning networks have been used for feature extraction and classification of Chest CT-Scan images and as an innovative detection approach in clinical practice. Because of COVID-19 CT scans’ medical characteristics, the lesions are widely spread and display a range of local aspects. Using deep learning to diagnose directly is difficult. In COVID-19, a Transformer and Convolutional Neural Network module are presented to extract local and global information from CT images. This chapter explains transfer learning, considering VGG-16 network, in CT examinations and compares convolutional networks with Vision Transformers (ViT). Vit usage increased VGG-16 network F1-score to 0.94.

TPOT Automated Machine Learning Approach for Multiple Diagnostic Classification of Lung Radiography and Feature Extraction - Bernardo Gois, Francisco Nauber; Lobo Marques, Joao Alexandre; Fong, Simon James (Computerized Systems for Diagnosis and Treatment of COVID-19, 2023)
This chapter describes an AUTO-ML strategy to detect COVID on chest X-rays utilizing Transfer Learning feature extraction and the AutoML TPOT framework in order to identify lung illnesses (such as COVID or pneumonia). MobileNet is a lightweight network that uses depthwise separable convolution to deepen the network while decreasing parameters and computation. AutoML is a revolutionary concept of automated machine learning (AML) that automates the process of building an ML pipeline inside a constrained computing framework. The term “AutoML” can mean a number of different things depending on context. AutoML has risen to prominence in both the business world and the academic community thanks to the ever-increasing capabilities of modern computers. Python Optimised ML Pipeline (TPOT) is a Python-based ML tool that optimizes pipeline efficiency via genetic programming. We use TPOT builds models for extracted MobileNet network features from COVID-19 image data. The f1-score of 0.79 classifies Normal, Viral Pneumonia, and Lung Opacity.

Segmentation of CT-Scan Images Using UNet Network for Patients Diagnosed with COVID-19 - Bernardo Gois, Francisco Nauber; Lobo Marques, Joao Alexandre (Computerized Systems for Diagnosis and Treatment of COVID-19, 2023)
The use of computational tools for medical image processing are promising tools to effectively detect COVID-19 as an alternative to expensive and time-consuming RT-PCR tests. For this specific task, CXR (Chest X-Ray) and CCT (Chest CT Scans) are the most common examinations to support diagnosis through radiology analysis. With these images, it is possible to support diagnosis and determine the disease’s severity stage. Computerized COVID-19 quantification and evaluation require an efficient segmentation process. Essential tasks for automatic segmentation tools are precisely identifying the lungs, lobes, bronchopulmonary segments, and infected regions or lesions. Segmented areas can provide handcrafted or self-learned diagnostic criteria for various applications. This Chapter presents different techniques applied for Chest CT Scans segmentation, considering the state of the art of UNet networks to segment COVID-19 CT scans and a segmentation experiment for network evaluation. Along 200 epochs, a dice coefficient of 0.83 was obtained.

Predictive models to the COVID-19 - Bernardo Gois, Francisco Nauber; Lima, Alex; Santos, Khennedy; Oliveira, Ramses; Santiago, Valdir; Melo, Saulo; Costa, Rafael; Oliveira, Marcelo; Henrique, Francisco das Chagas Douglas Marques; Neto, José Xavier; Martins Rodrigues Sobrinho, Carlos Roberto; Lôbo Marques, João Alexandre (Data Science for COVID-19, 2021)
Following the World Health Organization proclaims a pandemic due to a disease that originated in China and advances rapidly across the globe, studies to predict the behavior of epidemics have become increasingly popular, mainly related to COVID-19. The critical point of these studies is to discuss the disease's behavior and the progression of the virus's natural course. However, the prediction of the actual number of infected people has proved to be a difficult task, due to a wide range of factors, such as mass testing, social isolation, underreporting of cases, among others. Therefore, the objective of this work is to understand the behavior of COVID-19 in the state of Ceará to forecast the total number of infected people and to aid in government decisions to control the outbreak of the virus and minimize social impacts and economics caused by the pandemic. So, to understand the behavior of COVID-19, this work discusses some forecast techniques using machine learning, logistic regression, filters, and epidemiologic models. Also, this work brings a new approach to the problem, bringing together data from Ceará with those from China, generating a hybrid dataset, and providing promising results. Finally, this work still compares the different approaches and techniques presented, opening opportunities for future discussions on the topic. The study obtains predictions with R2 score of 0.99 to short-term predictions and 0.93 to long-term predictions.
Keywords: COVID-19; Forecast; Holt Winters; Kalman filter; Machine learning; Prophet; SEIR

A Glimpse into the Cultural Situatedness of Computer Science: Some Insights from a Pilot Study - Berglund, Anders; Thota, Neena (2014 International Conference on Teaching and Learning in Computing and Engineering, 2014)
To what extent is students' understanding of computer science culturally situated? This, possibly philosophical question, has come to the surface at Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden, where many Chinese students study computer science together with the local students. We did an exploratory study using email interviews to see if our intuitions could be relied on. We collected data from Chinese students studying in master programs and analysed the data using a phenomenographic perspective. A complex intertwined relationship between the content of their learning (the WHAT), the ways in which they went about studying (the HOW), the aims of their studies (the WHY), and the competencies developed from the intercultural context they studied in (the WHERE) was observed. In this paper we offer some insights from the results of the pilot study and discuss how they have shaped our on-going study in the field.
Keywords: Computer science; Context; Cultural differences; Educational institutions; Global communication; Interviews; computer science education; cultural context

Message from general chairs - Berglund, A. (Proceedings - 2013 Learning and Teaching in Computing and Engineering, LaTiCE 2013, 2013)

A financial valuation of unilever n.v - Bembom, Willem (University of Saint Joseph, 2013)
Keywords: Theses and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

Early Notices Regarding Creole Portuguese in Former Portuguese Timor - Baxter, Alan N.; Cardoso, Hugo C. (Journal of Language Contact, 2017)

John Alexander Holm (1943-2015) - Baxter, Alan N. (Journal of Pidgin and Creole Languages, 2016)

Malacca Creole Portuguese in the 19th century: Evidence of a wider lectal range? - Baxter, Alan N. (Journal of Pidgin and Creole Languages, 2018)
Abstract Earlier linguistic research suggested that Malacca Creole Portuguese (MCP) had existed without diglossia with Portuguese ever since the Dutch conquest of Portuguese Malacca in 1642, yet it had experienced some contact with Portuguese in the 19th and 20th centuries. The present study adds significantly to this discussion. It considers a range of information from sociohistorical studies and archival sources (including linguistic data) relating to the Dutch (1642–1795, 1818–1823) and early British (1795–1818, 1823–1884) colonial periods. For the Dutch period, it is seen that contact with other Creole Portuguese communities is likely to have persisted for some time. Most significant, however, is the finding that 19th century texts in Portuguese and creole Portuguese, recently identified in archival sources in London and Graz, show that Portuguese continued to be part of the Malacca sociolinguistic setting until the early British period, and that missionary Indo-Portuguese also had a presence at that time. It is concluded that, rather than presenting a narrow lectal range akin to that of the MCP community in the late 20th century, the creole lectal grid in the 19th century was more complex, and included dimensions of a continuum in a diglossic relationship with Portuguese.

Syntactic and lexical typology of Macau Patuá and Malacca Creole Portuguese. - Baxter, Alan N. (University of Saint Joseph, 2018)

Concordância verbal - Baxter, A. N.; Lopes, N. (Tânia Lobo (ed.) O português escrito por afro-brasileiros no século XIX: atas de reuniões da Sociedade Protetora dos Desvalidos, 2018)

O português dos Tongas de São Tomé. In Oliveira, Márcia Santos Duarte; Araujo, Gabriel Antunes. (orgs.) O português na Africa atlântica - Baxter, A. N. (Humanitas/FAPESP, 2018)

A study of brand awareness for Mongolian Cashmere in Macau - Batsukh, Selenge (University of Saint Joseph, 2018)
Keywords: Theses and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

TURNING THE SDGS INTO LEGAL COMMITMENTS: Catarine Isabel Pereira Batista - Batista, Catarine Isabel Pereira (University of Saint Joseph, 2024)
This dissertation examines the current implementation of specific Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within the Macau legal system, despite the non-mandatory nature of these goals and how they were implemented. The SDGs, established by the United Nations, provide a comprehensive framework for addressing global social, economic, and environmental challenges. While Macau is not obliged to adopt the SDGs, this study aims to explore the extent to which the principles and objectives of specific SDGs have been integrated into the legal system of Macau. Through an analysis of relevant laws, and policies, this research seeks to identify alignment and visible gaps between the SDGs and the Macau legal framework. The findings of this study may contribute to a deeper understanding of the voluntary implementation of the SDGs in Macau and provide insights for other jurisdictions facing similar circumstances
Keywords: Hard Law; International Law; Legal system; Macau SAR; Soft Law; Sustainable development goals; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Lusophone and International Public Law(MLIPL); University of Saint Joseph

Personal Care and Cosmetic Products as a Potential Source of Environmental Contamination by Microplastics in a Densely Populated Asian City - Bashir, Saidu M.; Kimiko, Sam; Mak, Chu-Wa; Fang, James Kar-Hei; Gonçalves, David (Frontiers in Marine Science, 2021)
The prevalence of microplastics in the environment has become a major global conservation issue. One primary source of environmental microplastics is personal care and cosmetic products (PCCPs) containing microbeads. The market availability of PCCPs containing microbeads and the level of contamination of coastal sediments by microplastics was studied in one of the most densely populated cities in the world, Macao in China. We found that PCCPs containing microbeads are still widely available for sale in the region, with over 70% of surveyed PCCPs containing at least one type of microbeads as an ingredient, with polyethylene (PE) being the most common one. In an estimate, the use of PCCPs in the territory may release over 37 billion microbeads per year into the environment via wastewater treatment plants. The density of microplastics in coastal sediments varied between 259 and 1,743 items/L of sediment, amongst the highest reported in the world. The fraction of < 1 mm was the most abundant, representing an average of 98.6% of the total, and correlated positively with the abundance of larger sized fragments. The results show that although environmental pollution with microplastics released from PCCPs usage is significant, other sources, namely fragmentation of larger plastic debris, likely contribute more to the issue. The study highlights the magnitude of the problem at a local level and suggests possible mitigating strategies.

A Machine Learning Approach to Predict the Trend of Obesity Prevalence at a Global Level - Barzinji, Ala Othman; Ma, Chaoying; Du, Wencai; Ma, Jixin (2021 IEEE/ACIS 6th International Conference on Big Data, Cloud Computing, and Data Science (BCD), 2021)

Implications of cultural values in retail strategies for the gaming industry: Chinese consumer values in the context of Macau - Barbosa, Hong Seng (University of Saint Joseph, 2016)
Keywords: Theses and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

Sounding Architecture: Inter-Disciplinary Studio at HKU - Barbosa, Alvaro; Tsang, Thomas (Aalborg University, 2017)
Sounding Architecture, is the first collaborative teaching development between Department of Architecture and Department of Music at the University of Hong Kong (HKU), introduced in Fall 2016. In this paper we present critical observations about the studio after a final public presentation of all projects. The Review was conducted with demonstrations by groups of students supervised by different Lecturer, in each case focusing on a different strategy to create a connection between Sound, Music, Acoustics, Space and Architectural Design. There was an assumption that the core working process would have to include the design of a new musical instrument, which in some cases became the final deliverable of the Studio and in other cases a step in a process that leads to a different outcome (such as an architectural Design, a performance or social experiment). One other relevant aspect was that Digital technology was used in the design and fabrication of the physical instruments' prototypes, but in very few cases, it was used in the actual generation or enhancement of sound, with the instruments relying almost exclusively in acoustic and mechanical sound.

Accuracy of ITU-R BS.1770 Algorithm in Evaluating Multi-track Material - Barbosa, Alvaro; Pestana, Pedro; Reiss, Josh (Audio Engineerg Soceity, 2012)

Loudness Measurement of Multitrack Audio Content Using Modifications of ITU-R BS.1770 - Barbosa, Alvaro; Pestana, Pedro; Reiss, Josh (2013)

Radial String Chimes: A Behavioural Driven Tangible Instrument Derived from Networked Music Performance Practices - Barbosa, Alvaro; Olga Ng Ka Man, Sandra; Estadieu, G (Ubimus 2023, 2023)
Research in ubiquitous networked music systems has unveiled the potential of behavioural-driven interaction interfaces as an effective model to cope with network communication delays in remote musical performances. Most of the techniques developed under these premises are based on digital music interfaces implemented on laptop computers or tablet devices, where a certain degree of gestural control comes as an added dimension. The purpose of this paper is to present an implementation of such type of interfaces in the form of a physical tangible musical instrument, contemplating multiple expressive possibilities. This is viable at the current stage of technological development thanks to leveraging 3D printing and laser cutting technologies for effective prototyping and testing of such a device. The paper seeks to demonstrate that this approach opens a wide range of possibilities for creating musical instruments with versatility and expressiveness beyond what is usually accomplished in traditional instruments. This implementation, entitled “Radial String Chimes,” is presented with its advantages, the challenges it faces, and the methods used to create it. Finally, the paper will offer suggestions for further developing such an instrument to unlock its potential.

NIME Education at the School of Arts of the Portuguese Catholic University / CITAR - Barbosa, Alvaro; Martins, Luis (2013)

Perfect Take: Experience Design and New Interfaces for Musical Expression - Barbosa, Alvaro; Makelberge, Nicolas; Perrota, Andre; Ferreira, Luis Sarmento (NIME, 2012)

The Film Sound Analysis Framework: A Conceptual tool to Interpret the Cinematic Experience - Barbosa, Álvaro; Dizon, Kristine (Journal of Science and Technology of the Arts, 2020)
Keywords: Analysis framework; Film studies; Sound and music design

Monitoring Temporal Personal Information Regarding Soundscapes and Movement, as a Way to Enhance Social Interactions - Barbosa, Alvaro; Cordeiro, Joao (Springer - Lecture Notes in Computer Science, 2013)

Complexities of Languages and Multilingualism - Baragül, Fernando (Educational Challenges in Multilingual Societies, ed. Zubeida Desai et al., 2010)
Complexities of Languages and Multilingualism

O segredo do sucesso escolar: contributo da web 2.0 - Baptista, Zélia Maria de Oliveira (University of Saint Joseph, 2013)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Education (MED); University of Saint Joseph

LatinX in AI research - Banda, Juan M.; Ruiz-Garcia, Ariel; Montoya, Laura N.; Arraut, Ivan (Neural Computing and Applications, 2023)
We are delighted to present this special issue editorial for Neural Computing and Applications special issue on LatinX in AI research. This special issue brings together a collection of articles that explore machine learning and artificial intelligence research from various perspectives, aiming to provide a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of what LatinX researchers are working on in the field. In this editorial, we will introduce the overarching theme of the special issue, highlight the significance of the selected papers, and offer insights into the contributions made by the authors. The LatinX in AI organization was launched in 2018, with leaders from organizations in Artificial Intelligence, Education, Research, Engineering, and Social Impact with a purpose to together create a group that would be focused on “Creating Opportunity for LatinX in AI.” The main goal is to increase the representation of LatinX professionals in the AI industry. LatinX in AI Org and programs are volunteer-run and fiscally sponsored by the Accel AI Institute, 501(c)3 Non-Profit.

Like a Tree Planted By Streams of Water :The Baptist Church Takes Root In Macao (John and Lilian Galloway 1908-1968) - Ballew, Robert Lawrence (University of Saint Joseph, 2015)
In 2014 Macao Baptist Church celebrated it’s 110th anniversary. How did the Baptist church come to be established in the Portuguese, predominantly Catholic and Buddhist city of Macao? Through careful examination of letters and reports from the main protagonists, John Laurels and Lilian Reeves Todd Galloway, the process of establishing the Baptist church can be revealed and understood within the greater context of the Baptist missionary work in China. The Galloway’s work will be evaluated through a framework of missions eras presented by Dr. Ralph D. Winter. This work looks at the material in two major sections; first, the lives of the Galloways in Macao from 1908 to 1968, and second, the missionary methods of the Galloways over the same period. Using missiological methods of the Kingdom Mission era, the Galloways stood firmly in the Church Mission era focusing their efforts on Personal rather than Social Transformation efforts. Their work laid the foundation for a century of Baptist work in Macao by local Christians as well as foreign missionaries.
Keywords: Baptists; China Macau (Special Administrative Region); China--Macau (Special Administrative Region); Christianity; Church property; Education; Thesis and Dissertations PhD in Religious Studies (D-RS); University of Saint Joseph

Business incubation in Macao: an exploratory case study of MANETIC - Baldinho, Glória; Chan, May; Figueiredo, André; Ip, Shuana; Vong, Cherry (University of Saint Joseph, 2006)
Keywords: Theses and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

Meditation practice: impact on the quality relationships, level of psychological distress, anxiety and depression - Baldinho, Gloria (University of Saint Joseph, 2010)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Couselling and Psychotherapy (MCP); University of Saint Joseph

Visual media in Macau hospitality industries: analysis of the existing creative process in hospitality and casino companies in Macau - Azevedo, Nuno Jorge Veloso do Carmo (University of Saint Joseph, 2019)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Communication and Media (MCM); University of Saint Joseph

The creative industries as an integrated factor in a sustainable model for Macao's economic development - Azevedo, Margarida; Barbosa, Álvaro (Creative Industries Journal, 2014)
This article presents an insight into one of the regions with the fastest-growing economy, heavily based on an entertainment, gaming and tourism industry, and that is urgently looking for a sustainable model that articulates with complementary sectors within the cultural and creative industries – Macao. Macao is facing a major economic and social challenge; it has grown as a vulnerable economy relying almost exclusively on gaming revenues. Alternative activities to diversify the economy are urgently required to answer the competition risks haunting this industry. The cultural and creative industries could be a complementary activity – a vehicle for economic diversification. However, current public and private stakeholders for the cultural and creative sector might have been neglecting the unique cultural and heritage ecosystem of the territory, focusing on isolate opportunities and overlooking an inclusive and robust strategy. A sustainable model that attends to the local conditions and its people is required for alternative activities to become a meaningful sector for the social and economic development of Macao.

How digital technology changes our way to interact with others at the workplace in Macau - Pre and post-pandemic - Austin, Lei Iat Pong (University of Saint Joseph, 2023)

The study of Chinese students pursiong education abroad: culture and learning - Au, Oi Kei (University of Saint Joseph, 2004)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Education (MED); University of Saint Joseph

Attractiveness of Macau International Airport to AirAsia - Au, Hoi Yee (University of Saint Joseph, 2014)
Keywords: Theses and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

Impact of internet usage, demographic factors, and illusory perched control on pathological gambling, depression, anxiety and stress - Au, Ho Ki (University of Saint Joseph, 2019)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Couselling and Psychotherapy (MCP); University of Saint Joseph

Challenges and pitfalls of vocational education in Macao: the teachers' voices - Au, Chi Kwun (University of Saint Joseph, 2017)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Education (MED); University of Saint Joseph

Plugin Program Reconfigurable Architecture System For Sustainable Future - Au Yeung, Kam Sheung (University of Saint Joseph, 2023)
The primary research focus of this dissertation revolves around the concept of a "plugin" program. It raises a fundamental question about whether a building can attain long-term usability through metabolic flexibility (plugin units and their reconfigurable space), promoting adaptability (accommodating various program transfers), and meeting sustainable future criteria. Specifically, this dissertation inquires whether this "plugin" building design, with its reconfigurable units and metabolic system, can adapt to different spatial programs and become sustainable architecture
Keywords: Building program transfer; Metabolism Architecture; Plugin capsule units; Reconfigurable; Sustainable Architecture; Theses and Dissertations Master of Architecture (MARCH); University of Saint Joseph

Machine learning over the free-parameters of the Black-Scholes equation: Stock market and Option market - Arraut, Jorge Mario; Arraut, Ivan; Lei, Ka I. (LatinX in AI Workshop at ICML 2023 (Regular Deadline), 2023)
The Black-Scholes equation is famous for predicting values for the prices of Options inside the stock market scenario. However, it has the limitation of depending on the estimated value for the volatility. On the other hand, several Machine learning techniques have been employed for predicting the values of the same quantity. In this paper we analyze some fundamental properties of the Black-Scholes equation and we then propose a way to train its free-parameters, the volatility in particular. This with the purpose of using this parameter as the fundamental one to be learned by a Machine Learning system and then improve the predictions in the stock market.

Order parameter conditions from mutual information and symmetry conditions - Arraut, Ivan; Yu, Wing Chi (International Journal of Modern Physics B, 2024)
The mutual information method has demonstrated to be very useful for deriving the potential order parameter of a system. Although the method suggests some constraints which help to define this quantity, there is still some freedom in the definition. The method then results inefficient for cases where we have order parameters with a large number of constants in the expansion, which happens when we have many degenerate vacuums. Here, we introduce some additional constraints based on the existence of broken symmetries, which help us to reduce the arbitrariness in the definitions of the order parameter in the proposed mutual information method.
Keywords: Mutual information; order parameter; quantum phase transitions; spontaneous symmetry breaking

The Hawking Radiation in Massive Gravity: Path Integral and the Bogoliubov Method - Arraut, Ivan; Segovia, Carlos; Rosado, Wilson (Universe, 2023)
We prove the consistency of the different approaches for deriving the black hole radiation for the spherically symmetric case inside the theory of Massive Gravity. By comparing the results obtained by using the Bogoliubov transformations with those obtained by using the Path Integral formulation, we find that in both cases, the presence of the extra-degrees of freedom creates the effect of extra-particles creation due to the distortions on the definitions of time defined by the different observers at large scales. This, however, does not mean extra-particle creation at the horizon level. Instead, the apparent additional particles perceived at large scales emerge from how distant observers define their time coordinate, which is distorted due to the existence of extra-degrees of freedom.
Keywords: Bogoliubov transformation method; Hawking radiation; Massive Gravity; Path Integral method; extra-degrees of freedom

Revenue Management in Airlines and External Factors Affecting Decisions: The Harmonic Oscillator Model - Arraut, Ivan; Rosado, Wilson; Leong, Victor (Mathematics, 2024)
The Revenue Management (RM) problem in airlines for a fixed capacity, single resource and two classes has been solved before by using a standard formalism. In this paper we propose a model for RM by using the semi-classical approach of the Quantum Harmonic Oscillator. We then extend the model to include external factors affecting the people’s decisions, particularly those where collective decisions emerge.
Keywords: collective decisions; harmonic oscillator; revenue management; spontaneous symmetry breaking

A Quantum Field Formulation for a Pandemic Propagation - Arraut, Ivan; Marques, João Alexandre Lobo; Fong, Simon James; Li, Gloria; Gois, Francisco Nauber Bernardo; Neto, José Xavier (Epidemic Analytics for Decision Supports in COVID19 Crisis, 2022)
In this chapter, a mathematical model explaining generically the propagation of a pandemic is proposed, helping in this way to identify the fundamental parameters related to the outbreak in general. Three free parameters for the pandemic are identified, which can be finally reduced to only two independent parameters. The model is inspired in the concept of spontaneous symmetry breaking, used normally in quantum field theory, and it provides the possibility of analyzing the complex data of the pandemic in a compact way. Data from 12 different countries are considered and the results presented. The application of nonlinear quantum physics equations to model epidemiologic time series is an innovative and promising approach.
Keywords: COVID-19; Mathematical modeling; Nonlinear analysis; Quantum field theory

The Probability Flow in the Stock Market and Spontaneous Symmetry Breaking in Quantum Finance - Arraut, Ivan; Lobo Marques, João Alexandre; Gomes, Sergio (Mathematics, 2021)
The spontaneous symmetry breaking phenomena applied to Quantum Finance considers that the martingale state in the stock market corresponds to a ground (vacuum) state if we express the financial equations in the Hamiltonian form. The original analysis for this phenomena completely ignores the kinetic terms in the neighborhood of the minimal of the potential terms. This is correct in most of the cases. However, when we deal with the martingale condition, it comes out that the kinetic terms can also behave as potential terms and then reproduce a shift on the effective location of the vacuum (martingale). In this paper, we analyze the effective symmetry breaking patterns and the connected vacuum degeneracy for these special circumstances. Within the same scenario, we analyze the connection between the flow of information and the multiplicity of martingale states, providing in this way powerful tools for analyzing the dynamic of the stock markets.
Keywords: Hermiticity; conservation of the information; degenerate vacuum; flow of information; martingale condition; random fluctuations; spontaneous symmetry breaking; vacuum condition

The Role of the Volatility in the Option Market - Arraut, Ivan; Lei, Ka-I. (AppliedMath, 2023)
We review some general aspects about the Black–Scholes equation, which is used for predicting the fair price of an option inside the stock market. Our analysis includes the symmetry properties of the equation and its solutions. We use the Hamiltonian formulation for this purpose. Taking into account that the volatility inside the Black–Scholes equation is a parameter, we then introduce the Merton–Garman equation, where the volatility is stochastic, and then it can be perceived as a field. We then show how the Black–Scholes equation and the Merton–Garman one are locally equivalent by imposing a gauge symmetry under changes in the prices over the Black–Scholes equation. This demonstrates that the stochastic volatility emerges naturally from symmetry arguments. Finally, we analyze the role of the volatility on the decisions taken by the holders of the options when they use the solution of the Black–Scholes equation as a tool for making investment decisions.
Keywords: Black–Scholes equation; Merton–Garman equation; decision theory; option price; stock market; volatility

On the probability flow in the Stock market I: The Black-Scholes case - Arraut, Ivan; Au, Alan; Tse, Alan Ching-biu; Marques, Joao Alexandre Lobo (arXiv.org, 2020)
It is known that the probability is not a conserved quantity in the stock market, given the fact that it corresponds to an open system. In this paper we analyze the flow of probability in this system by expressing the ideal Black-Scholes equation in the Hamiltonian form. We then analyze how the non-conservation of probability affects the stability of the prices of the Stocks. Finally, we find the conditions under which the probability might be conserved in the market, challenging in this way the non-Hermitian nature of the Black-Scholes Hamiltonian.
Keywords: General Finance

Gauge symmetries and the Higgs mechanism in Quantum Finance - Arraut, Ivan (arXiv, 2023)
By using the Hamiltonian formulation, we demonstrate that the Merton-Garman equation emerges naturally from the Black-Scholes equation after imposing invariance (symmetry) under local (gauge) transformations over changes in the stock price. This is the case because imposing gauge symmetry implies the appearance of an additional field, which corresponds to the stochastic volatility. The gauge symmetry then imposes some constraints over the free-parameters of the Merton-Garman Hamiltonian. Finally, we analyze how the stochastic volatility gets massive dynamically via Higgs mechanism.
Keywords: Quantitative Finance - General Finance

Gauge symmetries and the Higgs mechanism in Quantum Finance - Arraut, Ivan (Europhysics Letters, 2023)
By using the Hamiltonian formulation, we demonstrate that the Merton-Garman equation emerges naturally from the Black-Scholes equation after imposing invariance (symmetry) under local (gauge) transformations over changes in the stock price. This is the case because imposing gauge symmetry implies the appearance of an additional field, which corresponds to the stochastic volatility. The gauge symmetry then imposes some constraints over the free parameters of the Merton-Garman Hamiltonian. Finally, we analyze how the stochastic volatility gets massive dynamically via Higgs mechanism.

Hawking Radiation as a Manifestation of Spontaneous Symmetry Breaking - Arraut, Ivan (Symmetry, 2024)
We demonstrate that black hole evaporation can be modeled as a process where one symmetry of the system is spontaneously broken continuously. We then identify three free parameters of the system. The sign of one of the free parameters governs whether the particles emitted by the black hole are fermions or bosons. The present model explains why the black hole evaporation process is so universal. Interestingly, this universality emerges naturally inside certain modifications of gravity.
Keywords: Hawking radiation; black holes; spontaneous symmetry breaking

The cosmological constant emerging from a symmetry invariant - Arraut, Ivan (Modern Physics Letters A, 2024)
The cosmological constant is normally introduced as an additional term entering the Einstein–Hilbert (EH) action. In this letter, we demonstrate that, instead, it appears naturally from the standard EH action as an invariant term emerging from spacetime symmetries. We then demonstrate that the same constraint emerging from this invariant suppresses the short wavelength modes and it favors the long wavelength ones. In this way, inside the proposed formulation, the observed value for the vacuum energy density is obtained naturally from the zero-point quantum fluctuations.
Keywords: Dark energy; cosmological constant; zero point quantum fluctuations

The solution to the Hardy's paradox - Arraut, Ivan (arXiv, 2023)
By using both, the weak-value formulation as well as the standard probabilistic approach, we analyze the 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 $ε=1$; however, even in this case we can interpret this result as a natural consequence of the fact that the particles can cross the point $P$, but at different times due to a natural consequence of the energy-time uncertainty principle.
Keywords: Physics - General Physics

The Tully-Fisher law and dark matter effects derived via modified symmetries - Arraut, Ivan (Europhysics Letters, 2023)
In any physical system, when we move from short to large scales, new spacetime symmetries emerge which help us to simplify the dynamics of the system. In this letter we demonstrate that certain variations on the symmetries of general relativity at large scales generate the effects equivalent to dark matter ones. In particular, we reproduce the Tully-Fisher law, consistent with the predictions proposed by MOND. Additionally, we demonstrate that the dark matter effects derived in this way are consistent with the predictions suggested by MOND, without modifying gravity.

Reply to the "Comment on The Tully-Fisher law and dark matter effects derived via modified symmetries" by I. Arraut. - Arraut Guerrero, Ivan (Europhysics Letters, 2024)
It has been claimed in \cite1, that the idea proposed in \cite2 has certain mistakes based on arguments of energy conditions and others. Additionally, some of the key arguments of the paper are criticized. Here we demonstrate that the results obtained in \cite2 are correct and that there is no violation of any energy condition. The statements claimed in \cite1 are based on three things: 1). Misinterpretation of the metric solution. 2). Language issues related to the physical quantities obtained in \cite1, where the authors make wrong interpretations about certain results over the geometry proposed in \cite2. 3). Non-rigorous evaluations of the vacuum condition defined via the result over the Ricci tensor R_μν=0.

Influência da nova estrutura fiscal de impostos de Angola na gestão de escolas privadas do municipio do Lobito - Armando Carlos Hombo Nogueira; Luis Miguel Pacheco; Marcus Antonio Almeida Rodrigues (Revista Gestao em Analise, 2019)

Introducing new ventures in Macau traditional retail - Ao, Wan Meng (University of Saint Joseph, 2015)
Keywords: Theses and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

An analysis of leadership in school - Ao, Wai Ngán (University of Saint Joseph, 2003)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Education (MED); University of Saint Joseph

The current situation of Macau secondary multi-media teaching in physics - Ao, Wai Chi (University of Saint Joseph, 2011)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Education (MED); University of Saint Joseph

Understading parental involvement from a socio-cultural perspective - Ao, Sio Heng (Macau Inter-University Institute, 2003)
Keywords: Parent-teacher relationship; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Education (MED); University of Saint Joseph

A Financial Valuation of 3M Company (MMM) - Ao, Man Leng (University of Saint Joseph, 2024)
To evaluate 3M's intrinsic value and compare the calculated results with the stock market price as of 31 December 2022. To study 3M's future operating strategies and the internal and external factors that may impact the Company's operations
Keywords: Financial Valuation; Theses and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

The study of financial valuation of Marriott International, Inc - Ao, Ka Ian (University of Saint Joseph, 2018)
Keywords: Theses and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

Study of management style in Canada - Ao, Ka Chon (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

An exploratory study of management transition in United Kingdom - Ao, I. Tak (University of Saint Joseph, 2010)
Keywords: Theses and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

The 50 Reasons for Voluntary Turnover: A Qualitative Exploration of Factors Contributing to Former Teacher Attrition in Macau - Ao, I. Leng (University of Saint Joseph, 2023)
Teacher turnover is a global issue that has not received much research attention in Macau despite studies indicating that teachers in the region experience high levels of stress and burnout. Given that private school teachers account for a significant proportion (88.6%) of the non-tertiary education system in Macau, this qualitative study focused on this specific group who voluntarily resigned from their positions. Through in-depth interviews with 13 former teachers from different kindergartens, primary, and secondary schools, the research identified 50 reasons categorized into 15 factors under three categories. Although schoolrelated factors account for the most, personal reasons were found to be the primary driver. The findings of the study highlight the complex nature of teacher turnover which can be attributed to both single and multiple factors, in both direct and indirect forms. The factors could also interplay in both unidirectional and mutual relationships. A conceptual framework for teacher turnover in Macau was developed to address the 15 contributing factors and the complex interplay of these factors. This study could fill the gap in the literature and serve as a valuable resource for policymakers and school leaders seeking to reduce teacher attrition rates in the region
Keywords: Macau; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph; leavers; teacher turnover

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN INTERNALISING PROBLEMS, ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT, SCHOOL ADAPTATION, AND GENDER, AS VIEWED FROM THE PERSPECTIVES OF BOTH TEACHERS AND STUDENTS - Ao, Hoi Ian (University of Saint Joseph, 2023)
The present study aimed to analyse the differences in the internalising problems (anxiety, depression, somatic complaints), assessed by different informants (teachers and students), according to the level of academic achievement and school adaptation level in secondary students. Furthermore, we examine the gender difference in the level of internalising symptoms. Finally, we analyzed the differences between teacher-rated and adolescents' self-reported internalising symptoms. The Achenbach System of Empirically Based Assessment (ASEBA) was used for collecting informants’ data. The sample consisted of 882 secondary students (349 males and 473 females), while 50 came from public schools and 772 from private schools. No significant differences are found in internalising problems according to the level of academic achievement from both teachers’ and students’ perspectives. Generally, students who are well-adapted to the school context have the least symptoms of internalising problems compared to average and less-adapted groups from the teachers' perspective. In addition, from students’ perspectives, adolescent females present more internalising problems than males. Finally, teachers rated fewer internalising problems when compared to the students. In conclusion, the low level of awareness of teachers towards the internalising problems of students arouse attention. It is suggested that teachers should attend professional development programs in order to address to students’ internalising problems
Keywords: Internalising problems; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Couselling and Psychotherapy (MCP); University of Saint Joseph; academic achievement; gender differences; school adaptation

The effectiveness of active learning for lower motivated students in a Macao school - Ao, Chi Seng (University of Saint Joseph, 2012)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Education (MED); University of Saint Joseph

The Financial Evaluation of Amazon.com, Inc - Ao Ieong, Sio Tai (University of Saint Joseph, 2020)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

Single-Use Plastic Assessment in Macau Hospitality Industry: Bottled Water as a Case Study - Ao Ieong, Kin San (University of Saint Joseph, 2021)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Environmental Sciences and Management (MESM); University of Saint Joseph

Management style change: a Singapore prespective - Antunes, João Maria Nolasco Lamas Costa (University of Saint Joseph, 2010)
Keywords: Theses and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

A participacao does alunos na escola Lin Tchi Fa: um estudo de caso numa escola de lingua veicular portguesa de Macau - Antunes, Francisco Manuel Pelicano (University of Saint Joseph, 2001)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Education (MED); University of Saint Joseph

The Message Hidden Behind in "SQUID GAME" research on the Level of Reception between the Message conveyed by the Drama and the Audience in Southeast Asia - Angela, Choi Nga Ieng (University of Saint Joseph, 2023)

Macau ocean trade - Angeja, Daniela Ruas Joseph De Araujo (University of Saint Joseph, 2010)
Keywords: Theses and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

MB intelligence-consultancy limited - Andorinho, Rita da Costa (University of Saint Joseph, 2011)
Keywords: Theses and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

A STUDY OF GREEN FINANCIAL TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTANCE IN TONGZHOU DISTRICT OF BEIJING - An, Bo Yang (University of Saint Joseph, 2023)
China’s economy has entered a critical period of structural adjustment. The developing green industries and the transforming traditional industries have increasing demand for finance, making ""green finance"" increasingly essential. While China's green finance is in the development stage, some newly developed zones serve as pilots for the launch of green financial products. An example is Tongzhou District of Beijing, which aims to expand Beijing’s space, promote the coordinated development of Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei, and explore the optimal development mode of the densely populated economic areas. This thesis aims to study consumer acceptance of green financial technology (fintech) in the case of Tongzhou District. This thesis extended the commonly applied theoretical model for the problem of study, the Energy Augmented Technology Acceptance Model (EA-TAM), to analyze the impacts of perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, attitude toward use, intention, usage intention, environmental awareness, and green knowledge on the acceptance of green fintech in Tongzhou District. The survey collected 403 valid responses from people that had been active in Tongzhou District. The quantitative analysis is based on structural equation modeling techniques, including reliability analysis, validity analysis, standard method deviation test, and hypothesis testing. The analytical results show that all the hypothesized factors are significant. In addition, the sample is divided into different gender groups and education groups, so that the impacts of the socio-demographic characteristics can be explored. Males’ environmental awareness and green knowledge are insignificant in determining their acceptance of green fintech. The low-educated group’s acceptance of green fintech does not significantly depend on environmental awareness and perceived usefulness
Keywords: Fintech; Green Gintech; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

Environmental Legacy of the Genocide: An Exploration into the Contamination Potential of Mass Grave Soils in Post-Genocide Rwanda - Amuno, Solomon; Tran, Emilie (University of Saint Joseph, 2013)
Keywords: Environmental; Genocide; Legacy; Rwanda

Assessment of the factors affecting solid waste management in Macau - Amuno, Solomon (University of Saint Joseph, 2009)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Government Studies (MGS); University of Saint Joseph

Potential Ecological Risk of Heavy Metal Distribution in Cemetery Soils - Amuno, S. A. (Water, Air, & Soil Pollution, 2013)
In this paper, preliminary investigation was conducted to evaluate the potential ecological risk of heavy metals contamination in cemetery soils. Necrosol samples were collected from within and around the vicinity of the largest mass grave in Rwanda and analyzed for heavy metal concentrations using total digestion–inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and instrumental neutron activation analysis. Based on the concentrations of As, Cu, Cr, Pb, and Zn, the overall contamination degree (Cdeg) and potential ecological risks status (RI) of the necrosols were determined. The preliminary results revealed that the associated cemetery soils are only contaminated to a low degree. On the other hand, assessment of the potential ecological risk index (RI) revealed that cumulative heavy metal content of the soil do not pose any significant ecological risks. These findings, therefore, suggest that, while cemetery soils may be toxic due to the accumulation of certain heavy metals, their overall ecological risks may be minimal and insignificant.
Keywords: Cemetery soils; Environmental management; Heavy metals; Mass graves

Acoustic communication in marine shallow waters: testing the acoustic adaptive hypothesis in sand gobies - Amorim, Maria Clara P.; Vasconcelos, Raquel O.; Bolgan, Marta; Pedroso, Silvia S.; Fonseca, Paulo J. (Journal of Experimental Biology, 2018)
Skip to Next Section Acoustic communication is an important part of social behaviour of fish species that live or breed in shallow noisy waters. Previous studies have shown that some fish species exploit a quiet window in the background noise for communication. However, it remains to be examined whether hearing abilities and sound production of fish are adapted to marine habitats presenting high hydrodynamism. Here, we investigated whether the communication system of the painted (Pomatoschistus pictus) and the marbled (Pomatoschistus marmoratus) gobies is adapted to enhance sound transmission and reception in Atlantic shallow water environments. We recorded and measured the sound pressure levels of social vocalisations of both species, as well as snapshots of ambient noise of habitats characterised by different hydrodynamics. Hearing thresholds (in terms of both sound pressure and particle acceleration) and responses to conspecific signals were determined using the auditory evoked potential recording technique. We found that the peak frequency range (100–300 Hz) of acoustic signals matched the best hearing sensitivity in both species and appeared well adapted for short-range communication in Atlantic habitats. Sandy/rocky exposed beaches presented a quiet window, observable even during the breaking of moderate waves, coincident with the main sound frequencies and best hearing sensitivities of both species. Our data demonstrate that the hearing abilities of these gobies are well suited to detect conspecific sounds within typical interacting distances (a few body lengths) in Atlantic shallow waters. These findings lend support to the acoustic adaptive hypothesis, under the sensory drive framework, proposing that signals and perception systems coevolve to be effective within local environment constraints.

Fish Sounds and Mate Choice - Amorim, M. Clara P.; Vasconcelos, Raquel O.; Fonseca, Paulo J. (Sound Communication in Fishes, 2015)
Fish acoustic signals associated with mating behaviour are typically low-frequency sounds produced by males when in close proximity to females. However, some species make sounds that serve the function and follow the design of advertisement calls, well known in insects, anurans, and birds. Close-range courtship acoustic signals may be used by females in mate assessment as they contain information of male quality such as size and condition. For example, sound-dominant frequency, amplitude, and fatigue resistance may signal body size whereas pulse period (i.e. muscle contraction rate) and calling activity are related with body condition in some species. Some signal features, such as sound pulse number, may carry multiple messages including size and condition. Playback experiments on mate choice of a restricted number of species suggest that females prefer vocal to silent males and may use sound frequency, amplitude, and mainly calling rateCalling ratewhen assessing males. The assessment of males by females becomes more challenging when males engage in choruses or when sounds are otherwise masked by anthropogenic noise but almost nothing is known about how these aspects affect mating decisions and fish reproductive success.
Keywords: Acoustic communication; Anthropogenic noise; Calling activity; Chorus; Fish; Mate choice; Reproductive success

A content analysis of views of disability within Portuguese language newspapers in Macau - Amaral, Ana Helena (University of Saint Joseph, 2018)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Education (MED); University of Saint Joseph

Aprendizagem cooperativa na matemática: uma abordagem de ação-investigação - Alves, Sara Policarpo (University of Saint Joseph, 2013)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Education (MED); University of Saint Joseph

Analysis of Business Clusters in Macau - Alves, Jose; Trimarchi, Michael (University of Saint Joseph, 2016)

Can the application of neuroscience improve processes for ongoing improvement in organizations? - Alves, José (University of Saint Joseph, 2016)
Keywords: Theses and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

Career aspirations of generation y: the case of event management graduates in macau - Alves, José (University of Saint Joseph, 2016)
Keywords: China Macau; Marketing; Organizational effectiveness; Planning; Special events; Theses and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

Macau's Strategies to Develop Training of Talented People with Expertise in the Cooperation between China and Portuguese Speaking Countries - Alves, Jose (University of Saint Joseph, 2015)

Airlines Perceptions of Airport Services - Alves, J (University of Saint Joseph, 2017)

A Pilot Study for Measuring Complex Problem-Solving in Jordan: Feasibility, Construct Validity, and Behavior Pattern Analyses - Alrababah, Saleh Ahmad; Wu, Hao; Molnár, Gyöngyvér (Sage Open, 2024)
In the 21st century, complex problem-solving (CPS) serves as a key indicator of educational achievement. However, the elements of successful CPS have not yet been fully explored. This study investigates the role of strategic exploration and different problem-solving and test-taking behaviors in CPS success, using logfile data to visualize and quantify students’ problemsolving behavior on 10 CPS problems with different characteristics and levels of difficulty. Additionally, in the present study, we go beyond the limits of most studies that focus on students’ problem-solving behavior pattern analyses in European cultures and education systems to examine Arabic students’ CPS behavior. The results show that computer-based assessments of CPS are feasible and valid in Jordanian higher education. The findings also confirm the structural validity of CPS, indicating that the processes of knowledge acquisition (KAC) and knowledge application (KAP) can be distinguished and separated in the problem-solving process. Large differences were identified in students’ test-taking behavior in terms of the efficacy of their exploration strategy. We identified four latent classes based on the students’ exploration strategy behavior. The study thus leads to a better understanding of how students solve problems and behave during the problem-solving process in uncertain situations.

The Integration of Blockchain Technology in Accounting and Auditing - Almeida, Ermelinda Nazaré António de (University of Saint Joseph, 2024)
The emergence of blockchain technology in 2008 marked a significant milestone in the evolution of digital currencies, paving the way for the emergence of cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin. Since then, blockchain has undergone four generations of development, expanding its applications across various sectors. In particular, the integration of blockchain into accounting and auditing practices has garnered significant attention due to its potential to transform traditional methods. However, there's a lack of clear understanding of how blockchain impacts traditional auditing practices and finance recordkeeping and the implications for audit quality. Significant challenges and uncertainties hinder its widespread adoption, including technical hurdles, regulatory complexities, and practical barriers. This dissertation aims to determine the transformative impact of blockchain technology on auditing practices and finance recordkeeping. In order to fully understand the impact of blockchain on auditing practices and finance recordkeeping, the dissertation utilizes a mixed sequential research approach that is divided into three phases. The first approach involves gathering qualitative data through interviews with blockchain experts. The second approach involves collecting secondary qualitative data through a systematic literature review to determine the changes that blockchain has brought to traditional auditing practices and finance recordkeeping. This is followed by a bibliometric analysis to identify current trends in blockchain research related to auditing practices and finance recordkeeping. The third approach involves gathering data through an online-focused survey distributed to finance and other industry professionals to determine the challenges organizations face in implementing blockchain technology in auditing practices and finance recordkeeping. Additionally, in phase three, case studies will be conducted based on the survey responses to examine the hindrances and challenges faced by organizations in implementing blockchain and its impact on auditing practices in different regions and among different demographic groups. As the findings indicate, Integrating blockchain technology into accounting and auditing practices can bring about significant improvements in transparency, efficiency, and fraud prevention. However, there are several challenges that must be overcome for successful implementation, such as technical difficulties, regulatory uncertainties, and privacy concerns. To overcome these hurdles, it is necessary to establish clear regulatory frameworks and innovative solutions. Although smart contracts offer automation, they also pose security risks that need to be addressed. Despite these challenges, blockchain has the potential to revolutionize auditing by enabling real-time auditing and enhancing integrity verification. To ensure audit quality, auditors must adapt to new responsibilities and stay up-to-date with emerging trends. Collaboration among stakeholders and continuous education and training programs are key to driving the successful adoption of blockchain technology
Keywords: Accounting; Audit Quality; Auditing Practices; Blockchain Technology; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

Behavioural and endocrine responses to non-interactive live and video conspecifics in males of the Siamese fighting fish - Alex, Deepa; Cardoso, Sara D; Ramos, Andreia; Gonçalves, David (Current Zoology, 2022)
The physiological mechanisms underlying variation in aggression in fish remain poorly understood. One possibly confounding variable is the lack of standardization in the type of stimuli used to elicit aggression. The presentation of controlled stimuli in videos, a.k.a. video playback, can provide better control of the fight components. However, this technique has produced conflicting results in animal behaviour studies and needs to be carefully validated. For this, a similar response to the video and an equivalent live stimulus needs to be demonstrated. Further, different physiological responses may be triggered by live and video stimuli and it is important to demonstrate that video images elicit appropriate physiological reactions. Here, the behavioural and endocrine response of male Siamese fighting fish Betta splendens to a matched for size conspecific fighting behind a one-way mirror, presented live or through video playback, was compared. The video playback and live stimulus elicited a strong and similar aggressive response by the focal fish, with a fight structure that started with stereotypical threat displays and progressed to overt attacks. Post-fight plasma levels of the androgen 11-ketotestosterone were elevated as compared to controls, regardless of the type of stimuli. Cortisol also increased in response to the video images, as previously described for live fights in this species. These results show that the interactive component of a fight, and its resolution, are not needed to trigger an endocrine response to aggression in this species. The study also demonstrates for the first time in a fish a robust endocrine response to video stimuli and supports the use of this technique for researching aggressive behaviour in B. splendens.

Migrant transnationalism and religious transformation: religious faith and practice among Filipino migrants (An Anthroplogical Approach Focusing on Macau) - Alabanza, Ian Shelley Sasha Pugal (University of Saint Joseph, 2016)
Religion and migration are both phenomena that have endured perennially in the experience of humanity. However, studies on the relationship of these two subjects are not as prevalent compared to how widespread international migration has become especially among people coming from religious societies. This work contributes to the knowledge base on the significance of religion within the context of international migration by looking at how religious faith and practice evolve as a result of the experience of migration. Interviews about the migration narratives of Filipino Catholics working in Macau were conducted. These were supported by data collected through the use of survey questionnaires that look into changes in religious practices of respondents as well as their attitudes towards faith and belief. The study has found that there is constancy in the religious faith and practice of Filipino Catholics even amidst external changes to the physical and social environment brought about by moving to a predominantly secular society. Through recourse to anthropological analysis, this immutability of faith is attributable to the unique ethnographic feature of Filipinos’ high regard for the centrality and importance of interiority in their life. Keywords: migration, immigrant religion, faith, Filipino religiosity
Keywords: PhD in Global Studies (D-GLS); Thesis and Dissertations; University of Saint Joseph

Perceptions of top management team diversity and company financial performance: BNU Macau - Agues, Alison Brito (University of Saint Joseph, 2012)
Keywords: Theses and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

Soka Education Philosophy as a Foundation for Teacher Preparation in Creating Inclusive Education - Agbenyega, Joseph Seyram; Ikegami, Kiiko; Rivalland, Corine (International Perspectives on Inclusive Education, 2021)
Current global shifts in education towards inclusive early childhood education are deeply engineered by the crisis of educational exclusion. In responding to exclusion, teachers have mainly utilized dominant western theories to plan and implement inclusive teaching. In this chapter, we draw on a non-western philosophy, a Nichiren Buddhist (Soka) philosophy, to provide a ‘kaleidoscopic’ lens through which to create inclusive educational learning spaces that engender full participation of all children. The Soka education philosophy is a humanist concept which can guide teachers when preparing to create inclusive education. The aims of this chapter are threefold: The first is an exploration of the Nichiren Buddhist (Soka) philosophy. The second aim is to highlight how this philosophy can enable teachers to unleash the unlimited potential of children in inclusive learning settings. Thirdly, we argue that grounding early childhood teacher education in this philosophy can help improve the effectiveness of inclusive educational experience for all children.

Cyber - bullying in Macau schools: an exploratory study - Afshar-Tongga, Mona (University of Saint Joseph, 2014)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Couselling and Psychotherapy (MCP); University of Saint Joseph

Diversity and Variation in China's Yao Ancient Wood Frame Structures Through Genetic Algorithms: - Afonso, Filipe; Jedenov, Kirill; Januário, Pedro Gomes; Almeida, Paulo (International Journal of Creative Interfaces and Computer Graphics, 2022)
This study, focusing on the China's Yao minority community, investigates the feasibility to create a generative computational method to replicate the diversity of the existing Yao traditional wood buildings, addressing the critical issues currently facing computational design methods, in the attempt to adapt genetic-generative algorithms to the study of local ancient architecture. The project develops a computational tool to generate a network of three-dimensional prototypes, or building structures, derived from traditional wood frame village houses. It studies possible housing structures that illustrate some of the key working methods available in digital systems such as ‘generating' and ‘compositing' taking as a starting point computational strategies oriented towards geometry and where a set of local variables play a decisive role: available local technologies, use of raw materials, and the dimensioning of timber components based on data collected from Yao architecture.

Building Sustainability: the Cork House - Afonso, Filipe; Arquitectos Anonimos® project (NATURE AND ENVIRONMENTGLOBAL ISSUES, 2019)
Sustainability takes priority with architect Matthew Barnett Howland. His house in England is made entirely of cork: 100 percent natural, 100 percent recyclable, with almost zero carbon emissions.

Post-disaster Temporary Housing System based on Generative Design Method - Afonso, Filipe G.; Lu, Jun C. (International Journal of Structural and Civil Engineering Research, 2021)

ARQUITECTOS ANÓNIMOS: a Sample of a Generation [Keynote Speak] - Afonso, Filipe (Public Lecture of Faculty of Creative Industries, University of Saint Joseph, 2019)

CRISIS BREEDS CREATIVITY - Afonso, Filipe (Chinese University Of Hong Kong - Making Place in the Greater Bay Area, International Symposium, 2021)

Post Disaster Temporary Housing System based on Generative Design Method - Afonso, Filipe (The 6th International Conference on Architecture, Materials and Construction ICAMC, 2020)

Potential for the design of an energy saving facade system using agglomerated cork: Implications in subtropical climates - Afonso, Filipe (The 2nd International Conference on Sustainable Buildings and Structures, 2019)

Potential for the design of an energy saving facade system using agglomerated cork: implications in subtropical climates - Afonso, Filipe (The 2nd International Conference on Sustainable Buildings and Structures, 2019)

Study of the Compositional Rules of Design in Chaoshan Traditional House: A Computational Approach - Afonso, Filipe (ARTECH 2021: 10th International Conference on Digital and Interactive Art, 2021)

Study of the Compositional Rules of Design in Chaoshan Traditional House: A Computational Approach - Afonso, Filipe (Association for Computing Machinery, 2022)
This study is an attempt to understand and describe the compositional principles of Chaoshan traditional houses (CTH) through a computational space syntax. In this approach, the space syntax is used to describe and verify the compositional rules of Chaoshan houses. Chaoshan rural residence is a classical Lingnan style building in Chaoshan area of eastern Guangdong province, associated with Teo-Swa people, a Han Chinese minority. This study takes the example the prototypes existing in the village of Zhupu, Haojiang District, Shantou city as a case study, to analyse the spatial form of the residences. The Zhupu village houses date from the Qing Dynasty - Qianlong period, around 1700 AD. The hypothesis of this study is that CTH buildings are a result of a space compositional rule system that can be described and replicated through a computational design methodology. This study will establish a computational architectural syntax, and is the first stage of an extended research work on the evolution of Chaoshan residential types. The understanding of this evolution may help, as future work, to develop urban strategies for adaptation of the CTH heritage buildings to the contemporary living conditions. As the result of this study is a computational 3D graphics modelling algorithm, the ability of the system to generate the house layouts is not limited to the reconstruction of existing typologies of CTH and its variations. The same algorithm will allow the generation of new housing schemes, with adaptation to design variables extracted from a particular site and region.
Keywords: Chaoshan house; Qing dynasty; Space syntax; computational design; courtyard house

Potential for the design of an energy saving facade system using agglomerated cork: Implications in subtropical climates - Afonso, F. (Sustainable Buildings and Structures: Building a Sustainable Tomorrow, 2019)
Agglomerated cork is a known material by its contribution to the sustainment of the environment, not only because it is a wholly natural material, without chemical additives, but also because its industrial process of production results from the lowest quality residues of cork or industrial waste material, unsuitable for other applications. It is a reusable material, which means, the cork facade elements can be converted into a new agglomerated material, demonstrating a huge potential for adaptation to existing buildings following a reversible process. It is durable, lightweight, water resistant, low-cost material, some of the properties that may qualify it as suitable for application in large surfaces of vertical construction façades. The aim of this article is to analyze the mechanical, thermal and acoustic characteristics of cork composites against site-specific climatic conditions of subtropical climates and its suitability as an external coating system for residential buildings with the goal to reduce the energy consumption for cooling the inner environment. In high-density cities like Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Hong Kong the majority of the buildings starting from the 1960s until early 21st century (Brach & Song 2006), did not integrate thermal insulation systems into external walls, producing a high level of heat transfer through the external façade from the outside environment during spring and summer seasons. Due to the extremely fast urban growth of the modern Chinese city, little importance is given to the quality of the external walls in current residential building construction. For at least during six months each year the consumption of energy due to air conditioning in Guangdong province is extremely high. The study concluded that substantial energy could be saved by implementing an external coating upgrade to existing buildings. Additionally, this study details the result obtained through software for energy simulations (Design Builder, ENVI-met) demonstrating the potential of this project to produce homogeneous and comfortable inside temperatures, which cools the indoor ambient temperature in summer time.

LISTENING TO CHILDREN’S IDEAS TO IMPROVE IN LEARNING AND DEVELOPING HIGHER-ORDER THINKING SKILLS THROUGH REFLECTION WITH DAILY DOCUMENTATION - Ae, Young Choi; Ho, Ka Lee Carrie (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Listening to children’s voices is still not considered an essential part of education in some schools, including many in Asian countries. The authority of schools and teachers is still highly valued under the continued influence of Confucian Heritage Culture in many Asian schools, including a significant number in Macao. Teachers in international schools in Asian countries often experience some difficulties when communicating with young children because of their low English proficiency and the traditional views supported by many parents who grew up with the Confucian Heritage Culture, which encourages children to be quiet in the classroom to be good listeners. This Action research took fifteen months between two school years, 2018- 2019 and 2019-2020, with two groups of four and five-year-old students in a kindergarten classroom. Documentation posters were created for young children to use the next morning to reflect on their learning. The pedagogy of listening and pedagogical documentation from the Reggio Emilia approach were implemented to discover and record young children’s ideas and interests, work with daily documentation posters, and help them reflect on documentation posters to improve their learning and develop their higher-order thinking skills. Photos and videos, observation notes with the children’s comments, documentation posters, and reflective discussions were used as interventions to collect the children’s ideas and record their learning activities. The children learned to use documentation posters to remember, think, share, and improve their learning. The children’s comments from Learning Centres, recess, and reflective discussions were used to examine their understanding of learning and higher-order thinking skills. During one Pilot Cycle and three structured data collection cycles, the children demonstrated improvement in learning for each learning project and development of their thinking skills both with and without the teacher’s support. The children demonstrated higher-order thinking skills more often from Learning Centres and recess when they had to solve problems. They also demonstrated higher-order thinking skills more often during the whole group reflective discussions than in small group reflections, when a bigger number of children joined or when they had enough time to think. The thinking skills when children were reflecting were observed to concentrate on remembering and understanding as they focused on remembering and sharing the previous day’s work. The children’s other higher-order thinking skills did not show an increase in frequency during reflective discussions. However, the children demonstrated active engagement and a range of higher-order thinking skills when the teacher asked openended questions and provided support and comments to help them to connect their learning to their past experiences. Findings indicated that the children’s learning from each Learning Centre showed change and improvement during their play over time according to their interests, indicated by their material use and comments. The research was limited by its small number of participants within their age group due to convenience sampling and the children’s relatively limited ability to demonstrate higher-order thinking skills. This study has shown how teachers could help children use daily documentation posters to develop their learning and thinking skills by visualizing their ideas and the teacher’s important role in supporting children’s learning with active listening and support in the classroom
Keywords: Bloom’s Taxonomy; Early Childhood Education; Pedagogical Documentation; Reggio Emilia Approach; Thesis and Dissertations PhD in Education (D-SE); University of Saint Joseph

Pandemic (Im)mobilities - Adey, Peter; Hannam, Kevin; Sheller, Mimi; Tyfield, David (Mobilities, 2021)

Acquired hearing loss in the zebrafish model: investigating the mechanisms underlying aging and noise effects on the vertebrate auditory system (University of Saint Joseph, 2019)

Beyong Mirrors: Research Pathways (CeiDE 2013-2017) (Attitudes and self-beliefs of ability towards mathematics and science and their effects on career choices: A case study with Macao-Chinese girls., 2018)

Classroom management strategies for children with emotional challenges: voices of special education teachers (University of Saint Joseph, 2019)

Culturally Responsive Teaching: Attitude and Practice among Teachers in Macau (University of Saint Joseph, 2019)

Education for justice-oriented and participatory citizenship in a politicized era in Hong Kong. (Handbook of Research on Education for Participative Citizenship and Global Prosperity, 2018)

In search of aesthetic education: Student teachers’ perspective and practice with sensory-based approach in Infant Education (University of Saint Joseph, 2019)

Modelling the Neuromarketing application framework for tourism and entertainment industries in Macau and the Greater Bay Area (University of Saint Joseph, 2019)

Preparing Pre-service Teachers to Become Effective Inclusive Practitioners: Impact on Self-Efficacy (University of Saint Joseph, 2019)

Secondary Teachers’ Attitudes Toward Curriculum Reform in Macau (University of Saint Joseph, 2019)

Use of apparatuses in science laboratory: developmental characteristics of didactical interactions. (The International Education & Learning Review, 2018)

Visual Studies of Infrastructure: the case of the Belt and Road Initiative* (CLBrief, 2022)
Dennis Zuev* The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has become the largest infrastructure program in history, and has become a symbol of growing significance of China and its power.